The project to revitalise Rockhampton's heritage-listed post office has moved a step forward, with announcement of the successful tender for architectural services.

Central Queensland University said the successful tender came from Rockhampton-based Bauhinia Architects in partnership with specialist conservation firm Allom Lovell Architects, based in Brisbane.

Senior representatives from the architects, University and University Foundation inspected the building.

It was announced last year that the post office will become the new headquarters for the recently launched Central Queensland Regional Health Partnership, and will also house staff from several CQU departments.

Central Queensland University Foundation has donated the use of building plus an additional $2.25 million to the project. With financial support of industry, local business, and individuals the $3-million refurbishment and renovation of the landmark structure is now moving ahead.

CQU Facilities Management Director Phil Hancock said the architects would provide consultancy and project management services for the restoration and fit-out of the post office building.

Mr Hancock said the tender was decided after an exhaustive evaluation process. He said Allom Lovell Architects had an extensive portfolio of successfully conserved heritage-listed buildings to their credit, including the Railway Roundhouse in Rockhampton.

Mr Hancock said the architects would prepare a project plan to restore the fagade of the post office and prepare the interior for fit-out. The follow-up phase would involve fit-out and preparation for occupation, with the architects involved until completion.

Historical background: This site has been associated with Rockhampton's postal services since 1863 when a small, timber building was constructed for the growing town. As Rockhampton expanded, so did its postal needs, and a more substantial post office was built on this site in 1866, which reflected the growing status of Rockhampton. As new technology arrived, separate buildings were constructed for the telegraph and telephone. However, by the late 1880s these buildings could no longer cope with demand and plans were prepared for a new Post and Telegraph Office to accommodate all three services - post, telegraph and telephone. The present building was erected in 1892 at a cost of 14,368 pounds and continued to serve the people of Rockhampton as a Post Office until 1997. This building has been recognised as having cultural heritage significance and has been entered on the Register of the National Estate and the Queensland Heritage Register. ENDS For interview or details call Phil Hancock on 07 4930 9655 Caption: Pictured (left to right) are Gaven Gilmour (architect), Helen Newell (CQU Chancellery), Desley Campbell-Stewart (architect), Phil Hancock (CQU Facilities Management), Anne Gribbin (CQU Foundation) and Professor Kevin Fagg (Acting VC).