Escape in the Scenic Rim 2022 Program

29 April – 29 May, 2022 escapeinthescenicrim.com.au

Escape

IN THE SCENIC RIM Escape in the Scenic Rim is a month long celebration of some of the most precious and spectacular areas of the world.

From 29 April to 29 May, visitors to the Scenic Rim can explore world renowned rainforests and parklands, discover diverse landscapes, get in touch with nature and challenge themselves with new experiences.

Over 100 nature and adventure-based activities will be on offer from trail runs and guided bushwalks through to hang gliding, 4WD adventures, art, meditation, yoga and more.

Escape in the Scenic Rim provides the perfect opportunity to explore our region, connect with country, learn, walk, explore and discover your next wild adventure...

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From the Mayor On behalf of Scenic Rim Regional Council, I am proud to introduce the inaugural Escape in the Scenic Rim celebration and am excited to welcome you to our stunningly beautiful and precious region.

The rim of mountains that gives our region its name was formed over 26 million years ago. A former volcanic hotspot, over the years it has evolved into a lush landscape that now features six wonderful national parks, mountains, lakes and waterfalls.

The temperate climate and rich basalt soils have proven fertile grounds for rainforests to prosper. We are a treasure trove of unique plants, animals and distinctive vegetation types. The mountains preserve living links to Australia’s ancient past, endangered and rare species can be found in our rainforests, our high-altitude beech forests and our wet eucalypt forests.

Here, natural beauty meets country charm and welcoming smiles stretch as far as the breathtaking vistas from iconic Tamborine Mountain to beautiful Lake Moogerah, rugged Mount Barney to welcoming Boonah and every breathtaking space in between.

With ancient rainforests, historic national parks, charming towns and villages, adventure parks, farm stays, craft breweries, boutique wineries, galleries, festivals, camping, glamping

and more, there’s always something new to discover. With the recent recognition of the Scenic Rim in Lonely Planet’s Top 10 destinations in the world to visit in 2022, our great outdoors is here for you to discover.

This is not a festival where you’ll experience hordes of people and the usual trappings of large events. This is an immersive experience where people can discover and relax in nature and challenge themselves physically if they choose to. We want to share this special place to inspire people to get back to the important things in life: spending time with each other, and nature. This festival will provide deeper, more meaningful and engaging experiences that will ‘feed the mind, activate the body and lift the heart’.

Get your hiking boots and sense of adventure ready!

We look forward to seeing you here!

Mayor Greg Christensen Scenic Rim Regional Council

This project received grant funding from the Australian Government.

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Program FRIDAY 29 APRIL LAMINGTON NATIONAL PARK , O’REILLYS AND VINEYARD TOUR 8:30am - 3:30pm Other Dates: Available every day of event Enjoy a scenic day tour through the Canungra Valley. Your day will begin with a relaxed drive through the valley before a brief stop in Canungra where you can purchase a hot beverage. Light refreshments will be offered before we continue our journey from the valley floor to the summit of World Heritagelisted Lamington National Park, part of the largest continuous, subtropical rainforest anywhere on earth. Upon arrival at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat your guide will explain the amazing history of O’Reilly’s including the Stinson plane crash. Experience a birds-eye view on the tree top walk consisting of nine suspension bridges 16 meters above ground, a special wildlife experience with wild King Parrots or Crimson Rosellas, and stunning views to Brisbane and the Gold Coast. When visiting the Scenic Rim, a stop at a vineyard is a must. O’Reilly’s own Canungra Valley Vineyard is set beside a mountain stream where you’ll enjoy a glass of wine and can even feed alpacas!

Cost: $198 for 2 people Address: Southern Cross Tours at various locations Info: Bookings must be made in pairs, no single bookings available. Departure and return times are approximate. Pick up location advised at time of booking.

Bookings: southerncrosstours.com.au/ lamington-national-park-tour

Please check our website for the latest updates to the Escape in the Scenic Rim program. escapeinthescenicrim.com.au

HANG ON - TANDEM HANG GLIDING 5am - 7am Other Dates: Available every day of event See more of the Scenic Rim than ever before during this once in a lifetime tandem flight experience with Australia’s most experienced HGFA certified Chief Instructor, Lisa Bradley and her experienced team. For the month of May, you can experience a 3000ft tandem hang-gliding experience for the price of 2500ft.

Cost: $350 Address: Oz Paragliding and Hang Gliding, 224 Four Mile Lane, Boyland Info: Please bring sunglasses, face mask and warm clothing. Payment on the day. Hang gliding is very weather dependent. Please set some extra days aside.

Bookings: ozparaglidingandhanggliding.com.au

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BALLOONING BEHIND THE SCENES 3am - 9am Other Dates: Available weekdays in May Don’t miss this once in a lifetime opportunity to experience a day in the life of a Balloon Pilot. See what’s involved with the ballooning industry and how the pilot sets up to create memorable experiences for guests. This behind the scenes experience will include a tour of the facilities and command centre, a review of the weather observations with our team, watch pi-balls to ascertain where we will launch from and a guaranteed pilot side position, so all your burning questions can be answered!

Cost: $450 Address: Advised on booking Info: Two people maximum per booking per day for this experience. Inclusive of levies, inflight photos (digital download) and flight certificates personally signed by your pilot.

Flight time up to an hour.

Bookings: hotair.com.au/hot-air-balloonbehind-scenes

SATURDAY 30 APRIL MT BARNEY ADVENTURES Other Dates: 1 May Mt Barney Adventures is two days of adventure activities that you can engage with in the Scenic Rim region. Challenge yourself with experiences for all ages, from beginner to advanced.

Cost: Various Address: Mt Barney Lodge, 1093 Upper Logan Rd, Mt Barney Info: Bookings essential Bookings: mtbarneylodge.com.au

AUTUMN REJUVE SPA PACKAGE 9am - 6pm Other Dates: Available Wed to Sun in May Restore balance and vitality with an Autumn Rejuve spa package at Hazelwood Estate.

In this immersive 90 minute package you will be treated to a detoxifying honey and lavender body scrub (from Hazelwood’s beehives and market garden) followed by a warming relaxation massage using a blend of local essential oils including lemon myrtle from Hazelwood and Canungra cypress pine.

Guests will also enjoy a bespoke cocktail or mocktail crafted with local botanicals in The Paddock restaurant.

Cost: $185 Address: Hazelwood Estate, 422 Binna Burra Rd, Beechmont Info: Bookings essential. Passcode will be provided for the front gates on confirmation of booking.

Bookings: hazelwoodestate.com.au/day-spa

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SUNDAY 1 MAY KOORALBYN VALLEY MTB 4HR ENDURANCE Starting at 8am Ready to make 2022 your year of EPIC mountain biking adventures? Jam-pack your calendar with action and adrenaline at the Kooralbyn MTB Endurance Series! This thrilling four-event series will take you along world-class tracks in the mountain biking mecca of Kooralbyn Valley, in Queensland’s Scenic Rim. With four-hour and six-hour enduros, our heart-thumping races have something for everyone.

New to the sport? The 4-hour and 6-hour options are sure to ramp up your appetite for competition and adventure. Ride the course as part of a team or race solo, it’s up to you.

This year, we’re also introducing a family team option at all events – because families that MTB together, stay together!

The Kooralbyn MTB Endurance Series is a fun, all-inclusive event that will push your limits.

You don’t need to be an elite rider (although we cater for you, too) – our races are open to everyone!

Cost: from $80 Address: On the Edge Events, Kooralbyn Mountain Bike Park, Kooralbyn Info: Bookings required Bookings: ontheedgeevents.com.au/ kooralbyn-mtb-endurance-series

TUESDAY 3 MAY THE LITTLE POCKET NATURE PLAY PROGRAM 9:30am - 12pm Other Dates: 10 May The Little Pocket provides a platform to encourage connection with people and place.

Through a combination of unstructured nature themed activities and play for 1-5 year olds, we learn, create, connect and respect in the beautiful setting of the Lamington National Park.

Cost: $20 Address: The Little Pocket Association, 1069 Binna Burra Rd, Beechmont Info: Bookings required. Children to come along with appropriate clothing and footwear, hat, water bottle, morning tea and lunch.

Parents to stay with children. All craft supplies included. Limited availability.

Bookings: thelittlepocket.com.au

WEDNESDAY 4 MAY GOLD COAST HINTERLAND GREAT WALK HIGHLIGHTS 3 days Make a pilgrimage to the heart of the Gondwana rainforests on one of Queensland’s long distance hiking trails. Spend three days walking the highlights of the 54km trail with the comfort of luggage transfers and walking only with a day pack. Traverse the mountains, World Heritage listed rainforest and hidden valleys of Lamington and Springbrook national parks offering stunning scenery, fresh mountain air and parklands rich in evolutionary history.

Cost: from $1,497 Address: Gold Coast pick up/drop off Info: Bookings required Bookings: parktours.com.au/escape-festivalscenic-rim

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SATURDAY 7 MAY

MONDAY 9 MAY

LADIES GLAMPING BUSH TUCKER HIGH TEA

LAMINGTON WILD WALK

10am - 4pm Other Dates: 14-15 May (2 days) Book a ladies weekend away and enjoy a glamping experience in the tranquil Scenic Rim. Enjoy a self-guided 4WD adventure followed by a glamping experience with catered high tea on the Saturday afternoon. Regroup on your day over the campfire - a great opportunity to explore, reconnect and unwind.

Cost: $500 per glamping package Address: Scenic Rim Adventure Park, 636 Tamrookum Creek Rd, Tamrookum Info: Bookings required. 4WD required.

Bedding and camping equipment provided.

Catered high tea only included. Other meals can be arranged for an additional fee.

Bookings: scenicrimadventurepark.com.au

7:30am - 5pm Other Dates: 30 May Hike the Border Track from Binna Burra to Wagawan, one of our most popular offtrack hikes. We’ll follow the trail down to the spectacular Bushrangers Cave before heading to the base of Numinbah Valley before being bus transferred back to the lodge. A challenging but rewarding guided 15km hike that will offer stunning scenery and invaluable insights into the landscape.

Cost: $279 Address: Meet at Binna Burra Tea House, Binna Burra Lodge, Beechmont Info: Price includes two experienced guides, packed lunch, extra snacks and tea, insurance, park access fees and bus transfer back to trail head. Make sure to wear a shirt with long sleeves, long trousers, gloves, gaiters and ankle supporting hiking boots. Max 10 guests.

Bookings: parktours.com.au/escape-festivalscenic-rim

Please check our website for the latest updates to the Escape in the Scenic Rim program. escapeinthescenicrim.com.au

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FRIDAY 13 MAY NATURES IMPRINT ON PAPER AND CLOTH 10am - 2:30pm Other Dates: 22 May Explore the serendipity of nature during a creative workshop with Wendi where you will be able to stitch and eco print on paper and cloth. You’ll be supplied a concertina style book and the cloth and threads to make your own ‘Natures Journal’. Learn how Wendi uses natural fibres and dying processes to reduce landfill and the impact on the environment.

Cost: $125 Address: Ecowott Nature’s Imprint, 1835 Beechmont Rd, Beechmont Info: Bookings required. Indoor/outdoor event, please wear sensible shoes and a hat.

BYO water and food (on-site cafe open).

Bookings: ecowottnaturesimprint.com

Please check our website for the latest updates to the Escape in the Scenic Rim program. escapeinthescenicrim.com.au

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TRUE NATURE MORNING 9am - 12pm Other Dates: 31 May Quiet reflection awaits with a contemplative walk with local guides and artists through the beautiful Binna Burra parklands. Nature journal your connection with country as you enjoy the company and insights of local walking guides and artists.

Cost: $89 Address: Meet at Gold Coast Great Walk Trail Head (on the saddle side) Binna Burra Info: Price includes morning tea, art materials and gentle walks.

Bookings: parktours.com.au/escape-festivalscenic-rim

SATURDAY 14 MAY BORDER TRACKS: MT LINDESAY TO RICHMOND GAP New date: 5 Sep 8am - 3:30pm Find solitude and connection, learn about our wild treasures and hear timeless stories, camping and walking over three days atop the McPherson Range. The Rabbit Board Fence threads its way through rugged country -

lyrebirds are our soundtrack to magnificent forests and superb views. Special guest: Ben Allmon (The Black and White Braid).

Cost: $1375 per person, twin share Address: Horizon Guides, Church St, Boonah Info: Bookings essential. Spaces limited to 6-9 guests. Guide plus driver. Challenging walking.

Vehicle support/carry only a day pack.

Camping and basic accommodation.

Full details on enquiry.

Bookings: horizonguides.com.au

TWO PERSPECTIVES ART MASTERCLASS @ THE CENTRE 8am - 5pm Feed your creative soul exploring the intersection of art and climate change by joining two innovative masterclasses in one day. Join exhibiting artists Nadine Schmoll (am session) and Dr Paula Payne (pm session) for their intensive masterclasses exploring environmental themes through contemporary approaches in sculptural assemblage, photography, painting and mark making.

Cost: $80 Address: The Centre, 82 Brisbane St, Beaudesert Info: Bookings required Bookings: liveatthecentre.com.au

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FAMILY OUTDOOR CONNECTIONS 2pm - 4pm Join us for this beautiful family friendly event where you can enjoy quality time together surrounded by bushlands and tranquil creeks.

Activities include interactive storytime, nature crafts and bush exploration. Parents and grandparents can enjoy relaxing by the fire with tea or coffee.

Cost: $40 per family Address: 3086 Beechmont Rd, Witheren Info: Bookings required Bookings: startingstronggc.wixsite.com/ starting-strong

EXPLORE BOONAH TO IPSWICH TRAIL 9am - 3pm

BACKPACKING ALPACAS 11am - 1:30pm Other Dates: 28 May Don’t miss this completely unique opportunity to hike with an alpaca! Starting from Mountview Alpaca Farm, the 2.5 hour guided walk will end with a country picnic along Canungra Creek for lunch. Pre-purchase a picnic hamper to enjoy on your trip!

Cost: $129 for 2 people Address: Mountview Alpaca Farm, 852 Lamington National Park Rd, Canungra Info: Bookings required. Price is ‘per alpaca’, with a maximum of 2 people per alpaca.

Minimum age 10yrs. Bring your backpack and picnic lunch (or pre-purchase a picnic hamper and wine from the vineyard). Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a hat, water and sunscreen. Drinks and heavy items can be taken via courtesy vehicle.

Bookings: mountviewfarm.com.au/booknow

POSTPONED Throw on your hiking boots and immerse yourself in beautiful scenery as you tackle this six hour guided walk. Led by an experienced Bushwalking Queensland Guide, you will explore the original 17km stock route along Wyaralong Dam to Boonah.

Cost: $5 Address: 8am at Boonah Information Centre for a car pool option, or 9am at Lillybrook Camping Area (Western Trail Head).

Info: Wear appropriate clothing and sturdy hiking boots. BYO snacks, water and lunch.

Max 20 people.

Bookings: bushwalkqld.wordpress.com/ escape-in-the-scenic-rim Please check our website for the latest updates to the Escape in the Scenic Rim program.

Photo: Spicers Scenic Rim Trail

escapeinthescenicrim.com.au

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TASTE OF THE SPICERS SCENIC RIM TRAIL

SUNDAY 15 MAY QUEENSLAND MOTO PARK MINIKHANA COME AND TRY DAY 8am - 12pm Have a tiny would-be rider in your family?

Minikhana ‘Come and Try’ days are a great introduction for junior riders, offering a fun, low risk introduction into motorcycle sport.

Cost: FREE Address: Qld Moto Park, 110 Goan Rd, Coulson Info: Bookings essential. Participants need to bring bike and riding gear including long pants, long sleeved shirt, boots and helmet.

Bookings: qldmotopark.com.au

RAMPARTS LAGOON WALK 9am - 3pm

POSTPONED Join an experienced Bushwalking Queensland Guide as you explore a new track to Ramparts Lagoon. The moderate 20km walk follows a road easement through farmland to the base of Main Range. Enjoy a picnic at the large lagoon before returning via the same trail.

Cost: $5 Info: Meet at Aratula Roadside Rest Area, 6744 Cunningham Highway (for car pool option), opposite Arthur Clive Bakery, Aratula.

Info: Wear appropriate clothing and sturdy walking boots. Walks are along road verges.

BYO snacks, water and lunch. Max 20 people.

Bookings: bushwalkqld.wordpress.com/ escape-in-the-scenic-rim

NATURE BASED INTERACTIVE STORY TELLING WORKSHOP 10am - 12pm This special outdoor workshop teaches how to blend storytime for children into an outdoor and nature based sensory immersive experience. Facilitated by Starting Strong, the session is designed for parents and early educators who will receive a certificate and resources to create nature-based story telling in their homes and child care centers upon completion.

Cost: $30 per person Address: 3086 Beechmont Rd, Witheren Info: Bookings required Bookings: startingstronggc.wixsite.com/ starting-strong

Starting at 10am (2 days) Indulge in the flavours of the Spicers Scenic Rim Trail with this exclusive 1 day/1 night event. Enjoy a guided full day hike on Spicers’ private land before arriving at glamping style Spicers Canopy Luxury Tents for an all inclusive stay. With the mountains as your backdrop and walking trails at your feet this tasteful test might inspire you to book a longer multi-day hiking tour in the future.

Cost: $1,490 Address: Spicers Scenic Rim Trail, 1095 South Branch Rd, Tregony Info: Come dressed ready for hiking. A backpack with lunchbox and water bottles will be provided. Guests will enjoy a 5km guided hike. All meals included. Glamping style tents with shared bathroom facilities.

Bookings: scenicrimtrail.com/escape-festival

FRIDAY 20 MAY THE ICONIC STINSON WALK 20-22 May (2 days) Recount Australian history and celebrate the life of Bernard O’Reilly, who heroically saved the lives of two plane crash survivors 85 years ago in Lamington National Park. This guided hike will see you explore stunning landscapes surrounded by the incredibly diverse and wonderful flora and fauna of Lamington National Park. Enjoy celebratory drinks and snacks after your hike!

Cost: $399 Address: O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat Info: Includes dinner and breakfast for two days, guided hike including transfers, packed lunch, training guidance from an O’Reilly’s guide prior to walk, celebratory drinks and snacks at the end of the walk at Christmas Creek. Transfer back to O’Reilly’s.

Accommodation additional.

Bookings: oreillys.com.au

Tourism & Events Queensland

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The Great Escarpment Trail Ickkaybin Section Bushwalking Queensland is excited to introduce walkers to the Queensland section of the ‘in development’ brand new Great Escarpment Trail (GET). Over three separate days, participants will explore the Ickkaybin Section (Boonah Border Gate to Boonah) of GET. The trail is being developed in conjunction with Bushwalking New South Wales and will provide an outstanding recreation opportunity to explore the World Heritage Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, culture, history, and much more, stretching 1300km from between Barrington Tops National Park in New South Wales and Boonah in Queensland.

SATURDAY 21 MAY

SUNDAY 22 MAY

BOONAH BORDER GATE TO TEVIOT BROOK CROSSING

TEVIOT BROOK CROSSING TO MOUNT ALFORD

8am - 4pm Discover the first Queensland section of the Great Escarpment Trail with this unique opportunity to explore the culture, history and scenery of the World Heritage Gondwana Rainforests of Australia. Join an experienced guide from Bushwalking Queensland as you head down Carneys Creek Road to Fletchers Road with a side stop at Tinys Lookout.

Return to Carneys Creek Road and continue along the 13.8km trail to Teviot Brook Crossing.

Cost: $5 Address: Bushwalking Queensland Info: Meet at Boonah Visitor Information Centre and car pool to Teviot Brook Crossing.

Drop off some cars and drive the rest of the cars to the Boonah Border Gate. Wear appropriate clothing and sturdy hiking boots.

BYO snacks, water and lunch. Max 20 people.

8am - 4pm Let your discovery of the Great Escarpment Trail continue with this guided 16.5km moderate walk to Dwyers Ridge Rd and on to Mount Alford.

Cost: $5 Address: Bushwalking Queensland Info: Meet at Boonah Visitor Information Centre and car pool to Mount Alford. Drop off some cars and drive the rest of the cars to the Teviot Brook crossing. Wear appropriate clothing and sturdy walking boots. Walks are along the road and its verges. BYO snacks, water and lunch. Max 20 people.

Bookings

bushwalkqld.wordpress.com/ escape-in-the-scenic-rim

SATURDAY 28 MAY MOUNT ALFORD TO BOONAH 8am - 4pm The final stretch of the Great Escarpment Trail runs alongside farmlands and rolling hills between Mount Alford and Boonah including the Dugandan pathway. This 14.9km guided trail offers a moderate walk with a diversity of scenery.

Cost: $5 Address: Bushwalking Queensland Info: Meet at Boonah Visitor Information Centre and car pool to Mount Alford. Wear appropriate clothing and sturdy walking boots. Walks are along the road and its verges.

BYO snacks, water and lunch. Max 20 people.

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SATURDAY 21 MAY

Address: Qld Moto Park, 110 Goan Rd, Coulson Info: Bookings required Bookings: qldmotopark.com.au

LADIES 4WD DRIVER AWARENESS COURSE

REGENERATION - CREATIVE BUSHFIRE RECOVERY PROJECT

8am - 3pm Ladies, would you like to feel confident behind the wheel when navigating 4WD terrain? This awareness course has been established just for women and includes theory, practical driving with qualified instructors and a lovely outback lunch.

Cost: from $120 -$170 Address: Scenic Rim Adventure Park, 636 Tamrookum Creek Rd, Tamrookum Info: Must have own 4WD or be a passenger with a participating driver.

Bookings: scenicrimadventurepark.com.au

NURTURE IN NATURE: WOMEN’S RETREAT POSTPONED 8am - 4pm Reduce stress, anxiety and tension while gently rediscovering your authentic sense of self. Engage in creative activities, meditation, mindfulness and laughter yoga. Learn how to embrace relaxation, serenity and purpose as you nourish your mind and re-energise your body and soul. Surrounded by nature and fully catered for, take advantage of this retreat to reward and renew yourself.

Cost: $190 Address: The Retreat Space, Cedar Creek Lodges, Tamborine Mountain Info: Wear comfortable clothing and bring your yoga mat/cushion to sit on. Morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea provided.

Bookings: eventbrite.com.au/e/nature-innature-womens-retreat-relax-renew-and-reenergise-tickets-266509937397

Starting at 11am Join us for the launch of the book and documentary Regeneration. The Regeneration publication is a collection of local stories and artworks in response to the Black Summer bushfires. The documentary, created by local film maker Scott Chrisman, explores how art and creativity plays an important role in community recovery and regeneration. This event will honour our stories of community resilience and recovery.

Cost: Free Address: The Centre, 82 Brisbane St, Beaudesert Info: The event will hear from creative contributors and the Regeneration team.

There will also be conversation around the role art and creativity can play in community recovery post-natural disaster.

Bookings: liveatthecentre.com.au

Please check our website for the latest updates to the Escape in the Scenic Rim program. escapeinthescenicrim.com.au

QUEENSLAND MOTO PARK FREE COACHING MORNING 9am - 11am Love motorcross? Bring your bike to Queensland Moto Park for a free coaching morning. Riders will have access to the park before and after the session allowing you to put your coaching tips and tricks to the test!

Cost: FREE

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SUNDAY 22 MAY A TASTE OF HIDDEN VALE

Starting at 10am Encounter a timeless bush walk journey through Thunderbird Park’s natural beauty in a storybook like setting. Located on Tamborine Mountain, enjoy crisp clean air and huge trees weighed down with native hoyas, wisteria and other floral species all adding to the irresistible allure of Thunderbird Park.

From high plateaus to tumbling waterfalls, virgin rainforests to natural Australian bush lands, bushwalkers will enjoy a limitless variety of vegetation. Thunderbird Park has wallabies and platypus in the wild as well as an endless array of Australian birdlife.

The track runs parallel to Cedar Creek, with natural, glistening swimming rock pools that cascade down to Cedar Creek Falls. Join this exclusive guided tour, followed by a rainforest picnic. Make sure to pack your swimmers – the crystal clear rockpools are calling!

Cost: $59 Address: Thunderbird Park, Corner Cedar Creek Falls Rd, Tamborine Mountain Info: Comfortable clothing recommended.

Enclosed footwear essential. Backpack supplied with essential items including drinking water.

Bookings: thunderbirdpark.com/cedar-creekforest-trail.html

Tourism & Events Queensland

9am - 4pm Explore the beauty of stunning Spicers Hidden Vale, over 12,000 acres dotted with a network of scenic trails. Your ‘Taste of Hidden Vale’ adventure will involve a property tour of the Hidden Vale Adventure Park, a guided hike around the property’s billabong with a focus on our Wild Life Centre’s regeneration project and options for forest bathing rounded off with an ethereal tour through the property’s dedicated kitchen garden. The final element of the day includes a roaming grazing experience showcasing locally sourced products with paired wines at each station.

Cost: $240 includes 3 activities and Barn Tasting station, lunch with paired wines Address: Spicers Hidden Vale, 617 Grandchester Mount Mort Rd, Grandchester Info: Limited spots available for selected activities. See accommodation packages for further details.

Bookings: spicersretreats.com/events/a-tasteof-hidden-vale

CEDAR CREEK FOREST TRAIL

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MONDAY 23 MAY SCENIC RIM WALKS & BACKROADS POSTPONED

ART AT WORENDO IN THE LOST WORLD VALLEY New date: 25 - 27 November 9am - 3pm (2 days) Enjoy a two day immersive art workshop in the heartland of the Lost World Valley. Artist and teacher Glynn Kelly will guide you in learning the basics of drawing, ink and water colour technique. For beginners or those wishing to develop their practice, you will be so thrilled with the images you create. Take some time out to breathe in the gloriously wild Scenic Rim! Cost: $895 Address: Horizon Guides, Worendo Homestead, Darlington Info: Prices per person twin share. Easy walks.

No art experience necessary. Accommodation, meals and materials included.

Bookings: horizonguides.com.au

THE BEST OF BINNA BURRA – SCENIC RIM ESCAPE 22-24 May (3 days) Explore the very best that Binna Burra has to offer with this three day handpicked, hands on experience package on top of the world at Binna Burra Lodge. Take part in wondrous waterfall hikes, unforgettable group activities and delicious locally sourced meals to match.

Cost: Guided walks from $75 per person Address: Binna Burra Lodge, Binna Burra Rd, Lamington National Park Info: Price includes morning tea and lunch. Bring hiking gear, warm clothes, enclosed shoes, rain jackets, water bottles and backpack. Price does not include accommodation. See accommodation deals.

Bookings: binnaburralodge.com.au/escapein-the-scenic-rim

New date: 25-29 July (5 days) Starting at Binna Burra, then through O’Reillys and the Lost World Valley and finishing at Mt Barney National Park, this exclusive five day journey takes you back in time. Follow Arthur Groom’s footsteps on half and full day walks in Queensland’s Gondwana Rainforests and see his aspirations and vision realised in World Heritage listed national parks and local community experiences.

Cost: from $2,490 Address: Binna Burra Lodge, Binna Burra Rd, Lamington National Park Info: Bookings required Bookings: parktours.com.au/escape-festivalscenic-rim

FRIDAY 27 MAY WILD FILM FESTIVAL 7pm - 9pm Other Dates: 28 May - 10am, 1pm and 7pm Wild Film Festival is a collection of incredible stories to celebrate WILD Magazine’s 40th anniversary. This special film festival features films carefully curated around the themes of “wild”, celebrating not just Wild Magazine but wild places across Australia and its adventurous community (some from New Zealand too). Many of the films featured in the festival were made by contributors to WILD magazine and focus on its core themes: Adventure - Wilderness - Conservation.

Exclusive to the Scenic Rim as part of the Escape program, join us Friday night for the film festival and very special guest speaker!

Additional screenings on Saturday also.

Cost: Adult $10, Concession/Student $7.50 Address: Boonah Cultural Centre, 3 High St, Boonah Bookings: liveatthecentre.com.au

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SATURDAY 28 MAY BACK TO NATURE GETAWAY 7am - 6pm Gather your friends, family and the kids to have fun together in a self-guided scavenger hunt in your 4WD! Grab pre-booked camp oven ingredients for you to cook dinner back at camp and get toasty while you roast some marshmallows over the campfire.

Cost: from $250 per family Address: Scenic Rim Adventure Park, 636 Tamrookum Creek Rd, Tamrookum Info: Additional numbers and camping can be arranged.

Bookings: scenicrimadventurepark.com.au

THE ESCAPE RAID 8am - 4pm, 28 - 29 May (2 days) The Escape Raid is a two day wilderness navigational festival. Teams of two to five competitors can choose one or more of three stages of hiking, kayaking and/or mountain biking in the area, navigating a wilderness course with map and compass and camping in between. Strategy, navigation, fitness and a love of adventure rise to the fore in this exciting wilderness challenge!

Cost: from $80 Address: The Overflow Estate, 1660 Beaudesert-Boonah Rd Beaudesert Bookings: raidadventures.com

SUNDAY 29 MAY THE LOST WORLD TRAIL FESTIVAL 6:30am - 12pm The Lost World is a small pocket of the Scenic Rim which is fast becoming known for its trail running events. Nestled at the foothills of the World Heritage listed Lamington National Park, the Lost World Valley is enveloped by a cauldron of mountains boasting spectacular scenery. Take the 7km, 14km or 20km challenge across a combination of roads, smooth trails, rocky terrain, hills and a bridge and creek crossing with stunning views across all trail options.

Cost: $47-$70 Address: Worendo Cottages, 3161 Kerry Rd, Darlington Contact: lostworldtrailfestival.com.au

Please check our website for the latest updates to the Escape in the Scenic Rim program. escapeinthescenicrim.com.au

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SATURDAY 2 APRIL LAND & SEA EXHIBITION Explore climate change at the ‘Land & Sea’ exhibition at The Centre, Beaudesert. This thought provoking event features two exhibiting artists exploring the many facets of human activity and the impact upon our land and marine scapes. In the Landskins exhibition, Dr Paula Payne’s series of large-scale paintings are infused with her responses to research about climate change. The ‘Water Worlds Exhibition’ by Nadine Schmoll explores the impact of plastic waste and climate change through photography and augmented reality.

Cost: Free Address: The Centre, 82 Brisbane St, Beaudesert Info: Gallery Hours: Tue-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat 10am2pm. Closed public holidays + Easter weekend.

Bookings: liveatthecentre.com.au

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Unforget able Experiences

Scenic Rim

SATURDAY 7 MAY ARTS IN THE OLIVES 9am - till late After a five year hiatus, Arts in the Olives returns bolder and brighter than ever. Over two days there will be arts workshops and demonstrations, artisan stalls, a music program, free children’s workshops, art gallery and food trucks featuring international gourmet food.

Saturday evening will be a highlight as the sun sets over the ranges.

Cost: $50 Half Day, $100 Full Day + materials.

Children’s workshop FREE. Arts Dinner FREE (registration essential).

Address: Olive View Estate, 58 Kulgun Rd, Kulgun Info: Bookings for workshops essential.

Bookings: badcap.org

SATURDAY 28 MAY DUST HUSTLE 8am - 4pm Dust Hustle events are amusing and inappropriate motorcycle dirt track days. They’re less serious, more fun, ride anything events that include everyone from new riders to ex-GP pros.

Cost: Spectators $10, kids u16 FREE Address: Queensland Moto Park, 110 Goan Rd, Coulson

Bookings: dusthustle.com

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Stay & Play Camping, glamping, lodges and retreats, there’s accommodation for all budgets and tastes in the Scenic Rim.

CAMPING & GLAMPING Unhitch the caravan or roll out the tent pegs with a camping or glamping experience in the Scenic Rim. There are many different sites and experiences on offer from dam-side camping to escarpment glamping with powered and nonpowered options available.

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MOUNTAIN LODGES Fall in love with stunning views, cosy cabins, open fireplaces and romantic mountain lodges offering guests easy access to the Scenic Rim’s natural wonderlands.

BED & BREAKFASTS The Scenic Rim is home to many bed and breakfast experiences and hosts rich with local knowledge including the best places to eat, natural nooks not to be missed and what to see and do while you are in the region.

FAMILY ESCAPES Enjoy a unique rural escape with the many lodges, retreats and farmstays on offer in the Scenic Rim. Your children will love the freedom and sense of space as they explore our bushlands, splash in a dam, feed animals and enjoy our pure skylines, far away from city lights.

Check out visitscenicrim.com.au to find out more about accommodation in the region.

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Accommodation Packages Enjoy these exclusive accommodation offers for Escape In the Scenic Rim.

OLIVE VIEW ESTATE Stay two nights and receive a complimentary artisan grazing board with selected local produce. $190 per night for two guests.

Bookings: grovecottageboonah.com.au

BARNEY CREEK COTTAGES Stay two nights and receive a complimentary breakfast hamper for two people (valued at $60).

Stay three nights and receive a complimentary breakfast hamper for two people and a bottle of wine (valued at $95).

To claim this deal, book via the website. Use the code Escape22 in the guests comments section, and your complimentary breakfast hamper and wine will be added to your booking on confirmation.

Bookings: barneycreekcottages.com Terms and conditions: To be eligible for a package, stay must be from Sunday-Thursday nights. Friday and Saturday nights not included.

Items in breakfast hamper may change subject to item availability. Bottle of wine is the guest’s choice. Excludes fortified wine. Subject to availability, blackout dates apply, non-refundable and 100% pre-paid.

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THE OLD CHURCH BED AND BREAKFAST Tourism & Events Queensland

Stay three nights midweek (Monday to Thursday) for the price of two.

From $370. Use code ‘escape’ when booking.

Bookings: oldchurchbnb.com.au Terms and conditions: Excludes weekends (Friday to Sunday).

BINNA BURRA LODGE Sky Lodge Studio $220 per night for two guests or $660 for a three night package.

Safari Tent $70 per night (max six guests) or $210 for a three-night stay.

HAZELWOOD ESTATE Stay two nights from $1,769 for two people in a King Farm Cabin.

Stay three nights from $2,269 for two people in a King Farm Cabin.

Campsite $20 per night (max four guests) or $60 for a four-night stay.

Bookings: binnaburralodge.com. au/escape-in-the-scenic-rim Terms and conditions apply: Please contact Binna Burra Lodge for more details.

Offer includes complimentary breakfast daily, Spa by Hazelwood ‘Autumn Rejuve’ 90-min spa package (includes detoxifying honey and lavender body scrub, relaxation massage and crafted cocktail or mocktail for two) and a gourmet picnic hamper for two.

Bookings: hazelwoodestate.com.au Terms and conditions: Selected travel dates 29 April to 29 May 2022, Wed to Sun only.

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THE GRANARY & GROVE Immerse yourself in nature – stay in The Granary’s olive grove planted with 1,100 olive trees. This boutique space has been restored into quaint heritage accommodation and styled on the principles of a bygone era.

Tourism & Events Queensland

Enjoy 10% off for two or three night stays - $330 per night.

Upgrade with a local wine and grazing platter for two for $90 or a private yoga session for two for $90 per hour with Mahbhuta.

Bookings: the-granary.com.au

SPICERS HIDDEN VALE Special accommodation rate for two to experience Spicers Hidden Vale.

Includes Barn Grazing Lunch, three property activities, a selection of pre-dinner drinks, a six-course tasting menu with Homage Executive Chef Ash Martin, stargazing and port plus a breakfast for two. $1,800 per couple and $1,295 per single.

Terms and conditions: 1 night stay. Limited availability for selected activities.

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Named in Lonely Planet’s Best In Travel 2022, Top 10 Regions, the vast Scenic Rim region covers more than 4,000 square kilometres of lush rainforests and spectacular landscapes, six national parks, World Heritage listed Gondwana rainforests, fertile agricultural lands and a host of food and nature based experiences.

The Gondwana rainforests of Australia are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Area.

Over 180 million years in the making, Gondwana was originally the ancient southern continent that included Australasia, Africa and South America. When Australia broke away from the Gondwanan continent, many of the rainforests warmed and dried up but there still exists an extensive sub-tropical rainforest nestled amongst the Queensland and New South Wales border.

Now protected areas known as Lamington, Springbrook, Mt Barney and Main Range national parks, the lush parks are rich in unique scenery, wildlife and evolutionary history.

Stunning..l. ly Natura Did you know • The Gondwana rainforests of Australia hold half of Australia’s plant species.

• Over 200 species of rare or threatened plant and animal species can be found in the parklands.

• The parks are home to a number of stunning waterfalls including Moran Falls and Coomera Falls.

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The Scenic Rim is the perfect playground for visitors seeking out adventure-based experiences.

SADDLE UP Explore the Scenic Rim on horseback. Bring your own horses and explore the region or book in for a trail ride at a Scenic Rim farmstay.

MAKE A SPLASH The Scenic Rim is home to a wide network of dams, streams and stunning waterholes ripe for swimming and water sport adventures.

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK HIGH IN THE SKY See the stunning Scenic Rim from the best vantage point with an early morning hot air balloon ride or an unforgettable flying experience in a glider, light plane or hang glider.

Take the track less travelled with a 4WD adventure through the Scenic Rim. The region is a haven for offroaders, with a number of dedicated facilities and trails to test you and your vehicle.

ON YOUR BIKE Road bikes, mountain bikes or motor bikes are well catered for in the Scenic Rim. Tackle one of our many mountain bike trails, explore the QLD Moto Park near Wyaralong or enjoy the spectacular scenery and country roads of our region.

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Escape in the Scenic Rim acknowledges and respects the traditional ‘First Nations’ people of this mountain area. The Yugambeh carefully managed and made use of the area’s rich natural resources.

Acknowledging the Yugambeh Peoples The region from the Logan River in the north, south to the Tweed River and west to the mountain range, is the traditional homeland of the Yugambeh Peoples.

The Land described is also known to the Yugambeh Peoples as the Land of Five Rivers.

First Nations people lived in this area, carefully managing and using its rich natural resources for thousands of years. Known as ‘Woonoongoora’ in the Yugambeh language, the mountains of Lamington National Park are sacred and spiritual places to be nurtured and respected.

The Yugambeh family groups are identified as the Wangerriburra, Birinburra, Gugingin, Migunberri, Mununjali, Bollongin, Minjungbal and Kombumerri. They share language, ceremonies, celebrations and economic exchange. This kinship group used both the open forest and rainforest.

Evidence of their occupation has been found in various parts of the park, including the ‘Kweebani’ (cooking) cave near Binna Burra.

It is believed a traditional pathway passed through the southern section of Lamington National Park.

Escape in the Scenic Rim also recognises those whose ongoing effort to protect and promote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures will leave a lasting legacy for future Elders and leaders.

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Getting Here The Scenic Rim is easily accessed from Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Toowoomba, Ipswich and Northern New south wales.

The region is an easy one hour’s drive from Brisbane city and the Gold Coast.

Daily flights leave both the Brisbane and Gold Coast airports and helicopter charter flights are available to some of the Scenic Rim’s most picturesque locations.

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Photo: Adventure Ambassador Sophie Baird by Adam Head

escapeinthescenicrim.com.au #escapeinthescenicrim | @visitscenicrim