Former doctor’s surgery hits Gympie real estate market
A beloved Gympie property with a rich history has hit the market for the first time after being completely rebuilt following a fire 10 years ago. Look inside:
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An iconic Gympie home atop the highest point in the city centre has come on to the market for the first time since it was rebuilt in 2017.
The property has a rich history and the site beloved and connected to many Gympie residents.
It was first built for William Smyth, mayor of Gympie from 1883 to 1884. Later, the Queenslander became a doctor’s surgery, with several practitioners running their services from the home.
It was occupied by well-known Gympie doctor David Cairncross, before the property fell to ruin.
After an 18-month restoration it reopened in 2009, and was converted to a community health facility owned by the Department of Communities.
Then in 2012, tragedy struck when the building burnt down.
In 2o17, the home was rebuilt by Brad Adams Construction, with the facade and exterior close to identical to the original building.
The home is currently owned by Peter McClintock and is affectionately dubbed ‘Lady Mary.’
Peter’s fiance Loretta Franklin said it was important to her to preserve the rich history of the home.
“We wanted the same look, we wanted to pay justice not only to the old house that burnt down,” she said.
“But also to the history and the landscape and place a house that was fitting for that block and the prestigious history.”
Ms Franklin said she had found a variety of artefacts in the backyard, including glass syringes from when it was a doctor’s surgery.
The five bedroom, three bathroom home is situated on close to a quarter acre block on Amy Street near Soma Soma Espresso, one of Gympie’s most popular cafes.
Ray White Gympie principal and agent Clancy Adams said the property was one of a kind.
“It was one of the most iconic homes in Gympie,” Mr Adams said.
“From the outside it almost looks the same – to the point where we’ve noticed on social media that a lot of people have commented on remembering the house from 40 years ago.”
He said the property retained abundant charm, while also having a modern feel.