For the third year in a row, West End is hosting a Body Positive Pool Party and everyone is invited regardless of size, shape, age, and gender.
Aimed at shunning beauty standards and racialised gender norms, this event, which runs on Thursday, 24 Feb, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Musgrave Park Swimming Pool, is organized by Councillor Jonathan Sri (The Gabba).
It’s going to be a special night for folks who normally feel they can’t celebrate and enjoy pool parties in public because of society’s unfair norms. But the event will also be a chance to embrace a healthy lifestyle.
Vegan meals and vegetarian condiment or sides will be served to guests at the swimming party. Live music will also be presented and among those who have confirmed to perform so far are DJ JAZIC, Huda Fadlelmawla and Massah Sherri from Voices of Colour, and DJ Kundu.
Photo Credit: Facebook/Musgrave Park Swimming Pool
There will also be a special raffle with cool prizes. The venue will have thematically-lined art displays and vendor stalls for guests who might want to do some shopping.
Ticket prices are at $5.00 (unwaged guests), $15.00 (waged guests), $15.00 (unwaged guests with meals and tote bag), and $25.00 (waged guests with meals and tote bags).
This event is a fundraiser to benefit The Gar’ban’djee’lum Network, comprising of LGBTIQ+ members from Aboriginal groups, and the Sovereign Families, which support kids at risk of criminalisation. As such, the honesty police will be observed for the ticket sales.
Eschewing animal meat and by-products has been a slow but progressing trend in Australian’s lifestyle. A Roy Morgan Research estimated that between 2012 to 2016, the number of Australian adults eating meat-free has risen from 1.7 million to 2.1 million.
While there are more vegans and vegetarians in New South Wales and Tasmania, Queensland is slowly playing catch up and many shops and restaurants have been opening to support the lifestyle switch.
Here are four of the top vegan spots currently found in West End.
Sol Natural Foods is the brainchild of the people who are also behind Sol Breads, the well-loved bakery located at Vulture Street. The site has expanded their vegan selections with a new menu offering Sol Natural Foods.
The choices are ethical produce which are sourced from local suppliers. Aside from its famous freshly-baked pieces of artisanal bread, Sol Natural Foods serves wholesome cafe meals, freshly-squeezed juices, house-made milk sourced from almonds, and organic coffee. On weekends, the restaurant serves vegan pizza and raw cakes.
“I had the most amazing vegan brekky this morning. Tofu scramble benny on a vegan croissant, vegan sausage, avo, sautéed shrooms, kale and tomato and heaps of leafy greens. Fast service and nice aircon. Totally recommend… And the almond milk chai latte is the best in West End…”
Miss Bliss is also a familiar sight on Vulture Street. It’s famous for food choices such as the pulled Korean jackfruit burger, Szechuan waffle sandwich, coconut gingerbread berry ice cream, and the soy roasted mushroom Miss Bliss feast.
People come to this place for its unique coffee blends like the Sri Lankan spiced chai latte.
“Such a cute cafe!! Bit of a wait time on food and coffee but it’s super busy and the staff are doing their best. Yummy coffee and food! Will be back!”
Grown, found in Buchanan Street, is known for its house-roasted coffee, vegan wine and beer, and special cheese-less but flavourful toasties. The restaurant also offers a full course of vegan degustation dinners if you’d like to sample the best in their menu.
Grown has partnered with the Jane Street Community Garden, which makes use of the restaurant’s food wastes and scraps as compost. The garden is a community based and its run by volunteers who want to promote sustainable living.
“It looks like I’m the 100th review of Grown. Ninety-seven of those reviews are five stars. That tells you almost all you need to know. This is one of the best dining experiences I’ve ever had, vegan or otherwise. The amazingly accomplished chefs have crafted a menu of dishes that are perfectly balanced in terms of flavour, texture and presentation. If you’re vegan (or not) and living in Brisbane, you need to try Grown. We’ll be back to try their brunch menu within the week.”
Flora is from The Greenhouse Canteen of South Brisbane. The West End restaurant on Boundary Street, is a fairly new site and has yet to create a wider presence on social media. The venue is smaller than its parent restaurant but, nonetheless, offers similar tasty and healthy food selections.
Flora, however, is more casual The Greenhouse Canteen. Here, diners are served express meals like waffles, tofu scramble, sandwiches, salads, and burritos.
“I had the mushroom bennie and it was amazing! So tasty and filling and well presented. Partner had the burrito which he liked but said the hash brown was a bit sad. Will be back!”
Brisbane City Council’s Kerbside Collection is coming up on West End and South Bank on Monday, 28 January 2019. As you prepare your items for collection, have you thought of ways on how to get the kids interested in upcycling?
Teaching children how to repurpose and recycle is a good start to build the habit of reducing waste. Because of this, Reverse Garbage Queensland continuously holds Sustainability Education workshops for kids.
Sustainability Education
Photo credit: Reverse Garbage Queensland/Facebook
Reverse Garbage Queensland aims to get people diverting items from landfill creatively. They are doing this by having workshops that inspire, educate, and empower both children and adults.
The goal of each workshop is to let the participants exercise their creativity whilst having fun. Moreover, participants can learn how to make the things they need from the things that are available around them.
As part of the initiative, they also run professional development workshops for educators and those who want to incorporate sustainability and re-use into their curriculum.
RGQ’s workshops help in encouraging everyone to think outside the box in transforming ordinary objects into works of art.
Thursday, 14 March 2019 (3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.)
Saturday, 16 March 2019 (10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.)
Photo credit: Reverse Garbage Queensland/Facebook
This Master Class is part of RGQ’s Educators’ Series. The Master Class consists of three stages to better understand sustainability education. It will explore current practices in schools and RGQ ‘s methods in helping centres schools become more environmentally responsible.
You may visit the RGQ Master Class page for further information. Tickets cost $43.40.
Reverse Garbage Queensland conducts eco-art workshops at their warehouse in Woolloongabba, in schools, OSHC and childcare centres, libraries, shopping centres, festivals, and events. You may visit their website to learn about their workshop structures.
A five-storey residential building could rise at 8 &10 Amersham Street in West End should a development application by Amersham Street Pty Ltd be approved. But this DA is facing some strong opposition from people in the neighbourhood.
The proposal calls for 23 residential apartments consisting of eight 2-bedroom units and 15 3-bedroom units. Two basement levels will provide 39 car parking spaces, 35 of which will be for residents and four spaces for visitors.
Designed by Arkhefield Architecture, the development would provide residents with their own private open space in the form of balconies and private terraces. A rooftop terrace will also be built for recreational use and will give residents beautiful city views.
Locals living within the vicinity are voicing their concerns and opposition to the proposed development. Their foremost concern is the height of the building. They say that the 6-storey height does not conform to the low-medium density residential zone. Submissions state that the area is limited to building height of three storeys.
In response to this particular issue, the developer said that the site is not subject to the 3-storey height limit as it is within the boundaries of the South Brisbane riverside neighbourhood plan which allows buildings of up to 5 storeys.
The developer also insists that the building is only 5 storeys from the ground plus basement levels. Due to the sloping land, however, part of the basement at one side protrudes by more than one metre above the ground.
Submissions also noted the lack of setback which should be at least 6 metres. Some locals are also concerned that the development would negatively minimise natural light and breezes at surrounding homes and businesses. Neighbours also raised the issue of the negative on their privacy.
Some residents raised the issue of the negative impact of the proposed building to the character of the neighbourhood. They also noted the impact of the development on the heritage and character houses in the area.
Other issues raised include the lack of green space in the proposal. Neighbours are also concerned that the addition of 23 apartment units will further worsen the traffic flow in the area.
Another foodie haven has opened in West End as The Garden Pantry, West Village‘s newest dining precinct, brings three of Brisbane’s well-loved restaurants to Boundary Street.
Photo credit: West Village/Facebook
The Garden Pantry has a promising line up of food joints that are ready to boost the dining experience in West Village. The three famous restaurants that have joined West Village are Cheeky Poke, Mr Bunz, and Salt Meats Cheese.
Cheeky Poke
Photo credit: Cheeky Poke/Facebook
Popular for their colourful poke bowls and signature tacos, Cheeky Poke Bar promises to deliver the freshest bowls in town. Their menu boasts clean, healthy, and flavorful meals that are made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Cheeky Poke is famous for serving up Hawaiian and Japanese fusion food with an Australian twist.
Another beloved restaurant in Brisbane, Mr Bunz brings the flavours of Asia to West Village. Apart from their signature bao buns and South-East Asian inspired dishes, Mr Bunz will also be offering tri-weekly special and unique dessert baos to The Garden Pantry.
Curious about their changing menu? You may check out their Facebook page for updates on their specials.
Salt Meats Cheese
Photo credit: Salt Meats Cheese/Facebook
Last but definitely not the least is the renowned Salt Meats Cheese that has opened up their second Brisbane location at The Garden Pantry. Favoured for their signature cheese wheel pasta and authentic Italian dishes, Salt Meats Cheese brings a taste of Italy to West End.
Can’t get enough of their delicious pizza and pasta? Get a chance to learn how to make them yourself as the restaurant will also be opening a cooking school later in 2018. Lead by Salt Meats Cheese’s very own, Stefano De Blasi, the culinary classes will be the first on offer by Salt Meats Cheese in Brisbane.
Owners of Salt Meats Cheese, Cheeky Poke and Mr Bunz. Photo credit: West Village/Facebook
The Garden Pantry certainly took West Village’s dining experience to the next level with these three top-rated restaurants in their roster. Read more about what West Village has to offer on their website.
The annual Australia’s Biggest Duck Race for Cancer Research returns to West End’s Riverside Drive on Sunday, 14 October 2018. The ducks are all ready to have a fun-filled day at the banks of the Brisbane River.
For its 12th year, the quacking great race is giving one lucky duck a chance to win $25,000 cash or car.
All proceeds from the Duck Race will go towards cancer research and will support innovative, life-saving cancer research based at the PA Hospital Campus which is home to the world’s first cancer vaccine.
Event Details
What: Australia’s Biggest Duck Race for Cancer Research
When: Sunday, 14 October 2018 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
This is an area dedicated for kids to have fun, learn, and explore.
Little quackers will get a chance to meet Festival Ambassadors and Network TEN personalities, Ollie and Elly from Toasted TV. Children can also watch live stage shows from Ranger Stacey and Totally Wild.
Other activities for kids include Air Brush Tattoos, Animal Farm, Fairy Floss, Climbing Wall, and Face Painting. They also get to enjoy slushies and popcorn.
The race will see competitors take on each other as they ride a giant inflatable duck on the Brisbane River. Prepare for a good laugh as the giant ducks battle down a 50-metre course.
A selection of delectable food from the Regatta Gourmet Street will surely satisfy hungry festival goers. Visitors can savour deliciously made pizza, calamari, tandoori skewers, sausage rolls, and pies as well as a mouth-watering spit roast.
Open for adults above 18 years, The Regatta Ducks Nuts Inn will be having a bar serving your favourite drinks. Watching the races will perhaps be more fun with a sip of your favourite drink.
Full details of the program will soon be announced. Visit the event’s website for updates.
The Government has launched a survey that seeks to identify traffic choke points and transport issues in West End and the rest of Inner South.
In the online survey, participants are asked to describe their travel experiences to help the Department of Transport and Main Roads to better understand the area’s current and future transport challenges and opportunities.
Feedback from the community will be used for the South Brisbane Transport and Mobility Study. This study will help map a way forward to ensure a safe and reliable transport system for the inner south.
The CollabMap
Photo credit: www.collaborativemap.com
A CollabMap is now available for locals to give their inputs online. This is an easy-to-use online mapping tool which can be used to pinpoint specific issues.
According to Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey, the study will consider all transport modes as well as seek community input.
“Public comment will be a major component to ensure a complete picture of key connections to the area via river, road and rail,” Mr Bailey said.
“The study will look at access to education hubs, cultural precincts, and essential services such as hospitals – covering the suburbs of South Brisbane, West End, Highgate Hill, Dutton Park, Woolloongabba, Kangaroo Point, East Brisbane and Annerley,” he added.
Residents can use the interactive mapping tool to share where they think there is a transport or mobility issue.
In fact, several transport problems have already been raised for Vulture Street and Montague Road. Issues that were mentioned include the need for a dedicated cycle lane, reduced speed limit, a safe pedestrian and bike crossing as well as the implementation of priority for buses.
When having your say and using the pins in the interactive mapping tool, think about your travel experiences in relation to:
Available information explaining the network and how to use it;
Connections to destination centres and surrounding neighbourhoods;
Safety and personal security on the network; and
The range of travel options available.
Community Consultation
The study will also investigate ongoing and emerging traffic and transport pressures on key connections via the river. Photo credit: CC-BY/Brisbane City Council/Flickr
Furthermore, the Government rolled out a community engagement program to give the inner city residents an opportunity to contribute their valuable local knowledge.
Apart from using the CollabMap, locals can also provide inputs by completing the community survey online or visiting community engagement booths. The survey will be open until 31 October 2018.
Schedule of Community Engagement Booths
Corner Boundary Street and Russell Street, West End (Lizard sculpture)
Tuesday, 25 September 2018
9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Goodwill Bridge (South Bank side)
Saturday, 29 September 2018
8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Buranda Village shopping centre
Tuesday, 2 October 2018
1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. and
Thursday, 4 October 2018
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
West End markets (Davies Park)
Saturday, 6 and 27 October 2018
9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park (near Bar Spritz)
Tuesday, 9 October 2018
7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Gladstone Road shops (corner Gladstone Road and Blakeney Street)
Thursday, 11 October 2018
7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Ecosciences Precinct (near Cafe Eco)
Tuesday, 16 October 2018
8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
South Brisbane Station (forecourt)
Wednesday, 17 October 2018
7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Woolloongabba Fiveways (Logan Road and Stanley Street)
Craft beer fans, get ready for the signature event of West End’s Archive Beer Boutique. Armakeggon 2018 is back and promises to be bigger and better this year!
This year’s ultimate beer fest will be held over a two-day span for the first time ever, on 25-26 August 2018.
Beer lovers are sure to get a load of quality booze as Armakeggon 2018 features over 50 craft beers and ciders from Australia and around the world on rotating taps.
If you are going to the event with a very competitive friend, you can check out several games that will be up for everyone to enjoy such as their amazing race competition, beer trivia, brewery stall games, giant Jenga and much more. Plus, aim for bragging rights and try to be crowned King or Queen of Armakeggon.
From its humble beginnings in 2010, the “annual pilgrimage to hop and malt utopia” has fully transformed into a much-loved Brisbane craft beer institution. Brewery stalls, exclusive merchandise, and live music will also be available at the event.
Photo credit: Archive Beer Boutique/Facebook
Event highlights include Country vs. Country tap takeovers on Saturday and one-off international speciality releases on Sunday. Ticket costs $20 (plus booking fee) for general admission and one ticket gets you entry to both days.
Armakeggon 2018 will be running from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on 25-26 August 2018 at the Archive Beer Boutique located at 100 Boundary Street, West End. Visit their website or Facebook page for more information.
Brisbane City Council has developed a draft improvement plan for Davies Park, West End as part of its commitment to keeping Brisbane clean and green, and making the city livable and sustainable for future generations. The plan is set to provide a blueprint for future upgrades for the park.
Photo credit: Brisbane City Council
Davies Park is a valued green space in West End that provides sport and recreation opportunities for the community. Feedback received in the community consultation in late 2017 has helped in the development of the key features of the improvement plan. The park’s improvement plan will focus on the following:
increasing and enhancing accessible green space
promoting a sense of community and celebrating its cultural heritage
increasing recreational use of the park.
maintaining the park’s natural appeal
improving connection through the park.
The Council worked with the Southern Suburbs Rugby League Football Club who have had a presence in the park for more than 100 years. The club has agreed to reduce their leased area to improve outcomes for the community. The additional area will increase green space and provide room for new park features that can be enjoyed by the club and the wider community.
The project’s allocation of $2.1 million this financial year will be used to help in the delivery of key elements of the plan, with a progressive delivery of other elements in future years based on citywide priorities for park improvements.
Photo credit: Brisbane City Council
The proposed key features for the current draft improvement plan includes:
New green spaces and connections
Upgraded park roadway
Creative play area
Multi-use hard courts
Relocation of the community garden
Drainage upgrades
Additional features such as seats, picnic tables and drinking fountains
Improvement works are anticipated to commence in 2019.
To learn more about the Council’s Davies Park improvement project in West End, visit the project’s official page. You may also call the Council on 07 3403 8888 or send an email to parks@brisbane.qld.gov.au.
Alphabet Cafe, the newest addition to West End’s foodie scene, will soon be cooking what they’re growing at their very own backyard.
Sisters Zoe and Meghan Tulleners, owners of Alphabet Cafe, are paving the way for ethical and sustainable cafe practices as they work with Food Connect and Loop Growers.
The cafe’s fresh produce is sourced from an established network of local suppliers, their artisan bread is supplied by Danny’s Bread, and their free-range eggs and ethically farmed bacon comes from Echo Valley Farms.
Photo credit: Facebook/Alphabet Cafe
With a major focus on sustainability, the cafe’s backyard at their Boundary Street location is already being transformed into a kitchen garden which will allow them to cook what they grow.
Through the expertise of Loop Growers, the cafe will be able to turn their organic and acidic food waste into fertiliser for reuse in the garden. Not a single thing will go to waste in the Alphabet Cafe as their leftover bread ends are also mixed with excess milk from their coffee service for chicken feed.
Photo credit: Facebook/Alphabet Cafe
The Alphabet sisters are renowned for dishing up unique and delicious baked goods. Now, as their dream of having their own cafe came true, they are ready to serve hungry foodies with delectable food from their menu that focuses on seasonality.
Photo credit: Facebook/Alphabet Cafe
Want to try something new? Have a taste of their slow-cooked lamb shoulder with roasted cauliflower, tomato, turmeric and jalapeño salsa, homemade flatbread and spiced labneh. This is one of the latest addition to their menu.
The Alphabet Cafe is located at 243 Boundary Street, West End and is open from 6:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Tuesdays to Saturdays.
Visit their Facebook page for more information and updates.
