Sawmills of Durundur
About Us
Our Places
Our Records
Welcome to the
Sawmills of Durundur
Explore the rich history of the sawmilling industry that shaped the Durundur region—encompassing Woodford, D’Aguilar, Bellthorpe, Neurum, Royston, Villeneuve and Stanmore. This special collection of memories, photographs, and historical records celebrates the people and places that helped build our forestry legacy.
The Sawmills of Durundur project was proudly funded by the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), a partnership between the Queensland Government and local councils to support arts, culture, and heritage.
We are also grateful to History Queensland, who provided additional funding in 2024 to support this important website update. Their contribution has enabled us to expand and improve this digital resource, making the rich history of the region’s sawmilling industry more accessible and engaging for the wider community.
Explore The Map
Sawmills of Durundur
Use the interactive map below to discover sawmill locations across Woodford, D’Aguilar, Bellthorpe, Villeneuve, and beyond — each pin opens a window into local stories, photos, and history.
Local Memories
Sawmill Stories
These stories provide a unique glimpse into the fabric of our past, offering a heartfelt connection to the generations that have shaped the essence of our locality.
Mr Claude Bleakley
Proprietor of Woodford Carriers
Mr Mick Duggan
Lifetime of Timber Industry
Mr Charlie Stewart
Downloadable Interview by Mr Frank Sampson
Mr Hedley Ihle
Fun and Games in the 60’s, stories from Bellthorp
Mr Pat Cannon
Memories from Michael Cannon, Pat’s son. “up the bush” with my father
Mr Bob Davies
See Bob’s paintings from while he lived on the mountain
The Bullock Teams
That Paved the Way
Long before machinery and modern transport, it was the bullock teams that carried the weight—literally—of the timber industry. With massive logs, winding trails, and sheer determination, these teams and their masters laid the groundwork for sawmilling in Woodford.
Step back in time and discover the incredible stories, striking images, and memorable names that honour the era of the bullocky.
A Life Among the Timber
Donna Grigor’s Story
My first memories of life and involvement in forest industries comes to me from my childhood years growing up in the sawmilling town of Jimna. Waking to the sound of the steam whistle as it called all workers to the job and later how much I loved the fragrant aroma of cypress that drifted across the township of Miles from the sawmills on the outskirts of town. Then still living at home with Mum and Dad, Lance and Honnor Reason in the mill house in Grant Timbers mill yard. However my real introduction to sawmilling and logging was through my husband Brad Grigor and his father Ian Grigor.
Forestry is an industry I am proud to be a part of and even prouder of the work these two men have accomplished in their lives in the Forest Industries. Sadly we lost Grandad (Ian) in 1987.
I dedicate this research to him and all the pioneering men and women of the Forestry Industries that came before us.
Donna Grigor.
Ian & Brad
At Bellthorp 1962
With Gratitude
Acknowledging Our Contributors
The Sawmills of Durundur project would not have been possible without the generosity, time, and support of so many individuals and organisations.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed their knowledge, stories, and resources.
Special thanks go to Ron Trim, President of the Woodford Historical Society, whose invaluable knowledge and dedication continue to be a vital asset to our community.
All photographs featured on this site are either owned by the Woodford Historical Society or credited accordingly.
Woodford Historical Society Inc Publications
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Lengthening Shadows on Durundur Country
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Reflections of the Past: Durundur – Woodford Over 100 Years
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Milestones: From Durundur to Woodford
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Old Days, Old Ways: The People of Durundur/Woodford
We would also like to thank the following individuals:
Andrew Powell, Betty Hipwell, Bob Davies, Bruce and Helen Page, Claude Bleakley, Col Harris, the Family of the late Una O’Brien, Hedley Ihle, Helene Cronin – Adopt a Digger, Ivan Wild OA and Beverley Wild OA, Jim Bowden – Timberman, Kathy Knight, Lance Reason, Michael Cannon, Mick and Cheryl Duggan, Neil Ennis, Nugget Brooker, Peter Carmichael, Terry Lubomirski
And the following websites and organisations:
GTHardwood, Kilcoy District Historical Society, Lost Villeneuve, National Library of Australia, Peachester History Committee, Royal Historical Society of Queensland, Trove, University of Queensland
Your contributions have helped preserve and share the unique history of our region—thank you.
WE ARE Seeking
Your Stories
We’re on the lookout for local memories, photos, and memorabilia that tell the stories of our community. If you have cherished anecdotes or snapshots of times gone by, we invite you to share them with the Woodford Historical Society.
Tell Us
Your Story
VISIT
10am to 2pm
Tue | Wed | Fri| Sat
& Every 3rd Sunday
Address
109 Archer Street, Woodford, Queensland, Australia,
Markets
Woodford Country Markets
are held on the 3rd Sunday of
each month from 7am to noon.