Step into Australia’s past at Historic Village Herberton with this special 2026 event series, where heritage machinery, steam power and classic vehicles come to life across multiple dates.
Held on May 9, July 11, August 8 and September 6, each event offers a rare opportunity to see working demonstrations of the machines and engines that helped shape the nation.
From the impressive Case 1912 Steam Traction Roller and Marshall 1906 Steam Engine to diesel powerhouses and operating saws, the displays highlight the innovation and craftsmanship of a bygone era.
Visitors can also explore a fascinating collection of historic and classic vehicles, including early motorbikes, vintage cars and specialty vehicles such as a 1926 Citroën Rail Ambulance and a 1947 Dennis Fire Truck. Tractor enthusiasts will enjoy a line-up of John Deere models, including the iconic 1916 Waterloo Boy.
With live demonstrations running throughout the day, this event series offers an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Perfect for history buffs, machinery enthusiasts or anyone looking for something a little different on the Atherton Tablelands.
The Historic Village Herberton is a 90-minute drive from Cairns, there is plenty of free parking on-site, including space for RVs and caravans. The village is mostly all abilities accessable with ramps and paths.
How did the Historic Herberton Village come to be?
Back in the 1950s, when many relics were being sold off for scrap metal and old buildings condemned for demolition, collector Harry Skennar had a vision – to preserve history for generations to come.
Harry and Ellen Skennar then set about creating The Village back in 1973, thankyou Harry and Ellen.
They brought the first building, Elderslie House, onto the site beside Wild River then many more buildings and relics followed. Most of the dwellings met for the first time when they arrived at the Village from around the region during the 1970s. With the exception of the Tin Pannikin Pub, everything in the village dates from Herberton’s foundation years and almost all the buildings are as they were originally constructed. Regular maintenance keeps them sturdy and secure and in some cases modern lighting, safety grills, screens and steps have been installed for visitors safety.
Beyond this, the buildings and thousands of original items displayed in and around them reflect everyday life in North Queensland as it was from the 1880s onward. When the Skennar’s had to pass their Village on, Connie and Craig Kimberley picked up the gauntlet and are beautifully ensuring that this precious vision and monumental effort continues to grow and be preserved for generations to come.
See:
historicvillageherberton.com.au
instagram.com/historicvillageherberton
