Wolston Farmhouse

Wolston Farmhouse - Wacol

Explore Brisbane's bygone era…

Step back in time at Wolston Farmhouse, the oldest surviving residential farmhouse in Brisbane, nestled just a short drive to the southwest of Brisbane's bustling CBD.
This historic landmark, formerly known as Wolston House, boasts a rich rural history dating all the way back to 1852. It holds the distinction of being the very first property entrusted to the care of the National Trust of Australia (Queensland).

This charming farmhouse exudes the authentic atmosphere of a traditional rural homestead and is surrounded by breathtaking views that stretch out towards the tree-lined riverbanks.
Listed as a heritage site, the homestead features expansive verandas that overlook the lush green property and gardens. It comprises six rooms, each of which transports you to a nineteenth-century rural lifestyle with its collection of period artifacts, including sausage stuffers in the kitchen, silverware in the dining room, a pianola in the parlour, and horsehair mattresses in the bedrooms. Below ground, you'll find the larder, a meat room, and the Maid’s quarters with a scullery – a place where the temperature is naturally cooler, and where you might even hear some eerie noises or experience a touch of the paranormal!

Wolston Farmhouse opens periodically to the general public on Open Days, it welcomes students on weekdays as The Centre of Excellence for School Excursion Programs, offering an educational experience for future generations. On weekends, this historic gem can be exclusively booked for private events, weddings, or special gatherings, making it a unique and picturesque venue for your memorable occasion.

Plan Your Visit

Address

223 Grindle Road, Wacol, Queensland, 4076

Open Hours

We are available for schools, group and club bookings, venue hire, weddings, festivals, and regional and state tourism opportunities.
Throughout the year we will host special events and Open Days.

Phone

07 3088 8133

Email

wolstonmgr@nationaltrustqld.org

Entry Fees

For further information on events or should you wish to book, please contact Wolston Farmhouse Manager.

Open Day Admission Fees
National Trust Members - FREE (please present your member card on arrival)
Adults - $12
Concession - $10
Children (aged 5-12) - $5
Under 3 years - Free
Family (2 Adults + 3 children) - $32

School Excursions

Learn More

Weddings and Events

Find Out More

Volunteer

Find Out More

Upcoming Events

History

Uncover Wolston Farmhouse's historical journey…

In 1852, Dr. Stephen Simpson began building Wolston Farmhouse on a 640-acre riverside property, situated between Brisbane and Ipswich. Dr. Simpson, a man of learning and prominence, also managed a horse and cattle station here, naming it after his Warwickshire birthplace. He held important positions, including Justice of the Peace, Police Magistrate, and a member of Queensland's Legislative Council, with a significant role as Crown Commissioner of Lands in the 1840s.

In 1860, the property changed hands to Matthew Buscall Goggs, who continued to breed horses and cattle. The Grindle family took over in 1906 and introduced a dairy business, supplying milk to Brisbane suburbs until the 1930s. Bert Hurley took ownership in 1956, but the Queensland Government resumed the property in 1960.

In 1963, the National Trust of Queensland acquired Wolston Farmhouse and a small parcel of land, embarking on a journey to restore and preserve this historical treasure. Today, Wolston Farmhouse is a cherished part of the National Trust's collection, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past.

Wolston Farmhouse - Wacol