Overview
Some plans to give Brisbane a makeover take time. Queen's Wharf might be open now after launching in the second half of 2024, for instance; however, it was around a decade in the making. Another part of town that's been talked about for just as long: Bulimba Barracks. This 20-hectare riverside stretch in the city's inner east has its own master plan, but it's become one of those "I'll believe it when I see it" concepts for locals. Turning the former Fabrication Workshop into a new lifestyle hub might change that.
Brisbane City Council has announced its approval for transforming this historic part of the site — which dates back to 1943 — into a precinct filled with eateries, shops, a boutique supermarket and more. Open and central public spaces that can host pop-up and community events, and feature outdoor seating and dining, are also included in the revamp.
"This new precinct will build on our record of supporting the creation of destinations like Howard Smith Wharves, West Village and Fish Lane, which has helped shape Brisbane's incredible lifestyle," said Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner.
"Bulimba Barracks' history will continue to be recognised while becoming a new lifestyle precinct that ensures our suburbs remains the best place to live, work and relax."
Shayher Group is behind the Bulimba Barracks development, with Director John Lin advising that "it is very important to Shayher that we complement the existing area, and we have ensured the historical integrity of the workshop building, which will become a community hub for local residents and visitors with a focus on a mix of retail and food and beverage to complement the existing area."
"This development will be a focal point along the Brisbane River, resulting in a beautiful, high-quality area for the Bulimba community to enjoy whilst respecting the historical value of this part of Brisbane and Queensland for generations to come."
If you've largely just driven past the Apollo Road spot, barely giving it a second glance, it previously was home to the Bulimba Army Base. Under the master plan, the war-time riverside industrial site is also set to welcome new homes, as well as parks and playgrounds. If and when the revamp comes to fruition, it'll join a number of water-adjacent locales in the city's east that've been undergoing transformations of late, as evidenced by the opening of BrewDog's Brisbane base at Murarrie and the launch of the Rivermakers precinct at Morningside.
The new Bulimba Barracks doesn't yet have an opening date. For more information, keep an eye on the Brisbane City Council website.