Hamilton Archives - Page 4 of 13

‘Alive with Opportunity’ Campaign Highlights Hamilton Innovation

Hamilton is set to play a key role in the latest economic initiative, the “Alive with Opportunity” campaign, which aims to showcase local innovation success stories and attract national and international investment to the region.

Innovation Hub: Hamilton’s Contribution

Hamilton is positioned within Brisbane’s thriving knowledge corridor and boasts Australia’s highest density of innovation hubs per capita. The campaign will run across print, digital, and radio until June and promote the city’s advancements in biotechnology, sustainable technologies, and aerospace engineering.

One of the key companies spotlighted is Vaxxas. It is a biotech firm based in Hamilton. The company is revolutionising vaccine administration.

Vaxxas has developed a needle-free vaccine technology called the High Density Microarray Patch (HD-MAP). This efficiently delivers vaccines by targeting immune cells beneath the skin’s surface. This approach enhances immune response. It also reduces the need for cold chain logistics and improves vaccine accessibility.

Vaxxas collaborates with global health organisations. They work with Merck/MSD and the World Health Organization (WHO), developing vaccines targeting infectious diseases and oncology.

Alive with Opportunity — *Photo Credit: Vaxxas*

Driving Economic Growth Ahead of 2032 Games

According to the Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA), the city’s economy is on track to grow by 68 per cent to $275 billion by 2041. Hamilton’s thriving business ecosystem aligns with the vision to become a global innovation leader, specifically in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

City official Adrian Schrinner emphasised that the city’s rapid growth and business-friendly environment make it an ideal destination for entrepreneurs and investors.

Spotlight on Success: Local Innovators

Besides Vaxxas, other innovators from Hamilton and nearby areas include:

Carbonaught – focuses on transforming CO2 emissions into valuable resources.
Hypersonix Launch Systems – leading the charge in sustainable hypersonic flight technology.
Graphene Manufacturing Group – advancing materials science with graphene innovation.
Rino Recycling – leading in circular economy solutions by repurposing construction and demolition waste.

A New Era of Innovation for Hamilton

Hamilton is firmly positioned as part of Brisbane’s innovation boom. The local community is set to benefit from increased business opportunities and economic growth. As the “Alive with Opportunity” campaign continues, Hamilton’s contribution to Brisbane’s transformation into an innovation powerhouse remains evident.

Published 5-Apr-2025

50 Marathons in 50 Days: Ultra Effort Hits Hamilton to Help Homeless

Hamilton has become one of several key Brisbane locations featured in an ambitious ultra-marathon campaign led by Rob ‘Boundsy’ Bounds, who is running 50 kilometres daily for 50 days to raise funds and awareness for homelessness support organisation We Are Mobilise.

Background and Motivation Behind the Run

Brisbane local Rob ‘Boundsy’ Bounds, also known as the Carnivore Runner, has undertaken a gruelling mission to complete 50 ultra-marathons in 50 days. Since the start of March, Mr Bounds has been running 50-kilometre loops around the city each day—including routes through Hamilton—as part of his campaign to raise funds for the charity We Are Mobilise.

Despite heavy rain and weather events like Cyclone Alfred, Mr Bounds has stayed on track, saying the effort is aimed at driving conversations and challenging stereotypes around homelessness.

Supporting a Growing Cause

“Australia’s homelessness problem is growing,” Mr Bounds said, explaining that the physical toll is part of a larger goal to encourage donations and public engagement.

As of now, the campaign has raised $3,540 from 40 donations, far from the $26,000 target. However, community interest continues to build, with supporters invited to join Mr Bounds for stretches of the run from various Brisbane points, including Hamilton, Kangaroo Point, Southbank, and West End.

Hamilton marathon — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

DONATE TO CARNIVORE RUNNER

Each morning, participants can join the run at 4 a.m. from Run Vault at the Gabba or at 6 a.m. from Officers Mess in New Farm.

We Are Mobilise: Connection for Change

Founded in 2016, We Are Mobilise operates as a registered national charity. It began in Melbourne with small-scale outreach efforts offering social connection to people sleeping rough. These early efforts revealed that conversation and human interaction were just as valuable as physical support.

The organisation now delivers weekly outreach programs in five capital cities, providing care packages, social engagement, and even direct funding to those experiencing homelessness. A pioneering initiative includes Australia’s first direct cash transfer program for individuals in need.

Mobilise’s core message revolves around “connection for change”, and their work blends social media campaigns, outreach, and direct giving to create a broad impact.

Carnivore Runner — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Public Response and Community Involvement

While the current donation tally represents just 14% of the target, Mr Bounds remains committed to seeing the campaign through. Community members have been invited to run alongside him for any distance, with the campaign using platforms like Garmin to coordinate locations, including Hamilton.

Supporters have been encouraged to donate, share social media content, or physically join in to keep momentum high. Those who have donated include individuals contributing amounts ranging from $25 to $100 and as much as $300.

The final run is set to begin and end at Officers Mess in New Farm, finishing with steak and drinks as a gesture of appreciation for supporters. We Are Mobilise will also be in attendance to meet participants.

What’s Ahead

The campaign is scheduled to conclude on 19 April, marking the completion of the 50-day challenge. The push continues for Queenslanders to meet the $26,000 goal and surpass New South Wales’ previous $2.2 million effort.

In the meantime, Boundsy’s Hamilton stop remains one of many symbols of community spirit and persistence in addressing homelessness through grassroots support.

Published 28-Mar-2025

Hamilton Development to Bring 176 Apartments and Retail Spaces

Photo Credit: DEV2024/1581

260 Macarthur Avenue, Hamilton, has been proposed for a new residential and retail development. The latest development features 176 apartments across two interconnected buildings. The project, designed by CARR Architecture, includes retail tenancies and extensive landscaping in a high-density mixed-use zone.

Hamilton development — *Photo Credit: DEV2024/1581*

Project Overview

The development application has been lodged for a nine and twelve-storey residential complex on a 14,745sqm site. The site, currently home to multiple dwellings, will be cleared to accommodate the project. The dual-building design will offer a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, alongside five ground-floor retail tenancies covering 784sqm.

Key Development Details

176 apartments:
- 20 one-bedroom
- 134 two-bedroom
- 22 three-bedroom
Building Heights:
- 12-storey northern building
- 9-storey eastern building
Gross Floor Area: 18,824sqm
Site Cover: 60%
Publicly Accessible Cross-Block Link: 1,517sqm
Communal Open Space: 39.5% of total site
Parking: 270 spaces
- 239 for residents
- 31 shared visitor and retail spaces
Bicycle Parking: 221 spaces (176 for residents, 45 for visitors)

Design and Community Impact

The project is expected to enhance the Hamilton community by incorporating modern architectural design and public amenities. Nearly 40% of the site is dedicated to communal open space, ensuring residents have access to landscaped areas and shared facilities.

Planners from Urban Strategies have highlighted that the building height aligns with local planning guidelines while ensuring minimal impact on surrounding properties.

Retail and Connectivity

The mixed-use development will introduce new retail spaces. It will enhance the Macarthur Avenue precinct. A publicly accessible cross-block link is also planned. This will improve the pedestrian access and connectivity within the area.

retail and residential space — *Photo Credit: DEV2024/1581*

Next Steps

The development application was lodged on 20 January 2025. Currently, it is under review by the relevant authorities. If the development is approved, 260 Macarthur Avenue will become a key residential and retail hub in Hamilton.

Published 18-Mar-2025

Hamilton Braces for Cyclone Alfred as First Cyclone in 50 Years Nears

EDITOR'S NOTE: This is a developing story. | Photo Credit: Brisbane & Beyond/YouTube

Hamilton residents still recall the devastation wrought by the 2022 floods in Brisbane. Now, with Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaching and the chances of a direct hit (the first in 50 years) near certain, residents are in the thick of preparations. Here’s a summary of recent developments and a list of resources that might come in handy.

First Cyclone in 50 Years

Cyclone Alfred is poised to be the first cyclone in over five decades to directly hit Queensland’s southeast coast, a region that rarely experiences direct tropical cyclone impacts. The last recorded cyclone to make landfall in the area was Cyclone Zoe in 1974.

Meteorologists initially expected Alfred to track away from Australia, but a sudden shift westward has put Brisbane and surrounding suburbs in its path. Experts are still assessing the potential strength and impact of the storm, with uncertainty remaining over its landfall location and severity.

Cyclone Alfred Forces Ferry Suspensions and Raises Flood Fears

Hamilton is well-connected by CityCat ferry services, which provide a convenient transport option along the Brisbane River.

However, due to Tropical Cyclone Alfred, all ferry services have been suspended until further notice. The last ferry left the docks past 10:00 p.m. on 3 March 2025.

With ferry services out of action, Hamilton residents must rely on buses, trains, and road transport. The Kingsford Smith Drive corridor, already prone to peak-hour congestion, is expected to become even busier as commuters switch from ferries to cars and public transport.

Businesses near the ferry terminal also anticipate a decline in customers, similar to what happened in 2022 when ferry routes were suspended after the floods.

Public transport authorities have urged residents to plan ahead, with TransLink advising commuters to check for updates and allow extra travel time. Those traveling to the Brisbane CBD, airport, or Fortitude Valley should expect delays.

CHECK ROAD CONDITIONS

Hamilton’s Vulnerability to Flooding

Hamilton’s riverside location makes it particularly vulnerable to flooding, as seen in 2022 when parts of the suburb were impacted by rising water levels. That year, heavy rainfall caused the Brisbane River to overflow, flooding thousands of homes and disrupting transport for weeks.

Cyclone Alfred’s trajectory remains uncertain, but forecasters warn that a combination of high tides, heavy rainfall, and storm surges could increase the risk of flooding along low-lying areas, including parts of Hamilton. Residents are urged to monitor official weather updates and emergency alerts to stay informed.

According to Monash University’s Dr Liz Ritchie-Tyo, the cyclone’s unexpected shift is due to its interaction with a midlatitude trough, which has altered its movement. While numerical weather models have now adjusted their predictions, the speed, direction, and intensity of the storm remain difficult to pinpoint.

Follow the BoM’s Cyclone Tracking Map

Council Ramps Up Preparations

Brisbane has activated severe weather preparations:

Emergency Alerts

Resource Recovery Centres

As of 6 March 2025:

*Free green waste tipping at the Chandler Resource Recovery Center*

Sandbag Distribution Points

As of 6 March 2025:

Residents are also being urged to secure loose outdoor items, trim overhanging branches, prepare for potential power outages and pack an Emergency Kit.

CHECK BRISBANE EMERGENCY DASHBOARD

During an event, the map will display the predicted flood extent based on advice issued by the Bureau of Meteorology. The advice will comprise the date, time and height (in metres) for the predicted flood peak at the Brisbane River City Gauge (Kangaroo Point).

School Closures

Premier David Crisafulli has confirmed that airports and public schools will remain open as of now. However, he emphasized that the situation is evolving rapidly, and authorities are closely monitoring developments.

Parents, students, and staff are advised to stay informed through official channels for the latest information on school operations.

CHECK SCHOOL CLOSURES

For now, residents are urged to stay informed, prepare their properties, and check for weather updates. Emergency services remain on standby, ready to respond if conditions worsen.

Published 4-March-2025

Free Entry to Brisbane Illustration Fair at Hamilton’s Superordinary

Hamilton is set to become the creative hub of Brisbane soon as the Brisbane Illustration Fair brings over 170 artists, illustrators, and creatives for a two-day community celebration.

The event will run on Saturday, 12 April, and Sunday, 13 April, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Superordinary on 175 MacArthur Avenue.

It will feature a diverse lineup of local and regional artists, zine makers, comic creators, and printmakers showcasing their work. Entry is free, and the event is open to all ages.

Brisbane Illustration Fair in Hamilton — *Photo Credit: Brisbane Illustration Fair/Facebook*

A Bigger, More Creative Fair

Organisers have confirmed that the 2025 fair will be the largest yet, taking advantage of the expanded space at Superordinary. The new venue allows for a significant increase in exhibitors and attendees. In addition to the main exhibition, attendees can participate in creative workshops led by Visible Ink Youth Hub and enjoy food trucks and other community activities.

Supporting Local Talent

The fair aims to provide a platform for emerging and established illustrators to connect with the community. It also emphasises inclusivity, welcoming artists specialising in zines, comics, and printmaking to apply for participation. Organisers have stated that applications remain open but advise interested artists to act quickly due to high demand.

Family-Friendly and Accessible

The Brisbane Illustration Fair maintains a strong focus on community engagement, offering free entry to encourage widespread participation. Visitors can expect an interactive experience, including opportunities to meet artists, purchase unique artworks, and take part in creative workshops. Families, art enthusiasts, and the broader community are invited to enjoy this celebration of local talent and creativity.

Event Details

When: Saturday, 12 April, and Sunday, 13 April 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Where: Superordinary, 175 MacArthur Avenue, Hamilton QLD
Cost: Free entry
Activities: Artist exhibits, workshops, food trucks, and more

Hamilton’s vibrant atmosphere and the opportunity to support local artists make this event a highlight of Brisbane’s 2025 arts calendar.

Follow their social media pages for details on the artists line-up: Facebook | Instagram.

Published 28-January-2025

Pancha Café Celebrates First Anniversary in Hamilton

Photo Credit: Pancha Cafe Hamilton/ Facebook

This month, a popular Hamilton café is celebrating its first anniversary under new management. Pancha Café brings the community together through delicious food and quality coffee.

From Vegan to Farm-Fresh: A Year of Change

*Photo Credit:* *Pancha Cafe Hamilton/ Facebook*

Pancha Café, located in Hamilton, has become a beloved spot for locals over the past year. The café prides itself on its cosy and welcoming atmosphere, where people can enjoy a tasty meal and a good cup of coffee. The new owners, Margaret and Ariella, took over the café in January 2024 and have continued to build on its reputation for delicious food and friendly service.

Originally, it was a vegan establishment, but it has since evolved to include a wider variety of ingredients, emphasising sourcing produce from local Australian farmers.

Taste the Difference: Local Produce and Specialty Dishes

The café offers a diverse menu with classic dishes, like poached eggs on toast, alongside Pancha specialties, such as The Margarella, a popular breakfast burger. One customer, who recently enjoyed brunch at Pancha, described the food as healthy and delicious, highlighting the pumpkin salad as a standout dish.

Margaret and Ariella are passionate about providing a positive customer experience and are committed to using high-quality, local ingredients. They believe in keeping the menu simple while offering flavourful and well-balanced meals. In addition to the food, it is known for its organic and fair-trade coffee and its unique and refreshing non-alcoholic drinks.

Community Hub: More Than Just a Meal

Customers have praised the café’s friendly and efficient staff, noting the prompt service even during busy periods. The café offers indoor and outdoor seating, with air conditioning for those who prefer to dine inside. Margaret and Ariella are excited to continue their journey with it and look forward to creating a strong community around their business.

They invite everyone to visit and experience what makes it unique, whether for a regular coffee run or a leisurely brunch. You can follow them on social media for updates and specials.

Published Date 21-Jan-2025

Hamilton Drug Trafficker Appeals Egg Freezing Decision from Prison

A convicted Hamilton drug trafficker is appealing a decision that prevents her from freezing her eggs while serving a 10-year prison sentence for running a million-dollar drug operation from a luxury Brisbane home.

Background on the Case

Rachel Antoinette Smith, 33, was sentenced in 2021 after being identified as the “brains” behind a sophisticated drug trafficking business that operated from a high-end rental property in Hamilton. The operation, which ran between December 2018 and April 2019, involved the sale of methamphetamine, cocaine, MDMA, and other substances. Smith directed nine runners via encrypted phones, overseeing transactions totalling more than $1 million in just 11 weeks.

Smith lived in the opulent Hamilton home, which featured an internal lift and views of the Brisbane River, and drove a Mercedes purchased with proceeds from the drug trade. She and her junior partner, Lawrence Cheers, also opened a Hamilton business as a front to legitimise their income.

Appeal to Freeze Eggs

Smith, currently incarcerated at Numinbah prison in the Gold Coast hinterland, argues that the decision to deny her access to fertility treatments jeopardises her ability to have children. Her earliest parole eligibility is July 2029, by which time she will be 39. Smith’s legal team has taken the matter to Queensland’s highest court after the Supreme Court ruled that the Corrective Services Act prevents her from undergoing elective medical procedures while imprisoned.

Smith’s lawyer stated that the egg-freezing procedure, which involves hormone injections and a short surgical procedure, would be privately funded by her mother if approved. The court documents indicate the process could take several weeks and may require multiple cycles.

Legal Challenges and Sentencing

Smith also recently appealed her 10-year sentence, claiming it was excessive compared to Cheers, who received nine years with parole eligibility after three years. She argued that her role as the operation’s leader was overstated and that there was an unjust disparity between their sentences.

However, the Queensland Court of Appeal rejected this argument. Judges highlighted that Smith had founded and controlled the business, managed its finances, and made critical operational decisions. They described her as the “architect” of the trafficking ring, emphasising her dominant role over Cheers, who began as a runner and eventually became her junior partner.

The court acknowledged Smith’s claim that she entered the drug trade under duress after being threatened over a former partner’s debt but found no grounds to reduce her sentence based on this.

Hamilton drug trafficker — *Photo Credit: Creative Commons*

Community Impact

The case has drawn attention to Hamilton, a community known for its affluent lifestyle and high-value properties, now associated with a significant criminal enterprise. Locals expressed mixed reactions, with some questioning the ethical implications of allowing prisoners to access fertility treatments while others empathised with Smith’s desire to plan for a future beyond her sentence.

Smith remains in custody and continues to hold shares in Cleo and Louis Pty Ltd, the company linked to the front business she and Cheers established.

Published 30-Dec-2024

Residential Care Facility in Hamilton Approved for Development

Photo Credits: DEV2024/1529

Approval has been granted for a new residential care facility in Hamilton, designed to include communal and green spaces, as well as accessible parking to foster an accessible setting for the community.

Designed by GJG Architects, the six-storey facility will feature 153 beds and include a ground-floor commercial café space. The project will occupy a 7,000 sqm vacant site at 330 MacArthur Avenue, Hamilton, with frontages on MacArthur Avenue, Angora Road, and Karakul Road.

Development Overview

The residential care facility will have a total gross floor area (GFA) of 9,182 sqm, allocated across key areas:

7,796 sqm for residential care units
662 sqm for front-of-house (FOH) spaces
535 sqm for back-of-house (BOH) services
219 sqm for essential services

DEV2024/1529 for a new residentia l care facility in Hamilton — *Photo Credits: DEV2024/1529*

The ground floor will accommodate administrative offices, a café, laundry facilities, and wellness amenities such as a beauty salon. The upper levels will primarily house residential care units along with communal spaces to support residents’ needs.

Development Application Approved in Hamilton — *Photo Credits: DEV2024/1529*

To enhance the site’s outdoor experience, the development will include 2,629 sqm of communal open space and 1,534 sqm of landscaped areas, with 879 sqm of deep planting contributing to greenery and shade.

New Residential Care Facility Receives Green Light — *Photo Credits: DEV2024/1529*

The facility will provide 44 on-grade car parking spaces for visitors and staff, with vehicular access via Karakul Road and pedestrian access from Angora Road.

Architectural Design

Planners at Town Planning Alliance describe the design as featuring articulated façades that incorporate recesses, projections, and a variety of external finishes. These include materials, battening, balustrades, glazing, and awnings, contributing to visual depth and appeal.

Hamilton Has Newly Approved Development Action — *Photo Credits: DEV2024/1529*

The building’s design combines functionality with aesthetics, using a U-shaped ground floor and L-shaped upper levels to segment the structure into three distinct planes. This design helps balance operational requirements with a modern, community-friendly look.

Application Summary

Application Number: DEV2024/1529
Address: 330 MacArthur Avenue, Hamilton
Zone: Mixed-use medium density
Architects: GJG Architects
Planners: Town Planning Alliance
Landscaping Plans: Butler and Webb

Resident Care Facility in Hamilton Soon To Rise — *Photo Credits: DEV2024/1529*

Community Focus

The approved residential care facility in Hamilton aims to provide purpose-built accommodation and essential amenities to meet the needs of local residents.

Incorporating communal spaces, landscaped areas, and accessible parking, the development supports a functional and welcoming environment for the community.

Published 18-Dec-2024

Priciest Patch in Hamilton to Get a Jaw-Dropping Makeover

Photo Credit: DA A006668102

A prominent property developer is set to redefine luxury living in Hamilton, one of Brisbane’s most exclusive suburbs.

Michael Zhang has submitted ambitious plans to Brisbane City Council for two neighbouring properties on Windermere Road, which he acquired in 2022 for a combined sum of $10.4 million.

Zhang’s vision involves a comprehensive redevelopment of the sites. He intends to demolish the dwelling on the smaller 908 sq m block at 76A Windermere Road and construct a brand-new luxury residence designed by renowned architect Joe Adsett. This new home, complete with a championship tennis court, will then be offered for sale.

A portion of the adjoining 2,641 sq m property at 76 Windermere Road, which boasts a stunning Queenslander-style home, will be incorporated into the smaller block to facilitate this project. This will provide ample space for the new development and enhance its appeal. The Queenslander will be renovated and become Zhang’s private residence.

Damon Warat, principal of Ray White Ascot, will manage the sale of the newly constructed home at 76A Windermere Road. Warat recently brokered the record-breaking sale of 32 Sutherland Avenue in Ascot. Warat anticipates strong interest in the property, citing the exclusivity of Windermere Road and the architect’s unique design. He believes the project will be well-received, particularly given the current market conditions in Brisbane.

According to Warat, Brisbane’s prestige property market is undergoing significant growth while construction costs remain high and development applications are declining. This has created a scarcity of new luxury homes in the city, making projects like Zhang’s particularly desirable.

Comparable properties in Brisbane are currently fetching around $15 million, suggesting that the new Windermere Road residence could command a similar price.

Published Date 10-December-2024

Historic Hamilton Hill Queenslander Reveals Surprising World War II Legacy

Photo Credit: Ray White Ascot

A remarkable 120-year-old Queenslander property at 60 Riverview Terrace has come onto the market, offering prospective buyers not just a luxurious home but also a fascinating slice of local history dating back to World War II.

Perched high on Hamilton Hill with sweeping views of Moreton Bay and the Brisbane River, the four-bedroom residence boasts a rich narrative that stretches back to the early 1900s. The property has been home to some of Queensland’s most notable personalities, including the David Jones family and former Wallabies captain John Eales.

A Strategic World War II Vantage Point

Perhaps the most intriguing historical detail is the property’s unexpected connection to World War II. At the top of its tallest domed tower, a unique 360-degree observatory was reportedly used by US Army personnel during the 1940s. According to Queensland’s State War Memorial, the site served as a base for military training, potentially offering strategic monitoring of maritime approaches during a critical period in Australia’s wartime history.

Architectural Elegance Meets Historical Significance

The home represents a stunning example of early 20th-century architectural craftsmanship. Original features include ornate ceiling roses, an Art Nouveau fireplace with a carved timber surround, and particularly noteworthy leadlight windows in the bathroom depicting swimming fish.

Market Context

Last sold in May 2021 for $3.8 million, the property comes to market at a time of significant property value appreciation in Brisbane. Local real estate data indicates property prices in the area have risen approximately 46 percent since the previous sale.

Property Highlights

120-year history
4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
1026m² land size
360-degree observatory tower
World War II historical significance
Recently upgraded with new roof, paint, and interior refinements
Located 5 km from Brisbane CBD

The property is now open for best offers until Thursday, December 12th at 5:00 pm, presenting a rare opportunity for buyers interested in a home that combines historical significance with modern luxury.

Published 3-December-2024