1870s – Early Timber Milling in the Valley

Timber, primarily red cedar and hoop pine, was abundant in the valley and was first cut using small pit mills from around 1870. In 1884, the railway line from Warwick to Yangan opened, providing a more efficient way to transport timber logs to steam-powered sawmills in Warwick, replacing the slower pit saws. Logs were cut in upper Swanfels and hauled by bullock and horse teams to the railway at Yangan.

1886 – The Birth of the Swanfels Reserve

Due to the long distance, the bullock teams camped where they crossed Swan Creek, about halfway to Yangan. This camping ground was proclaimed a Camping Reserve on 15 March 1886, covering 11 acres, which later became 6 acres when the road was moved.

1983 – The Threat of Sale

With improved roads and cars, the tennis courts fell into disuse. In 1983, the Lands Department decided to sell the reserve. This decision sparked protests from local residents, and a public meeting was held on 28 February 1983, attended by over 40 people.

It was decided to apply to the Lands Department to keep the land as a park, and the sale was ultimately cancelled.

1984 – Closure of Swanfels School

By 1984, the nearby Swanfels School, which opened in 1892 with 52 students had closed, the Swanfels Hall had been sold and moved, and the local churches were no longer standing. In light of these changes, the community rallied to preserve the area as a vital public space.

1985 – Saving the Playshed

In 1985, the Education Department agreed to sell the Swanfels School playshed for use at the reserve, built in 1904 from timber cut in the valley. The playshed had both sentimental and practical value. It was purchased for $195, which included two toilets, a tank, and a tank stand.

The shed was moved to Swanfels Park on 19 July 1985 for $600, funded entirely by donations and fundraising. Volunteers also contributed by fencing the reserve, planting trees, and completing other improvements, such as installing a grid and erecting the entrance timber, which came from the valley. The wheels came from the wagon of “Peter the Dane”, one of the early teamsters and the steel in the grid from the old Yangan railway line.

1986 – Opening of the Swanfels Pioneer Memorial Park

The Swanfels Pioneer Memorial Park was officially opened on 26 April 1986 by Isabella Zachrisen, the oldest living person born in the valley. Over 1,500 people attended the opening, which featured a parade from Mahony’s to the park. Visitors were encouraged to dress in period clothing. Following this, there was a stock brand burning ceremony at the brand post, a crosscut sawing competition, the dedication of a cross, and an open-air dance on the tennis courts in the evening.

2017 – Replica Playshed Plans

Facing public pressure, the Council agreed to build a replica of the original playshed. Plans were found, and construction of the new shed began in late 2017.