#1
Allan Bruce
2009-02-02
Somewhere I would gladly visit in my new forester.
Tree of Knowledge & the Australian Workers Heritage Centre Barcaldine
The spirit of the outback is alive and well in Barcaldine and there are a host of things to explore. Visit the Australian Workers Heritage Centre that pays tribute to the lives of ordinary men and women who have built our nation. Their pioneering spirit lives on through interactive displays, film, video, photographs and memorabilia.
This award-winning museum is located in the former grounds of the old Barcaldine State School with old school structures renovated and incorporated into the exhibition space.
Centred around landscaped gardens and a tranquil billabong, it provides a peaceful spot for families and workers to enjoy a quiet outback oasis.
Things weren’t so quiet back in 1891 when the Great Shearers Strike and consequent formation of the Labor party made its place here in history. Shearers held their strike meetings in the shade of a famous ghost gum, known as the "Tree of Knowledge". It was shrouded in controversy once again when the tree was allegedly poisoned. Pay a visit to this historic spot where a new memorial is in the making.
Getting there:
Barcaldine is 1070km northwest of Brisbane easily accessed by rail, road and air.
By train:
Catch Spirit of the Outback to Barcaldine. To book your rail adventure call Traveltrain Holidays on 1800 627 655.
Further information:
Australian Workers Heritage Centre, Ash Street, Barcaldine.
Ph 07 4651 2422
Queensland Holidays
Voters Comments
Allan Bruce
#2
Barbara Bauer
2009-01-29
I have been fortunate enough to visit Barcaldine twice before the Tree of Knowledge was poisoned. Luckily the spirit of our pioneers survives in Barcaline; it is an inspiring town to visit.
#3
Fiona Mohr
2009-01-27
Very friendly town with lots to see & do. Great waterholes as well.
#4
betty barker
2009-01-27
what a great day for everyone .very educational.
#5
Darryl Darben
2009-01-27
Barcy is a great little town and the local caravan parks usually put on free Damper and good entertainment.
#6
Pat McAndrew
2009-01-27
Our trip outback including Barcaldine was the best and all should do it. What a disgrace that someone poisoned the tree of knowledge but thank goodness they are erecting a new memorial. What a beautiful open land we have
#7
Katrina Devery
2009-01-21
"The Workers united, will never be defeated." What a great tribute to the everyday workers of this land. Barcy's great. Whatever you do, don't miss the Freemason's Hall with it's extraordinary facade.
#8
Debra Forbes
2009-01-19
My husband and I were lucky enough to visit the Tree Of Knowledge at Barcaldine on Labor Day 2006; before it was poisoned. We watched the Labor Day parade of floats and spent quite some time in the Australian Workers Heritage Centre where we discovered the real depth of courage and ingenuity our early pioneers had to make a living from our often times harsh interior.
#9
joe crainean
2009-01-19
Fascinating and historically educational - great.
#10
michelle martin
2009-01-16
Take a little time to reflect on our history and how we came to this moment.