Palen Creek Correctional Centre

Palen Creek Correctional Centre, established in 1934, is Queensland's first low-security prison farm, located approximately 100 km southwest of Brisbane in the rural community of Rathdowney. The 600-acre facility accommodates 170 male inmates, offering programs in agriculture, animal husbandry, and recycling to equip prisoners with vocational skills and promote rehabilitation. The centre's agricultural operations include cattle farming, chili cultivation, and producing vegetables, fruits, and eggs, which supply its kitchens. Additionally, a rag industry workshop recycles old clothes for industrial use. Palen Creek celebrated its 90th anniversary in December 2024, reflecting its longstanding commitment to community engagement and offender rehabilitation.