The Chinchilla was established in 1878 when the railway pushed west. Since then it has grown into an attractive and progressive community with a population of around 5,487 people, and is part of the Western Downs Regional Council.

Utilities

Water is pumped from the Chinchilla Weir (on the Condamine River) and Charley’s Creek Weir to a water storage tower in town. Private bores also provide additional water to irrigate private gardens and sports fields. Water restrictions are imposed by Council depending on the season and

Underground sewers and pump stations collect waste and pump it to the treatment plant west of town. The plant has the capacity to treat sewerage for a population of approximately 4,000.

Parts of town have kerbs and channels to collect storm water runoff, and this is continuously being expanded. Kerbing and channelling is a requirement for new developments.

JJ Richards Garbage Disposal collects household garbage bins green (weekly) and yellow (fortnightly), and also operate an industrial collection service (weekly). The Chinchilla Rubbish Tip is located 4 km west of town for the disposal of large items (fees for businesses apply).

Chinchilla and surrounding areas are all supplied from 132/110/33kV bulk supply substation in Chinchilla fed from Tarong Power Station, with alternate 110 kV supply from Dalby bulk supply substation as duplicated back-up supply.

The State Emergency Service, an auxiliary Fire Brigade and the Ambulance Service all have bases in Chinchilla. The Chinchilla Police Station on Heeney Street has a staff of 6 police officers and 2 administration staff but is not open 24 hours a day. The Police Station is an agent for issuing Queensland Transport Drivers’ Licences. A Stipendiary Magistrate visits from Dalby once a month, and there is a Clerk of the Court based in Chinchilla’s Court House in Heeney Street.

Over the years, community groups have worked diligently to improve the services and facilities available, resulting in the establishment of the secondary school, fire brigade, aerodrome, more public conveniences, Illoura Aged Care Village, the Cultural Centre, TAFE campus, the fully accredited Visitor Information Centre, and the Aquatic and Fitness Centre.

In addition, community-minded volunteers ensure that Chinchilla has a wide range of active sport and recreation, performing and visual arts, horticulture and naturalist, and service and community clubs.