Historic Townsville landmark ‘Classique’ hits market with rare development potential

2 weeks ago 12
Aleisha Dawson

Townsville Bulletin

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495-503 Sturt Street, Townsville City has hit the market.


One of Townsville’s oldest and most recognisable homes has hit the market with a $1.8m plus price tag.

The historic ‘Classique’ residence, a grand inner-city Queenslander built more than 125 years ago, sits on a 981sq m CBD lot, and offers buyers an opportunity to secure a landmark property with both historical character and future flexibility.

Aerial view of 495-503 Sturt Street, Townsville City.


Welcome to Classique.


Belle Property Townsville agent Brae Hall, who is marketing the property alongside Josie Howard, said the home held a unique place in the local landscape.

“Classique is one of those homes that people in Townsville instantly recognise with the Sturt St exposure,” he said.

“It has a remarkable history but also enormous flexibility because it isn’t heritage listed. “Buyers could continue boutique accommodation, create an incredible private residence or explore other possibilities subject to council approval.”

One of the living areas.


495-503 Sturt Street, Townsville City.


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Originally known as Canobie House, the home at 495-503 Sturt St was built between 1898 and 1902 by the owners of Canobie Station and has stood through more than a century of Townsville’s growth, including the devastating Cyclone Leonta.

In more recent decades the property became known as ‘Classique Bed and Breakfast’, and built a strong reputation among visitors looking for boutique accommodation close to the city centre.

The kitchen.


Ms Howard said Townsville was attracting growing interest from both lifestyle buyers and investors.

“Townsville’s property market has been building strong momentum, and we’re also seeing increased demand for unique short-stay accommodation experiences,” Ms Howard said.

“Properties with character, scale and an existing accommodation profile like ‘Classique’ are incredibly rare.”

Street view of 495-503 Sturt Street, Townsville City.


The home retains many of its original architectural features.


The residence features multiple bedrooms, three ensuites, several living areas, a billiard room, office or sixth bedroom, entertaining spaces and an outdoor spa area.

The home retains many of its original architectural features including hoop pine flooring, pressed tin ceilings, decorative fretwork, bay windows, French doors and wide verandas designed for tropical North Queensland living.

PropTrack data reveals the median house price in $920,000, up 17.1 per cent over 12 months.

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