Kelvin Grove Teenager Henry Coward Launches Toll Cashback Program to Help Motorists Save on Toll Costs, Promote Local Businesses

After watching his parents regularly spend a significant sum on toll fees commuting to work and ferrying him and his siblings to extracurricular activities, 15-year-old Henry Coward came up with a creative solution that helps people save money AND businesses make money.


Read: New Slow for SAM Signs Installed Outside Petrie Terrace State School, 21 Other Locations


Henry Coward’s entrepreneurial journey began after he emerged victorious at a Young Entrepreneurs competition organised by the University of Queensland, where he and other participants were challenged to devise solutions for addressing local issues within Brisbane.

Drawing from his own family’s experience, Henry set up Tollz, an innovative toll cashback program aimed at slashing toll costs, alleviating the burden of living expenses, and providing support to local businesses. 

toll cashback program
Tollz Founder Henry Coward (Photo supplied)

Driven by the desire to assist pandemic-affected businesses in the area and mitigate road congestion, whilst alleviating the financial strain on motorists utilising tolls, Henry conceptualised Tollz as a comprehensive toll cashback program that would be a win-win situation for everyone involved. 

“When I realised the costs of tolls could be covered through a cashback program, which would also support local businesses who have been doing it tough in recent years, it was such a no-brainer, I was determined to make it a reality so we could all start reaping the rewards,” he shared.

How Tollz Works

Photo credit: Tollz/Facebook

In order to start earning Tollz rewards, one needs to register on their website. The registration process is quick, taking less than a minute, and joining is completely free. 

Once registered, users can immediately begin shopping and earning rewards. Additionally, users have the option to link their Linkt account to their Tollz account during the registration process or at any other convenient time. 

To expedite the launch of Tollz in a swift and secure manner, the Brisbane-based startup has collaborated with the reputable and regulated cashback provider, “Super-Rewards,” leveraging their expertise in rewards programs and payment capabilities.


Read: Paddington Local Seeks To Build New Park At Latrobe Tce


Henry’s toll cashback program has established connections with numerous renowned brands and products, including Big W, Hellofresh, Subway, Virgin, Booking.com, and Liquorland. 

Any business keen on joining this program can sign up free of charge, enabling their customers to start saving on tolls by making regular purchases either in-store or online, driving customers to the participating establishments and cultivating much-needed repeat business in the process.

Find out more about Tollz here .

Published 22-May-2023

Inside Tandem Co, Paddington’s Charming Bike Shop and Cafe

Tandem Co Coffee and Cycle House, located in Paddington, is the perfect combination of two passions: cycling and culinary delights.


Read: The Hamsa Room at Naïm: New Intimate Private Bar and Dining Space


Far from being an ordinary cafe, Tandem Co is a sanctuary for cyclists and a vibrant hub for fostering community connections.

Cafe

Tandem Co
Photo credit: Diana Waines/Google Maps

As soon as you stepped inside the cafe, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted through the air, inviting you to explore its tiny yet cosy interior. 

The menu boasted an array of delectable treats to refuel the weary cyclist—Brekkie wraps, Ham and Cheese Croissants, and even Jaffles with exciting new fillings each week. 

Tandem Co
Photo credit: Tandem Co Coffee & Cycle House/Facebook

For those seeking something lighter, there was Avo on Toast with creamy fetta, gluten-free Veggie Frittata, and a variety of toasts with delectable spreads. And let’s not forget the tempting assortment of cakes and pastries, with the Cake of the Day taking centre stage, tempting visitors with its irresistible flavours. 

Bike Shop

Tandem Co
Photo credit: Tandem Co Coffee & Cycle House/Facebook

Tandem Co is more than just a cafe. It also housed a vibrant bicycle shop that catered to cyclists of all kinds. They have an impressive collection of bikes, showcasing the diversity of styles and sizes available. 

Whether you were in need of a simple bike service, had burning questions about cycling, or were searching for the perfect bicycle to match your unique vibe, this cafe is the place to be. 

Photo credit: Tandem Co Coffee & Cycle House/Facebook

The knowledgeable and passionate staff were always at hand, ready to offer expert advice and guidance. If you had a vision for your dream bike or were unsure where to begin, they would gladly assist in building a custom ride from the ground up. 


Read: Rosalie Gourmet Market Marks 25 Years of Delicious History in Brisbane


Despite its small size, this neighbourhood cafe stood tall as a testament to the power of passion, community, and the simple joy of indulging in tasty treats and delicious coffee.

Tandem Co Coffee and Cycle House is located at 83 Latrobe Terrace, Paddington. Follow them on Facebook for more information.

Published 16-May-2023

Paddington’s Government House Celebrates the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla

As the United Kingdom crowns King Charles III and Queen Camilla, the Government House in Paddington, under the Commonwealth of Australia, will also celebrate this historical event with an Open Day. 



On Saturday, 6 May 2023, the gates of Government House Estate will open to the public from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to commemorate the coronation. The event promises plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Attendees can celebrate this historic day by donning a Government House costume crown and walking down the red carpet to sit upon the “royal throne” for a photo opportunity. Selfie sticks at the ready!

In addition to the crown festivities, there will be activities to keep children entertained, including face painting, tennis, and a scavenger hunt. Visitors are encouraged to explore the Estate, which will be riddled with trivia, and bring their answers to the friendly volunteers at the Information Hub to collect a limited edition Coronation Coin.

Knowledgeable volunteer guides will be on hand to talk about the history of the house and the constitutional, ceremonial, and community duties of the Governor. Guided garden tours led by the Horticultural Team will depart from The Queen’s Statue at 11:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. A moderate level of fitness and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Visitors can experience the thrill of the RAAF Super Hornet flyover at 1:00 p.m. and enjoy the pomp and ceremony of the local Town Crier’s decree at 1:15 p.m.

Food options include a British-style lunch from London Spudss, sweet treats from King of Cakes, and a liquid refreshment from the Tim Adams Specialty Coffee van. Live music will be provided by the Brisbane Excelsior Band and Queensland Police Service Pipes and Drums.



As one of the Governor’s patronage organizations, the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland (RACQ) will also be onsite.

While the event is free, registration is required, and street parking will be available on Fernberg Road and surrounding streets. No pets (assistance dogs excepted) or alcohol will be permitted.

Published 4-May-2023

The Hamsa Room at Naïm: New Intimate Private Bar and Dining Space

Paddington’s food scene has recently expanded with the opening of The Hamsa Room, a Euro-inspired bar from the team behind Naïm.



The tandem behind Naïm, Vince Estacio and B.J Wall, revealed that at some point they considered swapping their Paddington location for a bigger space to accommodate more patrons. Nevertheless, they opted to expand and launch The Hamsa, a Euro-inspired bar and events space with 27 seats. The Hamsa serves as a complementary feature to Naïm while also standing on its own.

The Hamsa’s design features recognizable details from Naïm, including Moroccan-inspired tiles, along with the addition of a bar and shelves in the former store. Despite being a private bar that mandates a reservation for seating, The Hamsa welcomes walk-ins, although guests are required to register before being seated.

Although The Hamsa doesn’t have a kitchen, patrons can still enjoy some of their favorite dishes with a Middle-Eastern/Mediterranean flair from Naïm, which will be delivered by the staff from across the road.  

Photo credit: NAÏM / naimrestaurant.com.au

On the menu, guests can find light nibbles such as Riser Bread sourdough served with black-tahini butter and spiced candied pepitas. Tasmanian oysters are also available either natural or with zhug dressing and charmoula sauce. For those with a spicy craving, there are  bloody Mary oyster shots available to enjoy.

Photo credit: NAÏM / naimrestaurant.com.au

The menu expands to include a variety of mini composed plates that features cheese and its accompaniments. These include dishes such as whipped fetta with peach, bee pollen, and walnut, cumin gouda with spiced honey, pistachio dukkah, and Pedro Ximenez prunes, and turmeric cashew cheese with tahini yoghurt and herb salad.

The charcuterie section, meanwhile, offers shawarma parfait enclosed in herb tart and droplets of pomegranate gel; and harissa prawns served on a bed of ajo blanco puree and accompanied by a generous portion of sourdough.

On the drinks menu, guests can find a variety of options to suit their preferences. Champagne Collet, Tasmanian pet nat, and Victorian Prosecco are just a few of the choices available. For those who prefer something other than wine, there are also lo-fi wines, cocktails, and over a dozen craft beers to choose from. 



Those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages can select from a comprehensive collection of non-alcoholic wines, beers, and mocktails. Additionally, an on-tap kombucha is available for those who enjoy a refreshing and healthy drink.

The Hamsa is located at 1/169 Latrobe Terrace. To book, check out Naïm’s website here.

Published 14-April-2023

Rosalie Gourmet Market Marks 25 Years of Delicious History in Brisbane

Rosalie Gourmet Market marked its 25th year of offering high-quality delicacies, specialty products or indulgent patisserie and pantry items in Paddington. Popularly known as Brisbane’s foremost food hall, this store has been a goldmine filled with an extensive selection of artisanal products. 



Originally behind this culinary paradise were Norris and Marcia Lewis, who opened Rosalie Gourmet Market in October 1997 as a deli and grocer along Baroona Rd. The Lewis couple were inspired to open their business following their travels to Los Angeles years ago, where they discovered an organic grocer. 

The couple thought that a deli and grocer would fit right into Rosalie’s village feel. Over time, the Lewis couple established their store as the go-to shop for specialty baked goods, delicious pasta, sauces, jams and preserves for the pantry, cured meats and charcuterie, and filling take-home meals, as well as kitchenware and essential items for gifting. 

In 2016, however, Norris and Marcia decided to enjoy their retirement years and turned over Rosalie Gourmet Market to Rae Gough. 

Rae spent a long time in London before moving back to Brisbane to raise a young family. In her years abroad, Rae became a regular at the Borough Market, which honed her love for gourmet ingredients. Thus, she was the perfect choice to take over the gourmet shop and continue what the Lewis couple started. 

“I have never had a regret about my change from the corporate world and love my little piece of foodie paradise,” Rae said in April 2022, six years after she took ownership of the shop. “I love the community, staff and suppliers who bring me happiness every day. Thank you to you all, and especially to my incredibly supportive family and friends who are behind me every step of the way.” 

Rosalie Gourmet Market
Photo Credit: RosalieGourmetMarket/Facebook

Rae added that she knew she made the right decision to quit her corporate job and run a food business. Under her stewardship, Rosalie Gourmet Market expanded with more spaces to accommodate more products, especially hard-to-find international food items. She also spearheaded the 25th-anniversary celebration at the shop in October 2022.

In September 2023, former and current workers of the gourmet shop are planning a reunion with Rae, as well as Norris and Marcia.



Follow Rosalie Gourmet Market on Facebook for more updates.

One stop shop for all deli needs. The Rosalie Gourmet Market has everything you could need from gifts to everyday delights. I regularly buy the deli meats, family sized quiche and lasagne, as well as breads, pastas and treats. They have a fantastic range of all products, including a lovely section of home items, flowers and wrapping + cards. I have used the catering service on 4 occassions and have never been disappointed. The sizes are generous and the food is absolutely delicious and fresh. It’s a great place to grab an easy dinner option (soup, pizza, pasta, curries, etc) and their cakes are to die for. Especially their vegan choc cake. 

Anna Thomas

A nice local gourmet market and deli in Rosalie. Picked up a bunch of different cheeses and prosciutto de Parma; which were of great quality. The cakes looked nice as well and would definitely come back for those. Highly recommended for anyone who’s after gourmet food items.

Magnus Hsu

Staff are always lovely, beautiful cheese and antipasto. They always have great recommendations for charcuterie boards and pairings for cheeses, antipasto and meats.

A10

Published 3-April-2023

From the Meat at Billy’s Team: New Sandwich Bar Now Open in Rosalie Village

A new sandwich bar from the Meat at Billy’s crew has just opened on Baroona Road in Paddington featuring a menu that highlights the butcher’s high-grade meat that goes into each sandwich along with equally tasty sides. 



The idea of opening a sandwich bar was hatched when Meat at Billy’s was in the process of expanding to Rosalie Village, owing to owner Billy Gibney’s penchant for creating mouthwatering snacks out of quality meats.

From the Meat at Billy’s Team: New Sandwich Bar Now Open in Rosalie Village
Photo credit:  Facebook / Eat at Billy’s

And once the opportunity for Meat at Billy’s to move to a bigger space next door, Billy decided it was time to make use of the butcher’s former home and set up a sandwich shop. And with some modifications here and there, the venue was ready to take in customers in time for an early March opening.

Eat at Billy’s menu is short but very satisfying with just four sandwiches on offer along with a selection of sides. And with Meat at Billy’s reputation as one of Brisbane’s best butchers backing it up, Eat at Billy’s promises that only the highest quality meat along with in-house sauces and garnishes is used with a generous portion guaranteed in every serving.

From the Meat_at_Billy’s Team: New Sandwich Bar Now Open in Rosalie Village
Photo credit:  Facebook / Eat at Billy’s

Among the selection of four sandwiches, Not A F*$&en Rueben has proven to be a crowd favourite. This sandwich is made with wood-smoked wagyu brisket pastrami, red cheddar pickles and Eat at Billy’s signature sauce. 



Not to be outdone, is a fried chicken sandwich, the Red Neck, stacked with crispy, seasoned  Elgin Valley free-range chicken tenders, confit-garlic aioli and iceberg lettuce. Then there’s The Butcher made with 150g of Cape Grimm grass-fed rump steak, caramelised onions, rocket and cheese sauce; and head chef David Aron’s The Big Paulie which uses 150g of carved Berkshire pork belly porchetta, with crispy crackling, salsa verde, pickled red onions, rocket and confit-garlic mayo. Yum!

From the Meat at Billy’s Team: New Sandwich Bar Now Open in Rosalie Village
Photo credit:  Facebook / Eat at Billy’s

The drinks offerings consist of a selection of wines, beer and sodas.

Check out Eat at Billy’s social media for updates and hours of trading here.

Published 23-March-2023

Inside West Brisbane’s Small But Beautiful Homes

Who needs a lot of square footage if you can have a small lot to build a house that’s just as functional as a huge one? Here are three of the smallest houses, yet among the most beautiful homes in Petrie Terrace and Red Hill, and their story. 


Read: New Owner Has Big Plans for Normanby Hotel in Red Hill


Red Hill Tiny House

Photo credit: The University of Queensland

Couple Lara Noble and Andrew Carter, founders of the Tiny House Company, have been living in their tiny home since 2015 with their son Charlie. 

It helped that the couple were both graduates of architecture from the University of Queensland.

In fact, Ms Noble’s philanthropic scholarship opportunities whilst studying at UQ allowed her to expand her interest in micro–housing in Japan and Europe.

With the help of Greg Thornton, their co-founder at the Tiny House Company, the couple built and designed the house themselves.

This beauty, which has been featured in the media several times, is only 18 sqm with a 10 sqm deck. Measuring only 7.5m long and 2.5m wide, this house easily fitted in a friend’s backyard in Red Hill. 

It features a laundry space and a bathroom with a full-size shower. Plus, it has the rooms of a typical home, including a lounge and spaces for dining and entertaining friends.

The best part is it’s built with sustainability in mind. They used a lot of recycled Australian hardwood throughout. They also have a composting toilet, a grey water filtration system and a grease trap. 

23 Belgrave St 

Photo credit: realestate.com.au

In Brisbane, a lot with an area less than 450 sqm is considered a small lot. This one, located at 23 Belgrave St Petrie Tce, has a floor size of only 145 sqm and is sitting on a 182 sqm lot. 

But did you know that despite its size, it was on the market  in 2017 for $1.05 million and was listed for rent from 2018 for $820 per week? 

As the listing described it, “good things come in small packages.” It was fully restored and featured vintage oak stairs, high ceilings, French doors, verandas, and deck.

A classic home built in circa 1890, this two-level house features four bedrooms and three bathrooms. There’s enough parking for three cars, with two street access.

Karinya

Photo credit: raywhite.com

Perched on a 162 sqm block at 36 Sexton St in Petrie Terrace, the house is owned by Alan Newitt who as a master builder himself, constructed the house and carried out all the carpentry work with the help of a close friend.

Its name Karinya, is synonymous to “peaceful home” in Aboriginal terms.

The whole build only took more than a year, but the planning was very careful and precise that there had been around 13 revisions from the original plans.

Designed by Focus Architecture and Mullins Designs, the house appears traditional on the outside but very modern on the inside.

The owners can turn on and off the lighting and open the blinds through the Apple Nero voice control system. They can also monitor the CCTV from their mobiles. The fireplace can be flicked on with a remote control.


Read: Ad Astra Theatre Company Acquires Brisbane Arts Theatre, Plans to Refurbish the Iconic Building


There’s no doubt that Karinya is one of the most beautiful homes ever built in Petrie Terrace. It earned a building industry award in 2019 following a renovation in the same year. It was awarded the Queensland Master Builders award for ‘Best use of small sites.’

Published 19-March-2023

Garlic Clove Indian: Authentic Indian High Tea Experience

Meet Garlic Clove Indian. This restaurant opposite The Barracks in Petrie Terrace serves up Indian high tea along with traditional dishes.



Garlic Clove Indian, from the husband and wife team of chef Sabir Merchant and Dolly, offers a unique Indian High Tea which comprises a selection of chaats, street food, finger food and sweets along with Masala Chai (Italian Prosecco is also an option). 

Customers can choose between a vegetarian and non-vegetarian option. Booking is required.

Garlic Clove Indian: Authentic Indian High Tea Experience
Photo credit:  Facebook / Garlic Clove Indian

Garlic Clove also offers authentic Indian fare, starting with entrees which includes Vegetable Samosas or fine filo pastry with pea and potato filling spiced with cinnamon and cloves; Chilli Chicken; Pau Bhaji which is a bowl of mashed vegetables with hot buttered and served with a home-made bun.

There are Tandoor dishes as well which include Murgh Malai made with chicken thigh meat that is steeped overnight in garlic, ginger, coriander stems and a little cream, served slightly pink; Masala Prawns with each served slightly charred at the edges; and Tandoori Chicken cooked in traditional North Indian recipe.

Also on offer are Biryani dishes, curries, and vegan and vegetarian dishes.

Garlic Clove Indian: Authentic Indian High Tea Experience
Tennis ball onion bhaji | Photo credit:  Facebook / Garlic Clove Indian

Garlic Clove also offers a lunch menu (available from 11 am to 4 pm only) including Bhel (puffed rice and chopped vegetables tossed with tamarind sauce, green chutney and spices) and Chilli Chicken (fried chicken pan-fried in chilli, soy, ginger and garlic-based sauce).

The drinks offering, meanwhile, includes cocktails, beer, spirit and wine as well as hot and cold beverages. 



Google Reviews:

“Awesome family experience.worth a visit. food is very well executed and great selections.” – Apoorv bhatt

“Once again, Sabir and Dolly have outdone themselves. An authentic Indian experience in a great location. The food is mouthwatering-ly good. The service impeccable. Can’t recommend Garlic Clove Brisbane highly enough!” – Lee Mathers

“We loved the food and service will definitely go again.❤️” – sagar soman

Garlic Clove is located at 48 Petrie Terrace. For hours of operation, click here.

Ad Astra Theatre Company Acquires Brisbane Arts Theatre, Plans to Refurbish the Iconic Building

The Brisbane Arts Theatre in Petrie Terrace now has a new owner. Ad Astra Theatre Company recently announced the acquisition of the site at 210 Petrie Terrace which has been the home of the iconic building.



Established in 1936 as Brisbane Amateur Theatres by Jean Tundle and Vic Hardgraves, the company became known as Brisbane Arts Theatre in 1947. Then in 1961, the theatre company occupied the building at 210 Petrie Terrace, becoming the first Brisbane theatre company to operate on its own premises.

“This iconic venue has been the theatrical home for so many actors, directors, designers, technicians and playwrights.  Its history is central to the story of theatre in Brisbane,” Fiona Kennedy said.

Dan and Fiona Kennedy acquired the site for $3 million, saving it from destruction and the potential replacement of an apartment block. 

“Fiona and I think it is wonderful that we are able to help save a landmark like the Brisbane Arts Theatre from demolition and preserve such an important venue for Brisbane’s theatre scene,” said Dan.

Tallulah M.E. Grey, Brisbane Arts Theatre President said that the club will soon find a replacement home. Ad Astra will lease back the property for at least 18 months.

“This is the start of a new friendship, and we look forward to building a stronger, more symbiotic relationship with Ad Astra in the coming years,” he said.

“We acknowledge the ongoing, excellent work of the Brisbane Arts Theatre, particularly in community theatre, training and children’s theatre. We are confident that our mutual goals will support a strong relationship between our two theatre companies into the future,” Fiona said, expressing agreement with Mr Tallulah’s statement.



“We look forward to giving our professional theatre company, Ad Astra, a permanent home and the emerging artists of Queensland the opportunity to create, produce and perform.  We are unashamedly ambitious.  We want to help launch professional careers and we hope the artistic community of Queensland will join us in striving to generate more opportunities for our talented, determined, enthusiastic performance artists,” Fiona adds.

The holding includes an auditorium which was built on the site of a second-hand store acquired in 1956. It also includes a timber dwelling that was converted into a workshop.

The new owners are planning to have the building refurbished.

Published 18-February-2023

Sandwich Bar Ham On Rye Opens At Paddington Central

Sandwich lovers, rejoice! Ham on Rye, a sandwich deli has just opened at Latrobe Terrace in Paddington, bringing such meat-on-bread classics as the Reuben and the Cubano to the neighbourhood.


Read: Paddington Bakery Misspelt Closes; New Sandwich Bar To Take Over The Space


Brought by the Pop Mega Hospitality Group (the same team behind Remy’s and Hai Hai Ramen), Ham on Rye is a refreshing addition to Paddington Central. Any of their sandwiches can fuel you up for a whole day, because everything on the menu is bursting with greens and meat.

Among the must-try items on the menu is Choripan, the beloved sandwich from Argentina which comes filled with Parrillera or cured-pork sausage.

Choripan (Photo credit: Ham on Rye/Google Maps)

They have all the integral parts of a great Reuben, from the pastrami and the Russian dressing to sauerkraut and cheese, all between slices of rye. 

As for the Cubano, they give a twist to the traditional sandwich recipe by adding tropical citrus and herb spread to ham, roasted pork, honey mustard, pickles and cheese.

Photo credit: Ham on Rye/Google Maps

The cold cuts, like what the name suggests, are filled to the brim with slices of deli meat such as ham, salami and roast pork. If you want something lighter, you can go and try their salad sandwich.

All the sandwich loaves are baked by New Farm’s The Bakeologists, who are known for creating fresh and handmade sandwich bread.

Photo credit: Ham on Rye/Google Maps

The thoughtfully crafted menu was the brainchild of Executive Chef Alex Triffett and Chef Marcelo Oliveira, who previously worked as head chef at Woolloongabba pizza joint Superfly.

Aside from the delicious sandwiches, they also serve fresh juices and coffee from Coffee Supreme.


Read: Here’s Where To Get Your Boozy Brunch In Paddington


You can find Ham on Rye at the Paddington Central Shopping Centre at 5/107 Latrobe Terrace, Paddington. They are open Tuesday to Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Follow them on Instagram @hamonryedeli.