If you or your loved ones are in this position, I acknowledge that this is a challenging time and you may prefer to not read about the cyclone again.
Some might criticise the stern warnings, which led to a couple of very COVID-coded days sitting at home (or much to the amusement of the internet, slip- and sliding down Miami Hill) as well as significant downturn for small businesses. The copious warnings did however allow those at severe risk to evacuate or prepare their homes for the worst as best as possible.
Despite dodging the worst in Brisbane, Alfie has served as another reminder that in the face of natural disasters we are powerless. Surfer’s, despite recent constructions hinting at a more glamorous future, has been a far cry from paradise for decades (as a Gold Coast kid, I feel I can make that call), but this photo shows just how much damage this otherwise beautiful stretch of shoreline down toward Northern New South Wales has experienced.
Alongside the devastation, this past weekend has left local and affected property owners, as well as interstate investors, pondering what the ripple effects of major weather events, and the ensuing recovery, on the property market will be.
We’re often asked how the Woolstores fair during floods. Despite their riverfront position, they were strategically placed during their construction over a century ago to avoid damage to the wool and other goods they stored, sparing them from impact thus far.
Last week, we cancelled all open homes, only running private inspections in vacant properties while a light drizzle was the worst of our worries. Despite most of the city staying indoors before the tropical low made its appearance Friday night, we noticed a temporary drop-off in buyer enquiry. Between trips to the empty grocery stores and final preparations to secure homes, there were more pressing issues than scrolling through the portals.
The rain has subsided, but business as usual certainly has not yet resumed across Brisbane, as some homes and businesses address the damage from the flooding. The Brisbane River still has the opacity of a cloudy English breakfast tea forgotten on the counter and ferry services are still unable to operate due to debris floating in the water. Public transport services were impacted, and road closures from the coast to the Scenic Rim and across the city made commuting more tedious than usual for many.
Fortunately, our team has been able to resume open homes this week. This Saturday, clear skies promise to make a return alongside long-awaited cooler temperatures, and we look forward to welcoming you back if you feel so inclined!
The campaign for 409/88 Macquarie Street went live mid-week and we look forward to welcoming you to this top-floor Dakota Woolstore apartment. Capitalising on the generous proportions of this historical building, this residence spans 164 SQM across two levels with top of the range fixtures and finishings highlighting the vast space and original features.
We’re excited to finally show you 76/54 Vernon Terrace at our first official open home post launch on Saturday at 10.30am. Set across a single level, the home has been upgraded to offer lock-up and leave convenience in a heritage setting – the perfect inner-city residence!
If you’re seeking the thrill of a pre-market opportunity, join us at 9.45am to discover a courtyard Dakota Apartment with river views.
Should a higher vantage point be your preference, we’ll see you at 11.15am at Unit 125 in the Mactaggarts Woolstore.
Speaking of good views, Unit 224 in the Gleneagles Apartment is a must-see. Take in a picturesque panorama from the CBD and Story Bridge across to Kangaroo Point from your lounge room – it doesn’t get much better than this!
You know I (and by I, I mean my team in general) love to keep an eye out for Brisbane’s hot new openings. If you too still grieve the closing of Carl’s/Ardo’s on Wyandra Street in Newstead, this will be music to your ears!
Wild Legs Wine Room has just opened shop, offering natural wines in an unpretentious setting. I’m currently thinking of an excuse to swing past tonight after our open home at 47/53 Vernon Terrace – maybe you should too!
Talk soon,
Ben
