The Dome was built in 1972 by Roy and Rosalind Hayes.
It is the geodesic dome designed by the famous American architect Buckminster-Fuller. At the time of building, it was one of the first constructed in Australia. Originally, inset in the ceiling were rainbow coloured windows that threw colours on the floor and walls. During construction it caused quite a stir amongst the council (who had given permission but perhaps didn’t realise what it was) and the local community who didn’t feel that it fitted the English feel of Montville. Architectural students from St Lucia University came to see it as it was such a new concept.
The base was used as a silkscreen printing workshop and the dome was filled with colourful handcrafts made by local residents. We also provided Devonshire teas for tourists. The view from the deck surrounding the dome had a wonderful view of the coast.
From 1986 the Dome housed Gallery D and Pantano Glass with directors, John and Beryl Davies. The gallery featured works of Queensland and Australian artists. There were also displays of Jewellery, pottery, glass, woods and marquetry.
Gallery D, the Dome, 1980s
Later the Dome housed a model railway.
Postcard of the Model Railway, The Dome
Postcard from the Dome about the model trains
Postcard of the Dome and Model Railway
Postcard of Dome and Model Railway reverse side
By 2015 the Dome was looking forsaken and forlorn with graffiti on its ramp, broken windows and overgrown vegetation. It was derelict too long to revitalise what was once a much-loved Montville icon.
It was finally demolished in October 2023. We now wait to see how the site will be developed.
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