Developers eye rare Wellington Point waterfront landmark, home to Point of View Restaurant
For the first time in 57 years, an iconic waterfront property at Wellington Point is up for sale, sparking huge interest from developers. SEE THE HISTORIC PHOTOS
QLD News
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A rare and historic piece of Wellington Point’s coastal charm is up for sale for the first time in half a century, marking the end of an era for one of southeast Queensland’s most beloved landmarks.
The site, at 1 Main Road, Wellington Point, is up for sale with estimates the iconic and much-loved piece of land and home to the popular Point of View Restaurant, will fetch upwards of $2 million.
The sale, the site’s first in 57 years, has sparked huge interest from developers eager to capitalise on its high-value location after the nearby 25 Main Rd was estimated at $1,188,000.
It was last listed for sale with a starting price of $995,000 in December 2017 but failed to sell.
Real estate agents have said it would be reasonable to anticipate a higher price for 1 Main Rd, which was closer to the water, larger at 742 sqm, had mixed-use zoning, fully leased status, historical significance, and redevelopment potential.
The site is listed with real estate agent Stephen Smith, who has started taking expressions of interest.
Its position, as the gateway to the Wellington Point Reserve, enhances its appeal, drawing thousands of visitors each year to enjoy the foreshore, jetty, and the renowned King Island walk.
Surrounded by water on three sides, the block is one of the most breathtaking properties in southeast Queensland.
The north-facing upper residences offer expansive Moreton Bay views all the way to Tangalooma and east to Straddie.
Developers have been attracted to the site for the “endless possibilities” which include a boutique retail precinct, luxury apartments, or an expanded hospitality venture.
For generations, the restaurant and takeaway business has been a favourite among locals and visitors, offering a unique alfresco dining experience on the waterfront.
With its prime corner position and significant parking, the site has consistently attracted high foot traffic, making it a thriving commercial hub and a popular Australia Day picnic spot.
Since the early 1900s, this prime location has served as a hub for hospitality and community gatherings and was originally part of the 1911 subdivision by businessman Alexander James Lamont.
One of the first land purchasers, Mr Marshall, was a Shire Councillor and licensee of the Wellington Point Hotel, a popular establishment during the early 20th century.
The push for a kiosk and jetty at Wellington Point gained momentum in the 1920s, following initial discussions as early as 1913.
While the Cleveland Shire Council entertained multiple proposals, bureaucracy slowed the process, and it wasn’t until 1924 that a local storekeeper, Mr Robertson, was permitted to serve hot water to campers and visitors from his shop on Champion Lane.
The need for swimming and recreational facilities also grew and a bathing enclosure was constructed in 1922, and by 1941, a slippery slide had been added — both of which remained community fixtures until the 1960s.
The Johns family, which owned the site in the 1920s, allowed a small rotunda-style kiosk to be built on their land, which became a focal point for beachgoers.
Additional efforts were made by Prior Daniels and the Wellington Point Refreshment Co., which later was granted permission for a jetty and kiosk on the western side of the point.
In 1946, Clara Galloway, who ran the Cleveland Pier Kiosk at Cleveland Point was granted the right to set up a beach stall on behalf of her son-in-law, Fred Kratzmann, a returning serviceman from New Guinea.
Mr Kratzmann and Tom Galloway later expanded the original kiosk rotunda using reclaimed army huts from Canungra.
Mr Kratzmann and his wife Olive (nee Galloway) ran the kiosk briefly before the Galloway family took over Hurst and Simmons’ old store on the corner of Apsley St and Main Rd in August 1947 which they operated until the late 1990s.
The nearby Wellington Point Hotel and early kiosks on the site catered to beachgoers and campers, setting the foundation for years of businesses on the site.
Throughout the decades, the two well-known Redland families, including the Galloways and Kratzmanns, left their mark on the site, running stores, kiosks, and eateries.
The Horton family, in particular, had a deep connection to the property, with long-time resident Desley Horton recalling how, at just 10 years old, she boiled water for campers, ensuring everyone had hot drinks while enjoying the coastal scenery.
Development prospects raised community concerns with long-time residents opposing large-scale changes which could alter the area’s historic charm and laid-back character.
Expressions of interest have opened.
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