West End Archives - Page 3 of 25

Davies Park to Host Over 150 Stalls for West End Spring Market

The sights and sounds of live music, roving performers, and more than 150 bustling market stalls will fill Davies Park for a special one-night festival celebrating the arrival of spring in West End.

The special one-night-only event, the West End Spring Solstice Twilight Market, will take place next Friday, 12th September. The community gathering will run from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m., and entry is completely free for all who wish to attend.

A Spotlight on Community Talent

The market is designed as a vibrant showcase for local small businesses and creatives. With more than 150 stalls expected, visitors will have the chance to connect directly with the makers, artists, and chefs from their own neighbourhood.

Organisers have arranged a diverse lineup of gourmet food stalls, offering everything from European pierogis and crispy fried sandwiches to Japanese-style souffle pancakes and refreshing iced tea.

A pop-up bar will also be on-site, serving local drinks and the popular Aperol Spritz.

The event gives residents an opportunity to support the local economy while enjoying a unique evening out.

An Evening of Entertainment for All Ages

Beyond the food and shopping, the park will be filled with a festival atmosphere. Live music from bands like Soul Cutz and acoustic performers will provide a soundtrack for the evening.

Families are encouraged to attend, with a dedicated kids’ disco and a craft workshop planned to keep younger visitors entertained. Adding to the colourful scene will be themed decorations and roving performers, including stilt walkers and a bubble fairy, creating a lively experience for everyone.

Planning Your Visit

The market is located at Davies Park, on the corner of Montague Road and Jane Street in West End. While entry is free, attendees can register online for a ticket to go into a draw for a gourmet hamper.

Organisers are also running competitions for a $200 bar tab and a dinner for four, with details available on the event’s social media page. The evening is shaped to be an ideal way for the community to come together, explore local creativity, and welcome the new season.

Published Date 04-September-2025

Historic Dixon’s Tannery Redevelopment Approved in West End

Photo Credit: Cottee Parker

A $190 million redevelopment in West End has been approved, with McNab set to transform the historic Dixon’s Tannery into a residential precinct featuring wellness-focused communal spaces.

Heritage Site Redeveloped in West End

Builder-developer McNab has secured approval to redevelop Dixon’s Tannery in West End, a late 19th-century industrial site, into The Tannery Residences. The 10-storey project will deliver 81 two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments on the 4,465-square-metre site at 439 Montague Road.

West End redevelopment — Photo Credit: Cottee Parker

Preserving Industrial History

Dixon’s Tannery was first established by Thomas Coar Dixon in 1869. The original building was destroyed in the 1893 Brisbane floods, and a new tannery was constructed around the same year. After Dixon’s death in 1908, the business continued under his family until it closed in 1970. The preserved structure will be repurposed as the Retreat, a communal wellness centre at the heart of the development.

Wellness and Communal Amenities

The project incorporates more than 1,100 square metres of communal space across the ground level and rooftop. Inside the heritage tannery, facilities will include a sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, a gym, and a Pilates and stretch studio. Residents will also have access to a cinema, library, private dining room, and co-working areas.

Rooftop and Outdoor Features

Designed in collaboration with Cottee Parker Architects, Aspect Studios, and Tom Mark Henry, the complex will offer rooftop amenities such as a pool, landscaped gardens, outdoor dining areas, a sunset lawn, and dog-friendly spaces. A mature Hoop Pine at the site entrance will also be preserved following detailed design planning.

Design Approach

Project designers have stated that the interiors aim to merge heritage character with subtropical design principles. The intention is to create a residential environment that respects the site’s past while providing contemporary facilities focused on wellbeing.

Construction Timeline

Construction is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of 2025, with completion anticipated in late 2027. Earlier reporting also indicated work could begin within two months of approval, reflecting different timelines presented across project updates.

Published 20-Aug-2025

West End Coffee Roaster Wins Trademark Dispute Against Sydney Bakery

Photo Credit: Blackstar Coffee Roasters/Instagram

A West End coffee roaster has secured victory in an eight-year trademark dispute against a Sydney bakery over the use of the “Black Star” name in coffee sales.

Background to the Dispute

Blackstar Coffee Roasters, established in West End in 2007, registered its “Blackstar” trademarks in 2008 and 2009 for coffee-related goods and services. The business began roasting from an old football club shed before opening its first store in a West End back street in 2008, building a local following through wholesale supply and market sales.

Black Star Pastry, launched in Sydney’s Newtown in 2008, initially operated as a bakery but later began selling coffee beverages and branded coffee. In 2018, the business was acquired by a hotelier, leading to expansion into Melbourne, Chatswood, and a flagship store in Shanghai in 2022. All three Melbourne outlets closed in 2024.

West End coffee — Photo Credit: Blackstar Coffee Roasters/Instagram

Court Findings

On 1 August 2025, the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Division 2) found that Black Star Pastry had infringed two of Blackstar Coffee’s registered trademarks. The court determined the bakery used the “Black Star” name in connection with coffee despite lacking trademark approval for café services and after consent was refused by Blackstar Coffee.

The judgment noted that Black Star Pastry continued to use the name in its coffee-related activities knowing it had failed to secure permission and trademark registration.

Business Standing

Blackstar Coffee Roasters now operates from a roastery in East Brisbane, supplying wholesale clients and maintaining a retail presence. The business focuses on specialty-grade beans, ethical sourcing, and industry training, continuing to expand its wholesale network.

Next Steps

The case will return to court on 11 September 2025 to finalise the terms of an injunction, which is expected to limit Black Star Pastry’s ability to use the “Black Star” name for coffee.

Published 12-Aug-2025

First Details of Brisbane Pride 2025 Revealed in West End

Photo Credit: Brisbane Pride

Brisbane Pride Festival will begin its 2025 celebrations in West End, with the official launch marking the start of a citywide series of LGBTQIA+ events.

Festival Launch in West End

Brisbane Pride Festival’s 2025 program will commence with its official launch on Saturday, 6 September, at Come to Daddy in West End. This event will open a month-long calendar of activities celebrating LGBTQIA+ communities across the city.

West End continues to play a prominent role in Brisbane’s cultural scene, with the launch marking the beginning of September as Pride Month in the city.

Pride March — Photo Credit: Brisbane Pride

Pride Rally and March

The annual Brisbane Pride Rally and March is scheduled for Saturday, 20 September 2025. Participants will begin gathering at Queens Gardens Park in the Brisbane CBD from 9:00 a.m..

The Rally will start at 9:30 a.m., featuring speeches, community updates, personal stories, and a moment of reflection. The March will follow at 10:00 a.m., travelling over Victoria Bridge and ending at Musgrave Park, where Fair Day will be held.

The event will include LGBTQIA+ groups, allies, floats, and performances, with Dykes on Bikes leading the procession and the historic Gilbert Baker Memorial Rainbow Flag featured prominently. Registration for community groups is open online.

LGBTQIA+ festival — Photo Credit: Brisbane Pride

Fair Day Tickets and Participation

Fair Day 2025 will be held at Musgrave Park following the March. Early bird tickets are available at discounted rates until 15 August 2025. Businesses and organisations can register their interest for stalls via the official Brisbane Pride website.

Volunteer opportunities are also open for those wanting to assist with setup, attendee support, and event coordination. Accessibility zones and community group areas will be designated at the starting point in Queens Gardens.

Attendees are advised to use public transport, with several bus, train, and ferry options available nearby. Street closures are expected around the march route.

35-Year Pride March Legacy

The 2025 Brisbane Pride Festival marks the 35th anniversary of the city’s first Pride March, held on 30 June 1990. That march followed the same path that current participants walk today.

The festival has since grown into Queensland’s largest LGBTQIA+ event, expanding each year to include awards, grants programs, and a broad range of cultural celebrations.

Published 15-July-2025
Updated 6-Aug-2025

West End State School Celebrates 150 Years with Community Fiesta

West End State School is turning 150 — and the entire community is invited to join the party. On Saturday, 16 August, the school grounds on Vulture Street will come alive with the sights, sounds and spirit of celebration for a milestone event that pays tribute to the school’s remarkable legacy, vibrant culture, and close-knit neighbourhood ties.

Read: 150th Anniversary Celebrations Underway at West End State School

Dubbed the Fiesta 150, the day-long event will run from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 pm and promises a jam-packed schedule of family-friendly fun. Carnival rides, live music, roaming performers, and colourful stalls will set the stage for a joyful gathering that reflects the diverse heart of West End.

Visitors can indulge in a wide range of delicious eats from a stellar line-up of food trucks, including Yomigo, This Little Piggy, The Tasty Pocket, and more — serving up everything from frozen treats to flavour-packed savoury options. Younger guests will love the face painting and crazy hair stations, while adults can try their luck in the 150th Mega Raffle. Prizes up for grabs include $1,000 cash, a family getaway to the Gold Coast, and a range of exciting prize packages.

Celebrating the Past, Supporting the Future

But beyond the festivities lies a deeper purpose. The event aims to raise funds for revitalising the school’s beloved Kurilpa Trail heritage area, a project designed to honour the past while creating new outdoor play and learning spaces for future generations.

Organisers are encouraging not just current students and families to attend, but also past pupils, long-time West End locals, and anyone with a connection to the school.

Whether you’re returning to your old school stomping grounds or discovering the community for the first time, Fiesta 150 offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the shared history and bright future of one of Brisbane’s most cherished public schools.

Read: Stage 2 of West End State School Expansion Now Complete

For more details, including raffle tickets and stallholder information, visit the official event site at www.wessfiesta150.com.

Published 15-July-2025
Updated 6-Aug-2025

50-Year-Old Man Found Dead in Ryan Street Unit Complex

Photo Credit: myPolice Queensland Police News

A 50-year-old West End man has died following what police describe as a targeted incident at a Ryan Street unit complex in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Emergency services responded to reports of an unconscious man at approximately 4:30am on 2 August, where they found the local resident unresponsive with critical injuries inside his unit. Despite valiant efforts by first responders, the man was declared deceased at the scene.

Detective Inspector Wayne Francis described the scene as traumatic for attending officers and paramedics, praising their efforts to save the man’s life under difficult conditions. The victim has yet to be formally identified, and police expect the investigation to continue for several days.

A crime scene has been established at the government-owned unit complex, with forensic teams conducting detailed examinations of the property and surrounding areas. Police observed a smashed window at the top-storey apartment, which Detective Inspector Francis confirmed forms part of their ongoing investigation.

Investigators believe the incident was targeted, with those involved known to each other. Detective Inspector Francis indicated that police are aware of other occupants being present at the unit the previous evening and are working to identify and speak with all relevant persons.

Local residents have expressed concern about the death occurring so close to their homes. One neighbour, who has lived in the area since 2015, reported previous disturbances at the unit complex, describing occasional street altercations and residents yelling outside the building.

Despite these concerns, police have assured the community there is no ongoing threat to public safety in the West End area. Crime statistics show West End experienced 735 theft cases in 2024, with overall crime increasing by 24.18% from 2023 to 2024 Crime rate in West End (Brisbane – Qld), QLD 4101, Australia – RedSuburbs, though violent offences remain relatively uncommon in the suburb.

A spokesperson for the Department of Housing and Public Works, which owns the Ryan Street complex, expressed sadness at the death occurring at a social housing property. The department has committed to offering support to affected tenants whilst the police investigation continues.

Detective Inspector Francis has appealed for anyone with information, CCTV footage, or dashcam recordings from the Ryan Street vicinity overnight to contact police. The investigation remains active, with officers working to piece together the exact circumstances surrounding the man’s death.

Community members with information can contact Policelink at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

The incident has highlighted ongoing challenges faced by social housing communities, though authorities stress this appears to be an isolated event between known parties rather than a random act of violence affecting the broader West End community.

Published 2-August-2025

Confidence in West End Solidified with Sale of ‘Greenhouse’ Office Tower

Setting a new standard for sustainable workplaces in Brisbane, the 6-Star Green Star rated Greenhouse office building in West End has officially hit the market, offering investors a stake in the future of environmentally conscious design.

A New Chapter for the Precinct

The sale represents a significant milestone for the multi-award-winning West Village community, cementing its transformation from a historic industrial site into a vibrant, modern hub. Completed in January 2023 by developer Sekisui House, the A-grade office building is being offered for sale via an expressions of interest campaign managed by CBRE and Knight Frank.

The campaign is set to close at 4:00 p.m. next Tuesday, 5 August. This sale offers the chance for a new owner to take a 100% freehold interest in what has become the professional heart of the thriving local area.

The Heart of a Modern Village

More than just a workplace, the $5,874-square-metre building at 9 Wilson Street is deeply integrated into the fabric of West Village. It sits directly above essential retailers like Harris Farm Markets and Woolworths and is surrounded by popular dining spots, creating a seamless flow between work and life for its occupants.

The building was designed by local award-winning architects Blight Rayner to capture the essence of its sub-tropical location, featuring light-filled entrances and a striking foyer with a water feature. Its design encourages interaction, with workers from major tenants like Frasers Property Australia, software firm Ivolve, and co-working provider Workspace365 sharing the precinct with local shoppers and residents. The development thoughtfully overlooks and connects with the repurposed 1928 Peters ice-cream factory, honouring the site’s rich history.

A Blueprint for Future Workplaces

Greenhouse was built with the future of work in mind, providing an environment designed to attract and retain top talent. Beyond its visual appeal, the building incorporates state-of-the-art end-of-trip facilities for cyclists and runners, a rooftop sky garden for relaxation and events, and generously sized floorplates averaging 1,030 square metres.

Its strong green credentials are a core part of its identity, holding a 5.5-star NABERS Energy rating and a 6-Star Green Star Design & As Built rating. Sustainable features include rainwater harvesting, grey-water reticulation for reuse, and an open foyer designed for passive cooling, reflecting a modern demand for healthier and more environmentally responsible workplaces.

Confidence in Brisbane’s Growth

The sale is underpinned by strong confidence in Brisbane’s city-fringe property market. The building offers investors a stable and secure income, with major tenants Frasers Property Australia and Workspace365 committed to initial 10-year leases. This contributes to an impressive Weighted Average Lease Expiry (WALE) of 5.84 years. This listing follows another significant transaction in Fortitude Valley, where Sentinel Property Group acquired an office tower for over $132 million.

According to Adam Woodward of Colliers, that sale highlighted ongoing investor appetite for prime, well-located assets in Brisbane. This confidence is supported by the city’s major infrastructure pipeline and the excitement building for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Published Date 29-July-2025

SCARPA Boulderfest 2025 Draws National Climbing Community to Brisbane

Photo Credit: Visit Brisbane

Australia’s largest and most popular climbing competition, SCARPA Boulderfest, is set to bring top national athletes and climbing enthusiasts to Brisbane’s West End early next month for a weekend festival celebrating the sport of bouldering.

More Than a Competition

SCARPA Boulderfest 2025 — *Photo Credit:* *Visit Brisbane*

The annual event will take over Urban Climb’s West End Boulder Hall for the entire weekend of Saturday, 2 August, and Sunday, 3 August. In preparation for the festival, the bouldering hall will be closed to the public from Tuesday, 29 July, allowing for the creation of world-class climbing routes. Organisers state their mission is to unite the climbing community and provide a unique and creative experience that highlights both the sport and lifestyle of climbing for participants and spectators.

A Climb for Everyone

The festival is structured to be inclusive, ensuring there is a place for climbers of all aspirations. The event is strictly for individuals aged 16 and over. The Competitive Category offers a platform for serious climbers to test their skills against the nation’s best, with Male, Female, and Gender Inclusive divisions. The top six climbers from each division will be invited to a finals showcase to compete for significant cash prizes.

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the Social Category allows climbers to challenge themselves on fun problems without the pressure of rankings, and includes specific opportunities for para climbers. A Teams Category also encourages collaboration, with groups of two to four working together under a unique, team-based scoring system.

BUY TICKETS

Event Reflects National Growth in Bouldering

Now a fixture in the Australian climbing scene, SCARPA Boulderfest has grown significantly in recent years. The partnership between host Urban Climb, one of the country’s leading gym chains, and SCARPA, a renowned Italian footwear brand, has elevated the festival’s profile. The event’s consistent success reflects the surging popularity of bouldering across the country, as indoor climbing facilities have become important community hubs for both elite training and introducing newcomers to the sport.

How to Participate

Prospective climbers must purchase a ticket, which entitles them to climb in one round. Registration is required for each individual and closes on the evening of Tuesday, 29 July. While the deadline to guarantee a limited-edition event t-shirt passed on 30 May, shirts may still be available subject to remaining stock. Organisers note that all event shirts must be collected in person at the venue. Discounts on ticket prices are available for Urban Climb members and through an automatically applied early registration discount.

Published Date 22-July-2025

West End Homeowners and Architects Join Forces for Open Talk on Building Smart

If you’re thinking about building or renovating in West End, a group of Brisbane architects and their clients are coming together to explain why working with a designer from the start could save you time, stress and money.

The panel discussion, The Benefits of Engaging an Architect, will take place on Sunday, 20 July 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Flying Colours on Vulture Street in West End. The free community event is part of the Brisbane Open House program and encourages locals to explore how architectural support can lead to more thoughtful, functional and personalised homes.

The Benefits of Engaging an Architect, West End — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Inside the Design Process

Three Brisbane-based architects—Aaron Peters from Vokes and Peters, Melody Chen from Atelier Chen Hung, and Rebecca Caldwell from Maytree Studios—will lead the session. Each of them has designed homes across different suburbs in Brisbane and will be joined by some of their past clients to speak about real-life renovations and builds.

The goal of the discussion is to share how professional design input early on can help homeowners make better-informed decisions, particularly around layout, liveability, council approvals and managing complex builds.

Rebecca Caldwell, Creative Director at Maytree Studios, has seen first-hand how guidance through the process can turn a daunting project into a rewarding one. She noted that when her studio helps manage the project, homeowners often feel more confident and enjoy the experience, rather than finding it overwhelming.

Architects Share What Matters Most

Each architect brings a unique approach to the conversation. Aaron Peters, whose practice is based in West End, believes good design starts with understanding the day-to-day lives of the people living in the home. His focus is on enhancing the character of each site to suit how people actually use the space.

Melody Chen, also based in West End, adds that architects provide spatial insight that helps turn complex site limitations into design strengths. Her studio aims to design homes that feel uplifting and intuitive, tailored to individual needs.

Together, the speakers will share what questions they ask, how their design processes work, and why homeowners should expect more from the spaces they live in.

Local Impact and Broader Invitation

While the event will be held in West End, the conversation is relevant to residents across Brisbane considering a build or renovation. Suburbs mentioned in connection with the speakers’ past work include Paddington, South Brisbane, St Lucia and Indooroopilly.

Lindy Johnson Creative, which supports architects with communications and business development, is co-presenting the panel along with Flying Colours, the West End venue hosting the event.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their questions to the panel, which includes a live Q&A. The discussion aims to be open, informative and community-focused—offering practical takeaways for anyone feeling unsure about where to begin with a home project.

Published 14-July-2025

New Kappo Restaurant +81 Set to Open in West End

Photo Credit: Plus Eight One/Instagram

A new Japanese kappo-style restaurant, +81, is preparing to open in West End, offering an intimate dining experience shaped by traditional techniques and reimagined for the modern table.

Background and Development

+81 Kappo is the latest addition to West End’s dining scene, following the earlier launch of +81 Aizome Bar. The new restaurant continues the concept introduced by the bar, expanding from a focus on cocktails to a complete kappo dining experience.

Located on Montague Road, the venue reflects a connection to Japan’s culinary philosophy, with its name referencing the country’s international dial code.

Kappo Dining Explained

The kappo style at +81 highlights precise methods including cutting, simmering and grilling, with careful attention to seasonality and presentation. The venue aims to honour this tradition through an authentic multi-course offering adapted for a modern dining experience.

Japanese dining — *Photo Credit: Plus Eight One/Instagram*

Design and Concept

+81 Kappo is expected to feature a minimalist aesthetic inspired by Japanese design principles, using natural materials and refined detailing to support the intimate and focused nature of kappo dining.

Connection to +81 Aizome Bar

The restaurant builds on the success of +81 Aizome Bar, which opened next door in late 2024. The ten-seat bar has already gained attention in West End for its neo cocktail creations and Japanese-inspired small plates. The new restaurant will complement the bar, creating a cohesive hospitality destination.

Japanese cuisine Brisbane — *Photo Credit: Plus Eight One/Instagram*

Community Expectations

Local interest in +81 Kappo has been strong. A waitlist is already open for early reservations. Food enthusiasts have shown anticipation for this new Japanese dining option in West End.

What Comes Next

+81 Kappo is on track to open in 2025. Further updates are expected as the opening approaches. Priority reservations are offered to those on the waitlist.

Published 27-June-2025