New 22 Storeys High Residential Tower proposed on Crombie Street

Kokoda Property has recently submitted a development application for an impressive 22-storey residential project on Crombie Street, Milton.



The proposed site, located at 12-18 Crombie Street, Milton, is just a short distance away from Brisbane’s bustling Central Business District. Its strategic location near Milton Railway Station, Milton Ferry Terminal, Milton Markets, and the vibrant Park Road dining and retail precinct make it an ideal spot for urban living.

Designed by Cottee Parker Architects, the residential tower aims to accommodate a total of 145 apartments. One of the standout features of the development is the distinct perforated mesh screen facade that adds a touch of uniqueness to the building’s exterior.

New 22 Storeys High Residential Tower proposed on Crombie Street
Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au

The architectural plan encompasses a six-storey podium, which includes the lower ground level, ground-level facilities, and four storeys of mixed communal recreation spaces, residential apartments, and parking. Above the podium, the tower soars with 16 storeys of residential apartments, culminating in a rooftop communal open space.

 “The proposed development seeks to create an exemplary design outcome that enhances residential amenity, whilst being responsive to the surrounding built form and character. The primary materials are complemented by details of a finer scale, including varied window forms, layered facades and vertical landscaping. The development represents an efficient use of land and provides a significant ‘uplift’ to the site,” planners at Urbis stated.

The proposed project offers a range of apartment sizes, ranging from one to four bedrooms, distributed across different levels of the podium and tower. Three distinct layouts have been proposed for the residential levels on floors 6 to 12, 14 to 16, and 17 to 19, ensuring a diverse selection for potential residents.

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


To enhance the living experience, the development places a strong emphasis on communal recreational amenities. The ground level features a meeting room and work zone, whilst Podium Level 1 offers a private dining area, lounge, theatre room, games room, and even a dedicated dog washroom.

Residents can also enjoy the stunning rooftop recreation deck, which boasts a private bar and dining room, barbeque facilities, lounges, gym, lap pool, deck area, infrared sauna, and plunge pool.

Also, the project includes an impressive total of 183 car parking spaces across four basement levels and six podium levels.

Published 29-May-2023

Landmark Build-to-Rent Tower Near Suncorp Stadium to Transform Brisbane’s City Fringe

Brisbane’s former Children’s Court site is set to undergo a stunning transformation with the unveiling of plans for a 32-storey unit tower between Roma Street Station and Suncorp Stadium in Milton.



The development has been selected as the State Government’s third pilot build-to-rent project. The tower will feature 475 apartments, with up to 250 units offering government-subsidized rent.

Treasurer Cameron Dick announced Cedar Pacific as the chosen developer in February 2023, and construction is expected to commence later this year, with residents moving in by 2027. 

Build to Rent near Suncorp Stadium
Photo Credit: DA A006266134
Photo Credit: DA A006266134

On Friday 5 May 2023, Cedar Pacific submitted plans to the Brisbane City Council for the demolition of the old court building and the construction of the new tower through DA A006266134

The tower’s design includes a landscaped rooftop, communal multipurpose areas, a co-working space, cinema, games room, gym, pool, barbecue area, and outdoor open space. 

Photo Credit: DA A006266134

Additionally, a pedestrian arcade will be created on the western boundary to facilitate access between the two street frontages, both of which will have landscaped areas and a welcoming atmosphere. A food and drink outlet will also be located on the higher Quay Street level.

Build to Rent near Suncorp Stadium
Photo Credit: DA A006266134

The majority of the units will consist of one-bedroom apartments, with 75 studio apartments, 125 two-bedroom dwellings, and 25 three-bedroom units also included. Each apartment will have a balcony. 

Vehicle access will be available from Quay Street, and the development will provide 234 resident parking spaces, along with visitor and bicycle spaces, due to its central location and the expected preferences of its tenants.

Although the tower exceeds the 20-storey limit outlined in the City Centre neighborhood plan, Cedar Pacific has reduced the height from the initial plan of 37 storeys. The surrounding developments on either side of the tower also exceed the height limit, positioning the Cedar Pacific building as a transitional element between the higher and lower towers.

According to the plans, the existing building on the site is disused and visually unappealing, offering a poor-quality streetscape and lacking pedestrian connectivity. The proposed development aims to revitalize the site by constructing a landmark building with an accessible ground floor. This transformation is seen as a significant and positive contribution to the city’s entrance.



Published 17-May-2023

Brisbane Metro Project Update: Adelaide Street Tunnel Construction Now Underway

Significant progress has been made on the ongoing construction works for the Brisbane Metro project, including the excavation of a 213-meter tunnel beneath Adelaide Street and the revitalisation of the surrounding streetscape.



The Brisbane Metro project is poised to transform Brisbane’s transportation system, offering a convenient turn-up-and-go service that will cover a distance of 21 kilometres, linking vital destinations from Eight Mile Plains to Roma Street and Royal Brisbane Women’s Hospital to The University of Queensland.

Major construction activities on the Adelaide Street tunnel are now well underway. This 213-meter tunnel will serve as a crucial link, connecting the South East Busway and the Inner Northern Busway for Brisbane Metro vehicles and buses. As an alternative route, the tunnel will alleviate congestion in the CBD during peak hours, reducing the number of buses on the streets by up to a third.

The tunnel’s excavation will be carried out in three sections, employing a delicate and precise construction methodology to protect the surrounding streetscape. This approach ensures minimal disruption to the historical significance and functionality of the area.

To complete the tunnel, an impressive amount of soil and rock, equivalent to sixteen Olympic swimming pools, will be removed. Advanced tunnelling methods are being employed, allowing for a significant reduction in the construction timeline, from two and a half years to approximately 12 months. This expedited process ensures the completion of the tunnel with minimal disruption to the city and its residents.



Moreover, Council is concurrently revitalising Adelaide Street’s streetscape, encompassing footpath and bus stop upgrades, new landscaping, street furniture, lighting improvements, and the relocation and installation of underground services.

These enhancements will be implemented in three stages until late 2024, strategically minimising disruptions to businesses, pedestrians, and public transport users, with Brisbane City Council employing measures like after-hours construction to mitigate inconveniences.

In late 2024, Brisbane Metro services are expected to commence as the Stage 1 project reaches its completion,

Published 15-May-2023

Call for Victoria Barracks to be Converted into Vibrant Heritage Precinct Linking Suncorp Stadium

Suncorp Stadium’s ASM Global CEO Harvey Lister has called for the conversion of Brisbane’s inner-city Defence base, Victoria Barracks at Petrie Terrace, into a vibrant heritage precinct.



During a recent Committee for Brisbane forum, Lister argued that the site should not be dominated by high-rise apartments but rather follow the heritage revival of The Barracks and cater to community needs.  

Mr Lister suggested that the redevelopment of Brisbane’s railway station at Roma Street provided an opportunity for authorities to revisit a dedicated walkway to Caxton Street. Lister also said that Suncorp Stadium in Milton should always have included a bridge across Countess Street from Roma Street and past or through Victoria Barracks.

“Every time we have an event at Suncorp Stadium, we have to provide a barricade, take out one lane of Roma Street for people to be able to walk along that fairly narrow footpath,” Mr Lister said in an interview. 

He described the massive foot traffic in these areas and said that there have been options to solve this with footbrige but there are “complexities” to the execution.

“The pathway to Suncorp Stadium was always in the plans but unfortunately it couldn’t be delivered at that time the stadium was developed. It was always intended it would be developed at a future stage,” added Mr Lister.

Design Charrette 14 Roma Street Precinct from Architectus on Vimeo.

Deputy Premier Steven Miles recently indicated that better pedestrian and transport connections would be incorporated into the precinct. However, Queensland Walks executive officer Anna Campbell shocked delegates when she revealed that 6,500 Brisbane streets did not have a footpath, with 4,000 of them without a footpath on either side. 

Council’s opposition leader Cr Jared Cassidy called for funds for footpaths to increase in the 2023-24 council budget, saying that providing footpaths is basic for any local government.



Australian planning firm Architectus is one of several companies with images of how Victoria Barracks on Petrie Terrace could be blended in with Roma Street Parklands over Countess Street. The forum also heard calls to make areas of Brisbane more accessible before looking to work required for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Published 12-May-2023

Milton by Moonlight: A Stellar Night of Gourmet Food and Live Music

Get ready for an extraordinary evening under the moonlight as Milton Markets and Milton Rum Distillery collaborate to present Milton By Moonlight—a gourmet street food extravaganza that will leave you starstruck.



On Saturday, 3 June 2023, from 4 pm to 10 pm, the corner of Cribb and Little Cribb Street will come alive with a stellar lineup of delicious food, live music, and local libations.

Prepare your taste buds for a global culinary adventure as you indulge in a wide array of mouthwatering delights. From the tantalising flavours of Hong Kong Dumpling House and Carlos Tacos to the savoury Teppanyaki Noodles By Yamatoumi and finger-licking wings from It’s A Wing Thing, there’s something to satisfy every palate. For those with a sweet tooth, Flossy the Sloth and Schultz’s Finest will offer delectable desserts.

Milton by Moonlight: A Stellar Night of Gourmet Food and Live Music
Photo Credit:   Supplied  

Quench your thirst with locally distilled rums from Milton Rum Distillery and enjoy a selection of wine, beer, and cider from Stone & Wood at the special pop-up bar. 

Milton by Moonlight: A Stellar Night of Gourmet Food and Live Music
Photo Credit:   Supplied  

As you sip on refreshing drinks, immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies of local live music performances on two twilight stages. The combination of delectable food, delightful drinks, and captivating tunes is bound to create an unforgettable evening.

Milton by Moonlight: A Stellar Night of Gourmet Food and Live Music
Photo Credit:   Supplied  

Wander through the event and explore over 140 specialty stalls, featuring artisan gifts and locally made products. The warm ambience, created by the gentle glow of festoon lighting, sets the perfect backdrop for an enchanting experience. Keep an eye out for mesmerising roving performers who will add an extra touch of magic to the night.

Milton by Moonlight: A Stellar Night of Gourmet Food and Live Music
Photo Credit:   Supplied  


Milton Markets is Inner West Brisbane’s premium food, farmers, and lifestyle market, open every Sunday from 6 am to 12 pm (7 am to 1 pm during winter). They also curate special pop-up events throughout the year. Goodwill Projects, a renowned market, events, and venues company in Queensland, is known for its flawless event planning and memorable experiences.

Milton by Moonlight: A Stellar Night of Gourmet Food and Live Music
Photo Credit:   Supplied  

Experience the magic of Milton By Moonlight—a celestial feast for the senses where food, music, and moonlight intertwine to create an evening you shouldn’t miss.

Entry to Milton By Moonlight is just $3, with parking available for only $2. So, mark your calendars and gather your loved ones for an evening that promises to light up your world. Don’t miss the opportunity to savour gourmet delights, immerse yourself in live music, and bask in the moonlit atmosphere.

 Published  11-May-2023

After Milton Debut, Guzman y Gomez Plans Further QLD Expansion

Energised by the successful launch of its Milton store, Mexican fast-food chain Guzman y Gomez unveiled plans to open nearly 20 more outlets in Queensland over the next 18 months.



More than 5,100 burritos and bowls briskly marched out of the kitchen of Guzman y Gomez (GYG) on its debut day on Baroona Rd, Milton on its May 4th opening day.

Guzman Y Guzman Milton
Photo Credit: GYG/Facebook

The Milton restaurant is managed by Camila Alvarez, a nursing student in her first year at the Queensland University of Technology.

Since arriving in Brisbane nearly four years ago from Colombia, Ms Alvarez has worked at numerous GYGs. She thinks that the “amazing food” and the atmosphere of the well-known restaurant have kept her coming back.

Franchisee Gayle Hancock, who currently runs the Toowong, Indooroopilly, and Jindalee shops, is also behind the Milton location.

Guzman Y Guzman
Photo Credit: GYG/Facebook

There will soon be locations in Ripley, Maryborough, Yatala, Cleveland, Rockhampton, and Toowoomba, according to Steven Marks, who founded the restaurant with Robert Hazan in 2006.

He recognised the value of the Queensland market to the business. GYG plans to open 30 restaurants across the nation this year and the following year.

Mr Marks claimed that their path had not been simple because it had taken the company two years to even break even. Five years after opening the first store, the CEO finally had the means to pay himself a wage.



With more than 170 locations in Australia, Singapore, Japan, and the US, GYG is one of the world’s fastest-growing fast-food chains. A commitment to “reinvent fast-food” with made-to-order Mexican burritos, bowls, nachos, and tacos has motivated the company’s ambitious expansion plans. 

Guzman Y Guzman
Photo Credit: GYG/Facebook

GYG anticipates generating $1 billion in revenue by 2025 as it continues to grow.

Follow Guzman Y Gomez on Facebook for more updates.

Published 10-May-2023

Sporting Wheelies Plans to Build Australia’s First Para Clubhouse in Milton

Did you know that the charitable organization Sporting Wheelies is planning to build a state-of-the-art sports and recreation centre, Australia’s first Para Clubhouse, in Milton?



Submitted in January 2023, the development application filed with Economic Development Queensland (MID-0123-0669) for the proposed project includes indoor courts, an indoor sports centre, office space, a gym, and allied health facilities. 

The development will also involve the internal fit-out of the office and warehouse spaces and a minor reconfiguration of the car parking area to cater to accessibility needs.

The project will retain the existing Umart store and provide 19 car parking spaces, with four spaces dedicated to people with disabilities and six extra-wide spaces.

The Para Clubhouse is expected to have a significant impact on the health and well-being of individuals with disabilities. 

Photo Credit: Open Architecture Studio

Open Architecture Studio designed the clubhouse to benefit people with disabilities, enabling them to live healthier and more active lives. As part of the proposed sports and entertainment centre, Sporting Wheelies’ current headquarters, which are now located in Albion, would be moved to the new structure. 

“The proposed use for the indoor sport and recreation use, and ancillary office space and allied health facilities, is consistent with the use adjoining the northern boundary of the subject site. “

“Further, it is anticipated that there will be limited impact on the amenity of adjoining properties given the surrounding nature of the Low Impact Industry, including office, retail and warehouse buildings,” per the planners, Tract

The facility will also bring together professionals in disability expertise, allied health specialities, Para Sports coaching, and a community of individuals who are passionate about Para Sports.



Published 10-May-2023

NRL Magic Round 2023 Draws Record-Breaking Crowd in Milton After Tickets Sell Out

The NRL’s Magic Round in Brisbane has officially sold out, and a record-breaking attendance of 150,000 people is anticipated for the three-day football extravaganza at the Suncorp Stadium in Milton.



The Queensland power brokers who are now trying to keep the event in Brisbane over the long term see this news as a huge victory. Additionally, the event is anticipated to enhance the state’s economy by close to $30 million, which will significantly benefit local businesses. 

Fans trooped to Caxton St near Suncorp Stadium, where the opening-night NRL double-header took place. The first match saw the Canberra Raiders take on Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs, followed by the Brisbane Broncos playing away from home against the Manly Sea Eagles.

On Saturday, three matches will be played, while the final three matches will be played on Sunday, including a derby clash between the North Queensland Cowboys and Gold Coast Titans. Legendary coach Wayne Bennett will mark his 900th NRL match at the helm of the newest Queensland team, the Dolphins.

Businesses along the Caxton St precinct are already feeling the buzz of the event. The Caxton Hotel manager, Georgie Hull, confirmed that they had to have extra deliveries of beer for Friday, and Thursday had been a massive day of getting all the bars ready.



Translink is offering free travel and extra services to footy fans over the weekend, encouraging them to opt for public transport as the safest and easiest way of travel. Dedicated shuttle buses will run to Suncorp Stadium from various parts of Brisbane, including Ann St, Carindale, Chermside, Eight Mile Plains/Garden City, and The Gap, looping back at the end of each game. Additional trains will also run after each game.

Translink official Sally Stannard stated that with limited parking around Suncorp Stadium, it is recommended that patrons leave their cars at home and catch public transport.

Published 6-May-2023

The West End-Milton (Park Road) Ferry Service: A Slice of History

Did you know that in 1939, the West End-Milton (Park Road) ferry service was ordered to be closed amid opposition from some members of the Council? Here’s why.



The West End-Milton Ferry had been a vital part of the transportation network for people living in the West End and Milton areas. However, due to declining patronage and the deteriorating condition of the landing and boats, it was deemed no longer viable to continue operating the service.

In late July 1939, the Finance Committee of the City Council recommended the discontinuation of the ferry service from West End to Milton (Park Road). The committee had received a letter from the secretary of the Marine Board, which highlighted the condition of the landing and boats of the ferry. 

The Marine Board requested that the Council either effect repairs immediately or close the ferry down. The cost of repairing the landing and providing a new ferry was estimated at £240, but with only about 20 people each way per day using the ferry, the committee recommended that the service should be discontinued.

An amendment was proposed to reconsider the recommendation of the Finance Committee, but it was defeated by nine votes to seven on party lines. This decision was met with opposition by some members of the Council. 

Alderman Lane argued that discontinuing the ferry service would deprive citizens of a service to which they were entitled. He likened the council’s decision to closing down a section of the road rather than paying for its repair. 



Around 1914, the first ferry service in the area operated from Park Road Milton to South Brisbane. However, it was discontinued sometime in the 1940s.

In 1922, Percival Patrick Hanlon started a ferry service from Toowong to Hill End, operating from near the Regatta Hotel to Ferry Road in West End. The service ran until 1953, starting with a rowboat and later upgrading to motorboats.

When Mr Hanlon fell ill, his wife, Elizabeth Hanlon (formerly known as Elizabeth Dale), obtained her Master’s license and ran the ferry during her husband’s illness. However, Mr Hanlon was forced to retire from work in 1953. 

The ferry service continued under the management of Elizabeth Hanlon until January 1974, when the jetty and pontoon were destroyed by the Australia Day floods.

Although the West End-Milton ferry service is no longer in operation, its legacy lives on as a reminder of the importance of reliable transportation infrastructure and the dedicated individuals who work to maintain it.

Published 2-May-2023

What’s the Latest at The Polish Club in Milton?

As it celebrates its 70th year in Milton, The Polish Club is busier than ever in 2023! Check out Polish Market Day and Mother’s Day Lunch at Polonia, happening this May!



Polish Market Day

On Saturday, 6 May 2023, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., The Polish Club will be hosting another Polish Market Day, a monthly activity featuring an incredible lineup of stalls with the most unique offerings of goods, gift items, pantry stuff, homeware, accessories, and food.

There will be Polish Dumplings and Polish sausages, amazing pastries and many other Polish delights, along with the sumptuous Krakus Deli Meats from Sydney.

Polonia market day

The monthly Market Day brings together Polish creatives and entrepreneurs to sell authentic Polish small goods and food. The event’s upcoming schedules for the rest of the year are as follows:

1st July 
29th July
26th August
23rd September 
21st October 
18th November
16th December 

Mother’s Day at Polonia

The Polonia Restaurant at the Polish Club is honouring mums on Mother’s Day with a special mouthwatering lunch from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. Guests may choose to treat their mums to a choice of traditional Polish sour rye soup with white sausage and egg or the flavorful Guinness lamb shank with sweet potato mash and broccolini. The meal also includes a package of  Polish doughnuts (pączek) from Ugly Duckling Caterer. 

Photo Credit: The Polish Club/Facebook

Polonia Restaurant’s Limited Offering 

For 5 May 2023, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., the Polonia Restaurant will be offering a dish you should not miss and it will not likely be offered at any other time of the year. Grab the chance to savour the goodness of these pork tenderloins served on potato pancakes with a Saffron Milk Cap Mushrooms and Camembert cheese sauce, accompanied by sautéed zucchini:

Photo Credit: The Polish Club/Facebook

Incidentally, The Polish Club welcomed its new chef, Piotr, in April 2023, who has worked in restaurants in Krakow and Miechów. 



“Piotr has a very strategic mindset, and his interests span a wide range of fields. He has taken many courses, reads books and audiobooks, and is always trying new things to improve himself. His favourite type of cuisine to cook at home is a mix of French fresh herbs and vegetables with the Polish way of marinating meats. Piotr’s cooking tips include eating lighter food, moderation in everything, and adding more alkaline diet in life,” the club stated. 

Piotr’s arrival comes as The Polish Association of Queensland “Polonia” Inc. celebrated its 70th anniversary of moving into its fancy headquarters in Milton in April 2023.

Follow what’s happening at The Polish Club via its Facebook page

Published 2-May-2023