January 2013
Kangaroo Point Newstead Teneriffe Fortitude Valley Bowen Hills New Farm Spring Hill Petrie Bight
FAREWELL MR PRESIDENT Valley icon steps down Page 7 Chinese New Year Page 18
Photo by Vanessa Fang
Kangaroo Point Newstead Teneriffe Fortitude Valley Bowen Hills New Farm Spring Hill Petrie Bight
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Rising threats worry residents By Vanessa Fang RESIDENTS of Sargent and Moray streets, New Farm, have become increasingly concerned over the proposed expansion of New Farm Clinic following a string of “alarming” events over the festive period. Resident Glenn Mead said that on Christmas eve, he and several other neighbours witnessed a “dramatic” scene of police, ambulance officers and clinic staff attempting to defuse a volatile patient who a policeman was overheard to say had gone “off the rails”. “We were seeing some friends off that evening and what I did see was that there were 10 police wearing protective vests and two ambulances standing by on Sargent Street . There was a patient sitting on a bench outside the clinic being counselled by the medical staff,” he said. “By that stage, he was calm but it is concerning to see that the clinic could not control one of their patients and police officers wearing protective gear had to be called. We’ve seen a few other times people have been hysterical and they’ve had to be taken away but that one was the most serious,” Mr Mead said. He said that, during the five years he had been living on the street, the number of incidents involving the clinic had increased in the last few years and believed that, if the clinic followed through with its plans to increase patient numbers by 30 per cent, more incidents would happen. The calm did not last long as another incident, albeit less serious, occurred on Christmas day, according to neighbour Christine Whitelaw. “It was early evening and a man was seen picking up garden stake from the landing strip and continued hitting it against a tree until it broke. Afterwards he approached another patient and just sat down but the clinic was not aware of this until they were notified by us,” she said.
Ms Whitelaw, who is the street’s longest standing resident, of almost 30 years, believed the demographic of patients admitted to the clinic has changed in recent times, and that the clinic was no longer a “quiet operation and neighbour”. “Over time it certainly impacted more on the neighbourhood with parking, traffic and patient noise concerns daily,” she said. “On a daily basis the biggest issue is parking. Some patients, although it’s a clinic rule that they shouldn’t drive, do and leave their cars in the street sometimes for days. Within the clinic grounds there’s not enough places for people to congregate, so a lot of that relaxing happens outside on the street in sometimes large groups. I’ve seen people tossing crockery over the fence onto the street. There was no violence, but it was something you don’t wish to have on your street.” Ms Whitelaw said that, while the current size of the clinic was still in keeping with the suburb, the two incidents showed the clinic was clearly understaffed at night and progressing with the expansion would “up the ante” on the impact to the area. While the residents admit that most incidents were “unpredictable”, “spontaneous” and did not occur often, they expressed regret over not reporting them to council to help build their case. They believed the incidents, many of which involved noise or littering, were so minor they were tolerated. But as the incidents increase, the residents could only speculate that the demographic of patients had shifted to include more high-risk ones – a great concern should the clinic be expanded. An incident on October 2012 confirmed those “alarming” suspicions for resident Daniel Johnson, who one evening encountered two “clearly agitated” and “unpredictable” men in his garage.
New Farm residents are now confused by the direction and safety concerns of the New Farm clinic on their street and now want it out of their suburb “While I was training, a few blokes who didn’t look well-kept came across from the clinic and asked if I would charge their phones for them because a bloke in the clinic owed them money. They had their charger out so I was willing to do it at first, but while they were emptying their pockets a syringe fell out,” Mr
Johnson recalled. “At this stage, I had to forcibly ask them to leave but they were very persistent. I had to shout at them to leave my home. About 10 minutes later, police turned up at the clinic but they had already left. I can only assume that they were there because of the men.” Continued overpage>
February Advertising Deadlines 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.
Advertising: Fri 25th Jan Artwork: Wed 30th Jan Distributed: Mon 4th Feb Distribution: 20,000 Published by: New Farm - Fortitude Valley Village News ABN 8833 0509 542
3254 4965
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Or visit out our website:
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villagenews Continued from Page 3> Mr Johnson, who has lived on the street for five years, said he was confident enough to shout at the men to leave but shuddered at what could have happened if his partner or even another neighbour had been approached. He did not report the incident to council as he was satisfied the police were already aware of it. Neighbour Clarissa Connell said she “didn’t see the point” of reporting two incidents where patients had laid themselves in the middle of the road two years ago because no one was killed, but she now believes that has “done a disservice” to herself. “One time, a woman was at the intersection screaming and carrying on. Buses, trucks and vehicles came to a complete standstill until the staff from a nearby aged care facility notified the clinic and a staff member came out to try to reason with her. Then a few months later, the same thing. The episodes would last around five to 10 minutes, but sometimes there will be others who just sit on the edge of the road, screaming and crying,” she said. Ms Connell has also witnessed more groups congregating outside the clinic, but she “wasn’t worried” anyone would attack her and chooses to intentionally stay on the opposite side of the road when walking with her young children. The residents on Mountford Road and Moray Street , running parallel and behind the clinic respectively, faced different issues. Mountford Road resident John McCormack said he “didn’t mind” picking up empty bottles and rubbish left on his nature strip weekly, but the discovery of smashed glass on the road after returning from Christmas holidays was “completely unacceptable”. “Our home is very close to the street so we can hear them out the front either outside my garage door or close to my front steps having their little party. Up until now we’ve just tolerated it because we weren’t looking to spoil anybody’s fun but when they start smashing bottles – I’ve complained to the council that I don’t mind picking up bottles once a week but I’m not going to sweep up glass off the road,” Mr McCormack said.
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Privacy problems trouble family By Vanessa Fang Moray Street residents Jenny Barrett and Chris Jacob said that, while they seldom suffered the same incidents as their Sargent St neighbours, parking and serious privacy issues arose when the clinic expanded to almost touch their back fence in 2007. “Before then, there were big trees along the bottom level and you couldn’t see the clinic which was fine, but when they redeveloped they exposed all the rooms and there was a direct line of sight into our house and vice versa,” Mr Jacob said. “We spoke to the clinic about getting screens, which they did (fixed metal louvers) but you can see through the gaps. If there’s someone in the room, especially when they have their lights on, we can see straight in and vice versa. We have young children and they can see into our living room and garden area. Mr Jacob said that, when he reported this to the clinic he was simply brushed off as they had “fulfilled their legal obligations”. As a consequence, the family planted their own trees in the courtyard in 2011, which has not yet provided any privacy from the clinic’s top level. “If they don’t close the curtains, and if they’re standing up or sitting on the bed we can see that. We see people getting undressed all the time,” Ms Barrett said. “We can also see when they’re watching
us so it feels like we’re living in a fish bowl, we have to always be mindful of what our children are doing when they’re in the living room and this has been our life all the time since they redeveloped.” Ms Barrett said. The couple said that, on occasion, they would also hear an unknown siren go off in the clinic but like their neighbours, worry over the consequences of patient to staff ratio should the clinic expand. “You’ve got the police and ambulance coming sometimes and the clinic has a siren that goes off sometimes. It’s like someone has escaped or something and we won’t know why it has gone off at one or two in the morning,” Mr Jacob said. “So if you grow it again, okay. What if you have high security in-patients and there’s a fire alarm? What is the patient to staff ratio? What plan have they got in place to keep the patients in control?” he said. While the residents still find the current scale of New Farm Clinic acceptable, they believe a relocation would be more appropriate should the clinic continue to plan more expansions in the future. A decision has not yet been made by Brisbane City Council regarding the application. New Farm Clinic and Ramsay Health Group did not respond to enquiries by press time.
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Cavallucci denies school closure rumours
Biking along the Mekong for charity
MEDIA reports claimed that the State Fortitude Valley - were not in any danger Government was proposing to close five of imminent closure. inner-city schools this year including one Mr Cavallucci said that he had at Spring Hill and another at Fortitude personally worked closely with all the Valley. The local schools in report quoted his electorate a union understanding representative their needs. stating that He said the the schools Government sit on prime would be redevelopment releasing a sites. The report by the Education Queensland Minister School Planning John-Paul Commission Langbroek which had said in the been assessing report that the the demands schools were and needs of not in danger all schools of closing in including all 2013 and schools in his at the same electorate. time he failed He dismissed Fortitude Valley State School to deny the the recent reports. media report Member for Brisbane Central, Robert as a bit of mischief-making saying they Cavallucci, said that the two schools were only highlighting the five schools mentioned in the report and in his with the most valuable assets. Mr electorate - Brisbane Central State Cavallucci said he is not in a position to School at Spring Hill and the Fortitude pre-empt the commission’s report but Valley State School in Brookes St, does reject the unions claim.
Erin Truscott has begun her 800km bike ride along the Mekong River to raise money for Hands Across the Water – a charity helping to improve the lives of children in Thailand. Ms Truscott, who has been training extensively for her eight-day bike ride over the past three months, said she felt lucky to have met with other riders who embarked on the same journey on January 5. “I have been very lucky and had the opportunity to meet with some other riders face-to-face along with connecting with them through Facebook or via email,” she said. “It’s very much feeling like a huge team effort, and I am feeling like this will definitely be one of those life changing, humbling experiences that don’t come round too often.” When she left, Ms Truscott had raised more than $5000 of her $10,000 target, a figure that would surely change many lives.
HOW TO DONATE To support me you can donate a few different ways. Credit Card Donation - Click on this link http://www.handsacrossthewater. org.au/node/257 and find my name to make a secure credit card donation online. Direct Debit – Direct Debit Donations can be made to the following account using my first and last name as the reference so they can track the donations back to me. HSBC BANK: BSB: 342011 ACC: 332129001 Name: Hands Across the Water
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Did you know that we do ‘Traditional Physiotherapy’ as well as Pilates based physiotherapy?
The Body Refinery has 8 highly trained physiotherapists who along with pilates also offer ‘traditional physiotherapy’. The Body Refinery offers half hour or one hour appointments between 6am and 8pm and prides itself on that we only see one client at a time so that you get 100% attention during your appointment time.
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www.thebodyrefinery.com.au New Farm Studio: 2/15 Lamington St, New Farm I Teneriffe Studio: 38 Helen St, Teneriffe Ph. 3358 3915 I info@thebodyrefinery.com.au I www.thebodyrefinery.com.au January 2012 villagenews
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The Market Place
John Holland adds Christmas cheer for Red Cross families
WITH CHrIsTIaN MadseN
IGa New Farm is 5 years young!
Happy 5th birthday IGA New Farm!! I’m proud to have been the manager here for the past three years and am so happy to have seen this store grow into a community icon thanks to our wonderful customers. Many exciting changes are happening in store this year and I hope you’ll join us for the ride. After all the support we’ve received over the years, one of our top priorities is making sure the local community is well cared for. Whether it’s something small like providing sausages for a sausage sizzle fundraiser to larger contributions – after the 2011 Brisbane River floods, we raised $50,000 to help local families and businesses – please speak to us, we will always try to help.
IGa New Farm’s guide for summer entertaining
I love summer entertaining because it’s fast and fresh. With Australia Day fast approaching I can already smell that lamb sizzling on the barbeque. At IGA New Farm we own our own butchery in Brisbane that prepares our meat to meet the needs of our customers. If you want a special order for your barbecue let us know and we can have it here fresh the following morning. Every weekend I see customers coming in looking to make their wonderful picnic at New Farm Park special. All our fresh produce is sourced daily through the farmers markets. While we try our best to stock the brands that everyone loves, we might miss some. So if there’s a product you can’t find in our store we will do our best to source it for you.
New deli manager
We recently appointed a new deli and gourmet manager, Jon Parker, who brings over eight year’s of knowledge and experience to our IGA New Farm family. Jon is thriving in building our deli into the best on the peninsula with an extensive selection of fresh deli items. For example he has a great selection of Australian cheeses from Barossa Valley’s Divine Dairy and Udder Delights as well as locally made Kenilworth cheeses. Look out next month for some great fresh food tips and meal ideas.
My IGa Card launches
We now have another way to save you dollars and support our much-loved local organisations and charities through the launch of our new My IGA membership program. Simply pick up a My IGA Card when you are in store, hand to the staff member at the register to activate and you’ll be entitled to exclusive daily and weekly hot specials. The points accrued on your My IGA Card will convert to a dollar value which goes towards your choice of organisation which could be the New Farm State School, Holy Spirit School or the New Farm Soccer Club just to name a few. Any customer can sign up and it only takes a few minutes!
Kevin Keeffe, Executive Director, Red Cross and Gavin Stubbs, General Manager, John Holland at New Farm Park with participants in the Red Cross Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY) ANGELS were heralded and little drummer boys drummed their hearts out when a special group of children celebrated the Christmas holidays at New Farm Park on December 16. The lively gathering - young and old enjoying some holiday fun and frivolity - was hosted by the Australian Red Cross, and the party was designed to help those at risk of homelessness ring in the season’s cheer. In addition to the appreciative children being inundated with sacks full of presents that ranged from excavators to painted model butterflies and cricket sets, the group of 12 charity workers from the Red Cross Homestay program were presented with a $4000 cheque from construction company John Holland. Red Cross executive director Kevin Keeffe said John Holland’s generous donation would support programs such as Homestay and Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY) to help vulnerable families, particularly at a time of the year when many families were feeling strained and under severe financial stress. “The Red Cross Homestay program helps families maintain their current accommodation or access more sustainable accommodation. The HIPPY program supports and works with young families experiencing disadvantage early in life,” Mr Keeffe said. “Red Cross HIPPY staff and volunteers actively involve parents in their child’s education, preparing them for the challenges of starting school.” John Holland general manager Gavin Stubbs said the company was always looking to support worthwhile community endeavours and looked forward to a long community partnership with the Red Cross. “It’s terrific to see our company make such a significant difference to the community. We are always exploring our options to help support the local community, and fortunately, through the generosity of our staff, we have been able to raise money that has allowed us to support such worthwhile community projects,” Mr Stubbs said.
Come and Celebrate
AUSTRALIA DAY SATURDAY JAN 26TH @ CLARET HOUSE BBQ starts from midday Triple J’s Hottest 100 broadcasted all day
572 Brunswick st, New Farm
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Meat tray and hamper raffle on the day! Email Chewie or Lili for bookings - info@clarethouse.com.au visit www.clarethouse.com.au for more info
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Farewell Mr President, but it’s not the end just yet By Vanessa Fang AFTER almost two years at the helm of the Fortitude Valley Chamber of Commerce (FVCC), well-known businessman Charlie Apostolos will step down from his role of president, a decision that was not made lightly. Mr Apostolos, who owns several businesses in Fortitude Valley, said it was time to pursue the next stage of his grand plan for “activating” and driving business to the precinct with two exciting laneway developments – Bakery and California lanes – to follow within the next four years. “It’s been a long road. My life in the chamber started as a board member too long ago to remember. I became vice-president, then president 1.5 years ago. I didn’t think it would happen, I just wanted to join to help (the Valley),” Mr Apostolos said. “Now that Bakery Lane has gotten approvals, I can’t have two responsibilities that major but I will still be part of the chamber and attend their events as it is still the best way for local business owners to connect with one another.” After two years of planning, construction of Bakery Lane (678694 Ann St) is set for late 2013/ early 2014, where it will undergo a transformation from one of the most derelict alleyways in the area into a thriving urban space with mixed retail
and residential tenancy. “Both laneways have the potential to double the tenancy of the Valley and drive the daytime business there,” Mr Apostolos said. “Bakery Lane will be like an incubator space where the tenants can live, make and sell – much like the old style convenience store where you will live at the back, have another space to make your goods and then sell them at the front. It’s really been a learning curve with [Brisbane City] council categorising what they are, but people are going to live and work
Photo by Vanessa Fang
Charlie Apostolos
I have to take my hat off to businesses like Winning Appliances (on Brunswick Street) who chose to set up their business where they did not even two years ago and look at them thriving now. in an alleyway behind two bars and California Lane will be office space only.” The idea is still a unique concept in Brisbane, which hasn’t traditionally had a laneway culture like that found in other cities, such as Melbourne, but nearby Winn Lane was a success story that helped the precinct grow and Mr Apostolos welcomes other businesses that can do the same.
“I have to take my hat off to businesses like Winning Appliances (on Brunswick St) who chose to set up their business where they did, not even two years ago, and look at them thriving now,” Mr Apostolos said. “The (then) lord mayor (Campbell Newman) held an economic forum to focus on the best way to move the Valley forward in the right direction. For this area to be on the radar of council and state government is a
great achievement for the FVCC after so many years of hard work.” As he strolled through the vibrant and bustling Chinatown for the last time as president, Mr Apostolos couldn’t be more determined to see his vision for the area through to fruition. “The Valley is my life,” he said. “I was born here, I live here and I’m working towards making it better. How many people can say that?”
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Count your blessings and smile IN past editions, Seniors Voice has explored some of the issues facing older people and what National
seniorsvoice by Tony Townsend Seniors is doing to bring these to the attention of the appropriate authorities. There have been many successes but there are always new challenges. The new year is not just a time to reflect on the past, it is also an opportunity to face the future with confidence. Sure there are plenty of concerns; for some it may be health, for others the spiralling cost of living, uncertainty over job security. There may be big decisions about downsizing or moves to aged-care facilities, or even surviving the heat, humidity and lack of rain. There are also many positives. For starters we are alive, we live in a democracy that enjoys freedom of speech and the rule of law. Most of us have family, and technology helps us keep in contact even when they are separated from us.
For further information please contact the school office on
3391 5397 or visit www.stjosephskpt.qld.edu.au 8
villagenews January 2012
Make sure your home and yard can weather the storm.
BCC4237-Q-BRIO BCC5924-BM-BP-BG
Enr o 201 l now for 3 – 2014
St Joseph’s Kangaroo Point offers families the latest in contemporary teaching and learning, technology, extracurricular activities and the benefits associated with a high quality inclusive Catholic School. • A warm and welcoming environment amidst picturesque grounds • Nurturing faith-filled community • A balanced curriculum catering to individual needs • Dedicated professional staff • Academics, the Arts and Sports excellence • Air Conditioning & Interactive Whiteboards in every classroom • 1:1 Laptop Program for Years 5 – 7 • Technology rich learning for all year levels • Instrumental Strings Program • Choral Program • Private Music & Speech Lessons • Established cultural tradition
Advances in medicine mean we can live a happier life and New Farm is a great place to do just that. Many older people resist change, but I would remind you of the quote by Harold Wilson, twice prime minister of the United Kingdom in the ’60s and ’70s. “He who rejects change is the architect of decay. The only human institution which rejects progress is the cemetery.” Change is a fact of life and one of our greatest attributes is freedom of choice, which includes freedom to change if we are not happy in our life. Older people accumulate a wealth of experience and contribute a great deal to our community when we have the opportunity to express our accumulated wisdom. One expression of that wisdom might be, “Get a life in 2013, sunshine!”. New Farm Branch of National Seniors was in recess over Christmas but we have a picnic in New Farm Park on Wednesday, January 23. Bring a chair and a hat, $5, and your lunch and enjoy our hospitality and company. The next general meeting is at the Merthyr Uniting Church at 9.30am for 10am on Wednesday February 6 when we will be entertained by bee keepers Errol Marsh and his wife.
Be prepared this summer Visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/beprepared or call Council on (07) 3403 8888.
Cross-river tunnel at Bulimba WHAT a first for Brisbane if the plan for a cross-river tunnel from Bulimba had gone ahead in 1931!
historicalsociety by Gerard Benjamin Gaining quicker access from Bulimba to the township of Brisbane had been an issue from the earliest days of settlement. In 1849-50, pastoralist David McConnel took up 69ha on the southside of the river opposite Breakfast Creek. Employing around 100 men, he experimented with a variety of cash crops. Bulimba House, the McConnel homestead, still stands between Coutts and Kenbury streets. Mary McConnel recalled how her husband tackled the issue of the river crossing: The road to South Brisbane was a good deal nearer, but it was blocked by Norman’s Creek, which was wide. On the north side the way was very rough, with no road. My enterprising husband bought a strip of land running from our ferry to North Brisbane, fenced it on both sides, and made a road; he also built stables, a little coach-
house and a man’s hut. There we put our conveyance, two horses and a man in charge, who also had charge of the ferry boat. This arrangement added greatly to our comfort and convenience. Not only does it appear that David McConnel established the first Bulimba ferry, but perhaps the road he made corresponded with today’s Commercial Rd. In earlier times, it was known as ‘Bulimba Rd’, no doubt shorthand for ‘the road to the Bulimba Ferry’. This might also explain the confusing fact that the Teneriffe side of the waterfront was known as Bulimba even into the 1930s. Newspapers during the 1860s mention a ferry at Bulimba, and transport options clearly improved during the 1870s. Once delivered to the Teneriffe side, foot passengers could continue to Queen St by omnibus (from 1878), and later by horsedrawn trams (from 1886) which were electrified in 1897. The early river crossings were by means of a punt and a rope stretched across the river, whereby the craft was propelled by hauling the rope ‘hand over hand’. In 1886, the steam punt Advance, capable of carrying vehicles, was built for the Bulimba crossing. Best known was the paddle steamer Hetherington (1925-53) affectionately referred to as the ‘horse ferry’. The wife
Many locals still remember the paddle steamer Hetherington which plied between Teneriffe and Bulimba during 1925-53. of a Teneriffe milk vendor during 193040s, the late Elsie Broadrick recalled, “I rode a horse a couple of times across the river on the Hetherington. The one I rode was named Psycho. I had another horse, and you couldn’t get him near the ferry when he saw the river.” The 1931 proposal for a cross-river tunnel was the brainchild of Geelong inventor, E.F. Chambers Kearney (1881-1966) who had patented an innovative monorail system working on a ‘roller-coaster’ principle. The tube would fall away in a 1 in 7 gradient and the tramcars would reach an estimated 97 km/h before slowing down as they climbed to the next station. Kearney may have preferred the Bulimba tunnel to employ his monorail system but the Queensland premier insisted, “A cross river tube would be useless unless it took in all ordinary road vehicles.” The proposed line of around
1200m would run from the corner of Commercial Rd and Helen St in a direct line to a point about four blocks south of Oxford St. The London-based railway engineer Chambers Kearney, also submitted plans for a section of the London Underground, a tunnel crossing of Sydney Harbour and tube systems in New York and Boston – but none of his schemes ever made it past the drawing board. Brisbane’s major cross-river requirement was fulfilled in 1940 with the opening of the Story Bridge. An historical plaque entitled “The Ferry to Bulimba” will soon be installed at the Teneriffe Ferry Terminal. The next New Farm Historical Society meeting is to be held on Saturday, February 23 2013 at Merthyr Rd Uniting Church Centre. For more information, please contact Ross Garnett on 0409 498 402.
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villagenews Students find Visible support helpful VISIBLE Ink Valley has supported Brisbane youth for more than a decade, but now international students can also take advantage of the centre’s free and lowcost rehearsal spaces, art hub, meeting room, computer room and workshops. Visible Ink staff member Han Huynh, who has also been a Brisbane international student ambassador for two years, is focused on helping international students engage with the local community. Over the Christmas period, she helped a group organise Xmas – Season of Love, an event involving more than 50 volunteers and performers from Brisbane universities and colleges and which attracted more than 150 visitors. “The idea about an event for international students during Christmas season was to have a home for them to gather with likeminded friends from all over the world and also to make students’ time in Brisbane a memorable and enjoyable experience,” Ms Huynh said. Visible Ink Valley 5 Green Square Close, Fortitude Valley, welcomes students aged 12-25.Visit www. visibleink.org or telephone 3403 0136 for more information.
Couchsurfing - wipeout or plain sailing?
By Tom Reid NEW Farm resident and intrepid explorer Amy Bushell has returned from two years travelling throughout Europe discovering a new culture - couchsurfing. Couchsurfing is a community of locals who share their city with travellers by offering free accommodation and hosting meetups on the Couchsurfing website. Amy said that the service allowed her to see Ireland on a tight budget, but the free accommodation was a bonus compared with the discovery of a community of genuinely nice hosts just wanting to meet and be exposed to travellers from different cultures. “I made them (my hosts) dinner on some nights, bought them drinks, and they would do things like give me tours that would be off
the beaten track of their amazing city,” she said. She said that that surfers were encouraged to leave feedback about their experience so future users could glean a more accurate description of whose home they were considering visiting and equally important vice versa. Like any internet service, precautions must be taken. Users who have had their identity and location verified by Couchsurfing and vouched by other users are more trustworthy than those with empty profiles. The website is a practical tool for any open-minded world wanderer wishing to experience travel alternate to tour groups and resort culture. Visit Couchsurfing.org for more information.
Village News writer Vanessa Fang has been part of the Couchsurfing community for more than a year, regularly hosting surfers and meet-ups in Brisbane. She said she was always inspired by the fascinating stories of all the ‘surfers’ and locals she meets. She loves sharing Teneriffe and New Farm with them. “Not everything in life is quid pro quo – couchsurfing is all about cultural exchange, the willingness to share, learn, teach and quenching your thirst for social interaction. All my experiences hosting and surfing have been adventures,” she said. “I have seen the inside of an air traffic control tower in France, rode around Sicily on a vespa, discovered the best fish soup courtesy of my host in Malta.” Her constant exposure to foreign cultures and languages has allowed her to see life with different perspectives. “Sometimes we stay up discussing life and sharing stories and it feels like we’ve known each other for years,” she said.
JANUARY
FRENZY
FASHION
AUCTION Exclusive Invitation 23rd January
18 Kyabra Street, Newstead
Get fitter, healthier in the year ahead SHED those pesky Christmas kilos with a free eight-week fitness challenge run by Brisbane City Council as part of its Active Parks program. Cr Vicki Howard said the New Year, New You program was designed to challenge the way people move and the way they approach everyday life. “Each week, council provides dozens of free outdoor activities across 50 local parks in Brisbane,” Cr Howard said. “Leading an active and healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to be costly. The New Year, New You initiative is free and is all about changing your lifestyle through regular exercise and healthy eating. “Over two months, qualified trainers will take participants through a combination of strength and toning exercises as well as cardio walking or running.” For more information about the Active Parks program phone (07) 3403 8888 or visit Brisbane.qld.gov.au/activeandhealthy. Bookings are not required. For more information on the sessions contact Fitness 4 U on 1300 367 703.
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Beacon shines brightly for lovers of fine food and beer By Felicity Moore
A QUIET revolution is brewing in Helen St, Teneriffe, as the area’s worst kept secret is preparing to reveal itself to Brisbane’s fine beer lovers when the Green Beacon Brewing Company throws open its doors. Two men behind the boutique microbrewery have been creating a temple to all things beer, wine and food with the care and devotion that comes from fulfilling a lifelong dream. Adrian Slaughter, director and head brewer, dreamed up Green Beacon Brewing Company and, with good friend Marc Chrismas, the two have spent years putting in the hard yards researching and funding their pet project. Venue manager Andrew Sydes said the two had achieved a lot. “It’s been a pretty long journey up to this point but I think they can be pretty proud of what they’ve achieved. The place looks fantastic,” he said, adding that it had all been done without venture capitalists or major backers. Sydes said Green Beacon was designed to be a local hangout, a watering hole for those who loved good food and great craft beers. The establishment will serve locally sourced seafood and Granite-belt wines, including a range of on-site produced beers and ciders. “We will have something to appeal to every taste,” he said. “We’ve got an easy-drinking Kolsch, a nice, darkerstyle Porter, a German-style wheat beer - a hefeweizen - and an amber ale, and we’re doing a pale ale as well,” he said. “So there’s something for everyone.” Sydes said Teneriffe was the perfect location for such a venture. “Teneriffe people love to eat out and love to try different things and there’s a very
Photo by Claire Glasson
Venue manager of Green Beacon Brewing Company, Andrew Sydes
Teneriffe people love to eat out and love to try different things and there’s a very strong local community vibe around here, every day we’ve got people walking past and asking when we’re open. strong local community vibe around here,” he said. “Every day we’ve got people walking past and asking when we’re open. There’s a large swell of support from the community which has been good.” The microbrewery has received its share of objections, particularly from locals who worry about late-night noise pollution from the establishment that holds a liquor licence that permits sale of alcohol from 10am to midnight seven days a week. “To those people I would simply
say, come down and check us out. We’re about quality over quantity,” he said. “We don’t want that element here, that overindulgence,” he said, describing the venue as an outlet focused on good food and beer. The venue will deliberately not carry big screen televisions, pokie machines or Keno. Patrons will pay $7 for a 12oz (350ml) beer and $9 for a 16oz pint (465ml). While the microbrewery has no plans to go into bottling, it will offer takeaways by way of growlers and
squealers. A growler is an-almost 2L bottle and a squealer is about 1L. Buy the bottles and have them filled at the brewery to take home. Sydes said the big opening day was not far away, but coyly would not be pinned down on an exact date. “All I can say, is that it’s any day now,” he said. Green Beacon Brewery 26 Helen St, Teneriffe. Trading hours will be Wednesdays and Thursdays, noon to late, and Fridays to Sundays, 10am – midnight. Visit GreenBeacon.com.au.
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Greengrocer blends old and new and sources the best of the best EAT thoughtfully. That’s the slogan on the flipside of Jerome Batten’s business card. Jerome is a providore of classically presented goods that inspire shoppers to think about flavour and content.
villagepeople by Gary Balkin
The Sourced Grocer, an oldfashioned style grocer with modern conveniences, has quickly found a loyal army of fans, many of whom are trendies, young marrieds, and those who, like me, range towards antiquities. It reminds me of an old store in Maleny, or was it Eumundi, that was demolished in the name of progress, leaving a black hole in our heritage. Here it is, re-born in the middle of our capital city. Early beginnings Jerome Batten, 30, lived his early years on the family property in the Northern Rivers district of NSW on more than 5ha of lush green land where fruit and vegetables flourished. “Fruit stalls were abundant in our district,” he says. “It was that type of good country.” He was educated in nearby Murwillumbah in primary school, then All Saints Anglican College at Merrimac on the Gold Coast before studying international finance (following a line of his father’s business) at Griffith University and landscape architecture at QUT. Jerome completed neither degree but retained much of what he learnt. He merely felt uncertain of his future vocation. However, good food was always a primary interest, influenced by his maternal line – his grandmother was
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a wonderful cook, having operated a restaurant, Hermitage, in Kent St, Sydney, for many years from the late1930s, and his mother’s influence also had made him want to be a chef one day. His Gran is “now 92 and still cooking great food”. Jerome, a country boy, and the son of a financial adviser, travelled extensively as a young lad with his parents, and then at 19 headed to London for two years. Travelling man He later travelled through Asia (like a modern day Marco Polo, through their food markets) and Europe (their cafes), the US (for snow-boarding, actually, at Vale and Whistler), while casting an
Photo by Lilium Photography
Jerome Batten
I cannot compete with the big guys, the vast supermarkets, so I source quality, the best I can get. We are not about to drift away into what everyone else does. appreciative yet discerning eye across sundry styles of food outlets and what their shelves held. At 28, realising the style of store he wanted to establish, Jerome first explored options at the Gold Coast then various suburban locations in Brisbane. He chanced upon the Florence St site less than two years ago on a Friday afternoon, and started to work on the building on the Monday. A modern take “I planned a modern take on an old-fashioned grocery store, and we have been open now for 18 months,” he says. “A partner, Louis, started out with me, but then he returned to Vietnam where he had been based. “I have 17 employees, great staff, working the week with me now, business is good. I have settled in this beautiful city, and I
have an efficient, most personable manager, Willow. I enjoy sourcing our produce and new products, and all the staff have enthusiastically formed a close-knit team, sourcing good products themselves, and I am proud of their great interest and their knowledgeable interaction with customers. “I have made many friends in this local community and this is now my life. I have no plans to extend into other shops. I just want us to concentrate on improving this business in Teneriffe. “I may well be the first person in Queensland to attract a lot of southern small-scale producers here, those small producers with no middle-man, who hadn’t an outlet in Queensland.” Jerome places a lot of pride and emphasis on this. Jerome admits: “I cannot compete with the big guys, the vast supermarkets, so I source quality, the best I can get. We are not about to drift away into what everyone else does. My business is small and I mainly source small, but productproud, producers.” Mouthwatering treats It’s quite an adventure eyeing off Jerome’s inventory. His bread is sourced from Leavain Bakery, Browns Plains, fresh seven days; his meat is from southern butcher John Herne. “Herne’s Bangalow Pork is sought after and his ham is what hams used to taste like,” says Jerome. “I get most of my meats there.” “The lamb is from Mirrool Creek in the Riverina, the spanner crab meat
from workboats off Noosa. People drive 30km to here to buy our New Zealand fruit feijoa (sourced by my young Kiwi staffer). We source seasonal local fruit and vegetables where possible, but overall we look for relationships with those small growers, where the soil is regenerated, just like the old days. “Items like heirloom tomatoes, zucchini flowers, baby carrots are in demand; we get our milk from Maleny Dairies – guernsey cow milk, naturally creamier; ice-cream – our (Buderim) ginger ice-cream sourced from Gundowring Homestead won the national Delicious Dairy Produce award and is worth a taste.” Many shoppers enjoy browsing, especially in this one-stop-shop and if one can’t resist something that shines like a beacon, one may well buy it, such as a packet of lemongrass and ginger tea or Yunnan (province) green tea sourced from Larsen and Thompson, Melbourne, or a snack in Jerome’s little café-on-premises of wood-fired smoked salmon (from Eumundi Smokehouse) on rye sourdough. “Or,” suggests Jerome, “try an SG salad (quinoa, fresh herbs, almonds, celery, raisins, Bangalow cheese and a secret lemon vinaigrette).” Or, I might just cast my lusting eyes back to the central shelf at that jar of prunes in shiraz. Sourced Grocer 11 Florence St, Teneriffe, is open Monday - Thursday 7am-8pm, Fridays 7am-7pm, Saturdays 7am-5pm, Sundays 8am – 4pm. The café closes daily at 3pm but their barista ceases coffees at 4pm.
Pet Profile: Meet Zara Photo by Lilium Photography
Evesdropping IN TENERIFFE
By Stephen “Chooky” Holmes
Christmas is a time for gluttony
IN TENERIFFE by Stephen Holmes
Photo by dominiquemills.com
Chookie and a few mates enjoy Xmas lunch the traditional way
Kangaroo Point’s Emma Durham with her minature schauzer Zara belle Jolie What breed is Zara? 2 months later we adopted a kitten Minature schnauzer, black and silver called Sebastian and they have been and her full name is Zara Belle Jolie. inseparable ever since. What made you choose that breed? About 12 years ago I lived next door to a salt & pepper mini called Macy Gray for a few years and fell in love with her and the breed. When she moved away I knew I would have my own mini schnauzer one day.
Have you always been a dog person or are you a cat person, too? I grew up in a cat loving household so have always had a cat but then I rescued a cattle dog and loved the companionship that owning a dog brings.
How old is Zara? Zara will be 3 on January 21.
If you could compare Zara to a celebrity, who would that be and why? My three favourite female celebrities. They are all unique, beautiful, stylish, confident, determined and classy with a naughty side. Audrey Hepburn, Angelina Jolie, Sofia Vergara.
How long have you had Zara? Since she was 8 weeks old. Where did you get Zara from? From a beautiful family in Twin Waters who live with Zara’s parents Thomas and Rose. What sort of personality does Zara have? She can be a drama queen, high maintenance and a little demanding at times but that’s what makes her so adorable. She has grown up with good manners and discipline and is extremely affectionate. What is Zara’s favourite song? You Are My Sunshine What activities do you do together? Anything possible, I take her everywhere with me, even to my hair appointments and PT sessions.
If Zara could speak, what would she say about you? I love having cuddles, hanging out together and singing our song. What would you tell anyone else considering owning your breed like Zara? It is the best decision I have ever made but mini schnauzers have strong personalities and need time invested in training them from the minute they first come home. I read Cesar Milan’s book How to Raise the Perfect Dog before Zara came home and I’m so glad I did.
Can Zara do any tricks? She has a routine that she does at parties which finishes with a pirouette but she enjoys giving high fives.
What else can you tell us about Zara? Her favourite food is broccoli and she loves chasing lizards, playing with Sebastian and staring at the possums through the floorboards on the deck.
What’s the naughtiest thing Zara has ever done? Last year she got very depressed after my 19 year old Burmese cat died and she became quite destructive. I came home one day to find my leather bed frame ripped to shreds and then she started chewing the skirting boards so it was time for day care.
Zara is now a resident of Kangaroo Point. Does she miss New Farm and will she ever get back there? Zara has lots of friends in New Farm and at The River Gallery so she is still a frequent visitor and loves spending time with her favourite man Andrew Shakespeare who is also a local celebrity.
I had the privilege of inviting some friends over for a pre-Chrissy lunch here at the restaurant. We indulged in some eye fillets, scallops and kangaroo. The Lorem ipsum dolor sit entrance fee was a bottle of Penfold’s Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur grange, 91, 92, 95 and 97... just to adipisicing elit, sed do eiusmod name a few. Christmas Eve wastempor spent at incididunt labore et dolore Breakfast ut Creek Hotel with a magna few mates aliqua. enimtime. ad minim veniam, quis having Ut a good nostrud laboris Everyexercitation year, I have ullamco 10 around for anisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. nice hot Christmas lunch the way my Duis autedid irure dolor reprehenderit mother them andinwe enjoy a lovely in voluptateham, velit esse dolore traditional turkeycillum and pork. Just eu fugiatAfter nulla pariatur. divine! that, I had Excepteur to work onsint New occaecat non proident,night sunt in Year’s Evecupidatat but it was a fantastic culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim and my free Cadillac ride home was aid est hit.laborum. It wasn’t long before I was jetsetting again down to the Holmes family compoundipsum in Victoriadolor for a week. Lorem sit Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore dolore magna New year, high etresolutions aliqua. enim adhad minim veniam, quis I hope Ut everybody a nice Christmas nostrud ullamco laboris nisiat and Newexercitation Year and from everyone here ut aliquip ea you commodo consequat. Eve’s, weex wish all the best for 2013. It’s been tough yearinbut the wheels are Duis aute airure dolor reprehenderit turning and velit 2013 will cillum be much better in voluptate esse dolore in the business world. Of course, my eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint resolutioncupidatat is to exercise more andsunt be in occaecat non proident, healthier by trying to eat less junk andid culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim don’t drink as much grog (yeah, right!). est laborum.
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New ipsum festivities, Lorem dolor sitnew amet,faces consectetur Unfortunately wasdo away for thetempor adipisicing elit,I sed eiusmod Teneriffe Twilight Long Dinner,magna but incididunt ut labore et dolore reportsUtback were phenomenal...except aliqua. enim ad minim veniam, quis for that exercitation really difficult quiz, but the nisi nostrud ullamco laboris pictures great. I hope to continue ut aliquiplooked ex ea commodo consequat. seeing theirure great workinthat the Teneriffe Duis aute dolor reprehenderit Progress Association the in voluptate velit esse does cillumover dolore coming eu fugiatyear. nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint Speaking of greatnon work, long term occaecat cupidatat proident, sunt in Teneriffe businessman Richard Bodley culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id haslaborum. retired from being the chair of the est Teneriffe Festival. He’s been one of the strongest driving forces behind getting Lorem sit the the festivalipsum to what it dolor is today over Lorem ipsum dolorI hope sit amet, consectetur past three years. you’ve marked adipisicing elit, sedofdo eiusmod tempor the first Saturday July off already– it’s incididunt labore et dolore magna going to beutanother absolute cracker. T. 3216 0726
A fishy cure for those sweltering summer days
IT’s getting to that time of year where it’s sometimes too hot to cook. Curing dishes are an absolutely marvellous way to enjoy seafood at this time of year. For a beautiful and light summer lunch, aliqua. Ut aenim adslice minim veniam,with: quis marinate 300g of salmon nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi 1.5 bunch of dill – chopped ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. 40ml vodka Duis dolor in reprehenderit 80mlaute oliveirure oil blend in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore 50g salt flakes eu fugiat nullapepper pariatur. Excepteur sint 25g cracked occaecat cupidatat 25g caster sugar non proident, sunt in culpa quizest officia deserunt mollit anim id 1 lemon est Forlaborum. 24 hours and no more than two days. Rinse marinade then thinly slice and serve with some dolor gorgeoussit apple Lorem ipsum and fennel salad, mixed Lorem ipsum dolorjulienned sit amet,and consectetur with seeded mustard, juice and adipisicing elit, sed do lemon eiusmod tempor mayo. incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi Teneriffe farewells dear ut aliquip ex ea commodosome consequat. locals Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.
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Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna Linda and Nigel Critchell, Eunice & Barry Ezzy aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip exBarry ea commodo consequat. Eunice and Ezzy have hung up Duis reprehenderit their aute keys irure after dolor nearlyin13 years of in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore managing Winchcombe Place - Teneriffe eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur Wharves. Eunice has been a lively sint occaecat non proident, charactercupidatat in the Teneriffe area so sunt we’ll in culpa deserunt mollit been anim id be sadqui to officia see them go. They’ve est laborumin voluptate essetheir cillum great supporters of Eve’svelit during dolore euthey’ve fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur time but promised to not become sint occaecat cupidatat non away proident, strangers. They had a going party sunt culpa officia deserunt mollita herein with 50 qui people – they sure were anim id est laborum. popular around here! We welcome new managers Linda and Nigel Critchell.
www.evesontheriver.com BREAKFAST
ON THE RIVER Absolute Waterfront Dining in Teneriffe
53 vernon terrAce, teneriFFe DINNER WEDDINGS FUNCTIONS www.evesontheriver.co
LUNCH
March 2012 villagenews January 2012 villagenews
villagevoice Dante Alighieri has moved
THE Dante Alighieri Society, Brisbane, has relocated to New Farm. The Society, which for more than 60 years has promoted Italian language and culture in Brisbane, will now be providing its services from the Casa Italia building at 26 Gray St where the Society has completed a total refit of the upper floor. Members of the Society will be able to borrow books and DVDs from the new library, attend cultural events, and learn the Italian language. From late February the Dante Alighieri School of Italian will offer night and morning classes at six levels of proficiency as well as special classes for children. We are looking forward to welcoming readers of the Village News and their friends in our new home, joining with Casa Italia Community Centre in promoting ‘italianità’ in New Farm. For more information please visit our website: www.dante-alighieri.org.au or ring 0468 469 043. Liz Jarvis, Acting president New Farm
Dying trees a mystery
At the top end of Beeston St , where it meets Kingholme St , there is a strip of natural bushland on the left of the road. Over the past two years
The editor reserves the right to edit and cut letters due to space and other production issues.
there is a patch of the nature strip that keeps dying. I have approached the council as I fear someone is killing these trees, however, the council has stated they cannot tell if they have been poisoned or not and cannot do anything but cut down the trees that keep dying. It does seem odd to me that it’s only in this one patch that the larger trees keep dying. There has been about five so far that have died and there are two more waiting to be removed. It would be terrible if someone is poisoning these trees. Andre, Teneriffe
“Rock garden” has serious implications
As a resident in New Farm I happened upon the disaster that occurred a few weeks ago when the storm uprooted the huge tree that fell on Mr Dempsey’s property. It was evident watching the emergency services that they needed fast and viable access into Amity’s back yard in order to remove the debris from the collapsed tree. The “rock garden”, which was no garden but a pile of rocks, impeded and hampered the emergency work as it was necessary for a bobcat to be brought in to remove these bouldersized rocks so that the emergency
Spring Hill Chamber Of Commerce
BECOME A MEMBER TODAY The Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce has recently been formed to provide networking opportunities and a professional body to advocate and support the interests of local businesses - large and small, property owners and community organisations based in Spring Hill with: • Network events, 1st Wednesday of month at The Inchcolm Hotel. • Valley Chamber Business Luncheons & events. • Valley Chamber Free Meet & Mingle nights.
services could access the property via the gate. It is clearly obvious to any observer that this gate is an essential point of entry onto the property, regardless if it is for personal or emergency reasons. Within a few days of the storm event, I noted that the “rock garden” had been reinstated back in front of Mr Dempsey’s gate. This action then must surely have the approval of the BCC and all the residents of Freshwater? Should a fire occur at Amity and the fire brigade be unable to access the property in the emergency response time because of the blocked gate, would the residents of Freshwater be happy to have on their conscience the demise of such a historic New farm landmark as the heritage-listed Amity House? Suzy Piercy, New Farm
I want to wish all your readers a happy new year and hope 2013 is both rewarding and peaceful. Can I thank you on behalf of all the staff down at the Valley Police Station for your ongoing support and assistance in our continued endeavour to make the Valley and surrounds a safe environment. Without the continued support of business, chambers, community organisations and the community at large, our job would be so much tougher. From a policing perspective, one of the greatest assets of the Valley, Spring Hill, Teneriffe, Newstead, New Farm and Bowen Hills locale is the
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Haggis and whiskey specials all night
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HAVE YOUR SAY
St Michael’s will host a garage sale on Saturday February 9 at 7am to support the work of the Brisbane Youth Service in Fortitude Valley. This important charity is a community based organisation that works with homeless or at-risk young people aged 12 – 25 years.
including GST
A division of Valley Chamber of Commerce
Yogi Max Mcleod Craven, born 1st October 2012 was 3.4kg (7pounds 6 and a half ounces). He is growing so fast and is such a joy to his parents.
Garage sale for charity
www.springhillchamber.com.au
$132
Another little edition to the New Farm community
Happy new year from police
Further the interests of your business or organisation and register online to become a member. For more information and the membership area visit:
Spring Hill Chamber Membership
significant business and community involvement which provides a strong platform for the provision of professional and effective policing services. Whilst there will be many challenges ahead in 2013, I am confident with your continued support and commitment that we can continue to make our place a vibrant, diversified and safe area for families, patrons and visitors. Inspector Ray Brownhill, Fortitude Valley Police Queensland Police Service
Everyone who comes dressed in a kilt will receive a free scotch
ret H
o u se
Friday January
from 6pm Email Chewie or Lili for bookings info@clarethouse.com.au www.clarethouse.com.au
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villagenews
Water Snakes, Riverwalks and life in our River city
A QUICK internet search tells me that those born in this year of the Water Snake are influential and insightful, manage others well and tend to be good for organisations, are motivated and intellectual, and are very determined and resolute about success. I know these traits are well represented here in our New Farm community – perhaps we are all Water Snakes – and it will be a pleasure working together as we build, re-build, reshape and respond to our community’s needs in 2013. CHINESE NEW YEAR 2013 This year I am hoping residents will be able to join me in celebrating one of Brisbane City Council’s signature events, the Chinese New Year Festival in Fortitude Valley – the Year of the Water Snake. With events commencing on February 8, this is a wonderful party in one of the most vibrant entertainment hubs in Brisbane. Celebrations over 10 days will showcase traditional dances, music, cooking demonstrations, tai chi displays, 3D lanterns, market stalls and special food offerings from the Valley Chinatown restaurants. Part of my local plan for 2013 is encouraging local business and so I am urging all residents to come to The Valley for this important local event. Further details can be found at www.vickihoward.com/ chinesenewyear RIVER’S EDGE SURVEY RESULTS Water is a constant theme in our city and the first stage of consultation is now complete on council’s ‘River’s Edge Strategy’ – a plan to guide future development along the inner-city reaches of the river. More than 2,200 people participated in the feedback
villageopinions
surveys, which covered residents’ riverside habits and aspirations. I know the New Farm and Teneriffe areas are very popular for outdoor activity and these results back this up, with 82 per cent of respondents telling us they walk, cycle or run along the river’s edge. About 70 per cent told us they catch the CityCat or ferry, 66 per cent visit riverside parks and have picnics and 65 per cent take advantage of the city’s beautiful outdoor dining scene. Almost 45 per cent said they would like to see more rowing, canoeing or kayaking, while 21 per cent opted for fishing and 20 per cent for boating and jet skiing.
council. Under the draft plan, less than 7 per cent of Brisbane will experience significant change over the next 20 years, and major residential growth will be focused around key transport corridors. Growth will be focused around major shopping centres and along selected transport corridors while maintaining the leafy suburban character of Brisbane ‘s suburban living areas. Brisbane will have 443,000 new metropolitan jobs by 2031 and 7.8 million sq m of additional commercial, industrial and retail space as our lifestyle draws investors, entrepreneurs, and
Looking forward in 2013 with
More than half of respondents wanted more restaurants, cafes and commercial ventures. Residents also said they would like to see more events taking place along the river and increased tourism opportunities, with some of the more colourful ideas including jumping castles, zorbing and ziplining. Locals will have another opportunity to have their say on the draft strategy when it is released for public comment in the middle of next year. NEW CITY PLAN The draft new City Plan to protect Brisbane ’s way of life and guide future residential development has been endorsed by the majority of
- Voice of the people
Words by Maddie Bates-Willis. Photos by Lilium Photography.
companies here for business. I would like to encourage residents to familiarise themselves with the draft plan – community consultation will continue to play an important role in its development – further details can be found at www.vickihoward.com/cityplan RIVERWALK DESIGN COMPLETE Recently Council announced the completion of detailed design for Brisbane ’s Riverwalk replacement, heralding the return of a newly aligned waterfront walkway. The final design takes into account various aspects of security, access and amenity and has even taken into consideration the inclusion of CCTV capability. Once Riverwalk is reconstructed,
it will become a river experience like no other, with the new alignment taking visitors further out into the river. Before it was washed away in the January 2011 floods, Riverwalk was used by more than 3,000 cyclists, pedestrians and runners daily and the new alignment will add to the user experience by taking people further out into the river for the majority of the walkway. It will also have a number of features to enhance the safety and river experience for users, with 24 hour lighting along the length of the path and separated pedestrian and cyclist paths. Some of the other key features for the replacement walkway also include, · shaded rest areas along the length of the Riverwalk, to provide different views of the river · separate pedestrian and cycle paths, of 2.5m and 3.5m width respectively · A rotating span at the Merthyr Road end of the walkway to allow the passage of vessels to private moorings. The Riverwalk replacement will be a fixed structure to improve the flood resilience and the lifespan of the walkway. The construction tender is scheduled to be announced in early 2013 and construction anticipated to begin about one month after the tender has been awarded. New Farm, its boundaries and environs are well defined by the River and I look forward to working with all our residents – Water Snakes or otherwise – to deliver in 2013.
HAVE YOUR SAY editor@newfarmvillagenews.com.au
Village News went to Merthyr Village and asked what you thought of 2012 and what you would like to see in 2013.
VERA
Pat
Vanessa
Steph (Pictured right with Teva & Abi)
GIANLUCA
What I enjoyed in New Farm in 2012… The nice eateries and boutiques. What I would like to see in New Farm in 2013… More organic cafes. My personal goals and resolutions for 2013… To begin changing my eating habits, which is why I want more organic eateries that cater to that.
What I enjoyed in New Farm in 2012… Events at the Powerhouse. What I would like to see in New Farm in 2013… More parties and festivals. My personal goals and resolutions for 2013…To save money that’s never happened before!
What I thought of 2012… A great year! My personal goals and resolutions for 2013… Have a positive attitude, be friendly and caring - like people in the area.
What I am looking forward to in 2013… Going overseas will be pretty fantastic. What I would like to see in New Farm in 2013… More local festivals. My goals and resolutions in New Farm for 2013… Getting involved.
What I enjoyed in New Farm in 2012… Teneriffe Festival and the Italian Festival. I hope to see that next year. What I would like to see in New Farm in 2013… A big festival at New Farm Park. My personal goals and resolutions for 2013… To help my dog lose weight. January 2012 villagenews
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villagenews
Residents object to oversized development in Teneriffe
Brisbane City Council has received 33 objections to the proposed development at 76 Commercial Rd, Teneriffe. The project, by The George Group who also redeveloped the James St precinct, will add 48 residential units, along with commercial and retail outlets to the area. Objections included the traffic flow and the added strain from the increased number of cars brought into the area. In particular, the Commercial Rd and Helen St intersection, where traffic flow is considered to be already problematic, is a focus of concern. Teneriffe Progress Association chairman Ben Pritchard agreed the traffic flow was a significant issue and
spaces,” the resident, who did not want to be identified, said. “We are also concerned about the already inadequate street parking becoming even more so, which is of great concern to residents, shop and business owners and customers, along with increased noise and traffic,” she said. “The new building will not be in keeping with the style of the streetscape and surrounding area,” she added. Teneriffe Progress Association member Jill Butler said it was disappointing that the development was so tall and was not, in her view, in keeping with the character of the area. “It’s all about the woolstores, that’s what our area is all about,” she said.
The site at 76 Commercial Road where the new apartment building is planned. The existing structure - currently a gym - will stay as is.
I’m more than happy to talk to people about this issue and we only have any prospect of making progress if we take a realistic and reasonable position one that council must address. “The proposed development relies upon a ‘sticking plaster’ measure to try and address the obvious inadequacies of the local access roads, being Helen St and Wyandra St and their respective junctions with Commercial Rd,” he wrote in his objection to council. “The proposed implementation of a ‘left in, left out’ access arrangement for the development in Helen St is a totally inadequate response to a significant potential issue of road safety and capacity in this location.” A resident living opposite the proposed development, in the Teneriffe Apartments, had considerable objections to the development. “There are a number of reasons for my objections, some of which included breaches of the Teneriffe Waterfront Plan and the Heritage Plan planning laws, which relate to the height of the building, the close proximity to Commercial Road, and the design overhang of pavements into public
Teneriffe Apartment residents, directly opposite the proposed development, lodged concerns about noise pollution, air pollution and the loss of sunlight and breezes for those facing Commercial Rd and whose part of the building would be in shade from the new development. Ms Butler, a landscape architect, pointed out the new development also put an old protected tree on Commercial Rd at risk. “And one of the other big concerns is with this beautiful tree here. How are they going to guarantee that they can maintain this in a healthy state? What happens when you get these really tall buildings is (the street) starts to get a lot more shade,” she said. Mr Pritchard, who has worked for some time in a local council setting, speculated that he thought objections based around the traffic issues would be the objections council was most sensitive to. However, design - which is entirely subjective, to a point - is less likely to draw council’s concerns. He
villageopinions
The proposed new building, at right, beside the existing gym, to the left. urged residents who had concerns to number of submissions received on get in touch with him. a development application varies for “I’m more than happy to talk to each application. Council has received people about this issue and we only a total of 33 valid submissions have any prospect of making progress on this development application. if we take a realistic and reasonable This development application is position,” Mr Pritchard said. “We can’t currently being reviewed and public just be angry and say ‘no’. We have to submissions will be considered during find a way to make some progress and the assessment process.” find a compromise,” he said. The George Group was unable to Ms Butler urged residents who were respond to enquiries by press time. concerned about the development Contact Ben Pritchard by email on to write to their local councillor, even Ben.Pritchard@iinet.com.au. To though the objection deadline had view the development A003428764 passed. application online visit Brisbane.qld. A council spokesperson said: “The gov.au/development.
- Voice of the people
Words by Maddie Bates-Willis. Photos by Lilium Photography.
Village News went to Merthyr Village and asked what you thought of 2012 and what you would like to see in 2013.
EMILY
SARAH (with Francis pictured)
Phoebe (with Tom pictured)
Horst
Patricia
What I would like to see in New Farm in 2013… A flash mob. What I am looking forward to in 2013… Going into Grade 12.
What I enjoyed in New Farm in 2012… The Teneriffe Festival in July. What I am excited for in New Farm in 2013… The Teneriffe Festival again.
My personal goals and resolutions for 2013… Career-related goals.
What I enjoyed in 2012… I had a nice holiday. My personal goals and resolutions for 2013… I have a lot of dreams.
What I would like to see in New Farm in 2013… Cycling. What I think of New Farm… Love the area, love the city cycles.
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Hit the sweet spot with Passione treats By Maddie Bates-Willis INDULGE sweet cravings at the award-winning Passione Gelateria and Dessert Bar, a delicious secret tucked away on Vernon Tce. Passione scooped gold, silver and bronze at The Royal Queensland Food and Wine Show 2011 and has continued to gain prestige and popularity ever since. Owner Rudi Sturlese said one of the secrets to his business success was sourcing only the best organic produce. “We use real stuff, for example the strawberry gelato is not made of powdered strawberries. We just use real strawberries,” he said. The secret to Passione’s success is in the title. “You’ve got to be passionate about what you do,” Mr Sturlese said. “I don’t do things for profit, I do it because I love it. When you put passion and love into what you do, you get a good result,” he said. The gelato business has been cherished for generations in the Sturlese family, with Mr Sturlese growing up in his father’s gelato shop, learning the ropes from a young age. “I was born into gelato,” he said. Passione desserts include Belgianstyle waffles, chocolate fondue, and an impressive variety of Italian gelato, and gelato cocktails. Passione also offers tapas dishes of
How to crush your competition
IT’S JANUARY, and predictably, we’ll be bombarded with advice about numerous drastic changes we need to make to stay ahead of the pack in 2013. Here, I’ll put my two cents in, but with a difference. The following three tips for “crushing your competition” all
villagebusiness by Alan Blair* Passione owner Rudi Sturlese such quality Mr Sturlese was named a finalist in the Best New Restaurant category at the Savour Australian Restaurant & Catering Awards for Excellence 2011. Private events and functions, including children’s birthday parties and corporate events, can be booked in the function room that holds up to 50. Passione Gelateria and Dessert Bar 7/36 Vernon Tce, is open Tuesday – Thursday 4pm – 10pm, Friday 4pm until late, Saturday noon until late and Sunday noon until 10pm. Visit Passione.com.au for more information, including an impressive photo gallery of gelato cakes available for order.
require you to start by ignoring your competitors. By taking your focus off of your competitors, you’ll be ready to take simple (not necessarily easy) actions that will positively impact your business and ensure you achieve your most important goals. 1. Focus on making small improvements to your business. Don’t be tempted to launch major change initiatives in your businesses before exploring simpler options for improvement. Often, a series of smaller, but impactful, changes over time will make a significant difference. Instead of plotting a major overhaul of your entire operation, look for things that you can simplify, eliminate, automate or tweak to make your business more efficient, more effective or just more enjoyable. Changes
focused on delivering more value to your customers are best and have the added bonus of setting you apart from the competition. 2. Quit competing on the basis of being “better than”. There are certain aspects of every industry that form the basis of comparison between businesses. To outsmart the competition, stop focusing on being “better than” and focus instead on being the best at something unique to you and what your business is uniquely positioned to deliver. Ask what you can do differently to get people talking and forget about your (now irrelevant) competitors. Then focus your time and energy there. 3. Obsess on exceptional customer service. Too many businesses disappoint when it comes to customer service. If you don’t want to be one of them, you should continually strive to improve the customer’s experience. Consider how well you listen to your customers and deliver the things they value the most. Then seek to dramatically improve your customer service to build long term relationships. By focusing on these three tips over the next six months, I am confident that you will be celebrating a successful financial year end in June and will have begun laying the foundations for longer term business success.
Kilts and Scotch! It’s Burns Night! UNLEASH your inner Scotsman, or Scotswoman, and celebrate Burns Night when Claret House hosts one of the Scottish calendar’s biggest events, the birthday of poet Robert Burns, said to be one of the greatest Scots of all. Claret House will offer traditional Scottish food and embrace a range of Scottish traditions, including the blessing of the haggis which will include the recital of a Burns poem. A night celebrating Scottish culture is a longstanding tradition at Claret House and proprietor Lili Dyer said while Burns Night celebrates Scottish culture, the event wasn’t just for Scots. “Everyone loves their whiskey,” she said. “It’s a night to come along and get dressed up and celebrate.” Burns Night is Friday, January 25 from 6pm at Claret House on Vernon Terrace in Teneriffe. Visit Clarethouse.com.au for more information or find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ClaretHouseWineBar.
It is never too early or too late to learn a new language! Come and discover Italian language and culture at the Dante Alighieri Society now in New Farm!
• Italian language classes for adults and children • Cultural events Phone 0468 469 043 26 Grey Street, New Farm info@dante-alighieri.com.au
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January 2012 villagenews
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villageentertainment
Year of the Snake celebrations set to be bigger than ever FORTITUDE Valley welcomes the year of the snake this Chinese new year as it prepares for the biggest celebration on the Chinese lunar calendar, from February 8-17. Chamber of Commerce executive director Carol Gordon was confident this year’s celebration would be the biggest yet, bringing together more than 55 Chinese groups in Brisbane to celebrate the new year, which will fall on February 10. “This year, Brisbane City Council has put on activities and performances at Chinatown mall every day of the celebrations, including dancing and musical performances. There will be a 3D lantern display for the first time and visitors can try the market stalls and cooking demonstrations from the restaurants on the mall,” she said. Ms Gordon said a discussion at the HSBCsponsored business lunch at Cloudland on February 14 would focus on economic development and trade between Queensland and China. Festivities would continue at a cocktail party at the Duncan St Mall on February 15, where guests will be treated to an impressive lion dancing show and firecracker display. The nearby Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Art, on Brunswick St, is also involved this year, hosting the HSBC Chinese Historical and Cultural Exhibition that will run from February 10-24. Ms Gordon said the range of activities
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featured in the exhibition included Chinese knot tying, calligraphy classes, language, cultural and feng shui lessons, ideal for not only the public but also school and community groups.
To make a reservation for the two chamber events, visit Valleychamber. com.au or phone 3854 0860. Also, visit brisbane.qld.gov. au/chinesenewyear for a comprehensive calendar of events.
Cr Vicki Howard of Central Ward with Chinese performers
villageentertainment
Emerging singer reveals acres of talent on debut
See Tibetan life and culture, up close
By Alexandria Utting
IF you’re a fan of female vocalists productions by Harvest Rain such as soul queen Beyonce Theatre Company and Brisbane or home-grown diva Ricki-Lee Arts Theatre and her experience Coulter, the chances are pretty and training shows through with good you’ll like the sound of how comfortable she appears in New Farm local musician and front of the camera. She has also songstress, Ella been part of Ferdinands. jazz ensemble Ferdinands’ groups and debut single performed Blowin’ Up at live music was released venues. on YouTube in She gained November last her formal year and at time training at The of publication Conservatorium had racked up and has almost 2000 completed a hits. musical theatre Blowin’ Up internship. is an energetic Ferdinands’ dance track YouTube with all the key channel also ingredients of features various today’s pop covers of songs: strong popular songs, female vocals, which are worth male spoken a watch and are word and a perhaps more catchy chorus. enchanting While the than her debut clip itself is release, in my fairly typical view. of the current This dance genre promising – featuring young singer is a group of in the process young revelers of writing at a club more original New Farm local Ella Ferdinands and plenty of music and is choreographed performing both dances moves – it is redeemed locally and interstate. significantly by the fact the You can have a look at girl can clearly sing. Her voice her tracks by searching Ella carries the tune effortlessly and Ferdinands on YouTube or her performance in the clip is Ella Ferdinands (music) on accomplished. Facebook. Ferdinands has been Visit Ellaferdinands.webs.com performing since the age for more or email Ferdinands at of five and has featured in ellabella_09@hotmail.com
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THE successful Festival of Tibet launches in Brisbane for the fifth year running, at the Brisbane Powerhouse on January 30. For the first time, festival-goers will hear from Venerable Thupten Ngodrup, the State Oracle of Tibet and primary protector of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who will be travelling from Dharamsala, India to join the celebrations. He will talk about the spirit world of the Nechung Monastery and Tibetan Buddhist culture. The festival will present free and paid workshops, forums and exhibitions
while evening sessions include concerts and the Australian premiere of the new documentary Olo – The Boy from Tibet. This celebration of Tibetan culture embraces ancient traditions, and acknowledges the remarkable resilience of the Tibetan people. All festival proceeds will go to the Tibetan Children’s Village in Dharamsala, India. The Festival of Tibet January 30 to February 3 at the Brisbane Powerhouse. Visit www. brisbanepowerhouse.org/events/view/ festival-of-tibet for program.
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Life lessons learned through running By Mary Denver
Have they been looking backwards while they run (and live) forwards? Village News asks some of them. What is your best running memory?
JESS Running in the 2011 New York City marathon and experiencing the changing vibe as I ran through each of the five boroughs. BRIDGET Running in Central Park and through the streets of the Big Apple early in the morning with my friend Jess. OWEN Beautiful harbour scenes during the Sydney City to Surf with the band playing at the top of Heartbreak Hill. MARY Running downhill into the sunrise through the olive groves on the island of Corfu, Greece. ANNEMARIE Crossing the finish line with friends. We did it together! ELSA Completing my first marathon. I cried when I crossed the finish line knowing that I had proved to myself that I really could do anything if I put my mind to it – anything is possible!
What have you learned from friends, family or mentors? Members of the Teneriffe Run Club WRITING about the Teneriffe Run Club the river every Sunday for more than this time last year, we quoted Haruki three years. Murakami, the well-known Japanese A diverse but committed group writer and veteran marathoner. An of (mainly) local residents, Run optimistic sort of person, Murakami Clubbers range in age from their had described running the original 20s to their 60s. They include a marathon backwards from Athens to speech pathologist and a surgeon, a Marathon, Greece, in 1983, in his marketing manager, a sales executive 2008 memoir, What I Talk About When for a Dairy Farmers franchisee, a I Talk About Running. teacher, a landscape designer, a This year, however, the optimistic lawyer, a senior hydrologist at the Japanese author looks like being Bureau of Meteorology, a transport sidelined in favour of that gloomy infrastructure engineer, an executive Dane, Søren Kierkegaard, who coach about to volunteer in a Jakarta said: Life can only be understood women’s human rights commission, backwards; but it must be lived a business development manager, a forwards. An interesting philosophy document controller and an executive for a bunch of local runners who have assistant with mining companies been meeting in the Powerhouse car and a health care specialist in the park for their early morning run along pharmaceutical industry.
It may be dangerous to look back when you’re running, but this bunch of strong and dynamic individuals, who count numerous public and private triumphs among them, are indeed reflecting on the past as they live forwards into the future. So the gloomy philosopher had a point. If you’d like to join them, go to www.facebook.com/pages/Teneriffe-Community-Run-ClubBrisbane/160132187370208 for more details.
KATIE That I can achieve whatever I put my mind to. ANDY To respect other people and the environment we live in. OWEN That you are rewarded for effort. JESS To be true to myself and live life with a passion. CAREN To see beauty in small things.
Your proudest moment to date has been?
CAREN Running the Resolution Run in Brisbane soon after arriving from South Africa to start my new life. JESS Solo-trekking to Mt Everest base camp this year. KATIE Completing the Gold Coast Marathon – a couple of years ago I struggled to run a kilometre. BRIDGET Finding out that I am going to be a Mum!
What keeps you motivated every day?
MARY Running keeps me motivated; on a bad day it’s the one thing that puts perspective back into my life. JESS and KATIE Appreciation for life and all that it has to offer. We are fortunate to live where we do, with all the opportunities we have. CAREN The dynamic, motivated individuals in the Run Club have become my friends and added so much to my new life in Australia. BRIDGET The thought that life is too short!
How do you balance work, home and sporting life?
BRIDGET By living in the moment and taking a day at a time. Great planning and of course being able to say No, help as well. KATIE Balance means that sometimes you have to give up one thing to get something else. OWEN Keeping fit and having a clear conscience.
Who are you inspired by? What do you love?
ANNEMARIE I was inspired and empowered by the NIKE mantra It’s you and the road. KATIE Anyone who is able to just keep going. When I see them push through, it makes me pick up my pace. JESS Positive, forward-thinking, independent women inspire me. OWEN I am inspired by people who set a goal, work towards it and achieve it. I love life, family, friends, achievements big and small and Brisbane. ANDY Seeing my then girlfriend and now my wife complete the London marathon in 2009 – I was so proud of her. As a Pom I love cricket, I can’t wait for the next Ashes and another series win for England!
What is your greatest challenge for the future?
KATIE Deciding what to do when I’m a grown up! BRIDGET Becoming the best mother I can. And reaching for my dreams. OWEN Finding the next challenge. ANDY Deciding whether we stay in Australia for a few years or forever. ELSA To complete a half ironman! 20
villagenews January 2012
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Lighter fare tempts summer Moonlight Cinema in New diners at Belvedere Farm Park over summer SUMMER months bring a trend to lighter eating, more salads with fresh ingredients and tasty steaks and burgers. Belvedere Bar & Grill has launched a summer menu that offers an enticing selection of choices for even the pickiest of eaters. Belvedere head chef Mark Maric said the new menu had something for every occasion - from light ladies lunches, to a big meaty feast. “Our steaks are our big focus so we have worked really hard on getting them right and expanding our range, with Wagyu and Cape Grim now a feature on the new menu ,” he said. “We are moving towards dry aged beef which is the more traditional method of ageing, as opposed to the more common process of wet ageing. “Dry aged beef offers a unique eating experience and produces a steak that is more tender, with a richer, beefier flavour.” Also new to the menu is the 1kg T-bone - grain fed for 70 days, this meaty dish is designed to be shared and takes 45 minutes to cook to medium. But it’s not all about steak. Pan roasted spatchcock, baked barramundi and asparagus and mushroom gnocchi all have their place on the diverse menu. Entrees and bar snacks are also plentiful with dishes like garlic prawns, beef tartare and the cured and dried meat plate, all perfect to
Belvedere chef Mark Maric start your meal or to nibble on while sipping a beer on the timber deck overlooking the river. “The roasted bone marrow with toasted ciabatta, parsley and shallot salad is one of my favourites and I’m also excited about the certified organic beef carpaccio with crispy capers, truffled pecorino, rocket and lemon mayonnaise,” Mr Maric said. Belvedere at Portside, Hamilton is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. For more details phone 07 363 0411 or www. belvederebarngrill.com.au
Property law gets some modern love Queensland Law Society today congratulated the government on introducing legislation for e-conveyancing, bringing a centuriesold process into the modern world. Deputy president Annette Bradfield said the new electronic system, a national initiative, has the potential to add efficiencies to the settlement process. “We’ve been a supporter of electronic conveyancing for many years now and this is an important step to achieving that outcome,” Ms Bradfield said. “It represents how conveyancing will be done in the future, so it’s a good move for thousands of Queensland property lawyers. “Bearing in mind the government’s statement today, we should reinforce that settlement costs are only a small portion of conveyancing fees and it’s doubtful the Bill will materially make conveyancing cheaper. “This initial pass at e-conveyancing saves on some
costs, but should be balanced against the introduction of other costs. “For example, the system will remove the need for physical settlements, but adds new compliance obligations for solicitors as they will be effectively signing property transfers on behalf of their clients. “Bank cheque fees will be made redundant but there will be new fees payable to the operator and for information supplied by the government. “The new system will help make settlements more reliable, but will not cure the current issues facing the legal profession in obtaining mortgage payout figures from financial institutions, which are not available typically until the morning of settlement day. “However, this is a positive step forward for Queensland and the tens of thousands of people who undertake property transactions each year.”
With summer upon us, Opel Moonlight Cinema has a stellar line-up of films for Brisbane ’s favourite outdoor cinema. Shown under a canopy of stars, program includes a number of highly anticipated preview films including the biographical drama starring Anthony Hopkins, Hitchcock; the western drama written and directed by Quentin Tarantino, Django Unchained; the dramatic thriller starring Academy Award winner Denzel Washington, Flight; and This is 40, a hilarious comedy written and directed by Judd Apatow (The 40 Year-Old Virgin, Funny People) and starring Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann and Megan Fox. Making a welcome return to the ultimate inner city escape will be some of Hollywood’s most well-known action heroes including James Bond in Skyfall and Batman in The Dark Knight Rises. Fun for the whole family can be had throughout the season with family film screenings including the preview of the heartwarming animated adventure, ParaNorman; the latest instalment of the
popular children’s series, Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted; and the re-release of the Walt Disney favourite, Aladdin. With something for every film enthusiast, the program also includes a mix of classic and cult films including the coming of age comedy, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off; the ultimate romance, Dirty Dancing; the 1986 hit action film Top Gun; and Quentin Tarantino’s acclaimed Pulp Fiction. Topping off the jam-packed 2012/13 program is the final instalment in the phenomenally successful series, The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 2; the science-fiction film starring Bruce Willis and Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Looper, and the popular musical drama emerging as an early Oscar nomination favourite, Les Miserables. For the ultimate open air cinema experience, Opel Moonlight Cinema guests can bring along a picnic hamper, hire a bean bed and sample the delicious range of food and beverages available. For further information: www. moonlight.com.au
Bringing business together in Teneriffe The Teneriffe Chamber of Commerce has been formed to provide networking opportunities and a professional body to advocate and support the interests of businesses in our community with: • Active breakfasts featuring high profile guest speakers. • Valley Chamber lunches. • Valley Chamber Complementary Meet & Mingle drinks nights. The Teneriffe Chamber is a division of the Valley Chamber of Commerce. Membership of the TCC automatically provides membership to the Valley Chamber of Commerce, allowing access to its business functions.
TCC Membership
$132
including GST
Further the interests of your business. Register to become a foundation member of the Teneriffe Chamber of Commerce.
Visit our website www.teneriffechamber.com.au
January 2012 villagenews
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Volumes Gallery
Volumes Gallery hosted famed photographer Paul Giggle and his ‘12 Natural Wonders’ exhibition, guests were treated to the sensuous images of the female form and its natural wonder.
Of all the diamonds in the world... Bruce Robinson selects only the best
Matt Lindsay & Lauren Baird
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Not only can we help you select the perfect diamond, we can also design the setting and band to create that special engagement ring that is uniquely yours. Make an appointment today to come in and talk to Bruce or Cameron about that special ring, at a time convenient to you. Penny Antvar & Eloise Breskvar
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villagesocials Winning Appliances Photos by Vanessa Fang
It was heaven for food lovers at the Winning Appliances International Food Carnival in December. Over 150 guests had their fill of cuisine from all around the world and ‘Icons of the Word’ themed desserts featuring Tart Mahal and Leaning Tower of Lemon Meringue. Helen Norris, Janelle Holston & Melissa Kelly
Achille Sberna & Rachele Pucozzi
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Waterfront properties sell well
ONE of Brisbane’s largest urban renewal residential projects, Waterfront Newstead, on the Brisbane River 2km from the CBD, has finished 2012 on a strong note with $225m in settlements to date. Waterfront Newstead is being undertaken by national publicly listed real estate and development company Mirvac and occupies a site of approximately 10 hectares including an 8,000sq m lake and hectares of parkland. Mirvac CEO apartments John Carfi said: “With $48m in settlements across 46 apartments for the year, Waterfront Newstead has again raised the bar to meet demand for luxury living unmatched in Brisbane.” The first two stages of Waterfront Newstead have been completed and comprises 99 luxury apartments in Pier fronting the Brisbane River and 102 apartments in Park which is set back from the waterfront overlooking hectares of parkland.
During 2012, the sale of the sixth penthouse in Pier was – for the second year running – the record settlement for a luxury apartment in southeast Queensland. The Pier buildings are located on 250m of absolute Brisbane River frontage. Mirvac is currently styling one of the two remaining penthouses for display at Pier which will be open to the public for viewing from early December. “Residents living in Pier report that they love the first class lifestyle and are the greatest advocates for the development,” he said. “The five-star concierge service is highly popular with residents and the unbeatable facilities including two heated swimming pools, two private gymnasiums, treatment room, residents lounge and meeting room along with the surrounding lifestyle amenity, greatly appeal to people seeking a quality, hassle free lifestyle.”
Waterfront Newstead on the Brisbane River “Park offers residents a diverse homes Waterfront Newstead has to choice of beautifully designed two offer. and three bedroom apartments and The luxury riverfront homes are easy access to a vast array of nearby being complemented by a diverse amenities. When people get up into range of apartments in Waterfront’s the building, they instantly recognise future stages. the value and opportunity Park “From the outset, Waterfront provides.” Newstead has been designed to There are four display apartments appeal at a variety of price points and open for viewing in Park, taking when it is completed it will provide for the total for Waterfront to eight, a range of apartment types,” Mr Carfi showcasing a selection of the unique added. January 2012 villagenews
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With over $200m worth of property sold throughout 2012, it’s easy to see why Judy Goodger and her No.1 New Farm real estate team is Brisbane’s most talked about.
With every New Year comes new opportunity. So, if you’re in the market to buy or sell property, call the team determined to make 2013 a great success for all.
“Outstanding throughout the whole process of buying and selling.“ “Our experience of selling with Aaron at Place has been very positive and we strongly recommend their professional services.”
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“Alex’s attention to detail, intimate knowledge of the real estate market and suggested marketing strategy resulted in achieving a sale price beyond our expectations in the current difficult market, and in a shorter than expected timeframe.”
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“When Heath finds a buyer, he takes a creative approach to putting a deal together. Obstacles are there to be overcome. He is a skilled and tactful negotiator who tries to broker a situation where everyone is a winner. The proof is in the pudding - he did an outstanding job for us.”
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“Ben communicated well on his perceptions of the market, responded professionally in coordinating advertising and worked hard on ensuring a high level of interest in the property. His tireless efforts led to a sale in a relatively short time frame, at a price that was a good outcome for us.”
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WE WANT YOUR PLACE! Ou
r team curren actively lookin tly has buyers g fo in the CBD, Ea r properties st Kangaroo Poin Brisbane, t, N Fortitude Valle ew Farm, y, Ten & Newstead a eriffe If you’re lookin reas. g to sell, call us now. “I found Simon’s inimitable style, communication, knowledge and dedication to be flawless.”
“I felt comfortable after talking to Judy Goodger and seeing her cost effective marketing budget, local knowledge of New Farm, the wider Brisbane Prestige Market and her proven track record of sales that she was the right agent to choose to sell my home.”
“My wife and I would like to express our thanks to Place and particularly to Simon for his tenacity and diligence in respect to the sale of our property.” Simon Caulfield
Judy Goodger
“The property sold in less than three weeks, before the auction, for a figure higher than we expected. We feel that this is primarily due to the hard work and dedication of Ann-Karyn.”
“Sherrie made herself available to us throughout, never a day going by without an update, immediate feedback after every inspection, and knowledge that she would indeed sell our property.”
Sherrie Storor
Ann-Karyn Fraser
Start this year off on the right foot, call New Farm’s number one team on 3107 REIQ LARGE RESIDENTIAL AGENCY OF THE YEAR
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Dean Yeo 0488 977 233
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Sold by another Agency for $2M Sold by us 7 weeks later for $2.3M A rAre opportunity AwAits Address: 852 Brunswick St, New Farm Auction: Onsite Saturday 9th Feb at 12 noon (if not sold prior) This high set 6 bedroom home situated on a useable 468 m2 of prime land in the heart of New Farm presents as a unique opportunity for the home owner, investor or developer alike. The current dwelling is conveniently located towards the front of the block and has been raised to legal head height with covered off street parking under the home. This home offers high ceilings throughout with an abundance of natural light within each of its large rooms. The rear of the block can be accessed from Adeline Lane offering you the opportunity to sub divide and develop a additional dwelling! It is important to note that a commercial opportunity can also be considered here. 852 Brunswick st offers genuine options to a savvy buyer. When considering this piece of New Farm as your next project please note that it not only offers a multiple of options as to its redevelopment but it is located in a highly sought after blue chip suburb that boasts a lifestyle next to no other within Brisbane. It’s exact location within this cosmopolitan suburb finds you within a stones throw from the Merthyr Village business hub, New Farm primary school, New Farm’s famous park and all the trendy cafes, boutique shops and galleries each resident enjoys on a daily basis. Opportunities like this are seldom found and should not be overlooked. Whatever your future plans for this piece of renovators delight may be, to truly appreciate the atmosphere and versatility you must come along and inspect for yourself!! I have one clear instruction! This property must be SOLD!
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Contact George McAteer on 0416 721 026
Professionals New Farm 629 Brunswick Street New Farm www.professionalsnewfarm.com.au t 3358 4377 f 3358 3176
We saw a very strong finish to 2012 with our office selling over $20,000,000 worth of property. Now is a great time to find out what your property is worth.
Please contact Sam Mayes if you would like an updated market appraisal or a 2012 Property Report for your suburb.
Sam Mayes | Ray White New Farm 0402 094 553 sam.mayes@raywhite.com UNDER T RAC CONT
79/170 Leichhardt Street Spring Hill
UNDER T RAC CONT
26/36 Vernon Terrace Teneriffe
SOLD
14/189 Leichhardt Street Spring Hill
UNDER T RAC CONT
1/115 Robertson Street Fortitude Valley
UNDER T RAC CONT
8/32 Fortescue Street Spring Hill
SOLD
17/32 Fortescue Street Spring Hill
UNDER T RAC CONT
2/74 Kent Street New Farm
SOLD
38/36 Vernon Terrace Teneriffe
Thinking of property in
2013?
Sales Office 07 3254 1022
We’ve got the people.
Rentals Office 07 3606 8300
New Farm
Prestige property needs a personal approach. Appoint me and you get me. “Heath is no order-taker. With our property, he was constantly thinking ahead, suggesting ideas about who could be interested in it, and how they should be approached. When he finds a buyer, he takes a creative approach to putting a deal together. Obstacles are there to be overcome. He is a skilled and tactful negotiator who tries to broker a situation where everyone is a winner. The proof is in the pudding - he did an outstanding job for us.” - Steve & Karen Tyson, property sold for $10.3 million (Current Brisbane record residential house sale)
heath williams OVER $6.5 MILLION IN SALES IN DECEMBER ALONE!
105 Villiers Street, New Farm
8/35 Terrace Street, New Farm
10 El Paso Street, Bardon
15 Refinery Parade, New Farm
18 Creswick Street, Clayfield
74 Villiers Street, New Farm
82 Tristania Drive, Bardon
265 Kent Street, New Farm
310/50 Macquarie Street, Teneriffe
Heath Williams 07 3107 5103
0403 976 115 heath@eplace.com.au
eplace.com.au PLC-NF0304