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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Customs House

The heritage-listed Brisbane Customs House is located at 399 Queen Street. Work commenced on the building in 1886, and taking three years to build it was opened in 1889. It served as the base for Brisbane River customs operations for almost 100 years. It is a fine example of the work of Scottish architect Charles McLay, who worked in the Colonial Architect's Office. The architecture represents a Victorian building in the Renaissance mode, with strong Corinthian columns abounding!


It is known as the former Customs House, as Customs activities no longer place there! The building is now leased by the University of Queensland. There is a restaurant within the building, and regular concerts and art exhibitions are also held at the building. Facilities are also available for corporate and private functions for up to 350 guests, including a boardroom for meetings, and a seminar room with audio-visual facilities. The University acquired it in 1992. On a day like today, with storms about and quite blowy, you can see the affect on the palm trees!


One of the interesting things I like on Customs House is the heraldry, as shown above, which were precursors to the Queensland coat of arms. You've gotta love kangaroos and emus. I've had the good fortune to attend a number of activities at the Customs House. The Long Room is quite spectacular, with cathedral ceilings and a fantastic chandelier. I haven't yet had an opportunity to eat at the restaurant though I've heard its good. The Art Gallery, on the river level, also has a great collection of Australian Art.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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