Government House is home to the Governor of New South Wales and is the closest neighbour of the Sydney Opera House.
It has been the home of all the Governors since 1845 with two exceptions. From 1901-1914 it was leased to the Governor-General of Australia and most recently from 1996-2011 when Premier Bob Carr moved the Governor out to be more in tune with the people.
The idea was it would save around $2 million in running costs as well but it actually turned out to cost more without a Governor as public attendance decreased which was supplying an income. Added to the controversy was a march on Parliament House to force Carr to reconsider. But it wasn't until 2011 when current Premier Barry O'Farrell decided the Governor should again take up residence in Government House and boost the office of the Governor.
But the actual building was constructed from 1837-1843 and was ready to take its first Governor George Gipps in 1845. The Royal architect Edward Blore drew up the plans and Colonial Architect Mortimer Lewis oversaw the construction on site.
A Front Portico was added in 1873 and an eastern veranda in 1879 in readiness for the International Exhibition taking place inside it's newly built neighbour the Garden Palace which burnt to the ground in 1882. When the building was decided to house the Governor-General in 1901 extensions to the ballroom and governors study were made in 1900.
The owner of Government House is listed as The Queen in Right of New South Wales, and its current tenants are listed as The Queen of Australia and the Governor of New South Wales.
Whatever it's purpose and whether its a waste of money or not, it is a historic building in Sydney that we need to protect for the sake of our modern heritage.
Next time you visit the Botanic Gardens, check out our Government House.
Say G'day to Marie, she will probably respond :-)
J G S
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