Herberton, the village in the hills
Herberton, 4887
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Queensland’s Oldest Town in the Tablelands. Established in 1880, Herberton is the oldest town in the Atherton Tablelands. Originally built on the back of a booming tin mining industry.
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Herberton Historic Village. A living museum with over 60 heritage buildings, including a schoolhouse, blacksmith, general store, and the famous historical village windmill, showcasing life from the late 1800s to the early 1900s.
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Herberton Steam Railway and 1905 Peckett Steam Train. Experience a beautifully restored 1905 Peckett Steam Train ride, chugging along the original railway line through scenic countryside.
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The Historic Windmill. Located within the Herberton Historic Village, it represents the ingenuity of early settlers who relied on wind power to draw water for their homes and farms.
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Herberton Mining Museum & Great Northern Mine. Learn about the town’s tin mining history with interactive displays, heritage-listed mining equipment, and a self-guided walk through the original mine site.
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Charming Country Surrounds. Nestled in the rolling hills of the Atherton Tablelands, Herberton offers breathtaking views, lush landscapes, and a peaceful escape into nature.
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Step Back in Time. With well-preserved buildings, vintage trains, and fascinating stories of Queensland’s past, Herberton is the perfect destination for history lovers and curious explorers alike.
- Population: 855 (2016 census)
- Area: 23.3 kilometres
- Founded: 1880
- Postcode: 4887
- Distance from Cairns
- via Gillies Highway 95.7 kilometres driving time 1 hour and 35 minutes
- via Kuranda Range: 111.4 kilometres driving time of 1 hour and 37 minutes
Discover Herberton: Step Back in Time in the Atherton Tablelands
Tucked away in the rolling hills of the Atherton Tablelands, Herberton is a place where history comes to life. As the oldest town in the Tablelands, founded in 1880 during the tin mining boom, this charming destination is packed with fascinating stories, beautifully preserved heritage buildings, and a strong connection to Australia’s pioneering past. If you love stepping back in time, exploring history, and soaking up the beauty of the countryside, Herberton is the perfect place to visit.
Discover the Herberton Historic Village
One of the town’s highlights is an incredible outdoor museum that transports you to the 19th and early 20th centuries. This village is a treasure trove of history with more than 60 fully restored buildings, including a schoolhouse, a working blacksmith, a general store, and an old-fashioned pub. Wander through the charming streets, watch live demonstrations, and experience what life was like for the early settlers. One of the standout features is the historical village windmill, a reminder of the ingenuity of those who relied on wind power to draw water for their homes and farms.
All Aboard the 1905 Peckett Steam Train
If you love heritage trains, you won’t want to miss the Herberton Steam Railway. Home to the beautifully restored 1905 Peckett Steam Train, this railway offers a nostalgic journey along the original tracks, passing through stunning countryside. Feel the engine’s rumble, hear the whistle blow, and watch the steam billow into the sky as you ride on a piece of history. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or just looking for a unique experience, this is a must-do in Herberton.
Uncover Herberton’s Mining Past
Herberton was built on tin, and you can explore this fascinating history at the Herberton Mining Museum. This interactive museum showcases the town’s mining roots with hands-on exhibits, heritage-listed mining equipment, and a self-guided walk through the original Great Northern Mine. It’s a great way to understand how early miners shaped the town and the tough conditions they endured to extract the tin that once made Herberton thrive.
Enjoy the Natural Beauty of the Atherton Tablelands
Beyond its incredible history, Herberton is also surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Nestled in the Atherton Tablelands, the town offers fresh mountain air, rolling green hills, and picturesque countryside. Whether you take a scenic drive, visit a nearby waterfall, or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, the natural beauty of this region is truly special.
Frequently Asked Questions About Herberton
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Plan Your Visit to Herberton
A visit to Herberton is like stepping back in time. With its rich history, beautifully preserved buildings, and engaging attractions, this charming town is a must-see destination in the Atherton Tablelands. Whether riding the steam train, exploring the historic village, or learning about its mining past, you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for Queensland’s pioneering history.
So, pack your sense of adventure and get ready to discover one of the Tablelands’ most captivating heritage towns!