Although moved from its original site in Lawson Street, Southport, the building has retained a strong association with various defence related agencies.

[1] Despite the recommendations, financial provision for the voluntary defence force remained inadequate until new Volunteer Regulations were passed in October 1882.

The focal points recommended included those at local harbours and rivers, particularly where enemy warships may find entry.

The construction of major schools, banks and hotels stimulated Southport's growth as a fashionable nineteenth century resort as did the presence of the Governor's residence in the 1890s.

The windows were shaded with central pivoted timber shutters and a series of galvanised iron fixed louvre panels ensured cross ventilation.

Repairs and restoration were carried out in 1899, prior to the building reverting to Australian Government ownership following Federation of Australia.

[1] Although the Southport Drill Hall has sustained a long association with various Australian defence forces, it has been used for other community purposes.

Following World War I the Australian military forces were reduced and the drill hall was leased firstly to a Boy Scout Group and then, from 1931 to the Southport Surf Lifesaving Club.

The outbreak of World War II saw the Australian Government reclaiming exclusive use of the Drill Hall and it remained in military use until 1988.

The building is of single skinned construction, timber framed and clad externally with chamfered boards and elevated on concrete stumps.

Centrally located on the two ends of the building is a similar double window opening protected with timber shutters.

This room houses ephemera and fittings from the Queensland Naval Brigade Southport Volunteer Company who now use the building and retains a strong sense of its military history.

The building demonstrates the strategic military importance of coastal areas, like Southport in the late nineteenth century and has a strong association with the Volunteer Defence Force.

[1] The place has a special association with the life or work of a particular person, group or organisation of importance in Queensland's history.

The building demonstrates the strategic military importance of coastal areas, like Southport in the late nineteenth century and has a strong association with the Volunteer Defence Force.