Hemmant Archives - Morningside News

Street Spotlight: Canberra Street, Hemmant

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Canberra Street in Hemmant carries a profound maritime legacy, serving as a lasting tribute to one of Australia’s most significant naval vessels from the Great War era. This Brisbane street of remembrance stands as a testament to the courage and sacrifice of those who served aboard His Majesty’s Australian Transport ships during World War I.

With 70% of properties being owner-occupied and residents staying an average of 11 years and 8 months, the street demonstrates strong community attachment despite being shorter in tenure compared to some Brisbane streets. This commitment to the area is reflected in the fact that 45% of residents have called Canberra Street home for more than a decade, creating a stable neighbourhood foundation that honours its commemorative heritage.

Streets of Remembrance

Canberra Street honours the SS Canberra, one of His Majesty’s Australian Transports (HMAT) ships that played a crucial role in Australia’s World War I military operations. The SS Canberra was part of a specialised fleet of transport ships leased by the Commonwealth government for the specific purpose of transporting Australian Imperial Force formations to their overseas destinations. When not committed to military transport duties, these vessels served the war effort by carrying commodity exports to Britain and France.

The SS Canberra was a substantial vessel, weighing 7,707 tonnes with an average cruise speed of 16 knots (31 kilometres per hour). Owned by Australian Steamships Ltd (Howard Smith) of Melbourne, it was among the fleet comprising both British ships and captured German vessels repurposed for Australia’s war effort. These transport ships were instrumental in moving Australian forces across the globe, connecting our shores to distant battlefields and ensuring our military personnel could answer the call to serve alongside Allied forces.

Canberra St, Hemmant Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 42 (12 houses, 30 others)
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 70%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 11 years, 8 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 45%

Canberra St, Hemmant – As It Looked in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON CANBERRA ST, HEMMANT

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
97 Canberra Street, Hemmant	$1,100,000	Dec 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON CANBERRA ST FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
111 Canberra Street, Hemmant	$470,000	Aug 2002
11 Canberra Street, Hemmant	$280,000	Sep 1996
105 Canberra Street, Hemmant	$30,000	Jun 1994

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Hemmant in 2025 was $815,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Hemmant in 2021 was $500,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3-BEDROOM HOUSE IN HEMMANT SINCE 2021: $315,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Hemmant in 2025 was $1,016,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Hemmant in 2021 was $557,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4-BEDROOM HOUSE IN HEMMANT SINCE 2021: $459,000

If you know Canberra St, Hemmant well and you have some anecdotes or details to add about this street of remembrance, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Parents Urged to Stay Alert Over Japanese Encephalitis Risk in Hemmant

Photo Credit: Pexels

Health authorities have identified Hemmant as one of several Queensland locations at increased risk of the Japanese encephalitis virus due to recent flooding.

Increased Virus Threat Ahead of School Holidays

Queensland Health has issued a public warning as the school holidays begin. They urge

Japanese encephalitis Hemmant — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

parents to remain vigilant over mosquito-borne illnesses, particularly Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV). Hemmant has been identified as a key location where the virus has been detected in mosquito samples.

Mosquito surveillance and testing have intensified across the state. The virus has also been confirmed in humans, including a Brisbane man who died in hospital last month, making it Queensland’s second JEV-related death this year.

Floodwaters Create Breeding Grounds

Heavy rainfall and flooding across Queensland have led to extensive stagnant water. Stagnant water is ideal for mosquito breeding. Experts warn that increased mosquito activity increases the likelihood of virus transmission.

How the Virus Spreads and Who’s at Risk

JEV is spread by mosquitoes that have fed on infected pigs or waterbirds. It does not transmit between people or through eating pork but can cause serious illness. Symptoms may include fever, vomiting and headaches. In some cases, brain inflammation may occur.

Parents planning outdoor activities or camping with their children over the holidays should take precautions. DEET or Picaridin repellents, protective clothing, and mosquito-proof sleeping arrangements are highly recommended. Queensland Health has tested over 1,500 mosquito traps since July as part of its surveillance program.

Free Vaccine Access for Hemmant Residents

Free vaccinations are now available for eligible individuals living in, working in, or planning to visit the suburb. Vaccines are accessible at more than 100 providers across Queensland, including certain GPs, pharmacies, and community clinics. Although the vaccine is free, some clinics may charge a consultation fee.

Ongoing Precautions and Monitoring

Japanese encephalitis is less common than other mosquito-borne viruses, but its impact can be severe. With more families spending time outdoors during the break, health officials are urging heightened awareness and preventive action.

Published 10-Apr-2025

Japanese Encephalitis Virus Detected in Hemmant, Brisbane Triggers Health Alert

Photo Credit: Pexels

Health authorities issued warnings and increased surveillance after the potentially deadly Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) was detected in mosquitoes in Hemmant.

Health Authorities Confirm First JEV Detection in Brisbane

Queensland Health has confirmed that routine mosquito surveillance programs detected the presence of JEV in Hemmant. The discovery has raised concerns about the spread of the virus, particularly following the recent wet conditions brought by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

JEV virus spreads through mosquito bites. The virus is transmitted to mosquitoes after they feed on infected pigs or wading birds. Once infected, mosquitoes can pass the virus to humans through a bite.

Chief Health Officer Dr Heidi Carroll has urged residents to take precautions against mosquito bites. She discussed that most JEV-infected individuals experience mild or no symptoms. However, severe cases can result in fever, headaches, vomiting, and, in rare instances, life-threatening neurological complications.

Increased Risk Following Recent Flooding

The detection of JEV in Hemmant follows concerns that Queensland’s recent flooding has created the mosquitoes’ ideal breeding conditions. Dr Carroll emphasised that pooled water from the floods has contributed to rising mosquito populations. Residents are urged to eliminate standing water around their homes.

JEV has previously been detected in the Goondiwindi and North Burnett regions. The recent positive mosquito samples were also recorded in the Darling Downs and Wide Bay areas.

Preventative Measures and Vaccination Efforts

Queensland Health is ramping up efforts to connect impacted residents with JEV vaccinations. City official David Crisafulli assured there is no immediate cause for alarm. He also confirmed that they are working with health authorities to determine vaccine eligibility for at-risk groups.

The JEV vaccine is available at over 100 vaccination providers across Queensland, including selected general practitioners, pharmacies, and community immunisation centres. It is free for eligible Queenslanders; however, some providers may charge a consultation fee.

Japanese Encephalitis Virus — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

At-risk individuals are encouraged to vaccinate. These include piggery workers, veterinarians, and transport workers handling pigs. Prevention remains the best defence. Residents are advised to use mosquito repellents with DEET or picaridin. Wearing protective clothing and using insecticide vaporisers or coils outdoors is highly recommended.

What Happens Next?

JEV vaccination announcement for Brisbane residents should come soon from Dr Carroll. In the meantime, health officials continue to monitor mosquito populations. They will also conduct further surveillance to assess the extent of the virus’s spread. For more information on JEV and vaccine eligibility, visit the Queensland Health website.

Published 17-Mar-2025

Hemmant Cemetery: 150 Years of History and Remembrance

Did you know that Hemmant Cemetery is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year? Established in March 1874, this historic site has served as a final resting place for generations of Brisbane residents. Here’s a look back at the cemetery’s rich history.

Read: Brisbane Cemeteries, Including Morningside, Overloaded With Hundreds of Applications

A Victorian Legacy

Photo credit: Ruth Mavroleon/Google Maps

The first burial at Hemmant Cemetery took place in 1875, in a section that reflected the aesthetic of the Victorian era. During this time, cemeteries were carefully designed with elaborate monuments that carried deep symbolism—broken columns signifying a life cut short, upside-down torches representing extinguished life, and wreaths symbolising eternal remembrance. Grieving women carved into stone watched over the deceased, adding to the mournful beauty of the site.

Spanning approximately 14.5 hectares, Hemmant Cemetery was thoughtfully laid out with 10 individual sections, each carefully kerbed and grassed. Roadways were flanked by lush green trees and selected shrubs, providing a serene atmosphere for visitors. The preservation of indigenous tree avenues between burial sections further enhanced the sense of solitude and reflection. A shrine of remembrance was later constructed, along with modern facilities to accommodate the needs of mourners.

A Place of History and Reflection

Photo credit: Brendan McBain/Google Maps

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the heritage-listed Hemmant Cemetery holds historical significance as one of the few surviving remnants of the area’s development in the late 19th century. It remains a highly visible landmark at Tingalpa Road, demonstrating the transition of cemetery designs from traditional burial grounds to the Victorian ‘mortuary park’ style. This particular cemetery design, developed throughout the Western world in the early 19th century, sought to create tranquil environments for remembrance and reflection.

For the first 55 years of its operation, respected members of the Brisbane community served as trustees, overseeing daily operations and future planning. The cemetery’s development took a new turn in 1930 when Council took ownership of all cemeteries within the city, including Hemmant.

By 1949, major changes were introduced, including two new sections designed to accommodate 3,000 graves. The ‘Garden of Rest’ was introduced in 1952-3, offering a peaceful, sylvan setting for burials.

Read: Murarrie Driver Shocked by Venomous Snake Under Car Bonnet

The Hemmant Cemetery office, constructed in 1951, remains in use today, having undergone internal refurbishment in 2021. Despite modernisations, the cemetery continues to honour its historical roots while providing a dignified resting place for the people of Brisbane.

As Hemmant Cemetery marks its 150th year, it stands as a remarkable heritage site—bridging the past with the present, offering a place of solace, and preserving the legacy of those who came before us.

Published 7-March-2025

Paralympic Preview: Hani Watson Aims For Paralympic Gold

Hani Watson, a 41-year-old powerlifter from Hemmant, is set to debut for the green and gold in the weightlifting meet of the Paralympic Games in Paris.

Read: From Brisbane to Paris: The Powerlifting Journey of Hani Watson to the Paralympics

Hani Watson competes at La Chapelle

Watson will compete in the women’s over 86kg category on 8 September at 10:00 p.m. local time at La Chapelle Arena.

While her immediate goal is to secure a golden finish at Paris 2024, she has aspirations that go beyond a single competition. Looking ahead, she also aims to compete at the home Paralympic Games in Brisbane 2032.

The competition in the women’s over 86kg category will be fierce. Watson will face off against some of the strongest women in the world, including Nigeria’s Folashade Oluwafemiayo, who holds the Elite World Record with a lift of 165kg, and the defending Tokyo gold medallist Xuemei Deng of China.

About Hani Watson

Hani Watson, born with bilateral metaphyseal dysplasia, has faced significant challenges from a young age. This condition caused her leg bones to bow, leading to multiple surgeries throughout her life. Her resilience was deeply influenced by her late mother, who encouraged her with the words, “Don’t give up,” before passing away from metastatic breast cancer. This advice has been a guiding force for Hani, especially as she trained intensely for the Paralympics.

Her training was supported by her high school principal, who provided her with keys to the gym, allowing her to maintain focus and direction during difficult times. Hani, alongside Ben Wright, marks a significant moment as they are the first Australian powerlifters to compete in the Paralympic Games in over a decade.

Read: Bridge to Brisbane 2024: The Ultimate Challenge from Murarrie

The journey to Paris has been long and challenging, but Watson’s sights are firmly set on bringing home gold and making her mark in Paralympic powerlifting history.

With the Paralympics in full swing, schedule changes remain possible. For the latest updates and information, check out the official Paralympics website.

Published 07-September-2024

From Brisbane to Paris: The Powerlifting Journey of Hani Watson to the Paralympics

As the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games approaches, Australia’s para-athletes are gearing up for their moment on the world stage. Among them is Hemmant resident Hani Watson, a rising star in para-powerlifting who has quickly become a force to be reckoned with in the sport.

Read: Easts Josh Nasser Joins Joe Schmidt’s First Wallabies Squad

Para-powerlifting, also known as para-lifting, is an adaptation of powerlifting for athletes with disabilities. In Paralympic competition, the discipline focuses solely on the bench press, showcasing incredible upper body strength and technique.

Watson’s journey to the Paralympics is nothing short of remarkable. Born with bilateral metaphyseal dysplasia, a condition that affected the development of her leg bones, she underwent multiple surgeries throughout her childhood. However, it was her father Charlie, a bodybuilder, who instilled in her a love for strength training and a belief in her abilities.

Rapid Rise to International Competition

This mindset propelled Watson into competitive powerlifting in 2018. Under the guidance of Australian para-powerlifting coach Simon Bergner, she made rapid progress. In 2021, just three years after beginning her competitive journey, Watson was representing Australia on the international stage at the World Championships in Georgia, breaking an Oceania record and finishing eighth overall.

Watson’s breakthrough moment came at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. There, she ended Australia’s 16-year medal drought in the sport, claiming bronze in the women’s heavyweight division with an impressive lift of 127 kg – nearly 30 kg more than her own body weight. This achievement echoed the last Australian medal in the sport, won by Darren Gardiener at the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games.

Eyes on Paralympic Glory

Now, with the Paris Paralympics on the horizon, Watson has her sights set on the ultimate prize. The para-powerlifting events are scheduled for September 4-8, and Watson is determined to make her mark.

Watson’s rapid rise in the sport is even more impressive considering she balances her training with a full-time career as a hospital manager. Her dedication and success serve as an inspiration to aspiring para-athletes across Australia and beyond.

As the Paralympic movement continues to grow, Watson’s story highlights the evolving landscape of para-sports. Weightlifting first appeared as a Paralympic event in Tokyo in 1964, with powerlifting making its debut 20 years later. It wasn’t until the Sydney Games in 2000 that women’s powerlifting was finally included in the Paralympic program.

Read: Morningside’s Tammie Lauritsen Selected for National ‘She Can Coach’ Program

When the cauldron is lit on 28 August 2024, at the Place de la Concorde in Paris, Hani Watson will be among the 4,400 athletes from around the world ready to showcase their talents. Her journey from Brisbane to Paris is a testament to the power of perseverance, family support, and the transformative nature of para-sports.

Published 14-August-2024

A Look Back at the History of the Queensport Aquarium in Hemmant

Did you know that during its heyday in the late 19th century, the Queensport Aquarium in Hemmant was well known for having electric lighting, the finest collection of marine creatures, reptiles, birds and other animals, and a near-disastrous but ultimately successful hot-air balloon exhibition ride?

The Queensport Aquarium holds a significant place in Brisbane’s history. Dating back to the late 19th century, the first amusement park located in Hemmant was originally established to transport visitors to a world of maritime adventure and discovery.

The park, which opened in August 1889, featured various attractions, including a seafront promenade, marine exhibits, and live performances, all of which brought the ambience of the Victorian era. The Queensport Aquarium, which closed in 1901, boasted the finest collection of marine creatures, reptiles, birds and other animals.

But the Queensland Aquarium offered more than just animal exhibits. The grand concert hall hosted shows during the weekends, featuring an organ that delighted guests. The Aquarium Band serenaded by the best singers in Brisbane, added to the entertainment. The park’s popularity led to the subdivision and sale of land nearby, known as “The Queensport Aquarium Estate.”

Queensport Aquarium Estate Hemmant — Photo Credit: State Library of Queensland

Visitors to the Aquarium arrived by steamer from the city centre, enjoying a package deal that included the return fare on ships like the Natone, the Woolwich, or the Alice. Moonlit excursions to dances in the concert hall became popular activities.

The Queensland Aquarium boasted modern conveniences, including electric light, which was connected in September 1889. During the day, the park offered various activities. Sports days celebrated the New Year, whilst picnics took place on Foundation Day, which was on January 26.

In May 1891, an extraordinary sight delighted the crowd—a hot air balloon. Professor Fernandez, an experienced aeronaut, made his first balloon ascent in the colony. Though the balloon initially deflated and seemed in danger of sinking into the river, it rose again and landed safely, thrilling the onlookers.

Queensport Aquarium Balloon — Photo Credit: National Library of Australia

Despite a significant flood in 1890 that affected the wharf in the city, the Queensport Aquarium remained relatively unaffected. However, a more devastating flood occurred on February 5 and 6, 1893, which caused severe damage.

Queensport Aquarium Flood — Photo Credit: State Library of Queensland

The flood tore down fences, leading to the escape of many animals, and ruined the meticulously landscaped gardens. Following this incident, J.D. Campbell and the Aquarium Company advertised the sale of the steamers. Although the picnics and parties were still well-attended, the once vibrant theme park gradually faded from the tourism spotlight at the close of the century.

Today, the land where the aquarium used to be now partly encompasses the Queensland Rocks Park in Murarrie, near the Gateway Bridge.

Published 23-May-2023

Huge Night of Music in Hemmant

The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Kinks, The Eagles, Jimmy Barnes, Elton John, David Bowie, The Angels, Bryan Adams, Billy Idol, The Screaming Jets, The Searchers, Joe Cocker, Noiseworks, Creedence Clearwater Revival…these are just a sample of the artists that Double Vision will be covering at the qp Tavern in Hemmant on Saturday, 27 May 2023.

Did you know The Beatles got their name from Buddy Holy and The Crickets? John Lennon altered the spelling of “Beetles” to “Beatles.”

Did you know Mick Jagger and Keith Richards were classmates at Wentworth Primary School in Dartford, Kent?

Did you know that The Kinks song “Lola” was banned from TV because it had the line “tastes just like coca cola” back when advertising was banned from free to air?

Did you know Joe Cocker didn’t sing in his first band, The Cavaliers? He played drums and harmonica.

Did you know Reg Dwight renamed himself Elton John when he was 25 because his first band had two guys called Elton and John in it?
Before that, he was a solo act called Reggie, playing a pub gig every weekend at the Northwood Hills Hotel in Watford, on the northside of London.

Did you know that The Eagles’ monster hit “Hotel California” was originally called “Mexican Reggae”?

Catch Double Vision at the qp Tavern in Hemmant, bringing back the hits of bygone years.

Saturday
27 May 2023
7pm-10pm
FREE Entry