Untouched for 80 years: Stunning relic found in Queenslander home

A rare time-capsule Queenslander has come up for sale for the first time, with one retro feature leaving buyers floored.

Viva Hyde

2 min read

June 11, 2025 - 5:00AM

119 Mildmay St, Fairfield

An original Queenslander home, held by the same family for more than 80 years and left virtually untouched, has hit the market for the first time.

The retro relic at 119 Mildmay St, Fairfield, has captivated younger buyers with its curios from the past century, including a black-and-white tube TV, kerosene fridge, and rotary dial phone.

Marketing agent Paris Arthur, of Place Graceville, said the 1920s-built home on a generous 807 sqm block had been passed down through three generations of a Brisbane family.

The current owner, a single woman with no children, had lived there all her life. The property is now listed as she prepares to move into aged care.

80 years of family history in one character-filled home

“It is quite rare to step into a home that has been in the family for so long – and even rarer one where the walls haven’t been painted in probably 60 years,” Mr Arthur said.

“It is very much a time capsule, from the dirt laundry downstairs to the original furniture upstairs, and even down to the old doilies on the table.

“That’s the reaction we’re getting – even kids are coming in and are fascinated by the rotary dial telephone.”

Aside from a new roof added about 10 years ago, the house has never been renovated.

Features of the three-bedroom, one-bathroom character home include timber walls, high ceilings and a wide veranda, with an easy flow from the lounge room to the kitchen and dining area.

A retro TV takes pride of place in the lounge

heart of the home?

While the family had decluttered the home, they chose not to stage it with modern pieces to preserve its story and suit its retro style.

Mr Arthur said the three-bedroom, one-bathroom house offered first-home buyers and renovators a chance to restore or landbank a character home in a sought-after pocket close to the city.

“There is a kind of romance people have with Queenslanders and that is certainly part of the allure here,” Mr Arthur said.

“This is an opportunity to buy a home at more of a budget-friendly end of the market. You’re buying a large land parcel – just a house that needs a lot of love. They can afford to buy this and do the work as they go.”