Palace Backpackers Hostel

Located on the corner of Ann and Edward Street, at 308 Edward Street, is the Palace Backpackers Hostel. One of the primary backpacker facilities in Brisbane, With a variety of accommodation from single and double rooms through to dormitory facilities, their is catering for many tastes, although if you go, you have to have a backpack (not suitcases!) There are a wide variety of shared facilities including: laundry; kitchen; BBQ area; TV and communal rooms; telephones; Internet; and licensed travel agent.

Formerly known as The People's Palace it was built in 1910-11 for the Salvation Army as a temperance hotel. It was designed by the Salvation Army's architect Colonel Saunders (no, not the Chicken Colonel!) Built near Central Railway Station, the hotel contained 130 rooms and provided inexpensive "working class" accommodation for travellers. This continues to this day, although I don't believe the temperance movement is too active there any more. Imagine if alcohol, gambling or `other evils' were not permitted on the premises these days!

The building still holds a strong cultural impact within the city. It is representative of federation style, and the cast iron balustrades are almost unique within the city. It even has the original lift beside the entry foyer. It really is a fantastic place for visitors to the city as well, as it is close to everything. If I were a backpacker this would be high on my choices of places to stay.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Robert Burns' Statue

At the request of a Scottish colleague, I ventured up to Centenary Place. Bounded by Ann, Boundary, Wickham and Gotha Street, the park is at the North-Eastern edge of the City. The reason for this was to investigate the large statue of Robert Burns, the world famous Scottish Poet and lyricist. He wanted to know when and why it was placed there. The statue itself is nearly 80 years old, and was erected by the Burns Club in 1929.

In her work, Civilising the City: Literary Societies and Clubs in Brisbane during the 1880s and 1890s, Leanne Day writes of the establishment and activities of the Scottish Societies in Brisbane. The Brisbane Burns Club was a men’s club. The general aim was to provide a facility for Scottish people to come together to enjoy, and importantly, to share their culture with the wider community. In her paper she notes: In 1888, the President of the Brisbane Burns Club, Alderman Galloway, contacted the President of the Queensland Scottish Association, Sir Thomas McIlwraith, to suggest their organisations combine forces (and funds) to erect a statue of Robert Burns in Brisbane... It was not until 1929 that the statue was finally erected in Centenary
Place and was dedicated to Brisbane by the Burns Club.


Not only does the pedestal hold the immortal bard, but also images of his life are etched into it as well. Unfortunately, some undesirables have currently graffitied the base, which hopefully will be cleaned up soon. The Scottish Clans of Brisbane have recently had their Burns' Nights. Burns' Night is celebrated on 25 January with Burns' Suppers around the world. I hope they had an enjoyable time!

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Memorial

At the intersection of Elizabeth and George Street, at the pathway entrance to Queens Gardens, stands the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) memorial. The memorial honours all men and women who served in the RAAF, especially those who in so doing gave their lives or suffered lasting hurt. The main feature of the memorial is the Wedge-tailed Eagle, perched upon a striking pedestal.

Made of bronze, granite and cast concrete, the sculpture is another of those by Rhyl Hinwood. Representing all branches of the Service, the memorial was commissioned to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the RAAF in 1996. On the granite base the RAAF Motto Per Ardua Ad Astra, is repeated on each facet, as well as emblazoned on the RAAF Crest and plaque which identifies the memorial.

I feel that this sculpture is a fitting memorial to RAAF personnel. These pictures do not do justice to the width of the Eagle, whose wingspan is well over two metres. In researching this piece, I found some interesting variants on the translation of the Latin. Since there can be a number of different meanings to "Ardua", scholars have declared it to be untranslatable. To the Royal Australian Air Force, however, it will remain translated as Through Adversity to the Stars.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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The View Down Mary Street

If you stand at the intersection of George and Mary Street, you have a view down Mary Street all the way from one end of the city through to the Story Bridge. This shot was taken near the Executive Building at 100 Queen Street, home of the current Queensland Treasury.

The central streets of Brisbane are named after members of the House of Hanover, part of the British Royalty. Streets named after female members (Adelaide, Alice, Ann, Charlotte, Elizabeth, Margaret, Mary) run parallel to Queen Street and Queen Street Mall (named in honour of Queen Victoria) and perpendicular to streets named after male members (Albert, Edward, George, William).

In history past, I could imagine standing at that same point over 100 years ago, and being surrounded on the high side of George Street by the many government buildings which had sprung up with Separation from New South Wales. I imagine that looking down the slope to the river, there would have been no high rise, and no bridge, just the early settlement and river traffic for what was to become the thriving hub of the North.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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The Regent

The Regent Theatre complex is a cinema treasure located at 167 Queen Street. Opened in 1929, the theatre is characteristic of a 1920s picture palace, and was one of only four Hoyts Picture Palaces constructed in Australia at the time. Originally it was erected for use as a theatre and cinema. The Regent was designed by Melbourne architect, Charles N. Hollinshed, with assistance from the Brisbane-based Richard Gailey Junior and Aaron Bolot. In the mid 1970s Hoyts planned the demolition of the Regent. A "Save the Regent" campaign was launched and a compromise was reached whereby the foyer and the marble staircase were retained. The new four cinema complex opened on 2 August 1980.

The photos I've added here do not do the cinema true justice, and I'd recommend you visit in person, or have a look at the Cinema Tours website for some much higher quality images. Another excellent site shows the history of the original theatre organ used at the theatre. The narrow black marble entrance hall has a decorated barrel-vaulted ceiling, friezes and stunning mural. The foyer is reminiscent of a medieval chapel. As you head up to the cinemas you get to traverse an immense white Queensland marble staircase which leads up to the mezzanine foyer.

I have to say that I love going to the movies. I'd much rather that than sit at home and watch a DVD. I prefer to sit in a cinema watching the big screen and feeling that sense of audience participation all around. Whilst the original cinema's here are no longer, the upgrades to the cinemas have given a whole modern aspect to what remains one of the best movie centres in Brisbane. Its no wonder that the Brisbane International Film Festival continues to do the majority of its screenings here!

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Queen Elizabeth II

This post is somewhat about Queen Elizabeth II. Well, its actually about her statue. This statue of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was unveiled by the then governor of Queensland, Sir Walter Campbell, on the 5th September, 1986. It was done at the official naming of the associated area known as Queen's Place, at the intersection of Alice and George Street. It was cast by the Adelaide Art Foundry in 1984.

Australia is a constitutional monarchy and part of the Commonwealth. Queen Elizabeth II has been the reigning monarch since 6 February 1952. The Queen's role in Australia is almost entirely symbolic and cultural, and the powers that are constitutionally hers are exercised wholly upon the advice of the elected government. That said, the symbolic and cultural influence yielded is quite strong, as evidenced by her representation in many Australian cities in this type of manner.

The Queen amazes me. Of all the worldly monarchs, she holds a certain place in most Australian's hearts, regardless of their republican or monarchy leanings. In 1984, when the statue was cast, the Queen would have been in her late 50's. I'm not sure if this depiction was meant to be of her in a younger representation, however, they have certainly captured the regal way in which the Queen holds herself. To me, the uplifted head, and almost model-like pose show a woman full of confidence and strident in her beliefs. Long live the Queen!

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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The Brisbane Synagogue

The Brisbane Synagogue at 98 Margaret Street was built in 1885 for the Brisbane Hebrew Congregation. It was Brisbane's first purpose built Synagogue, and is significant as an important development in nineteenth century Jewish worship in the city. It is in an unusual Byzantine style, and is constructed of stuccoed brickwork on a concrete foundation.

The synagogue has a long history within the Brisbane community. The Jewish families who settled in Queensland from the time of separation from New South Wales in 1859, formed the nucleus of the Brisbane Hebrew Congregation founded in Brisbane in 1865. They used temporary premises until the consecration of this synagogue in 1886. Renovations took place in 1965 to celebrate the centenary of the formation of the Brisbane Hebrew Congregation. Many people who had lost family members during the Holocaust donated additional stained glass windows. At this time the congregation's spiritual name "Kehilla Kedosha Sha'ari Emuna", the Holy Congregation of the Gates of Faith was added over the arched entry.

I love how these places of worship for the various faiths are dotted around the city. In this instance, it is again nestled between two highrise buildings. Of course, I haven't been inside this synagogue, although from the descriptions of the ornamental stained glass windows inside, I should try to get in one day. There remains a strong Jewish presence in Brisbane, although I lay little claim to fully understanding nor following their faith. I do, however, appreciate the architecture of their synagogue!

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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The Tattersall's Club

The Tattersall's Club at 215 Queen Street is one of the oldest clubs in Brisbane. The facade shown here is registered as 206 Edward Street. The club was founded in 1865 by a group of gentlemen who were prominent in both business and in the thoroughbred horseracing industry in Queensland. The Club derives its name from Tattersalls, the London horse auction mart and “subscription rooms” founded in 1776. It remains a private membership club, only open to men over 21 years old, at the Tattersall's committee discretion.

Today, the club offers a wide range of facilities, including: accommodation; library; gym; barber; pool; massage; billiards; card room; bars and dining; cellar; and associated specialty shops as part of the entrance arcade. The building itself is also an excellent and well intact example of Classical Revival and Art Deco Styles.

Being one of the last bastions of "men-only" clubs in Australia has not been without controversy. I personally don't have a problem with it, however, there are some who view it as sexist and elitist. If doddery old men want to pass their time drinking Scotch and smoking expensive cigars, who am I to argue! But then again, I wouldn't know any better whatsoever, and am unlikely to ever be asked to join!

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Government Printing Office

I came across one of the coolest pieces of architecture in the city today which made me stop and think "What were they thinking when they did that!?" Located at 110 George Street, it is now part of the Registry of Birth's, Death's and Marriages, but back then it was part of the Government Printing Office. The Government Printing Office (GOPRINT) as it is today has moved to Woolloongabba. For a significant time it was also home of the Brisbane Sciencentre, which has now relocated to the Queensland Museum at Southbank.

A printing office was initially established in Queensland in 1862 to print the official record of the proceedings of the House of Parliament. Over the intervening years there was much expansion, culminating in 1910 with a new addition fronting George Street. With the expansion it replaced a hotel, a variety of houses and shops. Perhaps these gargoyles were placed here in order to scare away the former residents!

The thing I am unsure about is whether these magnificent sculptures and stained glass windows were part of the renovation work which was undertaken in 1987, or whether they were originals. Either way, the restoration work which has been done makes them look like they were installed yesterday! I love the fact that these creatures are looking down upon all who pass by underneath each day, and most people wouldn't even have a clue they were there.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Emerging Spirit

Emerging Spirit is a sculpture located within King Edward Park which was commissioned by the Brisbane City Council and installed in 1991. King Edward Park reaches between Turbot Street and Wickham Terrace, and the sculpture is just up from the Turbot Street entrance to the park. The artists for the sculpture are John Fitz-Walter and Jennifer Farley.

Made from ceramic, the sculpture reaches close to 2.5 metres high. As best as I can discover, both artists are Brisbane residents. Both have had exhibitions or other commissions in the greater Brisbane region. In this instance it would appear Jennifer focused on the sculpted aspects of the structure, and John on the painted aspects, although I am not totally sure this was the case!

To me, this is quite an abstract piece of art. On the three pillars, the coloured stain which has been used makes it seem like the pillars are somehow translucent or transparent. It is almost like you are seeing the outline of the trees and foliage in the background. Then, with what appears to be coming from the right most pillar and extending onto the middle, you have the outline of the so called Emerging Spirit, a human form's shadow about to be brought to life before your eyes. You have to look again to determine if the shadow is real, or merely abstract thought.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Tympanum of the Pediment

The Brisbane City Hall faces King George Square. Bounded by the square, Ann Street and Adelaide Street, the building is one of the most significant buildings in Brisbane. One of the most famous sculptures in Brisbane, Progress of civilisation in the state of Queensland or Tympanum of the Pediment, is above the main entrance to City Hall.


Created by Sculptor Daphne Mayo, the sculpture was carved in Helidon Freestone (sandstone) over three years. Its unveiling on 17 December 1930, completed the construction of City Hall. The components are symbolic of the settlement of the State by the early pioneers. The central figure is the State protecting the citizens. The figures to the left hand side represent the native life (man and beast) dying out before the approach of the white man. The figures to the right hand side represent the early explorers discovering the possibilities of the new land and its industries. The overall length is 54 feet.

At night, they light up the main face of City Hall, with the tympanum being highlighted by a set of spotlights. This adds another dimension to an already impressive feature. The sculpture has had some controversy over the years, due to the apparent depiction of Aboriginal Australians. I don't believe that was the intent of Mayo back in the 1930's, as she undertook the artwork as a commission for the city council of the time, working to their themes. Aside from this, the sculpture is quite magnificent, and a fantastic representation of another master craftswoman at work.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Brisbane School of Arts

Located at 166 Ann Street, the Brisbane School of Arts is located in one of Brisbane's heritage buildings. It became the School in 1873 when it was bought for the then princely sum of 1,000 pounds. This was one of the precursors to the Queensland University of Technology, and it operated as the School of Arts through to 1965 when it was taken over by the Brisbane City Council.

The building was originally known as the Servant's Home. It was established around 1865 when Lady Diamantina Bowen, wife of the first Queensland Governor, Sir George Ferguson Bowen, erected the building as a clearing house and hostel for new domestic servants who had been attracted to work in the Queensland colony. Today, the building is let to a number of community groups, and can be used as a venue for hire via the council.

I'm glad that within the city there remain these rare examples from the history of Brisbane. Although the European aspects of our nation don't have the 1,000+ years of history of many other cultures, when we do have these historic sites I'm glad they can be restored to former glories, particular in CBD locations. I'm also glad that Art and Community continue to have a home in the City!

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Construction

All throughout the city there is a lot of construction work going on. It seems to be mainly residential apartments being built, however, there is also the significant work on the Inner Northern Busway which has affected King George Square. Sir Joh Bjelke-Peterson, a former Queensland Premier, coined the crane index as a measure of the economic wealth of the State. Via this simple mechanism one could believe that times are pretty good in Brisbane.

As I wandered the city streets I came across this example of some new apartments being built on the Riverside Expressway. This came on the back of news early last week that the Government is proposing a new North Bank development on the river. This particular development is known as Evolution in living. They always come up with interesting names to describe these new living spaces. The marketers must have a field day! This is a 37 level development with 178 apartments built by Citimark and expected to be completed sometime later this year.


What attracted me to the building in the first place was not purely that it was a construction site. It was the Preston Skip hanging from the side of the building, filled with what appears to be plastic piping. The way the pipes were strewn throughout the bin actually appears quite artistic. Perhaps it will become the forecourt sculpture for the new building!

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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The Tin Billy Band

Atop the tinbilly Travellers, a backpackers accommodation hostel, resides the Tin Billy Band. Located at 462 George Street, it is on the corner with Herschel Street and is very close to the Brisbane Transit Centre at Roma Street. What impresses me about the band is that they appear to have real instruments, including a trombone, violin, drums, and guitar. The band, led by who appears to be Mr Fourex, are all pretty cool dudes, and you have to love the ties.

The hostel offers a range of backpacker accommodation. Rates for shared rooms are quite cheap, and you can opt for dorms or your own room, which gets far more expensive. In addition, they have facilities such as communal cooking and dining, laundry, Internet access, travel office, cafe and bar. They also can help you find temporary work if you're looking for it.


I haven't been able to find out much detail on the actual artist of the sculpture, or the sculpture itself. I wasn't able to go in their today, due to having the kids with me. I might have to venture back to the pub to find out. I mean, how can you not love a pub that has The Simpsons on as their feature early viewing on Saturday and Sunday nights!

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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