Wooloowin Archives - Clayfield News

Couple Revives Queenslander Tradition in Wooloowin

A Wooloowin couple has transformed their home at 20 Stopford Street into a reimagined Queenslander, blending traditional heritage features with modern design to celebrate Brisbane’s architectural identity.

Reviving the Queenslander Identity

Carrie and Anthony Fox, the husband-and-wife duo behind Square Up Constructions, purchased the Wooloowin property in December 2023. Rather than following current trends of coastal or Hamptons-style designs, they chose to rebuild from the ground up with a focus on preserving and reinterpreting the traditional Queenslander.

Drawing inspiration from the 1909 home that once stood on the site, they reintroduced classic elements such as fretwork, ceiling roses, checkerboard tiles and iron lace, integrating these with a modern, family-oriented layout.

Wooloowin Queenslander home — Photo Credit: RayWhite

Heritage Craftsmanship with Modern Detail

Behind its heritage façade, the home spans two light-filled levels, combining intricate detailing with contemporary functionality. Features include chevron oak flooring, marble finishes, a butler’s pantry, and a glass-fronted 132-bottle wine cellar.

Outdoor spaces include a pool terrace, alfresco entertaining area, and landscaped gardens. The lower level houses a gym and infrared sauna, while modern additions include solar panels, a smart home system and CCTV.

A Statement in Brisbane’s Design Landscape

The couple aimed to show that modern construction can retain warmth and authenticity. Their project reflects a growing movement toward embracing Queensland’s architectural heritage in new builds.

Real estate agent Jill Wright-Wotton, who is marketing the property, noted the design’s appeal to buyers seeking genuine craftsmanship and timeless livability.

Brisbane architecture — Photo Credit: RayWhite

Location and Auction

Set on an elevated 810sqm block in a quiet Wooloowin street, the property sits within the Eagle Junction State School catchment and near Kedron Brook, Melrose Park and Wooloowin Station. The home borders Clayfield, Ascot and Hendra.

The property is scheduled to go to auction at 2 p.m. on 1 November.

heritage restoration — Photo Credit: RayWhite

Continuing the Conversation

As the Fox family prepares to relocate to acreage, their Wooloowin home continues to highlight the potential of integrating heritage and contemporary design. The project stands as a reminder of Queensland’s architectural roots and its enduring appeal in Brisbane’s evolving suburbs.

Published 22-Oct-2025

Historic Wooloowin School Set for Modern Renovation in 2025

Photo Credit: Brisbane Catholic Education/Facebook

Holy Cross School, one of Wooloowin’s oldest educational institutions, will receive significant facility upgrades in 2025. This initiative is to support its growing student population and enhance learning environments.

Holy Cross School was established by the Sisters of Mercy in 1890. This 135-year-old Catholic school will undergo renovations to modernise its facilities while maintaining its rich heritage.

*Photo Credit: Brisbane Catholic Education/Facebook*

Enhanced Learning Spaces for Young Students

The renovation will include a new facade, updated Prep spaces, and play areas. The new Prep classrooms will feature state-of-the-art design and technology. It will offer flexible and engaging environments tailored to foster creativity and collaboration among the youngest learners.

Holy Cross School Principal Simon Mahaffy highlighted that the upgrades would improve aesthetics. It will also provide students, staff, and families with a more welcoming and stimulating environment. He emphasised that these modern facilities will support the growing number of families choosing the school amid increasing local housing developments.

Preserving Community Heritage

The planned renovations will also respect the school’s historical elements. Community members expressed concerns over maintaining significant features such as the brick pavers engraved with past students’ names and the Lone Pine tree from the War Memorial.

Wooloowin school upgrade — *Photo Credit: Brisbane Catholic Education/Facebook*

School representatives have reassured the community that these elements will remain part of the upgraded landscape. The brick pavers will be relocated to the new prayer space, and the Lone Pine will be preserved with a new sandstone plinth and commemorative plaque.

Community Reaction and Future Plans

Residents have largely welcomed the upgrades. They expressed gratitude for preserving the school’s heritage while enhancing modern facilities. Many alumni are noting how the school has evolved over the years.

Principal Mahaffy also acknowledged Brisbane Catholic Education’s support in funding the project. The project is set to commence during the Easter school holidays. Completion is expected by the end of 2025. The upgraded facilities will cement Holy Cross School’s reputation as a thriving and welcoming community hub in Wooloowin.

Published 1-Apr-2025. Updated 12-Oct-2025

Cedar Woods Expands Apartment Plans in Wooloowin’s Greville Precinct

Photo Credit: DA/A006835434

Cedar Woods Properties has lodged a revised application for two apartment towers within its Greville community in Wooloowin, increasing the project to 232 apartments.

Upscaled Plans for Greville Precinct

Cedar Woods Properties has submitted updated plans for its 4,178-square-metre Chalk Street site within the 2.5-hectare Greville masterplanned community in Wooloowin. The new proposal outlines two residential towers of 12 and 14 storeys, replacing the previously approved eight-storey limit.

The development, designed by Ellivo Architects, will deliver 232 apartments in one, two, and three-bedroom configurations, set above a shared two-level podium with resident amenities and basement parking.

Greville development — Photo Credit: DA/A006835434

Building Design and Sustainability

The design integrates with existing Greville townhomes and parkland, balancing low-rise surroundings with the higher-density corridor near Wooloowin station. Both towers will feature landscaped podiums, communal rooftop areas, and deep balconies, using brickwork, precast concrete, and metal cladding for long-term durability.

Sustainability features align with BCC’s Buildings that Breathe framework, incorporating passive ventilation, solar orientation, and deep planting. The project also includes active transport facilities and EV charging readiness.

Project Details and Facilities

The plan includes 68 one-bedroom, 120 two-bedroom, and 44 three-bedroom apartments. Each has a private balcony between 10 and 51 square metres. Communal areas make up 26.43 per cent of the site, including a rooftop pool, BBQ, and green space.

A total of 297 car parks and 290 bicycle bays are proposed, with vehicle access via internal precinct roads instead of Chalk or Bridge Streets.

Greville Wooloowin apartments — Photo Credit: DA/A006835434

Greville’s Broader Development Context

The new towers will expand the $300 million Greville masterplan, which has transformed the former Holy Cross Laundry site since 2023. Earlier stages include 84 townhomes and the six-storey Vera Apartments, currently under construction and due for completion between December 2026 and February 2027.

Devcon Building Co. is constructing the townhomes, while Emacen Projects is delivering Vera. The precinct features a recreation area, 4,000-square-metre park, and restored heritage elements.

Outlook for Wooloowin

Positioned five kilometres from Brisbane’s CBD and beside Wooloowin train station, Greville continues to grow as a transport-linked community blending heritage and modern design. The proposed towers represent the final major apartment phase in the precinct, adding further housing options in Brisbane’s inner north.

Published 10-Oct-2025

Final Townhomes Launched at Wooloowin’s $300M Greville Community

The final collection of townhomes is set to rise at Wooloowin’s $300 million masterplanned community, Greville, with construction now underway on the last 47 residences.

Read: Greville Wooloowin, Other Developments That Were Abandoned in 2022 Due to Construction Crisis

National developer Cedar Woods Properties has appointed south-east Queensland builder Devcon Building Co Pty Ltd to deliver the project, coinciding with the construction of Greville’s first apartment building, Vera, currently being built by local specialists Emacen.

Cedar Woods Development Director Blair Britton said the response to the release had been strong.
“This urban lifestyle precinct is already alive and thriving, and the final townhome release is already 40 per cent sold as construction begins,” he said.

Designed by architecture studio Rothelowman, the three-bedroom townhomes range between 191 and 213 square metres, each offering 2.5 bathrooms, two car spaces and premium finishes. Prices for the remaining homes start from $1.42 million — below Brisbane’s median house price of $1.6 million.

Greville residents already enjoy a recreation area with a pool, BBQs, alfresco dining spaces, and the 4,000sqm Greville Park, which opened in 2023.

Devcon General Manager Ray Lindley said the company was proud to join the Brisbane project.
“Greville forms part of our growing Brisbane pipeline and complements our extensive footprint on the Sunshine Coast, where we have been delivering high quality residential projects since 1993,” he said.

Read: Past Breathes New Life into Inner-City Community in Wooloowin

Located just five kilometres from the CBD, Greville will ultimately deliver 84 townhomes, more than 200 apartments across three buildings, and a collection of heritage homes within the historic Holy Cross laundry, which dates back to the 1800s.

The project reflects a wider trend of masterplanned communities reshaping Brisbane’s inner suburbs, with developers aiming to balance heritage preservation with new, high-quality housing close to the city. Greville’s mix of apartments, townhomes and parklands highlights the demand for more diverse housing options in areas traditionally dominated by detached homes.

Published 26-August-2025

Holy Cross School Marks 135 Years in Wooloowin

Holy Cross School in Wooloowin is celebrating its 135th anniversary in 2025, alongside major school upgrades and a community event to mark the milestone.

A Legacy in Wooloowin

Holy Cross Catholic Primary School, located in Brisbane’s inner-north suburb of Wooloowin, is marking 135 years of Catholic education in 2025. The school was founded in July 1890 by the Sisters of Mercy and initially operated from a church building, with pews repurposed as desks.

In its early years, the school was known for its simplicity and discipline, reflecting the educational standards of the time. A convent was later established at the corner of Chalk and Morris Streets, where Sisters undertook various ministries. In 1958, the school relocated to its current site on Morris Street, with the Sisters continuing their administration until 1975.

Upcoming Celebration in July

On Saturday, 26 July 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Holy Cross School will host a public celebration to mark its 135th anniversary. The event welcomes past, current, and prospective families.

Activities will include school tours, food stalls, face painting, live performances, a science show, and a variety of games. A historic display will showcase the school’s evolution, and guests will have the opportunity to post their own memories and stories.

The event will also highlight upcoming building projects. Fundraising opportunities will include a “Buy a Brick” initiative and a building fund donation campaign to support the planned upgrades.

get tickets

Major Upgrades Underway

To coincide with the milestone, Holy Cross School is undergoing significant facility improvements. The redevelopment will include a new façade, a refurbished Prep precinct, enhanced play spaces, and upgraded general learning areas.

The construction is scheduled to begin during the Easter school holidays and finish by the end of 2025. These works aim to provide flexible, engaging learning environments, particularly for younger students.

The upgrades are also designed to meet rising demand, as nearby housing developments contribute to projected enrolment growth from 2026.

Brisbane school upgrades — Photo Credit: Supplied

Community Support and Future Growth

One family has maintained a 90-year connection to the school, with multiple generations attending. Families are drawn to Holy Cross for its inclusive environment and long-standing values of care and respect.

The school’s plans reflect a continued commitment to Catholic education, social responsibility, and adapting facilities for future learners, while remaining rooted in its historical mission.

Looking Ahead

Holy Cross School is preparing for growth in the coming years, supported by its central location, strong community ties, and investment in modern facilities. Upcoming changes aim to preserve the school’s legacy while supporting the needs of a new generation of students.

Published 22-July-2025

Wooloowin LGBTQIA+ Bookstore Closes Shop, Shifts to Pop-Ups

Photo Credit: Shelf Lovers/Facebook

An LGBTQIA+ bookstore formerly based in Wooloowin has transitioned to a new operating model after closing its physical store earlier this year.

Bookstore Closes Doors in Wooloowin

Shelf Lovers, a Brisbane LGBTQIA+ bookstore, ceased operations at its Wooloowin shopfront after two years in business. The store, previously located on Dickson Street, officially closed in April 2025 due to financial difficulties during slower periods.

New Business Model Announced

Despite the closure, Shelf Lovers will continue trading through an updated business structure. Plans include operating as an online store, taking direct sales via email, and participating in markets and events with pop-up stalls. A new website is in development, alongside potential options for local delivery and click-and-collect within Brisbane.

The business aims to maintain its offerings, including LGBTQIA+ books, drag storytime sessions, and book meetings. Support services for professionals, such as curated reading lists covering topics like trans youth support, will also continue under the new format.

Wooloowin Storefront No Longer in Use

The former Wooloowin location, which served as the base for the business, played a significant role in building community connection. Although the physical store has closed, the business will retain its name and community-driven identity as it adapts to a mobile and digital presence.

Brisbane LGBTQIA+ bookstore — Photo Credit: Shelf Lovers/Facebook

Community Support and Continuity

Following the closure announcement, Shelf Lovers received extensive community support. Many customers expressed the bookstore’s importance as a safe space and cultural hub. The owner confirmed that community feedback heavily influenced the decision to restructure rather than shut down permanently.

Regular drag storytime sessions will continue every two months, with the next events set to take place at a new venue in Petrie Terrace. These events will run in partnership with Queer and Here Brisbane.

Looking Ahead

Shelf Lovers is finalising its new operating model and intends to maintain the spirit of the original store while evolving its approach to stay sustainable. Future operations will focus on accessibility through digital channels and in-person engagement at major events across Brisbane.

Published 10-July-2025

Wooloowin Queer Bookshop Shelf Lovers Closes Doors

The cherished LGBTQ+ and romance bookshop Shelf Lovers has permanently closed its physical store in Wooloowin, marking the end of what many considered an important safe space for the local community.

Final Trading Days

When its lease finished, the shop at 1 Dickson Street ceased operations at its brick-and-mortar location. The official closure date for the physical premises was 20 April. Trading concluded over the Easter weekend, which saw customers visit for a last chance to browse and take advantage of discounts.

Shelf Lovers hosted a final farewell event to mark the closure, celebrating with the community. Gold Coast drag queen Cady DeVille entertained attendees during a special story time, bringing smiles and laughter. Following the event, the Shelf Lovers team expressed thanks on social media to everyone who shared their final weekend, acknowledging it involved laughs, tears, and many books.

Difficult Decision and Community Space

Owner Kat previously announced the closure online, stating that deciding not to commit to a new lease was incredibly difficult. She revealed that considerations regarding her family’s financial situation and her health and wellness influenced the decision.

The bookshop had become recognised as a significant, inclusive, safe space within Brisbane for the LGBTQ+ community and romance readers. If the shop had continued operating from its physical location, plans had been made to develop the space further.

Online Presence Continues

While the Wooloowin store is permanently closed, Shelf Lovers continues operating its online business. Customers can still purchase books through their website. The business can be contacted via email at shelflovers@outlook.com.

Kat mentioned previously that they were investigating options to continue the business in some form in the future, potentially. However, she noted that there were no definite answers yet regarding what that might look like, but updates would be provided.

Published Date 22-April-2025

Construction Starts on New Vera Apartments in Wooloowin Community

Developer Cedar Woods has started building 58 new luxury apartments called Vera, the first apartment complex within its large Greville community project in Wooloowin.

This marks a significant step for the development, moving into apartment construction after successfully selling out two earlier townhome releases. Vera is planned as the first of three apartment buildings for the master-planned Greville site in Brisbane’s inner north.

Vera Apartment Features

The Vera building will be six storeys tall and offer a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments. Designed by architecture firm Rothelowman, the floorplans will measure between 78 and 122 square metres.

Some apartments overlook a large parkland area within the community, while others offer views of the Brisbane skyline. Residents will have access to exclusive rooftop facilities, including a swimming pool, barbecue and dining spaces, and an outdoor lounge area equipped with a firepit, all offering city vistas.

Cedar Woods Development Director Blair Britton stated that Vera represents a high-quality addition to the area, featuring resort-style amenities designed to improve residents’ lifestyles.

Greville Community Growth

The Greville master-planned community is just five kilometres north of Brisbane’s central business district in the historic suburb of Wooloowin. The 3.5-hectare site is expected to develop further over the next five years. Plans include 84 townhomes, more than 200 apartments across the three buildings, and a unique collection of homes inside the historic Holy Cross laundry building, which dates back to the 1800s.

People already living in Greville have access to shared facilities such as a recreation area with a pool and barbecues and the 4,000-square-metre Greville Park, which opened to the public in 2023. Mr Britton also noted that Greville is quickly becoming a desirable urban neighbourhood, thanks to new and existing facilities and good connections to shops and transport.

Addressing Housing Needs

Local government representatives have welcomed the project. Marchant Ward Councillor Danita Parry, explained that adding Vera at Greville will help supply much-needed housing in Brisbane’s inner north. She pointed out that Brisbane is among Australia’s fastest-growing cities and developments like Greville help address the strong demand for homes.

Cr Parry added that the project provides more housing choices for people of different ages and abilities and contributes to more things for people to see and do, such as the new public park. She mentioned her support, along with that of Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, for projects that deliver more homes and enhance the city’s lifestyle.

Construction and Sales Update

Cedar Woods has selected Brisbane-based builder Emacen Projects to construct the Vera apartments. Mr Britton expressed pleasure in partnering with Emacen, noting their experienced local team will help bring more quality homes to the market. The first townhome stage at Greville was finished late last year, and work on the second townhome stage is currently close to completion.

Emacen Projects Executive Director Mark Spry commented on the high calibre of the project team and Cedar Woods’ knowledge of the building process. Mr Spry confirmed that early works have started on the Vera site. His team expects to finish construction in early 2027 based on the current schedule. He added that Emacen draws on extensive experience from major Australian projects, applying strong systems to deliver Vera to a high standard.

Interest in Vera has been strong, with 50 per cent of the apartments already under contract following an initial release campaign. The remaining apartments are available with prices starting from $874,000. Interested buyers can find more information online or at the Greville Sales Centre in Wooloowin.

Published Date 07-April-2025

North Brisbane Bikeway Debate Continues as 2018 Plan Given a Second Look

After multiple rounds of consultation for the Stage 5 of North Brisbane Bikeway, the decision has been made to revert to a plan that was previously rejected in 2018.

Read: Community Calls for Review of North Brisbane Bikeway Stage 5

Brisbane recently announced plans to establish a potential connection between the North Brisbane Bikeway on Dickson Street and Kedron Brook Bikeway at Brook Road, via Kent Road.

The Kent Road concept design was released in 2018 and proposed travelling east-west to Kent Road via Price Street then across Rose Street into Park Road, finally connecting to the Kedron Brook Bikeway at Brook Road.

The decision follows Council’s recent scrapping of a plan to install bike lanes along a 500-metre stretch of Dickson Street. That plan, which had received strong community support in 2021, was abandoned in January this year due to concerns from local businesses and residents over the loss of on-street parking and potential traffic congestion. Two petitions opposing the project argued that reduced parking would negatively impact businesses in the area.

Despite Council’s decision, cycling advocacy group Space4CyclingBNE and other supporters continue to push for safety improvements along Dickson Street. An online petition launched by local residents highlights the dangers cyclists face when riding between parked cars and fast-moving traffic.

The petition calls for Council to implement road safety measures along Dickson Street, including reducing the speed limit from 60 km/h to 40 km/h and removing on-street parking to create a safer riding environment.

“While we’re looking forward to work finally starting again on the North Brisbane Bikeway, people will still want a safe and direct route to continue to Eagle Junction, Toombul, and towards the Brisbane Airport and Gateway North Bikeways, and the north-eastern suburbs,” the group stated.

“People who continue riding on Dickson St, north of Price St, find they are riding between parked cars and faster moving motor traffic. That exposes them to the dangers of being hit by the opening door of a parked car and/or being hit by passing cars or trucks.”

Read: Locals Have Mixed Reactions To Stage 5 Of North Brisbane Bikeway

Council’s move to revert to the 2018 plan comes as a draft document from the state government acknowledges the need for better-connected bikeways but warns that financial constraints may delay or limit their development. The council is now seeking state government funding to implement the Kent Road alignment. Whether the requested funding will be granted and whether safety concerns on Dickson Street will be addressed remain uncertain.

Published 24-February-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