Toonarbin More Than It Seems

Brisbane Courier (Qld. : 1864 - 1933), Wednesday 16 September 1868, page 1

You may pass this building on your travels and not realise that this structure dates back to 1865 and was one of the early grand villas of Brisbane. Toonarbin was once the only home in this part of the town. With grounds stretching down to the Brisbane River and up to the crown of Highgate Hill it truly was a grand villa. While what you see on the outside today is definitely what one would have seen in 1865 it is still a wonderful part of out early home history.

Toonarbin shares an amazing link to another of the early homesteads of Brisbane but this time on the northern side of the river. This concise reference from Must Do Brisbane gives a very succint summary.

"Having built his house Montpelier on a hill he named after himself -‘O’Reilly’s Hill’ (later Bowen Hills) - early settler and ASN shipping firm man Captain O’Reilly moved across the river and acquired another hilly bushland site from architect Benjamin Backhouse.
Here he built this imposing yet austere multichimneyed two storey mansion ‘Toonarbin’, which at the time looked at odds with its secluded bushy site. In 1926 it was purchased by the religious real estate king of Brisbane, Archbishop Duhig, as part of his ever growing Catholic empire and converted to a convent for the Sisters of Mercy. It operated as a convent until 1995 and some years later was bought by a private owner who meticulously restored it to its past glory."

For a more in depth history about Toonarbin and the Highgate Hill area the web site Highgate Hill and Its Stories is essential and wonderful reading. Very well researched and written it does give an indepth insight into the area. 

 https://highgatehill-historical-vignettes.com/2018/08/05/toonarbin/

After a successful career as a ship's captain Captain O'Reilly became the Brisbane manager of the Australasian Steam Navigation Comapny (ASN). The offices of ASN were where what we now know as Naldham House situated at the corner of Felix and Mary Streets in Brisbane.

Brisbane Courier (Qld. : 1864 - 1933), Monday 19 February 1877, page 3

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Death of Captain O'Reilly.

Although the event has for some weeks, if not months, been expected, a very large number of our readers will learn with sincere regret of the death of Captain Henry O'Reilly, which took place yesterday afternoon, at his residence, Hill End, South Brisbane. Several years ago the deceased gentleman became troubled with a painful disease in one of his eyes, the sight of which became greatly affected, and in 1866 he visited England for the purpose of having an opera-tion performed on the affected organ. This was done, but no permanent benefit resulted therefrom. Ultimately cancer formed on the face near the eye, and for this disease he underwent another operation about ten months ago, which un-fortunately was too late to check the spread of the disease. Since then the state of his health grew rapidly worse. He was obliged to retire from his business avocations, and some months ago it was known to the deceased gentleman himself, and amongst his personal friends, that there was no room for hope of his recovery. During the last few days it became evident that the hour of merciful release from his long and painful illness was rapidly approaching. Yester-day forenoon he was conscious for a little while, and was able to speak with those around him, but it was only the brief revival which so fre-quently precedes the great final change, and he expired shortly before four o'clock in the afternoon.

Captain O'Reilly, who was a native of Dublin, was for some time in the service of the Dublin Steam Packet Company, and also served as chief officer in the fleet of the St. George Steam Packet Company, amongst whose customers he was exceedingly popular. About 1853 he came out to Sydney, and the same year took service with the A.S.N. Co. as captain of the steamer City of Melbourne. Subsequently he commanded the Boomerang, and left her to take charge of the Telegraph. He was engaged almost exclusively in the Queensland trade until 1864, when he relinquished command of the Telegraph to take charge of the Brisbane Agency of the Company. In that capacity he acted till compelled by illness, a few months ago, to abstain from business. Captain O'Reilly was one of the oldest, if not the oldest servant of the A.S.N. Co. and certainly the Company had none more devoted to its interests, with which he most thoroughly and actively identified himself. The Company has, at various times, been very unpopular in this colony, but that unpopularity never extended to its principal representative. His courtesy to the public never varied, whether as captain of the Company's boats, or as the medium between his employers and the mercantile community of Brisbane, and his sound judgment and tact has, we make no doubt, often prevented the discontent of the Queensland public with the Company's treatment of the trade of this colony taking a definite shape which might have been far from satisfactory to the great Sydney corporation.

Captain O'Reilly was in his 53rd year. His funeral will leave his residence at four o'clock this afternoon.

Brisbane Courier (Qld. : 1864 - 1933), Monday 19 February 1877, page 1

Telegraph (Brisbane, Qld. : 1872 - 1947), Saturday 30 December 1911, page 12

Telegraph (Brisbane, Qld. : 1872 - 1947), Friday 14 June 1912, page 12

Brisbane Courier (Qld. : 1864 - 1933), Tuesday 16 July 1912, page 10

Telegraph (Brisbane, Qld. : 1872 - 1947), Tuesday 7 April 1925, page 10

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Late Mr. Charles O'Reilly

LARGELY ATTENDED FUNERAL

The death of Mr.Charles John O Reilly removes a well known iden tity, from the commercial life of Bris bane. For many years he conducted a bonded warehouse customs agency, and general carriers busincssin Mar garet Street. The firm was established in 1860. and was the oldest established of the kind In Brisbane. The deceased gentleman was born at Balmain. Syd ney, in 185o. He was a son of the late Captain Henry O'Reilly, one of the earliest agents in Brisbane for the old A.S.N. Co., In his early days Mr. O'Reilly lived with his parents at their home, Montpelier on O'Reillys Hill. This was sold and the family moved to a cottage an the site where the A.U.S.N. buildings now stand. He at tended the Ipswich - Grammar School, and later the High School, Hobart. Mr. O'Reilly started his business career with Gibbs. Bright, and Co., and after was with the A.S.N. Co., which, subsequently merged into tho A.U.S.N. Co. On the recommendation of Mr. Dawes (of Grey, Dawes, and Co.) certain activities were relinquished by the company, which the late Captain Henry O'Reilly took over as a separate business. On the death of Captain O'Reilly, Mr. Charles O'Reilly assumed control at the age of 24. Property was bought in Margaret street, and the bonded and free stores were built. It was largely through the efforts of his arm the Master Carriers-Association was formed in Brisbane. He was elected the first president. Mr. O'Reilly was survived by his widow his sister , (Mrs. G. G. Miller), two sons (Messrs. Harry and Bernard O'Reilly) and a daughter (Mrs. Douglas Henderson, of Mel bourne). Another daughter (Mrs. Charles H. Paterson, of Brisbane) died some time ago. The funeral was held yesterday afternoon, and was largely attended. The cortege moved from tlio deceased gentleman's late residence. Toonarbin, Dornoch terrace, South Brisbane, to the South Brisbane cemetery. The service was conducted by Rev. A. E. Smith, of the Church of England, Coorparoo. 

Brisbane Courier (Qld. : 1864 - 1933), Saturday 31 March 1928, page 28

Brisbane Courier (Qld. : 1864 - 1933), Wednesday 24 March 1926, page 8

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NEW CATHOLIC SCHOOLS.

HISTORIC HOMES PURCHASED.

Two properties-Toonarbin, Dornoch terrace, the home of the late Mr Charles O'Reilly, and Warranoake, Mr Gilson Foxton s residence, at Indooroopilly - have been purchased by Dr Duhig (Archbishop of Brisbane), and will be used for the establishment of schools. The houses stand in about 8 and 4 acres of land respectively. Toonarbin, which is a three-story stone structure, was for a long time one of the well-known landmarks ot Brisbane while Warranoake was built some 40 years ago by Mr. Foxton, who was for some years police magistrate at Thursday Island.

Brisbane Courier (Qld. : 1864 - 1933), Saturday 31 March 1928, page 20

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The new convent at Dornoch-Terrace, West End, which will be opened by Dr. Duhig (Archbishop of

Brisbane) to-morrow afternoon.

Queenslander (Brisbane, Qld. : 1866 - 1939), Thursday 3 September 1931, page 24

Linstarfield Built on Coal

 Linstarfield Not The First

The First Linstarfield - Enderley Road

The following is taken from the Brisbane City Council Heritage Citation for Linstarfield in Enderley Road.

‘Linstarfield’ is an elegant Federation era timber house that was built on two acres circa 1917 for Percy Rylance, a successful mine owner and the father of Brisbane architect Mervyn Rylance. In 1919, the property was purchased by HG Noble, another wealthy mine owner, who expanded the grounds to six acres and made significant improvements including a stable complex (since demolished) to house his racehorses and an imposing sandstone boundary wall which today extends into Alexandra Road. A small timber building which served as staff quarters is located near the western boundary. The house has been altered and extended but the main part of the house has retained much of its original appearance.

In 1919, the two acre property was sold to Henry George Noble, another prosperous mine owner. Once again, registration of the title appears to have lagged behind possession of the property as, according to the Noble family, Henry Noble’s brother organised the purchase of the house during the honeymoon of Henry and Agnes Noble in September 1918. The Nobles renamed the house Linstarfield, creating the name from three of their racehorses – Lincome, Snowstar and Fieldacre. From 1919, several other blocks surrounding the house were purchased by HG Noble’s wife, Agnes. This gave the Nobles almost six acres of land between Enderley Road, Sefton Road and Alexandra Road including much of Francis Spence’s original holding. After immigrating as a child from England in the 1870s, H.G. Noble started his own business in Brisbane as a forwarding agent and cartage contractor in the 1890s. At the time that he purchased the Enderley Road property, HG Noble was enjoying the height of his business success after acquiring several collieries. His company employed over 400 people and was one of the biggest producers of coal in Queensland. The Nobles were active in Brisbane “society”. HG Noble was on the Committee of the Queensland Turf Club, a foundation member of the Brisbane Club and a Brisbane City Council alderman in 1909-10. He and his wife were also foundation members of the Royal Queensland Golf Club. HG Noble was appointed Vice-Consul for Finland in Queensland in 1920. He died in 1934. The Nobles’ four children were all born at Linstarfield. They were delivered by Dr Thelander who lived at nearby Rangemoor in Adelaide Street East. While living at Linstarfield, the Nobles employed several people to help take care of the family and the property. These included a nurse for the children, a cook, a housemaid, a gardener and a chauffeur. A small timber building on the western side of the house served as quarters for some of the staff. The children’s nurse lived in the house and some staff may have lived off the site. The former staff quarters has survived but has not been inspected internally. It is possible that it was built by the Percy Rylance prior to the sale of the property to HG Noble. HG Noble’s wealth allowed him to make significant improvements to Linstarfield. According to the history published by the Noble family, these included the construction of a purpose built stable complex ((known as The Lodge), for the family’s racehorses, with accommodation for the trainer and stable staff. An electrical plant was built to supply the entire property with electricity. A landscape gardener from Melbourne oversaw the development of the grounds which included a lawn tennis court, putting green, large rose gardens and a fish pond complete with a bridge leading to an island. HG Noble also built a large billiard and smoking room on the northern side of the house and a private kindergarten near the northern boundary, known as Chellwood. The billiard room was demolished by a later owner, but the school has survived (with some alterations) and is now a private home in Sefton Avenue. Another improvement made to the property by HG Noble was the construction of the sturdy brick and sandstone wall along the Enderley and Alexandra Road boundaries. The wall is interspersed with substantial stone and cast iron pillars linked with heavy chains and extends east from Linstarfield along Enderley Road and into Alexandra Road. It continues until the northern boundary of 102 Alexandra Road which once marked the northeastern corner of Noble’s land. Various changes have been made to some sections of wall that front other properties in Enderley and Alexandra Road, however, the wall still provides physical evidence of the extent of HG Noble’s holding along these frontages. Photographic evidence reveals that the original entrance to Linstarfield was located on the corner of Alexandra and Enderley Roads. After HG Noble subdivided the land between Linstarfield and Alexandra Road for residential development in the mid-1920s, the current entrance on Enderley Road became the main entry point. The large sandstone piers and iron gates were presumably constructed around this time. Over an acre of land was retained around the house after the subdivision. As part of the subdivision, Sefton Avenue was created on the northern side of the property. The Nobles sold Linstarfield in 1928 to Alice Russell, the wife of a medical practitioner. In 1946, the house was sold once again, to Charles and Mary Whitehouse. The Whitehouses, who raised a family at Linstarfield, further subdivided the property and planned extensions and renovations to the house using the Brisbane architectural firm of Chambers and Ford. They also demolished the billiard room, which included a viewing gallery. The home was sold in 1982 after the death of Mary Whitehouse. 

Telegraph (Brisbane, Qld. : 1872 - 1947), Thursday 16 March 1922, page 4

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LINSTARFIELD.

MR. H. G. NOBLE AND HIS HORSES.

Impressions, of-a visit.

By "Lampus"

"Linstarfield," is a combination of the names of three of the horses— Lincome, Snow Star, and Fieldacre first raced in Brisbane by Mr. H. G. Noble, is an appropriate and euphonious name for that, gentleman's home and grounds. It is charmingly situated on one of the highest parts of the select suburb of Clayficld, and commands a fine view, extending to the waters of Moreton Bay. It embraces an area of six acres, and is admirably laid out, spacious lawns, flower beds, shade trees, and shrubs combining to make a picturesque setting (or the beautiful home they surround. It is strikingly evident from a stroll over the grounds that Mr. Noble has spared nothing to make the place a delight and a comfort. His aesthetic taste is personified in many ways in much that has been accomplished. Originally when the : property wis bought by Mr. Noble, an expert was brought from Melbourne to lay out the grounds, and the pioneering work has been well preserved, by the gardeners now regularly employed. Within such spacious grounds it was not surprising to find a well kopt tennis court,but, in addition, there is a fine putting ground, which would claim the admiration of golfers. ...............

Brisbane Courier (Qld. : 1864 - 1933), Saturday 22 May 1926, page 12

Daily Mail (Brisbane, Qld. : 1903; 1916 - 1926), Sunday 11 May 1924, page 4

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LINSTARFIELD ESTATE

Messrs. Clarence Noble and Co, and Charlton, Elliott, and Sons report a successful sale of the well-known Linstarfield estate, Ascot, which was offered by them on Saturday afternoon. Eighteen allotments found purchasers at an average price of £300 each. Three blocks on the corner of Alexandra road and Enderley road realised £400 each. The total sales for the afternoon amounted to £0195, which includes a cottage situated on the new road and sold for £1100. The rcmaining few allotments are expected to be disposed of privately. 

The Second Linstarfield Markwell Street Hamilton

Courier-Mail (Brisbane, Qld. : 1933 - 1954), Friday 21 September 1934, page 14

Telegraph (Brisbane, Qld. : 1872 - 1947), Tuesday 9 October 1934, page 22

Linstarfield The Third Kitchener Road Ascot

The above photographs from Realestate.com.au advertisement. 

Brisbane Telegraph (Qld. : 1948 - 1954), Tuesday 8 August 1950, page 41

AT AN EARLY DATE Sale By Public Auction

 KITCHENER RD. ASCOT TWO STORY BRICK RESIDENCE VACANT POSSESSION IN SEPTEMBER. is a superior modern brick Residence, with tiled roof, built Immediately prior to the war, under the supervision of Architect E, P. TREWERN. it is within a few minutes of the tram line, at Lancaster Road, and faces east, with a brick wall and lawn about 3 ft. above the street level. The entrance is by bricked oaths and steps to the front entrance porch and stairway hall to the upper floor. On the grbund floor:— Enclosed brick piazza 18 ft. x 11 ft., lounge 24 ft. x 15 ft., with brick hearth, dining room 15 ft. x 16 ft., kitchen 14 Vi ft. x 12 ft., fitted with stainless steel sink, extensive cupboards, electric cooker, maid's room, 11 ft. x 10 ft., kitchen porch, laundry. maid's bathroom, presses, &c. Upstairs the bedrooms are 20 ft. x 14 ft.. 16 ft. X 16 ft.. 8 ft. x 11 ft., 14 ft. 6 in. x 14 ft., and enclosed sleepout 10 ft. x 14ft.; particularly goad bathroom with tiled walls, floor, cupboards and lavatory. The whole house is carperted wall to wall throughout and is fitted with very modern convenience, sewered, hot water system, &c. The brick garage has been extended to take two cars and is now 35 ft. x 11 ft. The land has a frontage of 75 ft. by a depth of 132 ft., and the area is 36.8 perches. It is particularly level land with a very slight slope towards the street. The ground floor area of the house is approximately 1,890 sq. ft., and the upstairs portion Is approximately 1,400 sq. ft., making a total of aproximately 3,200 sq ft., plus garage of 385 sq. ft. The whole property is in first class order. This sale offers a unique opportunity to secure a beautiful home in an ideal locality, with vacant possession. Furniture will be sold subsequent to the property sale. 

Plans and full particulars: — SHARP & MUSGRAVE Auctioneers, 329 Queen Street, Phones B0141, B5050. 

Henry George Noble - A Queensland Coal Identity 

Darling Downs Gazette (Qld. : 1881 - 1922), Friday 5 November 1909, page 5

The following is taken from the document "Coal Mining Then and Now by The Ipswich City Council

Denmark Hill Conservation Park: People walking around the tracks on Denmark Hill can still see a few traces of former mining. The City Colliery was opened by a group of investors in 1912, in spite of initial opposition from the Council which did not want a mine so close to the city centre. A railway siding was built from the West Ipswich station to transport the coal and a tunnel was driven in below Moffat Street, reaching the Aberdare Seam. By 1919, the mine was employing 50 men. In that year, it was sold to Henry Noble, owner of the largest group of coal mines in Queensland, and renamed Noblevale No 6. Noble installed electricity, better ventilation and made other improvements. However the mine had problems including fires and an unsafe roof. Other tunnels were opened in later years but were never very successful. 

QUEENSLAND COAL - AN IMPORTANT TRANSACTION.

Mr. H. G. Noble, of Brisbane the well-known coalmaster, has completed the purchase on his own behalf of the celebrated Auld colliery properties Bogside (freehold), Fernie Creek, and Wattle Glen. Mr. Noble already about a quarter of the steam coal trade of the district, from the Swanbank and Noblevale properties and this addition to his interests will give him another 1000 acres of best coal lands in Queensland. The Auld mines are equipped with modern electric coal-cutting, machines and all upto date appliances and facilities for handling a very large output.

Daily Standard (Brisbane, Qld. : 1912 - 1936), Thursday 3 October 1935, page 10

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COAL FOR HIGHWAY

Part Played by H. G. Noble Pty. Ltd.

Another Brisbane firm associated with the successful campletion of the Hornibrook Highway is that of H. G. Noble, Pty., Ltd., which supplied the large quantities of coal necessary in such a big project

It was in 1893 that the late H. G. Noble established the present business under the name of H. G. Noble and Co. In addition to carrying and forwarding, a large lighterage business was soon built up, and the agency was secured for tho Bogside Swanbank and Belmont Collieries in the Ipswich district, Later Mr. Noble acquired the sole control of those collieries, the name of which was altered to Noblevale Collieries. In 1914 the colliery business was formed Into a limited liability, company, under tho name of H. G. Noble Pty., Limited.

It Is a remarkable coincidence that this business has been associated with the construction of every bridge built In Brisbane. The material for both the Albert (Indooroopllly) and Victoria Bridges was all lightered by the firm of H. G. Noble and Co., whilst the company has supplied the coal re quirements of the builders of the Grey street Bridge and the Hornlbrook Highway, and is now supplying coal for the construction of the new Kangaroo Point Bridge.

Courier-Mail (Brisbane, Qld. : 1933 - 1954), Friday 21 September 1934, page 12

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DEATH OF MR H. G. NOBLE

Notable Colliery Owner

The death occurred in Brisbane yesterday morning of Mr. H. G. Noble, proprietor of Noblevale collieries in the Ipswich district. Mr. Noble was born in London and came to Brisbane at an early age. At one time he was chief clerk for the shipping firm of Howard Smith, Ltd. He decided to enter business on his own account, and became agent for the collieries which he acquired later. Horse racing interested Mr.Noble as a sport, and he owned several good gallopers, including a notable performer in Lanius. He was a life member of the Royal Queensland Golf Club. Mr. Noble, as vice-consul for Finland, did much valuable service for that country, and was decorated with the order of the White Rose of Finland. He leaves a widow, three daughters, and a son. His remains were cremated at the Brisbane Crematorium yesterday.

Courier-Mail (Brisbane, Qld. : 1933 - 1954), Thursday 17 March 1949, page 5

Courier-Mail (Brisbane, Qld. : 1933 - 1954), Saturday 7 October 1950, page 3

Fairville or Maritimo Not Lost

 The Galloway's Hill - Norman Park reach of the Brisbane River has always had prominent architectural homes. In the 21st century it has become a prime real estate position with river and city views. The home that I am featuring here is the white red tiled roof "Fairville". Whilst there are two of similar colouring and style Fairville is situated on the river with landscaped terrace banks. 

Brisbane Heritage Register Citation

Built in 1925, for and by prominent builder George Henry Turner, this riverfront residence was first named ‘Fairville’. Turner built ‘Nazareth House’, the New Farm Powerhouse, the Light Street Tram Depot and the BAFS Building in the CBD. Architects Hall and Prentice chose the popular California Bungalow style for the design. The residence is a good example of this style. Unlike its neighbours, this house retains its relationship to the Brisbane River through the retention of its original boundaries and its scenic presentation at the back. History The land on which this residence was built was first sold to James Gibbon, of Brisbane, on 21 July 1864. Gibbon paid ?57.14. 3 for 20 acres and 1 rood of undeveloped riverside land described as Portion 5A in the Parish of Bulimba. For the next fifty years, the property was subdivided and resubdivided by a succession of owners, as the land was utilised for housing as part of the urban development of this section of the Balmoral district. Post-World War One, the local area had become known as Norman Park as it was a popular riverside picnic spot reached by crossing Norman Creek. Norman Park was still largely farmland, with Tom Like’s leather goods factory in Macrossan Avenue being the only secondary industry in the suburb. But the riverfront land of Norman Park was more developed as people sought to build homes that had views of the Brisbane River. A newspaper article described the river’s influence on Norman Park: “The Brisbane River is at once the crowning glory, the enduring charm, the chief asset, and the most exasperating bugbear of Balmoral and its neighbouring suburbs- Norman Park,… “ 1 On 7 November 1924, Subdivision 3 plus resubdivision A of Subdivion 2, both part of Block ‘C’ of Portion 5A were sold to master builder (licence number 2078) George Henry Turner. This is the site on which the residence, now known as ‘Martimo’, was constructed. George Turner was a builder and contractor. He was born 4 February 1887. He was educated at the Normal school in Fortitude Valley and in his early teens he moved to Redcliffe for the sea air to aid his poor health. He lived with his uncle who was a local storekeeper, undertaker and builder. George Henry Turner learnt the builder’s trade from his uncle. On 27 November 1912, George H. Turner married Annie Davis. They were to have three sons. Turner commenced his building trade c1916 when one his first contracts was the construction of St. Lawrence’s Presbytery in South Brisbane. He built a home in Vulture Street in East Brisbane for his parents and his two maiden sisters plus the neighbouring residence ‘Fairville’ that was his and Annie’s home. He was residing at ‘Fairville’ at the time of purchase. In 1924, he commenced work on ‘Nazareth House’ at 272 Wynnum North Road in Wynnum. The first part of ‘Nazareth House’ to be constructed was the ‘Old Ladies’ Section. In 1925, George Turner had been paid ?44,200 as the building contractor for ‘Nazareth House’. He went on to build the ‘Old Mens’ Section, the laundry, the swimming pool and in 1938, the Convent and Chapel. He did major building work for the Brisbane Municipal (later City) Council. In 1921, Turner constructed the Light Street Tram Depot at Date of Citation — September 2009 Page 2 Newstead and from 1926-28 he built the New Farm Powerhouse, which was the first modern powerhouse built for the Council. In 1924, George Henry Turner had purchased a block comprising 2 roods and 11 perches of land that fronted New Cleveland Road (later renamed Wynnum Road) and ran downhill to the banks of the Brisbane River. It was to be the site of a new home for the Turner family. The Brisbane architect firm of Hall and Prentice were hired to design the Turner home. Thomas Ramsey Hall was born in Brisbane in 1879. George Gray Prentice was born in Brisbane in 1891. Hall was employed in partnership firm of Francis R. Hall (his half-brother) and prominent architect Robin Dods from 1903-07. Prentice became an articled pupil of T.R. Hall and was still employed by Hall in 1917. In 1919, they formed the partnership of Hall and Prentice Architects. The firm continued until 1929. Among the prominent buildings designed by Hall and Prentice were Brisbane City Hall, the OK Building, the Tattersall’s Club, the Kodak Building (demolished) and Ascot Chambers (demolished). For George Turner, Hall and Prentice used the popular California Bungalow style, incorporating brick, arcading, hardwood floors, maple wood panelling and a terracotta tiled roof. The house included a number of features that had come into vogue in Brisbane during the Interwar period. “A two car garage was a prominent feature of the design, as were several garden structures.” George Henry Turner was the builder of his own home. 2 Hall & Prentice’s choice of design both matched the surrounding house styles and added to the picturesque view of Norman Park as seen from passing boats and ferries on the Brisbane River. A contemporary newspaper article noted: “The appearance of Norman Park is enhanced by groups of charming homes of this type [inset photograph of a Californian Bungalow style house]. From the riverside, they present a charming picture.” 3 Sometimes referred to as Spanish Mission style, it was widely popular in Queensland during the 1920s and 1930s. Its public popularity was attributed to “a mixture of the imported and local magazines, the growing influence of Hollywood films and publicity releases on the homes of the stars and finally, the search by the [Australian] architectural profession for an appropriate domestic style.” Turner’s new home made full use of its views of the Brisbane River. A private jetty was built on the riverbank while a large tennis court overlooked the river. 4 Turner is first listed as a resident of New Cleveland Road, Norman Park in the 1926 edition of The Queensland Post Office Directories. As these directories were surveyed the year prior to publication then the Turner residence would have been completed in 1925. This was the year (in May) that the tramline was extended to Balmoral so that Turner’s new home had the convenience of trams running past it along New Cleveland Road. The arrival of the tramline brought a building boom to the surrounding parts of Norman Park. A Brisbane City Council sewerage map from 1936 marks Turner’s residence as ‘Fairville’. He had transferred the house name from his Vulture Street, East Brisbane residence to his new Norman Park home. ‘Fairville’ featured a downstairs ballroom. During World War II, the family made camouflage nets in the ballroom. Its rear verandah provided views of New Farm Park and of the construction and completion of his New Farm Powerhouse project. But for George Henry Turner, the most enjoyable feature of his new home was its tennis court. His son Jack recalls that his father: “…was also a keen tennis player and only bought the land at Norman Park because the land was suitable to build a court and not as some people think for river views…”  ‘Fairville’ was one of the first large private homes to be connected to the domestic electricity grid. Electricity provided lighting for Turner’s games of night tennis. But the tennis court lights caused trouble for shipping on the Brisbane River. So, at night, a ship’s captain would blow the boat’s whistle to signal to Turner to switch off the court’s lights to enable the captain to navigate the channel. Because of its impressive lighting and his link to the New Farm Powerhouse, ‘Fairville’ was chosen by the Brisbane City Council to illustrate its Electricity Supply Department’s Deferred Payment Wiring System – brighten your home brochure distributed to Brisbane householders to encourage the domestic use of electrical power. In 1927, Turner put on a full night time lighting display at ‘Fairville’ to welcome the yacht carrying the Duke and Duchess of York (Prince Albert and Princess Elizabeth) on their Royal Visit to Brisbane. Eventually George H. Turner’s sons [George Henry (junior) born 1913, Ronald Gordon born 1918, John (Jack) Wesley born 1923)] joined him in the building trade so that his business was renamed G. H. Turner & Sons Builders. By 1930, the firm had won contracts to build Morrison House and the Plumridge (Sweets) Building in Barry Parade, Fortitude Valley. During World War II (1939-45), he contracted with four other builders to construct barracks for the Army at Redbank and barracks for the RAAF at the Archerfield aerodrome. Although a Methodist, George Henry Turner developed a lasting friendship with the Catholic Archbishop of Brisbane, James Duhig. As a result, Turner did much construction work for the Catholic Church. Apart from ‘Nazareth House, in 1939, he built a three-storey convent building behind the Mater Hospital in South Brisbane. Between 1940-46, he built the kitchen, operating theatre, intermediate wards and pathology unit of the Mater’s public hospital. He added classrooms, dormitories, the Domestic Science Block and the junior School to All Hallows School in Fortitude Valley. Two buildings for the Catholic school at Darra, the installation of a lift at St. Pius XII Seminary at Banyo plus alterations to ‘Wynberg’ (the Catholic Archbishop’s residence), All Hallows, St Bridget’s Convent at Kangaroo Point, St Mary’s at Ipswich. St Vincent’s Orphanage at Nudgee and four Palm Beach flats for nuns were all undertaken by G. H. Turner & Sons Builders. Archbishop Duhig called George Henry Turner “his Methodist Builder”. 6 In 1937, the property received was designated as No.114 New Cleveland Road, Norman Park. New Cleveland Road changed its name to Wynnum Road by the 1939 edition of The Queensland Post Office Directories. By 1946, this section of Norman Park was well developed, though the Interwar private hospital located between Turner’s home and the large residence ‘Wahroonga’ had gone. A small part of the property frontage was resumed by the Brisbane City Council for the widening of Wynnum Road in 1958. In later years, G. H. Turner & Sons Builders concentrated mainly on renovations. Work was completed on the McRobertsons Building, the MIN Building and Perry House in the City. One of his last contracts was the construction of the Oliver Plunkett Church at Cannon Hill. George Henry Turner died on 5 September 1970. He is buried at Balmoral Cemetery “on a hill spot he chose himself because he thought that it had the best view.” On 30 November 1972, ownership of the property passed to three family members – Ronald Gordon Turner, John Wesley Turner and George Henry Turner. John Wesley Turner and George Henry Turner became the sole owners on 10 May 1993. 7 Later that year the property left the hands of the Turner family. 

John Maxwell Garnsworthy and Jacqueline Garnsworthy became the new owners on 21 July 1993. They renamed it ‘Maritimo’ after John Garnsworthy’s (now demolished) family home in Melbourne. The Garnsworthys had architect Helen Josephson to undertake alterations and renovations to ‘Maritimo’, particularly its upper storey. Among the alterations were two dormer windows that were added to the top floor. In 1994, this residence was featured in the book The Queensland House – a roof over our heads where it was described as: “The mature development of the Bungalow style is demonstrated in this first-class house designed by Hall & Prentice and built by a master builder for his own use.” 8 From the 1970s, many of the properties that neighbour ‘Maritimo’ have been altered through re-subdivisions to allow late twentieth century ‘mansions’ to be built along the river. The properties have been further altered by the inclusion of easements to allow vehicular access to these new riverfront properties. ‘Maritimo’ remains one of the few Interwar Norman Park homes built along Wynnum Road that has retained its access to the Brisbane River.

In the above reference the home was situated on New Cleveland Road. In 1943 there is another reference to Fairview being on Wynnum Road. New Cleveland Road was remaned to Wynnum Road by the Brisbane City Council.

Brisbane Courier (Qld. : 1864 - 1933), Friday 9 March 1928, page 21

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FAREWELL PARTIES.

Mrs. G. H. Turner, who will leave shortly for England and the Continent, entertained a number of guests at her residence, Fairville, New Cavendish Road, Norman Park, yesterday afternoon.  The hostess, who wore a frock of ivory crepe de Chine, received her guests in the lounge, which was beautified with roses. Afternoon tea was served in the breakfast room, the tables being decorated with gaillardias and gerberas

The reference below is to where G. H. Turner completed extensions to Nazareth House at Wynnum.

Courier-Mail (Brisbane, Qld. : 1933 - 1954), Saturday 1 July 1939, page 4

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NAZARETH HOUSE

Additions To Be Opened

Additions to Nazareth House, Wvnnum, made at a cost of £34,850, will be blessed and opened by Archbishop Duhig at 3 p.m. to-morrow.

The original building, built 15 years ago, cost £44,200. At the home the Sisters of Nazareth care for aged and infirm people and orphans. The additions comprise a new convent and chapel combined, and a laundry block. Architecturally they harmonise with the simplified Romanesque style of the original buildings. Construction so far completed represents about one- third of the complete scheme. When all sections have been built the group of buildings will be in the shape of -a cross. Preliminary ~ work for Nazareth House began in 1921, when the Sisters of Nazareth, in the charge of Rev. Mother Cyprian, arrived in Brisbane from London. In 1924 plans for the first building unit were prepared by Messrs. Hennessy and Hennessy and Co., architects and consulting engineers, of Brisbane and Sydney.

NEW CHAPEL The first section, built by Mr. G. H. Turner, contractor, was for the aged and Infirm and orphan children. In January. 1938, additions were begun by G. H. Turner and Sons, contractors, under the supervision of Messrs. Hennessy and Hennessy. The chapel, which will accommodate 400 persons, is 123 feet long by 34 feet wide. Details of layout include a wide gallery, connecting by a cloister with the main floor of the original building. This plan will allow of infirm persons being wheeled into the chapel. Adjoining the main chapel is a nuns' chapel. Sisters' infirmaries in the convent overlook the chapel through windows. Adjoining the sanctuary are a priests' sacristry and a working sacristry. The convent comprises two floors and a basement, and its layout provides for a large vestibule, stair-hall, parlours, visitors' room, community room, refectory, kitchen, scullery, dormitories, and Infirmaries. 

The First Fairville - Vulture Street East Brisbane

George Henry Turner and Annie Turner first lived in a home called "Fairville" which was situated on the corner of Vulture Street and Rosslyn Street, East Brisbane. They moved to their new home "Fairville" Norman Park in 1925. This advertisement from the Brisbane Courier of November 10, 1928 has furnishings and goods being auctioned under instructions from W. Brown Esq.