16 Wickham Street, Townsville City, Queensland
Townsville Customs House | A Landmark of North Queensland’s History
Expressions of Interest Closing 8 Sept 2026
Business Description
- Iconic heritage-listed trophy asset
- 1,925sqm* building area
- Generational acquisition opportunity
CBRE is pleased to present the historic ‘Townsville Customs House’ located at 16 Wickham Street, Townsville City QLD 4810 for sale via Expressions of Interest closing 3:00pm (AEST) Tuesday 8 September 2026.
Standing proudly for more than 120 years, Townsville Customs House presents an extraordinary opportunity to acquire one of Townsville's most significant and recognisable heritage buildings. Constructed between 1899 and 1902 under the reign of Queen Victoria and King Edward VII two years later, the building was designed by renowned Queensland Government Architect George David Payne and established as the region's principal customs administration facility during Townsville's emergence as one of northern Australia's most important trading ports.
Occupying a commanding 2,706sqm landholding on the corner of Wickham Street and The Strand overlooking Cleveland Bay and the Port of Townsville, Customs House was strategically located to monitor the maritime activity that helped shape North Queensland's economic development. Today, it remains one of the city's most prominent architectural landmarks and a tangible reminder of Townsville's rich commercial and maritime history.
The building showcases impressive Federation Romanesque architecture, distinguished by its grand proportions, striking masonry construction, elegant detailing and iconic corner dome that has become a defining feature of the Townsville skyline. Many original heritage elements remain intact, reflecting the craftsmanship and civic importance associated with the building's original purpose.
1. Constructed between 1899 and 1902 as one of Townsville's purpose-built Customs House.
2. A landmark symbol of Townsville's growth as North Queensland's major port and commercial centre.
3. Features the iconic dome, tower, former strong room and residential quarters associated with its original customs operations.
4. Widely regarded as one of the finest Federation-era public buildings in regional Queensland.
5. Commands a visually prominent waterfront position that has remained a focal point of the city for generations.
The opportunity has the following investment highlights:
+ Iconic heritage-listed trophy asset
+ 1,925sqm* building area across two stories
+ One of Townsville's most celebrated buildings
+ Prime CBD location overlooking Cleveland Bay and Magnetic Island
+ Exceptional architectural character and historical significance
+ Flexible commercial, hospitality, office or tourism potential (STCA)
+ Rare generational acquisition opportunity
+ Townsville: largest city in Northern Australia, with population forecast to grow 52% to 306,053 residents by 2046* and with $27 billion in infrastructure projects underway*
For sale via Expressions of Interest
Closing 3:00pm (AEST) 8 September 2026
Please contact the exclusively appointed agents for more information.
*Approx
Business Summary
Key Investment Insights
AI generated. Confirm details with the seller.
1. Iconic heritage listed trophy asset offering a rare generational acquisition opportunity in Townsville.
2. Prominent 2,706sqm waterfront landholding with approximately 1,925sqm of building area across two storeys.
3. Prime CBD corner location overlooking Cleveland Bay, Magnetic Island and the Port of Townsville.
4. Federation Romanesque architecture includes an iconic dome, masonry construction, former strong room and original residential quarters.
5. Flexible potential for commercial, hospitality, office or tourism uses, subject to relevant approvals.
6. One of Townsville’s most celebrated and recognisable buildings, with exceptional architectural character and historical significance.
7. Heritage elements remain intact, preserving the building’s connection to Townsville’s maritime and commercial history.
8. Townsville’s population is forecast to grow 52% to 306,053 residents by 2046, with $27 billion in infrastructure projects underway.
