Brisbane’s quirky tradition of painting fire hydrants has splashed the town with vibrant color and personality. It all began in the 1970s when the Brisbane Federated Women’s Club decided that even the fire hydrants deserved a makeover to celebrate the bicentennial. These once-utilitarian objects were transformed into mini masterpieces, each one adorned with playful designs and cheerful faces.
As new hydrants popped up, they too were painted, keeping the tradition alive. As the older hydrants were replaced, the town couldn’t just let them go. Instead, these artistic relics found a new home in a cozy corner of downtown, now known as the Plug Preserve. Nestled among trees and bushes, over a dozen painted hydrants enjoy a well-deserved retirement, still bringing smiles to visitors and giving local dogs something to wag about.
The retired hydrants stand proudly at the Plug Preserve, alongside a plaque honoring Jeanne Berman-Hosking and the Federated Women’s Club of Brisbane for turning the town’s hydrants into a joyful tradition. This small but spirited piece of Brisbane’s history perfectly captures the town’s unique character and playful charm.
The Plug Preserve is a delightful “graveyard” where these creatively painted hydrants rest in peace—or at least until someone stops by to admire them.
