Applethorpe, Queensland


Applethorpe is a rural town and locality in the Southern Downs Region, Queensland, Australia. It is on the border with New South Wales. In the, Applethorpe had a population of 511 people. Applethorpe is well known for the production of apples.

Geography

The town is positioned on the New England Highway just north of Stanthorpe in the Granite Belt region at an elevation of.
The Southern railway line passes through the locality from north to south. The town is served by the Applethorpe railway station.

History

The area was originally called Roessler after an early German settler, but the name was changed to Applethorpe in 1915, as part of the anti-German sentiment during World War I.
In 1910, the establishment of the Four Mile Stanthorpe School was given and the school was opened on 14 September 1911. However, from November 1911 to November 1916, it was called Roesseller State School. However, like the town itself, the school name was changed to Applethorpe State School due to the anti-German sentiment.
In December 1910 the Roessler railway station was established at the point between Thulimbah and Stanthorpe. In September 1916 it was renamed Applethorpe railway station due to anti-German sentiment.
Four Mile State School opened on 14 September 1911. In November 1911 it was renamed Roesseller State School in Nov 1911 and in 1917 it was renamed Applethorpe State School.
Applethorpe Post Office opened around 1919 and closed in 1991.
In 2006, Applethorpe had a population of 748; of which, 20% worked in the farming or produce industries.

Climate

During a cold snap in 2007, the town recorded a minimum temperature of −7.7 °C. In July 2010, Applethorpe recorded a minimum of 13.6 °C which was the highest minimum on record ever for that month.

Transport

Applethorpe is accessible by the New England Highway and the 'Fruit Run' Granite Tourist Drive. Crisps Coaches also runs regular services to Applethorpe from Brisbane, Toowoomba, and other cities in the area.

Amenities

The Applethorpe Memorial Park on Ann Street commemorates those who served in defence of Australia.

Education

Applethorpe State School is a government primary school for boys and girls at 25576 New England Highway. In 2017, the school had an enrolment of 38 students with 4 teachers and 5 non-teaching staff.