Facelift for historic windmill revealed

Brisbane City Council has unveiled the finished restoration works to Queensland’s oldest surviving European building – Spring Hill’s historic Old Windmill on Wickham Terrace.
The restoration works are part of Connecting Brisbane, a $2 million joint project between Brisbane City Council and the Queensland Government celebrating the 150th anniversary of Brisbane’s declaration as a municipality and Queensland’s separation from New South Wales.
Lord Mayor Campbell Newman said the restoration works undertaken were vital to ensure the Old Windmill remained a heritage icon of the city for generations to come.
“At over 180 years old, the Old Windmill is a true Brisbane icon and, along with other important heritage buildings such as City Hall, it is imperative that we maintain them,” Cr Newman said.
“This is a building that was once the most dominant feature of Brisbane’s farming landscape and has witnessed Brisbane’s growth from a small settlement to the world-class city it is today.
“Restoration works started in May and include strengthening of the floors and stairs, restoration of the door and window openings, undertaking bird proofing and pest control measures, cleaning the rendering, some painting, landscaping and signage.
“Council is currently investigating other projects and works which could even further enhance this important site.”
The Old Windmill was originally built by convicts in 1828 to grind the grains needed to feed the growing settlement.
It has since played a range of roles including a weather observatory, a signal station and the site of radio and television broadcasting trials.
Grace Grace, State Member for Brisbane Central, said that the Old Windmill was an important tourist attraction on Brisbane’s history trail.
“It’s important that buildings such as these are maintained and restored for posterity.”