St Lawrence historic Meatwork Site

Tucked away near the old wharf on Settlement Road, the St Lawrence Meatworks Ruins site offer a fascinating glimpse into one of Queensland's earliest industrial ventures. Built in 1893 using convict labour, the abattoir was established to process cattle for export, reflecting St Lawrence's important role as a northern port in the late 19th century.

Heritage-listed since 1997, the site features remains of the former meatworks, including rusted boilers, concrete foundations and scattered metalwork, slowly being reclaimed by the surrounding flora. Though the facility operated only intermittently before closing in the early 1910s, its remnants tell a powerful story of ambition, hardship and innovation during Queensland's early export era.

Cleared land for parking is available on the right side of the road driving from St Lawrence, just before the Newport Conservation Park sign. A short walk leads visitors to the site, where the quiet setting and nearby wetlands provide valuable context to the town's maritime and industrial history. While there are no on-site facilities or interpretive signage, the ruins reward curious explorers with a raw, authentic connection to St Lawrence's past. The surviving Donkey boiler is one of few of this type known to survive in Queensland. Visitors should take care on uneven ground and remain mindful of local wildlife.