The Pill Factory

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Directly opposite Bundanoon's pristine fire station, sits the imposing stone building known affectionately as "The Pill Factory." This grand edifice, with its rich history and many quirks, is a true local landmark. Built between December 1896 and July 1898, it was the brainchild of William Augustus (Gus) Nicholas, a man whose talents and eccentricities were as vast as the Australian outback.

Originally, The Pill Factory was home to “Nicholas Golden Cross Ointment and Pill Factory,” where Gus concocted his famous “cure-all” powders and ointments. The building also housed a photographic studio, darkroom, and printing works, making it a hive of activity. Gus was not just a homeopath but a jack-of-all-trades, dabbling in veterinary matters and capturing the essence of Bundanoon through his photography.

In the 1930s, the building sprouted an extra storey and transformed into a guesthouse. Despite the changes, it retained its nickname and continued to fascinate locals and visitors alike. Today, the guesthouse is a delightful blend of old-world charm and rustic eccentricity, with creaky floors, mismatched furniture, and the occasional hidden pill bottle.

Gus Nicholas arrived in Bundanoon in the early 1870s. He was the closest thing to a doctor the village had for over 40 years. Locals referred to him as “our local medico” and “our local homeopathist.” His practice was so valued that when he announced its end in 1893, the local paper lamented the potential calamity for Bundanoon. Yet, Gus continued to assist in emergencies until his death in 1921 at 76.

Today, The Pill Factory stands as a testament to Gus Nicholas’s multifaceted legacy. Visitors to the boarding house are regaled with tales of Gus’s miraculous cures and photographic prowess, all while enjoying a stay in one of Bundanoon’s most storied buildings. The Pill Factory remains a beloved fixture in the heart of Bundanoon, a quirky charm with a fascinating history.