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West End Stores Forced to Close in Sudden Tobacco Raid

Photo Credit: Bernard Mitchelson/Facebook

Several tobacco shops in Brisbane’s West End were shut down without warning this week after authorities found they were likely selling illegal nicotine and tobacco products.

Premises Shut Down Under State Law

On Tuesday, 13 May, Queensland Health officers and police raided five businesses in the inner-south suburb. Four of them were served with interim closure orders, forcing them to stop trading for 72 hours. The action came under Section 209A of the Tobacco and Other Smoking Products Act 1998.

One of the stores, A1 Convenience on Vulture Street, had two official notices taped to its front door. The warnings were sealed with bright green tape marked “SEIZED,” showing that products may have been confiscated. Another store, West End Tobacconist on Boundary Street, was also closed. Both shops were accused of supplying smoking products without a licence.

Officials Acted After Warnings Went Ignored

Authorities said they had inspected the businesses several times in the past and given warnings about illegal sales. However, the shops allegedly continued to sell banned items such as nicotine vapes and unlicensed tobacco.

Queensland Health stated there was reasonable suspicion that the stores were trading in a way that broke the law. Under the Act, supplying or being involved in the supply of smoking products without a proper licence can result in fines of up to $322,600.

Community Concerns Rising

The West End community has seen an increase in small shops selling vapes and tobacco in recent years. Local residents have raised concerns about how easy it is for young people to access these products.

Health officers are using new powers to issue rapid closure orders and conduct surprise inspections. These temporary closures are one way the state is trying to deal with a growing illegal market.

Crackdown Linked To Broader Effort

This action is part of a state-wide push to crack down on the illegal tobacco trade, which authorities say is linked to organised crime and costing millions in lost tax revenue.

While Queensland Health has not named the other shops involved, it is clear that more enforcement efforts are underway. The government has flagged the possibility of tougher penalties in the future, including longer closures and even jail time for serious breaches.

Published 14-May-2025

Tiger Burger Launches on Boundary Street in West End

Photo Credit: Tiger Burger/Instagram

A new burger venue combining Korean-inspired flavours with American-style classics has officially opened its doors in West End.

Korean-Influenced Menu Arrives in West End

Tiger Burger has opened at 2/173 Boundary Street, West End, bringing a unique twist to the suburb’s growing food landscape. The venue is a sister operation to New Zealand-based Ziggle and offers a menu focused on American-style smash burgers with Korean-inspired flavours.

Signature Offerings and Menu Details

Tiger Burger’s signature items include the Tiger Burger, featuring a smashed beef patty made from chuck and brisket, cheddar cheese, onions, garlic mushrooms, mayonnaise and Korean barbecue sauce. Optional grilled shaved beef can be added.

Other beef-based burgers include the Fiery Bacon, Deluxe and The Cheese. Chicken options include the Gotchu, made with Korean sweet chilli fried chicken, coleslaw, pickles and mayo, and the Hot Nash, a Nashville-style fried chicken burger with dill sour cream. Customers can also order fried chicken by the piece, in varieties such as Southern, Nashville, Hot Nashville, Sweet Chilli and Hot Sweet Chilli.

The venue also offers loaded fries, coleslaw, house-made dipping sauces and combo meals that include chips and a soft drink.

Tiger Burger menu — *Photo Credit: Tiger Burger/Instagram*

Tiger Burger West End — *Photo Credit: Tiger Burger/Instagram*

Launch and Location

The store officially began trading on 13 May 2025. Its opening hours are 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. from Sunday to Thursday, and 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

The shopfront includes retro-styled hand-painted signage, contributing to a traditional aesthetic in line with its menu’s nostalgic influences.

Early Feedback and Customer Response

Initial interest from the local community appears strong, with the Tiger Burger identified as the venue’s top-selling item during the opening period. Customers are able to customise spice levels on items such as the Gotchu and Hot Nash, with both mild and hot versions available.

Published 14-May-2025

Stockwell Proposes Sixteen-Storey Apartment Building for West End

Photo Credit: DA A006760664

Brisbane developer Stockwell has lodged plans for a substantial 16-storey building in West End, aiming to add 132 new apartments to the riverside suburb.

The proposal outlines a mixed-use development at 33 Vulture Street, the former location of the Queensland Can Factory. It includes over 600 square metres of space intended for shops and businesses facing Vulture Street. Property records indicate the 3321-square-metre site was purchased in January last year for $19 million.

Development Details

Stockwell — *Photo Credit:* *DA A006760664*

Architecture firm Mode has designed the project to feature a mix of two, three, and four-bedroom units spread across 13 levels, positioned above a three-level base. A key design element involves keeping the old Queensland Can Factory’s original brick walls, built in the 1920s, along Paris and Turin streets.

These historic fronts will cover the parking levels within the building’s base. Planning documents suggest that the buildings around the site are mostly character homes, and the heritage-listed West End State School is directly opposite. The report highlights an opportunity to respect and improve the area’s feel.

Community Spaces and Amenities

The development plans include 1184 square metres of shared open space for residents. The top of the building is designed as a recreation area with a pool and deck, a spa, a sauna, a gym, barbecue spots, outdoor eating areas, a community garden, and a function room that can be booked.

Additionally, the top of the base structure will feature trees, seating, a herb garden for residents, and an enclosed area for dogs. Below these areas, there will be 199 parking spaces spread over three levels.

Planning Considerations

According to the planning report, while the proposed height of the tower is taller than the usual eight-storey limit for the area, it is argued that the building’s size and overall impact are suitable in this case. The report mentions that a large piece of land at 36-38 Vulture Street, which was zoned for high-density residential development up to 15 storeys, has recently been used to expand West End State School and the West End police station.

The planning report suggests that this new development on the subject site will help compensate for some of the housing that could have been built on the land now used for community services. Stockwell’s website states that they have already invested over $590 million in the West End community, delivering more than 700 apartments.

Key Features

The submitted development application details two levels of retail space along Vulture Street, providing eight separate shop areas. The design aims to maximise views and landscaping in the rooftop and base recreation areas, separating different activities for residents.

The rooftop will include a 16.7-metre pool and spa, while the podium level will host the dog park and herb garden. Stockwell believes this project will contribute positively to the West End area.

Published Date 13-May-2025

Luxury Property Developer Deepens West End Presence with Second Mega Site Acquisition

Luxury property developer Traders In Purple is deepening its investment in Brisbane’s inner-city market with the acquisition of a second significant site in West End, further cementing the suburb’s status as a high-growth residential hotspot.

Read: From Five to Two Towers: Montague Road Development Gets the Go-Ahead

The newly secured parcel, located at 281–297 Montague Road, spans over one hectare and adds substantial weight to the company’s growing Brisbane portfolio. While the exact purchase price remains confidential, the planned development’s end value is projected to exceed $850 million—making it one of the largest private projects in the area.

The subject site currently holds an approved development application (DA) for two apartment towers, originally lodged by a Sydney-based developer. The approved plan represents a scaled-back version of an earlier proposal that sought to deliver five towers. Brisbane City Council ultimately granted permission for a total of 345 apartments on the site.

Luxury Property Developer — Photo credit: Brisbane PD Online

This latest acquisition builds on momentum from Traders In Purple’s nearby Rivara project, which received planning approval just recently. That development, set for a 1.25-hectare site on Victoria Street, will introduce two 20-storey apartment towers to the neighbourhood. It was acquired for $63.5 million in a deal facilitated by liquidators in 2023.

The rapid succession of investments signals the company’s strong confidence in West End’s evolving landscape. With its mix of heritage charm, urban energy, and enviable proximity to the Brisbane River and CBD, the area is increasingly appealing to a diverse range of buyers—from young professionals and families to retirees seeking lifestyle-driven downsizing options.

Read: Callista on Park: Rooftop Living Arrives in West End’s Historic Heart

As the demand for luxury living in Brisbane’s inner suburbs continues to climb, West End is shaping up to be a focal point for premium residential development. Traders In Purple’s latest move reinforces the suburb’s reputation as both a cultural enclave and a property investment stronghold.

Published 13-May-2025

Entries Open for 2025 Lord Mayor’s Business Awards in Brisbane

Photo Credit: Jaune Pearls/Facebook

Entries are now open for the 2025 Lord Mayor’s Business Awards, with West End’s 2024 winners setting the pace for what Brisbane’s best can achieve.

Brisbane Opens Entries for 2025 Lord Mayor’s Business Awards

West End businesses that stood out at last year’s Lord Mayor’s Awards are setting the pace as entries open for 2025, with firms like Blaklash and I Heart Songwriting Club showing how local ideas can drive citywide impact.

Applications for the 2025 Lord Mayor’s Business Awards (LMBA) opened on 7 May and close at 5 p.m. on 27 June. Winners will be announced at a gala dinner on 6 November at Brisbane City Hall, marking the awards’ 20th anniversary.

West End’s 2024 Standouts

In 2024, West End’s Blaklash won the Small Business Award for promoting Indigenous voices through placemaking and design. Also based in West End, I Heart Songwriting Club was a finalist, recognised for building a global creative network from its local base.

*Photo Credit: Blaklash Creative/Facebook*

Monty Compost Co, based in West End, has earned past recognition for its smart composting technology. While not a 2024 winner, it remains active in sustainability and circular economy work.

About the 2025 Awards

This year’s awards span 12 categories, recognising contributions to innovation, sustainability, social enterprise and growth. Key categories include Product Innovation, Environmental Sustainability, and Young Business Person of the Year.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the awards celebrate bold ideas driving Brisbane’s growth. With the economy set to reach $275 billion by 2041, they support local success stories.

How to Apply

Eligible businesses and individuals can apply through the official LMBA portal. Applicants may enter multiple categories, provided they meet the specific criteria for each.

apply here

The application process includes registering an account, completing the nomination form, and submitting all required information before the deadline.

Published 12-May-2025

Homeless Tents Cleared from Musgrave Park in West End

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Police and city officials have removed homeless residents and tents from Musgrave Park in West End, prompting concerns from community groups and advocacy organisations.

Repeat Clear-Outs Ahead of Festival

Dozens of rough sleepers were displaced from Musgrave Park in West End during an early-morning operation involving police and BCC workers. The move occurred ahead of the Paniyiri Greek Festival, which is scheduled to return to the park next weekend.

Similar operations took place in 2023 and 2024, with over 50 people removed from the park before the festival each year. Council maintains the timing is coincidental and not linked to the event.

Police clear tents in West End — *Photo Credit: Community Union Defence League/Facebook*

Official Stance and Actions

BCC stated the action aligned with its policy to intervene only when accommodation has been offered and declined. Officers affixed notices on Wednesday morning, with removals beginning around 6 a.m. the next day. Reports indicate that people were woken and given 30 minutes to gather their belongings.

The Queensland Police Service confirmed no arrests or move-on directions were issued. Police were present to maintain safety during the operation.

Housing and Data Issues

Local official Sam O’Connor said outreach workers had recently visited Musgrave Park and would continue offering support. He denied any directive from the new state government influenced council actions.

The Department of Housing has faced criticism for relying on outdated census data from 2021. There is no publicly available up-to-date data on how many people are currently sleeping rough in Brisbane.

At the last census, over 2000 people in Queensland were believed to be living without shelter, with about 22,000 classified as having no secure housing.

Tents moved ahead of West End festival — *Photo Credit: Community Union Defence League/Facebook*

Community Reactions and Criticism

Several advocacy groups, including the Community Union Defence League and Anti-Poverty Network, expressed concern over the operation’s execution. Witnesses described the process as abrupt, distressing, and lacking adequate notice or support.

Volunteers reported being threatened with obstruction charges when attempting to assist with packing. Some people relocated tents to another area of the park.

Local officials Trina Massey and Lucy Collier criticised the council’s approach, describing it as coercive and misrepresentative of the actual housing support offered.

BCC officials argued the encampments raised safety issues, citing violence, drug use, and anti-social behaviour. They accused the local officials of resisting housing development while criticising enforcement actions.

West End homelessness — *Photo Credit: Community Union Defence League/Facebook*

Paniyiri Committee Response

The Paniyiri Greek Festival organisers released a statement distancing themselves from the eviction decision. They acknowledged homelessness as a sensitive issue and reiterated that decisions around removals were made by council.

They noted that in 2024, accommodation and alternative spaces were made available for those affected and said they aimed to ensure a similar approach this year.

Outlook

While some residents accepted housing offers, others claimed they were left with limited options. Advocacy groups continue to call for exclusion zones to protect rough sleepers during public events.

The State officials maintain that homelessness outreach will remain in place at Musgrave Park in West End, with longer-term housing strategies still in development.

Published 9-May-2025

Brisbane’s Worst Bus Routes Named: 8000 Cancellations in a Year Hit Suburbs Like West End

Thousands of Brisbane commuters have faced delays and disruptions as more than 7,900 bus services were cancelled in the 12 months to February 2025, with the high-frequency CityGlider (Route 60) among the hardest hit, revealing ongoing driver shortages and growing concerns over service reliability.

Driver Shortages Continue to Impact Services

Driver shortages remain the main reason behind the cancellations. Brisbane City Council hired over 500 drivers in 2024 and 146 more in early 2025, but high turnover and long training times continue to leave service gaps across the network.

Union representatives argue that the official figures underreport the true extent of the problem, noting that partial cancellations and unreported missed trips are not adequately captured in the data. They emphasize that driver shortages are as critical as ever, affecting the reliability of services citywide.

Key Routes and Suburbs Affected

Route 100, running from the CBD to Forest Lake, had the most cancellations with 487 missed trips. The CityGlider through West End to Newstead followed with 345, while Route 340 from Carseldine saw 295 cancellations.

These high-frequency routes are vital for daily commuters, and their unreliability has led to increased wait times and overcrowded buses, particularly during peak hours. Residents in affected suburbs have expressed frustration over the inconsistent service, which has disrupted daily routines and commutes.

Industrial Actions and Service Interruptions

In February 2025, a two-hour strike over pay disputes between the bus union and Brisbane City Council disrupted up to 436 morning peak services.

The union’s demands for a 9% pay rise over two years were met with a counteroffer of a 7% increase from the council. While some progress has been made, the potential for future strikes remains a concern for commuters relying on bus services for their daily transportation needs.

Looking Ahead: Addressing the Challenges

The Brisbane City Council has acknowledged the need for continued efforts to improve the reliability of bus services. Plans are underway to introduce 160,000 new bus services to the network, aiming to alleviate the pressure on existing routes and accommodate the growing demand.

Fixing driver shortages and keeping trained staff are key to improving services. As Brisbane grows its transport network, stable staffing and long-term solutions will be vital to restoring commuter trust.

Published 6-May-2025

West End Finalises Fixed CCTV Additions Amid City-Wide Mobile Camera Rollout

Neighbourhood safety is being enhanced through the deployment of 26 new mobile CCTV cameras across all city wards and the installation of the program’s final new fixed camera on Boundary Street in West End.

Mobile Camera Deployment Under Safer Suburbs Initiative

The rollout of the 26 mobile safety cameras is a key part of the Lord Mayor’s Safer Suburbs initiative, an effort the Council committed to during the recent local elections. Each city’s 26 wards will receive one mobile unit.

These cameras will not stay in one place; instead, they will be moved to different locations identified as crime hotspots, guided by feedback from residents and the Queensland Police Service (QPS). Central Ward’s first camera placement will be in New Farm Park, an example of this rotation plan.

Fixed Camera Network Expansion

Alongside the mobile units, Council has also expanded its permanent surveillance network. New fixed CCTV cameras have been installed under the Safer Suburbs Initiative at several locations: Luxworth Place in Moorooka, Mount Gravatt Outlook Reserve, Milton Common Park, Tinchi Tamba Reserve in Bald Hills, Musgrave Park in West End, Caxton Street in Petrie Terrace, Minnippi Parklands in Murarrie, the Forest Lake Bus Stop for the 100 and 110 services, and the Inala Plaza bus station.

The installation at Boundary Street in West End, scheduled for completion within this financial year, marks the final site in this phase of fixed camera additions. These new cameras join an existing network of over 3800 fixed safety cameras operating across Brisbane.

Technology and Monitoring

The new mobile cameras feature modern technology. They are solar-powered and can operate for up to six days without direct sunlight. Footage from these state-of-the-art cameras feeds directly into Council’s security centre, which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The system is designed to send automatic notifications if unusual behaviour is detected, such as groups gathering in suburban parks during the early hours of the morning.

Community Safety Goals

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner stated that Council is determined to keep Brisbane safe and maintain its reputation for having the best lifestyle in Australia. He emphasised the importance of making suburbs safer, ensuring youth crime is taken seriously, and keeping neighbourhoods clean and safe for residents to live, work, and relax.

This investment in mobile cameras aims to protect the community and Brisbane’s lifestyle. The Safer Suburbs Initiative also awarded 69 grants to local sports and community clubs to help improve their security.

Police Endorsement and Effectiveness

Queensland Police spokesperson Inspector Michelle Piket indicated that the QPS welcomes the expansion of the mobile camera network, which will benefit the wider Brisbane region.

She noted that the Council’s camera network plays an essential role in major event operations and the daily monitoring of hotspots, helping to ensure community safety and allowing for the quick detection and interception of offences. Inspector Piket affirmed that CCTV has proven to be a critical investigative tool for police and can deter potential offenders, helping combat issues like anti-social behaviour, theft, illegal dumping, and vandalism.

Council has advised that residents with suggestions for where the new rotating suburban safety cameras should be located can provide their input by contacting their local Councillor.

Published Date 05-May-2025

West End Gardeners Defy Warnings Over Contamination Risk

Photo Credit: Growing Forward/Facebook

A heated dispute about the fate of a long-standing community garden in West End is unfolding. Authorities have released a warning against possible soil contamination in the area and the seemingly unauthorised use of a public plot for the garden, while supporters of the garden expressed skepticism over the nature and timing of recent actions taken to close the garden down.

Community Garden at Centre of Dispute

Kurilpa Commons was established on a disused state-owned block that had remained vacant for more than 90 years. The site is located within the Kurilpa peninsula, an area with a legacy of heavy industrial activity.

In February, the department fenced off the garden, warning of trespassing and potential prosecution.

It appears that the garden has been operated for six years by Growing Forward, on land belonging to the Department of Transport and Main Roads, allegedly without formal approval.

Despite these measures, community members dismantled the fencing and continued using the garden for various purposes including vegetable growing, acro yoga, and local events.

West End guerrilla gardening — *Photo Credit: Growing Forward/Facebook*

Contamination and Testing Underway

The State has flagged the possibility of soil contamination at the site, citing the peninsula’s industrial history. Previous tests in the broader area have detected substances such as coal tar, heavy metals, semi-volatile compounds and asbestos. While the department has not confirmed what contaminants are suspected at Kurilpa Commons specifically, it stated that preliminary soil test results are expected shortly.

Efforts to conduct additional soil and vegetation testing were interrupted by on-site protests from Growing Forward, who have been occupying the land since the warnings were issued.

Community Response and Concerns

Members of Growing Forward have expressed scepticism about the timing and motives of the warnings, noting the proximity of a neighbouring development. They have stated they are taking precautionary measures, such as thoroughly washing vegetables, but questioned the transparency of the government’s claims.

They view Kurilpa Commons as more than a garden—describing it as a communal space that fosters local organisation and connection. No fines or arrests have been made, despite the garden’s unauthorised status.

Next Steps

The Department of Transport and Main Roads has indicated it will assess future actions once the initial soil testing results are received. It has not confirmed whether further enforcement measures will be taken. The community group remains active on the site, pending the outcome of the State decisions.

Published 2-May-2025

Bougainvillea Bridge to Link West End and Toowong with Dining, Parks

Photo Credit: Mode Design Corp

Bougainvillea Bridge, a striking new bridge linking West End and Toowong could soon transform Brisbane’s riverfront, combining lush gardens, overwater dining, and community spaces into a must-visit location for locals and visitors alike.

Planning and Community Vision

Plans for the Toowong to West End Green Bridge have been developed by Suburban Futures in collaboration with MODE Design. The proposal reimagines the traditional purpose of a bridge, offering a vibrant space filled with cafes, restaurants, event areas, and landscaped gardens draped in flowering bougainvilleas.

Bougainvillea Bridge in West End — *Photo Credit: MODE Design Corp*

Unlike traditional pedestrian bridges, the Bougainvillea Bridge has been designed as a social hub. MODE Design’s plans feature a meandering structure with separate upper pedestrian and lower cycling pathways. Along the walk, travellers will encounter shaded resting spots, cafes, and river-view dining spaces.

According to the design team, the bridge’s curves follow the natural bends of the Brisbane River, creating an experience that is as much about enjoying the journey as reaching the destination. The southern landing at West End will feature Cranbrook Place, a sinuous amphitheatre wrapping around a river stage and public plaza for community events and gatherings.

Suburban Futures highlighted that including commercial tenancies like restaurants and cafes within the bridge structure could help generate an income stream to offset maintenance and operational costs, while giving locals and tourists new spaces to meet and relax.

Linking Neighbourhoods, Encouraging Active Travel

Brisbane’s bbroader goal for the bridge is to strengthen active travel connections across the city. Dedicated pathways, a minimum six metres wide, will make it safer and more convenient for people walking or cycling between Toowong and West End.

The bridge will also enhance access to Toowong Centre, ferry terminals, rail stations, and high-frequency bus services. New and upgraded riverside parks at both landing sites are planned, adding more green spaces for residents to enjoy.

Council stressed that the bridge will not just ease traffic congestion by reducing car reliance, but will also enrich Brisbane’s public infrastructure with a design uniquely suited to the city’s subtropical character.

Although funding hurdles remain, the community spirit behind the project signals a strong desire for a bridge that is as much about connection and lifestyle as it is about crossing the river.

Published 29-April-2025