This is considered the most well illustrated and factual account of early Stanthorpe and District. Few areas have passed through such definite patterns of change or have had a more colourful and chequered history than the Stanthorpe district. The coming of pastoralists, following in the footsteps of explorer Allan Cunningham, meant the birth of the sheep industry in Queensland... In 1872, another grand era began with the discovery of rich alluvial tin deposits. As supplies of tin dwindled, in its stead, a new industry - the growing of deciduous fruits, destined to be the only one of its kind in the State.