Most Aussie reason for curve in iconic Brisbane road
There is a very Australian story behind why this iconic road in Brisbane does not run straight.
If you had to name a bridge in Australia, it is safe to say, for most, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is likely the one that would spring to mind.
It is the best known of the world’s few legal bridge climbs – perhaps thanks to the pictures of celebrities who have taken up the challenge.
But did you know further north, Brisbane has its own bridge climb? And a very Australian story to go with it.
The Story Bridge connects Kangaroo Point to Brisbane City and Fortitude Valley over the Brisbane River.
Construction began in 1935 and the bridge was opened in 1940 – making it only eight years younger than the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
A climb to the top is certainly a good way to see Brisbane with views across the city, and as far as Moreton Bay, the Glasshouse Mountains, Mt Coot-tha, Brisbane Forest Park and Lamington National Park.
As we stand on the viewing platform 80 metres above the river, my guide Gemma points out a curve in the road up ahead on the Kangaroo Point side.
She explains the reason the road does not run straight is because the whole bridge had to be repositioned around the local pub.
Workers had refused to work on the bridge if it meant tearing down the beloved Kangaroo Point Hotel, which was later renamed the Story Bridge Hotel to match the landmark.
Thanks to those workers, the pub is still there serving up beers to this day.
On the other side of the bridge is the Howard Smith Wharves, home to various modern bars and restaurants with incredible views of the Story Bridge and city.
Staying at the Park Regis North Quay, I happened to come across this area by accident while using the CityHopper, a free inner-city ferry service on the Brisbane River with eight stops between North Quay and Sydney Street in New Farm.
While it may not be the fastest way to travel, it is quite the novelty for a tourist – especially during Brisbane Festival with all the bright lights and lively atmosphere.
The other appeal was of course, the fact it was free and I would not have to mess around topping up a public transport card. I later discovered in Brisbane, you can tap on with debit card or credit card to catch the ferry (and other public transport) for just 50 cents.
Not only is it a great initiative for locals, but also encourages tourists to explore the city outside the destinations they already had planned.
Admittedly, I had not given travelling to Brisbane much thought before heading there to attend the CAPA Aviation Leader Summit this month, and the destination surprised me. This city is not one to overlook.
When I would mention I was from Melbourne, locals were quick assure me Brisbane is not just “a big country town” anymore, with a booming dining scene and construction happening across the city.
In eight years, Brisbane will host 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The Star Brisbane, including a casino, bars and restaurants, and a luxurious five-star hotel, just opened on August 29.
Meanwhile, Brisbane Airport has revealed the first look at massive changes to its international terminal – the biggest makeover it has ever had since it opened almost three decades ago.
It is part of a $5 billion investment in transforming the entire airport, including the domestic terminal and a new terminal three, which will be located between the two parallel runways.
As for the growing dining scene, Brisbane has both viral sensations like Brooki Bakehouse and hidden gems like Augusta, which is nestled under the Park Regis North Quay.
It is a casual space and with its wooden floors and tables, live music, and games, it feels much more like a bar than a restaurant.
But hidden out the back in the kitchen, they are cooking up some impressive, authentic Brazilian cuisine.
If you are a fan of the parma (or parmi), an Aussie pub staple, I would recommend checking out how the Brazilians do it at Augusta.
It is perhaps the most cheese I’ve ever seen on a parma.
Other snacks on the menu include bolinho de bacalhau (a croquette made of potatoes, cod fish, eggs, parsley and onions), dadinho de tapioca (made from tapioca flour and cheese), and the traditional Brazilian dessert brigadeiro (made from butter, sweetened condensed milk and cocoa powder).
If you are staying at the Park Regis North Quay, it is only a quick ride in the elevator back up to your room, which has ample space, including a kitchen and lounge room – and more incredible views.
If they are like me, guests with views of the city and Brisbane River will probably want to keep their blinds open at night time to watch the stunning cityscape.
This writer travelled to Brisbane as a guest of Visit Brisbane, Park Regis North Quay and Virgin Australia
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