Magnetic House

This two storey masonry building was constructed in 1886-88 for the Townsville office of the Sydney-based Australian Mutual Provident (AMP) Society. The AMP was one of a number 19th century Benefit and Friendly Societies offering life assurance policies, endowments and annuities. Their principal aim was to ensure that women and children were not left destitute on the death of the principal income earner. The building was designed by prominent Sydney architects C H E Blackmann and John Sulman (later Sir John). Somewhat ironically, Blackmann began the design, and just prior to Sulman becoming a partner; he then absconded, leaving Sulman to cover his debts. Sulman completed the design, and the contract was let to Townsville builder Denis Kelleher in 1886. Above the pediment was a marble tableau illustrating the Society’s motto, ‘Amicus Certure in re Incerta’ (a friend in an uncertain event). The tableau was erected on every AMP building. When the Society built a new building on the corner of Stanley and Flinders Streets in 1938, the tableau was relocated there. This 1888 building was sold in 1940. It was renamed Magnetic House sometime during the mid-1970s. The building has remained in use as retail and office accommodation.