As Grammy-winning artist Pink brings her Summer Carnival Tour to Brisbane for three epic nights, The Paddo, just a 5-minute walk from Suncorp Stadium, is gearing up to provide the perfect pre- and post-event party vibes in Paddington, for concert-goers looking to amplify their Pink experience.
Before the concerts on 16 and 17 February 2024 and 19 March 2024, get the night started early with vibrant pre-concert party vibes, featuring delicious drinks, mouthwatering bites, and a pre-concert buzz that’ll set the tone for an epic evening.
And after the show, keep the celebration alive with The Paddo‘s late-night party scene, where the energy and excitement linger long after the final note of Pink’s extraordinary set list.
The renowned American pop star has a special connection with Australia, particularly Brisbane, which goes beyond her regular concert tours. In 2009, Pink was honoured uniquely at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Recognising her as their best-selling artist ever, following her hugely successful Funhouse Tour, the Centre dedicated a suite of toilets to her, whimsically named the “Pink Ladies.” This gesture humorously underlined the affection and admiration that Australian fans, especially those in Brisbane, have for her.
Pink’s affinity for Australia is reciprocated by her Australian fans, making her one of the most popular female acts in the country’s history. Moreover, Pink’s tours in Australia have been record-breaking. Her performances, which often include daring acrobatics, bring a unique element to her concerts, further endearing her to Australian audiences.
A fine imposed on a developer for the unlawful demolition of a historic Paddington cottage, located in one of Brisbane’s most prestigious streets, has been increased from $20,000 to $100,000.
In a landmark decision, District Court Judge David Kent fined Natural Lifestyle Homes (NLH), an inner-city luxury home builder, after pleading guilty to two charges related to conducting development activities without proper permits.
The subject of the demolition was a Paddington cottage that dated back to 1888. It was believed to be the oldest residence on the revered Wilden Street in Paddington.
Earlier, the Brisbane City Council had levied a fine of $20,000 against NLH, a penalty which Judge Kent deemed “manifestly inadequate” to deter future violations of this nature. He emphasied the necessity of a financial cost that would effectively deter developers from viewing such offenses as a mere business expense.
The cottage at 41 Wilden Street was originally intended to be preserved and relocated to allow new construction work on the site. However, NLH proceeded to demolish the protected building without consulting the Council, building certifier, or the Planning and Environment Court.
Serious Consequences for Disregarding Heritage
The actions of NLH not only flouted the Council’s refusal of demolition but also overturned the protective measures in place for the 1888 cottage. This act of destruction resulted in the loss of a significant heritage asset, with only minimal artifacts such as an original door and portions of windows remaining.
Judge Kent noted that NLH’s actions enabled them to evade consulting structural engineers on the feasibility of relocating the cottage. This lack of due diligence and disregard for heritage considerations led to the irreversible destruction of the historic structure.
The judge said that the $100,000 fine better reflects the seriousness of NLH’s offense, particularly when compared to the project’s total cost, ranging from $2 million to $2.4 million. This substantial penalty sends a clear message to developers that preserving heritage and adhering to legal requirements are paramount.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
NLH’s Background and Intentions
NLH, co-owned by Clifford William Keane and Mathew Ralph Carroll, was not seeking profit from this project, which was intended to serve as a new residence for Mr Keane and his wife, Jacinda. The Keane family purchased the cottage in October 2018 for $1.08 million and embarked on the construction of a new $2.4 million home.
Mr Keane, a carpenter with a degree in the built environment, and M. Carroll, a registered builder since 1998, had been involved in inner-city property development for many years.
Award-winning hairdresser Craig Smith of Fruition Wilston fame has officially opened Fruition Red Hill. Expect him to be a familiar sight in both salons, as he plans to divide his time between them, cruising from one to the other on his Harley.
Fruition, recognised as one of the country’s premier and most decorated hair salons with numerous industry awards, has opened a second location – a sleek and stylish sister salon to Wilston, occupying 116 square metres at 160 Musgrave Road in Red Hill.
Heading up with the magic scissors and colour wands is Red Hill salon partner Chad Nicholson. A senior stylist and styling rockstar, he has been with Fruition for eight years. Like Craig Smith, Nicholson is acclaimed nationally for his craft, leadership, and vision.
Photo credit: Fruition Hair Red Hill/Google Maps
With a second location, Fruition’s loyal customers – including Australian Olympic swimmer Libby Trickett and fitness and fashion influencer Rachel Thiaday – can eagerly anticipate an elevated hair experience with expanded availability of the salon’s coveted services and expertise.
Photo credit: Fruition Hair Red Hill/Google Maps
Smith said opening the second location was a demand driven response. “The business of style is constant and Brisbane is a city full of people who understand individual style, whether it’s a bloke with short back ‘n sides, a millennial into balayage, a tradie who wants his cutaway mullet sharp, a woman who wants her locks long and flowing, those who want traditional colour, and those who want to wear the rainbow and all variations in between.”
“Demand has been on the increase for over 12 months now and when the opportunity came to open a second salon in Red Hill, I jumped. Inner suburban villages are the new heartbeat of Brisbane, so Red Hill works for me, it’s very similar to Wilston, which has been a brilliant headquarters for Fruition since 2012.”
Fruition is a salon that recruits and keeps the most talented best stylists. Since opening in the city in 1996 and then moving to Wilston in Brisbane’s inner north in 2012, Smith has mentored many apprentices to award winning positions, with many now working overseas in leading salons in London and New York.
Sensibly, Fruition staff will work across both locations, and the two salons share a common contact number (07 33563311) and website. Fruition Red Hill is open daily, except on Sundays.
Paddington has no shortage of Italian eateries, from hole-in-the-wall joints to upscale restaurants. Yet the recently opened Fratelli brings something new to the neighbourhood – a truly authentic taste of Italy and hands-on cooking classes.
Using seasonal ingredients and fresh local flavours, Fratelli transports guests straight to the vineyards and shores of Italy with each bite. But what makes them especially unique is that they offer hands-on cooking classes with their expert chefs, so you can learn how to craft fresh cheese or shape your own homemade pastas.
Inside Fratelli, the stone walls and rustic decor make you feel transported to Italy, although it’s the food takes your tastebuds even further. Fratelli sources only the finest local ingredients and collaborates with Tambourine Cheese Factory to create burrata bursting with smooth, creamy flavour.
Photo credit: Fratelli Paddington/Facebook
One of their crowd pleasers is the spicy salami pizza loaded with ricotta-filled crust, olives, mozzarella and that signature Fratelli zest. Pizza lovers will delight in the restaurant’s array of Italian pizzas paired perfectly with wines from their impressive drink menu.
Signature cocktails provide a refreshing balance alongside espresso drinks for those looking for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Photo credit: Fratelli Paddington/Facebook
Whilst the interior transports your senses to Italy, their beautiful outdoor patio allows you to soak up Brisbane’s sunshine as you feast on Fratelli’s seasonal delicacies. From their cheese boards and pastas to the desserts like the light and sweet peach sorbet, each dish sings with the flavours of an Italian summer.
For those longing to linger in the warm hospitality and rustic ambience, Fratelli offers a home away from home right in the neighbourhood Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays). Visit their website to book online or to learn more about their classes.
When her baby Charlotte was born prematurely, Red Hill mum Julia Plackner looked at her little daughter’s tiny frame and marvelled at the miracle that enabled her safe delivery at Mater Mothers’ Private Hospital via emergency caesarean, despite being 15 weeks early.
Today, the little baby that weighed the same as a mango at birth thrives at home under the loving care of her parents, having undergone life-saving treatment during a remarkable three-month stay in Mater’s Neonatal Critical Care Unit.
Mum Julia said her pregnancy had been progressing normally until she suffered an infection at 25 weeks, which caused severe cramps and bleeding.
“Doctors told me I was about 4 cm dilated when I got to hospital,” she said.
“I needed an emergency caesarean when doctors realised Charlotte’s heartbeat was irregular – beating fast and then sometimes suddenly slowing.
“She was given a 60 to 70 per cent chance of survival before she was even born.”
Mrs Plackner described her daughter’s birth on June 13 as “pretty scary”.
“I was under general anaesthetic when Charlotte was born,” she said.
“Chris my husband was there and witnessed it all – even Charlotte being resuscitated when she wasn’t breathing.
Photo Credit: Supplied
“She weighed just 754 grams. The doctors told me Charlotte was lucky to be alive.”
The Plackners have thanked the multidisciplinary team who saved their daughter’s life ahead of World Prematurity Day on 17 Nov 2023.
Mater Neonatologist Dr Richard Mausling cared for baby Charlotte while she remained in hospital and said her strength was impressive.
He said Charlotte’s prematurity caused her to have respiratory distress syndrome, which required a short period of ventilation. She also subsequently went on to develop chronic neonatal lung disease.
“To think she weighed the size of a mango when she was born and went home at 3.3 kg, fully suck feeding and only needing low flow home oxygen, is truly remarkable,” Dr Mausling said.
“I feel very privileged to play a very small part in a truly exceptional team at the Mater Mothers’ Hospital Neonatal Critical Care Unit whose sole purpose is to look after babies and families like Charlotte’s.”
Charlotte required a single blood transfusion when she was 36 days old, Dr Mausling said.
“This is quite exceptional really as many babies born at this gestational age and birth weight would usually require several blood transfusions during their stay in the Neonatal Critical Care Unit (NCCU),” he said.
“We are very lucky to have access to very safe and readily available blood and blood products from the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood. Without the generosity of regular donations of blood from blood donors, babies like Charlotte would possibly have very different outcomes.”
Photo Credit: Supplied/Annette Dew
Each year more than 2000 very sick and premature babies receive round-the-clock specialist care from the team in Mater Mothers’ Neonatal Critical Care Unit.
Now tipping the scales at a healthy 4.6kg, Mrs Plackner described Charlotte as a happy and bubbly girl.
“Charlotte still requires oxygen support while sleeping but other than that, she’s smashing everything out of the park. For someone who has been in hospital for 90 days, she’s doing fine,” Mrs Plackner, a lawyer, said.
A tranquil pocket in Paddington is at the centre of a heated dispute as a group of neighbours, led by a retired District Court judge and his wife, are contesting the proposed construction of a house, shop, cafe, and pool on a small 400-square metre block on Latrobe Terrace.
The group claims that the ambitious plans will encroach on their sunlight, breezes, and privacy whilst raising concerns over noise, light, odour, traffic, and visual amenity.
Located at 37 Latrobe Terrace, the site in question is currently home to a quintessential Paddington cottage originally built in 1910. The property is owned by Cynthia and Peter Werchon.
On 6 Oct 2023, the Council decided and approved Development Application A005832299 With this approval, the historic structure is set to undergo partial demolition and relocation to make way for a modern residence with an attached cafe and shop.
Neighbours Rally Against the Project
However, leading the charge against the redevelopment are retired District Court judge Michael Shanahan and his wife Ann Gummow, residents of Corsham Street, which backs onto Latrobe Terrace. Along with Peter Bertossi, Anne Bertossi, Gregory Moynihan and Jennifer Moynihan, they have lodged an appeal with the Planning and Environment Court to halt the development. The appeal was filed on 11 Oct 2023.
Their main concerns revolve around the proposed structure’s size and its potential to disrupt their peaceful existence. In their objection to the Council, Shanahan and Gummow assert that the development, comprising a three-bedroom home, cafe, retail shop, and a pool, is excessively large for such a modest site.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
The group argues that a larger allotment is needed to accommodate such an extensive project, expressing concerns about noise disturbances, which could reach the level of invading their bedrooms.
They also point out that despite receiving seven “properly made submissions” and 10 others considered “not properly made,” the Council approved the development. This decision triggered widespread discontent among the immediate community.
The appeal also raises concerns about the developer’s plans to manage stormwater using electric pumps beneath the house, a system that would be rendered ineffective during a blackout.
Voices of Opposition Grow Louder
The Moynihans, who reside on Corsham Street, have expressed concerns over the noise that would be generated by the proposed cafe’s rear deck.
Anne and Peter Bertossi, owners of a shop at 41 Latrobe Terrace, have “vehemently objected to the current proposal,” stating that the size, scale, and quantity of buildings planned for the relatively small and irregularly shaped site do not align with community expectations.
The proposed development includes:
a two-storey house covering 156 square metres
a cafe spanning 85 square metres
a shop stretching 81 square metres
a car turntable to compensate for the limited space available
As of press time, no defence has been filed and a hearing date has yet to be set.
Did you know that the historic Victoria Barracks in Petrie Terrace could be on the brink of a major transformation? The possibility of selling the site and opening it up for public use as part of the city’s sports and entertainment district has garnered significant attention. Tell us what you think about this here.
An audit of the Defence Department’s property holdings is currently underway, and this review encompasses the largely underutilised Victoria Barracks at Petrie Terrace, positioned between Caxton and Countess streets. The key idea behind this proposal is to bridge the gap between Roma Street train station and Suncorp Stadium, creating a seamless link for both locals and tourists.
The potential of this site lies in its landmark buildings and expansive open spaces, which could be repurposed to attract culture enthusiasts and tourists alike. Importantly, this redevelopment would complement the existing attractions in the vicinity, such as the Roma Street Parkland and the planned Brisbane Arena venue.
The need for such a development became evident when Suncorp Stadium was redeveloped without a dedicated pedestrian link for train commuters heading to Roma Street station. One solution proposed was to channel pedestrians through Victoria Barracks, an option that was also considered during the planning of Roma Street Parkland. However, the Department of Defence had initially declined to release control of the site.
In recent years, however, the Department of Defence has been contemplating a different future for parts of the barracks. It is exploring the possibility of transforming the site into an arts centre with boutique accommodation, marking a significant departure from their military past.
Photo Credit: Cory Exelby/Google Maps
Adjacent to Victoria Barracks is The Barracks, a former police establishment converted into a thriving complex with restaurants, retail outlets, and cinemas, where the historic buildings have been thoughtfully preserved and enhanced. Its success story further underscores the potential of Victoria Barracks for a vibrant future.
In 2022, a report showed that the Department of Defence was cautioned about the deteriorating condition of the buildings, even while they were being maintained. However, pending the outcome of the property audit, the department remains tight-lipped about the site’s future.
Meanwhile, as Deputy Premier Steven Miles endorses the proposal, Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner has suggested that the federal, state, and local governments collaborate on a long-term plan for Victoria Barracks.
Schrinner believes that the site holds a pivotal role in connecting Suncorp Stadium and Roma Street, and its potential should be harnessed to its fullest, ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. Federal Labor MP Graham Perrett, a member of the Olympic organizing committee, shares the sentiment that Victoria Barracks is in need of rejuvenation.
Whilst independently-owned butcher shops are slowly disappearing from the culinary landscape, Pat Saumani, the man renowned for his perpetual smile, is defying the odds yet again. His beloved butcher shop, Wavell Heights Gourmet Meats, is not only thriving but also expanding its meaty empire with the grand opening of Paddington Gourmet Meats.
Saumani, dubbed the Grinning Butcher, has become somewhat of a cult figure in Brisbane’s northside. His commitment to quality and local sourcing has garnered a loyal following in a time when corporate giants often overshadow small businesses.
His new venture is at the Paddington Central Shopping Village along Latrobe Terrace. The location, now lovingly renovated from the ground up, promises to be a haven for meat enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
To celebrate this exciting expansion, both Wavell Heights Gourmet Meats and the new Paddington Gourmet Meats will offer exclusive specials and giveaways throughout the weekend until 10 Sept 2023. Customers can expect not just premium cuts of meat but also a hearty dose of happiness, as Pat Saumani and his team prepare to share their passion for all things meat.
Photo Credit: Paddington Gourmet Meats/Facebook
Pat and his family have been the proud owners of Wavell Heights Gourmet Meats since 2016. Their dedication to supporting local producers, sourcing natural and free-range products, and offering an extensive range of gluten-free options has made them a trusted name in the community. Additionally, they have been the exclusive purveyor of Stockyard Beef, an award-winning Queensland brand, since 2017.
Both Wavell Heights Gourmet Meats and Paddington Gourmet Meats follow the same principles:
Supporting Local: A commitment to promoting local producers and suppliers
Natural Produce: A focus on providing natural, wholesome meats
Grass Fed and Free Range: Offering the best in ethical and quality meats
Extensive Range of Gluten-Free: Catering to a wide range of dietary needs
Award-Winning Wagyu: An exclusive selection of Queensland’s finest Wagyu beef
Large Low and Slow Meat Range: Perfect for barbecue enthusiasts
Deli Items: A variety of deli goods to complement your meat selections
Brisbane Broncos winger and Herston local Jordan Pereira says that because of his growing family, the way he prepares for NRL games has changed.
Jordan and his wife Sarah welcomed their second child, 3.2-kg bundle of joy Lara Suzie, into the world at Mater Mothers’ Hospital, just in time for Father’s Day.
The 30-year-old winger said his daughter’s arrival on 21 June 2023 had “softened me up a bit,” adding that her arrival had unlocked another side of him.
“I’m a pretty simple person when it comes to special events or days – all I need is good food and company,” he said. “I’ll be over the moon to spend the day with my little family.”
“She’s the best baby ever. She does everything perfectly – she eats and sleeps well,” he added.
“Lara is polar opposites to our son Myles – he is two years old and he is a rough little bruiser! Lara helps balances things out, she’s just an easy baby.”
Photo Credit: Supplied
Jordan said since having children, the way he prepared for NRL football games had changed.
“I used to prioritise myself before a game, and only myself, but you can’t take time off being a father,” he said.
“Now I have a clear mind going onto the footy field but a slightly more relaxed approached towards game days.”
Mr Pereira said his family was “definitely complete” and described the care they received at Mater Mothers’ Hospital as the “best”.
“If our family wasn’t complete, we’d definitely come back to Mater, even if we were living in another state! We loved everything about our journey there.”
Mater Mothers’ Hospitals is one of Australia’s largest and most advanced maternity services, delivering more than 12,000 babies every year.
Owners Beck Bowers and Charline De Conto opened Sunny Side Sandwiches in the former space of Misspelt at Latrobe Terrace a couple of months ago, following their success in Windsor.
Their goal was simple – make creative, high-quality sandwiches with fresh, local ingredients. Based on the crowds flocking here every day, it’s clear they have accomplished their mission.
Breakfast sandwich (Photo credit: Sunny Side Sandwiches – Paddington/Google Maps)
The star of the menu is the breakfast sandwich, a fusion of free range soft scrambled eggs, kewpie mayo, dill, parsley, chives, and a sprinkle of the secret ‘Egg Magic’ seasoning. This is paired with smokey bacon, kimchi mayo, and caramelised onions between your choice of bread. It’s an egg sandwich lover’s dream!
The process of ordering a sandwich is part of the fun. First you choose from 15 sandwich varieties on the menu, then you select the bread – shokupan, milk bun, gluten-free soy and linseed or gluten-free burger bun. Next comes the extras- go for the kimchi mayo or Baby Rays BBQ sauce for a kick – and any additional toppings like cheese or caramelised onions.
Another customer favourite is the egg salad sandwich, made with free range eggs, kewpie mayo, dill, parsley, chives, shallots, and dressed Cos Lettuce served on shokupan bread. The soft, sweet bread pairs perfectly with the rich egg salad.
Sunny Side Sandwiches proves that simple, high-quality ingredients made with care result in an unforgettable sandwich experience. So next time you’re in Paddington, stop by for a taste of sandwich sunshine.
