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Central Highlands’ Stories

Oral histories can give us a personal insight into events, people and way of life. We hear first-hand the emotions that are stirred through the voices of those sharing their experiences with us.

Central Highlands’ Stories provides glimpses of the past and features the reflections of both current and former residents. These stories contribute to the rich history of our region.

The Central Highlands’ Heritage Stories Project began in 2010 with a RADF grant and has been added to from additional funding programs during the subsequent ten years.

Let us know if you’re interested in sharing your Central Highlands story, too.

 

Disclaimer: All stories are the personal recollections of the interviewees at the time of recording.

Wendy Carlier

Explosion at Metro Station

Metro Station is located 100km south-west of the Central Highlands town of Springsure. Long-time resident, Wendy Carlier, recalls the story of how a couple of boys on the property were injured when they caused an explosion in the woolshed and were rushed into the Springsure Hospital.

By Central Highlands Regional Council

Penny Bulger

Straw bales and local tales

Willows resident, Penny Bulger, served as a councillor with the Emerald Shire Council and the Central Highlands Regional Council from 2000 to 2012. During that time, she lobbied to gain funding for the Willows’ Black Spot Project and was instrumental in the planning of Emerald’s innovative straw bale Visitor Information Centre.

By Central Highlands Regional Council

Gilda Lee and Mabel Howard

School days at Fernlees

Gilda Lee and her sister, Mabel Howard, grew up in the small railway siding township of Fernlees, situated 40km south of Emerald. They recall their school days during the 1940s and 1950s.

By Central Highlands Regional Council

Norma Louth | Photograph courtesy of State Library of Queensland

I’ve been to Rockhampton to see the Queen

Norma Louth remembers the excitement of travelling to Rockhampton by train from Rolleston in 1954 to see Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh.

By Central Highlands Regional Council

Paul Bell | Photograph courtesy of BMA

So, what brings you to Emerald?

Paul Bell arrived in Emerald in 1979 to pursue a career as an electrician at the new Gregory Mine. He recalls that many families moved to Emerald at this time, beginning a new era of development and growth in the town.

By Central Highlands Regional Council

 

 

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