Old Rainworth Fort is located 10 kilometres of Spring in central Queensland. Before visiting the place in June 2013, I was a little skeptical about the claims of being a ‘fort’. But even a short assessment proved otherwise. This building was clearly built as a fortified structure. Openings on only one side and slits in the walls at two levels.

Significantly this building was erected after the major conflict at the nearby Cullinlaringo station when 19 Europeans were killed in October 1861.

Main internal space with stairs to loft.

Loft space. Note the slits around the top of wall.

The only openings were on the eastern with timbers doors and presumably originally timber shutters.

Location

Boondooma homestead is located in the South Burnett, west of Murgon and 80 km south of Mundubbera.

Boondooma run was established in 1847. The main house, constructed of slab timbers, was erected in the mid 1850s. The house survives substantially intact. Other early buildings on the site include a stone store, c. 1858.

It is a rare and intact example of a early Queensland homestead.

Boondooma homestead was acquired by the Wondai Shire Council in 1975. It is now managed and maintained by a very active committee and group of volunteers. For more information, check the website.

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Location

Taabinga homestead in located in the South Burnett district. Taabinga run was taken up in 1846 by the Haly bros. The property was purchased by Arthur Youngman in 1887 who undertook major improvements including to the house and yards. The property remains in the Youngman family.

Sections of the main house date from the 1850s with several major extensions. Arthur Youngman took a keen interest in the garden which survives to provide a stunning setting for the main house. The main house, garden and outbuildings are maintained in excellent condition and are a superb example of a 19th century Queensland homestead.

The current owners provide tours and short stays. Check the website.

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