Once teeming with hard workers from one of the world’s richest gold mines, Mount Morgan, located 32 kilometres south-west of Rockhampton on the Dee River, was a town that made a significant contribution to both Queensland and Australia’s economy.
Approximately 50 tonnes of silver, 360,000 tonnes of copper and 250 tonnes of gold were extracted from the mines in the 108 years of mining operations that occurred during the 19th and early 20th century.
Originally named Ironstone Mountain before Ned and Tom Morgan made a claim in 1882, renaming the town Mount Morgan, the now popular historic destination is filled with history, culture and discovery.
We’ve found 10 great ways to fill your day and create unforgettable memories when you visit Mount Morgan.
1. Stretch your legs at Stopford Way Scenic Lookout
As you enjoy the winding range towards the historic gold mining town, you won’t be able to drive past Stopford Way Scenic Lookout, which offers spectacular views of the valleys beneath. It’s the perfect place for locals and visitors to stop, stretch and relax over a coffee or picnic surrounded by the panoramic vista. The lookout was erected to honour the proud history of Mount Morgan and designed to replicate an iconic mineshaft named the Linda Incline. The lookout features an informal introduction to the town.
2. Swing across the Private Victor Stanley Jones Suspension Bridge
First built in 1999 and re-erected in 2001, this memorial bridge celebrates the memory of Private Victor Stanley Jones – a former employee at the Mount Morgan Gold Mining Company who later served in the Boer War. Giving those who cross a feel for the old mining days, the bridge safely swings, wobbles and sways above the Dee River. A plaque dedicated to Private Jones and his life work is located at the end of the bridge.
3. Get snap happy at the Arthur Timms Lookout
Located on Hall Street, this viewing point provides the perfect photo opportunity of the Mine from a distance and is a great way to view the spanning township. Named after a former Chairman for the Mount Morgan Council, the Arthur Timms Lookout provides a glimpse into the scale of material that was removed during the Mine’s glory days, together with a dramatic view of Mount Morgan and its surrounding landscape.
4. Remember our fallen heroes at Anzac Park
Anzac Park is the perfect place to stop for a stroll, picnic and to discover a number of military and historic icons including the Coronation Light which was erected in 1902 to commemorate the Coronation of King Edward VII; a mine plaque which displays the contour of the original Ironstone Mountain; and a record of the years of mining operation from 1882 – 1990. The park is used annually for ANZAC and Remembrance Day services.
5. Feel on top of the world at the Frank Golding Lookout
Sitting proud at the top of East Street, this lookout is the highest point in the town and provides an amazing view of scenic Mount Morgan. Named after a former Rotarian and Historian of the town, the lookout includes a signpost showing how many kilometres there is to different countries – only 17,280 to Rome! Bring a picnic and take a break at the table and seating area and soak up the golden history.
6. Ready, set, go with the Running the Cutter Statue
The Running the Cutter Statue represents an interesting past tradition carried out in Mt Morgan from 1900 – 1918. At the time of this unique custom, a billycan was known as a ‘cutter’. It is said that when a miner finished his shift, he would have a young lad run to a nearby hotel with his billycan, have it filled with beer and brought back to him as he came off shift. Today the tradition is brought to life annually, during a competition held in the Golden Mount Festival.
7. Visit the heyday headquarters at the Historical Museum
A trip to Mount Morgan would not be complete without a visit to the Historical Museum. Housing an impressive collection of relics from the early years to the present, the Museum delves into the captivating history of Mount Morgan. Explore many household objects from the past era, and put yourself in the picture as you view over 600 historic photographs that depict the development of the mine and town. Purchase a gift or souvenir to remember your visit.
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8. Make a splash at the No. 7 Dam
Spend some time chilling out at the No.7 Dam (otherwise known as the BIG dam). With its picturesque natural views, the dam offers the perfect place to explore. Enjoy a picnic, use the free barbeques and let the kids run wild in the high shaded playground. Try your luck catching dinner with the waterways full of red claw and other unique fishing opportunities. Bring the stand-up paddle board and kayak to add to your adventure.
9. All aboard at the Railway Museum
Step back in time and experience how life and travel used to be. Through audio-visual displays and 3D presentations, experience what it was like aboard the old ‘rack’ system, hauling trains up the steep inclines of the Razorback in the 1800s. Get a sense of the history of rail in Queensland and even see the railway equipment at the former station including rolling stock, goods shed and heritage listed water tank for steam engines.
10. Grab a beer and meal at the Leichhardt Hotel
At one time, the town of Mount Morgan had 27 hotels, with the first being situated behind the first mine. Of these 27, the Leichhardt Hotel continues to stand tall, 130 years later! Packed full of grinning locals enjoying a cold beer, good meals and great company, this is a stop you won’t want to miss on your visit to Mount Morgan. Stay longer and grab yourself a room in this beautiful old hotel for the night or longer.
