Tucked inside a restored Queenslander on Miskin Street in Toowong, Riser has quietly become one of Brisbane’s most talked-about bakeries and cafés. Since opening in late 2022, it’s earned a loyal following not just for its excellent pastries and coffee, but for a standout menu item that’s sparked a devoted fan base—the chicken sandwich.
This isn’t your standard deli counter sanger. Riser’s version is a carefully composed creation built on slices of house-baked sourdough, soft, yet structured with a touch more oil than a typical loaf. Inside, layers of brined chicken, bacon, caesar dressing, and the game-changing addition of croutons combine for a rich, satisfying bite with plenty of texture.
Photo credit: Todd D/Google Maps
The inclusion of croutons adds a pleasing crunch that plays beautifully against the softness of the bread and the tender chicken. It’s a small but significant touch, a signal that every element has been refined and reconsidered over time. The caesar dressing delivers the expected umami punch, without overpowering the other components, while the bacon offers a salty counterpoint to the creamy base.
It’s clear that this sandwich is the result of collaboration rather than a single chef’s vision. Much like Riser itself, which was founded by Tom Cooney, Kieran Ryan and Duncan McKay, hospitality veterans with experience across some of Brisbane’s best-loved venues—the sandwich represents a collective effort shaped by experience, experimentation and a shared commitment to doing things well.
Photo credit: Benjamin F/Google Maps
Come the weekend, Riser is buzzing. Queues snake out the door as customers wait patiently for buttery croissants, savoury scrolls, or perhaps a sausage roll, but the chicken caesar sandwich has become a staple order for many. At $16, it’s a premium lunch, but one that more than delivers on flavour and satisfaction.
Weekday visitors might opt to take theirs away and make a mini outing of it—perhaps heading up to the nearby Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens for a quiet picnic by the lake, bush turkeys and all.
A long-awaited upgrade to the small dog area at Perrin Park in Toowong is finally in motion, bringing relief to pet owners who have waited nearly two years for promised improvements.
Brisbane has begun preparations for the upgrade works following a string of delays caused by seasonal constraints, community feedback rounds, extreme weather events, and infrastructure setbacks.
Photo credit: Stephen Harris/Google Maps
The Perrin Park dog park journey began in November 2023, when initial upgrades to the overall dog area were opened. However, many local dog owners quickly noted the small dog section remained underwhelming and under-equipped. This led to community consultations in February 2024, where residents voiced their concerns about what was missing from the Council’s initial efforts.
A mobile pop-up in July 2024 gathered further input, prompting the project to be listed for funding a month later. Two upgrade designs were released for community voting in October 2024, with the first design ultimately receiving the most support.
Photo credit: Cr Penny Wolff/Facebook
Yet, construction faced a new setback due to the hibernation season of the park’s local bat colony, delaying the start of works. Additional complications followed in early 2025, including Cyclone Alfred, flooding, and a sewage spill that forced part of the park to remain closed.
Photo credit: Darshan Pandya/Google Maps
Despite the mounting frustrations, Council pushed forward with service mapping and final design preparations in May 2025, marking a major step forward.
Planned upgrades include:
A new shade shelter in the small dog area
More seating for pet owners
An enlarged off-leash zone for small dogs
Additional tree planting for natural shade and greenery
Asphalt resurfacing and sealing of the park’s access road
The improvements come after a groundswell of community pressure. A petition lodged in April 2025 called out the repeated delays, with residents citing poor lighting, safety issues in the car park, and lack of transparency around the timeline.
Health and safety concerns have remained central to the community’s push for action, particularly after floodwaters in March and April left parts of the park unusable.
With works finally underway, the small dog community is hopeful that Perrin Park will soon offer the safe, shaded and well-equipped space they’ve long advocated for.
Toowong residents and commuters are being encouraged to have their say as Brisbane prepares to upgrade the Sylvan Road bikeway and surrounding local road network.
Sylvan Road is one of Brisbane’s most popular cycling corridors, linking the Bicentennial Bikeway to the Western Bikeway.
It also forms part of Queensland’s Principal Cycle Network. With more than 1,130 bike and e-mobility trips on an average weekday, the route presents a strong opportunity to enhance safety for everyone using the road.
Photo credit: BCC
However, it’s also known as one of the city’s more difficult routes, with fast-moving traffic, complex intersections, and minimal separation between cyclists and vehicles.
Brisbane is now looking to address these issues through a new round of community consultation, opening next week and running until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 6 July.
Key intersections under review include:
Sylvan Road & Milton Road
Sylvan Road, Jephson Street & Croyden Street
Milton Road, Croyden Street & Morley Street
Photo credit: Google Street View
These locations are seen as crucial pinch points for safety and connectivity, with potential improvements set to benefit not only cyclists but also pedestrians and drivers.
“These intersections are key for traffic flow and safety in the precinct. We’re investigating how to make them work better for all road users by reviewing turning arrangements and overall layout,” Council stated.
To support the consultation, a Pop-up Office will be held on:
Tuesday, 17 June, 7:00am–8:30am
Corner of Land Street and Sylvan Road, Toowong (near Duxbrew Café)
Locals can drop by to learn more about the proposed changes, share their travel experiences, and find out how to make a submission.
Council encourages all users of the area to take part in the consultation, highlighting that “your voice matters” in building a safer and more connected Brisbane.
For full consultation details and to make a submission, residents should keep an eye on Council’s website or local community updates.
A private psychiatric hospital in Toowong is closing after nearly five decades of operation, with administrators confirming the facility owed millions, including a significant debt to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
Toowong Private Hospital, a 58-bed psychiatric facility in Brisbane’s inner west, is ceasing operations after administrators determined the hospital could not continue due to severe financial pressure. The hospital, which had provided mental health services since 1976, has failed to find a buyer following its voluntary administration in May.
Established in the 1970s, the facility served over 3,000 patients annually and supported 154 specialist staff. It was founded by NA Kratzmann & Sons, a construction group led by builder Noel Austin Kratzmann. Mr Kratzmann chaired the hospital board until his death in 1989. The family also contributed to the University of Queensland’s psychiatric and cultural programs.
Creditors and Debt Details
Administrators from EY reported that the Australian Taxation Office was the hospital’s largest creditor, with an outstanding debt nearing $3.4 million. Total liabilities reached approximately $3.75 million, including amounts owed to suppliers such as Gateway Providores and The Wholesale Fruit Co. Additionally, about 60 staff are owed more than $1.2 million in wages and entitlements.
Administrators Cite Trading Challenges
According to administrators, the hospital faced challenges in the trading environment following the COVID-19 pandemic. The Australian Private Hospitals Association separately pointed to broader structural issues in the sector, including underpayment for insured patient care, ongoing delays in contract negotiations with insurers, and limited access to international psychiatric specialists.
Despite efforts to secure a buyer following the appointment of administrators on 14 May, no acquisition offers materialised. Administrators have since moved to implement a wind-down plan. Services will formally cease from 11 June, with patients and psychiatrists being notified and transition arrangements underway.
Community Reaction and Petition
The closure has prompted community concern, particularly from former patients and local representatives. An online petition launched by a previous patient has received over 1,700 verified signatures. The petition calls for Queensland Health to intervene and maintain the facility’s operations, citing its unique outreach programs and veteran-specific mental health services.
The petition also claimed that Toowong Private Hospital delivered integrated care involving psychology, occupational therapy, creative therapy, and other allied health support. It warned that the hospital’s closure would affect patients across Queensland who travel long distances for access to specialist mental health treatment.
EY has stated that continuity of care remains a priority, with psychiatrists coordinating directly with patients to manage transfers. Queensland Health is currently reviewing the potential impact on public mental health services, while the Department of Veterans’ Affairs is working to support affected service personnel and emergency workers.
Toowong Private Hospital, a longstanding mental health facility in Brisbane, will close permanently following financial challenges that administrators deemed insurmountable.
Toowong Private Hospital, a 58-bed psychiatric facility known for acute mental health care, will cease operations from Wednesday, 11 June. Operating since the 1970s, the hospital has served more than 3,000 patients annually and employed 154 specialist staff.
The hospital’s closure follows a review by administrators from EY, who were appointed in May. A formal creditors’ meeting and subsequent attempts to attract a buyer were unsuccessful. Administrators have now commenced a wind-down process, with staff notifying consulting psychiatrists and patients.
Sector Funding and Operational Challenges
The Australian Private Hospitals Association (APHA) has linked the closure to broader systemic issues in the private healthcare sector. According to APHA, private health insurers have recorded approximately $2 billion in annual profits and $3.5 billion in management fees, while many hospitals face a funding shortfall of over $1 billion annually due to underpayment for insured patient care.
Toowong, alongside other private hospitals, reportedly disclosed its financials to the federal government in an attempt to demonstrate these funding gaps. The association states no corrective policy action followed. Contributing factors raised include delays in insurer contract negotiations and restrictions on internationally trained psychiatrists.
Care Coordination and Impact on Services
EY administrators stated that patient continuity of care remains a priority. They are working with admitting psychiatrists to manage transitions on a case-by-case basis. The Department of Veterans’ Affairs confirmed it is collaborating with the hospital to support affected veterans and emergency services personnel.
As a long-serving mental health provider in Brisbane, Toowong’s closure will affect thousands of patients, some of whom travel from across Queensland. The shutdown will also displace 154 staff. Queensland Health is currently assessing the impact on public health services.
Local official Michael Berkman, whose electorate includes the hospital, stated that his office had heard from multiple former patients who expressed concern about reduced access to care. He noted that the hospital has played a critical role in treating trauma and PTSD, particularly for veterans and frontline workers. He has written to the Health Minister requesting state intervention, referencing past examples where the State has acquired private health facilities.
An online petition launched by a former patient is also calling on the State to step in. The petition describes the hospital’s contribution to holistic mental health care and its specialised programs, including outreach services and veteran-specific treatment. It warns that the closure could strain other health services across the state. Hundreds of individuals have signed the petition to date.
Families and commuters in Toowong will soon notice major changes to their local bus services, as Brisbane’s new public transport network delivers a redesigned set of routes focused on reducing traffic, improving school travel and making city commutes more reliable.
The changes begin Monday, 30 June 2025, as part of Brisbane Metro’s wider rollout to ease congestion and improve connections between suburbs and the city. Toowong will see a new school route, 716, linking students in Toowong and Taringa to Indooroopilly State High School, following strong community feedback.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Routes 726 and 744, used by students attending the Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology, will have new timings to suit bell times and ease traffic on Miskin Street. Routes 415 and 714 are also being extended to reach more of Toowong and Indooroopilly Woods. The updates aim to make school travel safer and more direct across the area.
City Commutes to See Fewer Delays
For Toowong commuters, the main change is that Route 470 will now end in Toowong instead of continuing into the city. This is expected to reduce delays from inner-city traffic and improve reliability.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
The shift is part of a wider plan to focus suburban routes locally while the Metro handles more city travel. Route 105 will also absorb Route 108, offering more consistent all-day service between nearby suburbs.
A Community Push Behind the Changes
Local feedback helped shape several of the new school-focused routes, including the introduction of Route 716. Councillor Penny Wolff said the changes reflect long-term plans to improve public transport in suburbs like Toowong.
Input from parents and school communities played a key role in aligning services with school hours. Rather than major overhauls, the updates focus on adjusting existing routes to better suit how residents travel each day.
What Toowong Commuters Can Expect Next
Ahead of the 30 June changes, Brisbane City Council has released updated maps and timetables online to help residents plan. Some services will be rerouted or removed, while others will run more frequently and reliably.
Toowong locals are encouraged to review the new network and share feedback. The goal is to better match services with real travel patterns and ease pressure on congested areas.
We’ve combed Auchenflower, Mount Coot-tha, Toowong, Toowong BC, and Toowong DC for the best reviewed restaurants in the area where people waxed lyrical about their dining experience and what they love most about it. Here’s our list!
Gaby A ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I recently came here with my partner for a celebratory dinner. Straight away, we were met with a beautiful ‘postcard’ congratulating our special occasion; beautiful touch! Our lovely waitress Leah attended to us promptly despite the restaurant being busy, and ran us through the food and beverage menu, recommending us an amazing red that paired perfectly with the steaks that we ordered. She uncorked the wine at our table and allowed us to try it before pouring, explaining the flavours to us. Our food was brought quickly and everything was delicious! Leah also stopped by often to fill our waters and wine, as well as checking that we were okay. This service goes above and beyond what I’ve experienced at other restaurants, and we will definitely be returning in the near future!
Geoff Y ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Leonardo was an exceptional host ensuring our lunch date was made that extra special. Leonardo went above and beyond to make pur lunch very enjoyable. The food was beautiful and very tasty. We really enjoyed the chefs work. The setting was very elegant. We felt like we were eating in a very nice restaurant, but with very down to earth waiters who wanted to engage and make the experience even more special. Thank you
Marianna SH K ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Superb steaks! The portions were not on the substantial side, but my party thoroughly enjoyed their steaks. The service was friendly and a little chaotic. The place felt quite spacious and full of natural light. Overall I’ll revisit the restaurant for the steaks in the near future.
Samuel J ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I was devastated when Frankie’s Smokehouse moved and the American BBQ options in my area dried up, so Bullrush Bistro is a very welcome addition. The meat was fantastic and the service excellent. It did seem a bit expensive (ignoring the public holiday surcharge), but maybe that’s a sign of the times. I will be returning to try their specialty, the brisket.
Cess ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ One of the premier private function venues for intimate gatherings of up to 20 people. Our experience was exceptional from start to finish, thanks to the attentive and friendly service we received. The staff showcased remarkable flexibility, easily accommodating our specific requests and ensuring every detail was taken care of. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, making it the perfect backdrop for our event. I highly recommend this venue to anyone searching for a memorable and well-serviced location for their special occasions.
Rachel ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had the Ultimate Platter and the serving was very generous and the food was delicious. Notably the chicken wings, sausages, beef brisket, ribs and corn were well seasoned. Service was attentive and the ambience as nice. Will definitely be back to try other items in the menu.
Christopher P ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I had an outstanding dining experience at this restaurant. The food was exceptional, with each dish bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors and beautifully presented. The menu offered a wonderful variety of options, catering to every taste. The service was equally impressive; the staff was attentive, friendly and knowledgeable, making sure we had everything we needed without being intrusive. The warm, welcoming atmosphere added to the overall experience, making it a place I’ll definitely return to. Highly recommended!
Joerg T ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This is probably the best katsu I had for a long time. The pork was succulent, moist and tender. The condiments went well with mains. The salmon was fresh too, and we came back again following day. I just glad I don’t live close by, otherwise, I might be back often. One of those, you pay for what you get. Few more economical options just across the street, just different quality. Also, some discount for cash payment. Pls note to call as this place is popular.
Yu-min S ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This restaurant is easy to find—I’d suggest parking at Toowong Village and taking a short walk over during the day. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a beautifully designed space that feels both stylish and welcoming. The food is absolutely delicious! While the sets are priced between $30-$35, they’re incredibly generous and filling. Trust me, you won’t leave disappointed. A definite 5-star experience—highly recommend!
Sharee D ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Our experience at Deer Duck bistro for our wedding anniversary was amazing. We really enjoyed it. The presentation of the degustation and the flavours was fantastic and the cocktail was delicious too. The service was excellent too
Kelly D ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We attended Deer Duck to celebrate my partners birthday and everything was exceptional! From the staff to the food, it was an easy evening to relax and enjoy some quality food. The long course degustation is worth a try! 10/10 guys!
Charlotte R ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We have been a few times now and each time we are blown away! This most recent time we visited for my husband’s birthday. We had the long course degustation and as always, the presentation of the dishes and tastes were divine. Our favourite dish was the first dessert, surprising as my husband isn’t usually one for desserts but he was raving about it! He also enjoyed the wine (a Tate Shiraz). Another wonderful experience.
Public Sessions Confirmed for Redevelopment Proposal
Residents in Toowong will have the opportunity to review and comment on the proposed redevelopment of the Toowong Central site during a series of in-person information sessions scheduled for 11 June 2025. The sessions will be held at Wests Bulldogs Rugby Club on Sylvan Road.
Organised by project leads Verso Developments and facilitated by engagement firm Three Plus, four 45-minute sessions will run consecutively between 4:00 p.m. and 6:15 p.m. Each session will allow residents to speak one-on-one with members of the project team, including representatives from architecture firm KHA, Urbis, and traffic consultants involved in the site design.
Residents can view concept posters, ask questions, and share their feedback on the plans. Registration is required to attend, and newsletters containing session details will be distributed throughout the area.
In addition to public sessions, a focus group discussion will also take place on the morning of the same day. This session will include local organisations such as the Toowong State School P&C, Toowong Residents Association, and the Toowong and District Historical Society. These groups provided early input into the planning process and are being invited to continue contributing feedback during this phase.
Photo Credit: CrPennyWolff/Facebook
Context and Ongoing Community Involvement
The 1.4-hectare site, previously occupied by a Woolworths supermarket, is being redeveloped into a mixed-use precinct. Community input has shaped the early design concepts since early 2024, with hundreds of residents participating through surveys and previous engagement efforts. The upcoming sessions are intended to provide further opportunity for residents to influence planning outcomes before finalisation.
The consultation on 11 June marks the next formal step in public engagement for the Toowong Central project. Residents are encouraged to register, attend, and provide feedback directly to the project team. Feedback can also be sent via email to info@theheartoftoowong.org.
Brisbane Boys’ College in Toowong has appointed a group of high-profile coaches to lead its GPS sports program, including former international athletes and national team coaches.
Brisbane Boys’ College (BBC), based in Toowong, has formalised a coaching roster comprising prominent former athletes and professional coaches to enhance its competitive presence across key GPS sports.
Former Australian men’s cricket coach John Buchanan now leads BBC’s First XI cricket side. Mr Buchanan, who previously coached Australia to two ICC World Cup titles and a Champions Trophy win, brings decades of high-level coaching experience to the school’s cricket program.
Photo Credit: Brisbane Boys’ College Co-curricular/Instagram
On the rugby field, the school has appointed Daniel Leo as First XV coach. Mr Leo, a former international lock for Samoa with 39 caps, also played professionally for clubs including the Queensland Reds, London Wasps, and Bordeaux Bègles. His coaching career includes roles in the UK before returning to Australia.
Photo Credit: Brisbane Boys’ College Co-curricular/Instagram
Brad Thorn, a dual international and long-time Brisbane Broncos player, has joined as an assistant rugby coach. Mr Thorn’s background spans both codes, with a playing career that includes an NRL premiership and a Rugby World Cup title with the All Blacks. He also served as head coach of the Queensland Reds until 2023.
Tennis Program Led by Former World No. 33
Photo Credit: Brisbane Boys’ College Co-curricular/Instagram
John Millman, who reached a career-high ATP singles ranking of No. 33 and retired in early 2024, now oversees the tennis program. Mr Millman represented Australia in the Davis Cup, Olympics, and major international tournaments, including a notable US Open quarterfinal run where he defeated Roger Federer.
Broader College Achievements
The coaching appointments follow BBC’s recent back-to-back national schoolboy tennis titles and ongoing global recognition in other areas. The college’s pipe band ranks third worldwide and remains the only Australian school with a standing invitation to perform at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
Brisbane Boys’ College in Toowong continues to strengthen its position in competitive school sport by investing in experienced coaching personnel. The initiative reflects the school’s broader strategy to provide multiple avenues for student development beyond the classroom.
Toowong Private Hospital, a long-standing psychiatric hospital, has been placed into voluntary administration, raising uncertainty for staff, patients and locals as the facility continues operating during efforts to determine its future.
The 58-bed Toowong Private Hospital entered external administration on Wednesday, 14 May, per public records. The hospital, which has been in service since 1976, was owned and operated by NA Kratzmann & Sons, a family company with deep roots in Queensland’s building industry.
A Trusted Facility in Flux
According to restructuring firm EY, the hospital’s operations will continue during the administration process. The firm has appointed David Kennedy, Colby O’Brien, Robyn Duggan, and Andrew Hanson to manage the transition. Staff were informed the day before the announcement, and the administrators stated their commitment to maintaining patient care and daily functions.
Mr Kennedy said the team recognises the difficulties faced by the hospital, particularly as it tries to recover from trading challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. A full financial and operational review is now underway, with the administrators actively exploring potential sale options to keep the hospital’s services going.
This decision follows months of unsuccessful efforts by the owners to find a buyer, which led to the appointment of voluntary administrators.
Photo Credit: publishednotices.asic.gov.au
Deep Roots in Brisbane’s History
The facility was developed by builder and property developer Noel Austin Kratzmann, who opened the hospital in May 1976 and served as its board chair until he died in 1989. Mr Kratzmann was a notable figure in Queensland’s construction sector from the 1950s, winning contracts for major developments such as the Chevron Hotel in Surfers Paradise, regional power stations, and several University of Queensland buildings.
Beyond construction, the Kratzmann family has a long-standing legacy in Brisbane’s cultural and academic sectors. They supported the establishment of the Twelfth Night Theatre’s home at Bowen Hills and later funded the Kratzmann Chair of Psychiatry at UQ. Their contributions also aided in restoring the university’s Customs House city campus.
What Comes Next
A first meeting of creditors is scheduled for 26 May 2025. Mr Kennedy has stated that all stakeholders—including patients, families, and staff—will be kept updated throughout the process.
The community, which has long relied on the hospital for psychiatric care, is expected to watch developments in the coming weeks closely. While the final outcome remains uncertain, the administrators clearly intend to prioritise continuity of care and assess the best path forward for the hospital’s future.
