drive INLAND

AUSTRALIA’S COUNTRY WAY

LEICHHARDT WAY

RURAL GETAWAY

CAPRICORN WAY

DAWSON HIGHWAY

ADVENTURE WAY

Welcome

Our country highways and byways are the roads less travelled, and we understand the delights of exploring the countryside on a touring holiday. Take the time to discover Australia’s inland and experience our legendary hospitality.

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We produce a lot of Australia’s food and wine, and you have the opportunity to taste produce that’s only travelled a few kilometres from where it was grown to where you consume it.

Fishing’s not just for the coast and many of our lakes and rivers are stocked with fish ready to be caught and cooked over the coals. Bring your family with you to relive stories from your ancestors and to make new special memories.

We’ve lots of characters, whether they are telling tall stories in outback pubs or just saying G’day to you in the main streets of our towns. After all, it’s not called country hospitality for nothing. Most of our history has been kept either in country museums, or as living history in buildings saved from the march of so-called progress.

Mountain peaks, streams and plains beckon to spend time in nature. National Parks provide walks to explore our native and unspoiled landscape.

Whether you are staying in modern motels, cosy bed and breakfasts or scenic caravan parks, you’re sure to find a warm welcome.

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WHAT’S INSIDE AUSTRALIA’S COUNTRY WAY...................06 LEICHHARDT WAY......................................12 MAP.............................................................18 RURAL GETAWAY......................................20 CAPRICORN WAY...................................... 24 DAWSON HIGHWAY................................. 28 ADVENTURE WAY..................................... 34 VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES............ 38

This brochure, accompanying website and social media pages are brought to you by the good folk who choose to live in the country. We respectfully acknowledge the Aboriginal people of this country, recognising their continuing connection to the land, waters and communities and pay our respects to the Aboriginal culture and their leaders, past present and future. Our country highways and byways are the roads less travelled and we understand the delights of exploring the countryside on a touring holiday.

Take the time to discover Australia’s inland and experience our legendary hospitality.

You’ll find a lot more about us, including our legendary events on our website and our Facebook and Instagram social media pages.

SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND CONNECTIONS Check the map out, featuring connections through Toowoomba to Brisbane and the coasts, Warwick to Brisbane and the coasts and from Brisbane to Yarraman to head north towards Rockhampton in the centre of this brochure.

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Country Way A U S T R A L I A’ S

Head north out of Sydney towards Newcastle swinging inland through Cessnock in the Hunter Valley’s hinterland wine country.

ROCKHAMPTON Westwood

Biloela Bundaberg

Monto

Eidsvold Mundubbera

Gayndah Murgon

Wondai

Kingaroy

Miles

Nanango Yarraman

Dalby

Toowoomba

Warwick Goondiwindi

Stanthorpe Tenterfield

Warialda

Glen Innes

Armidale

Coffs Harbour

Tamworth Port Macquarie

Muswellbrook Singleton Cessnock

SYDNEY

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Fitzroy River

Take a pit stop to enjoy award winning wines, olives, seasonal fruit and local cheeses. Singleton is next, conveniently bordered by the Broke Fordwich wine region.

The centres of Broke and Muswellbrook are surrounded by National Parks and steeped in the heritage of Australian bush lore. Into the Upper Hunter the fertile river flats house award winning wineries, horse studs, quaint laneways and country roads winding through rolling hills.

The landscape shifts to the famous Australian grazing country and gorge country.

The Golden Guitar stands as a perennial monument to a true-blue country heart, celebrated in earnest at the annual Tamworth Country Music Festival.

Tamworth is the capital of the New England North West region of New South Wales.

Travelling north, Australia’s Country Way traverses the stunning tablelands around Armidale. Buffered against the escarpment of the Great Dividing Range rugged terrain gives way to the beautiful natural settings of the New England National Parks, Cathedral Rock and Oxley Wild Rivers.

Guyra, on top of the range, is an attractive town with a diverse blend of attractions. Renowned for their natural beauty, the New England Tablelands are distinct from one season to the next. The Glen Innes Highlands is packed full of adventure and experiences with distinctive seasons, gourmet foods along with its picturesque town and villages.

Great for road touring, kayaking and canoeing, mountain biking, fishing for the mighty Murray Cod, fossicking for hidden gems or meandering along its historic colonial main street or museums. Also, home to the World Heritage Washpool and Gibraltar Range National Parks and the Australian Standing Stones which tribute the regions Celtic Heritage.

Further north along Australia’s Country Way is Tenterfield where the famous saddlery still stands. Throughout the town there is nostalgia for forgotten eras preserved in landmark buildings commemorating citizens such as Sir Henry Parkes, our nation’s Father of Federation.

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The Queensland border is 731km or about 9 hours drive from Sydney.

Australia’s Country Way provides a myriad of food experiences.

The high-altitude granite country signals the entry into Queensland and the Granite Belt. The Southern Downs and Granite Belt is a land of contrasts from the stark high country around Stanthorpe to the rolling downs of Warwick and beyond.

The weather, well-drained soil and viticultural expertise, have transformed the region’s once fledgling wine community into a burgeoning industry based around Stanthorpe.

Boutique businesses offer fine dining, cellar doors, food and wine packages and tours, making this special part of Queensland easy to access and enjoy.

Stock up at roadside stalls and cellar doors and sample fresh fruit and berries straight from the grower.

Clovely Estate

Local festivals celebrate the harvest seasons and country life, including the

Australian Small Winemakers Show and the Apple and Grape Harvest Festival.

As you descend to the Darling Downs, 61km north of Stanthorpe, the town of Warwick boasts some of Queensland’s finest sandstone buildings, a living reminder of our historical past.

The Warwick Rodeo and Campdraft are famous across Australia and seasonal differences are celebrated at the Jumpers and Jazz in July festival.

Check out our Taste Australia’s Country Way e-brochure at www.driveinland.com.au

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National Parks abound with Girraween and Sundown both must-sees.

Driving north from Warwick takes you to a major intersection. Those heading to Brisbane and the Gold Coast travel east through Cunningham’s Gap; take a break here to admire the views from the Main Range National Park.

Australia’s Country Way continues 26km north through the small township of Allora, where you can gain a sense of the history of the Darling Downs by visiting Glengallan Homestead or head into the Goomburra Valley for a bush adventure. Author Steele Rudd lived near Nobby and wrote of the country life in ‘On Our Selection’ which formed the basis of the ‘Dad and Dave’ radio series. The rolling Darling Downs are fertile farmlands for grain, sunflowers, olives, cattle and gourmet delights.

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers

Toowoomba, 58km from Allora, is the largest inland non-capital city in Australia and is known as the Garden City for its parks, gardens, flowers and the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers which takes place every September. It is at the junction of highways which head east to Brisbane and west to Queensland’s Outback. Toowoomba is a modern city thriving on the agricultural and resource industries with many attractions to keep you in town for a few days.

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers

Australia’s Country Way runs 42km along the Great Dividing Range with cool mountain National Parks such as Crows Nest, Ravensbourne and The Palms. Small towns boast art and craft stores and places to taste the region’s food and wine. Local historical societies give you a taste of times past in their museums and fossick through the antique shops for that special memento of the area. Dams provide great freshwater fishing opportunities.

AUSTRALIA’S COUNTRY WAY

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Monto ‘Three Moon’ silos

The scenic Bunya Mountains was formed a million years ago and shelters the largest stand of ancient bunya pines in the world today.

At Yarraman there is a road that connects to the north of Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.

At Yarraman turn left 21km along Australia’s Country Way to Nanango. Enjoy a visually exciting experience at the South Burnett Energy Centre which reflects the energy technology that developed the region. Travel towards Australia’s peanut and pork capital Kingaroy and get a photo with the big peanut sculpture, before picking up your favourite nutty flavours nearby. Just down the road is the scenic Bunya Mountains. This natural wonderland was formed a million years ago and shelters the largest stand of ancient bunya pines in the world today. The South Burnett is prime wine country so make time to partake in wine tasting and see what’s on the lunch menu. Finally, round out your trip with a visit to the charming townships of Wondai, Murgon and do not miss our many villages. Learn about the local timber industry and splendour in the life-sized wagon camp 10

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diorama at Wondai’s Timber Industry Museum.

Accommodation includes B&Bs, cabins, caravan parks, hotels, motels, and camping.

Travelling north, 103km from Murgon to Gayndah, Australia’s Country Way heads towards the North Burnett towns of Gayndah and Mundubbera, a citrus growing area that produces most of Australia’s mandarins and is home to the largest covered blueberry farm in the southern hemisphere!

A major intersection at Ban Ban Springs gives access to Bundaberg, Biggenden and Childers. Ban Ban Springs is a culturally important place for the local Wakka Wakka people. Gayndah straddles the Burnett River and you have an opportunity to sample and buy local produce at the roadside stalls.

Mundubbera, 45km onwards, is just off the highway at the junction of the Rural Getaway.

Picnic by the river and buy local citrus and stone fruit in season. The Auburn River National Park is

Camp at Kroombit Tops National Park and wake to incredible views of the sandstone cliffs.

west of here. The Burnett River is famous for the Ceratodus or Lungfish, a relic of some 380 million years. These are a protected species but try your luck for freshwater fish in the lakes and rivers. Take in the local history at museums in Gayndah and Eidsvold.

RM Williams lived in the Eidsvold area for many years and his life is celebrated in the Reginald Murray Williams Australian Bush Learning Centre on the south side of the town.

Monto, 110km from Mundubbera, is the gateway to Cania Gorge, a spectacular sandstone National Park. Lake Cania provides a great venue for fishing and boating while there are many walks for keen bushwalkers. Driving out of Monto, the country is drier, with sandstone outcrops and more cattle in the Sandstone Wonders. Camp at Kroombit Tops National Park and wake to incredible views of the sandstone cliffs. Listen out for musical notes chimed out by Mount Scoria’s six sided basalt peaks or go

fishing for barramundi, golden perch or red claw at Lake Callide, just 12 kilometres east of Biloela en route to Gladstone. Biloela is 95km from Monto.

Other natural wonders not to be missed in the Sandstone Wonders include Isla Gorge and Expedition National Park. While in Biloela visit the Queensland Heritage Park to enjoy the heritage displays which celebrate our nation’s glorious past.

Once you have headed out of the Sandstone Wonders you’ll travel via Westwood 163km to Rockhampton which is well known as the Beef Capital of Australia. Spend some time exploring the region and experience world-class mountain bike trails, trophy barramundi to be caught right in the heart of town, treetop boardwalks, ancient caves, farm stays and breweries to name a few. The Rockhampton Museum of Arts opened in early 2022, the largest in regional Queensland and a groundbreaking addition to the town.

AUSTRALIA’S COUNTRY WAY

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LEICHHARDT

Way

The Leichhardt Way joins the Newell Highway 1,332km from Melbourne at Goondiwindi.

Rockhampton

YEPPOON

Mount Morgan

Dululu

Biloela

Banana

Bundaberg

Theodore

Taroom Boondooma

Wandoan Miles Condamine

Kingaroy Jandowae

Dalby

The Gums

Moonie

Toowoomba

Warwick Goondiwindi

Stanthorpe

Moree

Narrabri

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Caliguel Lagoon

Start your Queensland sightseeing here, at the border precinct – with its statue tribute to legendary racehorse Gunsynd, Customs House, old Border Bridge and Riverwalk.

The Botanic Gardens and Natural Heritage Water Park and War Memorial are all good places to pull in for lunch. The first Western Downs town is Moonie, 97km onwards, to a small settlement with friendly locals and their very own distinctive hot pink Yabbie.

You can picnic at the Rural Transaction Centre, browse local arts and crafts or experience many diverse trails. At Moonie Crossroads you’ll see brilliant murals depicting the history of the town and a giant cod caught in local waters.

The tiny pioneer village of The Gums has a nine-hole bush golf course where a few resident kangaroos lay idly in the shade watching the golfers play. The Gums is a tranquil location, perfect for a ‘smoko’ stop in your travels or a great short-term campsite to pitch your tent or park the van or RV. Take in the sights around Condamine.

The Caliguel Lagoon lies 7km south and offers an excellent site for an overnight stay. It’s great for fishing, during late summer and autumn rare purple water lilies bloom. In the heart of cattle country Condamine is home to the legendary Condamine Bell, a cow bell forged out of sheet metal to help locate grazing bullocks and the river is a popular fishing spot.

When arriving in Miles, 128km on from Moonie, in late summer and autumn prolific blooms of pink water lilies can be seen on Chinaman’s Lagoon Dogwood Creek Track. Miles Visitor Information Centre is the gateway to Miles Historical Village Museum where you will discover a world class lapidary display, an extensive collection of shells and the moving and nostalgic tribute within the War Exhibit, as part of the 31 buildings to explore.

From Miles, the Leichhardt tracks north into the beautiful rural scenery around Guluguba which nestles at the bottom of the Great Dividing Range.

Stop in at Wandoan, 70km north, for a rest at O’Sullivan Park where the Wandoan Windmill marks the Visitor Information Centre. Learn about Ludwig Leichhardt’s journey through the district and the early foundations of Wandoan at the Juandah Historic site.

Visitors are welcome to spend a night at the Waterloo Plain Environmental Park where native bird species are to be found.

LEICHHARDT WAY

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Mount Morgan

Continuing 60km north on the Leichhardt Way is Taroom, gateway to the Banana Shire, on the banks of the Dawson River where Leichhardt and his party camped. The entrance to the town is marked by the Steel Wings model windmill. Leichhardt literally left his mark ‘LL 1844’ on a Coolibah tree and the tree still exists as a monument in the main street although the mark has grown over. Gilbert’s Lookout, overlooking the township, is a monument to John Gilbert, fellow explorer and botanist.

Just 15km north of Taroom lays the peaceful Chain Lagoons with stands of rare Livistona cycad palms.

Another 20km north along the Leichhardt is a gravel road leading to Lake Murphy Conservation Park which hosts amazing birdlife.

The spectacular Sandstone Belt starts 19km further north at Isla Gorge National Park.

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Just off the highway and a short walking track takes you to the edge of the gorge which is a haven for wildlife. Wedge-tailed eagles and peregrine falcons soar above the cliffs on the thermals.

The township of Theodore provides an ideal lowcost camping and fishing area at Junction Park on the banks of the Dawson River or stay at Hotel Theodore, one of only two co-operatively owned and operated hotels in Australia. The Dawson Folk Museum records the history of the Dawson Valley with entry by appointment with the Theodore Visitor Centre.

Camping permits are available through nprsr.qld.gov.au

Theodore

Banana, 59km north on the junction of the Leichhardt and Dawson Highways, is strangely not home to plantations of the well-known yellow fruit, instead, the town and the shire owe their name to a muchrevered bullock, Banana. In the 1850s Moses Wafer’s now famous yellow bullock was known for mustering scrubbers (unbranded wild cattle). On his death the station, the town and the shire adopted his name. A monument celebrates the noble beast. From Banana the highway is flanked with cotton fields and brilliant green and yellow sunflowers.

Wowan is a small peaceful rural township nestled among stately gums and a myriad of creeks and gullies rich with native flora and fauna.

Established in 1912 Wowan has a rich historical and cultural history. Take a walk around the town admiring the churches, butter factory, Masonic Lodge, post office and school buildings retaining their historical features.

The tiny township of Dululu, 79km north, is well known as a rest stop for weary travellers. The ‘rest area’ located near the tennis courts and public toilets has a sheltered BBQ and picnic area. The cricket oval and practice nets are nearby. Behind the courts, overnight facilities, such as power and hot showers, are available for a nominal charge. The Leichhardt Way winds its way 32km from Dululu to Mount Morgan set in the pretty Dee Ranges.

Once the largest and richest single gold mine in the world, Mount Morgan is one of Queensland’s historical gems and is only 38km from Rockhampton. The hum of machinery and rattling thump of explosives at the mine are long gone and in their place are a legacy of history and a spirited community. To discover Mount Morgan’s treasures, visit the Mount Morgan Visitor Information Centre where locals will share their knowledge of their town and where to stay in a number of accommodation options.

LEICHHARDT WAY

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Fitzroy River

The Beef Capital of Australia is alive with heritage, history, culture, nature and events.

Rockhampton’s Riverside Precinct is the heart of the city, offering the best views of the Fitzroy River (Tunuba) and is an example of a modern, integrated urban design that sits alongside the city’s heritage-listed street.

Stroll along the heritage soaked sandstone boulevard on Quay Street and across the lower bank boardwalk, and you’ll be surrounded by lush plantings, public artworks and a picturesque boat dotted vista.

The beginning of a new chapter in Rockhampton’s cultural history has commenced with the opening of the Rockhampton Museum of Art in February 2022.

Located in the heart of the Riverside Precinct, the museum holds one of the finest collections of modern Australian paintings.

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The Fitzroy River (Tunuba) is the home of barramundi in Australia. As the largest river catchment on the Eastern seaboard of Australia, it provides prime barra, trophy-sized king threadfin and giant trevally fishing for keen anglers.

Fly in, check in and be on the water within an hour.

There’s a range of charter experiences on offer when Fishing the Fitzroy, including dry boat hire options for those who have their boat licence.

Just 25 minutes from the CBD is Mount Archer’s Nurim Circuit, a treetop boardwalk that floats amongst the clouds. Extending 25 metres off the side of Mount Archer (Nurim) National Park, the 500 metre accessible boardwalk offers spectacular views of the city and the mighty Fitzroy River (Tunuba).

The boardwalk is particularly popular with locals and tourists alike wanting to catch the spectacular sunrises and sunsets, so don’t forget your camera!

Pine plantations and ancient cycads are to be seen in nearby Byfield State Forest.

Rockhampton Zoo

Mount Archer

Rockhampton is home to two premier mountain bike trail networks spanning across 50km, offering elevated rides, rough tracks and a range of trails to suit all skill levels.

Nestled within the heritage-listed Botanic Gardens, you’ll find the free Rockhampton Zoo where you can discover native and exotic animals spanning more than 30 species. Whether it is chimpanzees and cassowaries, dingoes and otters, or crocodiles, koalas and meerkats, there are plenty of animals to meet the family!

Make your visit to the Rockhampton Zoo even more memorable and book a meerkat encounter, which will have you up close and personal with the mob of 6 and includes a feeding session and private keeper talk.

Byfield National Park

South of Yeppoon is a string of peaceful seaside communities. A prominent rocky headland shelters the Keppel Bay Marina at Rosslyn Bay. It’s a picturesque spot for lunch as well as being the embarkation point for Great Keppel Island. Great Keppel is a holiday paradise of 17 beaches, calm waters and fringing reefs. There’s accommodation there so you can choose to do a day trip or stay on the island. The Capricorn Coast continues on to the seaside town of Emu Park with its Singing Ship monument to Captain James Cook and spectacular Centenary of Anzac Memorial and boardwalk.

Thirty minutes north of Yeppoon, outstanding coastal scenery, massive sand dunes, rugged pinnacles and remote camping opportunities are highlights of a visit to Byfield National Park and Byfield Conservation Park.

LEICHHARDT WAY

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Clermont

Carnarvon NP

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St George

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A1

Warracknabeal Nhill

Horsham

Dimboola Murtoa

HW

A8

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Edenhope Stawell

Robe Millicent

Grampians NP Coleraine

Mount Gambier

Heywood

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Junee

Lockhart Henty

Tocumwal Rive

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Seymour

HWY

M31

Healesville

Geelong Colac

Apollo DRIVEINLAND.COM.AU Bay

Port Phillip

Torquay

MELBOURNE Mornington

A.C.T.

Morwell

Wonthaggi BASS STRAIT

Kosciuszko NP

Bombala

A1

Traralgon

Orbost Lakes Entrance

Leongatha

Yarram Wilsons Promontory NP Wilsons Promontory

HWY

NEW

Scone

Branxton 1

Braidwood

Richmond

SYDNEY

Campbelltown

Ulladulla

Batemans Bay

Deua NP

Cooma

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Moruya

Bega Merimbula Eden Ben Boyd NP Cape Howe

Croajingolong NP

FIC

Tasman Sea

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Taree

Forster Bulahdelah

Myall Lake

Port Stephe

Newcastle Wyong

Gosford

Nowra

Wadbilliga Narooma NP Jindabyne

Snowy River NP

Sale

CANBERRA

Oxley Wild Rivers NP

Wauchope

Wollongong Goulburn Kiama

Morton NP

Queanbeyan ME HU Holbrook

Bairnsdale

Moe

NEW EL L

Wagga Wagga

Alpine NP

Craigieburn

Yass

Dorrigo

Muswellbrook

Lithgow

Crookwell Bowral

Guy Fawkes River NP

D Armidale AN GL Uralla

Maitland

Cowra

Harden

VICTORIA

M31

Bathurst Blayney

Glen Innes

Guyra

Barrington Tops NP

Singleton

Washp NP

A15

Tamworth

A15

Blue Penrith Mountains Picton NP Boorowa

Young

Albury A39 Yarrawonga Shepparton Wodonga Benalla St Arnaud Wangaratta M31 Bendigo Nagambie

Melton A1

Ri

Jerilderie

Wycheproof Echucha A79

Ballarat

Terang

Warrnambool

Deniliquin

Maryborough

Hamilton Portland

y

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West Grenfell Wyalong

Temora

A39

Orange

Warialda

Gunnedah

Wollemi NP

Tenter

Coolatai

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Boggabri

Rylstone

A32

Texas Wallanga

Quirindi

Molong

HWY

HW

Mt Kaputar NP

Goobang Wellington

Canowindra

Ardlethan

A20

Narrandera

Kerang

Dubbo

PRIN

Keith

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Griffith

NEW EL

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Hopetoun

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Swan Hill

Wyperfeld NP

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Balranald

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NP

Parkes Forbes

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Murray-Sunset NP

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Robinvale

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Narromine

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Coolah Dunedoo Merriwa Gulgong

Allora

Inglewood

Yetman

Gilgandra

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Mildura

A20

Red Cliffs

A32

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A3

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Coonabarabran

Warren

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Condobolin

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Nyngan

Tomingley

Hillston

Mungo NP

Warrumbungle NP

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Yathong Nature Reserve

HWY

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A2

Millmerran

Inverell

Narrabri

Coonamble

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Wentworth

Berri Loxton

Bordertown

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Renmark

Cobar

NEW SOUTH WALES

Menindee Menindee Lakes Kinchega NP Garnpung Lake

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BARRIER

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Broken Hill

A32

A8

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Wilcannia

HWY

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Tailem Bend

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Walgett

Macquarie

MI Gundabooka NP

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Bourke

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Cuttaburra Channels

Brewarrina River

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Barwon

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Mungindi A71

Nocoleche Nature Reserve

Gammon Ranges NP

A5

Goondiwindi

Tibooburra

Dalby Crow

Toowoomba

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Dirranbandi

Na Yar

Cecil Plains

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Culgoa Floodplain NP

A3

King

Jimbour

Moonie

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Murgon G Won

Jandowae

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Sturt National Park

HWY

Cunnamulla

War

Currawinya NP

Cameron Corner

Thrushton NP

BALONNE

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Boondooma

Miles

Surat Condamine

MITC

River

Way

HWY

Riv e

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Thargomindah

Eidsvold Gayndah

HWY

Moomba

Wyandra

Bu

Adven ture

Innamincka

Roma

A2

Monto

Mundubbera

Wondoan

Mitchell

A71

Creek

Taroom

Chesterton Range NP

WARR

Cania Gorge NP

Isla Gorge Theodore NP Expedition A5 NP

Augathella

R HW iver Y

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Charleville

Quilpie

Banana

Moura

QUEENSLAND Mariala NP

Biloela

HWY

HWY

Idalia NP

Gladst

A3

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Rolleston

Curtis Is

Mount Morgan

Dululu

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Yeppoon

Rockhampton

Dingo

Blackwater A4 Duaringa

Springsure D A

Blackall

Welford NP

Lake Yamma Yamma

Innamincka Regional Reserve

Comet

HWY

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Th om

Emerald

Alpha

Goodedulla NP

HHARDT LEIC

Haddon Corner

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Sapphire HWY

A4

A2

Birdsville

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Jericho

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Bilpa Morea Claypan

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Barcaldine

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Goneaway NP

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Diamantina NP

Astrebla Downs NP

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Longreach

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Bundaberg Hervey Bay

Sandy Cape Fraser Island

Childers Hervey Bay an Ban Maryborough prings A1

Great Sandy NP

Goomeri

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Double Island Point

Gympie

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TAKE YOUR TIME

For further comprehensive information we encourage our readers to use our website www.driveinland.com.au where you’ll find updated information on drive itineraries, places to explore and discover along with videos to help you plan your unforgettable drive inland holiday.

Noosa Heads

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Nambour Caloundra Caboolture

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Moreton Island

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North Stradbroke Island

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Gold Coast Tweed Heads

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Murwillumbah Casino

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Byron Bay

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Coffs Harbour

Urunga Nambucca Heads Macksville

Kempsey

Port Macquarie

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TOURING ROUTES Capricorn Way Rural Getaway Leichhardt Way Australia’s Country Way Adventure Way Dawson Highway Connecting highway M31

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KILOMETRES Custom map produced by flatEARTHmapping.com.au Base data © copyright Geoscience Australia 2022

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RURAL

getaway

Start your trip out in Warialda, ‘the place of honey’. Situated on the Gwydir Highway, it is the southern gateway to the Rural Getaway tourist route and the northern gateway to the Fossickers Way tourist route.

Rockhampton

Banana

Biloela Bundaberg

MUNDUBBERA

Boondooma Miles

Jandowae

Dalby

Millmerran

Goondiwindi

Inglewood Texas

Moree WARIALDA

The Cranky Rock Nature Reserve is a popular picnic and camping spot, great for photography, bird watching and bushwalking. Check out the Heritage Centre, including the Wells Gem and Mineral Collection, and the Carinda House Arts and Crafts to look at some local art pieces. Passing through Coolatai and Yetman to get to Texas, 125km north, these two towns are worth the stop.

Just north of Warialda is Coolatai, a small friendly rural community with a hotel that provides a great opportunity to mix with the locals. Yetman is 20

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situated on the banks of the Macintyre River and is a popular destination for keen cod fish anglers.

Head to Texas where you can stay overnight and have a cook up on the free BBQ amenities. Texas is in Queensland, just north of the State border.

The Dumaresq River and Bonshaw Weir are great fishing locations. You can get a great view nearby at Beacon Lookout where you can enjoy views of the Dumaresq Valley. Visit the Riverside Freezing Works and Rabbit Factory, where the history of Australia during the Great Depression is kept.

Australian Camp Oven at Millmerran

During the 123km drive to Millmerran you will pass through Inglewood. Inglewood and Texas have reminders of the once thriving tobacco industry with old tobacco drying barns scattered about the countryside. Museums in both towns provide a history of the industry. Olive trees have been planted in the area, so take home some olives and olive oil. The biennial Australian Camp Oven Festival is a great reason to visit Millmerran. Take in the panoramic views from Mt Basalt Lookout. A series of larger than life murals here depict the district’s history and how the town developed.

Consecrated in 1887, the National Trust-listed All Saints Anglican Church in Yandilla is the oldest building in the district and believed to be the second oldest church in Queensland. Its classic design features superb stained glass windows made in memory of Reverend William Francis Gore. There’s a firm nod to the past at Millmerran Museum. Don’t miss its prized ‘water baby’ – a 28 foot steam vessel which was made at Yandilla Station in 1878.

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Boondooma Dam, ideal for fishing for golden perch (yellow belly), silver perch and Australian bass.

Cecil Plains, 46km north, lies along the Condamine River, the fertile alluvial soil is ideal for cotton production and it’s now home to one of the largest cotton gins in the Southern Hemisphere. Dalby, 43km onwards, is a thriving community and the largest town in the Western Downs. The town’s size and position together with its agriculture, mining and industry base, leads it to be a major centre for regional Queensland.

Accommodation options include camping and caravan facilities to pubs and modern motel suites.

Ensure you visit the Pioneer Park Museum, which houses an extensive collection of farm machinery and memorabilia. A must do in the region is, the Bunya Mountains. Park the caravan at Yamsion and do the drive up to enjoy the view. Jimbour is famous as the home of heritage-listed Jimbour House which remains with its interior open only for special events. Visitors are welcome to tour the grounds and magnificent gardens which are open Monday- Friday from 10am-4pm at a cost of $10 per person. House and garden tours are available every Thursday and Friday at 10:30am. The rest of the week house and garden group bookings are available by appointment subject to sufficient numbers.

To visit on the weekend you must check their Facebook page to ascertain if open (generally locked down for

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weddings and events). They advertise on Facebook the rare occasions open to public.

All visitors are asked to book or phone in advance at jimbour.com/shop/ or phone 0400 558 042.

Travel 80km north of Jandowae to Boondooma Homestead, open to the public for a small fee.

Turn off at Boondooma for the 22km run to Boondooma Dam which is ideal for fishing for golden perch (yellow belly), silver perch and Australian bass.

Call into the helpful information centres to find out about the best fishing spots.

A caravan park caters for visitors with caravan and camping sites and cabins. Mundubbera is 80km past Boondooma. Keep an eye out for the side trip to Auburn River National Park where the scenic Auburn River flows through a steep-sided gorge, tumbling over massive, water-sculpted, salmon-coloured granite boulders. The Rural Getaway joins Australia’s Country Way at Mundubbera, the meeting place for the Boyne, Burnett and Auburn Rivers. Call into the information centre to find out about fishing, take a stroll down the river walk to spot Ceratodus, platypus and other wildlife.

Have a picnic at Bicentennial Park overlooking the Burnett River with some tasty goods collected from the local butcher and baker shops.

Mundubbera, prime citrus growing area

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CAPRICORN

Way

Clermont Aramac Ilfracombe Jericho Longreach BARCALDINE Alpha Blackall Emmet

Tambo

Capella Blackwater

Rubyvale Emerald

Duaringa

Rolleston

It is the oldest township in the area dating back to the 1860s. The Old Duaringa Hotel has been preserved as a reminder of the pioneering lifestyle.

Check out Mackenzie Park on the east side of town, which features the unique Budgeroo or Duaringa stringy bark tree.

From Duaringa, keep following the Capricorn Way until you reach Dingo. Take a side road to see the breathtaking sandstone plateau rising above Central Queensland’s plains at Blackdown Tableland National Park.

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ROCKHAMPTON Mount Hay Gemstone Tourist Park

Banana

Biloela Bundaberg

The small town of Bluff is a major rail interchange for coal trains, some up to two kilometres long. Stop at Blackwater, 159km west of Rockhampton, the Coal Capital of Queensland and home to the International Coal Centre which also houses the Visitor Information Centre. Opened in 2008 the centre showcases the Australian coal industry, providing an interactive learning experience. Blackwater is the second largest town in the Central Highlands and offers all major services. Blackwater also boasts a fine Japanese garden. These gardens mark the relationship between Blackwater and her sister city Fujisawa, Japan. Well worth a visit.

Approximately half an hour west of Rockhampton (36km west of Rockhampton on the Capricorn Way) you will discover Mount Hay Gemstone Tourist Park, an internationally known destination for thunderegg fossicking.

Duaringa is the welcoming gateway to the Central Highlands.

Comet was one of the earliest townships in the area. Ludwig Leichhardt named the Comet River during his 1884 expedition. Continuing 78km along the Capricorn Way, head towards the township of Emerald, named not after the gem, but for the lush green pastures that once surrounded the town.

Emerald is the hub of the Central Highlands area.

Primary industries include coal, sapphire and gem mining, cotton, wheat, maize, sorghum, sunflowers and a variety of other crops. Emerald is home to the world’s biggest Van Gogh ‘Sunflower’ painting located in Morton Park. This is a must-see for every visitor.

Blackdown Tableland National Park CAPRICORN WAY

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People from all over the world descend on the Sapphire Gemfields each year to experience fossicking first hand and to try their luck at finding the ultimate gem discovery.

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Barcaldine Tree of Knowledge

The Tree – a ghost gum – grew outside the Railway Station for about 180 years until 2006 when sadly, it was poisoned by an unknown culprit.

Take a slight detour and try your luck in the towns of Sapphire, Anakie, Willows and Rubyvale gemfields, looking for sapphires. People from all over the world descend on the Sapphire Gemfields each year to experience fossicking first hand and to try their luck at finding the ultimate gem discovery.

Head 169km to the Outback town of Alpha. Along the drive you will take in the Drummond Range.

Get the camera ready and make sure you make a stop at the lookout. The views are truly amazing and well worth the stop. Alpha is known as the ‘Town of Murals’ and displays a number that have been painted on both private and public buildings depicting the area’s history. The region is known as Mitchell country, named after Sir Thomas Mitchell, the Surveyor-General of the Colony of New South Wales, who went through the area in 1846.

Before leaving Alpha stock up on your baked goods from their famed bakery. Once back on the Capricorn Way you will be headed 55km to Jericho.

The Jericho Drive-In is the smallest Drive-In in the southern hemisphere, with a car capacity of just 36 cars. Redbank Park on the banks of the Jordan River is a great place to camp, fish and bird watch. There is a walking track that follows the river and it’s a great place to exercise while experiencing the local flora and fauna.

Barcaldine, 87km west, is situated at the crossroads of the Matilda and Capricorn Ways. It’s a town filled with history and colour. Barcaldine is a wonderful place to spend a few days checking out the eclectic mix of modern and historical buildings. Start at the former Globe Hotel, now the Visitor Information Centre. It’s on the Capricorn Way almost opposite the railway station and the Tree of Knowledge, the reputed birth place of the labour movement in Australia. The Tree – a ghost gum – grew outside the Railway Station for about 180 years until 2006 when sadly, it was poisoned by an unknown culprit.

The famous tree has been preserved and placed under an award-winning timber structure that was constructed to protect the preserved tree and celebrate its importance in Australia’s history. The structure is impressive during the day but when viewed at night is truly magnificent.

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DAW S O N

Highway

Clermont

EMERALD Springsure

Comet Blackwater

ROCKHAMPTON Dingo Dululu

Biloela

Rollstone Carnarvon NP Expedition NP

Mount Morgan

Moura

Banana

Isla Gorge NP

Biloela Spirit of the Land mural

Australia’s Beef Capital, Rockhampton, lies on the banks of the Fitzroy River.

Look out for the bull statues situated throughout the city celebrating the breeds grown in the area.

The city was built on wealth from colonial pastures and gold mines. That wealth is reflected in the colonial buildings along Quay Street – one of Queensland’s finest heritage precincts, crowned by the sandstone and copper dome of the Customs House. Rockhampton also boasts many famous hotels such as the Heritage and Great Western – famous for its rodeo ring.

Fish for barramundi more than a metre long in the Fitzroy River right outside the CBD. The Leichhardt Way winds its way from Rockhampton to Mount Morgan set in the pretty Dee Ranges. Once

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the largest and richest single gold mine in the world, Mount Morgan, is one of Queensland’s historical gems and is only 38 km from Rockhampton. The hum of machinery and rattling thump of explosives at the mine are long gone and in their place are a legacy of history and a spirited community. To discover Mount Morgan’s treasures, visit the Mount Morgan Visitor Information Centre where locals will share their knowledge of their town and where to stay in a number of accommodation options.

The northernmost town in the Banana Shire Dululu, 32km from Mount Morgan, is a junction point that is a launching pad to the Sandstone Wonders and perfect

place to stop, rest and make your touring plans.

The ‘rest area’ located near the tennis courts and public toilets has a sheltered BBQ and picnic area.

The cricket oval and practice nets are nearby. Behind the courts, overnight facilities, such as power and hot showers, are available for a nominal charge.

Head south 42km on the Burnett Highway until you reach Jambin. The Jambin Hotel is on the highway.

Weekends are a chance to take to the skies with a scenic glider flight. Local events at the Jambin Recreation Reserve are listed on the Sandstone Wonders website (www.sandstonewonders.com).

A nod to the early cotton pioneers, 32km north at the Dixalea-Deeford Road, Jambin Cemetery, Don River crossing, 22km north of Jambin along the highway 30km south, Jambin Biloela still retains that relaxed, country feeling.

The Queensland Heritage Park and Spirit of the Land Mural pay homage to the men, women and machinery that over generations, have created a legacy of prosperity. Rambling homesteads grace hillsides and streetscapes.

The heritage listed Greycliffe Homestead can be found on the outskirts of town. The wide verandah and quaint interior have changed little since they were first conceived.

Further out, Kilburnie Homestead still operates as a working concern, with descendants of the Campbell family continuing to make their mark. In a typical show of country hospitality, for four months each year, Kilburnie celebrates its long unbroken history, throwing the doors open for fun weekends of music and nostalgia.

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Kershaw Gardens

Many festivals and events cram the annual calendar, along with frequent exhibitions staged at the Banana Shire Regional Art Gallery. The Shire has a lively arts fraternity and the gallery proudly features the works of local artisans as well as the offerings of others from much further afield.

Callide Dam is located 12km east of Biloela, a popular spot for fisherman and families. The dam is well stocked with red claw, barramundi and more, and the recreation area offers families a great spot for a BBQ lunch with new amenities and a playground for the kids. Cabins and a camping area provide restful accommodation for those wanting to stay longer.

Banana, on the junction of the Leichhardt and Dawson Highways, 46 km west of Biloela is strangely no home to plantations of the well-known yellow fruit, instead, the town and the shire owe their name to a muchrevered bullock, Banana. In the 1850’s Moses Wafer’s now famous yellow bullock was known for mustering scrubbers (unbranded wild cattle). On his death the station, the town and the shire adopted his name. A monument celebrates the noble beast in Banana Park.

Go to the itineraries at www.driveinland.com.au to see side trips from Banana including the Banana Loop.

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Carnarvon National Park

The town and the shire owe their name to a much-revered bullock, Banana.

Moura is a central point and vibrant community for the people who serve its local industries – the farmers, growers and miners and their families that help to make Queensland great. Lying in the heart of the Dawson Valley, not far from the Dawson River, its parklands, festivals and events, river fishing and water sports attract thousands of visitors each year.

While in Moura visit the Water Tower Memorial, Miners Memorial and the Coal & Country Museum (open Wednesdays and Saturdays in peak season).

Apex River Park, on the Dawson River is 7.5 km from Moura on the Dawson Highway. The park is a hub for the community and a focal point for annual events such as the Muddy Water Family Fishing Classic and Dawson River Festival. For those who are after free camping facilities, the park has plenty of sites, a boat ramp and amenities.

Rolleston, 149km from Moura along the Dawson Highway, is in the southeast of Queensland’s Central Highlands and is the nearest town to the world-renowned Carnarvon Gorge and Carnarvon National Park. Boasting a diverse pastoral history, the township of Rolleston is also famous for the notorious Patrick and James Kenniff – Queensland’s last legendary bushrangers.

The traditional owners of the area surrounding Rolleston are the Karingal Aboriginal people who lived in the Arcadia Valley. A story from the dreaming of the Karingal mob tells of Lake Nuga Nuga, home of Mundagarri, the Rainbow Serpents who live under the two dominating peaks of the northern shoreline of the lake. The story tells that if the Rainbow Serpents are disturbed in their homes they will leave and the lakes will dry up.

European settlement came along shortly after the area was discovered by Ludwig Leichhardt. Today Rolleston lies in the centre of a rich, resourceful and productive valley, bordered by the sandstone cliffs that follow the edges of the Carnarvon, Expedition and Shotover Ranges.

Situated in a delightful valley with spectacular Mount Zamia and Virgin Rock overlooking the town, Springsure is located 66km south of Emerald on the Gregory Highway section of the Great Inland Way. If you hadn’t already guessed, the town was given its name thanks to the springs located in the creek and gullies at the time of settlement.

The Visitor Information Centre at the Federation Woolshed in Rich Memorial Park is a good place to begin your stay.

The heritage listed Hospital and museum contain many interesting relics. The old Rainworth Fort is 10km south of Springsure, its made up of the stone ‘fort’ and Cairdbeign Homestead and school. The region has several National Parks worth visiting.

Minerva Hills, Ka Ka Mundi and Salvator Rosa sections of the Carnarvon National Park.

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Emerald Botanic Gardens

Heading northwards to Emerald take the opportunity to turn off the highway and visit Fairbairn Dam and Lake Maraboon.

The lake is stocked with eight different species of fish including barramundi, saratoga, perch, bass and delicious red claw crayfish. Go boating, swimming or just relax at the picnic tables under the shade. If you’d like to spend some time here there’s a caravan park, cabins and camping area. Built in 1972 the Fairbairn Dam and Emerald Irrigation Scheme, opened up significant development and expansion of agriculture across the region. Lake Maraboon is Queensland’s second largest lake and at peak capacity holds five times the capacity of Sydney Harbour.

The primary purpose of the dam is irrigation with water supplied for cotton, citrus and horticulture.

It also assisted development of large-scale coal mining in the Bowen Basin which today produces around 80% of Queensland’s coal exports. Emerald is situated on the intersection of the Capricorn Way and the Gregory Highway section of the Great Inland Way. 32

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It is the regional centre and thriving hub for many government facilities including council, education, health and industries including mining, beef cattle, cotton, cropping, sunflowers, citrus, gemstones and tourism. It was established in 1879 as a base for building the railway.

The Botanic Gardens on the banks of the Nogoa River are a must-see. The 42 hectares of garden are on both sides of the river and include a rose garden, maze, wedding chapel, sculptures, rainforest and 6km of walking tracks.

Check out the ‘big sunflower’, building on its reputation as a major sunflower producer Emerald is home to the world’s biggest Van Gogh sunflower painting on an easel in Morton Park. Visit the Information Centre adjacent for more information.

The National Trust listed railway station built in 1900 and restored in 1986 is a must to visit and admire the ornate wrought iron lacework and pillared portico.

Look at the Capricorn Way for travel back to Rockhampton or to Barcaldine and the Outback.

Check out the ‘big sunflower’, building on its reputation as a major sunflower producer, Emerald is home to the world’s biggest Van Gogh sunflower painting on an easel in Morton Park.

DAWSON HIGHWAY

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ADVENTURE

Way

Retrace the tracks of Cobb & Co, as you traverse the unique and fascinating Adventure Way.

Charleville Roma

Wyandra

INNAMINCKA

Condamine

Dalby

Thargomindah

Moonie

Cunnamulla

St George Dirranbandi

Bitumen roads now replace the rutted tracks once taken by horse drawn coaches of all but the last 150km, enabling even those in a two-wheel drive to experience the richness of this route.

The rewards are spectacular – vivid sunrises and sunsets, night skies with millions of stars. The Adventure Way takes you from Brisbane through Toowoomba 209km to Dalby, to the outback plains, and onto South Australia. You won’t be on the road long till you understand why they call it the Adventure Way, with gut wrenching stories of spirit and tragedy.

However, don’t think venturing into the outback means a loss of civilisation. All along the route, there is fine accommodation, hearty meals, and plenty of water for hot relaxing showers provided courtesy of the Artesian Basin, the vein of life running under this stark beautiful land. You could easily accomplish the whole drive in two days but then you would miss all the exciting activities and sites along the way.

Head west on the Warrego Highway and watch the city skyline of Brisbane disappear behind you 34

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BRISBANE Toowoomba

Goondiwindi

as you enter the city that almost stole Brisbane’s capital status – Ipswich. It is not long and you are passing through the Lockyer Valley, the salad bowl of Queensland, home to top quality local producers that work hard to create unique and exciting products.

Situated adjacent to the Lockyer Valley, on the Great Dividing Range, is Toowoomba and where the Southern Queensland Country experience begins.

Here, you can slow down, breathe deep and enjoy a taste of life in the country. The Toowoomba region has a lot to offer visitors, renowned for its magnificent parks and gardens, scenic views and provider to gourmet food and wine culture. It is a region of unparalleled beauty, offering the contrasts of the seasons, the colours and characters of the countryside, rich heritage and the release from big city pressures to enjoy country pleasures.

After experiencing the Garden City, it is then time to continue along the Warrego – the next stop Dalby.

Dalby is the regional centre of the Western Downs located just over 200km west of Brisbane.

With plenty of local history and culture to experience, from Pioneer Park Museum and a local Heritage Trail

to exploring Bunya Mountains National Park, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Head 304km to St George via the Moonie Highway where you will pass Lake Broadwater Conservation Park, southwest of Dalby, and enjoy the only naturallyoccurring freshwater lake in the region.

Lake Broadwater

Bunya Mountains

Stop and explore Moonie where the area is noted for its quality grain, cattle and prime lamb production, before continuing on to St George.

From the moment you arrive to the time you leave, St George relaxes the senses in all the right ways.

Perched on the banks of the mighty Balonne River, it is the perfect base from which to explore the beautiful Balonne Shire. A star feature, the 2km stretch of shady riverbank walkway which begins below the Jack Taylor Weir, is dotted with exercise equipment and information signs on fish and bird species unique to this area. In an unassuming small brick building in the main street of town, you will find the humble emu egg carved into a stunning, illuminated piece of art at the Unique Egg. Pick up copies of the Cotton Self Drive Trail and the Heritage Trail at the Visitor Information Centre.

While away some time at the Riversands Winery or take a ride on a 1917 T Model Ford Bakery Truck.

If you are into fishing or want to explore Nindigully, Thallon, Dirranbandi, Hebel and Bollon take a look at the Southern Inland Fishing Loop (in www.driveinland.com.au Itineraries).

For the serious campers and 4WD enthusiasts, Thrushton National Park is 40km north east of Bollon and accessible via dirt roads. Situated on the banks of the Warrego River, Cunnamulla is an unexpected oasis. Boasting beautiful street scapes and activities, this picturesque country town offers something for everyone. With a diverse assortment of native flora and fauna both within the town and surrounding region, Cunnamulla, 294km west of St George, is a must-see for nature enthusiasts. The Cunnamulla bushlands, located on the eastern entrance to the town, showcases some of the areas superb eco-systems as you leisurely stroll along the 1.6km trail.

Bowra Wildlife Sanctuary, is a must-see for bird enthusiasts playing host to over 200 bird species.

After enjoying your choice of activity, whether it be bush walks, fishing, getting you photo taken with the magnificent Cunnamulla Fella Statue or a journey back in time along Cunnamulla Heritage Trail, enjoy a good coffee or bite to eat at one of the towns many cafes, restaurant or pubs.

Cunnamulla

Before you leave town make sure to call into the Artesian Time Tunnel at the Cunnamulla Fella ADVENTURE WAY

35

Lake Bindegolly

Visitor Centre to learn about the artesian basin and how essential it is to life in the outback.

Continue 67km west to the friendly town of Eulo, famous for the “Eulo Queen” and the hotel named after her. Enjoy the abundant local produce as well as shop for opal and craft.

Accommodation or camping options are behind the hotel and on the banks of the Paroo River, go bird watching, fishing, relax and enjoy the tranquillity, take in the Billabong and Granite Nature Drives. For more information on Eulo see the Discover Eulo Itinerary (in www.driveinland. com.au Itineraries).

Take a detour (73km) off the main road to visit the friendly opal town of Yowah where you can get some tips from the locals before trying you luck fossicking for your own opals.

40km east of Thargomindah is the beautiful Lake Bindegolly National Park. Only when there is local rainfall, there are three large lake systems, Lakes Hutchinson, Toomaroo and Bindegolly and an aggregation of small ephemeral lakes dominate the park’s landscape. The wetlands have diverse characteristics — being permanent or ephemeral; and fresh, brackish or saline in nature.

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The park supports large populations of eastern grey, red kangaroos, western grey kangaroos, wallaroos, dunnarts and, with more than 22 species of mammals recorded. Other fauna recorded include 40 species of reptile, 14 species of frog and 205 species of bird. Head further west to Thargomindah and drop into the Visitor Information Centre to purchase a tour pass for their self- guided, living history display of the hydro power plant, old hospital and jail.

Thargomindah, 130km west of Eulo, was the first in Australia and third in the world, to produce hydro electricity. Combine this tour with over 5km of walking trail, which includes the beautiful Bulloo River walk, and you will have enough to keep you occupied for at least three days.

It’s best to leave early on your 366km drive to Innamincka, which is just across the border in South Australia, so that you can take a short detour and stop along the way at the historic Noccundra Hotel.

Sneak off the Adventure Way just 20km on sealed road to visit and bush camp right on the Wilson River. The original hotel was built around 1860 and after burning down, was rebuilt in 1882 of sandstone quarried from Mt Pool in NSW which was transported by camel train.

Head further west to Thargomindah and drop into the Visitor Information Centre to purchase a tour pass for their self- guided, living history display of the hydro power plant, old hospital and jail.

It is the second oldest hotel in Queensland to have been continuously licensed since being built. The architecture of this building will transport you back in time to the 1800s when Noccundra was contained within the pastoral holding of Nockatunga Station and existed to provide relief for the workers and stockmen, who worked the stock route along the Wilson River.

You can book a room, a powered campsite or bush camp across the road on the Wilson River with public amenities located right next to the hotel. A large waterhole exists within the Wilson River adjacent to the Noccundra Hotel, and is referred to as the Noccundra Waterhole. South-west of Noccundra Waterhole, the course of the Wilson River spreads out, on its way across the plains. Today the Wilson River is a well-known fishing spot where Golden Perch (Yellow Belly), freshwater Catfish, Spangled and Silver Perch can be caught. Yabbies are plentiful during the winter months of May to August. The Wilson River is a tributary of Cooper Creek.

The road is sealed to Innamincka. Just prior to reaching the border, take a slight detour of 14km unsealed road to the Burke and Wills Dig Tree site. Discover the journey of Burke and Wills and experience one of Australia’s biggest ill-fated exploratory expeditions of all time by visiting Australia’s national icon, the Dig Tree.

If trees could talk, you would be mesmerised and mortified at the hardships, the miscommunication and the circumstances which lead to the death of both Burke and Wills. To truly feel and experience the story, it should only be read on site at the interpretative signage display.

Explorers Burke and Wills were the first to cross Australia from south to north and although fraught with disaster, the expedition was still deemed successful. To this day there is still mystery surrounding the story, its significance and the management of this tree is now in the safe hands of the Royal Historical Society of Queensland.

Bush camping is generously provided free of charge by the property owners of Nappa Merrie Station.

To make the most of camping on Cooper Creek, all campers should be fully self- sufficient. The Royal Historical Society of Queensland collect a small conservation and management entry fee to all vehicles. The fee of $20/vehicle and $60/bus is spread very thinly and assists in preserving the Dig Tree, the area within the fenced reserve and the ranger.

There are a number of places of interest just outside Innamincka, including the Cullyamurra Waterhole with its Aboriginal rock carvings.

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V I S I T O R I N F O R M AT I O N C E N T R E S RURAL GETAWAY

AUSTRALIA’S COUNTRY WAY

Dalby Visitor Information Thomas Jack Park Warrego Highway, Dalby QLD 4405 P: 07 4679 4461

Armidale Visitor Information 82 Marsh Street, Armidale NSW 2350 P: 02 6770 3888

Inglewood Visitor Information Elizabeth Street, Inglewood QLD 4387 P: 07 4652 0270

Biloela Visitor Information Callide Street, Biloela QLD 4715 P: 07 4992 2405 11 Exhibition Avenue, Biloela QLD 4715 P: 07 4992 2400

Jandowae Customer Service Centre 22 George Street Jandowae QLD 4410 P: 4668 4480 Millmerran Visitor Information Cnr Mary (Gore Hwy) and Edward Street, Millmerran QLD 4357 P: 07 4695 2560 Mundubbera Visitor Information Mundubbera Durong Road, Mundubbera QLD 4626 P: 1300 696 272 Texas Visitor Information 40 Flemming Street, Texas QLD 4385 P: 07 4653 1392 Warialda Visitor Information 4 Geddes Street, Warialda NSW 2402 P: 02 6729 0046 LEICHHARDT WAY Capricorn Coast Tourist Information, Ross Creek Roundabout Scenic Highway, Yeppoon QLD 4703 P: 07 4939 4888 Goondiwindi Visitor Information Centre 45 Bowen Street, Goondiwindi QLD 4390 P: 07 4671 7474 Moonie Rural Transaction Centre Corner Moonie and Leichhardt Highways, Moonie QLD 4406 P: 07 4665 0189

Cessnock Visitor Information 455 Wine Country Drive, Cessnock NSW 2325 P: 02 49936700 Gayndah Visitor Information 8 Simon Street, Gayndah QLD 4625 P: 07 4161 2226 Glen Innes Visitor Information 152 Church Street, Glen Innes NSW 2370 P: 02 6730 2400 Guyra Visitor Information New England Highway, Guyra NSW 2365 P: 02 6779 1876 Hampton Visitor Information 8623 New England Highway Hampton QLD 4352 P: 07 4697 9066 Kingaroy Visitor Information 128 Haly Street, Kingaroy QLD 4610 P: 07 4189 9555 Miles Visitor Information Miles Historical Village Museum Murilla Street, Miles QLD 4415 P: 07 4627 1492 Monto Visitor Information Lister Street, Monto QLD 4630 P: 1300 696 272 Mount Morgan Visitor Information 1 Railway Parade, Mount Morgan QLD 4714 P: 07 4938 2314 Mundubbera Visitor Information Mundubbera Durong Road, Mundubbera QLD 4626 P: 1300 696 272

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Murgon Visitor Information Lamb Street, Murgon QLD 4605 P: 07 4189 9555 Muswellbrook Visitor Information 126 Bridge Street, Muswellbrook NSW 2333 P: 02 6549 3891 Nanango Visitor Information 41 Henry Street, Nanango QLD 4615 P: 07 4189 9555 Newcastle Visitor Information 3 Honeysuckle Drive, Newcastle NSW 2300 P: 02 4929 2558 Reginald Murray Williams Australian Bush Learning Centre Burnett Highway, Eidsvold QLD 4627 P: 07 4165 7272 Rockhampton Visitor Information Tropic of Capricorn Spire, Gladstone Road, Rockhampton QLD 4700 P: 07 4936 8000 Singleton Visitor Information Centre 39 George Street, Singleton NSW 2330 P: 02 6571 5888 Stanthorpe Visitor Information 28 Leslie Parade, Stanthorpe QLD 4380 P: 07 4681 2057 Tamworth Visitor Information 2 Ringers Road (Cnr Murray Street), Tamworth NSW 2340 P: 02 6767 5300 Tara Customer Service Centre 19 Fry Street, Tara QLD 4421 P: 07 4678 7804 Taroom Visitor Information 10 Yaldwyn Street, Taroom QLD 4420 P: 07 4628 6113 Theodore Visitor Information 55A The Boulevard, Theodore QLD 4719 P: 07 4993 1900

Tenterfield Visitor Information 157 Rouse Street, Tenterfield NSW 2372 P: 02 6736 1082

Cunnamulla Fella Visitor Centre 2 Jane Street, Cunnamulla QLD 4490 P: 07 4655 8470

Toowoomba Visitor Information 86 James Street, (Warrego Highway) Toowoomba QLD 4350 P: 1800 331 155

Dalby Visitor Information Thomas Jack Park Warrego Highway, Dalby QLD 4405 P: 07 4679 4461

Wandoan Visitor Information O Sullivan Park, Zupp Road, Wandoan QLD 4419 P: 07 4627 5227

Moonie Rural Transaction Centre Corner Moonie and Leichhardt Highways, Moonie QLD 4406 P: 07 4665 0189

Warwick Visitor Information Town Hall, 72 Palmerin Street, Warwick QLD 4370 P: 07 4661 3122

Thargomindah Visitor Information Centre, 37 Dowling Street Thargomindah QLD 4492 P: 07 4621 8095

Wondai Visitor Information 80 Haly Street, Wondai QLD 4606 P: 07 4189 9555

DAWSON HIGHWAY

Barcaldine Visitor Information 149 Oak Street, Barcaldine QLD P: 07 4651 1724

Biloela Visitor Information Callide Street, Biloela QLD 4715 P: 07 4992 2405 11 Exhibition Avenue, Biloela QLD 4715 P: 07 4992 2400

Emerald Visitor Information Clermont Street, Emerald QLD 4720 P: 07 4982 4142

Emerald Visitor Information Clermont Street, Emerald QLD 4720 P: 07 4982 4142

Explore Rockhampton Visitor Information Centre 176 Gladstone Road, Rockhampton QLD 4700 P: 07 4936 8000

Explore Rockhampton Visitor Information Centre 176 Gladstone Road, Rockhampton QLD 4700 P: 07 4936 8000

Jericho Post Office 8 Darwin Street, Jericho QLD P: 07 4651 4129

Mount Morgan Visitor Information 1 Railway Parade, Mount Morgan QLD 4714 P: 07 4938 2314

CAPRICORN WAY

Rowley Roberts Tourist Information 43 Shakespeare Street, Alpha QLD P: 07 4985 1050 ADVENTURE WAY Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre 114 St George’s Terrace, St George, QLD 4487 P: 07 4620 8877

BARCALDINE REGIONAL COUNCIL

Experience Western Downs

Moura Visitor Information Centre 43 Gillespie Street, Moura QLD 4718 P: 07 4992 9500 Springsure Visitor Information Centre, Gregory Highway Springsure QLD 4722 P: 07 4984 1961

DISCLAIMER: This brochure is brought to you by Drive Inland. The information is provided as a guide only and may have been provided to Drive Inland by third parties. Irrespective of any measures taken by Drive Inland to check that the information is accurate or complete, in no event will Drive Inland be liable to any person in contract, tort (including, but without limitation, negligence) or otherwise if any information on this site is incomplete or inaccurate.

PHOTO CREDITS: Tourism & Events Queensland and participating Councils.

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES

39

AUSTRALIA’S COUNTRY WAY

LEICHHARDT WAY

RURAL GETAWAY

CAPRICORN WAY

DAWSON HIGHWAY

ADVENTURE WAY