Goondiwindi Customs House Museum Secures $48,000 Grant for Upgrade

Goondiwindi Regional Council has secured $48,000 to enhance accessibility and the visitor experience of Goondiwindi Customs House by replacing approximately 75 timber stumps under the main building. This funding comes from the Queensland Department of Environment, Science and Innovation's Community Sustainability Action Grants program, which aims to support best practices in conserving heritage-listed places accessible to the public.

The Customs House Museum, operated by the Goondiwindi and District Historical Society, is a treasured accumulation of local history. It offers a rich historical experience for both locals and visitors, showcasing the history of the local agricultural industry, a blacksmith's workshop, and providing a glimpse into typical life from the pioneering era. The museum also features a war display and picturesque gardens for visitors to explore. The museum is manned by passionate volunteers who share their extensive knowledge of the region's history and the artefacts that can be found in the museum.

The restumping project was outlined in Council's Customs House Museum Masterplan, approved in 2023. This plan provides a comprehensive strategy for the restoration and future development of the museum and was developed in consultation with Goondiwindi and District Historical Society.

The restumping project aims to preserve the building's historical integrity by ensuring its long-term structural stability. The Customs House, dating back to the 1890s, is a significant piece of Goondiwindi's history and is listed on the Queensland Heritage Register. The proposed repairs are critical to prevent this historical landmark's deterioration. The work is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Cr Susie Kelly, portfolio holder for Community Facilities, commented on the project's importance. "Preserving the Customs House Museum is crucial not only for maintaining a significant historical building but also for promoting cultural awareness. The museum serves as an educational resource, fostering community understanding and appreciation of our local history and heritage. Keeping the Customs House accessible will continue to attract visitors, positively contributing to local tourism."

This grant outcome is an example of Council working with local community groups to achieve successful outcomes for the community.

Alan Rae, President of the Goondiwindi and District Historical Society encourages local community and sporting groups to leverage off the support offered by Council.

“Council has supported us to secure several external grants to improve the facilities at Customs House, as well as support with strategic planning, volunteer attraction and retention and business development. I encourage any community group looking for assistance in these areas to reach out to the Council team, who are great to work with.”

Goondiwindi Regional Council is proud to support a vibrant network of volunteer-run organisations based in the region, and have created a Community Group Support Guide to assist groups in identifying how Council can assist them, which can be found here: https://www.grc.qld.gov.au/downloads/file/2851/community-group-guide-december-2022