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Seven-Storey Commercial Building, Six-Storey Car Park Proposed on Burke Street in Woolloongabba

Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au

A seven-storey commercial building and a six-storey car park have been proposed on Burke Street in Woolloongabba. The proposal includes a commercial and health-care service offering that is designed to complement the adjoining buildings including QCCAT, Burke Street Centre Hospital and Brisbane Catholic Education Centre.

The proposed site is located at 2 Burke Street in Woolloongabba which is about 4 km southeast of Brisbane CBD. There are two existing buildings at the site which are occupied by an education and a healthcare facility.

Seven-Storey Commercial Building, Six-Storey Car Park Proposed in Burke Street, Woolloongabba — Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / *developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au*

The application seeks to establish a seven-storey commercial building that will contain retail and food and drink outlet tenancies located at the ground level, and office and health care services situated within the upper level.

The application also proposes a six-storey car park that will include 236 car parking spaces within the multi-level parking whilst the existing 93 car parking spaces will be retained under the plans submitted to the council. The existing 92 ground-level parking spaces will be removed to facilitate the development.

The proposal also states that Building B (commercial building) is planned to be annexed to the northern facade of the healthcare facility (QLD Health Burke Street Centre), allowing for potential links in the future.

The proposed commercial building will feature a raised and inverted podium that is designed to welcome visitors into the vibrant retail and dining areas whilst maintaining ease of entry and visibility to the adjacent healthcare facility and the central area of the site.

“Beyond achieving a strong architectural statement, the elevated podium and extended upper level serves a dual purpose of optimising the utilisation of the limited ground space. This strategic design choice ensures the preservation of existing pedestrian and vehicular pathways while accommodating essential features such as a convenient drop-off zone and a well-placed service vehicle parking area, conveniently accessible from Burke Street. This configuration underlines a commitment to functional efficiency without compromising the architectural integrity of the space.” – Urbis

Additionally, the rooftop will feature a high-quality landscaping design aimed at providing a vibrant rooftop terrace for tenants and staff to enjoy and benefit from the landscaped amenities.

Access to the site is via an existing crossover fronting Burke Street.

The development proposal at a glance:

Building Height Proposed Commercial Building: 7 storeys
Proposed multi-level car park: 6 storeys
Gross Floor Area Total = 5,690 sqm
- Food and drink outlet / Shop = 153 sqm
- Health care services / Office = 4,928 sqm
- Ancillary: Lobby/EOTF= 609 sqm
Site Cover 1,562 sqm (59% of site area)
Car Parking Total = 329 car parking spaces
- 236 car parking spaces within the proposed multi-level car park
- 93 existing car parking spaces are being retained on-site
Bicycle Parking and EOT facilities: 45 bicycle racks, 90 lockers and 6 showers
Access and Servicing: SRV and Van access are provided via Burke Street.
Landscaping:
- Existing in-ground planting: 801 sqm
- New inground planting: 360 sqm
- Total inground deep planting: 281 sqm

Published 6-October-2023

Midnight Trip to Kitchen Leaves Greenslopes Man $1M Richer

When a Greenslopes man got up for a midnight drink of water, he did not expect to be heading back to bed $1 million richer. But that’s exactly what happened!

Read: Waho Cafe: A Haven of Irresistible Waffle Delights

The shock windfall has left the winner understandably stunned, admitting he thought he was dreaming when he first saw the seven-figure sum. The man had to shake his sleeping partner awake to confirm if the life-changing news was real.

“After that I don’t think I went back to sleep,” said the man.

“My partner woke up and saw me sitting there and asked, ‘what’s going on, are you alright?’

“I think I just laughed before telling her, ‘I won the lottery!’

For the humble winner, the timing couldn’t be better. He revealed plans to finally buy a property in the area’s competitive market. But first, as a thank you for their support, he intends to set up his parents financially for the rest of their lives.

The fortunate Greenslopes resident had purchased his lucky 12-game QuickPick ticket online through thelott.com.

The life-changing winning numbers drawn in Monday & Wednesday Gold Lotto on September 25th were 9, 34, 3, 5, 35 and 43. The supplementary numbers that rounded out the draw were 19 and 8.

Incredibly, there was only a single division one winning entry across the entire country – belonging to the thrilled Queensland man.

The man’s $1 million prize marks the second major lottery win for Greenslopes residents in recent weeks. Just last month, a local Greenslopes mother also scored $1 million in the Saturday Gold Lotto competition.

Read: Residents Object to Planned 24-Hour Greenslopes McDonald’s

After such a huge win, the lucky Greenslopes man will certainly be raising a glass to his late night thirst. It seems you never know what a trip to the kitchen in the middle of the night might bring.

Published 27-September-2023

Greenslopes Mother Celebrates $1 Million Windfall

Photo Credit: The Lott

A Greenslopes mother is overjoyed after winning a life-changing $1 million windfall in Saturday’s significant draw. Among the 10 division one winners, she held a winning ticket in the draw that occurred on September 9, 2023.

Upon discovering her incredible win, the woman’s excitement was palpable, resonating through the neighborhood. Her daughter, fearing the neighbors might misinterpret the joyful screams, urged her to lower her volume.

“I haven’t slept for two nights! I’ve just been sitting by the phone waiting for this call and confirmation that it’s real,” she exclaimed.

“It’s always been a dream of mine, but I’ve just sat back and left it in fate’s hands.

“Now I can dream. I screamed my lungs out when I saw I’d won, and my daughter told me to stop in case the neighbors thought something was wrong!

“I’m going to buy a Tesla! I can’t wait.

“It’s been my dream car forever, and now I can’t stop thinking about it.

“It’s such a blessing. We’ll also pay off some of our mortgage and put some away for the future. We certainly don’t want to blow it all!

“This is incredible!”

The Greenslopes mother got her life-changing million windfall as a result of a 50-game QuickPick she purchased online, showcasing the transformative potential of such opportunities. As a resident of Greenslopes, she envisions a brighter future, fulfilling dreams and securing stability for her and her family.

Her story resonates within the local community, inspiring others to embrace hope and possibility. Dreams are within reach, and as this fortunate Greenslopes woman looks ahead, she continues to feel the need for speed, motivating her neighbors to dream big too. In Greenslopes, dreams are no longer just dreams—they are becoming reality.

Published 20-September-2023

Tender Open for Greenslopes Bowls Club Lease

The old Greenslopes Bowls Club facility is up for a new community lease after the previous tenant had to surrender their lease.

Read: What Lies Ahead for Vacant Greenslopes Bowls Club Site?

Cr Fiona Cunningham said the Brisbane City Council has opened up a tender process looking for interested community organisations to take over operations at the site. Eligible groups need to apply through the council, and applications will be evaluated based on factors like community benefit and involvement of local organisations.

“I think we can all agree that while it’s disappointing to see the former tenants having to surrender the lease, a new chapter for our community is waiting to be written,” said Cr Cunningham.

Greenslopes Bowls Club — Photo credit: Jay Akash/Google Maps

The length of the new lease will depend on the plans and community contributions proposed by the successful applicant.

Cr Cunningham said residents with questions about the process can email her at Coorparoo.ward@bcc.Qld.gov.au to get accurate information.

The tender comes as the council looks to make the most of community facilities across Brisbane. The Greenslopes site presents a chance to bring new services, activities and energy to the neighbourhood.

About the Greenslopes Bowls Club

The former bowls club is located at 131 Ridge Street, Greenslopes. Spanning over 9 hectares, the expansive site contains top-notch facilities including a large function hall perfect for hosting events up to 200 people.

The council gave the building minor renovations in 2013, updating the exterior and improving accessibility. The interior was also upgraded with a state-of-the-art sound and stage system.

Read: Community Staple Press and Brew Closes Down, Makes Way For Planned Community Health Care Centre

Earlier this year, Club Greenslopes vacated the site after surrendering their lease. At that time, the council denied having any intention to sell the property after locals expressed concerns regarding the state of the site.

Published 13-September-2023

Buranda Station Accessibility Upgrade Takes Steps Toward Inclusive Rail Travel

Early works have commenced on a multimillion-dollar accessibility upgrade project at the Buranda train station, part of a broader plan that includes improvements at Morningside, Lindum, and Banyo stations, all of which are expected to temporarily close in January 2024, once construction is in full swing.

The Buranda station accessibility upgrade is part of a broader plan that includes improvements at Lindum, Morningside, and Banyo train stations. While these upgrades are set to enhance the overall rail network, the improvements at Buranda station, situated in the suburb of Woolloongabba, are generating considerable anticipation.

Early construction activities have begun at the four stations. Enabling works are underway at Lindum and Buranda stations. Site establishment will commence in the coming months.

Geotechnical activities and overhead line and service location works have already been carried out at Morningside station. Piling, signalling construction and site establishment will commence soon.

The project, part of the State’s Big Build initiative, aims to make rail travel more inclusive and convenient for all passengers.

Plans for Buranda Station’s Upgrade

The Buranda station will undergo a complete transformation, with an estimated cost of $70 million allocated towards the upgrade.

This investment will bring several significant improvements to the station, including a new footbridge with lift access, platform re-alignment, enhanced service and facilities, such as increased shelter coverage and customer information screens.

One of the central goals of the upgrade is to reduce the gap between the platform and train doors, making boarding safer and easier for all passengers.

This includes individuals in wheelchairs, those with walking frames, parents with prams, and passengers carrying luggage. Access to the station overpass via a lift will further improve accessibility.

Other enhancements encompass updated customer facilities, including accessible toilets, disability-compliant ticket windows, improved seating, and extended platform shelters.

To create a safer environment, the station will also feature hearing augmentation loops, tactile floor indicators, new wayfinding signage, information screens, and upgraded security through CCTV and lighting.

Temporary Closure – Buranda Station

However, it is essential to note that to expedite these vital upgrades, the station will temporarily close during construction. This closure, along with those at Lindum, Morningside, and Banyo stations, is scheduled to begin in January 2024. During this period, alternative transport options will be available to assist commuters.

Buranda station is expected to welcome passengers in mid-2025. Commuters at Lindum, Morningside, and Banyo stations can anticipate the reopening of their stations in the second half of 2024, subject to construction progress and weather conditions.

Queensland Rail is keen to engage with its customers to ensure that alternative travel arrangements align with their needs and preferences. To gather valuable input, Queensland Rail has launched a survey, seeking feedback on passengers’ travel patterns and requirements during the station closures.

ANSWER THE SURVEY

“The Buranda station accessibility upgrade project is a significant milestone that will make a real difference in our community. These improvements will ensure that our rail network is accessible to everyone,” Member for Greenslopes Joe Kelly said.

Published 13-Sept-2023

Hospital Veteran Jamie Bedson Leaves Entire Estate to Princess Alexandra Research Foundation

Photo Credit: Metro South Health

Jamie Bedson, a medical records administrator who has worked at Princess Alexandra Hospital for 23 years, has made the extraordinary decision to leave his entire estate to the Princess Alexandra Research Foundation.

Describing his decision as an easy one, Mr Bedson cited the hospital as more than just a workplace but a community and family and he made this decision because he wants to support medical breakthroughs and enhance the lives of patients.

“I’m on my own and I’ve got no family. I’ve got friends, but no one that I really want to give the money to,” he said. “I thought, who can I give it to? So that’s why I went straight to the foundation.”

The loyal administrator acknowledged that he had considered the hospital’s impact on his life and the lives of countless others during his long tenure.

“Because I work in a hospital in medical records, I can understand the medical side of things and what people are going through in a hospital.”

“People might be going through a smaller situation through to something more life-threatening, but regardless it is going to a good cause, and that’s what I’m happy about.”

“If it’s going to help someone get an operation, or help someone with cancer, or maybe even cure someone through research, I’m happy to do that.”

Mr Bedson’s decision coincides with the Princess Alexandra Research Foundation‘s annual Giving Day fundraiser, which took place on 7 Sept 2023. Remarkably, all donations received on Giving Day, up to $10,000, were doubled, thanks to the generosity of matching donors.

Photo Credit: Princess Alexandra Foundation

This year, for the first time, the foundation allowed people to make donations to support patients and services at all Metro South hospitals, including QEII Jubilee, Redland, Logan, and Beaudesert hospitals. These contributions can be directed to various hospital departments, such as spinal injury rehabilitation, breast cancer research, or enhancing patient treatment areas.

“People who choose to make a gift of any size and remember an organization after they’re gone is pretty humbling. It means we will be able to keep investing in our medical research and medical support at the hospital far beyond our own lifetimes,” said Damian Topp, the Foundation’s Chief Executive.

Published 8-Sept-2023

Waho Cafe: A Haven of Irresistible Waffle Delights

Photo Credit: Facebook / Waho Cafe

If you love waffles, a visit to this new cafe situated on a laneway in Stones Corner would be truly worth it. With its deliciously insane flavour combinations, Waho Cafe is a specialist waffle house that adds a dash of Korean flair to Brisbane’s bustling cafe culture.

Waho Cafe is the latest venture from Victor and Stephanie Chan of the popular Greenslopes phenomenon, The Jam Pantry.

Since taking over the cafe in 2020, the Chan team-up at The Jam Pantry has been winning over patrons with their ever-changing menu of batter-based creations. And in response to the overwhelming demand for its heavenly-tasting waffles, The Jam Pantry’s decided that it’s time to have a dedicated venue where all their beloved waffle variants will be made available for its devoted fans to enjoy.

Enter Waho Cafe.

Waho Cafe is located on the first floor of the Fifth Avenue Lifestyle studio and offers both indoor seating and outdoor dining. With 30 seats in total, the cafe provides an intimate atmosphere that complements its culinary offerings.

Waho Cafe: A Haven of Irresistible Waffle Delights — Photo Credit: Facebook / Waho Cafe

Ten different waffle variations, with sweet and savoury options, are offered on the short menu, all of which are created fresh daily and served with a variety of toppings.

If you have a hankering for sweet waffles, the Crème Brûlée waffles, served with lemon curd and topped with seasonal fruit, ice cream, and cashews would be an unforgettable choice.

For a more classic take, try their Chocolate waffles served with ice cream and topped with salted caramel sauce and marshmallows, with some of their house-made honeycomb. You can’t go wrong with French Toast waffles, served with corn flakes, ice cream, cashews, maple syrup.

As an alternative, the Chocolate Waffles come with a house-made honeycomb, salted caramel sauce, ice cream, and marshmallows. Also adding to the symphony of flavours are the Crème Brûlée waffles, which are topped with lemon curd, cashews, ice cream, and seasonal fruit.

Savoury flavour profiles can also give you a deliciously different breakfast waffle experience. The perfect combination of flavours can be found on Cheese & Spinach waffles with poached eggs, crispy bacon chips, shallots, and sour cream.

The Eggs Benedict waffles, meanwhile, are adorned with poached eggs, wilted spinach, and your choice of bacon, smoked salmon, or ham, all of which are covered in a rich lemon hollandaise sauce.

With bulgogi pulled pork, scrambled eggs, pickled ginger, fried shallots, and slaw, The Sunshine Waffle is definitely not your usual but is certainly delicious, just like everything else on the menu.

Waho Cafe offers a variety of beverages. Supreme Coffee is on the drip, its strong bitterness providing a great counterpoint to the waffles. T2 teas, hot chocolate, chai, matcha lattes, frappuccinos, and smoothies are all available too. Even the coldest or wettest winter days taste warm and summery because of their rich and creamy mango smoothie.

Google Reviews:

“Beautiful little cosy Cafe. Great light waffles made fresh just then, and many great choices. Staff are very friendly and open to feedback. I’ve only eaten here once, but will definitely come back. Tried a sweet and a savoury one.” – Shahab R

“Really really like the location，white、clean and enough parking space for customers which is great！many choices of different waffles，savory and sweet. We tried sweet today, will come back for savory.” – Sheri Chuang

“We are so impressed with the presentation and quality of the waffles. The savoury waffles are supreme. We tried the Red Velvet Waffle and Zucchini Waffle for our brunch, they tasted so yummy. The cappuccino and flat white are great too.” – Fiona Pak

Discover Waho Cafe at 1/27 Stoneham St, Stones Corner, open daily from 7.30 am to 2 pm.

Published 13-August-2023

Jacqui Cooper Has a Rare Cancer, Shares Sarcoma Story to Help Raise Awareness

Jacqui Cooper said her life has been turned upside down since her diagnosis last year a rare and aggressive form of cancer on her foot. Now, she is helping raise sarcoma awareness.

Read: Pioneering Prostate Cancer Treatment Hits 20-Year Milestone at Greenslopes Private Hospital

In May 2022, after two foot surgeries and multiple scans and biopsies, Ms Cooper contacted her podiatrist about a lump on her foot, thinking she may have fractured a tendon or bone. After further testing, she was referred to specialists who confirmed the devastating news – she had a sarcoma so rare that it didn’t even have a name.

A sarcoma is an extremely rare and aggressive form of cancer that begins in connective tissues like fat, muscle, bones, cartilage, and blood vessels. The cancer often presents as a harmless lump or pulled muscle sensation, meaning it is usually diagnosed in later stages when prognosis is poor.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jacqueline Cooper (@jacqua622)

Within just a few short months, Ms Cooper began chemotherapy treatment to fight the rare sarcoma that had emerged in her foot.

“To date I have done 6 cycles of chemo and had 3 surgeries. In the third surgery my doctor said that I am now ‘cancer free’, but I continued to do chemo to basically rid any rogue cancer cells that could be floating around in my body,” Ms Cooper said on her MyCause page.

Understandably shocked by the diagnosis, the 37-year-old Stones Corner local quickly realised the importance of family and friends during this difficult time.

“They then become carers, amazing supports and their generosity, morals, kindness really begin to shine through. I am so grateful to have these people surrounding me in my life,” she said.

To raise awareness and funds for sarcoma research this July, which is Sarcoma Awareness Month, Ms Cooper has launched a fundraiser.

“I am asking for donations not only for the two sarcoma foundations but also Pankind. My mother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in early 2011 and unfortunately was not lucky enough to survive it. We need to raise these important funds for people who are living with this horrible disease,” she said.

Jacqui with her mum (Photo credit: Jacqui Cooper/mycause.com.au)

PanKind The Australian Pancreatic Cancer Foundation (formerly the Avner Foundation) is the only Foundation in Australia exclusively dedicated to pancreatic cancer.

Read: No Out-of-Pocket Costs for Participants of New Lung Cancer Program at Greenslopes Private Hospital

The Australia and New Zealand Sarcoma Association (ANZSA) is also encouraging everyone to show support by wearing yellow, hosting yellow morning teas, and donating to sarcoma research this month. Sarcoma may be rare, but with the help of donations and awareness, people like Ms Cooper are able to access life-saving treatment and support.

To know more about her journey and story, you can follow her Instagram page @jacqua622.

Published 26-July-2023

Pioneering Prostate Cancer Treatment Hits 20-Year Milestone at Greenslopes Private Hospital

Did you know that this year marks the 20th anniversary of a pioneering, minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of prostate cancer treatment at Greenslopes Private Hospital?

Read: Queensland Health Unveils $8 Billion Hospital Expansion Plan, Including Princess Alexandra Hospital

The low-dose-rate (LDR) brachytherapy program was pioneered in 2003 by a dedicated team of specialists – Radiation Oncologist Associate Professor Kumar Gogna, Consultant Urologist Dr Glen Wood, and Medical Physicist Mr Adrian Gibbs.

Two decades later, this clinical trio still practises together at Greenslopes, having treated hundreds of prostate cancer patients over the years. Their collaboration and shared goal of supporting patient choice and offering evidence-based treatments continues to this day.

prostate cancer treatment — Photo credit: Tara Winstead/Pexels

As Mr Gibbs reflects, they were united 20 years ago under the common goal of providing another option for prostate cancer patients. Since then, they have worked together to treat many men with LDR brachytherapy.

What is LDR brachytherapy?

LDR brachytherapy involves inserting radioactive seeds directly into the prostate to target cancer cells with radiation whilst minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissue. At the time, it expanded the minimally invasive treatment possibilities for prostate cancer patients at Greenslopes and in Queensland.

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Australian men, with over 24,000 new cases annually.

Dr Wood emphasises that offering a full spectrum of care for patients living with prostate cancer remains a top priority for them at Greenslopes.

A/Prof Gogna adds that their team is proud to keep supporting Queenslanders in need, sharing knowledge about this important treatment, and mentoring other clinicians locally and abroad to establish their own LDR brachytherapy programs. Their expertise has been shared with colleagues in Townsville, Singapore, and Wollongong.

Read: Vaxxas: Pioneering Needle-Free Skin Patch Vaccine Technology

The pioneering brachytherapy team reflects on the past 20 years of collaboration and innovation in minimally invasive prostate cancer treatment. Their patient-focused approach continues to make a positive impact at Greenslopes and beyond.

Published 25-July-2023

Greenslopes Residents Appeal St Maroun’s Redevelopment

A number of residents have challenged the approval received by St Maroun’s Maronite Church on Bunya Street in Greenslopes to redevelop its ageing facilities.

Read: Residents Object to Planned 24-Hour Greenslopes McDonald’s

St Maroun’s Church, located on a 3,645-sqm property in Bunya Street submitted a plan to Council to construct an entirely new church building with auditorium, a community hall, and a church administration building.

Designed by Hayes Anderson Lynch, the redevelopment includes a large elevated outdoor seating area and terrace adjoining the church and church hall, and a basement car park with 55 car parking spaces.

Artist’s visualisation of St Maroun’s Maronite Church redevelopment (Photo credit: Hayes Anderson Lynch)

However, a group of residents has brought an appeal against the development approval to the Planning and Environment Court. The residents listed several grounds for their appeal, including concerns about the height, size, and scale of the proposed development.

They argued that the church plans should be refused because the new buildings would be incompatible with the local character and feel of the area. The residents were worried the development would negatively impact things like noise levels, operating hours, and the overall look of the buildings.

“Multi vehicle and bicycle accidents can already be a weekly occurrence on Dunellan Street. A significant increase in traffic will only increase the likelihood of accidents as there are no plans to address even the current situation, let alone a significant increase in peak hour traffic. This increased traffic will be focussed in peak hour for child care drop-offs and pickups, so the extra traffic will add to local congestion as well as increase risk to children attending Greenslopes Primary School,” one local has written in a submission to Council.

During proceedings, St Maroun’s pointed to insufficient space in its current ageing facilities forcing parishioners to worship outdoors, even during important services. Ultimately, Justice Amanda McDonnell found only the scale was non-compliant, ruling this would not create adverse planning outcomes. She approved the redevelopment subject to conditions like noise management.

Floor plan (Photo credit: Hayes Anderson Lynch)

Read: What Lies Ahead for Vacant Greenslopes Bowls Club Site?

The residents have been left disappointed and the parties must now negotiate suitable conditions before final consent is issued. Observers note that the case exemplifies the challenges of balancing community infrastructure needs with minimising local impacts, as progress marches on.

Published 20-July-2023