Moura - QLD

Moura is a central point and vibrant community for the people who serve its local industries – the farmers, growers and miners and their families that help to make Queensland great.Lying in the heart of the Dawson Valley, on the banks of the Dawson River, its parklands and public facilities, festivals and events, river fishing and water sports attract thousands of visitors each year.The quality of life rings true in Moura – hard working people who know how to have fun at the end of the week make the most of their surroundings.For almost six decades, coal mining has been pivotal to the town. There are no mine tours on offer, however entering from either the south or east, the huge open cut pits can be seen from the highway.You can almost set your watch by the 150th Meridian marker; the intangible line that measures Eastern Standard Time. Located on the east side of town, two large hollowed rocks sit side by side. Look through the holes and line them up, and you’re standing in the direct path of the meridian.Where did the towns name come from? The Moura township took its name from the Pastoral Holding ‘Moura’. This property was taken up in 1854 by Charles Marshall who had been a paymaster in Wellington’s Army while engaged in battle in Portugal. It is claimed that Charles Marshall named his property after the town in SE Portugal where many battles were waged.The Moura Coal and Country Museum in Gillespie Street is open 9.00am – 2.00pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays during peak touring season.