Some centres of population, probably most in reality, owe their existence to a purposeful or strategic location. Perhaps it was a suitable port for seagoing vessels, or a place accessible by river craft. However, in some cases it was simply because someone discovered gold and in that case distance or tyranny was to be endured. The inland Queensland rural town of Charters Towers is one such example.
A gold discovery in 1872 founded Charters Towers and for thirty years it bought activity and people to the town. During that time the town’s population swelled to more than 27,000 and Charters Towers was Queensland’s largest city outside of Brisbane. The town also operated one of the few Stock Exchanges outside of a capital city. Affectionally known as ‘the world’ it was said that anything one might desire could be had at the ‘Towers’ leaving no reason to travel elsewhere.
Today it is a very different activity that fuels the local economy. It is education. From distance education to boarding schools, Charters Towers has it covered. However, mining still has a place. The surrounding region is rich in coal and huge open-cut mines nearby provide jobs for anyone who desires to make their future in this unique outback community.
The ‘Towers’ certainly filled expectations for the Bazflyers who touched down at Charters Towers with purpose in mind. It was some where they had not previously visited. It was conveniently located midway between the Sunshine Coast and Horn Island, the exit port for their flight into Papua New Guinea. But....more importantly, there was a ‘golden’ opportunity to change BAZ’s engine oil and filter and give the Comanche a good look over. Bob and Ben the wonderful friendly father and son proprietors of B&B Aero Maintenance opened their hangar door and made Bazflyers very welcome.
Ben is also an avid Paramotor flyer and the subject of a seperate Bazflyer2 video interview. A recent successful attempt on the long distance straight line world record for Paramotor flight took off from Charters Towers. With Ben’s enthusiasm Paramotor flying could well become the next ‘gold rush’ at Charters Towers....definitely!
Beautifully restored Stock Exchange building
Telling the B&B hangar dog about the just completed oil and filter change
Bob and Ben...aviation legend’s at Charters Towers
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