Albion Archives - Ascot News

Sprout Artisan Bakery Expands with New Albion Facility

Brisbane’s beloved Sprout Artisan Bakery is entering an exciting new chapter with the development of a purpose-built production facility and retail space at Craft’d Grounds in Albion.

Read: Craft’d Grounds in Albion Wins Prestigious Architecture Award

Known for its slow and considered growth, Sprout’s latest expansion marks a significant milestone in the bakery’s journey from humble beginnings to local institution.

Photo credit: Sprout Artisan Bakery/Facebook

The new site, located in the heart of Albion’s vibrant creative and culinary precinct and is set to operate later this year, is designed to meet growing customer demand while staying true to Sprout’s ethos of quality, consistency, and craftsmanship.

Housed in a reimagined space formerly occupied by Seven Miles Coffee Roasters, the facility is being transformed into a modern hub for both baking and community connection.

The design reflects Sprout’s signature minimal, approachable aesthetic, blending clean lines with the industrial character of Craft’d Grounds. Beyond its visual appeal, the space is being purposefully structured to give customers a rare glimpse behind the scenes.

Photo credit: Sprout Artisan Bakery/Facebook

Large viewing windows and street-facing ovens will allow passers-by to witness the bakery’s signature processes in action — from the delicate lamination of croissant dough to the slow baking of sourdough loaves using a 72-hour method.

At the heart of this expansion is a desire to scale without compromising the handmade integrity of Sprout’s offerings. The new facility will provide the space and infrastructure needed to support their growing team and maintain their meticulous standards, while also opening up opportunities for creativity and innovation in their product range.

The Albion location also brings Sprout closer to its northside customer base, building on the success of its recent presence at the Nundah markets. With this move, the bakery strengthens its position as one of Brisbane’s leading names in artisan baked goods, offering the same much-loved staples — from buttery croissants to creamy custard tarts — in a brand-new setting that reflects both its roots and its future.

Read: Doughcraft Albion: Easter Hot Cross Buns and European Delights

Sprout’s original James Street shop will continue to operate, ensuring long-time customers can still get their fix while the bakery’s reach expands. As the ovens are installed and finishing touches are made in Albion, one thing is clear: Sprout’s next rise is being carefully baked to perfection.

Published 30-April-2025

Interest Builds as Former Albion Flour Mill Site Hits the Market

The former Albion Flour Mill site has officially hit the market, offering a prime opportunity for developers to invest in one of Brisbane’s key urban renewal precincts.

Read: Albion Reaches New Heights with Proposed Twin Tower Development

The 5586 sqm site, located 5km north of the Brisbane CBD, is being sold by Colliers on behalf of Woolworths and is expected to generate strong interest from local and international developers.

A Brief History of the Albion Flour Mill Site

Albion Flour Mill in 2013 (Photo credit: CC-BY-SA-3.0/Kgbo/Wikimedia Commons)

Built in 1931 by Gillespie Brothers Ltd during the Great Depression, the Albion Flour Mill was Brisbane’s sole operating flour mill for over seven decades before shutting down in 2004. In 2013, the mill was destroyed by fire and later demolished.

Fabcot, Woolworths’ real estate investment arm, purchased the uniquely shaped site in 2020 for $16.5 million, with a preliminary approval already in place for centre activities and multiple dwellings.

Development Plans and Key Features

Photo credit: Cottee Parker/ Brisbane PD Online

The proposed development (A006619616) has been designed by Cottee Parker Architects and is planned to include:

A three-stage development process to be carried out in phases.
Two 18-storey residential towers with 456 apartments.
A shared podium featuring integrated retail and commercial spaces.
A full-line 4000 sqm Woolworths supermarket, a BWS, and a café at ground level, positioned at the corner of Albion and Hudson Road.
An urban common area serving as a pedestrian link between the development and Albion Train Station.
Four levels of basement parking, accessible via Albion Road.

A Boon for the Albion Precinct

Colliers Queensland residential director, Troy Linnane, highlighted Brisbane’s record population growth and rising housing demand as key drivers for the site’s high desirability. He pointed out that the city has become the second most expensive housing market among Australia’s capitals, with new apartment supply remaining scarce even as buyers grow more accustomed to higher prices.

Colliers’ head of retail middle markets, James Wilson, added that the project will deliver much-needed residential supply and retail services to the rapidly evolving Albion precinct, enhancing connectivity and community engagement.

Read: Fire Forces Temporary Closure of Albion’s Amore Venue

Strong Market Interest Anticipated

Brisbane’s development site market is experiencing strong demand, with the city being seen as having some of the best growth prospects on Australia’s eastern seaboard. The inner-city apartment market, in particular, has seen record-breaking price surges, with the average sale price reaching $2.083 million in the second quarter of 2024.

With Albion’s transformation gaining momentum, the site presents a prime investment opportunity for developers looking to capitalise on Brisbane’s growing housing market. As the city continues to attract new residents and investors, projects like this will play a crucial role in shaping its urban future.

Published 19-February-2025

Rain Wreaks Havoc as Brisbane Heat Fall Short in WBBL10 Final

Brisbane Heat’s quest for a third premiership ended in heartbreak at the MCG, falling seven runs short against the Melbourne Renegades in a rain-affected WBBL10 final. Captain Jess Jonassen’s heroic unbeaten innings of 44 went in vain as Brisbane fell just short of the revised target.

Read: Street Name: Crosby Rd, Ascot

Early setbacks and weather disruption

After winning the toss and electing to field, the Heat’s bowlers applied consistent pressure early on. Charli Knott (3-26) and Grace Parsons (2-29) kept the Renegades in check, but West Indies star Hayley Matthews was the standout performer. Matthews crafted a masterful 69 off 61 balls—the highest individual score in WBBL final history—propelling her side to a competitive total.

Brisbane’s chase began disastrously. Power-hitter Grace Harris fell for a second-ball duck, followed soon after by the in-form Jemimah Rodrigues. The situation worsened when rain caused a 40-minute delay, leaving Brisbane with a reduced target of 98 runs from 12 overs.

A captain’s valiant effort

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In a display of remarkable resilience, skipper Jess Jonassen nearly pulled off the impossible with an unbeaten 44 from 28 deliveries. Her late assault included a six and a four in the Power Surge over against Deandra Dottin, bringing the equation down to 30 off the final two overs. However, the experience of Renegades’ international spinners, Matthews and Sophie Molineux, proved decisive in the closing stages.

Read: A New Star Shines: Elvis Smylie Wins at Royal Queensland

While the result marks a second consecutive final defeat for the Heat, their consistent presence in the championship decider underscores their status as one of the WBBL’s powerhouses. Emerging talents like Knott and Parsons, combined with Jonassen’s seasoned leadership, leave Brisbane well-positioned for future campaigns.

This loss will sting for the Heat faithful, but the team’s journey to the final—including dominant performances throughout the tournament—provides hope for the seasons ahead. As the dust settles on another WBBL campaign, the focus will now shift to regrouping and coming back stronger for WBBL11.

Published 01-December-2024

Match preview published on 29-November-2024.

Brisbane Heat’s Hot Streak Burns Bright: WBBL10 Final Showdown Awaits

The Brisbane Heat’s remarkable late-season surge shows no signs of slowing as they prepare to face minor premiers Melbourne Renegades in the WBBL10 final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday, 1 December.

Riding a six-match winning streak, the Heat secured a commanding nine-wicket victory over the Sydney Thunder in Friday’s Challenger, booking their place in the premiership decider for a second consecutive season.

Read: Last Undeveloped Site in Hendra Earmarked for Major Housing Project

Dominant display sets stage for WBBL10 Final

The Heat’s dominant performance at Allan Border Field showcased why they’re genuine contenders for the title. Georgia Redmayne’s masterful unbeaten 51 off 41 balls, supported by Jemimah Rodrigues’ elegant 43, highlighted the team’s batting depth. However, Rodrigues retired hurt due to a hand injury, raising concerns about her availability for the final.

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In the bowling department, Grace Parsons emerged as the standout performer, claiming an impressive 3-10 in three overs. Her spell, supported by Jess Jonassen’s sharp tactics, limited the Thunder to 7-133 despite late resistance from Hannah Darlington and Taneale Peschel.

History and form point to epic battle

The Heat enter the final with momentum on their side, but the Renegades, as minor premiers, present a formidable challenge. The teams’ only encounter this season resulted in a 28-run victory for the Heat, though much has changed since that early-season clash.

Sunday’s final at the MCG promises a thrilling contest between the competition’s most consistent side and the team carrying the hottest form. For Heat supporters, the prospect of their team lifting the trophy seems increasingly possible, given their recent dominant performances and the confidence flowing through the squad.

Read: Street Spotlight: Kidston Street, Ascot

The decider begins at 12:20 p.m. on Sunday, with Brisbane seeking to convert their late-season momentum into championship glory. After dismantling the Thunder with such efficiency, the Heat have sent a clear message to the Renegades: they’re ready for the ultimate challenge.

Albion Reaches New Heights with Proposed Twin Tower Development

Photo Credit: DA A006619616

A striking new development featuring twin 20-storey towers is set to redefine Albion’s skyline. Proposed for 60-78 Hudson Road, the mixed-use project will bring 456 new apartments to the suburb, along with a Woolworths supermarket, commercial office space, and an additional retail tenancy at ground and plaza levels.

Designed by Cottee Parker Architects, the development will feature a shared podium level for the towers and an elevated pedestrian link seamlessly integrated with the upgraded Albion train station. This connection aims to enhance accessibility and encourage public transport use.

The proposed development boasts a range of amenities for residents and the wider community. A plaza level will offer green space, landscaping, a swimming pool, a gym, and a wellness centre. Rooftop spaces atop the towers will provide seating and dining areas with impressive views.

To address parking needs, the development will include four basement levels with 463 car spaces—263 allocated for residents and 200 for retail use. Vehicle access will be conveniently located off Albion Road.

The project is underpinned by a Preliminary Approval for Material Change of Use granted in 2015, which allows for various uses on the site, including residential and commercial activities. Planners at Plan A Town Planning have emphasised the development’s alignment with the intent of the District Centre Zone, highlighting its potential to stimulate economic activity and cater to the growing population in the surrounding area.

Sustainability is a key focus, and the design incorporates climate-responsive elements to minimise environmental impact. The development also prioritises pedestrian movement, with a publicly accessible ground plane designed to encourage walkability.

With its significant residential component, retail offerings, and integrated transport connections, the proposed development has the potential to significantly enhance Albion’s urban fabric and provide a vibrant hub for residents and visitors alike.

Published Date 03-October-2024

Queensland Health Inquest After Albion Woman’s Death

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Queensland Health and the state’s Opioid Treatment Program will face scrutiny in an upcoming inquest into the fatal prescription drug overdose of an Albion woman. The inquiry, scheduled to begin on December 9, will examine the death of Alexandria Catherine Forrester, 39, who succumbed to methadone toxicity in September 2021.

Forrester was found unresponsive in her Albion home on September 20, 2021, and passed away in hospital the following day. A pre-inquest conference at the Brisbane Coroner’s Court revealed that Peter Morrow, a friend of Forrester’s, had collected her prescribed methadone doses from Brisbane Compounding Pharmacy on the morning of the incident, despite not being authorised to do so.

The inquest will delve into several crucial aspects of Forrester’s case, including:

The appropriateness of her treatment under the Queensland Opioid Treatment Program
The dispensation of methadone to Forrester and Morrow
The adequacy of Queensland Health measures in addressing concerns or non-compliance between health service providers and pharmacists
Whether any individual’s actions contributed to Forrester’s death

Forrester’s complex medical history, including asthma, Hepatitis C, chronic pain, and a history of heroin abuse, will be considered. The court heard that she had been flagged as “a doctor shopper” and was allowed to self-administer six methadone doses per week, with one dose to be taken under supervision.

Concerns about Forrester’s medication regimen had been raised previously. In May 2020, following a hospital admission, staff alerted Queensland Health’s monitored medicines unit and Forrester’s GP about the number and combination of her medications, as well as her access to takeaway methadone doses.

The four-day inquest is expected to call up to 10 witnesses, including Morrow, Forrester’s current and former GPs, and the pharmacists who dispensed her medication.

Published 9-October-2024

Preliminary Design of New Albion Station Hub Revealed to Brisbane Community

The preliminary designs for the new Albion station hub, aimed at transforming transit and community infrastructure in Brisbane’s inner north, have been released.

Set to rebuild and upgrade the existing Albion train station, the New Albion Station Project is designed to meet the expected rise in passenger traffic from the upcoming Cross River Rail project. With four updated, wider platforms, the design caters to increased interchange activity. This development is closely integrated with housing, retail, and commercial spaces, creating a vibrant community hub around the station.

The project is tied with the ‘Albion Exchange’ initiative, a significant Transit Orientated Development led by Geon Property. This development will introduce up to 1,200 new residences, along with commercial, retail, and entertainment facilities, marking a major urban renewal for the Albion area.

The revamped station will feature an array of modern amenities, including new lifts, stairs, a ticket office, accessible toilets, and enhanced wayfinding and signage. Security will also be improved with updated lighting and CCTV systems. Moreover, the station design includes a new pedestrian overbridge and a southern concourse that promises better connectivity across the rail corridor, thus making it easier for people to access the station from different parts of Albion.

“This will be the key piece of infrastructure for the creation of a genuine Transit Oriented Development, providing for up to 1200 new residences, commercial, retail, lifestyle, and entertainment uses,” GEON Executive Director and CEO, Ben Griffin said.

“It will advance the suburb’s renewal by providing a high level of convenience for residents and workers in the community.”

Community Engagement and Feedback

The Department of Transport and Main Roads will host information sessions to engage the community, offering a platform for feedback and further insights into the project plans.

Details on these sessions, along with opportunities for online feedback, are available on the TMR website, ensuring community members have ample opportunity to contribute to the project’s final design.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Submissions will remain open until 20 September.

New Albion Station Key Features

Four straighter, wider and raised platforms, with shade cover;
An elevated concourse at the southern end of the platforms, providing opportunities for a high-quality public domain and accessibility across the rail corridor;
A new station building with customer facilities including lifts, stairs, ticket office, accessible toilets, wayfinding and signage, lighting and CCTV;
A new pedestrian overbridge at the northern end of the platforms and cross corridor connection to Hudson Road and Mawarra Street;
Reconfiguration of the rail corridor, infrastructure and systems;
A kiss ‘n’ ride; and
Bicycle storage facilities.

Published 29-Aug-2024

Albion Precinct Set for Major Upgrade as Brothers Rugby Club Secures 25-Year Lease

A new 25-year lease has been granted to Brothers Rugby Club for their Albion base, paving the way for a significant upgrade to the community’s sporting facilities.

The agreement comes after changes to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games venue plan, which previously earmarked the area for redevelopment. Under the new arrangement, Brothers Rugby Club will spearhead a comprehensive overhaul of Crosby Park, transforming it into a modern sports and community hub.

Planned Improvements

The master plan for the 5.5-hectare precinct includes several key developments:

1. Indoor Sport and Recreation Centre

A new indoor facility will be constructed to accommodate various sporting activities.

2. Enhanced Parking and Learn-to-Swim Classes

Additional car parking will be provided, along with the introduction of learn-to-swim classes for local families.

3. Community-Focused Amenities

Plans include a new clubhouse, café, gym, function room, and public seating areas.

4. Upgraded Change Rooms

New change rooms will be built to cater for the growing number of female players, which now make up over 40% of the club’s membership.

5. Allied Health Services

The final stage of development may include on-site allied health services to benefit both facility users and the broader community.

Community Impact

Brothers Rugby Club president Geoff Rodgers highlighted the need for modernisation, noting that the club’s amenities had not seen major additions since the early 1980s. He expressed the club’s aim to become a hub for the local community, catering to sporting, social, leisure, and recreational needs.

The upgrade aligns with the city’s vision for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. While the original plans for a Breakfast Creek Sports Precinct have changed, with Racing Queensland retaining its raceway at Albion Park, the Brothers Rugby Club development ensures the local community will still benefit from improved facilities ahead of the Games.

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner emphasised the importance of investing in grassroots sports. He stated that the development would help make Brisbane an even better lifestyle capital for years to come.

As the Brothers Rugby Club project moves forward, the state government is yet to decide whether the previously planned Brisbane Indoor Sport Centre will be built at Zillmere or Boondall. Meanwhile, Racing Queensland is planning a mixed-use development around its raceway, complementing new residential towers planned for the Breakfast Creek area.

Published 13-Aug-2024

Albion Mourns the Loss of ‘Loveable Rogue’ Danny Carr

Photo Credit: Swanborough Funerals

The Albion community came together to honour Danny Carr, a cherished grandfather who tragically perished in a suspicious fire.

Family, friends, and former coworkers paid tribute to the 67-year-old on Friday, 5 July 2024, during an emotional service at Mount Gravatt Cemetery. He was known for his kind nature and unfiltered humour.

Emergency services responded to a fire at a small apartment complex on Amelia Street, Albion, around 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, 13 June. Carr was discovered deceased in his living room, while Jasmin Boyd, 33, managed to escape the blaze and collapsed on the street.

Boyd, identified as Carr’s carer and friend, was later hospitalised in the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital’s burns unit. She remained in critical but stable condition for several days before being released.

Peter McCarthy, the funeral celebrant, highlighted Carr’s life and character. McCarthy described Carr as a “loveable rogue” who had a unique bond with his grandchildren and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Carr’s straightforward nature and penchant for storytelling were also remembered fondly.

Clint, a close friend of Carr, recounted the significant impact Carr had on his life since he was 18. Known as “Wheels” during his youth, Carr left school in Year 10 to pursue a career as a diesel mechanic, a profession he passionately followed until health issues forced him into retirement. Despite being legally blind due to an eye stroke 15 years ago, Carr remained active and involved in his family’s lives.

Carr’s passing leaves a void in the lives of his mother Val, his three children Belinda, Shontelle, and Jay, his eight grandchildren, and his great-grandchild, Storm. The service was a poignant reminder of the joy and support he brought to those around him, encapsulating the sentiment that “Danny did it his way until the very end.”

Boyd’s absence from the funeral was notable, but there is no implication of wrongdoing on her part. The Queensland Police have declared the unit a crime scene and are continuing their investigation into the origin and cause of the fire. Shontelle Robinson, Carr’s daughter, expressed frustration at the lack of answers three weeks after the incident, clarifying that media reports of her father being wheelchair-bound were incorrect. Instead, he used a walking stick to aid his mobility.

The community of Albion remains in mourning, united in their memories of Danny Carr, a man who will be dearly missed for his robust personality and enduring kindness. As investigations continue, the legacy of this “loveable rogue” lives on through the stories and affection of those who knew him best.

Published Date 10-July-2024

Bathhouse Albion to Open Doors, Transforming Brisbane’s Spa Experience

Bathhouse Albion is opening its doors next month, promising to be Brisbane’s premier urban wellness destination. This luxurious new spa and bathhouse is bringing the ancient concept of European bathing into the modern era with stunning opulence.

Read: Luxury Shoptop Apartments Set to Transform Ascot Landscape

Designed by award-winning architects Hogg & Lamb, the gorgeous, light-filled space features soaring ceilings, atmospheric lighting, and an abundance of travertine stone. But it’s the lineup of rejuvenating wellness experiences that is truly remarkable.

At the heart is a heated vitality pool, complemented by euphoric heating and cooling experiences like an invigorating six-degree ice bath, multiple infrared and traditional saunas (including a Finnish sauna with fireplace), a steamy tiered steam room, and refreshing 12-degree cold pool.

When you need a break from the thermotherapy, bliss out in the float room or restorative relaxation lounge surrounded by calming fragrances and meditative sounds. This phone- and alcohol-free oasis is devoted to helping guests unwind, re-energize and restore balance.

“Intimate session sizes, Sans[ceuticals] body products, calming fragrances, meditative sounds, unlimited cotton towels, and a phone free environment all create an unrivalled wellness experience,” owners stated.

The owners said their aim is to transcend the standard spa experience and create a space where guests can truly escape, as part of a balanced lifestyle in an unmatched wellness setting.

Read: American Airlines Launches Longest Nonstop Flight to Brisbane

The Bathhouse Albion is joining the Albion Fine Trades Precinct in June at 64 Nariel Street. Albion Fine Trades, Brisbane’s freshest upscale lifestyle hub, emerges from the minds behind James St. It hosts renowned names like BLOW, Botanica, Joeclyn’s Provisions, Raw Power Yoga, and the latest addition, The Bathhouse Albion.

Visitors can book casual sessions starting from $59 or inquire about memberships to secure regular access to this premier new sanctuary. Check out their website for more details.

Published 3-May-2024

Albion to Welcome the Queensland Fire Department in 2025

The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services is gearing up to transition into the Queensland Fire Department in June 2024 and will relocate to a new headquarters in Albion in 2025.

Scheduled for completion in 2025, the new headquarters will consolidate more than 500 Queensland Fire Department (QFD) state-level executives and corporate staff, currently spread across four locations including Kedron, Albion, and Brisbane City. This strategic consolidation aims to foster greater efficiency, collaboration, and return on investment, ensuring that the QFD is positioned for future success.

This site is located at the former TAB building, now known as Hudson Common, along 240 Sandgate Road in Albion. This move signifies a fresh chapter for the department and promises a significant economic boost and urban renewal for the Albion community.

The decision to relocate responds to various internal and external reviews, including the Inspector General Emergency Management review and the necessity of accommodating organizational growth and improving operational efficiency.

Architectural and Environmental Vision

The Hudson Common building, undergoing extensive refurbishment by Alceon Queensland with Nettleton Tribe as project architects and Graystone as the construction contractor, is set to become a contemporary, 5-Star NABERS energy-rated green space. This transformation underscores a commitment to environmental sustainability and marks a significant upgrade from its original 1970s architecture.

Queensland Fire Department 240 Sandgate Road Albion — *Photo Credit: Hudsoncommon.com.au*

The project is part of a broader vision for urban renewal in Albion, aligning with the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games infrastructure developments.

Economic and Community Impact

The move is anticipated to inject a new lease of life into the Albion area, providing a massive economic boost and enhancing service delivery to the community. Minister for Fire and Disaster Recovery Nikki Boyd highlighted the significance of this move for both the QFD and the Albion community, noting the benefits of bringing over 500 personnel together in this vibrant location.

The development is seen as a key component of Albion’s urban renewal, promising to modernise the area and support its growth as a bustling community hub. It represents a significant investment in Brisbane’s social infrastructure, reflecting confidence in the region’s growth and the demand for high-quality, sustainable office spaces in suburban locations.

The comprehensive plan aims to establish a new focal point for Albion, contributing to its evolution as a critical urban precinct in Brisbane.

Published 18-March-2024