The Royal Connection
First and foremost is its connection with royalty, especially as Queensland approaches its 150-year anniversary. Have you ever wondered why Esk Shire has the Red Deer on its coat of arms? It is because in 1873 Queen Victoria gifted two stags and four does to Queensland in recognition of its separation from New South Wales. The deer were released at Cressbrook Station near the current town of Toogoolawah. Today it would not be considered an environmentally correct gift, but legacy remains as wild deer roam Esk Shire.
The McConnel family settled in the Brisbane Valley and established Cressbrook Station in 1841. When the railway line extended to Valley in 1904, there was confusion between Cressbrook Station and Cressbrook Railway Station, so the name was changed to Toogoolawah; after the McConnel family home “Tugulawa” in Brisbane, which means bend in the river.
The McConnel family also established the Condensed Milk Factor which was taken over by Nestle’ in 1907. By the 1920s Toogoolawah was a busy centre with 3000 citizens and another 2000 in the surrounding areas. Nestle’s factory closed in 1929.
The Esk District Co-op (Website)
Shopping in Esk and Toogoolawah are unique experiences. The IGA and Thrifty link stores are community owned. Their fascinating history goes back over 100 years. It has changed and moved on to suit the changing economic times of the district.
Toogoolawah is part of the Somerset Region Heritage Trail
Special Features
The Ramblers Drop Zone just outside of Toogoolawah is a world class skydiving facility. It was established in 1979 it caters for beginners and experts. Ramblers host national and international events.
The Sky Sisters Symposium is being held there in April 2007. There are special offers for local woman wanting to try a jump.
Still in the air, Toogoolawah is also just near the Watts Bridge Memorial Airfield.
Originally built for World War II defence, it was then turned over to the cows. Enthusiasts began to reclaim the runways in the 1980’s and by 1990 it was a functioning airfield again. The airpark is home of clubs and regular events, Flight Training School, model runways. There are hangars and attached accommodation.
More air traffic, as Toogoolawah is the home or our local community radio Valley FM. Run by volunteers, for local information and voices, tune into 95.9FM
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