Mephisto

Mephisto is the last surviving German A7V Sturmpanzerwagen tank from the World War I. Accessible from the Dinosaur Garden at the Queensland Museum at Southbank, the tank is enclosed in glass with a number of informational displays on its history. The Germans produced only this one type of tank during the first World War. Only 20 of them were built during 1918, and they saw action from March to October that year. This one, dubbed "Mephisto", is chassis number 506. As much as possible, the Museum has attempted to preserve its original condition, so the tank is no longer operational.


The tank was effectively disabled at Villers-Bretonneux during a the first tank versus tank fight on 24 April 1918. On the 25th April in a counter offensive, the ground where the tank had stalled was retaken Australian and British troops. The Germans did attempt to destroy it, however, it remained stranded in a shell hole over the following months until the 28th Batallion, consisting mostly of troops from Queensland, determined to recover it.


How amazing is this? In all the world, a German historic replica ends up in a museum in Brisbane! It got here effectively as a keepsake when it was loaded onto the SS Armagh for transport to Australia on 2 April 1919. Even then Prime Minister Billy Hughes got involved in deciding it could remain in Brisbane as part of the Queensland Museum where it has resided ever since.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Spencers Building

There are times when I wander around the city that I come across places and wonder what there history could be. Like in any city in the world, you can come across derelict buildings. This one, at 45-47 Edwards Street, is in obvious need of repair. Although the facade is still intact, inside is a complete mess. There is rubbish and signs of squatters on the main entrance floor, and although the main structure is intact, the building is basically untenantable. There is also graffiti over the building as well.

However, there was a time when this building, and its associated building next door, formed part of the warehouse district near the bustling original Port of Brisbane. Known as Spencers Building, the building was completed in 1890 to a design by colonial architect FDG Stanley. Unfortunately it was flooded in the 1890 floods not long after completion, however over the intervening years it was used as a coach building premises, tent manufacturer, leather manufacturer, and as is noted on the facade, a typewriter dealer. Unfortunately it has since fallen into disrepute.

I can only hope that at some point in the near future, the building will be redeveloped, and the classical Victorian detailing will be maintained. There is still hope for this, as the adjacent building still maintains an example of what the facade could be like if the entire structure was refurbished. There is ample space inside and whatever its future holds, it does offer its owner a great opportunity to maintain the aesthetic qualities of this type of architecture.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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The Tidal Indicator

The Tidal Indicator is a sculpture created by artist Nola Farman, at Petrie’s Bight on the Brisbane River. It was installed in 2003 at the entrance to the Brisbane River Boardwalk. It was created as a commissioned work for the Devine company's then new apartment block River Place.


Sydney based West Australian artist Nola Farman has been commissioned to produce large public artworks such as this and others in Brisbane and throughout Australia. She also has international renown, with her works in collections in Paris, London, Canada and New Zealand. I am slightly unsure whether the stonework at the base of the sculpture is part of the artwork, and I assume it is. The inscriptions are quite reflective of humanities place in the world with phrases such as Here and Now and There and Gone.

I like how from certain vantage points the arch of the Tidal Indicator frames the Story Bridge. I also learnt something new as I researched this piece. "Littoral" means of or pertaining to the shore of a lake, sea or ocean. It is also used to reflect the area between the low and high water marks. This makes it ideal in referring to a tidal marker. If only our city's dam levels could reach these high water marks at the moment.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Motorcycle Culture

With the continuing increase in petrol prices, and the ongoing traffic congestion which occurs around Brisbane, one of the alternatives being sort by more and more city dwellers is use of motorcycles or scooters. Over the past five years there has been a definite upswing in the number of riders in and around the city. There are different makes and models being used, from the larger, faster, performance bikes, through to scooters and even old postal delivery bikes. Although we haven't quite matched the Asian countries on uptake, more people are making use of this form of travel.

One of the biggest growth areas has been in Scooters. Scooters are economical to buy and a whole lot cheaper to run around on than public transport! On top of that, in Queensland you can ride a scooter up to 50cc on a Car licence. Anything over 50cc will require you to have a Motorcycle licence. There are a number of places where you can buy scooters, including Scootopia and TeamMoto. There are less bike rental options in the city, although if you go North or South to the holiday spots, it is quite easy to pick up rentals, for example, Aussie Biker tours and rentals offer a range of bikes.

As you can see from these two shots, parking is also a little easier to get! This area on Turbot Street has seen a growing increase in bike patronage, and even thought the signs urge riders not to park beyond certain boundaries, these seem to be often ignored. Regardless, the city has a real need to cater for this upsurge, and catering for our bikers is an important aspect of the continuing growth of another form of cheap and alternative transport which reduces the number of cars on the roads.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Former State Library of Queensland

The building at 159 William Street has a long and auspicious history within the public life of Brisbane. Like many other buildings in the area along William Street, this is another of the city buildings designed by Colonial Architect Francis Drummond Greville (FDG) Stanley. It was modelled on 16th century Italian architecture. Constructed between 1876 and 1879, it was the first purpose-built home for the Queensland Museum.


Unfortunately, it proved inadequate for museum purposes. It reopened as the Public Library of Queensland in April 1902. Over the years the collection expanded, and the the library building itself was extended in 1958-59. The name was changed to the State Library of Queensland in 1971. In 1988 the State Library moved to new, larger premises in the Queensland Cultural Centre at Southbank.


Along with the historic building, the associated annex with mural by Victorian artist Lindsay Edwards, are still prominent architectural and artistic features on William Street. I believe the building may still be used as a library store, although I also understand that it is partially home to offices of Tabcorp, associated with the Treasury Casino across the road. Hopefully we'll never lose such a unique facade.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Topiary Surprise

Topiary Surprise is a cluster of sandstone sculptures located within the Spectacle Garden at Roma Street Parkland. Unveiled in 2001, the works are by Brisbane sculptor Rhyl Hinwood. They are sculpted from Helidon freestone.

Sited within the Spectacle Garden next to the topiary and maze, the sandstone is sculpted in domed forms. Rhyl outlines on her website that the intention was to reflect the shapes of the surrounding clipped plants, such as azalea, camellia, gardenia and dwarf bougainvillea. The surface of each of these has been etched to show the leaves of each of these plants. In addition, carved images of Queensland native fauna are also included, such as the cicada, snake, lizard and jewel beetle.

My youngest certainly loved exploring these sculptures. I'm not quite sure he was meant to run on the garden, but the invitation of the snake and lizard made it hard for him to resist, and he is less than two! He liked the smooth feel of the sandstone, and delighted in pointing out each of the animals he found. What a great way to show your kids not only the gardens, but the great works of art that are found co-located with them.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Commissariat Store

The Commissariat Store at 115 William Street is the current home of the Royal Historical Society of Brisbane (RHSQ). The building is one of the most significant building, having been completed in 1829. Like the Old Windmill, it was originally built by convicts and is one of the only remaining remnants of the original penal settlement on which Brisbane was founded. Today, it effectively runs as a museum to Brisbane's history. It is open Tuesday to Sunday 10.00am - 4.00pm, with adults costing $4.00 to enter, and children $2.00.


The Commissariat store's primary role was to hold good for storage and distribution to the military, convicts and colonists. It was also used to control the supply of medicines and hospital equipment, customs and banking. When the penal settlement finally closed after more than a decade of brutal reign, the store became a land sales office, and then a military and police barracks. From the 1880's it became government offices, was extended in 1913, and in 1982 became the home of the RHSQ. It also holds the Welsby library for those who wish to research Queensland history.

When I visited, I was amazed at the wealth of historical displays and information on Brisbane held within the building. Not only is the building itself a wonderful historical icon, but the materials kept and displayed here all offer aspects of Brisbane's history which are both insightful and interesting. One specific thing which sent chills down my spine was the gallows beam from Boggo Road Gaol, on which several men were hung during its time as a prison. Then there are other uplifting displays to men such as Thomas Petrie who worked tirelessly for Aboriginal rights. The tour guides do an excellent job as well.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Brisbane Transit Centre

One of the key places associated with travel to and from Brisbane is the Brisbane Transit Centre. Located on Roma Street adjacent to Roma Street Station, the transit centre acts as a hub for trains and buses travelling within Queensland and interstate. City buses also utilise the transit centre. The complex also includes a number of shops, cafes and restaurants, two office towers, multi-level car park and also a Holiday Inn hotel. The Transit Centre can be entered via ground level, or by a pedestrian overpass across Roma Street, which is accessed by a stairway or escalator.

Components of the centre have a long history. Roma Street Station was Brisbane's first railway station and opened in 1876. Over the years, the station was extended, with new platforms and facilities added. The most recent, and most significant change to the Railway Station occurred in the 1980s when the transit centre, incorporating the Hotel and associated business towers, was constructed.

If you are a tourist or backpacker, travelling around the city and into the far reaches of Queensland on the train and bus will no doubt take you through the transit centre. There are a number of tour operators on the site, and many tours run from here. Baggage and storage lockers are available. Use this as a starting point, and not only the delights of Brisbane and it surrounds will be available to you, but so will the whole of our magnificent country.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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William Buck Centre Windmill

The William Buck Centre at 120 Edward Street has an interesting windmill sculpture in its entry foyer. Well, this is what I've called it! I've been unable to find much specifically about the sculpture. As you can see from the pictures, it incorporates what appears to be a stainless steel spiral over an eight pointed framework. It rotates clockwise and must be close to 3 metres in diameter from casual observation.

The William Buck Centre incorporates some incredible environmentally supportive technology. It has a large solar panel roof structure, which has been built into the overall structure. The whole office tower has been designed to minimise energy consumption. Energy efficient features include movement and light-level sensors, low-flow shower roses, dual-flush toilets, movement detector urinals, flow limiters on taps, solar hot water collectors. Studies with the Environmental Protection Agency have shown the results of these efficiencies, and the tower has a 4.5 star building greenhouse rating.

Initially it was the novelty of the sculpture which drew me into the foyer in the first place. The panel underneath, highlighting information such as carbon emission efficiency gains, suggested that the building might have something more to offer. It was only when I began research into what the building was all about that I discovered its green nature. Lets hope that this offers more than a glimpse to the future, and all developments will incorporate these kinds of initiatives, as well as offering us unique public art.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Naval Offices

The Naval Offices at 3 Edward Street are representative of the historic character of the Brisbane riverfront. They were built in 1901 as the administrative headquarters of Queensland Marine Defence Force, providing a residence for the Naval Commandant and his staff. The Naval Offices served as a key naval administrative location from the Royal Australian Navy's formation in 1913 and throughout two World Wars. The premises were occupied by the Navy through to 1959. Subsequently, they were used by various government departments until being leased as a restaurant in 1982. The Naval Offices are currently home to Baggaley's Florist.


The architectural style of the building is mainly Baroque, with an ornate entrance pediment which incorporates the Naval Defence Coat of Arms. This is a largely intact example of a Federation period building. The original wrought iron entry gates still hang in the arched entrance way. The building is predominantly constructed from red brick which is essentially plain on the lower level and stuccoed on the upper level.


This is another of the city buildings with a unique and largely intact historical significance. Being so close to the river, the naval representatives would have had a commanding view of the activities on the river during both wars, although now the Stamford Hotel has largely blocked their vista. They could also have monitored activities at the Naval Store, directly across the river. Today, there's flowers inside, so if you're looking for a brilliant bloom, have a look at their floral delights whilst you savour the history!

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Korea Malaya Borneo Memorial

The Korea Malay Borneo Memorial in ANZAC Square commemorates those Australians and their allies who died or served during the wars in Korea, Malaya and Borneo between 1948 to 1966. Part of an R.S.L. Bicentennial of Australia Project, it was sculpted in bronze with a pedestal of granite by Rhyl Hinwood, and unveiled on 23rd April, 1988.

The memorial depicts an Australian soldier from the Malaya and Borneo Wars standing alongside an an Australian soldier from the Korean Campaign, with an arm outstretched welcoming peace and friendship. Australia participated in the Korean War 1950-1953, Malaya War 1948-1966 and Borneo War 1962-1966. As Rhyl describes it herself: "Two life size figures stand side by side supported by sandbags draped with camouflage netting. One wears tropical jungle dress while the other is depicted in winter gear mostly borrowed from other nationals."

This is another of a significant number of artworks around Brisbane sculpted by Rhyl Hinwood. She does both serious and humorous works, and has done both corporate and public items. I'm glad that some of these are available for all to see, and in particular this one, which has such historical significance in remembering those who died or suffered in war. The main image here is actually from earlier this year, when I visited the square and took some other shots, so you can notice the hoardings behind the sculpture which have since been removed.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Roma Street Parkland Playgrounds

When you have kids, I feel its important to be able to utilise the city parks and gardens with them. Although you can show kids sculpture, artworks and horticulture, invariably the one thing they want to do is play in the park. Roma Street Parkland quite adequately meets this requirement. Bounded by Wickham Terrace, College Road and Parkland Crescent, the sixteen hectares contain a number of recreational areas and playgrounds, particularly in the Upper Parkland precinct.

Each playground contains a variety of activities. There are swing sets, covered walkways, crawl spaces, ladders, bridges and slides. Everything is vivid and multicoloured. There are also areas where musical instruments in the form of piping have been interspersed along the walkways to provide interactive play elements. They even have a Liberty Swing, which is a great invention for kids with disabilities to get the experience of swinging in a wheelchair. The playground areas also contain BBQ and picnic areas so its easy to take a picnic lunch and eat it on the lawns whilst your children play.


On weekends, for those of us Brisbanites who live in the suburbs, a trip into the city generally means spending several hours in town. With the kids, one of the trade-offs I use is to let them know that if they're going to spend time shopping or running around, that they can have some kid time in the park playgrounds. I'm grateful that we have wonderful facilities like this in such close proximity to the city, and a detour into the Parkland is an easy and effective way to let the kids run off their boundless energy.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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South Bank Parklands Grand Arbour

The Grand Arbour is a major architectural and horticultural attraction at South Bank Parklands. It weaves from one end of the parklands to the other, and is over a kilometre in length. Consisting of 443 curled pylons of steel, nearly all pylons are interconnected with up to nine steel wires on which grows trains of magenta bougainvillea plants. There are also yellow plates of steel which provide additional shade cover at various locations throughout the walkway.

The Grand Arbour was designed by a Melbourne-based firm Denton Corker Marshall in 1997 and completed in 1999. It was a significant feature in the redesign of the parklands. The walkway is not only enjoyed by tourists, it is also a popular route for runners having been used in a number of fun runs. Art exhibitions are also hung from the wires from time to times, and when the parkland markets hit their peak period many of the stalls use the shade of the arbour to provide comfort for visiting shoppers.


In full bloom the arbour is nothing short of spectacular. I recall when I worked at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology in the late 1990's they had a similar but much smaller concept, which I looked forward to see growing. Imagine my delight when I came to Brisbane to find a similar framework, and over the years I've lived here watching it achieve the grandeur of the original design concept flower into what we all can enjoy today. I can't wait until it fully engulfs the entire steel frame!

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Belgian Beer Cafe Brussels

The Belgian Beer Cafe Brussels is a replica Belgian themed bistro and bar located at the corner of Mary and Edward Streets, at 169 Mary Street. The venue offers a restaurant with A La Carte menus and desserts, fine wines, cocktails, and of course Beer. There are function areas both within the restaurant on the ground floor, and an area on the upper terrace. The other outstanding feature is the outside open air beer garden. Opening hours are from 11am until late every day of the week.


The building itself is also known as the Coal Board Building, and has historical significance within Brisbane. Originally used as a warehouse, it was erected in 1887-88. It was used initially by importers of china and glass, and then subsequently used by boot manufacturers, and a variety of produce and leather merchants, engineers, hardware suppliers and saddlers' ironmongers. In the 1960's it was transferred back to government offices, before being converted to a bar/restaurant in the 2000's.

There are a number of other Belgian Beer Cafes throughout Australia. The aim of the cafes is to recreate the look and feel of 1920s bars of Belgium along with their art-nouveau design. Each bar also features famous beers of Belgium - including Hoegaarden, Leffe and Stella Artois - with the customary two fingers of foam at the top. If you want a great place to enjoy a foaming beer in lush surrounds with the chic crowd, then this is the place. The chocolate desserts are also excellent!

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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