What’s Happening?
A handcrafted seat now stands at Gorman’s Gap, near Toowoomba, as a tribute to its historical significance as Queensland’s first gazetted road. Installed by Friends of Gorman’s Gap (FOGG) with support from Don Gorman—the great-great-grandson of Lieutenant Owen Gorman, the seat commemorates both Indigenous guides and early European explorers who shaped this crucial transport route. A morning tea event was held on March 15, 2024, to celebrate the project’s completion.
Why it Matters?
Gorman’s Gap played a pivotal role in early Queensland transport, providing a safer alternative to Cunningham’s Gap. The track’s history highlights the collaboration between Indigenous leader Multuggerah and early settlers, reinforcing the importance of recognising both perspectives. The new seat serves as an educational and reflective space, honouring those who shaped the region’s past.
Local Impact
The installation enhances the Gorman’s Gap walking trail, a cherished community asset that attracts bushwalkers, history enthusiasts, and bird watchers. The project fosters deeper appreciation for the area’s cultural and environmental significance, ensuring the story of the track remains alive for future generations.
By the Numbers:
- Gorman’s Gap was Queensland’s first gazetted road, marking a key transport milestone.
- The 5.4 km track features eight distinct regional ecosystems, one of which is classified as endangered.
- Birdwatchers have recorded an impressive 115 species along the trail.
Zoom In
FOGG President Barbara Lindbergs, who uncovered the site’s historical importance after moving to the area, spearheaded efforts to honour its legacy.
“I knew nothing of the story before I moved to the community. It was only by living here and doing research that I found out a lot more about the history and cultural significance of the track. What a wonderful community asset,” she said.
The steep incline of the track provides insight into the challenges faced by early settlers.
“It was extremely hard for the bullock carts to descend the track—they had to tie logs to the back of their carts to slow them down on the escarpment,” Lindbergs explained. “For us to build the seat and carry it up was a tough walk, and it was only very short. We had a glimpse of what it must have been like for the first white settlers.”
Zoom Out
The significance of Gorman’s Gap goes beyond European settlement—Indigenous knowledge played a crucial role in guiding explorers through the range. Local leader Multuggerah and his people helped shape the route, ensuring safe passage across challenging terrain. The newly installed seat now stands as a symbol of cooperation, linking the past with the present.
What’s Next?
With the seat now in place, visitors can experience the history of Gorman’s Gap firsthand. The 5.4 km walking trail remains open to those keen to explore Queensland’s first gazetted road. Friends of Gorman’s Gap continues its efforts to raise awareness of the track’s heritage, encouraging both locals and tourists to visit this historic landmark.
Reflecting on the project’s success, Lindbergs shared: “I am really excited that we have been given an opportunity to link the generations and tell the story of Indigenous and white settlers working together. It is such a peaceful place. We are so happy to tell the community about the history of the area.”
