West End’s Queensland Ballet has entered a new chapter with the appointment of Ivan Gil-Ortega as its artistic director. The Spanish-born dancer and choreographer steps into the role following the unexpected resignation of Li Cunxin, who led the company for 11 years and placed it firmly on the world stage.
Gil-Ortega brings a wealth of experience, having spent a decade as a principal artist with Stuttgart Ballet (1997-2007) and a season with Dutch National Ballet (2007-2008). His career has seen him perform in numerous acclaimed productions and collaborate as a guest artist with prestigious ballet companies worldwide, including Ballet of Santiago de Chile, Bayerisches Staatsballett, Finnish National Ballet, Croatian National Ballet, and West Australian Ballet, among others.
Photo credit: Queensland Ballet/Facebook
Having previously performed with Queensland Ballet in its sellout Strictly Gershwin seasons in 2016 and 2023, Gil-Ortega is no stranger to the company. Now, as artistic director, he is looking ahead to shaping its future. While the 2025 season, including Romeo and Juliet (March) and Dangerous Liaisons (October), is already set, he is working on his vision for 2026.
He described this transition as a fresh start, emphasising the importance of looking forward rather than dwelling on the past. He expressed optimism about what the company could accomplish in the coming years.
Photo credit: Queensland Ballet/Facebook
Gil-Ortega aims to build on the company’s strong foundations while balancing artistic ambition with financial sustainability. He is also keen to attract younger audiences, supporting initiatives like Peter and the Wolf, which will be performed at Queensland Ballet’s West End home in June.
Having spent recent years in Switzerland, he is now settling into life in Brisbane. The company has welcomed him warmly, presenting him with a toy kookaburra, a book on dangerous Australian creatures, and a jar of Vegemite. Ivan Gil-Ortega acknowledged the warmth of his reception and is embracing the start of his four-year tenure in Queensland.
Brisbane’s chamber music scene welcomes a fresh and dynamic addition as Collectivo, a new ensemble founded by renowned oboist Tania Frazer, prepares to launch its 2025 concert series at Queensland Ballet’s Thomas Dixon Centre in West End.
Designed to offer a boutique, salon-style experience, the ensemble will feature a rotating lineup of virtuoso musicians performing in an intimate setting.
A Vision for Intimate and World-Class Chamber Music
Unlike traditional fixed ensembles, Collectivo brings together exceptional artists from across Australia and New Zealand in unique collaborations for each performance. Ms Frazer’s vision, described as “where artistry meets intimacy,” aims to give audiences an up-close experience, with seating just metres from the performers.
Set in the Charles Lisner Studio at the Thomas Dixon Centre, the venue’s acoustics and intimate atmosphere provide an ideal space for chamber music, enhancing both the sound quality and audience connection.
2025 Concert Series Lineup and Program
The 2025 season will feature four concerts, each showcasing a different selection of artists and repertoire:
Concert 1 – “Tree of Life” (March 15)
Concert 2 – “The Troubadours” (July 26)
Concert 3 – “Timeless Voices” (September 13)
Concert 4 – “The Garden of Dreams” (November 1)
The inaugural concert, “Tree of Life,” will include:
Andrew Haveron (Sydney Symphony Orchestra Concertmaster)
Eden Shifroni (2024 IFAC Handa Australian Singing Competition winner)
Vatche Jambazian (pianist)
Rachel Siu (cellist)
Tania Frazer (artistic director & oboe soloist)
Future performances will welcome other high-profile musicians, including Slava Grigoryan, Satu Vänskä, Emily Sun, Amalia Hall, and Paavali Jumppanen.
Frazer’s Creative Freedom and Expanding Repertoire
Having previously led Southern Cross Soloists and Bangalow Music Festival, Ms Frazer sees Collectivo as a chance to pursue artistic freedom and innovation. Unlike government-funded ensembles, Collectivo operates independently, allowing Ms Frazer to curate performances without external constraints.
Her passion extends to expanding the oboe’s repertoire, incorporating works not traditionally played on the instrument. One of her personal challenges includes tackling Artie Shaw’s clarinet concerto, a piece requiring octave glisses and extended high notes, techniques rarely explored by oboists.
Ticketing and Subscription Options
With limited seating, Collectivo offers exclusive subscription packages:
Four, Three, or Two Concert Subscriptions with savings on single ticket prices.
With its debut set for 15 March 2025, Collectivo is poised to redefine chamber music experiences in Brisbane. Offering world-class talent in a uniquely intimate setting, the ensemble is set to become a standout addition to West End’s vibrant arts scene.
Global architecture and design practice Buchan has relocated to West End celebrating 40 years in Brisbane. The new studio is located at Greenhouse, Level 6, 9 Wilson Street.
The move to West End positions the firm in one of Brisbane’s rapidly evolving urban precincts as the city undergoes transformation ahead of the 2032 Olympics.
Longstanding Buchan Director and Principal Phil Schoutrop highlighted the significance of the location choice during this milestone year for the practice.
“Brisbane and South East Queensland are undergoing a period of rapid growth. With the 2032 Olympics on the horizon, there’s a lot of attention on the opportunities here,” said Schoutrop, who leads precinct design at Buchan.
The West End location places Buchan in proximity to South Bank, an area the firm helped shape through its early work on World Expo 88, for which Buchan wrote the master brief. The firm describes this as “a pivotal event in Brisbane’s evolution as a modern city, transforming South Bank and putting Brisbane on the world map.”
From its new West End base, Buchan will continue working on high-profile projects including the Bulimba Barracks development and the Australia Pavilion for Expo 2025, which will open in April.
The practice has been instrumental in shaping Brisbane’s urban landscape through projects like the Brisbane Myer Centre in the 1980s and more recently, the award-winning Nicholas Street Precinct in Ipswich.
Schoutrop emphasised the firm’s commitment to growing its presence in West End: “We look forward to growing our Brisbane team in the new office and contributing to the city’s evolution.”
The West End studio will serve as the new home for Buchan’s Brisbane team, which includes long-serving members like Bruce Shaw and Greg Sheehan, both of whom separately celebrated their personal 40-year anniversaries with the practice recently.
Reports of hazardous materials in the soil have led to testing at a community garden in West End, raising concerns about possible contamination. Access to the site has been restricted without warning, leaving residents frustrated over the sudden closure and lack of communication about what comes next.
Initial soil samples were collected on 14 February after concerns were raised about potential contaminants in the area. However, deeper testing is required, which may result in the removal of garden beds.
The unexpected fencing off of the space has sparked concerns not just about safety, but also about why locals weren’t consulted before such drastic measures were taken.
Residents Question Lack of Consultation
For years, the garden has served as a vital green space for the community, providing fresh produce and a shared gathering place. Many locals say they would have supported safety precautions but feel blindsided by the lack of notice before the site was closed off. Some have called for more transparency and direct engagement with those who have long cared for the space.
“Recognising the health and safety of local residents and the wider community as the utmost priority, TMR sought to secure the land with a perimeter fence to limit access and ensure a safe workplace for necessary investigations to be undertaken.
“While the current use of the land has been established without the proper permits or approvals, this closure is a necessary step to mitigate any potential safety risks associated with the property. We want to remind the community that entry to property owned by TMR without our consent is illegal.
“TMR is awaiting an initial update from the laboratory regarding samples already taken, however we have been advised that further sampling is required to complete investigations.
“We appreciate the patience and understanding of the community during this time. TMR is diligently working to investigate the situation as swiftly and safely as possible and will keep the community updated.”
With testing still underway, there is no clear timeline for when—or if—the garden will reopen. If contamination is confirmed, further action may be required, raising questions about the long-term future of the space.
Tucked away in West End, La Lupa brings a true taste of Rome to Brisbane. Since opening in 2017, this neighbourhood pizzeria has gained a loyal following for its light, crispy Roman-style pizzas, handcut pastas, and thoughtful wine selection.
Owners Valentina Vigni and Andrea Contin have created a spot where traditional techniques meet fresh ideas, making every visit an experience worth savouring.
Authentic Roman Pizza, Done Right
La Lupa takes pizza seriously. The team uses organic, stone-milled Italian flour, fermenting the dough to create a base that’s light, crisp, and easy to digest. This slow fermentation gives the pizza a delicate crunch without the heaviness of traditional styles.
Toppings range from classic to creative. The Margherita keeps it simple while the Pizzo Calabro turns up the heat with spicy spreadable salami, hot salami, and creamy burrata. If you’re after something different, the lupacchiotto bites—mini focaccia-style pizzas—offer a flavour-packed alternative to traditional starters.
More Than Just Pizza
La Lupa’s menu extends well beyond its signature pizzas. It offers antipasti, handcut pastas and larger mains with dishes rotating monthly, ensuring fresh flavours with every visit.
For starters, you might like milky burrata following a silky spaghetti with mussels and ‘nduja. And if you love dessert, don’t leave without trying the tiramisu—a house specialty that balances coffee, mascarpone, and just the right amount of sweetness.
A Carefully Curated Wine List
Great food deserves great wine, and La Lupa delivers. The wine list highlights Italian varietals, giving equal attention to classic producers and modern innovators. Whether you prefer a bold red to complement a meaty pizza or a crisp white to pair with seafood pasta, the staff will happily guide you to the perfect glass.
La Lupa’s setting adds to its charm. Inside, a handful of tables sit near the wine cellar, creating an intimate feel. Most guests, however, opt for the al fresco dining area, where they can enjoy the laid-back West End atmosphere with a pizza in one hand and a glass of wine in the other.
Even the restaurant’s name ties back to its Roman roots. La Lupa, or “the she-wolf,” references the legend of Romulus and Remus, the twin brothers raised by a wolf before founding Rome. It’s a fitting tribute to a restaurant that stays true to its heritage.
La Lupa keeps a simple schedule. It’s open for dinner Wednesday to Sunday from 5 pm and lunch on weekends from 12 pm to 2:30 pm. Whether you stop in for a quick meal or settle in for the evening, you’ll find authentic Roman-style pizza and welcoming hospitality.
If you haven’t been yet, now’s the time. La Lupa isn’t just serving pizza—it’s bringing a slice of Rome to Brisbane.
A group of community members in Brisbane’s West End has taken a stand against the decision to close Kurilpa Commons, a self-managed community garden on state-owned land.
Kurilpa Commons was established by local residents during the COVID-19 pandemic as a place for people to grow food, support vulnerable neighbours, and hold community events. Over the past few years, it has become a hub for people facing food insecurity, including refugees and those affected by the rising cost of living.
On the morning of 14 February 2025, the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) arrived at the site with fencing, warning signs, and police support, preventing public access to the garden. Officials stated they had identified historical fill on the property that may be contaminated and insisted that closing the area was a precautionary safety measure. They confirmed that testing would take place but did not specify the nature or severity of potential contamination.
Protesters, however, question the timing and intent of the closure. They argue that the land has been in use since 2020 without any previous warnings about contamination. Some believe the real motive is to clear the space for nearby property development, pointing to an adjacent site where affordable housing has been demolished for new construction.
They maintain that the closure of the commons is an attack on public green space and say they will not leave without a fight. One long-time gardener at the site said the land had been left vacant for decades before the community transformed it into a productive space. Others describe it as more than just a garden—a gathering place fostering connection and resilience.
Protests and Police Presence Continue
Shortly after authorities moved in, dozens of residents gathered at the site, forming a peaceful blockade to stop any further attempts to dismantle the garden.
Activist group Growing Forward has mobilised support, calling on neighbours and allies to defend the space. They claim that the government’s actions—bringing in heavy machinery and issuing a trespass notice—suggest an intention to destroy the garden rather than simply test the soil. By midday, the protest had grown, with around 50 people present, and tensions between authorities and demonstrators remained high.
Despite the strong police presence, the community stood firm, and by late afternoon, the officers and TMR representatives withdrew. Protesters have since set up a round-the-clock presence to prevent any future attempts to remove the garden.
What Happens Next?
The future of Kurilpa Commons remains uncertain. TMR has not yet released a timeline for soil testing or given any assurance that the land will remain accessible after the tests are complete. Protesters are demanding transparency and a commitment from the government to preserve the space.
Queensland’s 50-cent public transport fares, introduced six months ago as part of a trial, have officially become permanent as of February 10. The decision comes after overwhelming public support and a noticeable increase in public transport use.
The initiative has led to significant savings for commuters, with Queenslanders collectively saving more than $181 million since the scheme’s introduction. Over the same period, the state’s transport network recorded 93.3 million trips, underscoring the popularity and impact of the reduced fares.
Photo credit: Google Street View
The Department of Transport and Main Roads revealed there was an 18.3 per cent increase in public transport usage compared to 2023 figures. Train travel has risen by 18.6 per cent, bus usage is up by 15.8 per cent, and light rail has seen the most significant increase at 27.5 per cent.
West End’s Well-Connected Transport Network
Photo credit: Robert Goh/Google Maps
For residents of West End, the fare reduction further enhances an already well-established public transport system. The area benefits from frequent bus services and access to major train routes, making it one of the most accessible suburbs in Brisbane.
The Climate Council’s report highlights West End, along with Woolloongabba, New Farm, Fortitude Valley, and East Brisbane, as having some of the best all-day public transport services in the greater Brisbane region.
Addressing Public Transport Gaps
Photo credit: Google Street View
Despite the success of the 50-cent fares, the Climate Council’s analysis also found that about two-thirds of greater Brisbane residents still lack access to frequent, all-day public transport services.
The affordability of public transport is a step forward, but experts argue that continued investment in infrastructure and service expansion is necessary to ensure equitable access across the region.
As Brisbane continues to grow, the permanent implementation of the 50-cent fare scheme marks a major shift in how residents move around the city. With increased patronage and proven financial benefits, the initiative is set to shape Queensland’s transport future for years to come.
The Australian construction industry is entering 2025 with a renewed sense of optimism after grappling with years of setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although economic challenges persist, a surge in new projects indicate a steady path toward recovery. Across Brisbane, major developments are reshaping key suburbs, with West End emerging as a prime example of this transformation.
Part of the larger $1.3 billion Montague Markets precinct, The Lanes will feature 90 high-end apartments starting at $1.4 million. Designed as a resort-style residence, the development consists of three buildings and includes a 200sqm lagoon-style pool, a bar and rooftop terrace, a wellness retreat with a plunge pool, an outdoor theatre, and a community park. Adding to its list of amenities is a private dog park, catering to pet owners in the area.
Photo credit: thelaneswestend.com.au
Construction is progressing rapidly, with the first stage expected to be finished by mid-2025. The Lanes could become one of West End’s most notable residential developments, providing a premium lifestyle in one of Brisbane’s most vibrant suburbs.
25 Mollison St
Photo credit: The Allere Collection/Google Maps
The Allere Collection is the latest addition to the ever-expanding West Village precinct in West End. Developed by Sekisui House and designed by local architecture firm Rothelowman, the mixed-use community is transforming the former Peters Ice Cream factory site into a bustling urban hub. Spanning 2.6 hectares and located just 800 metres from the Brisbane CBD, West Village has redefined the streetscape and turned into a vibrant destination filled with restaurants, retail stores, and entertainment venues.
Photo credit: The Allere Collection/Google Maps
Despite initial controversy and street blockades when first proposed, the precinct is now thriving, particularly at night and on weekends. The Allere Collection, consisting of two buildings with 203 apartments, is nearing completion, with 95 percent of units already sold. Once construction is finished early this year, residents will enjoy high-end amenities, including a large infinity-edge pool, a spa shaded by mature palm trees, and outdoor lounges with sweeping views of the city.
281-297 Montague Road
Photo credit: The NRA Collaborative/Brisbane PD Online
Henroth Investments is set to deliver two apartment towers at 281-297 Montague Road, standing at 19 and 17 storeys respectively after getting the approval last year. The Sydney-based developer underwent significant design revisions before receiving approval for the 345-unit project, which will be a 5-star Green Star-rated development.
One of the key innovations of this project, designed by The NRA Collaborative, is its focus on sustainability. Traditional corridors are being replaced with green atria, while biophilia filters will be integrated at the ends of landscaped walkways to provide vertical greenery and natural air filtration. This design not only enhances aesthetics but also promotes healthier indoor living environments for residents.
Photo credit: The NRA Collaborative/Brisbane PD Online
A key feature of the development is its 1626sqm retail plaza, which will serve as a central hub for both residents and visitors. Additionally, the project includes a public plaza and parklands, further contributing to West End’s ongoing urban renewal.
117 Victoria St
Photo credit: Rothelowman/Brisbane PD Online
A new twin-tower development has been proposed for Victoria Street, designed by Rothelowman Architecture. The project consists of 164 apartments spread across two 12-storey residential buildings and is designed with a strong focus on communal living.
Photo credit: Rothelowman/Brisbane PD Online
Residents will have access to 3531sqm of shared amenities, including dining and meeting rooms, open lawn spaces, a swimming pool, saunas, and spas. Other key features include a community garden, outdoor BBQ and dining areas, and designated spaces for relaxation and social interaction. With a strong emphasis on lifestyle and connectivity, the Victoria Street project aims to cater to those seeking a more integrated and community-driven living experience.
With multiple high-profile developments underway, West End is experiencing a significant transformation. From luxury apartments to sustainable living spaces, these projects are shaping the suburb’s future and reinforcing its status as one of Brisbane’s most sought-after locations. As construction progresses, West End’s skyline and community offerings continue to evolve, setting the stage for a new era of urban living.
As Super Bowl LIX approaches, West End locals are preparing for an electrifying Monday at The Boundary Hotel, the neighbourhood’s ultimate destination for catching every moment of the action.
With the game kicking off on 10 February, the beloved Boundary Street venue is transforming into a football haven, welcoming early-bird fans from 9:00 a.m. to soak in the atmosphere and secure prime viewing spots. Sports enthusiasts will be able to experience the intensity of every touchdown and tackle across The Boundary Hotel’s high-definition screens, set up in the Public Bar, Backyard, and Hardgrave Room, ensuring no one misses a second of the action.
This year’s Super Bowl pits the Kansas City Chiefs against the Philadelphia Eagles in a contest brimming with anticipation. The Eagles are out for redemption after falling to the Chiefs in Super Bowl LVII just two years ago. Under the leadership of new defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, they have bolstered their defensive lineup, setting the stage for a tactical showdown against Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs’ precise and methodical offence. With analysts predicting a tightly fought contest that could come down to the final minutes, this clash has all the makings of an instant classic.
Big Screen and Cold Drinks at The Boundary Hotel
Photo Credit: Supplied
The Boundary Hotel is embracing the American sporting tradition with a specially curated selection of food and drink specials throughout the day. Fans can savour American-inspired cuisine, enhancing the game-day experience while being part of what promises to be one of the most thrilling Super Bowls in recent history. Whether it’s classic game-day bites or refreshing drinks, the venue is set to deliver an authentic and immersive Super Bowl experience.
Adding to the spectacle, Grammy-winning artist Kendrick Lamar will headline the Apple Music halftime show at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. Fresh from winning five Grammys this weekend, Lamar’s performance is expected to be a major highlight, delivering a halftime show that will match the energy and intensity of the game itself.
For West End locals seeking to embrace the Super Bowl atmosphere without crossing the Pacific, The Boundary Hotel offers the perfect blend of community spirit and sporting excellence. With multiple viewing areas catering to both die-hard football fans and casual viewers, the venue ensures an inclusive experience where everyone can soak in the energy of the big game.
Given the anticipated popularity of the event and the venue’s prime location in the heart of West End, a reservation and an early arrival is highly recommended. Secure your table here.
The Best family legacy in rugby league is about to double, with rising star Baxter Best joining the Brisbane Broncos. The promising 16-year-old outside back will line up for the Souths Logan Magpies under-17s this season, taking on older, tougher competition as he continues to refine his skills against elite opposition.
Baxter’s rise through the junior ranks further cements the Best family’s imprint on the game, as he showcases the same explosive qualities that have made Bradman a powerhouse for the Newcastle Knights and New South Wales Blues. This season, he will test himself in the Souths Logan Magpies’ under-17s squad, demonstrating a playing style already drawing compelling comparisons to his accomplished sibling.
A Souths Logan official praised his potential, stating, “Baxter plays the game in a very similar mould to Bradman—he will go a long way in this game. We’re glad he’s with our club.”
“He has speed, size and the right attitude—the Broncos have got themselves a fine prospect,” the official told Nine’s Wide World of Sports.
Queensland’s Next Generation
Beyond club football, Baxter’s move to Queensland adds another twist to his career trajectory. With the family relocating to the Sunshine State, he is eligible to represent the Maroons, setting the stage for potential State of Origin clashes against Bradman in the years to come. Despite this, his older brother insists the younger Best remains a Blues supporter at heart.
Baxter’s emergence in junior rugby league has already turned heads. His performances for Queensland’s under-15s schoolboys team and the Cyril Connell Cup have reinforced the excitement surrounding his development. His decision to join the Broncos through the Magpies’ system establishes a clear pathway toward his NRL aspirations, positioning him within one of the most renowned development programs in the game.
The signing marks a significant milestone for both the Broncos’ youth system and the Souths Logan Magpies’ production line of talent. As Baxter steps up to tougher competition in the upcoming season, the rugby league community eagerly anticipates whether he can carve out his own legacy and add new chapters to the Best family’s remarkable sporting story.
