Residents and visitors can discover more about the Bundaberg Region’s hidden historical gems as part of this year’s Australian Heritage Festival.
The festival, themed ‘Unearthed’, will be held from 18 April to 18 May, with a month-long program of open days and activities sure to awaken the curiosity of history lovers across the region.
Bundaberg Regional Council’s Arts and Heritage portfolio spokesperson Councillor John Learmonth said the festival was a chance to celebrate the region’s rich history.
“From the heritage streetscapes of Bundaberg and Childers to the pioneer history of Gin Gin and surrounds, the region has a wealth of historical interest,” Cr Learmonth said.
“As part of Council’s heritage festival activities, visitors will have the opportunity to see inside unique and interesting buildings usually closed to the general public.
“There are also some wonderful community groups with activities planned around the region that are well worth checking out.”
Council’s range of activities throughout the festival includes a School of Arts open day on Saturday 3 May, when visitors can take a self-guided tour of the State heritage-listed building.
Fairymead House will be offering guided tours each Tuesday during the festival, and while at the Bundaberg Botanic Gardens, visitors can see the historic ‘swaggie tree’.
Bundaberg Masonic Building will be open on the weekend of 26 and 27 April, 9 am to 3 pm, for self-guided tours inside one of Bundaberg’s architectural gems.
Bundaberg North Railway Museum will open every Saturday during the festival, providing fascinating insights into rail history, including the chance to get up close to restored rolling stock.
As part of the festival, Childers Heritage Day on Saturday 10 May will see community groups and organisations hold activities at 16 heritage sites across the town.
To help attendees plan their visits, Council and community events are listed on the Australian Heritage Festival website.
A little project I have underway, I come across old reports dealing with the School of Arts. I now send these directly to the Heritage People. Starting to collect Cemetery Letters and other Institutions.