MUSEUMS WONDAI

Opened in November 2001, the Museum showcases the history of the South Burnett's timber industry, which underpinned the early settlement of the region and has continued to play an important part in its development. The traditional timber structure is flanked by life-size sculptures of a bullocky and his head bullocks, an old water-well and post-and-rail fence. On the eastern end of the building is the stainless steel silhouette of a timber cutter. Inside, the wagon camp diorama, complete with restored bullock wagon, effectively captures the spirit of those involved in the felling and logging of timber in the early 1900s. Set against authentic wooden slabs and shingles, are displays of South Burnett timbers, artifacts and photos pertaining to the early timber industry in the region. A well stocked Gift Shop, featuring locally produced woodcraft, forms part of the incorporated Visitor Information Centre. In the Woodcrafters' Workshop, constructed beside the Museum in 2003, local woodworkers regularly demonstrate their skills. A display of over 100 wooden mushrooms highlights the variety of timbers available.

No waiting at this hospital! Part of the Museum comprises the original Wondai Hospital operating theatre, built in 1929. The Museum is also home to the town's Manual Telephone Exchange and a 1924 Dennis fire engine, used to help fight the "Great Fire" at the Kingaroy peanut silos in 1951. The "Eric Radunz-Vince Miller Slab Barn", complete with shingle roof, and a restored Cream Shed full of memorabilia relating to the dairy industry are also sited within the grounds. The "Vince Miller Collection", comprising over 300 tools and artifacts, is another drawcard. Among the articles in the War Memorial Cabinet is an historic bugle which was played at the Japanese First Army Surrender to the Australians aboard ‘HMAS Rockhampton' in the Dutch East Indies in 1945. A complete set of "South Burnett Times" dating from 1962 to present day. The former Oddfellows Hall, built in 1932, also forms part of the Museum complex, displaying interesting household displays, as well as a barber's shop, early dentist's chair, lino-type machines and travelling film projectors pertaining to early businesses and entertainment venues in the town.

No waiting at this hospital! Part of the Museum comprises the original Wondai Hospital operating theatre, built in 1929. The Museum is also home to the town's Manual Telephone Exchange and a 1924 Dennis fire engine, used to help fight the "Great Fire" at the Kingaroy peanut silos in 1951. The "Eric Radunz-Vince Miller Slab Barn", complete with shingle roof, and a restored Cream Shed full of memorabilia relating to the dairy industry are also sited within the grounds. The "Vince Miller Collection", comprising over 300 tools and artifacts, is another drawcard. Among the articles in the War Memorial Cabinet is an historic bugle which was played at the Japanese First Army Surrender to the Australians aboard ‘HMAS Rockhampton' in the Dutch East Indies in 1945. A complete set of "South Burnett Times" dating from 1962 to present day. The former Oddfellows Hall, built in 1932, also forms part of the Museum complex, displaying interesting household displays, as well as a barber's shop, early dentist's chair, lino-type machines and travelling film projectors pertaining to early businesses and entertainment venues in the town.