This month’s community gift goes to a not-for-profit that showcases everything coal means to Central Queensland and fights hard to keep that story alive. The Blackwater International Coal Centre (BICC) is more than just a museum. It’s a café, a cinema, a gallery, a tourist stop, and a space for the community to connect.
Manager Rebecca Avis said the centre was always designed to be something special.
“The concept was to provide a sophisticated and enduring platform for showcasing the Australian coal industry by building a self-sustaining tourism and educational facility that would become an iconic landmark for visitors to Central Queensland,” said Rebecca.
“We’re known as the local meeting place and it’s pretty well accepted that we have the best food and coffee in town. With so much to offer, we’re really a one-stop community space.”
Inside, visitors will find an interpretive centre that explores the past, present and future of coal mining, a collection of interactive exhibits, a 2D digital cinema, five function rooms, beautifully landscaped Japanese gardens and a fully operational café. It’s also home to Eliza’s Arts & Crafts and displays and sells works from the Blackwater Art Society.
Running a not-for-profit has been difficult since COVID hit in 2020. The pandemic forced a shutdown of tourism, mine tours, museum visits, functions and external catering, all major income streams for the centre. At the same time, the installation of a new commercial kitchen slightly boosted café revenue, which meant the centre no longer met eligibility for many government grants, despite being worse off overall.
“It nearly saw the closure of the BICC earlier this year. Both our Board and Management had to work extremely hard to find sponsors just to keep the lights on and doors open.”
That’s why the $500 community gift from @ The Coalface means more than just a cheque.
“Every single bit helps. We’re grateful for the support, it all contributes to keeping our doors open.”
Over the years, the BICC has hosted everything from school holiday movie sessions and corporate dinners to art shows and local markets. But for Rebecca, one day stands out above the rest.
“The BICC 10 Year Heritage Event was a real highlight. It allowed the centre to showcase the entire community, from schools and musicians to arts, crafts and family events. There wasn’t a single community group that didn’t have a part in the day.”
Looking ahead, Rebecca hopes to see the museum upgraded with more interactive exhibits and to bring back seven-day trade to better support the region’s shift workers and travelling public.
“We live in a region that runs on rosters and we’re currently only open Monday to Friday and every second Saturday. Opening seven days would mean more jobs, better service and greater support for locals and tourists.”
And for those just passing through?
“If you’re driving past and have never been inside, take the opportunity to stop. We’re the perfect spot for a toilet break, and we’ve got everything you need to fuel up for the next leg of your trip.”
From heritage to hospitality, the Blackwater International Coal Centre continues to serve its community, one cuppa, exhibit and event at a time.
