One Koala Saved, Another Lost in Tarragindi Suburban Encounters

Tarragindi has become the scene of two very different koala encounters — one where a healthy animal was guided away from danger, and another where a koala did not survive — laying bare how quickly outcomes can change when wildlife meets suburban roads.



In April, volunteers from Koala Rescue Brisbane South responded to separate reports in the area, both linked to koalas moving through neighbourhood trees near busy traffic corridors.

Koala Spotted Above Fernvale Road Draws Swift Community Response

In one case, a healthy female koala was seen perched in a tree along Pring Street, close to Fernvale Road. A nearby resident alerted rescuers after noticing how close the animal was to passing cars.

According to updates shared by Koala Rescue Brisbane South, volunteers attended the site and monitored the koala into the night. To reduce the risk of the animal descending and crossing the road, a humane trap was set at the base of the tree. Community members stayed nearby, keeping watch while traffic continued just metres away.

The group indicated the koala showed no signs of illness or injury, and the response focused on keeping it safe while it moved through the area.

Separate Incident Ends in Loss as Risks Persist

In a separate update shared by the same group, a second koala found in the wider area was already in poor condition and did not survive. Details from the organisation’s post indicated the animal was beyond recovery when discovered.

While the incidents were not directly connected, both unfolded within the same community, where bushland meets residential streets and traffic is constant.

Photo Credit: Koala Rescue Brisbane South/Facebook

Tarragindi Residents Play Key Role in Early Alerts

The rescue group noted that local residents were central to the first koala’s outcome. Early reporting allowed volunteers to act before the animal moved onto the road. In areas like Tarragindi, where koalas travel between fragmented habitats, sightings often happen in backyards, street trees, or roadside vegetation. Quick calls to wildlife groups can give rescuers time to assess risks and step in when needed.

Volunteers have continued to stress that many koala incidents happen at ground level, particularly at night when animals move between trees. Drivers passing through suburban corridors are urged to slow down and stay alert, especially in known wildlife areas.

Residents are also encouraged to report sightings rather than approach animals, as stress can cause koalas to move unpredictably. Keeping pets contained after dark and watching for movement near roads can help lower the risk of further incidents.



Two Outcomes, One Ongoing Challenge

The contrast between the two koalas has stayed with the community. One remained in a tree under watch, while another did not get that chance. In suburbs like Tarragindi, these moments continue to play out as wildlife navigates spaces shaped by roads and housing.

Published 30-April-2026

Tarragindi School Sees Enrolment Surge Following Launch

Tarragindi has become the setting for a new Catholic college that is gaining attention well beyond its suburb. St John Henry Newman College has begun its first year with a small group of students, but enrolment interest has surged, with families securing places years in advance as demand outpaces capacity.



Opening Mass brings community together in Tarragindi

The college marked its beginning with an opening Mass attended by students, parents and supporters. Archbishop Shane Mackinlay led the service and addressed the school community, framing education as a lifelong search for truth rather than a narrow path to employment. He pointed to the example of John Henry Newman, whose commitment to intellectual inquiry shaped the identity of the new college.

The Archbishop described learning as something that should engage the whole person, not just focus on memorising information. He also spoke about the Christian faith as something lived and personal, centred on the figure of Christ.

Students later performed Newman’s hymn Lead, Kindly Light, adding a reflective tone to the gathering.

A different model of learning takes shape

The college follows a classical education model, which places strong emphasis on literature, philosophy and theology. Its curriculum includes works from thinkers such as Plato, Aristotle, Augustine of Hippo and Thomas Aquinas, alongside writers like Mary Shelley.

Information from the college’s official website shows the school is built around the pursuit of truth, beauty and goodness, with a focus on forming both intellect and character. Lessons aim to develop reasoning, discussion and careful reading, rather than relying heavily on digital tools.

This approach reflects a broader shift among some families seeking alternatives to mainstream schooling, particularly models that place less emphasis on technology and more on foundational knowledge.

High demand signals strong local interest

The college began with 46 students, but early demand has been strong. Applications for the next intake have exceeded available places, reflecting growing interest from families across Brisbane. The school plans to expand gradually by adding year levels over time.

Principal Dr Kenneth Crowther has outlined a focus on developing wisdom and virtue as the foundation of education. In his view, strong academic outcomes and future work opportunities follow naturally when these areas are prioritised.

A growing presence in Brisbane’s south

The Tarragindi campus was designed as a staged development, beginning with early primary years and expanding as enrolments grow.

The school has also been recognised by the Institute for Catholic Liberal Education as part of a network of classical Catholic schools worldwide. This places the Tarragindi college within an international trend, even as it develops its local identity.



Published 30-April-2026

Fire Ants Discovered in Toohey Forest, Control Measures in Action

Signs posted at the Davey Street entrance to Toohey Forest in Tarragindi confirm that fire ants have been detected in the reserve, with eradication treatment now underway as part of Australia’s national effort to rid the country of one of its most dangerous invasive species.



A community member spotted the warning sign at the Davey Street entrance on 17 April, prompting questions among locals about what treatment was being used and whether households bordering the forest would receive more information.

The signs themselves are a standard part of the National Fire Ant Eradication Program‘s response procedure, posted to alert visitors that baiting or treatment activities are active in the area.

While fire ants in a beloved green space like Toohey Forest are understandably concerning, the presence of treatment notices is a positive signal. It means the pest has been identified and the eradication machinery is already moving.

Toohey Forest Is Too Important to Lose

Toohey Forest is one of Brisbane’s most significant urban bushland reserves, accessible from both Tarragindi and Moorooka and home to a rich range of native wildlife. That ecological richness is precisely what makes fire ant management here so important.

Fire ants, known scientifically as Solenopsis invicta, arrived in Brisbane in 2001 via cargo ships from South America and have since spread across more than a million hectares of South East Queensland. Their sting causes a sharp burning sensation and can, in rare cases, trigger severe allergic reactions including anaphylaxis.

They pose a serious threat not just to people and pets but to native fauna, competing aggressively with ground-dwelling insects, birds and reptiles for food and territory.

Dense urban bushland like Toohey Forest is actually one of the harder environments for fire ants to establish in. Research suggests fire ants struggle to penetrate undisturbed forest with thick leaf litter, where native competitors and predators, including meat ants, green-headed ants, spiders and predatory beetles, can push back against them.

However, this natural defense is a double-edged sword. Research highlights that clearing land or using broad-scale baiting that inadvertently wipes out native ant populations can actually roll out the red carpet for fire ants. Maintaining the health of our native ‘ant-army’ is just as vital as the treatment itself. Protecting and treating a habitat like this is worth doing.

How the Treatment Works

The National Fire Ant Eradication Program treats all properties in an eradication area, whether fire ants are visible or not, and does so at no cost to landowners. In areas like this, properties may be treated up to six times over two years to ensure no nest is missed.

The treatment itself uses corn grit soaked in soybean oil, infused with a low-concentration insect growth regulator. Worker ants collect the granules and carry them back to the nest, where they feed them to larvae.

The larvae distribute the toxin through the colony by liquid feeding, and over several weeks the colony collapses. For an average suburban block, less than a teaspoon of insect growth regulator mixed with one cup of corn grit is all that is required.

Health authorities and the APVMA consider the treatment safe for people, pets, and the environment when applied strictly according to official guidelines. Because the bait is a targeted, low-concentration growth regulator rather than a broad-spectrum poison, it’s designed to hit the nest while leaving the wider ecosystem intact. 

Spotting Fire Ants in Your Area 

Residents who spot fire ants in gardens or along the forest edge must report the sighting to the National Fire Ant Eradication Program within 24 hours. Under the Biosecurity Act 2014, all Queenslanders have a general obligation to help prevent their spread.

Fire ant nests are usually easy to identify. They form small mounds of loose, crumbly soil, up to 40 centimetres high, with no obvious entry holes. The ants themselves are copper-brown with a darker abdomen, ranging from two to six millimetres in size. When disturbed, they swarm quickly and aggressively.

Avoid disturbing or treating any suspected nest before reporting it, and keep children and pets well away from the area. While the bait is safe for pets if they come across it, it’s best to keep them away from treated areas so the ants have time to carry it back to the nest.

Report sightings by calling 13 25 23 or online at fireants.org.au.



Published 24-April-2026

Closer to Home: New BMX Track Under Construction

Construction crews began building a new BMX track at Salisbury Recreational Reserve this week, set to become the closest dedicated riding facility for young riders in Tarragindi, with the Evans Road reserve just minutes away across the suburb boundary.



Works began on Monday 30 March at the reserve off Evans Road in Salisbury, with the track designed for beginner, intermediate and expert riders. A June 2026 opening is anticipated, subject to construction conditions.

A Community-Driven Project

The track came about through direct advocacy from local BMX riders and their families, who raised the need for a dedicated facility in the area with the Moorooka Ward office. Young riders helped shape the design alongside bike track specialists, creating a layout that balances challenge for skilled riders with accessibility for newcomers.

BMX track
Photo Credit: Cr Steve Griffiths

The reserve’s location draws Tarragindi families south along Toohey Road toward Evans Road, with the two suburbs directly connected. Its position near the cricket nets and visibility from Evans Road make it easily accessible for residents on both sides of the boundary, while around 80 car spaces on the Allendale Street frontage support riders and visiting families.

A Nearby Track for Tarragindi’s Young Riders

Tarragindi sits immediately north of Salisbury and shares a close community connection with its neighbour, but residents have long relied on Toohey Forest Park for outdoor recreation as the suburb lacks purpose-built infrastructure for young riders. Families currently need to travel to Darra, Acacia Ridge or further afield to access the nearest BMX facilities.

Photo Credit: Cr Steve Griffiths

The new Salisbury track changes that equation for families living on Tarragindi’s southern edge, putting a quality, multi-level riding facility within easy reach for primary and secondary school-aged riders who want somewhere consistent and safe to develop their skills. The reserve sits within a broader sporting precinct, allowing riders to combine their visit with the use of nearby oval facilities and open parkland.

Photo Credit: Cr Steve Griffiths

For parents, a visible, park-based setting near the cricket nets also provides clear sight lines across the facility, an important consideration when younger children are riding alongside more experienced users.

How to Get There

Salisbury Recreational Reserve is accessible from Evans Road, Salisbury, a short drive south from Tarragindi via Toohey Road. The BMX track is expected to open around June For updates on construction progress, visit this link or contact the Moorooka Ward office on 07 3403 1730.



Published 02-April-2026

Cycling Survey Highlights Safety And Access Issues In Tarragindi

Women and girls across Brisbane’s CBD and southside, including Tarragindi, are being invited to take part in a cycling survey examining riding habits, safety concerns, and access to local bikeways, with responses open until March 29.



Survey Focuses On Safety And Participation In Tarragindi

The survey is open to women and girls who ride regularly, occasionally, would like to ride, or do not currently ride. It is designed to gather insights into how people travel by bike and what factors influence their decisions.

Participants are asked about their current riding patterns and where they would prefer to travel by bike. Options include work, school, shops, public transport stations, parks, recreation areas, and visits to friends or family.

The survey also asks respondents to rate how safe they feel riding in their local area. It outlines common barriers such as unsafe roads, intersections and crossings, limited protected bike lanes, missing links between routes, poor lighting, and lack of facilities including bike parking.

Respondents are encouraged to identify specific streets, intersections or paths where safety concerns or missing connections affect their ability to ride. The survey also asks participants to nominate one location that could be improved to make riding safer.

Brisbane cycling survey
Photo Credit: Pexels

Tarragindi Cycling Network And Key Routes

Tarragindi is connected to a broader southside cycling network that supports both commuting and recreational riding. A key route is Veloway 1 (V1), a separated cycleway linking the area with the Brisbane CBD while allowing riders to avoid general traffic.

Stage E of the Veloway 1 upgrade improved connectivity, including bridge works at Marshall Road, Sterculia Avenue and Bapaume Road. The route is intended to support safer travel and encourage active transport use.

The Tarragindi Bikeway starts near Evans Road and Orange Grove Road and connects with Toohey Forest and the V1. Toohey Forest Park provides additional off-road trails through bushland terrain used for mountain biking.

Nearby facilities include the Glindemann Park BMX and pump track in Holland Park. A 7.1-kilometre circuit along the Warick Creek and Bulimba Creek bikeways offers an option for both commuting and leisure riding.

Tarragindi cycling
Photo Credit: Pexels

Next Steps For Cycling Insights

The survey is aimed at building a clearer understanding of how women and girls experience cycling across Brisbane’s southside, including Tarragindi. It asks participants to identify locations where infrastructure and conditions affect their riding decisions.



Tarragindi’s cycling network provides access to both commuter routes and recreational trails, while the survey seeks to identify where improvements may support increased participation.

Published 19-Mar-2026

World Wildlife Day Reminder: Tarragindi Drivers Urged to Protect Children and Native Wildlife

In conjunction with the global celebration of World Wildlife Day (March 3), Queensland Police are reinforcing a message that carries particular relevance for Tarragindi — every decision behind the wheel plays a role in protecting vulnerable road users.



Together with Australia Zoo and Wildlife Warriors, the Queensland Police Service (QPS) is urging motorists to remain vigilant, reminding the community that Queensland roads are shared not only with drivers and pedestrians, but also with native wildlife.

Every day, road users encounter what police describe as precious “little feet”. Whether it is a child walking ahead on a suburban footpath or a joey following its mother across a verge, the risks can be similar — sudden movements and limited reaction time.

“Children and wildlife can be unpredictable – they can move suddenly and enter roadways without warning,” Chief Superintendent Mark Wheeler said ahead of World Wildlife Day.

“Drivers must remain alert and anticipate the unexpected, especially in and around school zones, footpaths, parks and rural areas,” he said.

Toohey Road and Habitat Connectivity

For Tarragindi, where residential streets border the bushland of Toohey Forest, the warning is especially relevant. Toohey Road runs through connected habitat areas supporting koalas and other native species.

Earlier this year, a wildlife underpass beneath Toohey Road was completed to help reduce the risk of animals entering traffic lanes. Located southwest of the Toohey Picnic Area, the project aims to strengthen habitat connectivity while improving safety outcomes for both fauna and motorists.

The underpass includes a 2.4-metre by 2.4-metre culvert installed beneath the roadway, with a raised log pole frame providing a bridge-style crossing for wildlife. Mulch and natural materials were added to encourage use, and fauna fencing with escape hatches was installed along both sides of the road to guide animals safely toward the structure.

While the infrastructure provides a safer crossing option, authorities stress that driver behaviour remains critical.

Road Safety and Shared Responsibility

Vehicle strikes remain a major cause of injury to native animals statewide. At the same time, low-speed suburban environments continue to present risks for young pedestrians.

“Something as simple as reducing your speed, scanning verges and footpaths, and eliminating distractions can prevent devastating outcomes,” Chief Superintendent Wheeler said.

Police have reiterated that speeding, distraction, driving under the influence and failing to wear a seatbelt significantly increase the risk of serious incidents. Enforcement operations continue across Queensland.

Wildlife Trauma Season

The lead-up to World Wildlife Day also coincides with what wildlife carers refer to as “trauma season”. Between September and February, wildlife is more active as animals breed, forage and explore.

Wildlife conservationist Bindi Irwin said road trauma places sustained pressure on rehabilitation services.

“Every year, we see an influx of patients who sustain life-threatening injuries from vehicle strikes, requiring urgent treatment and around-the-clock care at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital,” she said.

The most recent season recorded almost 2,000 more patients than the previous year.

As World Wildlife Day approaches, authorities are highlighting the intrinsic link between road safety and conservation. In suburbs like Tarragindi — where bushland, parklands and commuter traffic intersect — the reminder is clear.



Slowing down, scanning verges and removing distractions are small actions that can have significant impact.

Safer roads start with individual choices.

Published 27-Feb-2026. Updated 3-March-2026.

Salisbury Station Reopens Early After Complete Accessibility Rebuild

The Salisbury train station will reopen on Monday 2 March, months ahead of its originally scheduled mid-2026 completion date, following a complete accessibility rebuild undertaken as part of the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority’s southside station upgrade program.


Read: Salisbury Station, Other Southside Stations To Receive Major Accessibility Upgrade


The early reopening caps off a transformation that has delivered a raft of new features designed to make the station easier and safer to use for everyone in the community, with a particular focus on accessibility for people with a disability.

What’s new at Salisbury Station

accessibility rebuild
Photo credit: Queensland Rail

The station has undergone a complete rebuild. Passengers will find new accessible entry points with shade canopies at both the Dollis Street entrance and the park ‘n’ ride on Lillian Avenue. Lifts and staircases now serve each platform, and a new station overpass connects the two sides of the station. Other new additions include seating, drinking fountains, updated footpaths, two accessible parking spaces, a kiss ‘n’ ride on Dollis Street, and a secure bicycle enclosure.

Accessibility has been a defining focus of the rebuild. The station features braille and tactile station maps, hearing aid loop coverage, through lifts, and dedicated accessible parking and drop-off zones, which are features developed with direct input from people who use them.

That input came through the project’s Accessibility Reference Group (ARG), made up of representatives from the disability sector and individuals with a range of lived experiences across various disabilities. The group participated in regular site visits, meetings and feedback sessions throughout the design and construction process, helping to shape a station that aims to be genuinely usable by everyone.

Part of a bigger picture

accessibility rebuild
Photo credit: Queensland Rail

Salisbury is the sixth of seven southside stations to be fully rebuilt under the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority’s rolling program, which covers stations from Dutton Park through to Salisbury. Dutton Park, Fairfield, Yeronga, Yeerongpilly and Rocklea have all already reopened under the same program, with each successive rebuild informed by lessons learned at the stations that came before it.

The wider Cross River Rail project includes a new underground tunnel and stations, forming part of a broader plan to deliver more frequent and faster services across South East Queensland, including along the Logan and Gold Coast corridors.

Acting Head of Translink Dean Helm described the early reopening as a positive outcome for the local community, noting the station’s inclusive design would make it easier than ever for locals to board a train.

 “The inclusive station will be a game-changer, making it easier than ever for locals to get a train with plenty of accessibility features, including two new accessible parking spaces and a kiss “n” ride on Dollis Street,” Mr Helm said.

 “Salisbury’s rebuild included constructing a third platform which will support the Queensland Government’s once-in-a-generation rail transformation by linking with the new underground tunnel, stations and trains to the Gold Coast.

What to know before you travel

While Salisbury station will be fully operational from 2 March, commuters across the broader network should take note of some upcoming disruptions.

On the same day Salisbury reopens, Moorooka station, which is the seventh and final station in the program, will close to begin its own rebuild. Passengers who normally use Moorooka can access the high-frequency StationLink route 19 from nearby bus stops on Ipswich Road as an alternative. Travellers who prefer to stay on rail can also access the network at the already-open and fully accessible Yeerongpilly and Rocklea stations.


Read: How Salisbury Has Transformed Over the Years


Passengers can plan their journeys using the Translink app, by visiting translink.com.au, or by calling 13 12 30.

Published 25-February-2026

South Brisbane Sports Results Feb 20-22


 Sat, February 21, 2026 (Allianz Stadium) – A-League – Men – Round 18
• Sydney FC 1  |   Brisbane Roar FC 0

Sun, February 22, 2026 (Spencer Park) – A-League – Women – Round 18
• Brisbane Roar FC 0  |   Adelaide United FC 2


Fri, February 20, 2026 (Bulimba Memorial Park – Southside Eagles FC – Field 1) – Kappa Pro Series – Women – Regional Round 1
• Southside Eagles 0  |   UQFC 0

Sat, February 21, 2026 (Maroochydore Swans FC – Field 1) – Kappa Pro Series – Women – Regional Round 1
• Maroochydore FC 2  |   Annerley FC 3


Sun, February 22, 2026 (Meakin Park – Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 1
• Brisbane Roar B 1  |   Brisbane City 3

Sat, February 21, 2026 (Goodwin Park – Olympic FC – Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 1
• Olympic FC 2  |   Lions FC 1

Sat, February 21, 2026 (Goodwin Park – Olympic FC – Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 3
• Olympic FC 0  |   Lions FC 0

Sun, February 22, 2026 (Wakerley Park – Souths United FC – Field 2) – NPL – Women – Round 3
• Souths Strikers 1  |   Gold Coast United 1



Fri, February 20, 2026 (Brisbane Entertainment Centre) – NBL – Men – Round 22
• Brisbane Bullets 77  |   Sydney Kings 117


Sat, February 21, 2026 (The Gabba) – One Day Cup 2025-26 – Men – Match 6
• Queensland Bulls 260  |   South Australia Men 135


The Learning Sanctuary Tarragindi on Toohey Road Listed for Sale as Investor Demand for Early Learning Assets Grows

Global real estate agency CBRE is offering The Learning Sanctuary Tarragindi, a purpose-built 95-place childcare centre at 200 Toohey Road, to the market as a premium freehold investment, with a long-term lease in place to G8 Education, Australia’s largest ASX-listed early childhood education provider.



The centre sits on a 1,363 square metre site adjacent to Wellers Hill State School, in one of Brisbane’s most consistently family-dense suburbs. It operates under a 15-year lease to G8 Education secured until 2035, with two further 10-year options extending to 2055, giving any incoming owner more than three decades of potential tenure with a nationally recognised operator. Expressions of interest close on 12 March 2026.

For Tarragindi families, the sale changes nothing in day-to-day terms. The centre continues to operate normally under G8’s Learning Sanctuary brand, which has operated from the Toohey Road site since the purpose-built facility opened its doors in early 2020. The listing is a straightforward property transaction, not a closure or change of service.

A Suburb Built for Families

The Learning Santuary listing reflects the suburb’s standing as one of Brisbane’s most sought-after family postcodes. Couple families with children make up 56 per cent of Tarragindi’s population, reinforcing the suburb’s appeal to those seeking quality schools and a supportive family environment. The centre’s median household income of $2,934 per week sits 59 per cent above the Greater Brisbane median, and the suburb’s median house price is 44 per cent above the Brisbane average, reflecting the depth of owner-occupier demand in this part of the southside.

Purpose-built childcare centre
Photo Credit: Real Commercial

Tarragindi’s boundaries are largely defined by the Southeast Freeway and Toohey Forest, with the main residential valley running north to south between Wellers Hill to the east and Tarragindi Hill to the west. Its position roughly seven kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, combined with easy access to the South East Busway and proximity to Wellers Hill State School, makes the Toohey Road site particularly well-located for working families.

The Learning Sanctuary itself is purpose-built across multiple levels, with extensive outdoor environments including a climbing fort, bike track, water play area, sandpits and a vegetable garden. Indoor spaces include a dedicated STEM room. It serves children aged six weeks to six years across long day care and kindergarten programmes, drawing families from Tarragindi, Nathan, Greenslopes, Holland Park West, Moorooka and Annerley.

Early Childhood Education as an Investment Class

The Tarragindi listing is part of a dual campaign run by CBRE, which has simultaneously listed a G8-leased centre in Cowra, New South Wales. CBRE reported almost $440 million in childcare investment sales nationally in 2025, reflecting sustained transaction activity in what the agency describes as a resilient investment sub-sector, underpinned by essential service status, long lease terms and consistent federal funding support.

Purpose-built childcare centre
Photo Credit: Real Commercial

G8 Education operates more than 430 centres across Australia under 21 brands, caring for around 50,000 children each week through a workforce of close to 10,000 staff. Australia will invest more than $16 billion in early childhood education and care in 2025–26, giving investors in long-leased assets a stable and reliable operating environment.

Brisbane will grow by 28 per cent to 3.288 million residents by 2035, and that growth will fuel strong demand for childcare places across established suburbs. In areas such as Tarragindi, where family households dominate and character residential zoning limits new supply, that demand is likely to remain strong.

Expressions of Interest

Expressions of interest for the Learning Sanctuary Tarragindi at 200 Toohey Road close on 12 March 2026. The campaign is managed by CBRE Senior Director Yosh Mendis and Director Michael Vanstone. Further information is available through CBRE’s commercial listing or by contacting the CBRE Brisbane through +61 1300 227 311.



Published 23-February-2026.

Tarragindi Rent Pressure Builds as Low Vacancy Limits Options

Tarragindi renters are now looking at a typical house rent of about $795 a week, a figure that shows how quickly a “stay-put” suburb can become a stretch when more households are chasing the same small pool of homes.



After the December 2025 quarter, the December 2025 Domain Rental Report reported Brisbane’s median house rent rose to $670 a week and the median unit rent rose to $650, with Brisbane recording the strongest quarterly rise in house rents of any capital city. 

What the Data Says in Tarragindi

Tarragindi’s typical house rent is about $795 per week and typical unit rent is about $525 per week, based on recent listings and market tracking. That keeps Tarragindi above the Brisbane-wide median for houses, even as renters become more careful about what they can afford.

Different snapshots can vary depending on which slice of listings is counted. A Tarragindi unit snapshot on rentals page puts the median unit rent closer to $500 a week, based on recent unit listings. Taken together, the figures point to the same message for locals: costs remain high, and small changes can look big when only a limited number of units are listed over a year.

Why Competition Stays Strong

One reason rents can stay elevated, even when conditions soften in parts of the market, is the lack of slack in the wider system. The Real Estate Institute of Queensland reported Greater Brisbane’s vacancy rate at 0.9% in its latest quarterly update, a level it describes as firmly tight. When vacancies sit that low, renters have fewer back-up options and less room to negotiate. 

Reports for the December-quarter rise also point to tight supply as the main driver of higher rents across the city, while noting the pace of growth can ease when more renters hit affordability limits. 

What Does This Mean for Tarragindi?

For Tarragindi households, the pressure often shows up in the time it takes to find a suitable home within budget. When the typical house rent is near $800 a week, families and sharers who want to stay near established schools, transport links and everyday services can be forced to widen their search or accept trade-offs on size, condition or location.

The citywide trend is also important because it shapes where people look next. An ABC report on Brisbane’s December-quarter results noted Brisbane was a standout for renewed rental growth, while also pointing to a practical limit on what renters can pay. 

Economists have suggested rents may keep edging higher in the near term, but the speed of increases can slow as households push back on price. 

In a suburb like Tarragindi, that can mean renters place more weight on value and liveability, while the wider vacancy rate remains the key factor shaping the amount of choice people have.



Published 28-Jan-2026