emerald

Business Directory and Tourist Guide

WELCOME TO EMERALD

Visitor Information Centre

The ideal starting point in Emerald is the Visitor Information Centre, where friendly volunteers can
help you plan your holiday. The centre is open 7 days a week, all year round except Good Friday,
Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Van Gogh Sunflower painting

Towering above the Visitor Information Centre is the giant Van Gogh Sunflower Painting. The 25 metre high superstructure is the world’s largest painting on an easel and celebrates the Central Highland’s
reputation as a major sunflower producer.

Centenary of Federation Mosaic Pathway

The Centenary of Federation Mosaic Pathway depicts one hundred years of Emerald’s history.
The footpath features intricately tiled designs that trace history from the beginning of the universe
through to visions of the future.

Botanic Gardens

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the Botanic Gardens, on the banks of the tranquil Nogoa River. Children will love the playgrounds, while all ages can enjoy the Melaleuca Maze and the spiral shaped maze of the Celestial Garden. Don’t miss the bush chapel, windmill and historical Federation Pillars.

Railway Station

Emerald’s railway station is another photogenic attraction, of interest for its aesthetic and historic value. Built in 1900 and restored in 1986, its façade of wrought iron lacework and pillared portico makes it an attractive rest stop for travellers on the ‘Spirit of the Outback’.

Pioneer Cottage Complex

The Pioneer Cottage Complex echoes with the rich history of the Emerald Region. Included in the complex is one of Emerald’s first shops, lead lined lockup, St Marks Presbyterian Church and a communications museum.

Fairbairn Dam

Fairbairn Dam, just south of Emerald, is a holiday destination in itself with a selection of cabin, caravan and camping accommodation available. Enjoy water sports, fishing, redclawing or simply relax by the lake.

Historical Townships

Plan a couple of day trips to visit the historical townships in the Central Highlands:

Gindie: produces some of the best cereal grain in Australia and houses Central Highland’s oldest tractor in the Historical Agricultural Machinery Centre.

Fernlees: is home to the Flashback reintroduction project. The Bridled Nailtail Wallaby was on the brink of extinction but the project’s success has seen their numbers steadily climb.

Comet: is one of the oldest towns in the region and site of the Leichhardt Dig Tree. Ludwig Leichhardt explored the Central Queensland Highlands in1844.

Bogantungan: is small on population (about 30 people) but big on historic attractions, with a charming museum adjacent to the railway station.

Other Places of Interest in the Central Highlands

Capella: is photographers delight with the gigantic dome-topped mountains.
The Cultural Centre, Aquatic Centre and Light Horse Monument are must sees in the town.

Blackwater: is the Coal Capital of Queensland. Main attractions are the Blackdown Tableland National Park. Blackwater International Coal Centre and Japanese Gardens.

Springsure: is situated in a valley of spectactular mountain ranges with the famous Virgin Rock as a backdrop. Old Rainworth Fort, Rich Park Historical Complex and the Heritage-listed Hospital are other key place of interest.

For more information about any of these interesting, fun activities and other great things
to see and do in the Central Highlands contact the friendly team at either the
Central Highlands Visitor Information Centre.

Ph: 07 4982 4142
E: enquiries@chrc.com.au www.centralhighlands.com.au/

central highlands
visitor information centre

Clermont Street
Emerald QLD 4720