Home Inner BrisbaneQUT Old Government House FAQ When was the house built? What was it built for? Who were the first occupants of the House? What happened to the House after the Governor moved out? When was the house built? Constructed to the design of colonial architect Charles Tiffin in 1860 - 62, and subsequently altered and extended, the building is the only purpose built Government House in Queensland. What was it built for? Old Government House was the official residence of the Governors of Queensland from 1862-1910. Who were the first occupants of the House? The first Governor of Queensland, Sir George Bowen, occupied the building in 1862 and a further ten governors resided here until 1910, when the then Governor, Sir William McGregor moved to the present Government House, “Fernberg” at Bardon. The move was prompted mainly by the fact that the house had become too small to fulfil its function as a vice-regal residence. Brisbane had grown too large and the lack of a Ballroom caused considerable disruption to the household whenever a function was held at the house as the Hall, Dining Room and Drawing Room had to be dismantled and emptied. What happened to the House after the Governor moved out? From 1910 until 1967 the building was occupied by the University of Queensland and following its withdrawal to the St. Lucia site, the Queensland Institute of Technology took over the building. In 1973, the National Trust of Queensland was allowed by the State government to occupy a part of the building. The State Government renovated the exterior of the building in the 1970s. Old Government House is owned by the Queensland Government. In October 2002, a heads of Agreement was signed between the Queensland Government, National Trust Queensland and Queensland University of technology for the future conservation. Management and use of Old Government House. QUT has accepted responsibility for the continued enhancement of Old Government House and the accompanying grounds in accordance with the Government’s Conservation Plan. To celebrate its history and advance knowledge of Queensland’s architectural, political and educational heritage, QUT has opened the doors of Old Government House to provide a welcoming environment for all Queenslanders and visitors to enjoy and learn about the building and its site.