West End Archives - West End Today

Inside Cobbler West End, Brisbane’s ‘Hidden’ Cocktail Haven

Cobbler is a hidden gem that cocktail enthusiasts and whisky aficionados alike will treasure. This cosy establishment, with its speakeasy vibes, carries on a legacy of fun and flavour that dates back to the beloved Sling Lounge of yore.

Read: West End Welcomes Vela: A Modern Thai Culinary Sensation

A Storied Past, A Spirited Present

Cobbler’s story begins with three amigos and their humble bar, Sling Lounge. When Sling closed its doors, taking with it the beloved Margarita Mondays, one of the original trio, Martin Lange, vowed to keep the spirit alive. Thus, Cobbler was born, reviving the tradition of making Mondays marvellous once more.

While Cobbler’s ambiance sets the stage, it’s the extensive selection of spirits that truly steals the show. Scotch lovers, in particular, will find themselves in whisky heaven. From peaty drams to smooth highlands, the bar boasts an impressive array that caters to both novices and connoisseurs.

Cobbler’s drink list is where tradition meets innovation:

Margarita Mastery: Every margarita is crafted with fresh lime juice and 100% agave tequila, ensuring an authentic and vibrant taste.
Weekly Specials: The “Cocktail Special of the Week” keeps regulars on their toes, offering new flavours and combinations to explore.
Bespoke Creations: Whether you’re in the mood for a “scotchy bloody Mary” or a “cherry-topped Mai Tai,” the skilled bartenders at Cobbler can whip up virtually any concoction your heart desires.
Whisky Wonders: Fancy a Woodford Reserve bourbon and coke? Or perhaps a peaty scotch neat? Cobbler’s vast whisky selection means your perfect dram is always within reach.
Rum Revelations: From classic rum and cokes to tropical twists like a pineapple-infused variation, rum enthusiasts have plenty to explore.

Read: Vernon Ah Kee’s ‘Charcoal Stories’ Transforms Avid Reader Bookshop in West End

Whether you’re reliving the glory days of Margarita Mondays or exploring new flavours on a quiet evening, Cobbler promises a spirited adventure in every glass.

Published 7-October-2024

West End Soars: iDroneTrain Launches Drone Courses to Meet Industry Demand

Photo Credit: iDroneTrain

The West End is buzzing with activity as iDroneTrain introduces drone licence and training courses to meet the escalating demand for skilled drone operators across various sectors.

The programmes equip participants with the expertise and certifications to operate drones in agriculture, construction, and surveying.

The expansion of drone use in commercial and recreational settings has underscored the need for professional training that adheres to regulations. iDroneTrain’s courses cover all facets of drone operation, including safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and practical flying experience.

The offerings include the remote pilot licence (RePL), which applies to drones up to 25 kilogrammes, and the aeronautical radio operator certificate (AROC), which is mandatory for specific operations.

The comprehensive training encompasses flight theory, air law, and hands-on flying skills, guaranteeing that participants meet Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) standards. Students will also acquire technical knowledge on emergency procedures, flight planning, and legal flying conditions, including restricted airspace management.

iDroneTrain owner Div Bedi highlighted the increasing need for certified drone operators in industries prioritising precision and safety. This need has driven the development of these courses. Each programme is tailored to meet CASA regulations while imparting practical skills to individuals with varying levels of experience in drone operation.

The courses offer practical training through real-world scenarios, ensuring participants develop confidence in managing drones in diverse environmental conditions. Seasoned professionals with aviation and drone technology backgrounds provide instruction, covering all aspects of safe drone operation.

Looking ahead, iDroneTrain has plans to expand its course offerings. Div Bedi indicated that future courses will address specialised areas such as search and rescue, thermal imaging, and agricultural surveying. The objective is to prepare operators for the complex demands of emerging drone applications.

The new training programmes arrive when industries like infrastructure inspection, environmental monitoring, and land surveying increasingly rely on drone technology. These sectors require operators with the appropriate certification and practical knowledge to navigate regulatory frameworks and safely conduct drone operations.

Situated at 97 Boundary Street, West End, Brisbane, iDroneTrain provides flexible course schedules, experienced instructors, and a strong emphasis on regulatory compliance and safety. The programmes cater to the increasing demand for qualified drone operators in Australia.

Published Date 24-September-2024

West End Electric: New Theatre Opens with Dazzling LIMBO

Brisbane’s eagerly awaited theatre and bar, The West End Electric, will debut on 29 August. This custom-built, 400+-seat venue is designed for high-calibre circus cabaret, comedy, and music. Its Sydney counterpart, The Grand Electric, draws comparisons to a New York club or a Parisian theatre in the Moulin Rouge district.

Opening night will feature the Queensland premiere of the internationally acclaimed circus-cabaret spectacle LIMBO—THE RETURN, part of the Brisbane Festival. This new entertainment hub further solidifies Brisbane’s standing as a global cultural centre.

A Homegrown Success Story

The West End Electric and LIMBO—THE RETURN are the brainchildren of Brisbane-born, internationally renowned production company Strut & Fret. The company is known for The Spiegeltent, The Garden of Unearthly Delights, The Grand Electric, and world-touring hits like Blanc de Blanc.

Scott Maidment, Creative Director of Strut & Fret and Director of LIMBO – THE RETURN, expressed his delight at the enthusiastic reception from West End locals and businesses.

LIMBO—THE RETURN is a breathtaking spectacle that reimagines the original LIMBO. The original LIMBO toured 17 countries, captivating audiences with its fire-breathing and gravity-defying acts. The show’s allure even drew Madonna in for two viewings, leading her to collaborate with the director on her world tour.

Brisbane native Clara Fable, a powerhouse songstress and fire-breathing queen, is thrilled to showcase her talents in her hometown during LIMBO’s Queensland premiere.

A Global Cast of Extraordinary Talent

Clara will perform alongside a world-class cast of circus and performance artists, including LIMBO’s maestro NYC’s Sxip Shirey. Sxip leads a diverse band of multi-instrumentalists and will perform his signature Jank sound, a fusion of New Orleans brass, hip-hop, electronic, and Balkan music.

The cast also features:

*Photo Credit:* *David Marco/ Instagram*

David Marco Pintado (Spain): A master tightrope acrobat and juggler who has even appeared in Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon.

*Photo Credit:* *Maria Moncheva/ Instagram*

Maria Moncheva (Austria): A former ballet dancer turned astonishing aerial chain performer with credits in major European musicals.

*Photo Credit:* *Hilton Denis/ Facebook*

Hilton Denis (Sydney): A world-touring LIMBO veteran who starred in Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis.

Ben Loader (UK): A highly skilled circus artist specialising in captivating aerial rope performances.

The live music element of LIMBO is further enhanced by multi-talented musician Mick Stuart, who invented his instrument, the Polymba, adding to the show’s unique sound. Melbourne multi-instrumentalist and circus performer Grant Arthur also joins the band, playing the big brass sousaphone.

Published Date 26-August-2024

From West End to the Gold Coast: Unveiling Queensland’s Occupational Landscape

West End is more than just a picturesque riverside locale; it’s a thriving microcosm of creativity and professional diversity. The area boasts the highest concentration of graphic designers, musicians, and web designers in the city, cementing its reputation as a haven for artistic individuals.

The allure of West End extends beyond the arts, attracting many marketing specialists and economists. Its proximity to the Queensland Ballet’s Thomas Dixon Centre on Montague Road has also made it a popular choice for dancers and choreographers. The area’s appeal lies in its blend of artistic vibrancy and professional opportunities, making it a unique and desirable place to live and work.

Brisbane’s Occupational Landscape: A Suburb-by-Suburb Guide

Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map

While the West End shines as a creative and professional powerhouse, Brisbane’s diverse suburbs each have their own occupational identities. With their higher property values, the city’s inner areas tend to attract professionals in fields such as medicine, law, and business. In contrast, the outer suburbs are typically home to individuals working in retail and essential services.

This occupational divide is evident throughout Brisbane. The Gap and Ashgrove, for instance, have high concentrations of psychiatrists and anaesthetists, respectively. Capalaba is a hub for air conditioning mechanics and postal workers, while Forest Lake is home to many bus drivers and clergy members. Inala boasts the highest number of beauticians in the city, and Caboolture leads in aged care and disability workers and truck drivers.

Beyond Brisbane: Occupational Hotspots in South East Queensland

The occupational diversity extends beyond Brisbane’s city limits. The Sunshine Coast town of Buderim stands out with the state’s largest workforce of carpenters, electricians, general practitioners, physiotherapists, paramedics, dietitians, pilots, and detectives. It’s also a major education centre, with many teachers and school principals.

On the Gold Coast, Southport is a hub for baristas and restaurant managers, while Surfers Paradise leads in chefs, commercial cleaners, hotel managers, hairdressers, dental assistants, and massage therapists. Upper Coomera has the most childminders, boat builders, repairers, and landscape architects. Interestingly, Hope Island boasts the highest number of CEOs, reflecting the area’s entrepreneurial spirit.

This exploration of occupational distribution across South East Queensland paints a vivid picture of the region’s diverse workforce. From the creative enclaves of the West End to the medical professionals in The Gap and the educators in Buderim, each suburb contributes its unique thread to the rich tapestry of Queensland’s occupational landscape.

Whether you’re a software engineer in Brisbane’s CBD, a barrister in New Farm, or an elderly care worker in Caboolture, your profession makes Queensland a dynamic and vibrant place to live and work.

Published Date 12-August-2024

West End Memorial Ride to Honour Motorcyclist Killed in Brisbane CBD Crash

Hundreds of motorcyclists are expected to gather in West End to remember Ken Hembrow, a 37-year-old father tragically killed while lane filtering in the CBD earlier this year.

The memorial event, dubbed “Ken’s Ride for Justice,” is scheduled for Sunday, 11 August 2024, marking seven months since the fatal crash. Riders will depart from New Farm Park at 8:00 a.m., winding their way through the city before arriving at West End Park on Jane Street at 9:30 a.m.

Organisers have encouraged participants to wear green, Ken’s favourite colour, as a tribute. The ride, sponsored by several motorcycle organisations including SEQ Motorcycle Riders and the Queensland Motorcycle Council, aims to raise awareness about motorcycle safety and support Ken’s family. Chrissy Hembrow, Ken’s widow and business partner at their Urban Hair Loft salon, expressed her gratitude for the community’s support.

“Ken was an amazing dad and a gentle giant. This outpouring of love means so much to our family,” she said.

Ken Hembrow West End — *Photo Credit: Facebook*

The Tragic Incident

On 11 January, Ken Hembrow was on his way to work when he was struck by a vehicle driven by 62-year-old Scott Cornelius James Van Iperen at the intersection of Adelaide and Queen streets. Despite having 12 years of riding experience, Hembrow succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Van Iperen pleaded guilty to driving without due care and attention. In July, he received a six-month jail sentence, suspended after two months. The relatively light sentence has sparked controversy within the motorcycle community.

Magistrate Joseph Pinder noted during the sentencing that Van Iperen had shown “impatience and intolerance” towards motorcyclists. The court heard that Van Iperen had made disparaging remarks about motorcycle riders to police following the incident.

Community Response

The tragedy has galvanised the motorcycle community. Holly Moore, a client of Ken’s, set up a GoFundMe to support Chrissy and their young daughters, Willow and Hazel. “Ken was not just talented at what he did, but also a devoted ‘girls’ daddy’,” Moore said.

The memorial ride and subsequent gathering at West End Park aim to not only honour Ken’s memory but also to advocate for better road safety measures and awareness of motorcycle lane filtering laws. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by riders on the road and the lasting impact of road incidents on families and communities.

Published 10-Aug-2024

West End Man Charged After Alleged Criminal Activities at Redcliffe

Photo Credit: myPolice Moreton

A 31-year-old West End resident is facing multiple charges following a series of alleged criminal activities that culminated in the assault of a security guard at a Redcliffe shopping centre.

According to police reports, the West End man allegedly attempted to leave a store without paying for items around 7 PM on August 2, 2024. When confronted by a 23-year-old security guard from Salisbury, the situation escalated violently. The accused reportedly punched the guard multiple times in the face before fleeing the scene in a vehicle.

Law enforcement quickly traced the suspect to a residence on Duffield Road, Margate. After a brief attempt to evade capture by hiding in a neighbouring property, the man was apprehended following a short foot chase.

The West End resident now faces a litany of charges, including robbery, stealing, possession of a dangerous drug, and possession of property related to a drug offence. These charges also stem from an earlier incident on the same day, where the accused allegedly left a grocery store with an unpaid trolley full of goods.

Upon arrest, police claim to have found the man in possession of a syringe and methyl amphetamine, further complicating his legal situation.

The accused has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear in the Redcliffe Magistrates Court on September 2, 2024. No pleas have been entered at this time.

The security guard, fortunately, sustained only minor injuries and was treated for grazes and bruising.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Published 7-August-2024

Cameron McEvoy Strikes Gold: Aussie Veteran Triumphs in Olympic 50m Freestyle

West End’s Cameron McEvoy has secured his first Olympic gold medal in the men’s 50m freestyle at the Paris Games, marking a historic moment for Australian swimming—making him the first Australian man to win the shortest distance event in Olympic swimming history.

Read: Veteran Sprinter Cameron McEvoy Becomes First Australian Swimmer to Compete in Four Olympics

Cameron McEvoy strikes gold

In a stunning performance, McEvoy clinched the gold medal in the 50m freestyle at the Paris Olympics with a time of 21.25 seconds, marking a historic moment in his career.

Ben Proud of Great Britain took silver at 21.30 seconds, and Florent Manaudou of France secured bronze with 21.56 seconds. Notably, defending Olympic champion Caeleb Dressel of the United States finished sixth in the event.

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A post shared by Australian Dolphins Swim Team (@dolphinsaus)

McEvoy’s gold—his first individual medal—comes at his fourth Olympic Games, a testament to his enduring dedication and perseverance. The 30-year-old swimmer’s journey to this victory includes overcoming disappointment at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where he was favoured in the 100m freestyle but finished seventh.

After Tokyo, he recalibrated his training to focus on the 50m sprint. His efforts paid off when he won the 50m freestyle world title in 2023, setting the stage for his Olympic triumph.

McEvoy’s performance throughout the competition signalled his readiness for the gold. He placed first in the heats, finished second in the semifinals, and ultimately clinched gold in the final.

Read: Bunker Barre in West End: From Bomb Shelter to Culinary Haven

His victory adds to Australia’s already impressive medal tally in swimming at the Paris Games, bringing their gold medal count in the pool to seven, as minutes later, Kaylee McKeown secured the women’s 200m backstroke. McEvoy’s win is particularly notable as it marks the first men’s gold for Australia in these Olympics.

Published 03-August-2024

Bunker Barre in West End: From Bomb Shelter to Culinary Haven

Photo Credit: Queensland Ballet

The Bunker Barre is a novel dining establishment built from the remnants of World War II bomb shelters located beneath the Queensland Ballet’s Thomas Dixon Centre in West End. The Clark Family generously supports this project, which combines innovation and preservation.

The meticulously restored bunkers will retain their original brickwork, creating an intimate and evocative space.

A Pre- or Post-Show Retreat

Bunker Barre in West End: — *Photo Credit:* *Queensland Ballet*

This underground haven is set to entice visitors with a curated menu of food and drinks, serving as an inviting pre- or post-show retreat for ballet-goers and curious epicureans alike. While exact culinary details remain under wraps, the Bunker Barre promises a distinctive experience.

Revitalising the Thomas Dixon Centre

The Thomas Dixon Centre in West End underwent a more comprehensive revitalisation under the direction of renowned architect Conrad Gargett. This holistic approach aims to weave a vibrant tapestry of artistic and communal spaces, deeply anchoring the venue within the local landscape.

More than just a restaurant, the Bunker Barre symbolises resilience and re-imagination. It’s a nod to Brisbane’s past, a toast to its present, and a delicious glimpse into its future.

Details of the opening of Bunker Barre are still kept underwraps.

Published Date 30-July-2024

Body Recovered from Brisbane River Following Two-Day Search

Photo Credit: Google Maps

On Monday, July 29, 2024, authorities recovered the body of a man from the Brisbane River, concluding a search that began the previous afternoon.

The victim, whose identity has not been released, was initially reported in distress near the Boundary Street river end in West End at approximately 4:39 PM on Sunday.

According to eyewitness accounts, the man was climbing a tree when he fell into the river. A bystander, who did not know the victim, alerted emergency services after losing sight of the man in the water.

Police and State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers initiated a search operation on Sunday afternoon, which was suspended around 9:30 PM due to darkness. The search resumed Monday morning, with authorities expanding the search area to include the river and shoreline extending to South Brisbane and South Bank.

Local residents reported hearing sirens in the Boundary Street area on Sunday, indicating the rapid response of emergency services to the initial call.

A police vehicle was observed stationed at the Davies Park rowing facilities by the river during the search operation.

Queensland Police have confirmed that a report will be prepared for the coroner.

Authorities have not released further details about the victim or the circumstances leading to the accident. The investigation is ongoing.

Published 29-July-2024

Historic West End ‘Toonarbin’ Faces Significant Renovations

Photo Credit: Development.i / A006575180

The owners of Toonarbin, one of West End’s oldest heritage-listed homes, have submitted plans to Brisbane City Council for significant renovations aimed at updating and protecting the historic structure.

Located on Dornoch Terrace, Toonarbin dates back to the 1860s and is believed to be the work of English designer Benjamin Backhouse. The property has a rich history, having served as a private residence, a convent, and now again as a private home.

Key elements of the proposed renovations include a new copper barrel vault awning with a domed edge at the front of the building, a new balcony at the rear hidden from street view, and replacing upper floor windows with doors. The rear balcony is specifically designed to protect the vulnerable south-western corner from water infiltration.

The owners have engaged Mark Williams Architects to design the additions, which are primarily intended to address ongoing weather-related issues threatening the building’s structural integrity. Documents filed with the council reveal that despite the owners’ best efforts, water infiltration continues to pose a significant risk, particularly to timber components in the south-western corner.

A heritage assessor’s report included in the application acknowledges that the proposed changes are partly designed to protect the building from the elements and could be reversed in the future. The report states that the new copper dome “will not be conspicuous, yet will be clearly legible as a later addition,” while the new balconies are described as “light and open” and will not obscure the facade.

The property, which was sold for $4.1 million in 2007, currently features nine bedrooms and three bathrooms. The proposed renovations aim to modernise the structure while preserving its historical significance.

As the plans are now before Brisbane City Council, it remains to be seen how these proposed changes to one of the city’s most significant heritage properties will be received.

Published 28-July-2024