Iconic paper building on the market
MILLIONS of stories have been told and sold at this historic icon in Charters Towers and now the building is ready for a new tale after being put on the market for the first time in 118 years.
The Northern Miner building (pictured right) at 73 Gill St, Charters Towers, has been listed for sale by owner News Corp Australia.
The Northern Miner newspaper was established on the site in 1872 and the current building erected around the old timber structure in 1903.
It was designed by architect Walter Hunt and housed the town’s local newspaper until its closure in June 2020.
Listed with Charters Towers Real Estate, agent Ken Hudson said the building was in excellent condition and contained some modern additions while still showcasing many of the period features specific to the federation era.
“The facade is a sight to behold, with its grand presence and the intricate embellishments that stand from a time gone by,” the online listing reads.
“Through the modern offices and following into the extensive industrial area you will find exposed brick walls, high ceilings with exposed timber beams and two atriums running perpendicular along the roof.
“Located in the centre of the CBD, it is a very versatile and alluring space that is limited only by the imagination.”
Mr Hudson said properties of this stature rarely came on the market, making the purchase of The Northern Miner building an “opportunity of a lifetime”.
News Corp Australia strategic property general manager Peter Bull said recent changes to the North Queensland side of the business saw the historic building now on the market.
“The property has been an integral part of newspaper publishing in the area dating back to 1903, with a front office and what was a newspaper print production area in the rear warehouse,” he said.
“More recently, recently printing was transferred to Townsville but the office area was refurbished and used up until 2020.
“The building has been well maintained over the years and is now ready for a new owner.”
The building is on a large 1214sq m block and includes six modern airconditioned offices, as well as rear of building and off-street carparking access via an easement in Ryan St.
The property is listed in the Charters Towers Regional Council Town Plan as a place of local cultural heritage significance due to its typology – demonstrating the key characteristics of a type or class of place that makes a significant contribution to our understanding of local history.
The Northern Miner building has been listed for sale at $650,000.