QLDFarming
Toowoomba
The wetter site that overtook its neighbour.
1849Drayton Swamp surveyed
WHAT STARTED IT
Toowoomba developed near Drayton, where an area known to settlers as the Swamp offered more reliable moisture and better growing conditions. Farms and businesses gradually shifted towards this more promising site.
WHAT SUSTAINED IT
The area was surveyed in 1849. Thomas Alford moved from Drayton and opened a store in 1852, helping the new settlement develop its own identity. Municipal status followed in 1860 as Toowoomba became an important centre for the Darling Downs.
TURNING POINTS
1849Drayton Swamp is surveyed.
1852Alford opens his store at the newer settlement.
1860Toowoomba becomes a municipality.
2010The $8 million National Carriage Factory is completed, doubling the size of Cobb+Co Museum.
WHAT IT DOES NOW
A major inland city serving the Darling Downs through agriculture-related business, education, health and transport. Gardens and parks are a prominent part of its identity.