BLACKSTONE is a historic suburb located within Ipswich, offering a distinctive blend of heritage charm and semi-rural tranquillity.
With a population of 1144 as of the 2021 Census, the area is known for its close-knit community and peaceful lifestyle, while still enjoying convenient access to the Ipswich CBD and essential services.
The suburb’s origins date back to the 1860s, when Welsh immigrant Lewis Thomas established one of the region’s first coal mines. Originally called Bundamba Creek, the name was changed to Blackstone to avoid confusion with neighbouring Bundamba.
It’s believed that the name was suggested by the local postmistress, Mrs Orr, and possibly references a place in Ireland. The community grew rapidly under Thomas’s influence, with an influx of Welsh miners and their families who brought with them a strong sense of culture and tradition. This led to the establishment of the Cambrian Choir and Church in 1886, a soccer club in 1890, a School of Arts in 1891, and a public school in 1887.
The suburb is home to several heritage-listed landmarks that reflect its rich history. These include the United Welsh Church on Thomas St, Blackstone Congregational Church on Mary St, Cambrian House, and the historic Blackstone State School. The Blackstone Congregational Church, originally built in 1879 and later rebuilt around 1900, was designed by architect Will Haenke.
It remains an important community asset and has been used by the Samoan Methodist Church since 2008.
Blackstone’s residential landscape is predominantly made up of detached houses, and planning regulations help maintain the suburb’s character.
Approximately 43 per cent of the land is zoned for conservation and 26 per cent for low-density residential use, supporting a semi-rural atmosphere. The average age of residents is 36, with families making up a large part of the demographic profile.
The suburb also offers recreational opportunities such as the Quarry Street Reserve.
While maintaining its historical and rural charm, Blackstone is well-connected to nearby amenities, schools and shopping centres.
Overall, Blackstone stands out as a suburb that harmoniously blends historical significance with modern convenience.
Its strong sense of community, family-friendly environment, and ongoing infrastructure improvements position it as a desirable place to live and invest in the Ipswich region.
