Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 12 of 28

From 1932 to 2003: The Rise and Fall of Turrawan Private Hospital

Did you know that the Carolyn Hauff Boarding House in Clayfield College boarding house was once the stately Turrawan Private Hospital? Get to know the story behind this elegant brick structure that once served as a pillar of healthcare in the community for over 70 years.

Read: Clayfield: Revisiting the Historical Places That Made This Suburb Great

Known for its elegant red brick structure with its distinctive Georgian Revival architectural flair, this building has a rich history closely linked to the development of the local area.

The hospital was the vision of Matron Amy Olive Aitkin, a dedicated nurse who purchased the land on New Sandgate Road in 1932.

Turrawan Private Hospital — Nurses at the hospital, approximately in early 1940s (Photo credit: Pam Jansons/Old Brisbane Album – Facebook)

Aitkin commissioned prominent local architect Eric Percival Trewern to design the two-story masonry building, which was hailed by the Brisbane City Council upon its completion that November as “an exceptionally fine hospital.”

Matron Aitkin had already been operating the “Turrawin” Private Hospital nearby for around four years, but now had a permanent home for her passion. Trewern’s classic design with tiled roof and Victorian-era flourishes created an elegant yet welcoming environment for Matron Aitkin’s patients.

Photo credit: Brisbane’s Heritage Register

Less than three years later, Trewern was brought back to expand the hospital with additional wings for operating theatres and extra rooms. As medical technology advanced, many smaller private hospitals were unable to keep up with the stringent requirements imposed by the Queensland Department of Health. Yet Turrawan continued adapting and expanding, cementing its status as one of the leading independent hospitals in the area.

In 1960, the hospital purchased a neighbouring property that contained an attractive 1920s timber residence. This became the new nurses’ quarters, allowing Turrawan to increase its care capacity. Matron Aitkin eventually sold the hospital in 1971, but its service to the community continued for another three decades under new ownership.

A postcard for the Turrawan Private Hospital in 1979 (Photo credit: Julie Watt/Old Brisbane Album – Facebook)

Generations of Brisbane residents were born at Turrawan or healed within its walls. Even after closing in 2003 and being acquired by nearby Clayfield College, the hospital’s Georgian brick facade stands as a monument to healthcare and perseverance. Its proximity to Clayfield’s former tram terminus is a reminder of the suburb’s development around it.

Read: Church to Home Conversion on Bonney Avenue Hits the Market

Today, the historic building serves as Carolyn Hauff Boarding House, a boarding house for Clayfield College students, giving the structure a new chapter whilst preserving its legacy.

Matron Aitkin’s vision resulted in a hospital that rose above challenges and adapted to meet the needs of its patients. The enduring legacy of Turrawan Private Hospital remains a proud part of Clayfield’s living history.

Published 3-October-2023

Church to Home Conversion on Bonney Avenue Hits the Market

A church conversion located on Bonney Avenue in Clayfield has hit the market. Renovated and restored, the heritage-listed property offers a distinctive living opportunity.

The home, situated at 221 Bonney Avenue, boasts three bedrooms, and three bathrooms. Surrounding the abode are nine-metre-high ceilings, plus an outdoor area with a plunge pool and mezzanine level.

The charming home not only stands out for its internal and external features but also for its history as a church. The church home was originally built in 1889. The first to live on the property were Toni and Patrick Flinn.

To Mrs Flinn, the home still exudes the essence of a church with its nine-metre high ceiling, and the well-designed floorplan. As you enter, the vastness of the space remains, and you can still admire the original hammer trusses that date back to the 1800s.

As much as the Flinns loved the serenity and calmness of their church home, they have decided to downsize and relocate to Teneriffe.

A Ray White real estate agent representing the property at 221 Bonney Ave, Clayfield, emphasised the property’s unique attributes as a key factor contributing to the campaign’s success.

He mentioned that many downsizers have shown interest in the property due to its low-maintenance features. Moreover, he expressed his confidence in the stability of the Brisbane property market, noting that with interest rates remaining steady, he anticipates a notable uptick in activity.

Looking ahead, he expressed optimism about the market’s prospects for the remainder of the year. The home has been listed for sale with offers sought above $2.2 million.

Located in the highly desirable Eagle Junction catchment area, this church to home conversion property provides convenient proximity to the city, a mere 10-minute drive away, the airport accessible within 15 minutes, and the Gateway Motorway reachable in just 10 minutes.

Published 13-September-2023

Catholic Primary Schools Navigate Increasing Enrolment Pressure as High Schools Expand to Lower Years

Photo Credit: Facebook / St Agatha's Primary School, Clayfield

Catholic primary schools are facing a significant challenge as the competition for enrolment spots at prestigious high schools prompts more Queensland high schools to incorporate Year 5 and 6 classes into their offerings. Consequently, primary school cohorts beyond Year 4 are experiencing a notable decline, including St Agatha’s Primary School in Clayfield.

Recently, prominent independent secondary schools, including Brisbane Girls Grammar School, have expanded their enrolment options to include Year 5 and 6 classes. It caused many parents unwilling to take the risk of their children losing a spot at their high school of choice to pull their kids out of primary school early, despite having to pay thousands of dollars more in fees.

Looking at these Catholic primary schools’ annual report, the growing trend has led to a significant decline in the number of enrolments beyond Year 4, including St Agatha’s Primary School in Clayfield. The school observed a sharp decline in enrolments, dropping from 53 students in Year 4 in 2021 to just one student in Year 5 the following year. Notably, this decline coincided with neighbouring schools like St Rita’s College introducing Year 5 classes and other schools embracing a coeducational model.

Founded in 1925, St Agatha’s School is a co-ed Catholic Primary School located 6 km from Brisbane GPO, serving 345 students aged 4-12. With 13 class groups, it offers inclusive mixed-ability education. Drawing students mainly from nearby suburbs which are mostly residential, including Clayfield, Hamilton, Nundah and Ascot.

Brisbane Catholic Education, however, is pointing out that despite the trend, more students are still joining their schools overall. This is because more primary schools are now taking in prep students, particularly in the inner-city area where prep class enrollment has experienced a marked increase.
One expert’s analysis noted that when secondary schools expand their offerings, smaller schools are confronted with mounting pressure and challenging choices about their sustainability beyond Year 4.

Also, the notion of an early transition to high school is becoming more and more common among parents who seek reassurance that their children will secure spots in their preferred schools without any uncertainty or missing out. And this is supported by the idea that starting in Year 5 can be beneficial to the child as they go in a more gradual adjustment instead of sudden immersion.

Published 21-August-2023

“If every classroom could look like this, education would be revolutionised in Australia” Clayfield Specialist Says

Teachers, parents, and administrators know that the education system is under stress. It has been for a long time and is only getting worse. Meanwhile, technology outside the traditional classroom is improving by leaps and bounds.

Julie Christophers had been a teacher for 25 years. She trained as a literacy and numeracy specialist, which led to a range of roles including support teacher, working with children with special needs, and twice as an Acting Principal.

In 2016, Julie left teaching, disillusioned with a curriculum that had become so overcrowded, that students were no longer afforded the time to consolidate their understandings.

“Even with my years of experience, I didn’t feel I was able to make a positive difference anymore.”

“Later that year, I accepted a position to manage the Ashgrove Centre of a company called NumberWorks’nWords. Within the first week, I was absolutely blown away! Students were engaged, excited and enthusiastic about learning and the results they were achieving in every lesson, confirmed to me that this was what I had been missing!”

“I remember thinking, “If every classroom could look like this, education would be revolutionised in Australia.”

Clayfield & Mount Gravatt

After a few months, Julie was so convinced that she and her husband invested in opening a NumberWorks’nWords in Clayfield which then led to opening another in Mt Gravatt a few years later.

“It’s just been so rewarding because I can see the immediate difference we are making.”

What makes it different?

Whilst the education system, even in the private sector, struggles to get the ratio of students per teacher to less than 1:25, the NumberWorks’nWords ratio is 1:3.

Every child works on their own individualised and tailored lesson plans. The proprietary software is an incredible resource, much like a dynamic textbook of modelled examples and interactive learning opportunities, but the most important difference is that every child has the support of a tutor in the teachable moments.

NumberWork'nWords education support tutor and student

“The key difference our system offers is that the students need to prove they have mastered what they are working on before they move onto the next concept, skill or level. Schools simply can’t afford the time to do this for every child and in the classroom there are few resources to help individual students catch up.”

Julie’s two centres have produced a long list of great stories, like the Grade 9 boy who had failed Maths and English for many years at school. After one term at NumberWorks’nWords, he passed both subjects. By the second term, he averaged B- and by the third term, he got an A in an assignment, something his parents could not believe.

NumberWorks’nWords specialises in Maths and English tuition for children aged Prep to Year 10. Whether students are requiring intensive catch up, support to keep up or challenging extension, NumberWorks’nWords helps them achieve their goals.

Free Assessment

NumberWorks’nWords Clayfield offers a free assessment for new students. The software is used to compile a baseline report reflecting how the student is tracking against the curriculum.

“The assessment allows us to identify individual needs, which we can then explain in a detailed report for parents during the evaluation session.”

Julie is currently running a monthly competition on Clayfield News where all entrants receive the assessment plus the first lesson free, with no further obligation, it runs during the last 10 days of each month, look out for it.

Julie also writes a column offering support and advice for parents to help their children get the best educational outcomes.

“It never ceases to amaze me how quickly a child’s confidence returns when they know they have the support they need.”

READ JULIE’S COLUMNs

Julie’s passion and indeed NumberWorks’nWords mission, is to make a positive difference in the lives of children. The results in her Clayfield and Mt Gravatt centres are speaking for themselves.

NumberWorks’nWords Mount Gravatt is a proud Promotional Partner of Clayfield News.

Clayfield GP Clinic Launches New Monthly Membership Model

Tired of long waits for doctor’s appointments, high out-of-pocket costs, and a fragmented healthcare experience? A new monthly membership program offered by Clayfield GP clinic Evercare aims to provide a solution.

Read: Local Heroes: Clayfield Locals Who Made a Difference in the History of Brisbane

Located at Junction Road, Evercare has introduced this innovative new membership-based model for patient care just last month.

As of July 2023, patients now have the option to pay a daily membership fee of $45 per month or as little as $1.50 daily for priority access to doctors, appointments, after-hours care and more through the Evercare app.

Clayfield GP Clinic — Photo credit: Evercare/Facebook

Evercare’s membership program provides patients with an effective way to manage their primary healthcare expenses.

Members gain access to a general practitioner who serves as both a medical provider and trusted confidante. Through the Evercare app or in-clinic visits, members can readily connect with their assigned GP to address their healthcare needs.

How It Works

The $45 monthly membership fee offered by the Clayfield GP clinic is paid one month in advance at the time of joining and on the 1st of each month thereafter. Members can book their first appointment right away. The membership can be cancelled at any time.

For a first appointment, members will need to come into the Evercare clinic and complete a Baseline Health Check, unless they already have telehealth eligibility with their selected GP. If members prefer a telehealth first appointment, that option is available for an out-of-pocket charge.

Read: Community Concerns Grow Over Proposal for Childcare Centre in Hendra

At the time of the first appointment, whether in-clinic or telehealth, the member’s designated payment method will be charged the standard Medicare rate. Within 24 hours, Medicare will refund this amount in full, leaving members with no out-of-pocket costs for standard appointments as part of the membership.

To learn more or become an Evercare member, visit https://evercare.com.au/.

Published 25-August-2023

Police Tracks Stolen Vehicle, 3 Juveniles Arrested in Clayfield Incident

Law enforcement agencies successfully tracked and apprehended three juvenile suspects involved in the alleged theft of a black Mercedes. The incident unfolded in the Clayfield and Ascot areas, following a collaborative effort between aerial and ground units.

The chain of events began on Friday, 18 Aug 2023, at 10:50 p.m. when Polair, the Queensland Police Service’s airborne support unit, initiated the tracking of a black Mercedes believed to be stolen. The vehicle was reported missing from Mein Street in Hendra, approximately 48 hours earlier, on Thursday, 17 Aug.

Polair’s advanced tracking capabilities guided police officers on the ground as the stolen Mercedes navigated through the M1 northbound and the intricate backstreets of Clayfield and Ascot. The pursuit led the authorities to Dublin Street in Clayfield, where the vehicle came to a stop. At this point, three young males were spotted leaving the vehicle and entering nearby residential properties.

Responding swiftly, multiple police units, including the dog squad, converged on the area. Two of the suspects were successfully apprehended at the intersection of Liverpool Street and London Road in Clayfield. However, the third youth reportedly managed to evade capture by driving away in the stolen Mercedes.

The pursuit continued as law enforcement officers engaged the fleeing vehicle. Utilising strategic measures, the police executed a successful tire deflation device deployment along the Inner City Bypass. This led to the immobilisation of the stolen Mercedes and the subsequent arrest of the driver.

The Queensland Police Service said the detained individuals were male juveniles. A 16-year-old from Cherbourg was charged with unlawful use of a motor vehicle and attempting to enter the dwelling with intent at night. His case is set to be heard in the Murgon Children’s Court.

Additionally, a 16-year-old from Wynnum West is facing charges of entering a dwelling with intent to commit an indictable offence, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, and attempting to enter the dwelling with intent at night. His case is scheduled to appear in the Brisbane Children’s Court.

The third suspect, a 15-year-old from Pallara, was charged with entering a dwelling and committing an indictable offence, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, and driving without a driver’s license. His appearance in the Brisbane Children’s Court is expected at a later date.

As investigations continue, law enforcement authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward. Tips and leads can be submitted through the online suspicious activity form on the Queensland Police website or by calling 131 444. Individuals wishing to provide anonymous crime information can also contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Published 23-Aug-2023

Greek and Latin Roots in English

Did you know that over 60% of all English words have been borrowed from Greek or Latin roots? In the vocabulary of the sciences and technology, it rises to over 90% because during the Middle Ages, Latin was the language of scholars and educated people.

Many children and even adults struggle as they are learning English if they are unfamiliar with the Greek and Latin roots that have so greatly influenced the evolution of our words.

Number Works 'n Words Mt Gravatt English competition

I am passionate about supporting students to be well versed in their knowledge and use of the Greek and Latin roots, for they serve 3 key purposes.

Comprehension

Being able to recognise derivational roots within a text allows for a greater depth of understanding. Comprehension is supported when an unknown word can be broken down to its parts. eg. In simple terms, if you know that the Greek root ‘psych’ means mind and the Latin root ‘ology’ means study of, then the meaning of the word ‘psychology’ is easy to determine.

Spelling

Being familiar with Greek and Latin roots provides the building blocks for accurate spelling. While many roots have been adapted over the years, there are common patterns and recognisable features that support the spelling of many multisyllabic words.

Writing

Good writers need to have a mastery of their language in order to articulate and express ideas and emotions, elaborate and describe settings and characters and persuade and encourage their readers to move or question or feel etc.

When a writer has an appreciation for the diverse vocabulary available to them, they can make the most effective word choices. The English language has an unusually large number of synonyms, due to the that fact it has been influenced by several different language groups. English writers should take advantage of this.

Published 21-August-2023

Clayfield English Competition for Children

THIS COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED.

Numberworks'nWords Root Word Competition

Every entrant will receive a $65 voucher for a free evaluation and a free lesson. All entrants will go into a draw and the winner will receive a whole term’s tuition worth $650.

THIS COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED.

Complete the online form.

First Prize and Runner-Up prizes are only redeemable at Number Works n Words Clayfield. If the First Prize is unclaimed within 48 hours of the draw, there will be a redraw. Only one $65 voucher may be used per child.

Julie Christophers Number Works n Words Clayfield

Wooloowin State School: A Model School’s Journey of Resilience and Growth

Did you know that Wooloowin State School is the first primary school in Queensland to offer woodworking and domestic science classes to its students?

From its establishment in 1914, Wooloowin State School has gone through significant expansion, interesting developments, and numerous challenges (even a tragic fire incident) and come through it all with remarkable resilience.

Here are some things to know about Wooloowin State School:

A Model School Borne Out of ‘Educational Experimentation’

In the early 20th century, Wooloowin emerged as a rapidly expanding suburb due to its proximity to the railway station, which opened in 1889.

Recognising the need for quality education, the Wooloowin Progress Association and school building committee spearheaded the establishment of Wooloowin State School.

Wooloowin State School was one of the most expensive schools to be built by Queensland Public Works. Its establishment came at a time when Queensland was undergoing an “educational experimentation” and a reworking of the curriculum.

With its construction occurring in four stages between 1914 and 1934, the school resolved to be a model institution in terms of curriculum, staff, facilities, and progressive education.

First Primary School to Teach Woodwork and Domestic Science

The first section of Wooloowin State School was completed in 1914, comprising two single-story brick wings with four large classrooms, spacious verandas, and modern furnishings. In subsequent years, additional classrooms were constructed, bringing the total count to six by 1918.

Employing the finest teachers in the state, the school eventually introduced woodworking and domestic science classes. It was the first primary school in Queensland to teach these subjects to the students.

Rapid Growth in the Early 20th Century

Wooloowin, originally part of Lutwyche, flourished as a suburban community in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The extension of the tramline in 1913-1914 played a crucial role in the area’s development. Wooloowin State School had to undergo more expansions, including a swimming pool, to fill the demand for education. These expansions in 1925 and 1934 reflected the school’s commitment to holistic education and catering to the growing population of the working-class suburb.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

In 2003, tragedy struck Wooloowin State School when an arson attack damaged several key buildings, including the office, pre-school, tuckshop, School’s Out program, and library.

Despite the setback, the school’s heritage listing prevented the demolition of the damaged structures. Instead, the community rallied together, and the school was carefully repaired and rebuilt at a cost of A$4 million. Temporary classrooms were erected, and in September 2004, Wooloowin State School proudly reopened its doors.

Manners Maketh Man

The restoration process brought about several improvements, including the refurbishment of the main block, library, and pre-school. Additionally, a new tuckshop and uniform shop were constructed near the pool, further enhancing the school’s facilities. School’s Out program, initially located under the library, found a temporary home in one of the demountable classrooms.

Wooloowin State School stands as a testament to the power of community and resilience. From its early days as a model school at the forefront of education to the challenges faced during the 2003 fire, the school has evolved and adapted while preserving its rich heritage.

With the motto “Manners Maketh Man” guiding its students, Wooloowin State School continues to provide quality education and shape the lives of generations to come.

Published 17-August-2023

Local Heroes: Clayfield Locals Who Made a Difference in the History of Brisbane

The fairy godfather of blind children. The flying doctor. Campaigner of women’s rights. Did you know that Clayfield was home to these local heroes who have left their mark on the history of Brisbane?

Read: Abandoned Clayfield Retirement Home to Transform Into Housing Complex

Richard Frank Tunley (1879-1968)

Developer of educational resources for blind children

Richard Frank Tunley was a small business owner from Clayfield who manufactured window blinds for a living. He devoted his life to combating the isolation faced by visually impaired children, by creating educational tools for them to explore and experience the world through touch. It earned him the title, the “fairy godfather of blind children.”

history of Brisbane — Frank Tunley creating braille maps and toys for the children of the School for the Blind at Annerley, Brisbane, ca. 1950 (Photo credit: State Library of Queensland)

Mr Tunley made the first braille map for the children at the Brisbane School for the Blind (later known as Narbethong State Special School) in 1925, which was recognised as the first of its kind in Australia.

In 1962, Mr Tunley crafted “Brisbane Between the Three Bridges,” a remarkable braille map of the CBD. This unique creation goes beyond regular maps by incorporating relief outlines, allowing individuals to perceive the shapes of iconic structures like the Story Bridge, Victoria Bridge, and the William Jolly Bridge.

It showcases a representation of the three bridges located together at Indooroopilly: the Walter Taylor Bridge, along with the old and new railway bridges.

He also crafted the braille topographic map of Australia in the workshop of his Clayfield home in 1963.

It incorporates aluminium name tags, bearing embossed braille, to identify the names of locations, mountains, and other geographical features. Twisted wires are used to represent both major and minor rivers, while wooden pins indicate the elevation above sea level.

Timothy Joseph O’Leary (1925–1987)

Flying doctor

After studying medicine in Ireland and training as a surgical registrar in England, Dr Tim O’Leary, became a second surgeon in New Australia, a liner bringing British migrants to Australia in 1952.

Dr O’Leary making his patient comfortable before their flight to Mt Isa (Photo credit: Queensland Health/Facebook)

He stayed in New South Wales, where he worked as a clinical assistant chest physician at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney, and as a medical officer in the tuberculosis eradication section of the Department of Health.

In 1953, Dr O’Leary became a member of the (Royal) Flying Doctor Service of Australia, specifically in the Queensland section, and was assigned to Charters Towers.

He was transferred temporarily to Brisbane in February 1958 when he was appointed RFDS acting medical superintendent. A year later, he married a nurse, named Yvonne Margaret Dowdell, at the St Agatha’s Catholic Church in Clayfield.

Mr McKenzie from Plevna Downs, with Graham Affleck and the Royal Flying Doctor Dr Tim O’Leary at Plevan Downs, Queensland, ca. 1960 (State Library of Queensland)

Dr O’Leary received a diploma in aviation medicine in 1972. The following year, he was elected as a founding fellow of the Royal Australian College of Medical Administrators. After experiencing a heart attack, he retired from the RFDS in 1980 and began practising privately on the Gold Coast.

Also known as ‘Dr. Tim,’ he contributed in the history of Brisbane as an exceptionally capable physician, who was particularly renowned for his expertise in obstetrics. He demonstrated empathy towards his patients, who cherished both his sense of humour and his unwavering dedication to their well-being.

Mary Hyacinthe Petronel White (1900–1984)

Women’s rights campaigner and local government councillor

Ms White gained the endorsement of the Citizens’ Municipal Organization in 1949. The organisation is a non-political group founded by Sir John Beals Chandler.

Petronel White in 1954 (Photo credit: Trove, National Library of Australia)

This led to her historic achievement of becoming the first woman elected to represent a capital city council in Australia. For a period of 18 years, she served as an alderman, representing the Hamilton (Clayfield) ward within the Greater Brisbane City Council.

Ms White was a dedicated advocate for women’s rights and utilised her council position to advocate for improved public facilities and enhanced legal safeguards for women.

She actively participated in various community groups, including the Country Women’s Association, the Business and Professional Women’s Club, and served as a patroness for the Kalinga Boy Scouts, the Civilian Widows’ Association, and the Clayfield Child Care Association.

Read: Clayfield Gems: Get to Know These 4 Heritage Homes on Norman Parade

Indeed, these remarkable individuals have left an indelible mark on Clayfield and have made the city proud through their invaluable contributions to the history of Brisbane.

Published 9-August-2023