Welcome to Newstead House

Newstead House was built in 1846 and is Brisbane’s oldest standing European residence.  

It has been occupied by some of the city’s most influential colonial figures, including Patrick Leslie, Captain John Clements Wickham and George Harris. In World War Two, the home was commandeered by the 842nd photographic unit who lived onsite for more than three years.  

Today it operates as a living museum, furnished to reflect the occupation of the Harris family, who was in residence between 1862 and 1890.  

Set in a commanding position overlooking Newstead Park, Newstead House is the jewel in the crown of Southeast Queensland’s historic properties.  

It has always been a home where real people lived, real moments were experienced, and real history was made.  

You will find interesting historical information in all the rooms, both upstairs and downstairs, as well as on the sprawling verandas. 

We hope you enjoy your time here, learning about Newstead House’s rich history, and the many extraordinary people who have called it home. 

AcknowledgEMENT

Our Partners

The Board of the Newstead House Trust thanks the partners, supporters, and sponsors who have assisted in this conservation project, including the Queensland Government, Brisbane City Council, the Royal Historical Society of Queensland, and the Museum of Brisbane, as well as the many donors who have generously contributed to the collection, and our valued volunteers.   

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which Newstead House is built. We pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging, and recognise the rich traditions and continuing creative cultures of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples of Australia.

Explore

14 Historic Rooms

Click on a room to find out more