Resident fears for her safety as luxury apartment tower becomes a hotbed for violence, drug activity - CBD News
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February 2022, Issue 83 The Voice of Postcode 3000 见 26 页
cbdnews.com.au Forever Free Puzzles & Trivia P25
Resident fears for her safety as
luxury apartment tower becomes a
hotbed for violence, drug activity
A resident of a lavish CBD skyscraper says she
no longer feels comfortable living at her newly
developed apartment building as it becomes
overrun with violence and illegal drug activity.
words by Brendan Rees in the entrance smoking on a crack
HEALTH pipe”.
In another instance, she said a
woman approached her asking for
“I’ve been asked for heroin; I’ve been “shard” [also known as ice, a type of
asked for ice, every drug under the methamphetamine] as Jane went to
sun and it’s just so uncomfortable,” the lobby to pick up a food delivery at
Jane [not her real name] said af- 9.30pm one evening.
ter moving into her Queens Place “I said no,” Jane said she told the
apartment building at the corner of woman who then approached others
Queen and A’Beckett streets in July “and there was some exchange”.
last year. Another man was found either
As part of its $150 million Home- asleep or passed out at the front steps
Block Arcade owner Grant Cohen [back row] was joined by tenants last lessness to a Home Program, the state of the complex before being moved
Block Arcade unites month in a show of support of his management and passion for the arcade as a government bought apartments at on by security.
Photo by Murray Enders bitter dispute between his family and the former operator of the Hopetoun the Queens Place complex in May last Jane said she was furious at the sit-
Tearooms continues. More on page 17. year – 12 of which are now occupied. uation and had reported multiple in-
The program assists placing Victo- cidents to the building’s management
rians experiencing homelessness out but still “nothing gets done about it”.
of emergency accommodation and
Late-night pub bid rejected
This included a time her moth-
into long-term housing. er and her partner had attended the
While Jane, who wished to remain complex to visit Jane for her birthday
anonymous for fear of reprisals and when a man yelled abuse at them.
putting her personal safety at risk, “The guy followed them in and
words by David Schout of hard work and argued their case so compellingly,” she welcomed the initiative to get peo- said if he could get to the eighth floor.
PLANNING said. ple off the street, she said her expe- They said, ‘sorry we are here visiting
“Residents banded together, fought to retain some lev- rience of living alongside clients of someone’.”
el of amenity and were able to prove their case. It was the homeless program had made her “He started calling my mum the
A bid to extend the opening hours of a proposed Bourke pleasing that the VCAT members assessed the reality on feel unsafe. C-word and yelling at her and he
St hotel from 1am to 3am has been rejected by the Victori- the ground and disallowed any further impact to what we “I don’t want to walk downstairs lightly kicked my Mum’s partner in
an Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). will already have to endure until the early hours, 365 days to get UberEats and have to deal with the leg.”
The tribunal was unconvinced that the under-construc- per year, and it certainly highlighted some inadequacies everyone,” she said. “There’s always Fortunately, the man was removed
tion venue, in part a restoration of the 1840s-built Job in the planning permit conditions and reports as issued.” a fight among them, there’s always from the building within a week,
Warehouse, would not have “unreasonable impacts on the The 673-patron bar and restaurant, set to be called Ju- something going on.” but Jane said open drug dealing, vi-
amenity of the area” and backed the City of Melbourne’s liet’s Terrace, would replace the derelict Job Warehouse, The 24-year-old said security olence, and chaotic behaviour were a
decision to order the venue close at 1am. which has sat dormant since 2012. guards had been stationed at the common occurrence at the 80-storey
Concerns principally surrounded long-term residents Developers the O’Brien Group, owners of the nearby complex, but they hadn’t stopped the tower.
on Liverpool St, some of whom live less than 10 metres Imperial Hotel, had previously argued that the economic issues from occurring, including vio- “I don’t feel safe walking to the
from the proposed venue. viability of the new venue was reliant on a favourable li- lent screams throughout the building building at night,” she said, adding
One of those, Nicola Smith, said the decision handed quor licence. and aggressive behaviour. her partner “will always drive me
down on December 17 vindicated their hard work. “Due to the age of the building and its heritage status, One man, she said, exposed him- home and walk me in”.
“It was a nice Christmas present, a huge relief. I am in- the care, time and skill needed to restore this building is self while her friend and fellow res-
credibly proud of the residents who invested 18 months Continued on page 7. ident took footage of a “guy literally Continued on page 3.
BUSINESS, PAGE 02 HERITAGE, PAGE 05 HOMELESSNESS, PAGE 07 BUSINESS, PAGE 09
A B C D
HER by Arbory to open Concerns grow for Unison CEO’s high Businesses driven to the
on Lonsdale St heritage Shell House hopes for Make Room wall with Omicron
The Voice of Postcode 3000 2
Meet “HER”
BUSINESS
CONTACT
Suite 108, 198 Harbour Esplanade
Docklands 3008
cbdnews.com.au An entire CBD building dedicated to some of
Tel: 8689 7980 Melbourne’s greatest loves – dining, immersive
art and a vinyl soundtrack – will soon open to
EDITOR
Sean Car
the public at 270 Lonsdale St on February 2.
Established by HQ Group, the team behind
Works begin on
PUBLISHER
Arbory and Arbory Afloat on the north bank of
the Yarra River, HER is touted as a “wonderland
theatre forecourt
Hyperlocal News Pty Ltd of modern classic food, sophisticated drinks, art CAPITAL WORKS
ABN: 57 623 558 725 and music”.
Located across four levels of a Federation
ADVERTISING
building, which has undergone an extensive The City of Melbourne began work on a $1
Hyper-local print works for advertisers
renovation, the name “HER” derives from the million expansion of the Princess Theatre fore-
in our digital world because local people
feminine architectural features of the building court on Spring St.
are interested in local news.
and speaks to the building’s context and its The council is adding 240 sqm of additional
To sell to the CBD community,
curious history. public space to the forecourt area, which will
contact Jack Hayes on 0401 031 236 or ▲ HER will open in February at 270 Lonsdale St.
HQ Group has partnered with leading archi- see new street furniture, garden beds, bluestone
jack@hyperlocalnews.com.au
tects and designers JCB and Tamsin Johnson to paving and protective bollards installed, as well
Reader contributions are welcome. create four distinct venues within the building, as a new raised asphalt pedestrian crossing at
Send letters, articles and images to: which include: and exposed brick – to complement its the Little Bourke and Spring streets intersec-
news@cbdnews.com.au • Ground floor – HER BAR. For cocktail- fiery kitchen. tion.
drinking, with chic, Parisian-inspired • Rooftop – HER ROOFTOP. With inspiring The project is being delivered as part of the
The deadline for the March edition interiors, it features soaring woven cityscape views overlooking some of the $100 million Melbourne City Recovery Fund –
is February 17. cane ceilings and leather banquettes, CBD’s most stunning heritage icons, the a collaboration between the City of Melbourne
while a 10-metre painting of colour and rooftop space is inspired by the European and the Victorian Government.
SOCIAL MEDIA movement by local artist Eleanor Louise Lord Mayor Sally Capp said the expanded
garden party, with playful interiors, fun
Twitter Follow us on Twitter Butt sits above the long, zinc-covered bar, forecourt would better accommodate both
drinks and food from the BKK menu.
@CBD_News_3000 with more artworks coordinated by Lily pedestrians and theatre patrons as the city con-
HQ Group’s marketing director Georgie
Mora (Sunday Salon) in Salon Hangs on Larkins said HER would provide the CBD with tinued its recovery from COVID.
FACEBOOK-SQUARE Like us on Facebook
the walls. a trove of new experiences. “We’ve seen theatre goers return in droves
cbdnewsmelbourne
• Level one – Music Room. A level dedicated “This project has involved so many creatives, recently, thanks to the popularity of shows like
instagram Follow us on Instagram to the love of sound inspired by the people who love what they do, whether they Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,” Cr Capp
@cbdnews listening bars of Japan and Europe. With express themselves visually, in design or in said.
its American walnut-panelled walls music, or make superb food or cocktails – and “The new forecourt will create a more
Opinions expressed by contributors are not mimicking a speaker box, and a bespoke all in the one place. The result is HER; a fun and inviting space for those visiting the Princess
necessarily shared by the publisher. sound system and console showcasing gorgeous place to spend your time with friends. Theatre, encouraging them to dwell and sup-
hyperlocalnews.com.au
three turntables, the room is complete with
a wall of vinyl records curated by local
We think it’s pretty special,” she said • port local businesses.”
Temporary work to expand the forecourt
admin@hyperlocalnews.com.au artist, DJ JNett. was undertaken in 2018 to manage the large
• Level three – BKK. A Thai BBQ canteen led audiences drawn in by theatre shows, which
by head chef Sungeun Mo and HQ Group’s included closing a section of the Spring St ser-
executive chef Nick Bennett. Inspired by vice lane. The temporary work and service lane
the night markets of Thailand, BKK has
For more information: closure will be made permanent as part of the
a stripped back interior – terracotta walls her.melbourne expansion •
THERE’S A
NEW DAME
IN TOWN.
Atrium entry, 35 Collins St
Visit www.dame.melbourne
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February 2022, Issue 83 3
Resident fears for her safety as luxury
apartment tower becomes a hotbed for
City Loop to close in 2023
violence, drug activity due to safety works
words by Brendan Rees
Continued from page 1. PLANNING
An email sent to Jane from the building’s
management and seen by CBD News, said it Delays in fixing safety upgrades in Metro’s City
had received reports from residents and was Loop will see the network closed for a “short
“working hard on a resolution” with the own- period” in 2023, as the project’s cost blows out
ers’ corporation. by $249.2 million.
Jane said she was most disappointed she had The second stage of works include installing
not been told that she would be living with platform smoke extraction systems, upgrading
formerly homeless Victorians before buying her sprinkler systems, and integrating the new “A contract for the next stage of the project
apartment, adding her real estate agent was not systems into the City Loop’s operating environ- is expected to be awarded shortly, with work to
even aware. ment. commence by the middle of this year,” it said in
The alarming reports come as the newly-built It comes as the works have stalled since 2018 a statement.
Botanic apartment complex in Southbank has after the contractor hired to complete the re- “The City Loop is currently safe and operates
also become a hotbed for violence, illegal drug pairs went broke, leaving large worksites unat- in accordance with all required national rail
activity, and aggressive behaviour after the tended and blocked off to the public at Flagstaff safety laws and standards.”
state government bought 13 apartments at the and Parliament stations. “The planned safety upgrades are about
building as part of its Homelessness to a Home The safety upgrades were originally identi- catering for patronage growth and the future
Program. fied in 2014 by the then Liberal state govern- needs of Melbourne’s train network, with about
According to Homes Victoria, a small number ment, which announced it would spend $43 105,000 entries across the three stations each
of residents in the program “have had difficulty million to rectify the issue. weekday prior to the pandemic.”
settling into their new homes”. But by 2016, the Labor Party, which had tak- Stage one of the project has been completed
▲ The Queens Place building. Photos: John Tadigiri.
“Some are overcoming trauma and disad- en office two years earlier, said it would spend including upgrades to existing fire detection
vantage, and for them, transitioning into a new $132.8 million on stage two of the upgrades systems, fire hydrant infrastructure, upgraded
home has been challenging,” it said. with the project slated for completion in 2020. CCTV and the implementation of an intruder
“Homes Victoria is working with its commu- Homes Victoria said where appropriate al- In September last year, the Victorian Auditor- detection system.
nity partners to ensure wrap-around support ternative long-term accommodation could be General’s Office revealed in its Major Projects Opposition public transport spokeswoman
is provided to these individuals and to resolve identified, and renters agreed, “we have and will Performance report that the total cost of the Steph Ryan said the safety works exposed a
and respond to any issues that may arise in the continue to support people to relocate. No one stage-two safety upgrades had blown out to “shocking neglect of commuter safety”.
building, to ensure all renters are fulfilling their will be left without a home”. $382.09 million – nearly nine times the original “There will be massive disruptions when the
obligations under the Residential Tenancies Act “We welcome this developer’s commitment cost. entire City Loop has to close, meaning that the
to afford neighbours the quiet enjoyment of to the wellbeing of all residents and their sup- Level Crossing Removal Project [LXRP) con- CBD and an unknown number of train lines
their own homes.” port for social and affordable housing options firmed it would now lead stage two of the works will be grinding to a halt at a time when busi-
Homes Victoria confirmed it had bought integrated into residential construction in on behalf of the state government, with the City nesses are attempting an urgent recovery,” she
“a number of apartments” in locations across Victoria,” it said. Loop to be shut down in early 2023 for a “short said.
Melbourne, including “some” at the Queens A Homes Victoria spokesperson said it period’ without elaborating for how long. “Surely these closures could have been sched-
Place complex. had helped break the cycle of homelessness for “Like all disruptions, we’ll work to minimise uled while people were working from home
The Queen St complex, which consists of more than 1500 Victorian households – or 1800 the impact and provide lots of warning to pas- during the pandemic.”
twin towers and a five-level podium at 57 Victorians – as of January 12. sengers,” an LXRP spokesperson said. LXRP said “every effort is being made” to mi-
A’Beckett St and 370 Queen St, was developed “We’re continuing to adapt this program to LXRP said it had already carried out exten- nimise any disruptions and more information
by Chinese developers 3L Alliance, who did not meet the complex needs of those eligible for the sive investigations, planning and design work would be provided to commuters “well ahead
respond to a request for comment. program,” the spokesperson said • during the past 12 months. of the closure” •
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February 2022, Issue 83 5
Concerns grow over heritage-listed building, but Planning
Minister says there’s “no plan” for destruction
words by Brendan Rees “I am particularly concerned about new Melbourne University architecture academic,
HERITAGE buildings cantilevering over heritage places and Rory Hyde, who is also opposed to the rede-
need to ensure that heritage places are actively velopment, said it would be a “real detrimental
used so they are conserved and have a future. outcome of the building as a whole.”
A fight to save a city icon from destruction is There are two separate decisions for the devel- “I think that building being heritage-listed is
underway after Minister for Planning Richard opment which will be considered – one related important and we need to respect the decisions
Wynne called in an application that proposes to heritage and the other to planning.” made by those bodies,” he said.
to redevelop the site of the heritage-listed Shell The Planning Minister has the power to He also believed the site should not be built
House. intervene or “call in” in a planning application over, saying, “I think that we need more open
The 28-level building at the corner of that has been referred to local councils or ap- space in the city”.
Flinders and Spring streets was designed by the peals being reviewed by the Victorian Civil and Professor Hyde, who also sits on the
late Harry Seidler, one of Australia’s greatest Administrative Tribunal. Melbourne Design Review Panel, a newly cre-
modernist architects, and has received multiple Simon Ambrose, chief executive officer of ated body that provides expert design advice
state and national architecture awards. The National Trust for Victoria, said the pro- to the City of Melbourne on major develop-
Formerly known as Shell House, the 1 Spring posal by Phillip Nominees Pty Ltd would “de- ments, said that the minister’s decision to call in
St tower, which is a mixture of government and stroy the aesthetic and architectural integrity” the application “does strike me as very unusual”.
commercial offices and well-recognised for its of Shell House which encompassed the build- “Obviously we don’t know what the minis-
curved and interlocking shell-like shape, was ing, a plaza, and a podium on Flinders Lane. ter’s decision will be. I think in the past things
added to the Victoria Heritage Register in 2017. “Shell House, which won both state and na- get called in when they want to get overturned,
But an application which proposes to build a tional awards following its completion in 1989, or the proposal would be approved without
second 121.68-metre-high office tower within is the only example of a Seidler-designed sky- going through those proper processes.
the co-location of Shell House with a bridge scraper in Victoria,” Mr Ambrose said. “If that is what happens I think it doesn’t
linking the two buildings at the 15th level has “It remains remarkably intact to its origi- really respect the processes as they are, and I
ignited concerns from the National Trust, the nal design and is one of the most important think it would be a shame for the building.”
Australian Institute of Architects, and resi- buildings of this period in the state.” CBD residents’ group EastEnders president
dents’ groups. ▲ A render of the proposal next to Shell House. Mr Ambrose said if approved, it would Dr Stan Capp said, “we should do everything
Under the plans submitted in November set a “concerning precedent” for future develop- we can to protect the integrity” of the build-
2020, which are understood to have since been ments at heritage sites in the CBD, and “under- ing because it was “of great significance to
amended, the existing Flinders Lane forecourt and aesthetic significance to Victoria,” he said. mine the integrity” of the state heritage register. Melbourne’s CBD”.
would be “reinterpreted, to provide an inviting “Milton House – located at the rear of Shell In its submission objecting to the redevel- “To have a separate process called in by the
accessible plaza for the public to enjoy and a House – and built as a private hospital in 1901 opment application, the Australian Institute minister just seems to me to be very unusual
welcoming new internal plaza situated between – is one of Melbourne’s most exceptional Art of Architects said constructing a new tower and unnecessary and an inappropriate lack
the proposed Tower 2 and the existing Tower 1”. Nouveau buildings.” “would result in irreversible damage to a sig- of confidence shown in the heritage council
Mr Wynne said he had called in the appli- He said the state government had “strong nificant heritage place that actually helps define frankly,” he said.
cation after Heritage Victoria refused permit credentials when it comes to protecting the the high-quality environment of Melbourne”. Dr Capp added he hoped the City of
applications and the applicant had sought a heritage values communities cherish.” According to the plans, the proposed tower Melbourne and Heritage Victoria would “ac-
review from the Heritage Council. “In this instance I believe it is crucial that has been “carefully considered to respond to the tively advocate for the retention and non-devel-
However, he affirmed, “Let me be clear – there planning and heritage matters are considered heritage context” of Shell House and the histor- opment of this precinct”.
is no plan for the destruction of Shell House. concurrently to ensure the best outcome for ic Milton House in Flinders Lane. “The organic Residents 3000 president Rafael Camillo de-
“This building is undoubtedly one of the the site,” he said. “Calling-in both applications building form sweeps in a gentle curve away scribed the proposal as “insanity”. “They should
most significant modernist buildings in means an expert advisory committee will advise from Tower 1 and is set high above the street not touch significant architecture. We already
Melbourne and it is rightly included in the on both the heritage and planning components providing breathing space to Milton House,” it have too much influence on our buildings in the
Victorian Heritage Register for its architectural of the proposal.” said. city,” he said •
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Your City of Melbourne community update
MELBURNIAN OF THE YEAR
Prominent businesswoman and ‘I am particularly pleased that this
Richmond Football Club President award cites my lifetime commitment
Peggy O’Neal AO has been to equality for women and girls and
crowned 2021 Melburnian of the the significant role that sport can
play in making equality happen for all
Year for her work advocating for
communities.’
women in leadership roles.
Previous Melburnian of the Year
Since moving to Melbourne from
winners include leading medical
West Virginia in the United States
researcher Professor Doug Hilton AO
of America more than 30 years ago,
and radiation oncologist and tobacco-
Peggy has forged a successful career
free lobbyist Dr Bronwyn King AO.
as a lawyer, and in 2013 became the
first-ever female president of an AFL The prestigious award forms part of
club. the annual Melbourne Awards program,
which this year recognised another
Peggy is also a board member of
eight organisations for their valued
Women’s Housing Ltd – helping
work across a range of industries.
disadvantaged and vulnerable women
gain access to safe housing. Winners included The Torch, a
program supporting Aboriginal art
‘When I came to Melbourne in 1989,
in prison and in the community;
I could never have imagined that an
Farmer’s Daughters, a food and
honour like this would come my way,’
dining experience that champions
Peggy said.
local sourcing and sustainability; and
‘My deepest thanks to the City of RMHive, an app developed to respond
Melbourne for this recognition. When to the unique mental health needs of
I consider those who have previously health-care workers.
been named Melburnian of the Year, I
am surprised and truly humbled to find Visit magazine.melbourne.vic.gov.au
myself in such company. to read more about their amazing
Peggy O’Neal is a prominent business leader and women’s advocate achievements.
HONOURING A PASSIONATE PIONEER OF LANEWAY DINING
Feel instantly at home in the rustic ‘Having travelled the world to ‘When I was nine, my mum opened small businesses make to our city.
surrounds of Il Solito Posto. Set in a many beautiful cities, returning to a ladieswear boutique in the
‘It is quite an honour when I
sub-basement off Collins Street, the Melbourne always reminds me how Southern Cross Hotel on the corner
was the recipient of the bronze
Melbourne institution offers casual lucky I am,’ Michael said. of Exhibition and Bourke and this is
commendation, and to receive the
cafe meals and authentic formal when my true passion for the central
‘When I was young, I lived in 25-plus years commendation is a
dining amid wine-stacked shelves. city started.
Reservoir and there was a little dream come true,’ Michael said.
Restauranteur Michael Tenace, Managing window with views of the city. ‘When I was 24 and decided I wanted
‘It gives me validation that my
Director of Il Solito Posto, said he loves My dream was to be in the to open up a cafe, it had to be in
passion and loyalty has provided
running a business in Melbourne. Melbourne CBD. Melbourne CBD.’
such a substantial contribution to the
Il Solito Posto is now one of Melbourne CBD.
Melbourne’s beloved institutions,
‘It is a great initiative by the City of
built in a forgotten basement, tucked
Melbourne to recognise the hard
down a laneway. The success of the
work and dedication it takes to
welcoming haunt was one of the
create longevity in a business and
catalysts of Melbourne’s distinctive
it is a huge honour to share the
laneway culture.
commendation with many well-
Like so many of Melbourne’s respected businesses.
businesses, Il Solito Posto has been
‘Hopefully one day I will be recipient
hit hard by COVID-19.
of the 40-plus years commendation
‘The last 18 months have been the to really stamp my legacy in the
most challenging in all my time here. I Melbourne CBD and my children can
was on my knees and I didn’t know if be recipients of the generational
I was going to last,’ Michael said. commendation - fingers crossed.’
‘Nobody knew what was going to
happen. To receive the support of my To read more inspiring stories of
landlord, my customers, family and Melbourne’s small businesses, visit
friends to say you’re going to be okay melbourne.vic.gov.au/
meant the world to me. commendations
‘Having come through the recession
in the 90s and the struggles of the Information and events in this
global financial crisis, I strongly publication are current at the time
believe that Melbourne is a true of printing. Subsequent changes
thoroughbred and will survive. may occur. All photos taken in line
I have seen her deal with trials with health and safety guidelines.
and tribulations and always rise to
the top.’
Connect with us
The City of Melbourne has recognised /cityofmelbourne
Il Solito Posto with a Lord Mayor’s
@cityofmelbourne
Commendation, a program that
Michael Tenace at Il Solito Posto, recognised with a Lord Mayor’s Commendation @cityofmelbourne
celebrates the vast contributions
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February 2022, Issue 83 7
Unison CEO hopes council housing project Late-night pub
could be the first of many in the CBD bid rejected
Continued from page 1.
words by Sean Car
three times what it would normally be. To
HOMELESSNESS
make it viable, we need a 3am licence,” CEO
Michael O’Brien said in December 2020.
When Unison CEO James King first got wind “The reality is, without the support of the
that the City of Melbourne was looking to Melbourne City Council for a 3am licence, it
transform one of its CBD properties into hous- will not proceed, and we’ll have no other choice
ing for rough sleepers, he knew his organisation but to hand back the keys.”
was well-placed to deliver its vision. Residents were angered by this expectation.
The Make Room project at 602 Little Bourke “It’s a disgrace and completely unreasonable
St will see the council-owned building re- that the [former] building owners have allowed
furbished by Unison as part of a $20 million a heritage buildings of state significance to fall
initiative offering 50 studio apartments to the into such an appalling state of disrepair and
city’s rough sleepers. Early works are scheduled then expect the local residents to pay for its
to begin in March. restoration through significant loss of amenity,”
And with recent figures indicating that there Ms Smith previously told CBD News.
are anywhere between 60 and 90 people sleep- The O’Brien Group did not follow through
ing rough on our streets on any given night, on its threat to hand back the keys, and began
Make Room presents a significant opportunity ▲ Unison CEO James King. ▲ A render of the Make Room project. development on the site in October, notably
to curb what’s an ever-growing challenge when before VCAT had handed down its decision.
it opens in 2023. Mr O’Brien did not respond to requests for
But not only will Unison be responsible for He told CBD News that one moment forever commence it gives funders, or donors, some comment from CBD News.
managing the physical transformation of the etched in his memory was showing a resident confidence that the project really is happening Planning policy dictates that most larger
building, currently used to store the council’s their new bedroom in a project completed by as it said it’s going to happen so we’re hoping CBD venues, like the proposed Juliet’s Terrace,
art and heritage collection, it will also manage Unison in Footscray. He said the man, having there’ll be a late surge in funding as well,” he close at 1am.
the ongoing wraparound services for residents only previously lived in rooming houses and on said. “But we’re pretty confident that we’ll be While some hotels in the CBD may operate
upon completion. the streets, “couldn’t get his head around what able to get the funds in order to be able to de- until 3am, VCAT found this did not translate to
Operating under the vision – “communi- the bedroom in the apartment was for”. liver this project.” a one-size-fits-all model.
ties that thrive” – Unison’s vast experience “When I explained to him that was his bed- As part of the refurbishment, 50 studio apart- “Because one, or more, hotels within the CBD
in collaborating to not only develop housing room that was where he slept and that he didn’t ments will be constructed alongside communal may operate until 3am or beyond, that does not
for those experiencing homelessness, but also have to sleep in the kitchen, that was quite an living areas, housing and homelessness services, mean it is an acceptable outcome in all situa-
managing it, saw it given the nod to deliver this emotional moment for him. He’d never been in a social enterprise, cafe and wraparound sup- tions,” the findings read.
life-changing project. his own sort of bedroom before where he didn’t port for residents.
❝
Speaking with CBD News in the wake of re- have to leave,” Mr King said. Mr King said that while Unison still had to
ceiving a $1.75 million grant from the Ian Potter “So, in my journey in community housing, do “a lot of due diligence” in repurposing the
Foundation last month, taking its fundraising it was at that moment a lot of it kind of came building, each apartment would be of a “suitable
total up to $11.75 million, Unison CEO James home to me in terms of helping those who need size” in accordance with the state government’s
King said this would be the crucial component help and giving them that opportunity to estab- apartment design standards and incorporate In other words, adding to the
to ensuring successful outcomes. lish a home. That was pretty powerful for me.” their own outdoor space. vitality of the central city as a
“The project isn’t so much the success; the It’s that same opportunity to provide the “We’re looking at each apartment having an
success is when I see rough sleepers being human right of safe and secure housing to our instep sort of balcony within the building en- 24-hour city, does not mean in
accommodated who otherwise wouldn’t be ac- city’s most vulnerable which is what makes the velope which creates some challenges but gives all locations – it does not mean
commodated in the CBD. And, after a period of project at 602 Little Bourke St so exciting, ac- the residents the ability to have their own sort
time, they’ve been able to sustain their tenancy cording to Mr King. of outdoor space,” he said. ❝ it should occur here.
and transition into long-term housing,” he said. He said the initiative also underscored the Despite managing a number of govern-
“I think it’s [managing construction and City of Melbourne’s commitment to ending ment-owned properties for other housing ini-
wraparound services] pretty important because homelessness. tiatives, he said that the model of partnership
we have a very deep understanding of what “They’re [the council] putting up their asset, underpinning the Make Room project repre-
works and what doesn’t and especially for this putting their money where their mouth is so to sented a first for Unison. The tribunal was not satisfied the venue
cohort. If you look at some of our projects speak,” he said. With the City of Melbourne, Victorian could prevent “unreasonable impact” on nearby
which have won awards recently we have of- “I think they came to the position that Government and a significant core of philan- locals, particularly those on Liverpool St.
fices located on site. It’s part of our place-based long-term social housing is a state government thropy joining forces, he said he hoped Make “To allow the venue to operate beyond the
approach.” problem, but that there’s been under investment Room would be the first of many more projects hours supported by the planning policy, we
“We’re acutely aware of the homelessness for a considerable period of time and there is just like it in the CBD and surrounds. would need to be satisfied that the proposal
and rough sleeping problem or numbers in the housing stress on everyone. Whether you’re on “There’s no reason why it can’t be replicable would not result in unreasonable impacts on
CBD. We work with that cohort daily anyway, the verge of homelessness or not, everyone feels and I’m really keen to develop it and deliver the amenity of the area. As based on the mate-
so we’re not shocked by some of the challenges.” some sort of stress at some point in time.” this project so that people do ask that question rial before us we are not satisfied that this is the
With an existing presence in the CBD at its The City of Melbourne is providing the $7.45 – ‘okay, it’s been delivered successfully, and case.”
660 Elizabeth St office, as well as other bases million former electricity network building in these are the outcomes. What’s next?’” he said. The development is significant as it rep-
spanning from Geelong and Melbourne’s west addition to $365,000 to begin the refit. The “I know the City of Melbourne has a serious resents the much-needed restoration of one of
to the northern suburbs, Unison has a long Victorian Government has already tipped in $9 mandate to look at replicating this across other the CBD’s oldest buildings.
history of providing housing for our most million for the project, while the Lord Mayor’s assets in the CBD.” • The Job Warehouse, which last served as a
vulnerable. Charitable Fund has contributed $1 million. haberdashery, has been described as one of the
Having led Unison as CEO for the past While the project still requires an additional CBD’s “most high-profile eyesores”, and calls
two years after first joining as the director of $9.25 million to fulfill the vision, Mr King said for its restoration have come from across the
property development, Mr King said the or- the City of Melbourne had considered under- For more information: board, including from residents.
ganisation’s impact in changing people’s lives writing the shortfall to allow for construction However, a planning application submitted
had proven powerful in his own journey in the to begin.
participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/ in April 2020 proposed an almost 1000-patron
housing industry. “With projects like this, sometimes once you make-room venue which would remain open until 3am •
FAMILY MURMURINGS
A collaborative art exhibit of writing,
art works & virtual reality by Ken Chan,
Nancy Liang and Oliver Clifton.
FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022
Museum of Chinese Australian History
22 Cohen Place Melbourne VIC 3000
This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia
Council, its arts funding and advisory body.
Supported by the City of Melbourne Arts Grants.
Supported by the Museum of Chinese Australian History.
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The Voice of Postcode 3000 8
QVM People’s Panel members speak out after
recommendations “broadly ignored” by council
words by David Schout “The City of Melbourne, under the the market community was “totally
COUNCIL AFFAIRS leadership of Lord Mayor Sally Capp, wrong” and the council had “cher-
is pressing ahead with a drastic re- ry-picked things they wanted to do
Members of the City of Melbourne’s make of the Queen Victoria Market, anyway”.
Queen Victoria Market (QVM) in line with the discredited Doyle “Management is not interested in
People’s Panel, formed to give the plan,” a statement from the RHSV listening to the traders because they
community a greater voice in the said. completely have another agenda.”
market’s redevelopment, have called “The City of Melbourne still seeks
to implement changes that the peo- Updated market business
on the council to “cease misrepre-
ple of Melbourne have consistently case for QVM based on
senting” them.
rejected. They must not be allowed “assumptions”
It comes after Lord Mayor Sally
Capp drew condemnation for to misrepresent the People’s Panel to Councillors have endorsed the
comments she made at the Future support these changes.” Queen Victoria Market’s updated ▲ People’s Panel member Mary-Lou Howie ▲ QVM ladies clothing stall holder Soraya
Melbourne Committee meeting on Speaking at the December 7 coun- business case 2021 in December says the panel’s workshops did not provide Niaznand was left devastated after her
December 7, in which she described cil meeting, which saw the endorse- following a nine-two vote, despite a “a reset and a way forward”. Picture: Mur- stock was damaged from a leaking roof.
the People’s Panel as being “absolute- ment of the QVM renewal program council report noting it “was based ray Enders. Picture: Cameron Grant.
ly critical in providing us with a reset delivery plan proceeding, Cr Capp on a number of assumptions which
and a way forward” for the future of said after Heritage Victoria’s shock are closely aligned to the 2017 busi-
QVM. decision to knock back planned ness case” including the provision of This year will see the redevelop- items that were impacted by the
Residents and the Royal Historical works on heritage sheds in 2018, “I 720 car spaces. ment of the trader and northern sheds storm.
Society of Victoria (RHSV), who think the People’s Panel absolutely However, a report prepared by SGS begin as well as the refurbishment of Market chief executive Stan Liacos
form part of the 40-member People’s was critical in providing us with a Economics and Planning on the busi- the food court, however, the prog- said the storm was “incredibly in-
Panel which was set up by the reset and a way forward”. ness case, said the market renewal ress of projects including Queens tense” but maintained he was “not
council in 2018, were outraged by She continued, “I’m grateful to budget had been reduced from $308 Corner Building, Market Square and concerned” about the structural
the Lord Mayor’s claim, saying the everybody who was involved in that million to $268 million because of southern development site have been integrity of the heritage sheds which
council “consistently mispresents” so that we could move beyond a the pandemic and “significant budget delayed because of COVID-19. were recently restored at a cost of
or “broadly ignores” the panel’s deadlock with confidence and really pressure” on the City of Melbourne, A council report said several deci- $30 million.
recommendations. provided that pathway for ongoing with cost savings made across the sions relating to the outcomes of the “We believe that the workmanship
According to some members of the engagement to ensure that the re- overall budget. southern development site invest- and the drainage capacity is appro-
panel, the City of Melbourne ignored newal could go ahead and that we The report also concluded the pre- ment would be considered between priate and certainly not any different
its first recommendation which called could move forward knowing we had cinct renewal would be financially July and September 2022. to what’s been for 142 years,” he said.
for a review of storage and amenities significant trader, public and heritage viable and for every dollar invested in A preferred developer for the Mr Liacos said around eight to 10
for traders with concerns the “gold support. That’s where we find our- the program, more than four dollars southern site – which will include traders were impacted by the storm
plating” of infrastructure would lead selves today.” in value would be returned to the mixed use development and between and his team would support them “as
to higher costs and rent to traders. Cr Capp added improvements to market and local community. 220 and 500 car parking spaces for appropriate”.
The panel also said the council the market would “deliver broader “The updated business case re- customers – is expected to be an- “Very few roof drainage systems
had ignored its rejection of turning community benefits for one of our inforces that our renewal program nounced by mid-2022. can cope with that intensity of rain,
the existing carpark at Queen St fastest growing precincts and our remains critical to the market’s but in our case absolutely it caused
investment is the only way to secure future,” the Lord Mayor said, adding Storm causes havoc at heritage some difficulties but that will happen
into green space, however, it said the
the future of QVM”. it “forecasts the market returning to sheds from time to time.”
council arrived at a compromise by
keeping the 500 car spaces at the site People’s Panel member Mary-Lou an operating profit from 2025” with A video has captured the moment Asked if affected stall owners
and the remaining land converted to Howie, also president of the Friends visitation “growing year on year” rain poured through a newly renovat- would be compensated, he said they
open space. of QVM, wrote a letter to the Lord after trade took a blow from repeated ed market roof at J shed after a storm would be “assessed on a case-by-case
Furthermore, RHSV said it had Mayor, saying she “wanted to set the COVID lockdowns. hit the city on January 7. basis”.
“strongly recommended” that “all sig- record straight” following Cr Capp’s However, heritage portfolio lead Ladies clothing stall holder of 35 Former federal MP Kelvin
nificant fabric is retained in-situ and remarks which she believed had Cr Rohan Leppert, who voted against years, Soraya Niaznand, who runs Thompson, now convenor of lobby
restored” with any new infrastruc- “seriously misrepresented the actual the business case motion, said while West 49 Fashion, said she was left group Planning Democracy, said he
ture placed outside the heritage area situation”. he recognised the “extraordinary “really disappointed” after a more was disappointed by the leaking roof
of the market, but “instead council “The PP [people’s panel] work- work” of SGS he was “not confident” than $1000 worth of stock was and believed the council was “failing
is planning three major new build- shops did not provide ‘a reset and a that the impacts of COVID had been damaged. to deliver a market which works for
ings inside the heritage area for way forward’ as you claim,” she wrote. “adequately modelled” in the updated “Rain from the roof like a water- traders and maintains its unique her-
storage, mechanised delivery and “Since the PP workshops, your business plan. fall came on top of my stock. I was itage features”.
distribution, change rooms, showers, council has repeatedly endorsed “There are some assumptions un- screaming, I didn’t know what to do,” “There are plenty of tiled floor
lunchrooms, etc. These are not sought recommendations which, in effect, derpinning the cost benefit analysis she said before traders and security retail options around Melbourne but
by traders”. either misrepresent or broadly ignore in this business plan that are still very, came to her aid. there’s only one Queen Vic,” he said.
Professor Charles Sowerwine and the PP’s recommendations which very rubbery or the 2017 business “I took them [clothes] home to dry “This is the latest in a series of is-
Associate Professor Judith Smart of were arrived at by hard work and in plan was very, very wrong,” he said. it out, some of them the colour is ter- sues where it would seem, the council
RHSV, both of whom are members of good faith by community and stake- But he supported a separate motion rible. I didn’t have good weather the is not supporting the traders or lis-
the panel, stressed the importance of holder participants.” for the delivery of the QVM renewal next two days to dry them out.” tening closely to them and managed
protecting “the social and intangible Ms Howie told CBD News that the program to go ahead, saying “traders She said management visited her to spend a lot of money, but the roof
cultural heritage significance”. claim Cr Capp had the support of just want us to get on with it”. stall and told her to write a list of doesn’t seem to be fit for purpose.” •
St Michael’s
North Melbourne
“Where I’m Known”
Limited places available at all
year levels
www.smnthmelbourne.catholic.edu.au
Denise Hussey - Principal
(03) 9329 9206
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February 2022, Issue 83 9
Businesses driven to wall as
Omicron chaos fuels staff
shortages and hesitant customers
words by Brendan Rees Caroline Tuohy, owner of Café Segovia at the
photography by Cameron Grant Block Place, said business had been stretched so
BUSINESS thin that she reduced her opening hours due to
staff shortages.
“I lost four of my staff within a day because
The fast-spreading Omicron wave is caus- of close contacts,” she said.
ing headaches for hospitality owners in the “You can lose people rapidly; everybody gets ▲ The Omicron crisis has caused disruption at Journal Café as staff member Jenn welcomes the few customers.
CBD with some labelling the crisis as “bad as knocked out.”
lockdown”. She said there was “literally no-one” to hire.
Many eateries and restaurants told CBD News “People go ‘what about giving school kids a
they were fighting on two fronts to stay afloat go?’ I do employ school kids, three of my staff
including staff shortages due to COVID-19 in- members are single parents, one of my staff
fections or having to isolate as close contacts as is a mature age student. I do hire quite a large
well as consumer spending plunging as hesitant diversity of different people.”
Victorians avoided public places. Ms Tuohy said the situation was “very stress-
Georgia Mackie, owner of Seedlings Café in ful” and she was worried about keeping up with
Flinders Lane and Little Collins St, said she was expenses. “You’re stealing from Peter to pay
forced to get back into the kitchen despite being Paul. It’s a challenging time. The main question
on maternity leave after her two chefs had to is when this is going to get any better?”
self-isolate for a week as they awaited the re- One of her supervisors Ali Pajouhandeh, who
sults of their PCR tests. had been lucky enough to avoid the Omicron
“I’m juggling to look after a 14-week-old baby wave, said all staff had banded together to
and working to cover our chefs. I’ve had friends support the business, adding “we try our best to
and family come in to walk him around the city work as a team”.
in between feeds and everything,” she said. Scott Assender, owner of the Mint Bar and ▲ Ali Pajouhandeh, supervisor at Café Segovia, said their venue had resorted to reducing their hours.
“Everyone is desperate for staff. It’s as bad as Restaurant on William St, and 100 Burgers
lockdown, I think in the city with people being Group chain, said trade was “way quieter than
told to work from home, it’s as bad as it’s ever normal” because of the Omicron chaos. Charlyne Manshanden said the hospitality, re- “They’re paying deferred payments and try-
been.” “Normally we run at about at this time of tail and leisure industries had suffered a “huge ing to cover their debt. It’s a huge struggle for
“We’re doing what we can to stay open and year 50-60 per cent of trade normally, but not impact,” and needed help to “recover, rebuild small businesses.”
have some income come in through the door,” 30,” he said. resilience and thrive”. The state government has extended the com-
she said, adding she hoped the government “We’re pretty resilient so I think we’ll get “The Collins Street Precinct Group welcomes mercial tenancy relief scheme to allow small to
would offer fresh financial support schemes. through, it’s a challenge.” any additional financial support from the state medium businesses experiencing hardship by
“Our trade is actually worse than what it was John Vakalis, owner of the Journal Café, said or federal government that will assist our coronavirus to defer rent.
in lockdown but there’s no support available.” revenue was down 80 to 90 per cent of normal members and help them bounce back from the Innes Willox, chief executive of the nation-
“It’s so quiet, we’re doing a couple of hundred trade as more people avoided crowds. “The is- devastation caused by the pandemic,” she said. al employer association Ai Group, said one
dollars a day. It’s just nuts. We’re getting some sue is there’s not enough people in the city. It’s City of Melbourne councillor and small potential solution to staff shortages was to
tourists who are still around and hopefully we very frustrating and I’m a bit concerned to be business portfolio lead, Jason Chang, said many temporarily grant work rights to all visa holders
have some people around for the tennis, but we honest,” he said. businesses were finding it “hard to make ends currently in Australia to allow them to work in
mostly rely on corporate workers.” Collins St Precinct Group spokeswoman meet”. the areas of “acute need” •
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The Voice of Postcode 3000 10
A safe outing for those on “staycation”
words by Rhonda Dredge
ARTS & CULTURE
Some of us have been waiting for seven months
to see the Patricia Piccinini exhibition at
Flinders Street Station.
The exhibition was cancelled at the last min-
ute then extended then postponed again.
This is a common feature of many of the live
cultural events in the city.
Amanda Bacon was one of the few who final-
ly made it to the exhibition in January, at a time
when most people were away.
She met a friend under the clocks and the
exhibition was her treat during a “staycation”.
CBD, West Melbourne COVID
Not only has Amanda been working from
home but holidaying at home as well, staying in
Melbourne to be close to her daughter.
vaccine clinics open for kids
“Human beings are very nuanced,” she said.
“It’s hard to know how people are coping.” words by Spencer Fowler Steen Cohealth chief executive Nicole
Piccinini’s show A Miracle Constantly HEALTH Bartholomeusz is urging parents and carers
Repeated deals with this dilemma. to book their children in for their COVID
In one exhibit a girl rewilds a rare species vaccination.
trapped in a ghost town. In another a couple Cohealth has welcomed 5- to 11-year-olds to a “By choosing to get your child vaccinated
pulls apart computers to scrape together a mea- new CBD vaccination clinic at the Drill Hall against COVID, you are giving them the
gre living. In a third, a dolphin rescues a girl opposite Queen Victoria Market, also opening best possible protection against the virus, as
beneath the sea. its West Melbourne vaccination clinic to 5 to well as protecting those around them,” Ms
The theme of the exhibition resonates with ▲ The story corridor at Flinders Street Station. 11-year-olds from January 10. Bartholomeusz said.
the current zeitgeist. Humans as social crea- Both sites will welcome people aged 12- “When children are vaccinated, the risk
tures, Amanda says, who care for other species plus for COVID vaccinations, alongside 5- to that they will become infected and spread
and for each other. This can be difficult during management cared so much about its employ- 11-year-old children seeking their first dose of COVID-19 to family members, friends and
a pandemic. ees that they had their own library containing Pfizer. others around them is reduced.”
This is the first time in 40 years that Flinders 10,000 books. Child-friendly, native animal themed rooms “It’s much better to be preventing children
Street Station has been opened to the public Employees living in outlying suburbs could have been created at Cohealth’s West Melbourne from getting COVID than to be treating them
and the exhibition is staged in rooms off the have their second book delivered by train to site to cater for the thousands of children ex- when they become unwell.”
third floor corridor where life-like creatures their local station. pected through the doors in the coming weeks. “With the school year starting in less than a
and video installations create heart-warming There was a billiard room with pool tables, a Cohealth has been preparing for the vaccina- month, now is the time to book your child in for
stories. ballroom, a child welfare department, nurseries tion rollout to 5- to 11-year-olds since late last their COVID vaccination,” she said.
You might pass a few leaks and the plaster- and even a 440-yard running circuit on the year, with staff receiving special training to Cohealth says its new vaccination site at the
work has seen better days but the arched win- roof. enable them to safely administer the vaccine to Drill Hall opposite Queen Victoria Market will
dows, the barrel-vaulted ceiling of the ballroom The exhibition prides itself on being as children. provide an accessible CBD vaccination location.
and Australia’s third longest corridor have their COVID-safe as possible. As well as dosage requirements, the training “Demand for COVID vaccinations is at an
own stories to tell, as well. Visits are scheduled with just small numbers supports staff to make the vaccination process all-time high, and we’re working hard to find
In the old days of the railways, according to a in a large space, there are temperature checks low-stress for kids, including avoiding the use new and accessible spaces to set-up vaccination
“humble 19-year-old” who was acting as a guide, and you have to be double-vaxxed • of the words “needle” and “jab”. clinics,” Ms Bartholomeusz said •
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