Queen’s Wharf & The Star Precinct Officially Open, ushering in a transformative era for tourism and entertainment in Queensland

One of Australia’s most anticipated developments that’s been in the works for nearly a decade, the $3.6bn project is finally open. The tiered opening includes Queensland’s newest 5-star resort, The Star Brisbane, along with the queen’s Wharf leisure and entertainment precinct, covering 12ha in Brisbane City.

The Star Brisbane CEO, Daniel Finch, said the highly anticipated opening was a landmark moment.

“Today is a historic occasion not just for Brisbane, but all of Australia. Our incredible team of nearly 3,000 dedicated individuals have poured heart and soul into creating a resort that will redefine entertainment and hospitality standards in our city,” Finch said.

“We are thrilled to welcome everyone to experience the magic and momentum of The Star Brisbane, a destination that has been years in the making and is set to elevate our city onto the global stage.”

At the center of this weekends openings is the 340-room The Star Grand luxury hotel, fully booked for opening weekend, along with a host of 50-plus culinary and entertainment experiences, including the 100m-high Sky Deck – ideal for viewing the Riverfire spectacular, part of the Brisbane Festival.

The first collection of dining and entertainment options will also open throughout today, such as Luke Nguyen’s reimagined Fat Noodle, Japanese restaurant Sokyo, Cicada Blue rooftop cocktail bar, Sports Bar and the LiveWire music venue.

Anthony Ryan, CEO of the Brisbane Economic Development Agency, added, “The Queen’s Wharf precinct is a game-changer that will transform Brisbane’s skyline and supercharge the region’s AU$10.6 billion visitor economy.

“In addition to new world-class hotels, event venues and a stunning riverside precinct, this landmark development will further catapult Brisbane’s reputation on the world stage as a must-do destination. Brisbane’s global popularity as a city to live, work, visit and invest is taking the world by storm. The addition of Queen’s Wharf just adds another compelling reason why Brisbane is the new hero of Queensland tourism.”

Northshore Vision 2050: A Legacy Plan Transforming Brisbane Beyond the Olympic Games

Brisbane is on the brink of a transformative journey with the unveiling of Northshore Vision 2050!

This ambitious masterplan is set to redefine our city’s future, turning under-utilised industrial land into a vibrant precinct that will leave a lasting legacy beyond the Brisbane 2032 Games. Imagine a world-class 60,000-seat stadium, a stunning riverfront promenade, and a thriving hub of business, culture, and recreation – all connected by lush green spaces and elevated walkways.

This visionary project, crafted by the Brisbane Design Alliance, isn’t just about the Games; it’s about creating a sustainable, dynamic, and inclusive urban space that reflects the rich history and bright future of Brisbane. From 12,000 new homes to innovation zones, cultural venues, and even a green pedestrian bridge linking to Bulimba, Northshore Vision 2050 is set to become the heart of Brisbane’s growth and global appeal.

As we look ahead to the Brisbane 2032 Olympics, Northshore Vision 2050 promises to showcase our city’s natural beauty and vibrant culture to the world, setting a new standard for urban living.

MEKKA Raceday Is Back At Doomben Racecourse

This year’s epic line-up of live music includes some of Australia’s best artists including ILLY, Teddy Cream and Brooklyn. Multi-platinum-selling artist, ILLY, is set to headline this year’s MEKKA Raceday. The songwriter and performer has grown from Australian hip-hop champion to one of the country’s most in-demand and dynamic pop artists today.

In between the live music, enjoy being trackside at Doomben with a 9-race feature programme of thrilling thoroughbred action.

Tickets are still available here: https://events.brc.com.au/2024-mekka-raceday

Pawn & Co, Fortitude Valley’s New Cocktail Bar That Doubles As A Pawn Shop And Perfumery

Born in Melbourne 11 years ago, where the OG venue is still going strong, this novel experience isn’t just pawn club-themed—you’ll actually be able to buy everything on the shelves and even the bar itself if you’ve got deep enough pockets. 

Taking over the space left behind by Laruche on Ann Street, the bar has some big shoes to fill, but after a sneak peek inside, we’re confident it’s going to deliver. Boasting multiple spaces for drinking, dancing and celebrating, the bar will also feature an actual perfumery where you can curate your own signature scent, a piano bar  in an actual piano and a Rolex menu.

Co-founders Josh Lefers and Stephen Wools are well-known for creating memorable venues, and Pawn & Co Brisbane is set to be their most unforgettable yet. $4 million has been spent on the jaw-dropping space, which features everything from a giant gramophone that doubles as a smoke machine to bar seating made to look like upright pianos. Completed by Lowry Group, the fit out is more luxe than the Melbourne venue of the same name by design.

No matter what gets you through the door, make sure you scope out what’s in the pawn shop display cases that line almost every inch of the venue. From designer handbags and original Banksys to kitsch novelty sunglasses, you never know what you’ll take home.

Pawn & Co opens on 9 August, stay tuned for when bookings open.