Government House is throwing open the doors to visitors on June 5.
When it comes to historic houses in Queensland, there are few that surpass ‘Fernberg’. One of the first houses built in the Paddington area of town, it has been the home and workplace of Queensland Governors since 1910 and has since become ”an important Queensland landmark steeped in historical, cultural and environmental significance.”
This June 5, the doors are being thrown open to the public so that visitors can take in the regal manor, peek behind doors and check out splendid rooms, and explore the grounds which are fairly extensive in their size. (When we say fairly extensive, we mean that the estate sits on 14 hectares and, according to the Queensland Governor’s IG account, Fernberg is surrounded by 10 hectares of remnant bushland that attracts all sorts of native animals, especially birds.)
Currently home to the His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC, the heritage-listed and State-owned residence will be free to visit. However, those keen on getting a tour (30-45 minutes) of the building or the gardens will need to register and pre-book their tickets here. On the other hand, if you’re content with having a picnic in the manicured grounds of the estate, Government House will be open to the public between the hours of 12-4pm.
The Australian Army Band Brisbane will also be in attendance on the day and so too will the Vice-Regal Dog Gavel, who you will most likely find wandering around the grounds and welcoming guests.
Entry into Government House on June 5 will be via Main Gate at 168 Fernberg Road, Paddington or through the gates near Norman Buchan Park.
The garden tours will take place between 12:15 and 3:15pm while the house tours will start at 12:30pm. Remember to pre-book if you want to go on a tour of the house or the grounds.
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