One of Brisbane’s most iconic waterfront properties, the Cleveland Courthouse, has changed hands in a standout $4 million auction, setting the stage for a vibrant new chapter on the Redlands hospitality scene.
What’s happening?
On Thursday, 12 June 2025, a crowd of more than 80 onlookers gathered on Shore Street North, where RWC Bayside conducted the much-anticipated auction of the heritage-listed Cleveland Courthouse.
The property was brought to market by Nathan Moore and Alex Sinclair through an intensive four-week marketing campaign that attracted significant attention.
With Moreton Bay sparkling at high tide and clear skies overhead, eight registered bidders gathered at the on-site auction, creating a competitive atmosphere befitting one of the region’s most talked-about sales of the year.
The winning bidder, a Queensland businessman behind the Indian Brothers restaurant group and other wedding, catering, and hospitality ventures, viewed the property for the first time just one day before the auction.
“He fell in love with it instantly,” said Nathan Moore of RWC Bayside. “He has big plans to restore the courthouse to its former glory as a restaurant and wedding venue, which is such a win for Redlands locals. The community has a deep affection for this building, and to see it come back to life is genuinely exciting.”
In a surprising twist, the underbidder was a local builder who happened upon the auction crowd, stopped to watch, and registered to bid on the spot.
Why it matters
The sale of the Cleveland Courthouse represents more than just a real estate transaction; it signals the revitalisation of a Redlands landmark with strong cultural and community significance.
“This sale represents more than just a transaction,” said Nathan Moore. “It’s the beginning of the next chapter for one of Redlands’ most iconic buildings. To see it remain in the hands of someone passionate about hospitality and community is the best possible outcome.”
Originally constructed as a courthouse, the property transitioned into one of Brisbane’s best-loved waterfront hospitality venues. For more than 25 years, it operated as a restaurant, wedding venue, and event space, a venue cherished by locals and visitors alike.
Local Impact
The winning bidder plans to restore and relaunch the venue, returning it to a functioning restaurant and event space. This move will breathe new life into the local hospitality landscape, creating opportunities for tourism, events, and employment in the region.
“There was a real energy in the air today,” said Alex Sinclair of RWC Bayside. “The sun was shining, the tide was in, and the property just looked absolutely stunning. It was one of those moments where history, location, and opportunity all aligned.”
The community’s affection for Cleveland Courthouse has been reinforced by the result, ensuring the venue will continue to play a key role in the local social and cultural calendar.
By the numbers
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$4 million sale price achieved at auction
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Eight registered bidders, with three competing actively
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Over 50 enquiries and 12 inspections were conducted throughout the campaign
Zoom In
The Cleveland Courthouse sits on a 1,290 sqm site with more than 20 metres of direct bay frontage. The 590 sqm building offers a blend of timeless architecture and modern functionality, including:
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Original exposed brickwork, timber flooring, and working fireplace
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Expansive undercover outdoor dining areas and pristine lawn space
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A fully-equipped commercial kitchen
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Heritage character with operational potential for hospitality, events, or tourism
The property is ideally located just 1km from Cleveland Point, under 3km from Cleveland Harbour and the CBD, and within 2km of the proposed Toondah Harbour precinct.
Zoom Out
The auction drew strong media coverage in the weeks leading up to the event, including features in print and TV news.
“This was one of the most anticipated Redlands auctions of the year,” said RWC Bayside.
The result reinforces continued demand for character-filled, well-located commercial properties in Redlands, particularly those with potential to contribute to tourism, community experiences, and local employment.
As Redlands undergoes further growth, particularly with the proposed Toondah Harbour development, demand for high-quality hospitality venues in prime waterfront positions is expected to remain strong.
What to look for next?
Whether transformed into a destination restaurant, a premium event space, or given an entirely new identity, locals are looking forward to see what is next and continuing to enjoy this beloved space.
