Tooloom Gold Rush - 1859

<p class=ql-align-center>The year 1859 commenced with anticipation of the impending separation of Queensland from NSW.</p><p class=ql-align-center>Around Easter time Gold was discovered at Tooloom less than 80 miles from Ipswich.</p><p class=ql-align-center>A 'rush' ensued and by the end of 1859 many Nuggets had been found including the fabulous 140 ounce - 'Lady Bowen Nugget'.</p><p class=ql-align-center>But no-one knew where the border line would be drawn.</p><p class=ql-align-center>As events unfolded many thought Tooloom would be in Queensland only to be disappointed when Separation was officially announced in December 1859.</p><p class=ql-align-center>Tooloom ended up about 25 miles south of the border. The young Colony of Queensland felt cheated!</p><p class=ql-align-center>After-all they had provided the bulk of the 'digger' population.</p><p class=ql-align-center>Moreton Bay and Ipswich had supplied the 'diggings' with food and goods as well as a 'gold escort' only to be outsmarted by their southern neighbours.</p><p class=ql-align-center>Our story chronicles the year 1859 and the effects of the Tooloom Gold Rush during that crucial formative year.</p><p><br></p>