South Johnstone, Queensland facts for kids
Quick facts for kids South JohnstoneQueensland |
|||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
South Johnstone Innisfail, circa 1938
|
|||||||||||||||
 South Johnstone
Location in Queensland
|
|||||||||||||||
| Population | 456 (2021 census) | ||||||||||||||
| • Density | 114.0/km2 (295/sq mi) | ||||||||||||||
| Postcode(s) | 4859 | ||||||||||||||
| Area | 4.0 km2 (1.5 sq mi) | ||||||||||||||
| Time zone | AEST (UTC+10:00) | ||||||||||||||
| Location |
|
||||||||||||||
| LGA(s) | Cassowary Coast Region | ||||||||||||||
| State electorate(s) | Hill | ||||||||||||||
| Federal Division(s) | Kennedy | ||||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||||
South Johnstone is a small town in Queensland, Australia. It's a rural area, meaning it's mostly countryside with farms. In 2021, about 456 people lived there. It's known for its sugar mill, which has been a big part of the town's history and economy.
Contents
Where is South Johnstone?
South Johnstone is located in a part of Queensland called Far North Queensland. It's about 10 kilometers (or 6 miles) south-west of a larger town called Innisfail. This area is known for its tropical climate and lush green landscapes.
A Look Back in Time
South Johnstone has a rich history, especially around its main industry: sugar!
The Sugar Mill and Schools
- The South Johnstone Sugar Mill first opened its doors in 1915. This mill processes sugarcane, which is a very important crop in this region.
- Soon after, the South Johnstone State School opened on June 5, 1916. It celebrated its 100th birthday in 2016!
- Later, St Rita's Catholic School was started on February 1, 1932, by a group of nuns called the Sisters of the Good Samaritan.
How the Town Got Its Name
Did you know South Johnstone wasn't always called South Johnstone?
- Until 1954, the town was known as Basilisk.
- It was officially renamed South Johnstone after the nearby South Johnstone River.
- The river itself was named by George Elphinstone Dalrymple in 1873. He named it to honor Robert Arthur Johnstone, who was with him on an expedition.
- The old name, Basilisk, is now used for a nearby area.
Churches in the Community
- St Saviour's Anglican Church was built in 1939. It was designed by Arthur Brown and built by Mose Romano. This church is no longer open.
- St Rita's Roman Catholic Church was built from brick in 1970.
Who Lives in South Johnstone?
The number of people living in South Johnstone has changed a bit over the years:
- In 2011, there were 411 people.
- In 2016, the population was 413 people.
- By 2021, the number grew to 456 people.
Important Places and Buildings
South Johnstone has some special places that are part of its history.
- St Saviour's Anglican Church at 26 Hynes Street is one of these heritage-listed sites. This means it's an important historical building that is protected.
What Happens in South Johnstone?
The main activity in South Johnstone is linked to its sugar industry.
The Sugar Mill Today
- The South Johnstone Sugar Mill is still very active! It's now run by a company called MSF Sugar. You can find it on Innisfail Japoon Road.
Schools in Town
South Johnstone has two primary schools for younger students:
- South Johnstone State School is a government school for students from Prep to Year 6. In 2017, it had 31 students. It's located on East Avenue.
- St Rita's School is a Catholic school, also for students from Prep to Year 6. In 2017, it had 117 students. You can find it on Green Street.
- For high school, students usually go to Innisfail State College in East Innisfail, as there isn't a secondary school right in South Johnstone.
Local Services and Facilities
Even though it's a small town, South Johnstone has important services for its residents:
- St Rita's Catholic Church is on Green Street.
- The South Johnstone Post Office is where people send and receive mail.
- The South Johnstone Police Station helps keep the community safe.
- The South Johnstone Ambulance Station is there for emergencies and medical help.
