35 Years of the Australian Workers Heritage Centre (1991–2026)

Honouring the lives, labour, and legacy of working Australians - then, now, and into the future

In 2026, the Australian Workers Heritage Centre marks its 35th anniversary - celebrating three and a half decades of preserving and sharing Australia’s working history.Founded in Barcaldine, beneath the branches of the Tree of Knowledge, the Centre stands as a 'national monument to working men and women', honouring all workers and dedicated to preserving the important contribution of workers to Australian heritage and culture.Looking back over 35 years, these images capture moments, milestones and memories from the Centre’s journey - reflecting on our growth and enduring role in honouring workers past, present, and future.

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Join us in celebrating this Labour Day Weekend - Friday 1st May to Monday 4th May 2026

Where our movement began and where we gather once more under the branches of unity to mark

a series of historic anniversaries

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1891 - 2026

135th Anniversary of the Great Shearers’ Strike

In 1891, over 1,300 shearers marched beneath the Tree of Knowledge, under the Eureka Flag,demanding fair pay and conditions. 13 were jailed for standing up for their rights.

1991 - 2026

35th Anniversary of the opening of the Australian Workers Heritage Centre

A cultural and heritage styled interpretive centre honouring our Nation’s workers.

2005 - 2026

21st Birthday of the ‘Young-Un’ and it’s coming of age

A living descendant of the Tree of Knowledge, thriving at the Australian Workers Heritage Centre.