Graceville Archives - Page 3 of 6 - Over The Walter Taylor Bridge

Grace Harris: The Power-Hitting Phenomenon from Western Suburbs

Hailing from the Western Suburbs District Cricket Club, Grace Harris is one of cricket’s most electrifying talents. The Ipswich-born all-rounder continues to redefine women’s cricket with her explosive batting and crafty off-spin bowling, earning her a place among the sport’s elite.

Read: Australia Day Celebrations Highlight Community Spirit in Oxley

Grace Harris, record-breaker

Western Suburbs’ proudest export, Harris exemplifies the pathway for aspiring cricketers in Queensland. At 31, her return to the Australian squad for the T20 series underscores her ability to continually evolve as a player and overcome challenges.

Harris’s recent dominance over bowling attacks has left cricket statisticians scrambling to update the record books. Her unbeaten 136 at North Sydney Oval, marked by an unforgettable bat-breaking incident, remains the highest individual score in Women’s Big Bash League history. This innings perfectly captures her fearless and powerful approach to cricket.

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Another remarkable feat is her 42-ball century in 2018, the fastest in WBBL history. Such performances have earned her prestigious accolades, including the WBBL Player of the Tournament award in 2021. These records are a testament to Harris’s unmatched ability to change games with her bat.

More than just numbers

Beyond the statistics lies a cricketer who brings infectious energy to every match. Harris’s right-arm off-spin provides crucial variety to any bowling attack, while her versatility with the bat allows her to adapt to any position in the order.

Read: Stumps and Yellow Booms in Graceville? The Answer Lies in Flood Resilience

Cricket runs deep in the Harris family, with sister Laura also representing Brisbane Heat. Together, they showcase the strength of Queensland’s cricket pathway, from Western Suburbs to the international arena.

Published 11-January-2025

Street Spotlight: Molonga Tce, Graceville

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

Molonga Terrace in Graceville stands as a testament to Brisbane’s enduring suburban character, with its rich history dating back to at least 1936. Historical aerial photography from that year reveals a well-established street, though notably shorter than its current extension beyond Long Street West.

The street’s strong community ties are evident in its impressive 85% owner-occupier rate, with residents staying an average of 12 years – and remarkably, 31% having called Molonga Terrace home for over a decade. This deep-rooted connection to place is particularly striking when considering the street’s property journey through time, exemplified by 51 Molonga Terrace’s modest $23,000 sale in May 1973, a figure that provides a fascinating glimpse into Brisbane’s real estate evolution.

Molonga Tce, Graceville Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 42
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 85%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 12 years
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 31%

Molonga Tce, Graceville – As It Looked in 1936

Molonga Tce, Graceville in 1936

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON MOLONGA TCE FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
51 Molonga Tce, Graceville	$23,000	May 1973
43 Molonga Tce, Graceville	$370,000	Jul 1991
63 Molonga Tce, Graceville	$461,500	Dec 1993

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Graceville in 2024 was $1,154,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Graceville in 2020 was $750,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN GRACEVILLE SINCE 2020 : $404,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Graceville in 2024 was $1,425,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Graceville in 2020 was $1,050,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN GRACEVILLE SINCE 2020 : $375,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Graceville in 2024 was $2,153,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Graceville in 2020 was $1,410,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN GRACEVILLE SINCE 2020 : $743,000

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

Graceville War Hero’s Cottage Hits the Market

Photo Credit: Real Estate

A rare piece of Queensland’s wartime history has come on the market with the listing of “Digger’s Rest”, one of only six brick cottages built in Graceville for soldiers returning from the First World War.

Constructed in 1919 on Strong Avenue, the home stands as a reminder of the sacrifices made by Australian soldiers and the efforts to provide housing for them upon their return.

Originally part of the Magee Estate, the War Service Homes Commission (WSHC) built the cottage as part of a program to assist veterans. The WSHC was established after the war to address the housing needs of returning soldiers, many of whom had been injured or were struggling to re-establish themselves in civilian life.

The Brisbane Heritage Register underscores the rarity of this dwelling, noting that while many WSHC houses were constructed in Queensland, only six were built from brick. All six are located in Graceville and represent some of the earliest WSHC homes completed in the state.

The first resident of “Digger’s Rest” was Private Richard James Jones, a veteran of the 16th Battalion who served in Gallipoli. A plaque honouring Private Jones is displayed at the cottage. Despite the good intentions of the WSHC program, it faced challenges. The Heritage Register reveals that the initial goal of building 1500 homes a year in Queensland fell significantly short. By November 1920, only 464 had been built, leading to complaints about the pace and cost of construction.

Interestingly, veterans did not purchase three of the six Graceville cottages until after the Second World War, highlighting the long-term impact of these homes on the community. “Digger’s Rest” reverted to the WSHC in 1926 before being sold 1952 to Emmett J.O. Dwyer, a Graceville local who served in the Royal Australian Navy during WWII.

Having changed hands several times since then, “Digger’s Rest” has been meticulously renovated by its current owners, who purchased the property in 2019.

The three-bedroom, two-bathroom cottage seamlessly blends its historical character with modern amenities. Period features such as the bullnose verandah, high ceilings, and casement windows have been preserved. At the same time, the interior boasts contemporary living spaces, including a modern kitchen and an alfresco dining area.

The property, situated on a 450 square metre block, is being marketed by Place Woolloongabba agents Ben Smith and Melanie Swindells, with offers closing on 14 January.

Published Date 23-December-2024

Historic Graceville Home ‘The Gables’ Sells for $3.62 Million

Photo Credit: Ray White Sherwood

A young local couple has secured a historic Graceville home, paying $3.62 million for the century-old landmark known as ‘The Gables’.

The property at 15 Molonga Terrace, built in 1915 by architect Walter Taylor, was auctioned on Saturday. The sale drew significant local interest, with three active bidders competing for the historic estate.

A Home Steeped in History

The five-bedroom estate, situated on a 2,011-square-metre block, has been home to just three owners throughout its 109-year history. The auction began at $1.5 million, with bidding proceeding in $50,000 increments until reaching $3.5 million, when the property was called on the market.

The final bidding narrowed to two local families, who continued with $1,000 and $3,000 increments until the final sale price of $3.62 million was reached.

Restoration Challenges

The home requires substantial restoration, with the selling agent noting that some potential buyers anticipated spending several million dollars on repairs. The property needs extensive work, including crack repairs and significant underpinning on half the home.

Architectural Significance

The Gables features distinctive architectural elements, including:

An extensive entrance hall
A grand silky oak staircase
Multiple fireplaces
Seven bedrooms
Three bathrooms
Expansive grounds with city views

Location and Community

Located in Graceville, the property is near local schools, cafés, and just 18 minutes from Brisbane’s CBD. It sits within the Sherwood State School catchment and is close to several educational institutions.

The sale marks a new chapter for a home that has been in the same family for 55 years, promising continued preservation of its historic significance.

Published 9-December-2024

Graceville Reigns Supreme in Brisbane’s Shady Suburbs

A recent study has confirmed what locals have long known: Graceville boasts some of the shadiest streets in the city, with Honour Avenue, Bell Terrace and Laurel Avenue ranking highly in research conducted by the University of Southern Queensland.

The study by radiation scientist Nathan Downs assessed footpath shade across ten Brisbane suburbs to determine ultraviolet radiation exposure. Downs, who has spent over two decades researching Queensland’s UV index, highlighted the importance of shade in a state with the world’s highest skin cancer rates.

The research identified 48 tree species across 210 sites, with camphor laurel, Indian beech and golden penda among those providing the most shade. While fig species offer excellent canopy cover, their invasive roots pose a risk to infrastructure. Downs emphasised the significance of mature trees in creating well-shaded streets, stating that the ideal time to plant a tree was “30 years ago, with today being the second-best option.”

Graceville’s abundance of established trees, particularly along Honour Avenue with its century-old camphor laurels, contributes significantly to its cool and inviting atmosphere. This green canopy provides respite from the Queensland sun and enhances the suburb’s aesthetic appeal, particularly during jacaranda season.

However, research from the University of Queensland has revealed a disparity in shade provision across Brisbane. A Dorina Pojani and Sean Patton study found that wealthier suburbs have more tree cover than lower-income areas. This trend, observed in urban environments globally, raises concerns about equity and accessibility. Pojani noted the irony of this situation, as residents in less affluent suburbs often rely more on public transport and, therefore, need greater access to shade.

The researchers stressed the multifaceted benefits of trees, including air purification, water circulation, and wildlife corridors. They also highlighted the role of street trees in providing shade for pedestrians and improving the accessibility of public transport, particularly bus stops, which can be highly uncomfortable in Brisbane’s summer heat.

Brisbane City Council’s research supports this finding, with residents calling for increased shade at bus stops. While the reasons behind the shade discrepancies are still being investigated, Pojani suggests that residents of wealthier suburbs may have more time and resources to advocate for tree planting.

Brisbane City Council reports that 79 percent of residents live in the suburbs with over 20 percent tree cover. The council planted over 11,000 street trees in the last financial year and plans to target areas with lower tree cover in future planting initiatives. Residents can also request trees to be planted on their verge through the council.

Ultimately, as Downs aptly summarises, a liveable city is a city with ample shade. With its lush tree canopy and commitment to preserving its green spaces, Graceville is a prime example for other suburbs to emulate.

Published Date 30-October-2024

Grand Plans in Graceville Encounter Community and Heritage Hurdles

Photo Credit: DA A006540381

A RetireAustralia project to revitalise the historic Graceville landscape with a luxury retirement facility has met resistance from the local community and heritage authorities.

The proposal, which includes three buildings up to five storeys high, has sparked objections from over 50 residents concerned about the scale of the development and its impact on the neighbourhood’s character.

A significant point of contention is removing many trees, some potentially over a century old, to accommodate the project.

Cr Nicole Johnston’s attempt to address this issue through an urgency motion was unsuccessful, as the majority LNP administration voted against it.

Adding to the complexity, the State Assessment and Referral Agency (SARA) has raised concerns about the development’s potential impact on the cultural heritage significance of Beth Eden, the grand 140-year-old villa adjacent to the proposed site. SARA specifically highlighted the proximity and design of one new building, stating it did not adequately reflect the ornate architecture of the heritage-listed homestead.

RetireAustralia, one of the nation’s leading retirement village developers, maintains that its project aligns with council expectations and will bring much-needed contemporary retirement accommodation to Graceville. The company has also emphasised its commitment to environmental sustainability, outlining plans to revegetate gully and waterway areas and replace removed trees with new stock.

Despite RetireAustralia’s assurances, Councillor Johnston remains critical of the proposal, stating that it is “too big and does not integrate well with the character and amenity of the surrounding neighbourhood”. The community’s concerns and SARA’s reservations highlight the challenges developers face in balancing the need for new housing with preserving local heritage and environmental values.

As the project progresses, RetireAustralia will be required to address the issues raised by SARA and the community, demonstrating how it plans to mitigate the development’s impact on the surrounding environment and heritage structures. The outcome of this process will shape the future of this significant Graceville site and set a precedent for future developments in the area.

Published Date 15-August-2024

Little Aladdin Brings A Taste of Turkey in Graceville

Little Aladdin, a Turkish Restaurant in Graceville, has been making waves with its authentic flavours and, in particular, its mouthwatering array of housemade dips. This charming eatery has quickly become a local favourite, offering a genuine taste of Turkish cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.

Read: Cheap Fruit and Veg Draw Crowds to Oxley Greengrocer

At the heart of Little Aladdin’s appeal are its incredible dips, perfectly paired with freshly baked Turkish bread. The restaurant boasts a variety of gluten-free options that will leave diners craving more.

From the smoky Baba Ghanoush to the refreshing Cacik (yoghourt and cucumber), the zesty Acili Ezme (chilli, tomato, capsicum, and parsley), classic Hummus, and rich Creamy Garlic spread, there’s a dip to satisfy every palate.

Beyond the Dips

While the dips are stars in their own right, Little Aladdin’s menu extends far beyond these appetising starters. Guests can indulge in Pides, often described as Turkish pizza, each served with complementary Acili Ezme and Cacik dips.

For those seeking hearty main courses, the restaurant offers a range of traditional Turkish dishes. The Moussaka features layers of eggplant and spiced ground lamb, oven-baked to perfection.

Adana Iskender presents spiced ground lamb served over Turkish bread with char-grilled capsicum. For seafood lovers, the Ottoman Karides offers a royal treat of Turkish-style king prawns with feta, accompanied by fresh Turkish bread and lemon.

Little Aladdin also caters to younger palates as well, with kid-friendly options like Chicken Shish served with rice and chips. For a change, lamb can be substituted for chicken, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

The restaurant prides itself on crafting its menu from fresh, authentic Turkish ingredients, promising a genuine culinary experience with every visit.

Read: Locals Raise Concerns on Proposed New Gym and Wellness Centre on Graceville Avenue

Located at 320 Oxley Rd, Graceville, Little Aladdin welcomes diners daily from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m, with extended hours until 9:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick dip and bread or a full Turkish feast, Little Aladdin promises a flavorful journey through the tastes of Turkey, right in the heart of Graceville. Visit their website to book a table.

Published 8-August-2024

RetireAustralia Buys Former Beth Eden Village in Graceville for $16.65M

RetireAustralia has purchased the former Beth Eden Village in Graceville for $16.65 million, with plans to redevelop the historic riverfront property into a high-quality retirement living and integrated care facility.

According to CoreLogic, RetireAustralia acquired the 2.48-hectare site at 19 Bell Terrace, Graceville, which had been vacant for a year. For 19 years, Bethany Christian Care owned the property, which housed an aged care facility and retirement village known as Beth Eden.

The site features Verney House, a heritage-listed building constructed in 1888, converted into offices, aged care accommodation, and other structures, including stables.

RetireAustralia Beth Eden Village Graceville — *Photo Credit: DA A006540381*

Redevelopment Plans

RetireAustralia’s development proposal (DA A006540381) includes refurbishing Verney House and the old stables. The plans also involve constructing three four-storey residential buildings, providing 101 independent living units and a 10-suite Care Hub.

This Care Hub will offer a boutique, home-like environment with a higher level of care from a nurse-led team. Communal spaces for social and wellness activities, including a pool and a residents’ pocket park, are also planned.

RetireAustralia’s Chief Executive Brett Robinson highlighted the area’s shortfall in seniors’ living supply compared to the broader South East Queensland region. He expressed excitement about creating a thriving community for older Australians to live the life they choose in their own homes.

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“There is a shortfall of seniors living supply in this area compared more broadly to South East Queensland. We have worked closely with an expert design team, including Marchese Partners | Life 3A and CUSP, and are excited to propose a place that will support a thriving community of older Australians able to live the life they choose in their own home,” said Dr. Brett Robinson, RetireAustralia’s Chief Executive Officer.

“We will be the only seniors living provider in the catchment offering independent living with the continuum of care services.”

Published 1-July-2024

Commonwealth Bank Shuts Down Graceville Branch Amid Local Concerns

The decision made by the Commonwealth Bank to close its Graceville branch will have a significant impact on numerous clients, particularly the elderly in the inner-west suburb.

The Graceville branch will serve its last customers on the 5th of July 2024, signalling the end of an era for many loyal patrons.

Following the closure, the bank plans to relocate staff to adjacent branches, ensuring they have roles comparable to their current positions.

The community’s response to the closure has been a mixture of disappointment and resignation. Some residents reminisced about similar past incidents, like the removal of the Corinda ATM during the pandemic, indicating a trend of reducing banking facilities in the area.

The consensus underscores a critical need for accessible banking services, especially for those who rely on traditional banking methods and are less comfortable with technology.

Although the physical branch is closing, Commonwealth Bank stresses that customers can still conduct 98% of typical cash transactions at the Bank@Post facility located 700 meters away at the Graceville East LPO.

Photo for illustration purposes only
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Furthermore, the bank reassured customers of its commitment to maintaining a robust regional branch network, inviting them to visit nearby branches in Indooroopilly Shopping Centre, Kenmore, Mount Ommaney, and Moorooka.

Trudy McConnell, the Brisbane West area manager for Commonwealth Bank, highlighted the enhanced services offered at these neighbouring branches. These facilities boast a broader range of services, including home lending specialists and business bankers, equipped with advanced self-service technology.

Ms McConnell stressed the bank’s dedication to accommodating the needs of its customers from Graceville and surrounding areas.

Published 30-May-2024

Locals Applaud Netball Event at Faulkner Park, but Seek Solutions to Minimise Disruptions

The recent four-day netball carnival held at Faulkner Park in Graceville has generated mixed reactions from local residents, with concerns raised about the event’s impact on the community.

Read: Graceville Community Stands United Against Gym Development

The Western Districts Netball Association (WDNA) hosted the 2024 senior age championship event at Faulkner Park, drawing a significant number of participants and officials. The event was attended by around 198 officials and involved 55 associations, including Kingaroy, which participated for the first time.

Whilst the event was a success for the netball community, some local residents have expressed concerns about the aftermath. Residents have reportedly been battling issues such as noise, parking, and traffic congestion during the carnival.

According to reports, local residents have previously requested that the event be hosted elsewhere or spread across multiple venues, but their calls have gone unanswered. Additionally, the overflow parking at the nearby Gordon Thomson Park was affected by constant rain, making it difficult for the council to maintain the area.

In response to the issues, the park was later closed, and organisers had to issue refunds to parking pass holders.

It is worth noting that the 2023 junior state titles were held across multiple locations in Townsville, which some residents believe helped to minimise the impact and spread the benefits more evenly.

Photo credit: Gerard Cassidy/Google Maps

However, this is not a new issue for the community. Back in 2020, a State Government grant for improved lighting at the facility in Graceville has already angered the area’s neighbours.

The organisation stated back then that the lights would actually be an improvement and that they had worked hard to minimise the impact on the neighbours, but the residents remained upset.

Read: To Build or Not to Build: The Debate Over a New Bridge from Chelmer to Indooroopilly

As the community continues to navigate these challenges, it remains to be seen whether the organisers and local authorities will address the concerns raised by the residents in the future.

Published 11-April-2024