Government House

Imagine you are standing before a grand two-storey building with a prominent tower and a balustraded roof parapet. This is Government House, the official residence of the governor of Queensland. It is not just a house; it is a symbol of Queensland’s history and heritage. You might be surprised to learn that Government House wasn’t always here. Its beginnings are actually much humbler. In 1859, when Queensland was still part of New South Wales, Governor Bowen and his family arrived in Brisbane and were given temporary residence at Adelaide House, which is now the Deanery of St John’s Cathedral. It was only a year later when they finally moved into Government House, the first public building in Queensland, specifically built for them. This was a turning point for the newly formed colony and Government House became a hub of activity for Brisbane’s elites. It housed 11 governors and their families for almost fifty years, hosting countless balls, receptions, and garden parties, all while serving as the colony’s official residence. But the building was not considered grand enough for the governor’s residence by the early 1900s. So in 1909, Government House was given to the University of Queensland, marking a new chapter for the building. In 1911, the government chose a new temporary residence for the governor, in Paddington, called “Fernberg”. This mansion was built in the 1860s and became Governor’s Residence during that time. It is now the official residence of the governor of Queensland and is also known as Government House. Although there were plans to build a new Government House at Victoria Park, the project was abandoned.
Just imagine the whispers and stories that have echoed through these rooms for over a century. Today, Government House remains a significant symbol of Queensland’s past and it continues to play an important role in the state’s political and social life. While the house itself may be old, its story is alive and vibrant, making it a fascinating destination for visitors and a piece of Queensland’s rich heritage.