AUGUST 2021 INSIDE: Brisbane's parks keep getting better Projects improving our transport network Top things to do at Mt Coot-tha Win tickets to Brisbane Festival
Ekka
Brisbane footpaths to get record funding Did you know, if you connected all of Brisbane’s concrete footpaths, you could walk to Alice Springs and back? Brisbane has approximately 5000 kilometres of footpaths that help us get to where we need to go, so looking after them is always a top priority. Our latest Budget included a record $45 million for new and improved footpaths throughout Brisbane’s suburbs. Part of our core business is creating new footpaths and repairing hundreds more so that you can stay safe wherever you need to go. Interestingly, when a footpath needs repair, the most common reason is not ageing concrete. With many Brisbane streets lined by beautiful trees, one of the most common causes of footpath damage is actually tree roots and ground movement. Other causes are weather events and vehicles illegally driving or parking on them. When things like this happen, we act quickly to make them safe again, and over the past year we have completed more than 1400 separate footpath repairs. You can help to be our eyes in the suburbs by reporting footpaths that need repair. If you come across a broken footpath, call our Contact Centre on 3403 8888. We'll take it from there and will make it safe within 24 hours. Adrian Schrinner LORD MAYOR
Come and see us at the Ekka Get ready for family fun as the Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) returns from 7-15 August. Brisbane Showgrounds will host all your favourite Ekka displays, rides and the popular EkkaNITES program of live entertainment and fireworks. The Brisbane City Council Flower and Garden Precinct will be a hive of activity, including stunning garden displays, fun horticultural activities for kids and informative workshops on the latest garden trends. It's also where you'll find Council’s Brisbetter Ekka stand. Stop by for ideas and itineraries on exploring our city, pick up a Brisbetter show bag and enter our competition to win a Brisbetter Day Out. Book your tickets at ekka.com.au. Check event details and Queensland Government COVID guidelines before heading to the Ekka.
For more information please get in touch with Council
3403 8888
brisbane.qld.gov.au
Making headway on green bridges Over the next 10 years, our Green Bridges Program will make it even easier to get around our city on foot, by bike or scooter, or by connecting with public transport.
Kangaroo Point Green Bridge We’ve recently announced Connect Brisbane, led by BESIX Watpac, will design and build the bridge, which will connect Kangaroo Point with the City Botanic Gardens at Alice Street and feature a unique opportunity for a bar or restaurant above the river (subject to approvals). Construction is expected to kick off by the end of the year.
Kangaroo Point Green Bridge
Breakfast Creek We're working towards awarding a contract for construction by the end of 2021, so works can begin for an expected finish by late 2023. Keep an eye out for more information about the detailed design and upcoming information sessions.
Kangaroo Point Green Bridge
West End bridges Concept designs and preliminary business cases are being prepared for further community consultation later this year. Preferred alignments have been announced, with the Toowong bridge connecting 600 Coronation Drive to Orleigh Park near Forbes Street in West End, and the St Lucia bridge connecting Guyatt Park to Orleigh Park near Morry Street in West End. Search ‘green bridges’ on our website for more information.
St Lucia to West End Green Bridge
Koala care We’re helping to protect koalas around Bulimba Creek in Mansfield with Wildlife Movement Solutions.
Yeronga pool
5 Olympic sports to try right now
We’ve helped install 400 metres of fauna fencing at koala hotspots, including the corner of Secam Street and Devlan Street to stop koalas accessing the road. This is perfect timing for the koala breeding season (July to February), which is when koalas are on the move. Habitat poles, escape poles and a koala shelf around Donnington Street in Carindale have also been installed to keep koalas safer.
Unleash your inner athlete at Council’s facilities and Active and Healthy events. Tennis – Grab a racket and hire a court, or sign up for free tennis coaching lessons. Football (Soccer) – Kick goals at your local sports field. Our free kids' soccer classes teach basic skills in a fun and supportive environment.
Visit our website for tips on what you can do to help protect Brisbane koalas.
BMX – Test your skills at one of Brisbane’s 22 BMX-friendly parks, including Australia’s largest BMX facility at Bracken Ridge. Swimming – Boost water confidence with a group adult swim class at one of our heated pools or even try your hand at springboard diving. Race walking – Lace up to hit our pathways. Take the scenic route on the new Indooroopilly Riverwalk. Visit our website for locations and Active and Healthy events.
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For more information please get in touch with Council
3403 8888
brisbane.qld.gov.au
Keeping Brisbane’s transport network moving We’re creating more travel options and reducing congestion for our growing city. Search for updates on these city-shaping projects on our website.
PROJECT
STATUS
Brisbane Metro: Two new Metro lines getting you around the city and suburbs with turn-up-and-go services, operating 24 hours on weekends – no timetables needed.
Council’s early works are nearing completion and construction will begin later this year for Brisbane Metro’s major infrastructure including the Adelaide Street tunnel and depot at Rochedale.
Next Generation CityCats: Giving up to 170 passengers a more comfortable commute, with mod cons including USB charging ports and lounge seating, plus panoramic views.
CityCat 25, the fourth double-decker CityCat, is expected to be launched in late 2021.
E-mobility: Enabling residents and visitors to get around the city using active transport, reducing the numbers of cars on our roads.
Council’s new E-mobility Strategy guides planning to help make e-mobility a part of our city’s transport network.
Electric buses: Improving air quality through zero tailpipe emissions on vehicles designed to complete a full day’s service on a single charge.
A 12-month trial of four electric buses on the City Loop services is underway.
Ferry terminals: Building a new terminal at Howard Smith Wharves and upgrading the terminal at South Bank.
The entry, accessible ramp and stairs are now in place at Howard Smith Wharves. Demolition and piling works are complete at South Bank. Offsite, both pontoons and gangways are underway with local fabricators.
Ferry Network Review: Seeking community feedback on how we can improve our ferry services and routes.
Have your say in the second round of community consultation opening on Monday 30 August. Visit brisbane.qld.gov.au and search ‘Ferry Network Community Engagement’.
Roads: On-going investment in upgrades to major corridors and intersections across Brisbane to improve safety and traffic flow.
Black spot intersection upgrades continue, with works recently completed in Wacol and Annerley.
A new fleet of 800 dockless e-bikes and 2000 e-scooters was introduced in July.
Construction will soon begin on the new Indooroopilly overpass to replace the roundabout at the Moggill Road and Coonan Street intersection.
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Keeping school kids safe Help reduce congestion at the school gate and promote active and healthy living in your community by joining Council’s Active School Travel (AST) program. More than 160 AST schools have already benefited from free resources, incentives and skills training sessions to educate and motivate students, staff and carers to leave the car at home and actively travel to school. Applications for the 2022 program close on Friday 17 September – search ‘Active School Travel’ on our website for details. Council’s enhanced school zone signage and Speed Awareness Monitors (SAMs) also encourage road safety by reminding drivers to slow down and stay alert. We installed 31 SAMs in school zones citywide last financial year, and a further 100 are being delivered over the next four years. Look out for SAMs and help keep Brisbane students safe.
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IN BRIEF IMPROVING POOL ACCESSIBILITY Seniors and people with disability will soon find it easier to access the facilities at Colmslie Aquatic Centre. Automatic doors to the indoor pool and a new accessible adult changing facility are being installed as part of a $220,000 Council upgrade. The upgrade is due for completion this month.
TALENT TIME The search for Brisbane’s best new young singers, duos and bands is on again, with entries for The QUBE Effect 2022 opening on Monday 16 August. Nominate your musical act for a chance to work alongside industry experts, take part in live performances and win great prizes. Visit our website to enter by Monday 4 October.
Escape the hustle and bustle at Mt Coot-tha If a day in the great outdoors, hiking or stargazing is needed to help you relax, a trip to Mt Coot-tha might be the tonic you need. Start with a free guided walk around the Brisbane Botanic Gardens with one of the many knowledgeable volunteer guides, before jumping on board the free shuttle bus to the lookout for a bird’s-eye view of the city. Bushwalk or ride your way through the precinct’s 70-plus off-road trails. Join a hiking group or learn to mountain bike safely and with confidence with Council’s Cycling Brisbane classes. Shuttle back down to the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium to learn about the universe from the comfort of your reclined theatre seat in the iconic Cosmic Skydome. Search, 'Mt Coot-tha precinct’ on our website for more information.
SHAPE BRISBANE’S INDUSTRIAL FUTURE Needle-free vaccines and COVID-19 diagnostic kits are just some of the innovative products being manufactured in Brisbane right now. Visit our website to have your say on Council’s plan to attract more high-tech businesses by revitalising industrial land across Brisbane. Search 'industrial strategy' on our website and share your ideas by Monday 16 August.
HELPING SENIORS CELEBRATE Is your seniors group looking to raise extra funds for a social outing or Christmas party? Applications are now open for Council’s Seniors Celebration Donations, for amounts up to $300. Visit our website for information about eligibility and how to apply. Applications close on Tuesday 5 October.
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Gasworks Markets, Newstead
Discover Brisbane’s most creative markets Find unique handmade goodies at one of the city’s many artisan markets. THE COLLECTIVE MARKETS, STANLEY STREET PLAZA, SOUTH BANK Fridays 5-9pm, Saturdays 10am-9pm and Sundays 9am-4pm Start or finish the weekend browsing original art, handcrafted gifts and trending fashion. SUITCASE RUMMAGE, REDDACLIFF PLACE, BRISBANE CITY First and third Sundays of the month, 12 noon-5pm Score one-off vintage pieces, retro homewares and eye-catching trinkets. GASWORKS MARKETS, NEWSTEAD Second Saturday of the month, 9am-1pm Meet up with friends for a brunch date, then weave through the stalls in the heritage-listed gasometer structure. RIVERSIDE AND QUT INFUSION MARKETS, CITY BOTANIC GARDENS Sundays 8am-3pm Find art, fashion, local eats and more at this much-loved market that now extends to Main Drive in the QUT Garden Point campus.
For more information please get in touch with Council
3403 8888
brisbane.qld.gov.au
have a
on e-bikes and e-scooters across our bikeways
Brisbetter Days Out
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Thanks to everyone who shared their amazing Views of Brisbane! Simply share your photos on Instagram using #viewsofbrisbane or join our Views of Brisbane Facebook group for your chance to be featured.
Brisbane: a ‘pawfect’ place to be Did you know, when you register your pooch you join thousands of fellow dog owners in helping to make Brisbane a more dog-friendly city? Registration isn’t just mandatory under Queensland Government law, it’s an official ‘proof of ownership’ and your ticket to our 24/7 Lost and Found service. Your fees go towards providing education on responsible pet ownership, so our city continues to be a safe, enjoyable place to live. Registration fees have also allowed Council to partner with the RSPCA to provide a 20% discount for desexing at clinics participating in Operation Wanted this month. Find out more at operationwanted.com.au Dog registration is as simple as a walk in the park and can be done online. Discounts are offered for pensioners, desexed dogs and dogs bought from approved facilities. Find out more on our website.
SAVE THE DATE: WHITES HILL PET FAIR Saturday 28 August, 10am-1pm, Whites Hill Reserve, Camp Hill @kimwphotography
• Discounted vaccinations, microchipping and flea, tick and worming treatments. • Pet market stalls, including dog registration and pet accessories. • Dog agility and obedience demonstrations.
LACE UP FOR A WINTER WALK Clear sunny skies and trails from the riverside to the bush – Brisbane is made for walking in winter.
@adleywilsonphotography
Walk on the wild side at Council’s bushland reserves. Stephens Mountain, Mt Gravatt Outlook and Eildon Hill reserves have upgraded trails and stunning scenery. Climb to new heights at the newly refurbished lookout at Milne Hill Reserve in Chermside West or hike to the scenic lookout at Keperra Bushland Reserve. Ramble the riverbank along the new-look Cultural Centre Riverwalk between Victoria Bridge and Kurilpa Bridge. Hop on a CityCat to Gardens Point to meander among the mangroves.
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Walk and learn on a free tour of the botanic gardens in the city and Mt Coot-tha, at Council's environment centres, or with the Brisbane Greeters. Immerse yourself in dreamtime stories along the Nurri Millen trail at Boondall Wetlands. For more ideas, search ‘walking’ on our website.
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For more information please get in touch with Council
3403 8888
brisbane.qld.gov.au
Hanlon Park, Stones Corner
Brisbane’s greenspace keeps getting better
cia Guyatt Park, St Lu
Did you know Council maintains more than 2100 parks across Brisbane? From small suburban parks to sprawling district parks, botanic gardens and bushland reserves – there’s a park for everyone. GET ACTIVE More than 170 parks have exercise equipment so you can get fighting fit for free – and with 150 dog off-leash areas citywide, you can keep your furry friend in shape too!
West End Riverside Lands Park
Have a ball at one of the 200 parks with basketball and netball facilities. Or aim for the rebound walls for tennis practice or handball. Looking to try something new? Check out the pickleball courts, disc golf course and our popular ninja course.
READY TO PLAY Kids are already flocking to some of the 87 parks that received upgrades last financial year, including the new nature-themed play area at Hanlon Park, Stones Corner, and the learn-to-ride tracks at Kangaroo Gully Road Park, Bellbowrie and Grinstead Park, Alderley. Say "Ahoy!" to the ocean-themed playground near Fifth Avenue on the Sandgate Foreshore or check out the parks upgraded in the city’s east: • Balmoral Park, Morningside
• Darling Point Park, Manly
• Edward Kelk Park, Wynnum West
• Hawthorne Park, Hawthorne.
• Robinson Park, Tingalpa
COMING UP NEXT... Brisbane parks will keep getting better, with a $83.7 million Budget commitment towards upgrades and new parks, including new parks in Macgregor and Richlands, and three more ninja courses. Visit our website to search for parks by suburbs and facilities.
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t End Davies Park, Wes
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Please check event details and confirm with organisers that events are still going ahead before you make plans.
REGIONAL FLAVOURS: GLOBAL FIESTA 20-22 August, various times and prices, South Bank Parklands Experience a melting pot of international cuisine, culture and carnival. Browse a lively marketplace, enjoy live music, see roving performers and more. regionalflavours.com.au
I N YO U R R E G I O N WEST END MARKETS Saturdays, 6am-2pm, Davies Park, West End, FREE Shop for fresh produce, healthy snacks, fashion and gifts under a canopy of glorious fig trees. brisbane.qld.gov.au
WHEELY FUN SATURDAY BRIDGE TO BRISBANE 29 August, various times and entry prices, Gateway Bridge to Brisbane Showgrounds Lace up for the 4.5 km family-friendly course or meet the challenge of the 10 km route. bridgetobrisbane.com.au
7 August, 9-10am, Bulimba Riverside Park, Bulimba, FREE Watch in awe as our friendly trainers help children transition to two wheels. Suitable for 7 years and under. To book, search the event at eventbrite.com.au
VEGGIE GARDENING FREE
GREEN HEART FAIR 5 September, 8am-2pm, Carindale Recreation Reserve Get tips on living a more eco-friendly life, browse artisan market stalls and more at the family festival. greenheartfair.com.au
BIGSOUND 7-9 September, various venues, times and prices, Fortitude Valley Catch live sets by the hottest new acts in Australia and explore the future of music. bigsound.org.au
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BRISBANE FESTIVAL: SILVER CITY 3-25 September, Rainforest Green, South Bank, $35-$40 Enter a world of wonder and delight at this year’s Brisbane Festival. See acrobats tumble and leap as a performance unfolds inside Silver City. brisbanefestival.com.au WIN a family pass to Silver City on Saturday 4 September. To enter, visit our website and search ‘Living in Brisbane competition’. Entries close at 5pm on Friday 20 August.
CA21-658864-08-5474 ©2021 Brisbane City Council
8 August, 9.30-11.30am, Bethania Street Community Garden, Lota, FREE Learn to grow food all year round. Topics will include what to plant in each season, plant choices and how to plan a harvest. brisbane.qld.gov.au
FAMILY YOGA CLASS 14 August, 7.30-8.30am, Carindale Recreation Reserve, Carindale, FREE Come together to improve flexibility and strength, moving your body through a series of fun poses and interactive activities. brisbane.qld.gov.au
GOLD TENNIS 17 August, 10-11am, Morningside Tennis Centre, FREE Rediscover your love of the game with coaching for participants of all abilities. This is a GOLD event suitable for seniors. To book, call Morningside Tennis Centre on 3899 8110.
CANOE DISCOVERY 28 August, 10am-1pm, Wynnum Redlands Canoe Club, Thorneside, $20 Learn about Brisbane’s waterways and wetlands on a guided paddle along Tingalpa Creek. Suitable for 8 years and over. To book, search the event at eventbrite.com.au