Emerald

Named not after the gem, but for the lush green pastures that surrounded the town, Emerald was established in 1879 as a base to build the western railway.

As the Gateway to the Outback, Emerald is a great base to refresh, restock and relax.

Pop in to the Visitor Information Centre to grab your free copy of our new Emerald Town Map or see it online here.

WHAT TO DO

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MORTON PARK

Start your tour of Emerald at the Visitor Information Centre on the edge of Morton Park, Capricorn Highway. The building’s walls are made from barley straw bales covered in lime and earthen renders.

Once famous as a major sunflower producer, Emerald is now home to the world’s biggest replica Vincent van Gogh Sunflower painting, located in Morton Park and 25m high.

The Centenary of Federation Mosaic Pathway leads you through 100 years in 100 metres of Emerald’s colourful history. The footpath features intricately tiled designs that trace history from the beginning of the universe through to visions of the future.

Pick up the Mosaic Pathway and Van Gogh Painting brochure from a visitor information centre or see it online here.

The Pioneer Cottage Complex echoes the rich history of the Emerald region. It showcases a small historical village, including the town’s lead-lined lockup, St Marks Presbyterian Church and a communications museum.

Gold coin entry. Open seasonally from April to October.

Contact the Emerald & District Historical Association for group bookings, guided tours or more details at edhassoc@outlook.com.

MORE HIGHLIGHTS

CBD Artworks Stroll along Egerton Street to view the town’s magnificent public art (pictured). All pieces were commissioned from a public competition. Pick up an Artwork Trail brochure from a visitor information centre or see it online here.

Emerald Regional Botanic Gardens, on the banks of Nogoa River, span 42ha and include a rose garden, maze, bush chapel, sculptures, rainforest, playground and 6kms of walking and bike tracks. Pick up a Botanic Gardens brochure from a visitor information centre or see it online here.

Discover the wonders of science as you explore the interactive exhibits and events at Outback Exploratorium. The centre is at 4-6 Brief Street and open Tuesday to Friday 10:00am – 5:00pm and Saturday 9:00am – 12:00pm.

Built in 1900 and restored in 1986, the National Trust-listed Emerald Railway Station, with its wrought iron lacework and pillared portico, provides visitors with great photo opportunities.

Cool down and chill out at the Emerald Aquatic Centre, which features three waterslides, barbecue facilities, 50m pool, heated 25m pool and a children’s splash pad area.

Outside the Town Hall you will find a fossilised tree estimated to be 250 million years old. The tree was unearthed in 1979 when a new railway bridge was being built across the Mackenzie River for the Gregory Mine.