If you’re visiting the Toowoomba area, you must make time to visit Highfields Pioneer Village. Entering the pioneer village is like taking a step back in time allowing you to get a hands on experience of how life was like back then. This historical village, which is run entirely by volunteers, contains over 60 historic buildings. It’s situated at 73 Wirraglen Rd, Highfields QLD 4352 just north of the city and is open to the public everyday from 10am to 4pm. Here are some of the many reasons that many people choose to make the trip from Toowoomba to visit Highfields Pioneer Village.
To get to the village from Toowoomba city take State Route 85 heading north, see directions below.
Ambulance Museum & Toowoomba Fire Brigade Museum
Learn about the story of the brave people who served the community to keep the Toowoomba community safe from injury, illness and fires since way back in 1877. The Fire Brigade Museum houses a large collection of authentic antiques from badges, uniforms and even 6 historical fire engines.
60+ Authentic buildings
Probably the most important feature of the Highfields Pioneer village is the large assortment of authentic buildings. From shops, to houses, and multipurpose buildings such as community halls etc. These old buildings give you unique insight into how families lived in the early pioneering years. Walking through the buildings give you a real sense of what it would have been like living in a bygone era.
The Big Cow
This towering beast is six times the size of an Ayrshire cow, the type of cow from which it is modelled. Constructed in the 1970s this model cow is made of concrete and has been described to be able to withstand a cyclone. Once used to attract tourists to a working dairy farm it now attracts tourists to the Heightfields Pioneer Village.
Myrtle May the mini steam train
A huge hit with the kids the Myrtle May mini steam train is 11.6m in length and can carry 12 adults or 18 children at a time. Myrtle May is a scaled down version of the C16s originally designed in 1903. The train only runs on the last Sunday of every month and on special days. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children. Myrtle May is also available for private charter for occasions like birthdays, family gatherings and school excursions. Contact Highfields Pioneer Village for details.
1924 Model T Ford Bus
Manufactured in 1924 and used originally as a school bus transporting students of Kilcoy state school, this vintage automobile affectionately named Henry is one of the main attractions of the Highfields Pioneer Village. It can carry up to 12 people at a time. Like Myrtle May, Henry the Model T Ford bus only runs on the last Sunday of each month. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children. Henry is also available for private charter, a great addition for birthdays, family gatherings, school excursion and even weddings!
Damper & Tea
Looking for a truly authentic Aussie pioneering experience? After wandering around the village, you’ll sure work up an appetite and what better way tame the hunger than to experience how the early pioneers tamed theirs, by eating some authentic Aussie damper complimented with authentic billy tea. Enjoy the sights smells and tastes of this authentic Aussie tucker from yesteryear. Bookings of 10+ people required. Contact Highfield Pioneer Village ahead of time to book in.
Cost
The Highfields Pioneer Village is immersive historical family fun that’s affordable too! Admission costs start at $15 for adults, $12 for concession, $8 for kids and $40 for the whole family (two adults and up to four children). Payment can be via cash or EFTPOS.
The Highfields Pioneer Village display important artefacts and records of historical events. Visitors can try their hand at a variety of crafts and learn about pioneering life on the Darling Downs. This is a unique place to explore the history of this region, and you will be surprised at all the wonderful things you find. It’s worth taking a day trip to visit the village and experience the lifestyle of the pioneers.
For things to do near Toowoomba city click here to read our article about Newtown Park located in Newtown just east of Toowoomba City.
