This was a very important building in the development of Maryborough as a city, providing electricity. Previously the site had been a furniture factory, first for J A Paterson from 1883, then the Standard Furnishing Company in 1917 and finally Stuparts from 1920. It was purchased by the Maryborough City Council in November 1920 for £1875. Alderman E H Warry presided over the power scheme’s proposal and development as chairman of the Electric Lighting Committee. In September 1920 the Maryborough City Council was authorised by the State Government to supply electricity within the city bounds. In December 1920 a tender was accepted from British-Australia Engineering Co (Melbourne) to supply, deliver and erect a Marshall super-heated steam locomobile and direct-coupled alternator, manufactured by the famous English firm of Vickers and Co. The first electricity pole in the region was erected adjacent to the Power House site at a ceremony attended by a large and representative group on Wednesday 28 September 1921. Immediately after the pole was erected a kookaburra alighted it and serenely surveyed the scene. Members of the assemblage suggested that the arrival was an omen of bad luck. Since the power generation moved to the Howard Power Station in 1951, the building has continued to serve the community as a college, community centre and church.
Posted on: Wed, 10 Sep 2014 12:13:07 +0000
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