Millaa Rails

History of the Tolga to Millaa Millaa Railway, 1910 to 198

76 pages b/w photos – the Tolga to Millaa Millaa railway constructed between 1911 and 1921 as a branch of the Cairns railway system. This railway is significant in Queensland’s history in demonstrating a major phase of railway construction that occurred within the first two decades of the 20th century, and the early practice of the Railway Department of building branch railways into rural areas to stimulate settlement and primary industry. When completed the branch line opened up the southern Atherton Tablelands, facilitating the growth of the timber and dairy industries. The railway played a key role during World War II when the Atherton Tablelands played host to a large military presence. Military camps were established in the rainforest of the Millaa Millaa area for the purpose of training troops in jungle warfare and provide rest and recreation to those returning from the front line.