I like walking around the streets, discovering old buildings under renovation, visiting numerous cafes and pubs and Asian food outlets and grocery stores. Such a vibrant atmosphere not found in the suburbs.
Tell us a bit about yourself, what you used to do, any interesting info about yourself.
I am a Real Estate agent – having been in the business continually since the mid-eighties – that’s a long time for this business. I have lived through peaks and troughs – even when home interest rates were as high as 18 percent!
Started my career in Rockhampton after leaving a technical career behind, and moved here to Brisbane with my wife in 1988, the Expo year and that was an experience, both in the business world with almost daily visits to the Expo!
How long have you lived in Spring Hill and where did you live before this?
We have lived in Spring Hill since 1993. Initially purchasing a small semi-renovated cottage and then selling it to building a home in the next street – moving from the bottom of one street to the top of the next bordering street.
Prior to moving here, we built a two-storey home in Carindale – a far cry from inner city living. We moved from the “burbs” to inner city living and have never looked back!
What drew you into the area?
I have always been a city boy, born in a big city and for a great part of my young life, living in a major city interstate – where, as a young man, enjoyed the bright lights – big city – and I have never really left it. Spring Hill is the closest suburb to the CBD – our home is less than one km from the GPO.
Since you’ve been here, how has the suburb changed?
Initially in the early 90’s, a lot of transients used to gather at night and early morning around a certain night club. Now, that has well and truly gone, and I am seeing professional families moving in and the area has a nice clean feel to it.
I am also seeing more students living and dining here. Particularly around Boundary street where there are now a number of Asian food outlets and educational establishments.
What are some of your favourite buildings in the suburb?
I like The Old Windmill, St Paul’s Presbyterian Church, Ballow Chambers and The United Services Club – all preserved buildings of yesteryear. Also, there are some classic well-established homes in Gregory Terrace, deceiving from the front but a real experience internally. Tyler Terraces, along Gregory Terrace are also a well- known landmark.
What are some of your favourite things to do in Spring Hill?
I like walking around the streets, discovering old buildings under renovation, visiting numerous cafes and pubs and Asian food outlets and grocery stores. Such a vibrant atmosphere not found in the suburbs.
What do you most like about living here?
We like the convenience to the CBD – going to see a play or concert at QPAC is as easy as catching the 301 bus to the Cultural Centre – walking over the road and you are there. Certainly, easier than driving in and parking. It also allows us to have a wine without any worries.
Walking to the city on a Sunday is all downhill and only takes about 10 minutes, sometimes we catch the Spring Hill loop bus back up!
What’s your favourite local place to get a meal or a drink?
We like The Alliance Hotel for a hamburger and a wine on a Friday night (pre-COVID) , less than a 5 minute walk. Also, several pizza places are within easy reach. The newly established Creole Soul Kitchen along Boundary Street is one of the best places to eat anywhere in Brisbane!
Any wise of words of wisdom that can inspire others or words that you live by?
Enjoy life to the fullest – do your best with what you have – no matter how small!