Kedron Brook Set for Major Transformation in Olympic Lead-up

Brisbane City Council is progressing with an $85 million plan for a major transformation of the flood-prone Kedron Brook catchment as part of the city’s preparation for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Photo Credit: Facebook / Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner


The Kedron Brook Revitalisation Vision will transform a 110-square kilometre catchment that runs through 14 suburbs from Ferny Grove to Nudgee. Further investigations and technical work are currently underway to examine:

  • Reinstating vegetation
  • Bank stabilisation
  • Creating room for water flow
  • Developing more spaces for recreation with seating and shade

The project is one of four key leisure and lifestyle destinations that will be revitalised before the 2032 Games, alongside Victoria Park, Oxley Creek, and the Wynnum, Manly and Lota foreshores.

Photo Credit: Facebook / Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner

“Brisbane’s natural environment is one of the things that sets us apart from other cities,” LM Adrian Schrinner said. “Our river and creeks are places for both wildlife and people and this will no doubt be part of the unique ‘Brisbane’ experience for people visiting before, during and after the 2032 Games.”

Photo Credit: Facebook / Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner

According to James Tuma, managing partner of urban planning consultancy Urbis, Brisbane’s position is unique among Australian capitals due to its climate and relative youth as a city. “Expectations around amenity and the quality of green space and the amount of landscape available to residents is just the standard setting now,” he said. “We’re uniquely positioned in Australia to have this incredible city that is so different to all the other capitals because we can actually grow vegetation almost anywhere we want.”

The Kedron Brook project aligns with the International Olympic Committee’s interest in Brisbane’s natural setting, he noted: “One of the things that the International Olympic Committee are most enamoured by the idea of in 2032, is the natural setting of the city.”



The transformation forms part of what LM Schrinner describes as an “ambitious plan to transform hundreds of hectares of under-utilised parts of Brisbane into an incredible lifestyle destination for everyone.”

Published 19-November-2024

Street Spotlight: Haines Street, Kedron

Haines Street in Kedron has grown significantly from its quiet beginnings, now home to a mix of long-time residents and newer arrivals who value its evolving character. With property values soaring—like the $481,000 increase in the median price of a 3-bedroom house since 2020—this street captures the story of a community that has transformed while retaining its welcoming charm.



Haines Street, Kedron Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 33
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 75%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 5 years, 10 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 9%


Haines Street, Kedron – As It Looked in 1936

Haines Street, Kedron
Haines Street in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON HAINES STREET, KEDRON

Property AddressSale PriceSale Date
33 Haines Street, Kedron$1.255MAug 2024
2/27A Haines Street, Kedron$1.100MAug 2024
1/27A Haines Street, Kedron$1.05MJul 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON HAINES STREET FROM YESTERYEAR

Property AddressSale PriceSale Date
23 Haines Street, Kedron$30,000Nov 1982
21 Haines Street, Kedron$354,280Sep 2008

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 2 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,110,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $614,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM HOUSE IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $497,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,185.000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $704,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $481,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,460,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $835,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $625,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,850,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $1,230,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $620,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Kedron in 2024 was $520,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Kedron in 2020 was $323,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $197,000



If you know Haines St, Kedron well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Street Spotlight: Benelong Street, Kedron

Benelong Street in Kedron offers a captivating glimpse into the evolution of suburban living. From its modest beginnings, this charming street has flourished into a vibrant and sought-after residential destination, reflecting the growth and transformation of the area.



Benelong Street, Kedron Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 15
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 80%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 19 years, 7 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 54%


Benelong Street, Kedron – As It Looked in 1936

Benelong St Kedron
Benelong St, Kedron in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON BENELONG STREET, KEDRON

Property AddressSale PriceSale Date
7 Benelong Street, Kedron$1.893MJun 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON BENELONG STREET FROM YESTERYEAR

Property AddressSale PriceSale Date
5 Benelong Street, Kedron$25,950Jul 1975
33 Benelong Street, Kedron$70,000May 1988
15 Benelong Street, Kedron$85,000Mar 1989

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 2 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,110,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $614,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM HOUSE IN Kedron SINCE 2020 : $497,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,185.000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $704,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN Kedron SINCE 2020 : $481,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,460,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $835,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN Kedron SINCE 2020 : $625,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,850,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $1,230,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN Kedron SINCE 2020 : $620,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Kedron in 2024 was $520,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Kedron in 2020 was $323,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN Kedron SINCE 2020 : $197,000



If you know Benelong St, Kedron well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Street Spotlight: Gallagher Terrace, Kedron

Gallagher Terrace in Kedron offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of suburban life. From its humble beginnings in 1936, when it was sparsely populated with only a few properties, this vibrant street has grown into a bustling residential hub.



Gallagher Terrace, Kedron Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 132
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 65%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 3 years, 8 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 9%

Gallagher Terrace, Kedron – As It Looked in 1936

Gallagher Terrace, Kedron 1936
Gallagher Terrace, Kedron in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON GALLAGHER TERRACE, KEDRON

Property AddressSale PriceSale Date
506/38 Gallagher, Kedron$609,500Jul, 2024
12/11 Gallagher, Kedron$550,000Jun, 2024
201/3 Gallagher, Kedron$727,500May, 2024
306/3 Gallagher, Kedron$590,000Apr, 2024
405/3 Gallagher, Kedron$700,000Mar, 2024
106/38 Gallagher, Kedron$540,000Mar, 2024
605/3 Gallagher, Kedron$690,000Mar, 2024
206/3 Gallagher, Kedron$590,000Mar, 2024
305/3 Gallagher, Kedron$690,000Mar, 2024
301/3 Gallagher, Kedron$695,000Feb, 2024
406/3 Gallagher, Kedron$595,000Feb, 2024
506/3 Gallagher, Kedron$590,000Feb, 2024
205/3 Gallagher, Kedron$692,000Feb, 2024
603/38 Gallagher, Kedron$609,703Feb, 2024
501/3 Gallagher, Kedron$700,000Feb, 2024
606/3 Gallagher, Kedron$595,000Jan, 2024
14/11 Gallagher, Kedron$550,000Jan, 2024
1/26 Gallagher, Kedron$510,000Jan, 2024


SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON GALLAGHER STREET FROM YESTERYEAR

Property AddressSale PriceSale Date
46 Gallagher, Kedron$55,000Aug, 1983
28 Gallagher, Kedron$70,000Dec, 1984

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 2 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,110,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $614,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM HOUSE IN Kedron SINCE 2020 : $497,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,185.000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $704,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN Kedron SINCE 2020 : $481,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,460,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $835,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN Kedron SINCE 2020 : $625,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,850,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $1,230,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN Kedron SINCE 2020 : $620,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Kedron in 2024 was $520,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Kedron in 2020 was $323,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN Kedron SINCE 2020 : $197,000




La Familia Coffee: Building Community in Stafford One Cup at a Time

La Familia on Minimine Street in Stafford has now been trading for just over a year. Mark and Amelia have received many great reviews for their coffee and fare.

They were kind enough to talk about how it has evolved.


Read: Nature’s Classroom: Discover La Foresta, Mount Alvernia College’s Thriving Garden


What’s La Familia’s #1 Breakfast option?

Our La Familia Big Breakfast is a weekend favourite, and we offer a Veggie Big Breakfast for a delicious plant-based option.

La Familia Espresso Bar Big Breakfast
Photo Credit: Facebook/La Familia Espresso Bar

For something lighter, try our smashed avocado with fresh avocado and feta on sourdough, or try our freshly prepared pastries.

All our sandwiches are prepared in-house, with gluten-free options available upon request.

You have a stunning logo. What’s the story behind it?

Our logo is inspired by the Tree of Life, symbolising growth, connection, and community. The branches reach outward, representing the friendships we’ve formed, while each leaf symbolises a new connection that has become part of the La Familia Family.

You’ve been in business for just over a year now, talk about your regulars and the warmth of the local community.

We’ve just celebrated our first year in business. Since we opened our doors a year ago, our business has grown in ways we couldn’t have imagined. Like many small businesses, we’ve had our fair share of challenges, but what keeps us going is the joy of serving our community.

We have listened to our customers’ feedback, expanding our menu to offer something for everyone. The support from our regulars like Margaret, Principal Sarah, Bodhi, Dave with the hat, Glenda, Ross, and the Walshes—to name just a few—has been truly heartwarming.

Every smile, every conversation, and every opportunity to provide genuine, old-fashioned service reminds us why we started this journey.

We take pride in providing employment opportunities to those who need it most—whether they are unemployed, from immigrant backgrounds, or part of the First Nations community.

The highlight of our first year has been the sense of community that has blossomed here. We’re more than a cafe; we’ve become a gathering place where friendships form and stories are shared. Thanks to our incredible customers, we have built a warm, tight-knit community that truly feels like family.

La Familia is built on the belief that everyone deserves a chance, and it is our mission to offer that chance, day after day.

Our café’s wall of gratitude honours those who’ve supported us, and our cherry blossom tree of gratitude invites our customers to leave messages about what family and community mean to them. And then there’s our coffee—our specialty. We take great pride in sourcing the finest beans to deliver an experience that brings people together.

We believe that each cup of coffee, each pastry, and each smile served at La Familia is a small but significant part of building a strong, more connected community.

That brings me to the Wesley Mission’s Orca Project. We’ve been involved since March this year, and it has been an incredibly rewarding experience.

For those of you who may not be familiar with the Orca Project, it provides individuals with disabilities the opportunity to engage in work experience and build valuable skills.

At La Familia, we’ve welcomed around eight participants so far, each of whom have completed four-week work placements, two hours per week, accompanied by a support worker.

The tasks they take on are diverse, ranging from food preparation to customer service and cleaning, and our team and customers have embraced them with open arms.

These participants bring an energy and enthusiasm that is contagious, and we’ve seen firsthand the positive impact this program has on their confidence, skills, and sense of belonging.

Photo Credit: Facebook/La Familia Espresso Bar
What makes La Familia unique?

At La Familia, we’re more than just a cafe. We focus on creating a welcoming, inclusive space where everyone feels part of our community. We’re proud to support local causes, employ people from diverse backgrounds and showcase the work of local artists. Our menu is crafted with high-quality ingredients and we’re always working to make it fresh and exciting!

Do you have options for dietary restrictions?

Yes, we offer a variety of options for different dietary needs, including vegan, vegetarian and gluten free, and we’ll do our best to accommodate.

Do you bake your pastries in-house?

We bake our croissants and danishes freshly in-house on a daily basis.

How do you support the community?

Supporting the community is at the heart of what we do. We offer employment opportunities to people from immigrant backgrounds and First Nations communities and we’re involved with the Wesley Mission’s Orca Project, which provides work experience for people with disabilities. We’re also proud to feature the work of local artists and support mental health initiatives.

Is La Familia pet-friendly?

Yes, we are a pet-friendly cafe. We welcome pets in our outdoor seating area and we have water bowls for our furry friends.

Is La Familia child-friendly?

Yes, we welcome families and have high chairs for toddlers.

Is La Familia wheelchair-accessible?

Yes, we’re fully wheelchair-accessible, with ramps available to ensure that everyone can comfortably enjoy our space.

Can I reserve a table or space for a small event or for breakfast/lunch?

Of course! We’re happy to accommodate small groups and events. Give us a call on 0434 901 366, drop us an email at lafamiliacoffee.co@outlook.com or visit us in-store at Shop 2, 20 Minimine Street, Stafford and we will do our best to accommodate.


Read: La Familia – Coveted Coffee and Freshly Baked French Pâtisserie Everyday In Stafford


What are your opening hours?

We’re open 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Tuesday to Friday and 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on weekends. Come by anytime for a coffee, a bite to eat, or just to say hi!

Is there parking nearby?

Yes, there’s ample parking nearby, so you can visit us without any hassle.

Published 01-November-2024

Police Called to Kedron Residence of Stafford MP

Police responded to an incident at the Kedron residence of Stafford MP Jimmy Sullivan late Sunday, October 27, with a Queensland Police spokesman confirming officers “took up with all parties involved.” No charges were laid.



Multiple sources have raised concerns about Sullivan’s welfare and relationship with alcohol, noting his personal struggles intensified during the recent election campaign.

Former state minister Anthony Lynham and federal Sports Minister Anika Wells intervened last week to assist Sullivan. When contacted, Sullivan confirmed he had already sought support, mentioning he was “surrounded by good people” including Dr. Lynham. He also referenced being at a busy time in his life with both the election and a newborn baby.

Sullivan, who became Assistant Minister for Justice and Veterans’ Affairs in December 2023, secured re-election on Saturday with a near 40 percent primary vote. He has held the seat of Stafford since 2020.

A Labor colleague expressed worry about Sullivan’s welfare, stating: “I’m concerned for him.”



If you or someone you know needs support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Published 30-October-2024

Kedron Properties Face Reclassification in Brisbane Flood Maps

Kedron properties and thousands more across Brisbane have been reclassified on the updated flood maps, reflecting new data about flood risks in areas like Kedron Brook and Brighton Creek.



Brisbane City officials plan to release the updated flood map online on 6 Dec 2024, when residents can view their full property’s revised flood classification.

However, some details of the reclassifications have already been disclosed, particularly the areas impacted and general changes to flood risk. Affected property owners will receive notification letters by early December, ahead of the public release date.

8,000 Properties Reassessed

For nearly 1,000 of these properties, the new assessments have removed them from flood risk classifications altogether, while 7,000 other properties have had their risk levels reassessed either up or down based on new data.

The changes are based on the results of new hydrological studies for Brisbane. Cr Tracy Davis, chair of the environment, parks, and sustainability committee, stated that officials continually seek the most recent and detailed information to update the range of free flood resources offered to residents. 

Ms Davis emphasised that no two floods are alike, and it’s essential that residents have accurate information to prepare based on their specific flood risk. While severe weather cannot be prevented, she noted, these updates are intended to help Brisbane residents be better prepared. 

Kedron Brook Restoration Website Now Live
Photo Credit: Kedron Brook Restoration Website Now Live

Public Trust and Transparency Concerns  

Public opinion about the flood map updates reveals mixed feelings, with some residents voicing concerns about the Council’s transparency and potential influences on the assessments.

On a popular Reddit forum, some users suggested that flood classifications might be influenced by the properties involved, questioning whether external factors affect these decisions. One commenter noted a general distrust in the process, pointing out a belief that assessments may favour influential interests.

However, other residents countered these claims, noting that the Council’s flood modelling is publicly available and conducted by reputable engineering firms. These users argue that the Council’s data is comprehensive and follows standard practices to ensure accuracy. There is a consensus that developers, too, treat these maps as definitive when planning construction projects, viewing them as a crucial tool for avoiding flood-related losses. 

Calls for Long-Term Climate Modelling

Another concern raised by locals is that the flood maps rely on current-day scenarios without fully incorporating future climate change projections, such as those for 2050 or 2100. One resident argued that excluding these long-term models from the maps could lead to short-sighted planning, as developments built today may not be adequately prepared for anticipated changes in rainfall patterns and sea levels.



Although the updated maps are seen as a step forward regarding data accuracy, some residents feel they lack the broader perspective needed for future-proofing Brisbane’s infrastructure. Cr Steve Griffiths, representing low-lying parts of Salisbury, Oxley, and Rocklea, said sudden insurance premium hikes could take many residents by surprise, calling for greater transparency.

Published 29-Oct-2024

Kedron Ambulance Worker Named Finalist for Everyday Heroes Award

A dedicated paramedic from the Kedron Ambulance Station, Zak Tilbury, has been recognised as a finalist in the 2024 QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards for his exceptional work across multiple healthcare roles throughout Queensland.



Recognising Dedication Across Multiple Roles

A paramedic, nurse, and midwife, Zak is one of 23 finalists selected for the 2024 QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards. These awards celebrate the achievements of individuals serving the community in various public service roles, including healthcare. 

Zak balances his time between his duties at the Kedron Ambulance Station with the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS), his role as a Clinical Nurse Consultant at The Prince Charles Hospital in Chermside, and his work with the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS).

Zak Tilbury Everyday Heroes Awards
Photo Credit: Supplied

Working in healthcare since 2015, Zak has become known for his commitment to providing high-quality care across urban and rural settings. “What I do is so varied, and I enjoy the different aspects of each role,” Zak said. “At the end of the day it’s all about patient safety and ensuring the journey through the healthcare system is as easy as it can be, because it’s a scary time for a lot of people.”

A Career Focused on Patient Care

At the Kedron Ambulance Station, Zak serves as an Advanced Care Paramedic, responding to emergency calls and taking on leadership roles within the service. He is currently acting in the QAS Clinical Hub, overseeing patient referrals through a secondary triage process to ensure they receive the appropriate care. He also works as an Operations Supervisor, coordinating ambulance crews to return to the road quickly and efficiently.

Zak Tilbury Everyday Heroes Awards
Photo Credit: Supplied

In his role at The Prince Charles Hospital in Chermside, Zak assists staff with both clinical and operational concerns, helping to manage deteriorating patients and advocating for patient safety. His work with the RFDS involves providing intensive care-level healthcare to patients in rural and remote areas, often flying them to hospitals with better resources and treatment options.

Honoured to Serve the Community

Despite juggling three professional roles and staying up to date with multiple qualifications, Zak remains humble about his recognition. “I don’t expect these kinds of things because it’s a job that I really enjoy doing. I just like what I do, and I am proud to serve the community,” Zak said.

Zak’s work has taken him across Queensland, including a notable rescue in North-West Queensland in 2023. In this rescue, he helped retrieve a motorbike accident victim in a remote area north of Mount Isa. Working with a LifeFlight Helicopter crew and a local paramedic team, Zak was instrumental in ensuring the patient received timely care and was transferred safely to a hospital.

Community Recognition

The QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards have been held annually since 2014. They recognise the outstanding contributions of those serving in Queensland’s public services, such as healthcare, police, and education. The awards include six categories, and winners will receive $2,000, with an additional $2,000 donated to a charity of their choice.

Zak has been nominated in the “Ownership” category. The winners will be announced at the QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards dinner on 11 October 2024 at the W Hotel in Brisbane.



For more information, visit the QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards website.

Published 4-Oct-2024

Kedron Park Racecourse: Brisbane’s Forgotten Racing Ground

The Kedron Park Racecourse, once a bustling site for horse racing and community events in Brisbane, was a major draw for locals with its thrilling races and lively atmosphere before financial struggles and shifting ownership changed its course.



The racecourse’s origins trace back to 1881 when Frederick Morris built the Kedron Park Hotel and began organising picnic-style horse races on the nearby land. Over the years, the land developed into a formal racecourse in 1888 when the Kedron Park Racecourse and Sports Ground Company Limited was formed. 

This company aimed to create a racecourse and sports ground, which included cricket, polo, and football facilities. The first major race, the Kedron Cup, was held in February 1889. However, racing activities abruptly stopped in the 1890s, likely due to management issues and environmental challenges, including floods.

Kedron Park Racecourse
Photo Credit: Lost Brisbane 

New Ownership and Growth

In 1911, James Sharpe purchased the land and attempted to revitalise the racecourse, but his plans were short-lived. By 1912, the course had been sold to Benjamin Nathan and John Wren, two prominent figures in Queensland’s racing scene. 

The racecourse became a right-handed track with a length of 1.2 kilometres and additional facilities, such as horse stalls, grandstands, and a smaller trotting track. The racecourse enjoyed a few prosperous years, with many well-known jockeys and horses participating in regular events.

Wren’s involvement extended beyond the racetrack. He was also engaged in other ventures around Brisbane, including the management of Albion Park and Festival Hall. His entrepreneurial influence contributed to the Kedron Park Racecourse’s status during its prime years. However, despite these efforts, the track faced ongoing safety concerns. In 1921, a Royal Commission recommended the track’s structure changes to improve safety.

Financial Struggles and Closure

In 1923, the Kedron Amateur Racing Club was formed, intending to purchase the racecourse and continue its operation. However, the financial arrangement proved challenging, and by the late 1920s, the club struggled to pay on the land. Despite some success with prize winnings, such as the popular $2,000 trotting event, the club’s financial woes deepened. 

By 1931, another Royal Commission into racing led to the passing of the Racing Act, which forced the Kedron Park Racecourse to close its doors to racing. Trotting and dog racing events continued for a short period, but the site’s time as a racecourse had ended.

Transformation to Educational Use

The final chapter of the Kedron Park Racecourse’s history came in 1955 when the Queensland Government resumed the land for educational purposes. The Brisbane City Council had been discussing transforming the site into a public sports oval, but the government’s decision led to the establishing of a teachers’ training college. 

Today, the land is home to Kedron State High School, marking its evolution from a community racing venue to an educational facility serving the local population.



The Kedron Park Racecourse remains an important part of Brisbane’s local history. Its changing role from recreational racing to public education reflects the area’s changing landscape.

Published 3-Oct-2024

From Kedron to Greatness: Padua College’s Hall of Fame

For decades, Padua College in Kedron has been shaping the futures of young men, producing a remarkable line-up of high achievers across various fields. 


Read: Padua College Kedron Breaks into Queensland’s Top 150 Schools for 2023


This independent Catholic boys’ school, conducted by the Franciscan Friars, has recently been included in Queensland’s Top 150 Schools for 2023 and became the first boys-only school in Australia to be recognised as a Middle Years School of Excellence. But beyond these accolades, Padua College’s true legacy lies in the remarkable achievements of its alumni across various fields.

Sports

Photo credit: Padua College Kedron (Official)/Facebook

Padua College has earned a reputation as a breeding ground for athletic talent, particularly in rugby league. The school’s halls have seen the likes of Rohan Ahern, David Bouveng, Paul McCabe, Shane Perry, David Shillington, David Stagg, and Dane Carlaw pass through on their way to professional careers. Paul Vautin, another rugby league star, went on to become a famous commentator, further cementing the school’s influence in the sport.

The school’s sporting legacy extends beyond rugby league. Dominic Macquire represented Australia in rugby union, while Jacob Allison, Harris Andrews, Oskar Baker, and William Martyn made their mark in Australian rules football. Jamie Young has also found success as a professional footballer.

padua
Peter Dale (Photo credit: Padua College Kedron (Official)/Facebook

Padua’s Olympic legacy is equally impressive. Peter Nowill, a long-distance runner, competed in the 2004 Summer Olympics, while Peter Dale represented Australia in two events at the 1984 Summer Olympics. The school honours Nowill’s achievements with the annual Padua Dash, named the Peter Nowill Shield.

Entertainment and the Arts

padua
Damien Garvey (Photo credit: IMDB)

In the world of entertainment, Padua College has produced notable talents. Damien Garvey, a 1982 graduate, has made a name for himself as an actor and former musician. 

The music scene has also been influenced by Padua alumni, with Marty O’Brien (drummer) and Danny Procopis (lead guitarist) of the band Small Mercies both calling the school their alma mater. The band later known as Seventh Avenue also included Padua graduates Simon O’Connor and Shaun Spooner.

Medical Excellence

Prof Darren Walters- Structural Interventional Cardiologist/Google Maps

Professor Darren Walters stands out in the medical field as one of Australia’s leading heart surgeons. As the Executive Director of both The Prince Charles and the Royal Brisbane Hospitals, Walters exemplifies the school’s commitment to producing leaders in crucial sectors.

Business and Technology

padua
Photo credit: Craig Steven Wright/Facebook

In the business world, Eddy Groves, founder and former CEO of ABC Learning, once led one of Australia’s largest companies and one of the world’s biggest childcare providers. Craig Steven Wright, a computer scientist and businessman, has made waves in the technology sector, working with companies like OzEmail, Kmart, and the Australian Securities Exchange.

A Legacy of Excellence

Padua College’s impact on its students extends far beyond their school years. From the sports fields to operating theatres, from concert stages to boardrooms, Padua alumni continue to make their mark on the world. As the school continues to break new ground in education, one can only imagine the future achievements of its current and upcoming students.


Read: Padua College Students Brave the Shave for Leukaemia Research


The diverse accomplishments of Padua College’s alumni not only reflect the school’s commitment to holistic education but also serve as an inspiration to current students. As Padua College continues to evolve and excel, it remains a testament to the power of education in shaping leaders across all walks of life.

Published 28-September-2024