QUEANBEYAN
Queanbeyan is the entry city to the
A.C.T. (Australian Capital Territory) from the East. Not that long ago
Queanbeyan was a fringe town that tugged the Canberra rapid and
explosive growth and development activity. In recent years Queanbeyan
has mirrored the Canberra growth. The advantage Queanbeyan has over
Canberra is this is a real town/city.
The
word Queanbeyan is the anglicised form of 'Quinbean' - an
Aboriginal word meaning "clear waters".
The
town grew from a squattage held by ex-convict and inn keeper, Timothy
Beard and Queanbeyan was officially proclaimed a township in 1838 when
the population was about 50.
Traces
of gold were discovered in 1851 and lead and silver mines also
flourished briefly.
Early
settlers were harassed by bushrangers, of which James Shaw, William
Millet, and John Rueben, John Tennant, Jacky Jacky, Frank Gardiner and
Ben Hall were some of the more notorious. A colourful and fearful
start for such a small community.
Heritage management has been threatened, but there is sufficient
evidence to suggest control of the future has been wrested from the
destructive ‘develop at all costs mantra’ 
The
churches have most likely led the way with all of the early structures
still active parishes.    
Multicultural faiths thrive in Queanbeyan. 
The
three hotels likewise are trading in century
or approaching century old buildings.
The
Heritage Museum gives a great insight into the past.
The Print Museum will be of interest to some.
The
Queanbeyan War Memorial is a four part acknowledgment.    
Allow
a week to take in all that is on offer in this region. For the Bustout
traveler being based in Queanbeyan has lots of advantages over
Canberra.
Heritage diary 
 |