Brisbane’s transformation into one of Australia’s great waterfront cities has taken another significant step forward, with the Queensland Government unveiling plans for a major new mixed-use riverfront precinct on the former Visy site at South Brisbane.
The proposed redevelopment will transform one of the city’s last remaining industrial riverfront sites into a vibrant precinct featuring more than 4,000 homes, extensive public parkland, riverfront promenades, entertainment spaces and improved public access to the Brisbane River.
For Raptis Investments Director Arthur Raptis, the announcement is another encouraging sign that Brisbane is continuing to embrace its greatest natural asset.
“We’re seeing a really clear shift in the way Brisbane is thinking about its river,” Arthur said.
“For decades the river was something people looked at. Increasingly, it’s becoming something people experience.
“Every new waterfront destination creates another reason for people to connect with the river, and that’s great news for Brisbane.”
The latest announcement adds to a growing list of projects that are reshaping the city’s relationship with the water, including:
- South Bank, which transformed Brisbane’s riverfront and remains one of Australia’s great urban public spaces
- Howard Smith Wharves and its recently approved expansion, further strengthening Brisbane’s riverside dining, entertainment and tourism offering
- The new Eagle Street precinct, reconnecting one of the CBD’s most prominent riverfront locations with restaurants, public spaces and improved river access
- Portside Wharf and the continuing growth of the Northshore Hamilton precinct, including the expanding waterfront neighbourhood
- The former Visy riverfront redevelopment, creating an entirely new mixed-use waterfront destination in South Brisbane
- Colmslie Wharves, providing the commercial marine infrastructure needed to support operators servicing these growing precincts
Arthur said it was encouraging to see the Queensland Government continue to prioritise public riverfront activation as Brisbane prepared for unprecedented tourism growth in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“Great waterfront cities aren’t created through one landmark project,” he said.
“They evolve over time through a collection of destinations that each contribute something different to the visitor experience.
“What we’re seeing now is Brisbane building towards that critical mass.”
Arthur said the next stage of Brisbane’s evolution would be encouraging even more activity on the water itself.
“As these precincts continue to grow, so too will the demand for river cruises, water taxis, boutique charters, eco-tourism experiences and new ways for visitors to experience Brisbane from the water,” he said.
“That’s why supporting infrastructure is so important. Projects like Colmslie Wharves provide the secure commercial berthing, servicing and operational base that allows marine tourism operators to invest with confidence.
“The more reasons people have to spend time on and around the river, the stronger Brisbane becomes as a destination.”
