Queensland Holidays - The Official Tourism Site for Queensland
Graham Andrews Parklands
Charleville
Queensland 4470 Australia
Charleville - Steiger Vortex Rainmaking Guns
Charleville,
South West
Free Entry
Description
The Steiger Vortex Rainmaking Guns are on display within the Graham Andrews Parklands. It's a fascinating outback story.
In 1902 Queensland was in the grip of a great drought. The desperation to produce rain took a unique turn. Queensland's first Government Meteorologist, Mr Clement L Wragge decided to experiment with Steiger Vortex Guns, developed to break up hail over the vineyards of Italy.
... moreWragge had six copies of the 'guns' made hoping they would produce much needed rain. The vertical guns were built and placed strategically throughout Charleville, their barrels pointing directly up into the sky. They were charged with gunpowder, in the hope that the resulting explosion would change the atmospheric pressure and produce rain.
Today only two remain intact and are on display in Charleville for all to enjoy.
Did you know, Mr Clement Wragge was the first man to name a cyclone in Australia ? Mr Wragge initially named these cyclones after politicians as he thought in some cases they were as much a national disaster as a politician..
... lessProperty Details
Facilities
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BBQ Facilities -
Car park -
Public toilet -
Shaded Area -
Sheltered Area
Activities
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Walking
Open Times
Other Information
Children:
Children are welcome.
Pets Allowed:
Yes. Pets are allowed, however, they must be restrained at all times.
How To Get There
The Steiger Vortex Rainmaking Guns are situated within Graham Andrews Parklands on Sturt Street (Matilda/Mitchell Highway). Follow the highway south towards Cunnamulla until you see the park on the right.
Free Entry
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