The things that are memorable about Brisbane aren’t always the biggest and best. Sometimes it’s the quirky and yes, slightly strange, attractions, sights or experiences which linger in people’s minds.
What strange, quirky thing makes Brisbane special for you? Share it, by leaving a comment below.
The XXXX brewery
Nothing says ‘Brisbane’ like the illuminated XXXX sign and Mr Fourex at Milton. Brisbane’s own Fourex brewery, established in 1878, has tours which include, of course, free beer. Plus if you’ve ever lived in Brisbane’s western suburbs you’ll always recall the scent of malted hops drifting in the air.
Cane toads
This feral pest invaded our city years ago and has become synonymous with Brisbane (‘cane toad’ being just one term of endearment the southerners call us). Unfortunately, the cane toad is no longer just an icon of Brisbane but has hopped its way to being the icon of Cairns, Darwin and Coffs Harbour. Perth is yet to be so ‘lucky’.
Painted traffic signal boxes
Wonderful, weird and fleeting, Brisbane traffic signal boxes aren’t just a boring grey. They are wildly decorated and just like a canvas which volunteers paint to brighten our lives at traffic intersections. You can even paint one yourself, if you want. Why not? It’s a great idea that aimed to reduce graffiti but has had the effect of increasing beauty.
It’s not a game, it’s Origin
Our city, and state, stops for the series of three State of Origin games every winter. Blue only becomes a rebellious colour 3 times a year…wear it at your peril. Get a taste of the passion in our article about Top 10 Origin moments in history.
Stefan’s skyneedle
An icon from Expo ’88, it pierces the sky from South Brisbane. A fire extinguished its light-sabre capacity but Stefan promises it will be renovated and back, better than ever – one day.
Public art
One of our favourite pieces of Brisbane’s public art are the scrap metal kangaroo sculptures on George Street ('City Roos' by Christopher Trotter). We love the reclining roo that takes up half the chair!
Others include the sculptures created from 7000 colanders in Reddacliff Place ('Steam' by Donna Marcus) and the pointing silver hands on 175 Eagle Street ('Chat' by Sebastian Di Mauro). Good public art surprises and delights. We love them all.
Bus and train drivers with personality
Occasionally, these public servants choose to express their sense of humour and inject mirth into the tedium of commuting with announcements that make us smile. Sometimes train passengers will be treated to an impromptu weather report or bus drivers will wear Santa hats and decorate their buses in the silly season. All in good spirit.
Find out what was voted Brisbane's quirkiest icon in our Best of Brisbane poll.
After years and years living abroad I came home to find all these painted traffic boxes. They are fabulous. Such a great idea, and they make you smile and brighten your day.
Not sure that I'd put cane toads on a list of things that make Brisbane a great place to live...