A new chapter is unfolding at the old Sandgate fire and rescue station on Brighton Road.
Rhino Flooring Range, owned by Steele and Glenda Ryan, have recently set up shop in this community landmark.
After 25 years of servicing builders, the Ryans have transformed the former fire station into a vibrant space that reflects their vision for modern interiors, while still preserving the character of the building.
“We have breathed new life into the interior, similar to what I believe our potential clients would like to achieve in their refurbishment – painting, lighting, cabinetry and of course, floor coverings,” Steele said.
A Nod to the Past and an Eye on the Future
The couple also plan to install a fire engine letterbox as a nod to the building’s past.
The original fire station was officially opened by the Assistant Home Secretary, Mr F T Brennan on 19 January 1924. The location was chosen because of its proximity to a fresh-water lagoon that facilitated drill practice. In 1928, the brigade was incorporated into the Metropolitan Fire Brigade.
The existing structure was built in 1970 on the same site as the former station.
The Ryan’s decision to relocate follows the recent sale of Thor Building Products, a company they established in 2000. While they expanded their offerings over the years, they chose to retain the floor coverings division, seeing this historic venue as the perfect location to serve trade customers and establish a retail presence.
“I have lived in the 4017 region all my life – an old boy from St Patrick’s Shorncliffe as is my son,” Steele said. “Now only a hobby trainer, I still train a few gallopers from my Deagon stable.
“For both Glenda and I, this is more of a wind down after servicing the building industry most of our working life and servicing them in every corner of Australia.
“We are just looking forward to keeping our workload real, not taking on too much and ensuring customer satisfaction.”
The showroom features three kitchen examples, a range of silica-free stone tops and plenty of flooring samples.
Steele said Rhino Flooring Range aimed to provide a diverse range of options, excluding ceramics, to accommodate all budgets.
“Quality, speed and value for money is what we will be attempting when taking on any contracts,” he said.
The store is open from 8.30am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, with Saturday hours and after-hours by appointment.
Read more stories from the Sandgate Guide print magazine here:
- Station Upgrade On Track
- No Man’s Land No More
- The Myth of Hard Work Always Leading to Success
- Journey Through Ancient Egypt at Queensland Museum
- Organic Gardening in November
- Robert Kift: A Genial Sandgate Identity
- Skating into Christmas with a Cool Performance
- Ready to Run
- Discover The Magic Of the Night Sky
- Sub Branch Builds Sense of Belonging
- O Christmas Tree!
- Santa Makes Waves at Carols by the Creek
- Join the Pack: Walk for Diabetes Assistance Dogs
- Club Still in the Swim
