This National Archives of Australia presentation will introduce significant Ballarat related Commonwealth architectural records from the colonia era, giving special attention to the former Ballarat Post Office, which now hosts Federation University Australia’s Arts Academy and its theatres and art gallery.
Built on the corner of Sturt and Lydiard Streets, the first stage of construction was completed in 1863. At the time, it was the largest post office outside of metropolitan Melbourne. It was designed in the Italianate Palazzo style by the Public Works Department during renowned civil engineer and architect William Wardell’s tenure as Inspector General and Chief Architect. Wardell is best known as the architect of Melbourne landmarks, St Patricks Cathedral and Government House.
Join Alison Lettin, Acting Manager of Public Engagement, National Archives of Australia as she delves into architectural drawings from the colonial Ballarat era. Alison’s talk will also discuss other significant Ballarat buildings, including the former 1886 Drill Hall (now known as Ranger Barracks), the biggest barracks in the southern hemisphere without internal support poles.
A Ballarat Heritage Festival event presented by National Archives of Australia in partnership with Eureka Centre Ballarat.
Image: Ballarat Post Office (detail) c1917-1930, silver gelatin photograph, 16.5 x 21.9cm, State Library of Victoria, Accession no: H89.105/13.
