Henry Thomas Ireland from Devonshire, England was among the first settlers in the Strathpine area. He arrived in Brisbane in 1863, started farming at Oxley and after moving on to Gympie and other mining centres, he settles in Strathpine in 1870.

Initially he purchased 25 acres of land to which he added another 270 acres and cultivated corn, potatoes and other produce.
He was very active in public circles, and was the first elected Chairman of the then Pines Divisional Board, and, in fact, the first meeting to form this Board was held in his home. Before he was Chairman here, he was elected a member of the Caboolture Divisional Board in 1886, holding office for 12 months.

Among other officers held was the position of Secretary of the Warner State School Committee.

Henry Thomas Ireland’s youngest son, James Alexander Ireland carried on the workings of the property which is presently owned by Mr. W. Barker. (Opposite Mobil)

James Ireland’s son, Walter James Ireland, commenced a milk run in 1924 and continued this for approximately 20 years. This entailed the cartage of milk from the Pine and surrounding areas to Brisbane, which was classed as a hot milk delivery and was conducted in the early hours of the morning.
Walter also provided the area with a general carrying business, and in recent years established a car wreckers yard, spare parts and repair centre. (Now Queen Elizabeth Drive)

Walter’s only son, Harold Walter James Ireland, took over from his father, the General Carrying Business, in 1963. In 1956 Harold established a Mobil Oil Agency which still supplies farmers and the general public with all rangers of fuel, lubricants and aviation gas.

For many years the Ireland tennis court was the venue for the local aspiring champions. This was situated near Mr. Barker’s present residence. Harold’s court is still a popular spot with the locals. (Opposite Wantima)

The Ireland family would be one of the oldest families still remaining in the Shire, and with each generation, have rendered essential service to the community in various forms.

- Ireland Family by Nikki – 1977 reprint.

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