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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.

Spring Comes Early at the Excess Baggage: Paddington Secondhand Market

Have you been waiting for the next Excess Baggage: Paddington Secondhand Market at The BrisWest Centre? It might excite you to know that it’s almost time to dust off your cupboard, clear your closet, and do some spring cleaning.

If you’re planning to declutter, recycle and make money all at the same time, then round up your stuff and head to the The BrisWest Centre at LaTrobe Terrace on Saturday, the 24th of Aug 2019 for the Excess Baggage Spring Market.

Once there, grab a table and set up the things you want to unload at this community event. Table rates go from $20 to $50 and you can choose from the following set up:

1800mm table inside the hall	$43.29
900 mm table inside the hall	$22.19 (soldout)
1800 mm table outside with shade	$53.84
1800 mm table outside without shade	$43.29

Rates are inclusive of booking fees. Take note that The BrisWest Centre won’t collect any percentage from your profits.

This is a very fun, laidback and informal market but if you have heaps of things to sell, you’ll be allowed to bring one rack. You can also bring your own gazebo if you’ve booked an outside table without shade.

Set up is at 7:00 a.m. while the parking area for unloading your stuff will be open to sellers until 8:30 a.m. The BrisWest Centre will strictly implement a 3:00 p.m. pack up and clean up time.

If you’re coming to the Spring Market just to shop and score second-hand treasures or mingle with the community, you can also order food from the centre’s cafe or order a plate of yummy sausage sizzle. A live band will be playing music to entertain shoppers.

Since 2014, The BrisWestCentre’s Excess Baggage: Paddington Secondhand Market has been a regular activity in this precinct. The initiative is organized and managed by the Brisbane West Senior Citizens Association.

Paddington to Receive Council Tree Planting Project Fund

Council will allocate $2 million to go towards tree planting projects to help improve amenity and beautify local shopping areas and busy traffic corridors in Paddington, Zillmere, Greenslopes, and Murarrie.

“Team Schrinner is not only committed to expanding our local parks but we’re greening Brisbane’s suburbs by increasing tree planting in suburban parks and creating tree-lined boulevards,” Lord Mayor Schrinner said in his Budget speech.

“Residents love Brisbane for its open green spaces and shady boulevards, and in the coming financial year we have allocated $22.8 million towards planting and maintaining trees across the suburbs, which is an increase of $4.4 million or about 25 per cent,” Cr Schrinner said.

The Budget also includes a jacaranda planting program with a $107,000 boost, focusing on local parks in Bulimba, St Lucia, and New Farm.

“Like most people in Brisbane, I love our iconic jacarandas and one of my favourite times of the year is when they are flowering,” Cr Schrinner said.

“Once these new jacarandas are planted and start to grow, jacaranda season will become even more colourful.

“Our team has also created new greenspace to make our city liveable and sustainable for our children. We delivered the Two Million Trees program and created large new community parks in suburbs like Tennyson and Coorparoo and Toowong.

The Lord Mayor also announced that future dividends from the City of Brisbane Investment Corporation (CBIC) would be directed towards an accelerated five-year program that will involve the acquisition and creation of parks, sports fields, and green spaces.

Funding for the first year of the Green Future Fund, under the Council’s 2019-20 budget, will come from a $20-million dividend from CBIC.

“Brisbane residents have told us they want more greenspace with new places to relax and this five-year program will deliver more land for community sport and recreation.”

Paddington Homeowners Face One of the Highest Rates Rise in Brisbane

Paddington homeowners have been hit with one of the highest rates increase in Brisbane or an additional $101.23 to their annual bill, as the average increase for owner-occupied properties increased by 2.5 percent.

Paddington will cop a 4.7 percent rates increase in the 2018-19 financial year which amounts to an annual increase of $101.23 or $1.95 per week.

Seven Hills and Wakerley will have the highest rates increase in Brisbane, both at 5.80 percent or an extra $115.23 and $87.08 to the annual bill, respectively. Following Seven Hills and Wakerley are Robertson, Mansfield, Kenmore, and Auchenflower, which will face 5.4 percent increase.

Chapel Hill, Upper Mount Gravatt, and Wishart will find their rates bill rise by 5.2%, 5%, and 4.9% respectively.

Paddington homeowners hit by council rates rise — *Latrobe Tce, Paddington | Photo Credit: Orderinchaos [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)] / Wikimedia Commons*

With the exception of nine, Brisbane suburbs will see an overall average rates increase of 2.5 percent, the same as last year and almost twice the current annual inflation rate of 1.5 percent.

“We’ve kept the budget strong and balanced despite the impact of droughts and floods, through the Global Financial Crisis and through multiple property market cycles,” Lord Mayor Schrinner said in his budget speech.

“…today I confirm that in 2019-20 the average increase in rates for owner occupied residential properties will once again be 2.5 per cent.”

“For owner occupiers, this average rates increase equates to $10 per quarterly rates notice or $0.77 per week. The average increase to Council fees and charges will also be 2.5 per cent,” Cr Schrinner said.

Among the nine lucky suburbs to see rates decrease, Kangaroo Point homeowners will get the biggest drop with a 5.1 percent rate decrease or an annual savings of $86.38.

Ratepayers in these eight other suburbs will also expect to see drop in rates: Ransome and Willawong (-2.0%); Cowan Cowan (-1.7%); Bridgeman Downs, Bulwer, and Candler (-1.0%); Murarrie (-0.7%), and Westlake (-0.4%)

Chocolate in Steak? This Paddington Restaurant’s Concoction Will Blow You Away

Have you ever tasted chocolate in steak? It might sound like a crazy food concept but you could be blown away by its taste and flavour.

To sample this delectable dish, visit Chapter IV at Latrobe Terrace in Paddington. Chef Micheal Robinson concocted the chocolate steak to celebrate World Chocolate Day last Sunday, the 7th of July. However, you may still order this dish for a limited time at the restaurant this month.

Chapter IV’s chocolate steak features sirloin rubbed with cocoa, tangy slaw, parmigiana Reggiano with rosemary potato wedges, chimichurri, bacon with dark chocolate sauce. This meal is best paired with a bottle of whiskey to further tickle your tastebuds.

Chef Robinson uses Ruby Chocolates with its distinct pink colour for this creation. The latest chocolate brand to hit the Australian market, Ruby chocolates come from pink cocoa beans.

“We are well known by our regulars for our deserts, particularly when we get creative and extreme for special occasions like this, so the pressure was definitely on to think outside the box,” Chef Robinson said.

“I was a little concerned when the chef first described the chocolate steak, but when we tasted it, our mind was blown,” Jessica Ndenda of Chapter IV said. “Who would have thought chocolate on steak would be so amazing!”

Chef Robinson also got creative with a special dessert featuring Ruby Chocolates. Diners of Chapter IV may also order the Ruby Chocolate Cupcake, a fluffy pink and white dessert with frosting, cookie crumbs, milk chocolate ganache and mini marshmallows.

“I have watched Ruby chocolate become more prominent in the market over the past months and knew it was time to introduce it to our community. I know they will be surprised and delighted by it,” Chef Robinson said, adding, “Make no mistake, it is not pink chocolate, it is a completely different type of chocolate.”

Chapter IV, which opened in 2015, opens daily from 7:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For reservations phone 0733671285 or message the restaurant on its Facebook page.

New York Deli Inspired Restaurant Opens in Paddington

Photo Credit: Reuben's Deli & Bar/Facebook

If pastrami is the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear the word “deli,” you’ve got to visit Reuben’s Deli & Bar, the freshly opened New York deli restaurant in Paddington.

The menu covers the requisite Jewish soul food standards such as house-smoked pastrami on rye bread and bagel with a schmear of cream cheese, but owners Manny and Peggy Rosenberg added some twist by throwing in some German, Italian and Latino cuisines into the mix.

A short stroll from the Suncorp Stadium, Reuben’s Deli & Bar now occupies the space once occupied by Little Social, which was known for its comfortable, no-fancy, and relaxed vibe.

Photo Credit: Reuben’s Deli & Bar/Facebook

Around 70 percent of the menu consists of the classic NY deli dishes, whilst the rest include fettuccine and meatballs, lamb shank, and jambalaya, a classic Louisiana rice dish.

The husband and wife tandem grew up with sandwiches, subs, and hoagies and wanted to bring these New York favourites to Brisbane.

But if sandwiches, subs and hoagies aren’t your thing, you can order burgers served on toasted potato buns and with a zesty dill pickle spear. They have vegetarian burgers and gluten-free burger buns you can have on request.

This restaurant is not just serving mouthwatering dishes. Reuben’s casual bistro atmosphere is also the perfect spot for a happy hour gathering with friends and work colleagues.

They have eight craft beers on tap: Bacchus, Green Beacon, Ballistic, Balter, Mountain Goat and Brick Lane.

Can’t wait to have your serving of classic deli sandwiches? Visit Reuben’s Deli & Bar at 208 Given Terrace, Paddington. They are open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For further information, check out their website or follow them on Facebook.

DIY Workshops For Kids at Biome Eco Store

If you’ve got some curious 8 to 11-year-old children or even teenagers at home who want to try something new while school’s out for the winter break, then sign them up for these short DIY workshops at Biome Eco Store on Latrobe Terrace.

	CLASS 1	CLASS 2
School Holiday Workshop: Skin Care for 8 to 11 years old	Thursday, 4 July 2019 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.	Thursday, 9 July 2019 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Kids at this workshop will be taught how to make their own moisturising lip balm, lip scrub and clay face mask, as well as how to use these beauty products.

*Photo Credit: Biome Collective/Facebook*

	CLASS 1	CLASS 2
Teen Apothecary: Skin Care	Thursday, 4 July 2019 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.	Thursday, 9 July 2019 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Teenagers can learn what plant alchemy is about as they try to make their own floral toner, roll-on perfume and clay mask.

Slots are limited for these classes so you have to book early online and pay the $35 fee for class confirm your reservation.

Aside from holding regular DIY workshops, Biome Eco Store offers a range of chemical-free, ethically-produced, and properly labeled beauty products. Founded by Tracey Bailey, this store has five branches in Brisbane, including the Paddington address.

Going Meatless With No Regrets at Yavanna in Paddington

A common complaint about eating plant-based food is the lack of flavour. However, if you’ve ever tried the vegan options at Yavanna in Paddington, then it’s likely that you won’t regret going meatless. You might even keep coming back for more of their tasty (and healthy!) dishes.

Yavanna, located at Latrobe Terrace, will excite you about going vegan or maintaining your plant-based diet. Not only are the choices extensive but the meatless dishes are actually filling, delicious, and creatively concocted.

You would see that the owners of this restaurant are truly passionate about eating healthy just by quickly browsing its menu. Although they offer “cheeseburgers” “chicken satay” or katsu and “hoisin duck soba,” don’t mistake these dishes for the real thing, as Yavanna uses high-quality plant-based ingredients for their food and drinks.

Established in 2018, Yavanna is managed by a group of people committed to changing the world with their vegan lifestyle without sacrificing taste.

The atmosphere at this restaurant is also pleasant and friendly. With a bar to boot, Yavanna is also an ideal place for socialising and fraternising with other people.

Yavanna’s kitchen hours are from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday to Friday. It opens earlier on Saturday or Sunday at 8:00 a.m.

“Best food ever. Best & friendliest staff ever. I’m not saying that just because it’s a vegan place…they really are incredible. If I could go there every day I would totally do it.”
~ Kate McCann, Facebook

“Absolutely amazing food experience. Perfect spot for vegan foodies, but also just for everyone to enjoy. Good service! Definitely order the spicy Cauli Wings, they are the best. Would recommend 10/10.”
~ Eva Everloo, Google Reviews

“I love coming here for dinner or picking up a take away. Poutine is the standout but other favourites include the fried Brussel sprouts, nachos, chicken schnitzel and a chocolate milkshake.”
~ Achep, Happy Cow

4 Paddington Pet-Friendly Restaurants to Take Your Four-Legged Pals on a Date!

The love and loyalty pets shower their owners are second to none and the company of a pet can be the most content feeling, even if you’re just snuggling on the couch together. To reciprocate, why not treat your four-legged pals on a date? Here are 4 pet-friendly restaurants to check out in Paddington.

Atticus Finch Cafe

83 Latrobe Terrace
Open from 6:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

A cushy neighbourhood bar, Atticus Finch serves simple but tasty meals for both humans and pets. Serving breakfast and brunch, this establishment serves delicious Coffee Supreme selections. It’s also the site of many animal rescue events.

*Photo Credit: Atticus Finch Cafe/Facebook*

“I had a beautiful coffee here. The staff were friendly. The shop is quite busy with both humans and dog friends. Overall, Atticus Finch was a great experience.”
~ Aaron Needer, Google Reviews

The Java Lounge

161 Latrobe Terrace
Open from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

This cafe’s menu is quite extensive for breakfast and lunch. The Java Lounge has burgers, bagels, quesadillas, couscous, Spanish chorizo, fritters, as well as vegan and gluten-free options. Their drink list also includes a variety of coffees, teas, juices, kombuchas, frappes, smoothies and milkshakes. No doggie meals though but you can hang around with your pet at this cafe for as long as you want.

*Photo Credit: The Java Lounge/Facebook*

“Java is amazing. We go there religiously. The staff are all amazing, the food is delicious, & the coffee is the best around. They are kid & dog-friendly, & the service is fast & friendly. We just can’t go anywhere else. Love you guys!!!!! Another amazing time this morning. Thank you!”
~ Katrina Douglas, Google Reviews

Remy’s

106 Latrobe Terrace
Open from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Remy’s can get quite crowded because there are plenty of activities happening here all the time like Taco Tuesday’s, Jazz nights and Monday half-price burgers. This diner serves big meals and drinks with friends but it is set up as a courtyard so it’s perfect for your furry companion.

“Remy’s is a funky local hangout great for breakfast, lunch or dinner. But, if I had to pick a time to go, I would say afternoon/dinner is the best time as the burgers and fries are great every time and there is usually live music at that time. Remys is also a dog friendly cafe which is a massive tick in my book.”
~ Carla Birdy, Google Reviews

Sassasfras of Paddington

88 Latrobe Terrace
Open from 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

This cafe has an airy backyard garden for your pets and a selection of doggie ice creams, puppuccinos and handmade dog treats. Sassasfras serves all-day breakfast, coffees and cakes to indulge without guilt. The restaurant is also big on sustainability.

*Photo Credit: Sassasfras of Paddington/Facebook*

“Best little spot. Excellent menu. My order was three times the size I’d expect from a cafe. So great value for money. Dog friendly. Cool back court yard. Comfy spot I look forward to visiting again.”
~ Emma Burns, Google Reviews

New Normanby Hotel Management Puts A Stop to Weekend Parties

Red Hill’s Normanby Hotel is one of Brisbane’s favourite venues for a Sunday session where you could enjoy a cold beer and live music in the beer garden whilst dancing until the early hours of the new working week.

But that will soon change as the iconic heritage listed hotel is now under new management that wants to transform it into a family-friendly destination.

Jaz Mooney, Managing Director of Pelathon Management Group, has commented that the pub will soon become a suburban and family-friendly venue for everyone. They want the locals to use the destination as their home, office, and playground.

Pelathon Management Group entered a two-year lease over Normanby Hotel in May 2019. The group also has the option to buy the freehold of the hotel.

Shaun Dunleavy of the Winchester Group will supervise the renovations. Dunleavy was known for overseeing Regatta Hotel’s $10-million upgrade in 2012.

Meanwhile, the hotel is currently closed for a $2 million worth of full refurbishment and will reopen after four months.

About Normanby Hotel

*Photo Credit:* *http://thenormanby.com.au*

The two-storeyed brick hotel was constructed in 1890 for Brisbane publican Elizabeth Sophia Burton, on land acquired by her husband in 1865. It was designed by John B Nicholson and built by Thomas Game.

Extended in 1917, the hotel has been co-owned by Otto Wilhelm and software mogul Michael Dempsey since 1999.

Located north of the Brisbane CBD, Normanby Hotel was put on the market for the first time in 15 years last year. It was last renovated in 2003.

The property includes a huge 3683-sqm site, the multi-level pub and a large car park, as well as a restaurant, gaming machines and bars.