We have lived in Brisbane for just over three years now.

I made a pact with myself when we first moved here that I would commit to exploring new neighbourhoods outside my usual haunts.

Like all of my best laid plans that lasted for, say, six months.

So when our anniversary of living in BrisVegas kicked over – in March for those playing at home – I decided enough was enough. I dusted off the sneakers and strapped Barkley in (he’s a dog just in case you didn’t know!) and typed in names into Google Maps.

The first walk was dictated by my need to eat a gluten free donut. Yes, I know, I’m the epitome of healthy walks. We ventured to Hawthorne. After a donut and coffee at the Hawthorne Garage (which make sure you put on your to do list to visit), we walked down to the ferry terminal and walked (zig and zagging in and out of each street) along the river, until we hit Bulimba.

The second walk was a little more structured as we followed the Rosalie Heritage Trail, which has been put together by Brisbane City Council to discover important historical sites and stories. The walk goes past Rosalie’s grand houses and the Rosalie School of Arts and Commemoration Hall.

My second exploration was of Ashgrove. I was fascinated to explore this area after the State elections – yes I know, nerdy with a capital N.

I read so much about this area (that also was a pivotal seat in the past two state elections) and decided we needed to visit and explore. We chose the St John’s Wood walk, which followed the Enoggera Creek and circled around this leafy suburb and gorgeous homes. 

After hob-knobbing with the rich folk in Ashgrove, we went to Kangaroo Point next. Meeting after work next to the cute little cafe up on the cliff (right where everyone abseils down) we followed the river and walked from South Bank back to the main cliffs. Stunning.

Next off the rank was Graceville. This was partly to stalk, I mean find, a house made out of shipping containers that had featured on Grand Designs Australia. We parked at the new Tennyson Tennis Centre and just followed the river.

Last weekend, I finally visited The Bee Gees home – Redcliffe. We walked along the esplanade from the pier to where the main bridge (in and out of Redcliffe) meets.

It was a beautiful walk on a Sunday afternoon. The pier is just stunning. Make sure you add this one to your list.

I also must mention our regular haunt, Nudgee Beach. This is a great spot for dog-lovers as you can take the four-legged member of the family and it is stunning, particularly if you read the tides properly.

Next up on the list, is Bardon, Corinda, Indooroopilly, Ascot and Taringa. So if you see me walk by, most likely not watching where I’m going as I’m too busy looking at house designs and for coffee shops, say hello!