Stones Corner Readies for Sky-High Transformation with New Apartment Approval

As a dramatic skybridge connects a two-tower apartment complex, a new era is beginning in Stones Corner. 



Situated just off Hanlon Park, on a sprawling 3,846-square-metre site at 73-85 Cleveland Street, the development marks a significant addition to the evolving urban landscape on the cusp of the Woolloongabba Olympic precinct.

The project, which Peter Gartshore and the family-run Idec Group are spearheading, promises 226 apartments in a variety of styles to meet different living needs. But it’s the architectural vision of NMDS that truly stands out. A skybridge will connect two rooftop havens atop the towers, giving residents access to a sizable 1273 square meter oasis.

Highlights of the Stones Corner Development:

Photo Credit: DA A006270233

Rooftop Recreation: A pool, spa, terrace, gym, sauna, dining areas (both indoor and outdoor), a theatre, a community garden, and even a dedicated dog walking zone are all part of the sky-high offerings.

Green Living: Extensive landscaping by Wild Studio will see the building adorned with vertical green walls, feature trees, and lush gardens, creating a cool, inviting micro-climate.

Transport Options: Three basement levels will house 330 cars, while a car share system with 10 electric vehicles and ample bicycle parking (with a workshop) will encourage sustainable mobility.

    Photo Credit: DA A006270233

    Strategic Location: Situated within a growth node identified in the City Plan, the project addresses the housing needs of the region while providing proximity to amenities and transport links.

    This project signals a shift in Stones Corner, with a focus on higher-density living that seamlessly integrates green spaces and communal areas.  As the Woolloongabba Olympic precinct gears up for 2032, Stones Corner finds itself at the forefront of a revitalised urban identity.



    Published Date 21-May-2024

    82 New Affordable Homes in Stones Corner Begin Construction

    Stones Corner is set to witness the construction of 82 new social and affordable homes that will cater to low-income essential workers in the area.



    The construction crews and heavy machinery have commenced work on this vital project, which is aimed at addressing a pressing need. The development will comprise 46 one-bedroom units, nine two-bedroom units, and the remainder as studio apartments, providing a range of housing options for the community.

    The Stones Corner development marks the fifth project announced under a partnership between the Brisbane Housing Company (BHC) and QIC, all funded through the Palaszczuk Government’s signature $2 billion Housing Investment Fund. 

    So far, the HIF has approved over $479 million in project funding, with 1,600 homes in the pipeline, and an additional 71 proposals shortlisted for future assessment. In total, this initiative will contribute to the construction of more than 5,600 new social and affordable homes over the next five years.

    Enhancing Local Communities

    Construction is anticipated to span the next 18 months, creating opportunities for local workers and supporting the community’s growth. Minister for Housing Meaghan Scanlon highlighted the importance of institutional investors and super funds in the housing sector. 

    “Places like these will become homes for local workers, families escaping domestic violence, young people looking to get a good job or education, and a place for many people with a disability to live independently,” Ms Scanlon stated.

    The Member for Greenslopes, Joe Kelly, praised the density of the development and its alignment with the surrounding neighbourhood. He noted the convenient location near public transport options like the Stones Corner busway station and the Buranda train station, schools, shops, and essential services, ensuring residents can connect with the services and supports they need. 

    “We know that our inner-city suburbs are growing, and that we need to provide more social and affordable homes to accommodate this growth,” Mr Kelly said.

    Changing Lives with Quality Housing

    Rebecca Oelkers, the Chief Executive Officer of the Brisbane Housing Company, expressed her enthusiasm for the project. 

    “Every single one of these new social and affordable homes will change the life of someone in housing need in Brisbane,” she said. “We are thrilled to get this inner-city development underway – we know that providing high quality, safe and affordable housing across our communities has never been more important. We look forward to contributing to the thriving and diverse community here in Stones Corner and to welcoming our new residents home as soon as possible.”



    With the commencement of this project, Stones Corner takes a step closer to addressing the housing challenges faced by its residents, while also contributing to the broader vision of the Housing Investment Fund to make affordable housing accessible to those in need.

    Published 26-Oct-2023

    Developer Submits Plans for Dual Towers at Cleveland Street in Stones Corner

    A developer has recently submitted plans for a new residential development at Cleveland Street in Stones Corner, which features two towering buildings connected by a unique “skybridge.”


    Read: Proposed Towers Next To Stones Corner Roundabout Met With Opposition From Locals


    The towers, which are being proposed for 75-85 Cleveland Street, are set to accommodate a total of 226 modern apartments, ranging from one to four bedrooms. Each tower will stretch 12 storeys into the sky, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

    Designed by NMDS Architecture, this project stands out with the inclusion of rooftop recreation areas, bringing a touch of luxury and leisure to the residents’ doorstep..

    Artist’s impression of rooftop communal space (Photo credit: NMDS Architecture)

    The two rooftop spaces will be connected by a “skybridge,” which not only serves as a physical link between the buildings but also enhances convenience for residents by allowing them to seamlessly access the entire recreation area. 

    cleveland street
    Photo credit: NMDS Architecture

    To create a harmonious and visually appealing design, the skybridge and the buildings themselves will incorporate soft landscaping elements, providing a refreshing touch of greenery amidst the urban setting.

    The communal open space areas on the rooftop will feature an array of facilities to enhance residents’ recreational opportunities.

    The proposed amenities include a manager’s office, mail room, community garden, dog walk area, yoga lawn, dining and function area, theatre, alfresco dining spaces, a pool and communal deck, as well as changing rooms and bathrooms. Additionally, a fully equipped gymnasium will be available to cater to the residents’ fitness needs.

    Parking provisions have also been taken into consideration, with a total of 273 car spaces allocated for residents, including 10 dedicated share car spaces, and an additional 57 spaces for visitors. The development will offer 226 bike parking spaces for residents and an additional 57 for visitors.

    cleveland street
    Street level perspective of main entry (Photo credit: NMDS Architecture)

    Planners at B Planned and Surveyed said the proposed height is consistent with community expectation and the proposal itself is consistent with the strategic intent of the High density residential zone and Eastern corridor neighbourhood plan.

    “There is a strategic benefit to locating higher intensity residential development within a well serviced part of Brisbane, which is reflected within the outcomes sought for the zone and within the Strategic Framework,” B Planned and Surveyed noted.


    Read: Plans For Social And Affordable Housing In Stones Corner Approved


    For further information about the development application, visit Brisbane City Council’s PD Online and use the reference A006270233.

    Published 17-June-2023

    Experience The Best Of Brisbane At Stones Corner Festival 2023: Top Aussie Artists, Craft Beer, Food Trucks, And More!

    Did you know that the highly anticipated Stones Corner Festival is back for its eighth year this April? This year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever, with an impressive lineup of talented Aussie artists that will have the locals dancing in the street. Here’s what to look forward to as it returns in 2023.


    Read: First Look At Brisbane’s First Street Art Wall At Ekibin Park


    Performances

    Stones Corner Festival
    Photo credit: Stones Corner Festival/Facebook

    Leading the star-studded lineup of the 2023 Stones Corner Festival is the Australian dance-punk and electro-pop sensation, Art vs Science. The talented trio, renowned for their chart-topping hits like Flippers, Magic Fountain, and Parlez Vous Francais, will undoubtedly set the stage ablaze with their high-energy performance. 

    Joining them are several other sought-after artists, including Resin Dogs, Yacht Rock Revival, Good Will Remedy, Jem Cassar-Daly, John Hanley & The Hurricanes, Dusty, and Andy Martin.

    Food and Drinks

    Photo credit: Stones Corner Festival/Facebook

    Grab a bite from one of the numerous food trucks that will be lined up along Stoneham St. Whether you’re in the mood for classic burgers and fries, savoury paella, tasty tacos, or flavorful pizza, there will be an option for everyone in the family to savour. 

    Make sure to pause for a moment and indulge in the mouth-watering libations from over 20 breweries that will be present at the event. 

    You can expect to be tantalised by the delicious offerings of renowned breweries such as Your Mates Brewing Co, Heads of Noosa, Better Beer, 4Pines, Slipstream, Balter, Brookvale Union, Stone & Wood, Burleigh Brewing, Newstead Brewing, Young Henrys, and Green Beacon, who will be serving up an array of refreshing beverages, including exciting new flavours that are sure to please your taste buds.

    Market Stalls

    Stones Corner Festival
    Photo credit: Stones Corner Festival/Facebook

    Show your support for the local community by visiting The Market Folk, a top Brisbane marketplace that specialises in pre-loved, hand-crafted, sustainable, and creative products. You’ll find their stalls scattered throughout the street at the festival. 

    If you’re in the mood for some browsing and shopping, make sure to stop by and pick up a unique knick-knack to commemorate your visit to the most epic street party of the year.

    Supporting a Good Cause

    Photo credit: Stones Corner Festival/Facebook

    Whilst the Stones Corner Festival is all about having a great time, it’s also about supporting a good cause. 

    The festival’s roots are deeply connected to the MND and Me Foundation, which raises funds for Queenslanders living with Motor Neurone Disease and supports ongoing research. All funds collected on the day will be distributed towards this important cause. 

    Therefore, gold coin donations are encouraged, and there will be plenty of opportunities to win a variety of raffles.


    Read: Remediation Works Start At The Former Red Cross Hall In Greenslopes


    Mark your calendar for 30 April 2023, from 10:00 a.m! Stones Corner Festival is a community-driven festival with FREE entry and a chance to support a meaningful cause.

    Published 13-April-2023

    Broadway Hotel: Neglected Heritage Landmark Up for Restoration

    A major restoration is underway for the heritage-listed Broadway Hotel along Logan Road in Woolloongabba and its owners plan to rebuild the iconic building as the Breakfast Creek Hotel of the southeast side.



    Broadway Projects Pty Ltd bought the neglected property from Malcolm Nyst in 2021. The site has existing approved plans to demolish the WWII bomb shelter, alongside some of the rear extensions. 

    The new owners hired Carbone Developments to be involved with the restoration under the guidance of heritage architect Ivan McDonald. Carbone Developments has many projects involving heritage builds.

    A spokesperson for the company said that the demolition process will be painstaking as they have to remove the concrete by hand to preserve the other structure and ensure it won’t be knocked down.

    Though some locals opposed the removal of the WWII bomb shelter due to its history, Carbone Developments said they had many positive meetings with the Department of Environment and Science to discuss the restoration. 

    Broadway Hotel in 1929
    Photo Credit: State Library of Queensland

    The company’s long-term plans for the Broadway Hotel include building a 20-storey residential site next to the pub. However, the focus for the moment is to restore the pub, which could take more than a year. 

    A development application for the residential project has yet to be lodged as the new owners still have to gauge how the venue, once wholly restored, will click with the community.

    Broadway Hotel was entered into the Queensland Heritage Register in 1992. Two major fires damaged the three-storey octagonal building, which become a place for vandals after years of neglect. 



    Shady Palms in Stones Corner Plots Return of Musical Bingo

    After ending its run in early December, Musical Bingo nights at the Shady Palms in Stones Corner will be back in the New Year and regular patrons are eagerly awaiting the popular event.



    Musical Bingo at Shady Palms had its last game of the year on the 9th of December 2022 but the activity will definitely resume on the 6th of January 2023 at 7:00 p.m. As with the previous events, participants will not have to register to join but they need to come early to secure a spot for a chance to win two $50 Shady Palms vouchers.

    But how does one exactly play this game? If it’s your first time, it won’t be hard to follow. There will be no one calling out letters and numbers. Instead, participants will basically listen to a few lyrics of the song and then mark the title on their bingo card until they have completed a row. Sounds easy and fun right? Some participants are even encouraged to sing along, especially if they are having a really great time. 

    Shady Palms
    Photo Credit: ShadyPalms/Facebook
    Shady Palms
    Photo Credit: ShadyPalms/Facebook

    At times, the games might have some variations, including aiming to blackout every square of the bingo card. Whilst you’re there, grab a bite of Shady Palms fried chicken, tacos and burgers to enjoy with their craft beers or cocktail drinks. 

    Shady Palms
    Photo Credit: ShadyPalms/Facebook

    Shady Palms is known for its Pan-American dishes, local brews and lively activities. Follow their Facebook page for updates.

    “Great atmosphere, convenient location and super friendly staff. My go to for a relaxing night out. The food is amazing, highly reccomend the Karaage Chicken burger. The addition of a piece of a pickled ginger complements the kewpie mayo and chicken patty.  Also cannot forget the sliders, love mini burgers. Special shoutout to the Musical Bingo they host every Friday (2022) super fun and free to register and participate.”

    Frank

    “Stopped in had a beer and the wagu burger Honestly one of the best burgers I’ve had had in Bris and certainly the best in Stones corner. I’ll definitely be back.”

    Lou

    “Great food, great atmosphere and lovely staff. I’ve been going here almost every week for the last year and it’s part of the reason I have stayed local to Stones Corner. Couldn’t recommend Shady Palms enough.”

    Guy


    Spoil Your Fur Baby In This New Dog-friendly Cafe In Stones Corner

    If what you’re looking for is a dog-friendly cafe in Stones Corner, then look no further than Dach Cafe. Whilst they have exceptional coffee and great breakfast options, our four-legged friends are the star of the show in this cafe.


    Read: East Brisbane Cafe Moves to New Stones Corner Venue as a Kitchen and Social Bar


    Dach Cafe takes the phrase ‘dog-friendly’ to an entirely new level, because pet owners not only get to enjoy a cup of Joe and brekkie, but so can their pets, with puppuccinos served with puppy cookies.

    Photo credit: Dash Cafe/Instagram

    For the hoomans, there’s hot drinks, cold drinks, tea, classic shakes, and protein smoothies. But what keeps patrons coming back is the coffee on pour, courtesy of Blackboard Coffee Roasters, who pride themselves in ethically sourced hand-picked coffee from farms around the world.

    Photo credit: Dach Cafe/Google Maps

    The breakfast menu, which comes with gluten-free options, includes toasts and avocado tartare, whilst vegetarian options include zucchini haloumi fritters, burrito bowls, and chilli scramble eggs.

    Photo credit: Dach Cafe/Instagram
    Photo credit: Dach Cafe/Instagram

    The cafe held a grand opening in August 2022 and gave half of their proceeds to Happy Tails Animal Rescue Inc, a not-for-profit organisation whose mission is to save and protect as many animals as possible.

    Photo credit: Dach Cafe/Instagram

    “Our love for animals is what motivated us to accomodate a place for both pups and animal lovers to come together to a happy, fun and joyful environment similar to the great cause Happy Tails Animal Rescue Inc provides at their rescue shelter,” the owners wrote in a social media post.

    dog-friendly cafe
    Photo credit: Dach Cafe/Instagram

    There’s a cute photo wall for the ‘Dogs of Dach,’ serving as a remembrance of the dogs’ visit in the cafe.

    You can follow them on Instagram @dachcafe_stonescorner. Dach Cafe is located at 305 Logan Rd, Stones Corner and opens Monday to Friday 5:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. and on weekends, 7:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

    

    Calls To Implement FOGO Service In Stones Corner, Rest Of Brisbane Renewed

    With thousands of Brisbane residents, including Stones Corner locals, participating in the food waste recycling pilot, calls have been renewed to fully implement the Food Organics Garden Organics (FOGO) service in the city.


    Read: Kerbside Collection: Creative Upcycling Ideas


    In Australia, around 70 councils are already implementing FOGO, allowing residents to easily dispose of a large variety of organic waste. It’s similar to recycling, but rather than repurposing paper and glass, it finds a new life for food scraps, garden clippings and other green waste.

    Once the food and green waste have been collected, Council’s contractor will bring it to  a resource recovery centre and then to a green waste recycling partner’s facility where it will be converted into compost and then used in Brisbane by local farmers, urban growers and local businesses.

    food waste
    Photo credit: Sarah Chai/Pexels

    Whilst participation is only optional in most cities, local governments encourage residents to participate in the FOGO service as it has many environmental benefits.

    One of the advantages of going FOGO is reducing the city’s footprint, as food waste in Brisbane currently makes up approximately 30 percent of household general waste bins.

    Labor for Brisbane, which launched a petition urging Council to adopt FOGO, highlighted some other benefits, such as creating thousands of jobs (three times as many jobs as traditional landfill) and creating a revenue stream that feeds back into ratepayers’ pockets, since the compost can be used on council gardens or sold to farmers and other producers.

    Brisbane City Council has not yet adopted the initiative, but launched the food waste recycling pilot in March 2022, with over 6,000 households already participating.

    composting
    Photo credit: Teona Swift/Pexels

    “The pilot alone is expected to divert 2000 tonnes of food waste from landfill, and when expanded across the city it could reduce unnecessary food waste by nearly 100,000 tonnes a year,” said Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner.

    A Council spokesperson added that the pilot has received a ‘very positive’ feedback, which will help inform its expansion across Brisbane.

    In Stones Corner, collection routes are in the streets of Lincoln, Regina, and Zillah. For more information about the food waste recyling pilot in your area, visit Brisbane City Council’s website.

    Hanlon Park Development and Transformation Now Complete

    After more than a year of development and transformation, Hanlon Park, considered to be the heart of Stones Corner, has finally been completed. Residents now have a beautiful, new, public green space to enjoy.



    The new green space boasts the following:

    • a meandering natural waterway to support native plants and animals  
    • more than 462 new trees and 43,000 shrubs and groundcover plants 
    • a nature-themed play area with a climbing tower, sand pit, water pump, swing set, balancing play features and dry creek bed to encourage imaginative play 
    • public artworks along the waterway representing local flora
    Photo Credit: BCC

    Hanlon Park was formerly a massive concrete drain. After a $21.5-million redevelopment, it is now one of the best parks in the city “with Norman Creek flowing through the park once again,” Ms Cunningham said. 

    The park will also be known for its Aboriginal name, Bur’uda, which means Oak Tree Forest. This area around Norman Creek was the source of food and culture for the Aboriginal people. 

    On Saturday, 23 July 2022, Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, alongside Councillor Fiona Cunningham, will lead the official opening of Hanlon Park along 56 Junction St, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

    The weekend’s event will be free for all and will begin with a  traditional custodian smoking ceremony. There will be family entertainment and information stalls in some of the areas, alongside a bake sale and BBQ. 

    “The opening event is a celebration inviting the local community to enjoy their new naturalised waterway, enhanced environment, recreation facilities, nature-themed play area and improved connectivity,” the Council stated. 



    East Brisbane Cafe Moves to New Stones Corner Venue as a Kitchen and Social Bar

    After being forced to move from its East Brisbane location, The Smug Fig Kitchen and Social Bar has landed in Stones Corner with a new concept, operating as a cafe by day and a social bar at night.



    The new Smug Fig  Kitchen & Social
    Photo Credit: The Smug Fig / Facebook

    Situated right on the corner of Jeavons Lane and Cleveland Street in Greenslopes, The Smug Fig boasts a 12-metre mural by Yannick Blattner and a street-side takeaway coffee window along with concrete flooring, timber seats and tables, polished tiles, eye-catching purple neon sign, banquet seating and a touch of greenery.  

    The new Smug Fig  Kitchen & Social
    Photo Credit: The Smug Fig / Facebook

    By day, Chefs Stuart Whitney and Max Slaven serve up all-day brunch fare including the classic Bacon and eggs (poached, fried, or scrambled) with kraut served on buttered sourdough; 

    Buckwheat Pancakes with honeycomb cream, caramelised banana, butterscotch sauce, and macadamia; Halloumi tacos with white cabbage, ranch dressing and green chilli hot sauce; and Free-range smoked ham served with fire-roasted capsicum, wilted greens, soft poached eggs and capsicum hollandaise on sourdough.

    Buckwheat pancake and Halloumi tacos
    Buckwheat pancake / Halloumi tacos | Photo Credit: The Smug Fig / Facebook

    Sandwiches (Bacon and egg roll, salami, ham and cheese, and vegetarian sandwich) are also on offer for a quick grab-and-go bite. Coffee by Two Seasons, freshly squeezed orange juice, cold-pressed juice, milkshake and house Kombucha make up the drinks selection.

    Then later on weekends, the venue turns into a bar. The fun starts at 2.30 pm with a selection of snacks and tipples. Beverages on offer include four beers on tap and in the fridge from local breweries such as Slipstream, Sea Legs, Black Hops and Ballistic plus select Australian spirits and wines.

    Dinner offerings at The Smug Fig Kitchen & Social
    Photo Credit: The Smug Fig / Facebook

    Share plates can be ordered from 3 pm including brussels sprouts in duck fat, and purple sprouting broccolini with preserved citrus butter. Whilst dinner plates are served from 5 pm which menu boasts of mouth-watering dishes including pork with apple puree with sauerkraut and fermented garlic honey, fish with caramelised fennel cream, pickled fennel and fennel pollen, and beef with pickled green tomato, fig leaf, sour cream and red sorghum. 

    The Smug Fig Kitchen and Social Bar also offers picnic packs to take and enjoy whilst at the nearby park. Offering includes cured meat and cheeses, pickles and ferments, sandwiches, seasonal fruit and coffee. 



    The Smug Fig Kitchen & Social | 7 Jeavons Ln, Stones Corner QLD 4120, Australia