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

What better way to discover Brisbane’s history than on the river that shaped It? Drift back through the city’s storied past with Brisbane River Heritage Trail, a 90-minute sightseeing cruise along the river.

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

The heritage trail by CityCat ferry allows travellers to immerse themselves in tales of the waterfront whilst enjoying panoramic views of today’s ever-changing skyline.

Map (Photo credit: Brisbane City Council)

The one-way ride starts at the Northshore Hamilton terminal and ends at UQ St Lucia. With stops along the route, riders can take the full roundtrip or hop on and off to explore Brisbane’s heritage at their own pace.

Brisbane River from Bowen Terrace, c. 1908 (State Library of Queensland)

The journey features 32 riverfront heritage sites identified in a mobile app. Users can select themed tours focused on Brisbane’s river trade, crossings, riverside living, wartime history, or local “Brisbane tuff” sandstone. Navigational hints guide riders whether travelling upstream or downstream.

Here are some of the sites at the Brisbane River Heritage Trail:

Living on the River

Toorak House flying the Union Jack, November 1921 (Photo credit: State Library of Queensland)

Highlights along the route include grand 19th century riverside mansions like the Gothic-inspired Toorak House and Newstead House, Brisbane’s oldest surviving residence. The trail also showcases 20th century architectural gems, including the domed observatory tower of Home in Kangaroo Point and the row houses of Cook Terrace in Milton.

The Second World War

A 10,000-ton (10,160-tonne) cargo vessel under construction at the Evans Deakin & Co Ltd shipyards, 1943 (Photo credit: Australian War Memorial)

During the Second World War from 1942–45, General Douglas MacArthur established the headquarters of the Allied campaign in the South West Pacific in Brisbane. The city hosted many American and Allied troops, transforming Brisbane’s formerly quiet colonial culture stemming from its British roots.

The Brisbane River was vital for wartime activities including substantial boat-building utilizing the Woolstores, docks and other riverside locations. Several famous American submarines docked at the South Brisbane Dry Dock and Naval Stores.

View of the Limbless Soldiers’ Bowling Club, New Farm and the river, date unknown (Photo credit: State Library of Queensland)

Troops recovered at the former Limbless Soldiers’ Bowling Club and the former Evans Deakin Dry Dock. The influx of personnel thoroughly modernised Brisbane from its provincial past into a strategic centre of military operations in the Asia Pacific theatre.

Read: Northshore Hamilton Transformation Accelerated, Development Scheme Amendment Approved

Historic audio narrations and reenactments in the app share stories and anecdotes about select sites. Riders can further dive into Brisbane’s past by connecting to other heritage trails in the city centre and South Bank.

With panoramas of the Brisbane River, this journey through time is best experienced from the deck of a CityCat. Please note that a go card or prepaid ticket is required for travel. For more information, visit Translink’s website.

Published 4-January-2024

Make It an Australia Day to Remember Aboard the Lady Brisbane

Join the Australia Day fun on the ‘Lady Brisbane’ river cruise! On January 26, celebrate Aussie-style on a three-hour trip up and down the Brisbane River.

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

Enjoy views of the city whilst listening to informative commentary about Brisbane’s history and landmarks. The three-hour cruise departs at noon from the Recreation Hub in Hamilton and returns at 3:00 p.m.

A delicious Aussie buffet lunch, including dessert, will be served onboard. Enjoy classic favourites like meat pies, sausage rolls, and lamingtons. Licensed drinks are available for purchase from the bar.

Guests are encouraged to wear their green and gold Australia Day outfits. The cruise provides a perfect vantage point for viewing any Australia Day events happening along the river.

Cruising the Brisbane River is a fantastic way to spend the national holiday surrounded by your fellow patriotic Australians. Tickets are $61 for adults and $31 for children ages 4-14. Kids under 4 cruise for free.

Secure your spot for a truly Aussie Australia Day on the iconic Brisbane River. To book online, visit Brisbane Cruises’ website.

Read: Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Of The Seas Arrives At Brisbane International Cruise Terminal

About Lady Brisbane

With her classic wooden charm, the Lady Brisbane is the perfect vessel for your next occasion on the water. This substantial ship was originally built in 1972 by Milkraft in Brisbane to voyage out to the Great Barrier Reef. Now, after extensive renovations, she cruises the Brisbane River in retro style.

The Lady Brisbane features three decks, two saloons, six separate event areas, and a large dance floor to accommodate groups of any size. Her interior showcases beautiful timber craftsmanship, which has been lovingly restored and updated. Recent improvements include a second bar upstairs, new lighting, and refurbished saloons and restrooms.

Under her polished wooden exterior, the Lady Brisbane provides plenty of backup systems for power, refrigeration, and access. This ensures a smooth and comfortable journey. With a classic build and modern amenities, the Lady Brisbane is the ultimate setting for your next river cruise event. Her charm and capacity will make your occasion one to remember.

Published 17-January-2024

Developer Looks to Demolish 1940s Hamilton Abode

A 1940s home at Langside Road in Hamilton faces an uncertain future, as the owners seek approval for demolition.

Read: Prized Hamilton Home Faces Partial Demolition to Kick Off Next Chapter

Developer Hua Feng Development Pty Ltd purchased the pre-1947 property at 33 Langside Rd two years ago and is now applying to tear down the four-bedroom house.

They commissioned a consultant’s report arguing that extensive modifications over the decades have stripped the transverse gable-style home of its original heritage character.

Real estate marketing photo of 33 Langside Rd, Hamilton, showing the gable roof form (Photo credit: realestate.com.au)

Changes include conversion to a duplex in the 1960s, a third storey addition in 1967, and a front carport added more recently. The report states these alterations, along with construction of larger modern houses nearby, have left the subject property looking out of place on the street.

Aerial view of subject property (Photo credit : Brisbane City Council)

Heritage consultant Malcolm Elliott concludes the 1940s home no longer retains its traditional charm and now appears “incongruous” among contemporary homes in the area.

Hua Feng submitted their development application to the Brisbane City Council in November 2023. Local officials are currently reviewing the proposal.

Can a Pre-1947 House Be Demolished?

A house or building constructed before 1947 that is also located in the Traditional building character overlay cannot be demolished. However, Council’s planning scheme allows for some limited exceptions where these older buildings can be removed.

In order for Council to approve demolition, the development application must meet the following criteria:

The building has undergone substantial alterations over time that have changed its original form and character.
The building has been deemed structurally unsound or unstable.
Demolition of the building would not result in a significant loss of traditional neighbourhood character.
The building is situated on a part of the street that no longer retains traditional building styles.

Additionally, if the house was built in 1911 or earlier, the only justification for demolition would be if the building is structurally unsound and not reasonably capable of being repaired.

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

In summary, local officials make some allowances for demolition of historic buildings in special cases, but there is a high bar to meet one of the qualifying criteria.

Published 9-January-2024

The Pink Flamingo Spiegeland Comes to Northshore

Brisbane’s entertainment scene is set for an unprecedented surge of glamour and spectacle with the imminent opening of The Pink Flamingo Spiegeland in Northshore Hamilton.

Starting December 16, visitors are in for a treat as this world-class entertainment hub embarks on a seven-year residency that will redefine the city’s cultural landscape.

Inspired by the roaring 1920s Spiegeltent and the vibrant cabaret clubs of New York City, the venue is designed to captivate audiences with its blend of opulence and world-class entertainment.

The pavilion boasts an Art Deco-inspired ambience, featuring luxurious pink velvet and gold seating across two levels.

At the heart of this spectacle is the purpose-built 400-seat Spiegel Pavilion, meticulously crafted to host three resident productions—SUAVÉ, LA TEAZE, and RIPPED.

With eight performances each week, this promises a kaleidoscope of talent, from international acrobatics to mesmerizing showgirls, all wrapped in the iconic Pink Flamingo twist.

Job opportunities are also set to soar with approximately 150 roles opening up across the theater and hospitality sectors in Brisbane, contributing to the local economy and enhancing the city’s vibrant culture.

The visionaries behind The Pink Flamingo Spiegeland, Tony Rigas, Sue Porrett, and Peter Snee, expressed their excitement about bringing this unprecedented entertainment experience to Brisbane. They emphasized the need for a permanent, custom-designed venue that matches the city’s international stature, dispelling the notion that residents should wait for festivals to experience top-tier performances.

Tickets for all shows are currently available, inviting Hamilton residents to witness the grandeur of The Pink Flamingo Spiegeland firsthand. From stunning acts to side-splitting comedy, this venue promises an immersive experience unlike any other, ready to charm audiences from its opening night.

Get your tickets here!

Beyond nightly performances, The Pink Flamingo Spiegeland BRISBANE will double as a premier event hub, catering to private bookings for various celebrations, including weddings, corporate gatherings, and more.

As Brisbane gears up for this dazzling addition to its entertainment repertoire, anticipation is high, marking the countdown to a feathered and fabulous journey through the iconic pink doors of The Pink Flamingo Spiegeland BRISBANE at Northshore.

For bookings and more information, residents of Hamilton can visit PinkFlamingoAustralia.com or contact the box office at 1800 BUYNOW. This is an experience not to be missed—a celebration of talent, glamour, and sheer entertainment, coming soon to Brisbane’s doorstep.

Book a show at pink flamingo Brisbane here!

Published 9-December-2023

Prized Hamilton Home Faces Partial Demolition to Kick Off Next Chapter

An iconic Hamilton home with almost 90 years of history could soon see sleek modern updates if a prominent restaurant couple’s development application gets approved.

Read: Dickson Terrace Residents Say No to Tycoon’s Extravagant Rebuild

Chef Jason Coats and wife Katie, known for venues like Maya Mexican and Il Molo, have submitted plans to transform parts of the roofline of the stately 1930s Dickson Terrace estate they acquired earlier this year. Though seeking to preserve the grand exterior, their proposed internal facelift somehow contradicts codes for protecting traditional buildings.

According to planning documents, the “partial demolition of the roof form, and other components as illustrated….do not comply with acceptable outcome AO1.1 of the (council’s) traditional building character (demolition) overlay code.”

Hamilton home — Photo credit: Z Architects

Plans filed detailed demolition of parts of the unique roofline to allow for modern skylights. However, the overall brick exterior and original charm would remain intact.

Proposed additions lean into the home’s lush riverfront setting, including an enviable pool and sauna. This would complement grand existing spaces like formal dining and a studio ripe for conversion.

The Hamilton home itself boasts an illustrious past beyond its striking architecture. Famed Brisbane architect Mervyn Rylance imbued his riverfront Mediterranean design with custom details to maximise natural light and connection with the outdoors.

Prominent Queensland barrister Tony Morris, who was only the second owner of the property, called it a secluded family retreat for around 35 years after purchasing it in 1988 for a modest $480,000. Prior owners even took advantage of its fortress-like walls which served as a neighbourhood bomb shelter back in the day.

Read: Final Piece of Hamilton Reach Project Has Hit the Market

Whilst contradicting heritage demolition codes, the couple feel their vision balances preservation and updates befitting such a distinctive home. Having stood strong since the ’30s, including weathering use as a bomb shelter, a touch of tasteful modernisation could give it new life under the stewardship of Chef Coats.

Published 5-December-2023

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

The glitz and glamour of New York’s Hamptons has arrived at Brisbane’s Portside Wharf with the recent opening of Fosh bar and restaurant.

Read: Hamilton’s Portside Wharf to Host Vegan Market Extravaganza

The latest venue from hospitality veteran Michael Tassis of Tassis Group, Fosh brings a sleek yet laidback vibe paired with the freshest Australian seafood.

For this new venture, Mr Tassis hopes this exceptional dining experience will spark or reignite people’s love for seafood cuisine. The restaurateur, who’s also behind the likes of Massimo Restaurant & Bar and Yamas Greek + Drink, can’t think of a better location to do so than directly by the water.

Mr Tassis’ passion for seafood began in his youth whilst working at his father’s restaurant, George’s Paragon Seafood Restaurant, located in Sanctuary Cove on the Gold Coast.

Photo credit: Fosh Bar & Restaurant/Google Maps

For over a decade, Mr Tassis has loved visiting Portside Wharf and enjoying its truly unique waterfront location. When the opportunity arose to secure a restaurant space with prime river frontage, he felt it was a chance too good to pass up. He now looked forward to being part of the precinct’s exciting, new future and continued evolution, with the Wharf anticipated to undergo a $20-million makeover.

True to its promise, seafood at Fosh travels from ocean to plate in less than 24 hours. The menu offers everything from fish finger sandwiches with tartare sauce to fresh oysters, impressive seafood platters and live lobster or mud crab available daily. For those who prefer land fare, Fosh also serves high-quality cuts of meat.

Complementing the sea-to-table offerings is an extensive cocktail list and wine menu fit for the Hamptons elite. Guests can sip and savour at the glamorous island bar area or lounge before heading outside to the alfresco terrace with its uninterrupted river views.

The restaurant’s head chef is Vikash Gurung, who brings his mastery of Japanese dry ageing techniques to enhance the flavours of the fine local produce. Under his stewardship, Fosh promises a menu that’s both sustainable and seriously tasty.

Read: Centuries-Old Grilling Traditions Take Flight at Bird’s Nest Yakitori Hamilton

Fosh is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. For a taste of the Hamptons without leaving Brisbane, pay them a visit at Portside Wharf or follow on Instagram.

Published 28-November-2023

Hamilton’s Portside Wharf to Host Vegan Market Extravaganza

Hamilton’s Portside Wharf is gearing up to host the much-anticipated North Brisbane Vegan Markets, a vibrant hub of cruelty-free shopping, delicious vegan cuisine, and lively entertainment.

Scheduled for 18 Nov 2023, the Queensland Vegan Markets at Portside Wharf is at 39 Hercules Street, Hamilton. The event is set to run from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., allowing visitors ample time to explore, shop, and dine.

Culinary Delights and Ethical Shopping

Food enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice with an array of plant-based culinary delights. The event will feature a delicious assortment of vegan treats, from Balinese dishes to cheese toasties and tacos, not forgetting indulgent options like cupcakes, cookies, burgers, and loaded fries.

The markets will also provide a platform for a variety of cruelty-free stalls, showcasing an array of products including leather alternatives, unique homewares, and bespoke goods.

An Inviting Atmosphere for All

*Photo Credit: Brisbane Vegan Markets/Facebook*

Setting the mood for this ethical extravaganza, live music will fill the air, creating an inviting and upbeat atmosphere. Pet lovers will be delighted to know that the event is pet-friendly, offering a chance for the community to enjoy a day out with their furry companions.

This inclusive approach underscores the market’s commitment to being a welcoming space for all attendees.

Entry is free, making it accessible to everyone. Attendees can also benefit from easy public transport access and both free and paid parking options, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

RSVP HERE

Follow their Facebook page for the updates.

Published 14-Nov-2023

Stage Set for Music Concerts at Dendy Cinemas at Portside Hamilton

The Portside Wharf in Hamilton is set to be the stage for a series of music concerts as Dendy Cinemas, unveils an exciting lineup of musical experiences for residents and visitors.

Stop Making Sense: A Cinematic Journey with Talking Heads

For music enthusiasts, the month kicks off with a cinematic treat as Dendy Coorparoo and Dendy Portside host the 40th-anniversary 4K re-release of “Stop Making Sense,” a legendary concert film documenting the iconic band Talking Heads during their 1983 tour for the album “Speaking in Tongues.” Celebrated as one of the greatest concert movies of all time, this film captures the band’s creativity, choreography, and visuals that made them a sensation. Fans can relive this momentous journey from 9 November 2023.

Dolly Parton: A Rockstar Extravaganza

If you’re a Dolly Parton fan, November 15 is your night to shine. Dendy Cinemas in Hamilton present “Dolly Parton Rockstar: The Global First Listen Fan Event.” This exclusive experience offers a sneak peek into Dolly Parton’s star-studded rock album, “ROCKSTAR,” set to release on 17 November 2023. The event includes selections from the album, an exclusive interview, music videos, and even a special performance of the classic hit “9 to 5.”

Callas – Paris, 1958: A Night with Maria Callas

On 25 and 26 November, Dendy Coorparoo and Dendy Portside present “CALLAS – PARIS, 1958,” an extraordinary experience for opera aficionados. The film offers a unique opportunity to witness the quintessential diva, Maria Callas, during her Paris Opéra debut. Restored in 4K Ultra HD colour from recently discovered original 16mm reels, this performance brings an enchanting piece of opera history to life like never before.

With an array of musical events, Hamilton’s Dendy Cinemas is set to be the go-to destination for music lovers in Brisbane this November.

These screenings for fans of a variety of genres promise to keep your musical spirits high. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to relive and experience the magic of these musical legends on the big screen.

Check out what’s at the movies for November 2023.

Published 7-Nov-2023

Centuries-Old Grilling Traditions Take Flight at Bird’s Nest Yakitori Hamilton

The tantalising smells of binchotan grilled meat and vegetables will soon waft through Portside Wharf as Hamilton’s latest Japanese eatery, Bird’s Nest Yakitori, opens for business.

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

The new venue expands the popular Brisbane-based yakitori chain to four locations across southeast Queensland.

Bird’s Nest Yakitori first opened in 2013 in West End, followed by a second location in Fortitude Valley. They also operate a takeaway outlet in Toowong Village and have plans to open another soon at Everton Plaza.

Photo credit: Birds Nest Restaurant/Facebook

The chain stands out for its use of traditional Japanese grilling techniques and premium ingredients. Diners can expect to find classic skewers like chicken thigh and shallot negima skewers along with veggie options like king oyster mushroom and locally grown shiitake.

The binchotan charcoal used in their grills is a type of charcoal traditionally used in Japanese cooking dating back to the Edo period between 1603 and 1867. Binchotan allows Bird’s Nest chefs precise temperature control whilst imparting a delicate smoky flavour.

Owners Emi Kamada and Marie Yokoyama (Photo credit: Birds Nest Restaurant/Facebook)

The restaurant is the brainchild of owners Emi Kamada and Marie Yokoyama, who were inspired to bring authentic yakitori to Australia after training with master chefs in Japan. Emi and Marie are also known for winning The Hotplate 2015 and even used their prize money to expand their brand.

In keeping with Japanese tradition, all ingredients are delivered fresh daily and skewers are made to order on-site. The new Hamilton location also features their signature binchotan grilled items such as wagyu steak, grilled squid, and garlic prawns.

Whilst Bird’s Nest Yakitori is best known for binchotan-grilled skewers, their menu also features raw dishes and Japanese street foods, best paired with sake. Bird’s Nest Yakitori boasts an extensive selection of Japanese sake and spirits. Don’t miss their Okinawa Pirate, which is their take on piña colada.

Read: Portside Wharf’s Sweetest Addition: Rise Bakery Hits Hamilton After Gold Coast Success

With its dedication to tradition and culinary excellence, Bird’s Nest Yakitori is set to become a go-to destination for Japanese cuisine on Brisbane’s Northside.

Reservations are highly encouraged at the new Hamilton Bird’s Nest Yakitori to guarantee a table, though walk-ins are still welcome. They are open daily for lunch and dinner at 39 Hercules St, Hamilton.

Published 24-October-2023

Proposed New Short-Term Accommodation Development on Kingsford Smith Drive Goes on Public Notice

Did you know that there could soon be a state-of-the-art, short-term accommodation to be developed on Kingsford Smith Drive in Hamilton?

Slated for construction at 502 Kingsford Smith Drive, if approved, the development (DA A006335435) lodged in August 2023, is open for submissions from 25 Oct to 17 Nov 2023.

“Once a development application has been publicly notified, interested parties are invited to make submissions within a 20 business day public notification period. Following the 20 business day timeframe, the opportunity for submissions closes and the application is further assessed taking into consideration comments made by submitters,” per Economic Development Queensland.

Innovative Design and Amenities

Designed by the esteemed Myers Ellyett Architects, the proposal envisions a 5-storey residential tower with 44 high-density units, offering an array of amenities and communal spaces. The development is set to encompass levels 2 to 5, with an impressive communal rooftop space. Levels 2 and 3 will house 12 rooms each, whilst Level 4 boasts 2 landscaped terraces and 10 rooms.

The Kingsford Hamilton — Photo Credit: DA A006335435

The rooftop level, a truly standout feature, includes a café, yoga lawn, seating zone, function zone, and a garden edge. Furthermore, the ground level will feature a lobby, a convenient pick-up/drop-off area, three staff car parks, a loading/servicing zone, and lush planting and landscaping.

The project places a strong emphasis on aesthetics and community engagement, with screening and vegetation enhancing the building’s façade along Kingsford Smith Drive, affording residents private terraces and balconies. The rooftop area will provide a communal open space with outdoor landscaped spaces, a café, and a function area, all thoughtfully designed to complement the short-term accommodation use.

Promoting Streetscape Activation

Mewing Town Planning, the planners overseeing the project, are keen to ensure that the development aligns with the neighbourhood’s character and encourages street-level activation.

“At ground level, the development proposes the lobby and landscaped courtyard within proximity of the street frontage, consistent with the outcomes of the Neighbourhood Plan, which will encourage the activation and overlooking of the street,” the planner stated. “The landscaping within the frontage will soften the presence of the development and contribute to the character and amenity of the streetscape.”

The project includes a setback of 5.5 meters from the front boundary to prevent the development from overwhelming the streetscape. This setback, combined with an intricately designed façade, vertical batten screening, landscaping, and a central recessed form, ensures that the new addition to Hamilton integrates seamlessly with its surroundings.

Parking and Accessibility

A total of 22 car parking spaces are part of the plan, comprising 19 guest spaces, including three drop-off bays, and three staff spaces. Vehicle and pedestrian access will be facilitated via a shared driveway and a pedestrian entrance lobby. To accommodate environmentally conscious visitors, the proposal also includes 64 bicycle parking spaces, promoting sustainable transportation options.

The proposed development spans 1,281 square metres of gross floor area (GFA) with a site cover of 60 per cent. The development is set to invigorate the area and cater to the short-term accommodation needs of visitors and locals, creating a new landmark within the charming suburb of Hamilton.

Head to the BCC Development site to make a submission for DA A006335435.

Published 24-Oct-2023