Perry Shire
Where history and nature combine
Mount Perry is a quiet township, located in a valley surrounded by the rugged Normanby & Boolbunda Ranges, a 30 minute drive inland from Gin Gin. Shepherds were the first people to settle in the scenic mountain country in and around Mount Perry in 1840, but all that changed when Henry Dingle discovered a rich lode of copper. Almost
Mount Perry is a quiet township, located in a valley surrounded by the rugged Normanby & Boolbunda Ranges, a 30 minute drive inland from Gin Gin. Shepherds were the first people to settle in the scenic mountain country in and around Mount Perry in 1840, but all that changed when Henry Dingle discovered a rich lode of copper. Almost
overnight 'The Perry' became a rip-roaring mining town and mushroomed to a population of 2000 people.
The large mine workings and smelter site above the township recall the past and buildings from the mining area are still in use. Some of these pieces of pure Australiana have been listed with the National Trust. The Perry Shire Historical Museum also houses a fascinating collection of everyday items and photographs from the area’s colorful
past. In 1921 Bert Hinkler landed his Avro Baby in the grounds of the local schoolyard. Another remnant of the past, the Boolboonda Tunnel was an engineering marvel when built in 1883-84 and is still the longest hand cut, unsupported tunnel in the southern hemisphere today, at 192 metres in length. Cut for the Mount Perry to Bundaberg
rail line, the tunnel is now home to hundreds of miniature native bats and offers an eerie walk-through experience.
Today, Mount Perry is a thriving pastoral and gold mining community of just over 430 residents. The Mount Perry annual show, rodeo, axeman championships and popular picnic races attract many visitors to experience a slice of rural life. The township's altitude and slightly cooler, less humid climate is a popular choice for bushwalkers and
cyclists. Mount Perry itself rises over 750 metres and offers a challenging hike to the summit. Other attractions in the area include the Perry Art Gallery, home to local and visiting exhibitions of note, Schuh's Lookout, offering panoramic views over the valley and the many fine old buildings in town, like the restored timber Catholic Church. Country fairs, fetes and sporting events could coincide with your next visit, adding that unmistakeable country flavour to your holiday.
Accommodation at Mount Perry consists of Self Contained Cabins, Caravan/Camping grounds and motel style rooms.
Contact Details:
Perry Shire Council
Heusman Street,
PO Box 12
MOUNT PERRY QLD 4671
Phone: 07) 4156 3155
Fax: 07) 4156 3214
Mayor: Cr Joy Jensen
CEO: Mr Gregory Wallace
Email: perryshire@burnett.net.au
Websites: www.perry.qld.gov.au & http://cwpp.slq.qld.gov.au/perrylibrary/
