A Local’s Guide to Emerald

Emerald is a thriving rural town located in the central highlands of Queensland. Emerald is named after settler P.F MacDonald’s first impressions of the region, calling his property Emerald Downs after the greenness of the pastures- which the town adopted. There are approximately 13,500 residents living in the Emerald community.

A friendly country town, Liam Kadel Star Aviation’s Emerald 2ic says ”Emerald is home. It’s nice to be part of such a great community.”

Emerald is known for the man-made dam, called Fairbairn Dam, which was constructed in 1972. The Emerald team agreed Fairbairn Dam is a great place to see when visiting Emerald. “The Fairbairn Dam is 3 times the size of Sydney Harbour when full’ – Chloe McConachy, Star Aviation Emerald Customer Service Officer.

Emerald is also a major sunflower producer with the Big Sunflower at the local Botanical Gardens. Emerald’s reputation for sunflowers is further supported as the town houses the world’s largest Van Gough sunflower easel painting located in Morton Park.

If you’re looking for a place to stay and eat; Star Aviation’s Emerald Team Leader, Matthew Daly, recommends the Maraboon Motor Inn and the Vybe Café.

Emerald is the perfect place to stay and enjoy a rural town rich in diversity and sites to explore.

Image credit: https://centralhighlands.com.au/