Arts and Culture in the Western Downs
Experience the region’s cultural scene, brimming with talented artists and colourful country characters. A vibrant arts community thrives in the Western Downs, inspired by life on the land. The region’s art galleries showcase the creativity of local artists as well as touring exhibitions.
Also well worth exploring are the region’s award-winning museums – wander the heritage buildings and collections on display. The region’s smaller centres have perfectly preserved reminders of Australia’s pioneering days, from original jailhouses to tributes to the ANZACs.
Our friendly Visitor Information Centre staff will let you know what’s on around our region.
View the latest Art and Culture Brochure
Chinchilla & Surrounds
Experience Chinchilla’s arts and culture scene exploring its art galleries and historical museums. Lapunyah Art Gallery features regular exhibitions and artworks by local and touring artists, while Hugh Sawrey called Kogan home so much that he built a sculpture here. Chinchilla Museum is dedicated to the natural resources of the Chinchilla area and the history of their use.
Dalby & Surrounds
Dalby is a haven for all things artistic, with multiple galleries and museums. Dalby Pioneer Park Museum displays one of the largest collections of working pioneer tractors in Queensland and houses Dalby Family History Society. Gallery 107 @ Dalby (closed for renovations) and Bluebelles Art Gallery is spacious and modern, both showcasing local creative talent with exhibitions from artists across the Western Downs region.
Miles & Surrounds
Miles takes you back down in time and immerses you in local history at Miles Historical Village Museum filled with authentic memorabilia. For culture vultures, John Mullins Memorial Art Gallery at Dogwood Crossing regularly hosts travelling exhibitions and showcasing the work of local and other respected artists.
Tara & Surrounds
Tara has botanic gardens with art galleries to stroll through and ANZAC Memorials to pay respects at. Myall Park Botanic Garden Art Gallery houses Dorothy Gordon’s works as a permanent collection and temporary exhibitions with an environmental focus, and Meandarra ANZAC Memorial Museum contains a comprehensive display of military memorabilia.
Wandoan & Surrounds
The culture centre of Wandoan is a community gallery space incorporated within the Wandoan Library through which you can stroll. The Leichhardt Gallery displays artworks by local artists and cultural groups from Council’s regional collection regularly.
Jimbour House
Heritage-listed Jimbour House sits flocked by lush gardens among the area’s rich heritage. One of Queensland’s premier music events, Opera at Jimbour, is held every second year in the amphitheatre on the grounds of Jimbour House.