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Riser in Toowong Serves a Sandwich That’s Turning Heads

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.

Read: Inside West Brisbane’s New Cafes Mis.spelt And Riser Bread

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.

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.

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.

Read: Street Spotlight: Birdwood Terrace, Toowong

You’ll find Riser at 85 Miskin Street, Toowong. If you haven’t been yet, this sandwich alone is reason enough to go.

Published 24-June-2025

Perrin Park Small Dog Area Upgrade Finally Begins After Delays

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.

Read: Perrin Park Site Unsuitable for New Primary School, Residents Say

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.

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.

Read: Toowong’s Perrin Park and Other Brisbane Parks Get New Free Outdoor Gyms

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.

Published 23-June-2025

Community Consultation Opens for Sylvan Road Bikeway & Local Network Upgrades

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.

Read: Sylvan Road Site Targeted for Medium-Density Development

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.

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

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.

Read: Community Sessions Announced for Toowong Central Redevelopment

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.

Published 10-June-2025

ATO Among Major Creditors as Toowong Private Hospital Shuts Down

Photo Credit: Toowong Private Hospital/Facebook

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).

Closure Confirmed Following Mounting Debt

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.

Longstanding Mental Health Provider

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.

Attempts to Sell Unsuccessful

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.

Ongoing Care Coordination

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.

sign the petition now

Published 10-June-2025

Toowong Private Hospital to Close After 50 Years

Photo Credit: Toowong Private Hospital/Facebook

Toowong Private Hospital, a longstanding mental health facility in Brisbane, will close permanently following financial challenges that administrators deemed insurmountable.

Hospital Closure After Nearly Five Decades

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.

Administrative Review and Financial Pressures

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.

Toowong Private Hospital closure — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Community Response and Calls for Intervention

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.

SIGN THE PETITION

Published 3-June-2025

Toowong Bus Routes Revamped Ahead of Brisbane Metro Launch

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.

Changes Focused on School Travel

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.

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.

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.

Published 2-June-2025

Community Sessions Announced for Toowong Central Redevelopment

Photo Credit: CrPennyWolff/Facebook

Community consultations are moving forward on a proposed redevelopment of a 1.4-km, former Woolworths site in Central Toowong.

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.

Toowong Central community feedback — *Photo Credit: CrPennyWolff/Facebook*

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.

Toowong Central site — *Photo Credit: CrPennyWolff/Facebook*

Targeted Group Engagement Also Planned

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.

Toowong Central Redevelopment — *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.

Summary of Next Steps

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.

Published 27-May-2025

Brisbane Boys’ College Appoints Elite Coaching Team in Toowong

Photo Credit: Brisbane Boys’ College Co-curricular/Instagram

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.

Elite Sports Appointments at Toowong College

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 National Coaches Join the Program

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.

Brisbane Boys’ College coaching — *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.

Toowong elite sports coaches — *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

Toowong sports — *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.

Looking Ahead

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.

Published 22-May-2025

Future of Toowong Private Hospital in Question as EY Takes Control

Photo Credit: Toowong Private Hospital/Facebook

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.

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.

Published 19-May-2025

Brisbane Boys College Pipers Expected to Feature in Prestigious Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Photo Credit: Brisbane Boys College Pipe Band/ Facebook

The renowned Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a spectacular showcase of military and cultural performances, will exclusively grace Brisbane in 2026 as part of its 75th-anniversary celebrations. Pipers from Toowong’s Brisbane Boys’ College, who have a strong history with the event, are expected to be among the performers.

Brisbane Set to Host Milestone Tattoo Event

For the first time since 2019, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is coming to Australia, choosing Brisbane as the sole location for its 75th-anniversary shows. This significant event, traditionally staged against the dramatic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, has evolved into a global stadium production featuring over 1,000 performers from more than 50 countries.

Two shows, ‘The Heroes Who Made Us,’ are scheduled at Brisbane’s Lang Park on February 12 and 14, 2026. Organisers anticipate a worldwide audience exceeding 100 million viewers.

Queensland Capital Chosen for Special Anniversary

*Photo Credit:* *Brisbane Boys College Pipe Band/ Facebook*

Event chief executive Jason Barrett described bringing the Tattoo to Brisbane for this milestone anniversary as a pivotal moment in the event’s history. He emphasised that it celebrates the human spirit, shared identity, and the individuals who shape communities.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli stated his ambition for Queensland to become the events capital, noting that the state’s commitment to hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games contributed to this opportunity. Mr Barrett added that the 2032 Games played a role in their decision, as it was evident that Queensland and Brisbane are on an upward trajectory. He also mentioned adding more shows if ticket demand warrants it.

Economic and Cultural Boost for Queensland

Queensland Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the state had actively pursued hosting the event, anticipating substantial economic and reputational benefits. He projected that this significant event could attract national and international visitors, potentially generating up to $39 million for Queensland’s economy and enhancing Brisbane’s global reputation as a vibrant city.

Local Piping Talent Expected to Participate

Brisbane Boys’ College in Toowong has a long-standing tradition of maintaining a pipe band. Their pipers have previously performed at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in 2018 (Edinburgh) and 2019 (Sydney). Given this history and the emphasis on Australian performers for the Brisbane shows, their involvement in the 2026 event is considered highly probable.

Pipe Major Alisdair McLaren, who has directed previous Tattoo appearances since 2017, has also trained Brisbane Boys’ College pipers for past events. He started playing bagpipes at 13 and has become a prominent Pipe Major.

Mr McLaren has tutored pipers for the Tattoo, including representatives from Brisbane Boys College in 2022. He also travelled to Brisbane annually for the Australasian Piping Solo Competition.

Tickets for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Brisbane will go on sale on 21 May.

Published Date 14-May-2025