Introduction

This prominent city landmark, nestled amongst a famous row of striking historical buildings was for many years the major entry point to South Australia for visitors and immigrants.

It began life in 1924 when a competition was held to find a design for the building, with local architects Garlick and Jackman winning with a bold neo-classical design.

The building took two and a half years to build and attracted major controversy. Costs inflated three times above estimates, the project was deemed an "extravaganza" and was even blamed for South Australia's near-bankruptcy in the face of the Great Depression. However, the project did provide employment for many workers in those trying times.

The centrepiece of the building is the grand Marble Hall — originally the Railway Station's waiting area. Topped by a 12-metre dome, Marble Hall is supported by eight giant Corinthian columns and finished (fittingly) with imported European marble.

This supremely dignified entrance to SKYCITY Adelaide is now home to major concerts and events including being the 2007 Official Masters Games Centre.

Another feature of Marble Hall is the four original telephone booths, which are still in operation and a replica of the original Railway Station clock. The hall also featured as the setting for the glittering ballroom scene in the popular 1981 historical film Gallopoli directed by Peter Weir and starring Mel Gibson.

Redevelopment

Though a redevelopment was touted in the 1970s, it wasn't until 1980 that a firm proposal emerged, with the Adelaide Station and Environs Redevelopment (ASER) project beginning in 1985.

The biggest private development in South Australia's history, ASER included the creation of a world-class casino in the old Railway Station building, landscaping the banks of the River Torrens, construction of a convention centre, hotel and offices.

The Adelaide Casino, as it was then known, took only nine months to build. Five years later, significant renovations to the first floor allowed gaming machines to be installed in March 1991.

The Building's heritage listing means that any future development must be in keeping with its original character. Three years later, Adelaide Casino was recognised as Adelaide's premier tourist attraction receiving awards in 1994, 1995 and 1996.

SKYCITY Adelaide is proud of the heritage of the Railway Station and as an active member of the Riverbank Precinct is working with other Riverbank stakeholders to develop the area.

Architects and Railway Officers responsible for the construction of the Adelaide Railway Station 1928

Photograph courtesy of the State Library of South Australia, SLSA: B 5003

Adelaide Railway Station dome under construction c.1920

Photograph courtesy of the State Library of South Australia, SLSA: B 31202

Adelaide Railway Station, waiting hall 1920

Photograph courtesy of the State Library of South Australia, SLSA: B 17158

The Adelaide Railway Station c.1937

Photograph courtesy of the State Library of South Australia, SLSA: B 29637