Palma Rosa

PRIVACY: PALMA ROSA IS NOW A PRIVATE DWELLING. IT HAS CEASED BEING AVAILABLE AS A FUNCTION VENUE.

The History of Palma Rosa, 9 Queens Road, Hamilton, Queensland

Palma Rosa, a three storey sandstone building, was built in 1887 by Italian architect and sculptor Andrea Stombuco at the pinnacle of his success. No expense was spared. Tessellated Minton tiles decorate the hallway. The porch and mantlepieces are Sicilian marble. Palma Rosa was owned by Sir Arthur Palmer, a former Premier of Queensland, and remained in his family until 1945. The USA military occupied the house during World War II from 1942 to 1945. It became a boarding house, home to Sir William Knox and several other judges, and later a Convalescent Hospital until purchased by the English Speaking Union in 1972.

Palma Rosa is an extremely significant property in Australia and has been restored with a Commonwealth Grant for the Centenary of Federation. Palma Rosa was purchased by the English Speaking Union (Queensland) and formally opened as its headquarters by His Excellency the Governor of Queensland The Hon Sir Alan Mansfield KC MG KCVO on 3 March 1972. Architect Robert Riddel was commissioned in 1995 by the ESU to complete the restoration project. HRH Prince Philip opened the restored headquarters of the ESU in March 2002.

Palma Rosa contained an art gallery, library, Board room and museum. Accommodation was available on the upper level. Many enjoyable functions, including weddings and celebrations, were held at Palma Rosa. ESUQLD appreciated the need to move to a more centrally located, income producing property and moved to ESU House in Milton.

Read about Palma Rosa in the Queensland Heritage Register

See and hear Simon Farley of the State Library of Queensland Heritage Collections Unit talk about the career and works of Andrea Stombuco.