Shearers' Strike Camp Site, Barcaldine

The Shearers' Strike Camp Site is an open area in Barcaldine where workers gathered to voice their demands against harsh labor practices. The grounds feature interpretive panels and historical photographs that document the key events and participants of this protest movement.

The grounds served as the gathering place in 1891 when shearers protested against their working conditions, sparking a movement that spread across the nation. These early protests led to changes in labor legislation and played a role in establishing the Australian Labor Party.

The site marks the birthplace of organized labor activism in Australia and represents workers' struggle for fair treatment. Visitors walking here can sense the pivotal moment when ordinary people challenged the existing power structures.

The site is freely accessible year-round with no entry requirements, though summer heat can be intense in this part of Queensland. Bringing shade or visiting during cooler months makes for a more comfortable experience.

The ground where the camp stood remains largely unchanged since 1891, marking the exact spot where thousands of workers established their protest encampment. Walking across this terrain today connects visitors directly to the physical space where this pivotal moment in labor history occurred.

Location: Queensland

GPS coordinates: -23.53220,145.32740

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:40