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145-Year-Old Kelvin Grove Landmark Transformed into Speech Therapy Hub

Photo Credit: Christopher Frederick Jones, CFJ Photography

A 145-year-old heritage building in Kelvin Grove has been given a remarkable second chance, thanks to a thoughtful restoration project by Lockhart-Krause Architects that has transformed the landmark into a specialised children’s speech therapy centre.

The building, which dates back to the 1880s, has witnessed decades of change throughout Brisbane’s history. Originally constructed during Queensland’s colonial period, it has served the community in various capacities over the years – housing everything from a confectionery shop and hotel to a private home, music store, and multiple restaurants.

**252 Kelvin Grove Rd before renovation**
Photo Credit: Christopher Frederick Jones, CFJ Photography

However, time hadn’t been kind to the structure. Years of modifications, including a Spanish Mission-style facade added during the 1930s, had hidden much of the building’s original architectural character. The sandstone brickwork, ornate window details, and classical proportions that defined its heritage value had been obscured by unsympathetic renovations.

Enter Lockhart-Krause Architects, a practice founded in 2018 that specialises in collaborative, people-focused design. Director Jesse Lockhart-Krause and his team saw an opportunity to breathe new life into the structure whilst respecting its historical significance.

**252 Kelvin Grove Rd after renovation, now housing Brisbane Therapy Collective’s office**
Photo Credit: Christopher Frederick Jones, CFJ Photography

The renovation approach was carefully considered, balancing preservation with practical modernisation. Rather than simply restoring the building to its original state, the architects created a thoughtful dialogue between old and new. One section preserves the heritage character, whilst a contemporary addition complements the original structure’s scale, materials, and architectural rhythm.

For the Brisbane Therapy Collective, the client behind the project, the transformation has exceeded expectations. The ground floor now features a welcoming reception area positioned along the original sandstone boundary wall, creating a naturally lit waiting space for families. Twelve consulting suites and staff facilities occupy the upper level, strategically positioned to maximise natural light and provide views towards Mount Coot-tha and Mount Nebo.

Photo Credit: Christopher Frederick Jones, CFJ Photography

Perhaps most impressively, the previously dark basement has been opened up to create dedicated spaces for indoor and outdoor play therapy and music therapy sessions – crucial facilities for children’s developmental support.

The restoration work has revealed hidden gems within the building’s bones. Original sandstone walls have been exposed, timber joists that had been concealed for decades are now visible features, and a heritage brick fireplace has been lovingly restored. These historical elements now work alongside modern functional upgrades to create spaces that are both characterful and practical.

The project represents more than just an architectural achievement – it’s a model for how heritage conservation can serve contemporary community needs. By housing a children’s therapy centre, the building continues its long tradition of serving local families, whilst the sensitive restoration approach ensures its historical significance is preserved for future generations.

Lockhart-Krause Architects describes their philosophy as architecture “focused on people”, and this project exemplifies that approach. The collaboration between architects, builders Charles Warren Constructions, and the Brisbane Therapy Collective demonstrates how heritage buildings can be successfully adapted for modern healthcare delivery.

For Kelvin Grove residents, the project signals positive change in their neighbourhood. The building once again stands as a proud example of Brisbane’s architectural heritage, whilst providing essential services for local families. It’s a reminder that our historic buildings don’t need to be museum pieces – with thoughtful design, they can continue to play active roles in community life.

The success of this adaptive reuse project offers hope for other heritage buildings facing uncertain futures. It proves that with vision, collaboration, and respect for history, Brisbane’s architectural treasures can continue to serve new generations whilst maintaining their connection to the past.

Published 30-July-2025

Century-Old Paddington Home Emerges From Decades Of Abandonment

A remarkable home of the past in Paddington has changed hands, with a local family securing a historic property that had sat untouched for three decades.

The two-bedroom home at 31 Perrott Street attracted significant attention when it went to auction last Monday, drawing a crowd of 150 onlookers eager to witness the sale of what many considered a neighbourhood curiosity.

The property, which occupies a prominent 473-square-metre corner block with elevated views, had remained within the same family for over 100 years before going under the hammer. However, it had been vacant since the 1990s, creating an air of mystery that captured local imagination.

Stories circulated among residents about the abrupt departure of the home’s last occupants, with some claiming the dining table remained set as if the family had simply stepped out one day and never returned.

Ray White Paddington’s Max Hadgelias, who co-handled the sale, described the auction turnout as one of their largest on record. The bidding opened dramatically at $2.75 million, immediately reducing the field of 15 registered bidders to just four serious contenders.

Within minutes of being declared on the market at $2.95 million, the property sold for $3.1 million to purchasers who plan extensive renovations.

According to Hadgelias, the successful buyers were drawn to both the location and the sweeping views the elevated position provides. The local family outbid interest from Brisbane, interstate, and international buyers who had inspected the unique property.

The extended vacancy followed the death of a family member in the 1990s, after which the property remained empty whilst the family deliberated over its future. Hadgelias noted that the home represented such a treasured family asset that the decision to sell took considerable time.

Preparing the long-abandoned house for public inspection proved no small task, requiring a two-person crew working for two weeks to make it suitable for viewing. The interior revealed decades of accumulated belongings, with items dating back to the 1960s, 70s, and 80s creating an almost museum-like atmosphere.

Despite its lengthy vacancy, the property’s interior paintwork had weathered surprisingly well, though the exterior showed clear signs of neglect from Brisbane’s harsh weather conditions.

The abundance of period furniture and household items attracted considerable interest from antique enthusiasts, though these contents were not included in the sale. The vendors retain ownership of these items and will decide which pieces to keep before potentially selling the remainder.

The sale formed part of a busy week for Brisbane auctions, with 177 properties scheduled across the city. Preliminary results showed a clearance rate of 56 per cent from 107 reported outcomes, with 11 auctions withdrawn from the programme.

For Paddington residents, the sale marks the end of an era for a property that had become part of local folklore, whilst simultaneously representing the beginning of a new chapter as the historic home prepares for restoration and renewed occupancy.

The successful transaction demonstrates the continued appeal of Paddington’s character homes, even those requiring significant investment to restore them to liveable condition.

Published 28-July-2025

Paddington’s Fratelli Welcomes World-Renowned Pizza Chef Vincenzo Abbate

Fratelli, a beloved pizzeria in Paddington, is about to get even better, and locals have plenty to look forward to. The neighbourhood favourite is teaming up with none other than Vincenzo Abbate, one of the world’s most celebrated pizza chefs.

Read: Beyond Pizza & Pasta: Paddington’s Fratelli Offers Cheese and Pasta-Making Classes

This marks Vincenzo’s first-ever pizzeria in Australia, and he’s chosen Brisbane as his base. Known for winning top honours at The Best Pizza Awards in Milan and leading pizza-making workshops that attract international crowds, Vincenzo brings global acclaim and decades of experience to the local dining scene.

As part of a long-term partnership, Vincenzo will regularly travel to Brisbane to work closely with the Fratelli team — helping refine the menu, elevate techniques, and introduce new flavour profiles. His signature touch promises to take an already popular pizzeria to new heights.

Fratelli has earned cult status since opening in 2023, thanks to its warm hospitality, rustic interiors, and commitment to top-quality ingredients. At the forefront is Cristian Salvati, also known for his work with the Tamborine Cheese Factory and Byron Bay Cheese Company, so the cheese game here has always been strong.

Photo credit: Fratelli Paddington/Facebook

With Vincenzo now part of the family, Fratelli is set to offer something truly special: a menu that honours traditional Italian methods while embracing fresh, creative twists. Expect hand-crafted dough, inventive toppings, and pizzas that reflect both the authenticity of Naples and the spirit of Paddington.

Fratelli has quickly built a reputation as one of Paddington’s go-to spots for authentic Italian fare, best known for their indulgent burrata, house-made focaccia, and crowd-favourite tiramisu. Since opening, the restaurant has struck a balance between rustic charm and refined flavours, offering a menu that feels both comforting and elevated.

Read: Tellus Bar & Dining Brings Latin Flavour To Brisbane’s Historic Barracks

For locals, Fratelli by Vincenzo Abbate isn’t just a new name — it’s the start of an exciting new era in pizza.

Published 21-July-2025

Broncos Legend Renouf Penalised After Red Hill Drink Driving Incident

Photo Credit: National Rugby League

Steve Renouf, a prominent figure in Brisbane rugby league, has faced consequences after being caught drink driving in our local Red Hill neighbourhood earlier this month.

Former Brisbane Broncos centre, 55, appeared before Brisbane Magistrates Court on Wednesday where he pleaded guilty to driving under the influence of alcohol. The incident occurred during a routine traffic stop in Red Hill on the evening of 1 July.

According to court proceedings, Renouf was returning home from socialising at a Paddington licensed venue when police conducted a random breath test at approximately 11pm. Officers immediately detected signs of intoxication, with Renouf appearing unsteady and having difficulty speaking clearly.

The situation became complicated when Renouf attempted to leave the scene after providing an initial positive breath test result. Police placed him in custody and transported him to the watch house, where further testing revealed a blood alcohol reading of 0.197 per cent – nearly four times the legal limit.

Defence lawyer Angelo Venardos explained to the court that his client had been experiencing a hypoglycaemic episode at the time, related to his Type 1 diabetes condition. Venardos noted that police recognised Renouf’s medical situation and provided appropriate assistance, including glucose supplies whilst he was in custody.

The former footballer, known by his playing nickname “The Pearl,” enjoyed a stellar career with the Broncos. He finished his career with a club record 142 tries in 183 games and was a four-time premiership winner in 1992, 1993, 1997 and 1998, according to the National Rugby League Hall of Fame.

Magistrate proceedings included character references from several prominent figures, including NRL coach Wayne Bennett. Venardos emphasised Renouf’s integrity and community standing, describing him as someone who had undertaken serious reflection about his actions.

The court heard that Renouf had no prior traffic offences and had voluntarily completed a traffic offending programme following the incident. Magistrate imposed a $1,200 fine and an 11-month driving disqualification, though no conviction was recorded.

Following his court appearance, Renouf acknowledged his mistake and accepted full responsibility for his actions. He recognised his role model status within the community and apologised to anyone who may have been disappointed by his behaviour.

The incident has had professional consequences, with Queensland Health confirming that Renouf has resigned from his position on the North West Hospital and Health Service Board.

Renouf expressed gratitude to police for their professional handling of his medical situation during the arrest and emphasised that such behaviour would not occur again.

Published 16-July-2025

Alleged Stolen Vehicle Collision Leaves Kelvin Grove Resident’s Property Damaged

Photo Credit: Facebook / Anonymous participant

A Friday night collision involving an allegedly stolen vehicle has left a Kelvin Grove resident dealing with significant property damage after the crash destroyed their front fence and damaged a wall.

The incident unfolded just after 10:20pm on 4 July at the intersection of Herston Road and Picot Street, when a white Suzuki Swift and blue Mitsubishi Triton collided in what would become a significant police matter.

Photo Credit: Facebook / Anonymous participant 878

According to Queensland Police Service, both occupants of the Suzuki have been charged with unlawful use of a motor vehicle. The extensive list of charges paint a picture of an evening that went dramatically wrong for the pair.

The driver, a 28-year-old Mitchelton man, faces a lengthy court battle ahead with charges including receiving tainted property, stealing, dangerous operation of a vehicle, and driving under the influence. He’s also been charged with the unusual offence of having his face masked with intent to commit an indictable offence, as well as drug possession charges and driving whilst disqualified.

His passenger, a 22-year-old woman from Numinbah Valley in the Gold Coast hinterland, faces charges of unlawful use of a motor vehicle and stealing petrol.

The crash’s impact extended well beyond the vehicles involved, with the corner property bearing the brunt of the collision. Social media images from the scene showed the complete destruction of the resident’s front fence, leaving debris scattered across the footpath.

Photo Credit: Facebook / Anonymous participant

For the innocent driver of the Mitsubishi Triton, the night ended more fortunately. Queensland Ambulance Service confirmed they escaped the collision without injury and face no charges in connection with the incident.

The Suzuki’s female passenger complained of back pain following the crash but didn’t require hospital transport, according to ambulance service representatives.

The legal proceedings are now set to unfold over the coming months. The Mitchelton man has been remanded in custody and is expected to appear before Brisbane Magistrates Court on 25 July. The woman from Numinbah Valley will face court separately on 5 August.

The intersection of Herston Road and Picot Street returned to normal traffic flow following the emergency response, but for one Kelvin Grove resident, the cleanup and repair work is just beginning.

Published 7-July-2025

Red Hill Resilience: Broncos Rally from 18 Down in Round 18 Thriller

Photo Credit: Screencap from Broncos highlights video

A never-say-die Broncos, missing several stars but led by Ezra Mam and Billy Walters, and inspired by a huge team effort in the last 20 minutes, turned an 18–0 nightmare into a 22–18 dream.

How the turnaround happened

For the first hour the Bulldogs owned the contest. Early tries to Marcelo Montoya and Matt Burton, followed by a powerhouse charge from Viliame Kikau, had Cameron Ciraldo’s men cruising at 18-0. The Broncos looked flat without Origin stars Payne Haas, Patrick Carrigan and Reece Walsh, and a spilled bomb from Cobbo summed up a clunky opening.

Everything changed in the 63rd minute when halfback Adam Reynolds varied his kicking angles and Ezra Mam began attacking Canterbury’s outside shoulders. Rookie winger Josiah Karapani finished a sweeping left-edge raid to light the fuse, and five minutes later Delouise Hoeter slid over on the opposite flank. Reynolds missed the kick (his only miss of the night) leaving the Broncos two scores away, and when Billy Walters ducked out of dummy-half to score beside the posts the scores were locked with ten to play.

The decider came soon after: Kotoni Staggs punched through weary middle defenders, Mam straightened the line and Piakura – cleared of a head-knock moments earlier – thundered over. Reynolds slotted the extras and, despite a last-gasp Burton bomb, Brisbane’s line held firm.

Round 18 heroes in maroon and gold

Photo Credit: Screencap from Broncos highlight video

Ezra Mam – three try assists and two line-break involvements in that whirlwind comeback.
Adam Reynolds – 3/4 conversions, 386 kicking metres and the composure that sparked the revival.
Selwyn Cobbo – recovered from an early error to notch 208 running metres and two tackle-breaks at fullback.
Brendan Piakura – match-winning try, 33 tackles and relentless line speed on the right edge.

Team Stats

Team Stat (2nd half)	Broncos	Bulldogs
Possession	58 %	42 %
Line Breaks	6	2
Missed Tackles	24	31
Errors	5	9

What the result means

The triumph lifts Brisbane to an 11–6 record and keeps them within arm’s reach of the top four as the Origin period draws to a close. Most importantly for Maguire, the manner of victory underlines a newfound resilience that was missing during last season’s slide. “Belief never wavered,” he said post-match, crediting a patched-up forward pack led by Xavier Willison and Tyson Smoothy.

For the Bulldogs, the loss stings. Ciraldo’s side had won four of their past five and sat on the edge of the top two; leaking 22 unanswered points in 17 minutes will raise familiar questions about late-game management.

Next in the diary

The Broncos return to Suncorp Stadium on Friday night to face old rivals Melbourne, with Haas, Carrigan and Walsh all expected back in maroon and gold. The Bulldogs travel to Newcastle on Sunday searching for an 80-minute response against the Knights.

Published 5-July-2025

Urban Village Decline in Kelvin Grove Raises Concerns for Traders and Residents

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Kelvin Grove’s urban village is experiencing a downturn, with shop closures, rising vacancies, and reduced student numbers affecting local traders and the broader community.

Background and Development of Kelvin Grove Urban Village

Kelvin Grove’s urban village was established in 2003 as part of the redevelopment of the former Gona Barracks site. The project aimed to deliver affordable housing, educational facilities, and a mixed-use precinct. It included the QUT campus expansion, the Roundhouse Theatre, and a combination of residential and commercial properties, and was recognised with planning and design awards.

Falling Foot Traffic and Business Challenges

The village’s commercial viability has long depended on international students attending the nearby QUT campus. A fall in student numbers, influenced by higher visa fees and stricter migration policies, has led to reduced spending and lower foot traffic.

Businesses such as Domino’s and DannyBoys, which had been fixtures in the precinct, have closed. Vacant shopfronts are now common across Musk Avenue, Blamey Street, and Carraway Street. Traders have reported that higher rents and limited discretionary spending by students have contributed to business closures.

Expert Insights and Structural Factors

Planning experts have pointed to structural challenges within Kelvin Grove’s urban village. The precinct lacks the population density or major attractions that support foot traffic in older urban villages such as those in Sydney and Melbourne. Without a significant drawcard or substantial parking, maintaining commercial viability has proven difficult. The design focused on serving the immediate local population, which has come under pressure as economic conditions have changed.

Kelvin Grove property — Photo Credit: Google Maps

Community Sentiment and Social Concerns

Residents have raised concerns about rising crime and antisocial behaviour in the village. Reports have included thefts, break-ins, discarded syringes, and overnight disturbances near local businesses.

Data shows that crime rates in the central hub are higher than in surrounding streets. While the Saturday markets continue to draw some visitors, weekday activity has decreased significantly.

Property Trends and Future Outlook

Despite challenges, unit prices in Kelvin Grove have increased, with investors drawn by anticipated infrastructure developments linked to Brisbane’s 2032 Olympics. Local agents noted that commercial space in the area is tightly held and often leased quickly when available.

Experts have indicated that the future viability of the precinct may depend on reducing its reliance on student populations and introducing broader attractors or improved access to support foot traffic.

Published 4-July-2025

Billboard in Red Hill Finally Moved After Five-Year Legal Battle

A towering billboard in Red Hill that sparked a five-year legal battle between a Brisbane homeowner and Brisbane City has finally been relocated, marking the end of a long-running dispute.

Read: Red Hill Resident Wins Case Against Billboard Installation Next to His House

The four-storey LED billboard, first installed in 2020 on Musgrave Road in Red Hill, had loomed just metres from a worker’s cottage owned by lawyer Richard Leahy. The structure, operated by signage company GSM, had partially blocked the home’s panoramic city views and prompted a legal saga that escalated all the way to the High Court of Australia.

Billboard in Red Hill — Photo credit: Google Street View

Mr Leahy challenged the council’s decision to approve the billboard without consulting neighbouring property owners, arguing it breached procedural fairness. In 2022, the Brisbane Supreme Court agreed, finding that the council had failed to properly consider the visual impact on surrounding homes. The court ordered the approval be overturned.

Despite the ruling, the billboard remained in place while the council launched further appeals — all of which were eventually dismissed. In a final attempt, the council sought to escalate the matter to the High Court but later withdrew its application.

The impasse was only resolved when the council approved a new development application to reposition the billboard roughly 25 metres down the road, outside the popular Black Rabbit Espresso coffee cart. The move took place late last week, with cranes removing the massive 5.3m by 11.3m structure.

Read: Appeals Court Rules in Favour of Removing Behemoth Billboard in Red Hill

The cost of the legal battle remains undisclosed, though council was ordered to pay the majority of Mr Leahy’s legal fees, which included the services of senior barristers. The total bill to ratepayers is likely to have reached tens of thousands of dollars.

While the relocated sign still sits within close range of homes and businesses, the move has officially brought one of Brisbane’s most unusual planning disputes to a close.

Published 2-July-2025

Street Spotlight: Croydon Rd, Paddington

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Croydon Road in Paddington represents a charming pocket of inner-city Brisbane living, where heritage meets modern residential development. Historical records from 1936 show the street already established in its early form, though significantly fewer properties dotted the thoroughfare compared to today’s diverse mix of homes.

With 75% of properties being owner-occupied and residents staying an average of 10 years and 10 months, the street shows solid commitment to the area, though with more turnover than some of Brisbane’s longer-established residential streets. Interestingly, 30% of residents have called Croydon Road home for more than a decade, reflecting the area’s appeal to both established families and newcomers to Paddington’s vibrant community. The street’s property evolution tells a compelling story of Brisbane’s inner-city transformation, with 6 Croydon Road selling for $220,000 in July 1997 – a stark contrast to today’s Paddington property values that highlight the remarkable appreciation in this sought-after suburb. Below, an aerial image from 1936 captures this historic street in its earlier incarnation, showcasing Paddington’s suburban heritage.

Croydon Rd, Paddington Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 13 (2 townhouses, 9 houses, 2 others)
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 75%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 10 years, 10 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 30%

Croydon Rd, Paddington – As It Looked in 1936

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON CROYDON RD FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
1/6 Croydon Road, Paddington	$440,000	Nov 2008
2/6 Croydon Road, Paddington	$362,500	Jan 2005
6 Croydon Road, Paddington	$220,000	Jul 1997

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Paddington in 2025 was $1,710,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Paddington in 2021 was $1,000,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3-BEDROOM HOUSE IN PADDINGTON SINCE 2021: $710,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Paddington in 2025 was $2,210,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Paddington in 2021 was $1,534,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4-BEDROOM HOUSE IN PADDINGTON SINCE 2021: $676,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Paddington in 2025 was $3,079,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Paddington in 2021 was $2,263,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5-BEDROOM HOUSE IN PADDINGTON SINCE 2021: $816,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Paddington in 2025 was $810,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Paddington in 2021 was $475,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2-BEDROOM UNIT IN PADDINGTON SINCE 2021: $335,000

If you know Croydon Rd, Paddington well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

New Study at Kelvin Grove Aims to Unravel Causes of Childhood Myopia

Photo Credit: Centre for Vision and Eye Research

Children in the Kelvin Grove area will participate in a significant new optometry study launched by Queensland University of Technology (QUT), which seeks to understand and combat the global rise in childhood Myopia, a condition predicted to affect half the world’s population by 2050.

The research project is set to begin recruitment later in 2025 and will run until June 2027. It is based at the QUT Centre for Vision and Eye Research, located at the Kelvin Grove campus in Brisbane.

A Growing Concern for Children’s Eyesight

Myopia, commonly known as short-sightedness, is an eye condition that requires glasses or contact lenses for clear distance vision. It typically develops during childhood as the eye grows longer too quickly. This extended eye shape not only causes vision problems but also increases the risk of serious eye diseases later in life, such as retinal detachment, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and cataracts. This makes it a major public health challenge worldwide.

Dr. Rohan Hughes, a QUT optometry researcher leading the study, noted that rates of myopia have been steadily increasing globally over the past two decades. He highlighted that about 20 per cent of Australian children are already short-sighted by the age of 12.

While this statistic is concerning, it is still better than in some East Asian countries like Singapore, China, and Hong Kong, where myopia affects around 50 to 60 per cent of 12-year-olds. Australian children are thought to develop myopia more slowly due to more time spent outdoors, less urbanisation, and a less demanding educational culture.

Inside the Groundbreaking Study

This new QUT optometry study aims to explore how lifestyle and environmental factors affect children’s eyesight and the development of myopia. The project has received a substantial boost, funded through a $250,000 Meta Myopia Award from the American Academy of Optometry Foundation.

Dr Hughes and his team, which includes Dr. Emily Pieterse, Professor Steve Vincent, and Professor Scott Read from the QUT Centre for Vision and Eye Research and School of Clinical Sciences, will follow more than 100 children aged six to 12 for one year. They will track changes in eye growth and vision, along with behaviours such as screen time, reading habits, outdoor play, diet, and sleep. Participants will be recruited with assistance from local schools and optometrists. The study will employ sensor equipment and questionnaires to monitor children’s activities and use regular eye scans to measure eye growth.

Dr Hughes stated that the project will specifically concentrate on “pre-myopic” children, who have been identified as particularly vulnerable to developing short-sightedness due to their current vision, age, or hereditary risk factors. He explained that researchers already believe modern lifestyle factors are significant contributors to myopia, describing the cause as “multifactorial,” involving a complex interaction of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle elements that are not yet fully understood.

Many children and adults now spend less time outdoors and more time indoors doing close-up work, often for long periods, in poor lighting, and without sufficient eye breaks. This study aims to comprehensively quantify these characteristics and explore their link to eye growth and vision changes in children at risk. The hope is that the project will offer insights that contribute to strategies for delaying or preventing myopia in children.

Expert Advice for Healthy Eyes

The QUT Centre for Vision and Eye Research offers practical advice for parents in the community to help protect their children’s eyesight:

Children should have an eye test before starting Prep, or earlier if there are any concerns about their vision. Optometrists are able to see children of any age.
Regular eye tests are important, ideally at least every two years, especially for children whose parents have myopia or other eye conditions.
Encourage children to spend two or more hours outdoors each day (aiming for 14 hours per week), remembering to stay sun-safe with sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen.
Advise children to hold books, video games, and screens at least 30cm or more away from their eyes.
Encourage regular breaks from sustained near-work activities like reading, homework, and screen time, ideally after no longer than 30 minutes.

QUT’s Commitment to Vision Research

The QUT Centre for Vision and Eye Research is dedicated to shaping the future of vision through its ongoing research efforts and working to address vision problems affecting Australians every day.

The Centre is globally recognised for its research and its strong national and international collaborations. In the most recent (2018) Australian Research Council (ARC) Excellence in Research Australia (ERA) evaluation, the Centre’s research was rated “Above World Standard,” achieving high impact and engagement with end-users.

Published Date 19-Jun-2025