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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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)
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.
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.
A fresh approach to secondary education is coming to Toowong in 2025 with the opening of OMNI Academies of Learning, a unique independent school that promises to redefine the learning experience for Years 7-9.
This innovative institution, spearheaded by Principal Meg Foley, aims to provide a distinct alternative to traditional schooling, offering a more personalised and flexible learning environment for students in the heart of the Walter Taylor community.
OMNI Academies of Learning is set to challenge conventional educational norms. Focusing on individualised learning, the school will eliminate uniforms and rigid rules, fostering a more relaxed and adaptable atmosphere. Principal Foley, a passionate educator who desires to move beyond traditional education, envisions a school where students are empowered to take ownership of their learning journey.
This new establishment will be a welcome addition to the Toowong educational landscape, where existing high schools need help to accommodate the growing demand. With enrolments now open for Years 7-9, OMNI Academies of Learning presents a timely solution for families seeking a different educational experience for their children.
At OMNI Academies of Learning, educators will act as facilitators, guiding students on their educational path and nurturing their overall development. The school is committed to creating a dynamic learning community where students feel supported and inspired to reach their full potential.
Families interested in this new approach to education are encouraged to enrol their children for the 2025 academic year.
With its commitment to fostering individual growth and providing a more personalised learning experience, OMNI Academies of Learning is poised to become a valuable asset to the Toowong community.
Sylvan Road in Toowong continues to present significant safety challenges for cyclists, ranked as one of the most dangerous locations in Brisbane according to recent BikeSpot findings.
Sylvan Road in Toowong remains a focal point of safety concerns for the local cycling community, featuring prominently in the BikeSpot 2023 rankings as a hazardous area. The road is notorious for its high traffic speeds and dangerous intersections, which have been identified as major risks for cyclists.
Rank
Location
Features Noted as Dangerous
1
Hopkins St, Footscray (VIC)
No bike lane, high traffic speeds
2
Victoria Rd, Rozelle (NSW)
Dangerous intersections, no bike lane
3
Sylvan Rd, Toowong (QLD)
High traffic speeds, dangerous intersections
4
Franklin St, Adelaide (SA)
Lack of dedicated bike lanes
5
Tydeman Rd & Pearse St Intersection (WA)
Complex traffic patterns, high vehicle speeds
6
Northbourne Ave, Lyneham (ACT)
High traffic speeds, no bike lane
7
Tasman Bridge (TAS)
Narrow paths, high vehicle speeds
8
Epping Rd Shared Path, Lane Cove (NSW)
Dangerous intersections
9
St Georges Rd Trail (VIC)
Intersecting roads causing safety concerns
10
Bourke Rd, Alexandria (NSW)
Poor surface, dangerous intersections
Despite proposals for upgrades, the road’s current conditions continue to pose a serious threat to cyclist safety.
As part of a broader traffic management strategy announced by LM Adrian Schrinner in March 2024, Sylvan Road is slated for major upgrades designed to alleviate congestion and improve safety. The plan includes redesigning key intersections and enhancing the overall road layout to better accommodate both vehicular and bicycle traffic. However, these changes are still in the planning stages and have yet to move forward, leaving cyclists to navigate the existing hazardous conditions.
The local community and cycling advocates continue to urge immediate action to make Sylvan Road safer. The area’s traffic issues and the absence of dedicated bicycle lanes have contributed to several accidents, highlighting the urgent need for improvements.
With Toowong’s population growth and the upcoming Brisbane Olympics, the pressure is increasing on local authorities to expedite these critical upgrades to ensure the safety of all road users.
Whilst funding and political discussions about road improvements are ongoing, the primary concern for residents and local officials remains squarely focused on enhancing safety measures.
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.
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.
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.
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.
(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.
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.
Ex-Brisbane Boys College student, Mark Nicolaidis, kicks off his first Olympics campaign with partner Izac Carracher under the Eiffel Tower in Paris on 27 July.
Like many beach volleyballers, Mark initially focused on indoor volleyball, playing for the Queensland Pirates during four consecutive National Championships between 2016 and 2019. He also competed in the 2018 Youth Olympics in Argentina, finishing ninth.
When Mark partnered with Izac, the pairing won their first International Tournament together in 2022 and haven’t looked back since. That was only a year after Mark had graduated from QUT with a degree in Property Economics.
In the initial group stages, the pair will take on a Swedish pairing, Ahman and Hellvig at 11:00 p.m., Brisbane time, on Saturday, 27 July.
Their next match will be on Monday, 29 July at 5:00 p.m., Brisbane time, when they take on Cottafava and Nicolai. Their final group match will be against a Qatari pairing, Cherif and Ahmed, at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, 1 August.
“We don’t just want to go and participate in the Olympics – we want to go and go as deep as we can in the tournament. The first job’s done of getting there, and now we put all our preparation in to go as deep in that tournament as possible,” said Mark.
A dedicated Beach Volleyball channel on Stan Sports will allow you to watch every match live.
The team from Toowong Rowing Club will compete against 45 other crews worldwide for the Rosie Mayglothling Trophy in the Henley Women’s Regatta 2024 in the U.K., starting with a time trial to narrow the field to 16.
This year, 46 crews will vie for the Rosie Mayglothling Trophy. The competition kicks off with a time trial on Friday morning, the 21st of June, which will reduce the field to 16 crews. These top 16 will then progress to side-by-side racing on Friday and Sunday, promising thrilling matches. While some international crews participate, the strong local competition heightens the event’s excitement.
Highlight: Toowong Rowing Club
Gabby Geldard and Jemima Powell represent the Toowong team. Jemima recently placed fourth in the U23 lightweight double category at the Australian Rowing Championships 2024. Gabby competed in the club double category, finishing fifth in the final. Their individual achievements highlight the strength and depth of Toowong RC, marking them as a duo to watch in the upcoming races.
Toowong Rowing Club (TRC) is a renowned rowing club. Established in 1889, TRC has a long and storied history, making it one of the oldest rowing clubs in Queensland. The club is situated on the Brisbane River, providing excellent rowing conditions and a scenic environment for training and competition.
Founded over a century ago, Toowong Rowing Club has played a significant role in the development of rowing in Australia. The club has produced numerous elite rowers who have gone on to compete at national and international levels, including the Olympics. TRC’s commitment to excellence in rowing has cemented its reputation as a leading club in the country.
Toowong Rowing Club has a strong track record of success in both national and international competitions. The club’s athletes regularly compete in major regattas, such as the Australian Rowing Championships and Henley Royal Regatta. In recent years, TRC rowers have achieved notable results, including podium finishes and national titles.
Other Competitors at the Henley Women’s Regatta
GSR Aegir (NED)
Umi Kuiphuis and Wietske Anema of GSR Aegir (Netherlands) are notable competitors. They secured second place in the lightweight double category at the Royal Holland-Beker 2024 and won gold at the ARB Forestbaan. Their consistent performance and recent successes position them as strong contenders for the trophy.
DSR Proteus-Eretes/HSRV Pelargos (NED)
Another strong Dutch entry is the composite crew of Laura Kempen and Leonoor Bos from DSR Proteus-Eretes/HSRV Pelargos. They took first place in the lightweight double category at the Royal Holland-Beker and won the lightweight development double category at ARB Forestbaan. Their proven track record in various competitions underscores their potential to excel at Henley.
Hartpury University & College
Ellie Dash and Millie Hurrel of Hartpury University & College have shown impressive form. Ellie won the intermediate A final at BUCs Regatta 2024 and the Championship A final at the Met Regatta. Millie set a new course record at the National Schools Regatta and competed at the European Rowing Championships. Their synergy and individual accomplishments make them formidable opponents.
De Montfort University
Hannah Milnes and Lizzie Webster from De Montfort University have also had a strong season. They finished fifth in the A final of the double sculls category at the Met regatta and competed at the Reading Amateur regatta. Their experience and teamwork are expected to give them a competitive edge.
Photo Credit: Henley Women’s Regatta/Facebook
Predictions
GSR Aegir and DSR Proteus-Eretes/HSRV Pelargos will likely battle it out in the semi-finals, with strong showings from Toowong RC and Hartpury University & College. Norwich RC and De Montfort University are also anticipated to perform well, given their successful season so far. The combination of seasoned athletes and emerging talent will make for a series of highly competitive races.
The Henley Women’s Regatta
Henley Women’s Regatta (HWR) is the premier regatta for female rowers in the United Kingdom, held annually on the iconic stretch of the River Thames at Henley. This prestigious event attracts more than 2,000 rowers from across the UK and around the world, offering exciting side-by-side match racing for a wide range of competitors, from juniors to university and club levels to international elite athletes.
Photo Credit: Henley Women’s Regatta/Facebook
Since its inception in 1988, HWR has become a significant event in the rowing calendar. It has run every year except 2020, showcasing the dedication and hard work of a vast team of volunteers, the generosity of the Copas family, and the support from Friends of Henley Women’s Regatta, sponsors, and local businesses. The regatta was one of the early adopters of live streaming for its races, enhancing its accessibility and popularity.
Henley Women’s Regatta 2024 promises to showcase top-tier rowing talent, with exciting races and a vibrant atmosphere. Whether you are a rowing enthusiast or a casual spectator, the event offers a unique opportunity to witness the best in women’s rowing, set against the picturesque backdrop of the River Thames at Henley.
