Works begins on Globe Hotel transformation

Building work has begun to transform an historic outback pub into a new community cultural centre.

The Globe Hotel in Barcaldine was known for decades as 'the Workers Pub' - located in the town that is the birthplace of the Labor Party.

It closed down some years ago and was purchased by the local council.

Barcaldine Mayor Rob Chandler says the run-down building will be converted into an art gallery as part of a $2.9 million project.

"We have kept the old building, so that we can keep the verandahs out over the footpath," he said.

"The timbers, the shell of the old pub and the footings underneath, are as good as the day it was built 100 years ago.

"The dream here has always been to have an art gallery, a new visitor information centre, a history room, which would be stage one."

Source: ABC - 16th September 2014