Ambulance, Fire, Police and Emergency Services, Published 2 April 2026
We were passing through, so we made a quick stop for a photo opportunity!
A bright red brick landmark with plenty of stories to tell, the Redcliffe Fire Station has been part of the peninsula’s character since it was built between 1948 and 1949. Designed by architect J.R. Hughes and constructed by renowned local builder Alex Smith, it was a pioneer of its time - preceding even Brisbane’s move toward modern brick fire stations.
In its early days, the station was celebrated for its cutting-edge facilities. When it was officially opened on 1 November 1949 by Frank Nicklin, locals saw it as a symbol of progress for a region booming after the Hornibrook Highway transformed access to the peninsula. It replaced a more modest service that had actually been operating out of a private home in Margate since 1941!
After nearly six decades of service, the station closed its doors in 2008 when operations moved to a new facility in Kippa-Ring. But the story didn’t end there. Following a $2 million restoration by the local council, the building was saved from fading into history and officially reopened in January 2015.
Today, the former station thrives as The Old Fire Station Community Arts and Volunteer Hub, home to the Redcliffe Art Society, Redcliffe Pottery Group, and more. It’s a place where the community still gathers - though now for inspiration and creativity instead of emergencies. A proud piece of Redcliffe’s heritage, still very much alive.
Colourised images ca. 1949 - Public Domain - Colourised by the Dave & Malou Channel - While care has been taken to preserve the original details, the result is an artistic interpretation and may not accurately represent the scene as it originally appeared.
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