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Rosé Gelateria Debuts at Portside Wharf

Did you know that Rosé Gelateria has opened its first Brisbane artisanal ice cream shop at Portside Wharf in Hamilton?

Bronson Tucker and Diana Prinz, the husband-and-wife team behind the venture, were inspired to go into the gelato business by a trip they took to Florence in Italy, where they learned the art of gelato-making from a master teacher.

They are now introducing their artisanal gelatos to Brisbane, after two successful ventures in Sanctuary Cove in the Gold Coast and in Main Beach.

“We aren’t your everyday gelato store. As a boutique provider, we put considerable thought into every detail, flavour, and the overall experience we offer, with our customers at the forefront of each choice,”Ms Prinz said.

“Our vision for Rosé Gelateria has been to create truly beautiful spaces for friends, families and people to connect while enjoying our artisanal range of gelatos and treats. We are delighted to continue bringing this vision to life at Portside Wharf,” she added.

A wide selection of gelato flavors is available for customers to enjoy, including the famous rose gelato that is created with rosewater and topped with rose petals.

“Our menu will boast 20 signature flavours, with a range of vegan and dairy-free options, and four delicious, limited-edition flavours that will rotate each month. We will also offer pet-friendly gelato for furry family members,” Mr Tucker said.

In addition to rose gelato, Biscoff gelato, caramel flavor, and a changing list of 20 distinctive flavors are also available at Rosé Gelateria. There are options for anyone, including vegan and dairy-free selections.

For pet owners, the gelateria even serves pet-friendly gelato, so furry friends can join in on the frozen treat fun.

Rosé Gelateria also offers a range of macarons, cookies, juices, and milkshakes. They partnered with locally based Paradox Coffee Roasters to serve specialty coffee blends such as Picasso Baby (featuring dark chocolate and blackberry notes) and Paper Moon (with notes of black cherry and plum).

The menu also offers fresh artisan goods and drinks, such as cookies, macarons, juices, milkshakes, and dessert jars.

With an outdoor seating area for sunny days, the gelateria also has 56 sqm of internal seating, perfect for quick catch-ups over delicious scoops. There are dedicated areas for gelato, cafe, and takeaways.

The gelateria’s interior exudes elegance with pastel hues, white furnishings, and gold accents. It provides a pleasing atmosphere for customers to enjoy their gelato and other treats.

Located at Portside Wharf, Rosé Gelateria opens from 8 am to 10 pm daily, inviting Hamilton residents to indulge in their delightful gelato creations.

Published 14-June-2023

Hamilton Towers and Orion Towers Projects Scrapped After Failed $70-M Deal

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Descon Group Australia has recently announced that the Hamilton Towers project in Brisbane’s Olympic precinct will no longer be pushing through.

The decision comes after a failed settlement deal worth $70 million and unfavourable market conditions that will also see the Orion Towers in Surfers Paradise suffer the same fate.

Large-scale projects are finding it difficult to advance smoothly as a result of rising construction costs and loan rates. And due to the challenges faced by developers in a shifting market, Descon Group has chosen to discontinue work on these projects.

Wentworth Equities, who bought the property eight years ago, struck a deal with Descon last November 2022. At the time of the announcement, Danny Isaac, the managing director of Descon, underscored their breadth of knowledge, sound financial standing, and competence in every facet of project delivery, from engineering and construction to design. The project’s construction was originally slated to commence in early 2023.

Situated in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Athlete Village precinct at 19 Hercules Street, the Hamilton Towers development was set to be a monumental addition to the city’s urban riverside renewal project. The project encompassed three towers comprising a total of 433 residential units and a retail and dining precinct spanning 4,648 square meters.

However, Descon Group, acknowledging the prevailing market conditions and increasing building costs, concluded that the Hamilton Towers project was no longer financially feasible.

After Descon’s contract was terminated, the Hamilton site, which was once planned for the Hamilton Towers project is now up for sale via Expression of Interest.

The previous owner, Wentworth Equities, is committed to selling the property and highlights its potential as a component of an innovative new Brisbane neighbourhood. The site is an appealing prospect because of its ideal location next to Portside Wharf, with easy access to the airport and Brisbane CBD.

Meanwhile, the other project was originally intended as a 118-floor supertower in Surfers Paradise, the Orion Towers project aimed to redefine the skyline with its architectural grandeur. However, Descon Group has deemed the project commercially unviable in the current market environment. This shift in focus, however, presents an opportunity for other developers to step in and take part in the urban renewal of these areas.

Published 16-June-2023

Hamilton, Other QLD Suburbs Battle Car Theft Menace

Photo credit: Queensland Police Service Online Crime Map

Did you know that there have been 27 instances of unlawful use of motor vehicles in postcode 4007 (Hamilton, Hamilton Central and Ascot) in the second quarter of 2023 so far, according to data from the Queesland Police Service (QPS)?

Meanwhile, more than 50 vehicles are stolen in Queensland everyday over the past 12 months, with Hamilton along with other affluent Brisbane suburbs included among the car theft hotspots, according to QPS data.

Cairns is top-ranked in the list of car thefts in Queensland with 859 incidents in 2022, followed closely by Toowoomba with 640 and Hendra with 629 for the period from May 2022 to April 2023.

Shockingly, even affluent areas such as Ascot, Hamilton, and Albion have also become targets for vehicle robberies, drawing attention from car thieves to the presence of luxury cars and affluent homes. The hi-tech security systems in modern vehicles have made stealing cars without keys a challenging task, prompting thieves to focus on obtaining the keys first.

Also, experts explained that limited resources pose a significant challenge for law enforcement agencies too as they struggle to cope with the increasing crime rates. This highlights the need for adequate staffing and resources to combat this issue effectively.

A further perspective on the prevalence of auto theft in Queensland is provided by the survey results revealed by Compare the Market in March 2023. Out of all the surveyed Queensland adults, a staggering 12.4% reported having been victims of car theft, compared to significantly lower percentages in other states.

“The harsh reality is that thousands of cars are stolen each year in Australia, collectively costing us millions of dollars,” Adrian Taylor, the General Manager of General Insurance at Compare the Market said.

“While victims of car theft aren’t to blame, there are things that car owners can do to protect their vehicles from robbery – especially as youth crime rates soar in some parts of the country. Perhaps the most important thing you can do is having relevant insurance in place that covers you in the event of the vehicle being stolen.”

He emphasised the importance of key preventive measures such as avoiding leaving keys in the car, which is a common mistake that Australians make. Mr Taylor advises residents to hide their keys out of sight and always lock their car doors.

Furthermore, he suggested residents consider installing car security systems, such as alarms, to deter potential thieves and provide owners with alerts in case of any theft attempts.

Parking habits can also significantly reduce the risk of theft. Surprisingly, more than half of Australians do not lock their cars securely in a garage when at home.

Published 10-June-2023

ArtForce Brisbane: Pockets of Art In Hamilton

All around Hamilton, vivid (and sometimes whimsical) pieces of art can be seen on the streets, a collection of captivating artworks made through the ArtForce Brisbane project by talented Brisbane locals. The stories behind the subjects of the pieces also provide insights into the artists who made them.

Brisbane Cats River Ride

One of the standout artworks, titled “Brisbane Cats River Ride,” showcases a vibrant and playful depiction of cats riding down the city’s iconic river. Created by the talented local artists of Ascot State School, this imaginative piece captures the essence of Brisbane’s unique charm and love for its feline inhabitants. The artwork has quickly become a favourite among residents and tourists alike, prompting smiles and joy as they stroll past it.

Location: Racecourse Rd & Kent St

Just Breathe

“Just Breathe,” another mesmerizing artwork submitted through ArtForce Brisbane, invites viewers to pause and embrace the tranquillity of nature. This masterful creation by Margaret Lipinska portrays a solitary figure surrounded by lush greenery, reminding us of the importance of taking a moment to connect with the natural world. The artwork serves as a powerful reminder to slow down and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us in our busy lives.

Location: Kingsford Smith Dr & Crescent Rd

Sunset on the Water

For those who yearn for the beauty of sunsets and the serenity of water, “Sunset on the Water” from artist Shanaia Singh, offers a breathtaking visual experience. With its vivid colours and meticulous brushstrokes, this artwork transports viewers to a serene lakeside, where they can almost feel the gentle breeze and hear the peaceful sounds of nature. The artist’s skill in capturing the tranquillity and ethereal qualities of a sunset has garnered well-deserved admiration.

Location: Kingsford Smith Dr & Racecourse Rd

Among the Trees

The allure of lush forests and their ability to evoke a sense of wonder and exploration are showcased in “Among the Trees,” by artist Gemma Nyssen. This artwork entices viewers to immerse themselves in a world of towering trunks and dappled sunlight, representing Hamilton Forest.

Location: Kingsford Smith Dr & Alison St

Hamilton Forest

The aptly named “Hamilton Forest” piece, from artist Shari Indriani, encapsulates the enchanting beauty of the local woodland, capturing its unique atmosphere and inviting viewers to explore its hidden treasures. The intricate details and vibrant colours bring the forest to life, creating an immersive experience for art enthusiasts.

Location: Kingsford Smith Dr & Oxford St

Hamilton Forest Community

The artwork “Hamilton Forest Community” is a vibrant and heartwarming piece that portrays a diverse group of people coming together amidst the forest, reflecting the strength and unity of the local community. It serves as a reminder of the powerful connections that can be formed when people embrace their natural surroundings and share common values. It’s from artist Russell Hall.

Location: Nudgee Rd & Hants St

Nudgee Rd and Hants St — Photo Credit: Google Maps

Hamilton Forest Community — Photo Credit: ArtforceBrisbane

Gumnuts

The delicate beauty of nature is celebrated in “Gumnuts,” an artwork from Ash Taylor that captures the essence of Australia’s unique flora. Viewers are transported to a world of native Australian gum trees, as they admire the intricate details of gumnuts, leaves, and blossoms. This piece not only showcases the artist’s skill but also honours the country’s rich natural heritage.

Location: Kingsford Smith Dr & Riverview Tce

Visitors and residents alike have been captivated by the skill, imagination, and emotion captured within each piece. ArtForce Brisbane provides a showcase of the natural splendour of the city and the community spirit that has further solidified its reputation as a vibrant and inclusive cultural hub.

Published 29-May-2023

New 11-Storey Twin Towers Proposed on Dover Street, Albion

Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au

The skyline of Albion could be set for a transformation with the unveiling of OpenCorp’s plans for new 11-storey twin towers on Dover Street. If approved, the development will deliver 218 apartments constructed in two stages.

OpenCorp unveiled its plans for the transformation of its property at 31 Dover Street, acquired in 2016 for $11 million. Designed by Hayes Anderson Lynch (HAL), the proposal seeks approval for a twin tower residential development on a 5,600sqm site at 31 Dover Street, Albion.

New 11-Storey Twin Towers Proposed on Dover Street, Albion — Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au

Consisting of 218 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, the development will be completed in two stages. The southern tower, forming the first stage, will comprise 110 apartments, followed by the northern tower with 108 apartments. The strategic V-shaped design ensures that each dwelling enjoys a view into the communal courtyard whilst maintaining privacy from the other tower.

“The ‘V’ shaped floor plate design ensures that no apartments look directly into one another, and provides for substantial communal open space within the site. Accordingly, apartments in each tower are oriented at 90 degrees to each other, and the apartments look out over and into the communal open space.” — RPS Group

At the ground floor level, between the two towers, a central pavilion will house a gym and formal dining area, available for small functions through a booking system. Surrounding this pavilion will be informal seating and gathering areas, a yoga deck, and enchanting water features.

Residents will also have access to communal rooftop areas in each tower, which boast swimming pools, BBQ facilities, and sun lounge terraces, providing panoramic views of the city and the picturesque surroundings.

All dwellings will feature private open spaces accessible from the main living areas. Ground floor terraces/courtyards will grace 11 of the dwellings, ranging in size from approximately 35.8m² to 92.1m², providing ample room for relaxation and outdoor activities.

The remaining dwellings will feature balconies ranging from around 10.7 sqm to 29.9 sqm, meticulously designed in proportion to the apartment’s size and number of bedrooms.

The development ensures ample parking for 371 residents’ cars and 55 visitor spaces across two basement levels. Additionally, provisions have been made for resident bicycle storage, promoting environmentally friendly transportation options.

Moreover, with Albion railway station a mere 550 meters away and easy access to bus routes and major roads, residents will enjoy convenient connectivity. The Albion Centre, boutique breweries, coffee outlets, and nearby Crosby Park public open space offer a vibrant and dynamic lifestyle within reach.

Published 27-May-2023

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

Photo Credit: DEV2023/1402

In an effort to provide more housing solutions to a waiting market, Brookfield has submitted a groundbreaking development application for a dual-tower, built-to-rent residential project in Portside Wharf, Hamilton.

The proposal, designed by renowned architectural firm Fender Katsalidis, aims to revolutionize the rental market by offering 560 purpose-built apartments alongside a range of non-residential amenities.

Located at 11 Macarthur Avenue, the project seeks to create a vibrant and sustainable community within the picturesque riverfront site with two 23-storey towers standing at a maximum height of approximately 85 meters. This would be the first built-to-rent (BTR) project in Northshore Hamilton, demonstrating Brookfield‘s commitment to innovative housing solutions.

The apartments will range from studios to three-bedroom units for low-income households, students and vulnerable populations.

Brookfield Hamilton build-to-rent — Photo Credit: DEV2023/1402

Aside from high-density residential units, the key features of the development include a café, a shop with a dog-grooming salon, a sizable co-working space, and a gymnasium. Whilst primarily intended for residents, the non-residential spaces are also open to the broader community, fostering inclusivity and social interaction.

The proposed food and drink outlets are designed with their own unique layout to accommodate diverse retail concepts. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, while the café provides a space for coffee and light meals.

The office spaces are meant to cater to the needs of various businesses, with different sizes and configurations, including meeting rooms, conference facilities, and workstations. Additionally, the development will feature a parking station with multiple levels, designated spaces, and separate areas for motorcycles and bicycles to ensure convenient and secure parking for residents and visitors.

To promote a sense of community, the development will offer ample communal space, including a sizable recreation zone on the podium level. This area has outdoor pools and spas, seating areas, garden lawns, a residents’ lounge, wellness and spa facilities, a wine library, private dining areas, a dog lawn, BBQ areas, and a games room.

The proposed development is also committed to sustainability, targeting a 4 Star Green Star ‘Buildings’ rating. The apartments will aim for exceptional performance in the Green Star ‘Energy Use’ category, achieving an average NatHERS 7-star rating across the development and a minimum rating of 5.5 stars.

The project will incorporate a car share scheme and electric vehicle charging facilities, along with dedicated solar panel zones on the rooftop to supply common areas with electricity.

The development application, #DEV2023/1402, was submitted to the State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning on 18 May 2023 and is currently under review.

Published 25-May-2023

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

Photo Credit: Transdev / .transdev.com >

Seventeen electric buses will soon be added to South East Queensland’s public transport system through Eagle Farm-based company Volgren.

These buses, which will be progressively added to the existing fleet, will serve the eastern suburbs of Brisbane. The first e-bus commenced operations in February, with the remaining 16 expected to join the network soon.

The Queensland branch of the transport giant Transdev collaborated with Translink, the State Government public transport agency, to order these environmentally friendly buses.

The buses will benefit from the solar system already installed at Transdev’s Capalaba depot, providing them with partial charging capabilities. Volgren’s manufacturing facility, located in Eagle Farm, will oversee the production of these buses.

Each of the 12.5-meter Volvo BZL buses will support five jobs and feature dual 300kW electric motors, accommodating 43 passengers. The new electric buses are not only more environmentally friendly but also quieter and fully equipped with modern features, according to Mark McKenzie, the managing director of Transdev Queensland.

Transdev Queensland is undertaking significant depot work, including the installation of cabling, utilities, and new vehicle chargers, in preparation for an electric and hydrogen-based future. The introduction of these 17 electric buses plays a crucial role in achieving emissions reduction targets, as stated by Queensland’s energy minister, Mark Bailey.

The government plans to transition to zero-emissions buses, with all new buses on the South East Queensland urban network being zero-emissions starting from 2025. The implementation of zero-emission buses in regional areas will begin between 2025 and 2030.

In addition to their environmental benefits, the shift to electric buses also provides an opportunity for upskilling the local workforce in renewable energy. Transdev’s McKenzie hopes that the work being done with Translink can serve as a model for future zero-emission bus operators, offering valuable technical skills that can be transferred to other industries.

With these 17 new electric buses, Transdev’s Queensland fleet will consist of approximately one-fifth of zero-emissions vehicles. This move aligns with the government’s commitment to increasing the use of electric buses in the state. The Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and Cairns already have a combined total of 20 electric buses in operation, and by the end of 2023, it is expected that over 50 electric buses will be deployed across Queensland.

The Queensland government aims to have all new bus purchases in the southeast region be electric by 2025. Meanwhile, regional bus purchases are targeted to be electric by 2030. These goals parallel similar initiatives in other states, such as the Australian Capital Territory, which has already made all new bus purchases electric, Victoria’s commitment to achieving this by 2025, and New South Wales plan to electrify its entire bus fleet by 2047.

The 17 new electric buses will be stationed at Transdev’s Capalaba depot and will rely partially on solar panels and electricity stored in 10 Tesla batteries for charging. Mark McKenzie explained that the buses will be recharged during periods of high demand and benefit from the charging opportunities provided by the existing solar farm.

Published 24 May 2023

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

Gold Coast’s best bakery is coming to town! Rise Bakery is set to expand to Brisbane, with a sister venue opening soon at Hamilton’s Portside Wharf.

Read: Portside Wharf Set for Major Transformation

Renowned chefs Adrien Marcinowski and Maxime Bournazel are spearheading this coveted patisserie and wine bar. They expressed their attraction to the tenancy at Portside Wharf, citing the lively community within the precinct and the excellent riverfront position as key factors.

Nestled within a spacious 155-sqm site with both indoor and outdoor spaces, this magnificent duo will enthral patrons with their signature range of tantalising French delicacies.

Picture yourself savouring the ethereal delights of flaky, butter-infused croissants and artisanal bread that will transport you to the enchanting streets of Paris.

Rise’s Gold Coast location (Photo credit: James Patten/Google Maps)

As if that wasn’t enough, the bakery will proudly present a captivating collection of patisserie creations so exquisitely adorned that they might just be deemed too beautiful to consume.

Yet, there’s more to this extraordinary destination than meets the eye. Enter the realm of the breathtaking champagne bar, an opulent oasis where effervescent French bubbles flow freely, harmonising with the melodic notes of Bear Bones coffee and the aromatic allure of Tavalon tea.

Not to be outdone, a thoughtfully curated selection of global wines stands ready to embark on a journey of sensory delight with each discerning guest.

Designed by the visionary talents at Clui Design, the interior of this remarkable establishment is a manifestation of elegance and sophistication.

Upon its completion, Rise Bakery will boast a sophisticated and enchanting ambiance, inspired by the allure of French aesthetics. Their interior design will exude elegance, characterised by a palette of ethereal whites, delicate pinks, and tasteful touches of gold.

Read: FOSH Alert: Upmarket Seafood Restaurant Soon to Open at Portside Wharf

This dazzling bakery will join the ranks of other esteemed culinary establishments at Portside Wharf, including the seafood restaurant, Fosh by Michael Tassis by mid-2023. Follow the Portside Wharf’s website to stay updated about the Rise Bakery’s opening.

Rise Bakery will be located within Portside Wharf at 39 Hercules St, Hamilton.

Published 11-May-2023

Reviving a Century-Old Beauty: The Magnificent Transformation of Katanga

Photo credit: Brisbane City Council / heritage.brisbane.qld.gov.au

The century-old residence Katanga is currently undergoing a transformation that is expected to restore it to its former glory.

Brisbane’s distinguished luxury builders, Solaire Properties, have taken on the task of renovating this historic character house into a luxurious modern residence.

Heritage-listed Katanga was initially built in 1884 for the distinguished Dickson family, who played significant roles in the business and political spheres of both Brisbane and Queensland. It was built in the Colonial style that was prevalent during the nineteenth century and reflects the residential development of Hamilton in the late nineteenth century.

At the time of its construction, Hamilton and Ascot were emerging as affluent residential areas, attracting wealthy and middle-class residents.

Reviving a Century-Old Beauty: The Magnificent Transformation of Katanga — *Photo credit: Solaire /* katangabysolaire.com.au

Although determining the exact departure date of the Dickson family from the property may be difficult to ascertain, available evidence indicates that they might have sold it in 1905.

Before Solaire Properties took on the project, the property had remained unoccupied for a minimum of 15 years and had significantly deteriorated. They noted that there were indications of homeless individuals inhabiting the premises, as well as severe wood rot, asbestos, and water damage.

To design the renovation, Solaire Properties enlisted the assistance of Twohill and James, a renowned architecture firm. The project, which includes a 7-meter pool, a deck, an internal lift, a mudroom, a home gym, and a theatre, among other features, will include a new build that will account for more than 50% of the property. The result will be an entirely new home and a luxurious house and land package.

Katanga is set to be an extraordinary property, boasting 1,113m2 of land, approximately 1,145m2 of GFA, and a six-car basement. It will include six bedrooms, six bathrooms, and two powder rooms, lift access to all three levels, a temperature-controlled wine cellar, a gym, and a cinema room.

This property boasts more than 32 meters of street frontage to one of Brisbane’s highly regarded streets, situated among Hamilton’s esteemed residences on the hillside.

Solaire is Reviving a Century-Old Beauty — *Photo credit: Solaire /* katangabysolaire.com.au

It also features breathtaking Brisbane River views and is located within proximity to popular dining and retail precincts, including Portside Wharf, Eat Street, and Ascot’s Racecourse Road.

In addition, the property falls within the catchment areas of Ascot State School, Fortitude Valley State Secondary College, and Aviation High. Furthermore, it is conveniently located just a short drive away from several of Brisbane’s high-end private schools and colleges.

Published 14-April-2023

Stanwell To Supply Brisbane Airport With 100 Per Cent Renewable Energy

Energy generator Stanwell will supply Brisbane Airport with 100 per cent renewable energy, as part of a recently signed landmark renewable energy agreement between them.

Read: Get to Know Katana, a Hamilton Landmark Since the 19th Century

Every year, Stanwell will supply the airport up to 185 GWh of renewable energy, allowing all of their operations to run on clean energy, from the terminals to the runway lights, to the terminals, travellators, escalators, retail shops, and IT and electric vehicles refuellers.

Brisbane Airport was historically known for its coal-fired energy generation, but has since made a commitment to support Queensland’s decarbonisation efforts.

Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon said it marked a major milestone towards cutting energy emissions in the sunshine state by 90 per cent by 2035.

“The Palaszczuk Government’s Energy and Jobs Plan is the most ambitious action on climate change and renewables in Queensland’s history,” Minister Scanlon said.

Brisbane Airport Corporation Chief Executive Gert-Jan de Graaff said the deal would mean BAC could meet its net zero emissions commitment by 2025, 25 years earlier than planned.

“We welcome this deal with Stanwell and are proud to be customer number one in its renewable energy pipeline,” Mr de Graaff said.

“This clean energy deal delivers on Brisbane Airport Corporation’s commitment to be a sustainable world leading airport city.

Stanwell CEO, Michael O’Rourke, said Stanwell was proud to be supporting Brisbane Airport Corporation accelerate its net zero target by 2025 through its retail arm Stanwell Energy.

“This is the first of many renewable energy options Stanwell Energy will be offering to support our commercial and industrial customers meet their decarbonisation requirements,” Mr O’Rouke said.

Read: Eldernell Hill: From 19th Century Aboriginal Camp to Blue-Chip Hamilton Location

“Stanwell Energy is unique in its approach when it comes to its service offering. Our dedicated account managers are able to work with customers to develop tailored energy contracts that provide flexibility, security, and access to renewable options.

Published 3-April-2023