In 1882 William Thorne a missionary’s son owned much of Thorneside. He lived in Mooroondu House. The nearby railway station was called Thorne’s siding. It later became the name of the suburb Thorneside. Thorneside a small village retains its old charm. It sits between Wellington Point and Tingalpa Creek on Waterloo Bay. It’s Redlands Coast’s northernmost and geographically smallest mainland suburb.
William Thorne was born in England in 1840. He arrived in Brisbane in 1863. He became an alderman on the Brisbane Municipal Council. He also served as Chairman of the Tingalpa Divisional Board. He was instrumental in forming the Cleveland Divisional Board in 1885. Quite a remarkable man.
Thorneside offers a unique blend of bayside charm and modern conveniences. Long foreshore parks provide recreational opportunities for everyone. There are barbecues playgrounds walking and cycling paths. Koala habitat and sporting fields like William Taylor Sportsground add to the appeal. Aquatic Paradise Park Beth Boyd Park and the Wynnum Redlands Canoe Club are also located here. Frank Street Bushland Refuge and Jack and Edna Finney Reserve provide green spaces.
Shopping is conveniently located nearby in Birkdale and Wellington Point. Thorneside has its own train station. This is on the Cleveland line. Transdev Queensland operates regular bus services. The area is also surrounded by schools in nearby suburbs. The suburb’s population has grown significantly since the early 1900s.
Thorneside’s history is deeply intertwined with William Thorne’s legacy. His subdivision of the land in 1913 shaped the suburb’s development. The arrival of the railway line in 1889 further contributed to its growth. Yet despite its expansion Thorneside has managed to preserve its unique village atmosphere. It’s a delightful place to visit offering both recreational and historical interests. Enjoy your time exploring this unique corner of Brisbane.