The Speckled Hen is a proud old girl.

Originally founded in Brisbane by Ian Fleming in 1967, it currently resides in the heart of North Queensland, Townsville. Starting out as a small hobby shop while Ian was studying and tutoring at university, when an opportunity to lecture in the newly built James Cook university presented itself, Ian begrudginly agreed to a short, temporary stint in Townsville. After meeting his soon-to-be wife in Townsville, the decision was made to make the permanent move, and The Speckled Hen Townsville was born in 1970.

After a whirlwind romance and marriage, Joelle took over the day to day operations of the shop which gave Ian the chance to focus on his lecturing and antique hunting. Joelle found a passion for restoration and upholstery, and turned a small hobby shop into a thriving business.

As is often the case, with time and marriage comes children. The shop provided an excellent place for after school fun, freedom to learn and play, and as it turns out, a breeding ground for future collectors to find their passion. While the children have long left the nest, there was one that just couldn’t shake his addiction to antiques, and now Tristan has joined his parents in the running of the business.

A mainstay in the Townsville small business scene, and the longest operating Antique store in the north, The Speckled Hen Antiques & Collectables has no plans on slowing down and looks forward to many more years of joyful trade in its Townsville home.