Charters Towers

Australia's Golden Heritage

Driving down the wide streets of Charters Towers is like viewing a montage of Australian heritage. Once the second largest city in Queensland, Charters Towers is as rich in history as it is in gold. Gold was first discovered in Charters Towers in 1871 by Aboriginal horse boy Jupiter. Thousands soon flocked from across the globe in the mad rush to Charters Towers. The city was believed to have everything the world could offer and soon became know as “The World”.

Although Mining continues to be an important part of life in Charters Towers, the old fashioned crushers have long laid silent. But links to the glory days of mining can still be explored by joining the ‘ghosts of gold’ Heritage Trail, which includes a trip to Australia’s largest surviving battery relic, the Venus Gold Battery. The magnificent heritage buildings evident throughout the town are testament to the prosperity of the era. The heritage-listed Stock Exchange Arcade, The World Theatre, City Hall and the Post Office tower are just a few which will have you reaching for your camera.

Stock Exchange Arcade

There are few historic city hearts as beautifully preserved as Charters Towers’ One Square Mile. During the late 1800’s, the money made on the Stock Exchange flowed into the civic improvements and a flourishing business community.

Ask a Local

Charters Towers Visitor Information Centre
74 Mosman Street Charters Towers Qld 4820
Tel: (07) 4761 5533 Fax: (07) 4761 5536
Email: tourinfo@charterstowers.qld.gov.au
Website: www.charterstowers.qld.gov.au