Lappa, Queensland facts for kids
Quick facts for kids LappaQueensland |
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The Savannahlander at Lappa Junction, April 2006
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 Lappa
Location in Queensland
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| Postcode(s) | 4871 |
| Location | |
| LGA(s) | Shire of Mareeba |
| State electorate(s) | Cook |
| Federal Division(s) | Kennedy |
Lappa is a small, old railway town in Far North Queensland, Australia. It's located on the western side of the Atherton Tablelands, close to a place called Petford. Today, it's known for its history and a special train route.
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Lappa's Location
Lappa is found along the Burke Developmental Road, which runs east to west just north of the town. South of Lappa, you'll find the Lappa railway station. This station is part of the scenic Savannahlander train route.
A road heading south from Lappa goes towards Mount Garnet. This road used to be a train line until it closed in 1961. It was built along an old camel track. Today, it's a popular trail for 4-wheel drives and mountain bikes.
A Glimpse into Lappa's Past
Lappa has an interesting history, especially with mining and railways. Silver was first found in this area in 1891 by two brothers named Halpin.
How Lappa Got Its Name
The town's name has changed a few times over the years. The Queensland Railways first called it Lappa Lappa. This name came from the Aboriginal word for a large rock bluff nearby. Over time, one "Lappa" was dropped. Then, it became known as Lappa Junction. Finally, in 1943, the name was shortened to just Lappa.
Early Schools and Population
A school called Loch Lomond State School opened in Lappa on July 25, 1900. It was later renamed Lappa Lappa State School. However, the school closed just two years later in 1902. In 1904, about 200 to 300 men lived in Lappa, likely working in the mines or on the railway.
The Chillagoe Railway Line
A private railway line was built for the Chillagoe Railway and Mining Company. It started in Mareeba and reached Lappa Junction on October 1, 1900. The line was later extended even further to Mungana. The Queensland Government took over this railway line in 1919.
Historic Buildings in Lappa
Three important old buildings still stand in Lappa today.
The Lappa Railway Station
The oldest building is the Lappa Railway Station. It was built by William Hastie and opened in November 1900. This station played a big role in the town's early days, connecting it to other places by train.
The Espanol Hotel
By 1901, Lappa had two hotels. One of them, originally run by Isabella Walton, is still standing today. It was known as the Family Hotel for a while. In 1910, a man named Ysidro Barbera bought the hotel and changed its name to Espanol Hotel.
The Espanol Hotel was run by Vida Leonard and her family from 1923 until it closed in 1966. Vida's son, Wiggy Leonard, was often the person behind the bar. The hotel's license was given up in December 1966. Today, the old kitchen is still behind the hotel. The Espanol Hotel now operates as a BYO (Bring Your Own) pub and a museum.
The current "publican" (the person who runs the pub) is a very interesting local character. He's known as "The Yappa from Lappa" and has held this title for 33 years! He has collected lots of local history, which is now on display in the pub-turned-museum. The Espanol Hotel is officially listed on the Mareeba Shire's local heritage register, meaning it's an important historical site.
The Almaden Church
The third historic building is the Almaden Church. It was first built in 1900 in a place called Almaden. In the early 1940s, it was moved to Lappa. It has been added to and now serves as the main house for someone living there.
