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Broncos Roundup: Ezra Mam Back in Red Hill, But Controversy Remains

Ezra Mam is back in Broncos colours, but his return to Red Hill has been met with mixed emotions as the young five-eighth joined his teammates for the first time since his October car crash.

Read: Paddington Grieves as Jess Gambaro Dies After Cancer Battle

Five-eighth Ezra Mam rejoins Broncos

While the sight of Mam back in Broncos colours was a welcome one for some, his presence reignited the debate surrounding his punishment for driving unlicensed with a drug in his system—an incident that left a young girl with a fractured hip.

Despite the controversy, the Broncos are well within their rights to have Mam train with the squad. Coach Michael Maguire clearly sees value in keeping the talented playmaker engaged and integrated with the team, even though he won’t pull on the Broncos jersey until Round 10. Mam was seen working closely with new recruit Ben Hunt and attack coach Trent Barrett, honing his kicking and passing game.

As you've seen, Ezra Mam's exodus is over, the embattled Bronco training with teammates for the first time since the crash that threatened to end his career. Only 7NEWS captured the secret session this afternoon. https://t.co/6QvR0OCb7C @mitchkroehn #7NEWS pic.twitter.com/KvKnSFkFIo
— 7NEWS Queensland (@7NewsBrisbane) January 7, 2025

But Mam’s presence has reignited the debate surrounding his punishment. NRL legends Scott Sattler and Mat Rogers recently weighed in on the timing of Mam’s reintegration. “Going to training is different to playing,” Rogers said on SEN radio. “I’m not saying let him back in (to play), but it’s his job. I don’t think he’ll be playing for the first few months of the season, but he’s still got to do his job. You have to be allowed to go to work.”

Ezra Mam to miss all competitions

The NRL has also ruled out any possibility of a loophole that could have seen Mam play reserve grade during his suspension. Despite the ban stemming from an off-field incident, Mam will be sidelined from all competitions until Round 10.

Ben Hunt hits the ground running

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Hunt appears to have arrived at Red Hill in peak form. Reports from Tuesday’s session suggest he was impressive with his kicking game and looked comfortable training in both the halves and at hooker. This versatility will be crucial, as he’s expected to partner Adam Reynolds in the halves until Mam returns, then shift to hooker.

Adam Reynolds prepares for surprise trial

In a surprising move, Reynolds is set for a pre-season appearance. Despite his well-known aversion to trial games, the veteran halfback is expected to feature in the NRL Pre-season Challenge against the Bulldogs. This aims to build his combination with Hunt and ensure a smooth transition into the season. Reynolds is recovering from off-season neck surgery but is expected to be fully fit for Round 1.

Kobe Hetherington’s return and Pat Carrigan’s potential move

Kobe Hetherington’s unexpected retention has sparked speculation about a possible positional switch for captain Patrick Carrigan. Hetherington, initially told he could explore other options, was brought back into the fold by Maguire, who admires his tough playing style. This could see Carrigan, who has impressed at prop for the Pacific Championships, move up front permanently. This would allow Hetherington, a tough defender and reliable tackler, to challenge for the lock position.

Read: NRL’s Suspension of Ezra Mam Sparks Debate: Is Nine Weeks Enough?

With a mix of returning stars, new faces, and potential positional shake-ups, the Broncos pre-season is shaping up to be anything but dull. Fans will be eagerly watching how these storylines develop as the 6 March season opener against the Roosters draws closer.

Published 09-January-2025

NRL’s Suspension of Ezra Mam Sparks Debate: Is Nine Weeks Enough?

The National Rugby League’s proposed nine-week suspension for Brisbane Broncos star Ezra Mam has ignited widespread criticism, with fans and officials questioning whether the punishment fits the severity of his drug-driving offence that resulted in a three-vehicle crash.

Read: Broncos Star Ezra Mam Reflects on Costly Mistake

The incident and court ruling

In October 2024, Mam crashed his Ford Ranger into oncoming traffic while driving unlicensed with cocaine in his system, causing injuries to three people, including a four-year-old girl. The Brisbane Magistrates Court fined him $850 and disqualified him from driving for six months, with no conviction recorded. The sentence prompted Queensland premier Jarrod Bleijie to label it “a slap on the wrist”, noting that the fine was less severe than penalties for mobile phone use while driving.

Ezra Mam : a history of repeated offenses

Court documents paint a concerning pattern of driving violations dating back to 2021, Courier Mail reveals. At the time of the October crash, Mam was serving his third licence suspension, with previous infractions including speeding, mobile phone use, and running red lights. His traffic history also shows multiple demerit point suspensions and restrictions, raising questions about the adequacy of earlier penalties in deterring dangerous behaviour.

Mam, whose Broncos contract is valued at $4 million, has a record of violations ranging from failing to wear a seatbelt to exceeding speed limits. His most recent suspension in May 2024, issued for mobile phone use while driving, carried a $1,161 fine—ironically higher than his penalty for drug-driving.

Read: Paddington Grieves as Jess Gambaro Dies After Cancer Battle

NRL sanctions under scrutiny

The proposed nine-week suspension has drawn particular scrutiny when compared to other recent NRL penalties. Yahoo’s Andrew Reid called the suspension “simply not good enough” and compared it to other sanctions handed out by the NRL. For instance, Spencer Leniu’s eight-week ban for racial vilification against Mam himself during the Las Vegas season opener has sparked debate. Many question why drug-driving, which caused injuries, warrants only one additional week of suspension.

Just brought to my attention…

The @NRL deregistered Junior Amone for the hammer incident

A serious incident indeed and maybe worthy of the punishment

The same @NRL has become an enabler to Ezra Mam’s actions

Two very serious crimes and polar opposite punishments
— 91 03 21 22 23 24 PREMIERS 🐾🏆 (@SnoogThe) December 24, 2024

Social media has been flooded with fans demanding at least a 12-week ban, with some advocating for a season-long suspension given the gravity of the offence and its potential consequences. The timing of the NRL’s announcement, just before Christmas, has also raised eyebrows, with critics suggesting it may be an attempt to minimise public attention.

The Ezra Mam 9-week ban by the NRL is not harsh enough for drug-driving and putting a 4-year-old in hospital with a broken hip while unlicensed. SHOULD HAVE BEEN 12-15 WEEKS MINIMUM.
— BUZZ ROTHFIELD (@BuzzRothfield) December 23, 2024

Mam has five business days to respond to the proposed ban, with a final decision expected in early 2025. Meanwhile, the Broncos have the option to impose additional sanctions, though the club has already prevented him from returning to training this year.

Published 27-December-2024

Paddington Grieves as Jess Gambaro Dies After Cancer Battle

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Jess Gambaro, a cherished mother of four and long-time Paddington resident, has passed away at 46 after a courageous battle with oesophageal cancer, leaving her family and local community heartbroken.

A Community in Grief

Jess, wife of restaurateur Donny Gambaro, died on 23 December, just two days before Christmas. Diagnosed with stage four oesophageal cancer in August 2023, her condition came as a shock, as she initially sought medical care for what she thought was pneumonia.

Despite her illness, she remained active in both her family life and the community, displaying immense resilience throughout her treatment.

Her husband reflected on her determination to beat the disease, recounting how, even a year ago, she was body surfing at Coolangatta during Christmas. He described her as a calming presence with a radiant smile that brought warmth to every room she entered. Friends and neighbours in Paddington remember her as an inspiring figure who balanced her family commitments with professional contributions to the Gambaro Group’s restaurants.

Family and Business Legacy

Jess leaves behind her husband and their children: Don, 16; Zara, 12; Massimo, 9; and Nico, 7. She is also survived by her parents, Lloyd and Joan Bennett, and siblings Zoe, Rhys, and Philippa.

The Gambaro couple, who met as students at QUT, married in 2007 at St Brigid’s Church in Red Hill, where her funeral will be held on 3 January.

Jess played a pivotal role in the Gambaro Group, a family-owned hospitality business that started with a fish and chip shop on Caxton Street in 1953. The business has grown into a prominent restaurant empire in Brisbane, with venues such as Black Hide Steak & Seafood, Persone Italian, and Pipi’s Restaurant at Coolangatta.

Up until the last few months of her life, she was actively building websites for the family’s enterprises, combining her marketing and IT expertise to support their operations.

Jess Gambaro Paddington — *Photo Credit: Jessica Gambaro/Facebook*

Raising Awareness About Oesophageal Cancer

Jess’s diagnosis brought attention to oesophageal cancer, a rare condition affecting around 1,700 Australians annually, predominantly older men. The disease often develops without noticeable symptoms, making early detection difficult. In Jess’s case, her diagnosis was especially surprising as she was a non-smoker and did not consume alcohol, both of which are common risk factors.

Despite extensive treatments, including radiation, multiple chemotherapy regimens, and a trial drug, the cancer ultimately spread to other areas of her body. Her family expressed gratitude for the medical teams who supported Jess during her fight and hope that increased awareness of this illness can help others in the future.

Final Farewell

The Gambaro family has invited friends, neighbours, and community members to join them in celebrating Jess’s life at her funeral at St Brigid’s Church. The same church that marked the beginning of her married life will now host a farewell for a woman remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother, and vital part of the Paddington community.

Published 26-Dec-2024

Paddington Queenslander Transformed into a Modern Dream Home

Photo Credit: Ray White - Metro North via realestate.com.au

A century-old Paddington Queenslander, affectionately known as “Moreton Cottage,” has undergone a breathtaking transformation from a dilapidated structure on the verge of demolition to a luxurious modern residence.

Read: Rebuilt Paddington Home Sells for $3 Million After 2016 Fire

The property, located at 25 Mullin Street, Paddington, is now unrecognizable and is listed for auction, with offers starting at over $3.7 million. This marks a substantial increase from the $1.415 million that Chris and Rachel Meade initially paid for the home.

The house prior the renovations (Photo credit: Google Street View)

Once known by local children as “the haunted house” due to its derelict state, the property’s story changed dramatically when the Meades took ownership. Chris Meade recalled how the house had caught his eye years ago when his family first moved to Brisbane.

While walking past the run-down Queenslander with peeling paint and an air of neglect, he had thought it would make a great renovation project someday. That dream became a reality when the Meades successfully purchased the house at auction.

Inside the restored Paddington Queenslander (Photo credit: Harvey Tink/Instagram)

The restoration, however, was far more ambitious than they had initially imagined. The couple explained that their passion for the building and its location—right in their own neighborhood—motivated them to take on the monumental task.

They viewed the renovation as not just a personal project but a service to the community, revitalizing an eyesore that sat directly across from the main school. For the Meades, it was important to honour the heritage of the house while bringing it into the modern era.

Styled by property stylists at Harvey Tink, the result is a stunning blend of character and contemporary luxury. “Resting behind the original character facade, the house has been raised and rebuilt and breathes new life and opulent luxury across an intuitive architectural design,” the listing reads.

The home now features four bedrooms, three luxurious bathrooms, and breathtaking city views. One of the bedroom windows offers an uninterrupted view of Suncorp Stadium, which the Meades hope will appeal to sports enthusiasts.

Read: Paddo Tavern Set for Major Revamp in Time for Brisbane Olympics

Positioned in one of Paddington’s most prestigious streets, just 2km from Brisbane’s CBD, the property offers both lifestyle and luxury. The transformed Moreton Cottage is more than a house; it’s a testament to the vision and dedication of its owners, who have breathed new life into a piece of local history.

As the Meades prepare to pass the baton to new owners, they hope that the house’s unique charm and prime location will continue to captivate future generations.

Published 21-December-2024

Broncos Star Ezra Mam Reflects on Costly Mistake

Brisbane Broncos star Ezra Mam faces an uncertain path back to first-grade football following his guilty plea to drug driving and unlicensed driving charges at Brisbane Magistrates Court on Monday.

The 21-year-old five-eighth was fined $850 and had his licence disqualified for six months. Since then, he has been training in isolation at the Broncos’ Red Hill headquarters while awaiting the NRL Integrity Unit’s final determination on potential sanctions.

Read: Signs of Hope Amid Pre-season Concerns: Maguire’s Vision Takes Shape for the Brisbane Broncos

Court ruling and public reaction

The 18 October crash in Bardon, which involved an Uber carrying a woman and her four-year-old daughter, has drawn widespread criticism over the perceived leniency of the court’s punishment. NRL commentator Mark Levy suggested a season-long suspension, criticising the court’s penalty as insufficient. Redland woman Judy Lindsay, who lost her daughter in a 2009 crash, called for stricter penalties to deter similar behaviour.

Mam expressed remorse outside court, saying, “To all the people involved in this accident, I’m truly sorry.”

“This incident isn’t a reflection of who I want to be or what is expected of me as a role model.”

Broncos’ response to the incident

Broncos coach Michael Maguire revealed he has had several discussions with Mam, who has been working unpaid at a Brisbane building site after completing a four-week rehabilitation program at The Banyans Healthcare.

“I’ve had a number of conversations with him, and Ezra’s working through the process,” Maguire told Channel 9. “I think he’s learned a lot from this moment in time.”

“He’s a young man that’s made a mistake, and he’s working hard to make sure that he moves forward now in the right path.”

The Broncos have ruled out contract termination but have moved to shore up their playmaking stocks, signing veteran Queensland Origin star Ben Hunt on a two-year deal. Hunt, who commenced training with the club on Sunday, is expected to partner Adam Reynolds in the halves at the start of the 2025 season.

Read: Ben Hunt Returns to Red Hill as Broncos Eye Title Glory

Ezra Mam, future and redemption

Mam’s immediate playing future hinges on the NRL Integrity Unit’s investigation. He is expected to rejoin his teammates when they return from their Christmas break in January. In the meantime, he continues his twice-daily training sessions at Red Hill.

The incident has reignited debates on accountability in professional sport. As the Broncos prepare to wrap up their pre-season training this week, the timing of Mam’s return to the field remains uncertain, leaving both the player and club in a holding pattern heading into the new year.

Published 18-December-2024

Signs of Hope Amid Pre-season Concerns: Maguire’s Vision Takes Shape for the Brisbane Broncos

Recent observations at Brisbane Broncos’ pre-season training have sparked discussion among supporters, with conflicting reports emerging about the fitness levels of key players Reece Walsh and Selwyn Cobbo.

Read: Auchenflower Hospital to Undergo Major Expansion

A challenging pre-season for the Brisbane Broncos?

During Monday’s fitness testing at Red Hill, Channel 10’s Ted Roker observed Walsh and Cobbo trailing at the back of the group with veteran Martin Taupau. This has sparked debate as new coach Michael Maguire introduces a rigorous regime to transform the Broncos after their lacklustre 2024 season.

Pretty Riki, more like fitty Riki! On his first session back at Broncos, Jordan Riki wins the fitness test 🐎 Jock Madden and Billy Walters also up there. Reece Walsh, Selwyn Cobbo and Martin Taupau at the back of the pack @10NewsFirstQLD @brisbanebroncos pic.twitter.com/WauEwZtT6X
— Ted Roker (@TedRoker) December 9, 2024

Teammates rally behind Walsh

Despite concerns raised by Monday’s fitness testing, teammates like Jesse Arthars and Payne Haas have defended Walsh’s pre-season form, describing it as the strongest he’s displayed in years. “Reece has been going pretty hard,” Arthars noted last week, highlighting Walsh’s commitment alongside Payne Haas throughout pre-season preparations.

Haas himself stepped forward on Tuesday to address the fitness concerns during a sponsor media event. “To be honest, Walshy is probably the fittest he’s come back,” Haas insisted. “Pre-season is tough, so all the boys are having a red-hot crack and they’re going well.”

Maguire faces tough player decisions

While fitness levels have sparked debate, equally pressing are the strategic decisions facing Maguire, particularly around Cobbo’s role within the squad. Maguire has indicated he’s considering moving Cobbo back to the wing, despite his 2024 centre role. “Selwyn is potentially a wing option, yes,” Maguire confirmed to The Courier Mail, emphasising Cobbo’s versatility and strong ball-carrying abilities.

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The situation is further complicated by salary cap pressures. Ben Hunt’s acquisition and Walsh’s $5 million contract extension have tightened the club’s financial landscape, delaying contract discussions with Cobbo until after the pre-season period. These constraints raise questions about whether the Broncos can retain their core talent while balancing their budget, potentially forcing difficult decisions between keeping Cobbo or Kotoni Staggs beyond 2025.

Despite these early pre-season talking points, there are positive signs for the Broncos. Jordan Riki’s strong showing in the fitness test, immediately after returning from international duty with New Zealand, demonstrates the high standards possible under Maguire’s new regime.

Read: Ben Hunt Returns to Red Hill as Broncos Eye Title Glory

As the Christmas break approaches, Brisbane Broncos supporters will be watching closely to see how these early pre-season developments shape the team’s preparations for 2025. With Maguire at the helm, the Broncos’ renewed focus will be critical in their bid to restore former glory after missing the top eight in 2024.

Published 14-December-2024

Street Spotlight: Tooth Avenue, Paddington

Tooth Avenue in Paddington stands as a testament to Brisbane’s evolving residential landscape, with its rich history stretching back to 1946 when only a handful of houses dotted the streetscape. The street’s remarkable transformation is evident in its strong owner-occupier presence, with 85% of its 65 properties being owner-occupied, and residents staying an average of 16 years and 5 months – a testament to the area’s enduring appeal.

Historical sales data provides fascinating insights into the suburb’s growth, with 44 Tooth Avenue selling for $43,000 in June 1979, a figure that starkly contrasts with today’s market values. Below the aerial photograph from 1936 reveals the street’s humble beginnings, while today it stands as a sought-after address where nearly half the residents have called it home for more than a decade.

Tooth Avenue, Paddington Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 42
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 75%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 12 years and 11 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 56%

Tooth Avenue, Paddington – As It Looked in 1946

Tooth Avenue, Paddington in 1946

SOME RECENT SALES ON TOOTH AVENUE, PADDINGTON

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
73 Tooth Avenue, Paddington	N/A	Oct 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON TOOTH AVENUE FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
48 Tooth Avenue, Paddington	$116,000	May 1986
24 Tooth Avenue, Paddington	$71,000	Feb 1986
21A Tooth Avenue, Paddington	$29,500	Dec 1979
44 Tooth Avenue, Paddington	$43,000	June 1979

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Paddington in 2024 was $1,525,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Paddington in 2020 was $925,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN PADDINGTON SINCE 2020 : $600,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Paddington in 2024 was $2,250,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Paddington in 2020 was $1,381,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN PADDINGTON SINCE 2020 : $869,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Paddington in 2024 was $3,258,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Paddington in 2020 was $2,028,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN PADDINGTON SINCE 2020 : $1,230,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Paddington in 2024 was $760,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Paddington in 2020 was $439,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN PADDINGTON SINCE 2020 : $321,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Paddington in 2024 was $1,205,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Paddington in 2020 was $713,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN PADDINGTON SINCE 2020 : $492,000

If you know Tooth Avenue, Paddington well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Ben Hunt Returns to Red Hill as Broncos Eye Title Glory

Brisbane Broncos have landed a major coup for their 2025 premiership campaign, securing the services of Queensland Origin star Ben Hunt on a two-year deal. The signing marks a homecoming for Hunt, who launched his NRL career with the Broncos in 2009.

Read: Auchenflower Hospital to Undergo Major Expansion

Ben Hunt reveals why Brisbane won out

When asked whether returning to the Broncos was always the plan, Hunt admitted in an interview with 4BC Brisbane, “It definitely wasn’t always, and that’s what made the decision process so long.”

“Having a family down here in Sydney, we had to weigh up whether it was the right move to come back to Queensland or stay down here and finish off before we move back.”

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Despite strong interest from Sydney clubs, Hunt’s emotional connection to Brisbane won out. “In my heart it always kept taking me back to Brisbane and the possibility of finishing off my career where it all started,” Hunt revealed.

Premiership vision drives return

Broncos head coach Michael Maguire believes Hunt could be the missing piece in breaking Brisbane’s 19-year title drought. “He would give us great depth,” Madge said. “Ben has played both positions at the highest levels at hooker and halfback, so it would give us versatility around what he can do.”

Hunt, too, is optimistic about his return. “I’m hoping I can contribute and win a competition,” he shared, voicing his championship ambitions. “I believe they’ve got the troops to do it, and Madge will be great for the club.”

Hunt is open to embracing any role that benefits the team but remains clear about his priorities. “My priority is to play in the half—that’s my favourite position,” he stated. “But playing hooker definitely isn’t an issue for me.”

“We’ll cross that bridge when we get there.”

Looking ahead to 2025

The 334-game veteran will begin training under Maguire next month, bringing experience and leadership to Red Hill. “I met with Madge a couple of times and everything we talked about was footy related—what he thinks the side’s capable of and how I can contribute,” Hunt said. “Our conversations were outstanding and I’m looking forward to playing under him.”

Read: Paddo Tavern Set for Major Revamp in Time for Brisbane Olympics

“For him to come back and achieve something that he set out as a kid at the Broncos, it would be an incredible story,” Maguire added, highlighting the narrative of Hunt’s return.

With Hunt’s leadership and skillset, the Broncos’ spine is shaping up to be one of the strongest in the NRL, giving the team a dynamic edge as they prepare for the 2025 season.

Published 27-November-2024

Auchenflower Hospital to Undergo Major Expansion

Photo Credit: Urban Strategies

Wesley Hospital in Auchenflower is set to undergo a significant expansion, with plans lodged for two 10-storey towers.

The project, proposed by UnitingCare (MID-0624-0852 – Chasely Street Health Hub), aims to address Queensland’s increasing demand for healthcare services.

The proposed development includes a new medical building housing various services, including allied health, medical imaging, radiology, pharmacy, and specialist health services. A 10-storey accommodation tower is also planned to provide accommodation for families and carers of regional patients.

The new accommodation tower will replace the outdated Wesley Rotary Lodge and offer modern and comfortable facilities. The medical building will be connected to the existing Wesley Hospital via a pedestrian bridge, enhancing accessibility and convenience for patients and staff.

Moorlands, a historic property near the Wesley Hospital, is not part of the redevelopment plans and will remain preserved.
Photo Credit: Urban Strategies

*Photo Credit: MID-0624-0852 – Chasely Street Health Hub*

While the project is expected to benefit the community significantly, it has also raised concerns about potential impacts on traffic and local infrastructure. UnitingCare has engaged with local stakeholders and is considering feedback to refine the design.

The expansion will take at least 12 months, and construction will commence in the coming year.

The project is being undertaken under the Ministerial Infrastructure Designation scheme, which streamlines the planning process. Public consultations on the proposal are ongoing and will conclude on 25 November.

Published Date 20-November-2024

Paddo Tavern Set for Major Revamp in Time for Brisbane Olympics

The Paddo Tavern in Paddington is set to undergo a significant redevelopment, transforming it into a four-level venue with a new rooftop and modernised facilities aimed at supporting the local community and welcoming visitors ahead of Brisbane’s 2032 Olympics.

Expansion and New Facilities

The renovation plan (DA A006642907), designed by Brisbane-based Craig W Chandler Architects, will add a fourth level to the Paddo Tavern, increasing its total floor area by nearly 50 per cent to 5,112 square metres. The new layout will include three function rooms, each approximately 148 square metres, designed to accommodate private events, corporate functions, and community gatherings. A large bar and lounge area will span 303 square metres, while a spacious 480-square-metre breakout area will connect to the function rooms.

The expansion includes updated accessibility features, with a new lift and escalators, and a redesigned facade along Given Terrace and Campbell Street. The tavern’s street presence will also be enhanced with a “green wall” featuring cascading plants, adding a subtropical touch to the venue’s exterior. The updated facilities aim to position the Paddo Tavern as a central location for community events and gatherings, with the ability to host larger groups and a broader range of events.

Historical Preservation and Sustainability

The Paddo Tavern has a long history dating back to the 1870s, and the current structure, built in the 1980s, has been a key landmark in Paddington. The redevelopment plans include reusing much of the existing structure, reducing the environmental impact of the project and preserving some of the tavern’s historical elements. Additionally, the well-known Sit Down Comedy Club venue will remain, ensuring the Paddo Tavern continues to support local arts and entertainment.

Across the street, another development aims to further revitalise the Paddington area. A new boutique unit and short-stay accommodation project, led by local landowners the Vidakovic family, is under construction at 208-220 Given Terrace. This development will feature two mid-rise buildings housing 12 luxury apartments and 31 short-stay accommodation suites.

A new laneway, named Hanlon Lane, will connect the site to Given Terrace and offer a mix of retail spaces, including cafes, restaurants, and restored character shops. This mixed-use project is expected to attract more foot traffic to Paddington’s retail strip, enhancing the area’s appeal for both locals and visitors.

Community Impact and Future Events

The redevelopment of the Paddo Tavern and the nearby Given Terrace project are part of a broader effort to prepare Paddington for upcoming major events, including the 2027 Rugby World Cup and the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. By expanding its facilities and enhancing its community spaces, the Paddo Tavern aims to continue serving the Paddington community as a central meeting spot for both locals and tourists. Nearby residents and business owners have the opportunity to provide feedback on the development, as the tavern’s expansion plans are open to appeal through the planning court.

With these changes, the Paddo Tavern and surrounding area are set to grow into a hub for community engagement, providing improved amenities, event spaces, and social venues to serve the evolving needs of Paddington’s residents and visitors alike.

Published 4-Nov-2024