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New Housing Proposed at Historic Dixon’s Tannery Site in West End

A new residential development is being proposed for the former site of Dixon’s Tannery, a heritage-listed tannery in West End.

Read: Altura: The New Apex of Urban Living in West Village, West End

The project calls for constructing an 84-unit, 10-storey apartment tower on the site of Dixon’s Tannery at 439 Montague Road, whilst preserving the original 19th century tannery building.

Dixon’s Tannery History

Dixon’s Tannery brick factory building was originally constructed in 1893 by Thomas Coar Dixon, after an earlier tannery was destroyed in Brisbane floods that year.

For nearly eight decades, Dixon’s Tannery played a major role in the industrial development of South Brisbane before closing in 1970. The well-known leather production business was an influential commercial enterprise in the area during the early 20th century.

To maintain the heritage integrity of the site, the new residential development proposal calls for preserving the original 19th century Dixon’s Tannery structure, whilst demolishing a later westward extension from the early 1900s.

“Through the proposed development there remains an intent to celebrate the history of the site through the incorporation of the original building as the main entry and communal space and with inclusion of two exclusive ‘heritage units’. The new building has also been designed to frame the original building and ensure it remains the primary focus of the site,” planners from Urban Strategies stated.

Plans

The proposed development, known as ‘The Tannery Residences’, will contain 84 residential dwellings in total. It is being developed by the construction firm McNab which enlisted Cottee Parker Architects for the design.

There will be 33 two-bedroom units and 51 three-bedroom units included in the 10-storey apartment tower.

The design provides ample communal open space, with 1,582 sqm located on the ground floor and rooftop garden.

Parking will consist of 161 spaces, including 149 for residents on levels 1-3, 2 visitor spaces and 2 accessible spaces on level 1.There will also be 105 bicycle parking spots – 84 for residents and 21 for visitors on level 1.

Unlike many developments, this project will not include underground basement parking. Instead, parking will be located on the above-ground levels. This decision was made to reduce any potential disturbance to the existing heritage building on the site during construction.

According to planners, placing parking above ground avoids concerns over soil conditions and possible foundation shifts that excavation could cause. They say this parking approach highlights the thoughtful and considerate way the development aims to integrate with the historic structure.

Read: Star-Studded Past: Historic Kinauld Residence in Highgate Hill and its Hollywood Guests

The proposed development’s integration of the new apartment tower and the adapted historic Dixon’s Tannery building highlights the potential for adaptive reuse to connect a site’s past and future.

If approved, The Tannery Residences would join old and new on a site bearing many eras of West End’s history.

Published 14-January-2024

delicious. Celebrates The Flavours of West End

Photo Credit: Facebook / Quan Thanh

Three West End dining places have recently been recognised at the ‘delicious. 100 Best of the Best’ awards as standout gastronomic experiences in a suburb where the dining scene has grown increasingly eclectic and diverse.

Quan Thanh’s Luscious Laksa Secures Second Spot for the Laksa Category

At Quan Thanh, a family-run establishment, the aroma of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Malaysian fusion cuisine tantalises taste buds. Their famed laksas, embracing vermicelli and hokkien noodles, deliver a symphony of flavours. Options abound: chicken, beef, barbecue pork, vegetables, crispy skin chicken, roast duck, or the signature seafood mix featuring squid, prawns, fish, puffed tofu, and fish balls. The daring can opt for an extra spicy kick, elevating the culinary adventure.

Quan Thanh on Facebook

Cà Phê Nam’s Authentic Pho Transports Palates to Hanoi

Cà Phê Nam, nestled amidst West End’s vibrant tapestry, claims the fifth spot for the Pho category, offering an authentic taste of Hanoi with its fragrant Pho. This culinary haven perfects the art of Pho, achieving a delicate sweetness through meticulous simmering and herbal balance. Tender beef, silky noodles, and a harmonious combination tantalise the senses, capturing the essence of this Vietnamese classic.

Cà Phê Nam on Facebook

Anita Gelato: A Sweet Symphony in Third Place for Ice Cream Category

Anita Gelato, the Brisbane outpost of a globally-renowned gelato shop, beckons dessert enthusiasts with queues that snake out its doors. Crafted using the freshest local ingredients, their hand-made frozen delights encompass over 150 diverse varieties. From frozen yoghurts and sorbets to sugar-free, fat-free, soy-based, and real cream-based ice creams, flavours like Snickers and pavlova tempt those seeking pure indulgence.

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Published 18-December-2023

Ambitious Public Transit Expansion Proposal Includes West End to Bulimba Route

A new plan has been proposed to add high-frequency bus routes to Brisbane’s public transport network, including a route that would connect West End to Bulimba.

Read: Toowong to West End Green Bridge Project Faces Uncertain Future Amidst Brisbane Budget Cuts

The West End to Bulimba route is one of 15 new high-frequency bus routes proposed as part of the ‘Brissie Bus Boost.’ The new routes would double the number of services that directly link Brisbane suburbs without requiring commuters to travel through the CBD.

The route, which is being championed by the Greens for years, was previously called the “Green CityGlider.” It would provide a key east-west connection between the high-density residential areas of West End and Woolloongabba and destinations like major schools, hospitals, job centres, and the Bulimba high street shopping area.

Green CityGlider (Photo credit: jonathansri.com)

The planned route would start at the Woolworths in the Montague Markets in West End. It would go along Vulture Street, going through Woolloongabba and East Brisbane on the way to the eastern neighbourhoods.

After passing through Norman Park, it would get to Bulimba using Wynnum Road. But based on input from Bulimba residents, the route was changed to take Riding Road instead of Hawthorne Road through Bulimba. It would keep going along Oxford Street before ending at the ferry terminal in Bulimba.

According to the Greens’ mayoral candidate Jonathan Sriranganathan, this route could easily be expanded over the Brisbane River to service Newstead and Teneriffe later on, if infrastructure like a bus, walking and biking bridge gets built.

‘Brissie Bus Boost’

Under the plan, there will be a total of 15 new and 10 improved existing routes that would span 395 kilometres across Brisbane. The number of high-frequency routes would rise from 21 to 43, enhancing public transit connectivity throughout the city according to the Greens.

Numerous routes would offer direct links to local schools so students can take the bus rather than rely on parents and carers for transportation.

“By creating new inter-suburban routes, buses will become a real option for thousands of people who just need to get a few suburbs over for work, shopping or to see friends. Almost 400km of major road corridor will get a high-frequency ‘turn up and go’ bus service for the very first time,” Sriranganathan said.

The Greens have said they welcome feedback on the proposal, stating that public transit should be widely accessible regardless of driving ability or car ownership status.

Read: BCC Wants Law Amended to Allow Multiple Parking Fines Be Issued via Mail

They believe thousands of Brisbane residents could avoid frustrations over parking, fuel costs, and traffic congestion if an efficient, conveniently accessible transit system was in place as a viable alternative to private vehicles.

Published 13-December-2023

Altura: The New Apex of Urban Living in West Village, West End

West Village in West End welcomes its latest addition, the Altura tower, marking a significant step in the area’s ongoing transformation.

Altura is a symbol of luxury urban living, blending innovative design with wellness-centric amenities. This development is particularly notable as it readies to welcome more than 350 new residents into its 146 luxury wellness units.

Built by Sekisui House Australia, Altura is a lifestyle choice. The tower is designed with a neuro-architectural approach, aiming to foster wellness through its design, textures, and colours. Residents can enjoy a range of exclusive amenities, including an infinity-edge pool, a magnesium spa, an outdoor kitchen and BBQ area with a sunken fire pit, a library, cinema rooms, and productivity pods for workspaces.

Altura West End West Village — Photo Credit: Lucas Muro/Supplied

These features cater to a growing demand for living spaces that support health and well-being in urban environments.

“Altura embodies this principle by incorporating greenery vertically up the building, benefiting not only the residences and balcony environments, but also the surrounding buildings in the broader West Village community,” Nettletontribe Director David Cohen said.

“The design of the balconies and the façade were key to delivering a quality space for each residence that achieved outlook and connection to the natural environment, including access to natural light and ventilation.”

The Historical Context: West Village’s Transformation

West Village, the site of Altura, holds a rich history, once housing the iconic Peters Ice Cream Factory. Established in 1928, this site was integral to Brisbane’s industrial and cultural heritage. The factory, known for inventing the popular chocolate-filled ice cream cone, is a cherished part of the city’s past.

In 2015, plans for West Village’s transformation were unveiled, signaling a shift from its industrial roots to a modern, mixed-use urban precinct. This change aimed to integrate residential, retail, and cultural spaces while respecting the site’s historical significance.

“West Village provides an unparalleled setting, combining heritage, environmental connectivity, creativity, and health and wellness aspects that encourage residents and visitors to thrive,” West Village Project Director Taku Hashimoto said.

“It also boasts a 99 out of 100 Walk Score, enabling residents to easily access the precinct’s Harris Farm Markets, Goodlife Health Clubs, medical and beauty hubs, and the 25-plus retail and dining options.

“We are proud to deliver Altura as part of the West Village master plan and provide its soon-to-be residents with multi-sensory, luxury living and innovation, all within a vibrant community and a stone’s throw from the city.”

Future Developments: Continuing the Evolution of West Village

With the addition of Altura, West Village continues its urban revitalisation. But the development doesn’t stop here. Plans are in place for further additions, including the Allere Collection, which promises to be pet-friendly and feature unique amenities like rooftop pools and an off-leash rooftop dog space, dubbed the Paw Pavilion.

The opening of Altura marks a new chapter in the evolution of West Village, West End. From its beginnings as an iconic ice cream factory to its current status as a hub of modern urban living, West Village reflects the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of urban development.

Published 7-Dec-2023

West End to Join Brisbane’s Expanding Food Waste Recycling Initiative

The expansion of Brisbane’s food waste recycling service will include more than 5,290 new households, with West End being a key area in this initiative.

Residents along designated collection routes in West End will be directly contacted regarding their inclusion in the service. Households with existing green waste recycling bins will receive caddies, and those without can request a green bin from the Council. Residents in multi-unit dwellings can apply for the service, with eligibility assessed on a case-by-case basis.

This plan is a part of the Council’s “Towards Zero Waste” strategy, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of waste and enhance Brisbane’s reputation as a clean, green, and sustainable city.

Expansion Details

Set to commence from 1 Feb 2024, the expansion will add to the 7,000 households already benefiting from the service since its launch in March 2022. The added areas covered in this phase include Carina, Carina Heights, Norman Park, Westlake, New Farm, East Brisbane, and notably, West End.

“Brisbane is renowned as a clean, green and sustainable destination and our Council team is determined to maintain and enhance that reputation,” Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner highlighted the importance of this initiative.

To avoid issues faced by other councils, Brisbane City Council is taking a careful approach to the rollout. This includes ensuring the proper infrastructure for converting food waste into compost and keeping residents well-informed about recycling guidelines to minimize contamination.

“We’ve already introduced food waste recycling to thousands of Brisbane households and as part of the strategy we committed to expanding this service citywide over the next four years,” said Cr Schrinner.

Public Feedback and Strategy Consultation

The Council will open public consultation on the draft “Towards Zero Waste Strategy” from 24 Nov to 24 Dec 2023. This strategy includes several initiatives like rebates for incinerators, support for compost bins and worm farms, the introduction of community-based recycling hubs, and new park recycling bins.

“Our Towards Zero Waste strategy is all about helping residents recycle more while also reducing the impost from the State Government’s waste levy which continues to increase year-on-year,” Cr Schrinner emphasised.

The initiative aims to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, thereby decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and transforming food scraps into valuable compost.

“You will be helping to reduce food and garden waste going to landfill where it produces greenhouse gases. Your food waste will also be turned into valuable compost that will be used on farms, gardens, and in public spaces,” the Council explained.

Published 4-Dec-2023

Authentic Asian Flavours Meet Aussie Brews at West Village’s Goodtime Restaurant

West Village in West End is welcoming an exciting new dining destination just in time for the holidays. Goodtime, brought to you by the team behind the popular Longtime Yum Cha in Queens Plaza, will be an authentic Asian street food restaurant and craft beer bar.

Read: Lekki by Little Lagos Brings Hard-to-Find Tastes of Nigeria to West End

Andrew Yu and Beverley Teo have made a name for themselves with Longtime Yum Cha’s delightful dim sum, fresh seafood, and creative cocktails. Now, they are drawing inspiration from the casual gatherings and flavour-packed dishes of Asian alleyways and Australian neighbourhood pubs.

The pan-Asian menu will highlight flying noodle bowls whilst more adventurous eaters can explore the bao bun bar. Locally brewed beers on tap will complement the food and give patrons a taste of Australia’s exceptional craft beer scene.

In addition, Goodtime will pay homage to the traditional yum cha experience by offering an all-you-can-eat option. For them, yum cha is so much more than the food. It’s about bringing people together to laugh, talk, and make new memories over a drink and plates of dumplings.

The venue itself will transport guests across the Pacific, channelling a dash of metropolitan energy blended with suburban comfort. The 100-seat indoor/outdoor space will have ample seating options – from bar tables for grabbing a quick bite to banquettes perfect for lingering over cocktails. They will also have a patio, setting the stage for balmy Brisbane nights.

West Village is thrilled to add this “unique, vibrant dining option to the neighbourhood,” particularly with the holidays right around the corner. Goodtime’s treasured recipes, relaxed vibe, and celebration of community through food promise something for everyone.

Read: Yamas Greek & Drink Named Best Greek Restaurant in Southeast QLD

Look for Goodtime next to Cheeky Poke at 97 Boundary Street at the West Village, with a targeted mid-December opening. Follow them on Facebook for updates.

Published 1-December-2023

Lekki by Little Lagos Brings Hard-to-Find Tastes of Nigeria to West End

Brisbane’s diverse culinary landscape expanded recently with the opening of Lekki by Little Lagos, a new Nigerian restaurant in West End.

Read: Yamas Greek & Drink Named Best Greek Restaurant in Southeast QLD

The restaurant joins only a handful of other Nigerian eateries in Brisbane, filling a niche for locals craving authentic dishes from West Africa.

Head chef and manager Kemi Fajemisin, raised in Nigeria, brings over a decade of experience spotlighting the bright, bold flavours of her homeland. Her passion for cooking blossomed in childhood under the tutelage of her Nigerian grandmother.

Since relocating to Australia, Kemi has earned acclaim as a chef and expert on African cuisine.

Chef Kemi Fajemisin (Photo credit: lekkibylittlelagos.com)

Diners can expect her standout specialties like jollof rice, a fragrant tomato and chilli-infused rice dish, topped with thin slices of beef or chicken.

Jollof rice (Photo credit: Lekki by Little Lagos/Google Maps)

Another signature is the mouthwatering goat meat stew, slow-cooked with tomatoes, peppers and onions for a deliciously fiery broth brimming with tender meat.

Goat meat stew (Photo credit: Lekki by Little Lagos/Google Maps)

No Nigerian meal is complete without fufu to soak up rich sauces; here it comes in the form of smooth, pounded yam to pair with egusi soup or your protein of choice.

Fufu (Photo credit: Lekki by Little Lagos/Google Maps)

As Brisbane’s dining scene continues evolving, this newcomer fills a distinct niche, brought to the city by the team behind Sydney’s pioneering Little Lagos, Australia’s first Nigerian bar and bistro. Finally, locals can explore authentic recipes from a region seldom represented among the city’s international restaurant offerings.

Read: From Parched to Brew Baron: New Owners Rebrand and Renovate Local Brewery

Foodies eager to explore authentic Nigerian cuisine without leaving Brisbane can visit Lekki by Little Lagos at 132 Boundary Street in West End. Follow them @lekkibylittlelagos on Instagram for updates.

Published 28-November-2023

Don’t Get Your Tinsel Tangled! West End Christmas Twilight Market Returns

It’s going to be an epic night of eats, beats, and festive treats as the West End Christmas Twilight Market returns for another year of holiday fun!

Read: Star-Studded Past: Historic Kinauld Residence in Highgate Hill and its Hollywood Guests

On Friday 1 Dec 2023, from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. wander through over 200 artisan stalls and sample the best gourmet eats from talented local chefs and tastemakers. Plus, with so many unique, handmade gifts by bespoke makers and creators, you’ll need to BYO Santa sack to carry all your treasures home.

Feeling like a cup of festive cheer? Stop by the Long Bar to sip on an icy cold brew from Stone & Wood and Revel Brewing Co. or extra festive Christmas spirits from Milton Rum Distillery.

Let’s mistle-toast to the silly season!

But wait, there’s myrrh! Sleigh the night away with live music by The Twine, be mesmerised by roving Chrissy characters and magical stilt walkers, join a FREE circus workshop, and grab a selfie with SANTA!

WIN A $200 BAR TAB TO SPEND!

We’re offering you a chance to WIN a $200 bar tab to spend the night of West End Christmas Twilight Market! Cheers to that!

HOW TO ENTER

FILL THE ENTRY FORM

* T&C’s apply. See full details.

WIN A $250 CHRISTMAS HAMPER!

Enter for your chance to WIN a Market Hamper, valued at $250, filled with goodies from West End Christmas Twilight Market!

FILL THE ENTRY FORM

* T&C’s apply. See full details.

Read: BCC Wants Law Amended to Allow Multiple Parking Fines Be Issued via Mail

West End Christmas Twilight Market
When: Friday 1 December | 4PM – 10PM
FREE Entry | FREE Parking
Where: Davies Park, West End
Snaps with Santa: 5PM – 8PM

Featuring: Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers, Mr Pulled Slow Cooked Meats, OMG Donuts, Roll It Ice Cream Co., Rufus and Daisy, Cath’s Crafts, Hey Good Looking, and more!

Follow the event updates on Facebook.

Published 28-Nov-2023

CityCat Ferry Collision in West End Prompts Investigation

Photo Credit: CrAdamAllan/Facebook

An investigation is underway following a collision between a CityCat ferry and a private boat on the Brisbane River near the West End Ferry Terminal.

The CityCat ferry, named Gilwunpa, was returning to the shipyard at the end of its shift when it ploughed into the unattended boat, which was anchored approximately 200 metres downstream of the terminal. The incident occurred at 8.35 pm on Tuesday, leaving an anchored boat submerged in the river.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported. A spokesperson from RiverCity Ferries, the operator of Brisbane’s ferry fleet, confirmed that there were no passengers on board, and the crew escaped unharmed. The ferry was no longer in service for the evening when the collision took place.

Authorities have placed floating buoys around the sunken boat to indicate its location in the Brisbane River.

The Brisbane City Council, which oversees public ferries operating under a city contract as part of the state government’s integrated public transport scheme, is collaborating with RiverCity Ferries to understand the incident. A council spokesperson affirmed that all ferry services are continuing as scheduled.

Notably, the Maritime Union of Australia’s Queensland branch had previously expressed concerns about the safety of ferry operations, suggesting that it was “only a matter of time” before such an incident occurred. In 2016, the union raised issues related to “horrible rosters,” a shortage of ferries, inadequate training, and a revolving door of top-level executives in the ferry service.

The union is expected to provide additional comments as the investigation into the collision progresses. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing concerns surrounding ferry safety in Brisbane and the need for a comprehensive review of the maritime transportation system in the city.

Published 2-Nov-2023

Star-Studded Past: Historic Kinauld Residence in Highgate Hill and its Hollywood Guests

Steve and Jane Wilson, the couple behind the restoration of Lamb House in Kangaroo Point, has placed Kinauld, their historic Highgate Hill residence, on the market. This 1888-built home once played host to Hollywood powerhouse couple Vivien Leigh and her husband, Sir Laurence Olivier.

Nestled at 116 Dornoch Terrace, this iconic property is now up for grabs as the owners, corporate identities Steve and Jane Wilson, have decided to part ways with their beloved family home of over 35 years.

The Wilsons, known for their passion for historic homes, famously acquired Lamb House in Kangaroo Point in 2021 for a staggering $12.75 million. Following an extensive renovation, Lamb House is now almost ready for occupancy, prompting the couple to list their cherished Kinauld for sale.

Kinauld House — Photo Credit: Showcache/YouTube

Jane Wilson expressed that they thought of keeping both historical houses but “it just didn’t make sense.” So, they want a new family to enjoy their former home.

Among the many memories the Wilsons hold dear at Kinauld was the celebration of Steve’s 40th birthday. Jane reminisced about the evening when a Frank Sinatra impersonator serenaded the guests while they danced on a specially constructed dancefloor over the pool. Steve, however, treasures the family milestones, such as christenings and barbecues at the home.

But Kinauld has more to offer beyond the Wilsons’ cherished memories. According to Steve, the residence had the honour of hosting Hollywood legends Vivien Leigh, famous for her roles in “Gone with the Wind” and “A Street Car Named Desire,” and her husband, Sir Laurence Olivier, renowned for his performances in “Hamlet,” “Wuthering Heights,” and “Spartacus.”

The Hollywood power couple visited the residence during their 1948 trip to Brisbane, adding a touch of stardom to Kinauld’s history.

1948: Queenslanders’ Starstruck Encounter with the Oliviers

Delving into the annals of history, we uncover the star-studded visit of Olivier and Leigh to Queensland in 1948. The famed Hollywood couple had come to Australia as lead actors with England’s prestigious The Old Vic theatre company, all thanks to the British Government’s gesture of gratitude for the countries’ wartime contributions.

On 20 June 1948, Olivier and Leigh landed at Archerfield aerodrome in Brisbane, embarking on a theatrical journey that would leave an indelible mark on the Antipodes. The couple had hoped for a peaceful break in Queensland to recharge their spirits after a series of demanding rehearsals and performances. However, the couple’s desire for solitude clashed with the starstruck Queenslanders’ enthusiasm.

Sir Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh — Photo Credit: State Library of Queensland

Their arrival in Brisbane was met with a mob of 200 eager fans, eager to catch a glimpse of the iconic couple. The constant fan vigil became overwhelming, leading the Oliviers to seek refuge in private accommodation. To assist them in their quest for seclusion, they turned to their “theatrical friend” Bob Geraghty, who recommended a private house. The sanctuary was to the couple’s liking.

The Oliviers’ visit left an enduring imprint on Queensland’s history, showcasing the star power they possessed and the fervent admiration of their Australian fans.

Meanwhile, this historic Kinauld is now being marketed by Place New Farm. It is sure to attract the attention of potential buyers interested in owning a piece of Queensland’s glamorous past.

Published 1-Nov-2023