Nestled on the southern bank of the Pioneer River, the Mackay Customs House stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural splendor of Mackay, Queensland. This heritage-listed building, completed in April 1902, is not just a relic of the past but a vibrant piece of Mackay's living history, seamlessly blending the old with the new.
The story of the Mackay Customs House begins in the early 1860s when John Mackay and his party ventured into the valley of the Mackay River, later renamed the Pioneer River. The establishment of a cattle station and the arrival of settlers marked the beginning of Mackay as a bustling port town. By January 1863, John Tanner Baker was appointed Sub Collector of Customs, setting up the Customs Office in a corner of a large store on the riverbank.
As Mackay grew, so did the need for a more prominent customs facility. In 1864, £1000 was allocated for a new building, leading to the construction of the first timber Mackay Customs House by May 1865. However, by the late 19th century, the booming sugar industry and the town's prosperity called for a more substantial structure. The agitation for a new customs house culminated in the construction of the current brick building, attributed to the design of John Smith Murdoch, and completed in 1902 at a cost of £3797/18/0.
The Mackay Customs House is a single-storey brick building that exudes elegance and functionality. Its symmetrical plan centers around the Customs Office or Long Room. The semi-circular public area at the front, adorned with an encircling colonnade, provides an inviting entrance. The building's elevations are formal and predominantly symmetrical, featuring a highly modeled corrugated steel roof with decorative timber gablets and rafter ends.
The entrance colonnade, raised several steps above the ground, boasts columns of Doric order supporting a molded entablature. At its center, a raised parapet proudly displays the Royal coat of arms. The public area is accessible through French doors with leadlight glass panels, while the staff areas are reached via timber-paneled doors. The interior is a blend of plaster walls and varnished cedar joinery, with the Long Room featuring a decorative pressed metal ceiling and semi-circular clerestory windows.
As you step into the Mackay Customs House, you are transported back in time. The Long Room, with its double-height ceiling and intricate plaster moldings, is a sight to behold. The molded archway and panelled cedar counter add to the room's grandeur, offering a glimpse into the customs operations of yesteryears. The surrounding offices and utility rooms, including toilets and a strong room, are separated from the Long Room by a corridor, maintaining the building's functional layout.
The former bond store, located at the south-east corner of the site, complements the Customs House with its rendered masonry walls and stucco panels. This rectangular single-storey building addresses Sydney Street with a gabled parapet and an awning over the footpath, reflecting the architectural detail of the main building. A garage building at the rear, with a central bay of brick and lean-to additions enclosed in steel mesh, completes the site.
The Mackay Customs House has undergone several transformations over the years, adapting to the changing needs of the community while preserving its historical essence. In 1921, the Commonwealth Bank leased the building for a decade, moving the Customs Service to the adjacent timber building. The Customs House has since housed various government departments and has been altered several times for multiple occupancy.
In the late 1980s, conservation and restoration works were undertaken to reverse some of the interior alterations. The building's heritage value was recognized when it was added to the Queensland Heritage Register on 7 February 2005. In 2004, Alman Partners, a financial planning firm, purchased the Customs House and received the Mackay City Council Heritage Award in 2006 for their restoration efforts. The building changed hands again in 2020, becoming the premises of Dean Williamson Dental, which was awarded in 2022 for its adaptive reuse of the heritage-listed building.
The Mackay Customs House is not just a historical landmark but a gateway to exploring the vibrant waterfront precinct of River Street. The area, once bustling with wharves, warehouses, and ship chandleries, now offers a blend of history and modernity. The palm trees planted in 1905 still stand tall, adding to the scenic beauty of the site. The timber picket and rail fence with brick corner posts, along with the well-maintained gardens, lawns, and concrete paths, create a picturesque setting.
Visitors can also explore the nearby Forgan Bridge, which connects the southern bank to North Mackay, offering stunning views of the Pioneer River. The bridge, completed in 1938, marks the head of navigation of the river and is a testament to Mackay's development over the years.
In conclusion, the Mackay Customs House is not just an architectural gem but a symbol of Mackay's rich history and enduring spirit. Its walls echo the stories of the past, while its adaptive reuse ensures it remains a vital part of the community. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, the Mackay Customs House offers a fascinating journey through time, making it a must-visit destination in this charming Queensland town.
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