Corinda Archives - Over The Walter Taylor Bridge

Street Spotlight: Dewar Terrace, Corinda

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

Dewar Terrace in Corinda stands as a testament to exceptional community stability and homeownership pride. While the street existed in earlier decades, more properties now dot along its length, creating a fuller residential streetscape that has evolved organically over time.

With an impressive 95% of properties being owner-occupied, Dewar Terrace represents one of Brisbane’s most committed residential communities. Residents demonstrate remarkable dedication to the area, staying an average of 16 years and 2 months, with 57% of residents having called Dewar Terrace home for more than a decade. The street’s property transaction history reveals the dramatic transformation of Corinda’s real estate landscape – 141 Dewar Terrace sold for just $33,000 in November 1975, a figure that starkly contrasts with today’s market values and illustrates the substantial appreciation this established street has experienced over nearly five decades.

Dewar Terrace, Corinda Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 46
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 95%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 16 years, 2 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 57%

Dewar Terrace, Corinda – As It Looked in 1936

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON DEWAR TERRACE FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
162 Dewar Terrace, Corinda	$210,000	Jul 1992
178 Dewar Terrace, Corinda	$82,250	Nov 1983
141 Dewar Terrace, Corinda	$33,000	Nov 1975

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Corinda in 2025 was $917,000 The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Corinda in 2021 was $675,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3-BEDROOM HOUSE IN CORINDA SINCE 2021: $242,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Corinda in 2025 was $1,600,000 The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Corinda in 2021 was $963,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4-BEDROOM HOUSE IN CORINDA SINCE 2021: $637,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Corinda in 2025 was $1,825,000 The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Corinda in 2021 was $1,000,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5-BEDROOM HOUSE IN CORINDA SINCE 2021: $825,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Corinda in 2025 was $615,000 The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Corinda in 2021 was $322,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2-BEDROOM UNIT IN CORINDA SINCE 2021: $293,000

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

Weemalla House In Corinda Stands As Symbol Of Brisbane’s Elite In The Early 20th Century

Photo Credit: Shiftchange/Wikimedia Commons/CC0

Step back in time to 1908, when Corinda was home to Brisbane’s wealthiest residents. At the heart of this history stands Weemalla, a meticulously designed residence that still embodies the elegance and craftsmanship of the era.

Built between 1908 and 1909, this heritage-listed home at 62 Ruthven Street remains largely unchanged, offering a direct link to the past in one of the city’s historically affluent suburbs. Designed by renowned architect Robin Dods, the residence reflects the distinctive approach of his work, blending functional Queensland housing with British Arts and Crafts influences.

The Evolution of Corinda and Its Elite Residents

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Corinda became a sought-after location for Brisbane’s upper class. The suburb’s elevated position and proximity to the river provided relief from the city’s noise and pollution, attracting successful business figures, pastoralists, and merchants. Among them was Robert Moore Steele, the first owner of Weemalla and Queensland’s manager for the Victoria Insurance Company Ltd.

Before settling in Corinda, Steele and his family lived in other middle-class suburbs like Toowong and Indooroopilly. In 1908, he acquired the land for Weemalla, commissioning Hall & Dods to design a home suitable for his growing family. The result was a low-set timber residence with generous verandahs and a carefully considered layout, characteristic of Dods’ work.

Architectural Significance and Design Excellence

Weemalla is a prime example of Robin Dods’ residential designs, which prioritised climate-responsive features and craftsmanship. His work drew inspiration from the British Arts and Crafts movement, favouring solid structures with wide porches, steeply pitched roofs, and well-proportioned forms. The home’s design incorporated natural ventilation, deep verandahs, and large windows to combat Brisbane’s subtropical heat.

The front facade, though appearing symmetrical, reveals a thoughtful asymmetry upon closer inspection. A central piazza and an entry hall with bay windows enhance airflow and natural light, while interior spaces balance formal and informal living areas. The home’s original materials and design choices were selected to develop a sense of permanence, allowing it to age gracefully over time.

Weemella House in Corinda — Photo Credit: Queensland Heritage Listing

Changes and Preservation Over the Years

Despite its long history, Weemalla has undergone only minor modifications since its construction. Ownership remained within the Steele family for decades before the house was sold in 1963. Subsequent owners preserved its key architectural elements, with changes including the enclosure of some verandahs, the addition of a carport, and the construction of a swimming pool. An extension in 1964, designed by Brisbane architects Job & Froud, introduced modernist influences while respecting the home’s original structure.

The property remains a private residence, a rare example of early 20th-century Brisbane architecture that has withstood the test of time. The Queensland Heritage Council recognises Weemalla’s historical and architectural importance, highlighting its role in shaping the region’s architectural identity.

Weemalla’s Place in Corinda’s History

Weemalla’s continued existence provides insight into the social and economic landscape of Brisbane in the early 1900s. It serves as a reminder of Corinda’s transformation from a sparsely populated suburb into a desirable location for the city’s elite. The home’s preservation allows locals and architecture enthusiasts to appreciate a period when craftsmanship and design were integral to residential construction.

While the modern Corinda landscape has changed significantly, Weemalla remains a visual and historical anchor to a bygone era. It tells the story of a suburb once favoured by Brisbane’s wealthiest residents and an architect whose influence helped shape Queensland’s built environment.

Originally Published 18-April-2018
Updated 25-February-2025

Vote Now: Corinda and Graceville Entries in the Running for Artforce Brisbane Awards

Photo Credit: Artforce Brisbane

Voting for the 2024 Artforce Brisbane Awards People’s Choice Award is officially open, inviting residents to support their favourite public artworks. Among the standout entries this year are three striking submissions from Corinda and Graceville—“St Aidan’s Spirit” by Sarah Warburton and Kaylee Leo, “Little Critters” by Isabella Gawthorne, and “Love Letter” by Mia Slater.

These pieces, alongside dozens of other artworks from across Brisbane, are now competing for the coveted People’s Choice Award.

Celebrating Public Art in Brisbane

The Artforce Brisbane Awards is an annual celebration of creative expression, recognising outstanding artworks displayed across the city’s traffic signal and Energex boxes. Open to artists of all ages, the awards celebrate the unique stories and perspectives of Brisbane’s communities. The 2023 awards, held on 8 May 2024, featured winning entries across multiple categories, including the highly regarded People’s Choice Award.

Past winners include Gabrielle Oliffe’s “Roll with It” from Hamilton (2023 People’s Choice) and Tara Hooppell’s “Our Ekka” from Windsor (2023 Overall Winner). This year, a fresh wave of artists from various suburbs, including South Brisbane, Indooroopilly, Stafford, and Mt Gravatt, have brought their creativity to the forefront.

Corinda and Graceville Entries Take Centre Stage

“St Aidan’s Spirit” – Corinda

Corinda's entry for Artforce Brisbane - St Aidan's Spirit — *Photo Credit: Artforce Brisbane*

Created by Sarah Warburton and Kaylee Leo, this artwork at St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School captures the vibrant and creative spirit of its students. Featuring their handprints, the piece connects the present with the past, honouring the world’s earliest artists. The colours reflect the school’s identity and the unity of its school houses, making it a deeply meaningful addition to Corinda’s public art landscape.

“Love Letter” – Corinda

Love Letter by Mia Slater — *Photo Credit: Artforce Brisbane*

Artist Mia Slater brings a heartfelt tribute to Corinda with “Love Letter,” located at Oxley Rd and Nelson St. Inspired by vintage Valentine’s Day illustrations from the 1930s-60s, the artwork celebrates the charm of Corinda’s classic architecture and natural beauty. Featuring flowers, butterflies, and a nostalgic design, ‘Love Letter’ expresses gratitude for the city and aims to bring joy to all who pass by.

“Little Critters” – Graceville

Little Critters by Isabella Gawthorne — *Photo Credit: Artforce Brisbane*

Artist Isabella Gawthorne takes a playful approach with “Little Critters,” located at the intersection of Oxley Rd and Graceville Ave. This lively, abstract piece highlights the native wildlife and domestic animals found in Graceville and surrounding Brisbane suburbs. With bold colours and quirky forms, the artwork invites viewers into a whimsical world, reminding them to appreciate the animals that share their community.

Other Entries Across Brisbane

Beyond Corinda and Graceville, other remarkable entries in this year’s competition include:

“Polynesian Voyagers” by Loren Waith (Inala)
“Brisbane Birdsong” by Brisbane South State Secondary College Art Club (Dutton Park)
“Your Mountain Awaits!” by Kylie Smart & family (Mt Gravatt)
“The Brisbane Transbox(port)” by Tom Truong (Brisbane City)
“Cafe Dog” by Lucy Ruigrok (Indooroopilly)
“Jacaranda Lullaby” by Julia Pham (Auchenflower)

With a diverse range of themes, from community connections to nature and urban landscapes, Brisbane’s artists continue to enrich the city’s streetscape with creativity and storytelling.

How to Vote

Residents can support their favourite artwork by casting their votes online via the Artforce Brisbane website. Voting for the People’s Choice Award is open now and closes on 28 February 2025.

By participating, residents not only celebrate local artists but also contribute to fostering Brisbane’s vibrant public art scene.

Published 12-Feb-2025

Corinda State High School Hosts Launch of Get Ready Queensland Week 2024

Corinda State High School has been selected as the launch site for the 2024 Get Ready Queensland Week. Former rugby league star and Get Ready Queensland Ambassador Johnathan Thurston will join local students and emergency services to encourage the community to prepare for the upcoming severe weather season.

The event, taking place on Tuesday, 8 October 2024, will feature an important announcement from the Bureau of Meteorology about Queensland’s severe weather outlook. The school community, including representatives from Queensland emergency services, will come together to highlight the importance of disaster preparedness.

Johnathan Thurston’s Call to Action

Johnathan Thurston will headline a new ad campaign titled “Weather doesn’t plan but you can,” urging all Queenslanders to take action before extreme weather hits. Mr Thurston’s message focuses on the three critical steps to prepare: understanding personal risk, making a plan, and packing an emergency kit. The campaign also introduces an online tool to help residents create a disaster plan, accessed at getready.qld.gov.au.

Mr Thurston likened the importance of planning to his experience in professional sports, saying, “Just as every member of a footy team trains hard to achieve success on game day, every Queenslander can take steps now to Get Ready for extreme weather.”

Corinda State High School — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Statewide Engagement

The launch event in Brisbane is just one of several activities planned across Queensland. Along with events in Cairns, regional roadshows will reach communities in the southeast, Far North, and western parts of the state. These roadshows will involve councils and local emergency services, offering residents access to disaster preparedness resources and information.

Additional activities at Corinda State High School will benefit students, including an emergency services expo and a Resilient Homes Workshop, which will provide practical advice on preparing homes for severe weather.

Preparing Queensland for the Future

Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA) CEO Major General Jake Ellwood (Retd) reinforced the importance of Get Ready Queensland Week as a timely reminder for residents to get organised before the summer months.

“Over the past year, 66 of Queensland’s 77 local government areas have been impacted by a bushfire, cyclone, flood, or storm,” Mr Ellwood said. He emphasised that those who prepare recover faster from disasters than those who wait for external help.

The QRA, which manages the Get Ready Queensland program, partners with major sponsor Suncorp to promote resilience-building activities. Lisa Harrison, Suncorp’s Chief Executive of Consumer Insurance, highlighted the importance of good disaster preparation practices, which can reduce the devastating impacts of natural disasters on homes and communities.

Corinda’s Experience

For Corinda State High School, the message of disaster resilience hits close to home. The school has experienced severe flooding in both 2011 and 2022, making it a fitting location to launch Get Ready Queensland Week.

“The lessons being shared during Get Ready Queensland Week reinforce for all of us, especially our young people, why it’s so vital we prepare for the unexpected turns of Mother Nature,” Deputy Principal Rebecca Gilroy said.

With Queensland’s unpredictable weather patterns, this year’s campaign hopes to instil a sense of preparedness in every household, encouraging everyone to take the three essential steps to get ready before it’s too late.

Residents are encouraged to visit getready.qld.gov.au to start their preparations and take action today.

Published 7-Oct-2024

Oxley Road Bridge Among Queensland’s Frequent Strike Locations

In a concerning trend that has caught the attention of Queensland’s transport authorities, the Oxley Road bridge in Corinda has emerged as one of the most frequently struck bridges in the 2023/24 financial year.

Read: Bridge Strike Causes Major Delays for Corinda Rail and Bus Commuters

This revelation comes as part of a broader issue plaguing the state’s road and rail infrastructure, prompting the Department of Transport and Main Roads to launch a new campaign aimed at curbing the alarming frequency of bridge strikes.

Bridge strike at Oxley Rd, Corinda (Photo credit: Queensland Rail/Facebook)

The “Truckload of Trouble” campaign, unveiled recently, seeks to address a problem that has been consistently troubling Queensland’s transport network. With an average of one bridge or protection beam strike occurring daily over the past two years, the campaign aims to increase driver awareness about the severe consequences of these incidents.

Most frequently struck bridges in the 2023/24 financial year:

Logan Road, Buranda
North Street, Willowburn
Bergin Street, Booval
Oxley Road, Corinda
William Berry Drive / Visentin Road connection, Morayfield

Joanna Robinson, General Manager of Land Transport Safety and Regulation at the Department of Transport and Main Roads, emphasises the gravity of the situation.

“Bridge strikes are dangerous,” she states, highlighting the risks not only to the drivers of over-height vehicles but also to train drivers, passengers, and other road users. The potential for falling debris to damage other vehicles or cause serious injury adds another layer of concern to this ongoing issue.

The statistics paint a sobering picture. In the 2023/24 financial year alone, Queensland recorded 369 rail bridge or protection beam strikes, barely down from 360 the previous year. These incidents not only pose immediate safety risks but also result in significant disruptions to rail services and potential financial penalties for offending motorists.

Oxley Road Bridge — Low rail bridge at Allan Terrace (Photo credit: Google Street View)

Rob Hill, Acting Head of South East Queensland at Queensland Rail, shared a stark example of the disruption caused by these strikes. A recent incident at Allan Terrace, Corinda, resulted in 103 train delays and 35 cancellations, underscoring the far-reaching impacts of these seemingly isolated events.

The consequences for drivers responsible for bridge strikes are severe. Fines range from $1,290 and four demerit points to a hefty $12,904 penalty if the matter goes to court. Moreover, Queensland Rail actively pursues motorists to recover repair costs, which would otherwise be borne by taxpayers.

Gary Mahon, CEO of the Queensland Trucking Association, stresses the importance of education and awareness within the trucking industry.

“Trucking companies, truck rental companies, and businesses using trucks for deliveries in and around the city have a responsibility to educate drivers,” Mahon asserts. He advocates for including awareness about truck and bridge heights in pre-start checklists, toolbox talks, and trip planning.

The “Truckload of Trouble” campaign focuses on practical solutions, encouraging drivers to know their load and vehicle height, plan their routes carefully, and avoid low clearance bridges. It’s a multi-faceted approach to a problem that authorities insist is entirely preventable with proper attention and planning.

Read: Oxley Motorist Fined for Stopping ‘Too Far Back’ from Stop Sign

As Queensland grapples with this ongoing challenge, the spotlight on Oxley Road bridge in Corinda serves as a stark reminder of the work that lies ahead. With continued efforts to raise awareness and educate drivers, authorities hope to see a significant reduction in bridge strikes, ensuring safer roads and more reliable rail services for all Queenslanders.

Published 11-September-2024

Paralympic Preview: Taylor Gosens Breaks Barriers in Para-Judo

Taylor Gosens, an alumna of St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’School in Corinda, is set to break new ground when she enters the mat in Paris 2024. The 26-year-old judoka is poised to become just the second woman ever to represent the green and gold in Paralympic judo.

Read: Taylor Gosens: From Sound Engineering to Paralympic Judo

Taylor Gosens takes the mat in Paris

Despite the challenge, Gosens is prepared and confident in her ability to perform at her best against the sport’s elite.

Gosens will face a tough field of competitors, including reigning Tokyo Paralympics champion Dursadaf Karimova of Azerbaijan and the current world number one Rebeca de Souza Silva of Brazil.

She is scheduled to compete on 7 September, starting at 6:00 p.m., in the women’s +70 kg J2 classification for judo at the Champ-de-Mars Arena.

Read: Family Home of Olympic Champion Ariarne Titmus Makes a Golden Sale in Chelmer

Gosens is also looking ahead to the LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games, with a long-term ambition to establish herself as a consistent force in para-judo.

With the Paralympics in full swing, schedule changes remain possible. For the latest updates and information, check out the official Paralympics website.

Published 07-September-2024

Taylor Gosens: From Sound Engineering to Paralympic Judo

Photo Credit: Paralympics Australia

Taylor Gosens, a former student of St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School in Corinda, is set to make history as only the second woman to represent Australia in Para-judo at the upcoming 2024 Paris Paralympics.

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A post shared by Taylor Gosens (@taylor_gos)

Gosens, who was born with a congenital eyesight condition leaving her with just four percent vision, initially pursued her passion for music while at St Aidan’s. Her time at the school saw her delve into sound engineering studies and take up drumming, showcasing her diverse talents and determination to overcome challenges.

The 26-year-old’s journey from music enthusiast to elite athlete is nothing short of inspirational. After leaving Brisbane to study Entertainment Management at the Australian Institute of Music in Sydney, Gosens discovered judo as a stress management tool during her studies. What began as a coping mechanism soon blossomed into a competitive career.

Gosens’ rapid rise in the sport is evident from her recent achievements. In September, she secured her first international victory against Great Britain at the IBSA Judo Grand Prix in Baku, Azerbaijan, finishing in the top 8. This success followed her impressive performance at the 2022 Australian Nationals, where she clinched gold in the VI (visually impaired) competition and silver in the able-bodied 78 kg class.

As Gosens prepares for the Paris Paralympics under the guidance of coach Ivica Pavlinic, she carries with her the support of her hometown and the legacy of her father, Gerrard Gosens, a three-time Paralympian. Taylor’s participation in the Games marks not just a personal achievement, but a continuation of a family tradition of excellence in Paralympic sport.

The Corinda community eagerly awaits Gosens’ performance in Paris, where she will not only represent Australia but also serve as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes with visual impairments everywhere.

Published 12-August-2024

Bridge Strike Causes Major Delays for Corinda Rail and Bus Commuters

A truck collision with a rail bridge in Corinda has resulted in significant disruptions and delays for South East Queensland rail and bus commuters during peak hours.

The incident occurred just before 7 a.m. on Monday, the 3rd of June 2024, when a truck struck the rail bridge at Allan Terrace in Corinda. The collision caused substantial damage to the rail infrastructure, leading to the partial closure of the bridge until repairs are completed.

Services on the Ipswich and Springfield lines were severely affected, with delays of up to 60 minutes in both directions and multiple service cancellations. Residual delays of 30 minutes continue to impact commuters.

Rail replacement buses have been deployed between Darra and Corinda in both directions, while a train shuttle operates between Darra and Springfield Central to assist passengers.

Queensland Rail Executive Officer Nev Conway emphasised that such incidents cause significant damage to rail infrastructure and inconvenience customers. He urged drivers to know their vehicle heights, plan routes carefully, and adhere to road signs and signals.

Conway also warned that motorists who damage rail infrastructure could face fines of $1,238 and four demerit points, or up to $12,384 in damages if the matter goes to court.

Published 6-June-2024

Leadership Controversy Engulfs Prestigious St Aidan’s Anglican Girls School Amidst Staff Exodus

St Aidan’s Anglican Girls School in Corinda faces a crisis as allegations of a toxic workplace culture prompt a staff exodus and a vote of no confidence, significantly impacting student wellbeing.

The issue came into the spotlight when an email, allegedly representing 49 current employees, articulated a deep-seated disillusionment with the school’s leadership under Principal Toni Riordan.

This correspondence, addressed to the school council, catalogued a disturbing trend of 39 departures over the past year, encompassing senior leaders, educators, and support personnel. The email accused Principal Riordan of neglecting serious issues like bullying, thereby exacerbating the toxic environment.

In defense, the school’s spokesperson outlined that the turnover rate paralleled that of other independent schools, attributing departures to common reasons such as retirement and career progression. Despite this, the severity of the allegations has prompted a thorough review following the Complaints Management in Anglican Schools procedures, emphasizing the school’s commitment to the welfare of its community.

St Aidans Anglican Girls School — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Beyond the faculty, the instability has taken a significant toll on students, with reports of heightened anxiety, panic attacks, and therapy necessitation. Parents, having invested heavily in their children’s education at St Aidan’s, express profound disappointment and concern over the constant flux of teaching staff.

In March, a mother reported that one of her daughters experienced a panic attack, breaking down in tears due to the departure of yet another teacher, while her other daughter developed severe anxiety and is now on medication, attributed to the stressful environment caused by frequent teacher resignations.

She expressed frustration over the loss of advanced maths, science, and English teachers, deeming it unacceptable given the school’s annual tuition of up to $28,000 per student. Additionally, the family has incurred an extra $30,000 in expenses for private tutoring to compensate for the educational gaps, despite their children previously being high achievers.

The discontent extends to the school’s recent appointments, with the selection of Kim Cohen as interim deputy principal raising eyebrows. Cohen’s arrival from Saint Stephen’s College in Upper Coomera, where she departed amidst controversy, has done little to quell the unrest among the faculty.

As the school council grapples with these complex challenges, the wider community watches closely, hopeful for a resolution that reaffirms the school’s commitment to excellence in education and the well-being of all its members.

Published 1-April-2024

St Aidan’s Anglican Girls School Corinda Cleared on Possible Asbestos-Contaminated Compost

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Concerns about possible asbestos-contaminated compost at the site of the Sport Performance Centre of St Aidan’s Anglican Girls School in Corinda have been laid to rest, as test samples from Ambiwerra have tested negative for asbestos. The school, in accordance with Workplace Health and Safety Queensland, has resumed all activity at the site.

Prior to this development, Queensland’s environmental authority had unveiled a worrying find: a small amount of asbestos was detected in a compost stockpile at NuGrow’s Ipswich site, one of the state’s leading disposal and recycling companies.

Immediate Action and Precautionary Measures

This led to immediate action, with affected areas such as a construction site at St. Aidan’s Anglican Girls School and a dog park in Greenbank being cordoned off for testing. These were the first public spaces to confront the potential danger of asbestos-contaminated soil.

Upon discovery, authorities took swift action to mitigate the risk. Workplace Health and Safety Queensland advised St Aidan’s that the soil used for landscaping its Sport Performance Centre might contain asbestos from NuGrow. In response, the school and other impacted businesses were directed to halt all material movement, initiating a rigorous testing process to assess the contamination level.

Queensland’s environmental authority is taking a precautionary measure due to a crisis of contaminated mulch affecting New South Wales.

Since then, the school has released the results of the investigation, giving its Ambiwerra site the “All Clear.”

Community and Environmental Impact

The potential presence of asbestos in public spaces has understandably alarmed the community.

The spokeswoman for St Aidan’s reassured that the risk was very low, emphasising the school’s commitment to safety by notifying its community and taking immediate steps to isolate the affected area.

Queensland’s environment authority and Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding have emphasized the low risk of harm and the extensive testing underway to ensure public safety.

Ongoing Investigations and Collaborative Efforts

As the investigation unfolds, the focus has broadened beyond the immediate sites to include a more comprehensive inspection of waste facilities and compost suppliers across South East Queensland.

The Department of Environment & Workplace Health and Safety QLD are working to prevent further distribution of contaminated materials, addressing environmental health crises.

Published 3-March-2024. Updated 13-March-2024.