Considered the Heritage Capital of the Gulf, Croydon has a rich history which started with the discovery of Gold in 1885 and led to the development of a rich, booming gold mining town. In its heyday, it was the third largest town in northern Queensland and serviced a goldfield that extended for 18km and produced 23,675kg of gold over 35 years.
Today Croydon still glows from the dust of its feverish gold-mining days while it sits on top of deep untapped gold reserves.
The Historic Gulflander Train travels to the award winning steel replica Croydon Station weekly on revolutionary, heritage listed steel sleepers. It overnights in Croydon on Wednesdays, and returns to Normanton the next day.
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
True Blue Visitor Information Centre – Enjoy a free film and explore the landscaped gardens, sculptures, mining architecture, vintage vehicles and outdoor display featuring two locomotives, the original A-10 202 steam engine that ran on the Normanton – Croydon line and a modern restoration. Collect your self-guided map of the rest of the town.
Walking Tour – Join Patrick Wheeler of Xtra Steps for a local walking tour or evening chat. Phone: 0472 618 055 www.croydonwalkingtours.com.au
ANZAC Park – See Blacksmith Artist Hans Pehl’s hot forge steel sculptures.
Heritage Precinct – Croydon’s heritage registered buildings are open and free. See the Police Station, Gaol, Police Sergeant’s Residence, Town Hall and Courthouse where you can relive a real Croydon court case from 1902.
Mining Museum – The Iguana Consols Mine Site is a short drive out of town with restored stamper and outdoor collection of early mining machinery.
Chinese Temple Site – Walk around the Chinese Heritage loop to see the remains of the Temple and the second largest pig oven in the southern hemisphere.
Lake Belmore – Less than 4kms on a sealed road from town is Croydon’s water supply, Lake Belmore. Fishing all year round, boat ramp, picnic tables, BBQ, shaded and toilets. Camping is not permitted.
The Gulflander Train – Arrives in Croydon every Wednesday at 1.30pm and stays overnight before departing Thursday at 8.30am to head back to Normanton. The Golden Sunset Tours from Croydon are every Wednesday at 5pm in Jun, Jul and Aug.
Croydon Trails – There are trails close to town available for birdwatching, bushwalking, mountain bike riding and trail running.
Savannah Golf Course – 9-hole golfing, artificial tees and greens.
Swimming Pool – 25 metre pool, lawn bowls, tennis court
Croydon’s Freedom Camping Area – By permit only. You can register at the Croydon Visitor Information Centre for a donation. Maximum stay of two nights per permit, this includes access to showers and toilets.