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Toowong Village Named State’s Top Retail Property After Major Makeover

Toowong Village has been named Retail Property of the Year at the 2023 Queensland Retail Property Awards, recognising the shopping centre’s innovative repositioning and marketing efforts following a major redevelopment.

Read: Toowong Village Revamps Its Retail Line Up

The property, owned by YFG Shopping Centres and managed by Retail First, underwent significant renovations over the past year to revitalise the complex. The project added new dining and entertainment options to create a lively restaurant precinct.

In 2022, they welcomed Woolworths, TK Maxx, two international supermarkets, and a mix of specialty retailers.

According to the Property Council of Australia, which hosts the awards, Toowong Village stood out for transforming a ‘land-locked vertical asset’ through creative thinking.

“Toowong Village has been a strong performer across all Awards they entered this year, but it was their work in repositioning a land locked vertical asset through innovative development thinking and a corresponding marketing campaign that drove visitation, sales, and positive feedback that saw them take out the top prize,” the Property Council of Australia has stated.

One highlight of their marketing campaign was the Heart Gallery, a two-month exhibition from March to May 2023 showcasing works by local artists. The free event supported the community and arts whilst drawing customers to the reimagined property.

Retail First’s ‘The Heart Gallery’ campaign also won the Community Award at this year’s Retail Property Awards for Queensland.

Property Council of Australia said the campaign was a unique drawcard, driving traffic and sales whilst fostering connections with community and charities and shone a light on local talent.

About Toowong Village

The site where Toowong Village now stands has a long history intertwined with the development of Brisbane’s inner west. In the early 20th century, the land housed Patterson’s Sawmill, which relied on the adjacent railway to transport timber and products.

Toowong Sawmill about 1916-17, sawing Queensland hoop pine logs from Brookfield-Enoggera area. This mill was burnt down in 1918 (Photo credit: John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland)

After the sawmill closed down, the prime location beside the Toowong train station was ripe for redevelopment. In 1986, the Toowong Village shopping centre and office tower opened on the former sawmill property.

Spanning over 40,000 sqm, Toowong Village transformed the old industrial site into a major retail and commercial hub.

In 2015, Toowong Village underwent a major $50 million redevelopment to modernise the dated complex.

The $50 million modernisation of Toowong Village dramatically updated the shopping experience. Interiors were revamped with a simplified mall layout to improve navigation. The parking system was overhauled to make entering and exiting more efficient.

Read: Check Out These Brilliantly Painted Fiberglass Hearts at The Heart Gallery Exhibition In Toowong

The tired food court was refurbished with fresh dining options. An alfresco restaurant precinct was added along the front side of the complex on High Street. This new area allows patrons to enjoy dining outdoors along the bustling Sherwood Road.

Published 11-October-2023

Brisbane Boys’ College Students Hit High Note With National Pipe Band Win

Did you know that the BBC Number 3 Band clinched first place for Brisbane Boys’ College Toowong at the Australian Juvenile Pipe Band Championships in Warwick?

Read: BBC Rowing Team Aims for Another Historic Henley Royal Regatta Win

Composed primarily of Junior School and Year 7 students, the band beat out stiff competition to take home the top prize in their division.

Brisbane Boys College has three pipe bands, along with a learner program, with a history of service to the school and community that dates back to 1940. The bands cater to various levels of pipers or drummers, from beginner to advanced.

Photo credit: Brisbane Boys’ College (BBC)/Facebook

All together, the BBC Pipe Band has had numerous local and international achievements, including at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and the World Pipe Band Championships. The Band also participates in biennial competition tours to Scotland.

In a post on BBC’s social media page, the school expressed delight at the Number 3 Band’s extraordinary accomplishment, congratulating the talented group of young musicians for the dedication and teamwork that led to this championship title. The school also won the championship title in the Development category.

About the The Australian Juvenile Pipe Band Championships

Photo credit: Pipe Bands Australia/Facebook

The Australian Juvenile Pipe Band Championships brings together top young performers from around the country to compete in one of the most prestigious competitions for budding pipers and drummers.

The inaugural Australian Juvenile Pipe Band Championships and Australian Solo Championships took place at SCOTS PGC College in Warwick from September 29-30, marking the first time these prestigious competitions for young pipers and drummers have been held.

The event commenced with focused development opportunities such as workshops and recitals for developing youth Pipe Band organisations.

In the Juvenile A division, BBC came in second place behind Scotch College Melbourne who finished first.

Read: Stuartholme School To Represent Australia In First Rugby Heritage Cup In France

The students from the Brisbane Boys’ College also placed first in the Marches competition ahead of Knox Grammar and the SCOTS PGC Warwick Development band who came in third and fourth place respectively.

Published 5-October-2023

Continental Butcher and Delicatessen Shuts Down Amid Rising Costs

Photo Credit: Continental Butcher and Delicatessen

After two and a half years of offering Toowong residents a taste of Europe through high-end meats and gourmet deli delights, Continental Butcher and Delicatessen shuts down. Rising living costs have taken their toll.

Owned by Flemming Jakobsen, who brings a wealth of international butchery experience, and his wife Lina Kasjan, this unique establishment prided itself on crafting old-fashioned charcuterie, using natural spices and grass-fed beef for that distinctive taste.

Photo Credit: Continental Butcher and Delicatessen

Lina shared their regretful decision, “We’re very sad to be leaving. The last six months have been quiet due to the cost of living; nobody has money to spend on this kind of food.”

The local community had warmly embraced this gourmet gem. Regulars came from as far as the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast, and the shop was next to a renowned restaurant and French pâtisserie, adding to the vibrant culinary scene.

Customers took to social media to express their support and sadness. One remarked, “I’ll miss the best leverpostej (Danish liver pate) outside of Denmark.” Another shared, “Thank you so much for providing us with such delicious and delightful Danish food; I wish you great health and abundance going forward.”

As for what’s next, Lina and Flemming are exploring the idea of having a food truck, eager to continue sharing their culinary creations with the community.

Published 25-September-2023

Toowong Recycling Hero Turns Trash into Treasure for a Cause

Nicholas Whiting was running a recycling program in Paddington whilst working at a bottle shop in Paddington Central. When their lease was not renewed, he almost lost his job which added pressure on his recycling program. Soon enough, they were able to find a new space in Toowong where the business as well as his initiative is now running smoothly.

Read: Local Community Split on Toowong to West End Green Bridge

The Gap resident Nicholas works at Embassy Cellars Toowong and currently runs a recycling program where he is able to raise funds for Doctors Without Borders.

His journey, however, began in May 2021 when he was employed at Spiros Bottle Shop in Paddington. He was at the time in pursuit of his BP Award, the pinnacle of recognition of the Rover section of scouting, and he was searching for a community development project.

It was then that he noticed the absence of recycling bins at Paddington Central, except for a lone cardboard bin. He thought that this oversight meant the Spiros Bottle Shop’s recyclables, including bottles and cans, were ending up in the garbage.

Toowong Recycling Hero Turns Trash into Treasure for a Cause

Photo Credit: supplied

With the help of his manager, Stuart, he started collecting wine bottles and other recyclables at their shop, and utilising the containers for change to raise funds from the bottles and cans he collected.

Nicholas also reached out to Paddington councillor, Peter Matic, and his team, who generously donated a recycling bin and several large recycling bags. He also attempted to secure a spot for the bin at Paddington Central but was unsuccessful.

Photo Credit: supplied

He, however, was able to find a new home for the recycling bin at the Brisbane Tramway Museum in Ferny Grove. The bin still sits there to this day and continues to serve the local community.

Read: The Curious Case of ‘The Temple of Peace’

Nicholas did earn his BP Award, but his passion and commitment to the cause didn’t wane, even after the Spiros Paddington closed in late 2022. When Mr Spero Conias, the owner of Spiros Paddington, decided to open Embassy Cellars Toowong, Nicholas found a fresh opportunity to collect containers and promote sustainable practices within his workplace.

Photo Credit: supplied

Since 2021, Nicholas has managed to raise an impressive $828.50 for Doctors Without Border through his recycling initiative that not only benefits the environment but also supports a noble cause.

His recycling program has indeed been successful, but he said that he owes much of its success to the people that he works with at Embassy Cellars Toowong, particularly his manager, Stuart, who has been supporting his initiative since day one.

His recycling initiatives and charitable work serve as an inspiration and testament to positive change that an individual could make with determination and passion coupled with support from the community.

Published 22-September-2023

Local Community Split on Toowong to West End Green Bridge

The proposed Toowong to West End green bridge has received mixed reactions since plans were announced to move forward with the design phase by the end of the year.

Read: Toowong to West End Green Bridge Design Phase to Start Soon

The bridge, aimed at improving cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, would span the Brisbane River connecting Toowong and West End.

Conflicting Views

Although there is robust support on the Toowong side of the river and from cycling advocacy groups, some local organisations have expressed doubts. ParK It, a Toowong community group seeking to preserve riverfront park space, said they were disappointed with the lack of action so far.

West End Green Bridge — Aerial view of the concept design for Toowong to West End bridge (Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr)

The group said the community urges the Brisbane City Council to promptly proceed with this vital infrastructure through an inclusive process involving the community at each phase. This will help maximise the small remaining greenspace in Toowong and minimise damage to greenspace in West End, the group stated.

On the other side of the river, the West End Community Association has concerns about potential impacts to Cranbrook Place. The association believes that a bridge may not be the best use of funds.

For active transport, infrastructure on Vulture Street should be prioritised first in their view. Solutions are needed that alleviate bottlenecks and save people time, the association stated.

Funding Concerns

Meanwhile, details about funding for the next design phase remain uncertain, despite officials announcing plans to move forward.

Read: Cyclist Sought for Questioning in Five-Year Car Scratching Spree along Sylvan Rd in Toowong

The bridge has an estimated price tag of $190 million. Whilst the Queensland Government has committed $10 million towards planning and development, additional sources for the remaining costs have not been finalised.

Around one third of the funding required for the Toowong to West End bridge, as well as other proposed green bridges, will need to be secured from state and federal government

However, the council said that undertaking detailed design work is crucial before requesting funding from the state and federal governments. They added that completing detailed design work is necessary before seeking funding from the state and federal governments.

Published 20-September-2023

The Curious Case of ‘The Temple of Peace’

In the heart of Toowong Cemetery, a grand and enigmatic mausoleum stands, occasionally referred to as the “Temple of Peace,” defying the Australian tradition of modest gravesites.

Read: Toowong to West End Green Bridge Design Phase to Start Soon

It is a truly imposing sight, characterised by a towering structure adorned with a concrete urn and its walls adorned with stained glass. The heritage-listed memorial, located at the corner of Frederick Street and Mt Coot-tha Road was designed and built by Richard Paul Carl Ramo.

Upon initial inspection, the Temple of Peace appears to be a heartfelt homage to a father’s departed sons and a beloved pet. Welcoming visitors is a lintel bearing the same title, along with marble plaques inscribed with the names Fred, Gordon, Victor, Henry, and “I.”

Inside the chamber, one encounters marble tablets, whilst the ceiling bears the names and places of death of two of Richard Ramo’s sons. A statue of a little dog guards the entry, signifying a painful loss brought on by deliberate poisoning, and stained glass panels at the back honour Victor’s passing.

Recent investigations, however, have uncovered a complicated history for this extraordinary mausoleum. Although Richard Ramo did not leave any writings behind, it is now thought that many claims made about the monument are either untrue or misleading.

The absence of their real names from the tomb suggests that Ramo may have made up the existence of three of his alleged sons who died in World War I. He did have two other sons, Percy and Cecil. The latter enlisted whilst the former did not; however, neither died during the War.

Intriguingly, there are hints of a connection between Ramo and the Industrial Workers of the World and the Rationalist Society, suggested by references to the Red Flag and other inscriptions.

Read: St Ignatius School Unveils Two New Murals, Celebrates 120 Years

On December 6, 1924, the Temple of Peace was dedicated in a ceremony attended by thousands, primarily from socialist and pacifist communities. A casket said to contain the remains of Ramo’s “adopted son” Fred, who had tragically taken his own life, was placed inside the mausoleum. The dedication was presided over by the president of the Rationalist Association.

The question of how Ramo, who was not considered wealthy, financed this grand monument remains a puzzle. Ramo’s story concluded with his death in 1951, and his ashes were interred alongside the ”alleged” sons he had honoured.

Published 9-September-2023

Toowong to West End Green Bridge Design Phase to Start Soon

After being paused to prioritise Brisbane’s flood recovery last year, the proposed Toowong to West End green bridge is set to move into the detailed design phase by the end of 2023.

Read: Steps Taken to Acquire Toowong Green Bridge Landing Site

The Toowong to West End pedestrian and cycle bridge, which would span the Brisbane River connecting the two suburbs, is one of four green bridges proposed by Brisbane City Council. It could support over 5,000 trips per day by 2041 if built.

Toowong to West End Green Bridge rest point with seating and viewing opportunities – Artist’s impression only (Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr)

According to updates from Council, planning for the bridge had been paused to focus on the city’s flood recovery efforts. But with developers now moving on the former ABC Toowong site, securing the land for the bridge was identified as a priority.

Proposed riverside park and plaza at the Toowong landing (Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr)

The concept design for the bridge was unveiled in late 2021 and community consultations were undertaken until early 2022. Based on the outcome of the consultations, the concept design received generally positive feedback on the proposed bridge form.

Key features of the proposed bridge

a curved single-mast cable stay bridge form with a length of about 280m and mast height of 75m above water level
a single water-based pier on the Toowong side of the Brisbane River to minimise impacts on river users
dedicated pathways for walkers and riders, with a minimum width of 6m and accessible grades
a bridge clearance height of 11.4 metres, with provision for a 70m wide navigation channel
a rest point and widened pathway (up to 9m) adjacent to the bridge mast with seating and viewing opportunities
shade along the length of the walking path
a new riverside green space at the Toowong landing
a landing at Orleigh Park that minimises impacts on open space and provides a direct connection to the walking and cycling network.

An estimated one third of funding for the Toowong to West End bridge and other planned green bridges needs to come from state and federal governments. Council has yet to apply for state government funding for the Toowong to West End bridge project.

The Council is pushing forward with plans for the Toowong to West End bridge, saying detailed design work is essential before approaching the state and federal governments for funding.

Read: Could Toowong Soon Witness the Rise of Higher Density and Taller Skyscrapers?

So far, only the plans for the Kangaroo Point green bridge and the Breakfast Creek green bridge are progressing. Like the Toowong to West End bridge, The St Lucia to West End green bridge has also been paused to prioritise flood recovery.

Published 31-August-2023

St Ignatius School Unveils Two New Murals, Celebrates 120 Years

Artists Brenda Mau and Christian Griffiths painted two new murals at St Ignatius School, paying tribute to the history of the Turrbul and Yuggera peoples that occupied the land where the school stands, and honouring the legacy of the Jesuit Fathers and Mercy Sisters, as the school celebrates its 120th year.

Read: Empowering Abilities: Anthony Flourishes in Project SEARCH, Spreading Joy in the Day Treatment Unit

The first mural, designed by acclaimed Indigenous artist Brenda Mau, depicts the history of the Turrbul and Yuggera peoples in the Toowong area where the school now stands.

Titled “Many Identities, One Community,” the mural follows the path of the Maiwar (Brisbane River) and uses elements and colours to represent the life of the land and waters over thousands of years.

Photo credit: St Ignatius Catholic Primary School Toowong/Facebook

At the unveiling, St Ignatius principal Duncan Maitland spoke of the school’s deep connection to the land and its First Nations history.

“For thousands of years, Toowong has been a gathering place for First Nations Peoples and is known as a place of wisdom where culture is shared,” said Mr Maitland.

“We are proud to say Toowong continues to be a place of community and of learning.”

Artist Brenda Mau, who is of Mandubarra, Kalkadoon, Wuthathi, Ngadjonjii and Torres Strait Islander descent, said she aimed to share her culture and art with the school community through thoughtful design details.

To commemorate its 120th anniversary, St Ignatius School also unveiled a second mural, this one by artist Christian Griffiths.

The mural pays tribute to the legacy of the Jesuit Fathers and Mercy Sisters who contributed to the school over the years.

A focal point of the artwork is Goldicott House. Goldicott, built in 1885 for Brisbane engineer Charles Lambert Depre. In 1903, Goldicott was renamed Mount St Mary’s Convent after Sisters of Mercy purchased the property and was used as a boarding house for students and the Mercy Sisters.

About St Ignatius School Toowong

Over the years, the school now known as St Ignatius Parish School has undergone several name changes, but its dedication to growth and excellence has remained constant.

Originally called St Michael and Holy Souls, then renamed Toowong Convent School, the institution’s rich history is one of continuous improvement as it educates new generations. The school is named after St Ignacius, the Founder of the religious order known as the Society of Jesus, more commonly called the Jesuits.

During the laying of the foundation stone for the school on 2 November 2 1902, Archbishop Robert Dunne passionately encouraged the people to embrace the new school wholeheartedly. His wishes came to fruition when the school was blessed and opened in 1903, becoming a cherished part of the community.

Read: Check Out These Brilliantly Painted Fiberglass Hearts at The Heart Gallery Exhibition In Toowong

Now, nearly 120 years since its founding, St Ignatius Parish School continues to thrive as an exceptional learning community where students are nurtured to reach and surpass their potential.

Published 24-August-2023

Cyclist Sought for Questioning in Five-Year Car Scratching Spree along Sylvan Rd in Toowong

Police are intensifying efforts to identify and locate a cyclist believed to be a person of interest in a series of car-scratching incidents that have plagued Sylvan Road in Toowong for the past five years.

The picturesque road, a favourite among cyclists as it connects two significant bikeways, has been marred by over 20 cases of vehicular damage.

Authorities are urging residents and car owners who have parked their vehicles on Sylvan Road since 2018 to come forward if their cars have been scratched. This plea for information comes as investigators strive to gather any and all leads related to the case.

“Initial information indicates vehicles parked along Sylvan Road have been scratched along the side in a series of incidents since 2018,” shared the police in a recent statement. The deliberate act of scratching vehicles has led to numerous wilful damage reports, leaving car owners both perplexed and frustrated by the ongoing issue.

In a potential breakthrough, law enforcement officials have released photographs of an individual they seek to question regarding the spate of car scratching occurrences. The man, who is often seen cycling in the vicinity, is deemed a person of interest who “may be able to assist with ongoing investigations,” according to the police statement.

Authorities are actively seeking assistance from the public to identify the individual in question. Anyone who recognizes the cyclist or possesses any relevant information is urged to come forward to aid in the ongoing investigation.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Published 22-Aug-2023

IJ Capital Buys The Aviary Toowong Site for $53 Million, Plans to Build Billion-Dollar Town Centre

Photo Credit: The Aviary Toowong / aviarytoowong.com.au

The Aviary development in Toowong, idle some time, is now getting a fresh start as investment company IJ Capital prepares to build a $1-billion town centre at 9,000-sqm site that they acquired for $53 million.

IJ Capital has big plans for the area. They aim to work with the owner of the nearby property at 80-88 Jephson Street on a joint project with the vision of a massive complex covering 1.3 hectares of land with shops, offices, and homes.

Located at the corner of Sherwood Road and High Street, the future site of a new, billion-dollar town centre was purchased from Ray White Capital (RW Capital) and State Development Corporation.

The Aviary Toowong Site Acquired by IJ Capital for $53 Million — Photo Credit: The Aviary Toowong / aviarytoowong.com.au

For the previous owners, the decision to sell the Aviary Toowong site was influenced by the challenges caused by COVID-19, increasing building costs, and higher interest rates.

Ross McKinnon, the managing director of State Development Corporation, emphasised this and mentioned that the sale will help RW Capital pay back its investors after a time of uncertainty.

“We are delighted that the purchaser will look to develop the property,” said Ross McKinnon, expressing optimism about the project’s potential to benefit the Toowong community.

“Since launching the development in 2020, we have received overwhelming support from council, local residents, and retail tenants, and we have no doubt that once built, the project will provide fantastic amenity to the Toowong community.”

Negotiated by Christian Sandstrom of Knight Frank, the deal was something that took an extended period to put together.

“This property is in a prime site in the heart of Toowong, and will follow other recent developments including the Monarch development on the old ABC site and Mosaic developments on Sylvan Road and Archer Street.”

The Aviary Toowong development comprises 150-residential units, 30 curated retail spaces, a 20-level office tower, and a cinema. The town centre draws inspiration from the iconic Grove Shopping Centre in Los Angeles.

Published 2-August-2023