Brisbane Airport’s long-term car parking rates have soared to among the most expensive in the world, drawing comparisons to major international airports. Brisbane’s long term parking fees now rival those of global transport hubs such as London Heathrow, San Francisco, and Doha’s Hamad International Airport.
According to Brisbane Airport Corporation’s (BAC) official website, the cost for parking in its ParkLong facility, its most popular car parking option, is now at $69 for a stay of between 4 and 24 hours, while a full week of parking will set travellers back $205. These prices place Brisbane among the top-tier of costly airport parking worldwide.
Photo credit: Brisbane Airport/Facebook
For context, the world’s most expensive airport for long-term parking is Hamad International Airport in Doha, where a week of parking costs an astonishing $538. London’s Heathrow Airport follows at $324 per week, while San Francisco International Airport rounds out the top three at $245 per week.
Despite Brisbane’s high ranking, BNE maintains that its pricing is competitive and designed to cater to a wide range of needs. A spokesperson defended the fees, stating that they were fair and catered to various budgets and requirements.
They also pointed out that the increasing demand for parking services, ranging from budget-friendly options like Airpark to premium Valet services, reflects the suitability of their pricing strategy.
Photo credit: Brisbane Airport/Facebook
For travellers seeking lower-cost options, Brisbane Airport offers AIRPARK and AIRPARK 2, budget-friendly open-air car parks located on airport grounds. These facilities operate 24/7 with surveillance, while a free shuttle service runs from early morning until midnight. Parking in these areas costs $7 for 1-2 hours.
While some travellers may balk at the rising costs, the airport asserts that it offers a variety of parking choices to suit different budgets. However, for many frequent flyers and holidaymakers, Brisbane’s rising fees may further encourage alternative transport options, such as rideshare services or off-site parking facilities.
As air travel continues to rebound post-pandemic, the cost of airport services—including parking—remains a hot topic for discussion among travellers looking for value and convenience.
The 12-storey mixed-use project, led by Gardner Vaughan Group (GVG), aims to integrate modern living with the suburb’s historical character. A key architectural feature is its two-level Art Deco-inspired facade, designed to complement the surrounding area.
Photo credit: Gardner Vaughan Group
GVG chief executive Simon Betteridge noted that the project is intended to foster a sense of community rather than simply providing residential spaces. He added that, having been based in Nundah for over a decade, the company aimed for the development to reflect the area’s historical and contemporary elements while strengthening local connections.
Development Features
Photo credit: Gardner Vaughan Group
Danby Lane will include 84 apartments with configurations ranging from one to four bedrooms, as well as four penthouses. The development will also incorporate ground-floor retail spaces, commercial areas, and several resident amenities.
All one-bedroom apartments have been sold. Prices for the remaining units start at $909,000 for two-bedroom apartments, $1.279 million for three-bedroom apartments, and $2.149 million for four-bedroom apartments. The penthouses, featuring larger layouts and high-end finishes, are priced up to $3.199 million.
Each apartment is designed with open-plan living spaces, spacious balconies, and modern finishes. The main bedrooms include walk-in wardrobes and ensuites.
Amenities and Location
Photo credit: Gardner Vaughan Group
Residents will have access to a podium-level outdoor pool, a gymnasium, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views and outdoor dining areas. The development’s location provides easy access to public transport, major road networks, and Brisbane Airport.
Nearby cycling and walking paths offer additional lifestyle benefits. The GVG head office will also move to Danby Lane, reinforcing the company’s ongoing presence in the area.
Betteridge stated that the project represents an investment in Nundah’s future, with the goal of supporting its continued development as a well-connected and evolving community.
With the Toombul Shopping Centre now completely demolished, the once-bustling retail hub has been reduced to an empty space, leaving locals eager to know what will rise in its place. Amid the uncertainty, Mirvac has provided a glimpse of what’s to come, announcing plans of seeking financial and development partners to bring new life to the flood-prone location.
Mirvac, which purchased the flood-prone property in 2016 for $233 million and invested another $35 million in upgrades, is now looking at a fresh approach to the site. The company has received support from BCC to transform the former shopping centre into a transit-oriented mixed-use precinct. This development could include residential apartments, retail outlets, and improved public transport connections, aiming to make the most of Toombul’s strategic location.
While there has been speculation that the site could be used for the 2032 Olympic Games, Mirvac has instead focused on a long-term solution that considers its flood history. The company has been in discussions with authorities to outline key development parameters, including traffic management, the design of a new bus interchange, open spaces, and—most critically—a flood mitigation strategy.
A Site with a Troubled Past
Photo credit: Jared Pollack/Facebook
Toombul Shopping Centre was a key retail destination for decades, housing hundreds of stores and serving as a central hub for the local community. However, after the 2022 disaster forced the termination of hundreds of leases, the site was ultimately demolished in 2023 following BCC approval, marking the end of an era for many shoppers and businesses.
The absence of the once-thriving retail hub has already caused significant disruptions for nearby shopping precincts, leading to increased parking congestion and a gap in retail services for local residents.
Flooding remains the biggest challenge for any future development at Toombul. The site has been inundated multiple times, including during the 2011 and 2015 floods. Any new plans must incorporate robust flood resilience measures to prevent history from repeating itself.
Mirvac acknowledges this concern and has stated that addressing flood risk is “the most important part of the puzzle.” The company will need to develop a strategy that balances commercial viability with climate resilience, ensuring that any new structures are designed to withstand extreme weather events.
Next Steps: Finding the Right Partners
Photo credit: Google Maps
With BCC’s backing, Mirvac is now focused on finding financial backers and construction partners to bring its vision to life. Given the scale of the redevelopment and the current challenges in the construction industry, Mirvac is taking a collaborative approach. The company has begun engaging with a targeted group of potential investors and builders who can help turn the site into a modern urban centre.
Mirvac noted that with council support confirming permissible developments for the site, they have started discussions with selected potential partners, including investors and construction firms, to move forward with the redevelopment. Mirvac stated.
The redevelopment of Toombul Shopping Centre presents a unique opportunity to reshape the area. If executed well, the project could provide much-needed housing, reinvigorate retail activity, and improve public transport connectivity. However, success will depend on how effectively Mirvac and its partners navigate the site’s flood risks and ensure that the new Toombul is built to withstand future challenges.
For now, residents and businesses in the area are waiting to see how this transformation unfolds—and whether it can finally fill the void left by Toombul’s demolition.
German Jesuit priest and globally recognised safeguarding expert Fr Hans Zollner delivered a powerful address at Holy Spirit Seminary in Banyo, urging the Church to embed safeguarding as an integral part of its mission.
Speaking to clergy, religious leaders, safeguarding officers, parishioners, and church workers, Fr Zollner acknowledged the progress made in tackling sexual abuse within the Church while emphasising the need for continuous efforts.
During his talk, Fr Zollner, a founding member of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, reflected on how the landscape had shifted since his last visit to Brisbane in 2017. At the time, the Australian Church was grappling with the findings of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.
Fr Hans Zollner (Photo credit: Joe Higgins/ The Catholic Leader)
Now, while significant steps have been taken—particularly in Australia, which he described as being at the forefront of global safeguarding efforts—he stressed that more must be done to address past failures and prevent future harm.
At the heart of his message was the need to shift perspectives on safeguarding. Rather than viewing it as merely a legal or administrative obligation, he urged the Church to embrace it as a proactive and hopeful mission.
He likened this shift to the Church’s response to ecological issues under Pope Francis, who championed environmental responsibility in his encyclical Laudato Si’. Just as environmental awareness has become deeply embedded in Catholic life, Fr Zollner believes safeguarding should become a natural and fundamental aspect of Church culture.
He rejected simplistic explanations for the abuse crisis, such as blaming celibacy or homosexuality, and instead called for a deeper understanding of the structural and cultural factors that enabled abuse. “Listening to survivors is crucial,” he said, in shaping effective safeguarding measures.
His message resonated strongly with those in attendance. Anne-Marie Williams, a Brisbane Catholic working in pastoral care with Mercy Community, described his speech as refreshing but also a sobering reminder of the work that still lies ahead.
“It is devastating to know firsthand that these stories are not rare – and that a lot of the abuse crisis stems from repeated patterns and failure to respond appropriately and quickly,” she said. Williams emphasised that safeguarding should not be a “box-ticking habit” but a lived reality in every aspect of Church work.
Brisbane Archdiocese’s Safeguarding Office director, Mark Eustance, echoed Fr Zollner’s call for safeguarding to be fully integrated into the Church’s mission. He acknowledged that while great strides had been made, including the results of a recent external parish safeguarding audit, there is still a need for continued commitment, especially with the upcoming Queensland Child Safe Standards and Reportable Conduct Scheme set to take effect in late 2024.
Ipswich community priest Fr Minje Kim was also moved by Fr Zollner’s insights, particularly on the challenge of fostering a sense of togetherness while ensuring appropriate boundaries for victims and survivors. He recognised that many survivors may never feel comfortable returning to Church spaces, making it essential for the Church to find meaningful ways to accompany them on their healing journey.
Fr Zollner’s visit to Banyo was part of a broader speaking tour across Australia, with upcoming engagements in Sydney and Melbourne. His call for safeguarding to be seen as a source of hope, rather than just a means of avoiding harm, continues to inspire reflection and action within the Church.
His final message was clear: safeguarding is not just a responsibility but a moral commitment that must be woven into the fabric of the Church’s identity. By fostering safe spaces, building trust, and prioritising the dignity of every individual, the Church can work towards lasting change.
Cribb Island was once a lively and unique suburb nestled 16 km north-east of Brisbane’s central business district. Now a distant memory, the island was last listed in Brisbane street directories in 1981, but its history is rich with stories of early settlement, tourism, and the rise of a famous musical family.
The story of Cribb Island begins with John George Cribb, who purchased 150 acres of land there in 1863, primarily for farming purposes.
In 1885, Cribb sold 65 acres of this land to James Jackson, who transformed it into a banana farm. Jackson’s banana plantation flourished, and the area soon became widely known as Jackson’s Estate.
Cribb Island (centre north), 1889 (Photo credit: Public Domain/ Queensland Open Data Wikimedia Commons)
In addition to the banana farm, the remaining land not used by Jackson for cultivation was leased out to livestock farmers. Over time, Jackson’s Estate grew as a key part of the Cribb Island region. Its proximity to the shores of Moreton Bay and its fertile land made it an ideal location for farming.
Though the name suggests an island, Cribb Island was never a true island. It was instead encircled by Jacksons and Serpentine Creeks and was divided into two areas of settlement, connected by Cribb Island Road, which traversed the swampy mudflats of the region.
Cottage on Cribb Island, ca 1929 (Photo credit: Brisbane John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland)
The first settlement, on the shores of Moreton Bay, was home to a post office (established in 1920) and a Methodist church, while the second, located further inland, housed a primary school (opened in 1919) and recreational reserves.
Despite its somewhat isolated location, Cribb Island was part of a broader area once known as The Serpentine, a vast swamp between the mouths of the Brisbane River and Kedron Brook. This swamp was home to a small Indigenous community of about 50 people, who traded locally caught fish and mud crabs with the early European settlers for bread and potatoes.
A local beside the Serpentine Creek, ca 1929 (Photo credit: Brisbane John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland)
Access to the suburb was limited for many years. The only road leading into the area was a floating structure atop logs, which often became impassable due to flooding. In 1914, a more permanent road was built, making the island accessible to standard motor vehicles. By the 1920s, Cribb Island and the neighbouring Jackson’s Estate became popular with tourists, drawn to its proximity to Brisbane and its idyllic seaside setting.
Christmas celebrations on Cribb Island, December 1931 (Photo credit: Brisbane John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland)
During the 1930s, the population swelled as the suburb became a haven for those struggling during the Great Depression. The island’s low-cost housing and the fishing opportunities in Moreton Bay made it an attractive option for many. By the 1920s, over 250 people called Cribb Island home, and its beach, reminiscent of Nudgee Beach, was a popular spot for locals.
The Gibb Family: From Cribb Island to Global Stardom
The Bee Gees in 1967 – left to right: Barry Gibb, Robin Gibb, Vince Melouney, and Maurice Gibb with Colin Petersen, who was first non-Gibb brother to become an official member of the Bee Gees (Photo credit: Public Domain/Atco Records/Wikimedia Commons)
Perhaps the most notable chapter in Cribb Island’s history is its connection to the Gibb brothers, better known as the Bee Gees. Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb lived on the island in the early 1960s, enrolling at Cribb Island State School. Barry left in 1960, followed by Robin and Maurice in 1961.
Robin and Maurice Gibb among the Cribb Island State School class of 1961 (Photo credit: Pat N Gary Duncan/Facebook)
The Gibb family had moved from England to Australia in 1958, settling in Redcliffe then in Cribb Island. The brothers later became famous for their music career, with many of their childhood memories tied to the island’s shores. The family is believed to have lived on Elmslie Street, which today is a place of nostalgia for the residents of the lost suburb.
A Modern Tribute: Remembering Cribb Island at Brisbane Airport
Today, the legacy of Cribb Island is not only preserved in the memories of its former residents but also celebrated in contemporary tributes. The ibis Brisbane Airport hotel, situated on land that once formed part of Cribb Island, embraces this heritage in a unique way. Upon entering the lobby, visitors are greeted by a display of historical images that capture the vibrant past of Cribb Island, offering a visual journey through its storied history. In addition, the hotel’s restaurant—named the Cribb Island Beach Club—serves as a living tribute to the community, keeping its memory alive amidst the modern developments of Brisbane Airport. Read more about the Cribb Island Beach Club here.
However, Cribb Island’s days as a suburban community were numbered. In 1970, the Australian Government began the process of resuming land on the island to make way for the expansion of Brisbane Airport.
Photo credit: Brisbane Airport/bne.com.au
At the time, the population was around 900, but over the following decade, the government acquired the land, and most of the residents were forced to leave. The last holdout, a woman who had lived on the island for years, left in 1980, marking the end of Cribb Island as a populated suburb.
In 1986, the Queensland Government officially erased Cribb Island and Lower Nudgee from the map, declaring that no trace of either suburb remained. Today, the area is part of the sprawling Brisbane Airport precinct, and the memory of the suburb lives on only in the stories of those who once called it home.
Remnants of Cribb Island Road on Jim Soorley Bikeway (Photo credit: CC BY-SA 3.0/Zpunout/Wikimedia Commons)
For many former residents, a Facebook group named “Cribb Island” serves as a virtual meeting place, allowing them to reconnect and share memories of the place that was once their home. The group is a testament to the lasting impact of Cribb Island’s history, even though the suburb itself no longer exists.
As Brisbane Airport continues to expand, Cribb Island remains a part of the city’s forgotten history—its beaches, its schools, and its community a memory for those who lived there, including the Bee Gees, who would go on to become global superstars. Cribb Island, though no longer marked on the map, will forever remain in the hearts of those who remember it as a small, close-knit bayside community.
Brisbane Airport is set to become the launch site for Australia’s first hydrogen-powered commercial flights as Brisbane-based Stralis Aircraft prepares for test flights and a 2027 rollout.
Stralis Aircraft, with headquarters in Brisbane Airport, is set to become a key player in Australia’s shift towards clean aviation, with plans underway to introduce the country’s first hydrogen-powered commercial flights.
In collaboration with Central Queensland (CQ) University, Starlis Aircraft is developing a hydrogen-electric propulsion system that could make air travel cheaper and more sustainable. If successful, the technology will be used for regular flights between Brisbane and Gladstone by 2027, potentially transforming regional air travel.
A Push for Cleaner Skies
Stralis Aircraft is working to integrate high-temperature proton-exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells into aircraft, which provide greater efficiency and power compared to traditional hydrogen fuel cells. The company has already completed ground tests, successfully using gaseous hydrogen to turn a propeller, and is now preparing for a test flight later this year.
The aviation industry has long struggled to cut emissions, with most airlines still relying on fossil fuels. Hydrogen, however, produces zero carbon emissions, releasing only water vapour into the atmosphere.
CQ University hydrogen expert Jonathon Love noted that while batteries work for short-haul flights, hydrogen is better suited for mid-range routes, making it an ideal solution for regional travel in Australia.
Photo Credit: Stralis
Brisbane’s Role in the Green Transition
For Stralis Aircraft’s hydrogen flights to become a reality, Brisbane Airport will likely need new refuelling infrastructure. Green hydrogen production is still in its early stages in Australia, but Stralis is actively sourcing hydrogen from local suppliers, particularly in Gladstone.
Dr Emma Whittlesea from Stralis Aircraft stated that while liquid hydrogen offers greater energy efficiency, handling and storage challenges remain.
With the aviation sector under pressure to decarbonise, Brisbane Airport’s involvement in hydrogen-powered flight could position the city as a leader in sustainable air travel. While major international airports focus on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) as an interim solution, regional airports like Brisbane are exploring alternative pathways to reduce their carbon footprint.
Global Interest and Future Outlook
The demand for cleaner aviation technology is growing, and Stralis Aircraft has already attracted $372 million in letters of intent from 10 airlines across multiple continents. While specific airlines remain confidential, interest spans the United States, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.
SkyTrans Airlines, a regional carrier, has already signed on as a launch customer, aiming to operate Brisbane-to-Gladstone flights using Stralis’ hydrogen aircraft.
As test flights approach, the next major challenge will be scaling up hydrogen production and infrastructure to support regular commercial use. Dr Whittlesea expressed confidence that these hurdles will be overcome for the 2027 launch.
Known for its blend of classic takeout favourites and comforting Vietnamese cuisine, this unassuming café has become a cherished part of local life.
At Pam’s Cafe 88, you will find a delightful menu that pairs perfectly cooked fish and chips, juicy burgers, and other takeaway staples with flavours inspired by the Trans’ Vietnamese heritage. Whether you’re craving a hearty classic or something a little more exotic, there’s always a dish to satisfy.
Photo credit: Adriana Rodriguez/Google Maps
More than just a café, Pam’s is also a one-stop convenience hub for locals and visitors heading out to fish on the bay. Inside, you’ll find a milk fridge, a small shelf of pantry basics, bait supplies, and a fridge stocked with soft drinks. Above it all, menus hang proudly, showcasing a mix of Brisbane favourites and dishes that nod to Vietnam.
Photo credit: Richard Jones/Google Maps
The story of Pam’s Cafe 88 began in 1980 when Pam and Harry Tran arrived in Australia as refugees. Pam spent years perfecting her cooking skills in restaurant kitchens, including the renowned Viet De Lites in South Bank, while Harry worked as a motor mechanic. In 2000, the couple took on the lease of the café, which had been empty for a year, and transformed it into the vibrant community hub it is today.
A standout feature of Pam’s Cafe 88 is its twin photo boards at the entrance, displaying smiling faces of customers who’ve become lifelong friends of the café. These photos reflect the special role Pam’s plays in the community, welcoming locals from nearby streets and visitors from all across Brisbane who make Pam’s a must-visit stop on their trips to Nudgee Beach.
While the café’s offerings are varied, Pam’s fish and chips remain a firm favourite. Known for their crisp, golden batter and fresh flavour, they’ve become a local legend.
Harry shares that Pam’s Cafe 88 has become a well-loved landmark within the local community. Reflecting on their success over the past 25 years, he notes how fortunate they feel to still be thriving. He highlights the importance of being a visible and approachable presence in the business, as locals appreciate the opportunity to stop by, sit down, and have a chat.
Pam’s Cafe 88 is more than just a place to grab a meal—it’s a cornerstone of Nudgee Beach life. For locals, it’s a friendly gathering spot; for visitors, it’s a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its rich history, welcoming atmosphere, and mouth-watering food, Pam’s Cafe 88 continues to warm hearts and fill stomachs year after year.
Valerie-Ann Abbott, a product lead for a global platform, first began kettlebell training at her local gym after a coach encouraged her to try it.
She never expected to compete on the world stage a few years later. In October 2024, Abbott travelled to Greece with eight Australian athletes to compete in the Kettlebell World Championship. Despite her busy work schedule, Abbott prioritises her training, fitting in four weekly sessions. These sessions, programmed by her coach in Scotland, focus on full-body strength and endurance.
Abbott believes her success is due to her “train hard, compete easy” motto. By varying her training conditions, she prepares for unexpected challenges during competitions. The strong support within the Australian team also played a crucial role. Kettlebell lifting is an individual sport, and Abbott explained that hearing her teammates cheer her on helped her push through the pain and achieve her goals.
Abbott was impressed by the diverse range of athletes at the championship, from a six-year-old to a 76-year-old competitor. She believes this shows that kettlebell lifting is a sport for everyone.
Abbott encourages anyone interested in the sport to try it out and join the growing community in Brisbane. She highlights the quality of local trainers and the sport’s accessibility, noting that four of the eight Australian team members were from Brisbane clubs.
Abbott is already setting sights on the next World Championship in Milan, Italy. She plans to compete in the professional category, where she lifts 24kg kettlebells instead of her usual 16kg, and aims to win gold. She is excited to continue her kettlebell journey and see what the future holds.
Residents and commuters in Nundah can look forward to safer streets, as a major upgrade is underway at the intersection of Melton Road and Nellie Street.
The project, funded by the Australian Government’s Black Spot Program, aims to address a history of accidents and improve conditions for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike.
Between 2017 and 2021, this intersection witnessed seven reported crashes, two of which resulted in hospitalisations. Authorities identified the primary cause as drivers attempting turns with insufficient gaps in traffic, a consequence of extended delays at the intersection and poor visibility due to current parking arrangements.
Photo Credit: Google Map
The Brisbane City Council is implementing a comprehensive safety upgrade to combat these issues. Key improvements include:
Construction of two new pedestrian refuges on Nellie Street, providing safe havens for those crossing Melton Road.
Extension of ‘no stopping’ lines and removal of some informal parking to significantly enhance visibility for all road users.
Realignment of kerbs and footpaths, coupled with the addition of pram ramps on all corners, to ensure accessibility and smooth pedestrian flow.
Installation of additional stop signs on Nellie Street to reinforce traffic control and reduce the risk of collisions.
These measures are expected to significantly reduce the risk of accidents and create a more pedestrian-friendly environment. The project also includes landscaping and new line marking to enhance the intersection’s overall aesthetic. This initiative reflects the Council’s ongoing commitment to improving road safety throughout Brisbane.
Positioned across from Woolworths, the eatery provides options for both dine-in and takeaway, focusing on straightforward flavours and a simple dining experience.
The menu comprises of Korean cuisine ranging from rice boxes ($16–$18) with options like chicken karaage, spicy pork, bulgogi beef, tofu with sweet miso. Offering similar protein options, there are kimchi fried rice boxes ($17–$19) and yaki udon ($16–$18) for something heartier.
Along with lighter choices like fried chicken ($12–$15), broccoli poppers ($10), and just spare ribs ($23), traditional Korean meals including bibimbap ($17–$18) and kimchi stew ($19–$22) are also available. On hand to go with meals are add-ons including sauces, kimchi, and steamed rice.
Dishes such as spicy chicken yaki udon and bulgogi beef yaki udon have been well-received, with diners appreciating the balance of flavours. Dan Warner enjoyed the spicy chicken yaki udon, noting its rich spice and warm flavours, while Jessica Govenlock praised the bulgogi beef yaki udon and mentioned plans to return specifically to try the broccoli poppers after they were unavailable during her visit.
The dining area at Seoul Blues is compact, with a mix of communal wooden tables and smaller seating arrangements. An open kitchen sits at the far end, offering a view of meals being prepared. Greenery and bright artwork add to the otherwise minimalistic design, while large glass windows let in natural light during the day.
Although the space is designed with takeaway in mind, seating is available for those who prefer to dine in. The clean kitchen and bright atmosphere have also been highlighted by visitors as positive aspects of their experience.
Seoul Blues has quietly settled into the local dining scene, with diners regularly returning for familiar dishes like bibimbap and yaki udon. The space offers a consistent experience for both takeaway and dine-in meals, with a focus on delivering familiar Korean flavours in a straightforward way.
