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Gold Coast’s Favourite Italian Restaurant Gemelli Now In Brisbane

Brisbane’s love affair with Italian cuisine is evident in James Street, where great choices of good pasta and pizza abound. The busy laneway recently welcomed another Italian restaurant, Gemelli, and its sister venue, Bar Tano, an aperitivo bar located right next door, just in time for spring, the season of new beginnings.

Read: Lockdown Blues? Order In from These Takeaway Options in the Inner City

If the name sounds familiar, it’s because Gemelli is quite popular in the Gold Coast, where locals keep coming back for their traditional antipasti, pasta, and wood-fired pizza. All these will be offered in the new Brisbane location, along with the Italian wines they are also known for.

Photo credit: Gemelli Italian James St/Google Maps

Their gnocchi is made fresh in-house every day. They also have vegan options of the traditional Italian dishes on their menu. There’s the ‘Vegana’ pizza with a pumpkin base, topped with zucchini, walnuts, rocket and fresh cherry tomatoes. They also have the ‘Ravioli Della Casa,’ housemade spinach and ricotta-filled ravioli served with Napoli sauce.

Gemelli translates to “twins,” in Italian which is exactly what the owners are. The place is run by twins James and Alec Carney, with the help of their older brother Paul, a sommelier who will be responsible for the selection of the best Italian wines for the restaurant.

Carney brothers (Photo credit: Gemelli Italian/Facebook)

The twins envisioned Gemelli James St to be a place where guests can bring their kids, or where families and friends can share a glass of wine; whilst Bar Tano would be the ideal location for aperitivo, live music, and house cocktails.

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A post shared by Gemelli Italian (@gemelliitalian)

Like their Broadbeach location, the new venues in James St will feature a rustic setting coupled with a vibrant atmosphere. Gemelli is equipped with classic wooden tables and chairs, an open kitchen, and a custom-built fridge that can hold over 100 bottles of wine. Bar Tano, on the other hand, features a green marble central bar and its own DJ decks.

In addition to their Italian wines, Bar Tano also offers beers and affordable cocktails, as well as their specialty Tanorosa cocktail, mixing Campari, prosecco, and house-made peach granita.

Gemelli’s stunning wine cabinet (Photo credit: Gemelli Italian/Facebook)

Both venues are currently open for dine-in, with Bar Tano accepting walk-ins and Gemelli encouraging bookings through their website. Takeaways will be offered in Gemelli soon. For updates, follow Gemelli and Bar Tano on their social media accounts.

Bar Tano

Instagram: @bartano.bne

Gemelli

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gemelliitalian/

Instagram: @gemelliitalian

Suncorp Stadium Makes History New Venue Of NRL 2021 Finals Series

Photo credit: Suncorp Stadium

Editor’s Note: As of 30 September 2021, QLD’s NRL Grand Final will be played to a capped crowd of just 39,000 fans due to updated Covid-19 restrictions. Refunds will be issued to the final 25% purchases made in each Grand Final selling allocation. For more details and updates, please follow the NRL Facebook page.

Milton’s Suncorp Stadium is set to make history after being chosen as the venue for the 2021 NRL grand final, in the league’s first time to play the finals series outside of Sydney in 114 years.

Read: Milton Markets Celebrates Blooming Spring with Seasonal Flavours: Twilight Edition

The game is usually held at Sydney’s Stadium Australia but because of the ongoing spread of the Delta variant in NSW, the grand final is set to relocate to Queensland and will remain there until the end of the regular season.

In a press conference earlier this month, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk confirmed the Queensland Government made an agreement with the National Rugby League to host the finals as well as a number of regional games.

Photo credit: NRL – National Rugby League/Facebook

“Never in my lifetime did I think that we would have an NRL grand final here in Queensland, and finally, that’s happened… So well done Queensland,” Premier Palaszczuk said.

Because of Queensland’s efforts for helping the league afloat this year, it did not have to bid for the right to host the final series. Around 4.6 million had been spent on securing the finals series whilst the event is expected to bring in $19 million to the Queensland economy.

As Queensland cements itself as the new home of the rugby league, it’s anticipated that more rugby games will be played in the state in the coming years, according to Sports Minister Stirling Hinchcliffe.

“This is an unprecedented venture into regional Queensland by the NRL. We’re also working with the NRL on a Centre of Excellence at QSAC for women’s rugby league which complements the Palaszczuk Government’s investment in women’s sport,” Mr Hinchcliffe said.

“Queensland is a nursery for rugby league talent, and it makes sense to work with the NRL on ways we can support our future stars,” he added.

About the Suncorp Stadium

Over 50,000 die-hard Rugby League fans are expected to descend at the Suncorp Stadium, as Queensland’s outdoor stadiums can now have 100 percent capacity.

Also known as Brisbane Stadium, Suncorp Stadium plays host to many major events each year, from rugby leagues and rugby unions to concerts and boxing events. The state-of-the-art, world-class stadium features 52,500 seats across three levels, 75% of which are covered to the drip line of the stadium roof.

NRL Grand Finals

The 2021 NRL Telstra Premiership Grand Final will take place on Sunday 3 October 2021.

The finals series kicks off with two elimination finals and two qualifying finals spread out over three days before the semi-finals and preliminary finals over successive weekends leading up to the premiership decider.

Mackay will host the semi-finals on Friday, 17 September and Saturday, 18 Sept with the preliminary finals to be played at Suncorp Stadium on Friday, 24 Sept and Saturday, 25 Sept 2021.

In line with state-wide mask requirements, fans are asked to wear masks at all times, including when seated. Visit Suncorp Stadium’s website for more information on buying tickets and health protocols when inside the venue.

Super Pfizer Weekend to Roll Out For Footy Fans

In a bid to boost the vaccination rate among Queensland residents, a Super Pfizer Weekend will be rolled out at all vaccination hubs during the NRL preliminary finals weekend at the Suncorp Stadium. Over 100,000 eligible footy fans aged 12 years old and above can walk in and get the jab.

The move to conduct the Super Pfizer Weekend walk-in vaccinations also comes as Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the over 60s may get Pfizer jabs at any of the 80 clinics beginning Saturday, 18 Sept. Previously, the over 60s were offered only AstraZeneca jabs.

Queensland received 189,400 doses of Pfizer on Monday, 13 Sept, and the premier has vowed to use the lot as soon as possible. Many people, including the over 60s, have been holding out for this vaccine as stashes of AstraZeneca doses remain unused at GPs and pharmacies.

Following the walk-in vaccination announcement, hundreds of footy fans lined up during the NRL elimination finals in Rockhampton. In the coming weeks, more pop-up hubs will be opened near where the fans are expected to troop for the games.

Check for Walk-In Vaccination Sites

Meanwhile, this will be the first time Suncorp Stadium is hosting the NRL grand finals in the game’s 114-year history. Queensland won the right to host the event following the COVID outbreak in Sydney.

“This year we will create history, playing the grand final in Brisbane for the very first time,” Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V’landys said in the press statement.

“This will be a historic moment for the city and a reward for the support the Queensland community has given us throughout 2021.

“This year will always be remembered as the year Queensland hosted all of our major events; All Stars, Magic Round, three State of Origins and the grand final.”

Before moving to the Suncorp Stadium, two weeks of the finals will be played in Mackay.

Get Tickets to the NRL Finals

Milton Markets Celebrates Blooming Spring with Seasonal Flavours: Twilight Edition

Say goodbye to winter and stick a flower in your hair as Milton Markets celebrates the blooming springtime with an assembly of gourmet food, a pop-up bar, live entertainment, and bespoke shopping finds!

Over 150 vendors will be featured at Milton Markets’ Seasonal Flavours: Twilight Edition, which will be underway on Saturday, 11 Sept 2021, from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. After the cancellation of Christmas in July, this Twilights market will be springing back with more thrills and amusement for families.

Expect Cribb Street to overflow with hundreds of specialty stalls, makers, bakers, growers, and chefs to enjoy the start of warmer evenings and bring spring to life under the stars!

Taste the flavours of the world as stalls like German Sausage Shack, Hong Kong Dumpling House, Fire Up Woodfired Pizza and Hugh’s Korean Food will set up shop at the Twilights market. The pop-up bar is courtesy of Stone & Wood Brewery.

Meanwhile, Milton Markets’ regular Sunday trading returns to its regular hours from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Known as Inner West Brisbane’s premier lifestyle market featuring South East Queensland’s best producers and creatives, Milton Markets is the perfect weekend outing for families.

Follow Milton Markets Facebook page for regular updates on its activities.

Polonia in Milton Secures Loan & Donations to Keep Historic Landmark

The Polish Club, also known as Polonia, on Marie Street in Milton has managed to avert a crisis that would have put the 60-year-old site under the hammer. In less than four months, its new committee was able to secure a loan, raise some funds, and increase club memberships and activities that would help pay off its outstanding debts.

In July 2021, the new committee under President Waldemar Duda received an outpouring of support from the community, enabling Polonia to raise $90,000, which would help pay off a $150,000 loan from a private company.

Their financial troubles came to light early this year after a dispute with the former club president and treasurer, prompting the election of a new committee in April. Further probing by Mr Duda, the new treasurer Evelyn Jelliffee, and their lawyers revealed that the loan contract entered by the previous committee with the private company had a limited pay period. If the loan wasn’t paid off by September 2021, the club could lose its property.

The club officials also learned that they need an additional $50,000 for unpaid fees to the Brisbane City Council and the Australian Tax Office.

Highlights

The Polish Club, a.k.a Polonia, has found solutions to its financial problems.
After a change in committee heads through an election in April, the members learned that they needed to pay off $150,000 in private loans and $50,000 in Council and ATO fees.
They were able to raise money through donations, an increase in membership and activities, and another loan.

However, club membership was down to just 42 members when the new committee took over. Thus, Mr Duda issued an appeal to the Polish community and the rest of the public as the club was under “severe financial hardship.”

Following the appeal, fundraisers and club activities to boost funding were set up to save the club. Whilst the lockdowns have had some impact on these activities, Polonia’s new membership gradually grew. According to a video update from Outback Polaks, they are now at over 500+ members, the biggest in the club’s history.

Days before Polonia had to inform the private loan company that they would be able to pay off the debt, the new committee announced that they had secured a bank loan. However, the Polish Club is not yet in the clear because of their other financial obligations. Donations remain active via the Go Fund Me page.

Constructed in 1964, The Polish Club was the “centre of social life” for post-war Polish immigrants in Brisbane.

“Long before social media, where both young and old would gather to participate in Polish cultural events, enjoy the weekly dance/disco or just to indulge in the delicious Polish cuisine,” Pawel Krawczynski, the fundraiser organiser, wrote. “It would also be a place for people to come together to enjoy each other’s company when they felt homesick.”

Meanwhile, as lockdown restrictions are slowly easing in Brisbane, Polonia’s restaurant has resumed accepting in-person dining for a limited number of guests. Reservations are advised. Phone (07) 3369 2747 to book a table. Follow the club’s Facebook page for the menu and trading hours.

Plans For University Of Queensland’s New CBD Campus Revealed

Artist’s impression of the proposed UQ campus in Brisbane CBD (Photo credit: developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au)

The former Queensland National Bank head office will serve as the new home of the University of Queensland, after the school’s application for a second location in the CBD has been granted approval.

Read: Variety Queensland in Milton Expands Program for 7 to 17-Year-Old Kids

Plans (A005770473) lodged by UQ revealed the heritage-listed building at 308 Queen St and an adjoining seven-storey tower at 88 Creek St will be the location of its second Brisbane CBD campus, which is intended to host a “hub for postgraduate learning and executive education.”

The Queensland National Bank, also known as National Australia Bank, was built in 1881 and became a heritage site in 1992. The three-storeyed brick building is an example of Classical Revival style which was common in bank architecture of the period.

National Australia Bank (Photo credit: apps.des.qld.gov.au)

The university reportedly spent over $47 million in late 2019 to acquire both properties. The first CBD location is at another heritage-listed building at Queen St, which now houses their Business School Executive Education program. After almost two years, UQ’s vision for another campus in the CBD is a step closer to reality after the Brisbane City Council approved the development application in July 2021.

Plans for level 1 (Photo credit: developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au)

Plans for Level 2 (Photo credit: developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au)

Plans for level 3 (Photo credit: developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au)

Plans for level 4 (Photo credit: developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au)

Based on the proposal submitted to Council, the first four levels of the seven-storey tower will be gutted and refurbished whilst an active travel end-of-trip facilities will be installed in the basement; Meanwhile, the ground level of the heritage-listed building will also be updated, including its external stone facade. Plans also include a new entry, at 308 Queen St to the shared lift-well between the two buildings.

Read: Milton Petrol Prices Among the Highest In Brisbane: Where To Go For Cheap Petrol

“UQ is more than doubling its footprint in the centre of Brisbane with the purchase of two iconic buildings in the City. The purchase allows UQ to meet increasing demand for CBD-based study in areas including executive education, lifelong learning and micro-credentialing, as well as continuing professional development,” the university stated.

Variety Queensland in Milton Expands Program for 7 to 17-Year-Old Kids

Does your child love to sing? Are you looking for weekend activities for your active kids? Variety Queensland in Milton has recently expanded its choir program to include 7 to 17-year-old children of all abilities.

Talented singer/songwriter Luke Scott directs the children of Variety Kids Choir, where he also incorporates other communication tools like as Auslan and Key Word Signing to make the sessions more inclusive. They meet fortnightly Saturdays to practice songs, as well as develop the children’s confidence and social skills.

The program is open to disadvantaged children or kids living with a disability. They will be trained to perform a wide-ranging repertoire, including pop songs and children’s songs, at various functions that will be organised by Variety Queensland for the remainder of the year.

“We’re thrilled more kids will now be able to join our inclusive, all-abilities Variety Kids Choir,” said Variety Queensland CEO Steve Wakerley. “Singing has so many great benefits and allows kids to feel included, grow their social skills by making new friends, improve their self-confidence and have fun through creative expression.”

This is a free program that holds fortnightly Saturday rehearsals from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at PCYC Lang Park (Level 4, Karate Room), 40 Castlemaine St, Milton.

To learn more about this program, visit the official site or contact the Kids Support Team via kidssupport@varietyqld.org.au or (07) 3907 9300.

Enjoy Cheesy Fondue And DIY S’mores at the Winter Lodge

Winter Lodge (Photo credit: riverbarandkitchen.com.au)

To celebrate the colder months, Riverbar & Kitchen is bringing back Winter Lodge, an annual winter festival where guests will be treated to hearty specials whilst enjoying stunning city and river views, and of course the luxurious fire pits.

Read: Lockdown Blues? Order In from These Takeaway Options in the Inner City

Guests can make themselves comfortable with faux fur throws, comfy cushions, and cosy blankets as they try 4 Pines beer and cocktails. It will not be complete without trying snacks like cheesy fondue and DIY s’mores. Cocktails include Aperol Spritz, Winter Spritz, Aperitivo, Paloma Highball, and Mulled Venetian Cider.

For a minimum of two people at $45 each, Riverbar & Kitchen also offers a ‘Winter Feast,’ which are roasted lamb shanks, mashed potato, roasted vegetables, and warm garlic bread.

Every Thursday (from 15 July to 12 August), Riverbar & Kitchen will also be hosting winter markets in the plaza. Those who would love to be treated with handmade goods, plants, and even tasty treats, should take a chance to see these pop-up markets at the Winter Lodge festival.

This event will run from 15 July to 31 August 2021 only, so if you don’t want to miss out on the fun, book now at Riverbar & Kitchen’s website.

Milton Petrol Prices Among the Highest In Brisbane: Where To Go For Cheap Petrol

Photo credit: Google Street View

With average petrol prices in Brisbane hovering at 164.9 cpl as of 7 July, motorists should be on the lookout for fair prices at the pump. In Milton, petrol is 10 cpl higher than the Brisbane average. Here’s the low down on the high cost of petrol in Brisbane.

Read: Brisbane Stadium in Milton to Host 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup

Most expensive fuel in Brisbane as of 7 July (Photo credit: racq.com.au)

Motorists will get a relatively fair deal versus the Brisbane average at Caltex Woolloongabba, along Logan Rd, where petrol is at 136 cpl as of 7 July. Shell Galloways Hill, where petrol is 157.9 cpl, is also a good option.

Cheapest fuel prices in Brisbane as of 7 July (Photo credit: racq.com.au)

To get daily updates on fair petrol prices, RACQ encourages motorists to download and use their Fair Fuel Finder app (on Android or iOS). Based on your location, the RACQ’s Fair Fuel Finder App automatically compares prices across multiple retailers in the immediate and surrounding areas. Once you’ve selected a retailer, the in-built “get directions” feature, which links to Google Maps, will take you straight there.

The Cost of Driving Your Car

In a recent media release, RACQ spokesperson Lauren Ritchie discussed the increase in license and registration fee plus higher prices to pay for breaking the law on the road.

“Transport taxes and charges are already the third-highest cost for Queensland households so it’s disappointing to see more strain being put on families, especially with many people still overcoming the financial impact of COVID-19,” she said.

RACQ had reignited its calls for the State Government to freeze vehicle registration increases as the cost to motorists had risen by more than 13 percent over the last five years.

As the cost of fuel remains quite expensive in Brisbane, motorists are looking for ways to at least save money, including patronising service stations with the cheapest fuel prices.

Lockdown Blues? Order In from These Takeaway Options in the Inner City

Having lockdown blues and not in the mood for cooking in the kitchen? Why not treat yourself to a fancy and delicious meal from your favourite inner city restaurant or cafe?

Here are the establishments open for takeaways around Milton, Brisbane CBD, Spring Hill, Fortitude Valley and Newstead. You’ll need to check their social pages for the individual opening hours, menu and other details. Just click on the links below:

Milton

Milton Common

Porkees

Brisbane City

Spring Hill

Farah Restaurant

South Bank

Coffee Head Co

Little Big House

Zeus Street Greek

Fortitude Valley

Cakes and Shit

Gerard’s Bistro

Hashtag Burgers and Waffles

Jocelyn’s Provision

Les Bubbles

Porkees

Same Same

Superbowl

Reverends

Newstead/Teneriffe

Beccofino

Botanica

Hikari

Malt Pier

These inner city restaurants will re-assess their operations on a day-to-day basis to comply with the guidelines issued by the State Government.

Inner City Deliveroo — Photo Credit: Taylor Herring/Flickr

However, if you prefer to have food delivered, Deliveroo will be waiving the delivery fee for all customers who will order more than $10 worth of food on Friday, 2 July 2021. Almost all venues tied with Deliveroo in Brisbane will honour this free service, so grab the opportunity and enjoy some great food even as the restaurants are restricted.

In the meantime, stay safe and nourished!