Big Screens, Bigger Plays: Catch the Super Bowl LIX at Regatta Hotel

Toowong’s Regatta Hotel is bringing the electric atmosphere of Super Bowl LIX to locals, transforming its Courtyard into a football fan’s paradise this Monday, 10 February.

With a high-stakes showdown between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles set to unfold, the historic riverside venue is going all out to deliver an authentic American game-day experience.


Read: Legacy Way Tunnel Power Failure Brings Brisbane Traffic to a Standstill


Game-Day Feasts and Ice-Cold Drinks at the Regatta Hotel

From 10:00 a.m., the Courtyard will come alive with the sights, sounds, and, most importantly, the flavours of American football culture. Sports fans can dig into loaded fries, a full kilo of flavour-packed wings, and a trio of sliders. For those with heartier appetites, the venue’s signature smoked meat plates, featuring slow-cooked brisket and house-made barbecue sauce, are set to be a fan favourite. Ice-cold beers and classic game-day drinks will be available to keep the celebrations going.

High-Stakes Football and Halftime Entertainment

While fans feast on American favourites, the action on the field promises to be just as thrilling. With both teams coming off dominant playoff runs, analysts predict a tight contest. The Chiefs, led by star quarterback Patrick Mahomes, have lost by more than eight points just once all season. Meanwhile, the Eagles, now under defensive coordinator Vic Fangio and revitalized by MVP finalist Saquon Barkley, are determined to avenge their previous Super Bowl loss to Kansas City.

Adding to the spectacle, this year’s halftime show will feature Grammy Award-winning artist Kendrick Lamar, known for his dynamic stage presence and critically acclaimed hits. Performing live at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Lamar is expected to bring an unforgettable show to one of the most-watched sporting events of the year.


Read: BOQ Transitions to Digital, Toowong Branch Among 16 Closures


The Regatta Hotel is offering a range of packages to enhance the viewing experience, including beverage deals and food-and-drink combinations. Management ensures a safe and enjoyable event, with responsible service of alcohol policies in place. The event is strictly 18+, so attendees are encouraged to book early to secure their spot. Seats are limited, so book your spot now for this must-see Super Bowl event at the Regatta Hotel.

Published 05-February-2025

Brisbane Boys’ College Students Honoured as QCE Distinguished Academic Achievers

Brisbane Boys’ College (BBC) has cemented its reputation for academic excellence, with two students ranking among the Top 35 in Queensland in the 2024 Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) Achievement Awards.



Outstanding Academic Results in 2024

The announcement of the QCE Achievement Awards recognised Alexander Fung and Junpeng Huang as Distinguished Academic Achievers, an accolade awarded to only 35 students statewide. The recognition highlights their exceptional performance across multiple subjects.

Additionally, Jacob Aziz received a Subject Commendation for Music Extension (Performance), underscoring his dedication to the arts.

These accomplishments come as part of a broader success story for the college. Students achieved 25 perfect study scores of 100/100 across ten different subjects, a remarkable demonstration of both student effort and the quality of teaching at BBC.

Further showcasing the school’s academic prowess, 26 students earned As in all six subjects, while five students achieved As in seven subjects, earning them the prestigious QCE Certificate of Academic Commendation.

The Duxes

In addition to these accolades, Alexander, Junpeng, and Jacob were named the Duxes of Brisbane Boys’ College for 2024, a title recognising the highest academic achievers of the year.

Duxes of the College for 2024 – Jacob Aziz, Alexander Fung, and Junpeng Huang
Photo Credit: BBC/Facebook

A Tradition of Excellence

BBC’s consistent performance in academic achievements reflects its commitment to providing a supportive and well-rounded educational environment. The school’s holistic approach to education ensures students thrive both academically and personally. The school’s emphasis on community support, alongside rigorous academic programs, has created an environment that nurtures high achievers.

Teachers, peers, and families play a crucial role in this success, fostering a community that motivates students to excel. These collaborative efforts highlight the strength of the BBC community and its focus on fostering academic and extracurricular excellence.

QCE Achievement Awards: A Statewide Honour

The QCE Achievement Awards celebrate Queensland’s top-performing students across a variety of categories. The recognition places the achievers among an elite group of students whose academic dedication stands out on a statewide level.



With aspirations to continue their education in their respective fields, the students leave BBC equipped with the knowledge and skills to excel in higher education and future professional endeavours.

The skills and knowledge gained during their time at BBC will undoubtedly contribute to their success in higher education and beyond.

Published 2-Jan-2024

Toowong-West End Bridge Survives Scaled-Back Green Bridge Program

Brisbane will deliver just one more green bridge, the Toowong-West End Bridge, after abandoning plans for a fifth bridge connection amid escalating infrastructure costs and budget constraints.



However, the West End to St Lucia Bridge has been cut from the program, marking a significant shift in the city’s ambitious infrastructure strategy first announced in 2019.

Project Background

The original “Bridges for Brisbane” program initially proposed constructing five bridges over a decade, with joint funding from local, state, and federal governments. To date, two bridges have been completed: the Breakfast Creek Bridge and the recently opened Kangaroo Point Bridge.

Budget pressures from multiple fronts have influenced the decision. The COVID-19 pandemic, post-2022 flood rebuilding efforts, and the ongoing housing crisis have significantly impacted infrastructure funding.

Council highlighted increased construction costs and lower-than-expected revenue as key factors in scaling back the bridge program.

Toowong-West End Bridge
Photo Credit: BCC

New Green Bridge Impact

The Kangaroo Point Bridge, the most recent addition, is expected to remove approximately 84,000 cars from Brisbane’s roads annually and reduce travel times for active and public transport users by up to 50 percent.

The bridge features separated pedestrian and active transport lanes and will connect to a nearly four-kilometre eastern bikeway between 2027 and 2028.

Two dining venues along the Kangaroo Point Bridge – Stilts Dining and Mulga Bill’s – are expected to open early next year, adding further community amenities to the infrastructure project.

Efforts have been made to secure funding for the Toowong-West End Bridge, using a business case to support the initiative. There is a strong commitment to finish this green bridge ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games while keeping the budget balanced.



Published 17-Dec-2024

Brisbane Boys’ College Star Luke Sahlqvist Shines at National Championships

Brisbane Boys’ College student and Tigers Athletics Club member Luke Sahlqvist delivered a standout performance at the 2024 Australian All Schools Athletics Championships, securing both gold and silver medals in a remarkable display of talent at QSAC.


Read: Parents Demand Action: Inclusive Deaf Program Needed in High Schools


BBC’s Luke Sahlqvist shines on national stage

In Friday’s para-athletics shot put final, Sahlqvist earned the silver medal in a hard-fought contest. He finished just 1.20 meters behind New South Wales rival Mark Everett in what was one of the most competitive events of the day.

Returning to the field on Saturday, 7 December with renewed focus, Sahlqvist delivered a gold-medal performance in the under-17 discus throw. Outperforming Everett and other top competitors, he proved his status as one of Australia’s premier young throwers.

Pride of BBC and Toowong

Sahlqvist’s journey—from his early days at St Martin’s Primary School to now representing Brisbane Boys’ College and the Tigers Athletics Club—reflects the strength of BBC’s athletic programs and the opportunities they provide for emerging talent. His success serves as an inspiration to young athletes across Toowong and the wider community, showcasing what can be achieved through hard work and perseverance.


Read: Queensland Academy in Toowong Tops State NAPLAN Rankings


The 2024 Australian All Schools Athletics Championships, held from December 6–8 at QSAC, celebrated Australia’s best school-age athletes, with Sahlqvist’s dual-medal performance a clear highlight.

Published 14-December-2024

Street Spotlight: Victoria Cres, Toowong

Victoria Crescent in Toowong tells a fascinating story of Brisbane’s suburban evolution, with historical aerial photographs from 1936 revealing only a handful of houses dotting what would become a sought-after residential enclave.



Today, this established street comprises 39 properties and boasts a remarkable 85% owner-occupier rate, with residents staying an average of 13 years and 10 months – a testament to the area’s enduring appeal. The street’s property history reflects Brisbane’s dramatic growth, exemplified by the sale of 14 Victoria Crescent for $97,500 in July 1988, a figure that provides an intriguing snapshot of the market during that era. Below, you’ll find an aerial image from 1946 that captures the street’s humble beginnings, offering a stark contrast to the thriving residential community it has become, where over a third of residents have called Victoria Crescent home for more than a decade.

Victoria Cres, Toowong Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 39
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 85%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 13 years, 10 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 36%

Victoria Cres, Toowong – As It Looked in 1946

Victoria Cres, Toowong in 1946


SOME RECENT SALES ON VICTORIA CRES, TOOWONG

Property AddressSale PriceSale Date
17 Victoria Cr, Toowong$1,655,000Sep 2024
13 Victoria Cr, Toowong$3,025,000Jun 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON VICTORIA CRES FROM YESTERYEAR

Property AddressSale PriceSale Date
14 Victoria Cr, Toowong$97,500Jul 1988
49 Victoria Cr, Toowong$257,500Jan 1991
39 Victoria Cr, Toowong$345,000Mar 1994

SUBURB PROFILE 

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Toowong in 2024 was $1,349,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Toowong in 2020 was $790,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN TOOWONG SINCE 2020 : $559,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Toowong in 2024 was $1,940,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Toowong in 2020 was $1,210,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN TOOWONG SINCE 2020 : $730,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Toowong in 2024 was $2,160,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Toowong in 2020 was $1,451,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN TOOWONG SINCE 2020 : $709,000

The median price of a 1 Bedroom Unit in Toowong in 2024 was $473,000
The median price of a 1 Bedroom Unit in Toowong in 2020 was $324,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 1 BEDROOM UNIT IN TOOWONG SINCE 2020 : $149,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Toowong in 2024 was $688,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Toowong in 2020 was $435,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN TOOWONG SINCE 2020 : $253,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Toowong in 2024 was $995,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Toowong in 2020 was $665,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN TOOWONG SINCE 2020 : $330,000



If you know Victoria Cres, Toowong well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

BBC Parents Question Rising Fees as Toowong Campus Vision Unveiled

Parents at Brisbane Boys’ College in Toowong are questioning the value of significant fee increases, citing concerns about existing facilities even as the school unveils a long-term Campus Vision Master Plan.



Fee Increases and Parent Reactions

For 2025, the school has announced that domestic day student fees for Years 7–12 will rise to $34,500, with boarding families paying over $69,000 annually. Fees for international students who board will climb to $94,110. 

Parents have voiced concerns about the steep rise in costs, with the fee increase now totalling more than $10,000 in just three years.

Several parents have described the timing of the fee hikes, announced late in the school year, as problematic. They argue it leaves them little time to consider alternative schools without disrupting their children’s education. 

Brisbane Boys’ College Toowong
Photo Credit: Brisbane Boys’ College/YouTube

Complaints also extend to the state of the school’s facilities, particularly its sporting amenities, which some families have labelled “embarrassing” compared to other Greater Public Schools institutions.

One parent remarked that the fee hikes feel unjustified given the condition of the facilities, adding that while the school excels in academics and music, other areas lack the resources expected for such fees.

Master Plan Campus Vision

In late Sept 2024, the school introduced its Master Plan Campus Vision, a comprehensive roadmap for campus development that looks ahead to 2035 and even 2050. The plan promises state-of-the-art classrooms, new co-curricular spaces, extensive refurbishments, and improved campus connectivity.

Central to the vision is a thoroughfare linking Goldicott House, a heritage-listed building on the northern edge of campus, to Toowong Creek to the south. The plan aims to foster greater connectivity across the school grounds, creating spaces that encourage interaction and reinforce a sense of community and mateship.

BBC Toowong
Photo Credit: Brisbane Boys’ College

BBC also highlighted its consultation process, stating that extensive engagement with students, staff, families, and alumni informed the plan. This collaborative approach was intended to ensure that the Campus Vision reflects the needs and aspirations of the entire school community.

Balancing Long-Term Vision with Current Concerns

While some families recognise the potential of the long-term Master Plan to enhance the school’s offerings, others remain focused on the current state of facilities. Critics have pointed out that while the plan looks promising, it may take years before students see tangible benefits.

In the meantime, families are left paying higher fees for what they perceive as underwhelming facilities. Some have expressed frustration that the plan does not address immediate shortcomings, particularly in areas like sporting infrastructure.

The debate around fees reflects broader concerns about the affordability of private education in Queensland. While some argue that private schooling offers unparalleled opportunities, others believe the rising costs are becoming unsustainable for many families.



The question of value—whether the facilities, programs, and opportunities justify the investment—is central to these discussions. Parents at Brisbane Boys’ College say they are committed to their children’s education but hope for greater transparency and more immediate improvements as the school implements its long-term vision.

Published 5-Dec-2024

Toowong Resident Marks 25 Years at St John’s Home for Men

Eugene, a Toowong resident, has been honoured for living 25 years at St John’s Home for Men, a milestone celebrated by Anglicare Southern Queensland on International Men’s Day.



Honouring Eugene’s 25-Year Journey

On International Men’s Day 2024, St John’s Home for Men in Toowong became the centre of celebrations for Eugene, who has been a Toowong resident of the facility for 25 years. Staff and fellow residents organised a morning tea to mark the occasion, complete with Eugene’s favourite treats, including milkshakes and a personalised crossword puzzle themed around his life at St John’s.

The day also featured music by Elvis Presley, creating a joyful atmosphere as Eugene, seated in his favourite chair, was surrounded by cherished photos from his time at the home. Staff presented him with a keepsake marking “This Day in History,” alongside other thoughtful gifts. Facility Manager Christina Lynch commended Eugene’s resilience and contributions to the community, noting that his presence brings joy to residents and staff.

Eugene Toowong resident St John's
Photo Credit: Supplied

Focus on Men’s Health and Wellbeing

The event aligned with this year’s International Men’s Day theme, “Men’s Health Champions,” which celebrates the positive contributions of men and promotes their overall wellbeing. Anglicare Southern Queensland used the occasion to highlight the importance of fostering community and meaningful connections for residents like Eugene, ensuring they live with dignity and respect.

Christina Lynch emphasised that care at St John’s is more than just providing accommodation. It is about cultivating an environment where residents can thrive socially, emotionally, and physically. Eugene’s quarter-century at the home exemplifies the significance of continuity in care and building lasting relationships.

Anglicare’s Commitment to Community

Anglicare Southern Queensland, which oversees St John’s Home for Men, has a long history of supporting vulnerable communities. Founded in 1870, the organisation provides a range of services, including aged care, foster care, mental health counselling, and homelessness support. Each year, Anglicare serves over 50,000 Queenslanders, ensuring tailored and compassionate care.



Through Eugene’s story, Anglicare seeks to remind the community of the value of recognising and supporting individuals in their unique journeys. The organisation also aims to encourage discussions around men’s health and wellbeing, spotlighting the role of community in improving quality of life.

Published 20-Nov-2021

43-Unit Mixed-Use Development Lodged for Prime Toowong Location

An application has been lodged for a new mixed-use development at the intersection of Josling Street and Brisbane Street in Toowong, marking another step in the suburb’s ongoing urban transformation.


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


The proposed six-storey development, designed by Red Door Architecture, will deliver 43 residential units to Brisbane’s western inner city corridor, combining both permanent residences and short-term accommodation options.

Project Highlights

– 43 residential units featuring a diverse mix of configurations:

  – 37 two-bedroom units

  – 4 three-bedroom units

  – 1 one-bedroom unit with multi-purpose room

  – 1 two-bedroom unit with multi-purpose room

Mixed-use development
Site plan (Photo credit: Red Door Architecture)

The development will feature extensive resident amenities including a rooftop swimming pool and communal dining area. The design incorporates 75 car parking spaces across two levels, with the ground floor dedicated to loading and servicing areas.

Strategic Location

The development site, located at 6 Josling Street and 73  Brisbane Street, Toowong, currently houses two residential dwellings slated for removal. It is strategically positioned within Toowong’s growing urban precinct. Planning documents highlight its prime location, situated within:

  • 500m of Toowong Village shopping centre and major public transport hub
  • 1.5km of the University of Queensland
  • Close proximity to the Regatta Ferry Terminal
  • Easy access to major road networks and active transport infrastructure

Design Features

Mixed-use development
Photo credit: Red Door Architecture

The architectural design emphasises connectivity with the streetscape through strategic glazing placement, multiple building openings, and private balconies offering casual surveillance opportunities.

“The proposal aims to maximise the locational advantages of the site by providing a high-density residential development that will diversify and improve the residential capacity in the City’s Western inner city corridor,” according to planning documents.

The development will feature a vertical progression of spaces, with residential units spanning from Level 1 through Level 5, crowned by luxury amenities on Level 6. This arrangement aims to create an engaging living environment that capitalises on Brisbane’s subtropical climate while contributing to the area’s growing urban density.


Read: Petition Launched to Halt Auction of Sylvan Road Greenspace


The application for the mixed-use development is currently under review by local planning authorities, with community feedback expected to play a role in the approval process.

Published 15-November-2024

National Under-16s Squad Welcomes Brisbane Boys’ College Duo

Brisbane Boys’ College has further cemented its reputation in Queensland rugby, with two standout players earning spots in the prestigious Australian under-16s squad.

Outside centre Taione Taka and prop Harrison Asi will join six other Queensland players in the 25-man national squad assembling in Blacktown this December.


Read: Petition Launched to Halt Auction of Sylvan Road Greenspace


Brisbane Boys’ College player profiles

Taione Taka’s selection follows a stellar season that saw him named Queensland Reds’ player of the series, despite a heart-breaking grand final loss to the Waratahs.

The talented centre has already secured his future, signing with the Reds Academy after impressing in both First XV and under-16s campaigns. His defensive prowess and attacking capabilities have marked him as one of Queensland’s most promising young talents.

Harrison Asi. Photo Credit: QLD Reds Rugby

Harrison Asi has earned his position through dominant performances in the front row. His scrummaging ability and effectiveness in pick-and-drive situations have caught the selectors’ attention, demonstrating BBC’s strength in developing forward talent.

Queensland’s strong representation

Alongside the duo, the full Queensland contingent in the national squad includes:
Agapetos Lote-Felo (no. 8)
Alfie Bowman (halfback)
Sio Kite (prop)
Jack Calleja (lock)
William Adrian De Klerk (hooker)
Hemi Rakuita (outside back)


Read: Toowong Village Hosts Star-Studded Bra Art Exhibition and $500 Shopping Spree


The squad will gather for a week-long camp beginning 7 December, culminating in a match against the New South Wales Waratahs under-17s. This opportunity represents a significant step forward for these young athletes, particularly for the BBC players who continue to uphold the school’s strong rugby tradition.

Published 13-November-2024

Stepping Back in Time: The Walrus Club, Hidden Speakeasy in Toowong

Forget the hustle and bustle of the city centre because a hidden gem awaits discovery in the heart of Toowong. Concealed beneath the historic Regatta Hotel, The Walrus Club offers a unique drinking experience that transports patrons back to a bygone era.



This clandestine bar opened in 2012 and enjoyed a triumphant revival in 2022. It provides a welcome escape from the typical Brisbane bar scene.

The Walrus Club is far from your average pub. Taking its name and inspiration from the SS Walrus, a floating rum distillery that navigated Queensland’s rivers in the late 1800s, the establishment has cultivated a reputation for its extensive rum selection and expertly crafted cocktails.  With close to 300 different spirits, it caters to even the most discerning palate.  

The dedication to authenticity is evident in every detail, from the bartenders sporting vintage-style braces to the carefully curated jazz soundtrack and the antique furniture that adorns the space. The overall effect is an immersive experience that captures the spirit of a 1920s prohibition-era speakeasy.

Finding this hidden gem is an adventure in itself.  Accessible only through a discreet black trapdoor located at the base of a staircase in a laneway behind the Regatta Hotel, The Walrus Club remains shrouded in secrecy.  A small, almost invisible symbol at the top of the stairs is the sole indicator of its existence.

But The Walrus Club is more than just a bar; it’s a portal to the past. The dimly lit interior, with its exposed brickwork and intimate nooks, further enhances the feeling of stepping back in time. To complement the exquisite drinks, The Walrus Club offers a tempting menu of shared plates and gourmet pizzas.  

Think crispy fish spring rolls with pickled cucumber, mozzarella-stuffed meatballs with Napoli sauce, and Walrus Wicked Wings with Memphis spice and blue cheese sauce.  

For those seeking a taste of the Mediterranean, the mezze plate with artichoke hearts, sundried tomatoes, marinated olives, and hummus is a must-try. With gluten-free pizza bases available, there’s something to satisfy every appetite.



The bar’s commitment to recreating the ambience of a 1920s speakeasy and its impressive drinks menu, delectable food offerings, and knowledgeable staff make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique and memorable experience.  

So, bypass the crowded city bars and venture to Toowong to uncover this suburban secret.  You may become a regular.

Published Date 09-October-2024