Village News - December 2011 Issue by Village News

December 2011

Historic cottages dispute at Spring Hill Page 16

Eleven real estate agents make finals Page 41

Neil Petersen has a penchant for relics:

old tin or enamel advertising signs, especially those with bullet holes or stone scars. Page 28

Cover Photo by Caterina Lay

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Association formed to give community a strong voice By Darryl Whitecross

A GROUP of Teneriffe residents have come together to form the Teneriffe Progress Association. An interim steering committee has been set up and is planning to hold a public meeting – in the form of a Christmas Party – to promote the association and its membership. The meeting is to be held on December 15, from 6pm for drinks at Aqua Linea restaurant on Vernon Terrace. Interim secretary Roger Armfield from the Australian Estates wool store said the public get together would not be considered the association’s first formal meeting. That is being planned for early next year. Mr Armfield said the interest in forming the association had grown since Teneriffe became a suburb two years ago and the success of the two Teneriffe festivals. He said it was also formed because a perceived lack of interest shown by council in the issues of the suburb and that it was “not following through” on its own rules, regulations and plans in regard to the neighbourhood plan covering the precinct. The interim committee hoped the association would be made up of many residents and stakeholders

and become a strong, united voice, tackling many of the issues facing the community such as preserving its history, public transport, traffic calming, parking and the remaining natural bushland. “The specific objectives (of the association) would be to protect and preserve the character, amenity and streetscape of Teneriffe, to promote the proper town planning of the precinct and to advocate on behalf and represent the community of Teneriffe in dealing with local and state government as seen necessary,” Mr Armfield said. He said all the requirements of an incorporated association would be met. The interim president is Rob Murdoch, the chairman of the body corporate at the Mercantile Dalgety apartments, and the treasurer is Gillian Carter from The Cannery. For further information or to reserve your place at the community event, call the TPA on 38549000.

HAVE YOUR SAY editor@newfarmvillagenews.com.au

Principal wins special needs award THE principal of Holy Spirit School, at New Farm, Nick Gallen, has been recognised for his efforts to include special-needs students at the school. New Farm parent Tom Wallace said he approached MP for Brisbane Central Grace Grace and Curtis Pitt, minister for Disability Services, Mental Health and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships for the award after the Holy Spirit staff helped his son Jack throughout his prepatory schooling this year. “The award was to thank Nick and the school but also to hopefully highlight the difficulties faced by parents in having children with special needs accommodated at mainstream schools,” Tom said. Five-year-old Jack, who received an intensive early intervention program to assist in language, play and social development skills, attends the school three days a week with a fulltime aide. In addition to schooling, he underwent full-time Applied Behaviour Analysis therapy to further support his social development, one to two times a day. Tom said he believed the State Government should support families, most of whom could not afford fulltime ABA therapy, by launching a program to help integrate children with special needs into mainstream schools.

Nick Gallen & Grace Grace He said Jack was very “energetic” and “creative” with a “strong sense of determination” but certain situations, such as sitting in a group, were challenging. “We have worked extensively with the Holy Spirit team as well as Catholic Education to ensure that his ABA therapy supports his time at Holy Spirit,” Tom said. “The school support team have been enormously helpful over the past 12 months in working with us to ensure our son’s enrolment at Holy Spirit was the best for him and the school.”

About the Village News A monthly magazine for the residents, workers and visitors of New Farm, Fortitude Valley, Teneriffe, Newstead, Kangaroo Point, Spring Hill and Petrie Bight. The Village News is personally hand-delivered to all homes, apartments and businesses in those areas.

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Day Spa Urban Temple has re-opened wanting to establish “something with new management, extensive different” within a community focused renovations and new product lines. district.” The salon, in Florence Street, Every part of the day spa has Teneriffe, was closed for three received a facelift, with the extension months before new owners Caitlin of their rooms being planned to Warren and Grant Roberts took over accommodate a couples’ room. The in October making it their second day website is being redesigned too, spa within the Brisbane precinct. along with the addition of a new Caitlin and Grant, who have both and dedicated manager and skin travelled through Asia extensively, therapist. have brought back a “new philosophy” Skin and Body specialist, Kathy to Urban Temple, which pampers its Coldicutt, who has over six years clients with Asian of international and Buddhistexperience in spa inspired rituals for therapy, said she We’ve just got the mind, body and was thrilled to be great community soul. Their goal is part of such an to launch a new spirit around this area “exciting” time for day spa line where Urban Temple and and we want to offer saw Teneriffe as blissful ritualistic experiences are exciting new luxurious relaxation an offered to clients. opportunity. rituals to people who Caitlin said: “We “We’ve just got chose this day spa great community work so hard. location because spirit around this of the possibilities area and we want within the area to offer luxurious and I am excited to rejuvenate this relaxation rituals to people who work business in somewhere like Teneriffe so hard,” Kathy said. because it has “real community “We’ve employed Kathy as part spirit”. “So many people have stopped of our team to help us relaunch the and talked to us during our own’ business due to her attention to hands on’ renovating and expressed detail and commitment to providing a their interest and support; it’s a nice high-quality experience and her desire community sense and I like this ‘hub’ to be part of the working within the idea of the day spa being surrounded community” Caitlin said. by local businesses”. The new Urban Temple is at Shop “We want people to come 6, 23-43 Florence Street, Teneriffe. and experience a relaxing, calm Open Tuesdays - Saturdays. atmosphere that takes them away Telephone 3257 4770 for a full list from their everyday” she said. of spa treatments and skin care Drawing from their travels throughout products or log on to Borneo as the driving factor behind www.urbantemple.com.au

villagenews

Spring Hill community looks to better support its ambos

By Darryl Whitecross AN established group of people dedicated to support the work of Ambulance staff across the city is looking for community help to set up a committee for the Spring Hill Ambulance Station. At the moment, the Northgate Local Ambulance Committee provides support for the Northgate and Spring Hill stations but the committee is looking to begin a stand-alone Spring Hill group. Northgate and Spring Hill LAC chairman Elizabeth Grace said the community was well aware of the “wonderful work” the ambulance staff did but many would not be aware that the Government funding often was not enough to keep the stations performing at the level they would like. Ms Grace said the Spring Hill station, which had one of the best response times of any in the state, and was recently voted station of the year, was about to undergo major renovation work and she hoped that a new committee would accompany that overhaul. She said the communications centre at Spring Hill was to be moved to the State Emergency Services headquarters at Kedron on Brisbane’s northside early next year and that would provide opportunity

for the refurbishment of the Spring Hill station. An LAC open day was held at the Spring Hill station in Boundary Street last month to seek volunteers with the view of forming the new committee.

joined the committee immediately. “This is a cause near and dear to my heart as I know how important it is to support the ambulance service,” Mrs Howard said. “This is particularly so over the festive season.”

Elizabeth Grace with Vicki Howard and Dea Weston Ms Grace said she was surprised at the number of expressions of interest. LNP candidate for Brisbane City Council’s Central Ward, Vicki Howard, attended the open day and

“Our Local Ambulance Committee supports the Spring Hill station which looks after the residents in Central Ward from New Farm to the City and from Spring Hill north to Windsor and Wilston so we should

support them too,” Mrs Howard said. Ms Grace, who recently was named a Volunteer of the Year, said the LAC was able to provide two hightech mannequins for the Northgate and Spring Hill stations and other specialised equipment which the Government did not provide – including a set of expensive medial books. She said it was “a big effort” to raise funds for the stations but was rewarding to see the benefit their work was to the ambulance officers and the community. LACs operate statewide. They had run for many years. She said the State Government folded the LACs around 1990 believing the role they played was best done by the State but they were reinstated about 15 years ago and had become popular again. The state conference was held in Townsville in August this year was well attended. The country LACs are more popular and supported than the city committees which Ms Grace said she hoped would change. “They are great community assets,” she said. Anyone interested in joining the Spring Hill Local Ambulance Committee can email Vicki Howard at central@candoteam

Merry Christmas and Happy 2012!

To all our clients and Village News Readers Thankyou for all your support in 2011!

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Grandparents often struggle with the turkeys

CityCat a tribute to flood spirit

CHRISTMAS is a time for families to rejoice together. There may be some difficulties to iron out – the unwelcome guest, how to split the day so that all branches of a blended family are happy, do we go for traditional roast turkey and plum pudding or settle for a menu a little more in line with the weather?

RESIDENTS could soon be seeing the latest CityCat in Brisbane City Council’s fleet of 19 pulling in to terminals around the New Farm peninsula following the launch of the Spirit of Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said the craft, launched last month, would double as a floating tribute to the strong community spirit shown by Brisbane’s “Mud Army” during January’s Brisbane River floods. Red Cross Australia’s Julie Boucher was invited to launch the CityCat in line with appropriate maritime tradition due to her organisation’s pivotal role in helping Brisbane recover after the flood. Cr Quirk said the Spirit of Brisbane was painted in blue, green, maroon and yellow and carried a permanent montage inside of photographs taken during the floods clean-up. He said the blue represented the sky and river, green represented new growth after the flood, maroon for the Queensland spirit and yellow in recognition of the way the sun shone through the clouds to help dry up the flood water. “I believe the delivery of the 19th CityCat is also a sign of Brisbane’s resilience and determination to get back to business after the floods, which is why I wanted it to be a permanent tribute to the spirit shown by the residents of this city,” Cr Quirk said. “Let’s not forget that, on top of delivering two CityCats this year, (council) also had to rebuild much of the entire ferry network, including the eight ferry terminals that were completely washed away.” The $2.5 million Spirit of Brisbane is a third generation CityCat, is more fuel efficient and emits fewer exhaust emissions. The launch of the new CityCat came as council commissioned a new ferry terminal at Northshore Hamilton. It is one of two new ferry terminals council has commissioned. Teneriffe, at the end of Commercial Road, is the other.

seniorsvoice by Tony Townsend Those are relatively minor in nature compared to the difficulties faced by some grandparents. When families are in dispute, the fallout is likely to be most unpleasant. Family members can be very cruel to each other and quite irrational, especially when suffering extreme emotion and heightened stress. That can be detrimental to the grandparent and the development of the child and support groups have been set up for grandparents in this situation. The Queensland Council of Grandparents is a volunteer organisation which was established to support grandparents with special needs and to bring the issues arising from family disputation to the attention of the appropriate authorities. The great majority of members are grandparents bringing up their grandchildren. It is difficult to confirm numbers because many do such onerous duties out of love and care and affection, often at great personal and financial

cost without any formal arrangements but it is estimated that a grandparent is the primary carer in more than one percent of Australian families. Apart from the shame of finding out that, after all your loving care and affection, your child is incapable of raising their own children – often the result of substance abuse – a grandparent raising grandchildren faces disruption to their lifestyle at a time when many hoped they had shed their responsibilities and could enjoy retirement. Even more demanding of support and sympathy are grandparents who are denied any relationship with their grandchildren, leaving a very big hole in the festivities. Spare a thought for these seniors as they try to find time to rejoice this season. Have a happy and safe Christmas +++ THE New Farm branch of the National Seniors Association is in recess in December and January but will gather for the annual Christmas lunch – on Wednesday, December 7, and for a picnic in the park to celebrate Australia Day of which more details will be given out in next month’s column. The work of NSA continues with aged care seminars planned around the country. +++ THE NSA has welcomed the announcement by federal Minister for Financial Services and Superannuation Bill Shorten that the age limit on the superannuation guarantee is to be abolished from July 1, 2013. +++ FOR further information on the NSA or the New Farm branch, telephone Tony Townsend on 3315 2523.

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Brooke works hard for titles tilt By John McGuinness

FOURTEEN-year-old Brooke Krause is an inspiration to everyone around her with her work ethic and her infectious smile. Brooke is considered Commercial Swimming Club’s best chance of winning medals at the Queensland Swimming Titles to be held at the Chandler aquatic centre from December 10-16. When other swimmers are drying themselves off and getting ready to go home after training, Brooke sets about doing 10 minutes of situps. She works hard and does it with a smile. She has set her sights on being as good as former Commercial club butterfly champions Susie “Madame Butterfly” O’Neill, Jessicah Schipper and Libby Trickett. Brooke has trained most mornings and afternoons throughout this year to ensure she remains Queensland’s butterfly champion and takes home the gold medal at this month’s championships. She won three medals at the state short course championships earlier in the year and was selected to represent the Queensland team at the national championships. By the end of the season, Brooke hopes to have improved on her seventh places in the 100m and 200m butterfly

Swimming inspiration Brooke Krause at national titles in April next year which also are to be held at Chandler. The Commercial club, which is regarded as the oldest established swimming club in Brisbane, provides training for children eight years and over. The club celebrated its centenary in 2003. For further information, telephone Carolyn Carsley on 0414 776 543.

War widows force 197 bus service rethink TRANSLINK, the State Government’s onestop shop for public transport information services in south-east Queensland is believed to be revisiting its decision to scrap the 197 Brisbane City Council bus route. Some of the most frail and vulnerable on the New Farm peninsula claim they have been robbed of easily accessible public transport after the route was suddenly scrapped. They claim that, without warning, Translink dropped the service which has forced them to walk far greater distances to catch a bus which is not easy for many of them. A search of the Translink website failed to find a service with the New Farm to Fairfield Gardens route 197 bus. It already has been amalgamated into the New Farm to Fairfield route. Bus users in the area are now restricted to the high-frequency Merthyr Buz 196 and New Farm Buz 199 services. Route 196 buses are to run every 10 minutes in peak times or 15 minutes in off-peak times including weekends and public holidays. The government says that results in an extra 19,000 bus seats each week through that corridor. ALP candidate for the council’s Central Ward, Paul Crowther, said he was liaising with Translink on behalf of residents to bring about a resolution that would suit all parties.

It all comes down to cost. The Village News believes scrapping the route would save authorities about $250,000 a year. The old 197 headed to New Farm from the Valley along Brunswick Street, before turning right into Moray Street, the left into Merthyr Road, right in to Brunswick, right into Elystan Road, right into Mark Street, left into Mountford Road, Right onto Sargent Street, then left into Sydney Street before terminating at Glenfalloch on Oxlade Drive. Residents of Glenfalloch have complained about the noise of idling bus engines as they sat at the Oxlade Drive terminus. The 196 route mirrors the old 197 route to the intersection of Elystan Road and Brunswick Street. It continues on down Brunswick Street to New Farm Park and the CityCat ferry terminal before turning into Oxlade Drive and doing a loop past Glenfalloch into Sydney Street and along Hazelwood Street back onto Oxlade Drive for the return journey. The 199 runs all the way down Brunswick Street to Merthyr Road and turns left to head off to Teneriffe. The 193 route mirrors the 199 but does not go down Hazelwood Street. Each of the three circles the heart of the Valley before heading down Adelaide Street into the CBD. Several of the residents, many war widows, who have expressed concern at the loss of the service, travel almost daily into the city.

December 2011 villagenews

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Being old not the only qualification for heritage listing

Many New Farm peninsula properties are listed on various heritage registers and the different lists require different compliances from the owners. The questions in relation to heritage and development are complex. In light of public concern over the demolition application sought by owner Chris Elliott on his property at 42 Maxwell Street, New Farm, Central Ward Councillor DAVID HINCHLIFE provides some background and explanation on what it all means.

HERITAGE issues, as with most planning matters, are anything but simple. There are several levels of protection for buildings. The strongest heritage protection is state listing. The second strongest is Local Government heritage listing and the next is limited protection through Local Government character housing code which applies to hundreds of traditional “tin and timber” houses. Houses that are not heritage listed or do not comply with the “tin and timber” character code are the least protected. Much of the heritage of New Farm was lost in the post-War period until the 1990s before the Goss government approved Queensland’s first heritage laws in 1989. Before that, heritage had no legal standing. Most of the dozen or more tall unit buildings at New Farm stand where some of the most gracious and impressive Queensland colonial homes once stood. Interestingly, Wayne and Roisin Goss are among New Farm’s most recent residents.

As sad as the demolition of some homes has been, without Wayne Goss’s heritage laws a dozens more properties at New Farm could have been lost in the past 20 years. In addition, Jim Soorley introduced character protection codes in the early 90s to provide a qualified protection for pre-World War II “tin and timber” Queenslander houses. Previously, there were no controls at all on demolition. Again, if that hadn’t happened, hundreds of Queenslanders would have been demolished. With property values sky-rocketing from an average around $40,000 in 1990 to a massive $800,000 in 2011, property owners want to maximise their “investment”. That economic reality is what has placed massive pressure on older properties. In relation to Maxwell Street, the Bel Voir building (demolished a couple of years ago) was not heritage listed either by council or state. Because it was not strictly a traditional “tin and timber” Queenslander (it was masonry and tile), it wasn’t covered by the

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999 Brunswick Street character regulations of Council.It was as a result of that experi aence that I initiated a community-based heritage listing project. We established

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villagenews properties for listing on Brisbane City Council’s heritage register. Many property owners resist heritage listing because of the restrictions. Council is considering more than 20 properties for possible listing. A balance needs to be struck between preserving real heritage and also respecting property rights. That’s not an easy balance and a person’s view depends on whether they are the owner of the property proposed for listing or a neighbour who wants it listed. The 1930s Tudor House and attached 1960s units at 42 Maxwell Street are heritage listed by council. That affords a certain level of protection which allows council to reject the application for demolition. Another house for sale in the street – number 33 - is not heritage listed. It has a demolition approval which was given two years ago. Because of its zoning and because it is render, masonry and tile construction, it is not covered by the character house code. Village News readers who would like information about which properties in New Farm are heritage listed, they can contact Cr Hinchliffe’s office at 31 Duncan Street, Fortitude Valley, telephone 3403 0254 or email central. ward@ecn.net.au. Residents who would like to propose buildings that are not currently listed, Cr Hinchliffe can pass those on to council for official consideration.

Squabble over bikeway resolved and section re-opened A DISPUTE between Brisbane City Council and the Medina Quay Terraces apartments over the old Bowen Terrace walkway under the Story Bridge has been resolved. Village News understands Medina closed the section of pathway from Ivory Lane down between the Quay Terraces development and the Medina Executive serviced apartments and conference centre to the Brisbane River’s edge after a rockfall and deemed it to be unsafe to reopen. This prevented people using the direct link to the city along the riverside bikeway. LNP candidate for the council’s Central Ward seat, Vicki Howard, said construction of the bikeway was a condition of the Medina apartment development and was to be handed over to council when it was finished. “This is still yet to happen, hence why Medina was able to initially close the bikeway,” Mrs Howard said. The ALP candidate for Central Ward, Paul Crowther said the bikeway was a crucial link for the community between the heart of the City New Farm. Mr Crowther said that, while the section remained closed, parents with prams had to take the long way around “through the Valley” while riders had to dismount and carry their machine up and down stairs to go around the Medina.

By Darryl Whitecross

The reopened walkway heading under the Story Bridge with the Medina Apartments on the left. He said he understood the Body Corporate was reluctant to re-open the bikeway which was why it remained barricaded for about three weeks. “With the old Riverwalk gone and the new Riverwalk not built for another two years, we rely on this existing walkway under Story Bridge for our walking and cycling connection to the city,” Mr Crowther said. Council’s Public and Active Transport Committee chairman, Cr Julian Simmonds, said council had moved to negotiate with the Medina to have

the section reopened. Cr Simmonds said that, once the situation had been drawn to its attention, council pushed to have the remediation works to the bikeway completed quickly and it reopened. “This is the public’s bikeway and, as such council, will continue to make sure it remains safe and open for everyone to use,” Cr Simmonds said. The Medina and its parent, the Toga group of companies, were unable to make a comment by the time Village News went to press.

December 2011 villagenews

Your Central Ward candidate for the upcoming Brisbane City Council elections GETTING THE PRIORITIES RIGHT RIvERWalk

Must be rebuilt urgently.

BaCkflOW valvES

Must be installed on our storm water drains now to protect our homes from needless flooding.

NEW faRM PaRk’S SUMMER HOUSE CafE

The cafe must be rebuilt, to its original heritage design, for the enjoyment of current and future generations.

OvER-DEvElOPMENT Of THE INNER SUBURBS

Planning laws must be overhauled to give the community greater input into, and objection powers over, development applications.

her

PROTECTING TREES

Council must protect our beautiful trees and public vegetation and also regularly maintain them.

Paul Crowther Part of Ray Smith’s Team

ght

CENTRAL WARD Call me personally today on 0411 516635 Paul Crowther Email: paul@raysmith.com.au Post: PO Box 1072 Fortitude Valley 4006

www.raysmith.com.au

Authorised by A Chisholm, 16 Peel St, South Brisbane 4101

CITYCYClE

Newman and Quirk’s ill-planned, obtrusive and costly ($10 million and growing) bicycle/advertising billboard scheme needs to be reviewed and the money saved used on bikeways and other community facilities and grants.

HOWaRD SMITH WHaRvES

Must be kept as open public space for everyone’s enjoyment, with cafes and playground facilities. Plans to build a private hotel must be rejected.

PaRkING

No more parking meters in the suburbs.

fOOTPaTHS aND POTHOlES

Fix - urgently - the kilometers of local footpaths and hundreds of potholes, which are being neglected by this Council.

COMMUNITY faCIlITIES

Council needs to approve more childcare centres in suburbs like New Farm, Teneriffe and Fortitude Valley.

PROTECTING OUR HERITaGE

We must vigorously ensure the heritage value of our buildings and the character of our suburbs are protected.

Call me to discuss any local government issues that impact on you

villagenews

Educator labels school ‘best in the tech world’ By Michael O’Sullivan, St Joseph’s principal WHEN it comes to using technology in the classroom, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Kangaroo Point, is “up there with the best in the world”, according to American educational consultant, Alan November Alan, named one of America’s 15 most influential thinkers of the decade by Technology and Learning Magazine, joined staff and students in a So You Think You Can Learn school showcase event which was organised by technology implementation and solutions specialist Learnology. Alan, the co-founder of the Stanford Institute for Educational Leadership Through Technology worked with students and teachers on tools for cross-referencing and validating information on the internet and had a little fun along the way. He said he was amazed at some of the things the school was doing with technology including the Prep class which had designed its own Angry Birds set in the classroom after having played the computer game on an interactive screen. “They were replicating the virtual world in the real world and the kids designed it themselves,” Alan said. “It was one of the most amazingly

Technology-savy students at St Joseph’s primary school. creative classrooms I’ve ever seen.” He said one project that impressed him was the use of Twitter by students to do research on the global price for a carbon tax. “The kind of things they were tracking, from politicians to scientists, was amazing. It’s hard to find a classroom anywhere in the world doing that kind of stuff,” Alan said. St Joseph’s teacher Linda Trimble said the SYTYCL project was a focus for upper primary students and teachers and also incorporated the school parental community. Linda said the school felt it was a priority that ICLT be embedded

into teaching and learning to allow opportunities for students to communicate, create and develop critical inquiry skills effectively. She used the web 2.0 tool called Scoop.it, which allows users to find the best of things that interest and gather them all into one place. “As educators, we are lifelong learners who not only talk the talk but walk the walk,” Linda said. “We are passionate about our professional development and are continually learning, whether it be independently from each other or from the students themselves,” she said.

Tea room launched AUSTRALIA’S first social networking site for teenagers with epilepsy, known as The TEA Room, has been launched in Brisbane. The Teenage Epilepsy Agenda Room is a secure, friendly online space for 13-19 year-olds with epilepsy. The chat room gives teenagers a forum to share experiences and overcome feelings of isolation or frustration. The TEA Room provides instant access to an online community which faces similar challenges living with epilepsy, although discussion is not limited to health issues. Epilepsy Queensland chief executive officer Helen Whitehead said one of the biggest issues facing epileptics is the social stigma associated with seizures. “Teenagers in particular can feel embarrassed and ‘shut out’ because they feel different to their peers so this initiative is a wonderful way for them to engage with other young people who can relate to their situation and problems,” Ms Whitehead said. She said Epilepsy Queensland hoped GPs, health clinics and other epilepsy support organisations throughout Australia would refer young people with epilepsy to the TEA Room. For more information, telephone Yvette McMurtrie at Epilepsy Queensland on 3435 5000 .

December 2011 villagenews

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Repairs ensure bridge’s story will continue to span the test of time THE constant vibration of 100,000 vehicles crossing the 70-year-old Story Bridge every day has forced Brisbane City Council to repeat some repair work on the concrete approach spans for the second time in about 15 years. The work is to be done at the Kangaroo Point end of the bridge, which spans Petrie Bight from Kangaroo Point to Fortitude Valley. Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said “carbonation of the concrete” had caused corrosion of the steel within the concrete and it needed to be repaired to ensure the bridge continued to play its integral role in managing Brisbane’s cross river traffic. The $1.2 million in repairs has begun and is expected to take several months to complete. Speed limits on the bridge are to be reduced to 40km/h for up to 12 hours a day while the work is being done. There also are to be occasional lane closures but those were expected to be mostly at night. Cr Quirk said the more than 97,000 vehicles crossed the bridge each day and the continual vibrations caused the “general wear and tear”. He said similar repair work was done to the same section of the bridge in 1995 but the vibrations had meant some of that work was having to be redone. “I ask motorists to be patient and we will look at having shorter durations of speed restrictions to reduce traffic disruption where possible but the restrictions need to be in place to ensure the repairs are effective and the bridge is maintained for the long-term,” Cr Quirk said. The work includes the removal of damaged concrete and steel reinforcing and the fitting of new reinforcing bars. Most of the work will not be invisible to passing motorists. The lanes directly above the repair site will be closed for some hours while the works are undertaken. The Story Bridge, which is just over 1000m long was opened on July 6, 1940, and remains the largest span metal truss bridge in Australia, with a main span of 281.7m.

villagenews December 2011

Young Spicers manager takes out top state award after rapid rise THE youngest general manager in the Spicers Retreats Hotels and Lodges group has won the prestigious Young Achievers Award at the recent Queensland Tourism Awards. Matthew Simpson, 29, the general manager of the luxury Spicers Balfour Hotel at New Farm, has had a rapid rise to the position, having worked his way up from the reception desk. Mr Simpson was appointed general manager of the group’s flagship property Spicers Peak Lodge in 2008 at the age of 25 before taking on his latest role last year. “I’m delighted and humbled to be recognised in this way, particularly with the amount of great young talent we have in our industry,” Mr Simpson said. The award recognises a person under 32 years of age working in the tourism industry and their contribution to the development the industry. “We’ve achieved a lot with the opening of Spicers Balfour Hotel and I’m pleased to be able to accept this award on behalf of the group,” Mr Simpson said. “The support of the entire Spicers team has been instrumental in bringing this fabulous boutique property to Brisbane.” Mr Simpson studied a Bachelor of Business specialising in hotel and tourism management at Southern Cross University. He began his career as the front

receptionist of St Giles Hotel in central London before returning to Australia to work as the reservation and events co-ordinator for Peppers Salt Resort and Spa and Youngest general manager as a business of Spicers Retreats Hotels development Matthew Simpson manager for the Mantra Group. He has been a marketing co-ordinator for the Spicers Group and was involved in the group’s rebranding in February 2010. Mr Simpson was barely able to return to his seat at the awards gala before having to return to the stage with his team to collect the award for Spicers Balfour Hotel as Queensland’s Best New Tourism Development. Spicers Balfour Hotel is in a converted Queenslander and has nine executive suites. It has proven to be a popular “home away from home” with locals and travelling business professionals seeking the standards of an international hotel but with the friendly, inviting feeling of home.

villagenews

Two peninsula hotels grab awards at industry gala THE iconic Waterloo and Story Bridge hotels were among the recipients at last month’s Queensland Hotels Association Awards for Excellence gala dinner and presentation. The recently renovated Waterloo in Fortitude Valley won the award for best re-developed licensed premises above $2 million and the Story Bridge at Kangaroo Point, won the best casual dining award in the general division. Waterloo hotel manager Kellie Prescott said the award was the first the hotel had won since the renovated hotel was re-opened in June last year although it was nominated in the best restaurant category of the Savour Restaurant and Caterers Awards. The hotel was closed for two years while the redevelopment of the corner block took place. The hotel was originally built in 1937 and its historic corner-pub facade was maintained in the renovation. Inside, the feature fireplace, stairwell and ceiling have been retained. “We have had an awesome response from the locals and business community,” Kellie said. “Everyone loves the open eclectic feel of the venue and it offers something for every mood and moment.” Kellie said many of the regulars from the pre-renovation days had not returned because the new venue appealed to a new corporate crowd and Valley and New Farm locals. “This award has meant a lot to

the staff, venue and company as it recognises the hard work that goes into launching such a venture from scratch and building a culture and environment that people appreciate,” Kellie said. We have the award (a plaque) displayed in the main entrance of our Terrace Restaurant . . . pride of place. “Patrons have congratulated (us) and recognise the hard work that has gone into establishing ‘their local’,” she said. The Waterloo was nominated for four QHA awards “which we were very proud of . . . but this one took the cake,” Kellie said. Story Bridge hotel manager Andrew Ford said winning the award was great recognition of the hard work put in by his kitchen and frontof-house staff. He said much of the credit needed to go to executive chef Jason Walker, who had “turned our food business around”. Jason had run his own catering business before joining the hotel 18 months ago. The hotel was a finalist in the casual dining section in the past but Andrew said the menu and food had improved to the point where had gone to the next level - to win the category. The 2011 award follows on from the hotel’s 2009 award for best bar presentation and service. Winners from the QHA Awards for Excellence become finalists in next year’s Australian Hotels Association National Awards for Excellence.

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Maxwell street appeal CHRIS Elliot has made good on his promise to appeal against Brisbane City Councils rejection of the demolition order he sought for his heritage-listed property at 42 Maxwell Street, New Farm. Central Ward councillor David Hinchliffe said Mr Elliot, through Ben Cowan from Urbanista Town Planning Consultants, lodged an appeal dated November 9 against the rejection of the application. Cr Hinchliffe said all co-respondents – those who made submissions on this application – had been notified. Mr Elliot claims he has no plans to demolish the property but that he has been left with no other way to have the property removed from the heritage register – a list he said he was never approached by authorities to be added too.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year The Village News would like to wish all its readers and a very Merry Christmas and a safe New year. We would like to thank you for your support over the last year and look forward to 2012.

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petprofile Owners: Karen Harris and Susan Kennet

Pet’s name and ages: Princess

Kennet Harris is four years old and Lucy Loo Kennet Harris is six months old. We have only had Lucy for one week.

What breed and can you tell us something about the breed?

Princess (caramel colour) is an Australian teacup poodle and Lucy (black) is an American teacup poodle. The main difference between the breeds is that Lucy is shorter and stockier with a smaller face than Princess who is fine boned.

Why did you chose the breed and where from?

Susan has always been a lover of small dogs and obtained Princess from a breeder in regional Queensland. We felt Princess would benefit from having a little “sister”. After Susan scanned the breeder websites nationally, we came across Lucy who was flown in from Sydney last week.

What do you love about them?

Both dogs have very affectionate and playful dispositions. When we brought Lucy home a week ago, we were worried how they would get along. It didn’t take long before we noticed them “kissing” each other and running around the apartment together but,

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when Princess has had enough, she lets it be known. They are very cheeky. Princess’s favourite hobby is lounging on the patio in the sun and barking at everyone who walks past our unit. She only does this so they will stop and pat her. She is an attention-seeking baby who can be high maintenance at times. Lucy is still in the puppy stage and has an obsession with buttons on jeans. Her favourite hobby is following her Princess around the apartment and jumping on our heads when we are relaxing on the lounge.

How do you spoil them?

We like to give them puppy treats, lots of walks and, most of all, an abundance of love.

Do they have any friends in the village?

Princess has a “boyfriend” in the same apartment complex – Guinness. He is a black pomeranian. She is fixated on him and sometimes even bashes her head on the gate in an attempt to get to him sooner. This is fast becoming a sordid relationship as Lucy seems to be gaining his attention.

What advice can you give to others considering the breed? We can definitely recommend teacup poodles. They are an affectionate breed and like nothing more than to

Lucy, the American teacup poodle & Princess, the Australian teacup poodle snuggle up. They can sometimes get scared around bigger dogs, though.

How would Princess and Lucy best describe you? As doting and always ready to give

them some attention. They know they have us wrapped around their little “fingers”.

Want to feature your pet?

Email editor@newfarmvillagenews.com.au

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BUSINESS is booming for Newstead relations courses eight years ago. dog day spa The Pet Pad more than Now, with more than 15 years of 12 months after having moved from experience under her belt, she said its shopfront on Brunswick Street . the prospect of starting the business Owner Emma Wilson, who ran the and watching it grow was exciting New Farm store for eight years, had rather than scary, as New Farm was moved to Doggett Street last October, the ideal, pet-friendly community that after having been forced to turn dogs allowed her dream to come to fruition. away because the shop had reached “I have a little shitzu cross full capacity. maltese and he’s one of the things “We knew that, if we were going that inspired me. He’s a real family to expand, that it member so I constantly www.caterinalay.com was something our look at things I could do customers would that could spoil him and be interested in. give him a great quality We would have no of life,” Emma said. problem filling the “That inspires me to spaces up,” Emma provide my customers said. “Literally, within with the same service the first week of us and improve their pet’s moving we doubled quality of life; we get the amount of dogs to know them on an in.” individual basis.” The store was fitted Watching the dogs, out with veterinarysome of whom have grade flooring and been coming to The Pet boasted two separate Pad since puppyhood, rooms for small and grow up together was large dogs, agility and like “watching kids in play equipment as kindergarten”. well as dog movies – “We have a lot of all in air-conditioned dogs that come in Owner, Emma Wilson comfort. five days a week. A Now, the business lot of people work full is “better than ever”, with the animal time and they have their dogs in loving team at The Pet Pad pampering apartments,” Emma said. “It allows up to 40 dogs a day with grooming, them to be in a really safe clean games and social interaction – environment where they can get something important to teach play in plenty of exercise and one-on-one a non-aggressive way. attention, not getting bored at home.” “It creates a positive, fun Emma said it was important to environment for them (dogs) they continue evolving the business by don’t get nervous when they come keeping staff educated with the in,” Emma said. “We definitely latest worming and flea treatments, have a great loyal following from medications, animal training our customers but we are growing certificates and pet nutrition. so rapidly that we are getting new With summer just starting, owners customers every week and we added are advised to check their pets for on an extra room and new grooming harmful ticks and sun spots. equipment so just to make sure we The Pet Pad is at 32 Doggett can keep up (with demand).” Street, Newstead, and also provides Emma, who worked in the pet puppy training, pet sitting, dog industry throughout university, was walking and house calls. Telephone enthusiastic about starting The Pet 3216 0888 or log on to www. Pad straight after having graduated thepetpad.com.au for a full list of from human resources and public services and pricing.

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December 2011 villagenews

villagenews

Neighbours claim historic cottages being turned into boarding house ONE of three 140-year-old heritage-listed houses at Spring Hill – known as the Moody Cottages – is being turned into an illegal boarding house by stealth, according to neighbours. Fittings, such as gas and water meters, have being installed around the Victorian-style property at 16 Victoria Street which neighbours say are for individual flats or rooms not one residential house. Moody’s Cottages comprise a pair of semi-detached brick houses – Cooee and an unnamed neighbour and the adjacent Alandoone. The renovation work is being done on Alandoone by owner Margaret Adam. Ms Adam, who lives alone on “a patch of dirt” near Beerburrum on the Sunshine Coast, hit back saying everything being done was strictly legal. She said she had spent a large amount of money on experts, two years of drawing and re-drawing plans and going back and forth between various authorities to ensure all the work being done at Alandoone had been done to satisfy any requirement – heritage listing or otherwise. Concerned locals from Victoria and Rogers streets, though, claim the plans approved by council is not what is being built on the property. Neighbour Sam Strutt, who bought

Cooee – “our dream home” – with her husband about 12 months ago, said council had given permission for a “secondary dwelling’’ at the rear Alandoone over the car park and to renovate the original house. This included adding an extra storey to the original dwelling. “In recent weeks, it has become increasingly apparent that Ms Adam now intends to operate an illegal multiunit dwelling from the property,” Ms Strutt said. “The renovation bears no resemblance to the plans approved by council and made available to neighbours during the DA objection period,” she said. The main body of the house has been divided into separate units, each having their own kitchens, bathrooms and living quarters. “The rear studio – which did not have a kitchen included on the council plans – now does and Ms Adam has told neighbours she will rent all three units separately,” Ms Strutt said. “Just this week, she has installed separate sub gas and water meters to the property – further evidence she intends to operate an illegal dwelling here,” she said. Three separate entries also have been created – all of them off the

Alandoione, one the Moodys Cottages at the centre of a dispute over redevelopment easement driveway on Ms Strutt’s property. Ms Adam, who is in her seventies, said the work was almost finished. Central Ward councillor David Hinchliffe said Ms Adam was taking advantage of a loophole in legislation and has called on authorities to close it before it became exploited by others. “A ‘secondary dwelling’ – or what used to be called a ‘granny flat’ – is allowable if it is less than 70sq m in size and as long as there are no more than a maximum of five unrelated people within the whole property,” Cr Hinchliffe said. “Clearly, she has used whatever loopholes exist to create what is in effect a group of three flats. This is not what

was proposed in the original application for this property,” he said. Cr Hinchliffe has written to the Queensland Heritage Council chairman, Peter Coaldrake, who has indicated he would approach the Department of Environment and Resource Management to investigate. It is believed DERM officers inspected the property recently but what action is to be taken was not known at time of publication. The three original cottages were built in the early 1870s by Brisbane postman William Moody. The cottages remained the property of the Moody sisters, Hannah, Susannah and Margaret, until 1950.

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Twins a hit at cupcake drive MERTHYR Village came alive with volunteers, who supported a forest of more than 50 cupcake the Oncology Children’s entries into the recent Cupcakes for Foundation and who helped A Cure competition fundraiser for the make the event possible. Oncology Children’s Foundation. Santina, who planned the Organised by New Farm’s Santina event over two months, said Musumeci, the event culminated in she was impressed that the Junior Masterchef twins Isabella and businesses came together Sophia Bliss, who to create launched their such a cookbook on the successful day, judging the event. 50 entries. “We Overall Winner Hundreds of raised Vue Lounge (Dan and Matt Jefferis) eager onlookers quite a lot Little kids and fans lined up of money,” Daniela Sorbello, 4, and Milana for their turn for Santina an autograph. said. Sorbello, 2, from New Farm “Everyone was “People Kids saying they’re so Lachlan Goodman, 11, from New Farm in small business calm. All were are very busy yet Adults very impressed they responded Carol Taylor, Teneriffe with the twins’ immediately.” composure,” Alma, from Business Santina said. Bonjour Patisserie (Francois Pichelin) Coles New Farm, “They’re quietly braved the confident; they’ve sweltering heat remained true to and donned her themselves and their family.” hand-made cupcake costume, a There was no shortage of 10-hour labour of love she created supporters for the community especially for the day. event with help from surrounding When asked if she felt hot in the businesses such as the shopping costume, Alma merely said she centre management, Coles New would be “sweating anyway” and was Farm, Cibo Espresso for providing willing “to sweat for such a great the umbrellas and the many cause”.

Alma with MP Grace Grace Santina Musumeci

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December 2011 villagenews

villagevoice Life savers on bus sought ON October 14, just before 7am, my brother was on his way to work on the 199 bus when he suffered a heart attack. His life was saved through the actions of two female passengers, one of whom made the emergency call and the other who provided CPR. I would appreciate your readers’ help in being able to contact these women. Stuart Buss 0414 648 299

Complaints on numbers

I CANNOT understand why people such as Fred Ropp (Have Your Say, Nov 2011) and others move to an area such as Teneriffe and then proceed to complain about the amount of people here. Brisbane is one of the least densely populated major cities in the world so, if you prefer a quiet, low-density, suburban feel, there are plenty of other areas of Brisbane to suit your tastes. Many people move to Teneriffe because of the people – it one of the feel parts of Brisbane with a lively urban feel. Medium-density development makes it possible for a district to support a concentration of shops, cafes, restaurants, bars and transport: all the things which make Teneriffe attractive. We should be welcoming more people to the area. Of course it’s important to ensure the developments are in keeping with the character of the area but it is sad that some residents seem so preoccupied

with locking the door behind them once they arrive. Luke Turner Vernon Terrace, Teneriffe

Cross about no crossing

I WROTE to you in June 2010 (“Chance crossing”) and again in November 2010 (“Being a pedestrian hurts”). Here we are again, a year later, still worrying about the lack of a suitable crossing in Commercial Road. Let’s hope it’s third time lucky. I have also written in the past to Grace Grace (State Member for Brisbane Central) regarding the lack of a crossing in Merthyr Road opposite the entrance to the Merthyr Shopping Centre. The reply was that there is a crossing at the corner of Merthyr Road and Brunswick Street. This is true. However, one now has to get off the bus around the corner and, since I am now near the crossing, I go to the bank opposite first instead of last. This leaves one directly opposite the entrance to the shopping centre. With the maladies of old age, one is hardly going to walk all the way back to the corner and then down the same length of road again on the opposite side so one crosses with all the other people doing the same. June Allan

The editor reserves the right to edit and cut letters due to space and other production issues.

HAVE YOUR SAY editor@newfarmvillagenews.com.au

Police step in as residents fear for safety and sanity A SITUATION that has left residents of a Housing Commission unit complex at New Farm frightened and anxious should never be allowed to happen again. State Member for Brisbane Central said that at a meeting of the residents from the 28-unit Department of Communities’ affordable housing property at 320 Bowen Terrace. The meeting, held last month, was called after resident Sharen Keating brought the issue to the attention of the police and sitting local and state Members and candidates for electorates which cover the address. Several owners from adjoining properties, including the owner of a nearby luxury complex, also attended. Sharen, who has lived in her onebedroom unit in the complex for 14 years, said residents had been living in fear and under constant threat from a former prisoner who had been released from jail and house in their complex under the State Government’s homeless person’s initiative. The man has since been moved on but residents remain fearful. Senior Constable Vicki Campbell from the Fortitude Valley Police Station

Sharen Keating is to work with the residents helping them to adopt strategies to improve their safety and awareness. Vicki said the program involved police monitoring and instructing for residents in personal safety, property security, home security, and the roles and responsibilities of police. She that rather than feel helpless and vulnerable in situations, they would feel empowered and supported. Sharen said many of the tenants in the complex were elderly and frail and were left feeling vulnerable and unsafe after the initial experience. For some, it affected their already brittle health. The Department of Communities’ Open Doors reform agenda aims to reduce homelessness in Queensland. Part of the agenda is to provide affordable housing options and tailored support to eligible people and to meet targets outlined in the National Affordable Housing Agreement.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

AND HAPPY RECYCLING Christmas and New Year festivities traditionally create an increase in waste. Wrapping paper, cardboard boxes, packaging and party items such as bottles, cans and disposable plates, cups and cutlery can be recycled easily. If you need more room for your recycling you can order a larger recycling bin from Council for a one-off establishment fee of $30. Remember recycling saves energy, valuable resources and helps to protect the environment. So from all of us at Council, we wish you a merry Christmas and happy recycling.

BCC5086/D

To find out more about recycling or to order a larger bin visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/waste or call Council on (07) 3403 8888.

villagenews December 2011

That’s why I rethink my rubbish

villageadvertorial

Showroom gives a drab, old building new lease on life By Vanessa Fang THE opening of Australia’s largest kitchen and bathroom showroom in Fortitude Valley has breathed new life into one of the area’s oldest buildings. With multimillion-dollar luxury renovations having been completed by Winning Appliances in September, the 2200sq m store has brought visitors back to the end of Brunswick Street which has a reputation for dilapidation. State manager and Teneriffe local Robin Maini said Winning Appliances was working to change that, after “falling in love” with the 100-year-old building in May with a “vision” for its potential during the $2.5 million clean up. “We picked the Valley specifically because this is where it’s all happening. Most people would have shied away from this side of the Valley but we know we can clean it up,” Robin said. “Already a cafe has opened across the street; they will be refurbishing Step Inn (across the road) and the Lord Mayor Graham Quirk has promised to repaint (the surrounding buildings).” Having operated in New South Wales for 100 years, the Valley store was Winning Appliances’ first expansion into Queensland. “We have free parking in the back

The winning team at Winning Appliances in the Brunswick Street store with 32 spots. The church (CityCare Church) owns the land and we’ve leased it from them and also donated several appliances to their addiction facilities,” Robin said.

Since having opened on September 1, Robin said sales far surpassed original targets, which highlighted customer attraction to the store’s luxurious, fully functional

displays that created an “interactive experience”. “People get to test and feel the water; listen to dryers or a dishwasher. They get to see everything being cooked in a steamer and induction. People can use the coffee machine themselves if they want,” Robin said. Winning Appliances also housed Queensland’s most facilitated demonstration kitchen with more than 10 ovens and the use of highend kitchenware, while the customdesigned bathroom area has a 5m display of 25 shower heads and taps. “That makes our customers very comfortable. We just ask a lot of questions on style and taste and make sure they buy what’s right for them. We have nothing to lose or gain,” Robin said. “The service starts with us from the minute you walk in until you’ve received the appliance, whereas, if there’s a problem (with other stores), they will say “call the manufacturer”. We’re not allowed to do that.” Winning Appliances is at 209 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley. For further information on products or services, telephone 3852 0000 or log on to www.winningappliances. com.au/location/fortitude-valley

“Wishing you and your Family a safe and enjoyable Festive Season & a Happy New Year” Grace Grace MP State Member for Brisbane Central

A true local working for you

Ph: 3832 1322 Email:Brisbane.central@parliament.qld.gov.au December 2011 villagenews

villagenews villageadvertorial Frank rounds out Syncretism series THE much-anticipated performance by one-man tour de force, Frank Fairfield, is to round out the Judith Wright Centre’s Syncretism series for 2011. Fairfield, a young Californian multi-instrumentalist (vocals, banjo, fiddle, guitar), is to be supported by Ryan Francesconi at the centre’s Shopfront on Thursday, December 15. Fairfield is described as “resolutely circumventing and rewriting the rules for the folk popular song tradition for the present age; a torchbearer for the misunderstood and under-appreciated songs of yesteryear After having been “discovered” busking in Los Angeles in 2008, he has been embraced by a wider audience following the release of a 7” single and self-titled debut album on the Tompkins Square label. This year, he released Out On The Open West expanding his repertoire with self-penned songs and guest accompaniment from the likes of Willie Watson (Old Crow Medicine Show) and Jerron “Blind Boy” Paxton. The performance is to begin at 8pm. Tickets are $20 or $22 cash at the door. To book, telephone 3872 9000 or log onto www.judithwrightcentre. com

villagenews December 2011

Jillian gets buzz being part of a digital age

TENERIFFE self-confessed social media addict Jillian Kingsford-Smith has used the popularity of the industry to help businesses make their mark online. Sincehaving launched social media agency FutureBuzz 2½ years ago, businesses who once took their advertising to public relations firms are turning their needs to Jillian and her team of three, who blog, film YouTube clips and update posts on Facebook and Twitter on the company’s behalf. She said there was once a stigma attached to social media marketing but now small and large businesses alike are recognising it as “the way forward”. “In the early days, certainly the smaller businesses were happier to take a risk to try social media, the larger businesses and the corporates were very concerned about the risk factor and how being online could affect their reputation,” Jillian said. “It’s been in the last 6-9 months that big companies are realising that, if they don’t get on now, then they will miss the bus. It’s all about controlling and managing it.” Jillian, former business editor of the San Francisco Chronicle, said she believed in the concept so much that she didn’t fear starting FutureBuzz at the height of the global financial

crisis.“There’s this wonderful freedom to managing yourself and your destiny but that comes through being able www.caterinalay.com

Jillian Kingsford - Smith to be committed to your idea,” Jillian said, happy that there was “no age” to people with fresh ideas. While “old-fashioned”, face-to-face and telephone contact would for ever remain important, a virtual office allowed businesses to market their

products to a wider community. “People are very busy and they get most of their information online (but) I think that people still like to go look, feel and touch things and some like to order quickly. So how does that affect our business? Or how can we help?” Jillian said, drawing on the benefits of never being “offline”. FutureBuzz is nestled at The Workstation in Teneriffe - an area Jillian loved supporting in her role as inaugural board member of the Teneriffe Festival. “I’ve been there (Teneriffe) for three years,” Jillian said. “A lot of my clients, I joke that basically they’re within walking distance or I have to take a plane. I am a diehard local I guess - this place is part of my lifestyle and community,” she said. “I’ve been in jobs where I’ve had to drive 45 minutes to get to work while still living in Brisbane. I just wanted somewhere I could walk to work if I wanted to.” She said the “beauty” of running a virtual office was the ability to work anywhere, such as the major contract she picked up in January while on holiday in Thailand. “It’s hard work but in the environment that you choose,” Jillian said. “I was judged for years for if I didn’t arrive to work on time but that model just doesn’t work for me.”

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Gift Ideas

Matt’s book fun read

Book review by Trish Weston

Get in early with these fabulous ideas from your local shops.

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"Janine has been walking/running my 2 dogs for the past year and they are so much the better for it. They are always happy and relaxed after their outing. Janine takes the time to know your dog as you would and it is obvious she has an absolute passion for the furkids. Janine is extremely reliable, even when it is raining and I have absolute trust in her to access my home to collect the "boys" if am unable to be here." Happy Dogs - Happy Life! Barbara B.

HipsterMattic Matt Granfield $24.99

Gift Idea

WHEN New Farm writer Matt Granfield’s girlfriend dumps him and declares: “I can’t be with somebody who doesn’t know who they are”, he begins a quest for identity like no other. In seeking solace from his friends, Matt decides that, instead of going to an ashram in India to find himself, he’s going to discover who is by becoming someone else, the Ultimate Hipster. HipsterMattic is Matt’s journey into the light side of hipster-dom – he grows a beard, writes poetry in his Moleskine notebook, (half) knits a scarf, gets a tattoo, forms a band, does a market stall, discovers the joys of fixie bicycles and drinks far too much coffee and pear cider. He really does try. This is a fun read, not only for the New Farm location-spotting but for the often hilarious outcomes of Matt’s hipster projects and astute (and often self-mocking) observations of a culture that is very much part of our neighbourhood. Grab yourself a pear cider and enjoy on a summer afternoon. Available from Mary Ryans. New Farm.

FREE COPIES OF BOOK TO GIVEAWAY The Village News has free copies of this fantastic book and we want you to tell us who you will give the book to as a present and why in an email. The best ones will be judged and winners sent a book. The Village News may publish the winning emails. Send all emails to: editor@newfarmvillagenews.com.au

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Giant garage sale brings neighbours together NEW Farm resident Luke Whistler SPIRIT is organising a suburb-wide garage sale with the New Farm Neighbourhood Centre to be held on Saturday, December 10. The New Farm Garage Sale project is to be held at more than 20 homes and is a chance for residents in the area to clear out their unwanted goods before the Brisbane City Council kerbside pickups begin on December 12 Luke, who came up with the idea, said the ultimate goal of the sale was to build a stronger neighbourhood by bringing people with their neighbours, while everyone “has a win”. “I want to see the community get back together similar to the strength of the (January Brisbane River) floods,” Luke said. “The community centre has been great so it’s a collaboration with them. I couldn’t do without their resources.” Residents can hold their own sale or bring sellable items to the centre on the day, with 25 percent of proceeds going to the centre for community development. The New Farm Garage Sale Project is to run from 7am-midday with a sausage sizzle at the centre beginning at 12.30pm at 967 Brunswick St, New Farm. To register, email giantgaragesales@gmail. com

Gift Ideas

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Christmas

Eco-friendly gifts to be workshops focus THIS Christmas, the team at Reverse Garbage is to teach children to make their own gifts, decorations and wrappings in a series of Christmas-themed eco-art workshops. The school holiday program is designed for children aged 6-12 years and teaches them to be creative with salvaged materials as well as providing an opportunity for environmental learning. Workshop co-ordinator Michelle Bland said the children would learn which natural resources. “The materials they are using come from and can develop an appreciation of how consumption and waste impacts on our environment,” Michelle said. “The creative application of salvaged materials also encourages children to think outside the square and about ways that they can re-use ordinary objects that are often deemed as rubbish.” Children can take home their creations and give them as gifts or decorate their Christmas trees. Reverse Garbage Christmas School Holiday Eco-Art Workshops are to run from December 12-23 at 20 Burke Street, Woolloongabba. The cost is $20 per child. For further information, telephone 3891 9744, email info@reversegarbage.com.au or log on to www.reversegarbage.com.au Reverse Garbage is a not-forGift profit workers’ co-operative that Idea collects high-quality industrial discards, diverting them from landfill to sell at low cost to the general public.

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Gift Ideas

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Real estate agents Professionals New Farm have undertaken numerous community projects over Christmas to give back to the community. A Christmas hamper, courtesy of the Professionals, will be gifted to New Farm State School to assist them with a fundraising venture that will be drawn on December 5. Major Neil Dickson from the Salvation Army recently also collected a large collection of toys from the agency’s Christmas party at Victoria Park Golf Complex last month. Professionals New Farm would like to thank the community for their support throughout the year and wish all a wonderful Christmas and a safe, prosperous new year.

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ARTISAN gallery on Brunswick Street is to bring the spirit of giving out early with a series of exclusive design store VIP Christmas shopping nights. The Cherish at artisan nights are to showcase a range of new work from a selection of top Australian emerging and established designers. A 10-discount on all new Cherish stock is to be available along with a complimentary glass of champagne. The events are to run from 6pm-8pm on Thursdays, December 15 and 22. Artisan, which exists to present and promote unique and individual quality crafted design to an Australian and international audience, is at 381 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley. Products represented include jewellery, furniture, lighting, glass, ceramics, fashion, textiles, paperware, leather goods, and interior products. For further information, telephone 3215 0808 or log on to www.artisan.org.au

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Strong bond formed from being a shocking example of effeteness MANY people have asked where and when did Hebe and I first met. To avoid dolorous retrospection, I would simply say it was when I moved to New Farm, 28 years ago. Once having mentioned this erroneous statement in Hebe’s presence, she protested vehemently: ‘’Darling. It was much before that. In fact, it was at Roma State Primary School; you were seven and I was 12”. Oh, Hebe, if you only knew how I deliberately blocked those primary school years from my memory. Hebe was right of course. Both of us were children of the Maranoa district. Our families, although known to each other, were not close. Hebe’s people belonged to the Squattocracy who were owners of vast acreage and vineyards, whereas my family were small landowners; a clan of horse breakers and drovers. In the rough and tumble democracy of the school yard, children of rural families tended to form loose alliances with each other in an effort to check any instances of bullying from the more numerous “Townies”. Hebe was in her final year of primary school and I was in my fourth year. As is the way of extreme youth, the gap then in our age was too vast for us to be true friends. That was to come much later, in our adulthood. Hebe at 12 displayed little of the beauty that was to become so abundantly hers later in life. As a girl, she resembled a Modigliani painting – her limbs long and attenuated – but she did possess a verve and vitality that drew all to her. I recall Hebe’s generosity in those tumultuous primary school years. One incident springs immediately to mind. It was at “little lunch”. In the sixties, free milk was distributed to all school children in the misguided belief it promoted positive behaviour, curbed absenteeism, increased athletic prowess and doubled the normal growth rate in children. That is of course, if it didn’t poison you first, for the hot Queensland climate turned these 1/4 pint bottles of milk into a glutinous rancid mess. There was no refrigeration and the crates stood on the parade ground in the full glare of the western sun until consumed. Each child approached their quota of milk with dread and, if the watchful eye of the teacher was less than vigilant, most children discreetly upended the contents of their bottle into the straggling geraniums or onto the parched earth. Some of the more resourceful bought chocolate flavouring to help disguise the sourness. As a “milk monitor”, it was Hebe’s job to pierce the cardboard lid of the bottle with a wire skewer then pass the opened bottle to the waiting child. On this particular morning, when it was my turn, Hebe said with quiet urgency: “Here! Quick! Take this before Pit-bull sees you.’’ A small sachet along with the milk was pressed firmly into my hand.

Pit-bull was our nickname for Mrs Pitman and a more fitting description it would be hard to find, for not only did the unfortunate Mrs Pitman bare a remarkable likeness to the canine but also her temperament closely exhibited those same alarming qualities for which the pit-bull is infamous: mindless ferocity and tenacity in attack. www.caterinalay.com

book writing, it was given over to the exhilarating question of what to wear. Nothing, even to this day, fills me more with dread more than a theme or fancy dress party. I think the genesis of this fear sprang from this very school dance. Standing in line at Johnnie’s Cafe waiting for hot chips, Hebe says to me: “What are you going to wear to the dance?” The urge to confess to a lack of inspiration was too profound to ignore: “I dunno. Mum said I’d have to come up with something myself.” A look of sympathetic understanding from Hebe: “The same here. I’m going to borrow Aunt Circe’s Deb frock and sneak granny’s tiara and come as a princess. Although I’ll have to be careful because Mummy will have a fit about the tiara,

tonyjonesdiary by Tony Jones

Tony Jones and Beau wish everyone a Happy Christmas and a safe New Year Hebe had given me a small amount of chocolate powder to help make the milk more palatable; a supplement Mrs Pitman had expressly forbidden. “A shocking example of effeteness,” she would bark at any poor child caught with offending powder. Just what the word effeteness meant, none of us knew. One morning at assembly, right after the singing of God Save the Queen, it was announced that, in the coming weeks, instead of phys ed, we were all going to learn ballroom dancing. A murmur of excitement ran through the assemblage. Some of the rougher boys, mindful their masculine sensibilities may be under threat, protested disdainfully: “No way! That’s for sissies and girls” - each looking to the other to garner courage to sustain the revolt. Their feeble mutiny was effectively and immediately annihilated by a rictus of bared teeth and a truly terrifying stare from Mrs Pitman. So it came to pass, after weeks of learning the Boston Two Step, The Pride of Erin, Progressive Barn Dance and the tricky Quadrilles, it was revealed the purpose for this mind-numbing activity was to acquit ourselves handsomely on the dance floor at the end of school year Fancy Dress Dance. An air of excitement pervaded the school and, when our minds weren’t taken up with the learning of sums, social studies and doing our copy-

cause it’s real – real diamonds that is.” The mention of Hebe’s grandmother causes a jolt to my sluggish imagination. Suddenly, an idea. I would borrow my grandad’s ceremonial dress sword and come as a pirate. As a young man, in England, grandad had been an officer in the Light Horse Guards. A weight had lifted and creativity filled the void. The evening of the dance and my mother pushes me from the car. “You look wonderful darling. Mind your grandfather’s sword and be sure you’re waiting on the footpath at nine o’clock for me to pick you up.” She is gone in a cloud of dust down Arthur Street. It’s canasta night and she still has vol-auvents to warm. The school is a blaze of lights and Chinese lanterns hang from branches of the old boab trees that line the parade ground. It’s here where the dancing will take place. Already it’s filled with excited children, teachers and parents. Clowns, cowboys and Cleopatras proliferate; no sign of Hebe in her Aunt Circe’s comingout frock. I stand self-consciously in the shadows. I’m uncomfortable in my sawn-off jeans and stripy knit shirt. On my head, a scarf of my mother’s, tied in pirate mode and a black eye patch covers one eye. My grandfather’s sword for all its handsomeness is proving unwieldy. My legs too short to carry it’s long elegance. The music for the Boston Two Step begins to blare from loud speakers and, suddenly, Hebe stands before me. She is engulfed in acres of white tulle. A satin ribbon is threaded through the straps of the gown’s too large bodice, which is a precaution to keep it from falling around her waist. Atop her head, slightly awry, is her grandmother’s tiara held in place with what looks suspiciously like a piece of fencing wire. “Come on. Let’s dance,’’ cries Hebe.

Before I can demure, Hebe propels me into the milling crowd. With looks of condemning censure and irritated tut-tutting, the dancers make room for Hebe in her wide crinoline skirts and for me with my wildly swinging sword. “This is fun,” laughs Hebe. I smile in agreement and we surrender to the enjoyment of movement and music. The Boston Two Step is a vigorous dance involving intricate skipping steps and spirited twirling of the female partner, all of which Hebe and I entered into with wild abandon. It wasn’t long before these dashing athletic manoeuvrings caused my sword to break free from the protection of its scabbard and start swinging in wide arcs around my thin legs. Although the blade was dull, it still possessed enough keenness to slice through the delicate fabric of Hebe’s dress. In moments, the long tulle skirts of Hebe’s frock were reduced to a ragged peplum, exposing her long coltish legs and an even more startling revelation: On Hebe’s narrow feet, instead of a pair of pretty dancing slippers, a pair of scruffy R.M. Williams riding boots were incongruously in evidence. All around us, dancers were becoming entangled in the remanets of Hebe’s tulle gown. The air filled with exclamations of annoyance and anger. Just as we were about to succumb to helpless laughter, out of the disapproving crowd loomed the terrifying figure of the Pit-bull. Escape was impossible and, in seconds, the Pit-bull had taken painful hold of our tender earlobes and, with a dreadful force that only the truly outraged are capable of, we were propelled ignominiously from the dance floor. “No more dancing for you,” thundered Mrs Pitman. “You both are a disgrace; a shocking example of effeteness if ever I saw one.” Invective, volcanic and blistering spewed from Mrs Pitmans heavily carmine mouth. Dire warnings of retribution that would be delivered to us by the headmaster served only to inflame our desire to give vent to barely suppressed laughter. Finally, exhausted from her vituperations, Mrs Pitman fell silent. Hebe and I waited, eyes cast down and only when the sound of the Pitbull’s retreating footsteps faded into nothingness did we glance at each other. “That was mad,” screamed Hebe. “A shocking example of effeteness if I ever saw one.” I opined in credible mimicry of the outraged Mrs Pitman. We fell to our knees in therapeutic laughter with the release of nervous tension a voluptuous relief. A friendship had been forged in the face of terrible adversity but little did I know then, it would be 30 years before Hebe and I saw each other again.

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tonyjones@newfarmvillagenews.com.au December 2011 villagenews

villageadvertorial Brisbane wireless Lord Mayor Graham Quirk has announced that free wireless internet access is to be available in another 20 sites across Brisbane by mid next year. The Lord Mayor said he had allocated $2 million in this year’s budget to rollout Wi-Fi in 20 locations, as well as another $413,000 to upgrade Wi-Fi technology in 34 of council libraries. “Brisbane is Australia’s new world city and I am committed to providing the vital infrastructure we need to remain at the forefront with accessible technology for all residents,” Cr Quirk said. He said the trial of free Wi-Fi access in public areas started in November last year and had been a massive success. “Since November, more than 5000 people have taken advantage of the free Wi-Fi coverage in the City Botanic Gardens, with most users connecting for around an hour each session, and we’ve had similar numbers in New Farm Park,” Cr Quirk said. “The popularity of free Wi-Fi access in the City Botanic Gardens, New Farm Park and Council’s libraries has demonstrated that internet access is important to many of Brisbane’s residents and visitors,” he aid at the end.

Matthew is a thoroughly modern lawyer NEWSTEAD lawyer Matthew Rouse has embraced the peninsula’s “vibrant atmosphere” for his success in running commercial law firm, Rouse Lawyers. Before “falling” into his own practice, Matthew, who had lived in Teneriffe for seven years, worked in some of Australia’s top-tier commercial law firms and took his expertise to establish Rouse Lawyers in 2006. “We’re an alternate to larger commercial firms. We’re a boutique corporate/commercial business with a focus on small-to-medium businesses,” Matthew said. He said he enjoyed dealing with “cool, young companies” in the area that didn’t want to go into the city and not be treated as equals. “That’s the main thing: dealing with exciting, young people (to) growing their business and for them to come to our practice and feel that it’s the same vibrant atmosphere (as the peninsula),” Matthew said, hopeful that his clients saw him as a “business partner” not just their lawyer. A true local at heart, Matthew had been involved in numerous community events, including Man’s Lunch, which raised money for prostate cancer as well as providing pro bono counsel as an inaugural committee member for the Teneriffe Festival. After two previous relocations from

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Newstead lawyer Matthew Rouse South Brisbane to Teneriffe serviced offices, The Workstation, the team of four lawyers and several support staff finally settled in Commercial Road last year. Matthew said he tried to make the office modern yet different by employing new media in its work such as creating YouTube videos to highlight the firm’s strengths and capabilities. Rouse Lawyers continued to expand slowly following the recent purchase and amalgamation with a small firm at Wooloowin, on Brisbane’s northside, but Matthew expressed his desire to

stay true to his philosophy. “I think we will remain small and continue to focus on growing entrepreneurial clients,” Matthew said. “There’s an affection for the type of people that live in the area.” Rouse Lawyers specialises in numerous areas of commercial law including intellectual property, business acquisitions, e-commerce and modern estate planning. It is at 4/34 Commercial Road, Newstead. For a full list of services, telephone 3648 9900 or log on to www. rouselawyers.com.au

Merry Christmas Don’t risk it. Turn around.

BCC5191-VN3-BG

Be prepared this summer

Visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/ beprepared or call Council on (07) 3403 8888. villagenews December 2011

I wish all Village News readers a very happy and safe Christmas and New Year. This is my last Christmas as your local Councillor. It has been a great honour to serve a community which I dearly love. In the spirit of Christmas, I encourage you to join in the New Farm Garage Sale project for the weekend of December 10/11 to support a very worthwhile community agency -- the New Farm Neighbourhood Centre, who do so much for those in the community less fortunate than ourselves. We are calling on New Farmers to either take sellable items to the New Farm Neighbourhood Centre’s garage sale, or have your own garage sale and donate 25% to the Centre. The gift of giving is what Christmas is all about. You can do it here, in New Farm for your very own community. What is left over can go on the footpath for the Council large waste collection in New Farm on Monday December 12. For more information, contact my office (central.ward@ecn.net.au or 3403 0254). Best wishes to you all - and thanks,

David Hinchliffe and staff at Central Ward Office.

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Greer takes step into real estate By Vanessa Fang LIFELONG peninsula resident passing on comments about Greer Gittoes has stated her own neighbouring agencies or their real estate agency after having views on selling their own home run Chester’s Coffee at Newstead or starting a business (and) it was for 18 months. a natural progression to give it a Greer said Chester’s Real Estate go,” Greer said. did not aim to have “hundreds Greer, 28, was a property of listings”, instead deliver on banker for five years but said tailored service she didn’t enjoy and “high values” corporate life and to the area. preferred being “My focus is “amongst” the the peninsula (as people in the well as Spring area where she Hill and Bowen grew up where Hills),” Greer “everyone had a said. “That’s specialty”. why I’ve strived When asked to create this how she juggled environment her espresso because I love bar and agency my coffee and, responsibilities, amongst my Greer laughed Greer Gittoes aims for customers, I it off as “a lot tailored service love property of optimism” and the people in the area. I also required. meet people in the area; it’s an She said her parents taught intertwining of everything I love.” her the gratification of a small Hailing from a family of business, the value of hard work property developers, Greer said and integrity in her job and the the decision to launch the “small people around her. boutique agency” two months ago Chester’s Real Estate is at was “natural”. 26 Chester Street, Newstead. “There was so much inquiry For further information or a and discussion about property at great coffee just drop in. www. the coffee shop, about everyone chestersrealestate.com

Original plans put into Council archives

THE original construction plans for the Story Bridge last month were handed over to council for safekeeping. The plans were presented by the firm which built the landmark in the 1930s. Baulderstone managing director and general manager Stephen Green handed the plans to Lord Mayor Cr Graham Quirk. The bridge was built by Hornibrook Constructions, which merged with Baulderstone in 1985. Mr Green described the plans as “incredibly impressive” and proved what an “amazing feat” it was to build such a piece of enduring infrastructure with none of the technology and advancements of today’s construction industry. Construction on the bridge began on May 24, 1935 and employed about 400 people. It was opened on July 6, 1940 by Sir Leslie Orme Wilson, Governor of Queensland, and named after John Douglas Story, a public servant who advocated strongly for the bridge. It was eventually handed to over to Brisbane City Council in 1946. The bridge is classified under the Queensland Heritage Act.

Council expected to endorse neighbourhood plan BRISBANE City Council is expected to endorse the draft Kangaroo Point South Neighbourhood Plan when it votes on it at its last meeting for 2011 next week. The council’s Neighbourhood Planning and Development Assessment chairman, Cr Amanda Cooper, said council had worked “hand in hand” with locals throughout the draft process to shape the final draft. “Forty one submissions have been received, including several acknowledging adjustments made to the initial draft plan in response to community feedback,” Cr Cooper said in her newsletter to ratepayers. She said the draft included new requirements for a change in building heights in the Vulture Street Precinct south of Mark Lane to provide a transition between new developments of up to 20 storeys and existing character housing and community uses. “This is in addition to the inclusion of a Character Residential Area within the draft plan, placing greater emphasis on preserving pre-1946 housing,” Cr Cooper said. She said a key feature of draft included increased levels of protection for established “tin and timber character homes” and some main road corridor development. The draft Kangaroo Point South Neighbourhood Plan is to be sent to the State Government for review before its expected adoption into council’s City Plan in mid-next year For further information on the plan or for a copy, telephone 3403 8888 or log on to www.brisbane. qld.gov.au/urbanrenewal and click on the Kangaroo Point South link.

European car specialists at Spring Hill

THE team at Spring Hill Care Care has been known for maintaining its “old-fashioned” values, from an attendant performing additional checks on oil and water while they fuel up to checking tyre pressure. Owner Ludwig Sommer has had over 20 years’ experience in the automotive industry and led a team of A-grade mechanics who will provide solutions to keeping his customer’s vehicles in great condition. He said the station was a “one stop shop” for vehicles, where customers can drop it off with any issue and they would be looked after. Ludwig Sommer a specialist in For Ludwig, personal service European car servicing was the “cornerstone of any good book servicing business” but it If people call and book in for a service for all makes and was important during Dec/Jan, mention reading this models, including to build article in the Village News to take four-wheel drives relationships and diesels. with vehicle advantage of this special offer: The team is owners too. also available for “They need to safety inspection know they are $15-$25 free fuel with your certificates, being looked panel repairs and after in a fair way next vehicle service* air conditioning and that they’re *Conditions apply service and important replacement. to us,” Ludwig Spring Hill Car Care is located at said. “We went to know everyone by 100 Barry Parade, Spring Hill. Phone their first name and see them come 3833 9600 for more information back, even if it’s just for a car wash.” today. Spring Hill Car Care performs log

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Butcher Neil is king of more than his private Tiger shed THERE is an old-fashioned, familyrun butcher shop on the corner of James and Kent streets that has been dear to the hearts of many local citizens who don’t just live in the big city pocket of New Farm, Fortitude Valley, Teneriffe, Spring Hill and Newstead, they come from seemingly everywhere – the CBD dwellers,

I like shopping at Petersens because of all the above reasons but I especially like the way Neil slices so thinly my lamb’s fry, flattens out my previously ordered veal fillet, advises which cuts are tastier for casseroles and stews and still has time for a running commentary on a forthcoming sporting event or the music of, say, the 1970s bands Kiss and Fleetwood Mac and David Bowie. Mr and Mrs Allan Petersen had three children – Tim, Neil and Robyn. The boys followed their dad into the business but only Neil continued. Neil was educated at Kedron State Primary and Wavell High schools, completed his

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villagepeople by Gary Balkin

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from across the Brisbane River at Kangaroo Point and Hamilton – and they don’t just come over here for the tender and tasty, quality cuts of meats. They come from afar to enjoy the ambience of the shopping experience of another, earlier era; to enjoy the banter of the Petersen family – butchers, purveyors of meats – to ask for tips on slicing, roasting, trimming and presenting their meats for the table. Octogenarians, Mr and Mrs Allan Petersen are well-known but there’s a no-fuss fellow always backing up this mum-and-dad shop – their 48-year-old son Neil.

apprenticeship to the master and found time for his two great interests – rugby league and music. Neil has been with Karen now for 25 years, living at Chermside, as do their three children Simone 30, Amy 23, and Hayley 16. He works a six-day week – finishing at 2.30pm Saturday – and his favourite leisure time is relaxing in a big lounge chair in his home-away-from-home: a large shed in his back yard where he kicks-back, listening to his favourite old tunes. They’re not all David Bowie and Fleetwood Mac records either (he recalls the days when he never missed a rock concert such as that when they or Alice Cooper or the Electric Light Orchestra came to Brisbane). Neil has a penchant for relics: old tin or enamel advertising signs, especially those with bullet holes or stone scars. He has quite a collection in his shed, such as a 1950s CocaCola sign, Golden Fleece, De Witts Pills, which were all found in junk yards and abandoned premises. “They’re probably worth a lot of

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villagenews December 2011

BSA 1156797

Neil James in his James street shop money these days to some people but I think they look good in the shed,” he said. “Most weekends, I was either playing footy with Valleys or going to Lang Park following my favourite A Grade team or players. I have countless programs and albums filled with news cuttings and photos of good players – like when Johnny Lang and the Morris brothers were playing with Easts. I loved that era. Over the years, my other favourites were Wally Lewis, Mick Retchless, Marty Scanlan and, more recently, Darren Lockyer. Locky has been so good for the game.” I asked Neil if following footy was a family affair. “Oh, not so much recently but Karen was a great fan of Steve (Blocker) Roach and Mal Meninga – the big men – when they were running around. Balmain was always our footy team; our favourite team before the Broncos started up. I have to admit I’m still a Tiger fan, with the Broncos next best. We even named the shed Blocker’s Tiger Den. When Blocker and Big Mal retired so did Karen from watching rugby league. When you get down to your personal clubhouse in the back yard, how do you kick back again, I asked. I was starting to like the sound of that. “I have a TV and video recorder where I play old footy grand finals over and over but, when I need the music to kick in, it’s often on to (Helen) Reddy and (Linda) Ronstadt or my old rock band CDs,” Neil said. Neil hasn’t really travelled much, interstate or overseas. “I travel to Sydney for the grand final every year but have never travelled elsewhere in Australia. About 10 years ago, I went with Jamie Sandy to England. Do you

remember Jamie Sandy? Well, he was a great player for Easts, Wests and Redcliffe and we’ve been mates since we were 15. He later went over to play with Castleford in England and they won the Wembley Cup final there in 1986 so, when we arrived in Castleford for a team premiership 15 year reunion, he was greeted as a hero.” Does Jamie share Neil’s love for and taste in music? “Oh, we played junior footy against each other and when we saw each other at Cloudland – that’s the old Cloudland that was a Brisbane icon on the hill at Newstead over there. We went there every Saturday night and had this mutual love of the music of that era, the 1970s-early ‘80s.” I envy Neil Petersen, sitting back in his comfy, old lounge chair in his personal clubhouse in the back yard. He has it all at his fingertips, whether it’s choosing a disc from his vast collection to play on his trusty 1960 radiogram or watching footy replays of his mate Jamie at Wembley or just kicking back, relaxing to the max as he toasts the Coca-Cola sign from a year before his birth. He is king of his back yard domain for what’s left of the weekend and his queen happily enjoys her interests with the family in the house. She knows, though, she’ll be greeted with a welcoming smile whenever she enters that “private club”. What more can a fellow want? I already know the answer to that. I bet he’s thinking of his favourite cut of beef for dinner: a good old juicy T-bone steak, with hot chips. Tender and tasty it’ll be for sure. After all, he selects and cuts the steak. Butcher knows best.

Cycling helps charity, research THE inaugural Australian 200km Ride riders complained that it was too to Conquer Cancer, held in south-east steep in places and was not as easy Queensland in August this year, raised as riders were lead to believe. $4.7 million for cancer research. The money raised from the event is It was the first time the ride had given to the Queensland Institute of been held outside Canada and Medical Research. instantly became what organisers Next year, rides are being organised claimed was the biggest single fundin Victoria, New South Wales and raising event in Queensland, having Western Australia. The event is to raised about $4.7 million. mark its fifth year in Canada next year More than 1300 riders took part, where rides are held annually in four including Village News senior writer locations in June and July. and sub-editor Darryl Whitecross and For further information on the his wife, Neylie. ride or to register, log on to www. Entries for the 2012 ride are being ridetoconquercancer.com.au sought and Another orientation recent charity seminars are fundraiser, being held Bicycle around the city Queensland’s to encourage 100km people to take Brisbane part. One of to Gold the first was Coast Cycle held at New Challenge in Farm library October raised last month. $212,000 – a Each rider record for the is required event. to raise a The money minimum Chris Seawright, left, and Peter Rickards launch the raised from $2500 before the event, in 2012 Ride to Conquer Cancer at New Farm. they can take which about part in the event which is to leave the 7500 riders took part, was presented University of Queensland on Saturday, to Diabetes Australia – Queensland August 18, and head about 100km president Rose Anne Kelso and Heart west to Somerset. Riders are to camp Foundation chief executive officer out in tents overnight in the camp Cameron Prout last month. ground there before riding back to the The event has raised more than university over a slightly different route $1 million for the two charities since it on the Sunday. began in 2005. Organisers have promised a slightly The 2012 ride is planned for different route next year after many Sunday, October 7.

Council encourages reading

BRISBANE City Council libraries in the Village News readership area are about to embark on their ninth annual Summer Reading Program. Central Ward’s Cr David Hinchliffe and Hamilton Ward’s Cr David McLachlan have joined Lord Mayor Graham Quirk to encourage readers of all ages – especially children – to drop in to their local library to take part in the program. Cr McLachlan said the program was “a great, inexpensive way” to keep children entertained and out of the heat over the summer holidays. Cr Hinchliffe said New Farm’s storytime program was of particular interest to New Farm residents with story readings to take place in New Farm Park on Fridays during the holidays. “The summer program is also useful for adults with workshops on introduction to computers and the internet as well as how to manage digital photo collections,” Cr Hinchliffe said. The Hamilton and New Farm libraries have an extensive holiday schedule of events. The Summer Reading program is to begin on December 10 and run until January 22 and includes pantomimes, creative writing, craft workshops, magic shows, movies, a game console challenge and a spooky dress-up night Children are awarded different stickers each time they attend a library event or read a book. Once children have collected enough stickers to complete their Licence to Read, they are to receive a prize for their efforts. Cost is free, although library membership is required to take part. The Hamilton Library (3403 1050) is in Racecourse Road, Hamilton, and the New Farm Library (3403 1062) is in Sydney Street.

Short, social run has covers a marathon of talk topics

Haruki Murakami

When social runners get out for their regular morning clip, what do they find to chat about afterwards? Plenty, as Teneriffe Run Club faithful MARY DENVER* reports

WE will be catching up again this Annemarie said. Others love the Sunday after our regular 7am run weekly discipline; the sense of along the Brisbane River, to drink community and the positive buzz that coffee and talk. What do we talk comes with a regular workout. about when we talk about running? “I hate running but I love Run Well, as Haruki Murakami, the famous Club,” someone says. Japanese writer who coined the “It’s great to get away from the phrase said, we’ll talk about running family,” another said. of course – and all the things a I suspect there are things we don’t group of running friends of all ages, talk about – the good and bad weeks backgrounds and speeds might want at work and in life, the achievements to talk about. and disappointments, the challenges Jess and Bridget are just back from of the new job and the new New York where Jess completed her relationship, getting older and maybe first New York City Marathon. They slower, taking the big risks, the huge both seriously hit the shops, too. responsibilities of new parenthood, Matt’ll be there the recent health with his baby boy scare and the To join the Run Club, turn up at the and running pram, niggling injuries. Powerhouse car park in Lamington giving his partner a Some of us are Street a few minutes before 7am on break on a Sunday talking about doing any Sunday. There are Tuesday night our first halfmorning. There maybe a relative runs too. For further information, log marathon next year. or two visiting from We’ll probably need on to the group’s Facebook page at interstate. www.facebook.com/pages/Teneriffe- a six-month training As the schedule. We’re Community-Run-Club-Brisbane/ conversation darts motivated and we’ll about from the do it. carbon tax and the pressures of work We’ll need to talk it through over to how many wines one can manage coffee of course. the night before a run, I think: Why do *Mary Denver, a Teneriffe resident we keep coming back? and Run Club faithful, has been Well the beautiful Brisbane River running round the peninsula for the is a good place to start. From the last 15 years and with the club since Powerhouse car park to the Teneriffe October 2009. ferry and back – even a bit longer * Haruki Murakami, a dedicated now that the park in the Waterfront distance runner, wrote in his 2008 development at Newstead is open. We memoir, What I Talk About When I Talk love our 4km-5km bit of the New Farm About Running, describes running Peninsula. the original marathon backwards Many of us crawled along to the from Athens to Marathon in Greece in first early-morning Run Club start two 1983. He also ran the New York City years ago and have not looked back. Marathon in 2005 for the fourth time Why do we do it? and the Boston Marathon six months “I make decisions when I’m later for the seventh time at the age running,” Elsa said. “Mine is more of 56. “As long as my body allows, I’ll about taking mental time out,” keep on running” he says.

Wednesday Meditation at 6 pm Community Christmas Celebration: Friday 23rd Dec at 7 pm Christmas Day at 8:30 am Every Sunday at 9:30 am

Merthyr Road Uniting Church

A diverse community learning to live the gospel… A safe place of faith, hope, love, healing and purpose

Phone: 0410 835 320 52 Merthyr Rd, New Farm December 2011 villagenews

villagewine by Todd Rumble*

Festivities call for flutes filled with fizz

IF ever there was an occasion or, dare I say, an excuse to spend a little more on that bottle of wine (or bottles, if we’re honest), then Christmas is it. Surely it is a time to let the old adage of “quality over quantity” ring true. Whether it’s a gift for the wine-lover in your life or a special drop to share around the festive table, there simply isn’t room for mediocre wine. Unfortunately, you don’t always get what you pay for so there is often a gruelling amount of groundwork involved in ensuring the higher price tag is justified. To make the selection process a little easier, here are three stunners with quality that trumps the price:

2009 Michael Hall Piccadilly Valley Chardonnay Adelaide Hills, South Australia

RRP $40

AN absolute triumph in balance and elegance – one of the best from the renowned Piccadilly sub-region. The wine is delicate in all regards and shows wonderful interaction between stone and citrus fruit, subtle oak and nutty barrel complexities. Superb now and will reward careful and patient cellaring.

2007 Paringa Estate Reserve Pinot Noir Mornington Peninsula, Victoria

RRP $90

THIS is from the estate’s top rung – a selection of the best barrels of pinot noir available from the vintage. Now, with a few years of age under its belt (and a few good ones ahead), it is beautifully integrated, shows richness and power (in the context of the variety) and reveals some earthy, Burgundian-like charm.

Brisbane diners to get own foodie ‘bible’ By Morag Kobez

FOR discerning diners in New South Wales and Victoria, the Good Food Guide has been the foodie bible for about 40 years. The recent announcement that Queensland is to get its own guide is good news for Brisbane foodies. The chef’s hat rating system is to be applied to hundreds of Queensland restaurants, with awards for the best restaurants in Brisbane, regional Queensland and northern NSW. The guide is to be edited by food writer and former food editor with The Courier-Mail newspaper Natascha Mirosch.

Latte on the rocks

2008 Charles Melton Nine Popes Barossa Valley, South Australia

RRP $60

THE flagship of this famous Barossa producer has developed somewhat of a cult following. The grenache/ shiraz/mouvèdre blend wraps the characters of each variety up beautifully to yield a wine of complexity and richness. Enthralling whichever path you take – opening now or saving for years to come.

Todd Rumble is an independent wine consultant, sommelier and educator. todd.rumble@gmail.com Twitter: @GoodWineHunting

Pintxo Spanish Taperia The process, taken at Blue Sky in Commercial Road Newstead. IT’S too hot for coffee at the moment, right? There’s a simple solution to the problem. Lots of cafes are turning to a new method of extracting our favourite beverages, at much more palatable temperatures for the Queensland summer. Fans of the “cold press” method of extraction say the coffee is naturally sweeter and smoother because there is no heat involved, which can cause bitterness in other extraction methods. Coarsely ground coffee is soaked in cold water for hours and the grounds filtered out of the water before it is served. The equipment used to make that kind of coffee looks like it would be more at home in a science lab than a cafe – if you’ve been in to Merlo, Blue Sky or Fifth Battery Coffee Roasters in Spring Hill for a cuppa lately, you may have noticed the giant glass contraptions dripping away.

SUMMER SANGRIA & FELIZ NAVIDAD!

Pintxo’s is welcoming summer & the Festive season with a range of new sangrias. they include peach, cherry, kiwifruit as well as the Pintxo original red and white. the menu has changed too with twenty traditional and modern spanish dishes priced from $9 to $18 including dishes like fall-off-the-bone pork ribs, prawns wrapped in jamon plus the popular favourites like creamy scallops in cava and croquetas. now open for lunch Friday to sunday and Dinner tuesday to sunday, organise your catch up with friends at Pintxo this month! Feliz navidad & Happy Holidays to all of our valued customers. Wishing you all a safe and relaxing Festive season! Christmas/new Year’s trading Hours: open up to and including Friday 23rd December. Re-open tuesday 3rd January 2012. ADDRESS: 561 Brunswick street new Farm PHONE: 3333 2231 WEBSITE: www.pintxo.com 30

villagenews December 2011

Restaurant & Tapas Train Pintxo Spanish Taperia

561 Brunswick Street, New Farm ph: 3333 2231

As the new kid on the block we thought it fitting to give you a little introduction. We are a traditional, family run Delicatessen which specialises in locally sourced produce. Not sure what that means? Think fresh fruit straight from the market, homemade meals, Blackstar Coffee, classic deli rolls including the ever popular pot roast, superb cakes such as the renowned carrot cake and some of the best brownies in Brisbane. We are proud to say that our lunch items are made from quality ingredients such as those from Maleny Dairies, Eumundi Smokehouse, Barambah Organics and Borgo Smallgoods. We also offer catering, so keep us in mind for your Christmas functions, workplace parties and any other event that you care to name. T 3161 3031 E yum@springhilldeli.com Shop 2, 537 Boundary St, Spring Hill

villagedining

Festive berry vanilla tea TEA also is best served cold at this time of year and makes a great non-alcoholic option during the festive season. It can also be paired with a little vodka or gin for a refreshing alcoholic tea.

Ingredients

Any red berry tea (leaves or bags) Handful of mint leaves 3-4 tbs caster sugar ½ cup water Vanilla pod 1-2 limes, sliced Ice to serve

Method

Use any kind of herbal red berry tea (bags or leaf) such as raspberry, cranberry, strawberry, rose hip or any combination of them – as long as it is a pretty red colour. Brew a large cup of tea using the equivalent of six tea bags and steep for at least 10 minutes. Once the tea is a vibrant red colour, pour into a large jug with ice, top up with soda water and add sliced lime and plenty of mint leaves. Add sugar syrup to sweeten (to taste).

Method for sugar syrup

Make a sugar syrup out of half a cup of water, 3-4 heaped tablespoons of caster sugar in a small saucepan over low heat until sugar melts – scrape a vanilla bean into syrup.Add sugar syrup to sweeten (to taste). www.missmoragsmorsels.com

Group puts human contact back into networking

IN an age of electronic communication and virtual networking, a new trend is emerging - meeting people face-to-face . . . . networking. Humanise, a new networking business, recently moved into New Farm with a view to expanding on that trend. It has been six months since business owners Martin Rogers and Phillip Grueff invited some friends to lunch. With 23 business owners/ friends from the area attending, the idea developed hold a monthly lunch, and the response continues to be overwhelming. “The Humanise concept was all that Martin and Phil said that it would be,” Hayley Albertson said. “We had a group of like-minded business people enjoying a delicious meal and each other’s company at our first meeting. It was a fun afternoon and new friendships were created.” People who attend Humanise lunches often have two important things in common: they have a local business and they want to connect face-to-face - with other local business people. For further information, telephone Hayley Albertson on 0438 662459 or log on to www.humanise.com.au

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villageentertainment David captures the colour

discussion exploring the students’ aspirations and perspectives on the future of indigenous dance and performances by guest artists Rosetta Cook and Sunday Lucia. Taking Flight is to be performed, in the centre’s Performance Space, at 420 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley, from 7pm. Tickets are $10 and $5 To book, telephone 3872 9000 or log on to www.judithwrightcentre.com

Human rights in artwork THE so-called purple carpet of spring in Brisbane is well captured in one of the pieces used to promote retiring Brisbane City Councillor David Hinchliffe’s exhibition at the NEOGALLERY. The image of the purple flowers of the jacaranda is a feature of the oil on linen work titled Entrance to New Farm. It is the largest piece in the collection on display at the gallery at 758 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley, until Saturday, December 10 David, who plans to concentrate on his painting when he retires from his Central Ward seat at the next council election, has titled the exhibition of new landscapes Colours of Spring (above). Exhibition visitors instantly will recognise many of the locations around New Farm and Teneriffe that David has captured in the more than 20 pieces on display. The gallery is open on Wednesday to Saturday from 11am-4pm The works may be viewed online at www.neogallery.net For further information, telephone 3852 4944.

Dancers to take flight THE dance graduates from Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts are to perform at the Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Arts on December 8. The innovative and contemporary Taking Flight and comes on the back of the success of last year’s Season Black The program was created by ACPA alumni Jesse Martin and head of dance, Penny Mullen. The presentation is to include a short

villagenews December 2011

A work by Cassidy Maier titled ‘Genocide’ which is to be part of the ARTillery MasterPEACE youth art exhibition at Jugglers EMERGING Brisbane artists and musicians are set to show their talents at the Juggler’s Art Space in Fortitude Valley this month as part of Amnesty International’s ARTillery MasterPEACE youth art exhibition. The works are to depict Amnesty’s code of highlighting the human rights issues of the indigenous, poverty, torture, refugees, violence and censorship. Last year, the event was held for the first time in Brisbane at Lightspace in the Valley. It is to run from December 9-11. Admission is free. Brisbane art scene promoter Andy Scott is the festival co-ordinator for the first time this year. Andy said artists and activists had a vested interest in freedom of expression so it made sense that both groups worked together to discover new methods of raising awareness for human rights issues – and ARTillery was one way. The ARTillery not-for-profit festival, run by volunteers, was started in Perth

in 2008 by Alexandra Scott and Roxy Moore with the aim of using art to get people thinking and speaking out about human rights. An army of established and upand-coming artists from a variety of disciplines have been enlisted for the festival. “The great thing about ARTillery events is the atmosphere,” Alexandra said. “There’s always a unique positive vibe that comes from the amazing art on show and everyone being there to support the campaigns.” The change of venue in Brisbane this year allows more space for art and music to coexist day and night. ARTillery Festivals also are to be held in Perth, Melbourne and Canberra during December which each venue putting its own spin on events from poetry to performance. The whole-festival focus this year is on Amnesty International’s Individuals at Risk campaign, which advocates for individuals around the world whose human rights are at risk of violation. Juggler’s Art Space is at 103 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley. Entry is by gold coin donation. For further information, log on to www. artilleryfestival.com

“We take the ‘over the top’ grandeur of Broadway musicals and strip it bare. We combine it with the intimate ‘in your face’ nature of cabaret and create something entirely new,” Alison said. Songbirds 3 includes songs from popular musicals such as South Pacific, to the modern Wicked, The Addams Family, Legally Blonde, Little Women, Sister Act and Mary Poppins. Alison said the cabaret gave Brisbane’s female performers a chance to shine. “There are so many gifted female singers in Brisbane and never enough good roles to go around so I created Songbirds as a platform to showcase their talent,” Alison said. Tickets cost $30. To book, telephone 3872 9000 or log on to www.judithwrightcentre.com

Sex workers’ lives profiled

Girls shine in ‘Songbirds’

SONGBIRDS 3 is the title of this year’s annual all-female musical theatre cabaret to be performed at the Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Arts on December 10. The cast of six tell stories of love, loss and new beginnings through song. Creative director Alison Mclennan said the show was “the most up close and personal musical theatre experience you will ever have”.

THE private lives of Melbourne’s street sex workers are revealed in awardwinning Brisbane photojournalist Gemma Rose Turnbull’s exhibition Red Light Dark Room: Sex, Lives and Stereotypes at the Brisbane Powerhouse until December 18. The exhibition in the Visy Foyer is open from 9am-5pm on Mondays, 9am-9pm Tuesdays to Sundays. Admission is free For further information go to www. brisbanepowerhouse.org

52 Merthyr Road, New Farm villageweddings Lea & Robert Dodd

BOOKINGS

Merthyr BOOKINGS:Ro Ph

New FaRM Nash TheaTRe 2012 seasoN TENERIFFE author Lea Dodd (formerly Scott) married Robert Dodd at an elemental themed wedding in the northern hinterlands of Maleny in October. The 75 guests, 50 of whom were peninsula residents, braved the ominous storm clouds to take part in a weekend of go-karting and an Oktoberfest German welcome dinner and pamper party. Lea is set to release an adventure thriller in conjunction with Queensland Writers Centre in early next year.

Leap year! An extra day, an extra play! Presented as a radio Play directed by June a. Balfour

FeBrUary 11tH to 25tH by MOISES KAUFMAN Directed by DAN LANE

Photographer: Brian Rogers Lea’s dress: Allure Bridal Rob’s suit: Spurling’s Formal Hire Wedding cake: Judith Brosnan of JB Cakes, Sunshine Coast Honeymoon: Brazil and Argentina

Mia & Michael Wilkins

MARCH 10TH TO 31ST

The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespear MAY 12TH TO JUNE 2ND JULY 14TH TO AUGUST 4TH

PRESCRIPTION: MURDER by Richard Levinson & William Link Directed by Sandra Harman

The Beggars’ Opera

by John Gay

Directed by Nigel Munro-Wallis Michael and Mia Wilkins (with Misha) were married on the banks of the Brisbane River at Teneriffe with the reception held at Eves on the River, also at Teneriffe. The 70 guests came from Brisbane, Sydney and Canada and were treated to the musical talents of Tyrone Noonan, from Brisbane band George, who flew in from New York to play acoustic guitar for the night.

Photographer: Craig Lagerroth mia’s dress: Airs and Graces rob’s suit: Tony Barlow cake: The French Patisserie, Albion honeymoon: Noosa

sePteMBer 15tH to oCtoBer 6tH The Farndale Avenue Housing Estate Townswomen’s Guild Dramatic Society’s Production of

by David McGillivray & Walter Zerlin Jnr. Directed by Gilly Graham NOVEMBER 10TH TO DECEMBER 1ST

Bookings: (07) 3379 4775 or nashtheatre4@bigpond.com Merthyr Road Uniting Church, 52 Merthyr Road, New Farm For more information visit our website www.nashtheatre.com December 2011 villagenews

villagesocialite www.facebook.com/socialitebrisbane

Fireworks Glen Mackie’s exhibition opening at Fireworks art gallery was a success. Guests were treated to brilliant art works. Glen’s new series of works continues to illustrate knowledge systems relating to myth and everyday life through his distinctive black-and-white linocuts, as well as hand-coloured prints and paintings on paper.

Jagged Hair Jagged Hair celebrated three years of collaboration with Beauteasy. The bubble’s were flowing and guests were entertained with an amazing hair and fashion show. A brilliant night was had by all.

Gregoire D’Harcourt & Margo McOmish

Karissa Borton & Belle Kicina

Liz Latamore & Selina Ungermann

Sophie Karasakis & Tony Peters

Myles & Rebecca Brewster

Yvonne Smith & Gail Brennan

Ann Boyle & Peter Heffermann

Steve Sharp & Joes Kimber

Leigh Buchanan & Suzanne Brooks

Steph & Peter Roselt

Adele Cashion & Chelsea Henschell

Jessica Williams & Liza Augoustakis

villagenews December 2011

Rose Johnson & Adam Shillig

John Binawel & Glen Meckie (artist)

Balfour

Oscar Oscar

Long-running Brisbane Salon Oscar Oscar celebrated the opening of a new salon at Fortitude Valley. The salon has been creating awardwinning hair for more than 20 years and its new Brunswick Street outlet is owned and operated by Oscar Cullinan and Justin Mclachlan.

Spicers Balfour Hotel at New Farm show off the latest works of leading Brisbane artist Carl Warner in a new exhibition called The Remembered Present.

Jesse Parkes & Shantelle Neate

Jess Olding & Em ily

Cloake

Anni Shrapnel & Raine O’Connor

Fiona Schoonens & Samantha Green Carol Buckland & Tric Gibson

Courtney McIvor & Dean Toepfer

Ashlea Irwin, Holly Northover & Arielle Thompson

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Sharona Short & Oscar Cullinan

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Patrons of New Farm

Debra Fallon & Nicole Ogilvie

www.caterinalay.com

The New Farm Neighbourhood Centre came alive on November 30 with their Patrons of New Farm Christmas Party and Annual General Meeting. Guests then partied until their heartsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; content with live music and refreshments.

Jennifer Egan & Sandy Williams Kevin Hayes & Maida Lilley

Slav Antonijevic & Peter Ekenhans

Paul Maloney & Rachel Heysen

villagenews December 2011

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Pygmalion

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Leisa & Craig Chapman

The Queensland Theatre Company opened Pygmalion at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Lucky members from the media stole the opportunity to meet and greet the stars of the iconic play which inspired Oscar-winning musical My Fair Lady.

Nicole Smith-Tilse & Nadia Young

Mathilde Dujardin & Kate Holloway

Matthew Higgins & Essie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Shaughnessy

Lend Lease

By Vanessa Fang

Shiralee Sutherland & Michael Wilkins

The Valley Chamber of Commerce celebrated the opening of a new Lend Lease development The Green at RNA Showground Hill sales and information centre on St Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Terrace.

Bree Jones & Greg Dodge

Wendy Cheng & Roderick Shun Wah

Grace Grace & Richard Bodley December 2011 villagenews

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Wedding

MORE than 70 guests attended the wedding of Michael and Mia Wilkins on the banks of the Brisbane River at Teneriffe. The couple held an impressive reception at Eves on the River, also in Teneriffe. Misha Wilkins with the wedding cake

Susan Wilkins & Shiralee Sutherland

Linda Wilkins& Judy Bursle

Yvonne & Terry Slemko

Marcus and Frank Johnson

Susan Johnson & Murray Proctor

Photo by Craig Lagerroth

Jackie Caskey & Stan Kodrowsk i

Michael, Chris and Ray Beilby & Jill Johnson

Mike Mason & Peta O’Brien

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Aqua Linea

Confit Race Day Luncheon

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The Annual General Meeting of the Mercantile Dalgety Body Corporate followed by the owners dinner was held recently at Aqua Linea restaurant in Teneriffe.

www.caterinalay.com

Fortitude Valley businesses joined forces for a lavish 4 course Melbourne Cup luncheon at Confit Bistro in Doggett street. The event was supported by Caterpillar Boutiques, Puritan, C Gallery, Stone and Metal, Ivy & Bird, Bouchon, Thai Foot Spa, Cumulus Wines, New Farm Acupuncture, Déjà vu, Red Star Coffee, Toni and Guy, The Wine Co and Addley Clark Fine Wines. Annette Clark & David Trott Ann Lyall, Deborah Green & Sue Potter

Philomena Dawson & Greg Treasury

Artisan Gallery

Artisan was blooming with opening of the exhibition ‘Green Nation’. Featuring work from a talented group of ‘greenies’ including Another Studio for Design, Eliza Donald, Christian Duell, Donna Franklin & Gary Cass, Janet Laurence, Richard Neville, David Nicholson, Claire Poppi and Nicole Voevodin-Cash.’

Sabine Thielsiling, Liana Heath & Margie Fraser

Greg & Tani Klein

Helen French & Ingrid Blackett Glenys Ambe, Samantha Anderson, Jennifer Hall & Troy Williams

KT Doyle & Karl Hilton

Eva Kaug & Ann Macionis

Sonia Contarini & Elizabeth Banford

Suzanne Cogzell & Ailsa Goldfinch

Karen Campbell & Terry- Anne King December 2011 villagenews

villagenews

Mayor comes clean on Valley litter problem LORD Mayor Graham Quirk has unveiled the latest weapon in his campaign to clean up Fortitude Valley. Cr Quirk said bin capacity in the Valley Entertainment Precinct would be tripled in a bid to curb the litter problem in the area, particularly on a Friday and Saturday night. He said that, in the past two years, Brisbane City Council had increased the number of bins in the precinct from about 90 to just over 130. Council figures show that, since it stepped up its campaign to clean up the precinct, the amount of litter on the streets had dropped to one third what is was two years ago. The latest measure is to see the replacement of the 70-90 litre bins traditionally found in the precinct with 240 litre bins which are similar size to a household wheelie bin. Council had also stepped up its graffiti removal program. Cr Quirk said that, since council introduced its Taskforce Against Graffiti initiative in 2008, the amount of graffiti removed in the Valley had quadrupled from about 500sq m annually to about 2000sq m.

HAVE YOUR SAY editor@newfarmvillagenews.com.au

Area gets top cop SUPT Brett Schafferius has taken over the Brisbane Central District police beat from Supt Peter Savage. Supt Shafferius has been transferred from the Toowoomba district. Supt Savage has joined the lnitial Service Branch at the police academy at Oxley after three years in the Brisbane district. He is responsible for recruit training for the service and other specialist units. Supt Shafferius’ new beat covers the Valley police station and the New Farm peninsula. Supt Savage said policing in the Brisbane Central District had many “dynamic and unique challenges”. He said Supt Brett Schafferius had a wealth of operational policing experience and high level management expertise. The Valley police station also has a new man in charge, Inspector Ray Brownhill, who has taken over from Inspector Steve Donnelly, who was transferred to the North Brisbane precinct.

One down. Fifty-five to go. By Darryl Whitecross A coat of paint on the upper facade of the decaying Waltons Building on Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley, marks the first step in a campaign by Brisbane’s Lord Mayor Graham Quirk to having the property cleaned up. LNP candidate for the council’s Central Ward, Vicki Howard, said the cream paint job signalled the breaking of a deadlock between the council and the owner, Mount Cathay – which had gone on for 20 years. Cr Quirk took the bit between his teeth in September this year and convened what have been described as “stern talks” with the Waltons stakeholders with the view of having the property tidied up. Mrs Howard said she was “thrilled” the owners had responded constructively and started refurbishments on the building. “This is an excellent start to restoring this iconic building with plans for further work to be completed to address a number of the 55 other issues raised,” Mrs Howard said. “Waltons was once the Valley’s one-stop shopping hub and I am pleased that the owners have taken on board council’s concerns about the shabby state of the building. “Once restored, Waltons will be a symbol of council’s regeneration strategy for the Valley,” she said. A plan to build a 34-storey residential tower on the site and over the Fortitude Valley train Station was turned down by council, as did not meet planning guidelines. Since then, the building has been left to deteriorate. It is empty apart from ground-floor two Asian novelty shops facing Brunswick Street. Late last month, the owners finished repainting the facade and council believes they have plans to address a number of the 55 other issues it raised with them. The list includes a proposal to clean and restore the building’s street-level marble facade and repair decaying awnings. Cr Quirk said it was a good start and, while council had no legislative power to force building owners to rectify amenity issues such as peeling paint and dirty walls, he would continue to put pressure on them until all issues were rectified. “In the last couple of months, I’ve made it very clear that the Valley needs to be cleaned up and I will not accept building owners willingly allowing their properties to look shabby or fall into a state of disrepair,” Cr Quirk said. “I want Brisbane to be a clean and green city

n o z i r o h e h t n o 40

villagenews December 2011

Waltons Building needs urgent repairs that takes pride in its appearance and the Valley is no exception. “I am pleased that building owners are beginning to realise that I mean business and hopefully we can continue with our constructive approach of meeting with them to discuss issues rather than changing the law and having to fine them. “If that’s what I have to do to get the Valley cleaned up, then I will go down that road,” he said Cr Quirk recently met with a number of Valley building owners and stakeholders to discuss the precinct in general with the view to working with them to bring the shopping and entertainment strip “back up to standard”. Council recently cleaned up the service lane neighbouring the Waltons building - Overells Lane – which included resurfacing the road, removing graffiti and installing additional lighting. The seedy lane was reportedly a popular spot for drug dealers plying their trade. Waltons, a popular Australian department store chain founded by Sir John Robert Walton, has had a checkered past, even having been bought by failed tycoon Alan Bond in the early 1980s. The flagship Waltons department store in George Street, Sydney, was pulled down to make way for the Citibank office tower. The main Melbourne store, in Bourke Street, was turned into a cinema but closed too. A representative of Mount Cathay was unable to provide a response by the time Village News went to press.

Don’t miss out on this once a year opportunity to get in early and feature your business straight after the Christmas rush!

advertising@newfarmvillagenews.com.au

peninsulaproperty Opportunity given to peer over fence

VALLEY Chamber of Commerce guests and potential apartment buyers have been given a leg up to see over the fence at what is happening inside the RNA Showground as Lend Lease redevelops the site. The Lend Lease-sponsored get together at its The Green showroom on St Pauls Terrace attracted politicians, would-be politicians, industry stakeholders, investors as well as chamber members. The man helping them peer over the fence was the project director for the development Glen Steedman. Mr Steedman said the fence around the RNA property prevented people from seeing inside but he was able to give people a perspective of what was going on. “It is a large precinct. It’s can’t continue to work in isolation walled off from the outside world,” Mr Steedman said. He said the redevelopment – to be known as Showground Hill – would make the annual Ekka “a bit of a jig saw puzzle” over the next 10-15 years as the project materialised but it would never not happen. The popular show, he said, would not be “impacted” over the length of the project: “It will always be here.” He said the RNA had sought to find other means of income for the precinct throughout the year and not just rely on the Ekka for revenue. One example was the proposed new cattle pavilion which would be home to 8000 head during Ekka and be a 500-odd car park at other times. Mr Steedman described as “monumental” the Showground Hill development. He said it was something Brisbane had not seen since Southbank grew from the redevelopment of the Expo 88 precinct.

CBRE Brisbane residential projects managing director Paul Barrett said Showground Hill would not be large enough to be its own suburb so would remain a locality within Bowen Hills, similar to how Teneriffe was a locality in Newstead until last year. The Chamber’s Carol Gordon said the organisation eagerly anticipating the completion of the development. She said the chamber actively supported it and would be seeking to work for the workers, jobs and residents. The first two apartment buildings to be constructed as part of Showground Hill were released in the past month and $23 million in off-the-plan sales were achieved. The first sod on the buildings – to have 340 apartments - is expected to be turned early next year with the first residents to begin moving in mid-2013 and the complex completed by the end of 2014. Mr Steedman said Lend Lease would be negotiating with the State Government and the Brisbane City Council to get approval to use “black water” across the precinct for the green spaces. Black water is that has come from toilets, dishwashers and garbage disposals. Grey water comes from showers, washing machines and sinks. Mr Steedman said it was hoped achieving approval to use black water would mean the main arena and the site’s other green havens would “never have to worry about water supply”. Paul Barrett said the buyer response to the first building in The Green project was “huge”. Of the 48 apartments released, 15 sold.

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INVESTING INwaiting PROPERTY WHILE RETAINING YOURnotLIFESTYLE If you have been for the perfect time • myUnlock the secrets paying “While goals were to invest,toI didn’t want totoo missmuch Owning an investment property portfolio does not IN PROPERTY WHILE YOUR out on RETAINING travelling, so we put that into the LIFESTYLE plan. So necessarily to living shoestring, according to INVESTING buy equate your first homeon ora enter the property on your property, so you won’t have to

to 33-year-old, Royal Brisbaneproperty Hospital portfolio ER nurse,does Joel not far, we’ve been in Colo¬rado, toured Owning an investment “While my snowboarding goals were to invest, I didn’t want to miss Balan. Europe and the States,so been to Singapore and necessarily to living on a shoestring, according out on travelling, we put that into the plan. So market, you equate are going to have to hurry, before compromise your lifestyle While Joel is currently renting in Red Hill “for holidayed in Malaysia, all while still living within our to 33-year-old, Royal Brisbane Hospital ER nurse, Joel far, we’ve been snowboarding in Colo¬rado, toured it isBalan. too late. full incentive on a brand convenience”, he’sThe the owner of four properties, withnew means.” Europe and the States, been to Singapore and •holidayed Familiarise yourself withstill tax deductions Joel is currently renting in Red Hill “for ininclude Malaysia, all while living within our his wifeWhile having recently invested in their fifth. Joel’s properties an apartment in the inner city home or unit in he’s oneout of there, Brisbane’s growth convenience”, the owner of four properties, withSydney means.” suburb of Waterloo; a duplex in Ipswich; an “There’s a misconception that being an areas and benefits you will be eligible for wife having invested in their Joel’s still properties include an apartment in theand inner city apartment under construc¬tion in Newstead; investorhis means los¬ingrecently your lifestyle – but that’sfifth. simply finishes January 2012 , sothat youbeing mustan act a house “There’s a 31 misconception out there, Sydney suburb This of Waterloo; a duplex Ipswich; an not true,” Joelon said. in Runcorn. house was his first in investment, •apartment Local enormous growth investor means los¬ing lifestyle – butto that’s simplyoriginally still construc¬tion in Newstead; “You don’t have to earn a lot your of money either, boughtareas for under justoffering $150,000, and recently valuedand quickly. notatrue,” Joel said. a house in Runcorn. This house was his first investment, become successful investor. Thanks to the reliable at around $400,000 right now “You have to earn Group, a lot of money either, for just and recently valued services fromdon’t Grow Consulting we have five to “I’m aoriginally buypotential and bought forget type of $150,000, guy. That’s why I Phone now make an obligation-free become a to successful investor. Thanks to thedine reliable decided at around properties and we still live comfortably, regularly to take$400,000 advan¬tage of the extensive services from Grow Consulting Group, we have five at Grow “I’mConsulting a buy andGroup,” forget type guy.“Everything That’s why Ican Joelof said. out andservices go on overseas holidays.” appointment with profile property expert properties and we still live comfortably, regularly dinebe taken decided of the extensive services care to of,take fromadvan¬tage finding that property, to sorting He said that the secret is high in planning well, setting goals out and go on overseas holidays.” that was and deter¬mining a budget – something out allatofGrow your Consulting finances.” Group,” Joel said. “Everything can Ayda Shabanzadeh, tois indiscover: thatduring the secret planning well, be taken care of, from finding that property, to sorting given aHe lotsaid of time his appointments with setting Grow goals and Group. deter¬mining a budget – something that was out all of your finances.” Consulting given a lot of time during his appointments with Grow Consulting Group.

2067341_20 2067341_20

Dan’s shave close to heart. Ray White New Farm real estate agent Dan Smith has shaved his head in support of the Cancer Council’s Clip for Cancer fundraiser this month. Dan, whose mother-inlaw lost her battle with ovarian cancer last June, said the event was close to his heart. “With cancer charities, I look to help twice a year to raise funds and Clip for Cancer was the perfect opportunity,” Dan said. He said he had let his hair grow for four months before the “nervewracking” shave. “The only time I’ve ever shaved my head was when I was at university 12 years ago,” Dan said. “It was the longest it had ever been and quite bushy around the ears.” When Village News went to press, $500 had been raised and counting. Agency principal

Dan Smith from Ray White Haesley Cush and Dan are to hold their second annual internal charity auction for the Ovarian Research Foundation, where colleagues bid for advertising space after the agency’s final in-room auction event. The auction, which raised $3000 last year, is set to run on December 15.

Plus… get direct exclusive access to great property opportunities in Brisbane that qualify for the $10,000 incentive.

As investors themselves, Grow Consulting Group are passionate Property Investment Consultants, who assist their clients by sharing their As expertise and knowledge, and offering services in three investors themselves, Grow Consulting Group are passionate coreProperty business Investment areas – finance, property investment property Consultants, who assist theirand clients by sharing manage¬ment. their expertise and knowledge, and offering services in three core business areas – finance, property investment and property Contact us now to register for our next property investment manage¬ment. workshop see details below or arrange a free one on one Contact us now to register for our next property investment consultation. workshop seeordetails a free one on one Call 07 3252 3785 visit usbelow onlineoratarrange www.growconsulting.com.au consultation. Call 07 3252 3785 or visit us online at www.growconsulting.com.au

Call us on 07 3252 3785 How to Buy an free to book your Investment Property! How to Buy an consultation or visit Free Investment Property InvestmentProperty! Workshop When: 6.15pm for 6.30pm start Property Investment Workshop ourFreewebsite Tuesday 23rd for Nov 2010 When: 6.15pm for 6.30pm start Where: Broncos leagues Club Tuesday 23rd Nov 2010 more information 98 Fulcher Road, Red Hill Where:

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Managing Director Shabanzadeh GrowAyda Consulting Group Managing Director Grow Consulting Group

December 2011 villagenews

2 • • • • • •

$750,000

Apartment 305 “Dakota” 88 Macquarie Street, Teneriffe Simply stunning woolstore apartment with 135m2 of luxurious living on one level. Double hung sash windows providing an abundance of natural light and river views. Original timber beams and exposed feature brick work throughout. Very spacious, master bedroom with walk through robe and ensuite Potential to easily add a third bedroom. Swimming pool, gym and sauna in the complex.

Pauline Karatau 0418 733 773

$439,000

Apartment 110 “MacTaggarts Place” 53 Vernon Terrace, Teneriffe Your rare chance to secure an affordable apartment, under the soaring sawtooth ceilings of “MacTaggarts Place”, the only riverside woolstore. This 80m2 loft offers visionary buyers the often sought, seldom found, opportunity to create their perfect woolstore apartment and capital growth. This apartment features: Perfect corner position, on the breezeway, capturing cool river breezes. Soaring sawtooth ceilings, delivering an abundance of natural light. One secure car park. This apartment was constructed with two bedrooms, a study and one bathroom and is currently configured as a very spacious one bedroom plus MPR apartment. It is now ready for reinterpretation by a visionary buyer.

Rachael Dunoon 0408 009 894

Call for immediate inspection

Newstead Realty will be open for inspections, sales enquiries, property management services throughout Christmas and New Year.

We would like to wish you the best for the 2

• • • • • •

Mid $500k’s

Apartment 62 “Signature Park” 68 Beeston Street, Teneriffe Unique Position Located in the heart of Teneriffe North-east facing overlooking Teneriffe Park Offers total privacy and tranquillity Extra-large living area and balcony Large multi-purpose room

Pauline Karatau 0418 733 773

3/22 Newstead Tce, Newstead 3852 5254 www.newsteadrealty.com.au

Mid $400k’s

Apartment 12 “Riverstead Apartments” 52 Newstead Terrace, Newstead • Walking distance to everything • Very private and quiet • Located at the rear of the complex • Large living area spilling out to the private balcony • Bedrooms located at either end of the unit • Secure carpark with large storage cage

Pauline Karatau 0418 733 773

allbrisbanerealty

Finalist in the 2012 REIQ Awards For Excellence (Medium Agency of the Year)

iconic & prestigious with uninterrupted views

sub penthouse resort living

29/20 newstead tce, newstead

so ld

46 kingsholme st, teneriffe

• • • • • •

708m2 meticulously landscaped homesite Extraordinary, panormic Brisbane city views Historic 1800’s colonial belonging to the ﬁrst Sheriff of Queensland Elevated capturing fantastic breezes Charming original features Short stroll to cafe’s, bars, restaurants, shopping, transport & amenities

FOR SALE BY NEG.

• •

Open for Inspection By appointment

• •

Jason Bond 0407 489 992

• •

230+ sqm sub-penthouse Impressive, exclusive and very private with unmatched value Quality build, ﬁxtures & ﬁttings Resort-style facilities including, lap pool, splash pool, sauna, spa, gym, yoga deck/oversized BBQ area Ducted air-conditioning Pet friendly complex.

Rob Ferguson 0409 33 33 11

penthouse 230sqm + of luxury 3

55/20 newstead tce, newstead

• • • •

3 bedroom penthouse with River and suburban views Unrivalled in value, sets the benchmark for Newstead Option to buy fully furnished Oppurtunities to capitalise on the external G.F.A subject to council approval

OFFERS OVER $1.1 MILL. Open for Inspection By appointment

Rob Ferguson 0409 33 33 11

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE TEAM! The team at All Realty Group wish its valued clients an ‘immeasurably’ happy & safe festive season and a prosperous 2012. We thank you all sincerely for your support throughout 2011.

p 3358 0999 | allrealtygroup.com.au | shop 1, 690 brunswick street, new farm

$990,000

37 Browne Street, New Farm

$329,000

3/788 Brunswick Street, New Farm

$399,000

5/84 Moreton Street, New Farm

• Charming original 3 bedroom colonial • Gorgeous Art Deco courtyard apartment • Positioned on a large elevated 620m2 block • 48m2 of living + private 25m2 courtyard

• Stylish, cosmopolitan and affordable • Refurbished - low maintenance - value

Setting The Standard... • Top selling principal 2009/2010 • 2nd place top residential office no. of sales April – Sept 2011 • 2nd place top residential office $ value April – Sept 2011 • Selling New Farm since 1986

$649,000

27/13 3 Moray Street, New Farm

$659,000

Lee Paul 0418 733 818

9/98 Oxlade Drive, New Farm

•Stunning panoramic river and city views •Riverfront location - beautifully renovated •Stylish renovation – views from every room •Top floor - 101m2 of living - city views

lpaul.newfarm@rhq.com

Professionalism, Performance, Results!

100%

200%

100%

The team at Raine and Horne New Farm would like to thank our valued clients for their support Guidelines andCorporate business 1. Basic Elements throughout 2011 1.8 Raine & Horne Web Address and wish you and your & We’ll Look After You – families a very Merry Usage with Raine & Horne Logo Christmas and a Happy New Year! We look forward to working with you in 2012!

200%

100%

= height of R&

200%

100%

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Trim Line

Ph. 3358 5444

Sales Email: sales@rhnewfarm.com.au Rentals Email: rentals@rhnewfarm.com.au 80% Charcoal panel is continuous

100%

200%

100%

200%

Minimum Space

200%

400% = Logo Height

URL&WLA From cap

rh.com.au/newfarm

peninsulaproperty

For rent

Professionals New Farm wishes you a very

Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

600 Lower Bowen $365p/w 2

14/178 Bowen Tce $525p/w

4/65 Moray St $435p/w 2

Work With the top leasing agency in the area. Sonya Pascoe

George McAteer

Business Development Manager 0405 004 833

Leasing Consultant

Rebekah McNeilly Leasing Consultant

p. 07 3358 4099 | e. leasing@professionalsnewfarm.com.au | w. professionalsnewfarm.com.au | a. 629 Brunswick St New Farm

Over $20 million in sales by Kellie & Andrew in the last 60 days... We thank you for another wonderful year in real estate

Merry Christmas and a prosperous new year

629 Brunswick St, New Farm Qld 4005 Phone 07 3358 4377 Fax 07 3358 3176

Andrew Clough

Kellie Jones

December 2011 villagenews

DEVELOPER HOT TO SELL - 3 Sold 3 Remaining from $375,000 - $399,000 Affordable new 2 & 3 bedroom apartments, (with construction almost complete) at the exciting new development at 36 Hansen Street “Lumina On Hansen”. Featuring contemporary design, fresh interiors and a practical layout these 2 & 3 bedroom townhouses are ideal for an owner occupier or savvy investor Ideally located within walking distance to shops, trains and buses and only 7km to the heart of the Brisbane CBD. »

Exceptional value for money (2bed’s from $375,000 & 3 bed’s from $399,000)

Superb architectural design and superior quality build

Ideally located within 6km of the Brisbane CBD and within walking distance to shops, trains and buses

Hansen street is a very quiet family friendly street

Close to Education Institutes including University of Qld (via Elanor Schonell Bridge), Griffith University (Mt Gravatt Campus) and Metropolitan Institute of TAFE.

Environmentally sustainable design with water tanks, energy efficiency lighting, water saving appliances, solar hot water, roof insulation and landscaped gardens

Pet friendly complex so you can keep the whole family together

Such quality in a superb location.. at these prices will not last! OPEN SATURDAY 11.00 - 11.30Am

Please contact Brent Compton on 0410 543 124 www.ceolindevelopments.com.au

peninsulaproperty

Peninsula real estate agents win in tough times ELEVEN peninsula real estate years, although looking after my agents have made the finals of the clients, having fun, making a positive Real Estate Institute of Queensland impact on people’s life decisions and Awards for Excellence next year. being recognised as a hardworking The annual awards recognise honest bloke, is most important in my achievement in real estate statewide view,” he said. with 50 finalists chosen across 14 Place’s Heath Williams, who categories. was also nominated for Resident REIQ managing director Dan Molloy Salesperson of the Year, said the said the uncertain economic nomination was a great conditions and natural achievement to the finalists disasters this year meant who had clearly proven their the Queensland property worth in the industry. market had not been a place For second time-nominee for the faint-hearted. Ayda Shabanzadeh of Grow Peninsula finalists Consulting, the awards were included Place Estate a testament to the support Agents, All Realty Group New of clients and business Farm, Chase Commercial partners who made the Newstead, Matt Lancashire “vision of success” a reality. from Ray White New Farm, Paul Merritt, from All Heath Williams from Place Realty New Farm, who is Pamela Bennett Estate Agents New Farm and up for Medium Residential Grow Consulting. Agency of the Year, said the Resident Salesperson of the Year industry had recently experienced nominee, Matt Lancashire, said he some challenging times. was humbled and that the failure “The team at All Realty Group to make the finals in previous years has worked very hard throughout made him “push harder” this time. 2011 to uphold a strong level of “The REIQ is the peak professional professionalism and quality of service association for the real estate to its clientele and to be recognised industry. To me it is great to even be by the peak industry body for this considered. Winning the award would effort is extremely gratifying,” Paul be amazing,” Matt said. said.“We are in good company with “It’s always good to be recognised the other finalists and it is certain to for all of your hard work over the be a hotly contested category.”

The REIQ has also marked a successful year for Teneriffe local Pamela Bennett, who has been re-elected as chairman for another two years.Pamela had been on the board of directors since 1999 and was first elected president more than two years ago. The REIQ winners are to be announced at the Awards for Excellence night on February 10 at the Sofitel Brisbane.

Matt Lancashire

FINALISTS Large Residential Agency of the Year Place Estate Agents Brisbane Medium Residential Agency of the Year All Realty Group New Farm Commercial Agency of the Year Chase Commercial Newstead Residential Salesperson of the Year Matt Lancashire, Ray White New Farm Heath Williams, Place Estate Agents New Farm Commercial Property Manager of the Year Karen Muscat, Chase Commercial Newstead Daniel Shafferman, Wright Property Group Newstead Buyers Agent of the Year Simon Pressley, 6-Point Property Fortitude Valley Ayda Shabanzadeh, Grow Property Newstead Corporate Support Person of the Year Amy Wolter, Place Estate Agents, Brisbane Community Service Award Place Group Pty Ltd, Brisbane

Heath Williams

December 2011 villagenews

Simon Caulfield Selling New Farm & Kangaroo Point Thinking of Selling? Choose the agent who ticks every box & more!  Unwavering personal

commitment to his clientele  Of the multiple sales

achieved in 2011, 5 of these were record sales

 Achieved the lowest number

of days on the market for New Farm & Kangaroo Point property sales  Alliance with Brisbane’s

Number 1 Prestige Agent Judy Goodger

 Backing from QLD’s 3 time

REIQ Large Agency of the Year  Ability to create Cost

Effective World Class Marketing Campaigns  Over $12,000,000 in sales in

recent months

Simon Caulfield - Lead Agent 0437 935 912 sc@eplace.com.au

place on earth Wishing you a safe and happy Christmas. We look forward to another successful year of business with you. From the Place New Farm team.

133 911 www.eplace.com.au

As the only ‘apartment specialist’ with over seven years experience in the area, Amy achieves consistent results through an unwavering commitment to her clients.

now selling

80/39 Vernon Terrace, Teneriffe

4313/126 Lamington Street, New Farm Cutters Landing—The Lifestyle

now selling

240/71 Beeston Street, Teneriffe Bliss In “Banks” Bright And Light!!

$879,000

Direct River Front In The Heart Of Teneriffe

now selling

$1,185,000 2

$535,000

If you’re looking to buy or sell, don’t settle for anything less than the real apartment specialist. 07 3358 0608 0411 483 474 amy.jorgensen@raywhite.com www.rwnf.com.au

Shaun Burdo - Apartment Specialist… 10 Years in Sales!!!

Merry Christmas to all my valued clients. “I wanted to take the opportunity to write to say thank you for doing such a marvelous job in selling my property. . I was very impressed with your professionalism and with the excellent price you achieved for the unit. I really did feel that you were there every step of the way and I felt very confident in leaving the sale up to you, knowing you were 100% vested in achieving the best for me. Thanks again Shaun for going the extra mile for me. I would certainly recommend you to any prospective vendor as units are clearly in your area of expertise.” Jo - Ann

Shaun Burdo 0438 332 088 sb@rwnf.com.au

Ray White New Farm 599 Brunswick Street, New Farm Tel: 3254 1022 Fax: 3358 4891 Web: rwnf.com.au

New Farm

Shaun Burdo Ranked #1 in Customer Satisfaction

97 Moray St, New Farm

587 Gregory Tce, Bowen Hills

141 Campbell St, Bowen Hills

50 Anderson Street, Fortitude Valley

100 Bowen St, Fortitude Valley

78 Brookes St, Fortitude Valley

38 Robertson Street, Fortitude Valley

45 Moray Street, New Farm

111/24 Macquarie Street, 2 New Farm

130/501 Queen Street, Brisbane

POA

$949,000

506/100 Bowen Terrace, Fortitude Valley

100 Brickworks Street, Northlakes

Shaun Burdo 0438 332 088 sb@rwnf.com.au

1 1 11/304 Harcourt Street, 1 $299,000+ New Farm

1/27 Jordan Terrace, Bowen Hills

$349,000

Ray White New Farm 599 Brunswick Street, New Farm Tel: 3254 1022 Fax: 3358 4891 Web: rwnf.com.au

$820,000

New Farm

Ray White Principals would like to invite you to our upcoming Christmas Auctions at The Emporium Hotel on the 15th December 2011 @ 6.30pm

We Ho Ho Hope to see you all there!!!

New Farm

07 3254 1022 rwnf.com.au 599 Brunswick Street, New Farm

The team that you can rely on this Christmas!! 07 3254 1022 rwnf.com.au 599 Brunswick Street, New Farm

Dear Neighbours/Clients, Thanks again for your support this year. 2011 started with the worst of Mother Nature but saw the best of Human Nature. As an office, we continued to grow through what has been a difficult financial time. We can now proudly state we employ 38 local staff and sell approximately 1 property every working day! Thank you & Merry Christmas Haesley

We have the people...

New Farm

VALUE Matt Lancashire Ray White New Farm

I would likelike to take thisthis opportunity to thank all of past, present andand future clients for for all of I would to take opportunity to thank all my of my past, present future clients all of your tremendous support throughout 2011. It has been a truly humbling experience dealing your tremendous support throughout 2011. It has been a truly humbling experience dealing with so many wonderful people throughout thethe course of the year. 2011 hashas been a year of huge with so many wonderful people throughout course of the year. 2011 been a year of huge personal andand professional growth for for myself andand mymy team andand wewe areare extremely excited for for what personal professional growth myself team extremely excited what 2012 willwill bring ! Have a safe holiday andand wewe look forward to seeing youyou in the New Year ! ! 2012 bring ! Have a safe holiday look forward to seeing in the New Year • Nominated as a as Finalist for the Residential SalesSales Person of the 20122012 • Nominated a Finalist for REIQ the REIQ Residential Person of year the year • Ray• Ray White TopTop 1% International Salespersons 20102010 & 2011 White 1% International Salespersons & 2011 • Elite Performers Award 2010, 20112011 & 2012 • Elite Performers Award 2010, & 2012 • Currently Number 2 Performer Ray Ray White • Currently Number 2 Performer White • Currently Number 1 Performer Brisbane 20112011 • Currently Number 1 Performer Brisbane

SOLSDOLD

3 Gibbon Street, Street, New Farm 3 Gibbon New Farm

SOLSDOLD

170 James Street, Street, New Farm 170 James New Farm

SOLSDOLD

70 Welsby Street, Street, New Farm 70 Welsby New Farm

SOLSDOLD

19 Gibbon Street, Street, New Farm 19 Gibbon New Farm

SOLSDOLD

174 Arthur Street, Street, New Farm 174 Arthur New Farm

SOLSDOLD

13 Mole Teneriffe 13Street, Mole Street, Teneriffe

SOLSDOLD

37 Merthyr Road, New 37 Merthyr Road,Farm New Farm

SOLSDOLD

90 Heal90Street, New Farm Heal Street, New Farm

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9 Gibbon Street, Street, New Farm 9 Gibbon New Farm

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35 Kingsholme Street, Street, New Farm 35 Kingsholme New Farm

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17 Locke New Farm 17 Street, Locke Street, New Farm

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161 James Street, Street, New Farm 161 James New Farm

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