[1][2] Albert Bates formed a partnership with George Thomas Eaton in Rockhampton c. 1894 and developed a successful Central Queensland practice in the late 19th century, with branch offices established at Mount Morgan and Longreach by 1898, Clermont in 1900, Gladstone in 1901, Maryborough in 1902, and Townsville by 1902.
After 1902 their head office was moved to Brisbane, with branches retained at Rockhampton and Townsville.
They undertook a wide variety of architectural work, from hotels and commercial buildings to residences, hospitals and masonic halls, and received a number of commissions from the Catholic Church – churches, schools, convents and presbyteries.
Their style was eclectic, drawing upon both eastern and western classical traditions, with a particular emphasis on verandahs and pavilions – both as a decorative device and as appropriate to the warm Queensland climate.
His funeral took place in the Church of England section of the Northern Suburbs Cemetery on Friday 26 July 1929.