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West End, Brisbane’s Bohemian Heartland, Becomes Battleground in Housing Shortage

Once a vibrant hub of artists and working-class residents, West End now finds itself at the forefront of a housing shortage.

The neighbourhood, known for its rich cultural heritage, has transformed dramatically over the years, with high-end apartment complexes and luxury shopping centers dominating the landscape. But as the area undergoes urban renewal, long-time residents, small traders, and community organisations have raised concerns about displacement, rising rents, and the impact of exclusive developments.

According to data from CoreLogic, the average weekly rent for a house in West End now exceeds $900, while units demand nearly $700 per week. The local community association has criticised a plan by Council to allow mega-buildings in the flood-prone peninsula of Kurilpa, arguing that the area is already over-developed. Critics contend that such developments have pushed people to the fringes of the city, disrupting the fabric of the community.

Mama Saba Abraham, a former freedom fighter from Eritrea who runs a social enterprise training African refugee women at her West End restaurant, Mu’ooz, feels the impact of the crisis. Mama Saba’s kitchen has provided training and full-time employment for over 400 women, but the skyrocketing rent, estimated to be more than $100,000 per year, is pushing the restaurant to the brink of collapse.

With the opening of a new luxury shopping complex across the street, Mama Saba’s business struggles to retain customers and faces fierce competition from new eateries in the area.

Seleneah More, of the West End Community Association and former urban planner, highlights the challenges posed by rapid development. She notes that since 2010, West End has undergone dense development, putting pressure on infrastructure, schools, and increasing traffic congestion.

More laments the loss of affordable housing, resulting in many people being unable to afford to stay in the neighbourhood. With rent prices far exceeding the affordability threshold, even key workers such as nurses and teachers struggle to find suitable housing.

The challenges faced by Mama Saba’s restaurant and the concerns raised by the West End Community Association underscore the urgent need for a thoughtful and balanced approach to development that takes into account the affordability and sustainability of the suburb.

Published 4-July-2023

Film Student Receives Creative First Nations Scholarship, Finds Inspiration From Her Indigenous Heritage

Chloe Bowen, an 18-year-old Film student at SAE Creative Media Institute in West End has always been fascinated and inspired by the life of her great-grandfather, James Hunham Noade, who was taken from his Indigenous family as part of The Stolen Generations in 1909.

As one of the recipients of a 2023 Creative First Nations Scholarship, Chloe is making use of film as her medium to tell authentic stories, starting with The Stolen Generations and the Indigenous People.

Read: Homeless Man Shares His Passion for Piano Outside QPAC

‘The Stolen Generations’ encompasses a significant chapter in Australia’s past, a time when Aboriginal children were forcefully separated from their families due to government policies. Spanning from the mid-1800s to the 1970s, this dark period in history had a profound and lasting impact on Indigenous communities across the country.

Stolen Generation children at the Kahlin Compound in Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia in 1921 (Photo credit: Public Domain/Peter Spillett Collection/Wikimedia Commons)

Tracing her people’s history wasn’t easy for Chloe. She encountered numerous dead ends in her quest for information. Her great-grandfather was an orphan and the facility that housed physical records about him and other children had unfortunately been destroyed by fire.

Chloe also faced other hardships. In February 2022, South East Queensland experienced devastating floods that left over 500,000 people affected, including Chloe and her parents.

“I lived in my family’s house, in the granny flat, and we had to move out because I was coughing so much. I couldn’t breathe due to the mold,” she said. “When we moved, we didn’t have anything. Not even a pillow.”

Flooding on the banks of the Brisbane River, February 2022 (Photo credit: CC BY-SA 4.0/Universal Deus/Wikimedia Commons)

Despite being in her final year of high school, Chloe took on casual work to support her family and replace the belongings they had lost in the floods. Balancing the demands of work and education was no easy feat, but Chloe persevered, driven by her unwavering determination to help her family rebuild their lives.

It was around this time that Chloe’s passion for film opened unexpected doors for her. She had the opportunity to collaborate as Assistant Director with renowned Director Josh Hale, who quickly recognised her talent and potential.

Hale chose Chloe to join him at the prestigious Gold Coast Film Festival in 2022, giving her valuable experience on the set of his upcoming film, Blue Horizon.

“I was eternally grateful for the experience Josh gave me, it was amazing to still be in high school and be involved in that – it certainly helped give me a flavour for what I’m doing now at SAE,” Chloe said.

“I’d love to carve a future career in the film industry as a director or producer. I’m extremely passionate about creating authentic storylines, which inspire audiences.”

SAE Creative Media Institute in West End (Photo credit: Google Street View)

Recognising the significance of supporting Indigenous creatives like Chloe, SAE Australasia General Manager, Dr Luke McMillan, praised Chloe’s talent and determination while emphasising the importance of cross-cultural enrichment within the curriculum of SAE Creative Media Institute.

“SAE is committed to advancing reconciliation in Australia and recognizing outstanding students, like Chloe, through the Creative First Nations Scholarship,” Dr McMillan said.

“SAE has partnered with Queensland University of Technology (QUT) to provide SAE students with access to QUT’s Oodgeroo Unit and all associated cultural events. This relationship gives our students a cultural space to study, build connections and community,” he added.

Read: How Boundary St Building Evolved From Tristram Soft Drink Factory To West End Shopping Centre

“I try to keep reminding myself that I’m still young. A lot of people don’t find out about their heritage until much later in life, and they regret having missed so much,” Chloe said.

A big believer in “hunting down” one’s dream, Chloe is optimistic about the future despite past challenges.

“Bad things happen but you have to look at the life lessons that it’s teaching you. Your only limits are the ones you put on yourself.”

Published 3-July-2023 using materials provided by and sourced from SAE Creative Media Institute.

Old West End Police Station to be Converted as a Community Centre

To address the critical need for health, housing, and legal services in Brisbane, the old West End Police Station, built in 1884, is set to be transformed into a comprehensive community centre.

Located in one of South East Queensland’s homelessness hotspots, the site encompasses Musgrave Park, the Go Between Bridge, and various hostels offering emergency and temporary accommodation. For years, this area has been grappling with significant shortfalls in essential services and the renovation of the West End Police Station aims to directly tackle these challenges.

The Queensland Government, in collaboration with multifaceted housing agency Micah Projects, has allocated a $1.9 million grant for the renovation project, announced Communities Minister Leeanne Enoch. The Queenslander has been vacant since the police station moved to Vulture St in 2021.

Ms Enoch acknowledged the increasing reliance on support services in the area and emphasized the necessity of providing adequate space to cater to the growing demand. The renovated community centre will offer health services, housing support, dentistry facilities, and legal referrals. Micah Projects‘ Karyn Walsh said that a medical respite could be built at the back of the property.

“We desperately need something that is a medical ‘step down’ for when people are discharged early or walk out of the hospital,” she said.

The conversion of the heritage-listed Queenslander into a community hub is expected to be completed by the end of the year, following minor modifications. Furthermore, the state is actively considering other properties to be repurposed as community hubs to address the growing demand for essential services across Brisbane.

Published 30-June-2023

Major Developer Aims to Bring High-Rise Living to West End with 10-18 Storey Residential Tower

West End may soon be home to a 10-18 storey residential tower if a proposal by a renowned developer gets approved.

Read: Art Deco Marvel on Vulture Street Hits the Market

The proposed tower, which would be developed by Unison Projects, the development and property investment company owned by billionaire John Van Lieshout, aims to provide luxurious living spaces for residents.

Mr Van Lieshout, who is also the founder of the successful retail furniture store Super A-mart, brings his expertise and vision to this project.

The subject site for the proposed tower is located at 15-17 Mollison Street and 35-39 Bank Street, covering an area of almost 2,000 sqm.

With a total of 101 apartments, it will offer a variety of options to cater to different lifestyles and preferences. It will consist of 24 two-bedroom apartments, 76 three-bedroom apartments, and one opulent four-bedroom apartment.

Alongside a 100 sqm retail space that can double as a community area, the tower, designed by Rothelowman will feature a range of luxurious amenities. These include a gym, treatment room, outdoor gym, wellness lawn, cold plunge, magnesium spa, pool, pool deck, lounge, dining areas, private dining spaces, and BBQ areas.

To accommodate residents’ parking needs and promote sustainable transportation, the 10-18 storey residential tower will also provide 193 car parking spaces and 127 bike parking spaces.

Read: Why These West End Couples Wouldn’t Want to Live Anywhere Else

“The development proposes a 10-18 storey multiple dwelling outcome, which will diversify the housing product within West End, together with creating a very liveable and sub-tropical outcome for residents. The proposed building height is in keeping with the existing, emerging and anticipated building height outcomes for the immediate area,” planners at Mewing Planning Consultants said.

To learn more about the plans, visit Brisbane City Council’s PD Online, with the reference A006248439.

Published 26-June-2023

Art Deco Marvel on Vulture Street Hits the Market

Photo Credit: Google Map >

The Costa brothers stumbled upon this remarkable Art Deco complex more than a decade ago whilst exploring the vibrant streets of West End. Now this hidden gem comprising eight apartment units on Vulture Street goes under the hammer this July, creating an unprecedented opportunity for buyers to own part of South Brisbane’s fascinating history.

A rare Art Deco apartment complex with a spectacular 1930s facade has just been offered for sale. The stunning building, which will be put up for sale on 8 July 2023, is located at 185 Vulture Street and comprises eight beautifully restored apartments that seamlessly blend the historical charm of the past with modern elegance to display the appeal of art deco architecture.

During their exploration of the charming streets of the West End, brothers Shaun and Shane Costa, who had experience in construction and design, discovered this remarkable architectural gem more than ten years ago.

Originally known as ‘Musgrave Court,’ it was converted into a boarding house and apartment until the brothers undertook an extensive renovation project that ultimately led to the construction of Betty Joan apartments.

Inspired by their grandmother, whom the property is named after, the Costa brothers poured their passion for design and construction into restoring this neglected piece of history.

There is a timeless and elegant feel about the apartments in this complex. It’s decorated with gleaming wood floors, ceiling heights, authentic Art Deco lamps from all over the world, beautiful wall paintings and elaborate plasterwork. The exterior of the building is also dazzling, with a classic stucco facade, white awnings and geometric gates.

‘185 Vulture Street’ is located in the heart of vibrant South Brisbane, which provides a great location close to the city’s core business district and many other facilities. In the vicinity of Grey Street’s famous restaurants, cafes and cultural sites, residents can be a short walk away.

Published 19-June-2023

West End Solstice Markets Are Back!

The shortest day of the year definitely won’t feel that way if you spend it at the West End Solstice Markets, when it returns this June to herald the beginning of winter in true Brisbane fashion!

As Brisbane’s cultural hub, West End is a fitting venue for the Solstice Markets and its eclectic mix of entertainment, health and wellness, arts, crafts, and culture.

Here’s a sneak peek into the activities to expect:

Mala bead-making workshops with Earthly Magic Studio – Limited spaces available (heavily discounted price of $55 – was $175)
Free yoga with Wild Peace
Free Community garden workshops with Jane Street Community Gardens
Free Circus workshops for all ages [incl. fire twirling and plate spinning]

West End Solstice Markets — Photo Credit: Supplied

Visitors will also get the chance to explore the Indigenous Art Gallery Walk, which includes artists Paul Bong & Jenny Pineapple at the gallery laneway.

There will also be not one, not two, but EIGHT bonfires, a great way to ward off the winter chill and receive the light and warmth of the solstice.

Roving fire twirlers & height-defying stilt walkers will put up a mesmerising show, as they too embrace the symbolism of fire and light. Live music on two stages, roving local musicians, gourmet street food, and mulled wine at the Stone & Wood pop-up bar all conspire to make this Friday event a fitting end to the work week and a warm hello to the beginning of winter.

West End Solstice Market
120 Jane Street, West End
(Corner of Montague Rd and Jane St)
Friday 16th June, 4pm to 10pm
Corner of Montague Rd and Jane St.
FREE Entry | FREE Parking

Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/808892406798404/

Eventbrite: https://bit.ly/west-end-solstice-market

Yoga Class Registration: https://bit.ly/3oUNUxO

Mala Workshop Registration: https://bit.ly/43ub90H

About West End Markets and Goodwill Projects:

The West End Markets are one of Brisbane’s most vibrant community markets. Held every Saturday morning, in the iconic Davies Park along the Brisbane River, they’re a celebration of eclectic diversity, independence, and lifestyle.

Goodwill Projects is one of Queensland’s most dynamic markets, events and venues companies. Curating flawless events and memorable experiences.

Published 12-June-2023

Amidst Rising Challenges, Noise Complaints Cast Shadow Over Brisbane’s Live Music

Photo Credit: Facebook / The Burrow

Brisbane’s live music scene is facing a new challenge: relentless noise complaints. Popular venues in West End, Gabba, South Brisbane, and the Valley are under pressure to preserve the vibrant musical culture amidst the trend of inner-city living.

The Burrow, a prominent venue in West End, is in jeopardy due to a dispute with a single neighbour. The owners are committed to the local community but face rising costs and the burden of appeasing one disgruntled resident. The future of The Burrow is now uncertain.

The recent revocation of O’Skulligans’ live music license in Fortitude Valley left the industry stunned. The complaint came from a resident who had recently moved nearby, undermining the venue’s contribution to the local music community and raising concerns about other venues facing similar challenges.

The Milk Factory Kitchen & Bar, which faced closure during the lockdown, encountered difficulties in staying open due to a noise complaint from a neighbouring unit owner. Venue owners like Emily Dennis of It’s Still A Secret and Can You Keep A Secret have experienced immense stress and fear of closure.

The implications of these noise complaints extend beyond individual venues and affect the broader live music community. Even The Bug folk music venue in the New Farm Bowls Club has faced pressure from certain neighbours, hindering artistic expression and enjoyment.

Venue owners, musicians, and industry professionals are demanding greater protection for live music venues in Brisbane. They recognise that this issue is not confined to West End but is a widespread problem across the city and the country. Anonymous complaints and the ambiguity surrounding decibel limits make it challenging for venues to host live bands and manage their operations effectively.

Trina Massey, councillor for The Gabba ward, recognises the importance of venues like The Burrow in nurturing local musical talent and preserving the cultural character of West End. She advocates for the establishment of a cultural precinct to protect and support independent artistic creation and ensure the longevity of Brisbane’s vibrant music scene

QPS Race to Alert Neighbours as ‘Suspicious’ Fire Consumes West End Queenslander

A Queenslander in West End was engulfed in chaos and flames as a massive fire tore through the property, prompting an emergency response from firefighters and police officers.

Extraordinary bodycam footage released by the Queensland Police Service (QPS) captured the harrowing scene as officers rushed to the Archibald St location, where the house was already fully ablaze.

The fire broke out shortly before 4 a.m. on Wednesday, 31 May 2023, quickly spreading to a neighbouring property and causing panic among residents. Terrified inhabitants were forced to flee as the blaze intensified, with dozens of firefighters battling the inferno for two hours before finally extinguishing it around 6 a.m.

In the bodycam video, a female officer can be heard asking a resident standing in the street, “No one’s in the house? What about the house up the road?” Concerned for everyone’s well-being, the officers swiftly moved to evacuate the neighbouring home at risk of being devoured by the intense fire.

The sound of blaring sirens grew louder as fire trucks arrived at the scene, joining the efforts to control the raging blaze. Evacuated residents gathered in the street, watching in shock as the flames consumed the house. Fortunately, no one was present inside the residence at the time, averting potential injuries or casualties.

The destruction caused by the fire was extensive, reducing the West End home to ruins. Additionally, a neighboring property suffered significant damage. As a result, investigators have declared the site a crime scene, suspecting foul play in the blaze. Authorities are treating the incident as suspicious and have initiated a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire.

Throughout Wednesday morning, investigators meticulously examined the crime scene, searching for any evidence that could shed light on the origins of the massive blaze. Fire crews remained on-site to address hot spots and conduct atmospheric testing at the damaged neighboring property, allowing residents to retrieve their belongings.

Authorities are urging anyone with information or access to CCTV or dashcam footage from the vicinity to come forward and contact PoliceLink or Crime Stoppers. The shared footage or information may prove crucial in uncovering the truth behind this devastating incident.

As the investigation continues, the affected community is left grappling with the aftermath of the destructive fire. The resilient spirit of Brisbane’s West End will undoubtedly prevail as residents come together to support one another during this challenging time.

Masked Protesters Challenge West End Development

Photo Credit: Queensland Police Service / mypolice.qld.gov.au

For the past month, local authorities had to establish a constant police presence after a small but determined group of masked protesters sought to obstruct a construction crane at a multimillion-dollar unit construction site in West End.

Comprising around 20 individuals with their faces shrouded by ski masks and bandannas, denied any affiliation with the militant construction union CFMEU. When questioned, one of the protesters claimed allegiance instead to a group named Rage Against the Machine.

The masked protesters voiced their discontent with the Pradella Group’s exclusion of affordable housing and a sizable public green space. Their decision to obscure their identities stems from alleged incidents of violence and unwarranted surveillance.

According to the unnamed protester, one of their comrades was struck on the head by an unidentified person, whilst construction workers allegedly filmed their activities, including an invasion of privacy targeting a female protester.

Police, however, said that they have not received any formal complaints regarding these alleged incidents.

Businesses in the vicinity have reported concerns from customers, expressing unease and a sense of insecurity.

Numerous objections voiced concerns about the company’s project, known as The Lanes, specifically its potential impact on West End State School and the local road infrastructure.

In response to the protests, Pradella Developments issued a statement highlighting their commitment to alleviating Queensland’s housing crisis. However, they expressed difficulties in addressing the protesters’ concerns due to their refusal to disclose their identities.

The company emphasised the impact of the interruptions on small business subcontractors and their employees, whilst also striving to minimise project delays and inconveniences for the local community.

Published 30-May-2023

Queensland Police Encourages Cyclists to Register Bicycles in West End Serial Hub

The Queensland Police Service is urging cyclists to register their bicycles to the West End Serial Hub, allowing them to maintain a permanent record of bicycle serial numbers.

Read: Car Theft Claims Rise in Inner City Brisbane as Number of Offences Rise Statewide

This measure aims to facilitate the recovery process in the unfortunate event of bike theft. By recording their serial number and presenting it to the police, cyclists can enhance the chances of reuniting with their stolen bicycles.

This initiative aims to address the challenge posed by the fact that many individuals are unaware of their bicycle’s serial number, making the process of retrieving a stolen bike considerably more complex.

West End Serial Hub — Photo credit: Queensland Police Service

To find the serial number, bike owners are advised to check underneath the bottom bracket, where the two pedal cranks meet. If it is not located there, they should inspect other areas such as the front headset or rear stays.

The registration process involves filling out an online form that, upon completion, will generate an email containing the recorded serial number. This email is recommended to be retained by the bike owner, providing a permanent and easily accessible record for future reference, should the need arise.

The information obtained through this form will be exclusively used by police officers and staff for investigative purposes. Queensland Police have assured the public that the data will be securely stored and will not be utilised for any other purposes.

Read: West End Locals Establish Shared Vision for the Montague Road Project

By maintaining accurate records and cooperating with law enforcement, cyclists can play an active role in combatting bike theft and increasing the chances of having their precious two-wheelers returned to them.

Queensland Police are encouraging all bike riders to take advantage of the West End Serial Hub, as it will greatly aid in the recovery of stolen bicycles. For further information and to register your bicycle, visit mypolice.qld.gov.au.

Published 25-May-2023