Clayfield Archives - Clayfield News

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

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

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

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.

Clayfield Among Suburbs Saddled with Significant Mortgage Debt

Clayfield is among many suburbs grappling with significant mortgage debt as a stark wealth divide emerges across the state. While luxury property buyers are splashing cash on prestige homes, many middle-income families are financially strained.

New data from Digital Finance Analysts (DFA) reveals that Queensland homeowners owe an average of $297,851, significantly lower than New South Wales and Victoria. However, this average masks a concerning trend: many Queenslanders, particularly those in popular inner-city and suburban areas, carry substantial mortgage burdens.

Affluent Suburbs, Significant Debt

Affluent suburbs like Ascot, with an average mortgage of $1.38 million, top the list. But the financial pressure extends beyond elite areas. Once-affordable suburbs such as Albany Creek, Kuraby, Miami, and Robina, where property prices have surged in recent years, are among the top 50 suburbs with the highest debt levels.

Clayfield’s Debt Burden

Clayfield residents, in particular, face a significant financial burden, with an average mortgage of $778,710. This trend is evident in many other popular Brisbane suburbs, including Indooroopilly, where the average mortgage exceeds $796,000.

Cash Buyers Drive Luxury Market

While many Queenslanders struggle with mortgage repayments, high-net-worth buyers pay cash for luxury homes in prestigious areas like Teneriffe, Hamilton, Mermaid Beach, and Surfers Paradise. These buyers, often established business owners, downsizers, or older homeowners, can secure properties without financing, driving up prices in these exclusive markets.

Financial Pressure Mounts

Martin North, CEO of DFA, warns that many households are under significant financial pressure, spending over 40% of their disposable income on housing costs. Younger families, particularly first-time buyers, are among the most vulnerable, but the strain also affects more affluent groups.

Real estate agents report that buyers who purchased in the last 12-18 months are particularly hard-hit. Rising interest rates, inflation, and the cost-of-living crisis have exacerbated the financial burden, forcing many to sell their properties sooner.

As the gap between the haves and have-nots widens, the future remains uncertain for many Queensland homeowners. While the luxury property market thrives, many face a growing financial burden and a diminishing sense of security.

Published Date 13-November-2024

Young Clayfield Artist Honours Nano Nagle’s Legacy in National Contest

A Year 6 student from St Rita’s College Clayfield, Eva M, has created an artwork that reflects the spirit of hospitality and inclusivity, earning her a place in the Nagle Education Alliance of Australia’s (NEAA) 2024 Nagle Prize Competition.

Inspiring Artwork for a National Competition

Eva’s entry for the NEAA competition illustrates the values and traditions upheld by St Rita’s College and is inspired by the life of Nano Nagle, founder of the Presentation Sisters and a figure respected for her dedication to education and community care. Her artwork features a central light symbolising the role of Nano Nagle as the “Lady of the Lantern,” representing warmth, care, and guidance for those in need. The piece also includes open hands to reflect values of hospitality and inclusivity, qualities that her school community strives to model.

To further enhance her message, Eva incorporated traditional First Nations symbols as a tribute to Indigenous Australian culture, emphasising her respect for Australia’s original custodians. This symbolic addition aligns with St Rita’s College’s dedication to reconciliation, making her artwork both culturally relevant and meaningful within the context of Australian heritage.

Eva’s use of imagery highlights the importance of unity and community in fostering a welcoming environment, showing how diverse people and cultures are connected through hospitality. This reflects St Rita’s College’s mission to promote empathy, kindness, and service among its students. The College expressed great pride in Eva’s talent and the dedication she poured into her submission, which they believe truly represents the heart of their school community.

The NEAA’s Role and Standards

The NEAA, founded in 2013 by a smaller group of Presentation schools, encourages schools across Australia to honour the legacy of Nano Nagle and the Presentation Charism. By offering the Nagle Prize, the NEAA recognises student achievements that reflect the educational and community-focused values Nano Nagle championed in her work. The NEAA is also committed to maintaining Child Safe standards, with strict protocols to ensure all activities support the dignity, safety, and respect of every student involved.

Eva’s artwork proudly represents St Rita’s College, and the community eagerly awaits the competition results, inspired by the young artist’s dedication to the values of inclusivity, reconciliation, and service.

Published 31-Oct-2024

Clayfield Roars to Life: DinoFest Brings Prehistoric Adventures to Kalinga Park

Photo Credit: Dinofest

Clayfield is set to transform into a prehistoric wonderland as DinoFest, the highly anticipated children’s dinosaur festival, makes its grand return to Kalinga Park.

The festival promises an unforgettable journey back 66 million years. It invites families to immerse themselves in a world of life-sized dinosaur replicas and engaging activities.

Highlights of the Prehistoric Adventure

DinoFest offers an array of experiences designed to spark curiosity and ignite young imaginations.

Dinosaur Encounter: A thrilling 45-minute interactive experience that transports children into a world where they can meet ‘live’ dinosaurs in a lush, natural setting.

Dinosaur Trail: An exciting expedition where kids will come face-to-face with awe-inspiring, life-size replicas of prehistoric giants, including the mighty T. rex.

Hands-On Learning: From discovering how fossils are formed to getting up close with genuine and replica dinosaur fossils, DinoFest provides a wealth of educational opportunities for budding paleontologists.

Dinosaur Petting: A truly unique experience where young children can safely interact with gentle baby dinosaurs.

Creative Corner: Kids can unleash their creativity with themed arts and crafts and cool dinosaur tattoos, ensuring lasting memories of their day.

buy ticket

DinoFest has garnered a devoted following in previous years, with families praising its ability to enthral and educate. Past attendees have expressed their delight at the well-organised event and the sheer joy on their children’s faces as they interacted with the dinosaurs.

With its dynamic mix of entertainment and learning, DinoFest is shaping up to be an unmissable event for any dinosaur-loving child in Brisbane.

Published Date 10-September-2024

Rapid Sale: Clayfield Apartment Snapped Up Within Hours of Listing

A Clayfield woman purchased an apartment for $910,000, just hours after discovering it was available, amidst a highly competitive auction that attracted twelve registered bidders.

The auction took place on Saturday, 7 September, at 1/42 Roseby Avenue, where the three-bedroom, two-bathroom unit was being offered for the first time in four decades. With a starting bid of $800,000, interest was high among the bidders.

Ashley Robinson from Ray White Metro North noted that 10 active participants pushed the price well above the $860,000 reserve by making incremental increases initially of $10,000 and later $5,000.

The property eventually sold for $910,000, $50,000 more than the reserve price. The sellers were satisfied with the outcome, expressing a mix of joy for the new owner and sadness at parting with their family home.

The decisive buyer was unaware of the auction until the morning of the event.

“The lady was enjoying her morning coffee when she stumbled upon the listing online and decided on the spot that she had to act,” said Mr Robinson. She swiftly arranged for her husband to inspect the property while she registered to bid, ultimately securing the apartment.

Clayfield 1 Roseby Ave — *Photo Credit: realestate.com.au*

The new owner has expressed intentions to retain the apartment for personal or family use, though future plans remain undecided.

The auction also drew attention from the original Italian developer of the building, who was curious to see how his constructions had fared over the years. Mr. Robinson shared, “He was pleased to see the enduring quality of the apartments.”

Unit 1 at 42 Roseby Avenue spans 1,758 square meters and includes two parking spaces. Recent statistics indicate that median property prices in Clayfield have reached $2,084,068 for houses and $580,000 for units, marking the apartment’s sale as a significant investment in the current market.

Published 10-Sept-2024

Parents Demand Police Involvement in Elite School “Smash or Pass” Scandal

Photo Credit: m3architecture

Parents of students at St Rita’s College in Clayfield are calling for police involvement following a “smash or pass” rating scandal involving their children’s photos.

The controversy, which also implicates St Joseph’s Nudgee College students, has raised serious concerns about privacy and online behaviour among teenagers.

According to reports, a Year 8 St Rita’s student shared individual photos of her entire class with a Nudgee College boy. Subsequently, a video featuring these images was allegedly created and uploaded to TikTok.

One St Rita’s parent, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, “We have asked the school to refer this matter to the police.” The parent expressed scepticism about claims that the material had not been widely shared on social media, citing the likelihood of redistribution among teenagers.

St Rita’s College has reportedly suspended the student who initially shared the images for one day. The school’s deputy principal, Catherine Allen, informed parents that efforts were being made to remove the shared information.

**Photos came from a Year 8 St Rita student.**
Photo Credit: Queensland Government (des.qld.gov.au)

Nudgee College principal Scott Thomson has denied allegations that their students used social media to rate the attractiveness of St Rita’s students. In a letter to parents, Thomson stated, “Based on our investigations, there is no evidence to support the allegations in the story.” He acknowledged that a Nudgee student had shared St Rita’s student identification photos with a small group of peers but maintained that the school was unaware of any public sharing on social media.

**A student from St Joseph’s Nudgee College was also involved in the drama.**
Photo Credit: Wikipedia / Kgbo

The incident has sparked broader discussions about the prevalence of “smash or pass” rating games in Brisbane schools. A parent from another local school, All Hallows, commented on the widespread nature of these activities, describing them as “incredibly damaging to kids” with potentially “horrific” fallout.

Published 30-July-2024

Clayfield Queenslander Sold for $2.3 Million After 94 Years

A 97-year-old woman in Clayfield has sold her $2.3 million home, where she has lived since she was three years old. The sale, after 94 years, marks a significant moment in the local real estate market.

The much-loved home at 64-66 Kalinga Street, Clayfield, Queensland, sold for $2.35 million at an auction on 20 July 2024. This purchase combined forces to portray the high demand for homes in this area, contributing to a 60.3 per cent national clearance rate over that weekend.

This iconic Queenslander home boasts a sprawling 810sqm block—this family home has been around for almost a century. It had original features, including its VJ wall panels, sage green roof and patterned wallpaper, which also drew more than 100 onlookers and fierce competition from six bidders among the 17 who registered.

The two bedroom house, known for its timber structure, handsome verandah, and elevated position, backs onto Kalinga Park with all the picturesque views and direct access to green spaces that entails.

The property, which Ray White Ascot listing agent Vanessa Harte described as “cute as a button,” sold to a family who will renovate and live in it. The sale is important to her, Harte added, as the seller’s family is helping her downsize.

The vendor has seen some big changes in the Brisbane real estate market over all the decades. According to data from Macquarie University, in 1973, a typical Brisbane house cost $17,500. The sale of this house signifies both an increase in property value and the owner’s strong attachment to her home and community.

Published 26-July-2024

Clayfield Unit Fetches $660,000 as Suburb’s Appeal Soars

Photo Credit: Place

A two-bedroom Clayfield unit at 1/78 Wagner Road sold for $660,000, attracting an unprecedented 24 registered bidders and exceeding the area’s median price for similar properties by a significant margin.

The 132-square-meter ground floor apartment, built in 1970, showcases the enduring appeal of Clayfield’s older housing stock. Known for spacious layouts and features like separate laundry rooms, these properties are increasingly sought-after in a market favouring quality and location.

Drew Davies of Place Ascot, who handled the sale with colleague Guy Horsley, noted the exceptional interest in the property. “It was the most registered bidders we’ve seen for a single auction in recent times,” Davies remarked, underscoring Clayfield’s current market heat.

The sale price represents a substantial increase from the $44,000 the previous owner paid 44 years ago, reflecting Clayfield’s long-term growth potential. More recently, the suburb has seen a 19% jump in median prices for two-bedroom units over the past year, reaching $545,000.

Clayfield’s proximity to Brisbane CBD — just 10 kilometres away — continues to be a major draw. The suburb is attracting a diverse range of buyers, from first-time homeowners to downsizers and investors, all vying for a piece of this desirable northside locale.

The strong result aligns with a broader trend in Clayfield and surrounding areas. “We’ve seen a huge surge in interest for apartments over the last year, especially for those in small blocks with low body corps in premium locations,” Davies explained, highlighting Clayfield’s particular appeal in this regard.

Published 3-July-2024