To spot the Cairns Customs House, look for a charming two-storeyed building with a combination of stucco and brickwork, complemented by its red tiled roof. You'll spot tall, narrow windows accented with decorative detailing, and a prominent front entrance with arched doorways. Look for the palm trees flanking the entrance and a sign that reads "Cafe China." The picturesque building stands out against the modern structures around it.
**Cairns Customs House:** Welcome to Cairns Customs House, a true relic of the past that now delights taste buds as a restaurant! Originally built between 1936 and 1937 by Watkins & Deal, this heritage-listed gem at 6A-8A Abbott Street has quite the story to tell.
Designed by Robert Henry Bowen, this house was the third customs house to grace the site. The land has been a customs reserve since the port of Cairns first opened in 1876. The customs activities here expanded alongside the city's booming economy, supported by sugar, mining, maize, dairying, timber, and fruit growing industries. By the late 1930s, Cairns had become Queensland’s third-largest port!
The current building was part of an interwar redevelopment boom that saw the construction of many new structures, revitalising the city after severe cyclones in 1920 and 1927. The ground floor housed offices, while upstairs, the sub-collector of customs enjoyed his residence. But by 1989, customs work shifted to a new location, and various state government departments occupied the building.
Fast forward to today, the Customs House charmingly operates as Cafe China Noodle Bar, blending history with delectable cuisine as part of the Reef Hotel Casino complex. Who knew customs could taste so good?
So, as you stand here, let the building’s storied past soak in and maybe indulge in a tasty treat!
