Glimpse into a bygone era on heritage tours
22 August 2022
Ipswich is Queensland’s oldest provincial city and our local history will come to life during Galvanized, when a series of social events, tours, talks, demonstrations and exhibitions at some of the city’s most unique historical landmarks.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the heritage festival will take participants back in time with several tours including ghost tours and torchlight tours.
“It all starts at the official opening on Thursday 1 September at Ipswich’s Memorial Gardens with a performance from Nunukal Yuggera featuring dance, song and story in a traditional welcome ceremony,” Mayor Harding said.
“In the following 10 days, there will be everything from tours across historical sites, arts and crafts workshops, music, fashion and a deep dive into how our ancestors lived up to 20,000 years ago.
“Residents can take a tour of the city hub to look for old signage, datestones and faded advertising signs to give a glimpse of what it was like to trade in the early days of our city.
“There will be visits to Cooneana Homestead and its museum built in 1868, to hear classic ghost stories, urban legends and true tales of tragedy, mystery and myths of Ipswich.”
Economic and Industry Development Committee Chairperson Councillor Nicole Jonic said Galvanized also has something for residents of all ages who want to explore the history of the city’s natural beauty.
“It is not often you get the chance to walk along a coal-skip tramway, but this will be part of a tour of Denmark Hill Conservation Reserve not far from the city centre, which is a true environmental gem,” Cr Jonic said.
“Once you descend the walking tracks under huge native trees, you completely forget that you are just a few minutes away from the city’s main street and above old forgotten coal tunnels.
“While this all sounds like fun for adults, there is also a lot planned for younger residents with a children’s workshop in ancient weaving techniques using materials you can find in your own backyard.
“I urge everyone to take a look at the Galvanized program and step back in time to experience the traditions that defined past generations who called Ipswich home.”
The full festival program and ticketing information is available at Galvanizedipswich.com.au