Beaudesert Beginnings
The town of Beaudesert, found on the Mount Lindsay Highway, is rich
in history. It was named Beaudesert around the time of 1841-1842 by
Edward Brace Hawkins who, at the time, was laying claim to the property
to use for a sheep farm for his employer Mr. Suttor of Bathurst. Mr.
Hawkins then moved on from the area, as he had no other connections to
the land. Beaudesert is the hub of the surrounding communities of,
Kooralbyn, Rathdowney, Canungra, Jimboomba and Tamborine Mountain.
From 1886 to 1996, the railway line followed the outskirts of the
Brisbane suburb of Bethania to Beaudesert regularly to serve the meat
packing plant on the edge of town. In 1999, there was a resurgence of
historical interest and the railway was restored with government money
and private donations. It operated for several years as a tourist scenic
railway until it was closed in 2004.
 Beaudesert is home to many
companies like Gelita, the factory that makes gelatin, pet foods by AJ
Bush, quarries and an abattoir. It is currently a part of the Scenic Rim
Regional Shire. Considered the western gateway to the Gold Coast
hinterland, the town is found in a very beautiful area of the
Queensland. Rolling hills housing little farms and fabulous homes, the
area is known to literally melt your cares away.
The living history of Beaudesert is obvious in the time and care
given to the preservation of it by the Historical Society and the
Information Center. The historic trails of old are still intact and
available to the public to explore and enjoy. The historical buildings
date back 150 years and are open to the public. It may come as a
surprise to discover that Beaudesert is one of Australia’s equestrian
capitals with fine horses and brilliant horsemanship being pursued by
those involved. Horseback riding and tours are available for those that
are interested in seeing the countryside in this fun and informative
way.
 The current population of Beaudesert is over 5,000 citizens who make
their homes in this lovely area. The country market is kept busy and
bountiful by locally grown rhubarb and kiwifruit. For those that want
the real farm experience, book a stay at a working farm. Carrying on
farming traditions from generation to generation, what better way to
experience a land and its people? For those who feel a bit of wine is
the way to truly know the country, the local wineries are steeped in
history and anxious to share this with visitors and patrons alike. Be
ready to relax and enjoy the fruits of their labor.
The National Parks that have been developed not far from Beaudesert
are spectacular. The rugged and wonderful Mt. Barney or Lamington call
for those ready to get rugged and dusty while having the time of their
lives. Come discover the history of Beaudesert and enjoy the rustic
rural life of before being lived in the present. There are still several
secrets in the old high timbered churches to discover!
|
