BRISBANE LOCAL HISTORY

Known as 'Mian-jin', which means 'place shaped like a spike', the Brisbane river is the traditional home of the Jagera and Turrbal indigenous people.

In 1824 a penal settlement for serious offenders was originally established at Redcliffe, north of the city. This site was shortly abandoned in 1825 in favour of Brisbane's current site, which offered a more reliable water supply and convenient location.

In 1859 Brisbane became capital of the self-governing colony of Queensland and the grand buildings such as Old Government House and Customs House were constructed, highlighting the strength of Brisbane's growing economy.

With a profitable agriculture trade and extensive mineral wealth, Queensland was the fastest growing state in the new nation by the time Australia became a Federation in 1901.

During World War II, the city's northern location made it vulnerable to the threat of Japanese attack and many parts of Brisbane were converted to military camps. Following the war, the city flourished with increased industrial activity and immigration. This development has continued, leading to Brisbane's current status as Australia's fastest growing city.