Historic Bardon Property Linked to Royal Visit Hits the Market

A house in Bardon, which was the backdrop of a treasured photograph capturing Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip during their 1954 visit, is currently up for sale.



The royals were pictured cruising past the house at 4 Leslie Street, Bardon, in an open-top car, waving to fans. The Queen was only 27 years old at the time of this historic visit. 

The current vendor, who purchased the property as a deceased estate, inherited this iconic black-and-white photo from the previous owner​​.

A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

This Bardon house, a six-bedroom Queenslander is a unique blend of historic charm and contemporary luxury. Known for its typical Queenslander features like hardwood floors, VJ walls, timber carvings, and high ceilings, the house has been meticulously updated. 

Leslie St Bardon
Photo Credit: RayWhite/YouTube

It boasts modern amenities, including an expansive, glossy kitchen and breakfast bar, while preserving its original character. The property sits on a verdant 540-square-metre block, with approval granted for a granny flat, offering potential income or additional living space for extended family​​.

Leslie St Bardon
Photo Credit: RayWhite/YouTube

Bardon’s Real Estate Scene

Bardon, known for its pre-war houses, has seen other properties listed for sale recently. Among them are a charming three-bedroom house at 91 Leworthy Street, featuring traditional aspects with a spacious rear deck and garden views, and a two-story property at 32 Brown Street, located near Rosalie Village and McGregor Terrace shops, just five kilometres from the CBD​​.

Bardon is home to several historical buildings, including Bardon House, an example of Victorian Gothic architecture. This stone structure is now part of the St Joseph’s School complex. The building has evolved over the years, with additions and renovations while preserving its architectural integrity. 

Bardon has a rich educational history, with the establishment of St Joseph’s Catholic School and Bardon Infants School, which later became Bardon State School​​​​.

Bardon: A Snapshot

The suburb has evolved significantly over the years. The suburb’s population has steadily grown, with the 2021 census recording 10,153 residents. 

The area is predominantly Australian-born, with a diverse mix of other nationalities, and English is the most commonly spoken language at home. The suburb’s demographic data reflects a vibrant and diverse community​​.



The sale of the historic house at 4 Leslie Street, Bardon, offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of Australian royal history. Coupled with Bardon’s rich historical background and its growing, diverse community, this suburb continues to be an attractive destination for both real estate investors and those seeking a unique place to call home.

Published 8-Dec-2023

Stuartholme School: Historic Junior School Precinct Construction Commences in Bardon

The educational landscape in Bardon is witnessing the start of a new era as construction begins on a dedicated Junior School precinct at Stuartholme School.



This development is set to provide a strong educational foundation for the institution’s Year 5 and Year 6 students. The construction is part of an ambitious plan by the school, which has recently gained approval from Planning Minister Steven Miles for a new sports centre project on Sir Samuel Griffith Drive, near the iconic Freers potato chip factory site.

A New Chapter in Stuartholme’s History

Stuartholme School, a prestigious girls’ school bordering Toowong and Bardon, celebrated the significant milestone on 26 Oct 2023, as the board, school leaders, and students turned the first sod to mark the beginning of construction on its new junior school precinct. This historical moment takes place within the school’s 21-hectare campus on the picturesque foothills of Mount Coot-tha.

“As a leader in girls’ education, Stuartholme understands that the early years of education provide the foundation for successful and lifelong learners who will make a global impact beyond the gates of the school,” Principal Daniel Crump said. 

Stuartholme School
Photo Credit: Stuartholme School

Educational Excellence and Collaborative Learning

This modern Junior School precinct is designed to optimise educational achievements, fostering active learning and essential skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. The classroom layouts are intentionally crafted to encourage collaborative learning, promoting self-reliance and independence as students transition into secondary school.

Junior school students will have the privilege of accessing the school’s extensive facilities, including a swimming pool, netball and tennis courts, library, technologies precinct, art studios, and design technology rooms. The school maintains a commitment to small class sizes, allowing 100 students across the two-year level cohorts to receive individualized attention while providing ample opportunities for growth and learning.

“With the introduction of Years 5 in 2024 and Year 6 in 2025, our students will have a seamless progression into the Secondary School in a safe, caring, and warm environment, to understand who they are, how they belong, and learn to achieve educational excellence,” Mr Crump added.

Stuartholme School building
Photo Credit: Queensland Government (Planning) / planning.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au

Embracing Sustainability and Heritage

The contemporary building is designed with sustainability in mind, aligning with the school’s commitment to environmental responsibility. This includes expanding the existing solar program, enhancing landscaping, and installing water tanks.

“This innovation will enrich our sense of history as our youngest students are embraced into our culture of belonging – sentiments that are underpinned by our school’s Sacred Heart charism of which we are very proud,” Chaplain Sr Rita Carroll, who has been associated with the school since 1957, remarked. 

Sports Centre Approved

In addition to the Junior School precinct, Planning Minister Steven Miles recently approved plans for a major sports facility, which will be situated on the site of the iconic Freers potato chip factory and adjacent Freers Farm on Sir Samuel Griffith Drive. This sports facility will include sporting fields, multipurpose courts, and associated floodlighting, catering to various sports and activities. 

Stuartholme School building
Photo Credit: Queensland Government (Planning) / planning.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au


While some locals expressed concerns about possible downstream flood impacts and effects on wildlife at the site, the project’s documentation claims that floodwater will be contained on-site. The hours of operation for the sporting fields, multipurpose courts, and the Freers Shed will be regulated to minimize noise and inconvenience for the surrounding community.

Published 31-Oct-2023

Bardon Waste Warriors in the Running for 2023 WasteSMART People’s Choice Award

Brisbane residents are being called upon to cast their votes and help crown the winner of the 2023 WasteSMART People’s Choice Award. The prestigious award recognises individuals, community groups, and businesses who have gone above and beyond to make Brisbane a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable city. Among the 31 finalists, several inspiring individuals from the suburb of Bardon have made their mark in sustainability.



Voting for the People’s Choice Award opened on Tuesday, 3rd October 2023, and will remain open until Monday 16 October 2023. This gives residents the opportunity to choose their sustainability champion. 

Bardon – 2023 WasteSMART People’s Choice Award – Finalists

The Worm Monger: Hannah Churton

Hannah Churton, known as “The Worm Monger,” has made a significant impact in the heart of Bardon. Hannah initiated a community verge vegetable garden and a compost hub in her neighbourhood. Through these efforts, she diverted over 6 tonnes of organic waste from landfills in the last financial year. Her dedication extends to educating others on composting and verge gardening through her social channel, @the_worm_monger on Instagram, which has reached more than 20,000 followers. 

Eve Tramacchi O’Keefe: A Young Environmentalist

Eve Tramacchi O’Keefe, currently completing Year 12, has displayed exceptional dedication to sustainability at Goodfolk Cafe in Bardon. She leads gardening and waste management efforts at the café, even coming in at 5:30 a.m. to work around her school schedule. Under her guidance, the café has implemented numerous sustainability initiatives, including composting, worm farming, and closed-loop practices. Eve’s role in sustainability has transformed the cafe into a hub for environmentally conscious practices.

Goodfolk Cafe: A Closed Loop Oasis

Located in Bardon, the Goodfolk Cafe stands out as a community-focused, specialty coffee and garden space. The cafe boasts six compost bins, converted bathtubs functioning as worm farms, and a 250m2 produce garden. This garden yields a variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs used in their seasonal menu. Goodfolk Cafe’s sustainability efforts go beyond the kitchen, as they offer recycled op shop mugs for patrons who forget their own reusable cups. 

About the  WasteSMART Awards

The WasteSMART Awards, managed by the Brisbane Sustainability Agency on behalf of Brisbane City Council and sponsored by Containers for Change Queensland, Cleanaway, and The University of Queensland, aim to recognise and celebrate these local waste warriors. A ceremony will be held at Brisbane City Hall in November 2023 to announce the winners of the 12 WasteSMART Award categories, which have a combined prize pool of more than $4000.



Brisbane’s Lord Mayor, Adrian Schrinner, encourages residents to get involved in the People’s Choice Award and adopt waste-smart strategies to contribute to the city’s sustainable future. Brisbane’s commitment to being Australia’s cleanest and greenest capital city continues to grow, thanks to the dedicated efforts of individuals and businesses like those in Bardon.

Published 16-Oct-2023

Enjoy a Sunday to Remember at the Bardon Markets Spring Gala

Get ready to welcome the spring season in style at the Bardon Markets Spring Gala, which promises a day of excitement, entertainment, and community spirit that you won’t want to miss.



The return of another unforgettable event will take place on Sunday, 10 Sept 2023, from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m., at the picturesque corner of Baroona Rd and Rainworth Rd in Bardon.

The Bardon Markets Spring Gala is known for its vibrant atmosphere and this year is no exception. Attendees can expect to enjoy live music in the warm sunshine while exploring a wide array of fantastic offerings, including:

🍎 Farm Fresh Produce: Discover the finest locally-sourced fruits and vegetables.

🥦 Artisanal Products: Explore a diverse selection of handmade crafts and unique items.

🪡 Handcrafted Goods: Find one-of-a-kind creations from talented local artisans.

☕️ Premium Coffee: Savor the aroma and flavor of freshly brewed coffee.

🌭 Hot Breakfast: Enjoy a delicious breakfast to kickstart your day.

🥖 Organic Bakery: Treat your taste buds to delectable baked goods made with organic ingredients.

🎶 Live Music: Groove to the rhythm of live performances throughout the day.

In addition to these market staples, the Spring Gala has some exciting extras this year:

🌿 Special Workshops: Engage in interactive workshops for all ages.

🎁 Bardon Markets Raffle: Try your luck for a chance to win fabulous prizes.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👧 Kids Corner: Keep the little ones entertained with kid-friendly activities.

👔 Best Dressed Competition: Stand out by donning your loudest floral shirt for a chance to win a $50 gift voucher to Rumour Mill Espresso.

With plenty of parking available and a dog-friendly policy, the Bardon Markets Spring Gala welcomes families, friends, and solo adventurers to join in the fun. Norman Buchan Park offers ample space for visitors to spread out and soak in the lively atmosphere while browsing the market’s offerings.

So, mark your calendars and make plans to attend this event. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this event promises a day of community, culture, and celebration of all things spring. 



Bardon Markets take place regularly on Sunday mornings. This community market places a high value on fostering connections, providing a welcoming space for everyone. It’s a place where you can catch up with friends, meet your neighbours, take your furry friend for a stroll, and bask in the sun, making the most of your weekend.

Follow their Facebook page for updates.

Published 6-Sept-2023

All in a Day’s Work: Massive Python Rescued From Bardon Car by Fearless Snake Catcher

A snake catcher from Snake Catchers Brisbane & Gold Coast successfully extricated a meters-long Coastal Carpet Python from the confines of a car engine in Bardon.



The captivating rescue operation was caught on camera and has since gone viral across social media platforms. The owner of the vehicle had reached out to the snake catching company for assistance upon discovering the python.

The video captured snake catcher Jaedon’s expert handling of the situation. Wearing protective gloves, he confidently maneuvered the squirming python, grasping its body with one hand and its head with the other.

The astonishing footage showed the nerve-wracking moments when he meticulously removed the reptile from beneath the car’s bonnet. As Jaedon gradually coaxed the python out of the car engine, the snake’s incredible length became evident.

With a blend of skill and composure, Jaedon calmly went about the extraction process and skillfully pulled the python’s head behind his shoulder, carefully guiding the rest of its massive body out of the engine. 

Once fully freed from the entrapment and held aloft, the python measured longer than Jaedon’s own height. 

Coastal Carpet Pythons, while non-venomous and generally not harmful to humans, can reach significant sizes and are known for their adaptability to various habitats.

This particular python, which had sought refuge within the car engine most likely for warmth and shelter, showed the intriguing and sometimes unexpected interactions between urban environments and wildlife.



Many praised Jaedon’s bravery and skill, while others expressed awe at the sheer size of the python. For Jaedon, it was all in a day’s work.

Published 24-Aug-2023

Exciting Health And Wellness Programs Coming to Bardon In May 2023

Embrace a month dedicated to health and wellness in Bardon this May 2023! From low-impact body conditioning programs for seniors to stability exercises for all ages, here are the activities that will help nurture your body, mind, and soul.


Read: Bardon House, The Villa That Inspired The Name Of A Suburb


Strength, agility and balance for seniors

Photo credit: www.brisbane.qld.gov.au

Discover meticulously crafted low impact body conditioning programs, designed to specifically target strength and enhance overall endurance and fitness levels. 

The programs, held each Wednesday, are perfectly suited for individuals of all fitness levels, regardless of gender. This event is free, though bookings are essential. For booking inquiries, reach out to Fitness with a Twist via email.

The programs will be held at Bowman Park, 247 Simpsons Road. The meeting point will be near the half basketball court.

Dates:

  • May 3
  • May 10
  • May 17
  • May 24
  • May 31

Balance better and stay moving with Tai Chi & Qigong

Photo credit: www.brisbane.qld.gov.au 

Experience the transformative benefits of Tai Chi & Qigong, specifically tailored to enhance balance, stability, and promote healthy aging. 

Brisbane City Council’s well-established falls-prevention program has been thoughtfully adjusted to accommodate individuals of all skill levels, ensuring that they feel relaxed, rejuvenated, and tranquil.

This remarkable event is classified as GOLD, catering to seniors. However, it warmly welcomes participants of all age groups. Participation comes at a modest fee of just $5. Meeting point is at Bardon Lions Park, Fletcher Pde opposite Alexandra Street.

Dates:

  • May 4
  • May 11
  • May 18
  • May 25

Tabata and core

Photo credit: www.brisbane.qld.gov.au 

Discover the perfect blend of interval training, designed to enhance cardiovascular fitness, and targeted core strength and stability exercises. This exceptional program is well-suited for individuals of all fitness levels, regardless of gender. 

Participation is free, but it is essential to secure your spot by making a booking in advance. To book phone Fitness With A Twist on 0406 425 561. The venue is at Jubilee Park.

Dates:

  • May 5
  • May 12
  • May 19
  • May 26


Read: Here’s Where To Go In Rosalie For The Best Croissants


Visit Council’s website for further details on the upcoming health and wellness programs in Bardon. 

Published 1-May-2023

Locals Divided About Roaming Peafowl in Bardon, Bird-lovers Unhappy About Relocation

A small population of beautiful but wild peafowl have been quietly plucked out of Bardon and relocated elsewhere after a complaint was lodged about their presence. However, some local bird lovers are unhappy about the move, saying the peafowl were not bothersome at all.



Jon Fihelly, a resident, believes that the removal was unnecessary since the birds’ do not number enough to even cause a disturbance or an outbreak. Bardon’s peafowl population has dwindled to just 10 within the last four decades compared to other suburbs with 30 or more of these animals. The birds are usually found near the Outlook Cres at the foothills of Mt Coot-tha.

The relocation was discovered by someone who saw the birds impounded at the Animal Welfare League Queensland and shared the photo in a local group online. Mr Fihelly wondered why the move took place despite no consultations with the public. He was more bothered when Council allegedly denied that the peafowls are at the shelter, according to reports

Cr Kim Marx, the Civic Cabinet Chair for City Standards, said that the transfer was decided following a complaint about the presence of the peafowls in Bardon. She added that peafowls may cause a lot of noise or damage properties by roosting, thus the need to act on the complaint. Cr Marx also said that they consulted with bird experts about the relocation. 

Bardon peafowl
Photo Credit: Kolm-Jany/Pixabay

However, Mr Fihelly pointed out that the birds prefer to roost on trees and not houses or cars and that the noise only happens during the breeding season. He also checked public records of complaints but found none as of December 2022. 

“My neighbours that don’t want them around have shooed them away in the past and hence never see them anymore so there is an easy solution without having the BCC remove them,” he said.



Published 30 March 2023

 

Bardon Ranked Top 6 Safest Suburbs in Queensland

Data analysis of the property crime records in Queensland shows that Bardon ranks as the sixth safest place in the city.



Postal Code 4065, covering Bardon and Rainworth, located northwest of Brisbane CBD, logged 26 crimes per 1,000 properties from Queensland Police Service data drawn between 2017 to 2022 for crimes under Unlawful Entry and ‘Other Theft (excluding Unlawful Entry). The state average is 130 crimes per 1,000 properties. 

According to Budget Direct, Bardon’s crime rate dropped by 14 points in the last year, further lowering its risk profile for residents. However, it’s still a few points higher than the number one postal code on the list, 4055, covering the suburbs of Ferny Hills, Kedron Upper, Bunya, Ferny Grove, Ferny Hills and Upper Kedron which average 14 crimes per 1,000 properties.

Bardon’s ranking comes as no surprise as it has maintained its desirability and liveability for many years.

Nestled at the Mt Coot-tha foothills, Bardon, with a little under 10,000 residents, has a peaceful and rustic charm where families and their dogs can walk to local parks, biking trails and recreational places. Residents raise their kids amongst nature and wildlife and enjoy the weekly community events or dine at thriving cafes and restaurants.

Top 10 Safest Post Codes in Queensland from 2017 to 2022

  1. 4055 Ferny Hills, Kedron Upper, Bunya, Ferny Grove, Ferny Hills and Upper Kedron
  2. 4070 Anstead, Bellbowrie, Moggill and Priors Pocket
  3. 4061 The Gap
  4. 4037 Eatons Hill
  5. 4154 Gumdale, Ransome and Wakerley
  6. 4065 Bardon West, Jubilee, Rainworth and Bardon
  7. 4035 Albany Creek, Bridgeman Downs and Cashs Crossing
  8. 4025 Moreton Island, Bulwer, Cape Moreton, Cowan Cowan, Kooringal and Tangalooma
  9. 4067 St Lucia, St Lucia South and Ironside
  10. 4069 Brookfield, Chapel Hill, Fig Tree Pocket, Kenmore, Kenmore East, Kenmore Hills, Pinjarra Hills, Pullenvale, Upper Brookfield, Kenmore Dc and Lone Pine


Published 18 March 2023

Bardon Latrobe Football Club To Get New Field Lights

Bardon Latrobe Football Club will have new field lighting, thanks to a $104,000 grant for sports infrastructure in Queensland.


Read: Issues Raised on Proposed Stuartholme School Sporting Precinct Development in Bardon


The provision of new field lights are expected to help the club build in new training flexibility and attract new members. It’s currently one of the largest football clubs in Brisbane with over 700 registered members.

Member for Cooper Jonty Bush visited the club on 25 January 2023, with Minister Stirling Hinchliffe MP to see the progress of the new field lights. 

Bardon Latrobe
Photo credit: Bardon Latrobe Football Club/Facebook

Ms Bush said that over recent years, the Queensland Government has invested almost $380,000 in the Football Club including two new change rooms, aluminium seating, Active Clubs funding and $5,400 in FairPlay vouchers.

Bardon Latrobe
Ms Jonty Bush with President of Bardon Latrobe Football Club Samuel Casey and Minister Stirling Hinchliffe MP (Photo credit: Jonty Bush – Member for Cooper)

“Sporting clubs like Bardon Latrobe FC are very important for keeping Queenslanders of all ages active and healthy, and connected with their local community,” Ms Bush said.

They also announced the new funding programs for community not-for-profit sporting clubs, which will open on 31 January and will accept applications until 2 March 2023.

Grants, which start at $50,000 can be used for projects such as new upgraded and end-of-life replacement projects, Lighting, cycling trails, pathways, ramps, skateparks, fixed exercise equipment, change rooms, as well as upgrading tennis, netball, bowls or indoor court surfaces.

Photo credit: Bardon Latrobe Football Club/Facebook

Meanwhile, the State Government has recently launched the first round of FairPlay for 2023, providing up to 46,000 vouchers worth almost $7 million to help low-income Queensland families with the cost of sport and active recreation sign on fees up to $150.

Applications for FairPlay vouchers are open to parents, carers and guardians with a current Services Australia Health Care Card or a Pensioner Concession Card for students aged five to 17 years.


Read: Bardon House, The Villa That Inspired The Name Of A Suburb


Clubs and recreation providers participating in FairPlay and more information about family eligibility can be found at: www.qld.gov.au/fairplayvouchers

Published 31-January-2023

Bardon Property Market Continues Stronger Performance Amidst Tight Market

The Bardon property market has maintained a strong performance for the 12-month period ending March 2022, amidst a tight market and off the back of flooding incidents earlier this year.



Bardon Median House Price

From April 2021 to March 2022, Bardon’s house price growth was at 33.33 per cent, pulling the median house price from $1.2 million to $1.6 million, per data from Property Market Updates. Sales volumes also remain high 204 properties sold within 30 days on market, compounding on the high demand that has dominated Brisbane’s housing market for some time.   

Median house price Bardon
Photos Credit: Property Market Updates

Buyers hunting for a home in Bardon sought three- or four-bedroom homes, closing deals in less than a month and way above the average Brisbane media value for a house. But one buyer nabbed the highest-price home for the period, which is a 5-bedroom property with a rooftop deck that boasts sweeping views of the city and the picturesque surrounding Mt Coot-tha.

Bardon Median Unit Price

Bardon’s unit market had an uptick for this period at 4.74 per cent following a slump in the previous quarter. The unit median price has settled at $742,500 for this period with 56 properties sold for an average of 44 days onmarket. 

median unit price Bardon
Photo Credit: Property Market Updates

Though the housing market has outperformed the unit market every month, the latest figures reveal a gaining momentum as the city recovers from the impact of the pandemic with the re-opening of the borders. 



Bardon Property Market Post-Flooding

In 2011, Bardon’s growth post-flooding was at a slow 2.4 percent. The median house price for this period was $735,00 down from $775,000. It took Bardon a few years to pull its median house price upward again. 

The rain bombs in late February 2022, which caused millions of dollars in flood damage, were expected to bring down Brisbane’s property market, in general. Yet, Bardon quickly recovered and even had a massive growth rate one month later, as reflected in the Property Market Updates. 

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Industry insiders said that this was indicative of the market’s significant growth in the last 11 years. With the current imbalance of supply and demand, property prices have been resilient. 

Quality buyers who are willing to pay a premium for their investments have also contributed to Bardon’s price growth. In the next few months, however, Bardon could experience a short-term favorable shift because buyers, especially from interstate and overseas, will likely prefer hilltop locations to avoid a flooding disaster.