Showing posts with label Brisbane Heritage Site. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Brisbane Heritage Site. Show all posts

Friday, July 6, 2007

Irish Murphy's

Irish Murphy's
Irish Murphy's Brisbane pub is located at the corner of George and Elizabeth Street. Part of the Irish Murphy's chain, their motto is to offer the best craic in town. They provide live music seven days a week, and have function rooms available. Their gallery restaurant offers more traditional Irish food, and their cafe bar menu offers standard pub fare. They also offer backpacker accommodation from around $30 per night, however, with an opening license through to 3am you need to be a bit of a party animal to stay there!

Irish Murphy'sThis building was formerly the Treasury Hotel. It was built in 1887-1888 and with the Transcontinental is the only building from this era on George Street still operating as a hotel. However, even back then the hotel was a replacement for an earlier hotel, the Dunmore Arms, from 1865. The site therefore has quite a long history. It was named to serve the new government treasury building across the street. The title TREASURY HOTEL still can be seen in the balustrade at the top of the building.

Today, despite being a pub of some repute, you can still see the classical design in the architecture. The upper two stories contain much of the original detail, but the first floor verandah has obviously been altered to serve the drinking consultants who frequent the bar on most evenings. It can be a bit cold to hand out there during winter, but with a few Guinness in your kick I'm sure it warms the cockles of your heart enough to endure!

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Friday, June 22, 2007

General Post Office

General Post Office
The General Post Office is located at 261 Queen Street, directly opposite Post Office Square. Facing the building, on the right you have specialty shops including the RACQ, and on the left, the Post Office and related postal services of Australia Post. Under the arch the complex is split by an arcade which runs from Queen Street through to Elizabeth Street.

General Post Office FacadeThe General Post Office was opened in September of 1872. The original GPO building, was designed by colonial architect Francis Drummond Greville (FDG) Stanley with an Italianate influence. The two storied northern building was completed by John Petrie in 1872, and the southern wing, central tower and archway were erected from 1876 to 1879. The complex was established to meet the increasing communications needs of the colony of Queensland. Helidon freestone is used throughout the building, particularly on the facade, columns and arcades. Over the years further extensions and expansions of the complex were made, however the main original components remain intact.

General Post Office Clock
I love the historic grandeur of the building. Restoration work was undertaken in the mid 1990's, and today the building still shines as a result. The sandstone usage, like many other buildings in the city from that period, is sensational. One part of the GPO I love is the clock face on the northern building. It reminds me of the clock tower from Back to the Future! One day someone should dress up as Doc and slide from the tower down into Post Office Square.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Wednesday, June 13, 2007

Walter Hill Fountain

Walter Hill FountainThe Walter Hill Fountain, in the City Botanic Gardens, is a unique monument to the colonial botanist and original director of the gardens, Walter Hill. Stonemason John Petrie built the stone drinking fountain in 1867 using the designs of Queensland's first colonial architect, Charles Tiffin. It was constructed using Helidon sandstone and marble from Gladstone.

Walter Hill FountainThe fountain commemorates the construction of the Enoggera Dam, which was engineered to provide drinking water for the growing city. It was the first ornamental drinking fountain in Queensland, and for many years functioned as such. The aim of Walter Hill was that all visitors to the Botanic Gardens would have access to pure drinking water. The original lions head through which the water funnelled still remain as features of the fountain. Located almost in the centre of the gardens, the fountain would have provided a focal point for those visitors as they perused the botanical delights.

Walter Hill Fountain
I've just spent the past week travelling down through the eastern parts of Australia. Fortunately, as I went inland we had quite a lot of rain during my travels, and this meant that finally some of the drought stricken areas of the country have had some relief, and their was greenery through most of New South Wales. Posting on this fountain has made me reflect on how the provision of water, one of the basic necessities of life, has been made so difficult for our city over the past few years. Here's hoping we get more rain into our catchments so we can be spared further drought restrictions in the future.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Tuesday, June 5, 2007

Shrine of Remembrance

Shrine of Remembrance, Brisbane
The Shrine of Remembrance is located in ANZAC Square and serves as a State memorial to those who lost their lives participating in overseas armed service campaigns, in particular the First World War. The Shrine houses an Eternal Flame in remembrance of those who lost their lives representing the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZACs). It holds an elevated position at the Ann Street entrance to ANZAC Square. It was dedicated at 11am on Armistice Day, Tuesday, 11 November 1930.

Shrine of Remembrance, Brisbane
The Shrine is a dominant feature of the Square. The architecture is Greek Classic Revival style, utilising the forms of a Greek sacred enclosure (temenos) comprising of a round temple (tholos). The various columns are made of Helidon sandstone, which stand on a three tiered base of Queensland granite. The eighteen columns utilise doric order, and represent the year of peace, 1918. They support a circular entablature which on its outside edge is ornamented with rosettes and within the shrine is inscribed with the names of battlefields where Australian soldiers fought. Within the middle of the shrine a bronze urn houses the Eternal Flame. Twin stone staircases wrap around the Shrine, descending to the level of the Square.

Shrine of Remembrance, Brisbane
Of all the elements within ANZAC Square, this has to be the most striking. The Shrine is a meeting place for the dawn service on ANZAC Day, and throughout that particular day draws huge crowds who pay their respect. At any time of the year, it is a moving and sombre experience to visit and recognise and remember the fallen.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Monday, June 4, 2007

The Mansions

The Mansions
The Mansions are a row of six attached houses which were built in 1889. The first tenants were three doctors who set up practice early in 1890 and included Dr Lilian Cooper, the first female doctor in Queensland. It was also used by Queensland parliamentarians, including the then premier Boyd Dunlop Morehead. In the following years the various houses were used as private residences, a day school, consulting rooms and boarding houses before falling into government hands as offices. In 1982 the building was refurbished to accommodate shops and a restaurant on the ground floors and offices on the upper levels.

The Mansions
Given its age, the style is a Victorian version of Italian Classical architecture. With predominantly red brickwork, each attached house is three stories in height. Designed by architect G.H.M. Addison it is an example of the prestigious housing of the late 19th century. This was where the elite of Queensland society of the time lived, offering views over the township and the river from one of the highest points in the city. The interiors have been significantly renovated over time, with very little of the original interior architecture remaining.

The MansionsI love how at each of the main corners of the building facing George Street, two cats are perched overlooking the streetscape. These are similar to Gargoyles, however these serve as sculpture providing what appears to be an ornamental or artistic function. I wonder if these were placed here to scare off evil spirits and used for some level of spiritual protection. They looked quite determined with their ever vigilant eyes on those who pass by underneath.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Friday, June 1, 2007

Transcontinental Hotel

Transcontinental Hotel
The Transcontinental Hotel is a historic pub located at 482 George Street opposite the Brisbane Transit Centre. Open from 10:00am until late each day, the complex offers restaurant, bars and a pokies gaming area. Renowned as both a live music and dance venue, as well as a great place to get cheap eats, the Trans, as it is locally known, has been a Brisbane pub institution for a number of years. I do not, however, believe the hotel currently offers accommodation.

Transcontinental HotelThe Transcontinental Hotel has quite a long history with Brisbane. It was constructed in 1883-4 as a first class hotel for the city's gentry. It originally contained 27 bedrooms, seven public rooms, billiard room and a private bar over four levels, with the lower level being below street level. It was reputed to have one of the largest bar trades in Brisbane, with only the best liquor carried. Over the years, although the facade has remained largely intact, the interior has had significant remodelling.

Today, the trans has several theme nights, changing from pub sports on Monday, music jam night Tuesday, funk and R&B Wednesday, university night Thursday, office Friday and differing varieties on Saturday and Sunday. The crowd is a mix of backpackers and tourists, the office set, and students, depending on which night you go. During happy hours the beer is cheap and flows regularly, and their pub meals are quite good value.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Sunday, May 27, 2007

Former State Library of Queensland

Former State Library of Queensland
The building at 159 William Street has a long and auspicious history within the public life of Brisbane. Like many other buildings in the area along William Street, this is another of the city buildings designed by Colonial Architect Francis Drummond Greville (FDG) Stanley. It was modelled on 16th century Italian architecture. Constructed between 1876 and 1879, it was the first purpose-built home for the Queensland Museum.

Former State Library of Queensland
Unfortunately, it proved inadequate for museum purposes. It reopened as the Public Library of Queensland in April 1902. Over the years the collection expanded, and the the library building itself was extended in 1958-59. The name was changed to the State Library of Queensland in 1971. In 1988 the State Library moved to new, larger premises in the Queensland Cultural Centre at Southbank.

Former State Library of Queensland Mural
Along with the historic building, the associated annex with mural by Victorian artist Lindsay Edwards, are still prominent architectural and artistic features on William Street. I believe the building may still be used as a library store, although I also understand that it is partially home to offices of Tabcorp, associated with the Treasury Casino across the road. Hopefully we'll never lose such a unique facade.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Friday, May 25, 2007

Commissariat Store

Commissariat Store
The Commissariat Store at 115 William Street is the current home of the Royal Historical Society of Brisbane (RHSQ). The building is one of the most significant building, having been completed in 1829. Like the Old Windmill, it was originally built by convicts and is one of the only remaining remnants of the original penal settlement on which Brisbane was founded. Today, it effectively runs as a museum to Brisbane's history. It is open Tuesday to Sunday 10.00am - 4.00pm, with adults costing $4.00 to enter, and children $2.00.

Commissariat Store
The Commissariat store's primary role was to hold good for storage and distribution to the military, convicts and colonists. It was also used to control the supply of medicines and hospital equipment, customs and banking. When the penal settlement finally closed after more than a decade of brutal reign, the store became a land sales office, and then a military and police barracks. From the 1880's it became government offices, was extended in 1913, and in 1982 became the home of the RHSQ. It also holds the Welsby library for those who wish to research Queensland history.

Commissariat StoreWhen I visited, I was amazed at the wealth of historical displays and information on Brisbane held within the building. Not only is the building itself a wonderful historical icon, but the materials kept and displayed here all offer aspects of Brisbane's history which are both insightful and interesting. One specific thing which sent chills down my spine was the gallows beam from Boggo Road Gaol, on which several men were hung during its time as a prison. Then there are other uplifting displays to men such as Thomas Petrie who worked tirelessly for Aboriginal rights. The tour guides do an excellent job as well.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Tuesday, May 22, 2007

Naval Offices

Naval Offices
The Naval Offices at 3 Edward Street are representative of the historic character of the Brisbane riverfront. They were built in 1901 as the administrative headquarters of Queensland Marine Defence Force, providing a residence for the Naval Commandant and his staff. The Naval Offices served as a key naval administrative location from the Royal Australian Navy's formation in 1913 and throughout two World Wars. The premises were occupied by the Navy through to 1959. Subsequently, they were used by various government departments until being leased as a restaurant in 1982. The Naval Offices are currently home to Baggaley's Florist.

Naval Offices Pediment
The architectural style of the building is mainly Baroque, with an ornate entrance pediment which incorporates the Naval Defence Coat of Arms. This is a largely intact example of a Federation period building. The original wrought iron entry gates still hang in the arched entrance way. The building is predominantly constructed from red brick which is essentially plain on the lower level and stuccoed on the upper level.

Naval Offices
This is another of the city buildings with a unique and largely intact historical significance. Being so close to the river, the naval representatives would have had a commanding view of the activities on the river during both wars, although now the Stamford Hotel has largely blocked their vista. They could also have monitored activities at the Naval Store, directly across the river. Today, there's flowers inside, so if you're looking for a brilliant bloom, have a look at their floral delights whilst you savour the history!

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Wednesday, May 16, 2007

Queensland Police Museum

Queensland Police Museum - Police Bike
The Queensland Police Museum is located on the ground floor of the Queensland Police Headquarters, at 200 Roma Street. Two of the museums key aims are promoting the Queensland Police Service and preserving its history and heritage. The museum has a variety of displays on police heritage, Queensland crimes, police investigative techniques, medals, police women, operational equipment and transport, amongst others. It is open from 9:00am to 4:00pm weekdays, with the occasional Sunday opening. Entry is free.

Queensland Police Museum - Pokie MachineProviding an education program for both primary and secondary students, the museum can be quite busy during certain times of the day. You can participate in forensic science and crime solving sessions, and there is even a mock courtroom. There is also a research library at the facility which can source and produce the service history for any Queensland Police officer who served between 1864 and 1940. I like that they have a 1930's poker machine on display, although I doubt it still works!

Queensland Police Museum - Betty Shanks Murder
Some of the more chilling displays involve infamous Brisbane crimes, and real murder cases. One that struck me was the unsolved murder case of Betty Shanks, a young woman who was killed in the early 1950's. Still unsolved, the story remains one of Brisbane's most significant murder mysteries. Perhaps someone who visits the museum will have their memory sparked and may be able to shed some more light on the case, 50 years on.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Tuesday, May 15, 2007

The Inchcolm Hotel

The Inchcolm Hotel
The Inchcolm Hotel is a boutique hotel located at 73 Wickham Terrace. A part of the Quality Hotel chain, the hotel offers standard and deluxe suites, "Seasalt" restaurant, conference and function facilities, and a rooftop pool with views back down to the city. In 1999 The Inchcolm was transformed from a heritage listed medical chambers to its current reincarnation. There are 35 suites in the hotel, and these are unique in that they are named after significant people or places of interest in Queensland history.

The Inchcolm HotelWickham Terrace is significant for its relationship to the medical profession. This particular site has been associated with the profession since the 1880's. The original building contained private consulting rooms and then became a private hospital. In 1930 the current building was created in Georgian Style. Internally the building was divided into suites of medical offices, accessed via a narrow central corridor on each level. These suites now form the basis of the hotel. In refurbishing the building as a hotel many of the original features were kept including the silky oak wall panelling and doors, the original brass fittings and the 1920s New York style cage lift which still services the hotel today.

I love the look and feel of this hotel. The red brick rendering, overall faced, and the lettering pronouncing the hotel all give it a certain charm which harks back to the 1930's. The lettering in particular is deceptive, grabbing your attention because it appears out of focus - even though it isn't. It must be a trick of the camera as well! Although I haven't had the pleasure of staying here, I think it would be a great place to take a break.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Monday, May 14, 2007

Westpac Bank Building

On the corner of George Street and the Queen Street Mall at 33 Queen Street is the imposing Westpac Bank Building. Formerly the Bank of New South Wales Building, it is now home to a branch of the Westpac Bank. The six storey building houses not only the banking services, but a range of small to medium size business ranging from Realtors, Lawyers, Solicitors, Personnel Recruitment and Software companies throughout the Chambers.

Westpac Bank Building
The actual site of the building has been associated with banking since 1851. This building was constructed between 1928 to 1930 by Brisbane architects Hall and Devereux. Similar in style to the National Australia Bank down the street, the architecture is an an example of the neo-classical style used in other commercial and government buildings of similar scale and materials built during this period. The main facades comprise Helidon freestone as a stone facing on a base of Uralla polished granite. The facade also features four ionic columns which form a prominent and striking feature.

Westpac Bank Building
As a building on one of the main throughfares of the city, I imagine thousands of people walk past without giving this facade a second glance. After all, its a bank isn't it? Yet the building itself, and its architecture are so imposing and outstanding, that I find it amazing that you can walk passed without being overawed. Given the visual pollution of billboards and hoardings throwing glaring advertisements in garish colours at us, I love that a strong piece of architecture can remind us of where we've come from with the multi-cultural classical influences of our wonderful city in our historic buildings.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Friday, May 11, 2007

Plough Inn

Plough Inn
The Plough Inn is the main pub on Stanley Street Plaza at South Bank Parklands. The inn offers both a traditional pub atmosphere, with beer on tap, along with a steakhouse offering both snacks and meals. The view is excellent, across the beach, river and city and to Little Stanley Street. There is the capacity to cater for a variety of functions for up to 500 people. It is open from 11:00am until late daily.

This historic building was originally built as a hotel in 1885. It replaced a previous, less substantial structure on the site, which had functioned as the Plough Inn since 1864. It had its hey day through the tun of the century due its proximity to the South Brisbane wharves, ensuring its popularity amongst the sea going trade. It was also a significant meeting point for troops during World War II. In 1987 the building was modified to function as a tavern during Expo '88.

Plough Inn
Today the pub is quite a popular meeting point and eatery, being a focal point for the many tourists who visit Southbank. By both night and day the atmosphere is always friendly and welcoming, and the grub is good. It is very easy to sit at the entrance to the pub with a cool, refreshing drink and watch the world go by.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Friday, May 4, 2007

Port Office Hotel

Port Office Hotel
The Port Office Hotel is a restaurant and bar complex located at the corner of Margaret and Edward Streets. It consists of the restaurant F!X, several bars, a nightclub, a Boardroom, a private wine room and also includes function facilities to cater for corporate events or weddings. Open most days from 11:30am until late, the most active nights are Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

The Port Office Hotel is one of the oldest buildings in Brisbane. The building served as the place for accommodation of the officials engaged in shipping activities in the original port. Initially known as the Shamrock Hotel, it began operation in May of 1864. It has been rebuilt and refurbished a number of times since its early days, with the latest major refurbishment done in 2000. Internally some of the early timber doors, architraves, and skirtings survive but otherwise the majority including has been altered in various refurbishments. It is a heritage listed building.

Having eaten at the F!X restaurant I can recommend eating there. As a place to relax, the Marble Bar provides a great location to put up your feet and watch the world go by as you have a drink. Upstairs in the Velvet Room you can either enjoy the nightclub, or hang out on the veranda overlooking the street. Overall, if you're looking for a place to hang out and chill, you can't go too wrong heading here.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Thursday, May 3, 2007

MacArthur Museum

MacArthur MuseumThe MacArthur Museum is located on the 8th Floor of MacArthur Chambers, which can be found just down from the corner of Queens Street and Edward Street. The museum is dedicated to honouring the story of General Douglas MacArthur and the Headquarters Allied Forces South West Pacific Area during 1942–1944. This was a pivotal point in the Second World War. The building was used because of its central location and reinforced concrete roof. The museum is open Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday from 10:00am to 3:00pm, and can be visited with a small admission charge.

MacArthur Museum
There has been much written about Macarthur and his command during World War II. It was on July 20, 1942 that the Southwest Pacific Area headquarters was moved to Brisbane. MacArthur had been appointed Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in the are, and to remove all ambiguity the then Australian Prime Minister John Curtin put MacArthur in command of the Australian military as well. The museum focuses on Macarthur's time in Brisbane, highlighting not only the man, but how the War affected the city, the people at the time, and the interactions with the large influx of American military.

MacArthur Museum
For some time I was unable to easily locate the museum, largely due to the reduced opening hours. This doesn't negate the fact that the museum provides a great reference point for a significant time in Brisbane's history. It is incredible that 60 years on a location in what is effectively a commercial building has still been maintained in such a dedicated fashion. It reminds us of our history through not only the stories of the times, but also in the heritage of the building itself. It also gives us an historical awareness of how successful the allied coalition in the area was.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Wednesday, May 2, 2007

Naldham House

Naldham HouseNaldham House is located at 193 Mary Street, at the intersection of Mary Street and Felix Street. Currently home to the Brisbane Polo Club who began operating from the building in 1990, the building has a long history, originally being part of the maritime community. Naldham House was built in the late 1870s with major extensions in 1889 and served for almost a century as a shipping office. In 1988 major external and internal alternations were carried out in converting the building into premises for the polo club.

Naldham HouseThe site where Naldham House stands, adjacent to the Brisbane River, was acquired by the Australasian Steam Navigation Company (ASN) in March 1852. In 1864 a two storey office building was erected, and was extended during the intervening years to 1888, when renovations began creating the building in its current form. The name Naldham House came about in 1915 when the building was taken over by McDonald Hamilton - Naldham being a contraction of the two names. For many years the port trade played a significant factor in the economic success of the shipping companies, and they dominated much of the Brisbane River waterfront.

Naldham House
The building itself exudes English colonial style. The building forms a thin rectangle with the visually dominant tower being located at the north-eastern end. I love how the stark white rendering has been maintained, and the architectural integrity has been kept intact. You can take a virtual tour of the insides of the building, and here you can see the definite formal British club influence of the renovations.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Wednesday, April 11, 2007

Masonic Memorial Temple

The Masonic Memorial Temple is located at 309 Ann Street. It is the headquarters of the Freemason organisation in Queensland. With its foundation stone laid on Anzac Day, 25 April, 1928 it initially provided a masonic memorial to those who gave their lives in the first World War. The building was opened on 9th December 1930 in a spectacular ceremony. Since 1930 the hall has been the centre of Masonic activity in Queensland. It is the only dedicated Grand Hall in Australia which is capable of accommodating a Grand Installation. Free tours of the Ann Street Centre are conducted at 2pm Monday to Friday.

The architecture of the building was the result of a competition held in 1923 to produce a design for the temple. The plans of architect Lang Powell were chosen from 16 submissions. It is built in the Classical Greek Revival style, with significant symmetry used in the positioning of the columns and layouts both externally and internally. No expense seems to have been spared, with sandstone, bronze, leadlighting, Queensland timbers and marble used variously throughout. Largely local materials were used.

You can't help but notice this building walking down Ann Street, even with the construction occurring next door. Internally, the Hall of Remembrance with the central urn surrounded by the circular Tuscan columns is a site to behold. Externally the outstanding stonework and the indicative masonic square and compass readily identify the building as Masonic. I like the juxtaposition of the new work going on close to the old, and only hope that unlikely as it is, what they're building next door could come close to the architectural style of the temple.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Sunday, April 8, 2007

All Saints Anglican Church


All Saints Anglican Church is located at 32 Wickham Terrace. As it is Easter, I thought it appropriate to do another post about an historic church. The present church, the oldest existing Anglican Church in Brisbane, was opened for worship in 1869, replacing an earlier structure of 1862. The original church was a small rubble structure, designed by architect by Benjamin Backhouse. In 1869 architect Richard Suter designed the alterations, which effectively turned into almost a complete rebuild in Gothic style.

The Church was designated as All Saints in 1869. The east end of the church contains the oldest stained glass in Brisbane, installed in 1870. The interior contains examples of hammer-beam roof construction, which is rare in Australia. Artwork includes plaster Stations of the Cross by well known Brisbane sculptor Daphne Mayo, and Christ accepting his Cross in the forecourt. The inscription on the western side of the church reads. DOMUS MEA DOMUS ORATIONIS (My House shall be called a House of Prayer).

I found it interesting that whilst researching this church, although it is Anglican (Church of England) there is a strong tie to the Catholic Church in their services. As their website proclaims, they aim to remind all Anglicans of their historic claim to be an integral part of the Catholic Church. My ignorance is such that when I think Anglican I think of Henry VIII. The church itself is part of the historical fabric of Brisbane. I find it fascinating that of most things which are historically retained in our cities, it is usually the churches which remain in much greater ratios than other buildings.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Friday, April 6, 2007

Pancake Manor at St Luke's Church Hall

The Pancake Manor or Pancake Cafe is located at 18 Charlotte Street. The main item on their menu is obviously Pancakes! There are many variations, including crepes. The food and atmosphere is good, and the restaurant is open 24 hours. There are tables and booths with carved wooden seating. There's a bar in the middle of the main restaurant, as well as a pool table should you feel like playing. Downstairs, the Good Knight Bar is open in the evenings.

The building is part of Brisbane's Heritage Trail. It was originally selected as a site for a new Mission by the Anglican Church in 1903. It opened as St Luke's in 1904, designed with a Romanesque architecture by J.S. Murdoch. It was used as the main Brisbane church for the Anglican congregation until 1910, when St John's Cathedral was completed. From 1910 it acted as an Anglican Mission, and is also famous for housing the Newsboys' Club, amongst other youth groups. It remained associated with the Church until 1977. It opened as the Pancake Manor in 1979.

This is a great place to go with kids. Because of the booths you can squeeze them in so they can't escape, and the fare suits kids tastes for a quick meal out. Who doesn't love pancakes?! Being from Melbourne, there's an obvious association for me with the Pancake Parlour, although I imagine there may be some rivalry between the two. They have the same logo, although one says Perfect and the other says Lovely. Who cares? Both are right in my books!

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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Monday, April 2, 2007

A Hidden Heritage Walkway

As part of the building of Admiralty Towers II, a residential apartment block at 501 Queen Street, the developers created what is known as Admiralty Towers Pocket Park. The tower was completed in 1996. The park provides an escape from the concrete jungle and a place where tower residents can at least have some greenery. It looks out over the river, so the views are fantastic. However, the thing that has struck me in this area is what I would term as a "hidden" walkway below the rear of the park.

What intrigues me about the walkway is the architecture of the retaining wall. I assume it was part of the works done to prevent flooding of Queen Street as it approached the river, keeping at its elevated level significantly above the waterline. I also believe it was built at the same time as the original Customs House. It appears to be sandstone stonework with arched insets. The wall itself would be a good five metres high.

I know that I'm indulging myself here, but when I first walked this path I was amazed at how few people would have known it was even there. True, if you were in the Admiralty Tower's, it provides a shortcut up to Queen Street. Alternatively, if you were staying at the Marriott, and took the back entrance you could go through it. I just love the stonework, and that it has stood the test of time, even with new residential developments in the area.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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