From 1853 to 1865, race days were held in South Brisbane, variously on Boxing Day or New Year's Day, and occasionally mid-year. The organisers tried to avoid clashes with races at Coopers Plains, New Farm and, from 1865, at Ascot. The South Brisbane races were revived in 1873, and the last occurred in 1874 to … Continue reading The South Brisbane Races
South Brisbane history
The Fraught Beginnings of St Andrew’s South Brisbane
In the 1870s, Anglican parishioners of South Brisbane were looking for a large elevated site on which to build a new church, hall and rectory. Their innovative plan wasn't to be completed for 13 years, and then only due to a nasty divorce.
The Tragic Tale of Mary Anne Williams
While researching the early days of European settlement in South Brisbane, I came across numerous newspaper references to Mary Anne Williams. She was often in trouble with the police and became quite well known in the small community. Her story seemed poignant, and I decided to find out what I could about Mary. But first let's have a look at the South Brisbane she lived in.
Grange House South Brisbane
Grange House has stood prominently on a ridge in South Brisbane overlooking the city for over 140 years. It's had many interesting occupants over that time, many of whom have made significant contributions to Queensland.
All That Glitters – Brisbane Gold Rushes
On three occasions, inner Southside Brisbane experienced the thrill of a gold discovery but no one got rich.
Vulture Street – From Dotted Line to Bitumen
Vulture Street started life as a dotted staight line drawn across a map of Brisbane in the 1840s. It took another 40 years to become a useful through road.
Highgate Hill and Its History 