An iconic slice of North Queensland history has changed hands, with the beloved Hervey Range Tea Rooms being sold by the family that lovingly restored and operated it for nearly three decades.
A New Chapter for a Heritage Landmark
The historic Hervey Range Tea Rooms, located approximately 50 kilometres west of Townsville, have been sold by longtime custodians the Henderson family. The property was officially listed for sale in February of this year and has now been successfully purchased, marking the end of a significant 27-year era.
The business and its surrounding land were acquired by the Henderson family back in 1997. At that time, the site was in a state of serious disrepair. The dedicated family undertook a major restoration project, breathing new life into the heritage buildings and transforming them into the popular roadside destination known to countless travellers, tourists, and locals today.
A Labor of Love and Community Hub
For over a quarter of a century, the tea rooms have served as a vital rest stop and community hub on the Hervey Range Road. The venue became famous not just for its Devonshire teas and home-style meals, but also for its rich history and charming, rustic atmosphere. The property's original structures date back to the 1860s, having served variously as a hotel, a staging post, and a telegraph station during the region's early development.
The sale was managed by Chris Ireland of Ireland Property Agents. While the purchase price remains confidential, the listing had advertised the business, a freehold title on over 29 hectares of land, and several heritage buildings. The property also included a separate, modern three-bedroom residence.
Chris Ireland noted the strong level of interest in the unique offering, stating it attracted a variety of potential buyers from across Australia. The successful purchaser is understood to be a private buyer with a passion for heritage properties, ensuring the site's historical significance will continue to be honoured.
Preserving History and Looking to the Future
The sale represents a poignant moment for the Henderson family, who have been intrinsic to the tea rooms' modern story. Their stewardship ensured the preservation of an important piece of Queensland's colonial history, maintaining it as a functioning and beloved business rather than letting it fall into ruin.
For the local community and regular patrons, the sale brings a mix of nostalgia for the end of a family-run era and optimism for the future. The expectation is that the new owners will continue to operate the site as a tea rooms and tourist attraction, preserving its unique character and role in the region.
The Hervey Range Tea Rooms stand as a testament to the endurance of history in the Australian landscape. The transition from one owner to the next secures the ongoing legacy of this historic stop on the range, promising that it will continue to welcome weary travellers and history enthusiasts for many years to come.
