Imagine driving the Savannah Way, the horizon stretching endlessly, when you stumble upon Croydon—a tiny town with one of Australia’s most charming rural streetscapes. Once North Queensland’s third-largest town, Croydon was the heart of the gold rush in the late 1800s, with miners unearthing over 23,675 kilograms of gold.
Today, Croydon Shire Council ensures this rich heritage is preserved and celebrated throughout the town. From its well-maintained heritage-listed buildings and the outdoor Iguana Consols Mining Museum to historical artefacts embedded into the streetscape, every corner reflects its golden past. Even modern additions, like the town entrance sign and water splash park, pay tribute to its history.
Visitors can also experience a ride on the legendary Gulflander RM93 diesel railmotor, affectionately known as the ‘Tin Hare’, a living link to Croydon’s railway heritage. Originally built to connect Normanton to the Croydon Goldfields, it now offers a rare Outback rail journey, with the Croydon Golden Sunset Tour departing at 5 pm every Wednesday from July to August, complete with a country meal at Golden Gate and a stunning sunset return.
Step into Croydon’s past with a free Heritage Walking Tour—check updates at visitcroydonqld.com.au — or visit the True Blue Visitor Information Centre, where replica miners’ cottages, vintage displays, and A10 steam locomotives tell the town’s golden story.
From 19–27 June 2025, Croydon proudly hosts the Croydon Heritage Festival – Where Golden Legacy Meets the Orient, celebrating the town’s gold rush history and Chinese heritage. This year’s highlight will be the grand reopening of the Chinese Temple, featuring traditional lion and dragon dances and a visit from Chinese Consul General Dr Ruan Zongze. The festival also includes the Rodeo and Campdraft and many more free activities. It’s a unique blend of heritage, culture, and Outback spirit—you won’t want to miss this!
Enjoy the town’s free facilities, such as the swimming pool, tennis court, and 9-hole golf course, all offering a great way to relax and explore the local lifestyle (just leave a deposit for gear). Drive out to Lake Belmore for fishing, relaxation, or birdwatching, or explore the heritage bike and walking trails and let the vast Outback stir your soul. As the sun sets, vintage streetlamps illuminate Croydon’s Heritage Precinct, galahs chatter in the trees, and wallabies roam freely.
Feed your soul and belly with a meal at Gulf Gate Roadhouse, Croydon Café, or Croydon Club Hotel—or try the town’s newest eatery, Kickin’ Kitchen. Stay overnight at the pub, caravan park, cabins, or Racecourse Rest camping area (register at the Visitor Centre). Whether you’re here for history, adventure, or True Blue Outback hospitality, Croydon welcomes you.
Come as a visitor, leave as a mate – see you in Croydon!
Time travel made easy! Stop by site U307, meet our heritage-dressed ambassador, and snap a selfie with history!
