Chermside has transformed dramatically over the past century, evolving from a quiet farming community into one of Brisbane’s most significant urban centres. With the rise of Westfield Chermside, the expansion of health services and an influx of high-rise developments, Chermside’s journey is a fascinating study in urban growth and adaptation.
The suburb’s development gained momentum in the late 20th century. In 1987, Brisbane City Council rezoned an area around Gympie Road, Hall Street and Downfall Creek as the Chermside Regional Business Centre. This move aimed to attract corporate investment from the Brisbane CBD, but only the Australian Tax Office, completed in 1992, and the Commonwealth Building materialised in Banfield Street. By 1996, the council recognised the need for further expansion, amending the plan to allow for commercial growth north of Banfield Street into Commonwealth land previously occupied by Telstra.
Modern Chermside: Infrastructure, Healthcare & Retail Growth
The late 1990s and early 2000s saw significant infrastructure projects that shaped modern Chermside. In 1996, the Chermside Aquatic Centre replaced the suburb’s Olympic Pool, which had served the community since 1964. The same year, Kidspace playground opened in 7th Brigade Park, creating a dedicated space for families. That year also marked a turning point for retail in the region – Westfield acquired Chermside Shopping Centre, laying the foundation for its future expansions. By 2005, the Chermside Major Centre Local Plan was released, allowing high-rise residential and business developments, dramatically altering the suburb’s skyline.
Healthcare also played a crucial role in Chermside’s evolution. The Prince Charles Hospital, originally established in the 1950s as the Brisbane Chest Hospital, expanded into a world-class cardiac care facility. It was joined in 2001 by Holy Spirit Northside Hospital, now known as St Vincent’s Private Hospital, forming a major medical hub for Brisbane’s northside.
Westfield Chermside’s rise mirrored the suburb’s transformation. From a modest drive-in shopping centre in 1957 with just 27 stores, it grew to house over 484 outlets by 2012. The 2017 expansion introduced a new dining and entertainment precinct, cementing its status as the largest shopping centre in Queensland.
Today, Chermside continues to grow, embracing high-density living while maintaining its green spaces, thanks to the foresight of early planners. With a strong retail, healthcare and residential presence, Chermside is poised to remain a key urban hub in Brisbane’s future.
Read more stories from the Chermside Guide’s print magazine here:
- Chermside Connect: Updates from the Community
- Brooke and Adam Set to Rock Kedron-Wavell
- Country Music Club Celebrates 50 Years
- Aspley Seniors Volunteers Recognised for Community Service
- Five Comedians, One Night, Endless Laughs
- Sing Along with Pretzel Poem Project at Nundah Library
- National Duran Duran Tribute Tour Premieres in Nundah
- Choose Bob at Brisbane Comedy Festival
- Organic Gardening in April
Featured image: Chermside Aquatic Centre, c. 1996 courtesy of Chermside & Districts Historical Society
