25 years ago, on 8 May 1998, the Rockhampton Heritage Village officially opened its gates.
It was established by the then Rockhampton City Council after the Hinz and Gommersall families donated the contents of Gangalook Museum in Parkhurst. The collection included over 40,000 items including cars, clocks and buildings, valued at over $2million at the time.
Since then, the village has developed into a popular tourist attraction, with the addition of many more original and replica buildings including a hospital, school house, working print shop and more.
Rockhampton Regional Council Communities and Heritage portfolio spokesperson Cr Drew Wickerson said he was proud of what the Heritage Village had become over the last quarter century.
“Thanks to that initial donation by the Hinz and Gommersal families along with hard work by Council staff and a huge 800,000 volunteer hours put in by the many volunteers over the years, the Rockhampton Heritage Village has become what it is today; a popular township museum reminding us of the early days of European settlement of the region,” he said.
“With its 19th and early 20th century streetscapes and functioning displays, along with an array of vintage vehicles, it’s sometimes hard to believe that the village is only 25 years old.
“The Heritage Village has a special place in the heart of many locals and it’s great to see the support they give the village for event such as the regular market days and other special events. I look forward to the Village’s next 25 years!” he said.
Rockhampton Heritage Village is open 7 days a week from 10am to 4pm (last entry 3pm). Closed public holidays. Entry is $5 per person.
Pictured: Cr Drew Wickerson with some of the Heritage Village volunteers.
