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Queensland Slashes Train Fares to Brisbane Airport: Half-Price Tickets Announced

Starting 5 August 2024, train passengers travelling to Brisbane Airport will enjoy half-price tickets for a six-month trial period.

Read: Transdev and Vlogren Collaborate to Bring 17 Electric Buses to South East Queensland

This initiative, the result of negotiations between the State Government and Airtrain, aims to provide significant cost-of-living savings for Queenslanders.

Under the new pricing, ticket costs from Central Station to the Airport will be slashed from $21.90 to $10.95 for go card and EMV users, and to $11 for paper ticket holders. This reduction is part of a broader initiative to make public transport more affordable, following the State Government’s earlier announcement of 50-cent fares on all Translink services statewide starting on the same date.

Photo credit: Brisbane’s Airtrain/Facebook

With the inclusion of Airtrain in this initiative, commuters can now travel from as far as the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast to the Airport for as little as $11.50. This significant train fare cut is expected to drive more passengers towards using the Airtrain, easing road congestion and reducing the stress associated with airport parking.

Enhanced Accessibility for Airport Workers

In a move to further enhance ticketing options for airport workers, efforts are underway to make Airport staff tickets available at Queensland Rail’s Central Station. Currently, these tickets can only be purchased at Brisbane Airport. As part of the fare reduction, the price of Airtrain’s Worker Ticket will be halved, with the Weekly Worker Ticket dropping from $43 to $21.50 and the Worker Book of 20 tickets decreasing from $120 to $60.

Premier Steven Miles emphasised the dual benefits of this initiative: making public transport more attractive and affordable for both Queenslanders and tourists, and alleviating the burden on the state’s road network.

“There has never been a better time to leave the car and the stress of airport parking behind and enjoy the half-price train trip instead,” he stated. He highlighted the growing population and increasing number of visitors to Queensland as key factors driving the need for more efficient public transport solutions.

Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Bart Mellish, reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting public transport use. He acknowledged the foundational work of the former LNP government led by Rob Borbidge in negotiating the Airtrain deal and pledged ongoing efforts to develop a long-term solution for public transport to the airport.

Read: Brisbane River Heritage Trail: Sightseeing Cruise Through the City’s Storied Past

For more details on Airtrain services and the new fare structure, visit www.airtrain.com.au.

Published 6-June-2024

CityCat Services Arrive at Howard Smith Wharves Ferry Terminal

Brisbane’s popular riverside entertainment precinct Howard Smith Wharves gained a new public transport connection with the launch of daily CityCat ferry services to its terminal.

Read: The Ballpark Portside to Bring a Whole New Ballgame to Hamilton

The CityCat becomes the third ferry service stopping at the terminal, joining the existing Inner-City Cross River Ferry and free CityHopper services. CityCat services currently extend from UQ St Lucia to Northshore Hamilton, with 19 terminals along the Brisbane River.

Commencing at 6:10 a.m. daily from the 27th of May 2024, the first CityCats will arrive at Howard Smith Wharves, with the final services departing around 11:30 p.m. on weeknights and midnight on weekends. This introduces a new late-night public transport option for patrons visiting the dining and entertainment venues at the Wharves.

The wharf was designed with the capacity to accommodate the larger CityCat vessels, allowing these services to be integrated into the existing ferry timetable without impacting overall network frequency.

LM Adrian Schrinner said the addition of CityCat access provides a convenient new way for residents and visitors to travel to and from the vibrant riverside destination.

“Howard Smith Wharves is not only one of Brisbane’s most beloved entertainment areas, but directly linked to the iconic Fortitude Valley precinct, so a permanent CityCat stop at the Wharves makes perfect sense,” Cr Schrinner stated.

Brisbane City Council’s Public and Active Transport Chair Ryan Murphy noted around 45,000 passengers already travel to Howard Smith Wharves annually via CityHopper and Cross River Ferry services. The addition of hundreds of new weekly CityCat services is expected to attract thousands more visitors.

“With hundreds of new services each week being added, we expect thousands more passengers to enjoy a trip down the river to visit this vibrant precinct.

Read: Hamilton Welcomes Bluey’s World, a Real-Life Playtime Adventure

“We will continue to improve our iconic ferry network to keep Brisbane moving,” he said.

For up-to-date timetable information, visit Translink’s website.

Published 28-May-2024

The Ballpark Portside to Bring a Whole New Ballgame to Hamilton

Hamilton is about to score big with the arrival of The Ballpark Portside, an immersive 450 square metre sports bar that is dubbed the first entertainment venue of its kind in Australia. This sprawling space is bringing a whole new level of fun and games to Brisbane later this year.

Read: New Brisbane Opening: Sbagliata Joining Dining Lineup at Portside Wharf

At the heart of The Ballpark will be three baseball “cages” that would allow patrons to take some swings in a fully immersive baseball experience. Two cages will have concrete grandstands for spectators, whilst the VIP cage offers private lounges.

Using real bats and balls, players can step up to the plate and smash hits into a virtual field complete with tracking, fielders and even the chance to knock one out of the park. But baseball is just the beginning. The venue also features pool tables, darts, a coffee shop, screens playing major sporting events, and even a boardroom for corporate outings.

Photo credit: The Ballpark Portside/Instagram

The Ballpark Portside revealed that their entertainment options can cater to everything from kids’ birthday parties, to bucks’ and hens’ parties and corporate days.

With a capacity for 200 guests across multiple spaces, The Ballpark is ready to go to bat for any event. The main bar boasts 14 taps and top-shelf cocktails, ensuring patrons can kick back in a laid-back atmosphere that would be “electric” during the big sporting events like footy finals, Melbourne Cup and Superbowl.

The venue is mindful of maintaining a good relationship with neighbours too, with a front entrance featuring a sound lock and acoustic panelling.

Read: Hamilton Welcomes Bluey’s World, a Real-Life Playtime Adventure

So start warming up your throwing arm, Hamilton. The Ballpark Portside is due to open its doors in September 2024, but bookings are already open to reserve your spot at this one-of-a-kind sports playground. Visit their website for more information and updates on the opening.

Published 24-May-2024

Hamilton Welcomes Bluey’s World, a Real-Life Playtime Adventure

Get ready to yell “Wackadoo!” because Bluey’s World, an immersive experience bringing the beloved cartoon to life, is set to open its doors in Hamilton.

Located in the newly constructed Northshore Pavillion, families will have the chance to explore a life-size replica of the Heeler home, backyard, and other familiar locales from the show on the 7th of November 2024.

Bluey in Hamilton — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Bluey’s World promises an interactive journey through the vibrant cartoon world, filled with real-life sets, recognisable scenes, and beloved characters. The 4000-square-metre venue, easily accessible by various transport options, is set to become a major drawcard for Brisbane.

Tickets for the highly anticipated attraction will go on sale Tuesday, 21st of May, with prices starting at AUD$49.90.

Kate O’Connor, Director of Brands and Licencing for BBC Studios ANZ, highlighted the unique opportunity this presents for fans to step into the iconic Heeler house, a setting so familiar and cherished that its recent (near) sale made national headlines.

Andrew Kay, Producer of Bluey’s World, expressed excitement about collaborating with BBC Studios to bring the project to life, emphasising the experience as an unforgettable day out for all ages.

The Queensland Tourism Minister, Michael Healy, praised Bluey as a global icon and celebrated the authentic representation of Queensland’s landscapes in the show. He expressed confidence in Bluey’s World attracting a significant number of visitors, boosting the local economy by an estimated $18 million in its first year alone.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner echoed the sentiment, emphasising the project’s potential to draw both domestic and international visitors to Brisbane, solidifying the city’s reputation as a thriving hub for major events.

Bluey’s World, a collaboration between BBC Studios and HVK World, has received support from the Queensland Government and Brisbane City Council. It is featured prominently on Queensland’s calendar of events.

With its endearing characters and relatable storylines, Bluey, created by Joe Brumm and produced by Ludo Studio, has won over hearts all over the world. The show follows the playful adventures of Bluey, a Blue Heeler puppy, alongside her family and friends in their Brisbane neighbourhood.

Published Date 20-May-2024

New Brisbane Opening: Sbagliata Joining Dining Lineup at Portside Wharf

Ashley-Maree Kent, the creative and culinary genius owner behind Ramona Trattoria and Bar Rocco in Coorparoo, has come up with an Italian addition to the dining scene at Portside Wharf in Hamilton: Sbagliata, opening in August.

Read: Fresh Seafood and Relaxed Glamour: Fosh Brings Hamptons Vibes to Portside Wharf

Ms Kent says her vision for Sbagliata is to create a warm, welcoming space where guests can come together over a shared love of great food and company. For her, Italian food is all about family, friends and welcoming people you don’t know to your table, and this is the experience she wants to recreate.

Chef Ashley-Maree Kent (Photo credit: Ramona Trattoria/Facebook)

The menu will showcase a thoughtfully curated array of comforting woodfired dishes with something to satisfy every palate, according to Kent. Diners can look forward to savouring her signature hand-shaped pastas made using traditional techniques.

A separate pasta kitchen will be dedicated to producing a vast selection of pasta varieties, both hand-shaped and bronze-cut.

Ms Kent noted a second kitchen equipped with a wood fired and coal grill will turn out a mouthwatering array of hot entrees, mains like succulent proteins and fish, and vegan/vegetarian options.

She added that complementing the cuisine will be an extensive wine list featuring labels from Italy and Australia, along with craft cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages.

The 174-square-metre restaurant will seat 120 guests in a nostalgia-tinged space with houndstooth curtains, cork tile floors, and a classic red and white colour scheme.

With its mouth-watering Italian fare and warm, convivial ambiance, Sbagliata is sure to become a new dining favourite at Portside Wharf when it opens in just a few months.

Read: A Taste of the Middle East Arrives in Hamilton with Ach Wine Bar

Other new openings at Portside Wharf this year include Uncle Wang, which opened earlier, and Portside Social slated to debut in June 2024.

Published 15-May-2024

The Wheelhouse Takes Shape, Promising Dynamic Workspace and Thriving Community

Construction is now underway on The Wheelhouse, a groundbreaking new co-working and innovation space that is poised to reshape the landscape of Northshore Brisbane.

Read: Hamilton Could Soon Have a Sky Forest on Kingsford Smith Drive

The Wheelhouse, a $5.9 million project funded by Economic Development Queensland (EDQ), is set to become a vibrant hub for entrepreneurs, innovators, and creatives.

Situated adjacent to the renowned Eat Street Northshore in Hamilton, The Wheelhouse will span 1,172 square metres across two levels in a warehouse-style building, accommodating up to 170 workers.

The facility will boast flexible workspaces, collaborative meeting rooms, town hall and event spaces, as well as a communal kitchen area, offering a versatile and inspiring setting for professionals.

“Positioned as an innovation hub, The Wheelhouse will support the success of start-up and scale-up businesses by providing flexible rental spaces and a dynamic environment for creativity and collaboration,” said Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Grace Grace.

“This project aims to cultivate a thriving community of entrepreneurs, innovators, and creatives through the exchange of ideas, networking opportunities, and access to mentoring and support services,” said Ms Grace.

The Wheelhouse — Photo credit: Bridgeman/Facebook

Bridgeman, a Queensland SME and Supply Nation certified Indigenous company, has been awarded the building contract for the project. Committed to supporting First Nations businesses and peoples, Bridgeman will utilise local contractors, manufacturers, and supply chains for goods, services, materials, and equipment.

“Bridgeman reinforces Economic Development Queensland’s vision to create and invest in sustainable places for Queensland to prosper,” said Adam Sarota, Owner and Managing Director of Bridgeman. “As a Supply Nation certified Indigenous company, we are committed to ensuring that we provide leadership, support, and encouragement to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”

Bridgeman has also created the Bridgeman Yarning Circle, a unique Indigenous supply chain network that provides companies with genuine, pre-qualified, accredited, and compliant Indigenous companies. “These companies would never tender for government work directly, but through us they get a chance,” Sarota explained.

Read: Brookfield Proposes Innovative Built-to-Rent Development at Portside Wharf, Hamilton

The Wheelhouse is part of the $12 billion urban renewal within the Northshore Hamilton Priority Development Area (PDA), which is transforming the former industrial site into a vibrant mixed-use precinct. Construction on the project commenced this month, with the facility slated to open its doors for business in early 2025.

Published 18-April-2024

A Taste of the Middle East Arrives in Hamilton with Ach Wine Bar

Hamilton has a new dining destination that’s sure to pique the interest of fans of Middle Eastern cuisine. Tucked between towering office buildings on MacArthur Avenue, Ach Wine Bar has quietly opened its doors, offering an intimate space that’s big on both style and substance.

Read: Fresh Seafood and Relaxed Glamour: Fosh Brings Hamptons Vibes to Portside Wharf

Ach Wine Bar is the brainchild of a familiar trio – chefs Marty Coard and Noam Lissner, along with Mat Drummond, who previously wowed Spring Hill locals at the popular Knowhere restaurant. Now, the group has set their sights on bringing the vibrant flavours of Levantine-inspired cuisine to this thriving riverside suburb.

Step inside the 50-seat Ach Wine Bar and you will be greeted by a sleek, modern design that seamlessly blends Middle Eastern influences. Dark green walls, a sandstone-tiled bar, and polished concrete tables create an understated elegance, whilst the custom-built hearth takes centre stage – a nod to the “ach” in the restaurant’s name, which translates to “hearth” in Hebrew.

It’s in front of this impressive hearth that Coard and Lissner work their magic, firing up a menu of contemporary Middle Eastern-inspired dishes. Locals in the know flock to Ach for standouts like oysters baked with chilli and samphire butter, a decadent mushroom shawarma with baba ganoush and macadamia cheese, and tender chicken shashlik skewers.

But it’s the house-made breads in their bakery that often steal the show. The flaky malawach topped with white anchovies and dill cream, or the rich, golden challah served with spiced bone marrow, are both must-try accompaniments to the Levantine-inspired fare.

And let’s not forget the drinks. Ach’s diverse wine list features a mix of Middle Eastern varietals and Australian delights, whilst the crafted cocktails, like the Karak Chai Martini, add a spirited twist to the dining experience.

Read: Some of the Best Vegan and Vegetarian Food in Hamilton

Whether you’re seeking a casual after-work bite, a leisurely weekend brunch, or a unique dining adventure, this new wine bar is a welcome addition to Hamilton’s evolving culinary landscape. This hidden gem is sure to delight locals and visitors alike with its modern take on Levantine cuisine.

You can find them at 389 MacArthur Ave, Hamilton. Visit their website for bookings.

Published 15-April-2024

Commemorating Sir Charles Kingsford Smith On ANZAC Day: Honouring Aviation And Military Legacies

Photo Credit: Website/ National Library of Australia

Kingsford Smith Drive in Hamilton is one of the busiest roads in Brisbane, connecting Pinkenba to the Central Business District. Have you ever wondered about the man behind the name?

Its significance is more than just a way to get from one place to another. However, amid the continuous flow of traffic and the urban landscape, one might easily overlook the profound historical figure for whom this main road is named: Sir Charles Kingsford Smith.

Life Of Sir Charles Kingsford Smith:

Sir Charles Kingsford Smith and Charles Ulm
Photo Credit: Website/ National Library of Australia

Sir Charles Kingsford Smith was a pioneering pilot who left an indelible mark on the history of flying in Australia. He was born on February 9, 1897, at Riverview Terrace in Hamilton. He became interested in flying while serving in the Royal Flying Corps as a pilot in World War I. His wartime experiences prepared him for his work after the war, which propelled him to the top of the aircraft field.

Aviation Milestones:

Photo Credit: Website/ National Library of Australia

In 1928, Kingsford Smith made aviation history when he flew from the United States to Australia, crossing the Pacific Ocean for the first time. This achievement not only solidified his status as a pioneering pilot, but it also showed how important air travel is becoming for connecting people around the world.

During his long and successful career, Kingsford Smith also made many record-breaking flights, establishing his standing as an aviation legend. In 1933, he made history by being the first person to fly alone across the Tasman Sea, adding to his reputation as a brave pilot.

Legacy And Recognition:

The decision to name Kingsford Smith Drive after this distinguished figure serves as a fitting tribute to his enduring contributions to Australian aviation. Beyond a mere commemoration, it shows that his influence on Brisbane’s aviation history is recognised and highlights the city’s deep link to the sky.

Kingsford Smith’s legacy goes beyond his accomplishments in aviation; his adventures show the spirit of adventure, persistence, and innovation that continues to inspire Australians today. His risky flights not only pushed the limits of what technology could do, but they also caught the imaginations of people all over the world and made them feel awe and wonder.

As people drive along the hustle and bustle of Kingsford Smith Drive, they are reminded not only of a road but also of the brave pilot whose name is on it. It serves as a poignant reminder of Brisbane’s rich aviation heritage and the enduring legacy of Sir Charles Kingsford Smith, whose pioneering spirit continues to soar through the skies of history.

Published Date 10-April-2024

Hamilton Residents Alerted as Thieves Target Multi-Residential Carparks

Hamilton has emerged as a focal point for thieves targeting car parks in multi-residential complexes, with a series of thefts raising concerns among local authorities and community members. The thefts, which have seen property stolen from storage cages and vehicles, highlight an urgent need for increased vigilance and security measures in the area.

Series of Thefts in Hamilton

A recent incident saw thieves gaining entry into the car park of a unit complex on Harbour Road, Hamilton, where tools and clothing were stolen from a vehicle. This event, occurring overnight on Friday, March 29, 2024, is part of a disturbing trend affecting the Hamilton area, prompting police to urge residents and property managers to adopt enhanced security protocols.

Hamilton crime clusters — *Photo Credit: QPS*

Between January 8 and April 7, 2024, Hamilton has experienced a worrying total of 203 offences. This includes 36 unlawful entries and 71 other theft cases involving taking property without force, threat, or illegal entry. These statistics underscore the pressing issue of property crime in the Hamilton community.

Hamilton crime clusters unlawful entry — *Unlawful entry clusters*
*Photo Credit: QPS*

Hamilton crime clusters other theft — Other theft clusters
Photo Credit: QPS

Advice for Protecting Property

In response to the rising tide of thefts, authorities advise residents to bolster their security practices. Recommendations include maintaining strict personal security habits, ensuring prompt communication with property management, and is well-acquainted with building evacuation and safety plans.

Additionally, enhancing physical security measures, such as installing high-quality locks and ensuring valuables are not stored in easily accessible areas, is crucial.

Residents are also encouraged to take proactive steps in securing vehicles and bicycles, including the use of anti-theft screws for registration plates and the strategic positioning of bikes in locked areas or using additional security devices.

How to Report Suspicious Activity

Hamilton residents who observe suspicious behaviour or have information about the thefts are urged to contact Policelink by submitting details via the online suspicious activity form at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or by calling 131 444. Crime Stoppers is available at 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au for anonymous crime reporting.

Published 8-April-2024

Dispute Erupts in Hamilton Hill Over Trophy Home Renovation

A significant dispute has erupted over a Hamilton Hill homeowner’s plans to modify their lavish trophy home’s glass balustrades, sparking fears among neighbours that these changes will render the residence overly imposing in an exclusive enclave.

At the centre of the controversy is a multimillion-dollar trophy home on Eldernell Terrace, where proposed alterations have led to objections from nearby residents. The issue arose over the homeowner’s plans to increase the structure’s size and replace certain architectural features, raising concerns about the building’s height and aesthetic impact on the area.

The contested property’s owners, Michael John Cleary and his wife Mary Jo, acquired the home for $7.3 million in 2023. Their renovation plans include removing some glass panels for fibre-cement sheeting, altering the glass balustrading to steel, and adding steel-framed awnings.

These modifications, documented in council submissions, have sparked the current controversy due to concerns about the building’s increased bulk and visual dominance in the neighbourhood.

Two residents of Hamilton Hill, concerned about the potential effects of the proposed changes, have taken formal steps to halt the development.

Liza Gay and her husband Geoff, prominent figures in event management and the audiovisual sector, submitted an objection to the local council via DA 10630479, approved on 26th March 2024.

They argue that the alterations would significantly increase the building’s height beyond the acceptable limit of 9.5 meters, urging the council to issue a “stop work order” until the application undergoes due process.

“ As part of the original Development Application the Brisbane City Council sought changes to ensure glass balustrade was provided on balconies to reduce the overall height, bulk and scale of proposed development,” the couple stated it their submission.

“The current owner has totally ignored that ruling and has removed the balustrade to replace it with higher and opaque materials.

“As this work is in total contradiction to the Councils direction and does not align with the intent of the overarching purpose of the Zone code, we request the you place a ‘Stop work order’ on the property until the application goes through due process.”

Adding to the Gays’ opposition, another neighbour, Melanie Wing, who co-owns a popular bar with her husband, has voiced her concerns. Wing, residing in a historical house nearby, criticises the development for potentially setting a worrisome precedent regarding building height in the area. She emphasises that the proposed changes would result in a building that is too large and imposing, negatively affecting the surrounding residential zone.

As the council considers the objections, the community awaits a decision that will not only affect the immediate neighbours but also set a tone for future developments in one of Brisbane’s most prestigious locales.

Published 28-March-2024