Wilston, Queensland

Wilston Brisbane, Queensland
Population	3,296 (2001 census)
• Density
Established	1880s
Postcode(s)	4051
Area	1.4 km2 (0.5 sq mi)
Location	3 km (2 mi) from Brisbane
LGA(s)	City of Brisbane
State electorate(s)	Ashgrove, Brisbane Central
Federal division(s)	Brisbane
Suburbs around Wilston: Alderley Grange Lutwyche Newmarket Wilston Windsor Kelvin Grove Herston Bowen Hills

Wilston, a suburb of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, is located approximately three kilometres from the Brisbane central business district, and is a mixture of the old and the new, from workers' cottages to modern architect-designed homes on Wilston Hill.

Wilston is home to many professionals, including many medical professionals, due to its inner city location, proximity to the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital and the breathtaking views of the city that are available from more elevated streets.

In recent years, the area has been transformed by the revamping of Kedron Brook Road, an early pre-cursor to the City Council’s massive urban renewal process that was to roll out across much of inner Brisbane. This has seen a vibrant hub of al-fresco dining evolve, which in turn has increased the popularity of the area and led to a significant increase in the cost of housing in recent years.

Local stores in the area are supplemented by larger centres at Lutwyche Shopping Centre and slightly further away at Stafford and Brookside.

Residents are also well serviced by public transport (Wilston train station and regular bus routes) and leisure parks and walkways running alongside Enoggera Creek. The area is also close to local sporting grounds such as Downey Park and Ballymore Stadium.

According to the 2001 Census there were 3,311 people living in the suburb with a median age of 33. The median individual income was between $500 and $599 per week. Of all occupied private dwellings 60% were either fully owned or being purchased; 35% were being rented.

History

Aboriginal history

The Turrbal clan occupied what is today known as Wilston.

WW Gang

The WW Gang has roots that link deep into Wilston History. The WW gang currently has 12 members, but do not be fooled by the low membership numbers, these 12 brave souls risk their lives for the betterment of Wilston and have managed to turn it into the best suburb within Brisbane. Community meetings are generally held at 7/11 and anyone who lives in Wilston or Windsor is welcome to attend. The WW Gang has also been known to ride around the suburb in pink open top Volkswagon Beetles. These cars are also believed to have been a big hit at the 2009 Mardi Gras parade in Sydney. Not only do they benefit the suburb of Wilston, they are major supporters in the Gay community of Brisbane, meaning that a majority of the members are homosexual.

Urban development

The area became known as Wilston after the home of the same name built there by the Honourable William Wilson MLC, who settled in the district in 1868. The home, which was constructed circa 1876, was named Wilston House after Wilson's birthplace in England.

In 1884 the land passed to businessman John Stevenson MLA, who subdivided the property.

Between 1924 and 1931 Estates were created to provide more land for housing development.

Notable residents

James Tolson, a short-term resident of Wilston House, conducted important experiments in chilling mutton for export from Australia to Great Britain.

Major General William Cahill, a commissioner of police in Queensland, also lived at Wilston House for a period. During his residence he further developed the grounds, which became known as a sanctuary for birds and native fauna.

Peter Beattie, the former Premier of Queensland, had previously resided in this suburb.

Liam Detering, the head TC currently resides in Wilston.

Landmarks

Oakleigh House, at 17 Murray Street, Wilston, has been a landmark for over fifty years. It was occupied, from 1902, by George Murray, a Brisbane police magistrate and postmaster. It is a colonial timber house which still stands proudly preserved today.

In 1905, 29 Murray Street was built for the Zoeller family. The house became a reception centre in June 1948, and was the venue for over 25,000 wedding and other receptions until in 1990, 'Oakleigh' was also converted to a function venue, and both houses operated as such until 1995.

Schools

There are two schools in the area, Wilston State School in Primrose Street and St Columba's Primary in Kedron Brook Road. St Columba's Primary will hold their Great Fete on 31 July 2010. Wilston State School Parents and Citizens Association held their Carnivale of Colour art show and circus in May 2010.

Sporting Clubs

Sporting clubs in the area include Wilston Norths Junior Cricket Club, Wilston Grange Australian Football Club, Fortitude Valley Rugby League Football Club and St Andrews Ladies Hockey Club.

Transport

Wilston railway station provides access to regular Citytrain services to Ferny Grove, Brisbane and Beenleigh.

External links

• ourbrisbane.com website - Wilston section
• Wilston Village
• Wilston State School Parents and Citizens Association
• Wilston Norths Junior Cricket Club
• Wilston Grange Australian Football Club
• Fortitude Valley Rugby League Football Club
• St Andrews Ladies Hockey Club