toowong Archives - Page 4 of 13

Wests Bulldogs to Clash with Souths and Brothers Finals at Ballymore Stadium

The Wests Bulldogs are gearing up for an action-packed day at Ballymore Stadium, where they will face off against the Souths Rugby Club and Brothers Rugby Club. The Colts One grand final against Souths will kick off at 12:45 p.m. on 1 September, followed by the highly anticipated Premier Grade grand final rematch against Brothers at 2:45 p.m.

Read: Statue Planned for Merle Thornton Near Regatta Hotel in Toowong

Wests Bulldogs fell UQ in 2022 grand final rematch

In a hard-fought preliminary final, Wests emerged victorious with a 39-27 win over the University of Queensland. Despite facing an early 10-0 deficit, the Bulldogs turned the game around with a series of strategic plays and relentless pressure, eventually securing the victory.

Centre Lebron Naea was instrumental, delivering crucial defensive stops and contributing to key tries that shifted the momentum.

Wests’ lineup features several superstar players, including the dominant Wallabies backrower Seru Uru and the explosive Reds winger Suliasi Vunivalu.

The team is further strengthened by key players such as Reds halfback Louis Werchon, along with Connor Anderson, Angelo Smith, Ethan Dobbins, and David Vaihu. Their experience at the highest level of Australian rugby adds significant depth to the Wests squad.

Premier Grade grand final rematch vs Brothers

This grand final marks Wests’ third consecutive appearance in the Hospital Cup decider—and a rematch of 2023. This time, they aim to reverse last year’s narrow 26-24 loss to Brothers.

Despite Brothers securing the minor premiership on points, Wests recorded more wins during the home-and-away season, with 12 victories compared to Brothers’ 11, making this matchup a proper clash of the titans.

Brothers’ roster includes notable Reds James O’Connor, Ryan Smith, and Dre Pakeho, setting the stage for a talent-laden grand final rematch.

Flyhalf Mason Gordon is confident in the team’s game plan, emphasising that, “After giving up that early lead to UQ, we regrouped and our focus was on defence and being big and physical.” Wests faithful hope that this approach will be their edge in Sunday’s final.

Colts One and 5th Grade grand finals

In addition to the Premier Grade final, Wests fans can also support their Colts One team in their match against returning finalists Souths Rugby. This clash, kicking off a few hours earlier than the main event, will be another highlight of the day as Wests look to accomplish the triple.

Before the Premier Grade and Colts One finals, the Wests 5th Grade team will also take on Brothers in the first of their Grand Final games on 31 August, 9:30 a.m.

Read: Toowong Bowls Club Site to be Demolished, Community Input Sought for Redevelopment

As Sunday approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be an enthralling conclusion to the Queensland Premier Rugby season.

Published 28-August-2024

Olympic Preview: Ash Moloney Sets Sights on Decathlon Gold

(Update as of 03-Aug-2024) Ash Moloney has withdrawn from the Paris Olympics due to an adductor injury. The 24-year-old bronze medalist from Tokyo completed only three events on the opening day of competition before pulling out.

This withdrawal follows a challenging period for Moloney, who struggled with injuries during his qualification campaign. Prior to the Games, Moloney had acknowledged the need to adjust his training approach following his recent string of injuries, but unfortunately, his efforts were not enough to keep him in the competition.

(Published 02-August-2024) As the athletics portion of the Paris 2024 Olympics kicks off, Brisbane Boys’ College alumnus Ash Moloney is poised to make his mark. The event, often considered the ultimate test of athletic prowess, begins on August 2.

Read: Ash Moloney’s Path from Brisbane Boys’ College to Olympic Decathlon

Ash Moloney aims to be “World’s Greatest Athlete”

Twenty-year-old Ash Moloney is no stranger to Olympic success. The young athlete secured a bronze medal in decathlon at the Tokyo Olympics, setting an Oceania record in the process. Now, he returns to the global stage with ambitions of gold.

The decathlon, comprising ten track and field events spread over two days, is a true test of an athlete’s versatility and endurance. The event’s schedule is as follows:
100m: 2 August, 6:05 p.m.
Long Jump: 2 August, 6:55 p.m.
Shot Put: 2 August, 8:15 p.m.
High Jump: 3 August, 2:00 a.m.
400m: 3 August, 4:50 a.m.
110m Hurdles: 3 August, 6:05 p.m.
Discus Throw – Group A or B: 3 August, 6:55 p.m. or 8:05 p.m.
Pole Vault: 3 August, 9:40 p.m.
Javelin Throw – Group A or B: 4 August, 3:10 a.m. or 4:10 a.m.
1500m: 4 August, 5:45 a.m.

Moloney’s prospects for Olympic glory appear promising, yet he faces formidable competition, most notably from Canada’s Damian Warner, the reigning Olympic champion. The field has narrowed somewhat, as France’s Kevin Mayer, the Olympic record holder and Tokyo silver medalist, has been ruled out due to a thigh injury.

Read: The West Bulldogs Legend Going For Gold in Paris

Moloney hopes that he can elevate his bronze medal performance from Tokyo to golden heights this time around.

Originally Published 02-August-2024. Updated 03-August-2024.

Mark Nicolaidis from Toowong starts Olympics Beach Volleyball Campaign

Ex-Brisbane Boys College student, Mark Nicolaidis, kicks off his first Olympics campaign with partner Izac Carracher under the Eiffel Tower in Paris on 27 July.

Like many beach volleyballers, Mark initially focused on indoor volleyball, playing for the Queensland Pirates during four consecutive National Championships between 2016 and 2019. He also competed in the 2018 Youth Olympics in Argentina, finishing ninth.

When Mark partnered with Izac, the pairing won their first International Tournament together in 2022 and haven’t looked back since. That was only a year after Mark had graduated from QUT with a degree in Property Economics.

In the initial group stages, the pair will take on a Swedish pairing, Ahman and Hellvig at 11:00 p.m., Brisbane time, on Saturday, 27 July.

Their next match will be on Monday, 29 July at 5:00 p.m., Brisbane time, when they take on Cottafava and Nicolai. Their final group match will be against a Qatari pairing, Cherif and Ahmed, at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, 1 August.

“We don’t just want to go and participate in the Olympics – we want to go and go as deep as we can in the tournament. The first job’s done of getting there, and now we put all our preparation in to go as deep in that tournament as possible,” said Mark.

A dedicated Beach Volleyball channel on Stan Sports will allow you to watch every match live.

Toowong Rowing Club Ready to Compete at Henley Women’s Regatta 2024

The team from Toowong Rowing Club will compete against 45 other crews worldwide for the Rosie Mayglothling Trophy in the Henley Women’s Regatta 2024 in the U.K., starting with a time trial to narrow the field to 16.

This year, 46 crews will vie for the Rosie Mayglothling Trophy. The competition kicks off with a time trial on Friday morning, the 21st of June, which will reduce the field to 16 crews. These top 16 will then progress to side-by-side racing on Friday and Sunday, promising thrilling matches. While some international crews participate, the strong local competition heightens the event’s excitement.

Highlight: Toowong Rowing Club

Gabby Geldard and Jemima Powell represent the Toowong team. Jemima recently placed fourth in the U23 lightweight double category at the Australian Rowing Championships 2024. Gabby competed in the club double category, finishing fifth in the final. Their individual achievements highlight the strength and depth of Toowong RC, marking them as a duo to watch in the upcoming races.

Toowong Rowing Club (TRC) is a renowned rowing club. Established in 1889, TRC has a long and storied history, making it one of the oldest rowing clubs in Queensland. The club is situated on the Brisbane River, providing excellent rowing conditions and a scenic environment for training and competition.

Founded over a century ago, Toowong Rowing Club has played a significant role in the development of rowing in Australia. The club has produced numerous elite rowers who have gone on to compete at national and international levels, including the Olympics. TRC’s commitment to excellence in rowing has cemented its reputation as a leading club in the country.

Toowong Rowing Club has a strong track record of success in both national and international competitions. The club’s athletes regularly compete in major regattas, such as the Australian Rowing Championships and Henley Royal Regatta. In recent years, TRC rowers have achieved notable results, including podium finishes and national titles.

Other Competitors at the Henley Women’s Regatta

GSR Aegir (NED)

Umi Kuiphuis and Wietske Anema of GSR Aegir (Netherlands) are notable competitors. They secured second place in the lightweight double category at the Royal Holland-Beker 2024 and won gold at the ARB Forestbaan. Their consistent performance and recent successes position them as strong contenders for the trophy.

DSR Proteus-Eretes/HSRV Pelargos (NED)

Another strong Dutch entry is the composite crew of Laura Kempen and Leonoor Bos from DSR Proteus-Eretes/HSRV Pelargos. They took first place in the lightweight double category at the Royal Holland-Beker and won the lightweight development double category at ARB Forestbaan. Their proven track record in various competitions underscores their potential to excel at Henley.

Hartpury University & College

Ellie Dash and Millie Hurrel of Hartpury University & College have shown impressive form. Ellie won the intermediate A final at BUCs Regatta 2024 and the Championship A final at the Met Regatta. Millie set a new course record at the National Schools Regatta and competed at the European Rowing Championships. Their synergy and individual accomplishments make them formidable opponents.

De Montfort University

Hannah Milnes and Lizzie Webster from De Montfort University have also had a strong season. They finished fifth in the A final of the double sculls category at the Met regatta and competed at the Reading Amateur regatta. Their experience and teamwork are expected to give them a competitive edge.

*Photo Credit: Henley Women’s Regatta/Facebook*

Predictions

GSR Aegir and DSR Proteus-Eretes/HSRV Pelargos will likely battle it out in the semi-finals, with strong showings from Toowong RC and Hartpury University & College. Norwich RC and De Montfort University are also anticipated to perform well, given their successful season so far. The combination of seasoned athletes and emerging talent will make for a series of highly competitive races.

The Henley Women’s Regatta

Henley Women’s Regatta (HWR) is the premier regatta for female rowers in the United Kingdom, held annually on the iconic stretch of the River Thames at Henley. This prestigious event attracts more than 2,000 rowers from across the UK and around the world, offering exciting side-by-side match racing for a wide range of competitors, from juniors to university and club levels to international elite athletes.

Since its inception in 1988, HWR has become a significant event in the rowing calendar. It has run every year except 2020, showcasing the dedication and hard work of a vast team of volunteers, the generosity of the Copas family, and the support from Friends of Henley Women’s Regatta, sponsors, and local businesses. The regatta was one of the early adopters of live streaming for its races, enhancing its accessibility and popularity.

Henley Women’s Regatta 2024 promises to showcase top-tier rowing talent, with exciting races and a vibrant atmosphere. Whether you are a rowing enthusiast or a casual spectator, the event offers a unique opportunity to witness the best in women’s rowing, set against the picturesque backdrop of the River Thames at Henley.

Published 20 June 2024

Luxury Toowong Penthouse Sells for $4.1 Million

Photo Credit: Azure Development Group

A luxury penthouse in Toowong has been sold for $4.1 million with completion scheduled for early 2025. The sale highlights the continued demand for high-end properties in Brisbane’s luxury market.

The penthouse, part of Azure’s One Earle Lane development, boasts impressive features including an 18.3-metre frontage, three bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, multiple living areas, a home office, and a large north-facing balcony. The property also includes parking for three cars, catering to the needs of affluent urban dwellers.

Azure director Trent Keirnan expressed satisfaction with the sale, stating that the development had received “tremendous interest.” He views the penthouse sale as a testament to the superior quality of products entering the Brisbane market.

Designed by Paul Conrad Architects and under construction by 5Point Projects, One Earle Lane is reportedly on track for completion at the beginning of the first quarter of 2025. Simon Caulfield of Place Estate Agents, who brokered the sale, confirmed confidence in meeting this completion timeline.

Interestingly, the buyer, a downsizer from nearby Paddington, chose this property over options with river views. Caulfield explained that the decision was influenced by One Earle Lane’s extensive amenities, top floor corner position, uninterrupted city and park views, and superior design and finishes.

The development promises a range of luxury amenities for residents, including private dining facilities, a cinema, gymnasium, yoga studio, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunges, and a 25-metre heated lap pool.

This sale is part of Azure’s broader portfolio, which includes over $500 million in developments such as Oakmont, One Five Six, and Dahlia. The company reports a future pipeline exceeding $1.3 billion, indicating continued growth in Brisbane’s luxury property sector.

Published 18-June-2024

Terrific Five: Local Dancers From Toowong Shine at Regional and State Levels

Photo Credit: Instagram/ Sharee Sky Dance Centre

Five talented dancers from Sharee Skye Dance Centre in Toowong have recently achieved outstanding results in various regional and state competitions and exams. These young dancers have demonstrated exceptional skill, passion, and dedication to their craft, making their studio and community proud.

Young Hip Hop Prodigy

Eliza Carson, age 9, secured a spot among the top 10 highest-scoring novice soloists at a regional dance competition, earning her eligibility for national eisteddfods. Eliza’s love for hip-hop and contemporary dance began at Sharee Skye when she was just four years old.

Tap Enthusiast

Mila Collier, age 12, was recognised as the most outstanding on-stage performer by Sharee Skye Dance Centre. Mila’s enthusiasm for tap dancing is evident in her participation in two of the school’s eisteddfod teams. For Mila, the studio is a welcoming and secure environment where she can express herself through dance.

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Dance Phenom

Gabi Parikh, age 15, attained the highest grade statewide in her level four TPA musical theatre exam. Since joining Sharee Skye in 2017, Gabi has shown remarkable potential across multiple genres. She considers dance her “second home” and cherishes the opportunity to continuously improve.

*Photo Credit: Instagram/ Sharee Sky Dance Centre*

Contemporary Dancer

Erin Savage, also age 15, is currently pursuing a Certificate III in Dance at RAW Dance. Erin’s time at Sharee Skye fostered significant growth and a passion for contemporary dance. She views dance as a powerful form of self-expression and storytelling.

Multi-Talented Performer

Isabelle Qiu, age 9, received the Adjudicator’s Choice Award at the Dance 4350 Eisteddfod. Isabelle’s journey with Sharee Skye began at age four, and she has since blossomed into a multi-talented performer, dancer, and student. While excelling in various genres, she holds a special fondness for musical theatre and jazz.

The achievements of these five dancers not only highlight their individual talents but also reflect the quality of training and supportive environment provided by Sharee Skye Dance Centre. Their successes serve as an inspiration to aspiring dancers in Toowong and beyond.

Published Date 28-May-2024

Former Police Officer Bruce Daley Among Victims in Legacy Way Tunnel Crash

Disturbing details have emerged as an eyewitness statement provides an insight into what may have occurred in the moments before the multi-vehicle crash which claimed the lives of former police officer Bruce Daley and young nurse Lily Galbraith, in addition to leaving another critically injured, at Legacy Way tunnel in Toowong.

Among the disturbing details emerging from the crash is the revelation of Mr Daley’s haunting social media posts, where he openly discussed relationship struggles, loneliness, and even referenced his mental health challenges for several years.

These posts raise questions about Mr Daley’s state of mind leading up to the tragic incident, adding complexity to the investigation.

Mr Daley left the service over a decade ago.

Eyewitness Accounts

The collision, involving three vehicles, occurred at 3:10 p.m. on 1 May 2024 in the tunnel’s inbound section. Police are piecing together the events leading to the crash, with forensic crash units currently investigating.

Eyewitnesses recounted the harrowing scene as Mr Daley’s black Audi S3, reportedly travelling at speeds exceeding 200 km/h, collided with a silver sedan, subsequently impacting a small truck. Witnesses described narrowly avoiding the collision and the devastation left in the aftermath, with debris scattered over a considerable distance within the tunnel.

One witness described the moments leading up to the crash, noting the sudden acceleration of the Audi and the absence of hazard signals. Another recounted the horrifying sight of the vehicles colliding at high speeds, leaving little chance for survival.

The tunnel’s inbound and outbound lanes were closed for over two hours, causing significant traffic delays.

Tributes and Commemoration

Ms Galbraith, a 24-year-old nurse from the Northern Territory, tragically lost her life in the crash whilst travelling to a wedding with her friend Emma McLean. McLean, who was driving the sedan, remains in critical condition at the Royal Brisbane Women’s Hospital. Tributes poured in for Ms Galbraith, highlighting her dedication to nursing and extending sympathies to her loved ones.

*Photo Credit: Nurse and Midwives Memorial Page Australia*

Meanwhile, heartfelt tributes and messages of remembrance have flooded social media platforms. Friends, colleagues, and acquaintances have shared memories of both Mr Daley and Ms Galbraith.

Candlelight vigils and memorial services are being planned to honour the memory of the victims and provide solace to their grieving loved ones.

Police Statement

The Queensland Police Service has reiterated its commitment to thorough investigation, promising transparency and diligence in the pursuit of answers for the families of the victims.

Detective Acting Inspector Chris Hansel addressed the media, acknowledging the complexity of the investigation and refraining from speculating on specific scenarios without a thorough examination of the evidence. Mr Hansel emphasised the consideration of speed and various factors contributing to the crash, highlighting the need for patience and caution on the roads, particularly with a long weekend approaching.

To gather comprehensive evidence for their investigation, the Queensland Police Service is appealing to the public for assistance. They are specifically requesting any dash cam footage or eyewitness accounts that may shed light on the moments leading up to the crash at Legacy Way tunnel.

The Legacy Way Tunnel crash has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting an outpouring of condolences and support for the victims’ families. Premier Steven Miles and Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner expressed their sympathies, acknowledging the tragic loss of life and the impact on those affected.

Emergency Support Information

13YARN First Nations crisis support 24/7 on 13 92 76
Beyond Blue 1300 224 636 or at www.beyondblue.org.au
Care Leavers Australasia Network (CLAN) on 1800 008 774
Domestic violence support on 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) or 1800respect.org.au
Headspace on 1800 650 890
Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800 or at kidshelpline.com.au
Lifeline on 13 11 14 or www.lifeline.org.au
Mensline Australia on 1300 789 978
Open Arms Veteran and Families counselling on 1800 011 046 openarms.gov.au
Reachout at au.reachout.com
Safe Zone Support – for ADF – 1800 142 072.
Sane Helpline 1800 18SANE (7263) or at www.sane.org
Suicide Callback Service on 1300 659 467

Published 2-May-2024

Hidden Gem Alert: Dilly Dally Cafe Beckons In Toowong

Dilly Dally is more than just a cafe; it’s a Toowong community hub where warm smiles and friendly conversations welcome you, making you feel at home as soon as you walk in.

Dilly Dally Cafe is tucked away in a cute corner on Dean St, at the site of the former Bean on Dean. Its front door is decorated with bright flowers and rough wooden accents to make you want to go inside. When people walk in, they are met with friendly smiles and the sound of friendly conversation, which makes them feel right at home.

*Photo Credit: Paul Woolacot/Google Maps*

The mood in this cafe is as cool and pleasant as a breeze on a hot day. With its mix of old furniture, funky decorations, and art on the walls, the room feels warm and inviting. Large windows let in lots of natural light.

There is a cosy nook or shared table ready to meet your needs, whether you’re looking for a place to think or a lively place to hang out with friends.

But it’s not just the atmosphere that makes Dilly Dally stand out; the food is what really shines. When you go to Dilly Dally, every bite of their delicious food is an adventure in taste, from the first sip of their expertly made coffee to the last.

If you need a caffeine fix, the baristas at Dilly Dally are experts at what they do. They make a variety of specialty coffees using locally sourced beans that have been roasted just right.

Dilly Dally barista — *Photo Credit: Instagram/ Dilly Dally Coffee*

Each cup shows how much they care about quality and flavour, whether you like a simple espresso or a latte art creation made of foamy milk.

*Photo Credit: Instagram/ Dilly Dally Coffee*

Plus, Dilly Dally’s food is a real treat for the taste buds when you’re hungry. For breakfast, there are filling options like fluffy pancakes and avocado toast. For lunch, there are healthy options like gourmet sandwiches and colourful salads. Locally sourced ingredients are carefully put together to make dishes that are both tasty and healthy, and there are lots of choices for vegans, vegetarians, and meat eaters alike.

Dilly Dally cafe — *Photo Credit: Instagram/ Dilly Dally Coffee*

Dilly Dally may really stand out, though, because it cares about society and the environment. Dilly Dally also wants to leave as little of an impact on the earth as possible, so it does things like composting, recycling, and finding eco-friendly packaging.

Not only does this cafe serve delicious food, but it also fosters meaningful relationships and a sense of belonging by supporting local suppliers and artisans. Local artists and makers put their goods on the menu and in a cosy area for shopping.

Here, people are encouraged to stay a little longer, dilly-dally, and enjoy the simple pleasures of good food, good company, and good vibes. Cups are clinking and the smell of freshly baked sweets fills the air.

So why be in a hurry? People who like to take their time are praised at Dilly Dally, because the best moments are sometimes found in the quiet.

Follow Dilly Dally cafe on Instagram for updates.

Published Date 08-April-2024

Lesley Trotter One Year After: Toowong Disappearance Still Without Closure

Photo Credit: QPS

One year after 78-year-old Lesley Trotter vanished from her Toowong home, her family remains without answers or closure following a major search and a grim discovery near her residence.

The Mystery Unfolds

On 27 March 2023, Ms Trotter, a retired teacher known for her active lifestyle and community involvement, contacted her family for the last time. Living in her Maryvale Street unit in Toowong for nearly four decades, Trotter was a fixture in her local community, participating in activities like bushwalking, gym, and cycling, often exploring the trails of Mount Coot-tha.

Her disappearance triggered a significant police search, revealing the unsettling detail that her body had been disposed of in a wheelie bin and subsequently taken to the tip, its whereabouts unknown to this day.

While deeply integrated into her community, Ms Trotter was known for her stringent stance on recycling, which often led to disagreements with neighbours. The recent home sale and retirement village plans, combined, presented an image of a life in transition that has been tragically cut short.

The Search Effort

Following her disappearance, a comprehensive search operation spanned areas from Mount Coot-tha to waste facilities at Swanbank and Rochedale. Despite efforts involving police and the Australian Defence Force, and the examination of 3,000 tonnes of waste, Ms Trotter’s remains were never found, leading to the search’s eventual cessation.

Theories regarding her disappearance include a possible medical episode during her recycling routine, an accidental misadventure, or a more sinister scenario involving foul play. Despite extensive investigations and public appeals for information, the exact circumstances surrounding her death remain elusive.

Lesley Trotter disappearance — *Photo Credit: Lisa Trotter Schultz*

Police continue to explore all possibilities, with the case remaining open and ongoing inquiries. The community, especially those near Maryvale Street in Toowong, is urged to come forward with any information that might shed light on this mystery

A Community Reflects

One year has passed since the incident, and the family has been searching for answers indefinitely. The situation has also affected Brisbane and the Toowong community, both those who knew Lesley Trotter and those who did not.

“Unfortunately it’s now become a somewhat cold case,” a commenter said on Reddit. “The huge, extensive search at the landfill provided only a piece of clothing and the search was eventually called off. Unless some more evidence appears, it’s likely there won’t be any more updates or closure for the family.”

“I met Lesley prior to her death. She had not long before slightly injured herself while tending to the bins,” another Redditor shared. “She was quite spritely for her age. I would say she’s also eccentric judging by her behaviour and dress. I also know a former unit tenant who said she caused lots of issues re: the bins. If people hadn’t brought their bins back in by 3pm after collection she would yell at them that it’s an offence to leave the bin out in the road. Sometimes she would drag all the bins that had been left out, into the unit block stairwell blocking entry and exit. I hope the police are following leads in the background. Annoying neighbour by the sounds but nobody deserves that.”

“I remember seeing [the family] in the media at the time, after the initial reports which didn’t paint her in a positive light,” another commenter wrote. “I believe she was pedantic about how people sorted their rubbish amongst other things, and the crappy media spun that horribly, almost implying she deserved her fate in a rubbish bin. It was ghastly.”

“Her friends and family spoke of her love of certain hobbies. They also shared happy photos of her enjoying life generally, in contrast to the unfavourable pic the media initially used.

“I know her remains are long gone but I really hope her murder is solved and someone is held to account.”

Published 4-April-2024

No Inspections, No Problem: Infamous Morley Street House House Sells for $1.3M Uninspected

A rundown Queenslander home at Morley Street in Toowong that was once the site of a police raid after stolen radioactive materials were discovered has sold at auction for $1.3 million – without buyers being able to inspect inside.

Read: Heritage-Listed ‘Dovercourt’ to Undergo Major Restoration

The property at 46 Morley Street became infamous back in 2002 when a university lab technician was charged after police found over 200 containers of chemicals, including ammonium nitrate, stashed inside the house. A state of emergency was declared and nearby residents evacuated during the hazardous materials scare.

Despite its controversial history, the 632 square metre block of prime inner-city land proved irresistible to buyers willing to take a gamble. Listed as a “beautiful pre-war detached workers cottage” needing “some love and attention,” the auction held on-site last week attracted a crowd of 70 and saw 28 bids before selling in less than 10 minutes.

Potential buyers were warned they could not inspect the interior beforehand and that the home was being sold “as is, where is” given its dilapidated state. But the lure of a character Queenslander on a large block close to top schools, transport and the Brisbane River was enough to entice fierce competition.

morley street — Photo credit: Public Trustee

The listing highlights that the upper floor offers three spacious bedrooms and a sunny front sitting room. There is a sizeable central living space that flows into a dedicated dining area. Toward the back of the home, one will find the original kitchen as well as the bathroom.

The Public Trustee, who facilitated the sale, said all standard checks were done and no concerns raised about any remaining hazardous materials. However, the new owner faces an expensive and potentially risky renovation project to transform the property into a family dream home.

Read: Could Toowong Soon Witness the Rise of Higher Density and Taller Skyscrapers?

Whilst the outcomes of the technician’s charges were not detailed, the Morley Street property has lingered with a toxic stigma for two decades. But for one cashed-up buyer, the risks seemed worthwhile to secure a slice of sought-after Toowong real estate.

Published 26-March-2024