Whites Hill Reserve

From Whites Hill Reserve’s summit what a view! Imagine Brisbane sprawling below. This isn’t just any park. Whites Hill Reserve holds a rich history. It started as Boolimba a place of magpie larks. The indigenous name whispers of a time before Robert White. In 1873 he bought land here. He built a house halfway up the hill. It offered breathtaking views. Bob White’s home became incredibly popular. Church groups sporting teams even scientists visited. He even had a powerful telescope. Others could use it. White later built a road to the top. His house boasted huge verandahs. He served tea and meals. He even illegally sold alcohol. This earned him prosecution in 1890 for sly grog-selling. Despite this Whites Hill remained a social hub. Later a camera obscura was added. It projected Brisbane’s skyline onto a table. This made the house perfect for weddings and parties. In 1924 the council tried to buy the land. White refused. He died in 1927. The land was eventually sold. The house was unfortunately demolished in 1964 due to vandalism. Whites Hill became a strategic observation point during World War II. The army used it for training. The reserve now offers incredible facilities. There are sporting fields walking tracks and playgrounds. The reserve is home to diverse wildlife. You might spot koalas echidnas and many birds. From its humble beginnings as Boolimba to its current state Whites Hill Reserve is a place of both natural beauty and historical significance. It’s a treasure for Brisbane. Enjoy your visit to Whites Hill Reserve.