The Stanthorpe QFS Restoration Project
The QFS building lies within the Stanthorpe Railway precinct and is of heritage significance.
It has its origins in the co-operative movement in Queensland
and played a significant role in the development of the fruit growing industry.
Please see the next section below for the history and the planned restoration of this important historical site.
Donations can be made by direct debit to our restoration fund.
BSB: 633 000
Account Number: 197 485 030
Please send us an email to advise the transaction if you require a receipt.
Background
With the growth of agriculture in the 1890s, farmers formed co-operatives to provide benefits to members and help market their produce. One of the most successful co-operatives was started at Woombye, it became the Queensland Fruitgrower’s Society (QWFS). The QFS building in Stanthorpe is the only one left within a Railway Precinct.
Marketing produce for the burgeoning fruit industry was a major problem in the early years. The railway line to Stanthorpe opened in 1881 and was a significant benefit through to the mid twentieth century.
Fruit growing, as a major industry in the area, was one of the main reasons for establishing Soldier Settlements in the Granite Belt after World War One. In 1920 a branch line was opened to service these Soldier Settlements, with the majority of the traffic on the line carrying fruit.
In 1921-2 the QFS ran special fruit trains from Stanthorpe but, in 1924, the Labor Government introduced wide ranging legislation in relation to agriculture. In order to establish a more efficient State wide system of marketing, they formed a Committee of Direction of Fruit marketing (COD). The QFS was heavily involved in the forming of this committee and was represented on the board. In 1931 the QFS leased the land within the railway precinct in order to build a store and facilitate the loading of produce directly on to trains. The building was shared with the COD.
This first building burnt down in 1933 but was rebuilt within 4 months and an extension added in 1936. This is the building which still exists today, unfortunately in a dilapidated condition. It was used until the store was relocated to the industrial estate and since then had not been maintained.
Heritage Status
The QFS building is Heritage listed with both Queensland Rail and the Southern Downs Regional Council.
Vision
The building is presently in poor condition and unsuitable for use. However, when restored,
it has huge potential for community use.
The space within the building is enormous and will be used for multiple of uses such as:
community meeting spaces, art displays, historical displays, pop-up shops, workshops,
demonstrations, kitchen facilities for hire, sale of local produce, tourist information, and more.
On-going costs of operation would be met from both hiring charges and commissions.
Restoration work is needed NOW if we are to reclaim this valuable part of the Granite Belt’s heritage.
We have a dedicated fund for expenses and the journey is underway.
You can help with fundraising and ideas and by supporting Artworks in this project.
Please contact us… Project team
We gratefully acknowledge the support of the following organisations and funding bodies.
