"The original rotunda was dedicated to Walter Bruce Darker in 1949 in honour of his contributions to the community, the business arena & to the Rotary Club of Ipswich. In its new location the rotunda is rededicated as affirmation of the Rotary Club of Ipswich & Ipswich City Councils appreciation of Walter's contribution to the city of Ipswich.
Ipswich Boy: Walter Bruce Darker was born on 11th September 1878 at North Ipswich to Richard Thomas Darker, a locomotive foreman from England and his Scottish wife, Williamina, nee Forbes; the 7th of 12 children.
He was a successful business leader, with formidable commercial & negotiating skills and a leading figure in Queensland's business community.
The visible landmarks reflect the history & changing landscape of Ipswich. From the cultural lands of the Yagara People, the traditional owners of Ipswich, where every mountain, rock outcrop, spring, waterhole and creek was named & formed part of a spiritscape to the structures associated with the once thriving coal mining, railway and wool industries.
The first recorded coal mines in the central Ipswich area started at Woodend, in 1808. The industry grew & by the 1890's several major coal seams were being worked at major mines.
Queensland's first railway line running from Ipswich to Grandchester opened on July 31st, 1865. The Q'ld Woollen Manufacturing Company formed in 1875 & they established the first woollen mill in Q'ld in north Ipswich in 1877. Ready to Blog & Earn?
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As the population of Ipswich has grown, so too the regions economy has developed at pace. From the continual success of traditional industries such as manufacturing, transport, health and education to the emergence of new industries, digital technology
advanced processing and aeronautics. Ipswich is viewed in 2017 (as written on the sign) is viewed as a prosperous city, recognized for its liveability, connectedness and opportunity.
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Travel Resources for your trip to Australia
Recommended by TravelFeed
Flights: We recommend checking Kiwi.com to find the best and cheapest flights to Australia.
Accomodation: Explore the best places to stay in Australia on Booking.com, Agoda and Hostelworld.
Travel Insurance: Medical emergencies abroad can be pricey, but travel health insurance is not. We always use SafetyWing for affordable and reliable coverage.
Car Rental: For hassle-free car hiring, DiscoverCars is our trusted choice with a wide selection of vehicles.
Internet: Got an eSIM compatible phone? Airalo is perfect for reliable internet access during your trip. Just install it before you go, and you're set!
Day Trips & Tours: We recommend GetYourGuide for a variety of well-organized and enjoyable activities.
Travel Planner: Need a hand planning? Our free travel planner chatbot is your personal guide to Australia. Chat now.
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