Next Flooding May Lead to Blackouts in Milton Due to Energex Substation Location

Power might be down for days again in Milton if another massive flooding incident occurs, due to what some quarters believe to be the undesirable location of the Energex substation.



During the February floods, Milton residents and businesses had to face days without power because the Milton Energex substation had to shut down as water and mud crept through the facility.

The construction of the substation was part of the preparations made for the Rugby World Cup in 2003. Greens MP Michael Berkman believes, however, that the substation should have never been built on a flood-prone site. 

He relayed that the substation’s location came about after the State Government bought the land owned by Energex as part of the Suncorp redevelopment. In exchange, Energex was offered an alternative site, “on significantly lower land, which Energex warned would probably flood, as it sits below Q100 flood levels,” Mr Berkman said.  

“Energex didn’t want to sell the original site to the State Government, so the government compulsorily resumed it as part of the Suncorp Stadium Redevelopment. They then built the substation on the alternative, flood-prone site using Ministerial Infrastructure Designation powers.”  

As a result of this decision, the substation has apparently caused problems every time a flooding event occurs. After the 2011 flooding, the substation had to undergo repairs worth $750,000. 

Milton Energex
Photo Credit: Energex/Twitter

“The Government should provide assurance to west side locals that their safety will be prioritised going forward, including a commitment that future substations will be built above Q100 flood levels,” Mr Berkman added.

However, Energy Minister Mick de Brenni said flood barrier upgrades were done to the Milton substation after 2011, which protected the facility from significant damage during the February floods. The substation was immediately switched off for the safety of the locals, which also ensured that power could be restored as soon as possible. 



Despite this, Energex took days to restore services as over 1,000 flood-affected properties for more than 180,000 customers across Brisbane have been impacted. The restoration was further delayed as ongoing rain and high winds prevented crew members from working safely. 

Celebrating Diversity in Milton: St Francis College Holds On Earth Festival

St Francis College is embracing joy and celebrating diversity in the return of the On Earth Festival, where “being together” is the order and purpose of the day.



The On Earth Festival is a time for connecting and participating in a flurry of activities but every guest, regardless of race, age, religion, background, gender, and sexual orientation, may also create, discuss, contemplate and transform.

Photo Credit: StFrancisCollege/Facebook
Photo Credit: StFrancisCollege/Facebook

The event serves to encourage people “to come together, relax, eat, drink, connect, share and learn,” as well as to inspire changes. On Earth Festival also coincides with the St Francis College Open Day, where mini-lectures will be conducted by members of the faculty.

Visitors may learn about the school’s wide range of study options, which explores the Christian faith. Guests may grab the opportunity to talk to staff about courses and subjects or visit the library, the gardens, the Old Bishopsbourne and the Chapel, as well as meet the students. 

Photo Credit: StFrancisCollege/Facebook

Practical Theology Lecturer Jonathan Sargeant will be one of the speakers during the On Earth Festival/Open Day. He will touch on normalising the subject of religion in Australian cultures 

Per the organisers, “Jonathan will share the work of the Westhill Project, including some simple communication techniques which enable non-threatening, dialogue-encouraging conversations that integrate faith and life in the 21st Century.”

Meanwhile, the festival itself will also be a celebration of “music, art, spirit, and justice,” featuring the likes of Lydia Fairhall, a talented Worimi woman, Jackson King, whose music inspirations include Nina Simone, and the Brisbane Pride Choir. 

Follow updates about the On Earth Festival on Facebook



Milton Mini Markets is Back to Spice up Thursday Lunch Breaks

Here’s something to look forward to every lunchtime on the first and third Thursday of the month as Milton Mini Markets returns to spice up your mid-week! 



Beginning 1st Sept 2022, the corner of Cribb St and Little Cribb St will be a mini food park from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. After more than a year of absence, you will finally be able to score and try some of Brisbane’s best offerings.

From continental food trucks to gourmet food stalls, to boutique burgers, German sausages, rice paper rolls and loaded salads, there’s a lot to unpack and discover from this market. 

milton mini markets
Photo Credit: Supplied

Farm direct local produce, market provisions, sweet treats to satisfy those afternoon cravings will be at the popular lunchtime market as well. This is the day not to forget your reusable coffee cups and other containers to pack your pantry with delicious and fresh market finds. 

Milton Mini Markets
Photo Credit: Supplied

The Milton Mini Markets brings convenience when you’re too busy to shop for food. With its cluster of meals on wheels and flavours from all over the world, shoppers will have heaps to choose from. 

The Milton Mini Markets is from Goodwill Projects, one of Queensland’s most dynamic markets, events and venues companies curating flawless events and memorable experiences.  

For more details, follow the Facebook page for updates.



Refurbishments at Newstead Brewing Co in Milton Almost Complete

Despite a challenging few months, Newstead Brewing Co in Milton has bounced back post-flood and has fully reopened after some refurbishments, a bit more work is underway to bring the popular brewpub’s operations back up to 100 per cent.



On Wednesday, 20 July 2022, the brewer announced the completion of its main bar’s construction but the site has been slowly re-opening and welcoming back patrons in the last few weeks, including joining pop-up bars and contract brewing with other flood-impacted venues in Milton. 

The pub has also debuted a new menu with its kitchen now back in action in June. 

“We’ve been lucky enough to fully reopen the venue and really get the beers flowing,” the operators of Newstead Brewing Co said.

“A big thanks to you guys for continuing to come in and support us, it’s been an incredible few months working our way back and we look forward to seeing much more of you.”  

Marcus Cox, the head of the brewer, said that the late February rain bombs in Brisbane heavily impacted their venue so they needed to fix every little valve and replace some equipment. After assessing the risks, the brewery apparently had to undergo major repair work before they can pack and ship out products.

The floods busted the tanks and ruined nearly everything inside the pub. Mr Cox, however, remained optimistic as they proceeded with the rebuild. He said that they are disaster-proofing the facilities, waterproofing equipment, moving a few things to the higher areas of the building, and changing some operational practices. 

It will be a long-term project to reduce the risks and secure the site’s future. 

Mr Cox is grateful for the support of the community, especially with events and other fundraisers to benefit affected businesses. He said that everyone in Brisbane had problems after the floods but a lot of people still helped.

Follow Newstead Brewing Co Milton on Facebook for more updates. 



Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever is a global event, simultaneously held across other countries. The Brisbane chapter is organised by Kristian Fletcher, who has been hosting Kate Bush events in Brisbane since 2003. He has run retro music events in Brisbane for over twenty years.

Unfortunately, the pandemic impacted the events in the previous years but Kristian is hoping the attendance will grow in its return this year. 

Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever Milton
Photo Credit: Supplied

The afternoon also includes practice runs of the song, an instructional introduction to the dance moves, and a chance to mingle and meet Kate Bush fans from all over Brisbane. 

However, you don’t even have to be a Kate Bush fan – this event is open to the general public and all are invited to attend and participate. Women, men, children… anyone is welcome!



Follow Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever on Facebook for updates.

The Modern Furniture Store Expands With New Showroom in Milton

The Modern Furniture Store is shifting gears in Brisbane! After closing its Toowoong showroom, the company has opened a new and bigger store along Park Road in Milton.



The Milton showroom, which officially trades in July 2022, is one of the largest outlets of The Modern Furniture Store in Queensland. As before, the store provides high-quality furniture and home items inspired by Scandinavian and Nordic designs. 

Appeal of Scandinavian or Nordic Furniture

Scandinavian or Nordic furniture is focused on functional craftsmanship with clean lines and materials that appear simple yet elegant. 

Photo Credit: The Modern/Instagram

A Scandinavian or Nordic dining area may serve its very function as an eating space but it may also be used for a variety of activities and family events because of the practicality of its well-designed furniture. 

A cabinet with drawers from The Modern Furniture Store, with solid construction and handcrafted finish, will look great in the bedroom, living room, or dining room. 

Photo Credit: The Modern/Instagram

The Scandinavians are also into sleek and functional interiors, preferring a light or neutral colour palette without being too rustic. The mesh of colours is usually drawn from natural sceneries. 

There’s something practical about creating cosy spaces free of clutter and fewer ornamentation and it’s one that appeals to many people. 

Photo Credit: The Modern/Instagram

Homeware at The Modern Furniture Store

In addition to the finely-crafted furniture, The Modern Furniture Store showroom in Milton also offers an extensive range of homeware from design legends like Marimekko, Iittala, Architectmade and Normann Copenhagen, as well as floor coverings by local brand, Armadillo & Co.

Avid collectors of Marimekko will instantly recognise these little pieces of art from the Marikyläläiset series. Released to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the brand, these collectible pieces were designed by Jenni Tuominen and Sami Ruotsalainen for Marimekko.
Photo Credit: The Modern Furniture Milton/Facebook
Photo Credit: The Modern/Instagram
Photo Credit: The Modern/Instagram


Visit the Milton showroom at 40 Park Road between 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from Monday to Saturday, and from 10:0 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sundays.

Follow The Modern Furniture Store’s Milton Facebook page for updates.

Assessment Paused for Planned Dining Precinct Across Milton Markets

Assessment for the planned dining precinct across Milton Markets has been paused until the end of the year per the developer’s request.



Clare Cribb Pty Ltd through Urban Strategies Pty Ltd filed for notice to stop the current period for DA A005900846 in May 2022. The project was supposed to revitalise an industrial precinct into a food and drink outlet with shops and potential accommodation.  

In early March, severe weather and flooding battered Milton, prompting extended closures for many businesses and other services.

Currently, a warehouse and commercial carpark occupy one building, whilst the other buildings include a gym and a motor mechanic. If the project pushes through, parts of the building containing the gym will be demolished. The rest of the structure will be refurbished and extended. 

Photo Credit: Developmenti/BCC

The developers’ vision is to turn the block along 32-40 Cribb St, across the popular Milton Markets, into a “gastronomic precinct” that will have a “microbrewery, craft distillery, food hall (including a series of ‘micro-restaurants’), restaurant and rooftop bar, all situated around landscaped, terrace dining.”

Photo Credit: Developmenti/BCC

The site will also have a rooftop deck, garden terrace dining and private laneway. The design will be cohesive and integrated to co-exist with the neighbouring areas that include a residential development. 

The Cribb St has existing development approval from 2016 for a residential tower that has yet to start construction.



“The proposal will contribute to the mix of uses within the precinct, and by becoming a pedestrianised hospitality hub, will capitalise on the precincts’ transit opportunities,” the planners stated. 

Bespoke Styling and Human Hair Extension Specialists in Milton

Paris Texas Hair Salon is a boutique hair salon at 41 Park Road, Milton, specialising in Precision cutting, Advanced Colouring & Bespoke Styling.

They are considered the custom hair extension specialists by their loyal band of hair extension clientele.

bespoke styling

See more details about their designs and services here.

Ashlee is one of the, if not THE most experienced hairdressers in Australia when it comes to hair extensions and everything else in hair. She has over 30 years of experience in working with and installing a multitude of hair extensions, including my favourite –virgin European hair, weft extensions, individual keratin bond extensions, micro-bead extensions and tape extensions. I was blown away by her knowledge and skills.

She has the knowledge, contacts and expertise to perfectly match any hair colour or texture. I kept saying they don’t look like hair extensions but the thing is, when you see the best in the industry and they supply the best hair, it will look nothing but natural (unless you want to stand out with fun fashion colours which they are amazing at as well)!

I have trusted Ashlee, Bernie, and the rest of the Paris Texas team with my hair for many years and *travel 6 hours to see them* as no one else compares. Thank you for bringing me and my hair back to life!

Cam

Ashley had to be the best cutter I have ever had. My hair is really thick, long and curly and she cuts my hair really awesome. She blow drys and styles my hair great and provides a nice service. John is also really great at blow drying and colour as well. I highly recommend this place.

Kelly Flello

If you’re looking for beautiful hair extensions and a great blonde colourist, I highly recommend John at Paris Texas. I’ve been going to John for over a year now and I’m always happy with the results. Can’t recommend enough! Thanks John 🙂

Julia McCormick

Ashley and Belle were great! I have lots of salt and pepper hair and wanted a low maintenance but effective cut and colour and was super happy with the results. Highly recommend!

Shannon C

I am delighted to say that for the first time in over 18 months, my hair extensions have been applied and placed beautifully and perfectly, and as I sit here sipping my morning cuppa, I can’t quite friggin believe that none are showing or sitting weird or uncomfortable in any way. I can also wear my hair in a ponytail again for the first time in forever. I am so glad we met and I can’t wait to see you all again. Thank you so much. xo

Kerry Symons

Amazing! John is above exceptional. Perfect colour everytime. Amazing application of weft extensions and just an all ’round lovely human and hair salon. Highly recommend!

Louise Kelleh

Paris Texas Hairdressing | 41 Park Rd, Milton QLD 4064

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Milton Rum Distillery Joins Milton by Moonlight this June

Milton Rum Distillery will join Milton by Moonlight, the magical pop-up market featuring gourmet street food, artisan goodies, live music and an amazing bar!



Taking place on Saturday, the 4th of June from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Cribb Street will come to life under the stars thanks to Milton Rum Distillery!

Milton Rum Distillery is one of Australia’s oldest rum producers and the first to use the rectifying distillation column before it was washed away by flood waters over 100 years ago. Today, an urban distillery stands at its old site, managed by a new genration of passionate innovators.

Milton Rum Distillery
Photo Credit: Supplied

Spend a magical night out under the moonlight exploring the region’s most delicious gourmet street food, local artisan gifts and stalls, and live entertainment that’s sure to get you grooving the night away. 

Feast on taste sensations from around the world with market classics like Paella, Gozleme, Calamari, and German Sausages…or try something new, like Ta’ameya (Fried Egyptian Falafel!), Asian Fusion Wagyu Burritos, or an Eritrean Curry with Injera!

Photo Credit: Supplied

Top it off with a tipple from a very special pop-up bar featuring Milton’s own locally distilled rums, and Stone and Wood beers to make the night extra enjoyable! All set beside one of two groovin’ twilight stages featuring live music and bands all night.

Photo Credit: Supplied
Photo Credit: Supplied

Stroll through over 140 specialty stalls as the sun sets and the stars fill the sky.  Talk about insta-worthy, snap a pic under the twinkling festoon lighting, and bump into hilarious roving performers as you discover all that Milton has to offer. It’s a moonlight night not to be missed.

Photo Credit: Supplied


About Milton Markets and Goodwill Projects

The Milton Markets are Inner West Brisbane’s premium food, farmers & lifestyle market. Every Sunday from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with a calendar of special Pop-Up events throughout the year!

Goodwill Projects is one of Queensland’s most dynamic markets, events and venues companies, curating flawless events and memorable experiences.  

Partner Sought for Old Bishopsbourne Redevelopment in Milton

The Old Bishopsbourne site in Milton, one of the last largest green spaces in the inner city, may be up for a massive redevelopment if Anglican Church Southern Queensland succeeds in finding a partner or investor.



The Church has listed the landmark property with Knight Frank to attract proposals that may be adopted as a master-planned solution to “realise the maximum potential” of the property. However, the Church will still retain ownership of the site even as it will be redeveloped for other uses.

The site, also known as the St Francis Theological College, is under the “Community Purpose” zone but the real estate agents tout the property for future development as a “residential, retail, medical, educational, community services, and commercial precinct.” This has raised some concerns about the future of the heritage site as it might be compromised if there will be new constructions. 

Old Bishopsbourne has been established in 1868 and stands in an extremely rare green space when most areas in Milton no longer have large trees older than 100 years. Experts from the University of Queensland said that Milton’s loss of greenspace has made it vulnerable to the urban heat sink.  

Some residents, however, believe that the government should step in and help with the restoration.

“I understand the financial challenge of the good-hearted and not-for-profit church (which does a lot for charity) maintaining heritage buildings but if this is the argument they are using to develop (note, not sell) the site, then the government should be stepping in and providing support so that inner city greenspace is not lost and heritage is not compromised by new building work,” Jesse Taylor said. “It is very sad the church is forced into this position and a massive loss for Brisbane.”

“The State Government heritage register identifies the site as having ‘garden setting ambience.’ Will they step up to help the owners maintain the buildings and retain such an important site in original condition?”

Despite the property listing, the Church has prepared a video with Archbishop Phillip Aspinall who explained the need for the Expression of Interest process.

“Any proposal must consider the existing vegetation and heritage of the site,” Luke Chippendale said. 

“The Church values the site and wants to see it put to better community use. Education and community housing uses are among the suggestions from the community we have already received.”



The Church has also hosted a community consultation to receive more feedback from the residents on Wednesday, 11 May 2022.