Population 449 (2011 census) LGA(s) Somerset Region Glenfern Mount Archer Federal division Division of Blair | Postcode(s) 4515 State electorate(s) Nanango Postal code 4515 | |
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Glenfern is a locality in the Somerset Region of Queensland, Australia. The population of Glenfern is very low so it is included in the population statistics for the adjoining locality of Velleneuve, which recorded a population of 449 at the 2011 Australian Census.
Contents
Map of Glenfern QLD 4515, Australia
History
In January 1880, Alexander McPherson obtained a country publican's licence to operate the Glenfern Hotel. The Glenfern Hotel was located 3 miles (4.8 km) east of Kilcoy on the road to Woodford (now the D'Aguilar Highway). In 1884, McPherson died from a fall from his horse; his wife Eliza (née Webb) continued to operate the hotel, being described in 1886 as "by no means a pretentious-looking place, but it was scrupulously clean". In 1889, Eliza McPherson married John Young who became the licensee. In 1890, the annual Kilcoy horse races were held in the hotel grounds. The hotel operated until at least 1913 but by 1923 was in use as the private home of Amelia Raleigh (one of the McPherson daughters). The hotel no longer exists, but is likely to be the origin of the locality name.
In 1913, the Kilcoy railway line was constructed with a station at Glenfern. The railway line closed in 1964.
Geography
The D'Aguilar Highway marks a section of the northern boundary. The southern boundary is roughly aligned with the Stanley River, however when the Somerset Dam is full, the dam's waters cover Glenfern's southern extent. Sandy Creek flows from the north into the dam in this area and forms the north-eastern boundary of the locality. The land is used for farming.
Kilcoy Motorcycle Club
The Kilcoy Motorcycle Club leases a park on the western corner of Neurum Road and Runges Road (26.959165°S 152.607760°E / -26.959165; 152.607760 (Kilcoy Motorcycle Club)) from the Somerset Regional Council. The club has developed an off-road motocross course on which it runs competitions and practice and coaching days. Facilities include spectactor grandstands, canteen and bar, and showers. The club competes in the Sunshine State Series and the South East Queensland Junior Series. The club hosts the annual Ironman Competition.