When people think of the Springett’s Arcade redevelopment, they often picture the bustling shopping precinct that sits at the heart of Bowral today.
However, the decade between 1976 and 1986 was one of the most transformative periods in the history of the Springett family and their iconic business. It was a time marked by community recognition, significant commercial change, and a bold vision that would reshape both Springett’s Arcade and the Bowral town centre for generations to come.
As Springett’s celebrates its centenary, this chapter of the story reflects a period when the family honoured its past while investing heavily in the future.
Springett’s Arcade Redevelopment Begins with Community Leadership
The decade opened with an important honour for one of the family’s most respected figures.
In 1976, Harry Springett was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by Queen Elizabeth II in recognition of his outstanding service to the local community. While the Springett name had long been associated with business success, Harry’s contribution extended far beyond commerce.
His dedication to civic life, community organisations, local development, and the growth of Bowral helped shape the Southern Highlands into the thriving region it is today. The honour reflected not only his personal achievements but also the values that had guided the Springett family since they first arrived in Bowral half a century earlier.
For many locals, Harry represented a generation of business leaders who believed that success carried a responsibility to contribute to the wider community.
The End of an Era for Springett’s Bakeries
By the early 1980s, changing consumer habits and a rapidly evolving retail landscape were reshaping businesses across Australia.
In 1983, Springett’s Bakeries Pty Ltd was sold to Sunnycrust Bakeries, marking the end of a significant chapter in the family’s history. For decades, the bakery had been a cornerstone of Bowral life, supplying bread and baked goods to generations of local families. However, the sale represented more than a business transaction. It signalled a strategic shift in focus as the family looked towards new opportunities for growth and development.
At the same time, one of Bowral’s most beloved venues, the Hot Canary, closed its doors. Despite continuing to enjoy strong patronage, the decision was made to sacrifice the popular venue to allow for a much larger vision to take shape.
The future of Springett’s would no longer be centred on manufacturing and wholesale operations. Instead, it would focus on creating a modern retail and commercial destination for the growing Southern Highlands community.
The Vision Behind the Springett’s Arcade Redevelopment
Working alongside neighbouring business Payless Superbarn, the Springett family began laying the foundations for what would become one of Bowral’s most significant commercial developments. The ambition was clear: create a modern shopping destination that would support local businesses, professional services, and community activity while preserving Springett’s position at the heart of town life.
The redevelopment represented a substantial investment in Bowral’s future and strengthened confidence in the region’s long-term growth.
Demolition, Construction and a New Beginning
In February 1984, demolition works commenced. The former Hot Canary building was removed to make way for the eastern extension of Springett’s Arcade, while the western section underwent extensive rebuilding and refurbishment. For many locals, it was a bittersweet sight. Familiar buildings that had been part of Bowral’s landscape for decades were disappearing. Simultaneously, there was excitement about what would emerge in their place.
Over the following months, construction transformed the site into a modern two-storey development designed to meet the changing needs of businesses and customers alike.
Then, on 6 November 1984, the new Springett’s Arcade officially opened.
The completed development featured 24 retail tenancies on the ground floor and 20 multi-purpose suites on the upper level. These professional suites provided valuable space for offices, consultants and service-based businesses, broadening the role of the arcade beyond traditional retail.
The opening attracted large crowds eager to experience Bowral’s newest landmark. The redevelopment instantly became one of the most significant commercial projects ever undertaken in the town centre.
More Than a Shopping Centre
What quickly became apparent was that the arcade was far more than a collection of shops. The design encouraged community connection and social interaction, creating an indoor gathering place that could host events, promotions and family activities throughout the year. Community celebrations regularly drew large crowds, reinforcing the arcade’s role as a social hub for local residents and visitors alike.
The spirit of the original Springett businesses remained alive, even as the nature of the enterprise evolved. The family had always focused on bringing people together, whether through bakeries, restaurants, dance halls or community events, and the new arcade continued that tradition in a contemporary setting.
A Lasting Legacy
The Springett’s Arcade redevelopment fundamentally changed the direction of the business and helped shape the future of Bowral’s commercial centre. By transitioning from wholesale manufacturing and grocery operations to a modern retail and professional services precinct, the Springett family demonstrated an ability to adapt to changing times while remaining deeply connected to their community.
Today, more than four decades later, many visitors may walk through Springett’s Arcade without realising the scale of the vision that created it. The bustling shops, offices, events and daily activity that define the arcade today are all part of a legacy forged during the remarkable decade between 1976 and 1986.
As Springett’s celebrates 100 years, this period stands as a powerful reminder that growth often requires courage, change and a willingness to invest in the future. The redevelopment of the arcade was not simply a building project, it was the beginning of a new chapter that continues to shape Bowral today.
