Australian Standing Stones: A Celtic Tribute in the New England Highlands

The Australian Standing Stones, located in Centennial Parklands near Glen Innes, New South Wales, serve as a national monument to the Celtic people and their contribution to the building of the Australian nation. Officially dedicated on February 1, 1992, the ambitious project was initiated by a dedicated group of citizens wanting to mark Glen Innes' Celtic heritage after the first white settlers arrived in 1838. The early settlers from Scotland and Ireland developed grazing, dairy, and mixed farming enterprises, while those from Wales and Cornwall were often gold or tin miners. The standing stones are inspired by the Ring of Brodgar in Scotland’s Orkneys and the Callanish Stones on the Isle of Lewis. The array includes 38 stones, with a circle of 24 stones representing the 24 hours of the day. Three central stones connect all Celts, with the Australis Stone symbolizing the link between the old and new worlds. The Gaelic Stone represents Scotland, Ireland, and the Isle of Man, while the Brythonic Stone represents Wales, Cornwall, and Brittany. The site serves as a cultural gathering place for people from the Celtic communities, including the Irish, Welsh, Cornish, Scottish, Manx, and Bretons. The Australian Standing Stones is the home of the Australian Celtic Festival, held annually in May. Visitors can explore the Crofter's Cottage, a cultural center and café in the style of a traditional Scottish dwelling, offering Celtic-inspired events and food. The Celtic Family Wall on Tynwald Hill overlooks the Australian Standing Stones and houses authentic stones from Celtic homelands, donated by individuals, families, clans, or societies. Visitors can enjoy the picnic area, barbecues, and lookouts within Centennial Parklands. The site is pet-friendly and offers public toilets. The Glen Innes Visitor Information Centre provides detailed brochures for a self-guided tour, explaining the significance of the stones.