herberton town

Herberton Township

Herberton is a pretty little town set in rugged hills on the western edge of the Atherton Tablelands. It seems to stretch out along the hills and meander across the ridges. Located 122 km from Cairns and 915 metres above sea-level, it is now a quiet town with a population of about 950. There are only hints that it was once the most important town on the Tablelands.

The discovery of tin at Herberton was largely responsible for the development of the other towns on the Atherton Tablelands. Towns like Mareeba and Atherton were originally stopover places for the Cobb & Co coaches which plied the route from Port Douglas to Herberton.

By the early 1900s the town was booming and included two newspapers, 17 pubs and a brewery. The Jack and Newell General Store opposite the council offices was built in 1882 and was constructed from pit sawn cedar. Some of the original joinery can still be seen in the building.

A walk around town reveals other historic buildings. Often built during the periodic boom times of Herberton, many are classic examples of the styles in vogue at the time.

Herberton's idyllic climate, its built heritage and its wonderful natural surrounds make it attractive to visitors from around the globe. Visitors also remark on the friendly country hospitality shown by local residents.

Click here for local street and district maps

Herberton has its own community website.Click here to go to link