Upper Mt Gravatt Archives - Mount Gravatt News

St Bernard’s School in Upper Mount Gravatt Opens New Early Learning Classrooms for 2026

St Bernard’s Primary School in Upper Mt Gravatt has opened brand new facilities for its youngest students, with five redesigned classrooms ready to welcome Prep through Year 2 learners as the 2026 school year begins.

The renovated Penola building features two dedicated Prep classrooms and three Year 1 and 2 classrooms, marking a significant upgrade to early learning spaces at the Upper Mt Gravatt Catholic primary school. Current students donned high-vis vests and hard hats to inspect the construction site before their future classmates arrive.

Flexible Spaces for Different Learning Styles

St Bernard’s worked with architects to create classrooms that support how young children learn. The new spaces incorporate natural light, smart storage and dedicated sensory corners where students can regulate their energy levels.

Principal Daniel Hodge says the design prioritises flexibility. Teachers can adapt environments to suit different teaching approaches, from small group instruction to play-based learning. The layout supports both structured curriculum work and imaginative activities.

Inside Penola — Photo Credit: St Bernard’s Primary School

The building’s central corridor functions as more than a hallway. St Bernard’s designed this space with tiered seating for group activities, informal gathering zones and quiet reading nooks, encouraging students to engage beyond formal classroom time.

What This Means for Upper Mt Gravatt Families

The St Bernard’s renovation gives Upper Mt Gravatt families another option for early childhood education in purpose-built facilities. The focus on Prep through Year 2 recognises these years establish patterns that influence later academic success.

For families already enrolled at St Bernard’s, the new classrooms mean younger siblings will experience significantly upgraded facilities compared to what older children knew. The building transformation demonstrates ongoing investment in campus infrastructure rather than one-time improvements.

The sensory corners and flexible learning zones particularly benefit students who struggle in traditional classroom settings. Having dedicated spaces for different energy levels and learning styles can make the difference between students who thrive and those who merely cope.

Visit St Bernard’s Primary School for enrolment information.

Published 27-January-2026.

Expanded Living Plans Proposed for Upper Mt Gravatt

Photo Credit: DA A006775533

A revised development application for Upper Mt Gravatt aims to increase local housing density with a proposal for 150 townhouses and apartments split between two buildings on Dawson Road.

Rising Heights and Housing Mix

The project at 36 Dawson Road is designed by Prospect Apartment Architecture and signals a shift towards taller living spaces in the area. The updated plans show an increase in height for both structures on the site. Building one is set to rise from seven to eight storeys, while building two will grow from five to seven storeys.

This upward expansion allows for a total of 150 dwellings, offering a mix of unit types to suit different households. The majority of the residences will be two-bedroom units, totaling 112, alongside 12 one-bedroom and 26 three-bedroom options.

Design and Community Spaces

Planners from Mewing Planning Consultants stated that the project focuses on a high standard of construction. They noted that the design uses a variety of materials, finishes, and screening to create visual interest and break up the building’s exterior appearance. Beyond the apartments themselves, the site covers 4,856 square metres and includes significant shared areas.

Residents will have access to an 800-square-metre rooftop communal area, and 10 per cent of the site is dedicated to deep planting to maintain greenery. Each dwelling also includes its own private balcony.

Traffic and Parking Upgrades

To support the increase in residents, the development includes a substantial boost in parking facilities. The number of car spaces has risen from 194 in previous plans to 272, which includes a new visitor parking area at ground level.

Active transport is also a priority, with bicycle parking spaces increasing to 188. Vehicle and pedestrian entry to the complex will be managed through a private internal road that connects directly to Government Road, aiming to keep traffic flow organised within the site.

Published Date 10-December-2025

St Bernard’s Primary Begins Penola Building Transformation for Youngest Learners

St Bernard’s Primary School in Upper Mount Gravatt is currently renovating the existing Penola building. The redesigned facility will feature two new dedicated Prep classrooms and three new Year 1 and 2 classrooms, all tailored to support a variety of learning styles and social interactions.

Read: Developer Seeks Changes To ‘The Pavilion’ In Upper Mt Gravatt

While builders carry out the work, the school’s youngest learners have been visiting the site in high-vis vests and hard hats to watch progress on the spaces that will become their classrooms. The renovation is scheduled to be completed in time for the 2026 Prep cohort.

Principal Daniel Hodge said the project was developed with student needs in mind. “The school leadership team worked closely with architects to ensure the new environment is both contemporary and inspiring,” Mr Hodge said. “The classrooms have been thoughtfully planned with flexibility and wellbeing in mind, incorporating natural light, smart storage solutions and dedicated sensory corners to support everything from small group learning to imaginative play.”

Principal Daniel Hodge with students at the external facade of the Penola building (Photo supplied)

The redevelopment refocuses the former Prep building to provide flexible learning spaces for early years students. A central corridor will serve as a hub for creativity and collaboration and will include tiered seating, informal gathering zones and quiet reading nooks. According to the school, these features are intended to give teachers adaptable areas for group and independent activities.

“The design of the building is focused on encouraging our early learning students to engage, explore and connect in meaningful ways,” Mr Hodge said. He added that the new spaces are designed to support early learning educators to adapt environments for diverse teaching approaches. “This will provide the critical foundation for students to start their successful academic journey, incorporating a play-based and curriculum-focused learning experience,” he said.

Artist’s impression of activity zone by architects Punch Design (Photo supplied)

The works include a refreshed façade and roof. The school says these upgrades will improve comfort and energy efficiency for the building. The Penola project complements recent improvements elsewhere on the Upper Mount Gravatt campus, which include a revitalised Early Learning playground with an in-ground trampoline, new amenities, and refreshed library and classroom spaces within the Administration building.

As the building work continues, staff, students and families have been engaged with the project through on-site visits and school communications. The redevelopment is intended to deliver purpose-built learning spaces for the school’s youngest cohorts and align with the school’s approach to early learning.

Read: Street Spotlight: Abbeville Street, Upper Mt Gravatt

For families wanting further details about the school or enrolment, St Bernard’s provides enrolment information and a visit-booking process on its website.

Published 6-November-2025

Street Spotlight: Abbeville Street, Upper Mt Gravatt

qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Abbeville Street in Upper Mt Gravatt represents not only a thriving residential community but also a lasting tribute to Australia’s wartime heritage. The street showcases a remarkable stability in its residential makeup, with an impressive 85% owner-occupancy rate and residents staying an average of 14 years and 7 months.

With nearly half of its residents (43%) having called Abbeville Street home for more than a decade, the community demonstrates a strong sense of belonging and neighbourhood permanence. Property values have seen substantial growth over the years, with recent sales reaching $1.4 million—a dramatic increase from the modest $84,000 recorded for a property in 1999. This transformation reflects the area’s growing desirability and Brisbane’s evolving real estate landscape.

Remembrance & Commemoration

Abbeville Street honours the significant French town located between Paris and Boulogne that played a crucial role during World War I. Unlike many other French towns, Abbeville was never occupied by German forces and served as headquarters for Commonwealth lines of communication throughout much of the conflict. From October 1914 to January 1920, the town became a vital medical hub housing the No.3 British Red Cross Society and No.5 and No.2 Commonwealth Stationary Hospitals.

Of particular significance to Australians, the No.3 Australian General Hospital was established in Abbeville in 1916 to treat the casualties from the Battle of the Somme—one of the bloodiest battles in human history. Today, the Abbeville Communal Cemetery and its Extension, begun in September 1916, contain the solemn resting places of 774 and 1,754 Commonwealth service personnel from World War I, standing as a permanent memorial to those who served and sacrificed.

This street naming forms part of Brisbane’s Streets of Remembrance initiative, preserving the Anzac spirit and honouring Queensland’s service men and women through our everyday geography.

Abbeville Street, Upper Mt Gravatt Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 39
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 85%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 14 years, 7 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 43%

Abbeville Street, Upper Mt Gravatt – As It Looked in 1936

Abbeville Street, Upper Mt Gravatt in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON ABBEVILLE STREET, UPPER MT GRAVATT

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
16 Abbeville Street, Upper Mount Gravatt	$1,400,000	Nov 2024
68 Abbeville Street, Upper Mount Gravatt	$1,400,000	Aug 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON ABBEVILLE STREET FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
34 Abbeville Street, Upper Mount Gravatt	$325,500	Mar 2004
64 Abbeville Street, Upper Mount Gravatt	$198,000	Feb 2002
44 Abbeville Street, Upper Mount Gravatt	$84,000	Aug 1999

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Upper Mt Gravatt in 2025 was $1,050,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Upper Mt Gravatt in 2021 was $638,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN UPPER MT GRAVATT SINCE 2021: $412,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Upper Mt Gravatt in 2025 was $1,260,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Upper Mt Gravatt in 2021 was $739,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN UPPER MT GRAVATT SINCE 2021: $521,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Upper Mt Gravatt in 2025 was $1,440,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Upper Mt Gravatt in 2021 was $825,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN UPPER MT GRAVATT SINCE 2021: $615,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Upper Mt Gravatt in 2025 was $630,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Upper Mt Gravatt in 2021 was $380,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN UPPER MT GRAVATT SINCE 2021: $250,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Upper Mt Gravatt in 2025 was $660,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Upper Mt Gravatt in 2021 was $520,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN UPPER MT GRAVATT SINCE 2021: $140,000

If you know Abbeville Street, Upper Mt Gravatt well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Upper Mt Gravatt Twinkles This Christmas with Dazzling Light Displays

Photo Credit: Kempsie Road ChrissieLights/ Facebook

Upper Mt Gravatt dazzles residents and visitors alike this Christmas with a series of spectacular light displays that will capture the festive spirit.

As the balmy Brisbane nights descend, homes across the suburb transform into shimmering wonderlands, offering a magical experience for all ages.

101 Kempsie Road, Upper Mt Gravatt

Christmas — *Photo Credit:* *Kempsie Road ChrissieLights/ Facebook*

This display, known as “Kempsie Road Chrissie Lights,” is among the best in Brisbane for 2024. The display is open nightly from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Visitors can enjoy an open garage display featuring a large Christmas village even in rainy weather.

31 Lindwall Street, Upper Mt Gravatt

This medium-sized display is confirmed for 2024, from November 28 to December 28, between 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM.

Features include music, moving elements, interactive displays, inflatables, walk-in areas, lasers/projections, and Christmas statues. The organisers have created Christmas light displays for over 20 years and highlight attractions like two “Shakin’ Snowman” photo opportunities, dancing penguins, and interactive rope light designs. They also offer treats to visitors and encourage community engagement.

The festive season in Queensland is a unique experience, with warm evenings providing the perfect backdrop for these dazzling displays. Residents across Brisbane are embracing the tradition of decorating their homes with elaborate Christmas lights, creating a city-wide spectacle that spreads holiday cheer.

Locals and visitors are encouraged to gather their loved ones, put on their favourite Christmas tunes, and embark on a self-guided tour of these illuminated streets. Whether you’re seeking the charm of neighbourhood displays or the grandeur of large-scale installations, Upper Mt Gravatt offers a festive experience for everyone. So, drive through Upper Mt Gravatt this Christmas and immerse yourself in the season’s magic.

Published Date 24-April-2024

Major Office Building in Upper Mount Gravatt Sells for $64 Million

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Alceon Group has acquired a prominent office building at 28 McGregor Street for $64 million from Charter Hall in a deal that highlights the suburb’s growing appeal to large-scale investors.

The six-story building, a familiar landmark in Upper Mount Gravatt since its construction in 1992, has been home to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for over three decades. The ATO continues to be the majority tenant.

Spanning 14,286 square meters and offering 405 car parking spaces, the building is a substantial commercial asset for the suburb. The property’s last refurbishment in 2018 has helped maintain its appeal to both tenants and investors.

Approximately 3,200 square meters of the building is currently vacant, and there are existing permit-ready plans for 179 apartments in two towers. This mixed-use potential could significantly impact the local skyline and contribute to the evolving urban landscape of Upper Mount Gravatt.

The sale price of $64 million, which aligns with the property’s book value, reflects the strong commercial real estate market in Upper Mount Gravatt. It also indicates investor confidence in the suburb’s future growth and development potential.

Published 18-July-2024

Upper Mt Gravatt Volunteer Denise Lewis Celebrates 25-Year Milestone at Mater

In celebration of National Volunteer Week, Denise Lewis, a 75-year-old grandmother and bowel cancer survivor from Upper Mt Gravatt, marks 25 years of volunteering and over 6,500 hours of service at Mater Private Hospital Brisbane.

Denise has become an emblem of resilience and dedication at Mater Private Hospital. As one of the longest-serving volunteers among the 450-member team, she has spent a quarter-century providing comfort and assistance to countless patients.

Diagnosed with bowel cancer just a year into her volunteering, Denise’s personal battle with the disease only strengthened her commitment to helping others.

“I was working in the oncology ward at Mater when I first began volunteering in 1999, so it was quite ironic to have been diagnosed soon after becoming a volunteer,” Denise recalled. After six months of rigorous chemotherapy, she embraced the role of a cuddle carer at the former Mater Children’s Hospital.

“Doctors told me I came close to not being here,” she said, reflecting on her close call with cancer’s spread to her lymph nodes.

More Than Just a Volunteer

Denise’s volunteering extends beyond her initial roles. After 13 years with pet therapy programs, she now serves as a ward assistant. This position allows her to engage directly with patients and staff, offering practical support and a friendly face during difficult times.

Upper Mt Gravatt Denise Lewis Mater Volunteer — *Photo Credit: Renae Droop/RDW Photography/Supplied*

“What I enjoy about the many volunteering roles I’ve had at Mater is being able to help in any small way,” Denise expressed.

Her dedication is visible through her actions and the collection of service badges adorning her Mater lanyard, each representing years of commitment and countless stories of kindness. “Many people comment on my badges, mostly when I am in lifts or escorting patients upon discharge. It creates a conversation and inspires others to think about volunteering,” she shared.

Life Beyond the Hospital

Living in Upper Mt Gravatt, Denise balances her volunteer work with an active lifestyle that includes playing tennis, coordinating a walking group, and spending cherished time with her family.

“I actually don’t have a lot of spare time, even at my age,” she laughed. Her enthusiasm for volunteering reflects a deep-seated joy in helping others, “I absolutely love volunteering and helping others, it gives me great satisfaction.”

Denise’s enduring service has made her a treasured member of the Mater community.

“When you volunteer for 25 years you can build meaningful relationships with staff and earn their trust,” said Judy Johnson, Senior Manager of Mater Volunteers.

Denise’s experience is invaluable, not only in her day-to-day duties but also in training and mentoring new volunteers.

“There is not much about Mater that Denise doesn’t know,” Ms Johnson added.

Contact details for those interested in volunteering at Mater are available via phone at 3163 8599, email at volunteers@mater.org.au, or by visiting the Mater website at www.mater.org.au/group/careers/volunteering.

Published 21-May-2024

Koala’s Nighttime Adventure in Upper Mt Gravatt Captivates Southside Brisbane

Photo Unsplash

Residents of Upper Mt Gravatt witnessed an unusual spectacle when a koala was spotted making its way across a busy road late at night.

The incident showed the marsupial deftly dodging traffic and then climbing a refuge island sign, much to the amazement of onlookers.

Tuan Nguyen, the owner of Alice Viet restaurant in Upper Mt Gravatt, was returning home from work when he witnessed the surprising sight.

“After work, we went home, I think very late, when we saw it crossing the road. It then climbed on a sign pole,” Mr Nguyen recalled.

Upper Mt Gravatt Koala — Photo Credit: Tuan Nguyen

This encounter marked a rare instance of wildlife venturing into urban settings, particularly in such a public and potentially hazardous environment.

The incident prompted calls to a local koala rescue group, who advised leaving the animal alone as it appeared unharmed. The next morning, the koala had moved on, indicating it possibly found its way back to its natural habitat.

This occurrence highlights the growing presence of koalas in the region, particularly around Whites Hill Nature Reserve and Toohey Forest.

In response to the increased sightings and the dangers posed by traffic, the State Government has erected a koala-proof fence along the M1 adjacent to Toohey Forest. Additionally, there are ongoing campaigns advocating for reduced speed limits on roads like Boundary Rd that cut through key koala habitats.

Published 8-Dec-2023

Accomplished Upper Mt Gravatt Detective Awarded the Australian Police Medal

Congratulations to Detective Sergeant Katrina Carr for being one of 12 recipients from the QLD Police Service of the Australian Police Medal for 2023. Det Sgt Carr rose through the ranks at the Upper Mount Gravatt Police Station.

Ms Carr was designated in Upper Mount Gravatt in 1994 and proved a competent investigator. As a medal awardee, Ms Carr’s contribution to policing has been an astonishing accomplishment.

She is currently the Education and Training Officer at the Queensland Police Academy, where she’s committed to developing and delivering training on trauma informed responses to sexual assaults and domestic violence to detectives.

The esteemed policewoman is also a volunteer for TREK2HEALTH, a not-for-profit organisation committed to providing support for veterans and first responders to maintain their physical and mental health.

This year’s Australian Police Medal awardees have a range of backgrounds with diverse experience, having served throughout Queensland in several roles and areas. They were recognised for their leadership, innovation and initiative.

Australian Police Medals — Photo Credit: Queensland Police Service/Facebook

“Each officer has their own story – often comprised of the challenges they’ve faced and overcome through their career, but also the rewarding memories about the role they’ve played in their communities and the lives of everyday Queenslanders,” Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll said.

“I am incredibly proud to know and understand the impact these officers have in shaping a positive future for individuals they interact with, the communities they serve and our organisation.

“I congratulate them for receiving this significant honour today.

“We don’t join the Service for any accolades, but each of these officers is deserving of this recognition for the work they’ve done across the span of their careers,” the commissioner added.

“The recipients are dedicated officers of the QPS who are committed to keeping Queenslanders safe. I congratulate and thank each and every one of them.”

Developer Seeks Changes To ‘The Pavilion’ In Upper Mt Gravatt

Developers of ‘The Pavilion,’ a new residential development in Klumpp Road, Upper Mount Gravatt have submitted plans to revise their original proposal.

Read: Residential Development Proposed on Border of Broadwater, Logan and Whitley Roads

Oakridge, the developers of the project, is seeking to eliminate resident parking on ground floor level, to include apartments to the said level with large green terraces connecting to communal recreation amenities.

The revised proposal for The Pavilion, located at 10 Klumpp Road, Upper Mt Gravatt, will increase the number of units from 141 to 144 medium density units. The units will be distributed among two towers of 5 storeys and one tower of 6 storeys.

Artist’s perspective (Photo credit: MAS- Architecture Studio)

Changes to the original proposal also include increased net area of communal amenities by relocation of swimming pool and shortening of visitor parking ramp.

Designed by MAS- Architecture Studio, the revised design seeks the inclusion of natural ventilation to lobbies on typical floors; rationalisation of apartment layouts; and reactivation of street interface via direct access from Klumpp Road to apartment terraces.

Towers 1 and 3 will span the majority of the site whilst the central tower will have a predominant square shape and will be between Towers 1 and 3.

“The resulting central courtyard void created is then used as a common recreation facility. With space for bbq and swimming pool activities, they are threaded together with softened landscaping and carefully articulated meandering footpaths that arrives at each tower lobby,” the planning documents read.

The Pavilion will also feature spaces for bbq and swimming pool, as well as a common recreation facility, which all blends with the surrounding greenery.

The developer is seeking minor adjustment to location of vehicle crossover to Hibiscus Place to facilitate access to the ground level car park fronting Klumpp Road. The developer has also stated that the proposed parking supply of 199 resident and 28 visitor car parking spaces meets the site’s parking requirement.

Read: Mt Gravatt Property Market Enjoying Brisk Sales and 19% Median Growth

For more details about the development application, visit Brisbane City Council’s PD Online and see A006164710.