“Did you know that Bread House isn’t just a name? It is a legacy for Australia’s baking industry. We stand before a building steeped in history. It played a vital role in shaping the industry we know today.
Let’s travel back in time. Picture Brisbane’s baking scene over fifty years ago. The idea for Bread House emerged. It was meant to be a symbol of unity and progress. But this wasn’t the first Bread House. The original one stood proudly at 426 Queen Street. It was right in the city’s heart, opposite the architectural wonder of Custom House.
Mr. A A Buller Dome spearheaded the charge for the bread industry. He wanted to have its own dedicated premises. Mr D B Nunn, Mr T B Condie and Mr J J Sheeran were presidents there. Mr E W Heindorff, Mr K M Shaw, Mr D C Black and Mr M R Hutchinson were accompanying secretaries.
The Queen Street location had good street access and parking. But as cars grew bigger, chaos ensued. Members arrived in their large vehicles. Chev Corvettes and Twin Spinner Fords crammed the rear parking lot. A decision was made to move to bigger premises. It had to have adequate parking.
The association sold the Queen Street property. It temporarily moved to Fortitude Valley. They shared space with the Meat and Allied Trade Federation. Butchers and bakers under one roof made for an interesting combination.
Mr Jack Sheeran led the property search. Mr Brad Dance joined the committee. Brad was known for his big ideas and determination. He was like many of his fellow competitors. Mr Sid Oswald and Mr Vic Fisher were tough but kind. They possessed loads of energy and ability.
These were the golden days for Queensland’s bread industry. Brad secured the present site. It came with two large wooden homes. It also had a rear entrance to Boundary Street. Later an adjoining property was acquired.
The association decided to erect a building stone. A grand party was planned. The secretary suggested inviting the Governor. Sir Henry Able Smith accepted. He unveiled the stone before a large gathering of industry members and their families. Refreshments flowed freely. The Governor enjoyed himself so much that he stayed well into the afternoon.
Upon leaving, the Governor praised the people as the salt of the earth. He offered to perform any function when the building was completed. Isn’t that a testament to the industry’s standing? Does the industry still hold such sway today?
G E Day and Sons Pty Ltd were chosen as the builders. The basement served as parking for members and tenants. Furniture and furnishings were donated. Hancock and Sons built a large boardroom table. It was installed via the back landing. Mr Bernard J and Mrs K Bakels donated a Swedish black onyx stone. It was placed in the foyer. Mr Vernon J Baynes delivered the stone personally.
Bread House stands as a tribute to friendship, generosity and competitiveness. It honors those who made it possible. It is a cemented piece of the Australian baking industry’s history.
Today Bread House may have new purpose but its story lives on. It reminds us of the visionaries who shaped the industry. Take a moment to appreciate this building. It is a symbol of dedication, innovation and community within the baking world.”