Clermont, Queensland: Where Gold‑Rush History Meets Outback Adventure
Step into a world shaped by fortune‑seekers, pioneering spirit and the rugged beauty of Queensland’s outback. Clermont, one of the oldest inland settlements in tropical Queensland, invites travellers to slow down, explore deeply and connect with a town where history is not just remembered—it’s still visible in the landscape.
First explored by Ludwig Leichhardt in 1845, Clermont truly came alive when gold was discovered in 1861. Prospectors poured in, transforming the region into a thriving gold‑rush hub. But nature had its own plans. In 1916, catastrophic floods swept through the original township, prompting the community to rebuild on higher ground. Today, remnants of that early settlement remain, offering a rare window into Australia’s frontier past.
From quirky landmarks to immersive mining experiences, Clermont blends heritage, character and warm country hospitality—making it an unforgettable stop on any Central Queensland journey.
Why Visit Clermont
Clermont is a destination for travellers who crave authenticity. Here, you can:
- Wander through living history at the original town site
- Stand beneath the iconic Piano in the Tree, a surreal reminder of the 1916 floodwaters
- Explore museums filled with rare artefacts and vintage machinery
- Join a free guided tour of a working coal mine
- Discover charming heritage buildings, outback landscapes and friendly local culture
Whether you’re a history buff, a road‑trip lover or simply curious about Queensland’s pioneering past, Clermont offers a rich, grounded experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Top Attractions & Things to Do
Explore the Original Town Site
Walk among the remains of Clermont’s first settlement and imagine life during the gold‑rush era. Interpretive signs and preserved structures bring the past vividly to life.
See the Famous Piano in the Tree
Located on Capricorn Street, this quirky landmark marks the height of the 1916 floodwaters. It’s one of Queensland’s most unusual photo stops—and a powerful symbol of resilience.
Clermont Historical Centre & Museum
Just off the Peak Downs Highway, the museum showcases an impressive collection of artefacts, photographs and machinery displays. It’s the perfect place to understand the region’s mining and agricultural heritage.
Blair Athol Coal Mine Tour
Experience the scale and power of modern mining with a free guided tour of the Blair Athol coal mine.
- Tours depart Tuesdays and Fridays at 9:00 a.m.
- Meet at the Clermont Caravan Park or Clermont Tourist Information Centre at 8:45 a.m.
- Enjoy morning tea at the museum before the mine visit
- After the tour, explore the Historic Copperfield Store
Bookings are essential through the Clermont Tourist Information Centre.
Copperfield Historic Village
Just outside Clermont, this once‑thriving copper mining town offers atmospheric ruins, a photogenic chimney stack and a glimpse into 19th‑century life.
Best Time to Visit
Clermont enjoys warm, sunny weather most of the year.
- May to September offers the most comfortable temperatures for exploring.
- Summer brings hotter days, ideal for early‑morning adventures and museum visits.
- Heritage events and community festivals throughout the year add extra charm to any trip.
How to Get There
Clermont is conveniently located in Central Queensland and easily accessible by road.
- By Car:
- 3 hours from Rockhampton
- 4 hours from Mackay
- A popular stop on the inland route between the coast and the outback
- By Air:
- Nearby Emerald Airport (about 1.5 hours away) offers regular flights from major cities.
- Car hire is available for the scenic drive to Clermont.
- By Coach:
- Regional bus services connect Clermont with surrounding towns and major centres.
Plan Your Clermont Adventure
Clermont is more than a stopover—it’s a story waiting to be explored. From gold‑rush relics to modern mining marvels, from quirky landmarks to heartfelt hospitality, this historic Queensland town invites you to discover a side of Australia that feels both timeless and deeply alive.