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The Black Lab Coffee Co Opens New Blackout Paddington Home

The owners of The Black Lab Coffee Co have opened its newest home in Paddington. Blackout coffee shop, located at 173 Latrobe Terrace, is a tiny spot but there’s nothing minuscule about its quality and presence.

Blackout’s understated space is actually the perfect corner for The Black Lab Coffee Co owner Sam Holman to open up a grab-and-go coffee shop that doubles as a training centre for baristas. Initially planned as a storage space for its wholesale products, the Paddington site has been expanded into more ways than one.

The shop is a coffee bar, where customers can order coffee on the go or stay seated outside for a few minutes to enjoy your drink. Blackout brews espresso, cold-drips, or black or white coffee using single-origin beans, which has been roasted fresh at the back.

*Photo Credit: Blackout Paddington/Facebook*

Customers may also order sandwiches, muffins, cookies and croissants to go with their coffee whilst they enjoy a quiet breakfast with their dog. The store even offers a substantial selection of cereals.

As originally planned, the Paddington location is used as storage space for products, tools and machines. As a retail store, baristas may shop at Blackout for their needed supplies and tools to hone their skills. They can also enlist in the advanced courses and learn to use different commercial machines.

Blackout officially opened in Paddington on the 12th of Oct 2019. Its trading hours are from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. daily.

“Super friendly staff who are always welcoming. The coffee is as good as it gets – whether you’re into a traditional espresso-based coffee, or you want to try a pour over or a pre-made drip coffee, they have you sorted. The venue is just adorable, it’s a terrace style shop with a great view to the hills of Paddington and beyond out the back. Ask them about their coffee training too!”
~ Jesse Branch, Facebook

“I notice this new Cafe while driving through Paddington today. Warmly greeted by the friendly Barista, I ask for a regular 1 shot Cafe Latte. Beautifully poured, the coffee is fragrant and full flavoured. A very good coffee!”
~ Joe K, Zomato

Translink’s Central Station Now Trials Smart Ticketing System

The planned shift to the Smart Ticketing System moves a step closer with the start of the express gates trial at Brisbane’s Central Station.

The trial will run from October 22 to November 22 between 7am and 9am and will involve four gate exits at the Edward Street gates which can be opened using a Go card.

“These trials and tests are part of building a world-class ticketing system for Queensland,” Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said.

The State Government is planning to introduce the Smart Ticketing System across the state and 18 regional urban centres by the end of 2022. The $371-million project will enable customers to use their smartphones, smartwatch, credit card or debit, apart from the go cards and paper tickets, to pay for their ride.

The trial is aimed at providing insights into how Translink customers use the express gates and how they can be improved to be more effective in the future.

“The trial will assist in understanding key customer behaviours at the gates and assist us in determining how we can improve all aspects of customer behaviour at gates,” Mr Bailey said.

“It will also be about listening to customers who have wanted faster gates, especially during peak times.”

For the trial, the State Government has tapped QUT and Spout Logic to provide an independent academic research report on the key findings and recommendations for future improvements.

“QUT is involved in the project to provide independent academic feedback about the results of the trial. This will help TransLink in its decision-making about how best to serve its customers with new innovations,” Professor Alexander Paz said.

Another trial is also scheduled to commence in late October on North Stradbroke Island Buses which will trial the new on-board ticketing hardware. To follow after Minjerribah are four other regions: Innisfail, Bowen, Maryborough, and Hervey Bay.

Lights Of Paddington Fashion Spectacular Sparkles for the 4th Year in Given Terrace

Given Terrace will once again be lit for the annual fashion spectacular Lights Of Paddington this Saturday, the 26th of Oct 2019. Four years since this event debuted in one of Brisbane’s most charming shopping precincts, the party supporting retailers and rewarding shoppers will deliver another fantastic vibe to this favourite local hive.

The fashion parade featuring the collections of Paddington retailers trading in this shopping strip will strictly start at 7:30 p.m. at The Paddo (Paddington Tavern). Get to know the emerging stars and the VIPs of the local fashion scene whilst checking out the exclusive, trendiest styles and looks for this summer.

These brands will be hitting the runway for Lights Of Paddington:

RED WORKS

SACHA DRAKE

BIOME ECO STORES

MAIOCCHI

OLIVE HOME

DOGSTAR

MISS HENRY

LIVING SILK

PETROL

JEWELS NY

BRISTLE BY MELISSA SIMMONDS

RED CROSS

BLAKE & TAYLOR

BROWN’S GENERAL STORE

WILDE WILLOW

FALLON

HUMMINGBIRD THE SHOP

Accessories:

THOUSAND ISLAND DRESSING

BENTLEY DE LISLE

However, you need to be at the red carpet at least an hour before the runway show to experience a few sparks and fire. Hob-knob with the rest of the guests and enjoy sipping wine, a bubbly or an Aperol Spritz with delicious canapés and finger foods.

As a token of appreciation for attending this event, the boutique and restaurant owners in Given Terrace are giving all attendees a $50 gift voucher with your ticket purchase, which you can redeem at any participating stores before 31 Oct 2019.

So, chat with your girls, then set your date and buy the ticket to this big fashion event!

Pasteio in Paddington: A Haven for Italian Pasta and Sweets

Photo Credit: Pasteio/Facebook

Craving for some pasta but don’t feel like preparing it yourself? If you want to keep it simple by choosing quick-cooking recipes, check out Pasteio in Rosalie where you can find ready-made pasta and sauces you can eat at home or on the spot.

Occupying a tiny retail space on the corner of Ellena St and Fernberg Rd, Pasteio is a bracingly minimal space, warmed up by 1960s-inspired block of bricks and mustard-yellow signage.

With pasta handcrafted daily on-site, it’s difficult to say no to its diverse incarnations on the menu. This pasta artisan shop makes pasta originated from both the South and North of Italy using grano duro and grano tenero flours respectively.

The menu features a handful of simple antipasti and some 60 pasta recipes, with everything from the nourishing organic buckwheat pasta to tagliolini, which are fine-cut organic egg pasta strands.

Pasteio has its own cafe, which opened barely a year ago. Don’t forget to try their gnocchi with truffle butter then save some space for sweets like torta della nonna which is creme and pine nut torta.

The lineup of fresh sauces and sweet treats changes every week, though you can expect ragû and other classics on the fire all the time.

For your supply of Italian pasties, sweets, and desserts, drop by Pasteio at Shop 1/92 Fenbeg St, Rosalie, Paddington. They are open Tuesday to Saturday, from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm.

5 Fab Op Shop to Score Great Finds in Paddington

Planning to shop at a thrift store but don’t know where to go? Well, prepare to get hooked! The bargain shopping scene in Paddington offers heaps of great finds and pre-loved branded stuff at really affordable prices.

Here’s a guide to the best op shops in Paddington, where buying second-hand could mean snagging treasured finds.

1. St. Vincent de Paul Society

Address: 16 Latrobe Terrace, Paddington

Vinnies has the largest reach among the op shops in Australia with over 60,000 members and volunteers across the country. Donations received regularly keep the thrift store well-stocked and managed with a variety of choices from corporate work clothes, formal wear, men’s wear, furniture, household items, vintage pieces, watches and accessories, and other affordable goods.

The store also holds special book sales, school holiday sales and themed selections depending on the season. It’s open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. and Sunday at 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

2. Empire Revival

(formerly The Paddington Antique Centre)
Address: 167 Latrobe Terrace, Paddington

For collectible items and unique finds at low prices, Empire Revival is the place to check out. Aside from vintage clothes, they have special items like medals, swords, trains and thimbles — basically, stuff that are hard-to-find but may be of great use for decoration or as a stage prop. This store also offers antique furniture, arts and crafts, art deco or shabby chic items.

Goods for selling or consignment, however, aren’t directly handed over at the counter as this op shop has a strict process for selection and valuation of items. This is why their collections are extraordinary compared to other stores. This shop trades from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day.

3. Yesterdays Thrift Shop

Address: 39 Nash Street, Paddington

Operated by The Developing Foundation for people with disabilities, this store sells and accepts pre-loved clothes, toys, sports equipment, books, household goods and homewares. Being inside this store feels like a treasure hunt amidst the maze of racks on display across different rooms.

Yesterdays Thrift Shop opens for seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Also, the store regularly welcomes volunteers above 18 years old to help keep everything in order.

*Photo Credit: Yesterdays Thrift Shops/Facebook*

4. Retro Metro Paddington

Address: 297 Given Terrace, Paddington

There’s definitely something for everyone at Retro Metro if you’re looking for basic streetwear or totally outrageous and eye-grabbing fashion. This store has amazing vintage and retro pieces that might tend to be pricier because it’s a really special find.

Retro Metro is run by people passionate about authentic vintage so you’re assured of getting your money’s worth. Store hours are daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

*Photo Credit: Retro Metro Paddington/Facebook*

5. The Red Queen Design

Address: 27 Latrobe Terrace, Paddington

You’ll spend hours rummaging through this store’s eclectic collection. The Red Queen Design has heaps of reasonably priced cool furniture and colourful knick-knacks — from posters and postcards, kitchen items, books, fabric, China, mirrors, barware, bridal needs, bags, jewellery and accessories, and fashionable clothes. Most of these items are hand-selected per piece and carefully curated.

This store is open six days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It’s closed on Tuesdays.

*Photo Credit: The Red Queen Design/Facebook*

Op shopping will always be a winning deal. You save money but get high-quality items. You support the thrift store’s causes and advocacies by patronising the shop and you also keep stuff off landfills by buying second-hand.

Darling & Co Paddington Lets You Feast on Bottomless Dumplings Every Wednesday Night

Ricotta dumplings with Jap pumpkin, hazelnuts, and brown butter (Photo Credit: Darling & Co/Facebook)

How many dumplings do you think you can consume in one sitting? You can put yourself to the test at Darling & Co in Paddington with their Bottomless Dumpling Wednesdays!

Located at a busy corner in Given Terrace, the restaurant has been transformed into a beautiful and colourful destination in time for the arrival of spring season. You can feast on Japanese-inspired dumplings whilst enjoying the view of the Instagrammable cherry blossoms.

You can choose to have them in mixed flavours: pork and chive, pork and Chinese cabbage, chicken and mushroom, vegetable, and pork and prawn. All these are served in bamboo steamers with an accompanying glass of Rose or Kirin.

For just $30 per person you can fill up on as many dumplings as you can manage in a span of an hour and a half. There are two sessions taking place each Wednesday. The first is from 6:00 pm until 7:30 pm; the second is from 8:00 pm until 9::30 pm.

This non-stop dumpling deliciousness will be available until January 2020 only so go ahead and call your dumpling-loving friends for a session. For more information on how to book, visit Darling & Co’s website.

“Paradise Palette” | Papua New Guinea Street Artists Feature at Petrie Terrace Gallery

A collection of contemporary artwork featuring a wide selection of art media from over 45 Port Moresby street artists is currently on display at Petrie Terrace Gallery.

Thanks to a $3,000 grant from the Brisbane City Council, “Paradise Palette” exhibition is now showing at the Royal Queensland Art Society (RQAS) showcasing various artworks by Papua New Guinea street artists, many of whom are self-taught.

The art exhibition provides an opportunity for both established and upcoming PNG artists to showcase their creative talents to a wider audience as well as connect with fellow artists here in Australia.

On display are various artworks from Elisabet Kauage, Winnie Veova, Jane Wena, Ambane Siune, Harry Manavi, Nombri Temine, John Bom, Gigs Wena, Peter Wena, Michael Kauage, Clement Koys, Bruce Gei, Kenya Siune and James Kel, among others.

Particularly on display at the exhibit are decorative tapa cloth originating from Oro Province. Catch Rodrick Vana as he present demonstrations of tapa cloth making, as well as share the cultural importance and significance of the cloth’s tribal design.

Not to miss as well are Bagam Isai and Nancy Qwarame who will demonstrate the techniques for knotting bilums — Papua New Guinea’s traditional handmade string bags. Also on hand to personally greet visitors and share their culture are professional artists including Albert Ipu, Gima Segore, and Laben John Sakale.

The art exhibit curated by Don Wotton opened on 27 August and will run for three weeks. If you haven’t seen it yet, you still have until 15 September to catch this contemporary art exhibition. The exhibit is open from 6.30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.

Neuron Mobility e-Scooter Riding High Since Launching in July

The latest e-scooter to offer an alternative to getting around Paddington and the rest of Brisbane, Neuron Mobility, has proven to be a hit among residents and tourists, with over 10,000 people signing up since it was launched in July 2019.

It’s been just a little over a month since Singapore-based Neuron Mobility joined Lime as Brisbane City Council’s official e-scooter operators and its seems that people are loving the idea of having another green transport option.

The Neuron supplies 600 orange-hued e-scooters of the total 1,000 provided for the city with Lime has cut down its fleet size to 400. Neuron was given the green light to roll out its first 200 scooters last 22 July and went full swing in mid-August with 400 scooters added to its contingent.

Brisbane gets to try Neuron Mobility’s latest N3 scooter — the company’s second generation of scooters — which features a 21-centimetre-wide floorboard and 12-inch tyres which offer safer, more comfortable, and more stable ride.

As requested by the Council, the Neuron scooter’s engine will cut off once it is ridden outside the “geofence” and will automatically reduce in speed once it enters a “low speed zone.”

The N3 scooters come equipped with GPS-enables parking indicator located on the handlebar display to help riders find their designated parking zones. Riders will not be allowed to end trip or be on temp lock if they are within a “no parking zone.”

*Photo Credit: NeuronMobility / neuron.sg*

The Council chose Neuron Mobility out of the nine tenderers, which offered a very strong tender package. The Council also extended Lime’s tender to create a competitive tension and better experience for Brisbane customers.

For those who have used the light green Lime scooter before will find that the Neuron Mobility service works much like its counterpart. To start using Neuron, customer needs to download the app and scan the QR code which will unlock the chosen scooter. Upon finding a parking spot, the rider will need to snap a photo of the parked scooter to end the trip in-app.

Riding in to Brissie this July! #NeuronMobility
Posted by Neuron Australia on Wednesday, July 3, 2019

Video Credit: Neuron Australia / Facebook

To ensure consistent supply and responsible parking, there will be designated operations team on-ground to handle daily maintenance, hourly demand rebalancing, and battery swapping.

The cost per ride on a Neuron Mobility e-scooter is $1 to unlock plus 38 cents per minute.

Kookaburra Café on Baroona Rd, Rosalie For Sale

After 36 years, Brisbane’s landmark Kookaburra Café in Baroona Rd, Rosalie is now looking for a new owner.

After it closed in June 2019, Kookaburra Café was put on the market as its current owner, Debbie Seipel, will be relocating interstate. She said she hopes that whoever is going to take over the iconic pizza place will keep it going as long as possible.

Along with the store’s 36 years of goodwill, the furniture, equipment, fit-out and fixtures in the commercial kitchen, restaurant, and bar; and the lease will be included in the sale.

Kookaburra Cafe has been known for its large party pizzas and had served the likes of Katharine Hepburn, Nirvana, Tony Greig, and Wally Lewis. Taylor Swift, Beyonce, and Jay-Z also got to try out the well-loved pizza.

Founding owner Steve Hall sold the business back in 2017 when it was still sitting on a former boot-making factory that was built in 1880. It was moved across the road on the corner of Latrobe and Given Terrace, after being bought by Patrick Vines and Debbie Seipel and merging it with Club Sosay.

The merged businesses meant a perfect offering of well-loved pizzas and drinks along with engaging board games plus live acoustic music on Friday and Saturday nights.

The iconic pizza restaurant is currently perched on Baroona Road in Rosalie. Raine and Horne Commercial will be handling all matters pertaining to the sale.

Paddington: Among the Most in-Demand Suburbs in Brisbane

A recent property report indicates a surge in Brisbane property listing views coming from Indian-born and NSW investors, as Paddington emerged as one of the most in-demand suburbs.

The Australian Property Market July 2019 Report by realestate.com.au revealed that Brisbane leads the national property market recovery even as its median price for all dwelling fell by 0.9 percent in the past 12 months. Brisbane, however, managed to rise by 0.1 percent quarter-on-quarter, making it the first capital city to see price growth in the June quarter.

The ten most in-demand suburbs for houses in Brisbane are Toowong, Windsor, Paddington, Greenslopes, New Farm, Wilston, Holland Park, Ashgrove, Camp Hill, and Newmarket.

The latest data from realestate.com.au shows the median house price in Paddington at $1,050,000, based on house sales from 1 July 2018 – 29 July 2019. In terms of demand, visits per property is also high with 1,010, as compared to the state average of 374.

Compared to Brisbane, over the same quarter, Sydney and Melbourne dwelling prices fell by 0.4 per cent and to date, the median prices already fell by 7.2 per cent and 5.8 per cent, respectively.

Experts believe that the recovering mining sector and infrastructure spending coupled with continued interstate migration, notably from NSW, contributed to Brisbane’s property market recovery.

The price growth, however, came from mostly from the apartment market which rose 0.7 percent quarter-on-quarter for a median price of $387,000 whilst house prices dropped a little bit by 0.1 percent to $530,000.

Another noteworthy factor is the rising offshore buyers interest particularly with the number of property seekers from India, doubling over the past 12 months. Experts say that like in Sydney and Melbourne, Indian buyers may also start having a big influence on property sales in Brisbane.

Looking at the dwelling market performance across Brisbane metro area, only the North region recorded a slight drop over the quarter with -.01 percent with median price of $535,000 and views per listing of 1,102. The West region ranks first with 1.3 percent price growth over the quarter for a median price of $642,000 with views per listing of 1,346. South, East, and Inner City follow with quarter-on-quarter percent change of 0.6, 0.5, and 0.4, respectively.