Chinchilla's soldier statue on the northern Darling Downs, 1 of 55 surviving soldier statues in Queensland, has had its share of wars on home soil. Governor Sir Hamilton John Goold-Adams unveiled the AL Petrie-made memorial on 30 January 1919, originally in a small memorial park in Chinchilla Street, near the footbridge over the railway line. Vandalism damaged this symbol of nationalistic pride, youth, innocence, loyalty and bravery. In 1977, the statue was removed and separated from its pedestal and base. Part of the pedestal was re-erected and an obelisk added in front of the Chinchilla Civic Centre: this was rededicated in 1979. The Women's Auxiliary of Chinchilla's RSL sub-branch raised funds for the damaged soldier statue to be restored. It was re-erected in front of the RSL hall further down Heeny Street in 1992.
Come and enjoy an 'old time' experience for the whole family. Chinchilla Museum offers insight into the unusual - a fascinating glimpse into a district rich in cattle, grain, sheep and timber, and more recently melons, grapes, stone fruits and vegetables. Chinchilla Museum has a fine collection, containing a non working replica of a 1910 steam sawmill, steam engines, ancient vehicles, period costumes and many historical relics. The buildings include Goombi Hall, the Emmerson Building, the authentic slab hut, Wongongera Cottage, a blacksmith shop and the old jail. Why not browse through the Kathleen Emmerson Memorial Library and discover some fascinating history. Buildings from early village times have been re-erected on the grounds and add to the historical atmosphere. In recent times, the original Chinchilla School with school rolls and school memorabilia including all country schools information has been added..