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Milparinka Historic Village
In 1880 gold was first discovered at Mount Brown by a tank sinker John Thompson, and gold was discovered at Albert shortly after. As there was no water at these locations, Milparinka, alongside a pool on Evelyn Creek, was chosen as the site for a town. Population
peaked at 3,000 with a town with for hotels, police station and a school. Milparinka now boasts a population of ten.
Remaining buildings are being restored, aided by volunteers. The most impressive building is the Court House (above), build
from local sandstone in 1886, now a local history centre (below) which houses displays and information sheets.
A heritage walk around the town includes the restored buildings and sites of earlier buildings such as the remnants of the cellar
of Baker’s store, and an underground tank.
In June each year, Milparinka hosts a gymkhana.
The Albert Hotel in Milparinka remains as the only business operating in the ghost town. Offering accommodation and meals, this
hotel has a history going back to 1882. There is also a low cost camping area near Evelyn Creek.
Signs on site
Ruins of the former Post Office at Milparinka
The former Police Station, lockup and barracks have also been restored, with the Police Station above. The rear of the buildings and
restored lock up cells shown below.
A permanent pool on Evelyn Creek (above) was the reason the gold mining town of Milparinka was placed here alongside this creek.
Would you like to spend a while as a volunteer at Milparinka or other similar projects? See how from the links on Volunteering.