About the project
This platform is a collaboration between the Department of Energy and Public Works and State Library of Queensland. It has been developed to showcase a selection of 160 buildings developed by the department in its 160 years of operation and share the stories of the impact of these buildings in Queensland.
- Selecting only 160 buildings that represent the projects the Department has worked on is a challenging process. Buildings included here have been chosen based on the following criteria:
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Narrative contribution
Buildings that have unique or interesting histories to share.
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Public engagement
Buildings that may have strong personal stories behind them that viewers may be able to contribute.
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Even representation of regional and metropolitan projects
Buildings that demonstrate the wide range of locations that the department has worked in.
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Even representation across the 160 year period
A mix of buildings developed across the 160 years of the department.
About the department
2022 marks the 160th anniversary of Public Works in Queensland.
It was in 1862 that the original Lands and Works Department formed to oversee a large building works program in the newly established state of Queensland.
In the 160 years since, Public Works has been responsible for the design, construction and management of public buildings ranging from schools, hospitals and housing; to cyclone shelters and bridges; sporting stadiums and cultural centres.
Today, Public Works joins with Energy and Queensland Government Procurement to look to a future built environment that is sustainable and innovative, and prepares Queensland for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Department of Energy and Public Works and State Library of Queensland would like to acknowledge the assistance of a number of contributors to the development of this platform including Department of Environment and Science, Heritage team; Queensland State Archives; Don Watson and Fiona Gardiner.