The first official Japanese Consulate in Australia
The establishment of the Japanese Consulate in Townsville in 1896 was a landmark event and a significant diplomatic step for an Asian nation within the British Empire at the time. Townsville was a strategic choice, its busy port providing direct sea routes to the sugarcane and pearling industries of the north, and the political centres of the south. The appointment of the first career consul, Nakagawa Tsunejiro, signalled Japan's serious diplomatic and commercial interests in northern Australia, as well as the important community of Japanese people in northern Australia.
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Kardinia remained the Japanese Consulate here in Townsville until 1908.
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Long after its official role ended, the building's legacy endures. Paul and June Tonnoir purchased the home in 1984 and undertook a major restoration, culminating in a centenary celebration in 1996 that honoured its unique history. The site continues to host visits from Japanese diplomats, a testament to its lasting significance.
 Goro Narita, the last Japanese Consul in Townsville, and his wife, 1906. |  Admiral with family of Japanese Consul Tayui in front of Kardinia in Townsville, 1903 |  The Japanese Consul, with his family and staff, outside the former Japanese Consulate at 11 Victoria Street, Stanton Hill, c.1970. |
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 Children of consulate staff playing in the backyard of Kardinia, ca. 1900. |  The Japanese Consul in Townsville, Mr Rinzaburo Tayui, ca. 1900. |