Greenslopes Archives - Page 7 of 9

Stephens Mountain Reserve Project Receives New Walking Track

Works on the Stephens Mountain Reserve project have continued, with a recent implementation of a new walking track with improved entry and exit points.

The reserve was created with the purpose of protecting and conserving the natural environment whilst simultaneously providing the Greenslopes community with a family-friendly place with recreation activities.

Composed of 5.8 hectares of rezoned land from Stephens Mountain, the reserve has been classified as a conservation zone by the Brisbane City Council.

Work on the reserve first began in February 2021, after the Brisbane City Council invested $200,000 into the project. Once the draft plan was ready, the project team partook in public consultation, engaging with the community via information kiosks and online surveys in order to learn what people wished to see in the reserve.

Have you had a chance to visit the new lookout at Stephens Mountain Reserve? 🐸🐝🌳🦋🌿🌾 More improvements to this wonderful…
Posted by Councillor Fiona Cunningham on Sunday, February 7, 2021

Feedback revealed that the public had expressed interest in walking tracks, a lookout, weed management, and informal shared paths. The community expressed their interest in the protection of native vegetation and wildlife.

The construction of areas such as the lookout, walking tracks, fencing, and weed management were completed as part of the project’s first stage of works. With the current pace of works being done on the Stephens Mountain Reserve, the construction of the conservation zone’s lookout and walking trails are expected to finish by June 2021.

Stones Corner Due For a Daring Comeback This 2021

After much neglect and a series of closures pre-pandemic, Stones Corner is set to make a daring comeback in 2021. With six projects set to revitalise the precinct, it’s only a matter of time until this high street is restored to its former glory.

Sprucing Up Penney’s Building, 357 Logan Rd

The first of these projects is the restoration of Penney’s Building, one of the precinct’s chief landmarks. Having been around since 1938, the building at 357 Logan Rd has been left in a state of disrepair despite its iconic and easily-recognisable art deco exterior. Plans are being drawn by the DeMartini Fletcher group to refurbish it with wooden trusses, exposed brick, higher ceilings, and indoor foliage; all of which will give the interior a fresher look.

Bringing in the Latest Tenants to Bower Lane

Bower Lane, 433 Logan Rd is also due for some upgrades, with seven new tenancies that range from the chic coffee shop Buenos Dias Con Café, all the way to the yet-to-be-opened Greenslopes branch of Brooklyn Depot — a renowned burger bar hailing from South Bank. With new establishments packed with personality, Bower Lane aspires to catch the eyes of many would-be regulars.

New Clinics, Dentists, and Doctors at 416 Logan Rd

One of the more extensive projects is the overhaul of 416 Logan Rd, which is scheduled to be fully renovated in March. Tenants from the health industry such as dentists and doctors are planning to set up clinics within the building, supplying Greenslope locals with some easily-accessible medical expertise.

Beautician’s Hub at Freedom Suites

The fourth Stones Corner project is Freedom Suites, 392 Logan Rd. A powerhouse in the hair and beauty industry, this building now serves as a hub for freelance hairdressers and beauty specialists to set up shop, and given how many customers Freedom Suites attracts, businesses close by also prosper as a result of the influx of visitors.

Cello Apartments

Plans have also been drawn for the Cello Apartments situated in the corner between Cleveland and Flora streets. With an enticing residential area in a prime location surrounded by shops, restaurants and bars, hundreds of people can move in and be proud to call Stone Corners their home.

New Mixed-Use Residential Area at 66 Cleveland

The final project lined up for the revitalization of Stones Corner is Montague Developments’ plan to create a mixed-use residential tower in 66 Cleveland, complete with residential floors, an outdoor kitchen, coffee shops and restaurants, as well as an infinity pool. Given its proximity to various outlets and facilities as well as the Brisbane CBD, Stones Corner has the potential to become one of the busiest precincts in the Queensland area.

Hanlon Park Rejuvenation Project Ready for Stage 2

Work on the Hanlon Park Rejuvenation Project in Greenslopes is moving along swiftly and will progress to the second stage soon with the completion of the nature-themed play area.

The playground off Lincoln Street is near the Stones Corner Community Kindergarten and is equipped with new sliding and climbing all abilities equipment, sand play and swings, and seating areas for groups and families.

On 11 Dec. 2020, Councillor Fiona Cunningham confirmed that the playground has re-opened with the following features:

Multi-level adventure play tower with slide and swing set
Sandpit with diggers
Water hand pump to activate water flow along the creek bed
Nature-based climbing structures
Shade sails
Paths
Natural rock creek beds

Photo Credit: Councillor Fiona Cunningham/Facebook

The open green space, however, is not yet completely ready for use for safety reasons as construction work is still taking place.

Part of the work includes ripping off a section of the concreted waterway to build a natural ecosystem.

Some 462 trees and 43,000 shrubs will also be planted all around the park to boost the greenery, which will make the Norman Creek water cleaner. Sometime in the year, the community will be asked to get involved with the planting activities.

The Hanlon Park Rejuvenation Project, which is estimated for completion by late 2021, aims to:

revitalise Norman Creek, which runs through the park
enhance the environment with more trees and natural spaces
increase recreational and social opportunities for residents and visitors
enhance connectivity and accessibility within the park and local area
boost local economic vibrancy with a new place to relax and enjoy

For concerns and questions about this project, phone the team at 1800 669 416 (business hours) or 07 3403 8888 (off business hours), or send an email through cityprojects@brisbane.qld.gov.au.

New Community Park Planned at Former Red Cross Site in Greenslopes

The former Red Cross site on Headfort Street in Greenslopes could soon become a new community park following almost seven years of abandonment.

Councillor Fiona Cunningham confirmed in a Facebook post that Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner and the Council agreed to buy the land from the Federal Government.

Discussions are ongoing about redeveloping the precinct for community use, given that there are no nearby playgrounds or family recreational facilities in the area.

“Council has also had discussions with Legacy, an organisation with deep connection to this site, about a portion of the land being used for their services for the families of our veterans,” Ms Cunningham said. “Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) will also provide Council with a heritage strategy for the park so this can be considered in the design.”

For years, Greenslopes residents have been asking the government to act on the idle space. The former Red Cross hall has been riddled with disintegrating asbestos and is in the advanced stages of disrepair.

The property, owned by the DVA until its lease expiration in 2013, has been tagged as a health risk and a waste of property. The site stands across the Greenslopes Hospital.

Built in early 1945, the Red Cross hall consisted of two heritage-listed timber buildings. The site was used as a recreational facility for military personnel receiving medical services across the street.

Events like film screenings, concerts and dances were often hosted in the community hall, which also had a library and a room filled with billiard tables. The other building served as a hostel for visiting relatives and friends of the patients.

MP Richard Marles confirmed that the Federal Government will hand over the Red Cross property to the Brisbane City Council.

“The hope is that now works can commence to make the site safe again and that it could be restored to its former glory for use again by local Brisbanites,” Mr Marles said in a post.

The Jam Pantry Reopens for Father’s Day, Entire Staff Negative for COVID-19

The popular Greenslopes cafe, The Jam Pantry, is resuming business in time for Father’s Day this September weekend after an unfortunate COVID-19 threat.

The new owner of the establishment, Victor Chan, immediately took action and made sure that the staff and customers are safe and healthy following reports that a woman positive for COVID-19 apparently dined at the eatery.

On 19 Aug 2020, The Jam Pantry owner confirmed shutting down the cafe temporarily for a full disinfectant clean and COVID-19 testing for the workers. Mr Chan also promised to work closely with the health department. Fortunately for all concerned, the entire team had negative results after testing two times.

With this good news, The Jam Pantry is ready to trade again by Friday, 4 Sept 2020.

“We are opening our doors on the 4th of September and we couldn’t be more excited,” Mr Chan wrote on Facebook. “We have just completed a deep clean of the cafe and are ready to get back in the kitchen. We know that you’ve all be eager for an update on how things are going so you’ll be pleased to hear that all of our wonderful staff have all taken a second test after being in quarantine for the last two weeks and the results are NEGATIVE. NO COVID!!!”

Regulars expressed their support for the cafe, especially after Mr Chan properly communicated the plan to temporarily close and get tested.

“Big thanks to Victor and his team for going above and beyond what is required. Their actions are keeping the community safe and although I haven’t been to the cafe for a while, I’ll definitely make a point of dropping in for a meal soon,” a customer wrote in support of the cafe.

Mr Chan took over the ownership of The Jam Pantry in the middle of the pandemic crisis. Previous owner Naomi “Nims” Zavackas sold the restaurant to concentrate on training at the South Bank culinary hub, Wandering Cooks.

Despite the wrong timing, Mr Chan is optimistic about the restaurant’s future. He brings that same positive spirit to the comforting cafe every day.

The Jam Pantry has retained most of Ms Zavackas menu. Before the chef left, she spent time training the kitchen crew to prepare the types of food the regulars love to order.

Popular Greenslopes Cafe To Close After 5 Years

The Jam Pantry, one of Greenslopes’ busiest cafe, is closing shop after five years of serving the locals. Owner and chef Naomi Zavackas confirmed the news in a video post on social media.

Naomi said that The Jam Pantry will be serving its last meals on Sunday, the 29th of March 2020. The decision to close has been bittersweet but she also revealed the exciting reason why she had to do it.

“I’ve accepted a position as Chef in Residence Wandering Cooks,” Naomi said. It’s an opportunity that I just couldn’t pass up and so we decided to go for it.”

Naomi will be mentoring foodie entrepreneurs at Angela Hirst’s multi-kitchen space, some six kilometres away from her old restaurant. She and Hirst also have big plans to turn the venue into a large restaurant with a single curated menu from the different chefs.

Still, Naomi revealed there is sadness over the coming changes despite the excitement.

“We have the incredible support of our Family and our exceptional team in this and together, are determined to create the BEST exit, for all of us and you, together. We’ll be trading 7 days a week from Wednesday the 26th right through to our last service on the 29th of March.”

The chef and her husband Gideon are actually selling The Jam Pantry so that someone else may take over. The cafe will remain close if there are no buyers once she starts work in South Brisbane.

Meanwhile, to celebrate The Jam’s Pantry’s final days, Naomi will be whipping up old favourites from the last five years. The cafe is also operating seven days a week until it’s closing date.

Greenslopes Kerbside Collection: How To Dispose of Unacceptable Items

Greenslopes residents, take note! On Monday, the 24th of February 2020, items for kerbside collection will be picked up at 6:00 a.m. If you have stuff to dispose of, you must place these items on your kerb the weekend prior to collection time.

You also need to ensure that your kerbside collection pile is free of “unacceptable items.” Otherwise, the collectors will leave those out on your kerb and you could be fined for illegal dumping.

So, how do you dispose of unacceptable items? Below are some tips:

Bricks, concrete, dirt and stones, and commercial builders waste

Wastes after a building construction, renovation or demolition go to the landfill when at least 75 percent of these can be cleaned and reused, like concrete and bricks. You can sell or give these away to resource and recovery centres. Most of these businesses provide pick-up and drop-off services for an extra fee so you won’t have to worry about hauling stuff off your property.

Hazardous wastes (e.g. asbestos, chemicals and oil)

It is very important to handle and dispose of hazardous wastes carefully because these items may bring a serious impact on the environment if mishandled. It is never safe to put this for recycling because these are “flammable, corrosive, explosive or toxic.”

The Brisbane City Council has free drop off days in its four resource recovery centres so take note of the dates.

Asbestos disposal, however, is handled by contractors. Better yet, call the Council 07 3403 8888 for questions about proper hazardous waste disposal.

General household wastes

Bin collection day for general household wastes is scheduled weekly and fortnightly. Download the Brisbane bin and recycling app to receive reminders of these schedules so you won’t have to miss the pickup.

Comic Empire Logan Road to Close Indefinitely After Fire Damage

Fire broke out at Comic Empire, a popular rare comic store on Logan Road, a few hours before it was set to open for its first day of business this year, leaving considerable damage to property and its extensive comics and games library. Tony Nasser, store manager, has announced a temporary shutdown.

Comic Empire, will still need time to assess the extent of the damage. Fortunately, no one was injured from the fire and the damage did not spread to the other commercial establishments in the building as firefighters were able to contain the blaze by 12:30 a.m.

According to Mr Nasser, some pretty rare and valuable items, such as the first appearance comics of characters like Wolverine and Venom, were among those that burned. Most of Comic Empire’s stocks were set in the middle of the store. Per reports, investigators determined that this was where the fire broke out.

“We understand that there are going to be lots of questions and we will answer what we can when we are able,” Tony wrote in his Facebook message.

“We thank you for your understanding during this trying time.”

Mr Nasser said that the fire investigators are sure that the fire was accidental. However, further investigations will be underway this week to confirm how the fire started.

Comic Empire has been in operation for three years and Mr Nasser has been with the comic industry for over two decades. The store has insurance but Mr Nasser admitted this incident is not a great start to 2020.

Following the news, expression of support and sympathy poured for Mr Nasser and Comic Empire on social media.

“Tony’s such a great supporter of our local community, generously donating prizes to schools and patiently waiting while children (and adults!) spend hours checking out his memorabilia and comics,” Sally Dillon of Greens for Coorparoo said.

“The fire has caused extended damage to the shop and the merchandise — Tony has lost thousands of dollars worth of rare comics. All the best Tony over the coming days. Please let us know if the community can give you a hand in any way.”

Why Lady Marmalade Cafe and Bar is a Favourite Hangout in Greenslopes and Stones Corner

Nearly a decade ago, Lady Marmalade Cafe and Bar opened its doors at 299 Logan Road, Stones Corner, amidst a row of offices. The cafe, which was once a record store and a canary house, initially seemed out of place but the fact that it’s still thriving since 2010 is proof of its success and popularity in the Stones Corner and Greenslopes area.

Lady Marmalade Cafe and Bar is packed with people most days that its owners, Howard and Sonja Searle, decided to renovate and expand the once small corner cafe into 110-seating capacity. Still, the restaurant can get pretty busy because it has become a favourite Greenslopes hangout.

Locals are drawn to the home-cooked goodness of its food choices. The menu changes every season to keep the selection fresh and interesting.

The current menu (Winter 2019) is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds with beautifully-prepared meals like Ricotta Blueberry Pancakes, Confit Duck on Chilli Corn Bread Waffle, Herb and Garlic Roasted Cauliflower “Steak,” and The LM Gringo Waffle.

*Photo Credit: Lady Marmalade Cafe and Bar/Facebook*

The drink list has an extensive collection of wine, cocktails and mocktails, spirits, beers and bubbles, juices, milkshakes and smoothies, as well as coffee. The Saigon Coffee has been a top choice to pair with a good breakfast since the restaurant opened.

Lady Marmalade has a hip and rustic interior that appeals to the regulars’ comfort. It also has good outdoor seating if you’re looking for a place to chill and relax on a beautiful day.

This restaurant is open weekdays from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Trading hours extend from 9:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

“This funky little cafe is always packed and with good reason! The food is always fresh and delicious and the meals are interesting, incentive and very reasonably priced. A breakfast for six with two drinks each and some french toast to share only came to $120, which is 20 bucks a head. The service is five star and the noise levels and decor are both good quality. Fully deserving of a full five stars.”
~ Declan D.B. Winterton, Google Reviews

“Great place for a weekend brunch. The ambiance is great, good service and the options on the menu are great. We had the Lm gringo waffle, which was really good, as well as the confit duck which was amazing, the duck was really well cooked and came off the bone easily. Also, the Korean chicken burger was really good. Can’t wait to get back and try all the other things on the menu. The coffee was amazing too!!”
~ Harshit Jain, Zomato

“After reading and hearing so great things about this place we finally got to try it out. Dinner was really lovely. Sonya and her crew are really friendly and welcoming and the food is top-notch. Can’t wait to try breakfast and lunch.”
~ Maryanne Q, Trip Advisor

Newtons Home Appliances in Greenslopes to Host a Smeg Cooking Demonstration

You might have spotted those sleek Italian Smeg ovens at Newtons Home Appliances in Greenslopes. If you plan to own one but you’re intimidated by its features, then perhaps a cooking demonstration of the Smeg Appliance Range may help seal the deal.

On Thursday, the 22nd of Aug 2019, Newtons Home Appliances will host a Smeg Cooking Class at Logan Road. From 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., discover what this appliance innovation can do to help you become a pro in the kitchen.

The cooking class is designed to be a fun and interactive session that will help you maximise the functions of the oven. Best of all, it’s a free event but you’ll need to sign up as slots are limited. The next Smeg cooking demonstration at the store will take place on Saturday, the 7th of Sept 2019.

*Photo Credit: Newton Home Appliances/Facebook*

When it comes to kitchen and laundry, Brisbane families have relied on Newtons Home Appliances since the 1930s. Holding cooking demonstrations has been a long-enduring practice for the company and generations of homemakers have gained from these classes.

Aside from the cooking classes, Newtons Home Appliances has kitchen design seminars. The company is also planning to offer bathroom design and renovation services seminars in the future.

Smeg is just one of the premier kitchen products the store carries. It has seen through 70 years of technological innovation and still remains the market leader when it comes to trendy designs and features.

The Smeg showroom in Queensland is at 46 Northlink Place in Virginia.