Queen’s wharf restaurants and cafes to shine light on Brisbane’s history
The $3.6 billion development of Queen’s Wharf in Brisbane will breathe new life into heritage buildings dating back nearly 200 years, gardens and other historical elements.
The development will feature Parisian-style lanes and cafes, bars, restaurants and shops within heritage listed buildings.
The Wharf’s birthplace will also be highlighted.
“All of the heritage buildings and places are to be repurposed and reactivated for public use, so locals and visitors alike will have the unique chance to explore both the indigenous and European history of Brisbane through a variety of food and beverage, tourism, and retail experiences,” Star Entertainment Group managing director and chief executive Robbie Cooke said.
Cooke says the area’s history will become a major tourist attraction, with the development to tell the story of the First Nations people and European settlers who had called the precinct home.
“When it comes to protecting heritage, the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane project team left nothing to chance and ensured several culturally significant buildings were well secured ahead of the hard demolition and excavation works starting,” Cooke said.
Landmarks will be honoured, with the former government Printery to become the DFS Galleria luxury retail.
DFS vice-president (retail operations) Prashant Mahbooban said the company would “honour our commitment to the conservation and restoration of historical and cultural landmarks”.
Meanwhile, the former Land Administration Building which is now the Treasury Hotel will include fine dining and accommodation and The Mansions built in 1889, will feature a stoned lane and premium food and beverage offerings. Harris Terrace, built between 1866-1887, will become a luxury retail, cafe and bar venue.
“We’ve worked with local indigenous communities to incorporate First Nations storytelling and cultural links along the riverfront. The indigenous designs along the Mangrove Walk have already been revealed,” Cooke said.
“And in this latter phase of construction, we are working with heritage consultants ensuring the original heritage architecture and designs are preserved and restored for the current and future generations to enjoy.
“We are proud that the focus on preserving Brisbane’s heritage will help shine a new spotlight on both the city’s European and First Nation’s history. Especially as we get ready to invite the world to our Olympic city.”
Jonathan Jackson, 15th May 2023
