toowong Archives - Page 3 of 15

Toowong Teen’s Portrait of Dad Captures Heart of Brisbane Portrait Prize

In Toowong, a quiet art classroom has given rise to a story now reaching the walls of the State Library of Queensland. Brisbane Boys’ College student Louis Ko, 15, has been named a finalist in the Brisbane Portrait Prize, with his work Dad recognised in the Next Generation category.

What was intended as a birthday gift to his father has grown into a work of public admiration, selected from dozens of entries for its depth and tenderness. The portrait will be part of the Brisbane Portrait Prize exhibition from 20 September to 9 November.

A portrait born from distance and gratitude

Louis’s portrait is painted in acrylic on canvas, measuring 51 by 61 centimetres. The sitter is his father, Eunsung, who has been separated from him by distance but not by devotion. Louis explained to organisers that although he and his father live apart, they remain connected through his education, something his father worked tirelessly to make possible.

He chose to paint his father gazing upward, describing this gesture as a symbol of respect and pride. For Louis, the act of painting became a way to express words that often go unsaid — an acknowledgement of sacrifice, care, and quiet strength carried over the years.

“Though we’re separated by distance, we are connected through my education — something he has worked so hard to make possible,” Louis said. “This portrait is my thank you, a way of showing that I see everything he’s done and that I admire him not just as a dad, but as someone who’s shaped the path I’m walking now.”

Behind the scenes at the State Library

On 12 September, organisers announced that all 77 finalist works across categories had arrived at the State Library in a single five-hour delivery window. Condition checks and preparations are now underway, with opening night scheduled for Friday, 20 September.

The scale of the exhibition reflects the breadth of portraiture in Brisbane, with professionals and students alike contributing works that capture not only faces but also stories.

Louis’s Dad will hang among them, standing alongside works from some of Queensland’s most promising young talents. Visitors will be able to view his portrait in the Next Generation gallery, where the future of Australian portraiture is given its space to shine.

Local pride in Toowong

News of Louis’s achievement was shared proudly by Brisbane Boys’ College, which celebrated his recognition as a reflection of both skill and dedication. The school has encouraged the Toowong community to visit the exhibition, underscoring the importance of supporting young artists as they step into a broader public view.

For Louis, the journey from school art studies to a state exhibition has not only marked an artistic milestone but also enabled him to place his family’s story into a broader conversation. His portrait speaks to love, distance, and gratitude — universal themes expressed through the personal lens of a Toowong teenager with a paintbrush.

Published 16-Sept-2025

Innovative Cottage Renovation Transforms Family Life in Toowong

Photo Credit: Alcorn Middleton

A remarkable renovation project in Toowong has demonstrated how thoughtful design can breathe new life into a 1930s cottage, creating a modern family sanctuary that respects the neighbourhood’s character.

The project, completed by local architecture firm Alcorn Middleton, has transformed a traditional porch-and-gable cottage into an award-winning family home that accommodates five residents across a compact 455-square-metre site. The renovation took 14 months to design and document, followed by another 14 months of construction, resulting in a 192-square-metre home that maximises every centimetre of available space.

Retaining Toowong’s Character

What sets this renovation apart from many others in Brisbane’s inner west is the architects’ decision to keep the original cottage in place rather than lifting and building underneath. This approach has preserved the home’s street presence while avoiding the common pitfalls of damp, disconnected lower levels that often result from lift-and-fill developments.

Photo Credit: Alcorn Middleton / Toby Scott

The Brisbane-based practice of Joel Alcorn and Chloe Middleton draws on their experiences of other cities to design homes that respect local traditions while challenging conventional approaches. Their solution centres around a newly created courtyard that serves as the heart of the home, providing northern light and breathing space to previously cramped rooms.

A Tree at the Centre

The defining feature of the renovation emerged from the clients’ desire to have “a house with a tree in it.” With neighbours positioned close to each boundary, the architects carved away portions of the existing floor plan to create a central courtyard that brings light, air and greenery into the home’s core.

This courtyard connects seamlessly with a generous galley kitchen, where the ceiling height increases dramatically and clever storage solutions create a sense of openness. Warm timber elements throughout the project provide visual continuity and help ground the various spaces within a coherent design framework.

Smart Space Planning

The renovation showcases several innovative approaches to maximising space efficiency. The living and dining areas sit on a slightly lower level, creating opportunities for casual seating on the edge while enhancing views to the swimming pool beyond. Strategic voids in the upper corners capture slices of sky and additional natural light.

The design includes multiple flexible spaces that adapt to changing daily needs. The dining area doubles as a meeting space for the home-working parents, while concealed sliding doors allow rooms to open up or close down as required throughout the day.

Upstairs Retreat

A narrow staircase leads to the parents’ private retreat, described as an “eyrie” overlooking the double-height study space. This upper level features a generous bathroom flooded with natural light through an enormous skylight, creating an almost outdoor terrace feel. Fluted glass separates the bathroom from the bedroom, softening transitions while maintaining privacy.

Sustainable Features

The renovation incorporates numerous sustainable elements, including 14 kilowatts of solar panels, ducted air conditioning, and a Stuv fireplace. The project utilises locally sourced materials where possible, including tallowwood decking and limestone from Australian suppliers.

Recognition and Awards

The project has been recognised in the 2025 Australian Interior Design Awards in the Residential Design category, highlighting its success in bridging heritage and contemporary living in Toowong’s leafy streets.

About the Architects

Alcorn Middleton was established in 2019 by Joel Alcorn and Chloe Middleton, though their collaborative journey began organically in 2013. The practice has gained recognition for their thoughtful approach to suburban renovations, with this Toowong project joining their portfolio of award-winning residential work.

The Toowong Towers project demonstrates that significant improvements to family living can be achieved within existing suburban footprints, offering a sustainable alternative to demolition and reconstruction while respecting the character that makes Brisbane’s inner-west suburbs so desirable.

Project Details:

Location: Toowong, Brisbane
Site area: 455m²
Building area: 192m²
Design and documentation: 14 months
Construction: 14 months
Builder: Allicient Built Developments
Landscape design: Robert Waddell

This project sits on the traditional land of the Turrbal and Jagera peoples.

Published 28-August-2025

Toowong Home Finds New Owners Despite Termite Troubles

Photo Credit: Doug Disher Real Estate

A Toowong home that fell victim to a serious termite infestation has successfully found new owners, going under contract after being listed for offers above $850,000.

The three-storey property at 38 Richer Street became an unexpected renovation project when the current owners discovered extensive termite damage during the early stages of their planned improvements. The discovery forced them to partially gut sections of the home to properly address the pest invasion.

Doug Disher Real Estate agent Toby Disher handled the unique sale, presenting the property’s circumstances with refreshing honesty. The listing acknowledged the challenging situation the owners faced when their renovation dreams were derailed by the unwelcome discovery.

After professional pest control specialists dealt with the termite colony and installed appropriate preventative measures, the owners found themselves at a crossroads. They could either continue with extensive repairs and renovations, or pass the opportunity on to someone better equipped to handle such a comprehensive project. An unexpected job offer overseas ultimately helped make their decision.

The architecturally designed home boasts multiple outdoor entertaining areas and living spaces across its three levels. The middle floor features polished timber flooring, while the upper level houses a parents’ retreat. Polished concrete can be found on the ground level.

However, the termite damage was clearly visible in listing photographs, showing sections where decking boards had been removed and interior wall sheeting stripped away during the treatment process. The extensive nature of the infestation required significant intervention to ensure the property was properly remediated.

Despite the obvious challenges, the property attracted considerable attention from potential buyers. The sale includes all renovation materials and fixtures that were originally intended for the owners’ planned improvements. These items comprise bathroom fittings such as basins, mixers, shower components, toilets, mirrors and vanities, plus flooring materials including premium Kwila decking and Gastone Carrara White tiles for floors and walls.

The property sits on a 379-square-metre block with an interesting access arrangement – shared access from Richer Street and 24 metres of frontage along Horrocks Street, potentially allowing for separate private access to be created in the future.

Location-wise, the home enjoys proximity to several prestigious educational institutions. It’s positioned within walking distance of Stuartholme School and falls within the Rainworth State School catchment area. Families also have convenient access to Brisbane Boys’ College and the Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology (QASMT), while The University of Queensland lies less than five kilometres away by road.

The unusual nature of the sale clearly resonated with Brisbane property hunters, with the listing becoming the most-viewed residential property advertisement across Queensland during its first week on the market.

For someone with the right skills and connections, this property represents an opportunity to take on a comprehensive renovation project with many materials already included. The challenge of restoring a termite-damaged home may seem daunting to some, but for buyers with experience in property renovation, it could prove to be a rewarding project with significant potential once complete.

The successful sale demonstrates that even properties with pest history can find appreciative buyers when priced appropriately and marketed with transparency about their condition.

Published 21-August-2025

Peter Doherty Awards Honour STEM Excellence in Toowong

Photo Credit: QASMT

The 2025 Peter Doherty Awards for Excellence in STEM Education have been celebrated in Toowong, recognising students, educators, and schools across Queensland for outstanding contributions to science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Toowong Ceremony Highlights STEM Talent

Toowong was the centre of recognition for the 22nd annual Peter Doherty Awards, which acknowledged the achievements of Queensland students, teachers, schools and education partners. A total of 28 recipients were named across eight categories, each receiving $5,000 to support future learning, professional development or STEM initiatives.

Queensland Academy Students Among Winners

Three students from the Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology were recognised in the Outstanding Senior STEM Student category. Claire Kong was awarded for her research into human papillomavirus and cervical cancer immunotherapies, with her work presented nationally and internationally. Fellow recipients from the school included Ermia Firouzabadi and Katherine Lu.

Other Student Awardees

Students from across the State were represented among the winners. Crystal Tsao from Brisbane State High School, Deeva Hero from All Saints Anglican School, and Lily Gochee from Cairns State High School were among the 15 recipients recognised for their senior STEM achievements. Awards were also presented to students from Kawana Waters State College, Cannon Hill Anglican College, Gordonvale State High School, and Merrimac State High School.

Special Categories in 2025

The awards extended to additional categories. Brianna Freeman-Robinson from Highfields State Secondary College received recognition as the Outstanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Senior STEM Student. Rural and remote awards went to Katelyn Worsnop from Charters Towers School of Distance Education and Priya Taylor-Sidhu from Emerald State High School.

Teachers and Support Officers Recognised

Educators were acknowledged for their contribution to STEM learning, including Cassie Day of Rochedale State High School and Wendy Agnew of Indooroopilly State High School. Timothy Bateup from Roma State College received the rural and remote teacher award, while Hilary Maloney from Proserpine State High School was recognised as an Outstanding STEM Support Officer.

Partnerships and School Contributions

The STEM Education Partnership Awards highlighted Boyne Island Environmental Education Centre and The University of Queensland. These organisations were acknowledged for their continued role in advancing STEM opportunities across Queensland schools.

Background to the Awards

The awards, named after Brisbane-born Nobel Prize recipient Professor Peter Doherty, began in 2004 and reached their 22nd year in 2025. The program was launched to highlight innovation and commitment to STEM learning, with past winners going on to lead in areas including immunology, astrophysics, and sustainable technology.

Looking Ahead

Nominations for the 2026 round of awards will open in Term 1, 2026. Winners are encouraged to use their awards for further study, professional development, and expanded STEM opportunities.

Published 18-Aug-2025

No Weapons Found During Police Wanding at Toowong Village

Photo Credit: QPS

Police included Toowong Village in a series of public weapon scanning operations across Queensland, though no weapons or charges were recorded at the site.

Background and Context

Toowong Village was one of several public sites scanned under the expanded provisions of Queensland’s Jack’s Law. The law, named after 17-year-old Jack Beasley, was introduced following his fatal stabbing in Surfers Paradise in 2019. It permits police to use handheld metal detectors to search individuals in public without requiring reasonable suspicion. Initially trialled in designated precincts, the law was later expanded across the state. From April 2023 to June 2025, police scanned over 122,000 individuals and seized more than 1,100 weapons.

Jack’s Law Queensland — *Photo Credit: QPS*

Wanding Operation Data: Toowong Among Low-Detection Sites

Between January and March 2025, Queensland Police scanned over 12,400 people across various locations including shopping centres, public transport hubs, and nightlife precincts. At Toowong Village, 10 individuals were scanned—seven adults and three juveniles. No weapons were detected, and no charges were laid. Other Brisbane locations, such as Chermside and Westfield Mt Gravatt, recorded multiple detections, in contrast to Toowong.

Overview of Police Powers Under Jack’s Law

The Making Jack’s Law Permanent Act 2025 amended the Police Powers and Responsibilities Act 2000, granting Queensland Police authority to conduct random scans in shopping centres, transport stations, entertainment venues, and other public places. Officers may also seek approval to scan in non-designated locations for up to 12 hours. This shift marks a significant increase in police search powers, removing the prior requirement for reasonable suspicion.

Community and Expert Perspectives

The expanded law has received mixed responses. Some academics and legal experts expressed concern over the low rate of weapon detection and the potential for misuse, noting that only 2.4 per cent of scanned individuals were charged with weapons offences between January and March 2025. Others cautioned that the law may lead to discriminatory practices. Police maintain the primary purpose is deterrence, and that the removal of more than 1,100 weapons under the law indicates success.

Future Implications for Toowong

Although no weapons were found at Toowong Village, its inclusion in the wanding operation reflects the broader application of Jack’s Law across all public areas in Queensland. The ongoing implementation of these powers suggests continued surveillance in shopping centres and similar venues, with future outcomes dependent on ongoing data and public safety assessments.

Published 29-July-2025

Greek Deli Yiayia’s Pantry Opens in Toowong

Photo Credit: Yiayia’s Pantry/Instagram

A Mediterranean delicatessen showcasing traditional Greek products has officially opened in Toowong, offering locally and internationally sourced pantry staples.

Cultural Roots Behind the Store

Yiayia’s Pantry, located on Morley Street in Toowong, is a Greek-Australian delicatessen founded by Toula Manias. Inspired by her heritage, the store is named in honour of the traditional home-style meals shared among Greek families. The shop focuses on authentic Mediterranean ingredients, many of which reflect Ms Manias’ cultural background.

Brisbane food — *Photo Credit: Yiayia’s Pantry/Instagram*

Products and Pantry Offerings

The Toowong store stocks a curated range of goods including premium Greek olive oils, traditional cheeses such as halloumi, kasseri, and kefalograviera, and an array of mezze items. The selection features products from both local suppliers and overseas producers. Customers can also purchase house-marinated olives and imported European varieties by weight.

Frozen Meals and Convenience Foods

In addition to pantry items, Yiayia’s Pantry offers a freezer section with pre-prepared Greek comfort meals. Options include moussaka, pastitsio, and souvlaki, aimed at customers seeking traditional dishes without the need for home cooking. These ready-to-bake items have become a notable highlight among early visitors.

Greek deli — *Photo Credit: Yiayia’s Pantry/Instagram*

Exclusive Product Range Introduced

The store is the exclusive Brisbane stockist of the Papayiannides Elaitis line—sauces and jams imported directly from Greece. The brand includes bold flavour combinations, including varieties like raspberry and ouzo. These products are promoted as distinct in both taste and origin, not available in other local stores.

*Photo Credit: Yiayia’s Pantry/Instagram*

Early Public Reception

Initial reactions from customers have been positive, with many expressing interest in the prepared meals and rare product range. Community comments online highlighted the uniqueness of the items, especially the frozen moussaka and pasta dishes, which were described as standout options.

Looking Ahead

Yiayia’s Pantry in Toowong has positioned itself as a dedicated source of Mediterranean cuisine and products, with a focus on cultural authenticity and accessibility. As the business establishes itself, the store is expected to draw continued local attention through its specialty offerings and Greek heritage focus.

Published 12-July-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