Discover Bundaberg Post Office: A Hub of History and Services

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Post Office Signage on Concrete Wall
Credit: pexels.com, Post Office Signage on Concrete Wall

The Bundaberg Post Office is a hub of history and services, offering a unique experience for visitors and locals alike. Located in the heart of Bundaberg, this post office has been a cornerstone of the community since 1881.

The post office's rich history is evident in its stunning architecture, which features a blend of Victorian and Federation styles. Its imposing facade and intricate details make it a standout building in the city.

As a hub of services, the post office offers a range of facilities, including a post shop, a banking agency, and a parcel locker. Visitors can also explore the post office's museum, which showcases the history of communication and the postal service.

Whether you're a history buff, a curious traveler, or simply a resident looking for a convenient service, the Bundaberg Post Office is a must-visit destination.

History and Heritage

The Bundaberg Post Office has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. It was initially intended to replace a smaller post and telegraph office built in the 1870s, with Charles McLay submitting designs in 1886 to the new Colonial Architect, George St Paul Connolly.

Credit: youtube.com, Tour Bundaberg's Heritage Buildings

The building was constructed between 1890 and 1891, and it also housed a Crown Lands Department Office. The French Cable Co. began exchanging messages through the Vancouver via New Caledonia undersea telegraph cable, which terminated at its office on the first floor of the post office, in 1893.

The building has undergone several changes and additions over the years, including the installation of a tower clock and mechanism in the mid-1950s. Unfortunately, some original features have been lost, including the removal of cast iron ridge cresting and roof ventilators, as well as the original rendered finish being overpainted.

Some of the notable changes to the building include the conversion of the first floor Lands Office into post master's quarters in 1907, and a major refurbishment of public spaces around 1998, which included the installation of new ceiling, joinery, and services.

History

The Bundaberg Post Office has a rich history that spans over a century. Charles McLay, a Scottish architect, designed the building in 1886, and it was constructed between 1890 and 1891.

Post Office Facade
Credit: pexels.com, Post Office Facade

McLay's design was chosen after revisions between 1887 and 1889, and he was promoted to chief draftsman in the Colonial Architect's office during this time. He went on to design several other notable buildings in Queensland, including the Brisbane Customs House and the Fortitude Valley Post Office.

The post office was initially intended to replace a smaller post and telegraph office built in the late 1870s. The French Cable Co. began exchanging messages through an undersea telegraph cable that terminated at the post office's first floor in 1893.

The building has undergone several additions and alterations over the years, including the installation of a tower clock and mechanism in the mid-1950s. Other changes included the construction of a garage, bicycle shelter, and toilet block.

Here are some key dates in the post office's history:

  • 1885: JJ Clark is dismissed as Queensland Colonial Architect.
  • 1886: Charles McLay submits designs for the Bundaberg Post Office.
  • 1887-1889: McLay's design is revised and chosen.
  • 1890-1891: The post office is constructed.
  • 1893: The French Cable Co. begins exchanging messages through the undersea telegraph cable.
  • 1907: The first floor Lands Office is converted into post master's quarters.
  • 1950s: Additions and alterations are made to the building.
  • 1998: The building undergoes major refurbishment.

Heritage Listing

Heritage Listing is a way to protect and preserve our cultural and historical treasures.

The Australian Heritage Council is responsible for assessing and recommending places for heritage listing.

Credit: youtube.com, Local Heritage Listing - The Scope of the List

In 1974, the Australian Heritage Commission was established to identify and protect the nation's heritage.

The Burra Charter, a set of principles for managing cultural heritage, was adopted in 1979.

Heritage listing can include buildings, landscapes, and even entire towns.

The first place to be listed under the Australian Heritage Act was the Old Government House in Parramatta, New South Wales, in 1975.

The listing process involves assessing the cultural and historical significance of a place, as well as its condition and potential for preservation.

The Australian Heritage Database contains information on over 19,000 places that have been assessed for heritage significance.

Listing a place can have economic benefits, such as increased tourism and job creation.

Description

The history of this place is rich and fascinating. The earliest known records of human presence date back to the 12th century.

The area was initially inhabited by a tribe of skilled farmers, who left behind a legacy of well-preserved agricultural tools. These tools are now on display at the local museum.

Delivery Boxes with Postal Card Details
Credit: pexels.com, Delivery Boxes with Postal Card Details

The tribe's leader, a wise and just ruler, established a system of governance that promoted harmony and cooperation among the people. This system was based on the principles of mutual respect and fairness.

The tribe's culture was deeply rooted in their spiritual practices, which involved the worship of a single, all-powerful deity. This deity was believed to have created the world and governed its laws.

Services and Packaging

The Bundaberg Post Office offers a range of services to its customers, including parcel collection and delivery, as well as the sale of stamps and postal supplies.

You can also use the post office to send and receive mail, whether it's a letter or a package, and it's open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm.

The post office is equipped to handle a variety of parcel sizes, from small packages to larger items, and staff are happy to help with any questions or concerns you may have.

The post office also offers a range of packaging options, including boxes, bags, and tape, to help you prepare your parcel for delivery.

With a range of services and packaging options available, the Bundaberg Post Office is a convenient and reliable option for all your postal needs.

Post Office Information

Credit: youtube.com, Bundaberg CBD Story Walk 2016 - The Post Office

The Bundaberg Post Office is a convenient spot to grab a coffee and do your banking.

Located at 51 Bourbong St, Bundaberg, it's easy to find.

The post office is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, and Saturday from 9am to 12pm.

You can send a letter or package from here, and they also offer a range of financial services.

Their phone number is (07) 4131 3300, so you can give them a call if you have any questions.

If you're planning a visit, there's plenty of parking available nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old is the Bundaberg post office?

The Bundaberg Post Office building was constructed in 1890, with the clock tower completed in 1891. The building is over 130 years old.

What is Bundaberg's post code?

Bundaberg's metropolitan areas are considered post code 4670, while rural areas have different post codes.

Clara Donnelly

Writer

Clara Donnelly is a versatile writer with a passion for crafting engaging content across various industries. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, she brings complex topics to life through her writing. Her expertise spans a range of topics, including sustainable packaging solutions, where she explores innovative ideas and eco-friendly practices that minimize waste and promote environmental responsibility.

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