NARRATION: L block was stage 2 of the QIT Civil Engineering development, while P block, structures lab, was stage 1.The architect, Blair Wilson and first Head of Department, Ray Bange worked closely together on the design. Plans were ready by 1969, with occupation in early 1972, the same year that the Captain Cook Bridge and riverside freeway were under construction.

The Kindler Memorial Lecture Theatre was opened a year later in 1973, completing the civil facilities. These state-of-the-art new facilities provided excellent learning spaces, suiting the needs of the students and staff at the time.

Degree and certificate courses were offered. All students engaged in significant laboratory experiences, with certificate students learning testing and laboratory techniques. Testing services for the engineering profession were conducted through the facilities from the mid 70s. A NATA (National Association of Testing Authorities) accreditation was held in many test areas including a very rare "Structural Assemblies" certification.

In 1972 there were 11 academic and 13 technical staff, while many professionals from industry were lecturing part-time. L block contained six major laboratory areas, drawing rooms, lecture and tutorial rooms, offices and administration space.

Staff and student common rooms, and open deck on level 9 had 360-degree views of Brisbane. Only separated by the lift foyer and glass doors, they were places of social and group learning and collaboration. Many functions were held there, from the First National Conference of Civil Engineering Heads, to Riverfire, where the heat of the F111s could be felt.

In the 1974 floods water entered the basement, submerging the store and two laboratories.

L block was known as the 'help' building for a while, with the word painted in yellow near the top. It was an unsolved mystery.

A business student from the mid 70s reflects, "I was involved in whole-of-campus celebrations such as Foundation Day. This included events such as the 'iron man' challenge, which required students to eat cold meat pies, swill hot beer, carry fire extinguishers up the external staircase of L Block and then swim at low tide from Gardens Point around the centre pylon of the Captain Cook Bridge."

An environmental engineering course was offered from 1971, recognising the seriousness of the environmental problem. Two women graduated from the engineering degree in 1997, the first to do so. The QIT "Women in Engineering" program was launched in 1983. It was the first of its kind in Australia.

The Business Department and Surveying were early tenants of L block, with Maths and Construction Management then occupying levels 4, 7 and 8. Level 9 was converted for CSIRO project and centre Research Centre in Construction Innovation.

The final move came in 2010 when L block became a community building, and site office for the new Science and Engineering Centre project. It will be demolished early in 2013.

L block, a place of significance to many and a place in the history of this site.

[Time lapse artist's impression of a building being constructed and demolished.]

[Names of donors who bought a brick from L Block to raise funds for the QUT Learning Potential Fund.]