Mount Perry

Mount Perry

Mount Perry settlement began in the late 1840s with the taking up of large sheep grazing stations, mining activity began in the 1860s and the discovery of rich copper deposits led to a mining boom. Today there is still mining activity in the town.

Mount Perry is 100 kilometres north-west of Bundaberg and is home to an array of arts and cultural experiences that can be had at the Pat Augustine Centre and Bicentennial Museum. There is an active Mount Perry Arts Group that host an annual exhibition in September. History buffs can check out the smelter slag heap mining site, heritage walk and survey the view from the Normanby and Schuh lookouts.

Some major sporting events, attracting large crowds and visitors to the area are the Mount Perry Races, the annual Mount Perry Charity Ball and Mount Perry Woodchop.

‘MUST DO’

Mingo Crossing – Mingo is situated at the top end of Paradise Dam where the Burnett River enters. It is located between Biggenden and Mount Perry. Facilities include on-site managers, newly constructed camping ground, caravan sites, barbecues and picnic areas, amenities block, boat ramp and fish cleaning station. Where else would you get a fresh gourmet dinner served to your campsite? Glamping sites will be made available towards the end of 2018 early 2019.

Boolboonda Tunnel – One of the most interesting sites in the Mount Perry area is the Boolboonda Tunnel, despite the fact that it extends 192 metres into the rock, it is unlined and unsupported. In fact it has the dubious distinction of being the longest unsupported tunnel in the Southern Hemisphere. The tunnel was originally built in 1883 for the railway line between Bundaberg and Mount Perry to service the copper mines. Now it is home to a colony of bent-winged bats and used to access residential properties. You can explore the tunnel at your leisure.

Mt Perry Museum – One of Mt Perry`s most historical sites, the museum houses a wealth of information and is a gateway to short walks that lead to the old smelter site, historical buildings such as the shire office, art gallery, general store and pub. Walk back in time and then relax in one of the towns venues with a cold beer and a yarn with one of our many locals.

Normanby & Schuh Lookouts- The Normanby Lookout is located on Normanby Range Road off Towns Creek Road from the Gin Gin Mount Perry Road. From here you overlook the Mount Perry Township and the surrounding countryside. There are picnic tables and a Directional Dial for you to get your bearings.
Schuh’s Lookout is located on Schuh’s Road off the Monto Mount Perry Road at the top of the range. From here you overlook to the south of Mount Perry. There is a picnic table provided.

Pat Augustine Cultural Centre- The Pat Augustine Cultural Centre houses an historical display and art gallery. The display includes photographs of Mount Perry district dating back to the late 1800s and information relating to businesses and families. The Art Gallery is operated by the Mount Perry Fine Arts Group and artists from around Queensland hold exhibitions in the gallery.

Heritage Walk- Follow the Heritage Walk to relive some of Mount Perry’s history. Heritage trail brochures are available from most business houses and Council service centres.

Wolca Reserve- Situated on Bania Road, Wolca Reserve provides toilet and showering amenities and waste recepticles. Pets are permitted on leads. A permit to camp is required and available from the Council office.

Smelter “Slag Heap” Mining Site- The Slag Heap is the remains of smelter from the old copper mine. The history of the copper mining is displayed under a covered area.

Australian Bicentennial National Trail- The Australian Bicentennial National Trail (BNT) runs through the North Burnett region commencing its journey south at one of the toughest parts of the entire trail – Kroombit Tops National Park with its rugged wilderness terrain.

The trail winds its way through rainforest and rare native fauna to Cania Dam and Cania Gorge National Park. Beyond Monto the terrain eases as the Trail follows roads and tracks to Mt. Perry then through the Goodnight Scrub to the Burnett River. Shorter treks are more feasible in this section and an agreeable climate allows year-round enjoyment.

The trail continues past Paradise Dam and Degilbo to Biggenden then on to Maryborough via the Golden Fleece camp and Broomfield.

The trail is not suitable for, or available to, any form of motorised transport such as four-wheel-drive vehicles or trail bikes.

Conditions and access details of the trail change continuously so please contact the National Secretary, on 1300 138 724 who will provide you with more detailed information on planning a trek, water, climate, terrain, membership and guidebooks.