17 Laurel Avenue

Chelmer QLD 4068

On a large, flood-free prime site of 4,335m2 (currently zoned Community Use area - CU5), this heritage property presents an outstanding opportunity for either commercial, community and/or residential development/restoration.

The charming centerpiece foundation residence (c1900) has many original features including prominent gables, sweeping verandahs, lead lighting, decorative fireplaces, french doors and bay windows.

The expansive additions, including an adaptable dormitory building and separate staff quarters, were all architecturally designed and sensitively placed to maintain the stunning streetscape.

The entrance is flanked by spectacular mature fig trees, in keeping with the nature of the street, and features landscaped gardens.
However, it's the one-of-a-kind combination of buildings that really sets this property apart.

The floor plan, with its endless rooms and generous proportions, lends itself to a huge variety of uses and has to be seen to be appreciated.
The estate includes:
- The original Federation home, with a northern addition adjacent to the house comprising two storeys, with over 20 rooms in total;
- A separate dormitory building behind and parallel to the main house consisting of a central hallway leading to a series of 25 dormitory rooms and amenity rooms, flanked by verandahs with French Doors that open to take advantage of river breezes; and
- A separate, detached single-storey building on the south-west corner, which was previously used as staff quarters.
With a detailed and rich history, this is a property with a special story and plenty of soul.

Originally a luxury residence, Waterton was built at the turn of the last century for Brisbane insurance agent Thomas Beevor Steele.
However, from 1913-1940 it was home to EA Harding Frew - a prominent Civil Engineer who specialized in Bridge design.
While residing at the property, he was the designing engineer for Brisbane's iconic William Jolly Bridge as well as a number of other landmark Queensland bridges.

The property was transferred to the Red Cross in 1941 and additions made to convert it to a convalescent home/hospital for servicemen returning from WWII. It subsequently served the community as barracks for the Royal Women's Army (10 WRAAC), and as a training centre for the Queensland Police Service.

This impressive estate is now offered with vacant possession and is literally a massive, unique and versatile grand opportunity to suit an astute buyer with vision.

While heritage-registered, its record suggests that a multitude of uses may still be possible - and the purchaser will have the rare chance to write their own chapter in Brisbane's history.

Don't miss what is literally a once in a lifetime prospect!