Knight Frank Townsville lists Stuart State School site for sale via expressions of interest

Nearly 12 years after it was closed due to low enrolments, a vacant Townsville school has been listed for sale. See why it will attract plenty of interest.

Buildings at the former Stuart State School site, which is up for sale again. Picture: Knight Frank.

Twelve years on from when the last student walked through its gates, the site of Stuart State School is finally going back on the market.

Located at 10 Dwyer St, Stuart, the 2.059 hectare site was expected to attract significant buyer interest, given its potential for development opportunities, including subdivision, institutional use, or community-based developments.

A Department of Education spokesman said the school was closed in 2013 due to its low projected enrolments (93 total at the time), and after completing a thorough community consultation process.

Aerial view of the former Stuart State School site, which is up for sale again. Picture: Knight Frank.

The school’s history stretches back to 1891, when it was originally known as Stewart’s Creek Provisional School and Stewart’s Creek State School before it was renamed Stuart State School in 1939.

It swung into action during World War II, with two classrooms used as the main Army Signals Communication Centre.

The sale aligns with the department’s Strategic Plan 2024–28 to optimise resources, and the proceeds will be reinvested into education infrastructure.

“Townsville is well serviced by existing schools and there is no current requirement for a state primary, secondary, or special school on the site,” the spokesman said.

“Multiple parties have expressed interest in this site since the school’s closure.”

Former Deputy Mayor Vern Veitch wanted a condition of sale put on Stuart State School to stop it being bulldozed by developers.

It wasn’t the first time the school’s been listed for sale, with CoreLogic data revealing that Colliers Townsville were selling it for $1.15 million in September 2014.

This time around, Knight Frank agents Paul Dury and Mark Fitzgerald were selling the property through an expressions of interest campaign.

They highlighted numerous improvements to the site, including multiple teaching blocks (of both permanent and modular construction), a preschool classroom block, dedicated amenities block and undercover shelter area.

A building at the former Stuart State School site, which is up for sale again. Picture: Knight Frank.

Within the grounds there was also a tennis court, cricket pitch, play equipment, shaded seating areas, and a grounds shed.

Mr Dury said the expansive parcel of land offered a rare and versatile opportunity for redevelopment in a well-established area.

“The possibilities for buyers are many and varied, including a subdivision, education facilities, a retreat or camp, or a community hub for church or not-for-profit groups,” Mr Dury said.

Soldiers from 3RAR perform urban training at the former Stuart State School. Private Moses Kormah. Picture: Evan Morgan

Knight Frank Townsville agents Paul Dury and Mark Fitzgerald. Picture: Matt Taylor.

“This site offers the space, location, and flexibility for numerous outcomes, subject to council approvals. It’s positioned in a quiet, accessible location within Stuart, which is just 15 minutes from the centre of Townsville.”

Mr Fitzgerald expected the sales campaign to attract interest from local and interstate buyers.

“We are seeing buyers and developers look to regional areas for opportunities, particularly due to the affordability factor, as well as growth prospects,” Mr Fitzgerald said.

Get in quick to express interest because the short sales campaign wraps on June 19.

For more details, visit: www.knightfrank.com.au.

Originally published as Knight Frank Townsville lists Stuart State School site for sale via expressions of interest