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The unique heritage and culture of Stanthorpe and the Granite Belt has been the inspiration for several historical novels. The Granite Belt has witnessed several cycles of distinct change in the last 200 years, the impetus for change making interesting reading. The following publications are all available from the Visitor Information Centre.
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Echoes of Italian Voices
Family Histories from Queensland’s Granite Belt
Edited by: Francesco Arcidiacono, Morwenna Arcidiacono
A captivating glimpse into the lives of people who left Italy’s shores eager to build a better life for their families in a new country. Their stories speak of courage, hardships, perseverance, love, accomplishment and, ultimately, triumph. Generously illustrated with photographs and written in a conversational style, ‘Echoes of Italian Voices’ is compelling reading for anyone interested in understanding the migrant experience.
Acknowledgement is given to the Queensland Government and the Stanthorpe Shire Council for their assistance with this publication through the funding of a Q150 Grant and the Regional Arts Development Fund.
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They Came to a Plateau
Written by: Jean Harslett & Mervyn Royle
Published by: ICP Craftpress
This is considered the most well illustrated and factual account of early Stanthorpe and District. Few areas have passed through such definite patterns of change or have had a more colourful and chequered history than the Stanthorpe district. The coming of pastoralists, following in the footsteps of explorer Allan Cunningham, meant the birth of the sheep industry in Queensland... In 1872, another grand era began with the discovery of rich alluvial tin deposits. As supplies of tin dwindled, in its stead, a new industry - the growing of deciduous fruits, destined to be the only one of its kind in the State. Squatters… Tin Mining… Deciduous Fruits (Excerpt from “They Came to a Plateau”).
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Misty Mountain Stanthorpe Through Time
By: Rod Adams
Published by: Ultreya Publication (2007)
Provides an update to Harslett & Royle's highly acclaimed earlier work: They Came to a Plateau. Misty Mountain presents an authoritative study of Stanthorpe's recent history and the attributes of today's multi-cultural and diverse community. Amongst this is an insight into today's wine tourism industry on the Granite Belt. The 431 page book is excellently referenced with a number of attractive and interesting plates. Available in hardcover and paperback.
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The Cattle Dog's Revenge Bush Ballads and Yarns
Written by: Jack Drake
Published by: Central Queensland University Press
“I recommend The Cattle Dog’s Revenge to all readers. The poems are magnificent, the themes are unique - here am I a Territorian and I sat amazed as I read Diamond Eighty Eight and wondered why I had not heard the story before. The language is colourful (!), evocative, and Jack’s poetry ranges from hilarious (Cattle Dog) to the epic (Diamond) to the poignant (Running Board Mick). The prose stories give a vital diversity to the book. Once again, the language deserves to be read for its authenticity if for no other reason”. Ted Egan AM Alice Springs. |
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Addio Italia – Hello Australia Stanthorpe Italian Pioneers
Author: Ian Bonaccorso
Publisher: CopyRight Publishing (2008)
This well-researched book provides a detailed expose into the lifestyles of the Stanthorpe Italian Pioneers. It reveals the events that unfolded and in turn led to the establishment of a prosperous orchard and wine industry in Queensland's Granite Belt district. A 'must read' for those with an appreciation of Granite Belt and Queensland history. |
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