How gold changed the North

The gold rush started in our region 150 years ago, when gold was first discovered in Ravenswood and not long after that in Charters Towers.

This gold rush helped change the north forever. It created inland towns, established new ports and boosted older ports.

Through a new book, ‘Goldfields That Made Townsville: Cape River, Ravenswood and Charters Towers’ authors Geoff Hansen, Lyndon Megarrity and the late Diane Menghetti examine the influence of gold discoveries in the hinterland on Townsville from the 1860s.

The book was recently launched by the Townsville Museum & Historical Society in Townsville and published by the North Queensland History Preservation Society.

“This book is a fascinating read and provides an insight into our early history in the North and how significant the goldfields were in developing not only our region, but Townsville as well,” said Mayor Liz Schmidt.

“The discovery of gold lead to increases in population and strong commercial development in Townsville. The book also explores the early rivalry between Bowen and Townsville to become the dominant North Queensland port.”

Charters Towers residents will have the opportunity to attend the Charters Towers launch and meet the author of the book on Friday, 30 November 2018.

Mayor Liz Schmidt will officially launch the book in our region and one of the authors, Geoff Hansen will make a presentation.

Local speaker, Malcolm McDonald will also present on the early business connections between the goldfields and Townsville.

OGG 29 November, 2018