Cloudland in 1978. Photo courtesy State Library of Queensland.
While Brisbane has a new Valley club called Cloudland, to many the name still evokes memories of the original dance hall at Bowen Hills.
Constructed in 1939-40, Cloudland was first known as Luna Park. It officially opened on 2nd August 1940 along with an 'alpine railway' to bring patrons up the hill to the rear of the ballroom from the Breakfast Creek Road tram stop.
A fun park had initially been planned for the site, next to the ballroom - hence the name Luna Park.
WWII broke out before the fun park had been built and Cloudland was used during the war years as a base by the American Military.
For a few years cots lined the sprung floors of the ballroom instead of dancing shoes.
Cloudland was re-opened in 1947 after the war was over. The name Luna Park was dropped and it became known as Cloudland Ballroom.
It was considered to be the finest ballroom in Australia and began being used as a venue for concerts as well as for dances.
Many Brisbane couples either met or courted at Cloudland, the perfect venue for budding romances with its private alcoves and beautiful location.
The ballroom was a well known landmark, visible from many surrounding suburbs thanks to its amazing domed entrance and position.
One of the most famous Cloudland performers was the legendary Buddy Holly, who played there with his band, The Crickets, during his 1958, and only, tour of Australia.
Many schools held their annual fancy dress balls at Cloudland where they performed long rehearsed standards such as the Pride of Erin Waltz, Progressive Barn Dance, Gypsy Tap and Mexican Hat Dance.
The ballroom was transformed into popular Sunday markets from the late 1970s with dances still held on Friday nights.
Despite strenuous public calls for its preservation, Cloudland was demolished by the Deen Brothers overnight on 7 November 1982 and all that was left was a pile of rubble.
There was a massive outcry from residents and heritage groups, but Cloudland was gone forever.
An apartment block called Cloudland now stands in its place.
We'd love to hear your stories and memories of Cloudland. Please add your comments below.
Cloudland caught my attention from about 1972 onwards when 60/40 dancing was held every Thursday & Saturday Night featuring an incredible house band, "Sounds of Seven".
This band, as I recall, was led by guitarist/arranger Gary McDonald and they really did justice to a wide range of material at a standard that was way better than most "Corporate" bands around today that boast a small horn section.
The acoustics were incredible, and they were all excellent sight readers who could back any guest artists who were booked for floorshows.
I missed the recent "Back to Cloudland" reunion at city hall, but would love to hear some feedback about SOS if anybody was there.
Cheers
Bernie.