fashion nick smart design ben tait business nicole hollows science dr tamara davis sport todd banfield arts noel staunton gourmet ben o'donoghue
ISSUE 08 2010|2011 $6.95
ISSN 1448521 - 4
9 771448 521006
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who we are, where we live, shop, work, relax + play
Brisbane’s urban lifestyle precinct
Top lefT: brisbane’s award winning boutique property, emporium hotel presents a tangible vision of contemporary elegance and hospitality. the emporium hotel’s philosophy ensures every guest experience will be remembered as an exquisite stay, from a martini in the eclectic cocktail bar, advice from concierge, to the rose petals included in a romantic turn-down. T. 1300 883 611 www.emporiumhotel.com.au Top righT: step off the busy streets of brisbane right into the heart of paris. welcome to Belle Époque where our stunning tall glass mirrors, dazzling carved bar, buzzing atmosphere and flamboyant ambience combines beautifully to create an instant chic. choose to enjoy our traditional french bistro, authentic patisserie, parisian-style sidewalk cafe or our exquisite bar. T. 07 3852 1500 www.belleepoque.com.au
emporium hotel
australia’s most progressive and fashionable hair salon brand ToNi&gUY are known for their dedication in providing clients with the highest level of skills, service and products. owner Kate burfein’s skills as a technician are second to none and her drive to establish equal standards in customer service is what sets the valley salon aside from any other in brisbane. T. 07 3257 4421 www.toniandguy.com.au
Belle Époque
Toni&guy
BoTTom lefT: mitch. by mitchell ogilvie is one of brisbane’s most renowned menswear boutiques and presents contemporary style in a relaxed atmosphere. you will find international labels including paul smith, etro, duchamp, scotch and soda, Joes Jeans, g&L shoes, Jac&Jack and accessories for all occasions. mitch also provides complimentary alterations, as part of their personalized and professional service. T. 07 3666 0328 www.mitchellogilvie.com discreetly nestled between the wine emporium and freestyle tout is eye Candy Spex & Chox, a treasure trove of hand crafted frames that speaks to those who desire to express individuality in their eyewear. T. 07 3666 0677
mitch. by mitchell ogilvie
eye Candy Spex & Chox
BoTTom righT: mcKinney’s Jewellers, a fourth generation company celebrates 126 years in 2010. we invite you to our showroom to discover the exquisite and exceptional range of jewellery. renowned for design,quality and service, mcKinney’s are proud to announce our exclusive collections of marco bichego of italy and isobelle Langlois of paris. Image: designed by Isobelle Langois $3250. T. 07 3257 2222 www.mckinneys.com.au
mcKinney’s
fashion. food. LifestyLe.
Top lefT To righT: now you’re at the emporium, why not enjoy some pampering? at ella Baché we are known for our luxurious facials, pedicures, body polishes, body massages, spray tanning, make up and more. book online. T. 07 3257 1333 www.fortitudevalley.ellabache.com.au toscani has rapidly become one of the most sought after fashion destinations in australia for exciting innovative womenswear. exclusive brands from france, germany, amsterdam, iceland and new york ensures toscani remains at the forefront of global fashion. toscani offers an exciting shopping experience and our creative, friendly team is skilled in the art of styling the perfect wardrobe for your lifestyle. T. 07 3252 4448 www.toscani.com.au BoTTom lefT: three is a refined and elegant version of bistro dining; serving quality premium produce, three offers a comfortable and relaxed environment for diners, including an extensive range of wines to suit their seasonal menus. three cater for private events and groups, and their in-house cocktail bar offers views over emporium each day, from midday til late. T. 07 3852 3133 www.threebistro.com.au ella Baché
Toscani lefT: camargue is brisbane’s most interesting boutique carrying local & international collections in a very relaxed space. Labels include dries van noten, sara Lanzi, Lutz, peachoo+Kregberg, arts & science, rundholz, Zambesi, nom d, easton pearson, ess Laboratory, guidi shoes and bags, serge thoraval, maria rudman, bouvier, and disce mori jewellery. T. 07 3252 1100 www.camarguefashion.com.au
Three Bistro
Camargue
Located between the airport & the cbd, this is where you’LL find brisbane’s best in fashion, dining, Luxury services and accommodation. 1000 ann street, fortitude valley Qld 4006 www.emporium.com.au
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‘KAHLIA’ 2-PIECE DAY BED The elegantly designed ‘Kahlia’ multi-functional day bed will help you make the most of the outdoors, whether it be entertaining guests for a social gathering or laying down to soak up the sun. The curved aluminium frame features alabaster UV protected olefin fabric and UV twisted hand woven synthetic wicker for a classic vogue look. Includes a day bed and ottoman. Available separately ‘Kahlia’ Daybed $1999
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‘MARISKA’ 3-SEATER OUTDOOR SOFA Bring indoor opulence to your outdoor space with the ‘Mariska’. Featuring olefin back and seat cushions plus scatter cushions for added lumbar support, this sumptuous setting will re-define al fresco comfort. Offering modern style with its alabaster-hued ribbon weave synthetic wicker, low-back design and white aluminium frame, the ‘Mariska’ is the ideal centre-piece for outdoor entertaining. Also available ‘Mariska’ Armchair $999, ‘Mariska’ Coffee Table $499
FORTITUDE VALLEY, BRISBANE Level 1, Homemaker City, 1058 Ann St. 3620 6600 (Free underground parking) Visit our website - www.domayne.com.au Domayne® stores are operated by independent franchisees. Product offers end 30/09/10. Accessories are optional extras.
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contents ISSUE 08 2010 | 2011
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contents welcome editor’s letter endorsement lord mayor campbell newman
news brisbane city
14
opinion reveal
12
OVER bunker, milton C PHOTOGRAPHY BY kathryn lindgren
06
76
13
28
48
fashion
business
16
fashion news
32
business news
18
nick smart
34
nicole hollows
20
amber long
36
bronwyn sheehan
22
lindsay bennett
38
professor paul meredith
39
tracey robertson
+ design 24
design news
26
ben tait
28
sheldon lieberman
30
luke muscat
science 40
dr tamara davis
sport 41
todd banfield
contents
39
16
50
65
74
49
76
54
arts
gourmet
villages
travel
42
arts news
50
gourmet news
63
88
southern scenic rim
44
noel staunton
54
philip johnson
64 brisbane
89
north stradbroke island
46
paul dean
56
john vissaritis
90
d’aguilar range
47
deborah fleming
58
ben o’donoghue
48
john kotzas
60
richard mohan
49
kane mazlin
explore city
66
ascot/ hamilton
68
james street precinct
70
emporium
72
fortitude valley
74
new farm/ teneriffe
76
paddington/ rosalie
78
the barracks
80
south bank
82
woolloongabba
84
bulimba
86
west end/ south brisbane
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welcome editor’s letter ISSUE 08 2010 | 2011
welcome PUBLISHER
{map creative} custom publishing – map magazine pty ltd ABN: 98 088 035 045 MANAGING EDITOR carl lindgren BUSINESS MANAGER wendy schipper EDITOR Kathryn Lindgren ASSISTANT EDITOR MIKKI BRAMMER EDITORIAL ASSISTANT LIBBY DAVIS ART DIRECTOR LILA THEODOROS PRODUCTION COORDINATOR SARAH HYNE
The first issue of Brisbane Magazine hit the newsstands in 2003 and since then has grown to become an integral part of the Brisbane media landscape. The premise behind Brisbane Magazine was to ask residents and business owners deliberate questions about their thoughts on Brisbane so we could share the knowledge about who we are, where we live, shop, relax, work and play. We also wanted to know what people envisioned for the future of Brisbane. Over the years, the overwhelming consistent message was that the community wanted Brisbane to maintain its laid-back nature whilst developing into an internationally relevant, modern and sustainable city. Whilst the Global Financial Crisis certainly had a huge impact last year and took its toll on many businesses, healthy signs of life are appearing on the streets and in our laneways. Bars, cafes, restaurants and boutiques are popping up in unlikely places and these new offerings are being embraced by the community at large. Festival fever is in the air, and world-class venues like GoMA and the Brisbane Powerhouse are continuing to impress nationally with international exhibitions and world-class theatre. People, as opposed to products, have hopes, aspirations, feelings and purposes. How we perceive and relate to Brisbane’s identity, locally, nationally and internationally, is a personal process. We are blessed with an extraordinary collection of talented and creative people. With the combined natural powers of creativity, imagination and vision, there is absolutely no reason why Brisbane should not lead Australia into the 21st century when it comes to creativity and sustainability – after all we are home to one of the greatest subtropical cities in the world. I hope you enjoy this issue of Brisbane Magazine and I look forward to the continued hope of Brisbane becoming the world’s most climate-friendly city.
COPY EDITOR matthew brady
carl lindgren
CONTRIBUTORS MIKKI bRAMMER, Frances Frangenheim,
MANAGING EDITOR, BRISBANE MAGAZINE carl@mapcreative.com.au
KATHRYN LINDGREN , Lisa o’Donnell PHOTOGRAPHER kathryn lindgren SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER Chrisanthi Demos ACCOUNT MANAGERs SONIA CONSTANTIN, LEONIE RUEGG FINANCIAL CONTROLLER kathryn stevens brisbanemagazine is owned, produced and printed in Australia
ISSN 1448521-4 POSTAL ADDRESS 5 MORSE STREET, NEWSTEAD, QLD. 4006 TELEPHONE 07 3251 4900 www.mapcreative.com.au Contents of Brisbane Magazine are subject to copyright. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publication of editorial does not necessarily constitute an endorsement of views or opinions expressed. The publisher does not accept responsibility for statements made by advertisers. The Brisbane Magazine welcomes editorial contributions or comments. They should be sent by email to carl@mapcreative.com.au.
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own your own masterpiece There are few who can claim to own a full-floor residence that has everything – an abode that combines luxurious, state-of-the-art living, striking world-class design and stunning views. Welcome to your new address – Scott Street. ApArTmenT LeveL 5, 432 Sq m pLuS 3-cAr cAr pArk And STorAge for SALe by privATe TreATy.
view the breathtaking full-floor apartment display that’s in a class of its own. Denise Gustafson 0412 884 222 or 07 3026 3359
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endorsement lord mayor campbell newman
Welcome to Brisbane It is a great pleasure to welcome you to our vibrant and diverse city. This is a great place to live and a wonderful place to visit. Today we are Australia’s fastest-growing city, at the centre of the fastest-growing region in the country. With our enviable subtropical climate, worldclass cultural and sporting venues, extensive parks, walkways and bikeways, Brisbane is a vibrant, diverse outdoors-oriented city. Brisbane is one of Australia’s most liveable cities and offers experiences for everyone, no matter who you are. Visit our stunning parks such as the Botanic Gardens or wildlife sanctuaries, check out the local arts and music scene in Brisbane’s entertainment precinct Fortitude Valley, and enjoy fine cuisine in Hamilton, Bulimba or Brisbane’s CBD. Enjoy cultural pursuits in Australia’s largest gallery of modern and contemporary art, the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA), the Brisbane Powerhouse or the Cultural Precinct on South Bank. Sunbathe on Moreton Bay’s many beaches, take a CityCat ferry down the beautiful Brisbane River through the heart of the city, or view the CBD from on top of Mount Coot-tha. I encourage you to make the best of your time in Brisbane. Whichever way you choose to experience Brisbane, I know you will have a great time. Campbell Newman Lord Mayor of Brisbane
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news brisbane city
River City Blueprint Like the ebb and flow of its tidal river, Brisbane City is constantly changing, morphing, expanding and paving its place in history. At the heart of Brisbane lies a multi-tiered microcosm of activity, where educational hubs mingle with business districts, and retail precincts rub up against cultural centres. Brisbane City Council, in conjunction with the Queensland Government, has devised an overarching plan to map out Brisbane’s future and how Brisbane should develop over the next 20 to 50 years. Drawing together existing strategic plans and community ideas, the River City Blueprint guides both current and future urban development plans concerning a 5 km radius of Brisbane’s CBD. Get involved and have your say on the future of Brisbane.
BURNETT LANE FACELIFT Once reserved for the alleys of New York or Melbourne, laneway culture brims with street art, hole-in-the-wall coffee haunts and underground music scenes that thrive when small crowds grow through word of mouth. Brisbane’s own Burnett Lane has received some TLC with a complete facelift. Tucked between Queen Street and Adelaide Street, running perpendicular to George Street, Burnett Lane has big city fish to contend with, in particular, King George Square and the Queen Street Mall as neighbours. With planned street markets, music and entertainment events and a mingling of public artworks, granite paving meets walls with creative street art, allowing pedestrians to walk the lane surrounded by public works of art. 12
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Australia’s leading companies have achieved a level of success that demands an exceptional Corporate Fleet Management Programme. Offering vehicles that combine luxury and performance with a programme that includes a range of unique privileges, the Lexus Corporate Programme delivers an experience that rewards achievement and facilitates companies in conducting their business. Vehicles across the entire Lexus range are available as part of the programme, including luxury sedans, coupes and SUVs. The features of the Lexus of Brisbane Group Corporate Programme include – • Preferential pricing across the model range • Priority production if built to order. • 3 year/60,000kms complimentary scheduled servicing* • Reduced dealer pre delivery fee • $500 credit for customers financing with Lexus Financial Services • Access to the Corporate evaluation fleet Encore Privileges and the Lexus of Brisbane Owner’s Group club further enhance the Lexus Corporate ownership experience for seamless motoring year round. *Refer to website for full details
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brisbane city news
Green Cabs Whilst the days of horse-and-carriage rides may be long gone, there is now an alternate transport option from which to peruse innercity Brisbane, involving three wheels, the open road and one pair of sturdy legs. Both entertaining and eco-friendly, Green Cabs are passenger transports powered by pushbike, ideal for navigating city traffic. With traffic congestion a growing concern for Brisbane, Green Cabs are a welcome addition to the city streets. The initiative is a carbon-free transport alternative running in the city centre, and between West End and Fortitude Valley.
BRISSTYLE TWILIGHT MARKETS As the sun descends on the Brisbane skyline and stars begin to compete with the lights of the cityscape, a hive of activity starts to garner attention outside City Hall, and a heady buzz of creativity spills through the night air. Four times a year, Brisbane’s recently renovated King George Square comes to life with a craft and fashion market dedicated to handmade wares. Brought to life by the brisStyle Etsy Street Team, a local spinoff of international vintage and handmade store Etsy, the brisStyle Indie Twilight Markets create a platform for local designers to exhibit their designs and creations.
The Tea Centre Making the perfect cup of tea comes down to personal preferences. Individual tastebuds determine just how many times a teabag should be dunked into steaming hot water, or how long unfurling tea leaves should be left to steep. Contentedly nestled in Albert Lane, a few paces away from bustling Queen Street Mall, The Tea Centre reminds tea lovers of the benefits of brewing with loose-leaf teas. Stocking a myriad of accessories and striking teacups and pots, The Tea Centre abounds with items singing the praises of the humble tealeaf.
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opinion reveal Ewan McEoin Creative Director Designing for the Asia Pacific
Amanda Cooper
Chairperson Neighbourhood Planning and Development Assessment, Local Councillor Bracken Ridge Ward
Scott McGeever
What does your role involve? I lead the development
What does your role involve? In my role as
What does your role involve? Managing the office of
of Australia’s first international design triennial, looking from Brisbane outwards to the Asia Pacific. I map the spaces and places where design can have the most impact, bring together a community of collaborators around the key issues and enable connections, storytelling and participation. How long have you lived in Brisbane? I am fresh resident, a fly-in fly-out Brisbanite. Favourite places? I have a soft spot for the riverside parklands at New Farm. Also the cultural nexus of GoMA, QAG, SLQ fills me with enthusiasm.
chairperson, I oversee all development applications within Brisbane, as well as the creation of individual neighbourhood plans. As a local councillor, I represent the people of the Bracken Ridge Ward in all aspects of council life. How long have you lived in Brisbane? I moved to Brisbane with my family when I was in my early teens. Favourite places? Anywhere near the water, whether it be the Sandgate Foreshore, Rocks Riverside Park, City Botanic Gardens or the Tinchi Tamba Wetlands in my own ward. What do you most like about living in Brisbane? Brisbane has a great mix of old and new. The city provides something for everyone, with peaceful riverside parks, as well as a vibrant, cosmopolitan cafe culture and nightlife. If you
a property buyers agency. We search for and negotiate the purchase of property, both residential and commercial. How long have you lived in Brisbane? Most of my life. Favourite places? The shops and cafes in Paddington and New Farm, and the great parks and green spaces we have close to the city. What do you most like about living in Brisbane? The people, climate and relaxed lifestyle. If you could change one thing about living in Brisbane, what would it be? To bring back trams. What’s missing? A decent public-transport system that’s affordable, reliable and offers frequency of services to make it a viable option for more people. What would you like to see more of? I’d like to see more smaller, boutique-style outlets in the suburbs offering local or limited-edition products, such as wine cellars and bars, micro breweries, artisan breads, boutiques, bookshops and cafes. What change has
What do you most like about living in Brisbane?
The climate, the easy pace, the sense of optimism and engagement. If you could change one thing about living in Brisbane, what would it be? I’d like to be able to stay in one place longer, to discover more. What’s missing? As a bike rider I’d like more ways to ride around the city, connecting parks and open space. What would you like to see more of? More use of the river as a transportation zone and trading space. Perhaps a floating fish and produce market. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? The Queensland
Government has invested strongly in a design strategy – putting forward a progressive, international proposition. This has created a sense of opportunity and dynamism. What do you think has been the city’s most exciting development in the past six months?
The coming together of Icograda Design Week, and the Unlimited program is a significant moment – this is the first time Queensland has had a strong focal event for the creative community. What do you like about the growth Brisbane has experienced over the past few years? The rapid growth of the city has brought
liveability forward as a key issue, so we are considering what we want from our urban future. This is a great start. Describe your vision of Brisbane in the future? A sustainable, connected city, with free super-fast broadband, integrated urban green space, renewable energy and water at every opportunity.
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could change one thing about living in Brisbane, what would it be? The use of the Brisbane River. Currently,
there is minimal traffic on the river with underutilised riverside areas. What’s missing? We need to encourage more subtropical and universal design, as well as sustainability in our houses and buildings. What would you like to see more of? Vibrant Laneways! This is my favourite project at the moment, as it aims to reactivate and rejuvenate of some of our forgotten laneways throughout the city and surrounds. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? I would have to say the focus on footpaths, bikeways and parks. What do you think has been the city’s most exciting development in the past six months? The restoration to City Hall. It is a symbol of Brisbane’s past and future. What do you like about the growth Brisbane has experienced over the past few years? I like that Brisbane’s recent
growth has been focused on sustainable, liveable developments, incorporating local artists and designers where possible. Describe your vision of Brisbane in the future? Subtropical boulevards, modern artwork, open community spaces and a balanced approach to the maintenance of character homes and the development of new buildings.
Buyers’ Agent Property Searchers
occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? The development of new-
style parks and play areas such as Rocks Riverside Park at Seventeen Mile Rocks and the New Farm Park play area. What do you think has been the city’s most exciting development in the past six months? Definitely the road infrastructure – particularly the Clem7 Tunnel, Kurilpa Bridge, Go Between Bridge, and Northern Busway. If you are prepared to pay, it makes a big difference. What do you like about the growth Brisbane has experienced over the past few years?
Brisbane has benefited from the development of suburban centres through neighbourhood planning, which has been great for bringing together the community and giving them a voice. Describe your vision of Brisbane in the future? I’d like to see development of outer areas and further development of inner areas in a way that doesn’t choke the city’s pedestrian and vehicular movement. While tunnels and bridges are great for relieving existing traffic congestion, they are not the practical or environmental answer.
reveal opinion
Lachlan Furnell
Kymberley McMahon
Mike Kavali
What does your role involve? Working within a team
What does your role involve? I manage the South
What does your role involve? My son Jonathan
ensuring that best service practices towards our guests are met and to create an environment people love to come and enjoy. How long have you lived in Brisbane? Eight years and loving it. I had worked in Queensland on and off for 21 years. Favourite places? ‘The Loft’ at Urban Brisbane, the Lions at The Gabba and the Broncos and Reds at Suncorp, George Street, and the farmers markets at Brisbane Powerhouse. What do you most like about living in Brisbane? The ease and personal approach to business in Brisbane and the friendliness of the general public. If you could change
Bank Corporation’s marketing team, which is instrumental in promoting South Bank as a world-class precinct. Together with a dedicated and creative team, we work towards creating and delivering new and innovative experiences for our places that provide people with ‘real connections’ and meaning. How long have you lived in Brisbane? All my life. Favourite places? South Bank. There is no other place like our precinct in the world. What do you most like about living in Brisbane? Its vibrancy, diversity, great outdoor lifestyle and style. If you could change one thing about living in Brisbane, what would it be? It would be great to see Brisbane have more of a late-night culture, where there are quality dining options available after 10:00 pm every night of the week. What’s missing? More hours in the day to enjoy what Brisbane has to offer! What would you like to see more of? More quality waterside dining experiences overlooking the Brisbane River. What change has occurred in Brisbane
and I manage the company’s prestige residential development projects in Brisbane. Our latest project is Scott Street at Kangaroo Point, a striking 15-storey building overlooking the river. How long have you lived in Brisbane? For 28 years. Favourite places? Eagle Street precinct, the Story Bridge, Kangaroo Point, New Farm, New Farm Park and the river walks. What do you most like about living in Brisbane? The climate! The river is the city’s greatest asset, with its natural beauty and its fascinating history. If you could change one
general manager Hotel Urban brisbane
one thing about living in Brisbane, what would it be?
Improving road infrastructure to ease congestion. What’s missing? I like the fact that Brisbane is developing. It should not rush or try to copy other states or countries but simply evolve into itself. What would you like to see more of? Brisbane has great markets and cultural events throughout the year. I would like to see more of this happening during the school-holiday periods. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? It is a city that believes in itself.
The youth don’t need to head south to make a name for themselves or create a career. What do you think has been the city’s most exciting development in the past six months? I love the new bridges, new
restaurants and bars opening in all the niche suburbs. I like the improvements to the local playgrounds and green areas and the ongoing transformation of the cultural precinct of South Bank. What do you like about the growth Brisbane has experienced over the past few years? I think local and state governments
have really started spending some decent dollars toward improving infrastructure and forward planning. Describe your vision of Brisbane in the future?
It’s all about the people who make the city. As we grow I would like to see continued improvements in the areas of homelessness, facilities and care for older people, and public and private schooling.
Manager, Marketing and Visitor Services South Bank Corporation
in recent years that has had a positive impact on you?
The transformation that has occurred and is still taking place at South Bank. The impact this has had on local, national and international perceptions cannot be underestimated. We are now being approached by major national and international organisations wanting to work with us to help deliver our vision of becoming a world-class precinct. What do you think has been the city’s most exciting development in the past six months? That Brisbane now plays host to an illustrious
list of local and nationally acclaimed restaurants and boutique bars. What do you like about the growth
Managing Director Waterford Properties
thing about living in Brisbane, what would it be?
To ‘activate’ the City Botanic Gardens with more restaurants, retail, museums, live theatre, a CityCat stop, several tourist attractions, lighting and another pedestrian bridge at the south side. What’s missing? An underground rail network, which I understand is finally being planned. There should also be major retail centres, restaurants, and markets all along the innercity river edges. What would you like to see more of? More inner-city cross-river bridges, more transport and tourist boats using the river. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? We now have the CityCats,
riverwalks, the recycled riverfront industrial areas like South Bank and Newstead, pedestrian bridges and some elegant downtown riverfront architecture. What do you think has been the city’s most exciting development in the past six months? The start of the
airport tunnel construction and the plan for the underground rail network. What do you like about the
Brisbane has experienced over the past few years?
growth Brisbane has experienced over the past few years? Let it keep growing fast to become an exciting
Brisbane’s cultural, social and economic growth has provided impressive returns for the city. It is exciting to see international and national companies realise the opportunities available in Brisbane and make it their home. Describe your vision of Brisbane in the future? For Brisbane to stand out and be a champion of change for the world.
major world city, offering more lifestyle options and jobs. Describe your vision of Brisbane in the future? The biggest and best Australian city with the best climate, a beautiful river, coastal attractions, best airport and infrastructure, tallest iconic buildings, a major financial centre and the closest major city to Asia as the nation’s biggest trading partner.
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news fashion Blanc+Delta Pitted as the one to watch at the 2010 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival, Brisbane-based designer Bianca Daly continues to impress with her fashion label blanc+delta. Featuring cocktail dresses in sumptuous silks with delicate pleats and romantic ruching, the label promises to take you from garden parties to the races, and from wedding receptions to the front row at a fashion show. Winner of 2009 design competition Follow The Fashion, Bianca combines silk overlays with touches of lace, and couples subtle pastel shades with deep reds and striking black statement items. Each season the blanc+delta collection continues to balance classic feminine elegance with on-trend styles.
Fleet For a fleeting season, Brisbane fashion foragers have the opportunity to sneak a peek into the burgeoning careers of some of Queensland’s emerging local designers. Gracing the Wintergarden with exciting new fashion ideas, the ‘fleet’ pop-up store showcases the rising talents from the Queensland University of Technology’s fashion/business degree. Promoting a local hub of creative ideas, fleet invites customers to invest in Brisbane’s future fashion stars, with the view to launch a stream of successful future fashion designers. Comprising of a team of ten students who share a love of all things sartorial, the concept for fleet was inspired by international popup locations. fleet plans to keep its doors open until October 31, 2010. 16
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fashion news
JAmes Lane With historic workers cottages, boutique cinemas and thriving coffee spots as neighbours, the James Lane retail precinct sits off James Street in an alcove that celebrates the finer things in life. A designer lingerie store, a custom-jewellery workshop, boutique hair salons and original fashion boutiques line the precinct. Brimming with premier fashion retailers including Ruby & Frankie, Brisbane label Francis Leon, as well as online fashion authority Frockshop.
Valentino A whisper of chiffon
brushing against a bare leg, a soft layer of silk falling delicately past a shoulder blade, a flash of blood-red tulle grazing the floor. Romantic, desirable and artistic, a striking gown from the Valentino collection provides a throwback to timeless beauty. Brisbane’s Gallery of Modern Art welcomes a retrospective of designer gowns from world-renowned fashion house Valentino, until November 14. Delving into the history, inspiration and artistic culture of the Italian label, the exhibition ventures exclusively to Brisbane, direct from French institution Les Arts Décoratifs, in Paris.
MICHAEL HOFMEYER photography by jean tholance
The discovery of an antique book on crystallography has inspired an exhibition of spectacular jewellery by celebrated Brisbane jeweller, Michael Hofmeyer. His exhibition at Fortitude Valley’s artisan gallery, The Atlas of Crystal Forms, features superb necklaces strung from these unusual, precious beads and fastened with handmade finely wrought gold and silver clasps. There is more to these beautiful crystals than meets the eye; they have a mysterious quality that is not just physical and, for Michael, they represent our raw connection to the Earth.
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fashion libertine parfumerie INTERVIEW & Photography BY MIKKI BRAMMER
nick smart A fragrance, once registered on the senses, can linger forever in the memory. It might evoke the warmth of a grandmother’s affection, a yearning for a lost or unrequited love, or a fondness for an old friend. For every bottle of perfume made, a million memories are thus created – moments shared, hearts broken and adventures had. For Nick Smart, co-director of boutique fragrance emporium Libertine Parfumerie, herein lies the magic. For the shelves of his boutiques in West End and New Farm are not simply lined with bottles of perfume: they contain distinct moments in history – be it Grace Kelly’s wedding or Napoleon’s fervour for violets (and Josephine) – captured in liquid form as divine fragrances that allow such moments to remain eternal. Almost two years old, Libertine Parfumerie (which Nick runs alongside co-directors Jason Carlton and Joel Morehu-Barlow) has found its way into the olfactory palates of discerning denizens of Brisbane, as well as acolytes in Sydney and Melbourne. Like any tale of success in history, the birth of Libertine came down to a particular moment in time – a crossing of fates. It was 14 years ago, and Nick was studying law at the University of Queensland. To make ends meet, he began selling essential oils on the weekends at the Riverside Markets. On one fortuitous day, an editor of Vogue Living happened to be wandering through the markets whilst holidaying in Brisbane. Enamoured by Nick’s fragrant wares, she snapped a photo of the products and they subsequently appeared in the pages of the magazine soon after. The business then began to grow and Nick was soon selling his products throughout the world and had set up a manufacturing company that made products for retailers under their own brand (such clients include Wheel & Barrow, Harvey Norman and the New South Wales Prison System). Upon finishing his law degree, Nick began practising as a lawyer and became one of Queensland’s youngest 18
law practitioners when he opened Smart Legal at age 29. Then, two years ago when searching for a new locale to house the practice, Nick discovered a charming little shopfront in West End that was a 100-year-old tailor’s nook. “I said to my business partner at the time that we couldn’t put a law practice in the front of the building because it was so beautiful,” he recalls of the moment. “That’s how Libertine was born. I’d travelled the world for years sourcing products, packaging and fragrance, or I’d go to the south of France buying fragrance for the people we manufactured for. A lot of the fragrances you could access overseas just weren’t available here and you’d have to get a friend to pick them up for you while they were in New York, Paris or London.” Seizing the opportunity to fill a void in the market with his own passion, Nick set about establishing a distribution company, Agence de Parfum, as well as the French-inspired fragrance boutique that now sits proudly on the upper end of Hardgrave Road. The key, he knew, was to obtain the exclusive wholesale distribution rights to brands that so many fragrance lovers coveted but that few were able to get their hands on in Australia. But with no reputation to speak of that might tempt such elusive brands, Nick faced the challenge of convincing them to relinquish their product into his hands. Again, it was the course of fate that played its inscrutable hand. “Years ago when I used to go to New York, I shopped at Barneys and I discovered they had a niche counter. I loved Costume Nationale Scent Intense,” he intones. “I’d buy it every time I went to New York – you couldn’t get it anywhere in Australia. So when we were searching for brands to start up our own distribution company in Australia, I told my directors that it would be a coup to get Costume Nationale.” Impossible, they told him. “It’s an amazing high-end fashion label and everyone told me that there was no way that we’d get the rights,” he recalls. “That was an obstacle we faced from the start – we wanted the exclusive rights to sell these in Australia, and we were based in Brisbane, which obviously nobody had ever heard of in Paris or Italy. But it was almost like it was meant to be. You know, those moments in your life when you realise that there’s some kind of greater purpose – you know things are greater than the decisions you’re making. I had the affinity with Costume Nationale because I loved
libertine parfumerie fashion
it so much, but people said ‘you won’t get Costume Nationale, that’s like getting Chanel’. So I basically just went to Italy and said ‘I love your product. No one loves it more than I do. I’ve worn it for years and I will nurture it and look after it in Australia.’ They were the first company to sign up with us.” There’s no doubt that Nick’s palpable passion for the fragrances he sells, evident in the ardent enthusiasm that abounds whenever he speaks of them, was infectious when it came to convincing the decision-makers of some of the world’s most esteemed perfume houses. Agence de Parfum now holds the exclusive distribution rights to ten brands including Lubin, Creed, Rancé and Jean-Charles Brosseau. And each brand, as Nick will eagerly convey, has a unique tale of its own. Aside from over-the-counter business, this year has been a fruitful one for Libertine, following the successful launch of an exclusive fragrance counter in David Jones in Melbourne’s Bourke Street as well as helping to create a new concept ‘Scent Room’ in the Myer store on the same street. “We’ve also just come out with our own range of soaps and lotions, called Napoleon’s Triumph,” Nick shares. ”Napoleon was known as ‘Corporal Violet’ because he was obsessed with violets. We just launched it and already we’re about to export it to Japan.” Where things go from here, Nick is happy to leave to the whim of the fates that have brought him to this point. His main objective is to simply enjoy the journey. “I think it’s really just about living your life by a set of principles,” he says serenely. “We love what we do at Libertine and we take pride in that.” How’s business in Brisbane? We love being in Brisbane. It’s a great place for Libertine Parfumerie as it’s constantly growing and evolving. Brisbane shoppers are becoming more discerning when it comes to what they’re after and this includes perfume. They no longer want to be common like the masses and are
after something unique and extremely personalised, which is exactly what we offer. We have very loyal clients here who have supported us over the years and they continue to do so. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you?
There really has been a shift here from the large shopping centres into a more boutique setting which can offer a very personalised service, giving customers what they deserve. The development of the James Street precinct, as well as the re-emergence of strip shopping in places such as West End, Bulimba, Paddington and New Farm, have really added to this change, creating a positive environment for shoppers where they can receive a more personalised, boutique service. Being a specialised boutique ourselves, this is the precise environment we need to operate so it is a fantastic shift we welcome. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? In recent years, Brisbane has become one of the most cultural cities in Australia, offering some of the best arts spaces in the country including the Gallery of Modern Art, Brisbane Powerhouse and the University of Queensland Art Gallery. We are now regularly honoured with exclusive exhibitions not available elsewhere in Australia. We’ve had Andy Warhol, Picasso, Stephen Jones and Easton Pearson, and now we’re being given the ultimate fashion showcase – Valentino, Retrospective at GoMA, which is spectacular. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016? Brisbane will keep on growing and growing over the next five years. Each year, new restaurants, boutiques, night spots and events pop up that offer something new and exciting to Brisbane’s residents. This is such a positive increase as, with so many new things happening, we can rival our southern city counterparts and hold our own as one of Australia’s most liveable cities.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience Weekend breakfast with friends. Suburb Red Hill. Restaurant The Crosstown Eating House. Cafe Jamie’s Espresso. Bar Laruche. Escape Sunshine Beach. Picnic Spot New Farm Park. Retailer Libertine Parfumerie. Landmarks Kangaroo Point Cliffs. What makes Brisbane unique? Brisbane is a young and vibrant city that offers so much. It has really come into its own and evolved into a world-class city, with fantastic retail precincts, cafes and restaurants, night spots, and arts and cultural events. Despite all of this fantastic growth, it doesn’t carry a pretentious tag and isn’t too fast-paced – we still have that welcoming atmosphere.
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fashion jean brown INTERVIEW BY FRANCES FRANGENHEIM
amber long Paris may pip Brisbane at the post when it comes to the uber high fashion stakes but that doesn’t mean we don’t appreciate the best labels and want to wear them too. When Amber Long returned to Brisbane after years living in Asia, she noticed Australian stores were behind when it came to stocking the hottest fashions gracing the catwalks in London, Paris and Hong Kong. Switching her entrepreneurial mind into overdrive, she promptly filled the gap in the market, launching her first super slick and elegant Jean Brown store at the Emporium precinct in Fortitude Valley in 2007. Its mission was simple: to deliver the most highly sought mix of global fashion collections to Australian women at the same time as their overseas counterparts. Amber set about importing accessories from the world’s leading fashion houses and designers, including collections from Thakoon and Proenza Schouler, which had previously been unavailable in the Australian market. By never underestimating her clients’ discerning fashion eyes, her flagship store soon carved its place amongst Australia’s retail elite. She also put her own private vintage and antique handbag collection on show in the store. As one of the largest collections of its type in the world with pieces up to 350 years old, it provided quite the talking point and a good excuse to visit Jean Brown regularly to view the ever-changing exhibition. Another Jean Brown store followed soon after, this time a ready-to-wear fashion store stocking a similarly impressive line of international labels – Christian Louboutin, Yves Saint Laurent, Lanvin, Balenciaga, Mulberry, Prada, Miu Miu – the esteemed list goes on. Most recently, Amber launched The Tribune, a fresh and innovative concept store on Arthur Street in Fortitude Valley that gives airtime to emerging Queensland designers. The store's vaulted 20
ceiling and suspended loft has it touted as a bit ‘New York Soho’. It currently profiles pieces by 50 emerging designers, including Salita Matthews, George Wu, Taree Birse, Lubanci, House of Emily and Laura Made This. It also stocks discounted past-season goodies from Jean Brown flagship stores, including shoes, handbags, accessories and clothing. Amber’s business nous is developed on the back of a professional career spanning many industries, from innovation management to publishing, union representation, health policy and program development. She stands out from the crowd because she recognises Brisbane’s fresh and individual approach to fashion and continually tests the boundaries of fashion retailing. How’s business in Brisbane? No doubt, as with most sectors of the economy, things slowed somewhat over the last 18 months. However, if anything, clients are seeking out unique, quality pieces of original design combined with impeccable service with close, personal attention. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? For me personally, the opening of GoMA really sparked a parochial pride for Brisbane that I had never experienced before. The standard of architecture and the progressive exhibitions opening at GoMA place Brisbane on the map. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? A highlight for me is the Valentino, Retrospective at GoMA. I am also very excited about the level of support for Queensland fashion designers and the fashion industry generally within our community, but particularly the emerging support from Queensland Government initiatives that aim to assist our designers onto the international stage. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016 Brisbane has a progressive Lord Mayor who is passionate about the establishment of Brisbane as a progressive, international city. For 2016, our Lord Mayor has an undeterred vision for clever town planning, a commitment to heritage conservation and fostering innovative commercial and development tactics to foster the growth of our city as a world leader.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience Sunday in New Farm Park. Suburb New Farm. Restaurant Arriva Italian. Cafe Jamie’s Espresso. Bar Bar Alto. Escape Queenstown. Weekend Activity Bookshops. Picnic Spot New Farm Park. Retailer Jean Brown, The Tribune. Landmark GoMA. What makes Brisbane unique? Brisbane women have, since colonial times, adopted international fashion to suit our subtropical climate. Our enduring passion for creatively adapting dress to our environment makes Brisbane women global frontrunners in devising new street trends.
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fashion lindsay bennett marketing INTERVIEW BY MIKKI BRAMMER
lindsay bennett Some decisions take months, even years, to make. Hours upon hours are spent agonising over the choice of one direction over another, painstakingly weighing up the pros and cons. Others are simply made in an instant and never regretted. Six years ago, Lindsay Bennett, director of the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival (MBFF), and his partner Bryce were sharing a Bloody Mary at Bondi Beach in their hometown of Sydney. The subject casually arose as to whether they should leave their lives in Sydney and make the move north to Brisbane. Two days later they were on a plane to the Sunshine State. Now a bona fide citizen of Brisbane, Lindsay doesn’t regret the hasty decision for an instant. “It’s a fantastic place to be. I love it here and I think there’s so much going on in the city now. Seeing the transition from when we arrived, it’s such an exciting place now and I wouldn’t think of leaving.” Lindsay and Bryce first settled at Hope Island on the Gold Coast with the aim to service both the Brisbane and Gold Coast markets with their PR and events company, Lindsay Bennett Marketing. It soon became evident that the two markets were worlds apart and so the duo moved to focus their efforts solely on Brisbane. Lindsay was disappointed that fashion wasn’t well represented in Brisbane. “There was this preconceived notion that Brisbane didn’t know what it was doing. At that point the RAQ Awards had also moved down to the Gold Coast, so Brisbane all of a sudden had nothing. I thought if there were a time to start the fashion festival, it was then.” And so began the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival, which, over the past four years has slowly piqued 22
the interest of the rest of Australia’s fashionably inclined to become a well-respected stop on the country’s fashion circuit. Now in its fifth year, 2010’s incarnation of MBFF saw the event move to its new pied-á-terre on South Bank with a 60-metre marquee housing a 30-metre-long runway and raked seating for up to 700 acolytes of fashion at a time. Part of this move was in efforts to allow the public, as well as industry insiders, the opportunity to see the fashion up-close. “I think it’s about trying to involve as much of the community as possible,” Lindsay enthuses passionately. How’s business in Brisbane? As this ‘new-world city’ comes into its own, opportunities abound. We are seeing a significant increase in the number of quality events being staged in Brisbane. To this end, we are enjoying a surge of new projects and clients. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years That has had a positive impact on you? The decision by the State Government
to build the Gallery of Modern Art. This iconic building and the world-class exhibitions staged in recent times have done so much for Brisbane on a national and international level. The Easton Pearson retrospective last year and the recent Stephen Jones exhibition were amazing. Valentino, Retrospective will be huge and will undoubtedly generate wide acclaim for Brisbane as a cultural Mecca. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? As festival director, I would have to say that the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival that was hosted by South Bank in early August. It was the fifth year the event has been staged and has now become the premier fashion event in Queensland. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016 Brisbane is a new-world city and it will be great if the city continues to build infrastructure that will allow it to expand within the CBD, making it a vibrant and exciting hub of culture, entertainment and the arts. With more people come more restaurants and bars and this, consequently, attracts even more national and international visitors all keen to enjoy this unique style.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience South Bank. Suburb New Farm/Teneriffe. Restaurant Gazebo Restaurant, Hotel Urban. Cafe Pearl Cafe. Bar Laruche. Escape Hyatt Regency, Sanctuary Cove. Weekend Activity Eating, drinking, resting. Picnic Spot Kangaroo Point Cliffs. Retailer Pistols at Dawn. Landmarks Brisbane Powerhouse. What makes Brisbane unique? I would have to say it’s the ability to connect with businesses and government at all levels. It’s easier to be accepted as a relative newcomer compared to other major cities. Brisbane is growing quickly and it’s great to be here when so much change is taking place.
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news design
Base ArcHITECTURE The Royal Australian Institute of Architects has presented the 2010 Brisbane Regional House of the Year Award to Stonehawk by BASE Architecture. The jury found that “against the trend, this house embraces multiple use rather than multiplicity of space”. Recently developed, there are 29 lots in total, each benefiting from a sensitive approach to the surrounds. From natural overland flow and stormwater control to flora- and fauna-friendly fencing, this innovative enclave invites the inhabitants to enjoy the lifestyle.
NICK MOORE dESIGN While many outdoor-lighting systems are often hidden away behind bushes or nestled amongst rocks, the new range of outdoor lamps from local designer Nick Moore is intended to be placed proudly on show. The Umbo collection of energysaving lighting designs comes in several different motifs, including the ‘Floating’ Bubble pattern, the ‘Energy’ lightbulb, the clean lines of the ‘Modern’, and the nature-inspired forms of the ‘Organic’.
UnLiMITED
Design Week Whatever colour, form or function ‘optimism’ means to you, join designers from around the world in celebration of creativity and communication. Through the theme of ‘optimism’, Icograda Design Week Brisbane 2010 aims to promote dialogue on issues shaping the nature and relevance of communication design practice today. Optimism 2010, on from October 10–17, will recognise the valuable contribution designers make to delivering benefits and results for business, community and culture by showcasing businesses that embrace the power of good design to gain a competitive edge. Icograda Design Week Brisbane 2010 will provide a platform for conversation regarding design-led thinking and consciousness for a changing world. 24
Unlimited: Designing for the Asia Pacific is a new, unique and exciting international design event for the Asia-Pacific region that will excite, inspire and even confront. The program offers many ways to get involved, contribute and develop a deeper understanding of the ways in which design is shaping the world around us. From October 4–10, join some of the best minds from across the world to help shape a prosperous future for the Asia Pacific region.
(m)art at South Bank A new milestone for Queensland design is the opening of the new (m)art design store at South Bank. Building on the philosphy of the eclectic Fortitude Valley store, the new Grey Street (m)art is the place to purchase exceptionally designed and crafted ceramics, glassware, jewellery, textiles and more. From master makers to emerging talent, (m)art has a constantly evolving range connecting contemporary crafted design practitioners and their retail product with public and corporate audiences. For inspirational design ideas check out the latest showcase at (m)art.
design urban art projects INTERVIEW BY Kathryn LINDGREN Photography courtesy Urban Art Projects and ApERTURE PHOTOGRAPHY
ben tait High-end built environments in the realm of Bilbao’s Guggenheim push the boundaries between art and architecture. The appreciation of such architecture or art on an aesthetic and emotional level activates and draws a connection with public spaces. Brisbane’s Urban Art Projects haS cleverly secured ITSELF a niche market within this top-end emotional design arena, creating site-specific art and design commissions for architectural and landscape environments. It is the emotive response that people have to art as opposed architectural buildings that has Ben Tait’s head spinning and eyes widening in excitement. You see, Ben serves the enviable role as managing director for Urban Art Projects (UAP), overseeing all departments to ensure artworks are resourced, designed, constructed and installed according to plan. He plays a key role in strategic forecasting and works closely with UAP principals in growing the business. Ben trained in construction management at Queensland University of Technology and since joining UAP in 2000, has been instrumental in realising its national and international success. Public art over the last decade and into the future will play a different role than that of architecture. “What is important is to ensure that we don’t end up with a city full of status,” Ben muses on why good public art is important. “It’s about creating a response that makes people think and feel – having an emotional reaction to a building rather than just looking at it and saying ‘yes there’s a building I’ve seen millions of them’. Thinking, connecting and contemplating are the combined goals of effective public art.” UAP fosters the philosophy that art 26
doesn’t have to be the thing that sits inside or outside the building, it can be the building itself and saturated into the building fabric. “Public spaces are about life and human movement,” Ben says. “Public artwork helps to soften what can be a cold environment and bring in a human content to the space. The contemplation that happens within and around public art enhances the experience, rather than walking from A to B, and that’s how art activates and draws a connection in public spaces.” UAP’s recent international list of projects features a series of works for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). In particular the KAUST Beacon, created as a contemporary interpretation of a lighthouse, stands at the entry point to the harbour, soaring 60 metres into the sky, creating a university marker. The structure is a collection of unique amorphous hexagonal sections stepping up out of the Red Sea into the elliptical spire that is designed for communal gatherings. Others at the top of the UAP list are the main entrance sculptures for Shanghai World Expo 2010. Part of the series were fire-cracker light displays with a starburst of colour and cascading flames of a firework dramatically symbolising the Chinese love of festivals – an important part of Chinese tradition. Locally, UAP’s works don the pavement of the recently redeveloped Chinatown Mall in the form of the ‘carp leaping over the dragon gate’ an iconic sculpture commissioned to locally based Chinese artist Catherine Chui. UAP also designed and constructed a 40-metre sculptural water feature that runs over four separate bronze panels from the north-eastern end of the mall. The company has put its signature to Spencer Lane, which was one of the first laneways selected for reactivation through the Brisbane City Council’s Inhabit/Small Spaces program that transforms overlooked and forgotten spaces in the CBD. UAP mentored emerging Melbourne artist Kate Shaw, to translate her painting practice into a large scale outdoor wall artwork for Spencer Lane. Ben’s professional circuit is an ironic one. A varied work history in landscaping, joinery and drafting lead Ben toward the architecture industry. However he was swayed by work experience with his property developer brother-in-law that left him with the feeling that the domestic construction industry was creatively frustrating. “It was something that influenced me to not want to pursue a career that I may eventually be frustrated with,” Ben recalls. Heading into
urban art projects design
the adjoining field of construction management, Ben loved the aspect of building challenges as well as the process of building. “It directed me to a place where I could be involved in high-end creative but add another management skill level that helped it all come to fruition,” says Ben. Following the completion of his construction management studies, Ben worked in London for a few years and came back to Brisbane to work for Watpac on the redevelopment of the Queen Street Mall. He again became disillusioned with the conservative building industry and, funnily enough, came full circle back to the feeling he has when he was contemplating architecture. Finding that the building culture wasn’t fostering his imagination Ben checked out of the industry for a while and went back and earned a Master’s degree in IT and software development. The ironic part is that he met brothers Matthew and Daniel Tobin, the founders of UAP and starting drafting for them part-time. With a newly realised broad skill-set Ben reconnected with the building industry, in a creative and fulfilling way that he had always craved. He wore every hat that could be worn in UAP until he returned to the project/construction management chair and eventually managing director. UAP’s growth plan came out about five years ago when the idea was floated to expand into offshore markets. “That presented a whole different plan as to how the business was to be managed, with the requirement for the principals, Matthew and Daniel Tobin, to be somewhere other than head office,” Ben recalls. That was when UAP had to think about who was going to manage the business. So with Ben having a breadth of skills and a good understanding of all aspects of the business, he was the natural choice. Now with three offices – Brisbane head office with 35 staff, China with 12 staff and Houston with an initial 3 staff – UAP has it eyes firmly planted on the Saudi market for the next five to ten years. “They have huge budgets, meaning we have the opportunity to take our product to a more
experimental and larger scale level,” says Ben of the marriage between a market that is soaking up all of the expatriate creativity that is pouring into its shores. Beyond Saudi Arabia, UAP also sees America, more of China and then Europe and India in the project horizon. But let’s not forget that, locally, UAP is a shining star, having just announced a collaboration with artist Ned Kahn, Hassell Architects in Sydney and the Brisbane Airport Corporation to convert Brisbane’s new Domestic Terminal short-term multi-level car park in to an eightstorey kinetic public art project. Brisbane is fortunate to lay claim to the head office of such creatively talented group of artisans who foster the link between art and our everyday lives. How’s business in Brisbane? I would describe business in Brisbane at the moment as ‘walking not running’. We have definite signs of life in many sectors, confidence is growing and there is a united belief in the future but there is an undercurrent of trepidation reining in the normal flow. What positive change has occurred in brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? I think the general activation of multiple centres
around town has been important for me. James Street, West End, Newstead … all great development activity that has injected new CBD life beyond Queen Street. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in brisbane? I am going to run with the RNA redevelopment. The Ekka is in all of our childhood memories and I am keen to see how the usage mix plays out. It’s quite challenging, really, but certainly another great opportunity for activation outside of the city proper. Describe your vision of brisbane in 2016 Alive and diverse with an evergrowing cultural personality. We’ve done the quantum leap from country town. It would be great to see us have a spot on the world stage. Our airport is being up-scaled and that’s a very good sign for the city. I would like to see us develop our brand in the tourism sector.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience Out for breakfast. Suburb New Farm. Restaurant Granada. Cafe The Chelsea Cafe. Bar Gertie’s Bar & Lounge. Escape Getting away to the north coast. Weekend Activity Taking the Mal out at Moffat Beach. Picnic Spot New Farm Park. Retailer I have a thing for stationery; it’s weird. Landmark Brisbane Powerhouse. What makes Brisbane unique? I love the way Brisbane is growing and changing right in front of our eyes. A mature city will change around the fringes more than at its core but Brisbane is morphing from the inside out, which is great to watch and participate in.
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design bigfish.tv INTERVIEW BY Frances Frangenheim PHOTOGRAPHY BY Adam Sebastian West
sheldon lieberman Sheldon lieberman always stands a few steps left of centre and makes no apologies for this. As the creator of digital agency bigfish.tv, sheldon is supported by a crew of similarly colourful and creative designers, writers, animators and advertising gurus. At Bigfish.tv’s funky headquarters – an elegantly restored church in Clayfield – they have a lot of fun and make sure their clients tag along for the ride too. Their work spans the creative field – from advertising across print, tv and radio, to branding, events, packaging and the online playing field. And of course, it soon goes without saying that the work is playful, cheeky and memorable. Sheldon explains their creative licence: “The more you gain the client’s confidence, the more creative you can be. Look at Laing O’Rourke; they’re very conservative but they’ve been our client for 13 years and I know them to the point of trust and they know me.” Other corporate and creative clients entrusting their brand to Bigfish.tv include Westpac, Canon, Brisbane City Council and the Brisbane Powerhouse, Queensland Music Festival, Triple J, A2 Milk and even the good old Brisbane Ekka. But it’s not all work (not that you can call designing an ensemble of animated tap-dancing cows for the A2 Milk advertising commercial ‘work’). Sheldon also makes time to pursue his passion for animation, comedy and music all in one project. With his co-creator, Igor Coric from Serbia (now living in Brisbane), Sheldon creates short animated films starring quirky characters that mumble in strange tongues and act in irrational ways. Among many wins, Sheldon and Igor’s ‘play’ projects have been picked up by Triple JTV and recently won the Best Animation 28
Award at TropFest. Another wonderful development for Bigfish.tv is the launch of the Laser Beak Man series on ABCTV3, bringing Tim Sharp’s characters to life through animation. Tim Sharp is a 21-year-old Brisbane resident who was diagnosed with autism at age three and has been drawing his Laser Beak Man every day for the past 10 years as a way to express and share his stories. In an interview with ABC, Tim’s mum, Judy, explains the project was sparked from an exhibition of Tim’s work. “We were at the Brisbane Powerhouse for an exhibition and a couple of animators came in from Bigfish.tv and they wanted to take it on,” explains Judy. “The great thing was they fully understood Tim – Tim’s communication is still quite limited – so instead of trying to change the drawings, they’ve just brought the art alive. How’s business in Brisbane? Getting better and better every year – clients becoming smarter, opportunities more interesting and budgets getting bigger. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? I’ve spent most of my business life in Brisbane wanting to escape to grassier greener pastures where creatives are anointed by virgins with fresh custard apples. But as I age, breed, and realise custard apples leave a furry texture on the back of your throat, I realise that wondrous things are happening right here. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? There is a network of people that is building. A sort of underground but respected and high-profile group of people. TEDx Brisbane was a great example of this – people who don’t just plod through their life worshipping their Prados and drinking huge amounts of beer. They want to do something, change things and have fun while they are doing it. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016? The underground tunnel network will be so advanced, that if the globe heats up or we are attacked by V people, we will be able to move into the tunnels and create an army of socially conscious underground Brisbanites.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience Foot massage. Suburb West End. Restaurant Quan Than. Cafe Urban Grind (when it returns). Bar Calamvale Hotel. Escape Leaving Brisbane. Weekend Activity Fishing. Picnic Spot New Farm Park. Retailer Wray Organic. Landmarks Brisbane Powerhouse. What makes Brisbane unique? There are the opportunities of a bigger city if you look for them, but it’s stress free – driving, going out to eat, parking, getting a foot massage by the Malaysian man (Daniel) in The Valley.
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design halfbrick INTERVIEW BY Frances Frangenheim PROFILE PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEAN LOADES
luke muscat A Fruit slashing frenzy is gripping the world thanks to a team of designers in Brisbane’s HalfBrick studios. Luke Muscat, lead creator and designer of the Fruit Ninja action application (suitable for iPhones and iPads) admits not even his team expected it to reach such heights. At the time of our interview, Fruit Ninja, at 99 cents, had exceeded the three-million sales mark.“We were going to have a party for every onemillion fruits sliced,” Luke explains of the game’s mission: that is to swipe the screen and murder in cold blood different fruits like a true ninja warrior (or as Luke describes, “It’s you versus a watermelon”). “The first time we checked the stats 140 million fruits had been sliced. Last time we checked it was up to 4.9 billion fruits.” I ask what these big numbers mean in App Store sales land and Luke explains that Fruit Ninja is performing at the top of its market. “The App Store is incredibly chaotic and very heat driven,” Luke says. “You can easily release an app and only get 100 hits or less. The top two percent of apps really take up the lion's share of the total amount of downloads. Traditionally it’s extremely difficult to break the 100,000 mark; then you have the top sellers who reach up to five million. Fruit Ninja is on its way past the three-million mark. It’s really taken off. We did everything we could to ensure its success and it’s a bit wow.” Keeping up with new platforms and technology means stress levels are high at times, but Luke is motivated by his passion for being creative and entertaining a diverse global audience of nontraditional game users. In Year 12 he was convinced he would either be a veterinarian or an environmental economist. It wasn’t until he visited a university open day in Lismore and saw a sign saying, ‘Did you know you can make a career out of gaming?’, that he knew he had found his calling. “That’s when all my 30
ambitions turned on the spot and a gaming career became my focus,” Luke says. He enrolled in a double degree in Information Technology and Creative Industries Communication Design at Queensland University of Technology, and says he was fortunate to score a job with Halfbrick fresh out of university. Now, three and a half years on, he has worked his way up to a team leader role and Fruit Ninja was his first project. Needless to say, he’s pretty chuffed with the results, although he’s quick to mention Fruit Ninja was a team effort with his Halfbrick comrades. How’s business in Brisbane? Business is pretty interesting right now. Sadly, a lot of people in the games industry have lost jobs in the past few years as a result of major studios either shutting up shop or downsizing. On the flip side, we now have all these little indie upstarts sprouting up around the place, and a lot of them doing some really great and interesting stuff! When an indie like us becomes successful on a worldwide scale, it’s great news for the industry and is really promising. What makes Brisbane unique? For me, it’s really the lifestyle and vibe of the place. I love that I can wear thongs and board shorts to work everyday. Even in winter! What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? I’m seeing more and more talented
youth getting involved and becoming employed in very exciting jobs. It’s a testament to the idea that if you work hard and have the right attitude, you can definitely become successful. We have some young members of staff at Halfbrick who have the right mindset and skill beyond their years, so it’s great to give them more opportunities. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016 I hope that, by 2016, Brisbane will have really cut away and started to form its own identity. Sometimes it feels a lot like Brisbane is ‘borrowing’ all these aspects of other cities, rather than striking out and doing something unique. Brisbane will have a personality all of its own, and when the success of home-grown companies and leaders begins to take charge we will see some really exciting changes.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience Draining in the Darkie. Suburb Indooroopilly. Restaurant Cha Cha Char. Cafe Fatboy's Cafe. Bar Good Knight Bar. Escape Driving in and around the city, with little traffic. Weekend Activity Moffat Beach, Caloundra. Picnic Spot Mt Coot-tha. Retailer Woolworths. Landmarks Creepy nun mannequin. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? As someone who does a lot of driving in Brisbane, I’m pretty pumped about all the new road projects being finished soon. A liveable city means a successful city. Also, Halfbrick is one of the most exciting things going for any creative studio. We’re really happy to be a leader in that space.
news business
King george square Brisbane’s King George Square (KGS), the front yard to Brisbane City Hall that is bordered by Adelaide and Ann Streets, has undergone a multi-milliondollar redevelopment. The redevelopment was designed by UrbisJHD, who envisaged the square as the city’s premier civic destination, integrating a major transport interchange with a world-class public space. KGS now incorporates the entrances to the busway underneath and also a new deck and an amphitheatre. The deck is designed to serve as both a viewing platform and a shaded recreation area, as well as housing a cafe, and the amphitheatre provides a vantage point for viewing public events and overlooking the square. A great addition to the heart of Brisbane’s bustling city!
waterloo HOTEL The first stage of Watpac Property’s vision for the historic art deco-style Waterloo Hotel and precinct has been brought to reality with the help of Cottee Parker Architects. The first of four stages comprises a six-storey sustainable commercial building and the refurbished Waterloo Hotel, which offers bar and restaurant facilities on the ground floor, and corporate suites on the upper level. The master-planned development site will consist of four high-quality commercial buildings that will incorporate both retail and dining spaces as well as a ‘green heart’ of public open space that will become an important part of the council’s green web strategy. Watpac’s strategy was to not only to preserve this iconic building, but to breathe new life into it. 32
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TechnologyOne A software business that harnesses the best of what Brisbane has to offer, TechnologyOne started 20 years ago working from a demountable, dreaming of rivalling multinational companies. Fast forward and its founder Adrian Di Marco was recently presented with the 2009 Lord Mayor’s Business Person of the Year Award. The publicly listed software company – which has offices across Australia, New Zealand, the UK, Asia and the Pacific Rim – is consolidating all of its Brisbane offices into an international headquarters in the heart of Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley.
Go Between Bridge Named after the influential band from Brisbane, The Go-Betweens, as well as the reference to cross-river connections, the Go Between Bridge now spans the banks of the Brisbane River. It increases accessibility to and from some of Brisbane’s most popular recreational, cultural, educational and residential precincts including South Bank, West End, Caxton Street and Park Road. Now motorists, pedestrians and cyclists can benefit from reduced cross-river delays and the future growth of the city’s riverside precincts.
Boardwalk redevelopment South Bank’s new riverfront park and dining precinct will be the most significant design change to the parklands in more than a decade. It will provide the Brisbane community with an exciting new public space incorporating 70 metres of river frontage and six new contemporary dining experiences in a light and airy pavilion-like design. Set in an expertly sculpted landscape, South Bank has conjured a sinuously sleek structure evocative of the adjoining river. 33
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business macarthur coal INTERVIEW BY FRANCES FRANGENHEIM
nicole hollows Nicole Hollows has been making waves in the mining industry for many years without trying. In 2006, she was just 35 when promoted to Acting Chief Executive Officer of Queensland-based coal mining company Macarthur Coal. By 36, she was in the hot seat as Chief Executive Officer and then Managing Director, making her the most senior female executive in the male-dominated mining industry and one of the first female CEOs in the mining industry worldwide. She is also the first female president of the Queensland Resources Council and was named a Rising Star as part of the Veuve Clicquot Businesswoman of the Year Awards in 2009, an award never before made outside France. In the early phase of her career, Nicole shrugged off any suggestion she was a rolemodel for young professionals, and more specifically for women in business – in her view, she was just doing her job. But these days, with responsibility for the publicly listed company with annual revenue of $400 million and half-yearly profits of more than $160 million, she knows she has a responsibility to not just manage but also lead. Of the rolemodel tag, Nicole says, “To begin with I used to get that comment and it made me uncomfortable … But now I understand what I can say and how can I help people to show how it can be done. I can share that if you want to progress and work hard, there’s a good probability that you can 34
succeed.” Nicole admits her constant challenge with such a big team (she has 270 staff and more than 320 contractors reporting to her), is to learn the fine art of managing and leading extremely well. Nicole wasn’t always set on a career in the mining industry. She explains she was good with numbers at school and considered being a lawyer for a while. “But I ended up doing a business degree with accounting, basically because with that degree you could work in any industry ... I became a chartered accountant and then I decided to try something different.” Nicole started her career in 1992 with small Brisbane-based chartered accountancy practice, Ham and Partners, and progressed to Associate level. In 1998 she considered changing industries and asked Dennis Wood of Macarthur Coal if he would write her a reference. Instead, Dennis offered her a job working on the new Coppabella coalmine project as company secretary. Nicole says she didn’t know if it was the right path for her, “… but I always thought I could go back to chartered accounting if I didn’t like it. You never know if you never try. I’m not scared of change. My dad was in the army so change doesn’t affect me the same way it might others; I’m happy to give something a try and see what happens.” What happened was that Nicole swiftly moved her way up the company ladder. She soon became chief financial officer and worked on development, expansion and finance of Macarthur Coal’s two operating mines – Coppabella and Moorvale. At the same time she developed her management skills and strategic knowledge. A 10-week residential stint at Harvard Business School in 2001 opened her eyes to the tricky world of management issues. By 2006 she was acting chief executive to CEO and founder Ken Talbot and then moved up to the CEO role in January 2007, when Ken stepped aside as a director. Ken was tragically killed in July 2010 in a plane accident. At the time of his passing, Nicole hailed her mentor as a pioneer of the mining industry who was not afraid to take risks to reach his goals. She said: “He took calculated risks and he looked at things in a different way, and he was prepared to do that and I think the industry will miss that.” Over the years Nicole learned many golden rules of business from Ken and from others. The most important
nicole hollows business
is to enjoy what you do, “… because ultimately you will be better at it,” Nicole says. “And don’t pick up things more than twice. For example, with an email, scan what it is but then action it the second time you pick it up. Otherwise that’s where you get into procrastination. And I think honesty is the best policy.” When it comes to remaining motivated through the constant challenges her role throws at her, Nicole says she finds it helps to look at every day as a new day. “You have to be an optimist,” Nicole laughs, accepting it’s harder than it sounds. “You can get down in the dumps and frustrated and find it’s all too hard but then next day comes. It also helps to think, ‘How can I add value?’. When you can add value and see the improvements for change, that really helps.” Nicole says Brisbane is a good base for Macarthur Coal as Asia is the growth region. Nicole also flies around the world for business, which is not a chore because she loves to travel. For pleasure, she holidays with her family once per year abroad. “I like to go to new places to experience new cultures. So every year we go on an overseas holiday; this year we went to Peru and last week we went to Fiji for one week.” To take time out, she loves nothing better than spending time with her family and losing herself in a good book. “My favourite authors are writers like James Patterson and Michael Connolly; I love thrillers and crime-type novels.” Asked what she still wants to achieve with her career, Nicole loyally notes she wants to continue to see Macarthur Coal reach its production goals. “And I also want to be recognised as a good leader. I’m getting executive coaching in this area because you have to know how you affect others. As I said, leadership is very different to management – you can be a good manager but not an effective leader and vice versa. You have to get the balance right.”
How’s business in Brisbane? Business is improving compared
to this time last year. With so many resource companies based in Brisbane we are seeing the evidence of the improvement in global markets and the flow-on effect that has for local businesses. In my travels overseas I get to see first-hand how other countries have suffered through the recent financial crisis and it reminds me how lucky we are to live in Australia. What makes Brisbane unique? Brisbane is a rare combination of liveability and opportunity. The lifestyle here is certainly a major selling point in attracting great people from across Australia and overseas. Add to that the perfect weather, friendly people and its access to destinations such as Moreton Bay and Islands and I think you would be hard pressed to find a better place to live anywhere. We are also only a short plane trip from the Great Barrier Reef and also Sydney and Melbourne. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you?
It would have to be the extended shopping hours. It is a well-recorded fact that Australians work longer hours than many other developed countries. Getting to the shops before 5:00 pm is a major challenge for many families – my own included. Brisbane has also become more cosmopolitan with an increase in the number of restaurants and coffee shops that have great food and are also open a lot later. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? The amount of infrastructure is really changing the way we get around Brisbane. The tunnels and the recently opened Go Between Bridge are reinventing the ways we get around the city. Good infrastructure is critical to maintain our liveability. The Clem7 Tunnel makes travelling to the airport a lot easier.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience Feeding the dolphins at Tangalooma. Suburb East Brisbane. Restaurant Alchemy Restaurant and Bar. Cafe Era Bistro. Bar II Centro Restaurant and Bar. Escape Stradbroke Island. Weekend Activity Quality time with family. Picnic Spot New Farm Park. Retailer Carla Zampatti. Landmarks Cultural Centre. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016? Brisbane is already a diverse global city – the only change I see is that our inner city will become more populated and we become even more culturally diverse. To meet the increased population we need to continue to address infrastructure and improve public-transport systems.
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business the pyjama foundation INTERVIEW BY KATHRYN LINDGREN
bronwyn sheehan Who do you picture when hearing a person described as a ‘provider of angELS’, ‘supporter of heroes’ and ‘carer for our community’s children in need’? Well, aside from the theological icons that many look up to, Bronwyn Sheehan, Founder and Executive Director of The Pyjama Foundation, fits this admirable picture. As a former nurse and midwife, Bronwyn was inspired by the work of foster carers. She was alarmed at the statistics highlighting the poor literacy levels of children in foster care and was determined to find a way to address this issue. This was the beginning of The Pyjama Foundation and, five years on, it is now a quintessential Australian children’s charity providing modern-day angels to Australia’s families supporting our most vulnerable children. Bronwyn saw that a literacy-based mentoring program, which recruits, screens, trains and supports Pyjama Angels was an important way of addressing the literacy statistics of children in foster care. After all, what child doesn’t need one-on-one focus that makes them feel special and develops their confidence and self-belief and provides them with a positive rolemodel? All children should have this opportunity! Pyjama Angels, The Pyjama Foundation volunteers, are matched with a child in care and visit them once a week for an hour, to read books aloud, play educational games and help them with their homework. With a goal that every child in foster care is read 1,000 books, Bronwyn is well on her way to achieving her vision of equal opportunities, knowledge and empowerment for all children. From its humble beginnings in Brisbane, The Pyjama 36
Foundation has expanded to Bundaberg, Cairns, Gold Coast, Ipswich, the Sunshine Coast and Toowoomba and this year will see further expansion in Queensland and a launch into New South Wales. Backed by literacy experts such as authors Bruce Courtenay and Mem Fox, acquiring corporate and government support, as well as inspiring a large team of community volunteers has won Bronwyn a number of esteemed awards such as 2009 Queensland Australian of the Year and 2008 National Finalist of the IBM Community and Government category of the Telstra Business Women’s Awards. Bronwyn cites Australia’s foster families as our true unsung heroes, who open their homes and hearts to our communities’ most vulnerable children. But here’s to the woman who supports them in their quest, creating positive, life-long change to children in need and bringing reality to the thought ‘every child needs an angel’! How’s business in Brisbane? Business in Brisbane is fantastic for The Pyjama Foundation. We are constantly inundated with dedicated volunteers who want to read books aloud to kids in care. Our national profile is growing and the media and exposure opportunities are exciting and always growing. There are lots of activities in all areas of our business. What makes Brisbane unique? Brisbane has the best people, our lifestyle is casual and laid-back and our weather is fabulous – blue skies and lots of sunshine. This results in a wonderful place to live and work. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive affect on you? Our outdoor cafe scene just keeps getting better
and better. There are now a lot of varied places to wine and dine, from city to beach to mountains. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016 A dynamic and interesting place to live, with a great increase of international businesses operating out of our CBD. Brisbane is Australia’s best-kept secret and the rest of the world will catch on to this by 2016. Our roads will be flowing freely and our population will be more multicultural.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience Fish and Chips at Scarborough. Suburb New Farm. Restaurant Restaurant Two. Cafe Caddy Shack Cafe & Bar, Victoria Park Golf Complex. Bar Byblos Bar & Restaurant. Escape Camping in the bush or beach. Weekend Activity Watching my children play sport. Picnic Spot New Farm Park. Retailer Chermside Shopping Centre. Landmarks South Bank Lifestyle Markets. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? Powderfinger’s final concerts: ‘Sunset – The Farewell Tour’. A great Brisbane band.
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science xerocoat INTERVIEW BY Frances Frangenheim
professor paul meredith PROFESSOR Paul Meredith has come a long way since his days of making chemical shampoo products in the 1990s. These days the Brisbane-based physicist is using his knowledge, creativity and passion to work towards a cleaner, more sustainable environment for future generations. Paul’s current focus is to find cleaner, cheaper and safer ways of generating electricity. Drawing on Paul’s leading work in the area of solar power technology, Premier Anna Bligh recently appointed him to the Climate Change Council. He joins 11 other prominent science, business and industry leaders from across the country who are tasked with providing expert advice to the Queensland Government on how to best meet the climate change challenge. Today, Paul calls Brisbane home, although he has lived and studied all over the world. Paul moved to Brisbane in 2001 and joined the University of Queensland Physics faculty because, he says, if you want to work with solar power you go where there is sunshine. In 2005 he won $80,000 in research funds as part of the prestigious UQ Foundation Research Excellence Award. He was recognised for his leading work in learning about bio-organic polymers that conduct electricity. Paul and his team focused their study on melanin, a pigment in humans that colours hair, skin and is also found in squid ink. Their studies revealed that melanin, in its purest form as a black, odourless powder, conducts electricity and can also be made to generate electricity from sunlight. In 2008, Paul took a one-year career break from UQ to dedicate his time to XeroCoat, the start-up company he had co-founded with fellow scientist Michael Harvey in 2005. The main inspiration 38
behind launching XeroCoat was to take what he was doing in the lab and apply it practically so he could see his products make a difference in the real world. XeroCoat’s mission is to make solar energy a sustainable and renewable energy choice today and into the future. The company’s core technology is a revolutionary, award-winning one. That is, anti-reflective coatings for solar energy systems. Anti-reflecting coating is so groundbreaking because it makes solar power more affordable and effective. It works by reducing the sun’s reflections off solar cells; and the less sun that is reflected off a solar cell, the more sunlight that can be absorbed and generated into electricity. Among many achievements, this year’s major coup is a partnership with global technology company Hitachi to distribute XeroCoat’s anti-reflecting coating solutions in Japan and China How’s business in Brisbane? Brisbane is the capital of an emerging ‘energy-rich’ state and is the home and centre of the existing traditional resource industries. On top of that, Brisbane has the potential to be the capital of the new green energy economy. What makes Brisbane Unique? Our state has everything when it comes to energy – all the renewables (particularly solar energy), coal, uranium, gas – and Brisbane is the epicentre. We are also uniquely positioned in the Asian context and have been doing business with Japan, China and Korea for many years. Asia is the focus of the new green-energy revolution. what change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? It’s very simple – Queensland has realised the potential
of solar and other renewable energy technologies. The time has come to lead rather than follow. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? Our mega solar project at the University of Queensland. We are building Australia’s largest flatpanel photovoltaic array. The array will provide approximately 5–6 percent of the campus’ peak power load and will save approximately 1,750 metric tonnes of CO2 per annum.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience Beach camping at Moreton Island . Suburb All of them. Restaurant Pier Nine. Cafe Wordsmiths Cafe. Bar Regatta Hotel. Escape Stradbroke Island. Weekend Activity Beach. Picnic Spot Mount Glorious. Landmarks Newstead House. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016 I’m flying in over Brisbane airport and everywhere I look the city is sparkling with energy-producing solar panels. So I see Brisbane continuing to sparkle!
hoodlum business INTERVIEW BY Frances Frangenheim
tracey robertson Brisbane entrepreneurs Tracey Robertson and Nathan Mayfield clearly aren’t afraid of starting a company from scratch, even if it involves helping to build the technology and write the road map for an entire industry. When they decided to launch their own film and television production business, Hoodlum, in 1999, they knew it needed a point of difference to carve a niche for itself in a crowded industry. With backgrounds in television and filmmaking and an all-consuming commitment to keep audiences at the heart of their storytelling, they decided to interweave this knowledge and passion with the new online playing field. It was the early days of the internet but they saw its astounding potential. Hoodlum was one of the first in the world to take the plunge to become a multiplatform production company and, little did they know, they would grow to become a world leader. In 2003 they created Fat Cow Motel, a 13-week Australian television drama that led users into an alternative reality game of mischief, gossip and intrigue. It was their first foray into cross-platform storytelling – linking television, broadband and mobile media to entertain audiences and invite them to be part of the story. Clues to weekly mysteries were hidden in the television episodes and bonus content was delivered across multiple sites and via email and SMS. Fat Cow Motel’s success was immense – attracting more than 80,000 registered users over 13 weeks. Hoodlum has since taken on major projects around the globe, building huge global audiences for each of its clients; projects include the US ABC’s Lost, Yahoo 7!, the BBC spy drama Spooks, and UK ITV’s long-running primetime soap, Emmerdale. It may have been a daring move to jump into
the cross-platform market when no technology or road map existed to support them but Tracey says all obstacles were expertly hurdled thanks to a gifted team of filmmakers, game designers, writers and developers. “They amaze me,” Tracey gushes about her team, currently numbering 25. The key is that everyone works together intelligently and intuitively to create compelling stories with dimensional characters that move, amuse and inspire. Of why their projects enjoy such impressive followings, Tracey explains: “Nathan’s and my philosophy is that the audience is at the centre of everything we do. Audiences have the ability to say what they want now so that was something we took on for our very first project, and kept with us. We want to have a conversation not a one-way delivery mechanism, which is the way of television.” What makes Brisbane unique? For an entertainment company working in Brisbane we get the best of both worlds – we get to work with big international clients and deliver exciting world-class projects, but do so in a relaxed friendly city that also happens to have great weather. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? Where once people and business departed Brisbane to pursue creative industries, more companies like Hoodlum are staying in Brisbane and doing very well. As a result, our interstate counterparts have had to rethink their attitudes towards Brisbane – which is very refreshing. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? At Hoodlum we are very excited to be going into production on a 10-episode multiplatform drama series called Slide, for Foxtel, to be broadcast on Fox 8, set in and heavily featuring the Brisbane we know and love. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016 I imagine a Brisbane that is a very thriving city and an exciting place to live while still maintaining the friendliness, space and safety. What really impresses me is the sense of pride that young people have in this city, which means by 2016 the optimism and achievement will be endless.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience ‘Unnerved’ at GoMA. Suburb Paddington. Restaurant Grappino Trattoria. Cafe Desmond and Molly Jones. Bar The Bowery. Escape Stradbroke Island. Weekend Activity My family. Picnic Spot Beach at Stradbroke Island. Retailer Scanlan & Theodore. Landmarks The view from Bowen Terrace across the Story Bridge to the city. How’s business in Brisbane? Business in Brisbane is great. Even though the majority of our clients are based overseas or interstate, there is vibrant creative energy in Brisbane and we have attracted and grown some great creative talent here.
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science university of queensland INTERVIEW BY Frances Frangenheim
dr tamara davis You wouldn’t expect a fresh-faced, young go-getter like dr tamara davis to spend her days chasing dark energy. it all sounds a bit sinister but for this award-winning university of queensland astrophysicist, ‘dark energy’ is a most enlightening subject. So what is it exactly? Well, that’s what Tamara is trying to find out! Last year, Tamara was recognised for her brilliant work as an astrophysicist, scooping the $20,000 L’Oréal Australia For Women in Science Fellowship. She promptly committed the funds to pulling together a small international team of top scientists. Together, these masterminds are trying to measure previously unexplored properties of dark matter and dark energy. On her website, Tamara ponders the riddle that is dark energy: “Now we know that stars, planets, galaxies and all that we can see makes up just four percent of the Universe. About 23 percent is dark matter. The balance is thought to be dark energy, which we know very little about.” Her tireless research requires her to travel the world, peering through massive telescopes and measuring the pace of supernovas. She recently returned from a two-year stint in Copenhagen where she worked as an associate professor at the Dark Cosmology Centre. It’s a tough job but Tamara is clearly happy to do it. Tamara’s gusto for learning seems endless and harks back to her tertiary days where she completed not one but two Bachelors (in philosophy and science) and completed a PhD in astrophysics, all from the University of New South Wales. Her thesis title is enough to impress even the most ardent academics: Fundamental Aspects of the Expansion of the Universe and Cosmic Horizons. With all this behind her and a thirst to learn 40
more, it’s no wonder, then, that she’s collaborated with some of the world’s greatest scientists, including 2006 Nobel Laureate George Smoot. She is also credited with major international research milestones in the field of astrophysics, including being part of the Australian team ‘WiggleZ’, which made the largest ever three-dimensional map of the distribution of galaxies in the Universe in order to test new cosmological theories that explain dark energy. When Tamara isn’t travelling the world and solving cosmic puzzles, she is whizzing around Brisbane on her bike, saving the planet – one exhaust fume at a time. Cycling is a mode of transport she fell in love with while living in Copenhagen, where more than 55 percent of residents ride bikes and approximately 150,000 people cycle daily. How’s business in Brisbane? Astrophysics in Brisbane is flourishing. It is an exciting time to be doing astrophysics in Australia with the government investing heavily in infrastructure (buoyed, no doubt, by the invention of wireless internet technology by Australian astrophysicists). What makes Brisbane Unique? Every city is unique, which is something they all have in common! The things that make Brisbane so special in my opinion are the beautiful weather, the outdoor lifestyle, the ease of getting around, the market culture, the hikes, climbing, and bushwalks in and around the city, and the beautiful beaches on our doorstep. what change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? Brisbane’s biking culture is wonderful, but over the two years since I moved here the improved bike paths, and bridges over both roads and the river, have made a really positive impact on the biking experience. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016 We’re a world city, with a perspective that is growing beyond our own provincial concerns. We’ve played a leading role in Australia setting emissions targets and have an aggressive plan for clean-energy production and reducing our energy use.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience West End Markets. Suburb West End. Restaurant Three Monkeys. Cafe Genies. Bar Lock ‘n’ Load. Escape The Glass House Mountains. Weekend Activity Beach trip. Picnic Spot Orleigh Park. Retailer Bent Books. Landmarks Kangaroo Point Cliffs. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? The Halibut, a National Ultimate Frisbee tournament that happens in Brisbane every year. It’s a team sport played with a Frisbee, on a rugby pitch, seven-a-side, and teams are flying in from all over Australia to play. The Ultimate Frisbee crowd here in Brisbane is one of the things that make the place so special for me.
brisbane lions sport INTERVIEW BY Frances Frangenheim PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVEN RIPPER AND JUST PHOTOGRAPHY
todd banfield Todd Banfield is 20 years old, 182 centimetres tall and 75 kiloGRAMs in weight. As a professional AFL player for the Brisbane Lions, he’s used to his body specs being public knowledge. He grew up in Western Australia and his earliest football memories are of playing in his front yard. He spent most of his junior football days darting round a local Perth oval as part of the Swan Districts team. Tagged a ‘speed demon’ and with flaming red hair to hurry him along, Todd recorded a zippy 2.87 second run over 20 metres at a state screening session in Western Australia in 2008, the same year he was drafted to play for the Brisbane Lions’ reserve side. When he heard the exciting news, Todd’s first phone call was to two of his biggest supporters, his nan and pop. The Lions note Todd was recruited for being a quick and aggressive mediumsized midfielder who has the ability to win the ball at contested situations. Basically, that translates to a kid who can dig deep when it’s needed most. Todd arrived at the Lions reserve side at the same time as his friend and fellow West Australian, Daniel Rich. Rich quickly proved himself and became an integral part of the Lions’ side, winning the 2009 Rising Star Award. Todd used Rich’s form as inspiration and patiently worked away at building his own form. However in 2009, Todd’s impressive pre-season form was halted when he broke his hand, which put him on the sideline for the club’s entire NAB Cup campaign. He trained hard and fought back to make the Lions selection
in early 2010. He impressed senior coach Michael Voss, who commented on his selection for the big league: “His form was just too good to ignore. It was the perfect example of what coaches always tell players – they have to force themselves to be picked. And that’s exactly what Todd did.” As a Lion ‘cub’, Todd enjoyed a sterling start to his professional career in early 2010, booting two goals on debut in the Lions’ win against the West Coast Eagles – the team he supported as a young boy. Assistant coach Jade Rawling describes Todd as a player “who uses his speed and doesn’t get overawed … ”. Regarded as an exciting new prospect, Todd won himself an AFL Rising Star nomination in May 2010 for his impressive on-field antics (including three goals) against the Sydney Swans. How’s sport in Brisbane? Sport is huge in Brisbane, but one thing I have definitely noticed – particularly after coming over here from Perth – is that AFL certainly takes a back seat to Rugby League, which is just massive over here. People in Brisbane are passionate about their sporting teams – whether it is the Lions, Broncos, Reds, Roar, Bulls or Firebirds. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? I have only lived here for around 18 months so
I haven’t really experienced a heap of changes, but I guess there has been a bit happening with Brisbane’s infrastructure recently with the Clem7 Tunnel and the new Gateway motorway. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? I’m probably a bit biased, but I reckon footy at The Gabba. Having experienced a full Gabba crowd for the first time this year, I can honestly say that there’s no atmosphere like it. Also, there’s only a couple of months left of the AFL season and everyone’s trying their best to make the finals. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016 Again, I’ve been here for less than two years so it’s hard to make that call. I would imagine that there would be a fair population growth as more people want to move here.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience Footy at The Gabba. Suburb Morningside. Restaurant The Summit, Mount Coot-tha. Cafe Jennifer’s Catering. Bar Oxford 152. Escape Noosa. Weekend Activity Playing footy. Picnic Spot Botanical Gardens. Retailer Fuel on Oxford Street. Landmarks South Bank. What makes Brisbane unique? It’s a river city that is located in between two of Australia’s most famous coasts. I also think it offers a really laidback type of lifestyle, which I really enjoy. One of the other unique parts of Brisbane is its architecture. I’m a huge fan of those Queenslander houses that are built on sticks.
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photograph courtesy of the artist and milani gallery
news arts
VERNON AH KEE Vernon Ah Kee is an indigenous artist who explores Australian indigenous and non-indigenous culture in contemporary society. Vernon Ah Kee’s dedication and achievement as a practising artist were recognised through his selection as one of Australia’s representatives at the 2009 Venice Biennale, as well as being awarded the Premier’s Special Award in the 2009 Export Awards. Vernon is represented by Milani Gallery in Fortitude Valley.
BRISBANE SOUNDS Brisbane Sounds is your gateway to getting excited and passionate about live, original music from Brisbane. Brisbane Sounds produces an annual compilation album of Brisbane artists to promote Brisbane as a music city. The latest album, Brisbane Sounds 2010, features sounds from the likes of Hungry Kids of Hungary, Asa Broomhall and Giants of Science and is available from Brisbane’s Rockinghorse records and Kill the Music.
BCEC’s PLAZA GALLERY In a move that promises to cause much interest, Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC) has established the first permanent art space in an Australian convention centre – a brand-new, purpose-built gallery, which boasts major works by some of Australia’s most significant artists. The Plaza Gallery has been created to showcase major works from the centre’s museum-quality collection of indigenous and contemporary Australian art.
brisbane writers festIVAL Brisbane Writers Festival 2010 is so much more than the name suggests … It is an opportunity for people who love reading to come together, to listen to their favourite authors speak, receive feedback on their own work, to make new discoveries, as well as share their own thoughts and connections to the stories. The program includes 29 outstanding international writers, and is full to bursting this year, alongside a terrific line up of much-loved nationals and locals. Meet solo sailing sensation Jessica Watson, find your tribe with Rebecca Sparrow, or swap a book with Anita Heiss at the Indigenous Literacy Day Great Book Swap. Whichever way, nurture and support local talent this year’s Brisbane Writers Festival. 42
CIRCA Ever wanted to run away and join the circus? Well you’re never to young or too old to try. Circa’s training centre in the Judith Wright Centre combines physical skills with a poetic sensibility, exploring utterly new ways of experiencing the awe-inspiring world of circus. From tiny tumblers to those with an energy boost, learn tricks like trampolining, acrobatics, aerials, juggling and tumbling, trapeze and cloudswing. It’s an interactive learning experience for the little ones building skills through movement, listening, balance, coordination, memory, creativity and storytelling. All you need, kids, is to ‘bring your own grown-up!’
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arts brisbane festival INTERVIEW BY MIKKI BRAMMER
noel staunton The excited hush of an audience before a live performance, murmuring in anticipation as the orchestra begins to tune and the lights dim slowly to a mysterious glow, creates an energy that cannot be fabricated. The same can be said for the brief pause at the end of a performance, as the audience crashes back to reality after being utterly mesmerised by the activity on stage. As a performer, director, producer or musician, these two moments are like gold. Noel Staunton has built a career out of helping to create such moments. First it was with the Kent Opera, then as technical director for the English National Opera, before doing the same for Opera Australia. Then it was the five years spent as executive director of Bazmark Live, the company of maestro Baz Luhrmann, where Noel worked on several live events, including the Moulin Rouge premieres in Cannes, Sydney and New York, as well as Baz’s production of La Boheme in the United States. Most recently, he has completed a celebrated tenure as executive director of Sydney Dance Company, where he helped steer the collective through the emotional storm that followed the unexpected passing of their young artistic director, Tanja Liedtke. And as he now begins his journey as artistic director of Brisbane Festival 2010, a familiar excited hush is spreading across the city in anticipation of what he has in store for our festival. But while his 30 years in the industry make him a veritable entertainment veteran, Noel had not always dreamed of a career in the arts. Growing up in Ireland, Noel was gearing up for a career in electrical engineering, fuelled by his penchant 44
for gadgets and all things technical. A savvy school counsellor suggested that the young lad channel such interest into a career in the performing arts. While his parents took some convincing, Noel had soon enrolled to study stage management at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts. “My parents appreciated all things Irish – the Irish poets and playwrights – and they loved music, so I suppose they did sow the seeds that would be the foundations of the path that I chose,” Noel says. “They weren’t, however, familiar with the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts and it was a big deal to let their son move to London. Some family friends who were involved in the theatre convinced them to let me go. It was a lifechanging event for a boy who had never been out of Ireland.” Noel remembers with great clarity the first moment that he knew he was destined for a path of creativity. “From the time I saw Don Giovanni on television when I was a young child, I was enchanted,” he says. “It was an Italian production with baroque scenery and in my child’s eye it all seemed very magical.” Now, having helped create some of the most memorable theatrical moments in the Australian arts industry, Noel offers his thoughts on what helps to create such golden moments in a festival. “I think a festival has to connect with the people,” he muses. “It has to operate on a number of levels, to offer pure entertainment as well as providing access to more challenging pieces that audiences might not otherwise have the opportunity to see. I think a festival should also cater to everyone in the community on a financial level as well, so it’s important to have a good balance of free and ticketed events. For example, we are staging The Marriage of Figaro, conducted by Nicholas Braithwaite and performed by Douglas McNicol and Gaynor Martin, for free. These are major stars and there are so many wonderful artists coming to Brisbane for the festival. I think what I am most looking forward to is seeing the people of Brisbane enjoy what the festival has to offer.” When asked to name his own most memorable experience ever as an audience member, again he turns to opera. “It was going to the opening night of Othello starring Placido Domingo and Marvin Price, conducted by Carlos Kleiber,” he says. As for his personal highlights of Brisbane Festival 2010, Noel cites exciting latino
brisbane festival arts
modern dance troupe, Danza Contemporanea de Cuba, as well as seeing Paul White dance in The Oracle, and Marcus Graham perform as Macbeth in the outdoor QUT Festival Theatre. He’s also looking forward to the highly anticipated retrospective of Hollywood photographer Douglas Kirkland, who has photographed virtually every celebrity for the past four decades, including Marilyn Monroe, Andy Warhol, Elizabeth Taylor and Michael Jackson. When asked if he considers himself a success, Noel responds with characteristic humility. “Success to me is working in a team to create a meaningful and valuable artistic experience that engages with the audience. I enjoy what I do enormously and I’m very lucky to have lots of good friends. If that is success, then I am successful,” he says. “I love the arts and I love working with artists. I enjoy working with them to see their ideas come to fruition and then to see the response from audiences.” When it comes to people who inspire him, Noel looks to his close friends. “People inspire me – for many reasons,” he shares. “For creativity, for expression, for compassion and empathy, for humour.” The five people with whom he would most like to share a bottle of wine with are an eclectic bunch, their varying backgrounds and life philosophies proving that Noel certainly knows the ingredients of a good evening’s entertainment. After all, who wouldn’t want to be a fly on the wall at a dinner table filled by the likes of Richard Wagner, Catherine Martin, Sergei Diaghilev, Oscar Wilde and Julia Gillard? And finally, as for the one piece of advice he would offer to the world, it is clearly the mark of a man who thoroughly enjoys what he does. “Follow your passion and you’ll never work a day in your life.” How’s business in Brisbane? This year’s Brisbane Festival is shaping up to be one of the most exciting to date. For the month of September, local, national and international performances will descend on Brisbane in a festival of theatre,
dance, opera, music, conversations and visual arts. Brisbane Festival has something for everyone. There are a variety of free community events ranging from a travelling roadshow called Are We There Yet?, which plays in nine parks across Brisbane during the festival, to a major retrospective of work from esteemed Hollywood photographer Douglas Kirkland, showcasing at GoMA. For theatre lovers, during September the Brisbane Powerhouse will be home to a purpose-built outdoor theatre that will feature performances from Casey Donovan, tap sensations Raw Dance, new creations from world-class circus act Circa, and a magnetic production of Shakespeare’s most famous play, Macbeth, starring Marcus Graham and Helen Christinson. In short, business is pretty brilliant. What makes Brisbane unique? Where do I start? For one, the weather is spectacular. Where else in the world can you enjoy theatre in the balmy outdoors in September? And the people? They’re friendly and welcoming. I spend much of my time travelling and still find Brisbane people to be among the warmest in the world. Must be something to do with the weather. It’s been a joy collaborating with the arts community and organisations. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? The burgeoning arts scene is certainly helping
the festival continue to grow and flourish. Brisbane is full of opportunity and the festival is poised to carve out its own distinct niche on the nation’s cultural calendar. I’m proud that we will present five world-premiere productions in 2010, seven Queensland premieres and ten Australian premieres. Without support from the Brisbane community, this would not be possible. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016 That the people of Brisbane will recognise September as ‘festival month’, a time when the city becomes a hub of arts, fun and frivolity.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience CityCat. Suburb West End. Restaurant Libertine. Cafe The Gunshop Cafe. Bar So many! Escape Going to the movies. Weekend Activity Listening to music. Picnic Spot New Farm Park. Retailer Who has time? Landmarks The Kurilpa Bridge. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? Preparing the city for Brisbane Festival, of course. Rehearsals, construction and planning the final touches of the festival are happening all over the city as we speak.
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arts australian national academy of music INTERVIEW BY Frances Frangenheim
paul dean Clarinettist and composer paul dean is living proof there’s no easy way to the top. he has earned his stripes in the music industry through years of relentless training and performing – no doubt involving plenty of blood, sweat and tears. Since graduating from the Queensland Conservatorium of Music in the 1980s with a Medal of Excellence, Paul has performed as a soloist, recitalist and chamber musician in Australia and around the globe. He dazzled in the daunting role of principal clarinettist for the Queensland Symphony Orchestra for more than 10 years until 2000. He is clearly not one to rest on his laurels and continually leaps at new challenges while remaining loyal to long-held collaborations. His current roles also demand he be a creative visionary. Mid-way through 2010 he took over from his internationally renowned composer brother Brett Dean as artistic director of the Australian National Academy of Music (ANAM). This means Paul is responsible for ensuring a whole generation of young Australian musicians reach their artistic potential – no simple task. He oversees a program that attracts some of the world’s greatest musical minds as teachers and visiting artists, including Aussie pianist and composer Paul Grabowsky and Swiss viola player Jurg Dahler – one of Europe’s shining lights of chamber music. ANAM also provides a platform for young guns like resident Melburnian composer Anthony Pateras who, at age 31, is taking chamber music to exciting new places across piano and analog electronics, contributing to different art forms from music to film. Paul is also director of the Southern Cross Soloists, an independent group of professional musicians who 46
perform, conduct, teach and record. They team up with renowned guest musicians in Australia and also embark on international tours every two years, so far to the United States, New Zealand, Canada, South Korea and China. And then, of course, there’s Paul’s gig as artistic director of Bangalow Music Festival, which is an intimate annual affair with chamber concerts in the local town hall and a children’s program to get young ones giddy on music from a young age. It’s held over a weekend, usually in August, and entices music lovers from all over the world. Paul also makes time to live and breathe his love for the clarinet in a three-piece outfit with his brother Brett and pianist Stephen Emmerson in a trio called Dean Emmerson Dean. How’s business in Brisbane? Business for the Southern Cross Soloists is booming both within Brisbane and throughout the rest of Australia. The 15 years hard work by all the players and admin staff is really starting to pay off for us. It is a great feeling to be able to export the talents of Queensland musicians throughout the rest of Australia and overseas. What change has occurred in
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience CityCat ride. Suburb Ashgrove. Restaurant Haveli Indian Restaurant. Cafe Era Bistro. Bar CBD Cafe Bar Rydges. Escape Camping in Wooli, New South Wales. Weekend Activity Kids sport and exercise. Picnic Spot Mount Glorious. Retailer Riverbend Books. Landmarks The Kurilpa Bridge.
Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you?
Brisbane has become a centre of small ensembles, in all forms of music. And from pop/rock groups through to classical chamber ensembles we are proving that there is so much talent here and also that we have a unique voice. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? I think the quality of our theatre companies is electric at the moment. I regularly take the family to see Queensland Theatre Company or La Boite productions. I am always incredibly impressed by both the quality of the programming and the productions. It is so alive, fresh and, above all, ‘new’. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016 The Brisbane I would like to see in 2016 is one in which new arts can exist side by side with the old without demarcation and discrimination. We must stop programming like museums and forge a new intelligent path where audiences can experience music of their own time without prejudice.
What makes Brisbane unique? Definitely the weather! And in many ways Brisbane has managed to retain enough of its provincial town charm, whilst having all the amenities of a big city.
australian story arts INTERVIEW BY mikki brammer
deborah fleming The art of storytelling has existed since the beginning of human civilisation. Through storytelling we learn from others’ mistakes, find courage in their challenges and inspiration in their journeys. It was the art of storytelling, in particular the stories of Australian people, that inspired Deborah Fleming to create the celebrated ABC current affairs program Australian Story. Since it first aired in 1996, Australian Story has shared the journeys of hundreds of Australians, and picked up a swathe of awards along the way. After almost 15 years as executive producer of the program, Deborah believes that there are still so many stories to tell, and that it is her great privilege to play her part in telling them. Growing up as a child in England, Deborah hadn’t yet discovered her love for journalism. But she had discovered her love for words – books, writing and the art of telling a story. Biographies in particular fascinated Deborah, as they gave her the opportunity to delve into someone’s life, live their story and find out what made them tick. The step into journalism came soon enough, as she began work as a copy girl at her local paper, running pieces of paper around the office. Then came a three-year in-house traineeship at the newspaper, before she made the move to London and soon found a job at BBC Radio. But soon her love for her job was overshadowed by another love – one who would end up becoming her husband – and the two moved to his native Australia in the early 1980s. It only took one visit to Brisbane to capture Deborah’s heart. “I just fell in
love with the city,” Deborah laughs in reflection. “I thought it was paradise!” While she had never worked in television before, Deborah was offered some casual work as a news reporter at ABC Brisbane, and from reporting then moved into producing and current affairs. The following years took her to Sydney where she began working as the executive producer on The 7:30 Report, a job she continued upon returning to Brisbane. It was here that the seed began to germinate for Australian Story. “We knew there was an appetite for something different,” she recalls. “We had this arrogant idea that we were going to change the nature of current affairs and we haven’t really, but we have added something to the spectrum. It has had an influence in that there are more shows that emphasise the positive and are more affirmative.” How’s business in Brisbane? Good to okay. Blighted, these days, by traffic congestion, which simply gets worse and means people arrive at their desks stressed and angry before the day even begins. I advocate regular lunchtime ‘sanity’ escapes to breathe some real air, see some sky and enjoy the superb natural environment, especially on the river. What makes Brisbane unique? The beautiful climate, the brilliant topography, and the vernacular architecture of suburbs like Paddington. It’s tragic that we haven’t preserved more of the original architecture and that we don’t build and design for the climate. Big thumbs up to those who appreciate what is unique and strive to preserve and encourage it. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you?
Population growth has created big infrastructure headaches but has certainly made the city more dynamic, diverse and interesting. For a program like Australian Story, this means more brilliant yarns in our own backyard.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience Sailing on Moreton Bay. Suburb Paddington. Restaurant The Gunshop Cafe. Cafe La Dolce Vita. Bar The Lounge Bar, Waterloo Hotel. Escape O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat. Weekend Activity Horse riding. Picnic Spot Any deserted bit of beach on Moreton Island. Retailer Paddington Antique Centre. Landmarks The Glass House Mountains. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016 The ABC will finally be settled in new headquarters on a brilliant site at South Bank, so the vision I savour for the future is a real one of parkland and river and sparkling blue sky and lots of happy people and smiling. 47
arts queensland performing arts centre INTERVIEW BY Frances Frangenheim
john kotzas John Kotzas has had his finger on the pulse of the Asia Pacific’s art and cultural scene for many years. You see, as one of Brisbane’s key creative visionaries, it’s his role to bring some of the best musicals, theatre, dance, cultural performances and bands to our river-carved city. He’s also a passionate advocate of cultural diversity and social justice and brings this understanding to his current role as chief executive of Brisbane’s key performing-arts venue, QPAC. In 2010 he is also tasked with cutting the cake and lighting the candles as the city celebrates QPAC’s 25 years of operation. QPAC’s site on the river at South Bank has enjoyed a long relationship with the city’s arts scene, considering the Cremorne Theatre opened there in 1911 as an open-air theatre. Since QPAC opened in 1985, a staggering 14-million tickets have been sold to 20,000 performances and workshops. John joined QPAC in 1989, so has contributed to many of the organisation’s successes and also helped it hurdle the stumbling blocks. Perhaps one of his biggest challenges was to kick-start the Brisbane Festival in 1996 as managing director. It’s still going strong today and in 2009 became an annual festival rather than a bi-annual event as it had originally been celebrated. The popular Warana Festival, initiated in 1961 and of which John was also an organiser, helped to inspire the Brisbane Festival. John’s passion for connecting young people with art and culture has seen him help initiate such winners as the Stage X Festival and Out of the Box Festival. At the heart of these events, and all of the projects John contributes to, is a mission to enable a dialogue between artist and audience. To John, that is when art 48
becomes really interesting. Out of the Box Festival, designed for three- to eight-year-olds, is testament to this philosophy, as it invites kids and their families to be part of the story through workshops and performances. From 2003 John served as QPAC’s artistic director and invested in large-scale musicals such as The Phantom of the Opera and Chicago, which opened in the newly refurbished Lyric Theatre in March 2009. He took on his current role of chief executive in 2009. He also invests time as a board member for various arts organisations, including as deputy chairman for the Institute of Modern Art. How’s business in Brisbane? Business is great. Ticket sales are strong and QPAC’s forward bookings are extremely positive. Around the country, show producers seem to be very optimistic. This is supported by the fact that performance product coming through and being created is very strong. What makes brisbane unique? Brisbane is a fast-growing capital and Southeast Queensland is an economically buoyant part of the world. In the last 15 years, Brisbane has experienced strong urban growth and people have embraced a range of lifestyle changes supported by our subtropical climate. This is fostering a unique sense of optimism. what change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? The growth in people’s awareness of the Cultural
Centre at South Bank, the rollout of the Millennium Arts Project and the major redevelopment of QPAC, as well as strong programming across the Cultural Centre has heightened the profile of the arts in general. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016 Brisbane as a truly connected city … on the flight path to and from every major capital … prosperous … forward looking … embracing its geographical position as one of the principal cities in the Asia Pacific region. Also, a city where commerce and communications are heightened and we’re starting to see positive impacts of the resources boom and the people of Brisbane being some of the beneficiaries of the new income drivers.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience Dinner with friends at Valley Corner. Suburb Map 1. Restaurant The Buffalo Club. Cafe Pearl Cafe. Bar Emporium Hotel. Escape Stradbroke Island. Weekend Activity Taking kids to the swings. Picnic Spot Orleigh Park. Retailer Farmers markets. Landmarks Torbreck. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? A resurgence in amateur engagement with the performing arts. There is a growing number of people are actively participating across all art forms and genres and there is a shift away from passive consumption of art to active involvement.
hungry kids of hungary arts INTERVIEW BY Frances Frangenheim photography by Dane Beesley
kane mazlin Kane Mazlin is one QUARTER of BrisBANE band Hungry Kids of Hungary, which has a penchant for mixing buoyant indie tunes with equal measures of 1960s pop and soul. The Guys also are suckers for a good tour, having spent most of 2009 on the road supporting the likes of Little Birdy and Bertie Blackman, while also finding time to slide into the recording studio to launch their EP, Mega Mountain, and, later, the single ‘Let You Down’.
for my obsession and future endeavours into music,” Kane reflects. “It probably wasn’t until around my early 20s when I became more obsessed with songwriting. I love a lot of different types of music – jazz, R’n’B, 1960s pop, classical, hip-hop. The bands I’ve played in have often been fusions of different genres like funk rock.” While the Hungry Kids have toured a lot, Kane says, like most musos, a day job is a necessity. “I work in refugee health and I enjoy this work a lot. It allows time to write and gig the bands I play in, which is sweet.” Kane is also finding time for a little side project, SpringSkier, with one of his best buddies, Remy Boccalatte, bassist of The Paper and the Plane. Kane explains Spring Skier’s focus: “It’s a much more dreamy, experimental outlet for Remy and me, and it is vastly different from Hungry Kids. I think it’s pretty important to have more than one creative outlet. I’ve got a lot of weird stuff in my brain. Better out than in, right?” How’s business in Brisbane? It’s not too bad although, coming from a gigging musician’s perspective, there are so many talented bands and not quite enough venues to hold them.
The Hungry Kids’ early 2010 touring schedule saw them jet to the US and UK playing such famed venues as The Viper Room in Los Angeles, The Mercury Lounge in NYC, The Borderline in London and the Camden Barfly. Another tour is booked for Australia, US and UK from August 2010 before the release of their debut album later in the year. Kane says the making of a full-length album has been one of his longheld dreams, so he’s “stoked” to see it fly. Fans of Kane’s voice will be pleased to hear he surrendered his childhood fascination with sport to follow music. “I would’ve loved to have played in the NRL,” Kane says. “Although, when I was about 13 I copped a nasty elbow to the eye in a game, which turned me off a little.” He was also encouraged to learn piano as a kid. “I guess the piano kind of indirectly planted the seed
what change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? I think the opening of a
gallery such as GoMA is exciting with respect to the range of international exhibitions that it has brought to our city. There have been some excellent nights of art and local music over the last 12 months and more to come, of course. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? I heard the Ron Mueck exhibition at GoMA was awesome. We have BIGSOUND, in September, which is one of the largest music conferences in the world. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016 Our city is in need of some more music venues, perhaps some smaller venues in suburban areas. Some great stuff is happening in West End. For example, Blackstar Coffee has awesome acoustic nights.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience Kangaroo Point Cliffs. Suburb West End. Restaurant Sakura. Café Brother Espresso or Three Monkeys. Bar Lock’n’Load or The Troubadour. Escape North Burleigh. Weekend Activity Surf and good coffee. Picnic Spot Mowbray Park barbecues. Retailer Woolloongabba Antique Centre. Landmarks The Go Between Bridge. What makes Brisbane unique? Brisbane is a very open and friendly city. I see more smiling going on here than most other places I travel to. I hope as we expand we can hang onto this point of difference in the coming years.
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news gourmet Moo Moo The Wine Bar + Grill Fine wine, quality cuts of premium beef and iconic heritage-listed surrounds provide the ideal locale to enjoy an homage to juicy Australian steak. Moo Moo has expanded its herd, originally hailing from the Gold Coast and Fiji, to inner-city Brisbane, taking up residence within the old Port Office building on the corner Margaret and Edward Streets. Moo Moo The Wine Bar + Grill offers more than 750 wine varieties, and an extensive range of the nation’s finest cuts of beef, including Rangers Valley Sirloin from Glen Innes, Certified-Organic Tenderloin from Gippsland and Pure South Angus Beef from Tasmania. Polish off luxury beef, game and fresh seafood, whilst sipping wine at the foot of an open fireplace.
Victoria Park Marquee A sparkle of a crystal chandelier, the rhythmic hum of music, and the city lights twinkling in the distance. The Victoria Park Golf Complex and Function Venue abounds with state-of-the-art design and attention to detail. The new Marquee provides an elegant vantage point to enjoy the beautiful views and mingle with party guests in style and comfort. Featuring two bars, a dance floor, huge windows to take in the view and a wooden open-air deck, the Marquee combines functionality with glamour. 50
gourmet news
queen VaNILLA BEAN From their 100-year-old kitchens, Brisbane’s Queen Vanilla Bean Paste is a no-mess, no-fuss vanilla for home cooking. Made from pure vanilla beans, it creates an authentic seedy vanilla appearance in desserts, creams and ice creams. Easy to use, 1 teaspoon = 1 whole vanilla bean, this delicate flavour is an aromatic and convenient alternative to using whole vanilla beans in recipes.
bunker An old 1940s war bunker in Milton has been transformed into a cool hole-in-the-wall cafe. Bunker focuses on organic, using freshly roasted fairtrade organic coffee from Blackstar Coffee, Barambah Organics milk, and organic sugar to produce the perfect coffee. Made famous at the Kelvin Grove markets with its creative hot chocolates, Bunker serves up a seriously delicious hot chocolate using organic fairtrade chocolate in various concoctions, some even flavoured with the hint of fresh lemon. Covered in the growth of an active ivy vine from the inside out, Bunker presents a new take on a coffee break.
Hinterland Zucchini Flowers A versatile taste sensation, the zucchini plant belongs to the squash family, and is
a popular addition to many Italian recipes. Zucchini flowers attached to the fruit are a sign that the plant is healthy and in prime condition to eat. Fresh flowers are edible and can be fried in tempura batter, sauteed with fresh seafood or stuffed with delicious cheeses. The rich soil of Queensland’s Hinterland provides the ideal growing conditions for zucchini flowers, which are a regular favourite at local Brisbane farmers markets. Brisbane is fortunate to receive bountiful produce from Hinterland Zucchini Flowers and its fellow coastal and regional neighbours, all year round. 51
portsiDe wHarF
wHere BrisBane
ceLeBrates Portside Wharf at Hamilton offers a fine selection of boutique stores, restaurants, bars, cafés and DENDY cinemas in a relaxed precinct right on the Brisbane River. It is easily reached by City Cat ferry, is only 5ks from the CBD with ample complimentary parking.
a D o t Gus ianni G Gusto da Gianni is Brisbane’s award winning Italian casual dining restaurant. Open 7 days a week for Lunch or Dinner it’s the perfect place for a quick meal before the movies or a relaxing time with your friends and family. Waterfront views set the atmosphere with over 300 seats available and depending if you would like to sit inside, or out near the water. Perhaps you are planning your next birthday party, wedding or special event? Gusto da Gianni caters for all occasions with private rooms available. PHONE 3868 2011 www.gustodagianni.com For delicious quality Ice Cream, Movenpick select only natural ingredients to provide the ultimate creamy consistency. Like the delicious Vanilla Dream Ice Cream, only Bourbon vanilla pods from Madagascar are carefully selected and picked only when fully ripe. Founded in 1961, Movenpick brand has delighted Swiss consumers for more than 35 years and today if offers pleasure to Ice Cream lovers around the world. PHONE 3268 2220 www.movenpick-icecream.com
MoVenpick Why not enjoy a meal at an eclectic selection of Portside Wharf restaurants and cafes | Byblos | Chez Laila | Fresh ’n Wild Fish
sono
Sono began its story more than nine years ago and has since established itself as a well recognised and acclaimed establishment. Sono Portside has combined particular elements from the finest restaurants in Japan, together with western luxuries, where meticulous attention to detail has not been spared and no stone left unturned, to bring you the optimum Japanese experience. Private dining areas and corporate functions available.
Verse iqu t u o B
PHONE 3268 6655 www.sonorestaurant.com.au Dendy Cinemas are regarded as Australia’s leading home of quality cinema. Dendy Portside is beautifully positioned amongst the vast array of restaurants, cafes and bars in its picturesque waterside setting. See all the latest releases and special screenings, easy access and onsite complimentary parking. PHONE 3137 6000 www.dendy.com.au
DENIM OBSESSION – Gabriella Frattini make jeans that fit! They have a style to match every woman’s individual body, from curvy to slight, you will find a design to enhance and make your shape stunning. Denim has made a statement for the past 60 years with its icon looks. Gabriella Frattini jeans embrace this wonderful history, adding a touch of European style with their cut and detail, to bring into our Australian lifestyle for easy wearing glamour. PHONE 3268 7460 www.versaustralia.com.au
DenDy cineMa s
s t r a w ste co. wine Stewarts Wine Co. has been Brisbane’s premier wine boutique since 1905, specialising in local and imported wine, beer and spirits. The exclusive range at Stewarts ensures exceptional quality and value is maintained through its panel of wine lovers and experts. Stewarts are located at Portside Wharf, Ascot and the Barracks, Petrie Terrace. PHONE 3216 4444 www.stewartswineco.com.au
Gusto da Gianni | Manx | Mahjongg Cafe | Sono Japanese | Wilsons Boathouse
39 Hercules Street Hamilton
gourmet e'cco bistro INTERVIEW BY mikki brammer
philip johnson Far from the enfant terrible stereotype associated with many renowned chefs, Philip Johnson’s affable presence is no doubt one of the defining elements of his success. From the polite nod he gives to the numerous locals who pass by the restaurant’s windows, to his considered responses to questions he’s undoubtedly answered many times, to the delight that lights up his blue eyes whenever he speaks of his restaurant e'cco bistro (or watering hole, e’cco bar), it’s clear that Philip is grateful for the path destiny has paved for him. Philip's love for cooking was born out of necessity. Growing up in New Zealand with parents who owned a third-generation motor garage, the motor-sportsmad young lad was virtually set for a career in mechanics. But when his mother’s ill health forced Philip to take his first stride into the kitchen to cook in her place, his destiny took an interesting turn. People liked what he cooked, so he cooked some more. Then, following a failed attempt to get into aircraft mechanics after finishing school, Philip enrolled in a cooking apprenticeship through several local hotels. Three years later he moved to Australia where he spent his time travelling around working in kitchens all over the country. In 1985, at age 25, Philip travelled to England where he first felt the inkling of cooking as a true passion. He remembers the exact moment: he was sitting on the steps of Antony Worrall Thompson’s restaurant, Ménage a Trois. “I remember seeing that they had 15 different types of mushrooms and 20 different lettuces,” he recalls with a grin. “I thought I’d be flat out putting names to them all, let alone working with them. That was the catalyst that made me decide that this would be my life – I was going to cook.” When Philip returned to Australia with 54
his wife Shirley, the two began plans to open their own restaurant. The duo soon opened French-inspired restaurant Le Bronx, in New Farm, and devoted their every heartbeat to the venture for the next six years. After it closed, the couple planned to move back to England to work for a couple of years. But before they had set foot on a plane, Philip discovered a refurbished historic building on the CBD fringe. A year later, they had opened e’cco bistro. Two years after the restaurant’s opening, e’cco unexpectedly won the award for Gourmet Traveller Restaurant of the Year. After being bestowed the prestigious title, things began to change dramatically; virtually overnight the restaurant went from doing 400 people a week to 700. Now, after being open 15 years, e’cco bistro is still rated among Australia’s best restaurants. For Philip, the joy now is witnessing the talents of some of the younger chefs in his kitchen. “You can’t do things by yourself – the key to success is surrounding yourself with the right people. It’s more than the power of one.” How’s business in Brisbane? I think 2010 is wobblier than last year. I think this year is a small-business recession. We’ve held our own because we’ve been around a long time but I wouldn’t want to be starting a business in 2010. What makes Brisbane unique? I’ve lived here for 30 years out of 50 and I remember when you could drive up Queen Street. I can still find a park pretty easily, and I think Brisbane’s a very liveable city. I do think we need an alternative venue to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre at Boondall. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? The influx of people from Sydney and Melbourne has helped us to reach critical mass. You need a reasonable number of people to make a city work – that’s what helps businesses function. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016 I’d like to see more owner-chefs, but there’s so much money involved in fitouts. I’d like people to have more opportunity to open their own restaurant.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience The concerts at the Riverstage. Suburb I’d live in the CBD if I could. Restaurant Ortiga. Cafe Campos Coffee Bar e’cco bar or The Laneway. Escape Byron Bay. Weekend Activity Tennis. Picnic Spot Slaughter Falls. Retailer Country Road or Industrie. Landmarks Brisbane Powerhouse. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? The increase of inner-city living and the Mirvac Waterfront development in Newstead. I think that’s the great spot with proximity to everything.
gourmet cicada group INTERVIEW BY Frances Frangenheim
john vissaritis A collective ‘hurrah’ could be heard from city workers on the daily hunt for fresh lunchtime fare when the Cicada Group launched ITS slick new food precinct at 275 George Street IN THE CBD in mid-2009. It opened without fanfare, offering a plethora of sexy food and beverage options across four spaces – Cicada Restaurant, Green Grocer fresh food deli, Chocolate Soldier cafe and patisserie, and the intimate Firefly bar and wood-fired pizza cafe. The savvy businessmen behind this ambitious venture are John Vissaritis and Sam Louftis – Sydney-born restaurateurs and long-time friends. John and Sam relocated their families to Brisbane to pursue their new corporate food dream. John explains he and Sam share a “crazy look” in their eyes when they see potential in a new venture. They had their eagle eyes fixed on the George Street retail space back in 2006 but didn’t need to make a solid commitment until late 2008. “We knew it was a great opportunity to take over the precinct and deliver our whole philosophy on corporate food,” says John. Their style – fresh, modern, simple – worked well even though they launched in a global economic crisis. “Our food is middle of the market – it’s very tangible – both our product and our price.” Their corporate customers know they can order everything from Moët to a bowl of chips. John explains he learnt his golden rules of business from his parents, long-time Sydney restaurateurs and deli owners. “I had a simple, old-school upbringing,” John explains of his Greek heritage. “I learnt you must pay all your bills immediately and never 56
extend yourself.” John studied arts and political science at university and went on to pursue a career in stockbroking. “It was a great way of understanding finance and the economy,” he said of the skills he has now transferred to his restaurant and bar empire. John and Sam have just found the time, capital and energy to launch a new Brisbane venture – Sparrow & Finch, a fresh food deli and bar. You’ll find it off Gresham Lane, one of Brisbane City Council’s newly activated laneways off Adelaide Street in the CBD. As is John and Sam’s style, there wasn’t much hype or fanfare around the launch. John says the soft opening was the perfect start because it gave their new team of ten a chance to get their rhythm: “like a soccer team finding its feet”. How’s business in Brisbane? We are still in a growth stage, just having celebrated our first-year anniversary. However, business in general seems to be humming along. Quality operations and locations are moving at great speeds as Brisbane people are becoming more discerning. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? Food and coffee cultures are evolving and more
new corporate buildings are emerging at a rapid rate. This gives us the ability to position our business in these new environments and further this evolving culture. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? An enormous concentration on infrastructure is evident, thus helping the growing population and making the CBD more accessible and also connecting Brisbane’s outer suburbs. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016 Connectivity and mobility are top priority for Brisbane’s future economic growth and outlook, with the attraction for people to migrate and employment opportunities on the increase. Competition in these areas of the economy will force the CBD to expand further. Food wise, I can see an amazing cafe/restaurant industry coming to age.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience Australia Day afterburn. Suburb Bulimba. Restaurant Montrachet. Cafe Chocolate Soldier. Bar Firefly. Escape Noosa. Weekend Activity Long Drives. Picnic Spot Flame Hill Vineyard. Retailer Boating Camping and Fishing. Landmarks Gateway Bridge. What makes Brisbane unique? Brisbane is a platform to beautiful Queensland – 60 minutes to either side are the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast. Brisbane is the heart of Queensland with an economy rising faster than any other city in Australia.
gourmet south bank surf club INTERVIEW BY Kathryn Lindgren
ben o’donoghue He’s been ‘surfing the menu’ on his TELEVISION series, in his books, at food and wine shows and in his restaurants in the United Kingdom. Ben O’Donoghue has returned to Australian shores and now resides in sunny Brisbane, with a different kind of menu surfing in mind. He has recently opened the South Bank Surf Club on Streets Beach, overlooking the Brisbane River in the South Bank Parklands. Ben loves Brisbane’s relaxed lifestyle and says that “creating a venue that oozes that, just made sense”. The predominantly seafood restaurant incorporates a Crustacean Bar as well as familiar dishes with Ben’s own unique twist. The introduction of a ‘plat du jour’ shows the influence of Ben’s travels on the menu styling and means diners can enjoy a specific signature dish on any given night. “I’m hoping people will get excited about these destination dishes where, for example, Wednesday nights is Chilli Crab with XO Sauce and Vermicelli Egg Noodles,” he says. Committed to a sustainable menu and kitchen, the restaurant admirably incorporates green principles. The South Bank Surf Club’s architecture incorporates a kitchen garden throughout the restaurant, where herbs, vegetables and citrus that can supplement the menu are grown. Ben has also been working with agricultural companies to ensure a focus on buying Queensland produce and using seafood from a sustainable source – whether it be farmed, sustainably caught or caught from sustainable stock. Ben has also been working with Brisbane City Council to develop a pilot scheme to encourage restaurants to recycle their kitchen waste. The idea is to have bio-wheelie 58
bins, which would be collected and composted and then returned for use within the garden. “It’s a step towards making the restaurant carbon neutral,” says Ben. On a design front, Ben has teamed up with Australian Fine China to design a cutlery and crockery range called Beachcomber that proudly sits upon the South Bank Surf Club tables. Ben fondly describes their style as “like flotsam and jetsam washed up on the beach”. Now with his feet firmly planted in the Sunshine State, Ben sees the future of his brand expanding and has visions of more Surf Clubs in Queensland, maybe in destinations like Cairns and the Gold Coast. He is currently working on his own range of food products as well assisting in the design of cake, barbecue and kitchenware products as ambassador of Australian homewares label Wiltshire. And Ben’s true testament to his newfound soil is his dream of using Surf Club as a focal point for a television show and concentrating on Queensland produce. How’s business in Brisbane? Brisbane, compared to Melbourne and Sydney, offers more in terms of potential growth. The southern markets are pretty much saturated and Brisbane is a thriving city that has come a long way in the last five years in terms of food and consumption. My business identifies with the people here who lead an unpretentious lifestyle. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you?
It has become a far more cosmopolitan and multicultural city in terms of its food offerings, moving on from its colloquial times. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane?
The opening of the South Bank Surf Club at the South Bank Parklands. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016 A city that has an efficient and fantastic public-transport system. Plus, more highdensity urban residential development in the South Brisbane and West End areas and a continued focus on culture via the fantastic arts and music scene. Maybe even more farmers markets. I can see an amazing cafe/restaurant industry coming to age.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience South Bank Parklands. Suburb Annerley. Restaurant Pearl Cafe. Cafe Flamingo Cafe. Bar Cloudland. Escape Moreton Island. Weekend Activity Family and surfing. Picnic Spot The gardens at UQ. Landmarks The Story Bridge. What makes Brisbane unique? Brisbane’s weather and lifestyle are unique. People are very active and healthy with a relaxed approach to life.
gourmet midyim eco produce INTERVIEW BY Frances Frangenheim PROFILE PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANTHONY LICURIA
richard mohan Fans of THE BRISBANE POWERHOUSE markets and West End markets will be familiar with Richard Mahon’s famous Padron Peppers or rather, Pimientos de Padron. Inspired by authentic Spanish peppers in the north west of Spain’s Galicia region, and originally cultivated by monks in the 16th century, Richard’s peppers are adored for their sweet taste and delicate flavour. So adored, in fact, the peppers won Best New Product at the 2010 Produce Awards run by the ABC’s Delicious magazine, so they’re now the talk of the culinary world in Australia. Aside from being delicious, Richard’s peppers also pack a nutritional punch with vitamins A, B1, B2, C, P, proteins, calcium and iron. Medicinally, peppers are said to aid digestion, heal scar tissue and maintain good blood circulation. Intriguingly, Padron Peppers are known as the ‘Russian Roulette’ of peppers, as approximately one in ten is fiery hot. Richard and partner, Margie, sell their product under their Midyim Eco Produce family business name to more than 70 restaurants around the country and in Brisbane to Ortiga and Codpiece at New Farm, Brett’s Wharf and Baguette at Ascot, and Moda in the CBD, amongst others. Richard is also an avid champion of sustainability and has a mail-order client base of more than 800 private customers, which is his way of cutting down the food miles the products must travel, a concept he likes to term “agricultural hitchhiking”. Furthermore, Midyim Eco Produce follows organic farming techniques to ensure the long-term health of the farm’s soil. The peppers are grown on a 320acre organic farm in Conondale, with only one acre used for growing peppers and the rest given over to rainforest and bush 60
regeneration and some cattle. Richard has been growing the peppers for six years (November to May). Richard has always been mad keen about his home veggie patches but it wasn’t until the family moved to Queensland from Sydney seven years ago that he was inspired to tend a farm on the Sunshine Coast. Of the inspiration behind the pepper business, Richard explains: “Having tasted and fallen in love with peppers in 1998 in Madrid, I had a peek and saw that no-one was growing them commercially in Oz so ...” As they say, the rest is history. Never one to rest on his laurels, Richard is experimenting with three other Spanish peppers that take inspiration from all regions of Spain – the O Couto from Galicia, the Gernika from the Basque region, and the Nyora, a leek-like onion originally from Catalonia. Watch this space pepper-lovers! How’s business in Brisbane? Besides conducting a mail-order business to private Brisbane customers, we sell direct to more than 15 local restaurants as well as attending the Brisbane Powerhouse and West End farmers markets. We are finding that demand is increasing every year and so will be expanding our growing area this coming season. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? Brisbane has certainly grown up, while still retaining that country-town charm. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? Probably the most exciting movement that
we have noticed is the development of food and its availability to the general public. Restaurants have improved and now challenge their southern cousins. Farmers markets are sprouting everywhere. Hard-to-get ingredients are readily available, and organic meat, fruit and vegetables are finally getting a foothold. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016 Brisbane should slow its rate of growth so that it can concentrate on the areas already developed. Brisbane is also losing its agricultural areas in the name of ‘progress’.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience Manning our stall at the weekend farmers markets. Suburb New Farm and West End. Restaurant Moda and Ortiga. Cafe Bar Alto. Escape Our valley and farm in Conondale, Weekend Activity At our daughter’s soccer games. Picnic Spot We don’t picnic, we restaurant! Retailer Wine merchants. Landmarks The Regatta Hotel. What makes Brisbane unique? It has a low-key, relaxed vibe that is typical of a country town, as well as having a vibrant heart. I find the people at the weekend famers markets friendly, open to new products and willing to try something different.
if we were any fresher OUr naMe wOUld Be casanOva.
18 hole Golf Course 18 hole Putt Putt Course 72 bay, 2 tier day/night Driving Range Flagship Golf Retail Store Caddy Shack Cafe & Bar State of the Art Golf Learning Centre 8 unique function spaces all with City Views 2km from Brisbane CBD Open 7 days
relax. play. eat
Herston Rd Herston
www.victoriaparkgolfcomplex.com
salt
Italy has brought the world a lot – sophia loren, the Vespa, the first toilet – but nothing is as impressive as their food. at Vapiano we’ve scoured Italy for the best traditional recipes and brought them back here to oz to cook right in front of you, just the way you like it, at our fresh cooking stations. and we use only the best fresh local australian produce to do it. In fact our fresh pasta, pizza dough and herbs come from In the restaurant itself, and all of our produce and staples we try to source from within 150 kilometres. the result? a true Italian-australian taste creation that’s almost as fresh as casanova himself!
oPen 11am to 11Pm daIly In alBert lane, off the queen st mall. food | wine | coffee breakfast | lunch | dinner fully licensed & free parking 5 Nash St, Rosalie T. 3367 0775 saltrestaurant.com.au
Become a Vapiano Fanatico and get VIP dIscounts, InVItes and uPdates. sIgn uP hooplaVaP2503 now at www.VaPIano.com.au
gourmet midyim eco produce INTERVIEW BY Frances Frangenheim PROFILE PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANTHONY LICURIA
richard mohan Fans of THE BRISBANE POWERHOUSE markets and West End markets will be familiar with Richard Mahon’s famous Padron Peppers or rather, Pimientos de Padron. Inspired by authentic Spanish peppers in the north west of Spain’s Galicia region, and originally cultivated by monks in the 16th century, Richard’s peppers are adored for their sweet taste and delicate flavour. So adored, in fact, the peppers won Best New Product at the 2010 Produce Awards run by the ABC’s Delicious magazine, so they’re now the talk of the culinary world in Australia. Aside from being delicious, Richard’s peppers also pack a nutritional punch with vitamins A, B1, B2, C, P, proteins, calcium and iron. Medicinally, peppers are said to aid digestion, heal scar tissue and maintain good blood circulation. Intriguingly, Padron Peppers are known as the ‘Russian Roulette’ of peppers, as approximately one in ten is fiery hot. Richard and partner, Margie, sell their product under their Midyim Eco Produce family business name to more than 70 restaurants around the country and in Brisbane to Ortiga and Codpiece at New Farm, Brett’s Wharf and Baguette at Ascot, and Moda in the CBD, amongst others. Richard is also an avid champion of sustainability and has a mail-order client base of more than 800 private customers, which is his way of cutting down the food miles the products must travel, a concept he likes to term “agricultural hitchhiking”. Furthermore, Midyim Eco Produce follows organic farming techniques to ensure the long-term health of the farm’s soil. The peppers are grown on a 320acre organic farm in Conondale, with only one acre used for growing peppers and the rest given over to rainforest and bush 62
regeneration and some cattle. Richard has been growing the peppers for six years (November to May). Richard has always been mad keen about his home veggie patches but it wasn’t until the family moved to Queensland from Sydney seven years ago that he was inspired to tend a farm on the Sunshine Coast. Of the inspiration behind the pepper business, Richard explains: “Having tasted and fallen in love with peppers in 1998 in Madrid, I had a peek and saw that no-one was growing them commercially in Oz so ...” As they say, the rest is history. Never one to rest on his laurels, Richard is experimenting with three other Spanish peppers that take inspiration from all regions of Spain – the O Couto from Galicia, the Gernika from the Basque region, and the Nyora, a leek-like onion originally from Catalonia. Watch this space pepper-lovers! How’s business in Brisbane? Besides conducting a mail-order business to private Brisbane customers, we sell direct to more than 15 local restaurants as well as attending the Brisbane Powerhouse and West End farmers markets. We are finding that demand is increasing every year and so will be expanding our growing area this coming season. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? Brisbane has certainly grown up, while still retaining that country-town charm. What is the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? Probably the most exciting movement that
we have noticed is the development of food and its availability to the general public. Restaurants have improved and now challenge their southern cousins. Farmers markets are sprouting everywhere. Hard-to-get ingredients are readily available, and organic meat, fruit and vegetables are finally getting a foothold. Describe your vision of Brisbane in 2016 Brisbane should slow its rate of growth so that it can concentrate on the areas already developed. Brisbane is also losing its agricultural areas in the name of ‘progress’.
Favourite Brisbane ... Experience Manning our stall at the weekend farmers markets. Suburb New Farm and West End. Restaurant Moda and Ortiga. Cafe Bar Alto. Escape Our valley and farm in Conondale, Weekend Activity At our daughter’s soccer games. Picnic Spot We don’t picnic, we restaurant! Retailer Wine merchants. Landmarks The Regatta Hotel. What makes Brisbane unique? It has a low-key, relaxed vibe that is typical of a country town, as well as having a vibrant heart. I find the people at the weekend famers markets friendly, open to new products and willing to try something different.
explore
the villages pages 64-87 :A self-contained district or community within a town or city, regarded as having features characteristic of village life.
travel day trips pages 88-90 : snapshotS of BRISBANE SURROUNDS.
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village brisbane city
brisbane city As quite a young capital city, Brisbane has been making a name for itself over the past few decades, developing a reputation and style to rival that of some of its more famous Australian cousins. The beautiful green spaces of Roma Street Parklands and the City Botanic Gardens provide fresh air and oxygen to the vital organs of the CBD, including its heart, The Queen Street Mall. The Queen Street Mall was the location of riots and rampages during the early history of the city. Now flanked by the Myer Centre, QueensPlaza, Broadway on the Mall, The Wintergarden, and dotted with smaller left-of-centre boutiques, it enjoys modern life as a premier shopping destination satisfying even the most discerning shopper. Down at Eagle Street Pier on the Brisbane River, you will find luxury restaurants including celebrity chef Matt Moran’s ARIA, which opened its doors last year. Award-winning restaurants and bars abound in the city streets from Restaurant Two, Il Centro and Cha Cha Char at one end of town, to Philip Johnson’s e’cco bistro at the other. A $12-million project has breathed new life into some of the city’s forgotten spaces such as Little Roma Street and Burnett Lane with upgraded footpaths, lighting, art installations and events. This is just the beginning, with more hidden parts of the city earmarked as sites for bustling cafes and specialist retailers in the future. In addition to all of this, there are also fresh food and craft markets, a world-class casino, five-star hotels, museums and theatres.
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EAT ARIA 1 EAGLE STREET, EAGLE STREET PIER, CITY T. 07 3233 2555 www.ariarestaurant.com
The twinkling lights of the Eagle Street Pier set the backdrop for a glamorous culinary affair, with ARIA Restaurant Brisbane setting the scene for a palatable journey into fine dining. Matt Moran and Peter Sullivan continue the ARIA story with an impressive Queensland-centric menu and prized riverfront position. Peruse a contemporary Australian menu, with inventive choices for lunch, dinner and dessert, as well as a seasonal tasting menu with matching wines.
DRINK THE LANEWAY SPENCER LANE, OFF MARGARET STREET, CITY T. 07 3229 3686 www.urbanerestaurant.com
If you happen upon the unassuming Spencer Lane amidst Margaret Street’s towering office buildings, be sure to take a peek at The Laneway. As you walk to the upstairs bar, you will forget the busy city traffic, and be transported to a cool, modern hideaway amidst the Urbane Restaurant complex. Although The Laneway pays tribute to the laneway culture so prevalent in Melbourne, this is a truly Queensland locale with an airy breeze flowing through the open space.
SHOP SCOTCH & SODA 133 ADELAIDE STREET, BROADWAY ON THE MALL, CITY T. 07 3003 1020 www.scotch-soda.com
DOING BUSINESS Teresa gomez, MARKETING MANAGER, Broadway on the Mall 170 Queen Street, Queen Street Mall, Brisbane T. 07 3229 5233 www.broadwayonthemall.com.au How long have you lived in Brisbane? I have lived in Brisbane for more than 20 years and have loved seeing it develop into the lively city that it is today. What do you love about living in Brisbane? I love Brisbane’s weather, lifestyle and friendly people. Brisbane has a variety of pockets that offer everything from great culture, shopping, food, arts to sport and other recreational activities. How’s business in Brisbane? Business is challenging as the market in Brisbane becomes more competitive, but it also makes business even more rewarding. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? I am passionate about Brisbane and its potential to be a wonderful major international tourist destination. The changes that are occurring in Brisbane’s CBD retail industry are very exciting and show the interest of international retailers. How would you improve business in Brisbane? Businesses in general should open seven days a week and also have an online presence – be it a website or any social networks. How do you see Brisbane in 2016? I see the development of Brisbane with more exciting and unique retail and lifestyle precincts. There will be an increased range on offer in the arts, music, cultural and food talents. We will see the emergence of international retail brands opening up their flagship stores in Brisbane’s CBD, along with the increased infrastructure to sustain the population growth and demands of the market. What’s the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? Valentino, Retrospective – how fabulous?! Only a local would know … Where to get the amazing cultural foods! And where to find unique, cutting-edge fashion items! Describe your Brisbane lifestyle? My lifestyle is busy and always on the go, I try to keep things enjoyable and fun.
Favourite Brisbane …
EXPERIENCE Running along the Brisbane River. SUBURB Any place that has history and charm. RESTAURANT e’cco bistro. CAFE The Little Larder. BAR Laruche. ESCAPE Our glorious beaches. WEEKEND ACTIVITY Watching the sunset after a great day of shopping! PICNIC SPOT Montville. RETAILER All retailers at Broadway on the Mall. LANDMARK Kangaroo Point Cliffs.
There aren’t many places where a toucan can hang out in inner-city Brisbane, but whilst browsing the threads in Scotch & Soda you might be lucky enough to spot one sitting pretty on the front of a burnt-orange t-shirt. You’ll find yourself surrounded by faded checks, never-ending scarves and button-up shirts made from paper-thin cotton. Comfortable enough to chill out sipping cold beers, and collegiate enough to stroll around on campus, the Dutch label simplifies fashion for guys and gals and offers miniature styles for kids.
PLAY STRIKE BOWLING LEVEL 3, WINTERGAREN, QUEEN STREET MALL, CITY T. 1300 787 453 www.strikebowling.com.au
One of the world’s largest sports, with more than 100-million participants across the globe, ten-pin bowling has developed an impressive following since its origins in the courtyards of Ancient Egyptian pharaohs. Hone your bowling skills in style at Strike Bowling Bar, a contemporary take on old-school bowling alleys. You can match sport with entertainment and visit the in-house bar in between strikes, for beers, cocktails and pizza. Strike provides a unique and inclusive setting for group and corporate functions.
BEST PLACE . . .
FOR FrESH a fresh take on modern italian Vapiano. for sUITS AND GORGEOUS FOOTWEAR Apartment. to find the perfect gift idea City Framing. TO RESTOCK YOUR gourmet provisions Tognini’s Bistro. for modern australian cuisine Customs House. for a new Hairstyle Fruition. For a fabulous steak Moo Moo The Wine Bar + Grill. to unwind Roma Street Parklands. for comfortable and eco-friendly footwear Birkenstock on Albert Lane. for great COFFEE The Frisky Goat Espresso.for INDULGENCE for a weary traveller The Sebel & Citigate. 65
village ascot/hamilton
ascot/hamilton The famed Ascot Racecourse in the United Kingdom has been a favourite with British Aristocracy for the past 300 years, but it wasn’t until 1863 that our monarchs’ love of the ‘sport of kings’ travelled 16,500 kilometres across the ocean to arrive on the shores of a Brisbane suburb that today carries the same name. Over the years, perfectly coiffed women and suited-up gents have converged on Ascot to enjoy a day at the races and soak up the rich history of the area, with an offering from one of the many cafes, bars and restaurants along Racecourse Road. There are also plenty of great boutiques to browse if you prefer to spend your money off the track. An exciting $1.2 billion development is on the cards to deliver restored race tracks, new grandstands and a boutique hotel – something the area’s Berkshire namesake cannot boast. Ascot’s salubrious neighbour Hamilton is within easy reach of the CBD via Kingsford Smith Drive, named for the famous aviator, who was born in Hamilton in 1897. Although the area is steeped in history, it is also home to some of the city’s more modern landmarks, such as international cruise ship terminal Portside Wharf. With residential apartments, a licensed art-house cinema, stores stocked with designer labels, and bars and restaurants that share spectacular views of the Brisbane River, it is a popular port for visitors and locals alike. Ascot and Hamilton are two riverside suburbs that are not only lusted-after areas to live in with their stunning homes and tree-lined streets, but are also a wonderful place to play.
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EAT WILSON’S BOATHOUSE PORTSIDE WHARF, SHOP 1, 39 HERCULES STREET T. 07 3868 4480 www.wilsonsboathouse.com.au
Wilson’s Boathouse Seafood Restaurant brings the ocean’s wonders to the table, with the cruise terminal and wharf continuing the nautical story nearby. Patrons can embark on a culinary discovery of the fruits of the seas, starting with caviar and moving on to local seafood fare including an array of South Australian, Tasmanian and Sydney Rock Oysters and locally caught prawns.
DRINK HAMILTON HOTEL 442 KINGSFORD SMITH DRIVE, HAMILTON T. 07 3268 7500 www.hamiltonhotel.com.au
When Gustav Hamilton decided to build a pub in 1865, little did he know that the Hamilton Hotel would proudly bear his name all these years later. A watering hole bridging the gap between the northern suburbs and inner-city Brisbane, ‘The Hamilton’ retains its historic roots as the go-to spot to soak up the racing action from nearby Eagle Farm Racecourse. Complete your pub experience with a char-grilled steak from the in-house Graziers Steakhouse Restaurant and Bistro.
SHOP WALKER & BECK 122 Racecourse Road, Ascot T. 07 3268 5978 www.walkerandbeck.net.au
DOING BUSINESS nEHME GHANEM, OWNER, Byblos Bar + Restaurant Shop 7.13 Portside Wharf 39 Hercules Street, Hamilton T. 07 3268 2223 www.byblosbar.com.au How long have you lived in Brisbane? I was born and raised in Brisbane. What do you love about living in Brisbane? The weather, the laid-back attitude and the feel of the tight-knit community. How’s business in Brisbane? Overall, I can’t complain – the hospitality industry remains solid. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you?
People of Brisbane have become more educated and interested in culture and arts. We are open to new experiences and now have the facilities to entice both Brisbanites and international visitors. How would you improve business in Brisbane? By relaxing the local and state legislation. It seems that we are becoming more of a policed state – which can be quite frustrating. How do you see Brisbane in 2016? A thriving metropolitan city with diverse culture and entertainment. What’s the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? Riverfire – although it just won’t be the same without the fighter jets. Only a local would know … The off-road tracks from Mount Coot-tha to Gold Coast hinterland. Describe your Brisbane lifestyle I’m often classed as a workaholic; however, owning two bars, my work life and social life ends up intertwining. When I’m not at work I can be found at home with family or catching up with friends – nothing beats Friday-night footy with the boys!
Favourite Brisbane …
EXPERIENCE State of Origin – Suncorp Stadium. SUBURB South Bank RESTAURANT Ortiga. CAFE Chez Laila. BAR Laruche. ESCAPE O’Reillys Rainforest Retreat. WEEKEND ACTIVITY What’s a weekend?? PICNIC SPOT Hill End Terrace Park. RETAILER Adore Boutique. LANDMARK St Stephen’s Cathedral.
Travelling abroad can inspire passions, spark interests and make dreams a reality. Walker & Beck is a colourcoordinated fashion and homewares gem, full of pieces inspired by its owners’ extensive travel. Cotton muslin, linen and hand-stitched silk clothing falls from coat hangers with graceful ease. With a sister store residing on the Sunshine Coast, Walker & Beck alludes to a coastal getaway. Browse clothes perfect for a traveller’s wardrobe or add to your jewellery collection.
PLAY EAGLE FARM RACECOURSE 230 Lancaster Road, Ascot T. 07 3268 2171 www.brc.com.au
When shirts are neatly buttoned, fascinators are pinned into place, and the Champagne is poured, racing season kicks off in a flurry of feathers, heels, and general frivolity. In the quiet, established Ascot surrounds, racegoers convene at Eagle Farm Racecourse. Neatly trimmed grass softens a day standing on your feet, and majestic Moreton Bay fig trees cast speckled shadows on the lawn. Home to the Queensland Turf Club, the racecourse features a number of corporate function rooms and private bars.
BEST PLACE . . .
for a delicIously delicate sweet Le Bon Choix. for UNIQUE FASHION Vers Boutique. to relax and ENJOY A FILM Dendy Cinemas. for indulgent icecreams Mövenpick. for fresh bakery items Nourish. to style yourself a new living room Soho Interiors. to tantalise your ASIAN tastebuds Sono Japanese Restaurant. For a relaxing facial that will make you feel fantastic Ella Bache Portside. for delicious treats after a morning at the park Vanilla Pod. to stock up for a seafood frenzy Samie’s Girl Fresh Seafood Markets. for a great wine selection Stewarts Wine Co. 67
village james street precinct
james street precinct Running from Fortitude Valley’s Ann Street through to New Farm’s Merthyr Road, the cafes, restaurants, elite fashion labels, and homewares stores of James Street all vie for the attention of the beautiful people who pound the pavements in designer shoes. Although the air is rich, the atmosphere is relaxed so it is quite easy to slip under the radar and enjoy some of the more simple things James Street has to offer, such as a great espresso, fresh bakery treats or a movie at the Palace Centro Cinemas. Campos Cafe boasts some of the best coffee in town and can be found next to the James Street Market – a must for fresh produce housing a florist, butcher, bakery and fruit shop. Enjoy lunch or dinner in the company of some of the world’s finest wines in the Cru Bar cellar or, for something a bit more laid-back, duck over to Harvey’s or Spoon, which both combine a restaurant and deli serving up a great selection of local and international produce. If you prefer a more hands-on approach, contact the James Street Cooking School for some tips on how to turn the fresh produce you bought at the markets into a culinary masterpiece all of your own. Whether it is just to dabble in a little window shopping or seriously damage your credit card, pay a visit to some of Australia’s famous fashion exports, including Scanlan & Theodore, Easton Pearson, sass & bide and local designers Paul Hunt and Chelsea De Luca who now also call this lavish strip home.
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james street precinct village
EAT CONFIT BISTRO SHOP 4/9 DOGGETT STREET, FORTITUDE VALLEY T. 07 3254 4001 www.confit.com.au
Unassumingly tucked nearby the humming James Street precinct, Confit Bistro offers European cuisine creatively re-invented to suit contemporary tastes. Take your tastebuds on an Italian sojourn for entree, stopover in country England for mains and sweeten your lunchtime or evening meal with a saccharine morsel from France. Weekend breakfasts at Confit Bistro take a continental turn, with bistro-inspired dishes drawing on slow-cooked flavours and rustic fare.
DRINK DOING BUSINESS Didier Lion, DIRECTOR, Paris Design Living 105 Robertson StREET, Fortitude Valley T. 07 3852 6626 www.parisdesignliving.com How long have you lived in Brisbane? For just four months. I’ve moved from relaxing Noosa to tap into Brisbane’s vibrant and international community. What do you love about living in Brisbane? I mostly love the charming and friendly people. Having travelled the world throughout my life, I find the people of Brisbane to be exceptionally sophisticated and friendly. How’s business in Brisbane? Paris Design Living has recently undergone a renovation to incorporate the intricate details of French and Chinese antiques that will set the showroom scene with a mix of historical and cultural pieces. This will integrate the styles of our showroom in a modern and classic way, so I see business in Brisbane as encouraging for the future. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? I feel that the people of Brisbane have opened their minds to world trends and fashions. How do you see Brisbane in 2016? I see it as a young and vibrant city with the older population moving to the coastal areas and the creative, inspirational and passionate evolving the city centre. What’s the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? The refurbishment of Paris Design Living! Only a local would know … The vibrancy of Brisbane life after sunset. Describe your Brisbane lifestyle I’m newish to Brisbane, so I’m out a lot meeting new people.
Favourite Brisbane …
EXPERIENCE Walking around the Brisbane River. SUBURB Fortitude Valley and New Farm. RESTAURANT Simpatico. CAFE Cru Bar. BAR Jade Buddha. ESCAPE Noosa. WEEKEND ACTIVITY Sailing and art exhibitions. PICNIC SPOT Waterfront restaurants. RETAILER Hugo Boss. LANDMARK The Story Bridge.
QUEENS ARMS HOTEL 64 JAMES sTREET, New Farm T. 07 3358 2799 www.qahotel.com
Queens Arms Hotel, or the QA, provides the charm of a traditional pub, with the perks of an inner-city location. Those seeking after-work drinks can relax in the hotel’s main bar or join in planned weekly events. The historic cellars lend themselves to intimate functions, where conversation flows throughout brick-lined enclaves. Hosts can personally select beers on tap and choice of music. Overlooking the New Farm surrounds, the Sky Bar is designed to cater for up to 250 guests.
SHOP IVY + BIRD 164A ARTHUR STREET, FORTITUDE VALLEY T. 07 3358 1006 www.ivyandbird.com
When creativity is given the opportunity to grow, ideas can manifest into reality, and dreams can flourish. There is a quiet little street in Fortitude Valley where the buzz of creativity hums in the air. A visit to Arthur Street’s ivy + bird is sure to spark your desire to create and surround yourself with beautiful things. Take time to trace your fingers over the curling flowers on spools of Liberty prints, browse Maria Diakos jewellery twinkling at the counter, and be inspired by charming homewares and printed children’s clothes.
PLAY PURE 1/181 ROBERTSON STREET, FORTITUDE VALLEY T. 07 3854 0011
If Mary Poppins found herself in Fortitude Valley, her first stop would undoubtedly be to source a delicately embellished umbrella from Pure. Brimming with homewares, fresh flowers, lush soaps, giftwares and textiles, this little haven adds a wholesome touch to both home and body. Velour-edged cushions, lilies bursting out of vases, and quirky gifts all sit comfortably in beautiful surrounds. Whether you pop in before a nearby lunch date, or after a movie, your experience is sure to be purely rewarding.
BEST PLACE . . .
for divine deli items Spoon. to see the latest movies in comfort Palace Centro Cinemas. to reFRESH your hairstyle for a special night out Vanilla Salon. for an award-winning coffee Campos Coffee. For designer threads sass & bide. for fresh fruits and vegetables, cheeses, boutique meats and fish James Street Market. For a fine wine Cru Bar and Cellar. For luscious living accessories Cosh Living. to relax Holistic Health. for fabulous wool carpets Carpet Choice. 69
village emporium
emporium A European feel might have been what was intended but, in reality, a distinctly LA vibe with a heavy lashings of Rodeo Drive is served up at Emporium – a cosy little $100-million residential and commercial development tucked away behind the CBD in Fortitude Valley. Completed in 2003, it has become a popular dining and shopping destination, pulsing with sophistication, glamour and expensive merchandise. The 41-room luxury boutique hotel, the first of its kind in Australia, is often the first choice for visiting Hollywood royalty and, with a design not for the faint-hearted, it is the perfect place to indulge in a little hedonism. If your budget doesn’t quite extend that far, enjoy a drink at the cocktail bar and spend an evening people-watching. Homewares, books, beauty treatments, and the latest offerings from Jimmy Choo and Balenciaga can all be found along the shop-lined boulevards, together with delicious array of restaurants, from favourite Mecca Bah, which specialises in traditional Turkish, Moroccan and Middle Eastern fare, to Belle Epoque’s traditional French bistro, authentic patisserie, Parisian-style sidewalk cafe and bar. Freestyle Tout is a must-visit after dinner, offering desserts that will make your waistline quiver and your tastebuds water. There is customer parking for all venues but it can still get crowded at busy times. Public-transport options include many bus routes and Fortitude Valley train station is a ten-minute walk away.
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emporium village
EAT WAGAMAMA 1000 ANN STREET, FORTITUDE VALLEY T. 07 3252 8229 www.wagamama.com.au
Channelling the bustling ramen noodle bars on the streets of Japan, Wagamama combines positive eating with fresh ingredients. Incorporating the well-balanced elements of Asian cuisine, made-to-order meals at Wagamama sizzle with the zing of ginger, the subtle flavours of sesame, topped off with a dash of fresh lime. The large menu features an array of sides, salads, and all manner of rice and noodle dishes.
DRINK CAPRI CAFE BAR SHOP 18/1000 ANN STREET, FORTITUDE VALLEY T. 07 3257 0401 www.capricafe.com.au
DOING BUSINESS Michael Conrad, Owner, Three Bistro SHOP 55/1000 ANN STREET, Fortitude Valley T. 07 3852 3133 www.threebistro.com.au How long have you lived in Brisbane? All my life. I’ve grown up in the 1970s and 1980s and have seen Brisbane evolve from country town to international city. What do you love about living in Brisbane? Serious business done in a relaxed manner. Things are done well, but without the hype and bluff of the southern states. How’s business in Brisbane? No restaurateur ever said his restaurant was too busy – there is always room for a little more. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? People looking at Brisbane as a destination, not a transfer point to other Queensland attractions. How would you improve business in Brisbane? Start with daylight saving to keep people out and about for longer each day. How do you see Brisbane in 2016? Busy! I see Brisbane in the future as being a city with a steady population increase with more restaurants, bars and cafes. All good and all full! What’s the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? The development on the old Gasworks site as well as several other projects completing in the area between The Valley and Breakfast Creek. Only a local would know … Fish and chips by the water at Wynnum is always a favourite winter or spring lunch. Describe your Brisbane lifestyle The restaurant takes up much of my life. Saturday is mainly spent chasing children’s sports and Sunday is usually a relaxed day involving some light sport or a visit to the park, and finishes with a big home-cooked meal on the deck.
Favourite Brisbane …
EXPERIENCE River walks. SUBURB Fortitude Valley. RESTAURANT Mine. CAFE Campos Coffee. BAR Cru Bar + Cellar. ESCAPE Sunshine Coast. WEEKEND ACTIVITY Walking up Mount Coot-tha. PICNIC SPOT Any park with the kids. RETAILER Ollie and Lloyd. LANDMARK Cultural Centre at South Bank.
Mediterranean fare is synonymous with the freshest of seafood, the purest of olive oil, and ripe tomatoes. Capri Cafe Bar invites diners to delight in European and Mediterranean cuisine, in a relaxed and contemporary setting. Radiating a warm glow from its Emporium location, Capri is licensed and offers fresh espresso, breakfast, lunch and dinner. Renowned for its freshly made pizza, the Capri pizzeria team creates wonders from carefully sourced ingredients.
SHOP CAMARGUE shop 1/1000 ANN STREET, FORTITUDE VALLEY T. 07 3252 1100 www.camarguefashion.com.au
Sophistication, classic style and a playful sense of fun sums up the fashion philosophy of a Camargue customer. Camargue celebrates edgy silhouettes and high-quality fashion merchandise. Versatile and functional, the collection is sourced from both local and international fashion frontrunners. Marrying high fashion with comfortable elegance, multi-coloured knee-high woollen socks are just as at home here as a billowing Dries Van Noten skirt.
PLAY ELLA BACHÉ SHOP 38/1000 ANN STREET, FORTITUDE VALLEY T. 07 3257 1333 www.ellabache.com.au
Like fine wine, delectable cuisine and beautiful fashion, luxurious beauty treatments are another one of life’s pleasures. A world away from The Valley’s lively day-to-day happenings, Ella Baché Fortitude Valley is a beauty haven for the inner-city man or woman. Skin and bodycare treatments are personally designed to tailor to individual beauty needs, and can be adapted to fit in both busy and more leisurely schedules. From waxing, polishing and tinting, to spa treatments, massages, and facials – the Ella Baché philosophy is steeped in quality, care and rejuvenation.
BEST PLACE . . .
To stay somewhere design savVy Emporium Hotel. For jewels and treasures McKinney’s Jewellers. for delicious petitE sandwiches Buzz Cafe. for hand-picked fashion collections from france, germany and new york Toscani. For unique tiles to revamp your home ASA Tiles. for fine corporate and casual menswear Mitch. By Mitchell Ogilvie. for personalised stationery Invitation House. For woodEN CHILDREN’S toys Growing World. to find a quirky pair of glasses Eye Candy Spex & Chox. for a library of back-vintage wines The Wine Emporium. for runway style hair Toni & Guy. 71
village fortitude valley
fortitude valley Named for the SS Fortitude, which was one of the first ships to arrive in Brisbane in 1849, Fortitude Valley holds many important pieces in the city’s history, including more than 120 heritage-listed properties from shopping centres and schools, to churches and hotels. ‘The Valley’ is a hive of activity. By day, browse the retro boutiques and designer dress shops, the funky salons and enjoy the offerings at the local cafes. As the sun goes down, the bars and restaurants come to life with the sounds of people and music. The music scene thrives here; it is the place where people flock to see international DJs, live jazz, alternative rock and some burgeoning local talent. From Cloudland to Ric’s Cafe, it is possible to experience both sides of The Valley’s personality, which runs the gauntlet between pure elegance and style, and something a little more grungy and offbeat. The recently refurbished Chinatown Mall has been a hub of Asian commercial and cultural activity and is a favourite of residents and visitors for a weekend yum cha or a browse through the markets. There are a range of stores in Wickham Street, Chopstix Arcade and the TCB building (connecting the Chinatown and Brunswick Street malls). The charmingly old and the fantastically modern buildings that house the suburb’s bars, boutiques and nightclubs fill the streets and laneways and all combine in perfect synchronicity to create the fabric of this wonderfully raw but sophisticated suburb. 72
fortitude valley village
EAT PINTXO SPANISH TAPERIA 561 BRUNSWICK STREET, NEW FARM T. 07 3333 2231 www.pintxo.com
Raise your glass filled with a fruity brew of sangria, and toast the rich flavours of Spanish cuisine. Pintxo Spanish Taperia delivers authentic Spanish cuisine in side-by-side tapas and dining rooms. In addition to set-menu and shareplate options, up to 28 hombres and señoras can tuck in at the bar-style Tapas Train. The long wooden table features a conveyor belt loaded with tempting tapas bites. Pintxo (pronounced ‘pin-cho’) adds a colourful splash to New Farm.
DRINK LARUCHE 680 ANN STREET, FORTITUDE VALLEY T. 07 3666 0880 www.laruche.com.au
As you step afoot this honey pot of gold, bustling Ann Street will be all but forgotten as your eyes soak up the sensory delights at Laruche Bar and Supperclub. Plush couches, weird and wonderful lampshades, and a bar brimming with twinkling delights all somehow effortlessly come together in a sea of rich colour and texture. Journey to a place where sexy jazz saunters through the air, and where cocktails are adorned with rose water, lemongrass, cherries and chilli.
SHOP DROBE 669 ANN STREET, FORTITUDE VALLEY T. 07 3666 0052
DOING BUSINESS Kelly Villenguez, Assistant Manager, Akira Isogawa Boutique 705 Ann StREET, Fortitude Valley T. 07 3252 4919 www.akira.com.au How long have you lived in Brisbane? For 24 years. What do you love about living in Brisbane? I love that Brisbane is a relaxed city and that you can make
of it what you will. We have the culture and the facilities to achieve goals here. How’s business in Brisbane? Brisbane is a great launch pad as there is less population and competition. If there is real quality in what you do, and if you market it well, you will shine. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to work for the astonishing and internationally renowned fashion designer Akira Isogawa since the boutique opened a year ago. How would you improve business in Brisbane? If people regularly bought or did something they’ve never tried before, be it clothing, music or restaurants, it would support more local businesses and what is on offer. How do you see Brisbane in 2016? I would love to see Brisbane strengthen as a cultural Mecca. What’s the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? Valentino, Retrospective at GoMA. An amazing opportunity to see the fine detail, construction and elegance of Mr Garavani’s designs up close. Only a local would know … I often find myself telling people about the Asian restaurants in Market Square at Sunnybank. Describe your Brisbane lifestyle I love spending time with friends and family, and also live music, theatre and art exhibitions, restaurants and bars and anything that’s natural and organic.
Favourite Brisbane …
EXPERIENCE Local markets. SUBURB Paddington. RESTAURANT The Buffalo Club. CAFE Flamingo. BAR The Lark. ESCAPE The Brisbane River. WEEKEND ACTIVITY Live music. PICNIC SPOT New Farm Park. RETAILER Akira Isogawa Boutique. LANDMARK GoMA.
Australian labels are occasionally overshadowed by bigger fish from across the sea, but a little boutique on Ann Street is making waves on the homegrown fashion scene. Drobe sources unique pieces from young Australian designers, to ensure that up-and-coming local talent gets a fashionable foot in the door. Any girl who strolls in off the street will feel at home in Drobe’s walk-in wardrobe aesthetic. Even the change rooms are geared to a personal, boutique shopping experience, with yes/no/maybe hangers guiding each retail expedition.
PLAY MANA BAR JUDITH WRIGHT CENTRE, 420 BRUNSWICK STREET, FORTITUDE VALLEY T. 07 3852 6767 www.manabar.com.au
Brisbane’s gaming enthusiasts will be in virtual heaven with a drink in one hand and a Sega controller in the other. A watering hole with a twist, Mana Bar invites guests to give the latest video games a whirl, whilst enjoying Fortitude Valley’s social scene. With a constantly updated games list, special event nights, and gaminginspired cocktails, a sense of community is fostered amongst the pixelated glow. Pac Man would be proud of this gaming Mecca, at home in the Judith Wright Centre.
BEST PLACE . . .
for sophisticated furniture and homewares Domanye. To indulge in your love of cake King of Cakes. For an ambienT night of jazz Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Arts. for a classic burger with A twist Grill’d. For a cocktail or two or three Cloudland. for designer outdoors Cosh Living. for European elegance and Australian comfort clothing Subfusco. for a sleek set of wheels Lexus of Brisbane. for a tint of colour Fabrik. For fresh cured chorizo and blood sausage Ortiga. for great breakfast Fatboy’s Cafe. 73
village new farm/teneriffe
new farm/teneriffe Only minutes from the CBD, New Farm and Teneriffe were once a thriving farming area and later an industrial hub with boat moorings and commercial woolsheds. Elements of that history are still visible in the beautiful heritage-listed buildings that line their main streets today – but the old woolsheds are now stylish warehouse apartments, old factories are now converted gallery spaces, and the classic Queenslanders now sit alongside the multi-million-dollar modern architect-designed homes. New Farm Park is the heart of the suburb and has had an interesting past. This prime piece of real estate on the Brisbane River was used as a farm to supply food for a local convict settlement. It then lived life as a racecourse until 1913 when it was bought by Brisbane City Council and began life as New Farm Park. Today, the 37 hectare park attracts more than 17,000 visitors every week to spend time meandering through the farmers markets on a Saturday morning, enjoying a picnic or perhaps taking a short stroll across to the Brisbane Powerhouse. The Brisbane Powerhouse once supplied electricity to the city’s electric tramway system, but has since been transformed into an entertainment precinct perfect to watch a live show, enjoy lunch or dinner at Bar Alto or a Sunday afternoon drink at Watt watching the world go by. The wine bars, cafes and restaurants, riverside bowls club, galleries and theatres – and proximity to the city, The Valley, James Street and Emporium – all combine to make New Farm and Teneriffe popular destinations to both live and visit.
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new farm/teneriffe village
EAT MIZU 2 MACQUARIE STREET, TENERIFFE T. 07 3254 0488 www.mizurestaurant.com.au
Whisk your tastebuds away to Japan any night or day of the week at Mizu. From kingfish, bamboo shoots and miso soup, to creamy crab meat and delicate mizuna leaves, the Mizu message is simple – fresh ingredients, and an appreciation for good food. In addition to seasonal menus, banquet options and fresh ingredients, you can also bring a touch of Mizu cuisine to your home in Japanese-style takeaway boxes. Sake bottles can be shelved until your next visit.
DRINK COCO BELLA 75 WELSBY STREET, NEW FARM T. 07 3254 4426 www.cocobellaespresso.com.au
DOING BUSINESS Todd rumble, Co-Owner, Claret House Wine Bar Shop 5/36 Vernon TERRAce, Teneriffe T. 07 3257 0402 www.clarethouse.com.au How long have you lived in Brisbane? I was born here but grew up on the Sunshine Coast, so about 14 years in Brisbane with time in the US and UK along the way. What do you love about living in Brisbane? Apart from friends and family, the relatively relaxed pace of city living – bustling but not stressful. Plus we’ve got some of the best beaches and hinterland in the world nearby. How’s business in Brisbane? Booming! There’s great potential for small business in our city at the moment. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? The bar and restaurant scene has exploded in the last few years, and triggered
people’s interest in wine. They’re enjoying different wines and taking an active interest in learning more. How would you improve business in Brisbane? Being able to evolve to improve the effectiveness of your business is vital. Simply keeping up with trends and utilising resources like social media can make all the difference. How do you see Brisbane in 2016? As a world-class destination for food and wine. This will be possible through the emergence of talented young chefs, sommeliers and restaurateurs. What’s the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? The Teneriffe Festival. It was the first of what will hopefully be an annual celebration of the newly recognised suburb, its residents, businesses and history. Only a local would know … Summer is good but winter is even better. Describe your Brisbane lifestyle Lots of time behind the bar ... good wine, great food, not a lot of sleep.
Favourite Brisbane …
EXPERIENCE Gigs at the Riverstage. SUBURB Teneriffe. RESTAURANT Ortiga. CAFE Chouquette. BAR Claret House. ESCAPE Noosa or Byron Bay. WEEKEND ACTIVITY Golf and a long Sunday lunch. PICNIC SPOT Anywhere on the river. RETAILER James Street Precinct. LANDMARK The Story Bridge and the city skyline.
Amble through the leafy streets of New Farm, and you will be pleasantly surprised to discover Coco Bella Espresso. The understated decor and scent of fresh coffee will entice you through the brick-lined threshold. The sweets cabinet tantalises the tastebuds with an array of handmade pastries, waiting to complement your Merlo coffee. Simplicity rules the menu and the warm interior design is complemented by decorative mirrors and an impressive wine collection.
SHOP NEW FARM BIKES 77 MERTHYR ROAD, NEW FARM T. 07 3254 0544 www.newfarmbikes.com.au
New Farm is brimming with character, and the quaint architecture, wide streets, and the winding river provide an ideal backdrop for an exploration on two wheels. New Farm Bikes is an authority on the latest Scandinavian bike and cycling trinkets. Book in for a regular service, browse the latest gadgets, and hit the streets. The heart and soul of this local cycling nook is fostered by a communal love of the open road, with regular organised group rides.
PLAY YORK HAIR ARTISTRY SHOP 3/36 VERNON TERRACE, TENERIFFE T. 07 3252 7976 www.yorkhairartistry.com.au
A clean snip of scissors signals the silent descent of a lock of hair falling to the floor. Step into hair-styling haven York Hair Artistry, where sustainable beauty meets standout style. Sporting sleek interiors and unique character, the salon effortlessly marries organic elements with chic vintage charm. A salon with a conscience, York uses eco-friendly hair styling products and toxic-free colour treatments infused with organic silk.
BEST PLACE . . . for the smoothest of cheeses and tastIest of olives New Farm Deli. for stunning and stylisH heEls Gary Castles. to lazE the morning away The Little Larder. FOR the farmers markets or aN energetic LIVE performance Brisbane Powerhouse. for a lunch in eclectic surrounds The London Club. to meet for friday night drinks Gertie’s Bar & Lounge. To smell the roses New Farm Park. for silver and JEWELS Ari Jewellery. For A wander along the river Teneriffe Riverwalk. to indulge in alternative therapies The Lightworkers Cottage. for a quick lunch Cibo. 75
village paddington/rosalie
paddington/ rosalie The green hills of Paddington and Rosalie are peppered with traditional tin and timber homes and beautiful Queenslanders, while their main streets are lined with cafes, restaurants and an eclectic mix of specialty stores, which all come together to paint a picture of the quintessential Brisbane suburbs. A popular antique and secondhand shopping spot, Paddington delights with its quaint cottages turned irresistible store-fronts. The Paddington Antique Centre, a heritage-listed theatre building on the corner of Latrobe Terrace and Collingwood Street, houses one of the largest ranges of antiques available in Queensland. Take your time browsing for quirky collectables, vintage and designer fashions, retro wares, home furnishings and artwork. The bars and restaurants of Paddington successfully combine the old and the new to create an authentic and unique dining experience. The Lark offers a menu of sensational cocktails in a beautifully converted colonial-style cottage. Iceworks, which operated as an ice factory for 70 years, is now a modern unit complex that sits atop an award-winning restaurant and bar. A favourite with the pre- and post-match crowds at Suncorp Stadium is Caxton Street, which is a stone’s throw from the venue and home to the Caxton Hotel, Hotel LA, Casablanca and Gambaro. Tucked away behind the main streets of Paddington, and watched over by Government House, lies another popular strip of shops and restaurants, Rosalie. Nestled amongst the bars and restaurants is Blue Room Cinebar, a licensed luxury boutique cinema, while the Rosalie Gourmet Market is a boutique food store that sells top-shelf treats from around the world supported by the best local produce.
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paddington/rosalie village
EAT EUROVIDA SHOP 1, 208 GIVEN TERRACE, PADDINGTON T. 3367 8816
Paddington’s main drag is the perfect location for recharging your batteries at a quaint coffee shop, surrounded by boutique retailers. At Eurovida, sip on coffee, tuck into homemade-style food, and relax beneath awnings covered with tumbling bougainvillea, as you observe the Paddington streets come to life. Packed at breakfast time, Eurovida throws the humming buzz of a European cafe into the Paddington cafe culture.
DRINK IL POSTO 107 LATROBE TERRACE, PADDINGTON T. 3367 3111
DOING BUSINESS DARYL WARK, Interior Designer and Retail Store Owner, Du Monde by Daryl Wark and Shelter Interiors 171 Latrobe Terrace, Paddington T. 07 3368 1223 www.dumonde10.blogspot.com How long have you lived in Brisbane? Nine years. What do you love about living in Brisbane? The climate, diversity of its creative people and its friendliness. How’s business in Brisbane? Fantastic. The good thing about Brisbane is its people are open to new ideas and experiences. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? Its growth as one of the
fastest-growing regions has impacted greatly on my business. We seem to be in the infancy of wonderful things to come. How would you improve business in Brisbane? Have longer hours of business in supermarkets like the rest of the country; it would free up many people on weekends. Introduce daylight saving in summer to assist cross-state business. How do you see Brisbane in 2016? A wonderful hub of creative talent in all areas across the board where people don’t flee south to be in a ‘real city’ and get ‘real experience’. What’s the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? The weather, of course. We live for winter time and the rest of the country only wishes it had it too. Only a local would know … Brisbane has some amazing bikeways. Describe your Brisbane lifestyle A movie at the Barracks complex, dinners and a run or walk in the many great parks.
Favourite Brisbane …
EXPERIENCE A ride on the Brisbane River at sunset. SUBURB Bardon and Ashgrove. RESTAURANT Peasant. CAFE Anouk. BAR Anise. ESCAPE New Brighton in New South Wales. WEEKEND ACTIVITY Work, coffee, friends and home renovating. PICNIC SPOT Slaughter Creek Falls. RETAILER The Cloakroom. LANDMARK Brisbane River.
The vista from Il Posto’s floor-to-ceiling windows is so quintessentially Paddington that you couldn’t be further removed from Italian soil – the restaurant is perched above a sea of Queenslander cottages. But the walls lined with San Pellegrino and Campari hint at an Italian story. Whether you prefer your pizza ‘rosse’ or ‘bianche’, or you’re just after a tipple, Il Posto will keep your options open, and your belly full.
SHOP JEAN & JOYCE 145 LATROBE TERRACE, PADDINGTON T. 07 3368 3325
A deliciously fragrant scent beckons as you enter the welcoming surrounds of stylish boutique Jean & Joyce. Scented candles burn throughout the little converted cottage, nestled in a sea of beautiful goods and charming atmosphere. Run by a fashion-savvy mother-and-daughter team, the store overflows with gifts, homewares and exclusive fashions. With racks of internationally sourced labels, delicate china pieces, stationery and classic interiors, Jean & Joyce is brimming with unique treasures for all tastes.
PLAY BLACK CAT BOOKS AND CAFE 179 LATROBE TERRACE, PADDINGTON T. 07 3367 8777
Gazing at a laden bookshelf can be a daunting task, and sometimes a gentle push in the right direction can provide welcome relief. At the top end of Latrobe Terrace, the team at Black Cat Books and Cafe fosters a love of literature – and the well-read bookworms have created a quaint little tribute to the delightfulness of finding a good book. Always ready to help, the established bookshop has only recently adopted its feline moniker, and continues the well-loved tradition of relaxing in the cafe after browsing the shelves.
BEST PLACE . . .
for home landscaping advice Rosalie Village Garden Centre. For ORGANIC GROCERIEs Fundamental Food Store. for a delicious breakfast XOXO. for an urban chic apEritif The Lark. For a friendly cut and colour Ed Hope. For relaxed alfresco dining Salt. for all things fashionably nice Mood Paddington . for a KILLER manoeuvre Ithaca Skate Park. To find unique homewares Buba & La. For an after-work drink Dowse Bar, Iceworks. to bUy fresh flowers and great cheese
Rosalie Gourmet Market. 77
village the barracks
the barracks It is difficult to believe that this now contemporary and sophisticated retail and dining hub was once the local city jail, with close to 100 prisoners living in the two cell blocks that made up the Brisbane Petrie Terrace Jail. Then, in an ironic twist, it later became the station for the Petrie Terrace police department. In 1940 the jail was demolished but sandstone foundations recovered during excavation have been featured in and around the Barracks development. This landmark retail and commercial precinct successfully integrates three of Brisbane’s key heritage-listed buildings with contemporary architecture. Located at the top of Caxton Street in Paddington, The Barracks offers a range of unique dining options with Libertine Restaurant serving up exquisite French Vietnamese cuisine, Hanabishi offering great sushi for something a bit less formal, and French Twist for decadent pastries. Whether you are chasing a quick bite to eat before a game or a concert at Suncorp Stadium, a romantic dinner with beautiful cuisine, or a casual night out watching the latest film at the Palace Cinemas with a glass of red, The Barracks has you covered. But it’s not just a dining precinct, with beauty therapists, beautiful homewares, a bookshop/cafe and top local produce. Only a short stroll from the CBD through Roma Street Parklands, The Barracks provides a charming alternative to the big-city shopping experience without taking you too far off the beaten track. 78
the barracks village
EAT FAB FISH AND BURGER GRILL Shop 11, 5/61 PETRIE TERRACE T. 07 3367 8088
Whether it’s the combination of bread, meat, and condiments, or simply the satisfaction derived from eating something delicious packed in between a bread roll, a burger always seems to hit the spot. That first bite conjures up images of a diner in the Deep South, where counters are well-worn, and meals are big. At FaB Fish and Burger Grill, a casual dining experience is complemented by a boutique-beer range and bright decor.
DRINK PEASANT SHOP 4, 5/61 PETRIE TERRACE, PETRIE TERRACE T. 07 3367 8066 www.peasant.com.au
Once you set foot inside The Barracks’ resident Spanish tapas bar, Peasant, you will find yourself virtually transported to a wine bar in Barcelona, where the sangria is flowing and the conversation buzzes at high speed. Graze on a Charcuterie Plate whilst sipping on a bevy of imported Spanish beers, including Moritz and Negra Modelo. The combination of raw concrete, dark wood and low lighting makes for a curious feat of design.
SHOP WHEEL & BARROW SHOP 8, 5/61 PETRIE TERRACE T. 07 3367 8466 www.wheelandbarrow.com.au
DOING BUSINESS Eloise Monaghan, Director, Honey Birdette Shop 21, 5/61 Petrie Terrace T. 07 3367 8641 www.honeybirdette.com.au How long have you lived in Brisbane? For 10 years. What do you love about living in Brisbane? The people are fabulous, the weather is exceptional,
my family and friends are close by and I love The Lions – especially when they are winning! How’s business in Brisbane? Brilliant. The people of Brisbane really get behind local businesses. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you?
People are taking a risk in retail, financially and in terms of design. It’s a big ask but, when you get the recipe right, it pays off. We are also surrounded by so many local designers and retailers with plenty of originality coming out. How would you improve business in Brisbane? More high streets and less tax for small business. How do you see Brisbane in 2016? Exciting, vibrant, individual. What’s the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? The advent of summer! Only a local would know … About the gorgeous produce (and cheese kranskys) at the Brisbane Powerhouse farmers markets. Describe your Brisbane lifestyle Busy!
Favourite Brisbane …
EXPERIENCE Barefoot bowls at Merthyr Bowls Club. SUBURB Woolloongabba. RESTAURANT C’est Bon. CAFE Pearl Cafe. BAR Laruche. ESCAPE Byron Bay. WEEKEND ACTIVITY Wakeboarding. PICNIC SPOT Kangaroo Point Cliffs. RETAILER The boutiques at The Barracks. LANDMARK The Regent Cinema
and Festival Hall – why do we keep knocking these places down!
Cooking a meal is like travelling – you need the right ingredients to ensure that you arrive at the final destination relaxed, on time, and satisfied. Your culinary journey will be all smooth sailing with cooking utensils, recipes and accessories from Wheel & Barrow at The Barracks. Nothing is out of place on neatly styled shelves lined with candy-striped muffin cases, non-stick cooking goods, ceramic blackbird pie funnels, Moroccan-style tagines, glassware, cutlery and retro-inspired baking ware.
PLAY BLOSSOM BEAUTY STUDIO SHOP 16, 5/61 PETRIE TERRACE T. 07 3367 8411 www.blossomstudios.com.au
An unfurling flower reaching towards the sun is a symbol of beauty, balance and vitality. Blossom Beauty Studio recognises that beauty is a combination of inner balance and quality products, aided by the touch of gentle hands. Specialising in herbal treatments, the studio’s beauty and relaxation menu draws on traditional wellness rituals from around the world. Blossom aims to create a tranquil environment where wellbeing can flourish and grow.
BEST PLACE . . .
To for delicious paSTRIES French Twist. For a cut Jimmy Rods Barber. for french vietnamese Libertine Restaurant and Bar. For sunday breakfast The Chelsea. for classic and fashionable eyewear 20/20 Optical. For a range OF exquisite chocolates Bittersweet. To sit back and relax Palace Cinemas. For a colourful bloom Pure Florist. for browsing the bookshelves Coaldrake’s Espresso Bar. to catch up with old friends Hogs Breath Cafe. for the most imagazing flavours of the world Mövenpick Ice Cream. to get your car washed Secure Car Wash. 79
village south bank
south bank The famous Left Bank in Paris is home to famous artists, writers and musicians, and has been for many years. Similarly, across the globe, the southern banks of the Brisbane River play host to cultural heavyweights of the stage and screen at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, of the arts at the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art, and of the literary world at the State Library. Young musicians train at the Conservatorium of Music while some of the more experienced singers and bands from around the nation and the world entertain at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. Built on the site of the 1988 World Expo, South Bank also has a more playful side. Cafes and alfresco restaurants, hotels and bars, fashion boutiques selling top fashion labels from around the world or unique offerings from local designers, cinemas showing the latest from Hollywood, the spectacular 60-metre-high Brisbane Wheel offering panoramic views of the Brisbane River and the city and mountains, and the man-made beach that stretches the length of the river can all be found in this playground for the city. South Bank is easily accessible from the city by car or public transport, on foot or bike across the Goodwill or Kurilpa Bridge from the CBD and is now connected to the northern and western suburbs by the Go Between Bridge. With an enviable list of galleries, boutiques, restaurants and bars, and unique recreational experiences, South Bank is a destination that epitomises casual sophistication, where many hours of a day can easily be spent.
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EAT GINGA JAPANESE RESTAURANT SHOP 11–12 LITTLE STANLEY STREET, south bank T. 07 3846 2313 www.gingarestaurant.com.au
South Bank’s dining scene allows for a culinary journey around the world, including Japan. Tales of Ginga Japanese Restaurant are swapped all over Brisbane, with loyal patrons continually coming back for more of the haunt’s popular sushi. In addition to an array of sushi packed with seafood, delve into the wonders of fresh sashimi, bento meals served with miso soup, tempura seafood and vegetables, rice and noodle dishes, and steaming-hot plates.
DOING BUSINESS James Guldberg, Head Chef, Piaf Bar & Bistro shop 5/182 Grey StREET, South bank T. 07 3846 5026 www.piafbistro.com.au How long have you lived in Brisbane? For the last ten years. What do you love about living in Brisbane? I love Brisbane’s weather and relaxed environment both of which make for fantastic dining and entertainment opportunities. How’s business in Brisbane? Business is doing well, always expanding and changing with the times.
People are more open-minded towards the food and beverage industry, which is good for business. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? The growing passion for food and hospitality from the people, and the exposure we have through the television shows, books, etc. puts our industry in a great light. How would you improve business in Brisbane? By introducing new concepts, such as laneway bars/restaurants. How do you see Brisbane in 2016? A lot bigger, more bars and restaurants, a better knowledge and respect for the hospitality industry. What’s the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? The whole Spanish tapas theme going on excites me. It’s a social way to eat and interact with your friends and food. Only a local would know … That we have an beach in the middle of the city. It’s fantastic to be able to sit on the beach overlooking the river and city! Describe your Brisbane lifestyle Busy with my day-to-day work life, but relaxed on my days off with family, friends and food.
Favourite Brisbane …
EXPERIENCE Night jogs by the river. SUBURB West End. RESTAURANT Granada. CAFE Les Amis. BAR Sling Bar. ESCAPE GoMA. WEEKEND ACTIVITY Dining out, cooking. PICNIC SPOT New Farm Park. RETAILER Typo. LANDMARK Kangaroo
Point Cliffs.
DRINK QPAC BAR QUEENSLAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE, CORNER GREY AND MELBOURNE STREETs, SOUTH BANK T. 3840 7444 www.qpac.com.au
Brightly coloured programs rustle in eager hands, a flurry of feet dash up the QPAC stairs, and anticipation builds. Located in the heart of Brisbane’s entertainment precinct, QPAC’s resident bar is a solid reason to arrive early prior to your chosen show. Kick start your night with a pre-performance drop from The Bar’s range of wines, sparklings, boutique beers, or spirits, whilst nibbling on tapas-style morsels.
SHOP NANCY KING 161 GREY STREET, SOUTH BANK T. 07 3844 4968
During your stroll from the leafy arbours of the South Bank Parklands, you might spy a pair of designer heels sitting pretty in the window of Nancy King, a fashion boutique with one foot on the street, and one firmly anchored in the online fashion market. International ready-to-wear collections, local labels and some of Australia’s biggest names in fashion seamlessly convene in a tribute to all things fashion.
PLAY QUEENSLAND MUSEUM – SCIENCENTRE CORNER GREY AND MELBOURNE STREETs, SOUTH BANK T. 07 3840 7555 www.sciencentre.qm.qld.gov.au
Home to wild imaginations and mind-bending science, the Sciencentre is a hands-on initiative of the Queensland Museum, and provides a wealth of information to the humming South Bank hub. Brush up on your knowledge of anything from geckos and turtles to sub-atomic life and the human senses. An interactive approach to scientific exploration, the Sciencentre is sure to inspire, intrigue and educate inquiring minds.
BEST PLACE . . .
for a homestyle lunch Poppy’s Basket. to discover an up-anD-coming designer Young Designers Market – South Bank Lifestyle Markets. for a cup of tea Tlicious. For lively tapas Sardine Tin. For a new look Cor Corz. for anti-ageing treatments Glow Retreat. for oodles of noodles Bamboo Basket. For drinks with atmospherE 5ifth Element. For the hottest sHOEs Izabel + Sebastian. to relax BY the river South Bank Parklands. FOR A SWEET TREAT My Sweetopia. to experience a holistic chocolate culture Max Brenner. 81
village woolloongabba
woolloongabba On game day, Woolloongabba on the city’s fringe is the place to be. Whether it is to watch the Brisbane Lions on their home turf or support local cricket team the Queensland Bulls, the footpaths that wind from the CBD to ‘The Gabba’ overflow with dedicated fans dressed in team colours ready to take on the opposition. Woolloongabba developed around its road, rail and tramway links and was a strong hub for business and industrial activity on Brisbane’s southside, but when the railway depot closed in the late 1960s the area was neglected as attention turned to other parts of the city. The gradual expansion of The Gabba, the construction of the Southeast Busway and major population growth in Brisbane stimulated a need to revitalise the area. Boulevards and streetscape improvements along major roads have created a perfect environment for European footpath dining and community festivals with an ‘outdoor lounge’ space, mature trees, and quirky street furniture, all giving Woolloongabba a new lease on life as a cosmopolitan retail, dining and commercial precinct. There are several interesting antique and furniture stores on Logan Road dealing in traditional Australian antiques, vintage clothing, and retro homewares. The ‘antique quarter’ also plays host to hip cafes and restaurants, including The Crosstown Eating House and 1889 Enoteca, which incorporates a restaurant, wine bar, wine store and cellar in the heritage-listed Taylor-Heaslop building. Woolloongabba has a unique atmosphere and has become a drawcard for local residents and visitors with its character and history combining to give a fresh contemporary edge.
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woolloongabba village
EAT PEARL CAFE 28 LOGAN ROAD, WOOLLOONGABBA T. 07 3392 3300
Quaint, cosy, charming – all manner of words that conjure up heart-warming sentiments could be applied to Woolloongabba’s romantic resident, Pearl Cafe. With its impressive open-air display of mouth-watering cakes, lemon meringue pies, brownies and tarts, this little bistro packs a punch. A popular breakfast haunt, Pearl Cafe also plates up inventive meals for lunch and dinner. An ideal spot to get comfortable and tuck into delicious fodder.
DRINK DOING BUSINESS dee harris, Owner, Miss Mouse Boutique Shop 2/28 Logan ROAd, WoOllOongabba T. 07 3891 1906 www.missmouseboutique.blogspot.com How long have you lived in Brisbane? Nearly 20 years. What do you love about living in Brisbane? The weather, the people, the little pockets of culture. Brisbane has a warm-hearted soul with all the trappings of a big city. How’s business in Brisbane? Great! From my experience there are many people who enjoy and
appreciate all the great opportunities on offer. Brisbane is home to many industry stalwarts yet there is still so much potential in Brisbane. Build it and they will come. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? The focus and development on great little suburbs with promise around Brisbane. Places like Woolloongabba, South Bank, etc. How would you improve business in Brisbane? I would encourage the fine folk of Brisbane to keep supporting all the fantastic local businesses that are working hard to provide unique Brisbane experiences. How do you see Brisbane in 2016? Continuing to grow and develop whilst maintaining its distinctive style. What’s the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? The best Splendour in the Grass line up in a long time. Only a local would know … That depending on your mood you can visit some of the most beautiful countryside, World-Heritage-listed rainforests, and the best beaches, all within an hour from Brisbane. We are so lucky! Describe your Brisbane lifestyle? My Brisbane lifestyle is a little bit like my wardrobe. A little bit of this, a little bit of that. Local markets, great music, sport with my daughter and dinner parties on the back deck.
Favourite Brisbane …
EXPERIENCE Gorge walk at Stradbroke Island. SUBURB Woolloongabba. RESTAURANT e’cco bistro. CAFE Lure Cafe. BAR The Crosstown Eating House. ESCAPE Anywhere on the back of my husband’s motorbike. WEEKEND ACTIVITY Sunday morning at the Northey Street Markets. PICNIC SPOT New Farm Park. RETAILER Aesop. LANDMARK Brisbane Powerhouse.
BISTROT BISTRO 14 LOGAN ROAD, WOOLLOONGABBA T. 07 3162 1185 www.bistrotbistro.com.au
As you step across the timber threshold of Bistrot Bistro, your mind may wander to a bustling Parisian eatery, where the chatter is fast and the interior is beautifully ornate. Minus the smoke and canine patrons of its Parisian compatriots, this Woolloongabba resident provides a touch of comfortable luxury and modern-Australian fare to its versatile location. Thirsty patrons can access the bar from the Logan Road cul-de-sac, or streetside on Stanley Street.
SHOP dAN MODERNE 26 WELLINGTON ROAD, EAST BRISBANE T. 07 3391 0075 www.danmoderne.com
Furniture design company Dan Moderne seeks to solve the antique price problem by reinventing retro-style interior decoration staples, in full sets. Browse furniture inspired by a bygone era, fit for the Chateau Marmont. A contemporary decorator’s dream, the showroom abounds with retro-style lounges, Danish-inspired stools, wooden furniture sets in warm tones, and an overall sense of subtle and stylish harmony. Explore the handpicked collection in the airy showroom, with light streaming in from the street.
PLAY WOOLLOONGABBA ANTIQUE CENTRE 22 WELLINGTON ROAD, WOOLLOONGABBA T. 07 3392 1114 www.woolloongabbaantiquecentre.com
There are a thousand untold stories waiting to be uncovered in the endless shelves, nooks and crannies at the Woolloongabba Antique Centre. As you step into the largest antique centre in Brisbane, you will be transported to an uncluttered retro-meets-antique-meets-Art Nouveau sanctuary. A passion for vintage abounds in every corner of this treasure trove, with pre-loved clothing in perfect condition, and countless antiques whispering stories of past lives.
BEST PLACE . . .
for a drink up AT the bar The Crosstown Eating House. for toasty olive bread Banneton Bakery. For imported cheese, oils and pasta supplies Pennisi Cuisine Distributors. to make a new month resolution Jett’s Fitness. to find unique art to ADORN your walls Woolloongabba Art Gallery. For a quick bite Vespa Pizza. for a complete indulgence Apollo’s Day Spa. to redesign your look Jaffa’s Hair. to maintain your balance em.body.me personalised pilates. For homemade muffins Desmond and Molly Jones. for a cosmopolitan Canvas Club. 83
village bulimba
bulimba If you can ignore the city skyline looming over your shoulder as the CityCat docks in the quaint old-style heritage ferry terminal, you could be mistaken for thinking you have arrived in a little fishing town. In fact, you are in the riverside suburb of Bulimba, which combines village charm with big-city attractions. A former sugar cane and pineapple-growing precinct, Bulimba was once home to generations of working-class families with many of the street signs still bearing their names. Today, expect to pay top dollar to live in this riverside location, which is a favourite with young upwardly mobile families who want to live in a delightful suburb close to the city. Unlike its namesake in Sydney’s Darlinghurst, Bulimba’s Oxford Street pulses during the day with young mothers and designer-clad tots spending time between the leafy open space of Bulimba Memorial Park and the eclectic boutiques. The Uniting Church at the entrance to Oxford Street can be found on most afternoons overflowing with little girls in tutus waiting for their afternoon ballet lesson, or some of the members of older generations playing bingo during the day. In the evening and on weekends visitors from the mainland jump off the ferry at Oxford Street or Apollo Road to catch a cheap movie at the historic Balmoral Cinema, or a drink and some dinner at one of the popular bars or restaurants. Whether it is for a picnic or a coffee in the sunshine, the latest Hollywood blockbuster, a delicious lunch or a spot of shopping, the riverside hub of Bulimba is well worth a visit.
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bulimba village
EAT THE JETTY OXFORD 1B OXFORD STREET, BULIMBA T. 07 3899 6113
DOING BUSINESS Jocelyn Ridgway, owner, Green Grass Home & Body 133 Oxford Street, Bulimba T. 07 3399 1219 www.homeandbody.com.au How long have you lived in Brisbane? Other than a few years in Melbourne, my whole life. What do you love about living in Brisbane? Our relaxed pace, perfect sunny winters, great independent retailers, and entrepreneurial people willing to open stores, restaurants and bars as good as, or better, than other capitals. How’s business in Brisbane? The last year in retail for small businesses has been very erratic. It’s hard to compete with major retailers constantly on sale. In saying that, there is a strong movement to support local traders, which is great. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? There has been a big trend back towards handmade and unique homewares and accessories. How would you improve business in Brisbane? Subsidise rents in suburban shopping strips to keep independent retailers. Independent stores are what give suburbs character and a reason for people to visit. How do you see Brisbane in 2016? Busy! Lots of people want to move here, which is understandable, but I see Brisbane’s traffic and affordability suffering. On the upside, we are maturing into our own unique style. What’s the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? Valentino, Retrospective at GoMA. Only a local would know … How fun it is to ride around on the CityCat visiting different suburbs. Describe your Brisbane lifestyle Taking advantage of our great weather, eating out, people watching and supporting other small traders and friends.
Favourite Brisbane …
EXPERIENCE Up Late at GoMA. SUBURB New Farm. RESTAURANT The Crosstown Eating House. CAFE Browndog Cafe. BAR Sardine Tin. ESCAPE Peregian. WEEKEND ACTIVITY Tapas at Granada. PICNIC SPOT New Farm Park. RETAILER Riverbend Books. LANDMARK Brisbane City Hall.
Dream of swapping CityCats for galleons with billowing sails, trading suburban calm with salty air, and devouring fresh seafood whilst overlooking the rolling seas. Bulimba’s latest riverside resident, The Jetty Oxford, could easily be transported to a seaport town, with its nautical-themed decor and open expanses. Two huge anchors, heavy woodwork and a model ship whisper tales of the seven seas. The maritime theme carries through to the menu, delving into the depths of Moreton Bay and beyond.
DRINK SCALES & ALES 5 WAMBOOL STREET, BULIMBA T. 07 3899 4001 www.scalesandales.com.au
Hand-cut potato chips, lightly coated in fresh cottonseed oil and cooked to crisp perfection are a solid way to kick off a gourmet fish and chip meal. Scales & Ales sources fish from sustainable-seafood sources and upholds an awareness of ingredient origins. The gourmet fish bar combines fresh seafood with boutique beers for a simple, clever and wholesome approach to casual dining. Catering for all tastes, the menu is divided into ‘sea-food’ and ‘land-food’, and includes options for vegetarians.
SHOP secondi 2/85 RIDING ROAD, HAWTHORNE T. 07 3395 6900
Vintage couture can transport you to a time where shoes were perpetually shined and costume jewellery was a staple accessory. At Secondi, Hawthorne’s resident vintage clothing boutique, you can experience the authenticity and sartorial satisfaction of pre-loved garments and accessories, in near-perfect condition. Run your hands over divine faux-fur wraps, slip your feet into two-toned Miu Miu pumps or adorn yourself with jewels and pearl strands reminiscent of the Flapper era.
PLAY BULIMBA GOLF CLUB quay street, Bulimba T. 07 3399 6524 www.bulimbagolfclub.com.au
The idea to build a golf club on the banks of the Bulimba reach of the Brisbane River was sparked over a few beers at a Woolloongabba pub in the 1960s. When casual ideas reached fruition, the Bulimba Golf Club came to life in the flourishing streets of Bulimba. A complementary addition to the urbane Bulimba lifestyle, the club features a nine-hole, par 3 course, a dining room and bar. The club’s calendar includes daily golfing events, trivia evenings, social and competition play and free golf clinics on Saturday mornings.
BEST PLACE . . .
To get take-home treats The Deli at Bulimba. For a lazy sunday morning reading the paper Bulimba Memorial Park. TO find a stunning outfit Little Red Dress. for a fantastic espresso Park Bench Espresso. for spice and flavour La Quinta Mexican Cafe & Bar. for A DAY of pampering Stephanie’s Day Spa. To discover A NEW YOu Toni & Guy Bulimba. to explore an octopus garden Colmslie Beach Reserve. for a long weekend lunch Liquorish. to throw away the scales
Mud Dessert Bar. 85
village west end/south brisbane
west end/ south brisbane West End and South Brisbane are not far from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, but the area certainly takes on a different attitude and vibe. The pace is a bit slower, the people more bohemian than business, and quirky designers peddle their wares amongst organic grocers, cosy bars and coffee houses. Historically, West End was one of the poorer suburbs of Brisbane, but the cottages that housed the working classes and migrants all those years ago have now become highly coveted pieces of real estate over the past 20 years. Quite a lot of development has occurred during this time but the suburb still retains beautiful old buildings such as St Andrew’s Anglican Church and the former South Brisbane Municipal Chambers in Vulture Street. For something a bit left of centre, explore the Green Flea Community markets on Saturday morning. This people’s market is filled with fabulous fruit, vegetables, organic foods, gourmet stalls, plants, herbs, flowers, pre-loved clothing, bric-a-brac and buskers. Boundary Street has a shopping precinct where you can find everything from designer clothes to bulk produce. The bars and restaurants offer an experience with a twist – cocktails served in a Chinese opium den, or cigar bar, breakfast served in an old gunshop, Turkish delights eaten in a restaurant overlooking the river, a cupcake parlour and many venues providing an unending array of live music.
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west end/south brisbane village
EAT GRANADA 154 MELBOURNE STREET, SOUTH BRISBANE T. 07 3844 4757
Whether you fancy Catalonian cuisine, Basque Country tapas, or tasty delights from Valencia, Spanish dining is making its mark on Brisbane’s restaurant scene. Granada has quietly been plating traditional Spanish fare with a Mexican twist. The modern space will appeal to those looking to chill out locally in South Brisbane, while the menu is designed for sharing, with the option for smaller tapas pieces, or larger portions from the raciones menu.
DRINK CUP coffee 85 RUSSELL STREET, WEST END T. 07 3846 3746 www.cupcoffee.com.au
Sipping your morning coffee with a ceiling-high robot for company makes for an enjoyable experience, particularly if your robotic companion is drawn entirely from coffeemachine parts. At Cup Specialty Coffee, you’ll be in the hands of coffee fiends who live and breathe the search for the perfect cup of coffee. Roasting and serving its own Five Star Day daily blend, ten percent of Cup’s coffee-bean sales go to its cupkids program, supporting children in coffeegrowing countries.
SHOP CRUMPLER 120 BOUNDARY STREET, WEST END T. 07 3844 6501 www.crumpler.com.au
DOING BUSINESS Lisa Bostock, Owner, Mona Lisa’s at West End 237 Boundary StREEt, West End T. 07 3255 3213 www.monaandjoe.com How long have you lived in Brisbane? I was born in Western Australia but I now have spent half my life in both beautiful states. What do you love about living in Brisbane? Brisbane has some great weather, especially during winter. I love
mid-morning, it’s great for walking into the city on Wednesday for the farmers markets. Or to go to South Bank for its art galleries, movies, restaurants and parklands. How’s business in Brisbane? Business is fantastic. That’s because I have fantastic staff and fantastic customers. What change has occurred in Brisbane in recent years that has had a positive impact on you? The beautification of South Bank and the inner-city precinct has definitely had a positive rejuvenation impact. How would you improve business in Brisbane? I would like to see more independent stores in Brisbane using local talent. I also love the idea of converting certain laneways in Brisbane and utilising these talents in them. How do you see Brisbane in 2016? Full of good energy. What’s the most exciting thing currently happening in Brisbane? This is our change-over season so it’s all about the coming spring fashions. Only a local would know … There’s a great Italian restaurant at Portside called Gianni’s and the Brazilian dance group called Zouk and the City regularly entertain patrons in the art of dance. Describe your Brisbane lifestyle Easy going, markets on weekends, drinks with friends and wandering through antique and secondhand stores.
Favourite Brisbane …
EXPERIENCE Expo ‘88. SUBURB West End. RESTAURANT Caravanserai. CAFE Sol Breads. BAR Rumpus Room. ESCAPE Tugun/Currumbin Beach. WEEKEND ACTIVITY Markets. PICNIC SPOT Kangaroo Point Lookout. RETAILER Avid Reader. LANDMARK
Brisbane Powerhouse.
With a reputation and an ethos for producing quality, long-lasting goods, Crumpler has made a name for itself when it comes to bags that last the distance. Settling into its new location, this is one retailer dishing out a smart-casual dose of canvas bags in all shapes and sizes. From camera bags, laptop bags and totes, to backpacks and overnighters, Crumpler uses high-quality Neoprene, reinforced canvas and tough accessories.
PLAY WHITE LOTUS 10 BROWNING STREET, WEST END T. 07 3840 9811 www.whitelotusbar.com.au
In the late 13th century, Buddhist members of the White Lotus society were forced into hiding, and adopted the covert operations of a secret sect. While West End is far removed from Chinese dynasties of yesteryear, White Lotus cocktail bar’s intimate lighting and off-street location provide an excellent venue for after-dark mingling. The bar’s decor channels part Eastern temple, part Middle Eastern boudoir, where the lights stay low, and cocktails continue to flow.
BEST PLACE . . .
to stock up on your nibbles Mick’s Nuts. to relax in the sun Orleigh Park. to discover some new moves Rio Rhythmics. to bring new life to the old Bang Doll Vintage. for A BEER-INSPIRED JOURNEY Archive Beer Boutique. for a trim Rokstar West End. to buy your weekend bakery items Kim Thanh Hot Bread. for eco, ethical and handmade Nook. For a feast reminiscent of greece Little Greek Taverna. to relax Black Dove Body Bar. for authentic italian coffee Lucaffe. for local children’s fashions Don’t Tell Fannie. For all your deli delights Swiss Gourmet Deli. 87
travel day southern travel trip scenic rim
southern scenic rim If you’re a lover of horseriding, walking or climbing, or if you simply feel energised when taking in views of spectacular countryside, the Southern Scenic Rim – composed of Rathdowney, Mount Barney and Mount Lindesay – is a must-see getaway destination. The quaint old farming town of Rathdowney is a wonderful escape from city life, as it proudly celebrates its pioneering history. Visit the town’s museum for a history lesson or head to the local alpaca farm and observe the fuzzy critters in action (they’re said to love a good cuddle!). Nearby Mount Barney, Southern Queensland’s second-highest peak, offers the opportunity to get amongst the beautiful wilderness and see rare plant species in their natural habitat, and to explore natural caves and swim in refreshing rockpools. There are also several eco/wildlife tours available throughout the region. And in the evenings, relax in a cosy B&B beside a roaring woodfire or settle back and watch the nightsky filled with glittering stars.
DO
Treat a loved one or friend to a weekend away at the Barney Creek Vineyard Cottages. Located in a small valley between Mount Barney and Mount Maroon, the cottages offer a secluded getaway surround by a picturesque landscape. Freshly prepared meals can be delivered to your private cottage, along with a bottle of stellar wine. Or you can take a prepared picnic hamper down to eat creekside for a relaxing afternoon outdoors.
CONSUME
Spend a day sampling the gourmet fare of the Southern Scenic Rim. From delicious olives, olive oil and dukkah, to beautiful local wines and cheese, there’s plenty to keep your stomach occupied in these parts. Perfect the art of Italian cuisine at Classi di Cucina Italiana in Rathdowney, where you can learn how to make pizza and pasta under the instruction of locals Pietro and Desley Agnoletto. images courtesy of scenic rim regional council
VISITOR INFORMATION W www.visitscenicrim.com.au 88
KEEPSAKES O F YOUR J OURNEY
Don’t miss the opportunity to get yourself some handcrafted garments made lovingly from alpaca wool. The Alpaca Shack, Rathdowney’s alpaca farm, offers a range of accessories, giftware, toys, novelties, yarns, fleece and jewellery in addition to clothing. You can even have garments – including cardigans, vests, beanies and scarves – made to order from Rathdowney Alpaca Fleece.
north stradbroke island travel
north stradbroke island Often, when we think of travelling to an island fringed by white sands, and crystal blue waters home to frolicking dolphins, manta rays, turtles and humpback whales, our mind escapes to exotic countries in Southeast Asia or The Caribbean. But as luck would have it, such a paradise exists a mere hour or so away from Brisbane. North Stradbroke Island is the perfect island escape for the city weary, located just off the coast of Redlands Shire. One of the world’s largest sand islands, ‘Straddie’, as it is affectionately known by locals, is composed of tiny fishing villages, unspoilt beaches, beautiful nature walks and a wealth of flora and fauna. A wonderful destination for extended holidays or for a quick weekend getaway, the island features accommodation to suit all budgets, from beachside camping grounds and simple beach shacks, to cosy bed and breakfasts, expansive holiday homes and beautiful resorts.
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Relax at the Stradbroke Island Beach Hotel, which sits on absolute beachfront, and offers 12 beautifully appointed hotel rooms and 14 luxury three- and four-bedroom apartments with beautiful vistas that stretch across the Pacific Ocean. The hotel’s pub is one of the island’s most popular watering holes, where locals and visitors gather for a drink, live music and spectacular sunsets.
CONSUME
Nestled on a hilltop overlooking the rest of the island, Amis Restaurant in Pandanus Palms Resort presents exotic cuisine that combines fresh local seafood with global inspirations for an unforgettable eating experience. Owner Peter and his wife Beate also own run the cute little cafe nook, Harlequin Cafe, where you can indulge in a big breakfast, a light lunch, or a great cup of coffee. images courtesy of tourism queensland
VISITOR INFORMATION W www.redlandstourism.com.au
KEEPSAKES O F YOUR J OURNEY
Gather some unforgettable memories by heading out on a day-long Straddie Kingfisher Eco 4WD adventure. Your barefooted guide, Dave, will take you along kilometres of deserted beachfront, as well as a tour through Stradbroke’s national park with visits to the unfussily named Blue Lake and Brown Lake. Enjoy a tasty barbecue and homemade damper and tea along the way. And remember to keep your eyes peeled for whales between May and October! 89
travel d’aguilar range
d’aguilar range You needn’t venture far from Brisbane to experience a beautiful drive through verdant mountains and all the charms that accompany it. The D’Aguilar Range extends approximately 45 kilometres from Caboolture through to Brisbane, where it becomes the Brisbane Forest Park. Whether you prefer adventure, a cosy getaway amongst the treetops or a day spent exploring the beautiful countryside, you’ll find it all in this magnificent daytrip destination. Amongst the mountains that compose the range are Mount Mee, Mount Nebo, Mount Glorious, Mount Pleasant, Mount Samson and Camp Mountain. Nestled between them are a string of charming country villages including Samford, Dayboro and Woodford. Spend a day or two exploring these villages and you’ll discover local arts and crafts, delicious sweet bakery treats, charming bookstores and the odd good old-fashioned country pub, perfect for a casual counter meal.
DO
Take in the beautiful views of the D’Aguilar ranges with a Gliding Adventure Flight. You’ll have a breathtaking bird’s eye view of Mount Mee from the comfort of a HK36 Super Dimona glider. After climbing out to your chosen location, you will commence gliding and experience the exhilarating feeling of soaring like a bird using only the natural energy from the sun, while taking in some lovely views.
CONSUME
Treat yourself to a cup of tea with a side of baked treats and beautiful mountain views at Olley’s Coffee in the Rainforest in Mount Glorious. Nestled in the rainforest, this little gourmet nook is a wonderful place for a pit stop, where you can revel in the glory of nature to a backdrop of gently rustling leaves and cheerful birdsong. You’ll also be able to pick up various knick-knacks from the cafe’s little store, including soaps, essential oils and organic honey. images courtesy of tourism queensland
VISITOR INFORMATION W www.tq.com.au 90
KEEPSAKES O F YOUR J OURNEY
Pick yourself up a little memento of your journey through the D’Aguilar Range from the Dayboro Art Gallery. Housed in an old plumber’s workshop, the Dayboro Art Gallery sits on the town’s main street, nestled on the edge of Terror’s Creek. Inside the gallery is a gas-fired kiln for pottery as well as three viewing rooms where you can glimpse the treasures of local artisans across a range of artistic disciplines.
Win a Case * ! e in W t e m ro ir of S
your Visit our website for of wine! chance to Win a case To enter simply go to mag.html www.sirromet.com/b 0 the 30th September 201 *Competition closes on et varietals. om Sirr 6 of mix a es Wine case includ
Wines, dining, tours, tastings and much more!
Sirromet Winery Visit Sirromet Winery, an award winning venue showcasing premium Queensland wine and food in a location alive with breathtaking views.
Restaurant Lurleen’s Award winning Restaurant Lurleen’s features mouth-watering modern Australian cuisine and stunning views. Using fresh seafood and Queensland produce you will experience dining at its finest. Lunch – Wednesday to Sunday. Dinner – Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Bookings are recommended.
Cellar Door Sirromet’s Cellar Door, situated in a fully operational winery and vineyard, offers a range of experiences to visitors; winery tours, wine tastings, café style meals (Wed-Sun only), live music on weekends, Devonshire teas, cakes and coffee – why not drop in today? Open 7 days from 9am to 4:30pm.
Always delivering above expectations, the Vineyard Selection range of quality wines is tailor-made for people looking to be elevated to the next level in wine appreciation. Enjoy Responsibly
Over 440 National and International Wine Awards 850 Mount Cotton Road, Mount Cotton, Queensland 4165
Phone: 1800 SIRROMET or (07) 3206 2999
wines@sirromet.com
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The Parklands, a pristine haven of
Little Stanley, a place of chance discoveries
Grey Street, a cultural boulevard of
exquisite natural beauty. A place to learn
with charming boutiques, espresso bars,
monumental thinking, stellar artistry and
about healthy, modern living. Come in, be
culinary adventures and some of Brisbane’s
subtle brilliance. Stroll along, absorb and be
energised, fill your mind with fresh ideas.
best kept secrets.
captivated.
www.visitsouthbank.com.au