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Netflix’s adaptation of Boy Swallows Universe is an absolute feast for the eyes, bringing Trent Dalton’s gritty, magical, and downright wild story to life with some seriously cool locations. So, if you’re keen to retrace Eli Bell’s chaotic but wholesome footsteps, buckle up – we’re taking you on a whirlwind tour of the top Boy Swallows Universe filming locations.
Where was Boy Swallows Universe filmed?
The Netflix series was filmed in Queensland, Australia – where the story is based. More specifically, it was shot in the city and suburbs of Brisbane. Here are some of the filming locations that you can visit on your trip to Australia.
1. Beenleigh (Cameron Street & Charles Street)
First things first, we’ve got the iconic blue house on Cameron Street, AKA Eli Bell’s childhood home. This is where the chaos, heartache, and big dreams collide. This place has seen things (and it probably has opinions about the Bell brothers’ antics).
2. Beenleigh State School
Ah, school – where the drama is real, and the bullies are even realer. Beenleigh State School is Eli’s battleground for navigating friendships, fistfights, and even the occasional life lesson. The Aussie childhood nostalgia is strong with this one.
3. Doomben Station
Trains = freedom, escape, and a whole lot of staring out windows looking pensive (pretending that you’re part of a TV show). Doomben Station plays a crucial role in Eli’s adventures, and let’s be honest, Brisbane’s train stations have never looked so cinematic.
4. Jacobs Well
Ever wondered where those eerie, crime-filled cane fields were shot? Yep, that’s Jacobs Well. Oh, and remember that fishing scene with Slim Halliday? Same spot. Nothing screams ‘wholesome bonding’ quite like a mysterious body of water.
5. Dutton Park
Ding ding! We have a legendary location on our hands. Brisbane’s historic (and seriously creepy) Boggo Road Gaol was the perfect choice for prison scenes. It’s got the vibes, the history, and just enough spook factor to make you second-guess visiting after dark.
6. Soudan Street/Gordon Street
Brutal, intense, and one of those “oh no, oh NO” moments was shot here. That’s right – the dreaded ketchup was filmed in the backstreets of Beenleigh. If you ever find yourself walking these streets, maybe keep your head on a swivel? JK.
7. Brisbane City (Adelaide Street & King George Square)
The scenes where Eli ventures into the heart of Brisbane were shot in Adelaide Street and King George Square. From dodging danger to soaking up the big city lights, these spots add an electric energy to the show.
8. Greenslopes Bowls Club
Thought bowls clubs were all about those quiet Sunday afternoons? Well, certainly NOT in this show. Greenslopes Bowls Club hosts some shady dealings and drama-filled moments in the show. Don’t judge a book by its cover right?
9. Moorooka (Fruit Factory)
Sneaking into a truck? Check. Breaking into prison? Also check. This high-stakes scene, filmed at a fruit factory in Moorooka, has all the makings of an action-packed heist (just with some added childhood trauma).
10. Jimbour House
Ah yes, the jaw-dropping sandstone mansion. This grand estate, known as Jimbour House, is the perfect backdrop for some of the show’s most visually stunning moments. It’s the kind of place that screams ‘money’ and a whole lot of drama.
11. Redcliffe
What’s a crime drama without a shady beachside handoff? While there are plenty of beaches and reefs in Australia that could’ve been stunning filming locations for this part. Redcliffe’s stunning waterfront sure does the job well. Oh, and don’t forget to bring your esky when you visit, just like Eli. Because, well, we’re in Australia.
Image source:Scotty McDonald / unsplash
What house was used in Boy Swallows Universe?
Eli Bell’s childhood home (the heart of all the chaos) was filmed at a classic three-bedroom property in Beenleigh.
What suburbs was Boy Swallows Universe filmed in?
The show was filmed in some of Brisbane’s most character-packed suburbs, including Darra, Wavell Heights, and Chelmer. Think: old-school Queenslander homes, sun-drenched streets, and just the right amount of nostalgia to bring Trent Dalton’s world to life.
Wanna visit these locations IRL?
Check out our top trips to Australia for a dose of Boy Swallows Universe filming locations (without the actual crime or drama, of course!).
