Queen’s Wharf Opening Date Confirmed for August 29th

A Landmark Moment for Brisbane's CBD

5 Min Read
Image of Queen's Wharf Integrated Resort

The highly anticipated Queen’s Wharf development, a transformative project for Brisbane, is officially set to open its doors on August 29. This significant milestone comes after nearly two years of construction delays and challenges faced by operator Star Entertainment Group.

The $3.6 billion development promises to usher in a new era for Brisbane. The opening phase will unveil a host of exciting attractions and facilities, positioning Queen’s Wharf as a major drawcard for both locals and tourists.

Initial Attractions and Facilities

29th of August openings:

  • August 29: Star Grand Hotel
  • August 29: Cherry cocktail lounge bar
  • August 29: Sky Deck public viewing platform
  • August 29: Fat Noodle by Luke Nguyen
  • August 29: Sokyo – inspired by hatted Star Sydney venue
  • August 29: LiveWire entertainment and live music venue
  • August 29: Neville Bonner pedestrian bridge
  • August 29: Main Casino Gaming Floor
  • August 29: Bicentennial Bikeway
  • August 29: Event centre with Brisbane’s largest 1440-seat ballroom pre-function bar, outdoor terrace

Progressive Opening Schedule

Throughout September and October, additional venues will progressively open, including:

  • September – October: The Sky Deck restaurants and bars
  • September – October: The Landing riverfront public space
  • September – October: The Terrace Dining, Level 4

Future stages will introduce even more luxury accommodations and retail experiences, with opening dates for the Dorsett and Rosewood hotel towers, Velo Café, and high-end retail outlets to be announced in the coming months.

Confirmed nearly nine years ago by the Destination Brisbane Consortium—a partnership between Star Entertainment Group, Chow Tai Fook Enterprises, and Far East Consortium—Queen’s Wharf has been hailed as a beacon for the Brisbane River’s CBD foreshore.

Originally slated for a late 2022 opening, the project’s timeline was extended due to COVID-19 related setbacks, pushing the date first to 2023, then to April 2024, and finally to August 29. Star Brisbane CEO Daniel Finch expressed enthusiasm for the development’s potential to invigorate Brisbane’s CBD and nighttime economy.

Architectural rendering of The Star Brisbane Skydeck

The Star Brisbane CEO Daniel Finch said that this announcement was the first of many to come acknowledging the staged opening approach, and emphasised the importance of readiness and exceptional guest experiences. He also addressed the controversies surrounding Star Entertainment Group, which include recent executive changes and regulatory challenges. The appointment of former Crown boss Steve McCann as CEO is seen as a positive step forward.

Star Brisbane is committed to transforming its culture, governance, and operations, ensuring the highest standards of safety and service. Regulatory and government approvals remain crucial as the company aims to deliver outstanding outcomes for the community, guests, and team members.

Other recent announcements at Queen’s Wharf include the upcoming launch of Azteca by Potentia Solutions Leisure, the creative force behind Lina Rooftop, Soko Rooftop, Carmen Tequileria, and Claw BBQ. This project will bring a Latin American-inspired venue with Asian fusion elements to The Terrace at The Star Brisbane. Azteca will feature opulent fabric and tiled walls, mosaic and Aztec artwork, live greenery, custom-made brass tables, and a secret Private Dining Room for 14 guests behind a handcrafted Aztec wooden door.

Architectural rendering of Azteca, Queen’s Wharf

Head Chef Zac Sykes will helm the kitchen, offering a custom menu complemented by cocktails featuring Latin American spirits and Asian spices. Azteca will join other unique dining experiences at Queen’s Wharf, including Black Hide by Gambaro, Cucina Regina, Sokyo Brisbane, and Luke Nguyen’s Fat Noodle, as part of The Star Brisbane’s staged opening starting in August.

On the art front, Queen’s Wharf Brisbane has announced “Sheila,” a five-metre-high, five-tonne bronze sculpture by Brisbane artist Justene Williams, as part of its $3.6 billion public art offering. This goddess-like figure will be situated at Queen’s Wharf Plaza, among eight curated artworks by local, national, and international artists.

New Queen’s Wharf artwork ‘Sheila’ by artist Justene Williams

The project, led by art dealer Philip Bacon and a specialist advisory panel, includes significant pieces like Lindy Lee’s “Being Swallowed by the Milky Way” and Tom Friedman’s “Looking Up.” The public artworks, many created at local foundries, aim to inspire and leave a lasting impression on visitors, with installations completing by late July for an August opening.

Stay tuned for more updates as Queen’s Wharf prepares to redefine Brisbane’s skyline and hospitality landscape.

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