A notable selection of key Clermont characters will have their prolific lives showcased in a new exhibition in the Isaac region.
Clermont Historical Centre presents Faces of the Peak Downs which showcases a collection of stories from the first European settlers in the area to women paving their way in the saddle manufacturing industry.
Since Ludwig Leichhardt first traversed this area in 1845, the Clermont district or at the time, Peak Downs, has been home to an array of characters that contributed to its development.
The exhibition highlights identities like Jeremiah Rolfe who was the first European to settle in the Clermont area, establishing sheep runs and working the land, Oscar de Satge who named Wolfang Peak and established Wolfang Station, and Rose Harris who is regarded as Australia’s first female saddler.
Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker said this year is worth visiting the centre especially as it took out silver in the best tourist attraction category at the 2021 Mackay Isaac Tourism Awards.
“This great local experience, run by locals working at Council and incredible volunteers, would not happen without their absolute dedication behind the scenes,” Mayor Baker said.
“Tourism is one of our most valuable industries in the Isaac region. It is worth more than $180 million a year and it directly employs 1000 people.”
This is a chance to explore, discover and jump back in time to learn the stories of the region’s harsh colonial era.
Faces of the Peak Downs exhibition will run to 17 December 2022.
Last year’s Back on Track exhibition which paid homage to country racing being an essential part of the social fabric of the Isaac region continues to be featured.
Clermont Historical Centre is located on Gregory Highway and is open Wednesdays to Saturdays from 9am to 3pm.
Admission prices are $6 for adults, $4 for pensioners, $3 children under 12 years and $15 per family with two or more children.
Jeremiah Rolfe and family circa 1876
