australian workers heritage centre

I suspect a lot of tourists drive straight past the AWHC en route to its more glamorous (and expensive) cousin in Longreach. More the pity as both are well worth seeing - and with both taking quite different perspectives on the 'development' of the Australian outback. I liken the take at the AWHC to Henry Lawson, crumpled, gritty and reflective; while the Stockman's Hall of Fame is akin to Banjo Patterson - flasher, slicker and more optimistic.Their approaches are equally valid and both centres have much to offer and reflect on. The AWHC offers some superbly preserved old Queensland buildings: a one-teacher school, a police watch-house and a tiny country railway station/siding, as well as plenty of wonderfully evocative old photos. They were tough times. The gardens and billabong are also beautiful, worth the price of admission by themselves.

It would be madness to go through Barcaldine and not take advantage of the wealth of pioneer history presented in 'the big tent'. The whole precinct is an oasis of western landscaping, the various buildings linked by well-maintained paths. We were greeted warmly by the charming and knowledgable manager, then set off on our journey around the site - not only the exhibits in the 'tent' but the old lock-up, railway station, post office, one-teacher school and the list goes on. You can even experience a solitary confinement cell - pitch dark - feel your way along the wall if you want to be horrified by the conditions those unlucky prisoners faced. And then, to lift your spirits on the way out, some retail therapy in the extensive gift shop. In addition, some excellent photographic displays.

A unique reminder of the role various occupations have played in Australia's development. Set in beautiful gardens with friendly staff well worth spending an hour or three. Great stories and displays within old relocated buildings ,inspiring.

Well presented and quite extensive. Friendly lady on the front desk- helpful.Well presented grounds. Worth the money.

Located on Ash Street, which runs parallel to the Landsborough Highway but one street to the right. It is a no through road, but there is plenty of space to turn around in-case you are towing.Entry is $13 per adult, and well worth it.The centre shows is dedicated to the legacy of ordinary working Australians, including railway workers, blacksmiths, teachers, farmers, nurses. It will teach and tell you about an important part of Australia's history of its working life.There are interactive displays, film, photographs, artefacts and memorabilia.Expect to stay here for a few hours to view everything as there are many buildings and displays.

I had never heard about this place and thought it would be a quick visit when we spied the brochure at the info centre.What a find. We almost had it to ourselves! Several old buildings around the edge of an old school grounds so walking from one building to another was great for the kids to have a break and run around. Lovely tidy place with lots to see. Brought back heaps of memories of the railway, golden casket, school rooms and more. A must see on the way through Barcaldine.

This museum covers more than you think. We swathe large tent from afar and thought that housed the majority of the exhibitions, far from it - actually as with other posts on tripadvisor - the tent could hold more displays if required. it is quite large! We walked and meandered around the grounds and didn't notice the time going by, and to be honest didn't see every one of the building due to a need for ice-cream and a cool drink. Both available from the entrance building. The cold and refreshing water is free and from a bubbler. The ice-creams are either scoops or packaged. Nice gift shop which has clothes, books and nick knacks. Something not expected in a rural town but well worth it. For travellers in the know, there are picnic facilities, nice table and grounds to enjoy your 'byo' food and cuppa.

This informative and comprehensive centre gives a great insight into why we are the nation we are today. All people regardless of political persuasion should appreciate the hard times our first citizens went through. The tribute to our indigenous workers was fitting but still illustrates the disgusting treatment meted out to the aboriginal race including children being made to drag ploughs.An excellent exhibition.

It is a great place to see there is a cost They accept companion cards so makes it cheaper for disabled.Very disabled friendly ramps and paths so it is possible to see it all.Free tea and coffee on entering.Only problem nowhere to eat there and there are some very pretty spots to enjoy.If you enjoy the working history of our country this is the place to see.Give yourself a couple of hours to really enjoy and there are volunteers to help you see everything..

This was a very interesting place to visit. Would certainly recommend. We liked everything about the place

This is a really worthwhile stop to view all the info on workers heritage. Extremely well done. Free cuppa. Friendly staff. Nicely laid out grounds and well maintained.Home of "The Young 'un.". :The current tree of Knowledge. Original was poisoned and part of memorial in main street.

If any one doubted the need for unions or their affiliation with the labour party the reasons are plain to see and read at this marvellous attraction. You need at least two to four hours to do this site justice. Even for a self employed conservative!

On holiday from Scotland UK arrived here and did not realise what a wonderful experience it was going to be. This museum needs hours to see all and read all about its past history. wonderful exhibits and a lot of thought has gone into the layout of the whole complex. Well done!! Complimentary cooffee and tea with biscuits also available for free!!

Well worth a look if you are in Barcy. I stood looking at the walls covered in the images of fabulous people who have made a difference and wondered at their dedication and love of this country.

We spent several hours at the center and thoroughly enjoyed it. All of the attractions and demonstrations were well worth visiting and they gave an insight into the Queensland past. Go there, take the kids and have a fun day.