Darra Archives - Centenary Today

Australia Post Rolls Out Dog Deterrent Measures in Darra

Australia Post has begun deploying citronella spray to Posties in Darra as part of a national response to the rising number of dog-related safety incidents.

Background of Safety Concerns

Australia Post has recorded a surge in dog-related incidents across the country, with 1,150 incidents reported in just six months between November 2024 and May 2025. Darra, alongside Bundamba and Toowoomba, has been identified as one of the most impacted locations in Queensland, which recorded a total of 388 cases during this period.

Despite previous public appeals urging dog owners to contain their animals, these efforts have not led to a decline in aggressive encounters. Many incidents have required medical attention and have prompted internal reviews of current safety protocols.

New Safety Measure Rolled Out

To address the rising threat, Australia Post is issuing a water-based citronella spray to all delivery personnel as a defensive measure. The initiative began with a two-phase trial in high-risk areas, where the spray was found to be effective in 80% of trials, causing dogs to retreat and allowing the worker time to move to safety.

The rollout prioritises suburbs like Darra and will expand to all delivery staff by late July, including parcel delivery drivers. All staff will receive training on proper use, with a focus on deploying the spray only as a final line of defence.

Delivery-Related Risks Explained

Data shows that 40% of dog-related incidents occurred on private property, with half of those triggered when a front door was opened during parcel delivery. Street-based incidents made up 57% of cases, with roaming or escaped dogs accounting for the majority. Australia Post has also flagged 35,000 dog-related hazards in its digital systems, representing a 20% rise since late 2024.

Alternatives and Prevention Campaigns

Australia Post has reinforced its dog safety campaign through a prevention-based program called “PAWS for Delivery,” encouraging dog owners to contain their pets using a three-step process: sit, stay, and secure. The organisation also recommends the use of 24/7 Parcel Lockers or local Post Offices as safer alternatives when pet containment is not guaranteed.

Worker Feedback on Safety Tools

A Postie and former veterinarian nurse shared their experience of being bitten during a routine delivery, resulting in injury and prolonged physical impact. They stated the citronella spray offers added peace of mind, particularly when working in suburbs with high incident rates like Darra.

Dog deterrent used in Darra — *Photo Credit: Australia Post*

Next Steps and Ongoing Review

Following the full distribution of the citronella spray, Australia Post will monitor incident data and continue reviewing risk protocols. The goal is to balance safety measures with proactive engagement from the community to reduce hazards.

Published 8-June-2025

Woman Charged With Manslaughter Over Baby’s Death in Darra

A 63-year-old woman has been charged with manslaughter following the death of an 11-month-old boy in Darra last year.

On April 3, 2024, emergency services were called to an Ashridge Road residence in Darra after reports that an infant was unconscious and not breathing. The baby was declared deceased at the scene.

The Inala Child Protection and Investigation Unit established Operation Whiskey Nocturne to investigate the death. After a year-long investigation, police have charged the Darra woman with manslaughter.

The accused is scheduled to appear before Richlands Magistrates Court on June 4, 2025.

Queensland Police have referenced the case under number QP2400579111.

Heritage Cement Site for Sale in Darra

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A heritage-listed former cement factory at 16 Station Avenue, Darra, has been listed for sale, offering redevelopment potential in a key industrial corridor.

Historic Cement Works in Darra Offered to Market

A prominent industrial property in Darra with strong historical significance is now on the market. The site at 16 Station Avenue, formerly home to the Queensland Cement and Lime Company, represents a rare opportunity for developers, with flexible zoning and substantial redevelopment potential.

Origins of the Darra Cement Works

The Queensland Cement and Lime Company was officially incorporated in 1914. The company began operations at the Darra plant in 1917. The site was selected for its strategic location as it was close to a railway line and local deposits of shale and clay. It was also accessible to the Ipswich coalfields and the Gore limestone supplies. This facility played a central role in Queensland’s industrial development throughout the 20th century.

Darra heritage cement site — Photo Credit: *Google Maps*

Technological Advancements and Infrastructure

Early infrastructure included a kiln, silos, mills, and a purpose-built power station, all with machinery imported from Britain. The powerhouse, still standing today, was vital at a time when Darra lacked access to the city’s electricity grid.

The company later connected to the City Electric Light Co. as Brisbane’s grid expanded. In 1939, further expansion included new office and laboratory buildings, with design input from noted architect Mervyn Rylance.

Later innovations saw the company transition from limestone to dead coral sourced from Moreton Bay, which was transported via the Oxley Wharf. A 3.5-kilometre conveyor belt linking the wharf to the factory was constructed in the 1960s, further streamlining operations.

Local Role and Employment

The company provided materials for major Queensland infrastructure, including Brisbane City Hall, William Jolly Bridge, the Hornibrook Highway, and multiple dam and bridge projects. The Darra factory also served as a major employer, especially for post-war immigrants resettling from nearby Wacol East Dependant Holding Camp.

Queensland Cement and Lime Company — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Current Offering and Location Advantages

The 930 square metre facility sits on a site zoned for flexible commercial or retail use, with potential to increase the gross floor area to 1,240 square metres, subject to council approval.

The site is vacant and will require a full fitout. Located beside the BTP Westlink Green Business Park and the Darra Bowls Club, it is positioned 200 metres from Darra railway station and in proximity to Jindalee DFO, Monier Village, and key transport links including the Centenary Highway and Ipswich Motorway.

The property includes on-site parking and is expected to appeal to both weekday commercial users and weekend visitors due to its strategic position within an active mixed-use zone.

Published 24-Apr-2025

Darra Banh Mi Shops Spark Brisbane Food Debate

Two neighbouring shops in Darra, Darra Takeaway and Bun Bun Pork Roll, have become the centre of a heated debate among Brisbane food lovers, each claiming to serve the city’s best banh mi.

The Darra Rivalry

Darra Banh Mi Shops Spark Brisbane Food Debate — *Photo Credit:* *Tripadvisor*

Railway Parade in Darra has become a culinary hotspot, with Darra Takeaway and Bun Bun Pork Roll attracting large crowds, particularly during lunchtime. A recent taste test revealed that while both shops offer quality banh mi, opinions on which is superior are strongly divided.

*Pork Banh Mi at Bun Bun Pork Roll*
*Photo Credit: Google Map*

Findings noted that Darra Takeaway presented a lighter, fresher banh mi with shredded chicken and pickled vegetables, however, the bread lacked the desired crunch. Bun Bun Pork Roll, on the other hand, offered a larger portion with chunky chicken and crispier bread. Still, the strong butter and mayonnaise flavour was criticised for overpowering the fresh ingredients. The Bun Bun Pork Roll was ultimately given a slightly higher rating, but suggested that better banh mi can be found elsewhere in Brisbane.

Community Opinions and Online Discussions

The debate extends beyond online forums and community groups buzzing with opinions. Many residents strongly favour Darra Takeaway, with some claiming it is undeniably the best in Brisbane.

One online user, who used to work with Vietnamese pharmacists, stated that it was the preferred banh mi location for their colleagues. Others highlighted the pork and gravy rolls as a standout item. Online discussions also suggested that Fat Carrot and Kim Thanh in West End are acceptable alternatives for those unable to make the trip to Darra.

A general community inquiry was also made online, asking for the best Banh Mi locations in the Brisbane area. This shows a high level of community interest in the food.

Local Impact

The popularity of these banh mi shops has significantly impacted the local Darra community, drawing customers from across Brisbane. The cash-only policy at Darra Takeaway has been noted, requiring customers to plan ahead. The high volume of customers visiting these shops highlights their significance to the local economy.

The strong opinions and loyal customer bases of both establishments create a vibrant atmosphere in the area, contributing to Darra’s reputation as a destination for authentic and delicious food.

Published Date 14-March-2025

Charter Hall Plans $350m Logistics Estate in Darra After Key Acquisition

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Charter Hall Group’s $13 billion Charter Hall Prime Industrial Fund (CPIF) has purchased a 17.5-hectare industrial site on Harcourt Road, Darra, for $80.55 million. The acquisition will pave the way for a $350 million logistics precinct, reinforcing the company’s investment in Brisbane’s southwest.

The newly acquired site is adjacent to Charter Hall’s existing $250 million ConnectWest Industrial Estate, which houses major tenants such as Australia Post, Goodman Fielder, and Cascade. With bulk earthworks already completed, CPIF is preparing to lease the site to tenants looking for large-scale logistics and industrial space.

Charter Hall Darra — *Photo Credit: Vaughan Constructions*

Strategic Location and Development Plans

The Darra site sits at a key transport junction, connecting the Ipswich and Centenary Motorways, making it an attractive option for third-party logistics providers, manufacturers, and direct-to-customer businesses. Charter Hall plans to develop approximately 100,000 square metres of gross lettable area (GLA) within the estate, offering flexible configurations to meet tenant demand.

Charter Hall Managing Director and CEO David Harrison highlighted the significance of the project, stating that the acquisition enhances the company’s capacity to cater to businesses requiring lettable areas ranging from 10,000 to 100,000 square metres.

Brisbane’s Industrial Market Outlook

The demand for high-quality industrial space in Brisbane remains strong. According to JLL’s Brisbane Industrial Market Report for Q3 2024, 227,500 square metres of new industrial developments were completed in the region—more than double the 10-year quarterly average. Prime net face rents in Brisbane’s southern precinct are forecast to rise to $152 per square metre annually, with steady growth projected through 2028.

Despite broader economic uncertainties, Brisbane’s industrial sector continues to attract investment, with Charter Hall divesting smaller assets worth $500 million over the past 18 months to focus on larger-scale developments like the Darra logistics estate.

Charter Hall acquires $80.55m industrial site. — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Next Steps for the Project

With the site now in Charter Hall’s portfolio and ready for leasing, the company is set to commence development immediately. The project will provide modern, high-quality logistics infrastructure catering to evolving business needs, strengthening the role of Darra as a key industrial hub in Brisbane’s southwest.

Published 14-Feb-2025

Fire Destroys House in Darra, Police Investigate

Photo Credit: gofundme

On October 3, 2024, a house fire in Darra prompted a police investigation. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning on Pannard St.

Emergency services received a call just before 3:30 AM reporting a structure fire. Upon arrival, fire crews found the house engulfed in flames. The Queensland Fire Department dispatched six crews to combat the blaze.

According to a Queensland Fire Department spokesman, the fire was contained to its area of origin by 3:50 AM. However, it took until 5:30 AM for the fire to be fully extinguished. Despite the firefighters’ efforts, the house was gutted by the fire.

Photo Credit: Facebook / Cristina Bowers

A Queensland Ambulance Service spokeswoman reported that no patients were found at the scene, indicating no injuries resulted from the incident.

The circumstances of the fire have led police to declare a crime scene at the Pannard St address. Fire investigators are scheduled to examine the site to determine the cause of the blaze.

As the investigation is ongoing, authorities have not released any further details about potential causes or suspects. The incident has left the house severely damaged.

Published 3-October-2024

Darra-based Company Wins $30M Contract for Queensland Train Manufacturing Program

Darra-based company Knorr-Bremse has secured a $30 million contract as part of the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program (QTMP).

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The global leader in on-board rail manufacturing systems will supply climate control systems for Queensland’s fleet of 65 six-car passenger trains, bolstering local manufacturing and creating new jobs.

Under the terms of the contract, Knorr-Bremse will expand its existing service facility in Darra to produce 520 climate control units. The project encompasses mechanical, refrigeration, and electrical assembly work, and is set to create eight new full-time jobs for Queenslanders.

Minister for Manufacturing, Glenn Butcher, emphasised the advanced nature of the technology, stating, “This world-leading air filtration technology will provide sterilised air inside the trains and eliminate both airborne and surface bacteria.”

Mr Butcher added, “Under Labor, train manufacturing in Queensland has a proud history and a bright future. Our $9.5 billion Queensland Train Manufacturing is delivering opportunities for local businesses and jobs for Queenslanders.”

The climate control systems offer significant environmental benefits, including the use of long-life air filters that could reduce landfill waste by up to 50 percent. Equipped with cutting-edge fan, compressor, and heat exchanger technology, the systems are designed for reduced maintenance, ensuring increased service time for the new trains.

Knorr-Bremse, which employs 450 people across Australia and nearly 30,000 globally, is renowned for its expertise in air conditioning, doors, and electronic management systems for trains.

This contract is part of the larger Queensland Train Manufacturing Program, which is expected to support 1,300 jobs throughout the project’s lifespan.

Downer, the QTMP project director, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s local focus. Kamal Habibullah, Executive General Manager at Downer, said, “Downer is proud to be delivering the QTMP project, providing multiple opportunities to Queensland-based businesses.”

Read: The Hooper Legacy in Darra: From Wartime Correspondence to Community Cornerstone

The awarding of this contract to Knorr-Bremse underscores Queensland’s commitment to strengthening local manufacturing and creating jobs within the state’s expanding rail industry. It represents a significant step forward in the state’s efforts to revitalise its train manufacturing sector and support local businesses.

Published 20-September-2024

The Hooper Legacy in Darra: From Wartime Correspondence to Community Cornerstone

Photo Credit: State Library of Queensland

Alan and Nancy Hooper, then a young couple during World War II, transformed their wartime correspondence into a thriving business, Hooper’s Supermarket, located in the heart of Darra. This family store served the community and celebrated the couple’s journey from the turmoil of war to peace and prosperity.

Love and Letters During War

Alan’s wartime saga began in the dense jungles of New Guinea, where he served with the 1st Papuan Infantry Battalion (1PIB). Under the command of Major William Watson, a New Zealander, the battalion was composed of Papuan privates, non-commissioned officers, and Australian officers like Alan.

Allan Hooper in the war — *Photo Credit: State Library of Queensland*

During the advance of the Japanese forces, the Papuan soldiers and their allies played a crucial role in conducting scouting and surveillance missions. Their exceptional natural bushcraft skills proved to be a significant advantage in these operations.

Alan’s letters home provided a vivid description of the challenging conditions and the camaraderie amongst the troops.

Nancy’s Homefront Challenges

Back in Brisbane, Nancy O’Neill, then Alan’s fiancée, faced her own set of challenges. Only 19 when she bid Alan goodbye, Nancy quickly adapted to wartime life by joining the Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force (WAAAF).

Nancy Hooper during World War II — *Photo Credit: National Archives of Australia*

Her role took her to various locations, including the RAAF Sandgate Base and the No. 1 Bombing and Gunnery School at Evans Head, New South Wales. Through her service, Nancy developed a robust independence and a deep sense of duty, traits that shone through in her letters filled with news of home and encouragement.

The Power of Correspondence

Alan and Nancy were married in June 1943, two months after Nancy was discharged from WAAAF. They tied the knot while Alan was on leave from his duties in New Guinea during World War II.

Throughout the war, the couple exchanged letters to stay connected despite being on different continents. These letters were more than just affectionate gestures; they were lifelines that connected their hearts. They shared over 500 letters, detailing their wartime experiences, from deepest longings to daily hardships.

Alan’s correspondences were notable for his insightful observations during critical military operations and his candid reflections on the camaraderie and loss amongst his comrades.

One poignant anecdote shared in a letter dated August 1942 recounts Alan foraging for food with a U.S. aircrew whose plane had crashed nearby. This showcases his resourcefulness and the unexpected friendships forged in the face of adversity.

Similarly, Nancy’s letters often contained light-hearted yet vivid descriptions of her life in the military, from losing her wedding rings in the surf to her joy at receiving replacements sent by Alan.

Allan and Nancy Hooper letters — Photo Credit: Nancy’s letter to Allan
State Library of Queensland

Allan's letter to Nancy — *Photo Credit: State Library of Queensland*

Legacy of Love and Service

Returning from the war, Alan and Nancy wasted no time starting a new chapter. They pooled their resources and opened Hoopers Supermarket in Darra. This business was more than just a means to an economic end; it fulfilled their dream to create something lasting and beneficial for their community. The supermarket quickly became a local hub, where stories and support were as plentiful as the goods on the shelves.

Nancy’s untimely death in 1975 from breast cancer was a profound loss for Alan and the Darra community she had come to cherish. However, the legacy of the Hoopers’ love and joint venture persisted.

The correspondence between Alan and Nancy Hooper is now preserved at the John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland.

Published 15-April-2024

Netflix Spotlight on Local Legend: Darra’s Que Huong Restaurant

Local viewers of the Netflix show Boy Swallows Universe likely noticed Darra’s Que Huong Restaurant when it appeared on screen.

Read: Abandoned Asylum: The Haunting Legacy of Wolston Park in Wacol

Keen observers would have seen that the Vietnamese restaurant was used as a filming location and featured in some scenes in the second episode of the series.

The Netflix series was inspired by the novel Boy Swallows Universe by Trent Dalton, which tells the story of protagonist Eli Bell growing up in 1980s Darra and navigating its complications.

Though Que Huong enjoyed its Netflix debut, the restaurant has been a staple in the Darra community long before the cameras arrived. It has developed a devoted customer base as a well-known restaurant in the Darra area for years.

Photo credit: Que Huong Restaurant/Facebook

More than a restaurant, Que Huong provides the backdrop for traditions, connections, and memories spanning generations of locals. For many Darra families, this unassuming eatery is where their history together has grown with each visit over the years.

Their signature dishes like chilli crab, prawns and barbecue duck have garnered quite a fanbase over the decades. Beyond these specialties, Que Huong boasts an extensive menu filled with salad dishes, soups, hotpots, and rice meals.

What makes the restaurant even more special is its retro vibes – the decor is straight out of the 1990s with mirror ball, coloured lights, and a mural depicting Halong Bay.

Photo credit: Que Huong Restaurant/Google Maps

With its mouthwatering Vietnamese fare, it’s no wonder Que Huong has a dedicated customer base who don’t mind that the restaurant is usually packed with diners.

The spacious interior can easily accommodate large groups and families. Whilst Que Huong enjoyed its time in the Netflix spotlight, it remains a darling among locals as one of Brisbane’s best Vietnamese restaurants.

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For fans of the book or show who want to get a taste of the setting, Que Huong offers the perfect opportunity to dine in a place that seems frozen in time.

Published 5-February-2024

Developer Hopes to Activate Warrender Street with Mixed-Use Development

A new five-storey mixed-use development has been proposed for Warrender Street in Darra, featuring residential units, restaurants, offices, and retail spaces.

Read: Designs Unveiled for Retirement Village at McLeod Country Golf Club

Designed by architecture firm Refresh Design, the development aims to activate the area with new housing, dining, and commercial options.

Located at 45 Warrender Street, the proposed development will have two main buildings across 2,744 sqm of total floor area. Building 1 will be 820 sqm, whilst the larger Building 2 is planned at 2,422 sqm.

Site plan (Photo credit: Refresh Design)

Between the two structures, there will be space for eight retail shops (644 sqm in total), four commercial office tenancies (282 sqm), and 12 rooming accommodation units (523 sqm) on the ground floor.

The upper levels include a mix of four single-story units, four loft-style units, and four two-story townhouse units for residential spaces totaling over 1,400 sqm.

Outdoor areas are a focus as well, with 498 sqm of private open space and 113 sqm of communal courtyard. Significant deep planting, landscaping, and parking spots round out the site plan.

The proposal incorporates 31 on-site parking spaces to accommodate residents and visitors. Refuse storage and collection has also been addressed with a dedicated area for RCV pickup service within the site.

For vehicle access, there will be two entry points to the development from Warrender Street via new crossovers to be constructed. The planned parking and servicing arrangements aim to fully support the mixed-use complex onsite once operational.

45 Warrender St, Darra (Photo credit: Google Street View)

According to planners, the proposed development utilises several design elements to minimise the perceived size and scale across the site. Careful articulation, varied roof pitches, and a mix of exterior materials and finishes help break up building mass. An active ground floor and upper level balconies facing the street frontage further reduce bulk whilst enhancing street activation and casual surveillance opportunities.

Read: Proposed Childcare Centre in Sinnamon Park to Repurpose Heritage Church

The proposed mixed-use complex aims to bring new housing diversity and commercial activity through its blend of shops, offices, restaurants and residential spaces conveniently located near public transport in Darra. With city approval, construction could begin soon on the development.

Published 7-January-2024