Gayndah - Queensland’s Oldest Town on the Banks of the Burnett River

Gayndah - Queensland’s Oldest Town on the Banks of the Burnett River

Set on the banks of the Burnett River, Gayndah is a charming country town with a proud place in Queensland’s history. Located 366 kilometres north-west of Brisbane, Gayndah was settled in 1849 and is recognised as the oldest town in Queensland. Surrounded by rolling hills, fertile farmland and citrus orchards, this relaxed town blends heritage architecture, quirky landmarks and riverside scenery in a way that feels authentically country.

When we visited Gayndah, we wandered around the town centre, admired the heritage buildings, visited the Big Orange and the Gayndah Museum, and drove to see the Iderway Historic Bridge.

Wandering Through a Historic Town Centre

Gayndah’s town centre is a delight to explore on foot, with heritage buildings, interesting sculptures, cafés, traditional country hotels and local shops lining the streets. There’s a timeless feel to the town, where historic façades and wide streets hint at its long and prosperous past.

One of the standout buildings is the heritage-listed Gayndah Courthouse, built in 1928 and still in use today. Out the front stands a unique citrus tree–shaped town clock, with stained glass and stainless steel panels that tell stories of the district and its citrus-growing heritage.

Nearby, the Council Chambers, Soldiers Memorial Hall and Town Hall form an impressive Art Deco precinct, all built in 1935 and still serving the community. Another fascinating piece of history is Mellors Drapery, built in 1922, which was one of the last buildings in Australia to use a traditional “flying fox” system to move money between floors.

Gayndah was also the headquarters of Queensland’s first Jockey Club, and a horse and jockey statue on Pineapple Street celebrates the town’s early racing heritage.

Art, River Walks and a Restored Convent

The Gayndah Art Gallery is housed in a beautifully restored former convent building and adds a creative touch to the town. From the town centre, you can also follow the stairs down to a walking path along the Burnett River, a peaceful spot for a stroll and a glimpse of daily life by the water.

The Big Orange and Citrus Country

No visit to Gayndah is complete without stopping at the Big Orange, a 16-metre-high fibreglass orange standing proudly on the Burnett Highway. Built in 2003 to celebrate the town’s citrus industry, it’s one of Queensland’s classic big icons.

The onsite café is a lovely place to stop for Devonshire tea and browse local produce, especially during citrus season, which runs from April to October. It’s a cheerful and uniquely Gayndah experience.

Stepping Into the Past at the Gayndah Museum

The Gayndah Museum, located on Simon Street, offers a fascinating look at early life in the district. Open daily from 9.00 am to 4.00 pm, the museum spans several heritage buildings, including a brick cottage built in 1864 by Henry Fenwick, believed to be the oldest surviving brick residence in Gayndah.

Inside, you’ll find displays of steam engines, historic vehicles, agricultural machinery and memorabilia that bring the town’s pioneering stories to life.

Parks, Windmills and Railway History

Lions Park on Anzac Parade is a great spot for a break, with picnic tables, BBQs, toilets, a playground and plenty of parking. One of the highlights here is the Albert Coch Memorial Windmill, a striking reminder of the importance of windmills to rural life.

Railway enthusiasts will enjoy the Gayndah Heritage Railway Complex, which features a restored station building, goods shed and several Sunlander carriages. The complex also offers low-cost camping for self-contained caravans and motorhomes, making it a handy stop for road trippers.

The Upside Down Bridge at Ideraway

Just 10 kilometres north of Gayndah, the Ideraway Upside Down Bridge is one of the region’s most unusual historic structures. Built in 1902, the 45-metre bridge spans Ideraway Creek and was constructed using part of an old erection truss from the Burdekin River Rail Bridge.

Its distinctive design and clever reuse of materials make it a fascinating piece of engineering history and a worthwhile short drive from town.

Why Gayndah Is Worth a Visit

With its rich history, citrus heritage, classic country landmarks and peaceful riverside setting, Gayndah is a town that rewards curiosity. From Art Deco buildings and quirky icons to museums and historic bridges, it offers a relaxed and fascinating glimpse into Queensland’s early settlement and rural life.

Whether you’re passing through the Burnett region or planning a country road trip, Gayndah is a charming stop that feels proudly connected to its past.

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