Windback Wednesday - Melba Building

Constructed circa 1902, this building on Stuart Road in Dulwich has served many different purposes over the years. From 1902 to 1919 it was a meeting space for the First Adelaide Lodge and later during the 1960s it was used as an indoor tennis court, which is still evident by the court lines on the floor. It has also served as a wholesale warehouse, an antique store, a fruit store, a hair salon and an antique shop. Currently, the building is being used as a retail store.

The building’s most notable purpose was from 1923 to 1960. Do you know what it was?

The name “Melba” outlined on the façade that pays homage to operatic soprano Dame Nellie Melba might give you a hint!

Photograph: Burnside Local History Collection, 1986.