Fairfield Archives - Annerley News

Locals Called to Weigh In on Fairfield Road Roundabout Upgrade Plan

Locals living along one of Brisbane’s busiest southside corridors are being asked to have their say on the future of the Fairfield Road roundabout, as a community survey opens on its potential upgrade.

Read: Fairfield Road in Yeronga: A Snapshot of Devastation After 1973 Tornado

Cr Nicole Johnston has released a draft concept plan for discussion purposes, along with a list of pros and cons to help residents think through what a change would actually mean for their daily lives.

A Busy Road With a Known Safety Problem

Fairfield Road Roundabout — Photo credit: Google Street View

The roundabout sits on one of the southside’s major arterial roads. Fairfield Road carries around 26,000 vehicles a day, including trucks, and is formally designated under Brisbane’s road network as a principal cycling route despite having no dedicated bike lanes.

The crash data for the intersection makes for uncomfortable reading. Of roughly 2,700 intersections across Brisbane, the Fairfield Road and Venner Road roundabout ranks in the top 10 per cent for crash history. In fact, the nearby intersection of Fairfield Road and Hyde Road in Yeronga ranks even higher, in the top five per cent, and a cyclist has already lost their life there. Pedestrian and cyclist access at that location remains poor.

Further along, the intersection of Ipswich Road, Venner Road and Waterton Street in Annerley holds the grim distinction of being the highest ranked intersection in Tennyson Ward for crash history, sitting in the top one per cent across the whole of Brisbane.

What’s Being Proposed

The roundabout is already listed on Brisbane’s capital works program for a future conversion to traffic lights but it currently sits low on the priority list. The survey is part of an effort to push for outcomes that reflect local needs as part of future road network projects.

Converting the roundabout to a four way signalised intersection would almost certainly mean closing one of its current access points, with Park Road the most likely candidate. To offset that, a complementary idea has been floated: extending Hyde Road through the now vacant flood buy-back blocks to connect with Park Road in Yeronga, creating a new east-west link that could also help ease congestion on the congested Cardross Street rail bridge.

On the plus side, traffic signals would require all vehicles to stop, giving pedestrians and cyclists formal crossing signals and fairer access for all connecting streets. On the downside, vehicles would be required to stop even when there are no oncoming vehicles, trees would be lost, and the closure of Park Road access would directly affect some households.

The draft concept plan makes clear these are ideas on the table, not decisions already made.

Why Local Input Matters

Community feedback gathered through the survey is intended to inform future road, pedestrian and cycling projects in the area, not to trigger immediate works. The feedback will be used to push for outcomes that reflect local needs at future budget negotiations.

The Brisbane Southside BUG (Bicycle User Group) has also flagged the survey, noting the area sits on a busy arterial route with a well documented safety history, and encouraging anyone who cares about safer, better connected active transport on the southside to take a few minutes to respond.

Read: Grimes Family Legacy Lives on in Fairfield

Beyond the roundabout itself, the survey asks residents to rank their priorities for future transport investment in the area, including the Cardross Street rail bridge upgrade and improvements to the Ipswich Road and Venner Road intersection in Annerley.

The survey is open until 31 March 2026 and can be completed via Cr Johnston’s website.

Published 18-February-2026

Have Your Say on the Fairfield Walking Network Plan

Local residents are being invited to share their thoughts on the Fairfield Walking Network Plan, a new initiative aimed at improving walking routes around the precinct. The plan aims to make everyday walking safer, more accessible, and more comfortable, encouraging people to move around on foot.

Read: Brisbane Metro to Begin Permanent Operations in 2025: What it Means for Commuters in Yeronga and Fairfield Areas

Although focused on Fairfield, the plan also includes nearby areas such as Annerley and Yeronga. Many locals routinely walk across these suburbs to reach public transport, shops, parks or work, and the plan seeks to ensure pedestrian routes meet the needs of people moving across these connected communities.

What Is the Walking Network Plan?

Walking Network Plans are strategic tools that map out primary and secondary walking routes in a precinct. These maps highlight the most practical paths to everyday destinations like schools, shops, public transport stops, and parks. Primary routes typically follow main roads and offer the most direct access, while secondary routes link residential streets to those key thoroughfares.

These plans help guide investment in pedestrian infrastructure by identifying where improvements are needed. This may include adding more pedestrian crossings, upgrading footpaths, or developing shared pathways for both walkers and cyclists. The purpose is to build a network that is both user-friendly and efficient, making walking a viable choice for short trips.

Feedback from the community plays a central role in the process. By gathering people’s experiences and suggestions, the plan becomes a practical tool for shaping a more walkable precinct. Once finalised, it will inform future works programs and help prioritise projects that improve safety, connectivity and accessibility.

Why It Matters to Locals

For residents of Fairfield, Annerley and Yeronga, this is an opportunity to influence the streets they walk every day. Whether it’s noting where crossings are missing or where footpaths need repair, people’s input will shape the kinds of improvements the Council considers. This isn’t just about paving more paths — it’s about making sure the walking network reflects real community needs.

The plan also supports long-term planning. By identifying key routes, Council can better prioritise where to direct resources. Future infrastructure projects — though dependent on budget and city-wide priorities — will be guided by this plan to maximise benefits for walkability.

Have Your Say

Residents can provide feedback by completing the online survey or dropping a pin on the map to leave location-specific comments. The consultation period closes at 11:59 pm on Sunday, 30 November 2025.

Read: Hawthorne Coffee Expands to Fairfield with Vibrant New Sibling Cafe, Fieldy’s

This is a genuine chance for local voices to steer the future of walking in Fairfield and neighbouring suburbs. By participating, you can help create a safer, more connected and walkable neighbourhood for everyone.

To take part and learn more, visit Brisbane’s “Walking Network Plan – Fairfield” page.

Published 18-November-2025

Moorooka Man Charged After Alleged Assault at Fairfield Shopping Centre

Photo Credit: myPolice Bayside

A 29-year-old Moorooka man has been charged with multiple offences following an alleged assault at Fairfield Shopping Centre last Friday morning.

Police from Dutton Park have accused the man of indecently assaulting a 22-year-old woman who was walking through the shopping centre around 10am on 25 July. The alleged offender reportedly attempted to leave the scene on foot but was stopped by members of the public who witnessed the incident.

The quick thinking of these community members allowed police to make an arrest at the scene. Investigators have also alleged the man stole groceries from a nearby store during the same incident.

The man now faces charges including sexual assault, stealing, and common assault. He was refused bail and remains in custody ahead of his scheduled court appearance at Brisbane Magistrates Court on 6 August.

The incident highlights the importance of community vigilance and the willingness of locals to step in when they witness concerning behaviour. The intervention by bystanders was crucial in preventing the alleged offender from leaving the area.

Queensland Police encourage anyone with information about this incident to come forward. Reports can be made through Policelink at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or by calling 131 444. Anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Police remind the community that support services are available for anyone who has experienced sexual assault. The Statewide Sexual Assault Helpline can be reached on 1800 010 120, while 1800 RESPECT provides 24-hour support. In emergencies, always call Triple Zero (000).

The case reference numbers are QP2501302435 and QP2501302865.

Published 28-July-2025

Fairfield Families Disappointed by Library Session Cuts

Photo Credit: First 5 Forever

Fairfield families face reduced children’s literacy sessions due to widespread library program changes, driven by budget constraints and staff restructuring.

Changes in Fairfield and Across Brisbane

The popular “Books Babies Rhymes” (BBR) program at Fairfield Library has been reduced from two weekly sessions to one, reflecting a broader trend of cuts to children’s programs across Brisbane. This change occurred after December 25th and is part of a series of adjustments impacting various libraries. Other libraries, such as Ashgrove and Carindale, have also experienced reductions in similar programs.

The changes to children’s programs, particularly the “First 5 Forever” initiative, have prompted concerns from parents who rely on these sessions to support their children’s early literacy development. The “First 5 Forever” program, which provides story time, rhyme time, and baby play, has decreased from 104 weekly sessions to 76 across the city.

Budgetary Pressures and Staff Morale

Brisbane City Council faces significant budgetary pressures, leading to a restructuring of library services. While the council denies claims of a $17 million cut to the library services budget, they acknowledge the need to balance service delivery with financial responsibility.

This comes as the council has also reduced capital expenditures by $321 million in the past year, requiring additional funding from state and federal governments to complete major projects.

The state government has contributed $5 million state-wide for the “First 5 Forever” program, but the council must cover staffing and additional costs. The council stated that funding from the state government had reduced since 2019, but the State Library of Queensland refuted that claim, stating funding had remained consistent.

A recent survey by The Services Union revealed a significant decline in staff morale, with half of the council’s librarians wanting to leave their positions. The survey highlighted issues such as increased workloads, physical injuries, and high levels of customer aggression.

Staffing numbers have also decreased, with a reduction from 261 full-time equivalent positions two years ago to 237 in the current financial year. The council’s restructuring plans have further contributed to staff stress and uncertainty. Library staff left the job in late 2023, but an agreement with the council resulted in pay increases over the next two years.

Community Impact and Future Outlook

The reduction in children’s programs has disappointed parents, who value these sessions for fostering early literacy skills. Parents have reported that these sessions are often well-attended, highlighting their popularity within the community.

The Brisbane City Council has written to the state government, seeking a “fairer funding deal” to support the continuation of these programs. The council has stated it will continue to provide 76 weekly sessions across Brisbane libraries, ensuring every library except Mt Coot-tha offers at least one weekly session.

Published Date 03-March-2025

Grimes Family Legacy Lives on in Fairfield

Photo Credit: Trove

Did you know that Fairfield got its name from the arrowroot farm of brothers George and Samuel Grimes, who arrived in Queensland on the Chaseley in 1849 and went on to become prominent figures in the early development of the area?

George and Samuel Grimes, brothers who arrived in Queensland on the Chaseley in 1849, established an arrowroot farm they called Fairfield, which ultimately gave the suburb its name. The Grimes family were prominent figures in the early development of Fairfield and the surrounding areas.

The Grimes brothers were involved in farming, politics, and community life. George even served as a member of parliament and was a founding member of the East Moreton Farmers’ Association.

A Growing Community

Grimes family in Fairfield — *Photo Credit:* *Trove*

The Grimes family also established the Fairfield Baptist Church in 1865. The church, originally located on the corner of Dudley Street and what is now Lagonda Street, served as a vital community hub. 1935, the church was relocated to Ipswich Road in Annerley to accommodate the growing congregation.

As Fairfield grew, more residents were drawn to the area. 1914, the Railside Estate was established, offering 28 residential lots near the Fairfield railway station. This development reflected the suburb’s increasing urbanisation.

Challenges and Changes

Fairfield’s location near the Brisbane River has meant a history of flooding. The suburb faced significant floods in 1974 and again in 2011. Despite these challenges, Fairfield has continued to evolve. In 1988, the Fairfield Library opened its doors, providing a valuable resource for the community.

Fairfield Today

Fairfield is a diverse suburb with a mix of residential and commercial areas. Although there are no schools within Fairfield, residents can access several nearby primary and secondary schools in neighbouring suburbs. The suburb also offers amenities such as a skate park and the Fairfield Gardens shopping centre, which houses a supermarket and various other shops.

Ashby House: A Link to the Past

One of Fairfield’s most significant landmarks is Ashby House. Built in the 1890s by George Grimes, this historic home reminds us of the suburb’s pioneering past. Ashby House was one of the first grand residences in Fairfield, located on a hilltop with views of the Brisbane River. Although no longer a family home, the building remains a significant part of the suburb’s heritage.

Published Date 06-Jan-2025

Fairfield Shines in REA Group’s Hot 100 List for 2025

Looking for a hot property market without the scorching price tag? Fairfield has been named to REA Group’s Hot 100 list, signalling a prime opportunity for savvy buyers and investors.

This recognition is no surprise to property expert Peter Koulizos, who believes Fairfield offers a highly appealing lifestyle. He highlighted the suburb’s easy access to the city centre, abundant green spaces, and excellent amenities as key drawcards. The proximity to medical facilities and the University of Queensland further enhances its appeal to many residents.

Koulizos explained that Fairfield’s quiet streets and family-friendly atmosphere make it a highly desirable location. He added that ongoing urban development, improved public infrastructure, and its prime position near the river and city contribute to its attractiveness for buyers looking for convenience, comfort, and strong capital growth.

Hot 100 Highlights Affordability and Lifestyle

Fairfield’s inclusion in the Hot 100, a list compiled by a panel of experts and analysed by REA Group’s economic research team, reflects a broader trend towards more affordable suburbs with attractive lifestyles.

Cameron Kusher, REA Group’s director of economic research, noted that while some suburbs on the list have median house prices exceeding $1 million, they generally offer larger and higher-quality homes compared to similarly priced areas.

Kusher explained that buyers can still find premium suburbs with comparable properties at lower prices in Queensland, Adelaide, and Perth than in Melbourne or Sydney.

Growth Drivers and Investment Prospects

The Hot 100 methodology considers various growth drivers, including affordability, amenity, family appeal, location, investment prospects, gentrification, population growth, demographic shifts, and infrastructure development.

Anne Flaherty, REA Group economist, emphasised that the list aims to showcase lesser-known suburbs that may offer excellent value and lifestyle benefits.

Flaherty observed that with increasing numbers of buyers being priced out of many suburbs, people are expanding their search areas. She believes the Hot 100 helps educate buyers about alternative suburbs that provide the quality of life they seek.

Many listed suburbs, including Fairfield, boast strong investment potential. Flaherty highlighted their relatively high rental yields, particularly in Western Australia, where investors can benefit from strong yields and capital growth.

Melbourne Poised for Recovery

Despite recent price fluctuations in Melbourne and Sydney, both cities continue to attract residents due to their strong employment markets. Flaherty expressed optimism about Melbourne’s future growth prospects.

She stated that Melbourne is well-positioned for a recovery, citing its projected population growth, diverse economy, and appeal to international students and migrants. However, she cautioned that a slowdown in new construction activity could eventually lead to upward pressure on property prices.

Coastal Lifestyle Remains a Key Drawcard

The Hot 100 also features numerous regional suburbs renowned for their coastal lifestyle. Kusher acknowledged the enduring appeal of beachside living for Australians.

He believes that most people in Australia still aspire to live near the coast if they can.

Published Date 16-December-2024

New Bus Route 127 to Link Indooroopilly, Fairfield Gardens

A new bus service, Route 127, will connect Indooroopilly to Fairfield Gardens Shopping Centre as part of comprehensive changes to Brisbane’s public transport network. The route comes in response to community concerns about maintaining direct connections between the western suburbs.

Read: Hawthorne Coffee Expands to Fairfield with Vibrant New Sibling Cafe, Fieldy’s

The new service emerged from an extensive public consultation process that attracted thousands of responses from Brisbane residents.

“We received more than 5,000 responses during consultation on Brisbane’s bus network and today we’re closing the loop by announcing our new network,” Cr Adrian Schrinner said.

The introduction of Route 127 responds to community feedback regarding the removal of the direct connection between Yeronga and Indooroopilly on the existing Route 105. The service will operate on a two-year trial basis, with TransLink conducting regular reviews of its performance.

Key Features of Route 127

– Direct service between Indooroopilly and Fairfield Gardens Shopping Centres

– Coverage of Cansdale Street, Brisbane Corso, Turner Avenue, and Ashby Street in Yeronga

– Maintained access to local schools and shops in Indooroopilly

BCC plans to implement these changes alongside the launch of Brisbane Metro services, which recently began testing along the 169 route between Eight Mile Plains and UQ Lakes. The complete rollout will include Metro 1 (Eight Mile Plains to Roma Street) and Metro 2 (Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital to UQ Lakes Station) routes.

While an exact implementation date remains pending, BCC indicated plans to meet with Queensland’s new transport minister David Crisafulli to discuss timing.

Read: Fairfield Road in Yeronga: A Snapshot of Devastation After 1973 Tornado

The broader network redesign will modify Brisbane’s 12 bus routes to better integrate with metro and busway stations, reflecting analysed data on customer patronage and popular travel patterns.

For detailed information about the new bus routes and network changes, visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au.

Published 31-October-2024

Hawthorne Coffee Expands to Fairfield with Vibrant New Sibling Cafe, Fieldy’s

Photo Credit: Fieldy's Coffee/Instagram

Fieldy’s Coffee has finally arrived in Fairfield, bringing the magic of its sister cafe, the beloved Hawthorne Coffee, to the vibrant neighbourhood.

Opened just this week, the green-hued cafe is already making waves, offering locals a brand-new spot to indulge in sublime ST ALi coffee, gourmet sourdough toasties, and a generous dose of community spirit.

The team behind the trendy Fifth Avenue Lifestyle complex, home to Hawthorne Coffee, approached Fieldy’s owner Tom Wilcock with the perfect opportunity – a vacant space in Fairfield that was ripe for a cosy new cafe concept. Seeing a chance to replicate Hawthorne’s resounding success in an area lacking quality coffee options, Mr Wilcock enthusiastically agreed.

*Photo credit: Fieldy’s Coffee/Instagram*

The food menu at Fieldy’s Coffee features a selection of house-baked muffins and cookies, five different crispy toasties with a rotating special, as well as acai bowls, and avocado toast. In addition to their cafe menu, Fieldy’s also offers their signature coffee beans for retail sale.

Visually, the cafe has a distinct earthy aesthetic compared to Hawthorne’s pastel palette, with forest green tiles and cushions accenting the black and timber decor. There’s also a small parking area out back, making it easy for Fairfield residents to pop in for their morning caffeine fix.

Fieldy's Coffee/Instagram — *Photo Credit: Fieldy’s Coffee/Instagram*

With Fieldy’s Coffee now open in Fairfield, this vibrant neighbourhood has a new caffeine oasis to call its own – a little sibling to the beloved Hawthorne, but with its own unique personality that’s sure to win over the locals.

Fieldy’s Coffee is open seven days a week, from 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on weekdays and 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on weekends. Follow them on Instagram @fieldyscoffee for updates.

Improved Pedestrian Safety: Zebra Crossing Coming to Fairfield’s Mildmay Street

Finally! After years of trying, the Fairfield community can now expect a much-requested zebra crossing on Mildmay Street.

Read: Annerley’s Stephens Park Estate Turns 100 Years Old

This pedestrian crossing, strategically located in front of Fairfield Station, will provide a secure pathway for commuters and pedestrians navigating the busy area.

Fairfield Road, stretching between Venner Road and Ashby Street, as well as Home Street, and from Brougham St to Stimpson St, are currently undergoing resurfacing efforts.

Ashby St (Photo credit: Google Street View)

Scheduled for completion in mid-May 2023, the resurfacing works on Fairfield Rd and Home St. are taking place during the nighttime hours from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m, Sundays through Thursdays. These initiatives aim to enhance the safety and overall driving experience for residents and commuters in the area.

About Zebra Crossings (Pedestrian Crossings)

Zebra crossings, marked by distinctive black and white stripes, require drivers to slow down and stop when a pedestrian steps onto the marked crossing. It is essential for drivers to yield to pedestrians at these crossings, granting them the right of way.

Photo credit: CC BY-SA 4.0/Kgbo/Wikimedia Commons

To enhance visibility and caution, zigzag white lines are painted on the road in areas with poor visibility, serving as a warning to drivers.

In accordance with the Australian Standard (AS), zebra crossings are not permitted on roads with an approach speed greater than 50 km/h. This regulation aims to ensure the safety of pedestrians and prevent potential accidents in high-speed traffic areas.

Read: New Childcare Centre Proposed in Annerley to Address Growing Demand

Fairfield residents and commuters are encouraged to exercise caution and follow the rules of the road when utilising zebra crossings. Pedestrians should always wait for all vehicles to come to a complete stop before starting to cross, and drivers should remain vigilant and yield to pedestrians at these designated crossings.

Published 8-June-2023

Help Needed! Brisbane Mobilises Mud Army 2.0 for Massive Clean-Up

Brisbane is all set to form Mud Army 2.0 to tackle the massive clean-up in the coming days after days of extreme weather and floods. A call is out for emergency volunteers for Fairfield and many areas in southeast Brisbane.

More than a decade after the formation of the first Mud Army during the 2011 floods, Brisbane’s intrepid clean up crew is once again going to battle, dealing with waterlogged locations and flood waste.

This clean-up will focus on locations across the city, helping residents and businesses inundated by floodwater.

Council has set up registration for this community endeavor in partnership with Volunteering Queensland.

If you want to take part as a member of the Mud Army, register as an emergency volunteer. If you or your neighbours have been impacted by floodwaters, the Mud Army 2.0 will be deployed in your location. You should also register to get help.

MUD ARMY 2.0 Registration

You may also sign up with Volunteering Queensland.

All volunteers will get glasses, gloves, and bottled water on site. Volunteers are encouraged to check in with the homeowners first and listen to their instructions, if any, before starting the clean-up.

Sign up Sheets for Areas Still With Flood Warnings

Meanwhile, local communities in postcodes 4103, 4101, 4102, 4169 have also opened a volunteer sign-up sheet as Mud Army 2.0’s clean-up start date has not yet been scheduled since flood warnings are still in place.

Rising to the Occasion

According to LM Adrian Schrinner, about 2,000 people have registered within the first few hours of the Mud Army 2.0 sign-up. Efforts are underway to link up the army with sites that have asked for help.

“There’s no denying the resilience and mateship in our local community. We’re seeing friends, neighbours, and even strangers pulling together to aid in our city’s recovery,” the mayor said.

“From the moment we faced this terrible event residents from across Brisbane have been reaching out to me to ask how they can lend a hand to help the city recover.”