SOUTH BURNETT ENERGY CENTRE

Welcome to the Centre

The South Burnett Energy Centre sheds light on the past, the people and the energy technology that have helped develop this friendly country community.

Drop by for a visit to discover all the wonderful things there are to see and do in the region, with enthusiastic local experts on hand to assist with handy hints, maps, brochures and even fossicking licenses. Part visitor centre and part museum, it’s truly a treasure trove of enlightening insights for locals and visitors alike into the history and attractions of the beautiful South Burnett.

The South Burnett Energy Centre is located in the laid-back township of Nanango – the first town established in the South Burnett. It has a vibrant community spirit, and strong connections with the timber-felling, farming and mining industries. With a range of accommodation on offer including motels, bed and breakfasts, as well as caravan and RV parking right next to the Centre, it’s a great place to base yourself as you delve into the history and explore the natural beauty of this sprawling rural region.

Be sure to power up your next Nanango adventure with a visit to the South Burnett Energy Centre.

Electrifying Displays

The Centre is housed within a building formerly owned by Meandu Coal, a major coal mining and power generation company based in the South Burnett. Along with a wealth of handy tourism information, the centre features a range of timelines and interactive displays that reflect the history of power production in the region. Have a go at peddling the energy bike to form all forms of energy and receive a free gum ball for your efforts. You could call it a new form of ‘renewable energy’! Have an illuminating experience in the light booth, which demonstrates different types of lighting. There are also a few videos which can be played, offering insights into Ringfield House and the Power Station.

The Engine Room houses the original engines that supplied power to Nanango from 1933. These very loud power-producing dinosaurs roar to life on the first Saturday of each month at 11am, or on request with advance notice.

In the courtyard of the complex, wood sculptures of historic local legends, the Lynch Sisters, form a prominent centrepiece. Born and bred in the nearby township of Gympie towards the end of the nineteenth century, the four sisters Nell (christened Helen), Mary, Kate and Rose Lynch were celebrated pioneers of the timber industry in the South Burnett. Daughters of early European settlers, Cornelius and Ellen Lynch, they were the eldest of fourteen children, and were raised in the timber trade, competing successfully for contracts in this traditionally male-dominated industry of the time. They became renowned for their wood-sawing skills, starring in several wood-cutting competitions across Queensland in the early 1900s.

The courtyard also features South Burnett Sports Wall of Fame, showcasing the achievements of local sporting stars.

A visit to the South Burnett Energy Centre is truly an enlightening experience!

History

Before European settlement, Nanango was inhabited by its traditional Indigenous custodians, the Wakka Wakka people, who had a deep connection with the land and its precious resources and ecosystems. In the 1840s European settlers first explored the area, and pastoralists began establishing cattle and sheep stations in the region. The township of Nanango was officially gazetted in 1848, and has a rich heritage as the fourth oldest town in Queensland.

The discovery of gold in the nearby Hodgkinson Goldfield in the 1860s led to an influx of prospectors and miners, and alluvial gold has been found in the surrounding area. Fertile soils supported the growth of the region’s agricultural industry over the years, with crops including peanuts, wheat, barley, and sorghum. Timber milling also played a vital role in the development of the local economy. The arrival of the railway in Nanango in the late 1800s improved transportation and facilitated the movement of goods and people to this growing region.

During World War II, Nanango was home to a significant military base, including the Nanango Airfield, which was the site of many Royal Australian Air Force training operations during this turbulent time in history.

Changing times and a growing population created a growing need for energy resources in the area. The history of the South Burnett’s power generation traces back to the mid-20th century when coal-fired power stations, like Tarong Power Station, were established to meet the growing energy demands. These power stations utilized local coal resources to generate electricity. Over time, advancements in technology and environmental concerns led to modernization efforts, including cleaner energy solutions and increased energy efficiency. This electrifying history comes to life at the South Burnett Energy Centre.

Other Local Highlights

The journey into this town’s prosperous past and present is reflected by several key attractions throughout the area.

The charming CBD features several chainsaw sculptures and murals which depict the town’s rich heritage and connection with the region’s key industries. The town’s history has been brought to life by the creative talents of local artist Will Nelson, who portrays local life in a series of 22 wall murals adorning buildings throughout the town. Many of the colourful characters depicted in the artworks are local residents who still reside in the area. A pamphlet showing the location of these murals can be collected from the friendly team at the South Burnett Energy Centre.

Step back in time and unearth the hidden gems and history of the town on the Nanango Heritage Soundtrail. This trail offers an original audio feast of stories, sounds and shared memories of Nanango from former Mayor, Reg McCallum. Son of some of the first European settlers in the area, Reg shares his insightful memories with local historian Liz Caffery, in this engaging 40-minute audio tour. Reg takes visitors on a simple route around the historic town, from Tara’s Hall to the old railway station, and past some of the town’s iconic landmarks. You can access the Soundtrail by visiting walklistencreate.org and searching Nanango Heritage Walk.

Along with its collection of rich cultural and heritage attractions, Nanango boasts a substantial shopping area and a range of sporting facilities, including a golf course. For the young at heart and those with a need for speed, why not take to the track at South Burnett Kart Hire? Nanango is also home to one of the largest outdoor markets in Southeast Queensland, held on the first Saturday of each month at the Nanango Showgrounds.

Accessibility

The South Burnett Energy Centre is situated at 41 Henry Street, Nanango, in Queensland’s serene South Burnett region. This warm and welcoming country town is located directly west of the Sunshine Coast, and is a cruisy two-hour drive from the big city lights of Brisbane – yet feels a world away. Coaches provide a carefree mode of transport to and around the region. Translink trains run to Caboolture, and Pursers coaches run services three times per week from Caboolture Station to the South Burnett region, with stops including (but not limited to) Yarraman, Nanango, Kingaroy, Wondai and Murgon. Please visit www.purserscoaches.com.au for the latest timetable and ticketing information. Please note, there is no other public transport available in Nanango or the South Burnett region. There is also a taxi service in town.

At the time of publishing this audio guide, South Burnett Energy Centre’s opening times were 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 1pm on weekends. However, please visit discoversouthburnett.com.au, or call 07 4189 9555, to confirm current opening hours.

The Centre offers accessible parking, with easy access to the entrance. The centre itself is also wheelchair accessible. Public toilets (including accessible amenities) can be found just across the road at Reg McCallum Park. This small green space is equipped with a table and chairs, and plenty of grassy areas for toileting assistance animals if required.