By Staff Writer Matt Owen
I first went to the Caboolture Historical Village about 30 years ago, as part of a school excursion. This is what 10,000 students do per year – visit the Caboolture Historical Village.
If these kids are like me, they will take something away from that visit and remember it for years to come. My memory was of the small houses and wondering how families could live in something the size of what we associate as a garden shed.
In my recent visit I seemed to appreciate the significance of history more than I did as a 12 year old. I loved the streetscape of the barber, the butcher and the general store. Also there was something about the old service station, of course the old cars were cool but I think the old hospital is the thing I will remember the most from this visit. Yikes, those dentist tools are so scary! Also I wasn’t see any insulation in those old buildings so it must have got freezing cold.
This time I was fortunate enough to get some time with the President of the Caboolture Historical Society, Roger Dunstan, and his right-hand man, Site Curator, Geoff Bilbow who gave us a personal tour through the hospital, general store and the transport area.
There is so much to see at the Caboolture Historical Village including:
70 buildings located across the 12 acres of land
Over 100,000 historical items
40 of the above buildings have local links including the original Council Chambers, churches, the police station and of course, the train station!
There are several what I describe as mini-museums in the village including: The Maritime Museum which features models of the First Fleet, as well as other buildings dedicated to the Police, Aviation, Army and more!
It is amazing that so many local families have donated items, items that can now be enjoyed for generations to come by those that visit the village.
Visiting the Caboolture Historical Village is a wonderful experience, an experience that takes you back in time. A wonderful job has been done for many years by the volunteers and those who have donated items and we should all support such a tremendous local attraction.
Get the kids or grandkids off tech for half a day and check it out, or if they are at school grab a friend or two and come and see how life used to be.
More Info:
The Historical Village is a not-for-profit organisation and if you are interested in volunteering call them on 5495 4581.
The Village is also home to 8 local community groups and offers function hire facilities: great for a wedding or work function. Options for hire include the hall, the hotel and the chapel.
The site is home to the Expo 88 Australia signs (artwork by Ken Done).
If you are looking for something to do for Halloween check out the Ghoulies and Ghosties Drive Thru – 3pm to 8pm on Thursday October 31. $10 per car.
Open 7 days, from 9am to 4pm. 280 Beerburrum Road, Caboolture.
Admission: Adults $15, Concession $11, Children (5-12) $7.50, Children (0-5) Free entry, Family Pass $30
For further information visit www.historicalvillage.com.au or call 5495 4581
