Overlooking King George Sq, this fine 1930s sandstone edifice is fronted by a row of sequoia-sized Corinthian columns. It has an 85m-high clock tower with a fabulous lookout, from which bells peal across the city rooftops. In 2013 the hall opened up again after a three-year renovation. Free guided tours run hourly from 10.15am to 3.30pm; free clock tower tours run every 15 minutes from 10.45am to 4.45pm. Phone for guided tour bookings; clock tower tours are on a first-come, first-served basis. Also here is the excellent Museum of Brisbane .
The results of the renovations are spectacular, with the building's best features – vaulted ceilings, lavishly tiled lobbies and art-deco light fittings – all brought to the fore. The domed auditorium itself is truly magnificent – a vast space (Australia's version of the Hagia Sophia?) with a 4300-pipe organ, 1644 seats and mahogany-and-bluegum floors. The Rolling Stones played their first-ever Australian gig here in 1965.
