Fernberg Archives - Paddington Today

The Christmas Lights are Back at the Government House in Paddington

The Christmas lights at Government House, a popular holiday landmark in Paddington, will be on display once again for everyone to enjoy. This year, the free and festive event will no longer need prior bookings but visitors will have to check in via the QLD app and observe COVID-19 protocols when they are in the area.

The gates of Government House will open from 6:45 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. from 10 to 16 December 2021.

Visitors who arrive with cars can park on the streets as there is no on-site parking. However, there are designed drop-offs for guests with mobility issues. Please ask the security personnel for assistance. The main entrance is at the Service Gate at 168 Fernberg Road, Paddington.

2020 Christmas Lights Display

Photo Credit: GovernorofQueensland/Facebook

2019 Christmas Lights Display

Aside from witnessing the magical Christmas lights display around the gardens, visitors may go inside the Drawing Room to see the Christmas tree, upon the invitation of the new Governor of Queensland.

Families who look forward to this annual event can expect a showcase of over 10,000 Christmas lights all over Fernberg, the official home of the Governor of Queensland since 1910.

New Governor of Queensland

Dr Jeannette Young PSM was appointed by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and has been sworn in as the 27th Governor of Queensland in November 2021. Her main role is to advise the members of the Executive Council, a central organ of government that meets at the Government House once a week so she could give her formal effect to decisions of government. She also performs her constitutional duties on behalf of the Queen.

Tour the Fernberg Government House in Paddington for Free

The Government House, located at 170 Fernberg Road in Paddington, opens its doors at least twice a year to the general public.

On Saturday, the 1st of June, the heritage-listed site, which is also known as the Fernberg, will be hosting another Open Day and guided tour from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Visitors to the Government House will have the opportunity to see parts of the property up close for free. Guests will also be allowed to take videos or photos (no flash) of the premises for their keepsakes.

Vendors will be present on the grounds to sell food and drinks during the Open Day. However, guests are also encouraged to bring their own snacks if they want to have a picnic in the gardens. The Australian Army Band Brisbane will be there to provide the music and entertainment.

Since 1910, the governors of Queensland have made the Fernberg their temporary residence. Leaders and royalties of other counties have dined and held meetings at this mansion with Australian officials.

The family of His Excellency, the Honourable Paul de Jersey, has been living at the Government House since 2014. And while visitors might not be able to personally see the governor this Saturday, Gavel, the Vice-Regal Dog, will be there to welcome the public. He’ll also be roaming the grounds all day to greet or play with the guests.

This Open Day will be quite special as Queensland is observing its 160th anniversary of independence from New South Wales.

Visitors are expected to enter at the gates at either 168 Fernberg Road or by the Norman Buchan Park in Baroona Road.

Fernberg, Queensland’s Government House in Paddington, to Open its Doors to the Public

The gates of Fernberg, Queensland’s Government House, are set to be opened to the public on Saturday, 9 June 2018. From 12 noon until 4:00 p.m., you can have a glimpse of the Governor’s official residence in Paddington in this annual Brisbane winter tradition.

Fernberg will be open for tours and entertainment. For a day, people can get a self-guided tour through stately rooms and learn more about the Government House’s rich history.

Credit: Office of the Governor/YouTube

Fernberg is not only known for its historic house but also for its must-see stunning grounds where gardens planted by various Governor’s wives from different eras can be found. Explore the scenic, heritage-listed gardens of the estate and have a picnic if you wish.

Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the heritage gardens while walking along the scenic paths of the estate.

Credit: Facebook/Governor of Queensland

Plus, you can see the iconic vintage Rolls Royce which has transported Her Majesty The Queen.

Take note that photography and video are allowed around the estate while limited photography and no flash is permitted inside Government House as directed by the staff.

Entry through the estate gates on 168 Fernberg Road are free and visitor parking is available on the streets surrounding the estate. Limited disabled access parking is available onsite and staff will assist with drop-offs at the main driveway gate for people with disabilities.

To learn more about Fernberg, visit the Government House’s official website.