HERBERTON HISTORIC VILLAGE

Back in the 1950's, many relics were being sold off for scrap metal. Old buildings were being condemned for demolition. Harry Skennar had a vision — to preserve history for generations to come. He set about creating The Village back in 1973, bringing the first building, Elderslie House, onto the site beside the Wild River.

Many more buildings and relics followed. Herberton Historic Village opened to the public in 1977 and became an iconic attraction known far and wide outside the hilltop hamlet of Herberton town.

For 26 years, Harry and his wife Ellen collected more Australiana. The Village grew organically and people flocked to experience the folklore and romance of our proud history. In 2003 however, escalating public liability costs forced its closure.

In April 2009, the Herberton Historic Village re-opened to the public. Under the care of new owners Craig and Connie Kimberley, the project has experienced a rebirth and is now once again a source of pride as a rich tapestry of vintage Australia.

In February the same year, the amazing contribution of founders Harry Skennar and his wife Ellen was recognised by the Tablelands Regional Council in 2009 when they were named the Tablelands ‘Citizens of the Year’ in the Australia Day awards.

Contact Details