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Darra to Toowong Tunnel: Queensland’s Tunnel Plan Sparks Infrastructure Debate

Plans for a feasibility study on a tunnel stretching from Darra to Toowong, as part of the Centenary Motorway upgrade, have sparked both excitement and criticism among local officials, residents, and transportation experts.

Read: Plans To Upgrade Section Of Toowong To Darra Gets $10M In Funding Commitment

Jess Pugh, MP for Mt Ommaney, hailed the potential tunnel as a “game changer” for the community. He believes exploring options like a tunnel will not only benefit local businesses and residents who rely on the motorway but also commuters who will be able to catch more reliable buses.

Darra to Toowong — Centenary Motorway upgrade planning project map (Photo credit: tmr.qld.gov.au)

RACQ Calls for a Broader Perspective

While the proposal has garnered support, it has also faced criticism. The Royal Automobile Club of Queensland (RACQ) argues that the tunnel, as currently envisioned, falls short of providing a comprehensive solution to the region’s traffic woes.

Joshua Cooney, General Manager of Advocacy at RACQ, stated the need for a more holistic approach: “Any study needs to look at what’s happening at the northern end of the route. There’s no point feeding traffic into Brisbane City or the Inner City Bypass. This would effectively mean spending billions of taxpayer dollars to shift the problem from one location to another.”

RACQ is advocating for an “orbital solution” that would provide an alternative route around the city rather than through it. Cooney suggested linking the proposed tunnel with a north-west bypass corridor, potentially connecting to the Gympie Road Bypass once completed.

Current Congestion and Future Concerns

The urgency of the situation is underscored by current traffic conditions on the Centenary Motorway. During peak hours, traffic speeds slow to around 37 km/hour from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. in both directions.

RACQ previously called for comprehensive planning to address Southeast Queensland’s predicted population growth and to deliver lasting transport legacy projects for the 2032 Olympic Games and beyond.

Read: Toowong to West End Bridge: Brisbane’s Stalled Project Seeks New Momentum

Looking Ahead

As the tunnel feasibility study moves forward, the debate continues over how best to alleviate traffic congestion and improve transportation infrastructure in the region. The outcome of this study and subsequent decisions will likely have far-reaching implications for Brisbane’s urban landscape and the daily lives of its residents for decades to come.

Published 13-September-2024

Regatta Hotel in Toowong Marks 150-year Milestone with Weekend Festival

Regatta Hotel in Toowong will mark its 150th birthday with a three-day festival, transforming the iconic pub’s laneway into a hub of live music, gourmet food, and special beverages.

The festivities will run from 13th to 15th September, kicking off at 4:00 p.m. on Friday and continuing throughout the weekend. Entry to the event is free, allowing community members and visitors alike to join in the historic celebration.

What to Expect

Local and interstate bands and DJs will provide a diverse musical lineup for the event. The weekend’s headliner, Tia Gostelow, will perform at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, 14th September. Gostelow, a Yuwi-based indie artist, gained recognition at 16 when she won Triple J’s Unearthed High Indigenous Initiative. Her debut album, Thick Skin, achieved GOLD certification, while her single “Strangers” went PLATINUM.

The laneway will host a food festival featuring a variety of gourmet food stalls. Visitors can also enjoy special anniversary cocktails and craft beers created specifically for the occasion.

Organisers recommend using public transport to attend the event, as the pub’s car park will be used as the festival venue. The Regatta has its own ferry terminal, making it easily accessible from various parts of Brisbane, including West End.

For those seeking a more upscale experience, the Regatta Hotel will host a 150-Year Birthday Dinner on 19th September. The event, held in the Boatshed Restaurant from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., will feature a five-course degustation menu prepared by Head Chef Lochlan Alexander accompanied by a premium three-hour beverage package.

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Historical Significance

The Regatta Hotel has been a central part of the Toowong community since 1874. Originally a one-storey wooden family home, it was transformed into a grand hotel in 1886, designed by architect Richard Gailey. The pub has evolved over the years, becoming the first in Queensland to allow women to drink in the public bar.

With 160 staff members working to cater to guests during the celebrations, the event highlights the Regatta Hotel’s role as a significant employer in the area. The pub continues to serve as a gathering place for university students, locals, and visitors, offering options from early morning coffee to late-night dining.

Published 12-Sept-2024

Toowong Enterprise Launches ‘Get Set for Impact’ to Boost Female-Led Startups

Ithaca Impact, with an office in Toowong, has launched an innovative program called ‘Get Set for Impact’ aimed at empowering purpose-driven female founders across Queensland.

Read: Statue Planned for Merle Thornton Near Regatta Hotel in Toowong

The initiative comes at a critical time. Recent data reveals a stark imbalance in Australia’s startup ecosystem: of the $3.5 billion invested in startups last year, a mere 4 percent was allocated to all-female led businesses. This underwhelming figure stands in sharp contrast to the superior economic, social, and environmental outcomes these ventures typically achieve.

Dr Elizabeth Armstrong, Managing Director of Ithaca Impact and a female founder herself, emphasises the urgency of the situation. “To help innovation thrive, we need to shift the needle on backing for female founders,” she stated.

The ‘Get Set for Impact’ program is designed to do just that, offering a suite of resources to help women entrepreneurs capture, showcase, and leverage their social and environmental impact to attract investment.

Inside ‘Get Set for Impact’: Tailored Support for Purpose-Driven Ventures

Supported by Advance Queensland, a Queensland government initiative, the program provides participants with customised impact tools, personalised one-on-one support, and access to a high-profile showcase event. These resources are tailored to help female founders articulate their impact story in clear, visually compelling ways that resonate with impact investors.

The program’s structure is both intensive and intimate. Small cohorts of six entrepreneurs will work closely with the Ithaca Impact team to develop a Theory of Change, implement evidence collection strategies, and create bespoke online impact dashboards. This hands-on approach ensures that each participant receives the attention and guidance needed to maximise their potential.

‘Get Set for Impact’ is part of the broader Accelerating Female Founders Program, an initiative that has allocated over $2 million in funding from Advance Queensland to support female entrepreneurs across the state. Ithaca Impact is one of 11 agencies awarded funding in Round 2 of this program, with their focus on Impact Measurement and Management.

By providing the tools, support, and visibility needed to succeed in a competitive landscape, ‘Get Set for Impact’ is poised to not only boost individual businesses but also contribute to a more balanced and impactful startup ecosystem in Australia.

Read: Toowong Village Stepping Up to Help Domestic Violence Victims

For female founders in Queensland with a vision for positive change, this Toowong-based initiative offers a golden opportunity to turn their impact aspirations into measurable, investable realities. As the program gains momentum, all eyes will be on these emerging leaders and the transformative effects their ventures promise to deliver.

Published 6-September-2024

Wests Bulldogs to Clash with Souths and Brothers Finals at Ballymore Stadium

The Wests Bulldogs are gearing up for an action-packed day at Ballymore Stadium, where they will face off against the Souths Rugby Club and Brothers Rugby Club. The Colts One grand final against Souths will kick off at 12:45 p.m. on 1 September, followed by the highly anticipated Premier Grade grand final rematch against Brothers at 2:45 p.m.

Read: Statue Planned for Merle Thornton Near Regatta Hotel in Toowong

Wests Bulldogs fell UQ in 2022 grand final rematch

In a hard-fought preliminary final, Wests emerged victorious with a 39-27 win over the University of Queensland. Despite facing an early 10-0 deficit, the Bulldogs turned the game around with a series of strategic plays and relentless pressure, eventually securing the victory.

Centre Lebron Naea was instrumental, delivering crucial defensive stops and contributing to key tries that shifted the momentum.

Wests’ lineup features several superstar players, including the dominant Wallabies backrower Seru Uru and the explosive Reds winger Suliasi Vunivalu.

The team is further strengthened by key players such as Reds halfback Louis Werchon, along with Connor Anderson, Angelo Smith, Ethan Dobbins, and David Vaihu. Their experience at the highest level of Australian rugby adds significant depth to the Wests squad.

Premier Grade grand final rematch vs Brothers

This grand final marks Wests’ third consecutive appearance in the Hospital Cup decider—and a rematch of 2023. This time, they aim to reverse last year’s narrow 26-24 loss to Brothers.

Despite Brothers securing the minor premiership on points, Wests recorded more wins during the home-and-away season, with 12 victories compared to Brothers’ 11, making this matchup a proper clash of the titans.

Brothers’ roster includes notable Reds James O’Connor, Ryan Smith, and Dre Pakeho, setting the stage for a talent-laden grand final rematch.

Flyhalf Mason Gordon is confident in the team’s game plan, emphasising that, “After giving up that early lead to UQ, we regrouped and our focus was on defence and being big and physical.” Wests faithful hope that this approach will be their edge in Sunday’s final.

Colts One and 5th Grade grand finals

In addition to the Premier Grade final, Wests fans can also support their Colts One team in their match against returning finalists Souths Rugby. This clash, kicking off a few hours earlier than the main event, will be another highlight of the day as Wests look to accomplish the triple.

Before the Premier Grade and Colts One finals, the Wests 5th Grade team will also take on Brothers in the first of their Grand Final games on 31 August, 9:30 a.m.

Read: Toowong Bowls Club Site to be Demolished, Community Input Sought for Redevelopment

As Sunday approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be an enthralling conclusion to the Queensland Premier Rugby season.

Published 28-August-2024

Statue Planned for Merle Thornton Near Regatta Hotel in Toowong

In a significant move to commemorate one of Queensland’s most influential feminist, plans have been announced to erect a statue in honour of the late Merle Thornton near Toowong’s Regatta Hotel.

Read: Regatta Hotel Leads Brisbane’s Winter Pub Scene

Dr Merle Thornton, who passed away at 93 on August 16, etched her name in history with a daring protest in 1965.

Photo credit: National Archives of Australia

Along with a friend, she chained herself to the foot rail of the Regatta Hotel, challenging the absurd ban on women drinking in public bars. This act of defiance became a watershed moment for the feminist movement in Australia.

The protest, though met with police intervention, garnered unexpected support from male patrons who bought drinks for the chained women. The incident concluded with a memorable quip from the police, “Goodnight girls. Have a good time. Don’t drink too much,” after they cut the chains.

Dr Thornton’s activism extended far beyond this single event. She founded the Equal Opportunities for Women Association, which campaigned successfully for the removal of the ‘Marriage Bar’ in 1966. This discriminatory policy had forced married women to resign from the Commonwealth Public Service, effectively punishing women for their marital status.

Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) file on Merle Thornton outlining her involvement in forming the Equal Opportunities for Women association (Photo credit: National Archives of Australia)

As an academic, Dr Thornton left an indelible mark on Australian education. At the University of Queensland, she established the Women’s Studies Course, recognised as the first of its kind in the country. Her contributions to academia, women’s rights, and indigenous rights earned her appointment as a member of the Order of Australia in 2015.

Dr Thornton AM after being awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters at UQ (Photo credit: uq.edu.au)

Thornton’s legacy continues to inspire. In 2020, 55 years after her famous protest, women from the University of Queensland gathered at what is now officially known as “Merle’s Bar” in the Regatta Hotel to celebrate her honorary doctorate.

The planned statue will stand as a permanent reminder of Dr Thornton’s courage and the progress made in women’s rights. It will also serve as an inspiration for future generations to continue the fight for equality.

Merle Thornton is survived by her son Harold and daughter Sigrid Thornton, a renowned Australian actor. Her life’s work, which included involving her family in various forms of activism such as opposing the Vietnam War, demonstrates the far-reaching impact of her dedication to social justice.

Read: Toowong Village Stepping Up to Help Domestic Violence Victims

As Toowong prepares to honour this remarkable woman, the statue will not only commemorate Merle Thornton but also stand as a testament to the power of individuals to effect change and the ongoing journey towards true equality in Australian society.

Published 27-August-2024

Toowong Bowls Club Site to be Demolished, Community Input Sought for Redevelopment

Photo Credit: CrPennyWolff/ Facebook

Plans have been announced to demolish the flood-ravaged Toowong Bowls Club site, with community input being sought on potential redevelopment options. The site has remained unused since the devastating floods of 2022. Local authorities are keen to revitalise the area while ensuring resilience against future flooding events.

Locals have responded enthusiastically to the call for input, suggesting various innovative and practical ideas. Some residents have proposed planting iconic Moreton Bay figs to enhance the greenery and provide shade for future generations. Others have suggested a skate facility for local youth, community playgrounds, tennis courts, or a BMX track.

A recurring theme in the community feedback is the desire for a versatile space to accommodate various events and activities. One resident envisions a large, covered structure on the existing bowling fields, similar to the popular Bardon Bowls Club, which could host markets, charity events, music performances, and informal gatherings.

*Photo Credit:* *CrPennyWolff/ Facebook*

The dilapidated building and concrete slabs are scheduled to be demolished in August. The council is committed to transforming the site into a parkland that enhances the Brisbane lifestyle. Residents are urged to submit their suggestions to the committee for consideration.

Ms Penny Wolff acknowledged the community’s interest in the site’s future and encouraged residents to share their ideas for post-demolition use. She highlighted the importance of considering flood resilience in any proposed plans, suggesting options such as fitness facilities, pickleball courts, lifestyle amenities, or green spaces.

This initiative reflects the council’s dedication to community engagement and sustainable urban development. The Toowong Bowls Club site redevelopment presents a unique opportunity to create a vibrant and resilient community space that caters to residents’ diverse needs and interests.

Published Date 05-August-2024

Brisbane Boys’ College Pipe Band Makes a Strong Showing at Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Photo Credit: edintattoo.co.uk

Highlighting their consistent excellence in performance, Brisbane Boys’ College Pipe Bands achieved top placements in their respective categories at the prestigious Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, marking another successful year at the celebrated event.

The 74th annual event, themed “Journeys,” featured a spectacular array of international performers that included military bands, dancers, and specialised acts from around the globe. The Brisbane Boys’ College Pipe Band shared the stage with established groups such as the Massed Bands of His Majesty’s Royal Marines and the United States Navy Ceremonial Guard.

This year’s Tattoo, running from August 2-24, is a vibrant celebration of cultural connections through music, dance, and military traditions.

Brisbane Boys’ College Pipe Band

Formed in 1940, the BBC Pipe Band is a core component of the college’s heritage. Through dedicated facilities and expert tutoring, the band not only enhances the cultural life of the college but also competes with distinction on the world stage. The band’s consistent commitment to excellence is demonstrated through their regular performances and accolades at both national and international levels.

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

The BBC Pipe Band’s regular appearances at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are a highlight of their annual calendar, not a one-time occurrence. Their history of participation is decorated with notable successes, including a prestigious third-place finish at the World Championships, affirming their elite status in the global piping community.

Prior to their debut performance, the Brisbane Boys’ College shared a glimpse of the students’ Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo experience via social media. A group photograph captured the excitement of the young musicians as they got their first look at the impressive setup, complete with lighting, sound equipment, and temporary seating for 9,000 spectators.

One student, Morgan Duckett from Year 12, was particularly enthusiastic. Having watched the Tattoo since childhood, Duckett expressed awe at finally participating in the event he had long admired.

Balancing their rigorous performance schedule with academic responsibilities, the BBC students exemplify dedication. This commitment was evident when Year 12 students undertook their senior math exams during the Tattoo. This blend of academic and musical commitment ensures that students do not miss out on their education during their international tours.

This year, BBC’s commitment to excellence was on full display as they fielded two bands at the Tattoo. According to a recent Facebook update, the Number 1 band achieved third place in the Novice Juvenile A Grade, while the Number 2 band ranked in the top 10 in the Novice Juvenile B category. These results further illustrate the band’s high level of preparation and skill.

For BBC’s delegates, participation in the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is more than just a performance; it’s a vital cultural exchange and educational journey. The exposure gained from performing in front of an estimated 230,000 live attendees and over 100 million television viewers globally enriches the students’ experience and broadens their worldview.

Each year, the Brisbane Boys’ College Pipe Band reaffirms its heritage of excellence at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. These international experiences not only showcase their musical talents but also enhance their educational journeys, benefiting the entire college community.

Visit the BBC Pipe Band’s official Facebook page for more insights into their performances and achievements at this year’s Tattoo.

Published 3-August-2024

Olympic Preview: Ash Moloney Sets Sights on Decathlon Gold

(Update as of 03-Aug-2024) Ash Moloney has withdrawn from the Paris Olympics due to an adductor injury. The 24-year-old bronze medalist from Tokyo completed only three events on the opening day of competition before pulling out.

This withdrawal follows a challenging period for Moloney, who struggled with injuries during his qualification campaign. Prior to the Games, Moloney had acknowledged the need to adjust his training approach following his recent string of injuries, but unfortunately, his efforts were not enough to keep him in the competition.

(Published 02-August-2024) As the athletics portion of the Paris 2024 Olympics kicks off, Brisbane Boys’ College alumnus Ash Moloney is poised to make his mark. The event, often considered the ultimate test of athletic prowess, begins on August 2.

Read: Ash Moloney’s Path from Brisbane Boys’ College to Olympic Decathlon

Ash Moloney aims to be “World’s Greatest Athlete”

Twenty-year-old Ash Moloney is no stranger to Olympic success. The young athlete secured a bronze medal in decathlon at the Tokyo Olympics, setting an Oceania record in the process. Now, he returns to the global stage with ambitions of gold.

The decathlon, comprising ten track and field events spread over two days, is a true test of an athlete’s versatility and endurance. The event’s schedule is as follows:
100m: 2 August, 6:05 p.m.
Long Jump: 2 August, 6:55 p.m.
Shot Put: 2 August, 8:15 p.m.
High Jump: 3 August, 2:00 a.m.
400m: 3 August, 4:50 a.m.
110m Hurdles: 3 August, 6:05 p.m.
Discus Throw – Group A or B: 3 August, 6:55 p.m. or 8:05 p.m.
Pole Vault: 3 August, 9:40 p.m.
Javelin Throw – Group A or B: 4 August, 3:10 a.m. or 4:10 a.m.
1500m: 4 August, 5:45 a.m.

Moloney’s prospects for Olympic glory appear promising, yet he faces formidable competition, most notably from Canada’s Damian Warner, the reigning Olympic champion. The field has narrowed somewhat, as France’s Kevin Mayer, the Olympic record holder and Tokyo silver medalist, has been ruled out due to a thigh injury.

Read: The West Bulldogs Legend Going For Gold in Paris

Moloney hopes that he can elevate his bronze medal performance from Tokyo to golden heights this time around.

Originally Published 02-August-2024. Updated 03-August-2024.

Toowong to West End Bridge: Brisbane’s Stalled Project Seeks New Momentum

The long-awaited Toowong to West End pedestrian and cycle bridge project may soon see new life, as prospects brighten for the ambitious infrastructure endeavour. The project, which had been stalled, is poised to resume once the infrastructure backing is secured.

Read: Budget Cuts Force Pause on Toowong to West End Green Bridge and Victoria Bridge Project

Brisbane City Council, unable to shoulder the estimated several hundred million dollar cost alone, is turning to higher levels of government for support. The council is preparing a final business case for Infrastructure Australia and eyeing the federal government’s $100 million active transport fund as potential sources of funding.

To put the scale of the project in perspective, a much smaller bridge over Breakfast Creek recently completed at a cost of $60 million. This underscores the significant investment required for the larger West End to Toowong crossing.

Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr

Cr Adrian Schrinner expressed optimism about the project’s future, stating that the council is actively working with Infrastructure Australia on the business case. Federal Labor Senator Anthony Chisholm has confirmed that the council is eligible to apply for funds from the active transport initiative, though he refrained from speculating on the application’s chances of success.

The proposed bridge design, which underwent community consultation from November 2021 to February 2022, garnered strong public support. Key features of the concept include:

A curved single-mast cable-stay design spanning approximately 280 metres, with a 75-metre mast height above water level
Dedicated pathways for pedestrians and cyclists, with a minimum width of 6 metres
A clearance height of 11.4 metres and a 70-metre wide navigation channel
A rest point with seating and viewing opportunities near the bridge mast
Shaded walkways and a new riverside green space at the Toowong landing

Despite the initial enthusiasm, the project was paused following the February 2022 severe flood and weather event, as Brisbane prioritised rebuild and recovery efforts. The ongoing global inflation crisis has further complicated matters, leading to continued postponement to avoid passing additional costs onto residents.

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

However, there’s renewed hope for the project’s revival. Cr Schrinner believes that the successful completion of other bridge projects, such as the Kangaroo Point and Breakfast Creek bridges, will likely increase public demand for similar infrastructure.

Read: Cameras Installed on Mt Coot-tha Walking Trails Amid Security Concerns

As Brisbane continues to grow and evolve, projects like the Toowong to West End bridge represent a commitment to sustainable urban planning and active transport.

Published 30-July-2024

Regatta Hotel Leads Brisbane’s Winter Pub Scene

As winter settles over Brisbane, Regatta Hotel is inviting those seeking warmth and entertainment. The historic venue, located at 543 Coronation Drive, is offering a series of enticing activations that are set to heat up the suburb’s social calendar.

Leading the charge is “Cheers & Cheese Date Night,” running until November 16th. This romantic offering invites couples to the hotel’s picturesque courtyard for an intimate evening. Priced at $45 per couple, the experience features a carefully curated cheese board with artisanal cheeses, fresh fruits, nuts, and gourmet crackers, complemented by two glasses of wine.

cheers & cheese details here!

Saturday mornings in Toowong are getting a purple makeover with “Jacaranda Brunch” event. Also running until November 16th, this event celebrates the beauty of jacaranda season in the hotel’s courtyard. For $79 per person, guests can enjoy a lavish two-hour food and beverage package, including a three-course meal with delectable dishes such as Tempura Zucchini Flower, Jamon & Roquette Pizza, and Cranberry & Macadamia Nut Fudge. The brunch is further enhanced by live piano music, creating a vibrant atmosphere under the purple-hued blossoms.

jacaranda brunch details here!

Adding an extra layer of excitement to Toowong’s winter scene, the Regatta Hotel is also introducing a pop-up frozen cocktail bar in their courtyard. This addition promises to bring a unique twist to the traditional winter warmer concept.

The Regatta Hotel offers a perfect blend of historic charm and contemporary hospitality. Whether it’s for a romantic evening, a lively brunch, or simply enjoying a creative cocktail, the Regatta is proving that Toowong is the place to be this winter.

Interested patrons can find more information about these events on the Regatta Hotel’s website or by contacting the venue directly.

Published 23-July-2024