Upper Coomera

Gazing upon Upper Coomera today, it’s hard to imagine its humble beginnings. Upper Coomera was once a quiet area known for its lush wattle trees, the inspiration for its Yugambeh name, “kumera”. European settlers arrived in the 1860s, drawn by the rich timber resources of the hinterland. The Binstead family were among the first, establishing a homestead near a ford in the Coomera River. This river crossing became a vital part of the early mail route between Brisbane and Nerang. Upper Coomera began as a small cluster of buildings around the Binstead property. This included a public house, a blacksmith, and a small store. The Binsteads even ran an accommodation house and post office. The first school and School of Arts were also established in Upper Coomera. In 1871, the population was a mere 204, mostly involved in timber-getting, sawmilling, and farming. Sugarcane and maize were early crops, but dairying soon took over as the primary agricultural pursuit. As the area expanded, a ferry service was established further downstream. This area became known as Lower Coomera or Ferry Township. It was on a more convenient travel route and quickly grew, even boasting a police station within a few years. The arrival of the South Coast Rail Line in 1889, with a station named Coomera, solidified Lower Coomera’s importance. Upper Coomera retained its historical significance, with the Upper Coomera Cemetery established in 1871. The first burial, however, didn’t take place until 1888. An Anglican church was also built in Upper Coomera in 1888, finally opened in 1889 by Bishop William Webber. Today, Upper Coomera is a bustling suburb with modern shopping centers like Coomera City Centre and The Hub. It is also a hub for education, with institutions like Upper Coomera State College, Assisi Catholic College, Coomera Anglican College, and Saint Stephen’s College. Yet, remnants of its past, like the Upper Coomera War Memorial, stand as a testament to its rich history. The memorial, unveiled in 1918, originally commemorated those lost in World War I, with names from World War II added later. Upper Coomera has transformed from a quiet river crossing to a vibrant community. Its growth continues, with new residential developments shaping its future.