Customs House committee volunteer Ros Rae and Don Chapman
Customs House committee volunteer Ros Rae and Don Chapman

A Goondiwindi Living Time Capsule Benefits from an Updated Memorandum of Understanding

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  • Goondiwindi Regional Council has renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Goondiwindi and District Historical Society for the next three years
  • Mayor states that Customs House is a living time capsule of Goondiwindi and its surrounds
  • MOU partnerships help to facilitate the joint management of council-owned assets, ensuring that dedicated efforts contribute to enhancing facilities and regional events

"Customs House is a living time capsule of our region that connects us with the past and is a signature tourism asset for the Goondiwindi Region," the Mayor stated after Council recently renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Goondiwindi and District Historical Society for the next three years.

Council and the Goondiwindi and District Historical Society committee with new President Alan Rae continue with the shared responsibility of preserving the state heritage-listed Customs House to promote local history among community residents and those visiting the area.

Mayor of the Goondiwindi Region, the Honourable Cr Lawrence Springborg AM, said the Goondiwindi and District Historical Society's commitment to preserving and promoting this historical asset and its heritage and cultural values is commendable.

"Council extends our appreciation to the Goondiwindi and District Historical Society for their dedication in maintaining this historical Council-owned asset for so many years," Cr Springborg said.

Cr Susie Kelly, who holds the portfolio for Rural Services and Community Facilities, said that working collaboratively with the Historical Society helps to safeguard not only the building but the stories and artifacts that are Goondiwindi's legacy in time.

MOU partnerships help facilitate the joint management of council-owned assets, ensuring that dedicated efforts enhance facilities and regional events.

The Goondiwindi Customs House showcases the region's rich history and early pioneers.

It also provides a glimpse into the history and evolution of the wool and agricultural industries integral to Goondiwindi's development. Photographs of the historic floods of Goondiwindi, the instrumental role of the Levee in safeguarding the town, and artifacts from the early pioneers paint a vivid portrait of the challenges and triumphs that shaped the region.

"Customs House is a testament to the community's resilience and our rich history of agricultural excellence," the Mayor said. "It also acknowledges the stories of individuals who poured their dedication into building a safer and bright future in the region."

Built on land purchased by Matthew Maher, a police Constable, on July 27, 1863, for six pounds two shillings, the heritage-listed building served as a hub for the New South Wales Customs Department officers stationed in Goondiwindi.

Goondiwindi Customs House is located at 1 McLean St, Goondiwindi.

Opening hours: Monday - Friday, 9 am – 1 pm

Entry: Adults $5.00 Children (5-15) $2.00

11th September 2023 at 12:00 AM