Toombul Shire Hall facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Toombul Shire Hall |
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Toombul Shire Hall, 2011
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| Location | 1141 Sandgate Road, Nundah, City of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia |
| Design period | 1870s - 1890s (late 19th century) |
| Built | 1891 - 1891 |
| Architect | John Hall & Son |
| Architectural style(s) | Classicism |
| Official name: Toombul Shire Hall (former), Toombul Divisional Board Offices | |
| Type | state heritage (built) |
| Designated | 21 October 1992 |
| Reference no. | 600272 |
| Significant period | early 1890s (fabric) 1890s-1920s (historical) |
| Significant components | hall, office/s |
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Toombul Shire Hall is a historic building in Nundah, Queensland, Australia. It was built in 1891 and served as a town hall and offices for the local government. It was designed by the architects John Hall & Son. Today, it is recognized as an important part of Queensland's history and is listed on the Queensland Heritage Register.
Contents
History of the Hall
The Toombul Shire Hall was built in 1891. It was designed to be both a public hall and offices for the Toombul Divisional Board. This board was like a local government for the area.
Why a New Hall Was Needed
Before 1891, the Toombul area was part of a larger region. In 1890, a new area called the Town of Hamilton separated from Toombul. This meant the Toombul Divisional Board needed new offices. They rented a place in Nundah for a short time. Then, they decided to build their own hall.
Building the Hall
In mid-1891, the Toombul Divisional Board asked architects John Hall and Son to draw up plans. This firm was famous for designing the South Brisbane Town Hall. The Board wanted plans for offices, a public hall, and even a house for their clerk.
The Board tried to get a loan for £1400 but it was refused. Even so, they started building in late 1891. They likely used local workers. By early 1892, the Toombul Divisional Board was already meeting in their new building. Building the hall was expensive for them at the time.
How the Hall Was Used
The hall was used for many things. People could rent it for religious services for 10 shillings a night. For bigger events like dances, it cost 30 shillings a night.
In 1903, the Toombul Divisional Board became the Toombul Shire Council. The hall continued to be used as offices and a public meeting place. In 1925, many smaller councils joined together to form the Brisbane City Council. Toombul Shire Hall then became part of the Brisbane City Council's property. It was used as a works depot and an office for health inspectors. It also continued to be a public hall.
Changes Over Time
- In 1928, a new meeting room was added at the back.
- Side verandahs were added to the hall.
- Spaces were created on the stage area.
- From 1987 to 1988, the Brisbane City Council worked to restore the hall. They painted it, fixed the brickwork, and replaced the roof.
- They also opened up the northern verandah, which had been closed off.
Today, Toombul Shire Hall is still a popular place for meetings and events in the community.
What the Hall Looks Like
Toombul Shire Hall is a long, narrow building right next to Sandgate Road. It was designed to have offices at the front and a public hall at the back. There's a main entrance in the middle that leads to both parts.
Building Materials
The building uses different materials:
- The front of the building, facing Sandgate Road, is made of red brick.
- The office walls are made of timber boards called chamferboard.
- The hall at the back is covered with corrugated iron.
This mix of materials shows how the builders had to manage their budget.
Front of the Building
The front of the hall looks like a classical building. It has a central arched entrance. On either side of the entrance, there are arched openings. One side has a brick balustrade, and the other is an office. A ramp was added later to help people in wheelchairs access the building.
The building sits on shallow brick foundations at the front. But because the land slopes down towards the back, the back part of the building is supported by timber stumps.
Roof and Other Features
The public hall has a long, gabled roof made of corrugated iron. It has tall metal vents on top. The office section has a hipped roof, also covered in iron. Above the main entrance, there's a steeply sloped triangular part called a pediment. This pediment has decorative timber work.
Behind the hall, there's a large area of land. This area has been used as a works depot, with sheds and equipment. The ground in front of the hall has been paved and fenced.
Why Toombul Shire Hall Is Important
Toombul Shire Hall is listed on the Queensland Heritage Register. This means it's a very important building that needs to be protected. It was added to the list on 21 October 1992.
Historical Importance
The hall is important because it shows how local government worked in Queensland for over 30 years. It was a symbol of the Toombul Divisional Board and later the Toombul Shire Council. It helps us understand the history of the area.
Unique Features
This building is special because it's one of the few old shire halls made of timber that is still owned by the Brisbane City Council. Its mix of materials—brick at the front, timber for the offices, and iron for the hall—shows how local councils had to be careful with money back then.
Design and Appearance
The hall is a great example of a timber-framed municipal hall from the 1800s. It still looks much like it did when it was built. Its design and location make it a landmark in Nundah. It adds to the historical look of the town.
Images for kids
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Interior view of the hall, 2011
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