Alright, as you're walking, keep an eye out to your left for a distinct, classical-looking building made of bluestone and freestone. You'll notice impressive columns and large rectangular windows - that's the Geelong Customs House. Look for its solid, sturdy structure that gives off a sense of importance and history.
Now, about this fascinating building: The Geelong Customs House is a stately classical-style public building constructed in 1855. It originally replaced a small timber structure from 1838, which has since been relocated to the Geelong Botanic Gardens. The Customs House, designed by John James Clark and erected by William Crocker Cornish, was built near the foreshore to serve the colonial administration's needs during the bustling gold rush era.
Listed on the Victorian Heritage Register and the City of Greater Geelong Heritage Overlay, this gem has had quite a journey. Though it no longer serves its original purpose, it was lovingly restored in 2012, earning a National Trust Award. Once home to offices and the 'Customs House Restaurant and Wine Bar,' the building will soon undergo a refurbishment to become a new Design and Creative Hub, which the City of Greater Geelong announced would be ready by September 2024.
Isn’t it impressive to think of all the changes this place has witnessed? If these walls could talk, they'd probably say, "We've seen it all!"
