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150th Anniversary Celebrations Underway at West End State School

Photo Credit: West End State School/Facebook

West End State School is commemorating its 150th anniversary with a year-long program of events, celebrating its historic role in the West End community.

Historical Significance and Legacy

Founded in 1875, West End State School has served generations of students in Brisbane’s inner southwest. Located at 24 Vulture Street, the school was established on a former cemetery site, with its original brick building designed by architect Richard Suter. It officially opened with 236 pupils.

Throughout its history, the school has undergone significant changes, including the construction of Depression-era buildings in the 1930s and a major amalgamation in 1995 between the West End Infants School and the Year 3–7 cohort. The school was added to the Queensland Heritage Register in April 2018 for its architectural, cultural, and social significance.

150th anniversary West End State School — * For everyone’s safety, inflatables set-up will depend on the weather conditions
Photo Credit: West End State School

Year-Long Anniversary Program

The official 150th anniversary falls on 16 August 2025, but celebrations began in 2024 and will continue throughout 2025. The school has planned a range of activities, weather permitting, including:

Monthly Memory Morning Teas in the K Block Library, encouraging past students to bring photographs and memorabilia.
Memorabilia Morning Teas and Decade Reunions scheduled for various dates in 2025.
A WESS Staff Reunion on 21 June 2025.
The flagship 150th Anniversary Fiesta on 16 August 2025.
A creative showcase titled WESS WECreate 150th on 24 October 2025.

A launch event for students—the Inflatables Kids Launch Party—is planned for 27 March 2025 during school hours.

West End State School memorabilia — Caption: A hand-painted quilt from 1997 submitted during the Monthly Memory Morning Tea of October 2024.
Photo Credit: West End State School/Facebook

Community Involvement and Cultural Acknowledgement

As part of the 1995 amalgamation, West End State School redefined its sports houses through consultation with the local Aboriginal community and the WESS AASPA (Aboriginal Student Support and Parent Awareness Program) Committee.

The house names—Baruga, Kurilpa, Chullawong, and Dungar—were approved by local Elders, including Mr Robert Anderson, reflecting native fauna and Aboriginal language. The school was recognised by the ATSI Government Department for this inclusive approach.

Fiesta Stall Coordination and Volunteer Engagement

Volunteer coordinators were recruited for the Fiesta event on 16 August 2025. A wide range of stall positions were opened, including bar, bake sale, handmade goods, raffles, and games. The initiative is managed in collaboration with the school’s P&C.

WESS P&C association — Photo Credit: *WESS P&C Association/Facebook*

Looking Ahead

The anniversary program continues to grow, with planning updates distributed via newsletters and community calls for memorabilia. Alumni are encouraged to follow the school’s Facebook page to stay informed.

150th anniversary events — Photo Credit: *WESS P&C Association/Facebook*

West End State School remains a central institution in the local area, with its 150th celebrations offering a rare opportunity to reflect on its long-standing educational and community legacy.

Published 26-Mar-2025

Man Charged After Violent Carjacking in West End

Photo Credit: Queensland Police

A delivery driver was allegedly assaulted and his vehicle stolen in West End after a man forcibly entered his vehicle and drove off with him inside, resulting in a collision. Police have charged a 25-year-old man from Cherbourg following the incident.

Police reports indicate the incident occurred on Echlin Street at approximately 2:30 p.m. The delivery driver, a 24-year-old, was conducting his duties when a man allegedly entered his vehicle. The man then drove away with the driver still inside the vehicle. The vehicle subsequently collided with a power pole.

Following the collision, the man is alleged to have assaulted the driver, who sustained facial injuries and was subsequently transported to Townsville University Hospital for treatment.

A public member intervened during the altercation, prompting the alleged offender to flee the scene in his vehicle. Police officers located and apprehended the man a short time later.

The 25-year-old Cherbourg man has been charged with unlawful use of a motor vehicle involving violence, unlawful entry of a vehicle to commit an indictable offence, and unlicensed driving. He is scheduled to appear in the Townsville Magistrates Court.

The man will face court to answer the charges laid against him. The police will present evidence relating to the alleged carjacking, assault, and traffic offences. The victim is recovering from his injuries.

Published Date 23-March-2025

Tom’s Kitchen Now Open at Thomas Dixon Centre in West End, Layla to Open Soon

West End’s Thomas Dixon Centre, best known as the home of Queensland Ballet, is now welcoming visitors for more than just performances.

Read: Flying Colours Is Painting West End with Good Times and Great Taste

Tom’s Kitchen, the precinct’s new daytime café, has officially opened, offering a fresh and inviting space for locals, dancers, and visitors to enjoy high-quality coffee and delicious, produce-driven meals.

Operating from 6:30 am to 4:00 pm daily, Tom’s Kitchen puts an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and approachable, flavourful dishes. The menu features a variety of options catering to both leisurely brunch-goers and those looking for a quick but satisfying bite.

Highlights include market mushrooms with ‘nduja, salted ricotta, and a poached egg on sourdough; a cheeseburger with smashed beef patties, provolone, and pickles; and a potato hash plate with smoked salmon and tomato béarnaise. To complement the food, Tom’s Kitchen serves ST ALi coffee and fresh bread from Sprout Bakery.

Daryl Kerry, CEO of VenuesLive, the hospitality partner for the precinct, describes Tom’s Kitchen as a place that will “fuel creativity, community, and conversation.” The café aims to become a hub for the West End neighbourhood, offering a welcoming space to enjoy great food and coffee while fostering connections.

Read: West End Venue The Bearded Lady Fights for Survival

Layla Set to Open on March 28

While Tom’s Kitchen has already begun delighting visitors, excitement is reaching new heights for the highly anticipated opening of Layla, the Thomas Dixon Centre’s flagship premium dining restaurant. This marks the first Queensland venture for celebrated Melbourne-based chef Shane Delia, renowned for his modern Middle Eastern restaurants and innovative, spice-driven cuisine.

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Layla is set to open its doors on Friday, 28 March, bringing an elegant, carefully curated menu to West End. While full details remain under wraps, diners can expect a sophisticated take on contemporary cuisine, infused with Delia’s signature bold and spice-forward approach. The menu will feature a Middle Eastern influence, enriched by inspiration from global flavours and Queensland’s exceptional local produce.

The restaurant will also housed within the Thomas Dixon Centre, the home of Queensland Ballet, and will serve as the centre’s crown jewel eatery. It is a key part of a broader vision to transform the venue into a leading dining and cultural precinct, thanks to a partnership between the Delia Group and Queensland Ballet’s hospitality partner, VenuesLive.

Joining Delia at Layla is head chef Simon Palmer, who brings an impressive résumé, having previously worked at Black Hide by Gambaro, Urbane, Gerard’s Bistro, and e’cco Bistro. Together, Delia and Palmer will craft an ever-evolving menu that highlights bold, herbaceous flavours and premium seasonal ingredients.

The venue itself is designed to cater to a variety of dining experiences, whether guests are enjoying a pre-show meal, celebrating a special occasion, or indulging in an intimate dining experience. Layla will offer both a moody indoor dining room and a sunlit outdoor courtyard, ensuring an inviting atmosphere for all occasions.

With Tom’s Kitchen now open and Layla’s debut just weeks away, the Thomas Dixon Centre is fast emerging as both a cultural and culinary landmark. Whether you’re stopping by for a morning coffee, a relaxed brunch, or a luxurious evening of fine dining, Brisbane’s West End precinct is set to offer an unparalleled gastronomic experience.

Published 20-March-2025

West End Venue The Bearded Lady Fights for Survival

Photo Credit: The Bearded Lady/ Facebook

A beloved live music venue in Brisbane’s West End, The Bearded Lady, is facing potential closure after rising operational costs and decreased patronage have pushed it to the brink of financial collapse.

Financial Strain and Community Appeal

The 120-capacity venue, a staple of the West End community, has launched a GoFundMe campaign with a goal of $200,000 to address mounting debts and fund essential upgrades. Jamie Simmonds, the owner, explained that the current financial situation is the most challenging the venue has experienced.

The increasing costs of running the business and a decline in patrons due to the current economic climate have created an unsustainable environment. The venue seeks financial assistance from the community to ensure its survival, emphasising the importance of maintaining a space for local artists and live performances.

Impact on Local Music Scene

The Bearded Lady has played a crucial role in supporting Australian musicians, particularly those from Brisbane. It has served as a platform for emerging artists and hosted diverse performances, including live music, poetry slams, and burlesque shows. The venue’s potential closure raises concerns about the impact on the local arts scene and the opportunities available for performers.

Mr Simmonds stated that the venue employs several staff who would be affected by a closure. The GoFundMe campaign aims to secure the venue’s future and allow it to continue supporting the arts community.

Venue’s Future and Planned Improvements

The funds raised through the GoFundMe campaign will be used to settle existing debts and implement necessary improvements to the venue. This includes upgrading facilities and expanding the floor space to enhance the experience for patrons and performers.

The goal is to address the immediate financial challenges and ensure the long-term viability of The Bearded Lady. The venue hopes to continue serving the community for years to come. The Bearded Lady is located at 138 Boundary St, West End, Brisbane, and is open Wednesday through Sunday.

Published Date 17-March-2025

Brisbane Moves to Clear Homeless Camps

Photo Credit: Jenny Pumford/Google Maps

The imminent removal of homeless encampments in West End has been announced, citing safety concerns and the need to reclaim public spaces. The directive will see authorities dismantling tent communities in Musgrave Park and Kurilpa Point, where officials claim many residents have declined accommodation offers.

Context: The Growing Issue of Public Encampments

For months, public parks in West End have become a focal point for homelessness, with an increasing number of individuals setting up tents in key locations. Complaints from residents and local businesses have raised concerns about crime, violence, and unsociable behaviour linked to the encampments.

The BCC’s decision mirrors similar actions taken by the City of Moreton Bay, where unauthorised camping has been criminalised, with potential fines imposed on those who refuse to leave. Authorities in Brisbane argue that without intervention, encampments may continue to expand, creating further issues in public spaces.

Authorities Justify Removal Efforts

BCC city authorities have maintained that tents in parks should not be considered a substitute for proper housing. The BCC asserts that most individuals residing in these camps have been offered accommodation but have refused, leaving officials with no option but to enforce removals. According to officials, the focus is on ensuring that public spaces remain safe and accessible for everyone.

To prevent the re-establishment of these encampments, BCC will also remove empty and unused tents. Brisbane authorities insist that the approach is not about criminalising homelessness but maintaining order and ensuring assistance is directed toward those genuinely seeking help.

Criticism from Community Advocates

The decision has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders and advocacy groups, who argue that the removals will not solve the underlying issue of homelessness. Some organisations claim that many people have not actually received viable housing offers, despite official statements suggesting otherwise.

Community groups working closely with rough sleepers have pointed out that available accommodation options are often inadequate or unsuitable. Some boarding houses reportedly charge high rents and lack proper living conditions, leaving displaced individuals with few alternatives.

Advocates fear that dispersing the homeless population without a clear long-term solution will only push individuals into other public areas, increasing the visibility of rough sleeping across the city. Concerns have also been raised that this approach could lead to a rise in trespassing and break-ins as people struggle to find new places to stay.

Homeless camps West End — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

What Happens Next?

With the enforcement of removals set to proceed, there are lingering questions about the effectiveness of the approach. While the BCC insists that housing support remains available, advocates argue that without significant investment in affordable housing, the issue will persist.

The broader debate on homelessness in Brisbane continues, as community organisations call for stronger measures to ensure people in crisis receive appropriate and sustainable housing solutions. The coming weeks will reveal whether the BCC’s strategy effectively addresses safety concerns or simply shifts the problem elsewhere.

Published 14-Mar-2025

Mother-of-Two Last Seen in West End, Found Dead in Brisbane River

Photo Credit: QPS

Police have launched a homicide investigation after the body of 49-year-old Crystal Beale was found in the Brisbane River. The Sunshine Coast woman was last seen in West End, having dinner with her family and ex-partner. Detectives are working to determine the circumstances surrounding her death.

A Night Out Ends in Tragedy

Crystal Beale, a mother-of-two, had been visiting family in Brisbane on 21 February. That evening, she dined at a restaurant in Sunnybank before being dropped off at Ryan Street in West End. Hours later, at approximately 5:40 a.m. the next morning, a member of the public discovered her body in the river at Yeronga.

Initially, police did not consider her death suspicious. There were no visible injuries. However, following a postmortem examination, authorities now believe her death to be suspicious. The police are treating Ms Beale’s death as a homicide.

West End homicide — *Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook*

Queensland Police have released CCTV footage showing Ms Beale on the night she was last seen. She was wearing a slim-fitting white dress and carrying a brown leather satchel. Investigators believe she was near Orleigh Park and Ryan Street in West End between 9:30 p.m. and 1:00 a.m.

Detective Acting Inspector Rod Watts confirmed multiple lines of inquiry were being pursued. The possibility of a random attack and the involvement of someone known to Ms Beale are also being considered. Police have spoken with her ex-partner, but no arrests have been made.

Family and Friends Remember Crystal Beale

Ms Beale’s children, a daughter and a 15-year-old son, are devastated by the loss of their mother. Her daughter, Charlie, described her as a talented artist and a writer. She was a deeply caring person who “constantly put herself out for others.”

Friends also shared their grief. They remembered Ms Beale as a kind-hearted woman with an infectious smile. One friend said that she was a beautiful lady, inside and out. Another recalled her generosity and warmth.

Crystal Beale — *Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook*

Ongoing Investigation and Community Concerns

The homicide investigation remains ongoing. Detectives are reviewing CCTV footage from West End and surrounding areas. Police are also analysing tidal patterns to determine how long Ms Beale’s body had been in the river.

Community concerns over violence against women have been reignited following Ms Beale’s death. She is the 14th Australian woman killed in 2025 and the 117th since 1 January 2024. Her death prompts renewed calls for action on gendered violence.

Authorities are urging anyone in the West End area during the specified timeframe or who may have seen Ms Beale to provide information. Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Published 13-Mar-2025

Flying Colours Is Painting West End with Good Times and Great Taste

Flying Colours is West End’s latest go-to spot for laid-back vibes, top-tier drinks, and a menu that champions simple yet refined flavours. Opened in July 2023 by Simon Martin—the mastermind behind Super Whatnot—this Vulture Street gem offers a fresh take on Brisbane’s hospitality scene, blending trendsetting charm with a welcoming atmosphere.

Read: Mick’s Nuts: Long-Standing West End Tradition

Whether you’re lounging in the leafy courtyard under pastel-hued, tassel-fringed umbrellas, sinking into the cosy warehouse-style dining room, or vibing to Brisbane’s best DJs in the side bar, Flying Colours is designed for easygoing enjoyment. As their motto suggests, “It’s nice here, too.”

Photo credit: Stuart Robinson/Google Maps

The drinks list is carefully curated to match the venue’s relaxed yet sophisticated feel. Expect a selection of tasty beers, natural-leaning wines, and seasonal cocktails that are perfect for sipping in any of the inviting spaces. And when it comes to food, Flying Colours delivers with a menu driven by high-quality produce and bold yet uncomplicated flavours.

Photo credit: Dionne Hoekstra/Google Maps

Pizza lovers will appreciate the attention to detail in every bite. Hand-stretched and left to ferment for at least 48 hours, the dough develops a depth of flavour that sets it apart. Each pizza is a balance of crisp, chewy, and delightfully nuanced, making them an undeniable highlight of the menu.

Other standouts include flash-fried baby squid with chilli and caper aioli, pan-fried artichoke hearts with capers and caramelised onion, and rich, flavour-packed arancini featuring porcini, shiitake, cashew e pepe, and pecorino.

Beyond food and drinks, Flying Colours brings a sensory experience that’s hard to beat. A giant disco ball casts twinkling lights across the dining room, while the listening lounge comes alive with a rotating roster of DJs spinning vinyl. It’s a spot where music, atmosphere, and flavour come together seamlessly.

Read: Brisbane’s Coffee Mentality Puts West End on the World Coffee Map

Whether you’re dropping by for a drink, sharing a pizza with friends, or losing yourself in the rhythm of the music, Flying Colours embodies everything West End is known for—effortless cool, great taste, and a sense of community. If you haven’t been yet, consider this your cue to check it out.

Published 8-March-2025

West End’s Future: Skyscrapers Rising Above the Floodplain

West End is an area of striking contrasts—historic charm meets rapid urban growth, all set against the backdrop of one undeniable reality: it is a floodplain. Yet, despite its vulnerability, the demand for inner-city living continues to fuel high-rise developments in the area.

Read: West End’s Skyline Evolves: Inside the Suburb’s Latest Construction Boom

Former Olympian and managing director of renowned firm Stockwell, Mark Stockwell, acknowledged that while West End’s flood risks are significant, innovative urban planning and resilient design can make living in the area safer.

He emphasised the importance of recognising Brisbane’s floodplain status and implementing strategic plans to ensure new buildings can withstand potential flooding. Mr Stockwell believes developers are now making smarter and safer choices when constructing in flood-prone areas.

Learning from the Past, Building for the Future

Photo credit: Brisbane Flood Awareness Map

West End has been hit hard by past floods, particularly in 2011 and 2022, when the Brisbane River surged into streets and homes. Mr Stockwell himself has had to retrofit older buildings, adding floodgates and relocating critical infrastructure like transformers and substations to higher ground.

New high-rise developments in the area are incorporating lessons learned from these disasters. Three 50-storey skyscrapers have been proposed on the site of an old concrete factory on notorious Nott Street.

Artist’s impression for Nott St (Photo credit: Brisbane PD Online/ A006677654)

The plans include 370 residential units built above the highest recorded Brisbane River flood level, factoring in climate change projections for the next 75 years. The design also reserves 75 per cent of the site as green space, which can absorb excess water during extreme weather events.

Floodplain — Photo credit: Brisbane PD Online/ A006677654

Retail spaces on the ground floors of these buildings are being designed for resilience. Unlike traditional units, businesses such as coffee shops and dog groomers occupy these lower levels, with power and water connections placed high to allow for quick evacuation before floodwaters arrive. Once the water recedes, the spaces can be easily hosed down and reopened.

Mr Stockwell noted that infrastructure changes have been necessary, including relocating transformers and substations from basements to higher levels and securing sewer lids to prevent backups.

The Height Advantage

One major shift in development thinking is the move to elevate residential units. Mr Stockwell observes that while older buildings once had residences starting at street level, today’s designs place the first living floors at what would have been the third storey in previous constructions. Essential utilities, like air-conditioning and power plants, are now positioned on rooftops instead of vulnerable basements.

A City-Wide Dilemma

Brisbane has plans for 10,000 additional homes in West End, catering to growing demand. Build-to-rent and luxury living options are at the heart of this expansion, particularly for young professionals seeking an urban lifestyle. However, the question remains: can the city balance housing needs with flood safety?

Developments must integrate flood safety measures, including floodgates, pumps, and real-time flood alerts, ensuring that residents are prepared for potential emergencies.

Read: Prime West End Riverfront Site Sold for $50M

A New Era of Flood-Resilient Living

Despite the risks, West End is evolving into a model for flood-conscious urban living. Developers like Mr Stockwell are pushing forward with projects designed to withstand Brisbane’s unpredictable climate, creating a city that adapts rather than retreats.

As skyscrapers rise above the floodplain, West End is proving that with the right planning, it is possible to live with water rather than fear it.

Published 6-March-2025

Mick’s Nuts: Long-Standing West End Tradition

Mick’s Nuts, a small shop in West End, has served its community for 50 years, maintaining its original charm and product quality, and becoming a local landmark.

A History of Tradition

Established in 1972, Mick’s Nuts on Hardgrave Road has remained a constant in the ever-changing landscape of West End. Brothers George and Emmanuel Conias, the current owners, took over the business in 2014 from the Kallis family, which had run it for 42 years.

The Conias brothers have prioritised preserving the shop’s traditional feel, heeding the advice of long-time customers who urged them not to change a thing. The shop’s distinctive graffiti-style signage, which replaced an old Coca-Cola sign, symbolises its enduring character. The sign came about when a local artist graffitied the old sign, and the then-owners paid him to complete his work.

Community and Connection

Mick’s Nuts is more than just a shop; it’s a community hub. Staff members, like Helen Lagos, who has worked there for 26 years, have seen generations of customers grow. The shop’s atmosphere fosters a sense of family, and staff and customers feel connected.

The shop serves a diverse clientele, reflecting the multicultural nature of West End, and has become a place where people from various backgrounds come together. The shop’s past owner, Mick, passed away in 2022 at age 91.

Products and Quality

The shop offers a wide range of products, including nuts, dried fruits, cheeses, and olives, with many items sourced locally or imported from Greece. They also create products on site, such as their popular peanut butter. The Conias brothers believe that buying in bulk and roasting nuts on site ensures the freshness and quality of their products.

This commitment to quality has earned them a loyal customer base, with some customers even ordering online from interstate. The shop also offers online sales, allowing those who cannot physically visit the store to access their products. The online store emphasises the freshness and variety of its products.

Local Impact

Mick’s Nuts has become an integral part of West End’s identity. The shop’s presence reminds the suburb of its history, particularly its connection to the Greek immigrant community. The shop has maintained relevance by focusing on quality products and community connection, becoming a local landmark.

Published Date 03-March-2025

Brisbane’s Coffee Mentality Puts West End on the World Coffee Map

Brisbane-based coffee roastery Coffee Mentality, which began as a humble coffee van at West End Markets, has achieved global recognition after securing Overall Runner-Up at the 2025 Golden Bean World Series. The competition, held in Guatemala, is the world’s largest and most prestigious coffee roasting championship, attracting the best from the USA, East Asia, and Australia.

2025 Golden Bean World Series — *Photo Credit: Coffee Mentality/Instagram*

From Market Stalls to World-Class Recognition

Founded by Ian Abadiano, Coffee Mentality has grown from a West End Markets coffee van into a respected specialty roastery with a Gabba-based roasting facility and three stores in Stones Corner and South Brisbane. The brand’s commitment to sustainability, ethical sourcing, and quality roasting has led to its global success.

At the 2025 Golden Bean World Series, Coffee Mentality took home Silver in the Milk-Based category, Bronze in the Filter category, and ultimately finished as Overall Runner-Up—an extraordinary feat for a local Brisbane roastery competing against some of the biggest names in the coffee industry.

A Win for Brisbane’s Specialty Coffee Scene

The Golden Bean World Series is often regarded as the Olympics of coffee, with over 180 top coffee brands competing in various categories. Coffee Mentality’s success proves that Brisbane’s specialty coffee scene is capable of standing toe-to-toe with globally renowned coffee destinations.

Mr Abadiano shared that they have always been driven by core values of people, passion, and planet. The award is a testament to the hardworking farmers who grow the beans they proudly serve.

In a symbolic gesture of gratitude, Coffee Mentality presented one of their medals to the Colombian coffee growers behind their award-winning beans. This move highlights their commitment to ethical sourcing and recognition of the effort that goes into every cup of coffee.

Sustainability and Innovation at Coffee Mentality

Beyond roasting award-winning coffee, Coffee Mentality champions sustainability and circular economy initiatives. Their Gabba roastery offers a Coffee Tasting Experience, educating customers on repurposing coffee byproducts such as cascara (dried coffee cherry skin) and chaff. These sustainability efforts earned them a Finalist spot in BCC’s WasteSmart Awards.

Their mission remains clear: to deliver exceptional coffee while uplifting the communities involved in its production.

*Photo Credit: Coffee Mentality/Instagram*

Brisbane’s Coffee Industry Gains Global Attention

Coffee Mentality’s Golden Bean achievements firmly place West End and Brisbane on the world coffee map. As the brand grows, its success inspires other Australian roasters to achieve global recognition.

With its commitment to quality, ethical sourcing, and sustainability, Coffee Mentality proves that great coffee isn’t just about the brew—it’s about the people behind it.

Published 4-Mar-2025