Canungra Local History
Canungra is a small town located in the Scenic Rim region of Queensland, Australia, approximately 90km south of Brisbane and 35km west of the Gold Coast. The town is situated at the base of the Lamington Plateau, which is home to the Lamington National Park and a popular destination for tourists and hikers.
The area where Canungra is now located was traditionally inhabited by the Indigenous Yugambeh people for thousands of years before European settlement. In 1828, explorer Allan Cunningham became the first European to traverse the area and he named the nearby Mt. Tamborine. However, the Canungra area was not explored further until the late 1800s.
The town of Canungra was officially established in the late 1800s during the timber industry boom. The surrounding forests were logged for timber, which was transported by rail to sawmills and then shipped to Brisbane and beyond. Canungra became a popular rest stop for teamsters, who would water their horses at the local creek before continuing on their journey.
In the early 1900s, farming became a significant industry in Canungra. Dairy farming was particularly popular, and Canungra became known for its cream, which was collected and transported to Brisbane by train. The town also had a thriving poultry industry, and many families had their own backyard chickens.
During World War II, Canungra became an important military training ground. The Australian Army established the Jungle Training Centre in the nearby forest, where soldiers were trained in jungle warfare tactics. Many soldiers from Australia and allied countries undertook training at the centre, which continued to operate until the 1970s. Today, the former training ground is home to the Canungra Army Barracks.
The Canungra Hotel, which was built in 1912, has played an important role in the town's history. The hotel has been a gathering place for locals and visitors alike, and has hosted many community events and functions over the years.
In recent decades, Canungra has become a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. The town's proximity to the Lamington Plateau, as well as its own natural beauty, attracts hikers, campers, and nature lovers. Canungra is also home to several vineyards and wineries, which produce award-winning wines.
Overall, Canungra has a rich and varied history, from its beginnings as a timber town to its later role in agriculture, military training, and tourism. The town's heritage is celebrated through local festivals and events, and its traditions and stories are passed down through generations of residents.