Past, Present, Future

First Nations History

Before colonisation, the area now known as Petrie Terrace was part of the traditional lands of the Turrbal people, the First Nations custodians of the Brisbane area. While specific records about Petrie Terrace itself being a major meeting place are limited, the broader area—including nearby places like Spring Hill, Roma Street, and the Brisbane River—was part of a network of campsites, pathways, and gathering places for local Aboriginal groups.

There is strong oral and archaeological evidence of First Nations people using elevated areas such as what was later called “Green Hill” for gatherings, ceremonies, and lookouts, given their prominence and vantage points.

Colonial Name - "Green Hill"

During the 1800s, Petrie Terrace was referred to as Green Hill due to its lush, elevated appearance. It became an early suburban area of Brisbane. The colonial name faded over time as development increased and the suburb adopted the name Petrie Terrace, after Andrew Petrie, one of Brisbane’s first European settlers and builders.