Town Of Museums Dig Into The Past

Herberton Mining Museum Surrounds

Did you know the whole of the precinct of Herberton is listed on the Queensland Heritage Register? It was also previously listed with the National Estate and National Trust when they compiled registers. This is in recognition of the rich mineral, cultural and colonial past. Herberton the town was surveyed in 1880 and you can read more of our historical timelines on our website. Over the years Herberton, like many mining towns, suffered the ups and downs of metal prices – sometimes affluent, sometimes dirt poor. But this left a legacy of built heritage that complements the natural environment. Because of the strong links to past heritage and history that many residents have, it is little wonder that Herberton has become the town of museums. We invite you to stay a while longer and explore other facets of Herberton, including visits to our many museums which are listed below for your convenience.

Herberton Mining Museum

Of course we’ll start with our very own Herberton Mining Museum where you can dig into the past and explore. This fascinating museum has something for all ages and includes many interactive displays. You’re invited to push our buttons and crank our handles, have a go at panning, pump your own water and more. We’re open daily.

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Spy Camera Museum

The only Spy Camera Museum in Australia is in Herberton. This one of a kind museum is located in the town’s oldest store and is located right on the main street. A visit includes a 45-minute guided tour where you see and learn so much about photography, starting with spy cameras and ending with today’s digital age.

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Mt St Bernard College School Museum

The Mt St Bernard College School Museum showcases the history of Mt St Bernard College over 100 years. The Sisters of Mercy established Mount St Bernard College in 1921, as a boarding college for both primary and secondary students. The college is still operating today and visits to this museum have to be pre-booked by calling (07) 4096 1444.

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Atherton-Herberton Historic Railway

Herberton Station is the home of the only railway museum in Far North Queensland. The organisation is run and managed by volunteers, who operate train rides between Herberton Station and the Herberton Historic Village on a regular Sunday timetable. Train rides 10am to 3pm Sunday. The museum is open Saturday and Sunday 9am to 3pm.

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Historic Village Herberton

Herberton Historic Village is just as the name suggests. A collection of more than 60 original buildings sitting on 16 acres providing a window into the past and life in a tin mining town. There’s antique motor vehicles, engines, blacksmithing demonstrations, two school classrooms and more.

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Museum of Governance

This museum is still in its planning stages. It is not open yet. It will be located in the Herberton Courthouse, which was built in 1881 and was the location for several notable trials including the trial of Inspector Nichols and his Native Troopers for the Irvinebank Massacre; the trial of Wild Jimmy; the recognition of Native Title for the Bar Barrum people; and the last meetings of the Herberton Shire Council.

First Nations Museum

This museum is still in its planning stages. It is not open yet. Members of the local aboriginal community have long held aspirations for a place on country dedicated to telling the stories of the local first nations people. Land has been acquired and several people are quietly and carefully researching and developing the concept. It is eagerly awaited by all.

Sleeper Cutters Museum

The Sleeper Cutters Museum is located at the Herberton Railway Station. The museum is dedicated to the local sleep cutters who supplied sleepers for the Cairns to Ravenshoe line. They also supplied the Queensland Government Railways with sleepers for their railway network.

Museum open when the Railway Museum is open.

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