The Benefits of an Entertainment Precinct in Bonner

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Establishing an entertainment precinct in the Bonner electorate requires careful consideration of various factors, including population density, accessibility, existing infrastructure, and community needs. Bonner, located in the eastern suburbs of Brisbane, encompasses areas such as Chandler, Carindale, Manly, Mansfield, Mount Gravatt, Wishart, and Wynnum.

Key Considerations:

Population and Demographics:

• As of the 2021 Census, Bonner had a population of 131,543 residents.
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• The median age is 38 years, aligning with the national median, indicating a mix of young families, professionals, and retirees.
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• A significant portion of the population is engaged in professional occupations, with 28.2% identified as professionals and 14.5% as managers.

Cultural Engagement:

• Residents show active participation in arts and cultural activities. In 2017–18, 89% attended cultural venues or events, 74% visited cinemas, and 42% attended live music performances.

Existing Infrastructure:

• The electorate includes established suburbs with varying levels of commercial and recreational facilities. Areas like Carindale already host major shopping centres, while suburbs like Wynnum and Manly offer waterfront attractions.

Potential Locations for an Entertainment Precinct:

Carindale:

• Pros: Home to Westfield Carindale, one of Brisbane’s largest shopping centres, indicating existing infrastructure that could support expansion into entertainment.
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• Cons: The area is already commercially developed, and additional large-scale entertainment venues might face space constraints.

Wynnum-Manly Waterfront:

• Pros: Scenic bayside location with potential for tourism and community events. Existing parks and esplanades could be enhanced to include entertainment facilities.
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• Cons: Development would need to balance environmental considerations and community preferences for preserving natural landscapes.

Mount Gravatt:

• Pros: Proximity to major roads and public transport, making it accessible. The area has educational institutions that could collaborate on cultural events.
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• Cons: Existing residential zones might limit large-scale developments.

Mansfield:

• Pros: Central location within the electorate with potential land availability for development.
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• Cons: Primarily residential, so introducing an entertainment precinct would require careful planning to integrate with the community.

Recommendation:

Considering the factors above, the Wynnum-Manly Waterfront emerges as a promising location for an entertainment precinct. Its picturesque setting along Moreton Bay offers unique opportunities for outdoor events, festivals, and waterfront dining experiences.

Enhancing this area could boost local tourism and provide residents with diverse entertainment options. However, any development should involve community consultation to ensure that it aligns with local values and environmental sustainability.

Ultimately, the success of an entertainment precinct in Bonner will depend on thoughtful planning that respects the character of the area while meeting the recreational needs of its residents.

Craig Hill is a Brisbane-based author, journalist, teacher, business consultant and social justice campaigner. He is the General Manager of the Australian Business and Leadership School.

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