Please note: this article contains spoilers.
Brisbane’s been on the global radar as of late, and for reasons we can absolutely get behind. We’re the host city for the 2032 Olympics, which has resulted in a lot of construction around the city. The New York Times name-checked us on its ’52 Places to Go In 2024′ list. And now, Brisbane is in the limelight as the main setting for Netflix’s hit new Aussie series Boy Swallows Universe.
Based on Trent Dalton’s award-winning novel of the same name, this gritty, raw and honest coming-of-age story follows a young boy and his family in the drug-fuelled underworld of 1980s Brisbane.
Locals who watched the show would’ve likely noticed iconic Brisbane locations during the series, especially the scenes shot at City Hall and King George Square in the final episode.
But there are plenty of other spots around town that became a backdrop for the series.
Beenleigh
A large chunk of Boy Swallows Universe was filmed in Beenleigh, just south of Brisbane, with scenes shot at Beenleigh Aquatic Centre, Beenleigh State School, and of course, the house on Cameron Street, where Eli, Lyell, Frankie and Gus lived in the show.
Brisbane City
Iconic locations such as Story Bridge, City Hall and King George Square appeared in the final episode, as did the Clock Tower above City Hall. The Museum of Brisbane runs free Clock Tower tours daily, where you get to ride the lift and overlook the city.
Que Huong restaurant, Darra
This is the Vietnamese restaurant that appeared in episode 2, and at the time of writing, Que Huong reopens on February 17th if you fancy a meal in this familiar setting.
Jacobs Well, Gold Coast
Around 45 minutes south of Brisbane, you’ll find Jacobs Well Boat Ramp, which is where the fishing scene with Eli and Slim Halliday was filmed.
Thornton Parade, Wavell Heights
This northside suburb is home to the Queenslander that belonged to Eli Bell’s father Robert, and where the two brothers lived for a large chunk of the series.
Karawatha Quarry
This southside quarry near Calamvale is where Robert’s car was driven off the cliff.
Jimbour House, Dalby
A much more inland location that appeared in the series is Jimbour House, which acted as the setting for Titus Broz’s mansion. The heritage-listed homestead hosts self-guided tours of the garden, as well as a Devonshire tea offering.
Mowbray Park, East Brisbane
Scenes from Episode 7 were filmed in this Brisbane park.