The Unfolding Story of the River City

The Property Council’s Queensland Lunch: The Unfolding Story of the River City, held this week at the Sofitel Hotel Brisbane, provided an exclusive look at the exciting new redevelopment in store for Brisbane’s waterfront precinct.

The river is Brisbane’s greatest natural asset and most significant feature, explained James Tuma, National Director of Urbis and Chair of the Property Council of Australia’s Committee for Cities.

It underpins Australia’s enviable quality of life, provides us with a central organising point for investment and infrastructure, and creates a compelling people centred place, he continued.

Matthew Beasley, Office Development Queensland for Dexus, provided an overview of the $1.4 billion redevelopment, which includes a new and improved Riverwalk, two new towers, riverfront dining and retail outlets, complemented by 1.5 hectares of accessible public and riverfront space.

“It’s the face of the city,” explained Matthew, “a destination that will showcase the best of what Brisbane is about.”

Continuing the discussion of Brisbane’s latest developments, Matthew was joined by Luke Fraser, CEO of Howard Smith Wharves and Geoff Hogg, Managing Director Queensland of The Star Entertainment Group, for a panel discussion, moderated by Kirsti Simpson, Director of Hassell.

Panellists agreed the redesign of the waterfront precinct, combined with the emergence of Howard Smith Wharves, Queen’s Wharf and the delivery of key infrastructure projects, will provide incredible opportunities for Brisbane, “They are game changers for the city” added Luke.

The infrastructure projects, Cross River Rail and Brisbane Metro will improve connectivity across and within precincts, reduce congestion and facilitate movement, “I’m happy with the infrastructure projects and I would like to see more,” said Matthew.

The combined value of the projects is certainly a step in the right direction, but panellists also suggested that Brisbane needs further investment to progress towards a 24-hour lifestyle, echoing  recommendations from Greg Clark’s, ‘Creating Great Australian Cities‘.

The Property Council would like to thank Matthew, Luke, Geoff, Kirsti and James for their informative discussion; our event sponsor, Hutchinson Builders; and support sponsor, Ray White.

 

Sponsor:

 

Support Sponsor: