Brisbane has witnessed several street name changes over the decades, reflecting its growth and development. In Bardon, three notable instances highlight how urban expansion, local institutions, and city planning have shaped the neighbourhood’s streetscape from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century.
Originally known as School Street, this thoroughfare was renamed Lugg Street between 1917 and 1931.
Lugg Street, Bardon looking towards the Gap ca 1930s (Photo credit: James Vincent Bloomer: State Library of Queensland. Image No. 128851)
The street’s history dates back to around 1886 when it was created to provide access to the Ithaca school, now known as Ithaca Creek State School. This change reflects the evolving landscape of the Upper Paddington area in the early 20th century.
Couldrey Street
Photo credit: Google Street View
Formerly Third (3rd) Avenue, this street underwent a name change in 1938. The new name, Couldrey Street, was confirmed by comparing street directories from 1938 and 1948. This renaming likely occurred as part of broader urban planning initiatives in the area during the late 1930s.
House at Couldrey Street, Bardon (Photo credit: John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland; 2018 6169 Frank and Eunice Corley House Photographs)
Carmel Street
Photo credit: Google Street View
Perhaps the most interesting of the three, this street was originally named Victoria Street. It first appeared on the Jubilee Estate map of 1897 and was still present on a 1920 map.
Former Carmel Presbyterian Church in Bardon (Photo credit: churchesaustralia.org)
However, by 1931, it had been renamed Carmel Street. The new name may have been influenced by the establishment of the Carmel Presbyterian Church in nearby Kennedy Terrace in 1904, showcasing how local institutions can impact street nomenclature.
These street name changes offer a glimpse into Brisbane’s urban development history, reflecting the city’s growth and the influence of local landmarks on its evolving streetscape.
From the emphasis on education seen in School Street’s creation to the influence of religious institutions evident in Carmel Street’s naming, each change tells a story of community development.
Moreover, these transformations highlight the importance of local history in understanding urban landscapes, reminding us that even seemingly mundane aspects of city life, like street names, can hold rich narratives about a neighborhood’s past and its journey towards the present.
Did you know that Bardon has its very own Queen Bee: entomologist Elizabeth Exley, PhD? Here are five things you may not know about this remarkable woman, who passed away in 2007.
1. One of the Largest Bee Collections in Australia
Dr Exley’s work as a researcher resulted in one of the largest collections of native bee specimens in Australia. Over decades of fieldwork, she meticulously gathered thousands of bees, often from Australia’s northern regions. These specimens are now housed at the University of Queensland’s School of Biological Sciences and form a vital resource for the study of Australia’s diverse native bee species.
Her collection includes rare species and offers valuable insights into the ecology of native bees. It continues to serve as an essential reference for both students and seasoned entomologists alike, preserving her legacy in tangible form.
2. She Discovered and Named Over 200 Species
A major part of Dr Exley’s legacy lies in her contribution to the taxonomy of Australian bees. She described and named over 200 species during her lifetime, shining a light on the diversity of native bees in Australia. Among her most notable discoveries was the Homalictus exleyea, a species named in her honour, and the Quasihesma clypearis, a bee so small it measures just 1.8 mm in length, making it one of the world’s smallest bees.
The Queen Bee of Bardon worked on the Colletidae family—many of which are closely associated with Australia’s myrtaceous plants like eucalyptus—was vital in understanding the relationship between native flora and fauna.
3. A Mentor to Australia’s Leading Bee Experts
Dr Exley’s influence reached far beyond her own research. As a professor at the University of Queensland, she played a crucial role in mentoring the next generation of entomologists. Scientists like Tim Heard, Ken Walker, and Helen Wallace credit Exley’s guidance and expertise for shaping their careers.
Many of these researchers have gone on to make significant contributions to the fields of native bee conservation, taxonomy, and pollination studies. Her dedication to education and mentorship ensured that her passion for native bees was passed on to others, creating a lasting ripple effect in the scientific community.
Her scientific journey began with fruit fly larvae, the subject of her Honours degree at the University of Queensland. Her early research showcased her meticulous attention to detail and passion for entomology. She then turned her focus to ants, conducting systematic studies that demonstrated her skill as a taxonomist.
However, in 1958, her career took a decisive turn when she met Professor Charles Michener, a renowned bee expert from the University of Kansas. Mr Michener’s work inspired her to shift her focus to native bees, an area that had been largely neglected in Australia. This change marked the beginning of her lifelong dedication to understanding and documenting Australia’s native bee fauna.
5. Her Research Benefited Australian Agriculture
In addition to her contributions to taxonomy, Dr Exley worked extensively on the role of bees in agricultural pollination. Her research in the 1980s focused on crops like lychee, macadamia, custard apple, and pigeon pea, demonstrating the critical role native bees play in pollination. Her findings not only highlighted the ecological importance of native pollinators but also provided practical insights for farmers, helping improve yields and sustainable farming practices.
By bridging the gap between entomology and agriculture, Dr Exley’s work underscored the value of native bees in supporting both natural ecosystems and commercial industries.
A Local Icon with a Global Legacy
Born in Bardon on 29 November 1927, Elizabeth Exley’s story is one of a local girl whose contributions reverberated globally. Her legacy includes her groundbreaking research, her mentorship of future scientists, and her commitment to preserving Australia’s natural history.
Her work remains a source of pride for the Bardon community, where her roots in natural history were first nurtured by her family. From the streets of Bardon to laboratories and field stations across Australia, Dr Exley’s life and career demonstrate the profound impact of dedication and curiosity.
A modest post-war house in Bardon that has been reimagined over two decades into one of Brisbane’s most recognised private residences is now set to change hands in the community where it has long been a local conversation piece.
The property, known as The Lighthouse, was purchased in 2003 by architect Shaun Lockyer and his wife Julie. What began as a small home on Rosewood Street grew through 11 stages of careful renovation, expanding almost seven-fold. The Lockyers raised their two children there, shaping the house around family life while steadily refining its design.
From post-war home to architectural landmark
The couple bought the house from Brisbane doctor James Scott, who survived 43 days lost in the Himalayas in 1991. From its humble beginnings, the building evolved into a residence that reflects Lockyer’s design philosophy: abundant natural light, integration with outdoor space, and a focus on everyday comfort.
Across four bedrooms and three bathrooms, the property has been shaped to balance function with atmosphere. The living and dining areas flow onto a deck, and landscaping has been as integral to the project as the architecture itself. For Lockyer, who has designed some of Australia’s most high-profile homes, the Bardon project became both a family base and a long-running experiment in design.
Lockyer has described the decision to move as an emotional one. For him and his wife, leaving the home means parting with more than a design achievement; it means stepping away from a place filled with family memories. The project was never a single commission but a 22-year journey shaped by the rhythms of raising children and refining space as the household’s needs changed.
Auction set for October
The home will be offered through Ray White Bulimba, with principal Matt Lancashire leading the campaign. The auction is scheduled for 18 October. Lancashire has said the property is significant not only because of its architectural pedigree but also because it represents the personal residence of one of Brisbane’s leading architects.
As the Bardon chapter closes, the Lockyers are preparing for a move to Teneriffe. Their next home will again reflect Lockyer’s preference for natural materials such as timber, stone and concrete.
For the Bardon community, the sale marks the end of a long association between the architect and a house that has become part of the suburb’s identity.
In the heart of Bardon stands the heritage-listed Bardon House. Built in 1864, this structure tells the story of its creator, Joshua Jeays, a man whose influence shaped early Brisbane.
Joshua Jeays, born in Leicestershire in 1812, arrived in Moreton Bay from England with his wife Sarah and children in 1853. A skilled carpenter and builder by trade, Jeays quickly established himself as a prominent architect in the burgeoning colony.
His portfolio included notable early Brisbane buildings such as the Old Government House and homes for prominent residents like John Petrie and the Cribb family.
Old Government House, George Street, ca 1867 (Photo credit: State Library of Queensland)
In 1864, Jeays constructed Bardon House, using stone quarried from his own quarry at Woogaroo. The name “Bardon” was a nod to his roots, derived from Bardon Hill, the highest landmark in Leicestershire County, close to Joshua and Sarah’s respective hometowns of Loughborough and Beeby.
Bardon House ca 1930 (Photo credit: State Library of Queensland)
Tragically, Sarah Jeays passed away in July 1864, the same year Bardon House was completed. Despite being one of the first landowners in the district, Joshua never resided in the house he built. By 1865, he was leasing it as a ‘Stone-Built Suburban VILLA RESIDENCE’. The following year, his daughter and son-in-law Charles Lilley (later Sir Charles and Governor of Queensland) briefly occupied the house until 1867.
Bardon House ca 1930 (Photo credit: State Library of Queensland)
A Man of Many Hats
Beyond his architectural achievements, Jeays was deeply involved in local politics. In 1859, he became an alderman of the Brisbane Municipal Council. His political career peaked in 1864 when he served as Mayor of Brisbane for a year.
Joshua and Sarah Jeays headstone (Photo credit: Friends of Toowong Cemetery)
Joshua Jeays continued to live in North Quay until his death on 11 March 1881, at the age of 69. While he may never have called Bardon House home, the structure stands as a lasting tribute to his craftsmanship and vision for Brisbane.
BCC has commenced a citywide program to deliver green waste recycling bins to all eligible single-unit dwellings, with Bardon among the suburbs in the first delivery stage. The initiative, running from August to December 2025, aims to supply up to 160,000 additional bins across the city.
Bardon deliveries are scheduled between 4 August and 15 August 2025, alongside suburbs including Wakerley, Chandler, Mackenzie, Manly West, Rochedale, Auchenflower, Wynnum, Wynnum West, Manly and Lota.
Photo Credit: BCC
Purpose and Expected Impact
The program seeks to divert between 65,000 and 80,000 tonnes of green waste from landfill annually, turning garden waste into compost and mulch. This is expected to save ratepayers between $2 million and $3 million in the first year and up to $32 million over five years by reducing costs associated with the State’s waste levy. Garden waste currently accounts for nearly a quarter of household general waste in Brisbane.
Eligibility and Service Details
All eligible standalone houses, including rental properties, will receive a 240-litre bin with a bright green lid unless they opt out. Households already using a green bin will continue their current service without additional charges. Apartment complexes and some townhouses are not automatically included but may request a bin at no extra cost. Collection occurs fortnightly, alternating with yellow-lid recycling bins.
Photo Credit: BCC
Costs and Funding
From 1 July 2025, the Waste Utility Charge was replaced with a Universal Waste Charge of $512.96 annually, representing an increase of $49.62 on the previous base cost. This covers all waste services and the state waste levy. The rollout has been supported by the State’s Grow FOGO fund, which provides BCC with a one-time grant per participating household.
Opt-Out Provisions
Residents who do not require a green waste bin, such as those with minimal garden space or established composting systems, can opt out by submitting a request to BCC by 1 December 2025. This does not reduce the waste charge, as it covers all collection services.
Deliveries in Bardon and other Week 1 suburbs will continue until mid-August, with the citywide rollout expected to be completed by December 2025. Collection services for new bins will begin in the fortnight following delivery.
In the heart of the quiet suburb of Bardon, Saturdays once echoed with the roar of motorcycles and the cheers of thousands. From the 1930s to the late 1950s, a death-defying spectacle known as ‘freak hill climbing’ turned the steep slopes of Purtell Park into a battleground of grit, power, and local legend.
It’s unclear how freak hill climbing started in Bardon but the motorsport was already popular in Melbourne in the early 1900s for both motorcycles and cars.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
In the 1930s, various clubs like the Bardon Hill Climb, the Kedron Motor Club or the Indian Motorcycle Club would host the healthy but challenging competitions among bikers in Brisbane as a fundraiser for causes they supported. But beyond the cause, young daredevils were motivated to join the competition to tackle the steepest and roughest spots on the hills like a badge of honour.
According to Speedway and Road Race History, the races attracted thousands of spectators as riders try to climb or crash onto the 45-degree hill. So steep were the slopes that the motorcycles would sometimes have to be lowered down with ropes.
A charming gourmet pizza bar in an old Bardon shop has become a popular local gathering spot by offering a delicious range of pizzas in a rustic laneway setting where the whole family, including pet dogs, is welcome.
Luna Pizza has cultivated a cozy and inviting atmosphere, transforming a simple shop into a community favourite. Diners can enjoy their meals in a rustic laneway to the side of the establishment, which is decorated with tea light candles for a warm ambiance.
The decision to allow dogs in this outdoor seating area has made it a particularly popular choice for local pet owners seeking a relaxed meal out. The restaurant is also considered a good place for families with children.
From Classic to Gourmet
Photo Credit: Google Maps
The menu provides a wide selection of food to suit various tastes. Beyond its popular thin-crust pizzas, the pizzeria serves a variety of chicken wings with flavours like buffalo, teriyaki, and smokey bourbon. Garlic bread and fresh salads are also available as starters or sides.
The pizza offerings include timeless choices such as Margherita and Hawaiian, alongside a more impressive range of gourmet options. These feature creative topping combinations like the Pesto Pollo, which has a napoli base with mozzarella, chicken and pesto aioli, and the Cheeseburger pizza, which uses a ketchup and mustard base with beef and pickles.
For customer convenience, Luna Pizza provides a range of services including dine-in, takeaway, delivery, and curbside pickup. The pizzeria operates on a Bring Your Own (BYO) basis for drinks, allowing patrons to bring their favourite beverages to accompany their meal.
While BYO is encouraged, a small selection of soft drinks and water is available for purchase. To avoid disappointment during busy periods, making a reservation is recommended. The establishment accepts both credit and debit cards for payment.
Postcode 4065, encompassing the prestigious hillside suburb of Bardon, has delivered some of Brisbane’s most impressive residential sales in recent months. Known for its leafy streets, architectural excellence, and proximity to elite schools, Bardon continues to attract discerning buyers willing to pay premium prices for quality homes in this coveted inner-west enclave.
Leading the charge is 32-34 Boundary Road, which achieved an exceptional $5.1 million sale in May 2025. This five-bedroom, five-bathroom prestige home represents the pinnacle of contemporary family living, expertly designed by renowned architects DAHA and built by Otex Developments. Set on a rare 1,214sqm double lot, the tri-level residence showcases the perfect marriage of timeless character and modern refinement.
The property’s standout features include stunning city views, an infinity pool with spa jets, and sophisticated entertainment areas designed for multi-generational living. With polished concrete and engineered oak floors throughout, plus a gourmet kitchen featuring premium Siemens appliances and a Liebherr dual-zone wine cabinet, this home sets a new benchmark for luxury living in Bardon. The secure three-car garage with turntable and advanced security systems further emphasise the property’s premium positioning.
2. 14 Barton Street, Bardon – $4.8 million
The second-highest sale belongs to 14 Barton Street, a masterfully renovated 1920s cottage that changed hands for $4.8 million in March 2025. Architecturally redesigned by celebrated designer Shaun Lockyer, this five-bedroom family home demonstrates how heritage character can be seamlessly integrated with organic modern luxury.
Positioned in the highly sought-after Rosalie pocket of Bardon, the 607sqm property captures the suburb’s renowned leafy ambiance through its eastern rear aspect and elevated position. The home features three dedicated living zones, soaring 3m+ ceilings, and a sophisticated indoor-outdoor design that maximises Queensland’s climate advantages. Premium finishes include a gourmet kitchen with oversized stone island and complete Miele appliance suite, complemented by a private swimming pool and tranquil tree-lined outdoor spaces.
3. 23 Vimy Street, Bardon – $4.725 million
Completing the top three is 23 Vimy Street, which sold for $4.725 million in April 2025. This architecturally designed six-bedroom family entertainer spans a generous 830sqm block with coveted north-east aspect, offering the perfect balance of contemporary style and practical family living.
Only three years old, the property showcases impressive scale with soaring 4.3m ceiling heights and an oversized living area flooded with natural light. Luxury appointments include a temperature-controlled walk-in wine cellar with custom LED racking for 564 bottles, a fully equipped home cinema, and a heated therapeutic mineral swimming pool. The master suite features a private balcony with wet bar and three-person infrared sauna, while separate his-and-her dressing rooms inspired by Parisian boutiques add an extra touch of sophistication.
Why These Numbers Matter
These three exceptional sales underscore Bardon’s evolution as one of Brisbane’s most desirable residential addresses, with each property commanding well above the $4.5 million mark. The concentration of high-value sales within a short timeframe signals sustained confidence in the suburb’s premium market, driven by several key factors.
Firstly, the architectural pedigree of these homes cannot be understated. With renowned designers like Shaun Lockyer and DAHA involved, these properties represent more than just homes – they’re architectural statements that appeal to buyers seeking design excellence alongside luxury living.
The substantial land holdings – ranging from 607sqm to 1,214sqm – offer a rare commodity in Brisbane’s inner suburbs: space. In an era where urban density continues to increase, these generous allotments provide families with room to breathe, entertain, and create private sanctuaries within minutes of the CBD.
Location remains paramount, with Bardon’s proximity to prestigious educational institutions like Stuartholme School, Brisbane Boys’ College, and Rainworth State School proving irresistible to families prioritising education. The suburb’s easy access to Paddington’s café culture and Rosalie Village’s boutique shopping adds lifestyle appeal that extends beyond the property boundaries.
For current Bardon homeowners, these sales represent significant capital growth validation and suggest continued strength in the luxury market segment. For investors and agents, the results confirm that well-designed, substantial homes in tightly held suburbs with strong fundamentals continue to attract serious buyer interest, even as broader market conditions remain selective.
A Bardon local has been cast in the Queensland premiere of “Parade,” a Tony Award-winning musical to be staged at the Ron Hurley Theatre in Seven Hills.
Bardon-based actor, singer and dancer Mabel Tamone joins the ensemble of “Parade” as Mary Phagan. Ms Tamone began her career at a young age, appearing in international productions such as Les Misérables and the 2018 film Aquaman alongside Jason Momoa and Amber Heard.
She is among several Queensland performers contributing to the production, which includes talent from suburbs such as Woolloongabba, Redland Bay, and Varsity Lakes.
Caption: Ms Mabel Tamone as Mary Phagan. Photo Credit: Supplied
Brisbane Debut of Critically Acclaimed Musical
The musical “Parade,” based on the true story of Leo Frank, will open its first Queensland season at the Ron Hurley Theatre from 18 July to 3 August. The production marks the work’s first return to Brisbane in more than twenty years.
Presented by Bump In Productions, the show features an all-professional cast and creative team, many of whom are Brisbane-based, including a teenage performer from Bardon.
Historical Story Returns to Stage
Originally premiering in 1998, “Parade” centres on Leo Frank, a Jewish factory manager in Georgia, United States, who was wrongfully convicted of murder in 1913. The case became a flashpoint for rising antisemitism and political division in early 20th-century America.
Despite its brief Broadway run, the musical received two Tony Awards and later saw renewed recognition with a 2023 revival, earning further accolades for its revival production.
The show is directed by Cleveland’s Johnny Peek, with musical direction from Michael Keen of Wynnum and choreography by Taigum-based Maureen Bowra. Bump In Productions, the Sydney-founded company behind the season, has a history of presenting lesser-known but critically successful musicals across Australia.
The lead roles of Leo and Lucille Frank are played by Michael and Belinda Lewis, who reside in Paddington. The couple also co-founded Bump In Productions.
Broader Community Representation
The cast and crew reflect a wide cross-section of the greater Brisbane community. Cast members live across the city, from Bridgeman Downs to South Brisbane and from Slacks Creek to Alexandra Headland.
“Parade” will officially open on Friday, 19 July, and run Thursday to Sunday for three weeks at the Ron Hurley Theatre, located at 28 Tallowwood Street, Seven Hills. Tickets range from $49.00 to $69.00 and are available via TryBooking.
A special preview performance will be held on Thursday, 18 July, from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., as part of a dental industry event.
A brand-new architectural masterpiece has shattered expectations in Bardon, delivering a multi-million dollar home that underscores the city’s prestige property boom.
The property at 32-34 Boundary Road, Bardon has sold for $5,100,000, placing it among the top sales in Bardon and adding momentum to Brisbane’s growing prestige market. Handled by Place – New Farm, the sale took place on April 17, 2025 and marks a significant increase from its previous sale price of $1,145,000 in 2018.
About the Property
This stunning contemporary home was expertly designed by renowned architects DAHA and built by Otex Developments in 2024, representing the pinnacle of modern luxury living with timeless character elements.
Set on a 1,214 m² double block, the home features:
5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms
Tri-level design with expansive open-plan living and dining areas, gourmet kitchen with butler’s pantry, and games lounge with wet bar
Glass-framed infinity pool with spa jets, outdoor kitchen with BeefEater six-burner barbecue, multiple entertainment terraces, and landscaped gardens
Property showcases premium finishes including polished concrete and engineered oak floors, stone benchtops, Siemens built-in oven with steam function, and Liebherr dual-zone wine cabinet.
Location & Lifestyle
Bardon is known for its elevated hillside positions, established tree-lined streets, and proximity to Brisbane’s CBD. The home sits just minutes from Brisbane’s vibrant CBD and within walking distance of Paddington’s popular cafes, boutiques, and restaurants, plus easy access to renowned schools including Saint Joseph’s School and Stuartholme School.
Why This Sale Stands Out
Last sold for $1,145,000 in 2018
Sits on one of the largest blocks in Bardon at 1,214sqm
Features rarely available lifestyle extras such as infinity pool with spa jets, outdoor kitchen, three-car garage with turntable, and multi-generational living zones
This sale demonstrates the rising ceiling for top-tier homes in Bardon and suggests increasing demand for prestige properties with land, privacy, and proximity to the city. The dramatic price appreciation from $1.145 million to $5.1 million in seven years reflects both the complete rebuild and the strengthening luxury market.
Street Profile & Sales Context
Boundary Road has long been associated with elevated prestige living and established character homes. The street offers a serene, tree-lined environment while maintaining convenient access to inner-city amenities. Homes here are typically tightly held, and property values have shown strong resilience even in softer markets.
With Bardon’s median house price sitting at $1,864,000 over the last year, this $5.1 million sale represents the premium end of the market, showcasing what’s possible when architectural excellence meets prime positioning.
Market Context
The sale reflects Brisbane’s continuing appeal to buyers seeking luxury homes with substantial land holdings. The property’s multi-generational design features, including separate living zones and multiple ensuited bedrooms, align with current market trends toward flexible family accommodation.
Premium features like the secure three-car garage with turntable, zoned ducted air-conditioning, solar power, and advanced security systems demonstrate the level of modern luxury that today’s prestige buyers expect.
This sale at 32-34 Boundary Road is not just a record-breaker — it’s a story of lifestyle, legacy, and the continuing rise of Bardon as one of Brisbane’s most desirable postcodes. The property sets a new standard for contemporary luxury living in the area, combining architectural distinction with family-friendly functionality on one of the suburb’s most substantial blocks.
