Ilfracombe - Places to See

Ilfracombe Machinery and Heritage Museum
The Museum, situated on the northern side of the main road, provides an insight into this past with its displays of an old police lock-up used between 1901 and 1974, a meat house, the old manual post office exchange, a machinery shed with steam engines, tractors, pumps, graders, trucks, drays, buggies, a 100-million year-old petrified palm, curious natural limestone rocks with a remarkably rounded form, along with other interesting artefacts and memorabilia. One of the old wagons possessed by the museum was once in local use. It was drawn by 20 or 30 horses and carted about 100 bales of wool (weighing 15 to 20 tons) to sea ports such as Bowen or Rockhampton: a six-month return journey.

Also on-site is 'Oakhampton', a cottage which was once part of the 'Lyndon' estate. It is considered typical of a station hand's married quarters and was common enough on rural stations until after World War II. It now sells souvenirs and crafts, The museum has been built in the style of an old station homestead. It is open permanently with no entry charge. For more information check out: http://www.ilfracombe.qld.gov.au/visitors/heritageDisplay.shtml

Wellshot Hotel
Dating from 1890, the front section remains largelt unaltered, though the accommodation wing to the rear was rebuilt in 1956. The interior contains memorabilia from the height of the wool-station era.

Langenbaker House
Langenbaker House is an early example of an Ilfracombe residence, dating from 1892. It is made of timber and corrugated iron and was occupied by the original family until 1991. The verandah features latticwork made from hoop iron which was once used to tie wool packs. The house retains original furnishings and is in original condition, barring some restoration work to render it safe. To inspect the house ring (07) 4658 1639, or enquire at any of the business establishments.

Bottle Museum
One of the local residents has an extensive antique bottle collection, along with rocks and artefacts. Inspections are by arrangement.