Major upgrade of St George courthouse to open today

A major upgrade of the historic St George courthouse, in the State’s south-west, will be officially opened by Attorney-General, Justice Minister and Minister Assisting the Premier in Western Queensland Kerry Shine today.

Mr Shine said the upgrade costs almost $1 million and it would improve security, comfort and public access.

“The Department of Justice and Attorney-General believes St George courthouse is now the oldest, continuously working courthouse in Queensland,” Mr Shine said.

“The original courthouse was built in the late 1800s with extensions in 1912, 1920, 1928 and 1938.”

“The enclosure of some verandas, installation of a large air-conditioning plant and addition of an access ramp has detracted from the courthouse’s heritage value.”

“This project has breathed new life into a magnificent old building rich in local history.”

“It has ensured that the St George courthouse can continue to serve the community for many more years.”

Mr Shine said the new-look courtroom and registry had been fitted with upgraded air-conditioning, lighting and electrical systems.

“The design also includes waiting rooms and an ensuite for the use of vulnerable witnesses, victims of crime and the family violence support group.”

Mr Shine said most of the original VJ timber and French doors had been retained and, where possible, new materials had been designed to complement the building’s classic style.

“The air-conditioning has been upgraded from an evaporative to refrigerative system, with exposed internal ducting removed and external compressor units relocated to the back of the courthouse, between the two rainwater tanks,” he said.

“The old ramp to the side of the building has been removed and replaced with an attractive path that leads directly onto the front veranda and into the courtroom.”

“The whole place has been repainted inside and out, using a striking and imaginative choice of heritage colours,” he said.

Mr Shine said the new layout was designed by Project Services, a division of the Department of Public Works, and constructed by Carmichael Builders from Dalby.

“This refurbishment has provided St George with a modern courthouse and given the old building a well-deserved facelift at the same time,” he said.

“The quality of the work is a credit to everyone concerned.”

“The State Government is committed to providing all Queenslanders with access to a responsive justice system that inspires public confidence and contributes to social harmony.”

26 March 2007
Media contact: Kirby Anderson (Mr Shine’s office) 3239 6400 or 0418 197 350 kirby.anderson@ministerial.qld.gov.au