Forbes Post Office, Heritage postal office in Forbes, Australia
The Forbes Post Office stands on Lachlan Street and displays Victorian Italianate architecture with a distinctive clock tower, colonnades, and mansard roof elements. The two-storey structure combines these decorative features to create a unified composition that reflects 19th-century building standards.
Postal services in Forbes started in 1861 during the gold rush, when Hayward Atkyns was appointed as the first official postmaster in April 1862. The current building was constructed between 1879 and 1881, marking the town's shift toward stable infrastructure during its growth phase.
The building reflects the work of the New South Wales Colonial Office and blends European architectural traditions with local colonial identity. It stands as a visual reminder of how important communication and commerce were to the town's early development.
The building remains in active use as a working post office during regular hours. Visitors should allow time for postal operations and be aware that peak hours may create wait times.
The clock tower was initially disputed during construction due to cost concerns but was ultimately built and remains a defining feature. This detail shows how local discussions shaped the final design of the public building.
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