A Paddington home at 25A Warmington St, destroyed by fire in 2016, has been rebuilt and sold for an impressive $3,017,777. This price significantly exceeds the suburb’s median house price of $1.9055 million.
The property was one of two neighbouring houses that caught fire in early September 2016, reportedly due to a faulty refrigerator in the adjacent home. The owners, who had just completed renovations before the fire, were forced to rebuild from scratch.
Over the past six years, the owners transformed the property into a contemporary five-bedroom, three-bathroom home. The new construction was only occupied by the family who rebuilt it.
Ray White Paddington agent Judi O’Dea managed the auction, which saw competition between two registered bidders. Bidding started at $2.7 million and increased in $50,000 increments. After an additional $200,000 was offered, one bidder dropped out.
Vendor Michael MacKay, who witnessed the 2016 fire, had previously commented on the incident. O’Dea characterised the rebuilding process as “a real ordeal” for the vendors but noted they were “very happy” with the sale outcome.
The new owners are a family from St Lucia with one child, who had been searching for a home since March 2024. They were attracted to the property’s newly-built condition and its location within desirable school catchment areas.
The home’s proximity to Milton State School, Kelvin Grove State College, St Joseph’s Primary School, Brisbane Grammar School, and Brisbane Girls Grammar School was a key factor in the purchase decision.
After a decade of anticipation and planning, renowned chef Dario Manca has finally unveiled his passion project, Attimi, on Given Terrace in the heart of Paddington.
Attimi, meaning ‘moments’ in Italian, promises to be a haven for those seeking unique dining experiences. The 28-seater restaurant offers a dual concept, with a set menu degustation on weekends and a la carte dining from Tuesday to Friday.
Manca’s degustation menu, available in eight or 12 courses (or ten with dietary requirements), invites guests on a culinary journey through his native Italy. Each dish comes with a personal explanation, highlighting its regional significance.
The eight-course menu provides a “quick Italian tour.” At the same time, the extended option offers a “sensory exploration of Italy,” blending traditional Italian cuisine with innovative twists inspired by Michelin-starred European and Nordic dining.
For those seeking a more casual dining experience, the a la carte menu promises exceptional quality without the formality of the degustation. Manca aims to create a welcoming atmosphere for locals and regulars to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine.
Manca’s vision for Attimi extends beyond the food. He emphasises sustainability, particularly with the degustation menu, and draws inspiration from ‘cucina povera’ or ‘poor food.’ His trout from Abruzzo, featuring a sauce made from repurposed prosciutto scraps, exemplifies this philosophy.
Attimi also showcases Manca’s artistic flair. He hand-painted the menus, created the artwork adorning the walls, and commissioned whimsical Italian expression statues for each table.
An extensive wine list featuring over 100 selections from Italy and worldwide complements the dining experience. In-house gelato and sorbet made in Attimi’s gelataria provide a sweet finish.
Manca’s passion for his craft and dedication to offering something unique shine through in every aspect of Attimi. He believes in celebrating diversity within Italian cuisine and hopes to provide Brisbane with an unforgettable dining experience.
Paddington’s food landscape just got a flavourful boost with the opening of Ma Chim, a new Thai restaurant that promises to tantalise taste buds with fresh, zesty, and authentic cuisine.
This locally family-owned and operated business is the brainchild of siblings Bowyo and Yew Muangsong, who aim to bring a taste of their homeland to Brisbane’s vibrant community.
The name “Ma Chim” is a playful invitation in Thai, translating to “come and taste it” – an apt moniker for a venue that prides itself on its enticing menu.
Photo credit: MA CHIM THAI Brisbane/Facebook
While Bowyo Muangsong has made a name for herself as a renowned head chef in some of Brisbane’s famous venues like Pingpong and Morning After Cafe, it’s her brother Yew who takes the helm in the kitchen at Ma Chim.
Photo credit: MA CHIM THAI Brisbane/Facebook
Bowyo’s journey in Brisbane’s culinary scene began when she arrived in the city at 18, fresh from completing her Year 12 in Thailand. Her first foray into the local food industry was at her aunt’s restaurant in Milton, laying the groundwork for what would become a successful career in the kitchen.
Photo credit: MA CHIM THAI Brisbane/Facebook
Ma Chim’s menu is a love letter to Thai cuisine, featuring family recipes and regional specialties passed down through generations. Many of these cherished dishes come from the siblings’ mother, herself a chef with a passion for cooking.
The authenticity extends beyond the food – even some of the plates and cutlery have been sourced directly from Thailand, adding an extra layer of cultural immersion to the dining experience.
Photo credit: MA CHIM THAI Brisbane/Facebook
Diners can look forward to signature dishes such as the popular Wagyu Boat Noodle and the homegrown Kapow with fried egg and real Thai basil. For those seeking to explore Thai flavours, the Nam Tok Pork Jowl offers a unique take on a famous recipe, while the Street Fish Cakes with sweet chilli sauce and roasted peanuts provide a perfect starter. To quench your thirst, Ma Chim also serves up homemade Thai milk tea.
“We embarked on this journey to create a restaurant that not only serves the most delicious Thai dishes but also offers a warm and welcoming dining experience that leaves a lasting impression on our customers,” the Muangsong siblings shared through their website.
Ma Chim is located at 4/165 Baroona Road, Paddington, and is now open for dine-in and online orders. Whether you’re a Thai food aficionado or a curious first-timer, Ma Chim invites you to come and taste the vibrant flavours of Thailand right in the heart of Paddington.
Red Hill swimming sensation Thomas Neill is poised to make his mark at the Paris Olympics, securing his spot in both the 200m freestyle and 200m individual medley events. At just 22 years old, Neill is preparing for his second Olympic appearance, building on a career that has shown promise since his junior days.
Rugby had been his obsession since childhood, consuming his thoughts and adorning his bedroom walls. Posters of his idols – Quade Cooper, Will Genia, and the entire 2011 Reds squad – served as daily inspiration. On the other hand, swimming was a chore he endured with gritted teeth, Neill admitted.
Fate had different plans for the young athlete, steering him away from the rugby field. At 14, Neill shattered both his leg and his aspirations during an intense match. The sickening crack of bone echoed his vanishing dreams of rugby stardom.
Ironically, it was the very sport he did not love (at first) that offered salvation after his injury. The doctor’s prescription for swimming for rehabilitation was met with initial skepticism. Deep down, he had always sensed his true potential lay in the pool, not on the pitch and this became the catalyst for embracing a new passion, as the competitive spirit of swimming began to ignite a fire within him.
Early success and rapid rise
Neill first caught attention in 2019 at the Australian age titles, claiming gold in multiple events including the 200m, 400m, 800m, and 1500m freestyle, as well as the 200m individual medley. This impressive performance earned him a place on the Australian Team for the junior world titles in Budapest, where he continued to excel, securing two silvers and two bronzes.
Transitioning to senior competition, Neill quickly proved his mettle. At the 2021 Australian championships, he claimed gold in the 800m freestyle and silver in the 400m freestyle, narrowly missing a medal in the 200m freestyle.
Thomas Neill debuts at the Tokyo Olympics
Neill’s Olympic journey began at the 2021 trials in Adelaide, where he secured a spot on the 4x200m freestyle relay team for Tokyo. In his Olympic debut, Neill narrowly missed the 200m freestyle final but played a crucial role in the relay event. Assigned the anchor leg, he delivered the fastest split among his Australian teammates, helping secure a bronze medal for the team.
Following a period focused on his Advanced Business (Honours) degree at the University of Queensland, Neill returned to full-time training in 2023. He contributed to Australia’s bronze in the 4x200m freestyle relay at the 2023 World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka, Japan, and showed improvement in individual medley events.
Neill’s recent performances have solidified his position as a dual-event Olympian for Paris. At the Australian Olympic trials held in the Brisbane Aquatic Centre, he claimed second place in the 200m freestyle with a time of 1:46.02, securing his individual spot. Additionally, Neill will compete in the 200m individual medley in Paris.
Known for his friendly personality, Neill has gained attention for his post-race quips. After winning bronze in Tokyo, he told TV cameras, “A bronze medal at the Olympics, as Matty Johns said in 1997, it’s better than Lego.” With one Games under his belt and another yet to come, Thomas Neill offers an intriguing preview of Australia’s swimming future.
Leanne DeMartini, owner of the well-regarded store on Latrobe Terrace, expressed that it was time for new vitality in the business as she approaches retirement. She aims to conclude her career on a high note, desiring the new owner to continue the store’s legacy for another 22 years or more.
Turning 60 last October, DeMartini felt it was the right moment to shift her focus from managing the store to potentially mentoring other small business owners through roles with the Brisbane City Council or the Small Business Association. She emphasized her interest in supporting and sharing her extensive experience with other entrepreneurs.
Business History and Resilience
Thousand Island Dressing first opened its doors in 2002 and later expanded to locations in Bulimba and New Farm in the following years. Although the satellite stores closed during the COVID-19 pandemic, the original Paddington location thrived with a strong online presence bolstered by loyal customers.
DeMartini recounted memorable events at the store, including one where she met her husband, underscoring her emotional connection to the business.
Listed for sale at $65,000 plus stock at value through Finn Business Sales, the business attracted immediate interest, receiving two offers shortly after listing, including one from a devoted customer. DeMartini expressed a fervent hope that the store’s new owner would share her passion for the business, emphasisingng her desire to avoid closure and see the store prosper under new ownership.
James Antliff and Elise Allisson had increased security measures at their residence following each previous incident, but this did not deter a group of teenagers from allegedly breaching their property.
The youths reportedly scaled a concrete wall, forced a door lock, and entered the house. Upon discovering a BMW and a Porsche in the garage, they were seen celebrating before allegedly taking bag and car keys, and driving off with both vehicles.
Photo Credit: Pexels
The incident, which occurred while the couple’s seven-year-old stepson was inside the house, has left the family shaken.
“It’s super frightening,” Allisson said. The teenagers allegedly fled in multiple cars, embarking on a joyride across the south-east. The BMW was later found abandoned in Stafford Heights, while the Porsche was last tracked on the Sunshine Coast and remains missing.
This is the fourth break-in the family has experienced in two years, prompting them to progressively enhance their home’s security.
“We’ve upped the security every time we’ve been broken into,” Antliff stated. “We’ve got security cameras, we got security alarms and all the doors were locked and even the front gate had a chain and padlock around it.”
The incident has reignited the debate surrounding youth crime in Queensland, with the state election looming in October. Opposition Leader David Crisafulli criticised the current government’s handling of the issue, while Premier Steven Miles acknowledged the complexity of the problem.
The investigation into the break-in and car thefts is ongoing, with authorities working to locate the missing Porsche and apprehend the individuals involved.
Paddington Crime Statistics
Between December 2023 to June 2024, there were 127 incidence of Unlawful Entry and Other Theft (excluding Unlawful Entry) in Paddington, according to the Queensland Police Service. Most affected clusters were along Fernberg Road and Latrobe Terrace with more incidents taking place around 10:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.
After a six-year run as one of Paddington’s favourite dining destinations, NOTA Restaurant & Wine Bar on Given Terrace is shutting its doors. The European-inspired restaurant will serve its last meal on August 3rd, 2024.
Co-owners and chefs Kevin Docherty and Sebastiaan de Kort of NOTA Photo Credit: Instagram / @broadsheet.brisbane
Co-owners and chefs Kevin Docherty and Sebastiaan de Kort, both former chefs at Moda, opened NOTA in 2018 in the former space of acclaimed French restaurant Montrachet. The exposed brick and warm lighting created an inviting ambience for NOTA’s modern European fare and extensive wine list.
“Starting NOTA so early in our careers was of course challenging, and we couldn’t have done it without the amazing Paddington community,” said de Kort. “But we are excited for what the future holds, both for us and for the space we’re leaving behind.”
Co-owners and chefs Kevin Docherty and Sebastiaan de Kort of NOTA Photo Credit: NOTA
The duo will now focus their efforts on Allonda, the Newstead restaurant they opened in 2022. However, they are passing the Given Terrace location to another yet-to-be-named hospitality figure who plans to reinvent the space.
Chefs Kevin Docherty and Sebastiaan de Kort’s Newstead restaurant, Allonda. Photo Credit: ALLONDA
“It’s important for us to honour the community we’ve built by passing over the space to another hospitality wunderkind who we’re confident will bring a much-needed dining experience to Brisbane,” de Kort added. “We’re incredibly excited to see our much-loved space reinvented.”
As NOTA winds down, the restaurant will bring back signature dishes like quail with sweet corn polenta, broccolini with anchovy butter, beef bourguignon, and the warm house crumble. Head Sommelier Yanika Sittisuntorn will also return for a final selection of wine pairings.
The neighbourhood can look forward to a new culinary experience when the unidentified hospitality figure takes the helm at 224 Given Terrace in the coming months.
While Paddington waits for the newcomer, NOTA Restaurant & Wine Bar will serve their remaining meals until August 3, 2024. They are open 6 pm-late on Tuesday-Thursday (last booking at 7:30 pm), 12-2 pm and 6 pm-late (last booking on 8 pm) Friday-Saturday. Catch them before they are gone for good.
Dashcam footage has revealed a heart-stopping incident on Hale Street in Paddington, just outside Suncorp Stadium, where a car was catapulted into the air and flipped onto its side following a reckless maneuver.
The incident, captured around 9:53 p.m., shows a white hatchback signaling to exit the road when a black sedan speeds up, attempting to merge into the lane. The sedan slams into the rear of the hatchback, sending it hurtling through the air, rolling multiple times before coming to a rest on its side.
A blue hatchback traveling in the opposite direction was also clipped, but the driver managed to maintain control of the vehicle. The black sedan, emitting sparks, briefly left the road before eventually coming to a halt.
The Queensland Police Service (QPS) confirmed that a 26-year-old woman from Loganlea sustained minor injuries in the crash. The driver of the sedan, a 19-year-old man from Moorooka, was issued a traffic infringement notice for careless driving.
The footage, shared on the Dash Cam Owners Australia Facebook page, has drawn numerous comments expressing shock and concern. One user praised the quick response of bystanders who rushed to the flipped car, while another remarked on the sudden chaos that erupted for unsuspecting drivers.
The vibrant Bluey house in Paddington that houses television’s most beloved Blue Heeler family has been withdrawn from the market after a recent episode tugged at heartstrings and led to a collective sigh of relief from fans and frazzled real estate agents alike.
Real Estate Rollercoaster
The following section is a satirical take on the competitive world of real estate, inspired by the fictional events surrounding Bluey’s home.
When news spread that Bluey’s charming Queenslander was on the market, it wasn’t just a big day in Brisbane. The listing landed not with the seasoned pros, but with Bucky Dunstan, whose resume was as thin as tracing paper except for one notable entry: old school buddy of Bandit Heeler.
Matthew Lancashire of Ray White New Farm, famed for trading in Brisbane’s real estate crown jewels, found himself outfoxed by the newcomer. He had been playfully telling his kids that selling the Bluey house was a certainty, only to be scooped by someone who probably thought “escrow” was a new type of dog treat.
Over in Ascot, Patrick McKinnon from Place Estate Agents tried to laugh off his disappointment, likening his day of solving Bluey puzzles to strategic training for what he thought was the ultimate real estate coup—only to find out he was beaten by Bucky, the equivalent of a novice playing Monopoly.
Darcy Lord, a known face in the leafy streets of Bulimba, had thrown everything but the kitchen sink into wooing the Heelers, from relentless letterbox drops to sponsoring every dog show within a 20-mile radius. Finding out he lost to someone whose biggest deal may have previously been trading lunch boxes in primary school certainly stung.
‘The Sign’ Steals the Show
In real life, the drama peaked with the airing of “The Sign” on the 14th of April 2024, an episode that saw the Heeler family caught between a wedding and a real estate deal. Just when it looked like the “Sold” sticker was set to seal their fate, a last-minute twist kept the Heelers in their beloved home in Paddington, proving that not all drama ends in disaster.
The episode was a masterclass in emotional manipulation, leaving fans both laughing and crying into their couch cushions. This narrative jolt not only reaffirmed the Heeler home’s star status but reminded viewers why they fell in love with the charming Queenslander in the first place.
“When Bingo realized what selling the house meant and tried to lift the sign by herself..the tears 😭” viewers on Reddit posted.
“That said, this episode made my whole family cry by the end. Can’t believe how emotional I feel about a cartoon dog family deciding not to move house 😭”
“Speaking as a Brisbane native, that episode came THIS CLOSE to breaking the heart of an entire city.”
Seriously, I was like “don’t you DARE make this a Sydney or Melbourne show, Brisbane IS a main character 🤬🤬🤬” So relieved!
Photo Credit: Bluey/YouTube
Bluey Bounces Back
With the for-sale sign on the Bluey house now a relic of the past, attention turns back to Bluey’s everyday adventures. Confirming the series’ continuation, producer Sam Moor spoke on BBC Radio 4, easing fears of the show’s cancellation post-home-sale drama. This news was greeted with cheers from fans and perhaps a few groans from those still recovering from the emotional rollercoaster of “The Sign.”
The recent incident involving the sale of Heelers’ house in Brisbane has highlighted the power of storytelling and the emotional connection.
For real estate professionals in the city, this event served as a poignant lesson in the unpredictable nature of the property market. One agent noted the unique challenge of selling the Heelers’ home, stating that it was significantly more difficult than typical sales, almost like dealing in a different market entirely.
The fictional Heeler family from the beloved children’s animated TV show “Bluey” have listed their home for sale. Whilst part of an animated universe, the house beautifully encapsulated the essence and architectural heritage of Paddington.
The Heeler residence in the popular TV show “Bluey” is a depiction that has resonated with many fans. Its sprawling verandas and quintessential Queenslander design perfectly reflect the vibrant spirit and cultural backdrop of Paddington. Though fictional, this representation highlights the show’s strong connection to Brisbane, specifically the West Brisbane area, known for its picturesque hillsides and distinctive colonial architecture.
Described by property agent Becky Dunstan, the listing reveals a charming, animated family residence tucked away in a secret Brisbane spot. The property features mid-century design elements blended with whimsical accents, embodying the classic Queenslander style and exuding a sense of heritage allure, complete with over a hundred concealed miniature-long dogs scattered throughout.
Situated at a cul-de-sac’s end, the house is perched on a hill, offering scenic views of Mount Coot-Tha. It comprises three bedrooms and approximately four bathrooms, alongside spaces conducive to working from home, adorned with beautiful period floorboards and hallways.
Real estate experts predict the sale could fetch upwards of $6 million, reflecting the soaring property values in areas akin to Paddington, where the show’s setting draws heavy inspiration.
Market Buzz and Fan Sentiments
A clip from the poignant episode, titled “Ghostbasket,” which aired on the 7th of April 2024, had Bandit showing their old house to potential buyers.
Although just a storyline in the animated series, the listing of the Heeler family home has ignited a flurry of excitement in the real estate market and amongst the global fanbase of “Bluey.”
“Can we talk about the ending? It’s not just the zoom out of the for sale sign but the music suddenly faded once the credits start,” a viewer asked on Reddit. “I have one question. Why is the house for sale or will that be answered in The Sign?”
“I think its been in the works for a while,” another commenter said. “Two obvious clues being Chili complaining about the house falling apart in Hammerbarn and it being small in Cubby…”
The sale of the house introduces themes of change and moving on, resonating with those who view the Heelers’ home as a symbol of love and adventure.
Anticipation for What’s Next
The Heeler home in the “Bluey” series has an aesthetic appeal and also serves as a cultural touchstone, offering viewers a glimpse into Brisbane’s architectural heritage and suburban lifestyle. In the upcoming episode titled “The Sign,” set to air on April 14th, 2024, the Heelers will embark on a journey of finding a new home. This storyline promises to delve into the emotional nuances of relocating, reflecting the show’s commitment to addressing real-life challenges through its narrative.
In 2022, a replica of the Heeler family’s Paddington home was made available to rent on Airbnb. The replica has been carefully designed to capture the charm and warmth of the Heeler household, allowing fans to immerse themselves in this unique experience. This initiative brings the animated world to life and offers a chance for fans to experience it firsthand.
