Maroochydore South Post Office 1986

Traditionally, Post Offices have been located in or close to the centres of commercial or business districts. Contrary to this tradition, Australia Post decided that the mail sorting centre for Maroochydore should be located within an industrial zone to remain accessible during seasonal tourist congestion.

The location together with a commitment from Australia Post to modernise its operations and ‘lift its business image’ provided an opportunity to use forms that differed from convention.
The screened portico and generous stairs create an unmistakable point of entry in keeping with the tradition of this building type.

The design incorporates insulated metal wall panels, curved tubular steel trusses, two tone concrete masonry walls and well placed glazing to optimise natural day lighting whilst providing for solar protection.

Although the forms employed are in no way conventional for a Post Office, the building clearly asserts itself within its immediate industrial and coastal context as a strongly identifiable public building.

Floor Area: 800m²
Photography: Richard Stringer

RAIA Awards

1986 Award for Meritorius Architecture