Australia's (and I think the World's) first Wagamama Express going in the Myer Centre. I would have thought the new Wintergarden Food Court would have been more appropriate for such an up market food stall.

http://www.myercentreshopping.com.au/newsitem.aspx?id=24142

Australia's (and I think the World's) first Wagamama Express going in the Myer Centre. I would have thought the new Wintergarden Food Court would have been more appropriate for such an up market food stall.

http://www.myercentreshopping.com.au/newsitem.aspx?id=24142

Isnt a full Wagamama already in the Wintergarden?

^^ Yeah true, or Queens Plaza food court.

Australia's (and I think the World's) first Wagamama Express going in the Myer Centre. I would have thought the new Wintergarden Food Court would have been more appropriate for such an up market food stall.

http://www.myercentreshopping.com.au/newsitem.aspx?id=24142

Wagamama is upmarket now??

Ive brought this up before - but what happened to the planned gold statue up on kangaroo point cliffs. Seems like it just got swept under the mat.

^^ yeah and the giant screen for king george square?

Ive brought this up before - but what happened to the planned gold statue up on kangaroo point cliffs. Seems like it just got swept under the mat.

If you mean Venus Rising, its a very b-i-g piece of artwork several stories tall.

http://www.artplace.arts.qld.gov.au/projects/kangaroopointpark

Big installations like this are always built offsite then 'appear' almost overnight. But you're right its running a little behind schedule being originally due for completion in 'early 2011'.

Often the engineering challenges of building something this big are something the artist underestimates and so there are often delays.

Wagamama is upmarket now??

Compared to normal 'fast food' outlets, I would say yes.

^^So Sumo Salad is upmarket now?

IMO it is like calling Zara upmarket. Just because it is international and not that common yet doesn't make it upmarket. It's a noodle store.

It's like calling Sizzler "upmarket" :lol:

^^So Sumo Salad is upmarket now?

IMO it is like calling Zara upmarket. Just because it is international and not that common yet doesn't make it upmarket. It's a noodle store.

Is Sumo Salad a restaurant that sells its noodles for over and above $20??

This is no Subway or McDonalds. They area a restaurant. They are now moving into fast food.

If you mean Venus Rising, its a very b-i-g piece of artwork several stories tall.

http://www.artplace.arts.qld.gov.au/projects/kangaroopointpark

Big installations like this are always built offsite then 'appear' almost overnight. But you're right its running a little behind schedule being originally due for completion in 'early 2011'.

Often the engineering challenges of building something this big are something the artist underestimates and so there are often delays.

Thats the one - yeah feels like its been taking a while. Cheers.

It's like calling Sizzler "upmarket" :lol:

But Sizzler is AWESOME!!

^^So Sumo Salad is upmarket now?

IMO it is like calling Zara upmarket. Just because it is international and not that common yet doesn't make it upmarket. It's a noodle store.

!!!

Not a fan of Wagamama, overpriced Japanese chain - you can find much better Japanese food at plenty of other restaurants across Brisbane

But Sizzler is AWESOME!!

I'm gonna pretend I didn't see this. :puke:

!!!

Not a fan of Wagamama, overpriced Japanese chain - you can find much better Japanese food at plenty of other restaurants across Brisbane

As a big fan of Japanese I've always thought Brisbane seems to do Japanese better than other cities. It seems more common for some reason.

In saying that I love that little place in Elizabeth Arcade (Hainichi) or simething? LOL I just eat there.

But Sizzler is AWESOME!!

Used to be :ohno: last time I went (about 2 months ago) the food was cold, tasted like shit and the place was horribly overpriced. It was better in the 90s :(

$70 for three people for scummy soup, salad, dessert and drinks. :ohno: I'd rather go elsewhere :puke:

As a big fan of Japanese I've always thought Brisbane seems to do Japanese better than other cities. It seems more common for some reason.

In saying that I love that little place in Elizabeth Arcade (Hainichi) or simething? LOL I just eat there.

I haven't had a great exposure to Japanese food in any other Australian city so will reserve judgement, but I think sushi tends to dominate Brisbane's Japanese scene.

For simple and cheap Japanese I like Mi Sushi in St Lucia as well as Edamame which is more expensive and a wider menu.

Ginga is quite good at either Emporium or South Bank and so is Hanabishi at The Barracks.

Hanaichi Express is good, quick and cheap while the restaurant at Wintergarden has a good selection but it small and pretty packed out.

Sushi wise, I like Top Sushi on Albert Street Mall & Elizabeth Street (Myer Centre) and LR Sushi on Adelaide Street (QueensPlaza). Never eat the sushi at UQ, foul.

Used to be :ohno: last time I went (about 2 months ago) the food was cold, tasted like shit and the place was horribly overpriced. It was better in the 90s :(

$70 for three people for scummy soup, salad, dessert and drinks. :ohno: I'd rather go elsewhere :puke:

TRUTH

Sizzler is overpriced and extremely disappointing these days. You used to be able to get by on just ordering the salad bar once too (or was that just because I was a kid?)

Last time I considered going I didn't even get far enough to taste it, as the price tags were enough to stop me walking through the door!

Sushi wise, I like Top Sushi on Albert Street Mall & Elizabeth Street (Myer Centre) and LR Sushi on Adelaide Street (QueensPlaza). Never eat the sushi at UQ, foul.

I've heard that the sushi place in Festival Towers on Albert St is pretty good, but haven't tried it personally. One that I miss was the Sushi Train under the Regent. It's where I first tried Sushi many moons ago now, and whenever I went it wasn't bad (from memory).

yeah i used to work in the newsagents near the sushi train in the 90's. there was also a great little Japanese takeaway that I used to get lunch and dinner from. Teriyaki Chicken with rice and small salad, was a regular favourite. Hanaichi at chermside is still one of my favourite takeaways. $7 gets you a good japanese chicken curry.

Sizzler was good in the 90's because everyone was younger and Brisbane's food scene was basically non-existent, so we knew no better. These days we are more spoilt for choice of quality establishments. But Im not too much of a food snob not to go there. I luv'd the desert bar when i was young, and probably still would except that i actually haven't been since the 90's so not sure what it is like now.




.

^^ It's all about the cheese bread baby....

^^ The last time I actually did go past the door and ate there (about a year ago, maybe two...) the cheese bread was as good as ever!

Love the sushi store on Adelaide street that always has the massive line. The hanachi restaurant in winter-garden is very good but expensive though you do get what you pay for.

Cheese bread used to be a nice big thick slice. Once.

Now it's just a small half puny bit dipped in oil .ewww.

I hate it when that Jeremy Ryland guy goes on about the "Fresh food" at Sizzler. Half of the dessert has children goo all over it and the salads have a pretty poor variety.

As for the price. omfg. Isn't it like $20+ per person during dinner now? They've added this scammy $12 lunch option where you go to the Salad bar ONCE, eat, and leave. I think you get drinks with that too, though.

Love the sushi store on Adelaide street that always has the massive line. The hanachi restaurant in winter-garden is very good but expensive though you do get what you pay for.

Hanaichi is very good upstairs in the Wintergarden and is actually cheaper than Ginga at Emporium. A great but tiny sushi bar is Crazy Fish in Teneriffe on Commercial Rd, only seats around 10 inside.

I haven't had a great exposure to Japanese food in any other Australian city so will reserve judgement, but I think sushi tends to dominate Brisbane's Japanese scene.

For simple and cheap Japanese I like Mi Sushi in St Lucia as well as Edamame which is more expensive and a wider menu.

Ginga is quite good at either Emporium or South Bank and so is Hanabishi at The Barracks.

Hanaichi Express is good, quick and cheap while the restaurant at Wintergarden has a good selection but it small and pretty packed out.

Sushi wise, I like Top Sushi on Albert Street Mall & Elizabeth Street (Myer Centre) and LR Sushi on Adelaide Street (QueensPlaza). Never eat the sushi at UQ, foul.

The best ramen in Brisbane is at Taro's Cafe on Adelaide St -> just awesome.

My favourite for other dishes is Mizu at New Farm -> also awesome. Although, have not tried Sake at Eagle St Pier or Sono Portside which are both meant to be good.

The best ramen in Brisbane is at Taro's Cafe on Adelaide St -> just awesome.

My favourite for other dishes is Mizu at New Farm -> also awesome. Although, have not tried Sake at Eagle St Pier or Sono Portside which are both meant to be good.

Sake is AWESOME. I'm not big on japanese, but my fiancée is and she took me there. I wasn't so sure, but was willing to try. It was FANTASTIC. if you go, make sure you get up on the bar near the kitchen and you can see the chefs making everything, and try the kingfish--amazing. It's a little bit expensive, but well worth it for a nice occasion.

^^ The last time I actually did go past the door and ate there (about a year ago, maybe two...) the cheese bread was as good as ever!

Are you talking about the French toast. It has been a year since I last ate at a Sizzler (Mermaid Beach). It has always been the same and so yummy.

It's a custom that I eat there in Queensland.

Best place is Oshin on Brunswick St

As a big fan of Japanese I've always thought Brisbane seems to do Japanese better than other cities. It seems more common for some reason.

NO WAY!!

GC is much much better, let alone Sydney.

I dunno, I'm struggling to find many decent sushi restaurants in Sydney, they are all those crappy franchise ones...

Maybe I'm looking in the wrong spots though

^^
Just ignore crappy franchise ones. They are normally run by Korean or Chinese, like Asakaze. I don't understand why people bother going there while there are tons of good independent ones around.

For cheap Japanese food I like the little one at the cross of Turbot St and Roma St, underneath the flyover.

I have done the private room thing in Sono, Queen St. Shoes off, sunken floor, kimono waitresses etc. Nice food, and a really nice experience. Tried warm and cold sake too.

Top Sushi on Albert is good, but I hear from more knowledgeable people than me that they use too much mayonnaise. Might explain why it is so tasty though.

Are you talking about the French toast. It has been a year since I last ate at a Sizzler (Mermaid Beach). It has always been the same and so yummy.

It's a custom that I eat there in Queensland.

You don't know about Sizzler's Cheese Toast? Back in the day (when I was 10) it was probably one of the best foods in the known world. It's a combination of margarine and parmesan on toast that all Sizzlers used to have as a complementary bread basket type thing. I not sure if all the stores do it anymore, and going by the comments, some stores do a half-assed job. The Hyperdome one was the last I had, and it wasn't bad.

Is Sono the Japanese place in the Tattersalls building on the corner? I've looked at that a few times, but never been there. Is it worth a look?

Is Sono the Japanese place in the Tattersalls building on the corner? I've looked at that a few times, but never been there. Is it worth a look?

I was a bit drunk and I just sort of followed the crowd into Sono, so I can't really remember much about how we got in the place. Which is why I can only describe it as "nice". The food may well have been amazing for all I know.

I definitely remember the private room being very nice, and us ordering all sorts of interesting dishes.

I have been to Sono at Portside and it is incredible. A brilliant restaurant and very cool food.

Probably why there are a flurry of resi applications eg 111+222, Carrington etc.

Analysts tip three years of property growth
Marissa Calligeros
June 27, 2011 - 11:58AM

Potential home buyers hoping for Brisbane's property market bubble to burst may have to wait another three years, says a leading economic forecaster.

BIS Shrapnel has predicted the market will turn around this financial year with an impending mining boom, but warns aggressive interest rate rises could see property prices fall in 2014.

BIS Shrapnel analyst Angie Zigomanis said Brisbane's median house price was tipped to increase 15 per cent from $440,000 to $505,000 over the next three years.
Advertisement: Story continues below
Mr Zigomanis said rising interest rates would limit the average annual price rise to 4.7 per cent, although buyer confidence was likely to improve with the second-wave mining boom.

Read more: http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/business/property/analysts-tip-three-years-of-property-growth-20110627-1gml6.html#ixzz1QReEOOJv

For anyone who is interested, the proposed development of 580 Queen Street, "The Dispensary", which incorporates the heritage listed Drysdale Chambers building (which operated as Drysdale Day & Night Chemists for 50 years), next to the Mantra, has been approved. It's retail on the bottom, offices for 4 floors above (with Drysdale Chambers acting as the lift foyer) and a bar/restaurant on top.


This is the site currently:

http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/9705/580queenplancurrent1.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/171/580queenplancurrent1.jpg/)


These are the original renders of the proposal:

http://img812.imageshack.us/img812/8854/originalplanproposed1.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/812/originalplanproposed1.jpg/)

http://img577.imageshack.us/img577/2385/originalplanproposed2.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/577/originalplanproposed2.jpg/)

One aspect I like is how it uses neon-style signage on the facade, which recalls the circa 1930s signage that adorned the facade of the building as can be seen in the below image.

http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/1527/580queenplanheritage1.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/228/580queenplanheritage1.jpg/)

The current billboard signage will also be retained, lifted above the heritage facade on the new part of the building over the top. The use of the building to carry advertising for over 75 years was one of the aspects included on the heritage listing - reference to it had to be included in some way.

And here are the approved elevations. A few changes occurred before approval, including an extra level added on top, the big blade seen in the second render being deleted, and modifications to the screening of the new building, lining it up with the height of the Drysdale facade.

I think it looks alright - it hides the blank side of the Mantra podium, it breathes new life into the Drysdale Chambers building and adding some more activation to this growing area.

Incase you're wondering about the logo on the new building, it's an "Rx" which represents the Latin word "recipe" meaning "to take", which is still used in the pharmacy trade I believe.

http://img849.imageshack.us/img849/2999/580queenplanapproved1.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/849/580queenplanapproved1.jpg/)

http://img818.imageshack.us/img818/5294/580queenplanapproved2.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/818/580queenplanapproved2.jpg/)

http://img703.imageshack.us/img703/4614/580queenplanapproved3.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/703/580queenplanapproved3.jpg/)

http://img96.imageshack.us/img96/7343/580queenplanapproved4.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/96/580queenplanapproved4.jpg/)


This one shows the extent of the original building being retained, which includes the whole front facade, about 2/3 or the length of the Southern return wall against the Mantra, and about 1/3 of the Northern return wall - roughly half of the existing building, and not just a tacked on facade.

http://img219.imageshack.us/img219/7352/580queenplanapproved5.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/219/580queenplanapproved5.jpg/)

I like it. It works in well with the facade, blocks the podium wall and will further add to the CBD-Valley connection, which is frankly fucked at the moment.

quite like it. Are they keeping the building or just the facade? Getting a little tired of facadism

I'm glad this has finally been approved. I love it.

quite like it. Are they keeping the building or just the facade? Getting a little tired of facadism

No, it's not just the front facade being kept, but essentially the front half of the building's shell. What will be retained is the front facade, 2/3 of the southern return wall (the wall that runs alongside the Mantra podium) and 1/3 of the northern return wall (the green wall we can see). These original walls will be completely visible inside the building I believe. The floors will be demolished and reconstructed, and the roof removed (due to the new development being built above it.

I think the powers that be have seen that straight facadism in the traditional sense (Myer Centre-like) is no longer a good idea, and that an amount of the building's depth needs to be retained as well to demonstrate the construction and form of the original building.

The Regent redevelopment starts today.
http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/business/property/regent-demolition-begins-20110629-1gprs.html

take that regentproposal!

It was inevitable!

I have been to Sono at Portside and it is incredible. A brilliant restaurant and very cool food.

Is that the Japanese Restraunt upstairs. Its amazing!

On another note that development is fantastic. Great example of blending old with ew and will finally get rid of Europcar.

The 1930s image looks like the area was a whole lot more interesting than it is today. But the Dispensary redevelopment looks pretty good.

I thought the same thing, there is so much going on in that old image at street level. Looks way more vibrant than that area is today.

^^ Back when the Valley was just as vibrant an area as the CBD was. You would have had a lot more people travelling by tram between Queen St and Brunswick St back then, and so shows were set up along the way because there was enough foot traffic along the way.

Now, there's very little up there that draws people past...the Valley isn't the shopping Mecca it once was, and it's just beyond the corporate end of the CBD. But now that it's becoming a residential area thanks to Soliel, Macrossan and Skyline, there's now a reason to rejuvenate the area, which I really want to see.

I thought the same thing, there is so much going on in that old image at street level. Looks way more vibrant than that area is today.

looks like a mini times square.

I just walked down the mall for the first time in a while and the new shop fronts at the Wintergarden are pretty good (RM Williams is a bit weak though).

Also I've heard on the grapevine that Mos Burger is opening a new shop in the CBD, but they didn't know where, anyone know?

^^ I think all the shop fronts look pretty good, even RMW (it's very much them, and looks well made.) As for Mos Burger, Brisbane has one already, but it's not in the CBD - it's out at Sunnybank! Unless you've heard of a second one for the CBD...

As for Mos Burger, Brisbane has one already, but it's not in the CBD - it's out at Sunnybank! Unless you've heard of a second one for the CBD...

I know there's one in Sunnybank already, I've heard there's one coming for the CBD and want to know if it's going to be close to my office.

I know there's one in Sunnybank already, I've heard there's one coming for the CBD and want to know if it's going to be close to my office.

Mos burger is too slow for a CBD location. :(

take that regentproposal!

:lol: taken.


I tried.

Shit happens, but at least theyre retaining some of the internals. Has to be better than nothing. I do prefer Regent Tower proposal. Will be funny if it turns out looking like shit though

Looks like Metro Property Group have a DA in for 62 Manning Street, Sth Brisbane. Application number: A003115731

No docs yet.

Shit happens, but at least theyre retaining some of the internals. Has to be better than nothing. I do prefer Regent Tower proposal. Will be funny if it turns out looking like shit though

Don't even joke about that Dime!

But I agree, at least some of the original theatre remnants from the Showcase and bar are going to be retained and original furniture is going to be restored and reused. That was the main sticking point I had in the early days of the proposal, as I feared these remnants could be lost. In that respect, ISPT/BMX are going above and beyond as they aren't required to save them.

I do wish the interpretive reuse could be a bit more interesting/adventurous than what it appears it will be (arranged and placed in cases) but as I said, it's better than nothing!

In other news, it looks like the Bakery Lane project in the Valley has been approved, as has a DA application to transform the upper and rooftop levels in the building that houses X&Y Bar into separate bars. If done as well as X&Y, they might not be bad little venues.

Riparian has its lights on tonight. Check it out!

Someone get pics. I cbf leaving my bed.

really? Either they turned them off or they aren't visible from the northside, because I didn't see anything different on my walk tonight

.....

Did anyone get pics??

I think those lights you refer to are at the very top and are part of the outdoor living area for the penthouse. I guess they only get turned on when the owners want them on for whatever reason.

Oh, I thought it was the spire/antenna which had been lit up. If it's the penthouse, then yeah, it would only be when the owners were partying it up!

I think those lights you refer to are at the very top and are part of the outdoor living area for the penthouse. I guess they only get turned on when the owners want them on for whatever reason.

True. They can only really be seen from the south or south east. They make a big difference though especially at street level looking up. Very futuristic. It's a shame the "crown" cannot be lit every night.

Just to revive a dead convo-
Was thinking of taking Aunt to Sizzler tomorrow for her birthday breakfast. HOLY SHIT the prices are expensive. $19 for breakfast per person, $22.95 for lunch :nuts: just for salad bar.

Avoid? Anyone done their Sunday breakfast thingo?

Just to revive a dead convo-
Was thinking of taking Aunt to Sizzler tomorrow for her birthday breakfast. HOLY SHIT the prices are expensive. $19 for breakfast per person, $22.95 for lunch :nuts: just for salad bar.

Avoid? Anyone done their Sunday breakfast thingo?

Sheesh for those prices you can get a nice brekky at a nice restraunt, the courier mail thing on there website is good reference and surprisingly non biased ( ie not appealing to aussie battlers)

Just to revive a dead convo-
Was thinking of taking Aunt to Sizzler tomorrow for her birthday breakfast. HOLY SHIT the prices are expensive. $19 for breakfast per person, $22.95 for lunch :nuts: just for salad bar.

Avoid? Anyone done their Sunday breakfast thingo?

A friend of mine just had lunch in a Vietnamese place in Chinatown in the valley and couldn't stop raving about it. All up about $30 for two people with three courses including wine. He said the food was great too only I can't remember what it was called ... something leaf?

My parents are pretty much locked into going to Sizzler.. joys :ohno: their breakfast menu better be good for $19..


Sheesh for those prices you can get a nice brekky at a nice restraunt, the courier mail thing on there website is good reference and surprisingly non biased ( ie not appealing to aussie battlers)

I looked at their prices for other places, omfg, $25/person for dinner in Perth :lol: :lol: :ohno:
The place needs to hire some good cooks, get a good menu going and ffs lower the prices!!11

Just to revive a dead convo-
Was thinking of taking Aunt to Sizzler tomorrow for her birthday breakfast. HOLY SHIT the prices are expensive. $19 for breakfast per person, $22.95 for lunch :nuts: just for salad bar.

Avoid? Anyone done their Sunday breakfast thingo?

^^ Don't forget the extra $4 if you want a drink with the salad bar :ohno:

Now that I think of it like that, Sizzler is pretty massively overpriced for what it is. Considering you can get a decent breaky at a nice cafe in New Farm/West End/Paddington for around the $15 mark....$19 at Sizzler is excessive.

But it's all you can eat including fresh fruits and salad.

$15 for standard big breakfast (toast, eggs, bacon, sausage, grilled tomato, beans, etc) is overpriced IMO because all the ingredients are dirt cheap.

Ended up going.. :(

Just the normal breakfast shit, eg. scrambled "eggs", juices (apple, orange etc.), pancakes that tasted like plastic, croissants, packaged cereal in small boxes (you know, those small kelloggs coco pops ones etc.), yoghurt that tasted disgusting... can't say I am willing to go again.

^^ Don't forget the extra $4 if you want a drink with the salad bar :ohno:

Forgot about that!

$29 in Perth for sizzler? :nuts: imho drinks should be part of the salad bar menu, not a separate thing. jesus. So glad juice wasn't an extra cost on the breakfast menu.

^^ When you compare Sizzler's cost and 'value for money' (i.e. lack thereof), there's no way it could possibly compete with a lot of places. For example, there's no way I'd consider Sizzler when I could instead go to Vapiano and get a nice full pizza or pasta dinner and a drink for less. As there's no longer a Sizzler in town, it's a moot point, but you get the idea. I don't like the cheese bread and salad bar enough to pay Coffee Club-style prices for it!

On a slightly different topic, walking through Queen St yesterday arvo reminded me that we will soon have an empty Queen St flagship tenancy up for grabs - the soon to close Colorado store in Brisbane Arcade. Queen St frontage, double level tenancy, part of the iconic, and still rather upmarket Brisbane Arcade.

The last empty Brisbane Arcade storefront on Queen St was filled by Pandora, I wonder who might be interested in the larger Colorado store?

I'd highly recommend you not smell your cups they want you to drink out of. Anyways, I only go to make potato skin nachos, mmm....

...I don't want to know how you know that and at the same time I wish you hadn't told me on the off chance that someone drags me to Sizzler in the near future because that's exactly what I'm going to do now!

Have never thought of sniffing their cups. Oh noes :nuts:

Just to revive a dead convo-
Was thinking of taking Aunt to Sizzler tomorrow for her birthday breakfast. HOLY SHIT the prices are expensive. $19 for breakfast per person, $22.95 for lunch :nuts: just for salad bar.

Avoid? Anyone done their Sunday breakfast thingo?

Yeah it tastes like shit too!

smelling cups is a habit of mine at most places... is that weird?

Only if you mean when they're empty, otherwise they just smell like coffee/lemonade/etc.

weird...don't you guys usually bring your own cups?

I never leave home without one - versatile and light, cups also make a great conversation starter!
But wait!, if you call in the next five minutes, we'll....

I thought this forum was about news and gosip about potential developments and not about knitting - the only activity that comes to mind when reading the past few pages of posts :D :D :D

^^Bad food sidetracked us! So to put us back on track with some good food news, Wagamama Express in the Myer Centre is now open, according to the full page ad in the City News.

And FantAsia are due to open next to Sumo Salad shortly.

Moaning about bad food and coffee chains seems to be a common topic around these parts...

That's somewhat co-incidental considering that Lonely Planet Guides just named Brisbane as a "Foodie"destination.

woohoo! according to the cashier at hungry jacks on queen st, their shift supervisor is contemplating a 200m + tower to consolidate all their brisbane restaurants...

supposed to look like the gabba phone exchange but with less glass and more concrete!

: D

Speaking of which, am I the only one who LOL's at the Jack's pack TV ad with all the bunnies..

^^ I think they're effing creepy!!! The second creepiest person in a rabbit suit I've ever seen!

lol @ second creepiest, what's the first?

^^ Ever seen the movie Donnie Darko?

Actually I haven't.... hahaha but I've seen clips and I know what you're talking about!

Isn't there a group for people that dress up in rabbit suits, like fluffy bunny shit? You know ... getting fur where he had no fur before, Ms Krabappel "she's fakin' it"

news of the day:triple 1 is looking better and better

Hey who can explain RL to me? What's with posting heights of buildings here and ppl talk about RL heights? Thanks

here's a pic for your trouble
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6002/5914738896_99c2599929_z.jpg

RL - is the reduced level - the height above mean sea level according to AHD (australian height datum)

Speaking of which, am I the only one who LOL's at the Jack's pack TV ad with all the bunnies..

+1 from me. Most of the time they show the short version, however every so often they show the long version starting with just one bunny in the car park.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pfzfxFTHsKg

rockinghorse records just confirmed they are closing down in 2 weeks. Devastated, what a loss

There should be some benevolent landlord with a space fronting Burnett Lane that can cut Warwick a good deal. I primarily vinyl store would do quite well.

Always loved Rockinghorse -> sad day for the City...............

woohoo! according to the cashier at hungry jacks on queen st, their shift supervisor is contemplating a 200m + tower to consolidate all their brisbane restaurants...

I hear that KFC are doing the same. They're calling it the Zinger Tower.

rockinghorse records just confirmed they are closing down in 2 weeks. Devastated, what a loss

Did you get the text message too? I was surprised I didn't expect a text message from them. How did they even get my number?????

Supposedly Woolworths are opening a Big W and supermarket in West End.

I'll believe it when I see it :lol:

wonder if the nimby's will protest against that one.
that can't be serious? a big w, of all places...

@jayt - nah word of mouth and facebook. Text? that's odd

wonder if the nimby's will protest against that one.
that can't be serious? a big w, of all places...

@jayt - nah word of mouth and facebook. Text? that's odd

I loled so much about a comment when the fairfield shopping centre reopened that while it was closed they had to drive all the way to the west end coles lol

wonder if the nimby's will protest against that one.
that can't be serious? a big w, of all places...

I don't know if it's true, someone said it was across the road from us on Mollison Street. I would have thought Montague Rd would be a better place as that's where all the new development will go..

I loled so much about a comment when the fairfield shopping centre reopened that while it was closed they had to drive all the way to the west end coles lol

We had heaps of staff come over when Fairfield closed, but a lot of customers seemed to go to Moorooka or Buranda..

You should feel sorry for the people at Bellbowrie, their shops are still closed so they have to drive to another suburb for shops lol!

Supposedly Woolworths are opening a Big W and supermarket in West End.

I'll believe it when I see it :lol:

What's funny about that? I don't get it (genuine question).

Montague Road would suit me.

I think it would be the Absoe site. There have been rumours of that being redeveloped into a shopping centre. IMO it would suit the Coles centre well if turned into a mixed use development. Montague Road is still too fragmented for retail (in the long term also) and won't attract enough people.

What's funny about that? I don't get it (genuine question).

Montague Road would suit me.

West end residents still havnt realised they live 1km from the cbd not in a country town and are anti development for anything.

What's funny about that? I don't get it (genuine question).

Montague Road would suit me.

It's directly opposite the Coles!

West end residents still havnt realised they live 1km from the cbd not in a country town and are anti development for anything.

Ah. As long as no developments block my view of the CBD I'm fine with anything. :lol:

I think it would be the Absoe site.

Yeah, that's a hell of a big site in a prime position.

Hence room for both a Big W and Woolworths :)
Should link up the markets shops with lower Boundary St shopping strip quite nicely and improve quality of Mollison St.!

Anyone got an address for the Absoe site? I don't know West End that well.

It's across from 50 Mollison Street (that's the address of the apartments above The Markets/Coles).

I would much prefer to see a mixed use residential / retail development rather then another suburban shopping centre. The Absoe site has so much potential and a Big W would certainly ruin it... (unless its underneath and not that prominent).

From what I've heard it's a supermarket on top of a Big W.. if that makes sense.

Wow, that's quite a site. Absolutely massive. You could definately do a lot with it, including mixed use development and a larger shopping centre on the site. You could even build offices on top as well as residential uses

Would be great if they could improve the connection through to Boundary Street (maybe through 93 Boundary)?

and maybe connect little jane st with mollison...the possibilities are endless - they have no end :D

Here's something to keep an eye on! There's a new DA that's been lodged by Westfield over Garden City. It's DA A003124288. No docs up for it yet, but Garden City has been slated for a reno, maybe this is it?

The designs for Brisbane's city cat terminals. I like the 1st one by Shane Thompson Architects.

Shane Thompson Architects:

http://www.premiers.qld.gov.au/assets/ferry-design2-lge.jpg

Cox Rayner:

http://www.premiers.qld.gov.au/assets/ferry-design3-lge.jpg

ARUP:

http://www.premiers.qld.gov.au/assets/ferry-design1-lge.jpg

http://www.premiers.qld.gov.au/ferry-terminal-competition.aspx

ooooh, the Thomson one is very cool indeed!

The ARUP one is decidedly pathetic. I guess it will win.

Thompson will be deemed too expensive to build.

^^ ARUP's looks like it was designed as part of the Cultural Centre - big, brutal and grey on grey...what the hell were they thinking? If Thompson's does turn out to be too expensive, I'd be happy with Cox Rayner's one. It looks alright.

Where are these terminals? ^^^^

Does anyone know anything about the supposed new West End terminal? e.g. where is it going to be and when will it be built?

Also, these better be flood proof... if not that would be stupid. And yeah, not a fan of the Arup design, too much concrete.

Does anyone know anything about the supposed new West End terminal? e.g. where is it going to be and when will it be built?

The upgrade (http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/traffic-transport/public-transport/citycat-ferry-services/citycat-terminal-expansion-project/west-end-citycat-terminal/index.htm) of the current one is due to reopen in late July.

How bad were the others if Arups got short listed....

Zara looking at QSM...

http://www.afr.com/p/business/property/zara_looks_at_queen_st_mall_FtWsq4TRoYaTNE8lf1LCBK

Anyone feel free to post the full article or the gist of it.

No point in comparing the ferry terminal options with only one render of each. Will hold judgement till they release the full info. most important priority is that they actually function (and allow for queuing/ orderly embarking/ disembarking). second most important is that they look smart. can only hope that with the design talent around all 3 actually achieve both to varying degrees.

I think the new one at Northshore Park at Hamilton is pretty functional, yet classy....why not base them all on this design?

The upgrade (http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/traffic-transport/public-transport/citycat-ferry-services/citycat-terminal-expansion-project/west-end-citycat-terminal/index.htm) of the current one is due to reopen in late July.

I have heard that there is/was possibly a plan to open a terminal somewhere else in West End.

Zara looking at QSM...

http://www.afr.com/p/business/property/zara_looks_at_queen_st_mall_FtWsq4TRoYaTNE8lf1LCBK

Anyone feel free to post the full article or the gist of it.

Different article, but same subject:

"According to The Australian Financial Review Zara is looking for at least 800 squares metres in the Queensland capital, with the main target the Queen Street Mall precinct, home to high end retailers including Tiffany & Co and Swarovski.

Another site reportedly of interest is a nearby store that once housed a Borders book chain outlet.

At 800 square metres the Brisbane store would be much smaller than the 1400 square metre Sydney CBD Westfield store but Walker says going on conservative turnover estimates of $35 million for Sydney the Brisbane store could turn over between $20-$24 million.

Walker says he is not surprised by reports that Zara is demanding turnover-based rent, saying as an anchor tenant it has arrived with plenty of bargaining power, similar to department stores."

http://www.smartcompany.com.au/retail/20110713-zara-aims-at-brisbane-as-australian-expansion-ramps-up.html

whats this project? todays afr
Sunland looks to hop on the Cbus to Brisbane tower
Cbus Property and listed developer Sunland Group are discussing opportunities for a joint venture on a high rise residential development in Brisbane.

Carrington Tower. Cnr. Alice and Albert Streets

A joint venture would definitely strengthen the viability of the carrington proposal.

A joint venture would definitely strengthen the viability of the carrington proposal.

not always. sunland are very entrepreneurial. i imagine cbus might be a little more risk averse than they are.

Teaming up with a cashed up super fund can only be a good thing for the project though.

A little more laneway activation – although likely to be even more short-lived than the coffee house behind Treasury Row.

Just noticed a small sign has appeared in the entrance to the laneway between Irish Murphy’s and Flight Centre (near the Villager gastro-pub) in George Street that has an arrow pointing to the back of the laneway advertising a boutique.

The tenancy must have an entrance around the back of one of the buildings there. It’s not visible from the street and the short walls on both sides of the laneway are solid brick.

Wonder how long it will last once the Arab Sheikh gets started on building the Novatel that’s planned for the site behind it? Will this one end up being the subject of a save the laneways campaign too??

I mentioned this one on the Brisbane Laneways Thread (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=573546&page=11) a couple of days ago. The unnamed lane as been nicknamed Treasury Lane, as it goes through the Treasury Hotel (Irish Murphy's building). Here are the photos.

http://img803.imageshack.us/img803/205/1006542.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/803/1006542.jpg/)

http://img20.imageshack.us/img20/9492/1006532.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/20/1006532.jpg/)

http://img707.imageshack.us/img707/6855/1006538a.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/707/1006538a.jpg/)

The difference here compared to Stereo Lane is that the Treasury Hotel & St Francis House can't be touched as they're all state heritage listed (that listing also includes the facades on Elizabeth St), while the area around the back is an easement and will have to remain open to the public throughout the development, to allow access to the back doors and fire escapes for all the buildings. The Novotel, if it is eventually built (I'm not holding my breath for it to happen TBH), will be built solely in the footprint of the big hole in the ground.

In a bit of news that I've been waiting for a LONG time to happen, 47 Edward St - one of my most hated eyesores in the city - is finally being repaired and restored.

http://img571.imageshack.us/img571/6328/1006154.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/571/1006154.jpg/)

One of the two heritage listed Spencer Buildings, 47 Edward was severely damaged by fire circa 2001, with (I imagine) the timber interior of the building being completely destroyed, while a large portion of the brickwork to the top story appeared to have collapsed.

http://img651.imageshack.us/img651/5988/1006152x.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/651/1006152x.jpg/)

The building had sat in it's dilapidated state ever since, until I noticed around the back in Spencer Lane what appeared to be some works happening to the building about a month ago, but it didn't look like anything of note... until I walked past yesterday and saw that the wall is being rebuilt:

http://img6.imageshack.us/img6/5739/1006631p.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/6/1006631p.jpg/)

It also appears that along with the wall much of the floor in the building, which appeared burnt out previously, has been replaced with boards to allow the workers access.

http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/4923/1006650.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/194/1006650.jpg/)

With this restoration, and the renovations being made to the other Spencer Building, 51 Edward St, and what appears to be some works to the laneway around the back (full report here) (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=81613372&postcount=211) I'm going to be closely watching what happens here! This is a beautiful stretch of Edward St, with some gorgeous old buildings and a single not so gorgeous old building, but hopefully that will soon change.

I've long time wanted to own that building..

Looks like they're building a bit of a podium out the back, that could work well for a cafe etc. It's great to see Brisy getting some funky/ quirky spots around the city.

^^ if you're meaning this thing...

http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/9250/1006633c.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/215/1006633c.jpg/)

...it's nothing that exciting sadly, but a rather funky looking amenities block and fire stair for 51 Edward St. However, what is potentially exciting is the ground work being done underneath.

http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/9031/1006641f.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/143/1006641f.jpg/)

The laneway height is about a metre lower than the ground floor height in the Spencer Buildings due to the ground height not being 100% level (like most of Brisbane!), so it looks like they're building the ground level up to the rear door and adding a couple of stairs. However, it also looks like they intend to build the level up on that whole left side half as well...more than would be needed to just access the ground floor level of the building. Maybe they intend to do something with that extra area?

It was the ground works I was talking about.

^^ Ahh ok, I get what you mean now, and yes, i hope it turns out to be for a cafe or bar. It's a great little spot that's in good company for eats and drinks in the area!

has anyone seen the video of a recent talk in australia by the danish architect jan gehl?

this is the sort of direction i would like to see brisbane heading for......

http://www.abc.net.au/tv/bigideas/stories/2011/06/21/3248796.htm

^^ I was watching it, but didn't get a chance to finish it, which i really must because Jan Gehl really knows his stuff! I would love to get my hands on a copy of his book!

MOS burger is opening up in the CBD. Probably near the Elizabeth St arcade.

http://www.startupsmart.com.au/growth/2011-06-21/mos-burger-trials-brisbane-store-as-japanese-food-groups-eye-australia.html

http://www.seek.com.au/Job/full-time-team-members/in/brisbane-brisbane/20116941

^^ Near the Elizabeth Arcade? Wouldn't it be a bit out of the way there? You'd think they'd be looking for somewhere off the QSM...

If they are looking at Elizabeth St instead, I think I know where they might be interested in - where Gloria Jeans was in the Borders Building!

IMO it is the perfect spot. They will be after the Asian market primarily.

^^ Exactly. Elizabeth St arcade is an awesome spot for a MOS burger. Apparently there is a site there which is under construction which may be it.

I just ate at MOS a few weeks ago in Tokyo and its quite nice. Haven't ventured to the sunnybank one yet because its a bit far out of the city.

^^ I just noticed the seek link you posted, so scratch what i said about Gloria Jeans, I didn't realise it was opening so imminently.

I'm still not sold on putting their first one in Elizabeth Arcade. Yes, it is an area that is frequented by Asian people, but I still think it's a bit out of the way, especially for a chain. As for the site that is under construction, it's the old Hot Wok that's on the Charlotte St end of the arcade. If they're opening very soon, then it would have to be either there, or in one of the 123 Albert tenancies.

This is the perfect spot for a Mos Burger with a high Asian concentration. I hope they hit the Valley soon, cos' then I won't have to walk so far for a Mos Burger. I've been to their Sunnybank shop and you have to line up to get in, however the line goes quickly and the food is definitely worth it. I can totally believe the their first shop has performed above expectations. I know people who have travelled from Petrie and the Gold Coast just to go there.

^^ Well, if the draw is as strong as you reckon it is for the Sunnybank one, then I guess they pretty well could put one almost anywhere in the CBD and it would be successful.

It might even have a knock on affect for the popularity of the arcade itself (it could use a little bit of TLC in places). I wonder where they're planning to put the Gold Coast one?

CityCats to call Teneriffe home

http://images.brisbanetimes.com.au/2011/07/19/2502170/tenerifee_terminal-420x0.jpg

The dual-berth CityCat terminal which will replace the Teneriffe ferry terminal.
Contributions from developers will pay for one-third of the new $5 million Teneriffe CityCat terminal, which should be in operation by the end of the year.

Also due to be in operation in time for the terminal's opening were two new CityCats, Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said today.

The dual-berth CityCat terminal will replace the Teneriffe ferry terminal at the end of Commercial Road and links with the nearby bus terminal, carrying the CityGlider and 199 BUZ bus services.

The new CityCats will mean extra express services into the city in the morning peak hour, while the new Teneriffe terminal includes lights powered by solar panels on the roof.

Cr Quirk said the new terminal would be one-third paid for by the private sector.

"It's a $5 million project, with one third of that coming from the private sector through local infrastructure charges," he said.

Piles have been driven into the river off the end of Commercial Road to support the new terminal.

It will include a waiting area for 50 people, a Go Card top-up machine and will use recycled timber, water through a rainwater tank and use solar panels for lights.

Along with the dual-berth CityCat pontoon, the facility will provide two off-peak and overnight moorings and wider gangways to provide disability access.

Brisbane's 18th CityCat expected to enter into service within a month.

Cr Quirk said the 19th CityCat would also be in operation before Christmas.

He said work was still on schedule to finish the West End CityCat terminal, badly damaged during the January floods, this month.

Cr Quirk declined to say if Brisbane's newest CityCat would be added to the fleet when the West End CityCat terminal was re-opened.

"That would be a high assumption and we will just have to wait and see," he said.

A council spokeswoman said the new terminal stop would either fall between Bretts Wharf and Bulimba, or Bulimba and Hawthorne.

A decision will be made after negotiations with TransLink, she said.



http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/citycats-to-call-teneriffe-home-20110719-1hmp4.html

^^ Near the Elizabeth Arcade? Wouldn't it be a bit out of the way there? You'd think they'd be looking for somewhere off the QSM...

If they are looking at Elizabeth St instead, I think I know where they might be interested in - where Gloria Jeans was in the Borders Building!

queen street rent would probably kill them... they are a niche foreign chain opening their second store in australia. baby steps are good!!

Will Mos Burgers be "in" Elizabeth Arcade or "near"it. Nearby is the sex shop on Elizabeth St that used to be Parrots Burgers years ago. Would be great to see a burger joint in there again.

^^ We're working on it being in Elizabeth Arcade. They're looking for staff right now, so we'll be seeing the store open imminently, and there's a shop in Elizabeth Arcade (the old Hot Wok store at the Charlotte St end) undergoing fit out right now.

queen street rent would probably kill them... they are a niche foreign chain opening their second store in australia. baby steps are good!!

Yes, they're a new entrant into the country but they're still the second largest chain in Japan and are present in multiple South East Asian markets. I'm pretty sure that they could afford the rent if they wanted to. Look at Wagamama (their Express Store) and Vapiano for example. Similar situation there.

Yes, they're a new entrant into the country but they're still the second largest chain in Japan and are present in multiple South East Asian markets. I'm pretty sure that they could afford the rent if they wanted to. Look at Wagamama (their Express Store) and Vapiano for example. Similar situation there.

Any idea if they are franchised, or owned by the Japanese company? That could make a big difference.

I read somewhere (cant' remember where sorry) they will have a master franchisee that will run the whole country or each state. They didn't seem too interested in having multiple franchisees across the country.

^^ You read that in the article linked on the previous page. At present they are corporate owned. I expect it will be a raging success, Sunnybank is constantly packed and it appeals to westerners as well. I'll buy it!

Australians need to prepare themselves for a bit of a culture shock in terms of the size of burger which is smaller then what we are normally use to. I think its a good portion and reducing the size of our ever growing meals is only a good thing.

Guess Im going to have to try it when it opens. Elizabeth street gets another attraction as well.

^^More likely Charlotte Street than Elizabeth.

yes, they're a new entrant into the country but they're still the second largest chain in Japan and are present in multiple South East Asian markets. I'm pretty sure that they could afford the rent if they wanted to. Look at Wagamama (their Express Store) and Vapiano for example. Similar situation there.

please refer me to where they have publicised their business model?

^^ Business model? Come on! I was speaking hypothetically that a company as large as they are, with the type of revenue that they generate (60 Million Yen for 2010 according to Wikipedia) could have afforded to rented a site in a food court in the QSM if they wanted to do so.

Where are we talking about the short-list for the Suncorp 30,000sqm office requirement, as per Fin Review article today (http://www.afr.com/p/business/property/suncorp_whittles_brisbane_shortlist_CYsnV70XOaw8WIpgUhGZ7L?hl)?

5 proponents: Trilogy site (Grocon, 50,000sqm tower); UQ Dentistry School site on Turbot St (Leightons, 45,000sqm tower), Waterloo Junction (Watpac), RNA Showgrounds (Lend Lease), Southpoint at Southbank (I think it's the Southpoint site anyway? Can't remember developer).

To be further shortlisted to 2 proponents by end of August.

^^ Business model? Come on! I was speaking hypothetically that a company as large as they are, with the type of revenue that they generate (60 Million Yen for 2010 according to Wikipedia) could have afforded to rented a site in a food court in the QSM if they wanted to do so.

60 billion yen.

60 million is about $700k.

I went to MOS Burger the other day. It's nothing more than a Japanese take on McDonald's. Very much fast food, probably a smidge better quality than Maccas.

I found it tasty enough, but terribly lacking in terms of size. I needed two meals.

Southpoint at Southbank (I think it's the Southpoint site anyway? Can't remember developer).

It is the Southpoint site, developer is Anthony John Group. The scheme submitted to Suncorp is a new one, not like the renders we've seen. It would become 100% office.

Not sure if this has been mentioned already, but the talk in retail circles say Mont Blanc are moving into the Wintergarden, maybe near Jorge Jensen - Louis Vuitton expanding into Mont Blanc store. Mitchell Ogilvie moving into old Ed Hardy store on Edward St and Gucci taking over Mitchell Ogilvie store.

http://img651.imageshack.us/img651/5988/1006152x.jpg

This building seems quite similar to James Hemmes' Establishment in Sydney.. would be nice to see something similar!

Where are we talking about the short-list for the Suncorp 30,000sqm office requirement, as per Fin Review article today (http://www.afr.com/p/business/property/suncorp_whittles_brisbane_shortlist_CYsnV70XOaw8WIpgUhGZ7L?hl)?

5 proponents: Trilogy site (Grocon, 50,000sqm tower); UQ Dentistry School site on Turbot St (Leightons, 45,000sqm tower), Waterloo Junction (Watpac), RNA Showgrounds (Lend Lease), Southpoint at Southbank (I think it's the Southpoint site anyway? Can't remember developer).

To be further shortlisted to 2 proponents by end of August.

Any details on this project?

60 billion yen.

60 million is about $700k.

Yes you're right. Another case of not believing the info on Wikipedia. The results MOS Burger gave were written as "60,000,000", which is to be read as 'hundred thousand yen', something the wiki editor didn't notice.

This building seems quite similar to James Hemmes' Establishment in Sydney.. would be nice to see something similar!

I've never heard of Establishment. Any pics for comparison?

Any details on this project?

They haven't submitted a DA.

Not sure if this has been mentioned already, but the talk in retail circles say Mont Blanc are moving into the Wintergarden, maybe near Jorge Jensen - Louis Vuitton expanding into Mont Blanc store. Mitchell Ogilvie moving into old Ed Hardy store on Edward St and Gucci taking over Mitchell Ogilvie store.

I was told that Mitchell Ogilvie is staying where it is and an Italian fashion label - Canali - is moving into where Ed Hardy used to be. Although I have no proof of this I was just told.

There is a lot of activity on Elizabeth st, oposite the myer centre near the corner of George st, there are Grocon signs everywhere, does anyone know what project that is?

It's this one (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=1283171&page=16this one)

I was told that Mitchell Ogilvie is staying where it is and an Italian fashion label - Canali - is moving into where Ed Hardy used to be. Although I have no proof of this I was just told.

Well, we'll find out reasonably soon. There's a few shops being done up along that stretch at the moment. Here are some photos I took last weekend from the Luxury Brands on Edward St thread:

http://img534.imageshack.us/img534/6500/1006671s.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/534/1006671s.jpg/)

http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/1013/1006673g.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/263/1006673g.jpg/)

http://img845.imageshack.us/img845/2550/1006674y.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/845/1006674y.jpg/)[/QUOTE]

hey guys im not in brissie these days, well over a year now, anyways went back last month to note that carindale had started with the shopping centre extension, any news on this ones progress or if anyone goes by that way, photos by any chance? Thanks

http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/business/property/new-plan-for-prime-south-brisbane-block-20110725-1hw8a.html

[QUOTE]New plan for prime South Brisbane block
Marissa Calligeros
July 25, 2011 - 12:09PM
Comments 1

An artist's impression of the proposed boutique apartment complex in Melbourne Street. Photo: Supplied
Plans are afoot for a boutique apartment complex on a prime block of land in South Brisbane that has been vacant for two years.

The block, on the corner of Melbourne and Cordelia streets, was previously slated for a 10-storey office building until it changed hands this year for the sum of $2.95 million.

The site once housed Nick's Snack Bar before it was demolished and the block left vacant for at least two years.

Advertisement: Story continues below








Cordelia St & Melbourne St, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia, 4101
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Start-up development company GDL purchased the land in April with intentions to develop a 10-storey apartment complex.

The 697 square metre property, neighbouring Indian restaurant Punjabi Palace and bordered by Fish Lane, was sold by SSI Pty Ltd, a company associated with the late Sam Savvas, co-founder of electronics retailer WOW Sight and Sound.

GDL founders Anthony Doolin and Peter Gabriel have lodged an application with Brisbane City Council to develop an apartment complex with 24 one-bedroom and 24 two-bedroom apartments.


An artist's impression of the proposed boutique apartment complex in Melbourne Street. Photo: Supplied
The plans include space for retail outlets on the ground level. Mr Doolin said he also intends to revitalise Fish Lane.

“We intend to stick to the 10-storey height approval and deliver a stylish boutique apartment project we believe will contribute much more to local amenity than another glass office block," he said.

“We also see the project contributing to the community, replacing what has been an unsightly and potentially hazardous vacant site with a smart contemporary building that will offer much more than an office block, which would be lifeless at night and on weekends."

Apartments will be released for sale later this year through CBRE Residential Projects, should it be approved.

The project will be the first development for GDL.

Last week, brisbanetimes.com.au reported on a proposal for a 30-storey building at Edmondstone Street which has drawn the ire of local businesses.



Read more: http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/business/property/new-plan-for-prime-south-brisbane-block-20110725-1hw8a.html#ixzz1T5Mi4M9r/QUOTE]


Best comment ever

[QUOTE][Why not use the land for a flower garden? The council should buy the land for a flower garden. This could bring in a lot of tourist money and help the community of West End blossom.
Crystal | Brisbane - July 25, 2011, 1:18PM/QUOTE] I really hope she is being sarcastic

^^ I've not long found and posted this one in the under 15 story thread myself. Here are some renders:

http://img705.imageshack.us/img705/4953/melbournest1.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/705/melbournest1.jpg/)

http://img808.imageshack.us/img808/4585/melbournest2.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/808/melbournest2.jpg/)

http://img843.imageshack.us/img843/9415/melbournest3.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/843/melbournest3.jpg/)

whoa not bad

much better than the monster planned for up the road...!

The original proposal for the site about 2-3 yrs back was way better, i think it was commercial though?

^^ Yeah it was a commercial one.

google street view has updated with high quality images in Brisbane! Been waiting for this for a couple of years now!!!

Just a follow up on the reconstruction of 47 Edward St that I posted last week, this might be a little more than just a straight rebuild. Some steel beams have gone up for I imagine the roof, however it's couldn't work for the original pitched roof the building would have had, and that it's twin still has.

I'm even more interested to see what it planned for this now. Comparisons to Establishment in Sydney might not be so far off, who knows!

http://img594.imageshack.us/img594/9124/1006917.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/594/1006917.jpg/)

http://img849.imageshack.us/img849/3456/1006916.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/849/1006916.jpg/)

http://img814.imageshack.us/img814/5080/1006902.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/814/1006902.jpg/)

google street view has updated with high quality images in Brisbane! Been waiting for this for a couple of years now!!!

the images might be higher quality but they are still a few years old in the new suburbs i checked!

the images might be higher quality but they are still a few years old in the new suburbs i checked!

yes, it took them a while to roll it out. Doesn't really bother me - the quality of street view used to be terrible

Just a follow up on the reconstruction of 47 Edward St that I posted last week, this might be a little more than just a straight rebuild. Some steel beams have gone up for I imagine the roof, however it's couldn't work for the original pitched roof the building would have had, and that it's twin still has.

I'm even more interested to see what it planned for this now. Comparisons to Establishment in Sydney might not be so far off, who knows!


Just googled the establishment. Something similar to that would be very cool!

Just googled the establishment. Something similar to that would be very cool!

Lets hope not :)

Don't need any competition ... at least not till i'm up and running :):cheers:

^^ I was wondering just recently if your plans were happening or not. Any news on that front?

Apologies if this has already been posted but there is a big screen in King George Square now (on the verandah). As soon as I whipped out my phone to take a quick pic last night the screen turned off.

Oh cool! Council have finally gotten the long-promised screens up then. There was supposed to be a second one in the QSM up between the Myer Centre and QAB wasn't there?

^^
Yes, I passed through there yesterday but was in a rush so wasn't actually taking any notice

I was at the Ivy in Sydney yesterday and it's quality. Something of that calibre in Brisbane would be fantastic.

^^ I was wondering just recently if your plans were happening or not. Any news on that front?

Have 3 identified sites in the city ... the choice will come down to leasing incentives and investor preference.

Hope to have a go / no go within 3 weeks :)

^^ I'm curious as to which sites you've found now!

the images might be higher quality but they are still a few years old in the new suburbs i checked!

Correct. My ex neighbour hasn't lived there for nearly 2 years yet their car is parked in the driveway on Street View.

Fyfoto Special Presentation | The Long Awaited screens | Late July 2011

http://img19.imageshack.us/img19/2276/dsc05161p.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/19/dsc05161p.jpg/)

http://img683.imageshack.us/img683/9498/dsc05162xd.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/683/dsc05162xd.jpg/)

http://img844.imageshack.us/img844/2318/dsc05163gp.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/844/dsc05163gp.jpg/)

http://img600.imageshack.us/img600/1499/dsc05164e.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/600/dsc05164e.jpg/)

http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/3827/dsc05165iu.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/153/dsc05165iu.jpg/)

Looks ok, not necessarily the effect I was expecting but its a welcome addition to the Square.

^^It'll look pretty good at night I suspect. I'm having dinner in the city tonight, and I'm quite keen to have a look myself.

I wish it didn't look as temporary as it does. I guess that's something I like about the screen at Cavill.

I'm wondering whether a casing is planned for it. I just noticed the shot of the back of the screen showing what looks to be exposed cables and surely that can't be good having them exposed to the elements...

Off topic but new ad for "the city"
ltnradGLw48&NR

It looks a lot better in the morning than late afternoon, when the sun is shining on it.

Off topic but new ad for "the city"
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltnradGLw48&NR">YouTube Link</a>

Crap ad...as usual for Brisbane. No subtlety, very bland...not a good ad.

The best one recently was the one that ended near the Powerhouse.

And the slogan, "Nothing beats Queensland" is very clever IMO. They should have made modifications of it for all cities effected by disasters in Qld this year.

I haven't been in KGS for a while, I didn't realise the ice skating ring was gone already. Did it work at all, I thought it was meant to be there for the Winter?

Crap ad...as usual for Brisbane. No subtlety, very bland...not a good ad.

The best one recently was the one that ended near the Powerhouse.

And the slogan, "Nothing beats Queensland" is very clever IMO. They should have made modifications of it for all cities effected by disasters in Qld this year.

I actually like the ad -> I think it has a cool laid back vibe. Although I preferred the "just a sleepy little town" ads.

I haven't been in KGS for a while, I didn't realise the ice skating ring was gone already. Did it work at all, I thought it was meant to be there for the Winter?


no only a few weeks, I've heard it was very popular

no only a few weeks, I've heard it was very popular

I went there on a couple of the fridays when it was open and it was always packed then at any rate.

It was always packed on a Friday night when I went up and had dinner with the gf. Especially the free Chai lounge section they had set up. I think despite the high costs, it was a winner.

I actually like the ad -> I think it has a cool laid back vibe. Although I preferred the "just a sleepy little town" ads.

That's the ones I was thinking of, the "sleepy town" ads were great.

I loved the Sleepy Little Town ads, but I think they're aimed at a different market than the new The City campaign. Where Sleepy Little Town seemed to be aimed more at interstate tourists drawing them to Brisbane, The City is more aimed at us locals, getting us to come into the city to play, and not just to work. It's more advertising the QSM and surrounding CBD areas, than the Brisbane as a whole location.

I loved the Sleepy Little Town ads, but I think they're aimed at a different market than the new The City campaign. Where Sleepy Little Town seemed to be aimed more at interstate tourists drawing them to Brisbane, The City is more aimed at us locals, getting us to come into the city to play, and not just to work. It's more advertising the QSM and surrounding CBD areas, than the Brisbane as a whole location.

Seems to be more suggesting to 1. Drink, 2. Drink, 3. Drink.

Anyway anyone got any inside word on what is happening to the Elevat 32 place in burnett lane.

I understand it is from the same group as Piaf / Sardine Tin. Anyone got a name / theme / guess about it.

They have built stairs up onto the 2nd level, looks like it will be very sizeable, not sure if its one development or split between a few tenancies / themes.

Would be very good information to know :)

^^ Rather annoyingly, solid info about this project is pretty thin on the ground as there doesn't appear to be any kind of Development Application for this project.

What we do know is that the venue, operated by the owners of Piaf Bistro and Sardine Tin, will be called The Survey Company Bar & Bistro, which is a clever name as James Charles Burnett, whom the lane is named for, was an early surveyor of the region. The theme would also be related to the name I would imagine.

Here are photos I took over the weekend.

Here is where the interior stands at the moment. One change is that entry into the building looks like it will now be permanently through this side lane, the whole front of the building looks to now have a row of besa blocks along it as far as I could tell.

http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/6313/1006976p.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/27/1006976p.jpg/)

http://img560.imageshack.us/img560/6056/1006979.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/560/1006979.jpg/)

http://img34.imageshack.us/img34/2601/1006978g.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/34/1006978g.jpg/)

And here's this new stairs and upper courtyard level. Although, I'm not sure whether this level is part of the Survey Bistro, or whether it's more to do with the building behind 32 Burnett which faces onto Adelaide St...

http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/7655/1006980.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/155/1006980.jpg/)

This is the Adelaide St building, which is completely empty and has been undergoing work at the same time as 32 Burnett. Again, no available info on this one, so i don't know which building the deck is for (possibly both?).

http://img849.imageshack.us/img849/6258/1006983.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/849/1006983.jpg/)

Council floats five designs for Riverwalk
Marissa Calligeros
August 2, 2011 - 7:09AM
Article (http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/council-floats-five-designs-for-riverwalk-20110802-1i8pp.html)

Concept Designs (http://images.brisbanetimes.com.au/file/2011/08/02/2530735/Riverwalk%20Designs.pdf)

Brisbane City Council is seeking community feedback on five possible designs for a new Riverwalk which was severely damaged in the January flood.

Large sections of the controversial floating river structure, which linked the CBD to New Farm, were washed away at the height of the flood.

Options include repairing the floating walkway at a cost of $75 million, fixing it for $67 million or building a $54 million retaining wall which pedestrians could walk on instead.
Advertisement: Story continues below

The restoration of the original floating Riverwalk is estimated to cost the council $66.6 million in maintenance costs over the next century, while maintenance on the retaining wall with moorings on the outside would cost $2 million over the same period.

Any form of a fixed boardwalk would need to be funded by the federal and state governments because the council can only use its funds to repair the riverwalk.

Council will officially unveil the designs today before consulting homeowners and body corporate groups along the riverbank, as well as the wider community.

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said construction of the preferred design would start early in 2013 and would be completed by mid-2014.

He said other factors including environment, constructability and the impact of another flood would be considered when choosing the preferred design.

“I am conscious that many residents want to see a cost-effective replacement delivered while maintaining its famous views, which is why we have put forward five different options for the community to give their views on,” Cr Quirk said.

“While the previous floating Riverwalk was a beautiful piece of innovation in theory, in reality its design came with an expensive maintenance regime and ultimately led to it being washed away during January’s flood.

“I want to see the best value for money delivered and am mindful that we need to consider the yearly price of maintaining the structure as there will be no reimbursement of these costs.”

Cr Quirk said the New Farm Riverwalk was used by more than 3000 cyclists and pedestrians daily prior to the flood.



Design A - $68.6 million

A floating structure, closer to the bank with vessel moorings on the outside.

Estimated maintenance cost over 100 years - $39.3 million

Total cost: $107.9 million



Design B - $67.1 million

A fixed structure on the original alignment with an opening for vessel moorings on the bank.

Estimated maintenance cost over 100 years - $30m

Total cost: $97.1m



Design C - $61.4 million

A fixed structure closer to the bank with vessel moorings on the outside.

Estimated maintenance cost over 100 years - $6 million

Total: $67.4 million



Design D - $54 million

A retaining wall following alignment of riverbank with moorings on the outside.

Estimated maintenance cost over 100 years - $2 million

Total cost: $56 million



Design E - $75.1 million

Re-design of the original floating Riverwalk

Estimated maintenance cost over 100 years - $66.6 million

Total: $141.7 million

^^ I'm not sure which of those I would choose. Obviously they all have their advantages and disadvantages. I'm against rebuilding as it was, simply because the maintenance bill was too high and IIRC, it was only designed to last 20 or 25 years.

I would be inclined to support any of the fixed structure options, but my preferred one is probably the retaining wall

^^ I'm going for the retaining wall because even a fixed structure built out into the water does have the capacity to break away during another January-like flood event. While I'm sure that any chosen option would be built to be flood-resistant (I don't think anything is truly "flood proof") building it up on land just removes that variable.

Cost wise, definitely C or D. The cheapest options with the smallest maintenance costs. We shouldn't be out to build a Taj Mahal with this.

D without question.

^^ Rather annoyingly, solid info about this project is pretty thin on the ground as there doesn't appear to be any kind of Development Application for this project.

What we do know is that the venue, operated by the owners of Piaf Bistro and Sardine Tin, will be called The Survey Company Bar & Bistro, which is a clever name as James Charles Burnett, whom the lane is named for, was an early surveyor of the region. The theme would also be related to the name I would imagine.

Here are photos I took over the weekend.

Here is where the interior stands at the moment. One change is that entry into the building looks like it will now be permanently through this side lane, the whole front of the building looks to now have a row of besa blocks along it as far as I could tell.

This is worrying news, they have massive finance and similar design ideas to once I had floated. All depends on what type of clients they are seeking. If it is the same as Piaf / Sardine Tin then I should be safe, if not then :-/

Wonder how far off they are, I cannot in good faith obtain some financing until I know what developments are going on.

My vote goes to the retaining wall, but I think council will have a fight from the Landowners, as that's the whole reason a retaining wall wasn't done in the first place.

This is worrying news, they have massive finance and similar design ideas to once I had floated. All depends on what type of clients they are seeking. If it is the same as Piaf / Sardine Tin then I should be safe, if not then :-/

Wonder how far off they are, I cannot in good faith obtain some financing until I know what developments are going on.

Well, they are calling it a bar & bistro, so I'm imagine something like a larger, combined Piaf/Sardine Tin type setup. They seem to be doing pretty well with what they have in Southbank, so why mess with the formula. Not knowing what you're plans are, I can't say whether you'll be stepping on each other's toes, or whether you'll compliment each other. It also depends where you're considering setting up...two similar concepts with a bit of distance between them can work...just need to differentiate yourself enough that people remember you over the competitor.

Maybe an email from a 'curious patron' might give you a bit more of an idea for what Piaf are planning?

If D is chosen (which is the smartest option), you will see an uproar from nimbys along the riverfront - just like the Howard smith wharves redevelopment.

If D is chosen (which is the smartest option), you will see an uproar from nimbys along the riverfront - just like the Howard smith wharves redevelopment.

I don't think they will have a say TBH, all the council will say is look what happened to the last one.

I'm sure their opinions will be taken into account, but I think it's all in how you sell it to them. At the end of the day, this option will improve their access, where as they couldn't access the riverwalk at all.

IIRC, the landowners threatened to sue last time (because technically, some of it will have to be built on their land), but there's no reason why they couldn't be compensated (in addition to the value added from the additional access).

And if you look at the stats, the boat openings were used something like 1 or 2 times a year, so the jettys were virtually useless.

However, whil I agree the retaining wall is the best way to go economically and for maintenance reasons, the sensation you got on the riverwalk when a boat went past and created a wake was pretty cool.

If D is chosen (which is the smartest option), you will see an uproar from nimbys along the riverfront - just like the Howard smith wharves redevelopment.

I kinda disagree on that one. The only protesters will be property owners along the riverfront. :cheers:

I can't say whether you'll be stepping on each other's toes

Anyone work in the city and wants to check out some of my ideas over coffee.

Might be good to get input from someone I don't know :)

C & D is pretty much what they're doing on the other side of the river, so that's what they should maintain. I loved the floating aspect of the walkway though.

^^ The original floating design was created because the home owners fronting the river didn't agree to the BCC taking up land to place the walkway on the bank of the river. Hence why the council built over the river. Also, they had to spend extra money so that the structure could allow the properties to have access to boat mooring.

^^ The original floating design was created because the home owners fronting the river didn't agree to the BCC taking up land to place the walkway on the bank of the river. Hence why the council built over the river. Also, they had to spend extra money so that the structure could allow the properties to have access to boat mooring.

I do understand the current land owners opposition to it, i dont necessarily agree with it, but if i bought a house on the water i wouldnt exactly be impressed to see the council then put a public pathway down in between my house and the water.

Absolute water frontage really does help increase a property value, especially since those properties weren't really effected by the floods. I would expect their value to drop if council were to take a few meters off the edge of their properties. As a member of the community it would be great, however as a landowner that would suck balls.

I'm sure TDD would be quite happy to take their houses of their hands. Quick count would suggest maybe 11/12 houses, the multi level res are usually well above the water line the closer to the wharves you get anyways. I reckon they should go right down to Sydney St to.

It's pretty hard to select an option, but any flood could easily destroy it no matter if it was fixed to the riverbed or not.

Tourists like myself would love the floating walkway options (A or E). It is the locals that have the problem with it.

Ten News Queensland (2/8/2011)

Lzz-oxzhnRo

not sure if this project has been mentioned on here before, though another approval for the Valley

http://www.couriermail.com.au/life/homesproperty/m-tower-brooklyn-on-brookes-for-fortitude-valley/story-fn90yorz-1226108165243

not sure if this project has been mentioned on here before, though another approval for the Valley

http://www.couriermail.com.au/life/homesproperty/m-tower-brooklyn-on-brookes-for-fortitude-valley/story-fn90yorz-1226108165243
http://resources1.news.com.au/images/2011/08/04/1226108/152361-brooklyn-on-brookes.jpg
Thats where the fake tudor offices are located at the moment.

It will actually be an improvement on the current situation :)

^^ Looks great! The lower Valley will be unrecognisable in a few years. Looks like there's good streetscape integration.

Cox Rayner Architects have won the design comp for our city cat terminal uniform design. They were my 2nd choice.

http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/flood-victim-wins-citycat-terminal-design-contest-20110804-1icq1.html

^^ I'm happy with that. Cox Rayner aren't exactly the bottom of the architectural barrel in any respects, and the exterior render of the terminals look pretty flash.

This one seems has already started. The fences have been put up since last weekend.

http://resources1.news.com.au/images/2011/08/04/1226108/152361-brooklyn-on-brookes.jpg
Thats where the fake tudor offices are located at the moment.

It will actually be an improvement on the current situation :)

Absolute water frontage really does help increase a property value, especially since those properties weren't really effected by the floods. I would expect their value to drop if council were to take a few meters off the edge of their properties. As a member of the community it would be great, however as a landowner that would suck balls.

hopefully now that the public has enjoyed the benefits of easy/flat access between new farm and the CBD the supporters will not be outnumbered by the landowning dissenters and the common sense option can proceed.

i wonder if the estimated costs include compensation to landowners??

Council floats five designs for Riverwalk
Marissa Calligeros
August 2, 2011 - 7:09AM
Article (http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/council-floats-five-designs-for-riverwalk-20110802-1i8pp.html)

Concept Designs (http://images.brisbanetimes.com.au/file/2011/08/02/2530735/Riverwalk%20Designs.pdf)

Brisbane City Council is seeking community feedback on five possible designs for a new Riverwalk which was severely damaged in the January flood.

Large sections of the controversial floating river structure, which linked the CBD to New Farm, were washed away at the height of the flood.

Options include repairing the floating walkway at a cost of $75 million, fixing it for $67 million or building a $54 million retaining wall which pedestrians could walk on instead.
Advertisement: Story continues below

The restoration of the original floating Riverwalk is estimated to cost the council $66.6 million in maintenance costs over the next century, while maintenance on the retaining wall with moorings on the outside would cost $2 million over the same period.

Any form of a fixed boardwalk would need to be funded by the federal and state governments because the council can only use its funds to repair the riverwalk.

Council will officially unveil the designs today before consulting homeowners and body corporate groups along the riverbank, as well as the wider community.

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said construction of the preferred design would start early in 2013 and would be completed by mid-2014.

He said other factors including environment, constructability and the impact of another flood would be considered when choosing the preferred design.

“I am conscious that many residents want to see a cost-effective replacement delivered while maintaining its famous views, which is why we have put forward five different options for the community to give their views on,” Cr Quirk said.

“While the previous floating Riverwalk was a beautiful piece of innovation in theory, in reality its design came with an expensive maintenance regime and ultimately led to it being washed away during January’s flood.

“I want to see the best value for money delivered and am mindful that we need to consider the yearly price of maintaining the structure as there will be no reimbursement of these costs.”

Cr Quirk said the New Farm Riverwalk was used by more than 3000 cyclists and pedestrians daily prior to the flood.



Design A - $68.6 million

A floating structure, closer to the bank with vessel moorings on the outside.

Estimated maintenance cost over 100 years - $39.3 million

Total cost: $107.9 million



Design B - $67.1 million

A fixed structure on the original alignment with an opening for vessel moorings on the bank.

Estimated maintenance cost over 100 years - $30m

Total cost: $97.1m



Design C - $61.4 million

A fixed structure closer to the bank with vessel moorings on the outside.

Estimated maintenance cost over 100 years - $6 million

Total: $67.4 million



Design D - $54 million

A retaining wall following alignment of riverbank with moorings on the outside.

Estimated maintenance cost over 100 years - $2 million

Total cost: $56 million



Design E - $75.1 million

Re-design of the original floating Riverwalk

Estimated maintenance cost over 100 years - $66.6 million

Total: $141.7 million

Design C sounds like what they have along the Kangaroo Pt waterfront on the city-side, which seems fine despite the fact it was also flooded. Plus you are actually walking out over the water, which is cool. I reckon that's the best option.

Whatever they do they should extend the walkway all the way along to Sydney St CityCat terminal!!

yes Finn, they arent trying to build a flood proof walkway, if the river floods to such heights again then its inevitable the walkway will be flooded, they just want to design one which doesnt fall apart next time

Not to mention one that has significantly lower maintenance costs. The old Riverwalk was an absolute money pit and it's a bit of a blessing that the flood got rid of it for us.

yeah exactly, the last riverwalk was good in concept, just not so good in a practical sense

Big changes will be made to CityCycle to make it easier / more convenient RE the helmet issue. Overhaul will be announced later this month. Planned expansion to 150 docks / 2000 bikes (Australia's largest scheme) by Xmas to continue. Look forward to the announcement.

http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/citycycle-wont-follow-melbournes-5-helmet-lead-20110808-1ii05.html

Anything they do could only be an improvement! I've personally only ever seen one person using a Citycycle when I've been in the city - and that's since the scheme started!

The enthusiasm of the Cycyling Queensland's boss does sound encouraging though!

^^ I have a subscription and use it occasionally. The big issue I have is with the helmet. I don't want to carry the helmet with me all day. It has therefore become more of a weekend leisure thing. If they can fix the helmet issue, I would use it a lot more - maybe 4 times a week.

I think having this scheme here into the future will greatly benefit the city. Its one of these things that is 'before its time'. All it needs is time and to fix the helmet issue.

Unfortunately Qld Transport has said they won't be amending the compulsory helmet laws.

^^ But it sounds like the plan includes making helmets cheaper and more accessible, which can only be a good thing.

That will make a small impact, but the law is still stupid and prohibitive.