A rare piece of Ipswich’s history is about to change hands as the heritage-listed former girls’ hostel, owned by the Country Women’s Association (CWA), is set for auction next month.
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Located on a 1,728 sqm parcel at 5 Brisbane Street, this distinctive property offers both a glimpse into the past and a range of exciting possibilities for the future.
Adjacent to the heritage-listed property is a brick unit block, built in the 1970s. While this addition is not heritage-listed, it offers modern convenience and adds valuable potential for income or development. The block includes four units, offering a variety of possible uses for the discerning investor.
A Storied History with Rich Heritage
The property’s story begins around 1885, when it was originally constructed as a single-storey timber house for Thomas Towell and his second wife, Sarah. After Towell’s death around 1904, the property passed to Sarah, who later sold it. The next significant owner, Dr Edward Elmslie Brown, purchased the house in 1908. Within three years, he added a second storey to the building, transforming it into a larger residence and consulting rooms.
Dr Brown also expanded the property with the construction of a timber hospital, “Oakdale,” located adjacent to the house, with its entry facing Milford Street. Over time, Brown added a second hospital building and a matron’s residence to the estate. Dr Brown passed away in 1941, and the property was eventually acquired by the Queensland Country Women’s Association in 1949. They repurposed the property as a hostel for students and young women from rural Queensland, where it served as a safe and supportive environment for decades.
The house itself is a fine example of Federation-style architecture, with stunning wraparound verandas featuring delicate lacework, original fireplaces, timber floors, and pressed tin ceilings, all showcasing its historical charm. The second storey, added by Dr Brown, further enhanced the property’s grandeur. Known as a “valuable example of aesthetic significance and local importance,” the house has been the heart of the operations of CWA in recent years, serving as office space and storage.
Endless Potential for Investors
The property’s large size and central CBD location make it a highly sought-after asset, with multiple potential uses in mind. Some have already envisioned it as a future wedding venue, taking advantage of the historic beauty and unique setting.
Others see the main house as a perfect private residence, with the option of renting out the units for steady income. Given its prime location and historical significance, the property could also serve as office space, boutique accommodation, or a community-focused hub.
The auction on March 1 will mark a new chapter for this historic site, with all proceeds benefiting the CWA’s important work in providing services for women and children across regional Queensland. This meaningful cause adds even more appeal to an already enticing investment opportunity.
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Prospective buyers can inspect the property starting Saturday, February 22, with the auction taking place on Saturday, March 1, at 10:00 a.m. No price guide is available, but interest from investors has already been high, eager to seize the potential this property offers.
This is more than just a real estate opportunity—it’s a chance to own a piece of Ipswich’s heritage, steeped in history and character, while contributing to a cause that supports the community.
Published 20-February-2025