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Landmarks and Buildings
Don’t miss the wall and pole murals in Peak Downs Street. The pole near the pub commemorates the fact that the placing of emu plumes in the Australian Light Horse Brigade hats began at Capella during the Great Shearer’s Strike of 1891. Stretch your legs and enjoy the 30 historical murals painted on the light poles along Capella’s main street.
Capella QLD
0.8 km away
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Natural Attractions
Travel one kilometre south of Capella to the Peak Range Lookout and take in the beauty of 'The Peaks', a chain of gigantic conical and dome-topped mountains. The Peak Range Lookout is located beside the Gregory Highway (Great Inland Way), one kilometre south of Capella on top of the Springvale rolling hill. The everyday changing colours, as well as the air clarity after winter rains, make the Peak Range a photographer's delight. Discover the grandeur of the Peaks up close on a self-drive tour, or while sampling the warm country hospitality. This is a special place where you are invited to relax, unwind and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Peak Downs.
Capella QLD
0.8 km away
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Historical Sites and Heritage Locations
In 1861 copper was discovered four miles south-west of Clermont and Queensland's first copper mine, Peak Downs Copper Mining Company was born. By December 1864 the first shipment of copper was destined for Broadsound on bullock drawn drays and within 15 years a total of 17,000 tons of refined copper sold. In 1874, the Municipality of Copperfield was declared and the town was bustling with over 2000 Chinese, Welsh and Australian residents and the town comprised of 370 dwellings, 31 miles of roads and streets incorporating two banks, a baker, three butchers, three blacksmiths, six stores, a saddler, two auctioneers, a cordial maker and six hotels, school of arts, a newsagent and its own newspaper, Copperfield Miner. By 1892 the population had declined to 85 and the copper mine closed in 1907. All that remains today of Copperfield is the cemetery, general store and chimney. At the Copperfield cemetery, dozens of inhabitants were laid to rest from the 1870s to the early 1900s. Many of the historic graves are no longer identifiable but the cemetery is still maintained by the local council.
Clermont QLD
48 km away
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Parks and Gardens
Rose Harris Park can be found at Clermont in the Isaac Region, the park was named after the local Rose Harris, a female saddler. She is not only credited with being one of the only female saddlers of the time, but during the 1916 Clermont Floods having saved at least six lives, by tying together bridles and horse-ropes to throw to people being pulled away by the floodwater, and pull them to safety. In honour of this , the Rose Harris park was given her name. Rose earned title of "Hero" for saving the people. Rose was a saddler in Clermont from around 1918 until her shop burnt down in 1948. The shop was located across Capella Street Clermont opposite the park that proudly bears her name. The local Clermont markets are held in the park the first Saturday of each month. Rose Harris Park in Clermont, is a lovely park in the middle of town, with a ladies rest centre, mother's room, picnic tables, chairs, beautiful shady trees and public toilets, A perfect spot to stop and have a break from your travels.
Clermont QLD
48 km away
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Landmarks and Buildings
The Clermont rail wagon murals are a series of artworks on painted railway carriages located near the historic 1884 Clermont Railway Station, depicting the region's main industries: gold and coal mining, cattle and sheep farming, and grain crops. The murals were created by artist Glen Gillard and include a hidden green tree frog on each of the four wagons for visitors to find.
Clermont QLD
48 km away
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Historical Sites and Heritage Locations
Following the discovery of gold at Nelson’s Gully in 1861, January 1862 saw the first rigging of camps alongside the prospectors on the banks of Hood's Lagoon. Within the year, the settlement boasted a general store and around 30 diggings. The rush was on and by the end of 1863 over 1,000 miners were operating in local fields. The town reserve was proclaimed on 25 March 1864, and saw the establishment of a Doctor, Newspaper, Banks, Churches and a Hospital. It's believed that Clermont was originally known as 'Hood’s Lagoon'. Clermont prospered however flooding was a problem: 1896 saw the fourth flooding since the town's establishment. The flood on 28 December 1916 resulted in vast destruction and loss of life. The town was moved to where it is today. The lagoon remained popular for swimming and picnicking, providing the railway’s water needs (extended to Clermont in February 1884), serving windmills, and supplying water for the town. The old town lay dormant for over half a century. It was revitalised with the placement of the Flood Memorial in 1980, followed by tree plantings, replacement of the lagoon bridge, sporting ovals, and the beatification of the Lagoon area, and historical monuments.
Clermont QLD
49 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
Miners Heritage is World's largest underground walk-in sapphire tourist mine. Visit the Central Queensland Sapphire Fields and take an informative 45 minute guided mine tour, which is suitable for all ages. 48 stairs and 440 meters of tunnel. After the tour, browse their underground museum and read about some of the amazing sapphires that have been found over the years. Buy a bucket or bag of "wash" and start fossicking for your own gem, their friendly staff will show you how. Miners Heritage has an airconditioned showroom with a huge selection of jewellery on display. They also have opal and semi-precious gemstone jewellery, loose gems and giftware for sale. Stay for a couple of hours or stay all day. There is plenty of parking, clean amenities, picnic tables and Cafe in the peak season. Tour groups, buses and schools can also be catered for. Miners Heritage is located in Rubyvale, The Gemfields, Central Highlands, approximately 65 kilometres (45 miniute drive) west of Emerald. Go and explore the world of sapphires at Miners Heritage, your one stop shop and introduction to the Sapphire Fields.
Rubyvale QLD
49 km away
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National Parks and Reserves
Theresa Creek Dam is an oasis in the Outback, situated 22 kilometres South-West of Clermont township off the Peakvale Road. Theresa Creek Dam is a dream destination for anglers, these sparkling waters are home to golden perch, jewfish, barramundi and the ever popular red claw. Cast a line from the shore , or launch your boat and enjoy a day of adventure on the open water. A Stock Impoundment Permit(SIP) is required when fishing for stocked species(not need for red claw) Theresa Creek Dam is the perfect spot for a laid-back picnic. Settle into one of the shaded areas, fire up the barbecue, and unwind with peaceful views all around. Recommended to bring your own drinking water. If you are not ready to leave, stay a night or two! Camping is available for a small fee. The onsite kiosk has you covered with meals, snacks, drinks, ice, gas, and much more. A dump point is also located on site for proper grey-water disposal. Whether you're into water skiing, sail boarding, fishing, or simply soaking up the serenity, Theresa Creek Dam offers everything you need for an unforgettable outback escape. Camping permits can be purchased on arrival.
Clermont QLD
49 km away
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Natural Attractions
Lords Table Mountain offers challenging remote bushwalking opportunities through varied plant communities. For well-prepared, self-reliant hikers, remote walking during daylight hours is possible at Lords Table Mountain. Entry is on foot via a national park gate situated on the south-west boundary, just off the Dysart-Clermont Road. Find your way to the foothills of the mountain or walk the firebreak along the national park boundary to view the mountain from a distance. Overnight camping is not currently permitted, remember to complete your hike during daylight hours. The Lords Table Mountain section of the national park offers bushwalking opportunities for experienced and well-prepared hikers. It is remote walking. There are no directional signs or formal walking tracks. For your safety, do not climb cliff or rock faces. Climbing slippery rocks, steep cliffs, and rock faces can result in falls.
Dysart QLD
49 km away
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Parks and Gardens
Hoods Lagoon and Century Park are situated in the inland township of Clermont. Clermont was established on the northern banks of the Hoods Lagoon in 1862, after the discovery of gold. A memorial plaque at the southern entrance of the Lagoon honours the victims of the 1916 flood that destroyed the entire business sector and 65 people perished. A marker on the tall pole depicts the height of the floodwater. Today, this area is a beautiful spot for a family picnic or to just relax and watch the wildlife on the lagoon. The park is a relaxing venue with a barbecue, picnic tables and toilet facilities. Strictly no camping on-site. There are a number of footpaths and boardwalks around the Lagoon enabling visitors to explore the numerous memorials which tell the story of Clermont's past. There is a rock water feature and bridge which crosses the lagoon, popular and picturesque backdrops for photography. Across the road from the flood marker pole is the famous 'piano in the tree'. This is a replica of an actual piano that was lodged in the tree after flood water had receded. This piano was one of three pianos found in trees after the 1916 flood.
Clermont QLD
49 km away
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Historical Sites and Heritage Locations
The 1916 Flood is Clermont's most iconic event. Striking suddenly, the flood washed away Clermont's central business district and claimed at least 65 lives. It is still known as Australia's second worst flood in terms of loss of life. The 'Piano in the Tree' in Capricorn Street (opposite Ivan Bettridge Park) is an eerie reminder of the height and ravaging force of the flood waters. Although the piano seen today is a replica, there were originally three pianos found in trees after the flood. The mass grave of the flood victims is in the Clermont Cemetery.
Clermont QLD
49 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
Australian Tourism Award-winning Rubyvale Gem Gallery is a small family business established in 1988 and is now situated in its new shop on Main Street in Rubyvale. For over 40 years Peter Brown was mining and cutting the local sapphires and setting them in uniquely designed jewellery. He was recognised as a sapphire specialist and one of the best gem cutters in the Gemfields. Sadly, Peter passed away in 2021, but he was able to pass on his skills to two of his sons who have joined the business to ensure Peter’s legacy continues. Visitors to the Rubyvale Gem Gallery see one of the most spectacular collections of rare and valuable precious Australian sapphires in Australia, as well as the gem cutting and jewellery-making processes. The friendly staff can help with all Sapphire Gemfields information. Included in the value of each of their unique Australian sapphire pieces is the story. The story of its volcanic origin over 50 million years ago, of the mining methods used to retrieve it from the earth, and the talent involved to create this sparkling treasure that will be yours to cherish forever. Make an Australian sapphire from Rubyvale Gem Gallery part of your story, your family heirloom.
Rubyvale QLD
49 km away
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Historical Sites and Heritage Locations
After an outcrop of copper was discovered in 1861, the Peak Downs copper Mining Company was formed, starting the first copper mining operation in Queensland and establishing the town of Copperfield. By December 1864, the first shipment of refined copper was sent to Broadsound (St Lawrence), and although successful in the early days, by the late 1870s the price of copper had dropped and by 1907, the mine closed permanently. The original Copperfield Store building was opened in 1860, and was replaced in 1927 with a new building. The store continued to operate long after the disappearance of the town of Copperfield, finally closing in 1975. Copperfield Store is a local heritage listed building. The Copperfield Store is located along Rubyvale Road (formerly Christoe Street), Clermont. Heading out of Clermont, the store is on the left hand side of the road. For safety, there is currently no public access to the interior of the store.
Clermont QLD
49 km away
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Historical Sites and Heritage Locations
Located approximately 4km south of Clermont along Rubyvale Road (formerly Christoe Street), Copperfield was Queensland's first copper mining town, discovered in 1862 and thriving until the 1880s with a population of around 2,000. It was a bustling hub with hotels, stores, and mining operations, but declined due to resource depletion and economic shifts. Today, the remnants include the Copperfield Chimney, a solitary brick chimney standing as a testament to the town's industrial past. The chimney is on the right side of the road heading out of Clermont (towards Theresa Creek Dam), made of brick and standing tall amid overgrown vegetation. Learn more about the history at the information stand, and keep an eye out for birdwatching and other wildlife - photography opportunities abound in the surrounding scrub. Access to the chimney is restricted, with fencing surrounding the site. Respect the historical integrity by not distributing artifacts.
Clermont QLD
49 km away
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Agritourism
If you've ever wanted to learn how to fossick for Sapphires then this is the place for you. It's a great family morning out! Come buy a bucket or bag of dirt and we will show you how to fossick for Sapphires. They are dog friendly, so you can also bring your best mate. Tour and school groups catered for. Give them a call to discuss your requirements.
Rubyvale QLD
49 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
The Clermont Museum is an award winning museum which is located on the Gregory Highway, just 2 kilometres from the township of Clermont. It celebrates the rich and diverse history of Clermont, Copperfield, and Blair Athol, with an emphasis on settler, mining and agricultural histories. Clermont Museum houses an extensive collection of artefacts contributed by local families and businesses in the region. After the 1916 flood the town was relocated and the Aveling and Porter No 6803 steam engine help relocated the town to where it is today. The steam engine sits proudly at the Clermont Museum along side the Clermont Fire Brigade truck, Jacques Diesel Powered Shovel and Ruston Steam Shovel both previously used that the Blair Athol Mine, Glenmore Shearing Shed, Cosmans Livery, Chiconi Stables and the Peak Downs Masonic Lodge.
Clermont QLD
50 km away
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Agritourism
Buy direct from the miner. M and M Sapphires have exquisite cut sapphires and sapphire jewellery on display. They can also set your stones, or choose from their wide range of precious and semi precious gems, into their large range of jewellery settings. Look no further for your faceting supplies and jewellery tools. Phone and mail orders welcome.
Sapphire QLD
51 km away
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Historical Sites and Heritage Locations
Emerald’s first Railway Station was built in 1899 but, unfortunately, burned down within a year. In 1900 a new Railway Station was built of timber, with an iron roof, wrought iron trimmings and pillared portico. The building design was signed by Henrik Hansen was built by Thomas Moir. The station building was built in the federation style of architecture, and is one of the few examples in Queensland of stations built in timber using this style. It was added to the Queensland Heritage Register in October 1992. It was restored in 1986 and is well worth a visit. Please Note: Spirit of the Outback is the only passenger train journey available from this station. The Station is only open when the Spirit of the Outback is passing through.
Emerald QLD
51 km away
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Landmarks and Buildings
The world's biggest Van Gogh sunflower painting is situated in Morton Park, Emerald. The superstructure is 25 metres high with approximately 13.6 tonnes of steel involved in its construction. It is part of a concept by Cameron Cross to erect seven Sunflower sculptures in seven different countries, reproducing Van Gogh's seven different Sunflower paintings. Emerald's Sunflower Painting was finished on 8 November 1999. The painting celebrates the Central Highlands' past as a major sunflower producer.
Emerald QLD
51 km away
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Parks and Gardens
A step by step snapshot of Emerald's colourful history is situated in Morton Park, Emerald. Walk the mosaic pathway which depicts 100 years of Emerald’s history with 21 intricately tiled designs. The detailed mosaics were created by 10 of Emerald's local artists. This project was made possible by Centenary of Federation funding.
Emerald QLD
51 km away
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Amusement and Theme Parks
PATS Sapphire Central is an authentic sapphire discovery destination in Sapphire, at the heart of Queensland's Central Queensland Gemfields. Home to Pats Gems Tourist Fossicking Park, established in 1979, PATS gives visitors the opportunity to search for locally mined sapphires and zircons with friendly guidance from experienced local miners. Visitors can enjoy a hands-on fossicking experience, learn how to correctly wash and sort their wash, and discover the excitement of finding a gemstone of their own. PATS also features local sapphires and zircons, gems and jewellery, a retail shop, and a licensed café, deli and bakery—all together in one welcoming destination. Suitable for couples, families, caravan travellers, tour groups and first-time fossickers, PATS offers an accessible introduction to the stories, characters and mining heritage of the CQ Gemfields. It is a place to fossick, eat, shop and experience genuine local knowledge. Local Miners. Local Stones. Local Knowledge.
Sapphire QLD
51 km away
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Historical Sites and Heritage Locations
Relax as you meander through an oasis like no other within Queensland's Central Highlands. The Emerald Botanic Gardens is a tropical paradise providing the perfect location for a relaxing afternoon stroll or an early morning walk. Situated on the banks of the Nogoa River, the Emerald Regional Botanic Gardens are the only botanic gardens located within the Central Western District of Queensland. Covering an area of 42 hectares (420,000 square metres) the gardens provide residents and visitors with not only a place to relax and unwind but also an opportunity to gain further insight into the region's natural environments. The gardens have six kilometres of walking tracks that lead to picnic areas, playgrounds, mazes, sculptures and specialised plant communities. Established in 1987 by the Emerald Shire Council and local residents Lawrie and Myra Stanton, the Gardens are home to 12 different themed plant communities, most representing plant species that are native to the region.
Emerald QLD
52 km away
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Natural Attractions
If you love fishing, you're going to love this holiday destination. Lake Maraboon is stocked with eight different kinds of fish including barramundi, golden perch, silver perch and red claw crayfish, making it a popular spot for anglers. Apart from fishing, there are other things to keep you and the kids occupied like swimming, walking and waterskiing. There are several picnic tables and free electric and wood barbecues in the area. A permit is required to fish at Lake Maraboon but red claw, a freshwater crayfish, are so abundant in the lake that you don't need a permit to catch them and there's no size limit
Gindie QLD
65 km away
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Natural Attractions
If you happen to enjoy a spot of birdwatching, then Dysart is one mining town worth visiting! Enjoying a diverse array of habitats, Dysart is home to a variety of bird species that even the most passionate birdwatcher hopes to see! Pack your walking shoes, don a hat and some sunscreen (30 SPF plus) and prepare to listen out for bird calls and study the wildlife with your naked eye through some binoculars. Learn from these animals and the values they transmit on respect to nature and the fragility of ecosystems. Emu's can often be seen from the rural roadsides surrounding Dysart, including on the Golden Mile Road. Cockatoo's, galah's and other colourful parrots can be found in abundance in the township, as well as blue-faced honeyeaters. Dysart is part of the Mining Trail drive and brochures can be picked up from Visitor Information Centres in the region.
Dysart QLD
65 km away
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