Sabo Skirt Founders List Their Luxury Home

Celebrity fashion label Sabo Skirt founders, Thessy Batsinilas and Yiota Kouzoukas, have listed their luxury home in Tarragindi.



The sisters-in-law, who have made a name for themselves in the fashion world, are now making waves in the property space under their company, Ature Group.

Their latest residential project, a Mediterranean-inspired house located in the inner Brisbane suburb of Tarragindi, is now on the market.

The five-bedroom, three-bathroom home, known as ‘Ilios’ at 92 Fingal Street, is listed with Michael Bacon of Place Kangaroo Point. The home features high-end finishes, a neutral colour palette, and sleek curves that emulate the liveable luxury of their Greek roots.

Photo Credit: Instagram / @batspac

“Ilios is a modern-Mediterranean home inspired by the aesthetic of my personal home, ‘Grece’,” said Mrs Batsinilas.

Photo Credit: Domain

“We mimicked the iconic facade of my home, using natural stones and textured walls. We really wanted to encompass a contemporary, Mediterranean-style home that exudes a timeless charm.”

Photo Credit: Domain

The two-storey home features a grand entry foyer that leads to a spacious open-plan living and dining area adjoining a kitchen with a breakfast bar, a butler’s pantry, stone bench tops, and quality appliances. Outside, a covered al fresco area has a full outdoor kitchen with a built-in barbecue and overlooks a pool, a fully-fenced lawn, and established gardens.

Photo Credit: Domain

Upstairs is a second living area, plus a study nook, and four of the bedrooms, including a master suite with a walk-in robe, makeup table, and luxurious connecting ensuite.

Photo Credit: Domain

“We have grown to love textural walls, crazy pave travertine and brushed brass finishes,” Mrs Batsinilas said.

“We particularly love the whitewashed colour palette that allows you to bring your personal style through the decor. These tones and textures are becoming a trademark of our work.”

Photo Credit: Domain

Ature Group is cementing itself as a rising presence in the luxury development space, having also recently launched a Gold Coast multi-residential project, featuring 20 full-floor residences — each with their own private lift entrance and fashion-inspired interiors. The tower, called ‘Sola’, is set in Broadbeach and features three-bedroom residences priced between $2.75m and $4.65m.

Photo Credit: Domain


The group is also close to unveiling the new headquarters for Sabo Skirt, which the girls developed themselves. This move further solidifies their growing influence in both the fashion and property development sectors.

Published 27-March-2024

Tarragindi: Where Love for Labradors Stands on Four Legs

Did you know that the labrador retriever is Brisbane’s most popular dog breed and Tarragindi has 127 of these charming and affectionate pooches? 



A detailed analysis by Ray White data analyst Jemima White shows that there are currently 127 Labrador Retrievers in Tarragindi.  The data is based on the number of animal registrations by breed from the current BCC animal registration dataset. With spacious backyards and lush surroundings, Tarragindi’s more active and friendly dogs love it here.

Tarragindi’s Labradors are just a small part of the larger story of Brisbane’s love for dogs. The city has a preference for a certain breed, which happens to be the Labrador. From the leafy suburb of Alderley to the busy streets of Annerley, Labradors have become a popular choice for dog owners in Brisbane.

Much like their human counterparts, the Labradors of Tarragindi are cherished by their family units for their sociable nature. During sunny spells or between showers, the parks of Tarragindi and other parts of the suburb become a happy hunting ground for dogs and their doting owners alike.

Top Dogs of Brisbane

1 Labrador Retriever 9,605

2 Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 7,019

3 Border Collie 6,995

4 Maltese 6,712

5 Staffordshire Bull Terrier 5,534

6 Poodle 4,760

7 Golden Retriever 4,223

8 Dachshund 4,127

9 Australian Kelpie 4,016

10 Jack Russell Terrier 3,365

The Labrador’s status as the top dog among Tarragindi dog-owners has influenced the suburb’s housing profile. There is a higher percentage of larger blocks to accommodate families and their pets.

Tarragindi Labrador Retriever
Photo Credit: Unsplash

Brisbane’s typically smaller block sizes in the inner city have proven less conducive to Brisbane’s dog owners’ canine ambitions. So it seems that families have, by and large, sought housing and the park-and-play space accompanying it so that every member of the family could enjoy a little peace.



In Tarragindi, Labradors are more than just pets; they represent companionship, joy, and the simple pleasures of owning a pet. These dogs embody community, family, and the unspoken bond between two and four-legged creatures. From Brisbane’s top dog to beloved family companions, Labradors contribute to the friendly and warm atmosphere that surrounds this unique suburb.

Published 15-March-2024

Tarragindi Bingo Night at Wellers Hill Bowls Club: Prizes, Food, & Community

Tarragindi, get those dabbers ready for a neighbourhood night of bingo that’s bigger and better than your average game night!


Read: Tarragindi Community Garden Helps Recycling Efforts, One Bottle Cap at a Time!


On March 23, the Tarragindi Community Garden will be hosting its first ever charity Bingo Night Fundraiser at the Wellers Hill Bowls Club. Along with over $1,000 in awesome prizes, they will have food trucks and the bar will be flowing all night long. 

Even better, every dollar raised goes directly towards supporting Ride West and the Royal Flying Doctors Service’s mental health programs.

Photo credit: Tarragindi Community Garden/Facebook

Ride West, an annual 1200 kilometre cycling fundraiser from Brisbane to Longreach. Ride West benefits the Royal Flying Doctors Service’s mental health outreach programs in rural Queensland. Inspired to impact regional mental healthcare, Ride West has raised nearly $2 million over 13 years for the RFDS’ Wellbeing Out West initiative.

Entry to Tarragindi’s inaugural bingo evening will directly support the continuation of this life-changing rural program. Every dollar raised during the fast-paced, engaging games of bingo will go towards providing accessible mental health services across Queensland’s remote communities.

Photo credit: ridewest.com.au

Organised by Tarragindi Community Garden founder Renae McBrien, the bingo fundraiser promises an entertaining evening for all ages. Attendees can anticipate a formal yet lively night of bingo benefiting organizations expanding critical access and support across Queensland.

Bring your family, friends, neighbours, and colleagues for a whopper of a night. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. on March 23 with games commencing at 6:00 p.m. sharp. 


Read: Get To Know Renae McBrien, Founder of Tarragindi Community Garden


Secure your table early by booking through the Wellers Hill Bowls Club’s website. It’s an ultimate friends and family night out whilst supporting great causes right here in the local community. Food and drink will be available for purchase all evening.

Published 29-February-2024 

New Build Home in Tarragindi Breaks Record

A newly constructed residence in Tarragindi has shattered previous records in Brisbane, marking a defining moment in the area’s property market dynamics with a staggering sale price of $3.7 million.



The newly built five-bedroom, three-bathroom home located at 53 Chamberlain St has clinched the title of the suburb’s highest-priced property. Surpassing the suburb’s record in 2023 by an impressive $250,000 margin, this remarkable achievement highlights the enduring appeal of Tarragindi’s real estate market.

The property, meticulously built by Mondo Constructions, embodies executive living and resort-style entertaining on a spacious 771 sqm allotment. Despite spending over 100 days on the market, the home garnered immense interest, with 214 groups acknowledging its exceptional quality and design. 

53 Chamberlain St Tarragindi
Photo Credit: Desire Media/YouTube

Denis Najzar, a director at Place Woolloongabba, underscores the significance of the sale, attributing it to both the property’s construction excellence and the burgeoning demand for new homes in the market.

Mr Najzar further said that newly built homes command premium prices due to the cost and time associated with construction or renovation projects. He highlights consumer sentiment as a key driver, noting that in an era where convenience reigns supreme, many prospective buyers opt for newly constructed homes to streamline the process and alleviate the complexities associated with renovation endeavours.

The home’s expansive living and dining areas afford breathtaking views of the poolside oasis and verdant surroundings. Boasting a triple-car garage, multiple living spaces, an alfresco terrace, and a sparkling pool, this residence exudes opulence and functionality in equal measure.



Looking ahead, Mr Najzar predicts a robust real estate market in Brisbane, buoyed by the city’s international status and increasing interstate migration. However, he cautions that rising interest rates may introduce uncertainties for prospective buyers, particularly those seeking stability amid a competitive market landscape.

Published 9-Feb-2024

Griffith University’s N82 Building: A Green Oasis Inspired by Toohey Forest

Construction is on the horizon for a groundbreaking addition to Griffith University’s Nathan campus, a structure poised to redefine the campus landscape. The new N82 building is designed with a strong emphasis on sustainability and inclusivity, drawing inspiration from the natural beauty of the nearby Toohey Forest.



To earn a prestigious five-star Green Star Building V1 rating, the project also aspires to set new standards in responsible construction and procurement.

The N82 building is slated to become a campus centrepiece, distinguished by a central outdoor atrium created through a series of elevated terraces. The facility is set to introduce a host of innovative features, with a special focus on catering to a diverse range of needs.

The building’s internal colour palette will mirror the vibrant fauna and flora of the forest, offering a serene and harmonious environment for its occupants.

Toohey Forest
Photo Credit: Toohey Forest/Google Maps

Griffith University’s Chief Operating Officer, Peter Bryant, is at the forefront of this visionary project.

Inclusivity at its Core 

Of particular note is the inclusion of a Changing Places facility on the ground level, specially designed to accommodate individuals living with disabilities. This facility will boast essential amenities such as a hoist, a change bed, and an accessible toilet. 

Beyond accessibility, the N82 building will encompass formal and informal teaching spaces, comfortable lounge areas, and integrated teaching spaces seamlessly merging with research and staff accommodation.

A Shared Commitment

In an exciting collaboration, the N82 project team is partnering with Griffith University’s engineering academics to propose the installation of geotechnical and structural real-time sensing into the building. These sensors will measure critical data, including movement, deflection, and groundwater fluctuations, further enhancing the building’s functionality.

Jerome Johnson, General Manager Construction Queensland/Northern Territory at Lendlease, expressed their enthusiasm for partnering with Griffith University on this project. Beyond construction, the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to enhancing the educational experience for students, staff, and the research community.



Scheduled for completion in 2026, N28 will undoubtedly stand as a shining example of what can be achieved when nature, technology, and academia converge in harmonious synergy.

Published 4-Jan-2024

Body Stretch Studio: Tarragindi’s New Destination for Health and Wellness

Tarragindi just scored a brand new wellness destination, Body Stretch Studio. Located on Weller Road, this inviting studio focuses on using therapeutic stretching techniques to help clients unwind, release muscle tension, enhance flexibility, and support overall wellbeing.


Read: Tarragindi’s Good Things Grocer Revives Former Fruit Barn


The studio seeks to help clients rejuvenate and revitalise their bodies through the power of stretching. The experienced and certified stretch therapists are dedicated to providing each client with a personalised and holistic approach to wellness.

Stepping into the tranquil studio allows one to leave the hustle and bustle of daily life behind. The serene and inviting atmosphere instantly puts guests at ease, creating the perfect environment for a truly transformative experience.

Photo credit: bodystretch.studio

Whether one is an athlete looking to improve performance, an office worker seeking relief from muscle tension, or simply someone who wants to enhance overall well-being, Body Stretch Studio strives to have something for everyone.

Photo credit: Body Stretch Studio/Google Maps

The innovative stretching techniques are designed to target specific muscle groups, release tension, and improve flexibility. Through gentle, guided stretches, the studio helps clients lengthen and strengthen muscles, improve posture, and enhance range of motion. 

Photo credit: Body Stretch Studio/Google Maps

Guests feel stress melt away as they experience benefits like improved circulation, increased energy, and greater mobility.

At Body Stretch Studio, client comfort and safety are prioritised above all else. The skilled stretch therapists are trained to assess each individual’s unique needs and tailor sessions to suit specific goals and limitations. A combination of assisted stretching, active stretching, and relaxation techniques aim to provide a comprehensive and rejuvenating experience.


Read: Tarragindi Gourmet Deli & Butchery: Your Ultimate Food Destination!


Book an appointment and discover for yourself how amazing it feels to stretch stress away and embrace a balanced, relaxed body and mind.

Published 23-December-2023

Umu Kitchen Owners Launch Sister Venue ‘Vaiola’ in Tarragindi

If you’re familiar with Umu Kitchen along Denham Terrace, then get ready for its new sister venue, Vaiola cafe, now open within The Green Tarragindi retirement village.


Read: The Green Tarragindi Operator Leads Charge on 1,100 Retirement Dwellings


Vaiola, meaning “water of life,” infuses energy into its space. Stepping inside, you will be greeted with an explosion of natural light and nature-inspired decor. Pops of playful colour enliven the walls and seating nooks, where visitors can settle in with comforting, home-style ambience. 

Right outside lies a playground where little ones are free to laugh and play within eyeshot of their families relaxing over brunch.

Photo credit: Vaiola Tarragindi/Instagram

The cafe welcomes guests from breakfast through dinner with a menu focused on local, wholesome ingredients. 

Many items come courtesy of Providore Princess, supplying Vaiola with fresh seasonal produce as well as signature dishes like the customer-favourite prawn omelette, hearty sandwiches, soft tortillas and for those with a bigger appetite – the Big Breakfast of slow-roasted pork with all the fixings.

Prawn omelette (Photo credit: Vaiola Tarragindi/Instagram)

Locally roasted coffee fuels the patrons, whilst a small bar offers wine, beer and more for those looking to imbibe.

Beyond the food and drink, Vaiola wants to achieve something greater—a culture of belonging. Sitting adjacent to independent senior living apartments, the cafe receives abundant support from the older residents next door. 

Photo credit: Vaiola Tarragindi/Instagram

Much like its sister venue Umu Kitchen, Vaiola brings to life a vision for togetherness through dining. By emphasising comfort, community and connection under one cosy roof, this Tarragindi cafe delivers well beyond the plate.


Read: Tarragindi’s Good Things Grocer Revives Former Fruit Barn


Vaiola aims to be “a space for everybody to belong” says the owner through their Instagram page. Open from breakfast through dinner, it welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy the food and connect with those around them.

Published 14-December-2023

Tarragindi’s Good Things Grocer Revives Former Fruit Barn

Good Things Grocer is Tarragindi’s newest neighbourhood grocer, located in a space once occupied by Tarragindi Fruit Barn on Toohey Road.


Read: Uncovering History: Toohey Forest’s Hidden Past


Co-founded by long-time entrepreneurs Sarah Jones and Kymberlee Stone, Good Things Grocer opened its doors March this year after the duo lost their beloved cafe in the 2022 Lismore floods.

Determined to start anew, Sarah and Kym returned to Brisbane moved by a vision to create a grocery store that nurtures connection through quality fare. 

Sarah Jones and Kymberlee Stone (Photo credit: goodthingsgrocer.com.au)

“We want Good Things Grocer to be a grocery shopping trip you actually want to go on: everyday treats, all the foodie essentials, fresh produce and gourmet deli goodness that you just can’t help dropping into your basket,” Sarah and Kym shared through their website.

Photo credit: Cameron O’Shea/Google Maps

With their impressive culinary pedigree, the co-owners are certainly delivering on that promise. Kym comes from a long line of farmer’s market sellers, with her mum and grandma having sold family produce at the famed Jan Powers Farmers Markets for over 20 years. 

Sarah brings nearly 30 years of hospitality experience to the table, honing her craft everywhere from beloved Brisbane cafes to the dynamic food scene of her native Melbourne.

Together, the duo have run cafes for 15 years, starting with Apples in Salisbury before relocating to Northern Rivers. There, they opened the community fixture Flock Cafe, a Mullumbimby and Lismore staple. Although the Lismore floods ended that chapter, the seeds of Good Things Grocer were planted.

Good Things grocer
Photo credit: Good Things Grocer/Instagram

Much like Flock Cafe, Good Things Grocer is already becoming the heartbeat of its neighbourhood. The shop brims with flowers, fresh produce, gourmet goods, and beloved brands like Allpress Espresso and Azteca Margarita Mix. Locals pop in for Jocelyn’s Provisions mouthwatering sourdough or Jacopo Corbetta’s lasagna trays.

Good Things grocer
Photo credit: goodthingsgrocer.com.au

Beyond retail, Good Things Grocer nurtures community in other ways too. The vibrant coffee bar serves as a gathering place, whilst plans are underway to offer online ordering and delivery of flowers, grazing boxes, and fresh bundles.

As Sarah and Kym welcome neighbours with Australian hospitality’s signature warmth, one thing is clear: when it comes to good food and good company, Tarragindi’s favourite grocery destination is here to stay.

They are open Monday to Friday 6:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. and on weekends 7:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m. 


Read: Get To Know Renae McBrien, Founder of Tarragindi Community Garden


Published 7-December-2023 

The Green Tarragindi Operator Leads Charge on 1,100 Retirement Dwellings

Leading retirement village operator RetireAustralia, the company behind The Green Tarragindi, has unveiled bold plans to construct over 1,100 new senior living residences across key sites in Queensland and New South Wales over the next five years.


Read: The Green Retirement Site Adjoining Tarragindi Bowls Club To Open in Early 2023


The plan marks RetireAustralia’s response to rapidly rising demand for senior living communities. After opening 214 new residences across their portfolio last year, the company plans to develop thousands of additional units by 2028.

According to RetireAustralia’s Chief Executive Brett Robinson, the retirement sector has reached a critical juncture as more older Australians seek to live in vibrant retirement villages rather than traditional aged care facilities after the Aged Care Royal Commission exposed alleged systemic failings.

Photo credit: The Green Tarragindi/Facebook

Major projects include The Verge Stage 3 retrofit in Queensland, adding 62 apartments and a 10-suite care hub to open in 2024, alongside new 42-unit Tarragal Glen unveiled in NSW for 2025. 

Two concurrent 2025-2026 Queensland launches will establish Arcadia’s 159 premium apartments with a 10-suite clinic, as well as 146 residences and 10-suite facility at Cleveland Manor. A 229-unit Lutwyche and 52-apartment Lane Cove also await openings. A 100-unit Queensland site is currently assessing locations.

Artist’s impression of The Verge at Burleigh (Photo credit: retireaustralia.com.au)

According to Dr Robinson, there is a severe shortage within Australia of senior housing that enables older Australians to downsize while retaining independence and care access. 

He highlighted that 22 out of RetireAustralia’s 28 communities currently have waiting lists, with an over 93 per cent occupancy rate nationwide. He estimated the country requires between 10,000 to 11,000 new retirement dwellings annually. 

However, he emphasised that the 2022 census figures indicate only half this number are being built. He noted that with an ageing population and increasing downsizing demand, there is an urgent need to address the undersupply through expanding retirement village projects. 


Read: Infratil and NZ Super Say May Consider Selling RetireAustralia


Moreover, Dr Robinson stated such purpose-built senior communities will play a vital role housing elderly Australians amidst the ongoing national housing crisis.

Published 30-November-2023 

Additional Bus Route Coming to Alleviate Congestion in South Brisbane

South Brisbane commuters can look forward to some relief on the often busy 112 bus route, with a new service set to begin operations early next year.


Read: Work Begins on Transformation of Barr Street Bridge in Tarragindi


‘Route 822’ will travel the same path as Route 112 from Annerley Road in Dutton Park (11/17 bus stop) to Prior Street (44/48) in Tarragindi, specifically aimed at easing congestion during the busy school pickup hours.

The launch of the new route comes as a way to help commuters who regularly deal with cramped buses along the route, which services several major schools in the area, including the Griffith University in Mount Gravatt. 

Photo credit: Cr Steve Griffiths/Facebook

Cr Steve Griffiths announced that the new bus route will leave the first stop at 15:02 Monday to Friday to alleviate some of the pressures the 112 bus route experienced this year when school finishes. 

Route 112 has struggled in particular with overcrowding due to students finishing class at the same time each afternoon. The route currently begins at Circular Drive at Griffith University, then travels across Holland Park West, Tarragindi, Annerley, Dutton Park, Woolloongabba, South Brisbane, and the CBD.

In Tarragindi, bus stops can be found along Monash Road (Monash Park, Monash Bushland, Craig Mont St, Aldora St, and Ferrand St), Toohey Rd, Prior St, Windmill St, Brampton St, Andrew Ave, Tarragindi Rd, and Ekibin Rd.


Read: Survey Says Locals Have Problems with Pathways Around Popular Tarragindi Primary School


Local residents commended the addition of the new route, saying it will help address the packed buses that have long plagued the 112 route, especially during peak school commute times.

The service is set to launch in Term 1 in 2024. Visit TransLink’s website for updates on South Brisbane’s new bus route.

Published 24-November-2023