Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 7 of 28

Record-Breaking $3.15M Sale for Clayfield Queenslander

A cherished family home in Clayfield has set a suburb record for a Queenslander on an 810 sqm block due to its high sale price of $3.15 million.

Read: Summer Surge: How the North Brisbane Property Market is Heating Up in 2025

The two-storey, four-bedroom residence at 39 McGregor Street sold after negotiations with a neighbouring family who had long admired the property.

The classic Queenslander, positioned just 100 metres from the lush surrounds of Kalinga Park, had been in the same family for 43 years. Over the decades, the owners raised their four sons in the home, even planting a tree for each child—a sentimental touch that grew along with the family.

Ray White Bulimba agent Robyn Hoare, who handled the sale, said the auction initially attracted three registered bidders. The starting bid opened at $2.5 million, already exceeding Clayfield’s current median house price of $1.835 million. Bidding continued to climb until it reached $3 million, at which point the property was passed in.

However, negotiations did not end there. Knowing a neighbouring family had long admired the home, Ms Hoare reached out, and talks began immediately. By the end of the day, a final agreement was reached, securing the sale at $3.15 million.

Ms Hoare noted that the sale was a record for a Queenslander on a block of this size in Clayfield.

The new owners, already part of the neighbourhood, are thrilled to be moving into the home they had admired for years. Meanwhile, the previous owners are delighted with the sale, which allows them to transition to the next chapter of their lives.

Read: What Makes Clayfield a Top Pick Suburb for 2025?

Ms Hoare mentioned that the previous owners were pleased with the outcome, highlighting the significance of passing a historically rich home to another appreciative family.

With this sale, Clayfield continues to cement its reputation as one of Brisbane’s most sought-after blue-chip suburbs, where classic Queenslanders hold both sentimental and financial value.

Published 7-February-2025

Historic Start: St Agatha’s Welcomes Three Sets of Twins for Centennial Year

St Agatha’s Primary School in Clayfield is set to kick off its 100th year with an extraordinary beginning—welcoming three sets of twins into its Prep cohort.

Read: Growing Enrolments Signal Success at St Agatha’s Primary School in Clayfield

The school, which first opened its doors in 1925, has been a cornerstone of the Clayfield community for generations, and this year’s centennial celebrations promise to honour its rich history while looking ahead to the future.

On Friday, January 24, St Agatha’s hosted a special Prep orientation, introducing its newest learners, including the three sets of twins, to the classrooms where history and education intertwine. These young students are set to officially begin their journey on Wednesday, January 29, marking a symbolic start to the school’s centenary year.

Principal Anne-Marie Maw shared the significance of this momentous occasion. “From their very first steps into the classroom, our 2025 Preps are stepping into history,” she said. “Our 100th anniversary isn’t just about celebrating a school; it’s about honoring the generations of students, teachers, and families who have been part of our St Agatha’s story.”

Emma Godfrey, a new parent and mother of twins Teddy and Tori, expressed her excitement about joining the community during such a special year. “We’re new to the community, but the idea of our children being part of this milestone year is special,” she said.

Honouring the Past and Building the Future

While the celebrations focus on a century of memories, the school is also preparing for a future full of promise. Ms Maw revealed plans for a new senior precinct that will include state-of-the-art classrooms for Years 4, 5, and 6, a newly relocated library within the hall, and a modern canteen funded by a generous $180,000 contribution from the Parents & Friends Association.

“To our students, past, present, and future – you are the heart of St Agatha’s,” Ms Maw said. “May this centenary remind you that you are part of something truly special, and wherever life takes you, a piece of St Agatha’s will always be with you.”

Year-Long Festivities

The centenary celebrations will unfold over four school terms, beginning with St Agatha’s Feast Day Mass in Term 1. Term 2 will feature a birthday party during Catholic Education Week, while Term 3 will bring families together for a long lunch to share stories and memories. The year will close with a Centenary Arts Showcase in Term 4.

As part of the 100-year celebrations, a time capsule will be created, containing current uniforms and newsletters from 2025, alongside a display of school artifacts to preserve and share the legacy of St Agatha’s for future generations.

Read: Do You Want Better Grades and Higher Test Scores? Study Smarter, Not Harder

With its combination of history, community spirit, and forward-thinking initiatives, St Agatha’s Primary School’s 100th anniversary is not just a milestone for the institution but a celebration of the enduring impact it has had on countless lives over the past century.

Published 27-January-2025

Brisbane’s Artforce Initiative Shines in Wooloowin with ‘The View from My Window’

Photo Credit: Air Force Brisbane

Local artist Zoe Corkill’s artwork, The View from My Window, has transformed a traffic signal box in Wooloowin into a vibrant artwork as part of Brisbane’s Artforce initiative. This public art program invites residents to enhance urban spaces, celebrating creativity and community pride.

‘The View from My Window’: A Wooloowin Perspective

Zoe’s artwork, completed in November 2024, captures Wooloowin’s charm through her unique perspective. Featuring striking colours and intricate designs, it reflects the suburb’s character and has quickly become a local highlight.

The artwork enhances Wooloowin’s streetscape, offering a fresh perspective on the suburb while demonstrating the transformative power of public art.

About the Artist: Zoe Corkill

Zoe Corkill, a young artist, first participated in Artforce Brisbane at age 10, collaborating with her mother, Trudy Corkill, on the 2021 artwork Happy Life. Photos from the project show Zoe being lifted to paint alongside Trudy, showcasing their shared passion for public art.

Her latest work, The View from My Window, demonstrates her growth as an artist. Drawing inspiration from her community, Zoe’s work highlights the beauty of everyday life in Wooloowin while contributing to the city’s evolving cultural landscape.

Fostering Community Connection

Artforce Brisbane empowers residents to turn traffic signal boxes and Energex Padmount Transformers into public art. Since its launch, the program has supported over 1,000 art instillation across Brisbane, fostering community connection and transforming the city’s streetscape.

Projects like Zoe’s artwork foster pride, encourage engagement, and transform urban spaces into shared canvases for creativity.

Artforce Brisbane continues to provide a platform for artists of all ages and abilities to contribute to the city’s cultural fabric. Each artwork adds to Brisbane’s outdoor gallery, showcasing diverse stories and perspectives.

Artforce Brisbane welcomes artists of all experience levels to participate. Information on how to register, along with guidelines, is available on the program’s official website. Residents are encouraged to leave their mark on the city through this initiative.

Published 29-Dec-2024

Clayfield’s St Rita’s College: A Rising Star in Australia’s School Athletics Scene

Photo Credit: St. RIta's College

St Rita’s College in Clayfield continues to establish itself as a competitive force in school athletics, demonstrating the strength of its programs and athletes at the 2024 National Schools Challenge in Brisbane.

A Showcase of Talent at the National Schools Challenge

The National Schools Challenge Final is a prestigious event that brings together top school athletics programs across Australia. It serves as a platform for young athletes to compete at a high level, fostering individual prowess and team spirit. St Rita’s College’s participation in this event underscores its growing reputation in the national athletics arena.

While the college achieved commendable results in several categories, such as a 6th-place finish in the Senior Girls division and a tie for 6th place in the Junior Girls division, it is the exceptional individual performances that truly set the institution apart. These results underscore the college’s growing reputation on the national stage and highlight the depth of talent within its athletics program.

One of the standout moments of the competition came from Rose Acklin, who secured the Senior Girls’ 400m title with a remarkable time of 54.13 seconds. Her victory not only showcased her individual prowess but also reflected the high-calibre coaching and support provided by the college.

The Role of Expert Coaching

A significant factor contributing to the success of St Rita’s College athletics program is the expertise of its coaching staff. The college’s Head of Cross Country, Mr Michael Hillardt, is a former Olympian and World Indoor Champion in the 1500m event. His experience and insights have been invaluable in mentoring young athletes, instilling the discipline and techniques required for competitive success.

Comprehensive Athletic Development

Beyond individual coaching, St Rita’s College offers a robust Strength and Conditioning (S&C) Program integrated into the college’s sports curriculum for students across Years 5-12. This program focuses on developing physical qualities such as strength, power, speed, agility, and aerobic fitness. By providing age-specific training, the college ensures that students receive appropriate guidance tailored to their developmental stages, enhancing both performance and injury prevention.

Other Recent Achievements and Recognitions

In May 2022, the college celebrated notable achievements from its Sporting Excellence Program athletes, including selections to national teams in basketball and netball, as well as recognition in state-level cricket.

These accomplishments demonstrate the diverse talent pool at the college and its effectiveness in fostering athletic development across various sports.

Balancing Academics and Athletics

St Rita’s College prides itself on providing a versatile and extensive curriculum that allows students to engage with the world both critically and creatively. The institution caters to a wide range of student needs, abilities, and interests, assisting them in meeting personal and academic goals. The integration of a strong athletics program complements this academic framework, promoting a well-rounded education that values both intellectual and physical development.

Community and Support

The achievements of St Rita’s College athletes are not solely the result of individual effort but also a reflection of the supportive community that surrounds them. Parents, teachers, coaches, and peers all play a crucial role in creating an environment that encourages excellence.

With the 2032 Brisbane Olympics on the horizon, institutions like St Rita’s College are poised to play a significant role in developing the next generation of Australian athletes.

Published 26-Dec-2024

My Mistress Café in Clayfield Faces Liquidation Over Tax Debt Months After Closing

My Mistress Cafe, a beloved café in Clayfield, has gone into liquidation, owing the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) nearly $600,000 following its abrupt closure earlier this year.

Shocking Closure and Tax Troubles

The café, formerly located on Sandgate Road, unexpectedly closed in February 2024, leaving patrons confused and concerned about the future of the cherished community spot.

The announcement came without prior warning, and a mysterious note left on the window hinted at “new possibilities,” sparking speculation among loyal customers.

In December 2024, an Australian Securities and Investment Commission notice revealed that the café had officially entered liquidation following a court order initiated by the Deputy Commissioner for Taxation.

Liquidator Declan Lane confirmed that My Mistress Cafe Pty Ltd owed the ATO $593,182.27 and stated that current investigations were ongoing. However, limited information about the company has been made available so far.

Community Impact

For nearly nine years, My Mistress Cafe was a well-loved fixture in Clayfield, known for its inviting green courtyard and high-quality fare, including popular dishes like the “eggs Marilyn.” Regular patrons were stunned by the sudden closure, with many expressing disappointment at losing a go-to spot for coffee and meals in the neighbourhood.

The café’s closure has also raised concerns about the challenges faced by small businesses in the area. Residents noted the lack of communication from the café’s owners during and after its closure, leaving them with unanswered questions about the decision.

Ownership and Ongoing Mystery

Susanne Redmond, a 64-year-old resident of Rochedale South, solely owned the business. Rhiannon Redmond, a co-founder, declined to provide detailed comments, citing personal challenges. She described recent years as difficult and refrained from addressing the financial difficulties publicly.

Despite repeated attempts, neither the owners nor the liquidators have elaborated on what led to the café’s financial troubles.

An ATO representative confirmed that confidentiality laws prevent the organisation from commenting on individual tax matters. However, the significant debt underscores the pressures small businesses face in navigating tax obligations, especially in the challenging economic environment of recent years.

Published 24-Dec-2024

What Makes Clayfield a Top Pick Suburb for 2025?

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Clayfield has emerged as one of the most sought-after locations for property investment and homeownership, offering a perfect blend of excellent schools, a vibrant community, and a convenient location that together create unmatched lifestyle and growth potential, making it a standout choice for locals.

Clayfield Property Market Growth

The Clayfield property market continues to shine remarkably. REA reported that in 2024, the median house price in Clayfield stood at $1.87 million, that is a 14 per cent increase from the previous year. Units also performed remarkably by climbing 21 per cent to reach a median of $625,750.

Clayfield remains strong in rental yields as indicated by average weekly rents, both for houses at $833 and units at $520. This reflects steady demand for properties in the locality, making it a choice destination for investors looking to secure reliable returns and for families seeking a premium lifestyle

Why Clayfield Stands Out

Educational Excellence

Clayfield Top Surburb to Watch 2025 — *Photo Credit: Clayfield College/Google Maps*

One of the key drivers for the growth of the Clayfield property market is its excellent educational institutions. Parents are attracted to the suburb for schools such as Clayfield College, a well-known private school that offers Prep to Year 12, which is renowned for its academic excellence and holistic programs. St Rita’s College, another leading Catholic girls’ school, further adds to the attraction of the suburb with its excellent academic reputation and focus on community values.

Lifestyle and Amenities

Clayfield Makes It To Top 100 Suburbs — *Photo Credit: Harris Farm Markets/Google Maps*

Clayfield offers a lively lifestyle that is enriched by its markets, boutique shops, and charming cafes. Harris Farm Markets is one of the local favorites, which provides fresh produce and gourmet foods that reflect the spirit of the community.

Also brought to the lifestyle appeal will be the proximity to trendy cafes, specialty shops, and all types of dining just a short stroll away. The combination draws families and professionals who wish to reside in Clayfield in her parks and tree-lined streets.

Infrastructure and Connectivity

Clayfield’s strategic location ensures excellent connectivity, a key factor driving its property market growth. The suburb is well-serviced by public transport, including the Clayfield and Eagle Junction railway stations, which provide seamless access to surrounding areas.

Road connections are equally convenient, with proximity to major thoroughfares and the Airport Link tunnel, ensuring easy travel to key destinations. This level of accessibility has made Clayfield a prime location for residents who value both convenience and community.

Clayfield Is A Top Pick Among Suburbs — *Photo Credit: Wikipedia*

A Bright Future for Clayfield

Clayfield’s inclusion in REA’s analysis of top-performing suburbs highlights its ongoing potential. With a proven track record of rising property values and consistent demand, the suburb continues to attract families, investors, and professionals.

The growth of the Clayfield property market reflects its unique ability to combine a premium lifestyle with investment opportunities. Whether people are looking to settle down or secure a smart investment, Clayfield remains a top choice for locals who value quality living and long-term returns.

Published 22-Dec-2024

Street Spotlight: Oriel Road, Clayfield

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Oriel Road in Clayfield stands as a testament to Brisbane’s remarkable suburban evolution. Historical aerial photography from 1936 reveals a sparsely populated landscape, with only a handful of houses dotting what would become one of Clayfield’s most sought-after streets.

Today, this established thoroughfare boasts 129 properties, with a strong 70% owner-occupier rate and residents choosing to call it home for an average of 13 years and 7 months. This enduring community spirit is further evidenced by the fact that 46% of residents have lived here for more than a decade. Past property transactions, such as the 1979 sale of 66 Oriel Road for $47,000, highlight the extraordinary growth in property values over the decades, reflecting the area’s increasing desirability and Clayfield’s emergence as one of Brisbane’s premier suburbs.

Oriel Road, Clayfield Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 129
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 70%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 13 years and 7 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 46%

Oriel Road, Clayfield – As It Looked in 1936

Oriel, Clayfield in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON ORIEL ROAD, CLAYFIELD

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
4/104 Oriel Road , Clayfield	$627,000	Oct 2024
3/37 Oriel Road, Clayfield	$960,000	Oct 2024
2/20 Oriel Road, Clayfield	$710,000	Aug 2024
4/18 Oriel Road, Clayfield	$600,000	Jul 2024
1/104 Oriel Road, Clayfield	$575,000	Jun 2024
55 Oriel Road, Clayfield	$2,500,000	Mar 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON ORIEL ROADFROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
66 Oriel Road, Clayfield	$47,000	Feb 1979
117 Oriel Road, Clayfield	$370,000	May 1983
65 Oriel Road, Clayfield	$165,500	Oct 1987

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Clayfield in 2024 was $1,225,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Clayfield in 2020 was $875,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN CLAYFIELD SINCE 2020 : $350,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Clayfield in 2024 was $2,350,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Clayfield in 2020 was $1,300,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN CLAYFIELD SINCE 2020 : $1,050,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Clayfield in 2024 was $2,570,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Clayfield in 2020 was $1,800,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN CLAYFIELD SINCE 2020 : $770,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Clayfield in 2024 was $580,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Clayfield in 2020 was $350,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN CLAYFIELD SINCE 2020 : $230,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Clayfield in 2024 was $880,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Clayfield in 2020 was $565,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN CLAYFIELD SINCE 2020 : $315,000

If you know Oriel, Clayfield well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Eagle Junction State School Students Excel in Latest NAPLAN Results

Photo Credit: Eagle Junction State School/ Facebook

Eagle Junction State School has secured its place among Queensland’s top-performing schools in the 2024 NAPLAN results. The school has consistently demonstrated strong academic performance, placing amongst elite private schools with much higher fees.

The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) tests were administered to students across Australia earlier this year. Clayfield College students in Year 5 achieved impressive results, with an average score of 552.6 across all five test areas: reading, writing, spelling, grammar, and numeracy. This places them amongst the top schools in the state, including Brisbane Grammar School, St Margaret’s Anglican School, and St Peters Lutheran College.

Educational Landscape

*Photo Credit:* *Eagle Junction State School/ Facebook*

Eagle Junction State School (EJSS) has built a strong reputation for its commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and holistic student development. From 2013 to 2020, EJSS consistently ranked in the top 3% of Queensland primary schools based on academic performance.

The school fosters a culture of “visible learning,” where students are actively involved in their education and understand their learning progress.

Furthermore, EJSS boasts strong community support, excellent facilities, and a focus on developing essential life skills through extracurricular activities and its “Eagle Junction Learning Powers” program.

Queensland Schools Shine in National Rankings

*Photo Credit:* *Eagle Junction State School/ Facebook*

Across Australia, many schools celebrated strong NAPLAN results. In Tasmania, Fahan School topped the rankings for both primary and secondary schools. At the same time, in the Northern Territory, Haileybury Rendall School and The Essington School were the top performers for primary and secondary schools, respectively.

Queensland’s top school was the Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology. However, private schools continued to dominate the top positions in most states.

NAPLAN Results Spark Debate

While NAPLAN results provide valuable insights into school performance, they have also sparked debate about the emphasis on standardised testing. Some argue that NAPLAN puts undue pressure on students and teachers, while others maintain that it is a useful tool for measuring educational outcomes.

Published Date 05-December-2024

Volunteers Bring Warmth to Aged Care Residents in Wooloowin

Clifford House in Wooloowin is seeing the joy of community spirit through volunteers who dedicate their time to supporting elderly residents with companionship, activities, and kindness.

Community Connection Through Volunteering

Volunteers like Rose Tilyard have become integral to creating a vibrant and supportive environment for residents in Wooloowin.

Rose, who once worked as a nurse at Clifford House for over 20 years, now spends two days a week assisting with activities, outings, and one-on-one interactions. She says her volunteer work allows her to build connections with residents in ways she couldn’t while nursing. Bringing her pet dog on visits has also brought extra smiles, with residents lighting up at the presence of a furry companion.

Rose Tilyard, Wooloowin — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Supporting People in Vulnerable Circumstances

While aged care is a major focus, other volunteers are extending their compassion to different sectors of the community.

Melody Fawssett, another local volunteer, spends her time at a Queensland correctional centre, providing emotional and spiritual support to incarcerated women. She describes listening to their stories and helping them process their circumstances as both challenging and rewarding.

Similarly, Joanne Foster, a volunteer chaplain at the Wesley Hospital, has been offering emotional support to patients for nearly 15 years, seeing her role as a privilege to bring comfort to those in difficult times.

Opportunities for Community Involvement

Carinity, the organisation supporting Clifford House and other services, has been part of the Queensland community since 1949, offering a wide range of support including aged care, youth shelters, and disability services.

Volunteers are currently needed in suburbs like Boonah, Bundaberg, and Townsville, but for Wooloowin residents, Clifford House offers a unique opportunity to contribute directly to their local community.

Information on volunteering opportunities is available online for those interested in making a difference in their community.

Published 5-Dec-2024

Past Breathes New Life into Inner-City Community in Wooloowin

Photo Credit: Real Estate

Brisbane’s inner north is experiencing a housing boom, with Cedar Woods Properties spearheading the development of Greville at Wooloowin.

This master-planned community seamlessly combines Wooloowin’s rich history with modern living, offering a unique mix of townhouses, apartments, and heritage homes.

The first residents have already moved into their new townhouses, marking a significant milestone for the project. Construction on the second, sold-out release is underway, exceeding the halfway mark.

Prime Location Meets Historical Significance

Located just 5km from Brisbane’s CBD, Greville occupies a 3.5-hectare site steeped in history. Over the next five years, the development will deliver diverse housing options catering to various lifestyles.

The heart of Greville will be an expansive 4,000 sqm public park, alongside exclusive resident amenities. This ensures a vibrant community hub where residents can relax and connect.

Swift Progress Meets Market Demand

Cedar Woods is making rapid progress on the project. The strong sales performance of the first two releases, selling out shortly after launch, has allowed the developer to accelerate construction.

The first collection of 12 townhouses was completed within a year, with residents now settled in. Construction of the second release, comprising 25 townhomes, is progressing swiftly.

This efficient delivery is a major drawcard for buyers, especially in the current market.

Townhouses Offer Value in a Booming Market

The next phase of Greville will launch 20 three-bedroom townhouses in the southern precinct. Construction is anticipated to begin early next year.

Cedar Woods believes these townhouses offer excellent value compared to detached houses. With prices starting from $1.325 million, they are significantly cheaper than the suburb’s median house price of $1.57 million, which has risen by a remarkable 26.5% in the past year.

Modern Design Meets Heritage Preservation

Designed by Rothelowman Architecture Studio, the townhouses and apartments at Greville seamlessly blend Wooloowin’s character with contemporary finishes. This is further complemented by the preservation of the historic Holy Cross laundry building from the 1800s. In a later release, this structure will be transformed into heritage homes.

A Community Focus with Local Appeal

Over 80% of buyers are locals who appreciate the site’s historical significance and the vibrant lifestyle being created at Greville.

Residents already have access to various community amenities, including a recreation area with a pool, BBQ facilities, and alfresco dining options. Additionally, the expansive Greville Park, which opened last year, provides a central green space for the community.

Exceptional Connectivity

Greville boasts exceptional connectivity, offering residents easy access to Kedron Brook, the Northern Bikeway and Busway, and local shops and restaurants.

This focus on community, combined with the project’s prime location and diverse housing options, positions Greville as a desirable address in Brisbane’s thriving inner city.

Published Date 19-November-2024