Southern Queensland Country 2013/14

Southern Queensland Country 2013/14 Travellers' Guide

Enjoying a long lunch,

Yangan

Toowoomba and Darling Downs | South Burnett | Southern Downs and Granite Belt Goondiwindi and surrounds | St George and surrounds | Roma and surrounds | Dalby and surrounds

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

www.granitebeltwinecountry.com.au 1800 SO COOL

GBWC

be inform ed

Download the Official 2013 Visitor Guide App on Facebook, iPhone, iPad & Android devices.

Just search for ‘Granite Belt’ in the App store

be inform ed

be elevated

be elevate d

Torres Strait GREAT R B A R R I E

DARWIN

Driving Information

Gulf of Carpentaria

R

E

E F

For road condition reports visit: www.131940.qld.gov.au and www.racq.com.au

Cape York Peninsula

For more Queensland information visit: www.queenslandholidays.com.au

Port Douglas

Cairns

Travelling Distances (KM)

Mackay

Tobermorey DO NO H

Queens land UE H

Hamilton Island Conway NP

WY

Y

NT

Airlie Beach Proserpine

Mount Isa

HW

PLE

Alice Springs DESTINATIONS within queensland Brisbane to Toowoomba............................ 125 Brisbane to Warwick...................................... 154 Brisbane to Kingaroy......................................211 Brisbane to Stanthorpe............................... 214 Brisbane to Goondiwindi..........................349 Brisbane to Roma............................................ 475

Townsville

PA C I F I C

Major Cities Into Brisbane Sydney to Brisbane via Pacific Highway.......................................928 Sydney to Brisbane via New England Highway.......................973 Sydney to Brisbane via Newell Highway.....................................1254 N o rthe rn Melbourne to Brisbane via Newell Highway......................................1674 Te rri to r y Adelaide to Brisbane via Barrier Highway/ Newell Highway.............................................2100 Y HWY

Rockhampton

TROPIC OF CAPRICORN

Longreach

TROPIC OF CAPRICORN

Gladstone Bundaberg

Carnarvon NP Expedition NP

Fraser Island

Hervey Bay

Injune Roma

Charleville

Sou th Aus tra l ia

Mitchell

Dalby

Innamincka

Stanthorpe to Kingaroy............................306 St George to Emerald...................................598 Goondiwindi to Rockhampton (Leichhardt Hwy).............................................696

Noosa Maroochydore

Kingaroy

Miles Moonie

St George

BRISBANE

Toowoomba Warwick

Cunnamulla

Gold Coast

Goondiwindi

E LL

HW

Y

Stanthorpe Main Range NP Mt Barney NP

Moree

Grafton Y

NEW

Marree

IFIC

Port Macquarie

PA C

Dubbo

N ew Sou th Wa les

LL

H

W

Aus tra l ian Cap i ta l Te rri to r y

SYDNEY

WE

AY KI D MAN W

Newcastle Y

NE

Port Augusta

Y

Tamworth

HW

AN

W

Coffs Harbour

H

N EW E

NGL

D

ADELAIDE CANBERRA

Victo ria

LEGEND International Airports Domestic Airports Train Routes Touring Routes Adventure Way Great Inland Way (A7 & A55) Australia’s Country Way (A3) Warrego Highway (A2)

MELBOURNE

Leichhardt Highway The Gore Highway The Cunningham Highway

CONTENTS Map

2

Calendar of Events 2013/14

20

St George and surrounds

74

Getting Here and Around

4

Golfing

24

• Take a country drive

77

Follow a Highway

5

Toowoomba and surrounds

26

• Take a country drive

40

Welcome to Southern Queensland Country

6

Markets

10

Nature at her best

12

Helpful apps

14

National Parks

16

The South Burnett • Take a country drive

42 53

Roma and surrounds • Take a country drive Dalby and surrounds • Take a country drive

80 86 88 92

54

Ask a local

102

• Take a country drive

64

Travel Directory

104

Goondiwindi and surrounds

66

Southern Downs and Granite Belt

Acknowledgements: Toowoomba Regional Council, Southern Downs Regional Council, South Burnett Regional Council, Goondiwindi Regional Council, Balonne Shire Council, Maranoa Regional Council, Western Downs Regional Council and Tourism and Events Queensland. Some images courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland, Dan Proud Photography, Cory Rossiter Photography, Granite Belt Wine Tourism, Department of National Parks, Recreation, Sport and Racing, Robert Ashdown, Karen Smith, Fiona Stone Photography, Hampton Food and Arts Festival, Sarah Whyte Photography and Hand Made in Country. Southern Queensland Country Tourism has compiled and developed this publication in the interests of fostering and developing tourism in Queensland. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of Southern Queensland Country Tourism. Every effort has been made to ensure the information contained in this publication is true and correct at the time of publication. The publishers accept no responsibility or liability for the information contained in advertisements or editorial. This publication is not produced or licensed to third parties for sale. Published by Southern Queensland Country Tourism (March 2013 © Southern Queensland Country Tourism 2013).

Carnarvon NP

Nuga Nuga NP Lake Nuga Nuga

Carnarvon Gorge

Mt Moffatt

Isla Gorge NP

Cracow

Robinson Gorge Lonesome Section Expedition NP

Precipice NP

Rockybar

Expedition NP

Taroom Lei chha

Womblebank

rd t H i g h w a y

INJUNE Forest Vale G re

at

WANDOAN

Inl

and

Guluguba

Wa y

Chesterton Range NP

MITCHELL Mungalla

Muckadilla Amby

Wallumbilla

Wa r r e g o H i g h w a y

ROMA

Jackson

Yuleba

Drillham

MILES

Columboola

Dulacca

CHINCHILLA

Condamine

SURAT

Wa

y

Hannaford nd

Meandarra

H ig hway

Glenmorgan

TARA

The Gums

Great

Inla

Kogan

Leichh a rdt

WESTERN DOWNS

Mo

Thrushton NP

o

H nie

igh

way

Moonie Southwood NP

Westmar Boolba

Grea

t In

lan

dW

ay

BOLLON

G

Alton NP

ST GEORGE

B a r wo n

Nindigully

Highw

ay

Toobeah

Weengallon Talwood

Dirranbandi

GOONDIWINDI

Thallon C a r n a r vo n H

2

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

C a r n a r vo n H i g hw

Moree ay

Ne

Mungindi

we

ll H

igh

wa

y

y

ighwa

Hebel

Moree

Great Sandy NP ntr y W

Biggenden

rne

RI

ER

RE

EF

Hig

Mount Walsh NP

hw ay)

Gayndah Gayndah

DARWIN

MARYBOROUGH

tt

Mundubbera

Woowoonga NP

Bu

R BA

ay (

GREAT

A u s t r a l i a ’s C o u

Poona NP

SOUTHERN QUEENSLAND COUNTRY

QUEENSLAND

AUSTRALIA PERTH

BRISBANE

CANBERRA SYDNEY

ADELAIDE MELBOURNE

HOBART

Nangur NP

(Br

uce

GYMPIE

Hi gh y)

Lake Barambah Cherbourg NP

Eumundi

KINGAROY

Jandowae

go

Hig

Yarraman Bell

hw

Maleny Blackbutt D ’A g u i l a r H i

ghw

Cooyar

Macalister

Kilcoy

ay

Kingsthorpe

Lake Wivenhoe

Wynnum

High

way

g l a n d H i g hway

ore

Cambooya

Millmerran

GATTON

Ne w En

G

SOUTHERN DOWNS & G R A N I T E B E LT

BOONAH

Ballandean

Lake Moogerah

Nerang

Mt Barney NP

Coolangatta Tweed Heads Springbrook

Lin

Mt Clunie NP

Mo

un

t

Lamington NP Border Ranges NP

Tooloom NP

Maryland NP Captains

The Summit Creek NP

Yabbra NP

Surfers Paradise

Mudgeeraba

ighw

Main Range NP

Killarney

STANTHORPE Glen Aplin

South Stradbroke Island

Tamborine

WARWICK

Dalveen

North Stradbroke Island Southern Moreton Bay Islands NP

Beaudesert

Yangan

Thulimbah

Blue Lake NP

Warrill View

Allora

nin Cun g h a m H i g hway

Coolmunda Dam

hway

Beenleigh

Clifton

Leyburn

BRISBANE IPSWICH

Main Range NP

TEXAS

Lake Samsonvale

D’Aguilar Range NP

Wa r r e g o H i g

Pittsworth

INGLEWOOD

Moreton Island

Highfields

TOOWOOMBA

g hway e Hi

Cape Moreton

Moreton Island NP

Cressbrook ESK Crows Nest NP Ravensbourne NP

Hampton

Oakey

Cecil Plains

Bribie Island

Caboolture

Crows Nest Lake Nest

Goombungee Jondaryan

Bribie Island NP

Somerset Dam

TOOWOOMBA & DARLING DALBY DOWNS Lake Broadwater NP

Caloundra

Landsborough

ay

rre

Maroochydore Mooloolaba

yH

Wa

Coolum Beach

Conondale NP

Bunya Tarong NP Mountains NP

Jimbour

Noosa NP

dsa

Warra

Noosa Heads

Lake Weyba

Nambour

NANANGO

Maidenwell Brigalow

Lake Cootharaba

wa

Wondai

SOUTH BURNETT

Great Sandy NP

te

Goomeri

Murgon

Rainbow Beach

Tin Can Bay

uring Rou

Kilkivan

Cloyna

Proston

Durong

Pa c i fi c Co a s t To

Woroon NP

Boondooma Lake

ay

Gor

Fraser Island

Hervey Bay

Childers

Toonumbar NP Richmond Range NP

Murwillumbah Mt Warning NP

Mooba NP

Mebbin NP Nightcap NP

Severnlea Girraween NP

Sundown NP

Bald Rock NP Basket Swamp NP

Boonoo Boonoo NP Mallanganee NP www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

3

Getting Here and Around Accessing Southern Queensland Country is easy by road, coach, rail or air.

By Road The region is well connected via highways and road networks including the Cunningham, New England, Warrego, Leichhardt, D’Aguilar, Brisbane Valley and Gore Highways, the Great Inland Way, the Adventure Way and Australia's Country Way. To plan your journey, check out our suggested itineraries (featured throughout this guide), Drive Queensland’s site www.drivequeensland.com.au or RACQ’s easy to use trip planner www.racq.com.au

between Brisbane, Toowoomba, Warwick, Stanthorpe and beyond, with connections to air, rail and local buses.

Crisps Coaches www.crisps.com.au Ph: (07) 4661 8333 Stonestreets Coaches www.stonestreets.com.au Ph: 1300 555 899 Bus Queensland www.busqld.com.au Ph: (07) 4633 1177 Greyhound Australia www.greyhound.com.au Ph: 1300 473 946

By Coach

By Rail

Coaches provide a carefree mode of transport to and around the region. Regular bus services operate

The Westlander www.queenslandrail.com.au Ph: 1800 872 467

Kooroongarra, Millmerran

This scenic journey from Brisbane travels across the Great Dividing Range to Toowoomba, through the rich farmlands of the Darling Downs and continues through the Western Downs to its final destination of Charleville.

By Air Qantas www.qantas.com.au Ph: 13 13 13 Flights daily between Brisbane and Roma.

Skytrans www.skytrans.com.au Ph: 1300 759 872 Services operate between Sydney and Toowoomba, and from Brisbane to Thargomindah via Toowoomba and St George.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT VISITING SOUTHERN QUEENSLAND COUNTRY

Nambour Distance Calculator All distances are measured in kilometres.

102 Brisbane 140 40 Ipswich 94 Surfers Paradise 182 78 205 211 188 279 Kingaroy Bunya Mountains 255 243 207 298 74 P: 1800 688 949 Dalby 48 256 208 172 279 110 southernqueenslandcountry.com.au 222 125 89 180 150 118 83 Toowoomba w ww.facebook.com/ Warwick 279 154 119 186 233 200 166 83 SouthernQueenslandCountry Stanthorpe 340 214 180 247 306 261 226 144 61 w ww.twitter.com/ 388 266 228 295 278 216 169 153 109 108 Inglewood SthnQLDCountry 521 475 440 530 340 293 267 351 433 493 427 Roma 335 290 254 345 155 107 82 166 247 308 251 186 Chinchilla 559 512 476 566 413 351 303 387 400 400 291 195 303 St George 445 349 320 387 321 259 211 223 201 200 92 342 241 202 Goondiwindi 274 209 430 Mitchell 609 564 528 618 428 381 355 439 521 581 515 88 524 585 278 286 434 178 Injune 91 519 612 567 531 622 432 384 358 442 767 718 682 772 583 535 509 593 675 736 669 242 428 437 585 329 151 Carnarvon Gorge 4

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Follow a Highway

Warrego Highway Start/Finish: Dalby – Mitchell Distance: 355km

Great Inland Way Start/Finish: Nindigully – Carnarvon Gorge Distance: 482km Highlights on this stretch of the Great Inland Way include the historic Nindigully Pub, the most western winery in Queensland (Riversands Wines), the Unique Egg (featuring hand-carved illuminated emu eggs), fantastic fishing spots, the Cobb and Co Changing Station in Surat, the Big Rig Oil Patch and Night Show and the Roma Saleyards. Before finishing your trip with an adventure through the breathtaking Carnarvon National Park, make sure to stock up on supplies in the picturesque town of Injune.

Highlights of this section of the Warrego Highway include the many insightful and informative historical places of interest including the Dalby Pioneer Park Museum, Jimbour House, the Chinchilla Historical Museum and the Miles Historical Village. Stop in at Calico Cottage at Wallumbilla and browse the arts and crafts, while further along the highway you can discover the importance and exploration of the oil and gas industry in Roma at the Big Rig. Continue on to Mitchell where you can relax in the soothing waters of the renowned Great Artesian Spa and stay awhile at the historic homestead of Bonus Downs.

Leichhardt Highway Start/Finish: Goondiwindi – Wandoan Distance: 297km

Adventure Way Start/Finish: Dalby – St George Distance: 303km Starting in Dalby, visit the Pioneer Park Museum which has a wide range of exhibits on local history, while nearby is the historic Jimbour House where you can take a stroll around the gardens and experience the grandeur of the circa 1876 house. South-west is Moonie, which features the Moonie crossroads with brilliant murals depicting the history of Moonie, the site of Australia’s first commercial oilfield.

Goondiwindi is the gateway to the Western Downs, with cotton and wheat growing alongside the beef and wool industries. Customs House Museum in Goondiwindi hosts an extensive collection of memorabilia and the Gunsynd statue and museum across the road are fine testaments to the racehorse affectionately known as the Goondiwindi Grey. Head north to Moonie and just past here make a slight detour to the towns of Meandarra and Glenmorgan. Here you can visit the Meandarra ANZAC Memorial Museum, Monty’s Garage Vintage Car Museum and the Myall Park Botanic Garden. Get back on the

Leichhardt and check out the Dogwood Crossing, Miles complex before ending up in Wandoan where you can follow the local heritage trail with 20 points of interest.

Australia’s Country Way Start/Finish: Wallangarra – Goomeri Distance: 378km Australia’s Country Way is characterised by winding roads with sweeping vistas flanked by kilometres of crops and grazing livestock, welcoming towns imbued with history, seasonal produce to savour, and stunning natural formations. Natural highlights include Main Range National Park, Queen Mary Falls, and Girraween National Park in the southern section; Crows Nest and Ravensbourne National Parks just out of Toowoomba; and The Palms and the majestic Bunya Mountains National Parks further north. Along the way there are boutique wineries and cellar doors to be discovered. Check out Stanthorpe in the south and Murgon in the north.

City highlights include historic Warwick and the sophisticated dining options of Toowoomba. Or sample bush foods, cold-pressed olive oil, the region’s prime beef and other quality produce in the South Burnett.

Savour the drive Keep your eye out for local touring itineraries throughout this Guide.

Adventure Wa y P: 07 465 5

3399 E: th argo.info@bigpond.com

BRISBA

N E T O A D E L A I D.Eu w . o w . d e ture w a

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

5

Welcome to Southern Queensland Country We’re so glad you’ve discovered our little secret – Queensland’s top country getaway destination. In our unique and very special part of the world you’ll experience a warm welcome and an opportunity to share our authentic way of life.

6

Gowrie

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Hampton Food and Arts Festival, Hampton

Here we’re blessed with four distinct seasons and breathtaking natural beauty all around. You can taste our fresh regional flavours, experience a colourful history and heritage woven into our daily lives, enjoy the laid-back comforts of country hospitality and partake in a calendar of great events that shows our true colours – unpretentious and sociable with our own style of fun.

And you won’t find strangers here…just friends you haven’t met yet! With locals as colourful as our legendary sunsets, you’ll discover a friendly place, where there’s time to take your time. Here you can slow down and re-connect with nature and with each other.

Starting just 90 minutes drive from Brisbane, the region is rich in agriculture and industry and takes in Toowoomba and the Darling Downs, the Southern Downs and Granite Belt, the South Burnett and the Western Downs – an area stretching from the border town of Goondiwindi in the south to Carnarvon Gorge in the north, from Dalby in the east to St George and Mitchell in the west.

Toowoomba offers a cosmopolitancountry vibe and all the amenities you’d expect of a regional city. You’ll also find a network of sizable towns and service centres such as Warwick, Goondiwindi, St George, Kingaroy, Dalby and Stanthorpe; as well as peaceful townships and quaint hamlets.

You’ll find a diverse range of experiences: from exploring the cultural capital of Toowoomba to marvelling at ancient Aboriginal rock art galleries in Carnarvon National Park; from fresh water fishing in wild rivers to soaking in an artesian spa on the edge of the outback; and from tasting local produce and award winning wines in the Granite Belt and the South Burnett to sitting on the fence at a thrill-a-minute country cattle sale – it’s all uniquely Southern Queensland Country and it’s all within easy reach.

Savour country life There really is time to breathe deep and savour a taste of life in the country.

There’s no rush. Do as the locals do – stop to smell the wildflowers, chat a while and take the country roads less travelled.

Here you’ll experience luxury of a different kind – quality time together and the restorative powers of nature – the essence of country life.

You can reconnect with one another and the kids can experience life off the air, maybe for the first time! They’ll forget the TV, the ipad and X-box – there’s fish to be caught, tents to pitch, koalas to spot and berries to pick!

Money can’t buy the feeling you get camping under a night sky lit by thousands of stars or the sense of ‘everything’s in its place’ when it’s

just you and your loved ones amid the sounds and smells of the bush.

The sense of history you get exploring our heritage towns is palpable too. It’s evident in the well preserved historic buildings and interactive museums, but it’s also alive and well in the heritage walks, the tours of historic sites and in colourful yarns that the locals tell.

Season by season you see nature reinvent herself – spring wildflowers burst forth, the warmth of summer and harvest time, a colourful autumn showing, clear winter skies and fresh crisp air. And there’s an abundance of fresh seasonal produce readily available.

There’s always something different to experience in Southern Queensland Country and a range of places to lay your head from camping and caravan parks to hotels and motels, country pub rooms, farm stays and self-contained cottages. There are also alternative stay areas for camping, caravans and RVs along creeks and rivers and in beautiful bush settings throughout the region. Ask a friendly local for further information when you visit our network of Visitor Information Centres.

One thing is guaranteed; time here will reinvigorate your senses and engage your soul. So what are you waiting for – come and join us in Southern Queensland Country!

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

7

Savour fresh regional flavours Southern Queensland Country is home to some of Australia’s richest farmlands which produce an abundance of fresh seasonal foods. Almost every type of fruit, vegetable and grain grows in the fertile soils here. The Darling Downs is blessed with flat plains of rich, black volcanic soils, famed for producing wheat, oilseeds, oats, fruit and legumes.

Dalby, north-west of Toowoomba, is the centre of the State’s richest wheat growing area. Further west, Chinchilla is known as Australia’s melon capital, producing the lion’s share of watermelons, rockmelons and honey dews. The cooler climate Granite Belt is famed for its apples, grapes and stonefruit, while the South Burnett also grows grapes as well as peanuts, olives and many varieties of vegetables.

Throughout the region you’ll drive along roads that crisscross farmlands and traverse winding creeks and rich pastures where beef and dairy cattle roam and graze freely. The region’s farms also run poultry, pigs, sheep and lamb stock.

It’s easy to appreciate the progression of food from the paddock to your plate here. Order what’s local and seasonal from our restaurant, café and country pub menus; visit country butchers for local eggs, chickens, lamb, beef and pork; buy just-picked goodies from roadside fruit and vegetable stalls (look out for them in the South Burnett, Dalby, Chinchilla, Stanthorpe, and the villages of the Granite Belt), and at

Southern Downs preserves

local green grocers; take your pick of produce, jams and preserves at town and country weekend markets and get a belly ache eating more than your fill on a pick-your-own-berries adventure in the Granite Belt.

offering cellar door tastings along with sweeping views across wide plains and mountain vistas. And don’t miss a wine tasting and cheese platter at Riversands, Queensland’s westernmost winery at St George.

Sample award winning wines

Southern Queensland Country Regional Flavours partners

Southern Queensland Country is home to the state’s only two GI (Geographical Indication) wine zones: the Granite Belt and the South Burnett.

Grapes have been grown in the Granite Belt since the 1870s and today, their wineries are the most awarded in Queensland. The area’s proven whites include verdelho, semillon, chardonnay and sauvignon blanc; while classic full flavoured reds to try include shiraz, merlot and cabernet sauvignon varieties.

If you have a more adventurous palate, hit the Strange Bird alternative wine trail, to sample some of the more unusual varieties including viognier, mourvedre and tempranillo.

The South Burnett, with its warm summer days, cool crisp nights and fertile soils is home to a boutique wine industry which boasts over a dozen wineries and many award-winning drops. Vineyards sit alongside olive groves, timber plantations, orchards and traditional agriculture. This palate of contrasting colours makes for breathtaking scenery and each stop provides a new experience. On a leisurely drive through the rolling countryside of the Darling Downs you’ll find vineyards and boutique wineries

Don’t miss these premium food, wine and touring experiences: Granite Belt Brewery Located at Happy Valley Retreat Glenlyon Drive, Stanthorpe Ph: (07) 4681 1370 Fax: (07) 4681 1302 www.granitebeltbrewery.com.au Symphony Hill Wines 2017 Eukey Road, Ballandean Cellar door open 7 days a week, from 10.00am – 4.00pm Ph: (07) 4684 1388 Fax: (07) 4684 1399 www.symphonyhill.com.au TASTE South Burnett Shannon and Megan Scott 67 William Street, Kingaroy (At the Old Kingaroy Cheese Factory/ Old Butter Factory) Ph: (07) 4162 8222 M: 0435 522 661 / 0401 577 379 www.tastesouthburnett.com.au Goondiwindi Top Tours 27 Herbert Street, Goondiwindi Ph: (07) 4671 5611 M: 0427 878 342 www.goondiwindicotton.com.au/CottonTours

Olives, Bunnyconnellen

Golden Grove Estate, Ballandean

Sorghum crop, Dalby

Veraison Restaurant, Toowoomba

Sutton's Farm, Thulimbah

Bridgeman Downs Winery, South Burnett

Toowoomba

Markets*

You’ll find many town and country weekend markets throughout Southern Queensland Country selling everything from bric-a-brac and old wares to fresh produce, art and craft. They’re a great place to get to know the locals and pick up a bargain! Keep this list handy when you’re travelling through the region.

Toowoomba and surrounds PCYC Markets Every Sunday 219a James Street, Toowoomba 7.00am – 12.30pm Ph: (07) 4632 8316 www.toowoombapcyc.com.au/ toowoomba/pcyc-markets Toowoomba Handmade Markets 1st Saturday of Feb, Apr, June, Aug, Oct & Dec St Luke’s Church Hall, Corner Herries and Ruthven Streets, Toowoomba 8.00am – 2.00pm M: 0413 354 635 www.toowoombahandmade.weebly.com Queen’s Park Markets 3rd Sunday of Month Queen’s Park, Lindsay Street, Toowoomba 8.00am – 1.00pm Ph: (07) 4690 4186 The Mummy Tree Markets Quarterly, Sunday (10 Mar, 9 Jun, TBC Sept and TBC Dec) The Clive Berghofer Recreation Centre, USQ, Baker Street, Toowoomba 9.00am – 3.00pm M: 0419 490 355 www.themummytreemarkets.com.au Nobby Country Markets 1st Saturday of Month Nobby Hall, Sister Kenny Street, Nobby 8.00am – 12.00pm Ph: (07) 4696 3207 www.nobbycountrymarkets.com

10

Crows Nest Lions Village Markets 1st Sunday of Month Crows Nest 7.00am – 12.00pm M: 0429 678 120 www.crowsnestvillagemarkets.com

Kingaroy Handmade Expo Markets One Sunday a Month Kingaroy Town Hall and Forecourt Glendon Street, Kingaroy www.thehandmadeexpo.com.au

Cabarlah Markets Last Sunday of Month (Except December – 2nd Sunday for pre Christmas shopping) New England Highway, Cabarlah 8.00am – 12.30pm Ph: (07) 4696 8152 www.cabarlah-markets.org.au

Kilkivan Markets Every Sunday Lester Millar Park Kilkivan 7.00am – 11.00am Ph: (07) 5484 1032

South Burnett Nanango Boutique Markets 2nd & 4th Friday of Month South Burnett Energy Centre courtyard 41 Henry Street, Nanango 8.00am – 1.30pm Ph: (07) 4189 9446 Nanango Country Markets 1st Saturday of Month Nanango Showgrounds 6.00am – 12.00pm Kumbia Country Markets 2nd Saturday of Month Bell Street, Kumbia 7.00am – 12.00pm Ph: (07) 4163 6548 Yarraman Markets 2nd Saturday of Month Corner D’Aguilar and New England Highways, Yarraman 7.00am – 1.00pm Kingaroy Friendship Markets 3rd Saturday of Month Senior Citizens Hall, Avoca Street, Kingaroy 7.00am – 12.00pm Wondai Country Markets 4th Saturday of Month Coronation Park, Wondai 7.00am – 1 2.00pm

Pittsworth Country Markets, Last Saturday of Month Pittsworth Showgrounds Sports Pavilion, Pittsworth 8.00am – 2.00pm Ph: (07) 4693 5165 www.pittsworthcountrymarkets.webs.com

Murgon CBD Markets 2nd Sunday of Month Main Street, Murgon

Pittsworth Lions Club Markets 3rd Sunday of Apr & Nov Pittsworth Pioneer Village, Pioneer Way, Pittsworth Ph: (07) 4693 3308

Hivesville Country Markets 4th Sunday of Month Hivesville Sports Ground 6.00am – 1.00pm

Blackbutt Lions Country Markets 3rd Sunday of Month Council Park,Coulson Street, Blackbutt

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Southern Downs and Granite Belt Wallangarra Border Railway Markets 1st Sunday of Month Wallangarra Railway Station 8.00am – 12.00pm Ph: (07) 4684 3223 Killarney Country Markets 1st Sunday of Month Canning Park,Killarney 9.00am – 1.00pm Ph: (07) 4664 1656 Markets in the Mountain 2nd & 4th Sunday of Month Civic Centre, Corner of Marsh and Lock Street, Stanthorpe M: 0417 760 529 Easter Fair Saturday 30 March 2013 Leslie Park, Warwick 9.00am – 3.00pm Ph: (07) 4661 9073 Jumpers & Jazz Markets Sunday 28 July 2013 Leslie Park, Warwick 9.00am – 3.00pm M: 0411 335 193 Warwick Potters Association Craft Markets Saturday 26 October Leslie Park, Warwick 9.00am – 2.30pm Glengallan Seasonal Markets 3 March, Glengallan Autumn Markets 2 June, Glengallan Winter Markets 1 September, Glengallan Spring Markets 1 December, Glengallan Summer Markets Glengallan Homestead 18515 New England Highway, Allora 8.00am – 1.00pm www.glengallan.org.au

Western Downs Goondiwindi Town Markets 2nd Sunday of Month Town Park, Marshall Street, Goondiwindi 8.00am – 2.00pm Ph: (07) 4671 1436 Goondiwindi Christmas Markets December Community Cultural Centre, Goondiwindi www.goondiwindirc.qld.gov.au Nindigully Pub Markets 4th Sunday of Month 9.30am – 3.00pm www.nindigully.com Roma Farmers and Artisans Markets 3rd Saturday of Month (Feb – Nov) The Big Rig Parklands 8.00am – 12 .30pm Ph: (07) 4622 8676 www.wheninroma.com.au

Roma RSL Markets 1st Sunday of Month RSL Hall, Corner Quintin, Bungil & Albert Street, Roma M: 0418 896 021 Wallumbilla Markets Last Sunday of Month – every 3 months 24th February; 26th May; 29th September Ph: (07) 4623 4244 Dalby Markets 3rd Saturday of Month Showgrounds, Nicholson Street, Dalby from 6.00am M: 0429 696 775 Warra Country Markets 2nd Saturday of Month Warra Park, Warrego Highway, Warra 8.00am – 12.00pm M: 0422 828 762

Farmers Market sign, Southern Downs

Chinchilla Markets 3rd Sunday of Month Chinchilla Visitor Information Centre, Warrego Highway, Chinchilla 7.00am – 12.00pm Ph: (07) 4665 7556 Jandowae Markets and Miniature Railway 4th Sunday of Month Lions Park, Jandowae 8.00am – 12.00pm Ph: (07) 4668 5103 Tara Markets 1st Saturday of Month Men’s Group Shed, beside Grevillia Park, Day Street, Tara from 7.00am Ph: (07) 4668 2127

*Market details correct at time of publishing.

Nectarines, Stanthorpe

Nature at her best

You’ll find nature is still intact here – peaceful landscapes, rivers teeming with fish, quiet waterfalls, ancient gorges and an abundance of wildlife in the untamed bush. It’s not built out, fished out or deforested. And there are many ways you can lose yourself in the natural world …walk and birdwatch on bush trails, set up camp on a grassy river flat, scale huge granite boulders of Girraween National Park, fish in a glistening river, paddle a canoe, hike in the largest stand of Bunya Pines in the world, marvel at Toowoomba’s spring flower display or simply enjoy the fresh air and views on a country drive. Slow down and breathe deep.

Fish our rivers, lakes and dams Keen anglers get set for the time of your life! Southern Queensland Country has a reputation for the best inland fishing in Queensland, with no fewer than 15 dams and seven river systems traversing it. Wade in the shallows, throw in a line from a shady riverbank, or launch your boat or canoe in search of the great Murray Cod, Australian Bass, Sleepy Cod, Sooty Grunter, Yellowbelly, Silver Perch, Saratoga, Barcoo Grunter, Jewfish and River Blackfish. There are also plenty of picturesque waterways where you can combine fishing with picnicking and camping.

And there is no shortage of annual fishing events to keep the family entertained: Boondooma Dam Yellowbelly Fishing Competition and Bjelke-Petersen Dam Yamaha Bass Pro Challenge in February; Thallon Carp Busting Competition in March and Dirranbandi Family Fishing Competition over Easter; St George’s Family Fishing Competition in September; and BjelkePetersen Dam’s Fishing Classic in October and Golden Lure Competition in November.

Events country-style No one throws a party quite like the locals of Southern Queensland Country.

Down-to-earth country hospitality, an irreverent sense of fun and the ability to laugh at themselves sets the scene for festivals and events celebrating the region’s lifestyle and heritage. From the cultural to the quirky, you’ll find it all here. Where else could you bet on yabbies racing, roll watermelons down a main street, watch the best rodeo riders in action and savour delectable local food and wines? Only here! Plan your trip to enter a freshwater fishing tournament, celebrate with the locals at a heritage festival or enjoy the spectacle of a country picnic race meeting.

Major events not to be missed include Roma’s Easter In the Country celebrations; Toowoomba’s Easterfest, and Carnival of Flowers in September;

Ready, steady, fish!

Fisheries Queensland’s Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme (SIPS) requires anglers (over 18 years old) who fish in certain dams to purchase a permit before they throw in a line. A 10% discount applies for holders of all entitlement cards.

Fishing tips, fishing trail maps and permits can be obtained from Visitor Information Centres throughout the region. Or you can purchase permits from small businesses in the vicinity of the dams, or contact the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries on 13 25 23 or online at www.qld.gov.au/fishing Lake Leslie, Warwick

12

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Warwick’s Jumpers and Jazz in July, and the Bloomin’ Beautiful Blackbutt Festival in September, 60km east of Kingaroy.

Heritage and the arts You can’t help but discover our unique history and artistic communities on your travels. You can trace each town’s pioneering story and experience history alive and well in the grand old architecture, the museums and private collections and the stories locals recount of what made the region what it is today.

From hands-on experiences like The Woolshed at Jondaryan, Miles Historical Village and Toowoomba’s Cobb+Co Museum, to self-guided heritage walking trails, there are many ways history comes to life in Southern Queensland Country.

Drop into the Visitor Information Centres for heritage trail information, and the rundown on opening hours of historical museums and tours. Many pub walls also provide an informal insight into the region’s pioneering past – you’ll find most of them decorated in old photographs, artworks by famous bush artists, old newspaper clippings, memorabilia and pieces of local history that paint a vivid picture. The famous Nindigully Pub, Rudd’s Pub at Nobby, the Injune Hotel and Goondiwindi’s Victoria Hotel are four not to be missed!

Creativity blossoms in the country.

Many towns also feature council-run

art galleries as well as artist-run spaces displaying and selling the works of local painters, potters, sculptors and craftspeople.

Handmade in country What better mementos of your travels in Southern Queensland Country than the works of local creative artisans? You can take home time-honoured craft – in the form of one-of-a-kind jewellery, millinery, clothing, leatherwork, furniture and gifts

or traditional hand-made preserves and jams. Crafted with skill, often from local materials and ingredients, you’ll find just the right keepsake at craft studios, Visitor Information Centres and country markets throughout the region.

local area first-hand. Our Visitor

Take the lead from a local

activities, accommodation options and

Drop in to any Visitor Information Centre throughout Southern Queensland Country and you’ll find a friendly country welcome from people who know the

Information Centres are stocked with maps and brochures and staffed by locals who can explain the latest information and guide you to a diverse range of interesting attractions, visitor services. Need to check road conditions, what local events are on or where to throw in a line or get a good cuppa?…come on in!

Allora

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

13

Helpful apps to guide you through some Southern Queensland Country Experiences Savour Southern Queensland Country Touring App

2013 Official Granite Belt Wine Country App

Self-drive visitors to Southern Queensland Country can download the new Savour Southern Queensland Country Touring App – a mobile app highlighting places to eat, drink, stay and play in the South Burnett, Southern Downs/ Granite Belt and Toowoomba/Darling Downs regions. Utilising the latest technology, it features food and wine trails that can be printed or downloaded into GPS units.

Visitors to the Granite Belt region can download the new 2013 Official Granite Belt Wine Country App. Available for iPhone, iPad and Android devices, the app contains detailed information for visitors including accommodation, wineries, restaurants, and other attractions in the area.

Bunya Mountains, South Burnett

14

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Wheels, Wings & Water – Toowoomba Region Transport Heritage Trail Take a fascinating journey into the history of transport in the Toowoomba region with the Wheels, Wings & Water App. Available for iPhone and Android devices, the app features an array of images and narration, including eight cultural heritage collections filled with transport stories, objects and artworks.

Stanthorpe

Southern Downs

Hand Made in Country

Nindigully Pub

Golden Grove Estate, Ballandean

National Parks Bald Rock National Park

(Granite Belt)

Bald Rock National Park is a popular attraction for Granite Belt visitors, located just on the New South Wales side of the NSW/QLD border. Bald Rock is the largest of a series of granite domes in this 8,000ha national park full of canyons, stone arches and echo points.

Walks/highlights: Take a trail to Bald Rock or Little Bald Rock, with views into Girraween National Park. Enjoy wildflowers in spring, plenty of wildlife and more than 100 species of birds.

Getting there: From Stanthorpe take the sealed road east across the state border to Amosfield, run south on the Woodenbong road (unsealed) towards Tenterfield and turn right into the 6km Bald Rock National Park access road – about 40km. A vehicle day pass is required and camping fees apply.

Go to www.environment.nsw.gov.au/ NationalParks or call (02) 6736 4298 for more information.

Barakula State Forest

(Western Downs)

Barakula is the largest state forest in the Southern Hemisphere, and features outstanding wildflower displays during late winter or spring.

A highlight is the Barakula State Forest 16

Bunya Mountains National Park

Drive encompassing many of the area’s key landmarks. Campers must be fully self-sufficient.

Getting there: From Chinchilla, travel 45km on Auburn Road and follow signage. As this is a working forest, beware of trucks.

Benarkin State Forest (South Burnett)

In the Blackbutt Range, a scenic forest drive leads through rainforest, hoop pine plantations and eucalypt forests containing blackbutt, tallowwood, white mahogany, gums and ironbarks.

Both the Bicentennial National Trail and the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail pass through Benarkin State Forest. Camp at Emu Creek, or at Clancy’s camping area where dogs are permitted.

Getting there: Benarkin is about two hours north-west of Brisbane off the D’Aguilar Highway. The final 16km to camping areas is via winding gravel roads. The camping areas are 18–20km from Blackbutt along the forest drive.

Boat Mountain Conservation Park

(South Burnett)

Relax and enjoy nature in this small park.

Boat Mountain features a distinctive

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

flat-topped ridge, shaped like an upturned boat, and is covered in dry rainforest and open eucalypt woodland.

The park has at least 46 species of birds, and you might also see black-striped wallabies and echidnas by day or pygmy-possums and sugar gliders at night. Camping is not allowed in the park. There are four walking tracks ranging from 370m to 2.2km.

Getting there: About 12km north of Murgon.

Some sections of road are unsealed.

Bunya Mountains National Park

(South Burnett)

Queensland’s second oldest national park protects the world’s largest remaining stand of bunya pine rainforest.

Aboriginal people came here from afar for bunya nut festivals until the late 1800s, and cultural connections remain strong today. It is a popular spot to camp, walk and relax in a cool climate with plenty of wildlife.

Activities: There are 35km of tracks from 500m to 10km in length. Some lead to open, grassy ‘balds’ with extensive views.

Getting there: The Bunya Mountains is 55km north-east of Dalby or 56km south-west of Kingaroy. The drive from Brisbane takes around three hours. No access routes are suitable for caravans or trailers.

Carnarvon National Park — Carnarvon Gorge (Western Downs)

Discover this oasis in the semi-arid heart of Queensland. You’ll find a steepsided gorge carved by the ever-flowing Carnarvon Creek, set amongst towering white sandstone cliffs.

Activities: There are a mix of easy tracks and more challenging and advanced remote walks. The 86km Carnarvon Great Walk links the Carnarvon Gorge and Mount Moffatt sections of Carnarvon National Park, and is designed to be completed in six to seven days (for experienced and well-prepared walkers only). Guided tours and handson activities may be offered to visitors during school holidays.

Visit www.nprsr.qld.gov.au for details of campsites and activities.

Getting there: From Injune, drive 111km north along the Carnarvon Developmental Road to the signed turnoff. From the turnoff, drive 45km to the park. The last 15km of road is unsealed. After heavy rain the unsealed section may become impassable – check with the ranger or RACQ for conditions before setting out.

Carnarvon National Park — Mount Moffatt Section (Western Downs)

This remote and elevated section of Carnarvon National Park is home to spectacular sandstone towers, dramatic gorges, Aboriginal rock art, open woodlands and even old bushranger hideouts. There is a diversity of vegetation and animal habitats, with prolific birdlife.

Campers must be self-sufficient, including water.

Activities: A range of walking tracks lead to unusual rock formations and cultural heritage sites. Notable sandstone formations include Marlong Arch, The Chimneys, Cathedral Rock, the Duchess and Lot’s Wife.

Getting there: Via the Forestvale Road from Mitchell (220km) or 160km northwest of Injune, via Womblebank Station.

The road from Womblebank is unsealed and care should be taken. A highclearance 4WD is recommended.

Crows Nest National Park

(Toowoomba and the Darling Downs)

Discover spectacular creek scenery, granite outcrops, a scenic waterfall and eucalypt forest remnants on the edge of the Great Dividing Range.

for more than 14km between sheer sandstone cliffs from a broad shallow basin, through the most spectacular section – the ‘Cattle Dip’ – where sandstone cliffs rise up to 100m above the creek. Evidence exists of Aboriginal people who lived in this area for thousands of years.

Activities: Marked walking tracks include two 4km return walks to Robinson Gorge and Shepherd’s Peak, and a 1.2km return walk to Cattle Dip Lookout. Campers must be self-sufficient, including water.

Getting there: 89km north-west of Taroom via the Leichhardt Highway, Glenhaughton Road.

Activities: Follow the creek to the cascades and Crows Nest Falls, then to Koonin Lookout for a spectacular view over the Valley of Diamonds. Watch for vulnerable brush-tailed rock wallabies, small forest birds and cliff-nesting peregrine falcons.

Getting there: The park is located 50km north of Toowoomba via the New England Highway or 44km west of Esk via the Esk-Hampton Road.

Expedition National Park

(Western Downs)

This large park features magnificent sandstone scenery and palm-filled valleys. Scenic Robinson Gorge winds

Girraween National Park

Legend Camping

Trail bikes permitted

Refreshments

Caravan sites

Cycling trails

Wheelchair access

Sheltered areas

Showers

Camp fires permitted

Picnic area

Swimming

No open fires

Picnic table with shelter

Fishing

Toilets

BBQ – Gas/Fuel

Dogs allowed (on leash)

Trailer sites

BBQ – Wood

Horseriding

Canoeing/kayaking

BBQ – Electric

4WD access

Boating

Easy walks

Information

World Heritage

Advanced walks

Park Office onsite

Lookouts

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

17

Expedition National Park — Lonesome Section (Western Downs)

Lonesome section offers spectacular views of the southern end of the Arcadia Valley and the Dawson River. Campers must be self-sufficient, including water.

Getting there: From Injune, travel 37km north on the Carnarvon Developmental Road and turn right onto the Arcadia Valley Access Road. Drive 18km (of which 4km is gravel) to Lonesome.

Girraween National Park

Main Range National Park — Cunningham’s Gap (Southern Downs)

Cunningham’s Gap is the best known section of the World Heritage Listed Main Range National Park. Rugged peaks, towering forests and spectacular mountain scenery are impressive on even the briefest of visits to this amazing park.

(Granite Belt)

Activities: Seven walking tracks, ranging in length from 1.6km to 12.4km, pass through rainforest, open eucalypt forest and heath.

The sheer size of the huge granite boulders that tower above open forests is in contrast to the delicate spring wildflowers that splash colour across the landscape in spring.

Getting there: The Cunningham Highway passes through Main Range National Park at Cunningham’s Gap, about 116km south-west of Brisbane and 50km east of Warwick.

Activities: From the Castle Rock and Bald Rock Creek camping areas explore up to 17km of walking tracks. Climb the First Pyramid to see Balancing Rock and for great views over the park. Watch for blue wrens, yellow-tufted honey eaters, bearded dragons and perhaps a common wombat. Superb lyrebirds live here but are rarely seen.

Getting there: Located 35km south of Stanthorpe via the New England Highway, Girraween is one of Queensland’s best loved national parks.

Lake Broadwater Conservation Park

(Toowoomba and the Darling Downs)

Surrounded by cypress pine, eucalypt and brigalow open woodland, this natural lake is an important refuge for waterbirds and other wildlife. The lake is popular for birdwatching, picnicking and boating, and there are walking tracks and a short drive to explore.

Activities: A 2km track joins the two camping areas. Birdwatch from the hide or picnic under a red gum beside the lake.

Permit needed to take your boat on the water.

18

Getting there: Turn off the Moonie Highway 20km south-west of Dalby and drive a further 10km to the park.

Main Range National Park — Goomburra (Southern Downs)

Nested in the western foothills of the Great Dividing Range, Goomburra offers creek-side campsites, picnic spots and walks. From the top of the range enjoy views over the Fassifern Valley towards the Border Ranges in the south and across Mount Castle in the north.

Activities: Rainforest and creek-based walks are a feature of Goomburra. There are three walking tracks from the two camping areas ranging in distance from an easy 1.2km circuit, suitable for wheelchairs with assistance, to a 6km track, showcasing waterfalls and freshwater habitats. Take a drive along Lookout Road to reach more walking tracks and scenic lookouts. Watch for echidnas and koalas, satin bowerbirds and yellow-tailed black cockatoos.

Getting there: The park is located 97km from Toowoomba or 54km from Warwick.

The last 6km is unsealed and may be closed after heavy rain.

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Main Range National Park — Queen Mary Falls (Southern Downs)

Spring Creek takes a 40m plunge over a sheer rock face at Queen Mary Falls — a popular picnic destination. A private camping/caravan park is located nearby.

A short walk leads to a spectacular lookout overlooking the falls, while a 2km track leads down to the floor of the gorge.

Getting there: To access the park take the Falls Drive tourist route, a steep but sealed approach from Boonah along the Boonah-Killarney Road. A more accessible route is via Killarney, about 40km south-east of Warwick, 11km along the Killarney-Boonah Road.

Main Range National Park — Spicer’s Gap (Southern Downs)

Historic Spicer’s Gap retains evidence of pioneer travel routes over the Great Dividing Range and showcases views of the Fassifern Valley.

Activities: Follow the trail of old bullock days and look for signs of the paved road built in the mid-1800s. There is a small camping area, a picnic site near the location of a long-gone inn and pioneer graveyard. Search for Moss’s Well. Enjoy the view from Governor’s Chair Lookout.

Getting there: Take the Spicer’s Gap turnoff from the Cunningham Highway 5km west of Aratula. The last 5km of Spicer’s Gap Road is unsealed and steep in places.

Mount Basalt Reserve

(Toowoomba and the Darling Downs)

Discover striking volcanic formations and a walking track through 10ha of scrub.

Activities: Follow the track to two rocky peaks past geological features and farmland views.

Getting there: From Toowoomba, take the Gore Highway to Millmerran, then drive 18km south on the Kooroongarra Road to the reserve.

Nuga Nuga National Park (Western Downs)

Rare woodland communities are protected within this national park, which lies adjacent to Lake Nuga Nuga – one of the largest natural lakes in the central highlands. Lake Nuga Nuga has extensive birdlife and at certain times of the year the waterlilies produce stunning flowers that cover the lake.

Campers must be fully self-sufficient.

Getting there: From Injune, travel north 37km on the Carnarvon Developmental Road and turn right onto the Arcadia Valley Access Road. Travel 62km on a partially-sealed road to the Lake Nuga Nuga turnoff.

The Palms National Park

(Toowoomba and the Darling Downs)

This park protects a small remnant of subtropical rainforest containing an almost-pure stand of piccabeen palms hugging the watercourse. Stop here for a picnic on your way to the Bunya Mountains.

Activities: On the 650m circuit walk, look for grey-headed flying foxes camping over the creek in summer and black-breasted button quails in winter and spring. See piccabeen palms, large strangler figs, bunya and hoop pine trees and buttressed trees.

views from Gus Beutel Lookout. Watch for glossy black cockatoos and listen for cat birds and paradise riflebirds.

Getting there: The park turnoff is 17km east of Hampton or 33km west of Esk on the Hampton-Esk Road.

Yarraman State Forest (South Burnett)

See hoop pines growing in straight plantation rows as well as naturally above vine forests adjacent to eucalypt forests and woodlands. Listen for golden whistlers, green catbirds and paradise riflebirds. Picnic at shady Rogers Park, a short drive into the forest. Dogs are permitted on a leash.

Sundown National Park (Granite Belt)

On the QLD/NSW border, Sundown National Park is a rugged wilderness park with spectacular steep-sided gorges, sharp ridges and peaks rising to more than 1000m.

Activities: Camp at defined campgrounds or hike into a bush camp. From the Broadwater camping area at the park’s southern end, a short graded walk leads to Permanent Waterhole while experienced walkers can explore the Severn River. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are required to access Red Rock Falls and campsite along the river at the park’s northern end. A two-day circuit starts at the park’s eastern boundary and takes in Mount Lofty and Red Rock Falls.

Getting there: The Broadwater camping area is 76km south-west of Stanthorpe or 64km west of Wallangarra. Burrows Waterhole camping area is 36km west of Ballandean, the trip to the site includes 20km of rough 4WD track.

Getting there: Turn off the D’Aguilar Highway 1.5km north of Yarraman.

The 1.4km access road to Rogers Park is unsealed. Watch for logging trucks.

Camping Fees and Permits You will need to obtain a camping permit before camping in national parks. Fees apply. Book your permits online at www.qld.gov.au/camping.

Alternatively call 13 74 68, or visit a park information centre. Selfregistration on site is available at a limited number of parks.

Detailed information on Queensland’s national parks and forests is available from www.nprsr.qld.gov.au

Getting there: The park is 8km north-east of Cooyar. Turn off the New England Highway 1km north of Cooyar.

Ravensbourne National Park

(Toowoomba and the Darling Downs)

Experience what the forests along the escarpment north of Toowoomba must have been like before they were cleared for farming and grazing. See majestic Sydney blue gums, staghorns, elkhorns and twining rainforest vines. The park is a safe habitat for 80 bird species, including the vulnerable black-breasted button quail which leaves dish-shaped feed scrapes on the ground.

Activities: Explore four short tracks including a self-guided walk from Cedar Block picnic area or take in panoramic

Queen Mary Falls, Killarney

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

19

Calendar of Events 2013/14* March 2013 2nd - 3rd

Bell Show and Art Exhibition Bell (39km north of Dalby) Ph: (07) 4663 1348 www.bellcommunity.com

8th - 10th

High Altitude Rod Run Toowoomba Ph: 1800 331 155

9th Wine and Food In The Park Kingaroy

Ph: (07) 4189 9172 www.winefood.southburnett.com.au 15th - 16th Roma Picnic Races Roma

M: 0409 898 623 www.romaraces.org.au 16th - 17th Tooloombilla Rodeo and Campdraft

Tooloombilla (80km north of Mitchell)

Ph: (07) 4626 3551 www.tooloombilla.com 27th - 31st Easter in the Country Festival Roma

Ph: (07) 4622 8676 www.easterinthecountry.com.au 29th - 31st Easterfest

Toowoomba

Ph: (07) 4638 3911 www.easterfest.com.au March - April 2013 28th - 1st Easter on the Macintyre Goondiwindi

M: 0427 762 200 www.goondiwindirc.qld.gov.au 29th - 1st Easter in the Vines

St George

Ph: (07) 4625 3643 www.riversandswines.com

Easter Weekend at the Woolshed

Jondaryan

Ph: (07) 4692 2229 www.jondaryanwoolshed.com.au 30th - 1st Easter Vintage Festival

Highfields, Toowoomba

Ph: (07) 4696 6309 www.eastervintagefestival.com

3rd - 6th Australian Heritage Festival

Jondaryan

Ph: (07) 4692 2229 www.jondaryanwoolshed.com.au 4th Nitrocircus

Toowoomba www.nitrocircuslive.com 4th Opera in the Vineyards

Ballandean Estate, Ballandean

Ph: (07) 4684 1226 www.ballandeanestate.com.au 9th - 12th FKG Tour of Toowoomba

Toowoomba

Ph: 1800 331 155 www.touroftoowoomba.com.au 11th Burrandowan Picnic Race Day

Ph: (07) 4164 8147 www.burrandowan.com.au 19th Hampton Food and Arts Festival

Hampton

Ph: 1800 009 066 www.hamptonfestival.com 25th - 26th Warwick Pentath Run

Warwick

M: 0408 662 346 www.pentathrun.com 26th Goomeri Pumpkin Festival

Goomeri

M: 0419 720 407 www.goomeripumpkinfestival.com.au June 2013 8th - 10th Jandowae Timbertown Festival

Jandowae (49km north of Dalby)

Ph: (07) 4679 4480 www.jandowaetimbertown.org.au 12th USQ Artsworx Twilight Series: Guitar Recital Toowoomba

Ph: (07) 4631 1111 www.usq.edu.au/artsworx June - August 2013

Brass Monkey Season速 Stanthorpe

Ph: 1800 762 665 www.granitebeltwinecountry.com.au July 2013

April 2013

10th USQ Artsworx Twilight Series: Piano Recital Toowoomba

Ph: (07) 4631 1111 www.usq.edu.au/artsworx

14th Felton Food Festival Felton

Ph: (07) 4691 0195 www.feltonfoodfestival.org.au

18th - 28th Jumpers and Jazz Festival Warwick

Ph: 1800 060 877 www.jumpersandjazz.com

20th - 21st In-Studio Art Trail

Crows Nest

Ph: (07) 4697 9066 www.crowsnest.info/events

20th Empire Theatre's Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase Toowoomba

Ph: 1300 655 299 www.empiretheatre.com.au

24th - 28th Spirit of the Bush: Heritage Weekend

and Balladeers Muster

Boondooma (128km north-west of Kingaroy)

Ph: (07) 4168 0159 www.boondoomahomestead.com.au 20

May 2013

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

30th Opera at Jimbour

Jimbour (26km north of Dalby)

Ph: (07) 3735 3030 www.operaq.com.au

August 2013 2nd - 4th Tara Festival of Culture and Camel Races

Tara

M: 0488 754 666 www.tarafestivalncamels.org.au 6th Oz Opera's Don Giovanni at Empire Theatre Toowoomba

Ph: 1300 655 299 www.empiretheatre.com.au 9th Queensland Symphony Orchestra: Fantastic Scherzo at Empire Theatre

Ph: 1300 655 299 www.empiretheatre.com.au 17th - 18th Historic Leyburn Sprints

Leyburn (75km west of Warwick) www.leyburnmotorsprints.com.au 31st

Delicious and Delightful Festival Dalby Ph: (07) 4662 4050

September 2013 3rd - 5th Ag Show

Toowoomba

Ph: (07) 4634 1155 www.agshow.com.au 6th - 8th Jackie Howe Festival of the Golden Shears

Jondaryan

Ph: (07) 4692 2229 www.goldenshearsfestival.com

12th - 13th In-Studio Art Trail

Crows Nest

Ph: (07) 4697 9066 www.crowsnest.info/events 17th - 20th Chinchilla Grandfather Clock Campdraft

Chinchilla

Ph: (07) 4679 4471 www.chinchillacampdraft.com.au 21st - 27th Warwick Gold Cup Campdraft and Rodeo

Warwick

Ph: (07) 4661 9060 www.warwickshowandrodeo.com.au 26th Australian Small Winemakers Show

Stanthorpe

Ph: (07) 4681 4482 www.asws.com.au November 2013 16th XXXX Gold Roma Cup

Roma

Ph: (07) 4622 8676 www.romaturfclub.org.au 30th Moonie Yabbie Races

Moonie (114km west of Dalby) www.moonieyabbieraces.com.au 30th Nindigully Pub Pig Races

Nindigully (46km south-east of St George) www.nindigully.com December 2013

6th - 8th Bloomin’ Beautiful Blackbutt Festival

Blackbutt (60km south-east of Kingaroy)

M: 0448 946 702 www.bloominbeautifulblackbuttfestival.com.au

1st - 24th Toowoomba’s Christmas Wonderland, Queens Park

Toowoomba www.toowoombarc.qld.gov.au

7th - 8th Gourmet in Gundy

Goondiwindi

Ph: (07) 4671 2653 www.goondiwindi.com.au

Kingaroy Christmas Carnival

Kingaroy www.kingaroychristmascarnival.com

12th - 15th The Complete Works of William Shakespeare

(Abridged) at the Empire Theatre Toowoomba

Ph: 1300 655 299 www.empiretheatre.com.au 20th - 29th Carnival of Flowers

Toowoomba

Ph: 1800 331 155 www.tcof.com.au 23rd - 29th Texas Country Music Round-up

Texas

Ph: (07) 4653 1499 www.texascountrymusic.com.au

26th Boxing Day Races

Warwick www.warwickturfclub.com.au 31st New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Toowoomba www.toowoombarc.qld.gov.au January 2014 1st Granite Belt Blues, Severnlea

Severnlea (6km from Stanthorpe) www.lucasestate.com.au 26th Australia Day Celebrations

Toowoomba www.toowoombarc.qld.gov.au

September - November 2013

January - February 2014

1st - 30th Primavera Festival

Stanthorpe

Ph: 1800 762 665 www.granitebeltwinecountry.com.au

Summer Tunes: Free live music each Sunday in Toowoomba’s parks

Toowoomba www.toowoombarc.qld.gov.au

October 2013

February 2014

USQ Shakespeare in the Park Festival

Toowoomba

Ph: 1800 331 155 www.usq.edu.au/shakespeare

2nd Goondiwindi Hell of the West Triathlon Goondiwindi

Ph: 0427 585 348 www.hellofthewest.com

12th Warwick Cup

Warwick

Ph: 1800 060 877 www.warwickcup.com.au

8th Golden Grove Estate Sicilian Vintage Lunch

Ballandean www.goldengroveestate.com.au *Event details correct at time of publishing.

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Easterfest, Toowoomba

Apple and Grape Festival, Stanthorpe

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2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Sideshow alley

Chinchilla Melon Festival

XXXX Gold Roma Cup

PGA Tour of Australasia, Toowoomba

Jumpers and Jazz Festival, Warwick www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Southern Queensland Country Golfing There is no more welcoming place to enjoy a game of golf than in Southern Queensland Country, where the golf courses are first-rate and the scenery sublime.

Visiting golfers are spoilt for choice with a mix of sophisticated championship courses with contemporary club house facilities, and more modest and relaxed greens where you can enjoy a quiet game with no-one around except the kangaroos and birds. What they all have in common is the crisp clean air, rolling hills, dramatic sunsets, friendly locals and wildlife that typify Southern Queensland Country.

In recent years, Toowoomba’s magnificent City Golf Club has played host to Queensland’s flagship professional golf tournament, the QLD

PGA Championships. The week-long event, which has been secured until 2014, attracts an impressive field of Australian and international golfers.

City Golf Club was named 2012 Club of the Year at the Queensland Golf Industry Awards, and Middle Ridge jointly won Regional Tournament of the Year for its Westpac Bank/Toowoomba BMW Middle Ridge Pro-Am. Over the years, the PGA Tour of Australasia has provided early career opportunities for some of the world’s best professionals such as Greg Norman, Peter Senior, Wayne Grady, Ian BakerFinch, Rod Pampling and Adam Scott.

Breathe in the fresh country air as you make your way around some of the oldest and finest golf courses in the state.

Clubhouse, Toowoomba Golf Club

Toowoomba and Darling Downs Bell Golf Club Recreation Reserve, Bell Ph: (07) 4663 1198 9 hole Borneo Barracks Golf Club New England Highway, Cabarlah Ph: (07) 4694 6183 11 hole Cecil Plains Golf Club Dalby Road, Cecil Plains Ph: (07) 4668 0155 9 hole Crows Nest Golf Club Gold Course Lane, Crows Nest Ph: (07) 4698 1408 9 hole City Golf Club Toowoomba 254 South Street, Toowoomba Ph: (07) 4636 9000 www.citygolf.com.au 18 hole Clifton Golf Club Leyburn Road, Clifton Ph: (07) 4695 8522 www.cliftongolf.com 9 hole Eustondale Golf Course 88 Euston Road, Toowoomba Ph: (07) 4630 2220 18 hole Goombungee Golf Club Golf Course Road, Goombungee Ph: (07) 4696 5245 9 hole

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2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Toowoomba Golf Club 235 - 323 Rowbotham Street, Middle Ridge, Toowoomba Ph: (07) 4635 1219 www.toowoombagolfclub.com.au 18 hole Millmerran Golf Club Koorangarra Road, Millmerran Ph: (07) 4695 1476 9 hole Oakey Golf Club Cnr Warrego Highway and Mt Tyson Road, Oakey Ph: (07) 4692 2158 11 hole

Southern Downs and Granite Belt Warwick Golf Club Hawker Road, Warwick Ph: (07) 4661 3664 www.warwickgolfclub.com.au 18 hole Stanthorpe Golf Club 50 Amosfield Road, Stanthorpe Ph: (07) 4681 1276 18 hole Killarney Golf Club Willow Street, Killarney Ph: (07) 4664 1183 9 hole

Pittsworth Golf Club Hill Street, Pittsworth Ph: (07) 4693 1275 9 hole

Allora Golf Club Warwick Street, Allora Ph: (07) 4666 3380 9 hole

South Burnett

Inglewood Golf Club Cunningham Highway, Inglewood Ph: (07) 4652 1251 18 hole

Blackbutt Golf Club Bowman Road, Blackbutt Ph: (07) 4163 0180 18 hole Goomeri Golf Club Road, Goomeri Ph: (07) 4168 4145 9 hole

Wallangarra Army Area Golf Club Army Avenue, Wallangarra Ph: (07) 4684 3188 9 hole

Western Downs

Kilkivan Country Golf Club Tansey Road, Kilkivan Ph: (07) 5484 1347 9 hole

Chinchilla Golf Club Warrego Highway, Chinchilla Ph: (07) 4662 7438 9 hole

Kingaroy Golf Club Bunya Highway, Kingaroy Ph: (07) 4162 1720 www.kingaroygolfclub.com.au 18 hole

Condamine Golf Club Moonie Highway, Condamine Ph: (07) 4627 7166 18 hole

Goondiwindi Golf Club Hindmarsh Street, Goondiwindi Ph: (07) 4671 1171 18 hole Injune Golf Club Komine Lane, Injune Ph: (07) 4626 1258 9 hole Jandowae Golf Club Durah Road, Jandowae Ph: (07) 4668 5349 9 hole Miles Golf Club Leichhardt Highway, Miles Ph: (07) 4627 1268 18 hole Roma Golf Club 119 Tiffin Street, Roma Ph: (07) 4622 1233 18 hole St George Golf Club Old Mitchell Road, Street George Ph: (07) 4625 3283 18 hole Surat Golf Club King Street, Surat Ph: (07) 4626 5258 www.suratgolfclub.webs.com 18 hole Tara Golf Club Kogan Road, Tara Ph: (07) 4665 3148 18 hole Texas Golf Club Mingoola Road, Texas Ph: (07) 4653 1420 18 hole

Kumbia and District Golf Course Bunya Highway, Kumbia Ph: (07) 4164 4205 18 hole

Dalby Golf Club Moreton Street, Dalby Ph: (07) 4662 2259 www.dalbygolfclub.com.au 18 hole

Wandoan Golf Club Golf Club Road, Wandoan Ph: (07) 4627 4217 18 hole

Murgon Golf Club Bunya Highway, Murgon Ph: (07) 4168 1608 9 hole

Dunkeld Memorial Golf Club Dunkeld via Mitchell Ph: (07) 4623 2684 9 hole

Yuleba Golf Club Scott Street, Yuleba Ph: (07) 4623 5150 9 hole

Nanango Golf Club D’Aguilar Highway, Nanango Ph: (07) 4163 1463 www.nanangogolfclub.com 9 hole Proston District Golf Course Brigooda Road, Proston Ph: (07) 4168 9367 9 hole Wondai Golf Club Bunya Highway, Wondai Ph: (07) 4168 5582 9 hole www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Toowoomba and surrounds MUST-DOS: See a show at the Empire Theatre

Have a meal at a true-blue country pub E xperience spring at its blooming best at the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers Sample producer to plate gourmet food and wine culture Explore the Toowoomba Tourist Drive

MUST-SEES: Cobb+Co Museum The view from Picnic Point Lookout Award-winning parks and gardens each spring Japanese Garden – Ju Raku En, at The University of Southern Qld Magnificently restored art deco style Empire Theatre

Laurel Bank Park, Toowoomba

Empire Theatre, Toowoomba

Crisp winter air, knee-deep autumn leaves, clear summer days and a riot of colour in spring; nowhere else in Queensland will you experience all four seasons as distinctively as right here.

Just 90 minutes from Brisbane, Toowoomba crowns the edge of the Great Dividing Range 700 metres above sea level, overlooking the Lockyer Valley.

So close but a world away! Southern Queensland Country’s biggest town still has a country town vibe.

Treat your senses… literally, to the annual Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers and local gourmet produce. Queensland’s Garden City, Toowoomba, has more than 150 public parks and gardens to enjoy.

Celebrate a kaleidoscope of colour in September with more than 90 events during the 10-day Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, Australia’s longest running horticultural festival. From home gardening to DIY workshops, the festival is a true celebration of all things spring.

You can mix it with the locals at the Floral

Parade, the Flower, Food & Wine Festival and the Live Concert Series in the park.

Sway along with the parkland music entertainment in three of Toowoomba’s major parks: Picnic Point, Laurel Bank Park and Queens Park. See the visual arts displays throughout the city or catch a movie under the stars.

From March to May mellow tints of red and gold mark the autumn showing. In the winter months, enjoy rugging up and winding down. Spicy scents of local wines and delicious foods will tantalise the tastebuds and warm the soul.

To the west you’ll find rolling plains are home to little rural townships, and warm bed and breakfasts. Cruise north to Crows Nest through hamlets strung along the eastern escarpment and check out nurseries, cafés, museums and galleries. Go south into the country that was the setting for Steele Rudd’s stories, and enjoy the atmosphere in rustic historic pubs. In the north-west, the Bunya Mountains rise dramatically

against the sky and offer spectacular mountain scenery and abundant wildlife.

A living history Toowoomba’s colonial history traces back to the early 1840s with the establishment of the first store on the Downs at “The Springs”, soon thereafter renamed Drayton. In the late 1840s, Drayton had its own newspaper, general store and trading post. The Royal Bull’s Head Inn dates from that period and you can still see it on Brisbane Street today.

A drought in 1850 saw many re-settle a few kilometres to the north-east at what was to become Toowoomba. After rapid expansion a new municipality was proclaimed in 1860, a township in 1892 and a city in 1904.

Toowoomba and its surrounds are strongly linked by an interconnected history that you can discover is alive and well in interactive museums, historical attractions and in streetscapes dotted with stately architecture.

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Make your first stop on the history trail The Cobb+Co Museum. You’ll find an outstanding collection of horse-drawn vehicles and the story of the natural and cultural history of Toowoomba and the Darling Downs. You can trace Cobb+Co’s role in the expansion of the Southern Queensland Country region, beginning as a small mail run in 1866 transporting mail and passengers to Brisbane and beyond. You may even be interested in a workshop at the museum’s National Carriage Factory – a training centre giving new life to a wide range of heritage skills including blacksmithing, saddlery, silver smithing and glass art.

Toowoomba’s wealthy beginnings can be seen in the Toowoomba City Hall, the National Trust-owned Royal Bull’s Head Inn and many Heritage Listed examples in Russell Street. Immediately to the east of the central business district is the Caledonian Estate, an area of early 20th century housing, ranging from humble workers’ cottages to large stately homes, in the classic wooden Queenslander style. You can enjoy a high tea in the Heritage Listed Toowoomba Railway Station, amidst the elegant ambience of yesteryear.

Australia. Small group historical tours are run on request.

Discover the fascinating lives of early settlers on twilight Tombstone Tours (autumn and spring) of Drayton and Toowoomba Cemetery. A self-guided daytime walk might be more your thing too!

Established in 1938, Toowoomba’s public art gallery is the oldest in regional Queensland. It is the permanent home of the Lionel Lindsay Art Gallery and Library and features more than 400 significant Australian art works by the Lindsay family and such artists as Frederick McCubbin, Arthur Streeton, Tom Roberts and Rupert Bunny.

You’ll also find a wide selection of fine art galleries and antique stores in town. Pick up the Toowoomba Antiques and Art Guide from the Toowoomba Visitor Information Centre, 86 James Street (Warrego Highway) for a closer look.

You can see a show at Toowoomba’s premier stage and music venue, the art-deco era Empire Theatre, dating back to 1933. After years of neglect, the Empire was beautifully renovated in the late 1990s. Able to seat 1,600 people, it is now the largest regional theatre in

Toowoomba Railway Station

Cobb+Co Museum

Treat your senses Spend some time relaxing in the meticulously tended Queens Park – one of the key settings for Toowoomba’s Carnival of Flowers.

Adjacent to the CBD, the park features stunning floral beds, open spaces and tree-lined paths.

If you’re visiting over the Easter long weekend, don’t miss the Easterfest music festival.

Featuring more than 1,500 roses, the State Rose Garden in historic Newtown Park is a living memorial to the people of Toowoomba and surrounds. Interpretive plaques tell the history of roses and of the park and its people since 1912.

Green thumbs will also love the fragrant blooms, herbs and shrubs of Laurel Bank Park and the Scented Gardens. The area includes a playground, picnic area and croquet greens.

Pack a picnic and enjoy spectacular views of the Lockyer Valley from Picnic Point Park.

Bushwalkers can set off on graded walks along the range escarpment.

Following harmonious design principles, the University of Southern Queensland’s Japanese Garden seamlessly combines water, grass, rocks, paths and Japanese plants.

Toowoomba Bicentennial Waterbird Habitat includes diverse wetlands carefully constructed to attract various waterbird species, and is a relaxing place to visit.

Private garden, Toowoomba

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Enjoy regional flavours Blessed with rich, black volcanic soils, the Toowoomba Range and eastern Darling Downs produce most of the state’s wheat, and much of its oilseeds, oats, legumes and fruit. It’s also a major production area for a range of vegetable crops including potatoes, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, onions, carrots, lettuce, sweet corn and celery. The region’s quality pastures also ensure it’s a productive sheep, cattle and dairying area. To the north, the rich red soil produces olives, avocados and rhubarb, while the southern areas are prime grain production areas.

With this abundance of local produce at their fingertips and award-winning wineries nearby, Toowoomba’s chefs are happy chefs. You’ll find many quality restaurants and cafés in town along with some of the swishest pub grub around.

Known as Eat Street, you’ll find many places to dine along Margaret Street.

One you shouldn’t miss is Veraison (205 Margaret Street), which earned a coveted Chef’s Hat Award from the Australian Good Food & Travel Guide in 2012. Owner/Chef Alex Weston was also named as a finalist in Country Style Magazine’s 2012 Country Chef of the Year Awards.

Don’t miss the award winning pies at Born & Bread Bakery in Bridge Street Plaza, Toowoomba; or if you want to select and cook your own local meat, Paynes Meats have the best grass fed cuts around (corner Herries and Hume

Street). In Hampton stretch your legs at Hampton Blue where you can pick your own organic blueberries and raspberries and buy a selection of hand-made jams, coulis and desert sauces. In Pittsworth drop into Chalala Micro Bakery for authentic wood-fired sourdough breads and handcrafted mueslis made from the finest organic ingredients.

If you want to learn how to get the best from local produce, join a small group class at Sauce Cooking School in Station Street, Toowoomba. Kids can even join a school holiday class.

You can taste wines at the cellar door of Toowoomba’s own winery, Preston Peak, terraced atop the range escarpment only five minutes south of town. Here you’ll find rose gardens, an olive grove, café and magnificent views of Table Top Mountain, the Lockyer Valley and the Darling Downs. Near Kingsthorpe you will find 2nd to None Winery, a full working winery,cellar door and café.

The Toowoomba Hills Estate at Vale View is open by appointment and also offers cellar door sales from their full working winery. Or you can sample a drop at the picturesque Holland Wines near Crows Nest – a small vineyard growing shiraz and chardonnay grapes and offering eight boutique varieties for tasting at the cellar door.

If you’re in Crows Nest on a Sunday between 10am and 4pm, drop into Bunnyconnellen Olive Grove and Vineyard to taste their award-winning

Kerry Heaney Food contributor – bmag, Tiger Tales, Brisbane Where Publisher – Eat, drink + be Kerry http://eatdrinkandbekerry. blogspot.com “Enjoy some of Toowoomba’s best coffee at Findos (160 Margaret Street). This micro roaster and café sources beans from all over the world and offers them in both espresso and syphon styles. For fine dining head to Veraison (205 Margaret Street) where you’ll discover fresh seafood, game dishes, grain fed beef and organic chicken, and a 500-bin wine list.”

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Rudd’s Pub, Nobby

Bunnyconnellen Olive Grove and Vineyard, Crows Nest

premium quality extra virgin olive oil, table olives, olive tapenade, fine wine and hand-made gourmet foods.

Bunnyconnellen has won 29 medals at the Sydney Royal Fine Food Show and has been a gold medal winner at the Vogue Entertaining and Travel Food Awards.

Cambooya The little village of Cambooya is in the heart of Steele Rudd Country. Australian author Arthur Hoey Davis, who wrote under the pen name ‘Steele Rudd’ and is best known for ‘On Our Selection’, spent much of his childhood on his family’s small block at Emu Creek near East Greenmount.

Clifton

A replica of Rudd’s slab-and-shingle hut stands in Greenmount as a display of subsistence farmers’ way of life, as depicted in ‘On Our Selection’.

If you think of the quintessential country town streetscape you’ve got Clifton in mind. Dating back to 1875, this classic little town halfway between Toowoomba and Warwick has been used in a number of Australian movies including ‘The Thornbirds’.

The Soldiers’ Memorial Hall near Greenmount is another interesting local building. In Federation Park at Vale View, explore native vegetation.

The Bull and Barley Inn has recently been restored to reflect its original 1900s old world atmosphere. You’ll find memorabilia and photographs adorning the walls. There is a restaurant and accommodation on site.

All beverages requiring cooling are chilled in the Inn’s original cedar chiller box.

Set on the wide fertile plains of the Darling Downs, Clifton began as Clifton Station, running cattle in the first year of the Downs’ settlement.

Wheat was grown for many years and nowadays it’s an agriculturally diverse producer of cattle, cereal crops, sunflowers and honey.

TOOWOOMBA

Australia’s largest regional theatre!

Check out what’s on in 2013 Historical tours also available

1300 655 299 empiretheatre.com.au

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2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Clifton

To discover the town’s oldest and newest treasures, the Clifton Heritage Walking Trail is a must. The self-guided tour commences from the railway station and finishes at the cemetery, incorporating 43 sites.

Immerse yourself in the area’s pioneering past at the Clifton and District Historical Museum in the old Butter Factory Building. You’ll see a 1930’s dining room, a pioneer bedroom, an early hospital ward, kitchen and a child's room.

Just a short drive north of Clifton is Nobby and the well-known Rudd’s Pub. The pub is dedicated to author Steele

Anglican Church, Pittsworth

Rudd, who lived in the area, and found inspiration among his drinking partners for the stories in ‘On Our Selection’.

There are still plenty of local characters to yarn to around the bar today. Plan your visit for lunchtime. The food here is great with juicy steaks as big as the plate!

The pub walls are adorned with extensive displays of historic memorabilia and photographs of the area’s pioneering past.

resident of Nobby known for her revolutionary treatment of polio.

Just out of town, on the Gatton-Clifton Road is Queensland’s newest zoo, Darling Downs Zoo. You’ll see animals from Australia, Africa, South America and South East Asia. The white lions are a special attraction at the zoo.

Roselawn Vintage Machinery has arguably the Southern Hemisphere’s most complete vintage Caterpillar tractor collection. Admission by appointment phone (07) 4697 3281.

Just a short stroll from the pub is a memorial to Sister Kenny, a one-time

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Mt Basalt, Millmerran

Shana Rogers Business Development Manager The Woolshed at Jondaryan “My favourite place to grab a great coffee and a pastry on my way to The Woolshed at Jondaryan is Wendland Olives Deli (corner of Bridge and Mary Streets, Toowoomba). Their cheeses, superb local olives and specialty breads (try the fig and pitsachio), are hard to resist. Yum! You can even put together your own picnic and enjoy it under the shady trees or down by the beautiful creek at The Woolshed.�

The Woolshed at Jondaryan

Private garden, Toowoomba

Cecil Plains landscape

Pittsworth A pleasant 30-minute drive from Toowoomba, just off the Gore Highway is Pittsworth. Here lies some of the richest farming land in Australia.

You’ll discover a town equipped with modern facilities and everything you’ll need for your journey; however there’s still a country town feel and a strong sense of history here.

The Pittsworth Pioneer Village showcases the early development of the area and is dedicated to the memory of the feats of Arthur Postle – the “Crimson Flash”. Once the world’s fastest athlete, Postle grew up in the district and developed his love of running on the family farm. Crafty travellers will be interested in the Lady Fletcher Lace Room which houses one of Australia’s largest lace collections.

At the RSL Display Centre, you can view an extensive collection of wartime memorabilia.

In Hume Street is the gracious St Stephen’s Catholic Church, constructed in 1908. Just around the corner, St Andrew’s Anglican Church is also worth a visit to view the magnificent stained-glass windows.

If you’re travelling in early March be sure to plan for the Pittsworth Show, the annual celebration of all that is great about living in rural Queensland.

Over the May long weekend, you can expect to see more 10-gallon hats than usual in town for the annual

Broxburn Bash. You’ll catch bush poetry, food and fun and a variety of musical styles including some fantastic country music acts.

Get tinkering now if you want to put the car on the track or take part in the legendary burn out competition at September’s Pittsworth Sprints – a fun weekend of time trials around a street circuit.

To get a real taste for our regional flavours get along to October’s Pittsworth Craft and Fine Food Spectacular. Local artisans present their hand-made crafts and regional foods for sale at the Town Hall at more than 60 stalls.

Millmerran You’ve heard of spitting the dummy?

Well in Millmerran they throw the damper!

The fun and irreverence of the biennial Australian Camp Oven Festival is a great reason to visit, but there’s so much more to this little town on the western fringe of the Darling Downs.

The rich agricultural area of the Condamine and Macintyre catchments make Millmerran a prosperous rural town. Of note to travellers is that it’s a town that does much to preserve its past and keep its pioneering history alive.

To get your bearings and a little local history lesson, take in the panoramic views from Commodore Peak Lookout.

A series of larger than life murals here depict the district’s history and how the town developed.

Europeans first settled the area in 1841 when brothers George and Ralph Gore established Yandilla Station in an area of 1,784km2 between Millmerran and Pittsworth. At one time it was the size of a small township with its own store and telegraph station.

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. Visit www.millmerran.net.au for opening times.

It’s worth a drive, just 19km south of Millmerran, to The Mt Basalt reserve. This unique geological and environmental area features rare volcanic formations and offers a variety of walking trails and a lookout with spectacular views.

Millmerran’s busy events calendar includes the classic biennial Australian Camp Oven Festival (next in 2014). As well as throw a damper, you can eat your fill of camp oven tucker, and hear bush poetry and country music.

Other events to plan for include Millmerran Show on the first weekend in March; the annual Millmerran Sheep Races – a six-race program followed by a calcutta in August; and the biennial

Vacy Hall Historic Guesthouse VACY HALL is the only heritage-listed accommodation in Toowoomba and is surrounded by over an acre of exquisite gardens in a quiet historic residential neighbourhood.

• Recommended by Lonely Planet as their pick of the places to stay in the garden city • Tripadvisor.com consistently rates Vacy Hall as the best accommodation in Toowoomba • Included in the book published by Allen and Unwin, and written by Barry Stone titled ‘Great Historic Hotels of Australia’ Vacy Hall is centrally located in Toowoomba’s CBD and close to over 200 retail outlets, traditional pubs, great restaurants, a number of quirky cafes and some of the city’s best antique and art galleries. The convenience of being in the centre of a vibrant urban landscape combined with the charm and tranquillity of a grand country garden offers guests the best of both worlds.

07 4639 2055 info@vacyhall.com.au | vacyhall.com.au 135 Russell Street Toowoomba QLD 4350

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gathering of the Sporting Shooters Association of Australia for the National Open Rendezvous.

A short drive north, the village of Cecil Plains is steeped in history and home to one of the largest cotton gins in the Southern Hemisphere. Drop in for Devonshire tea or a cold beer and a chat to the locals at the Hotel Victory, built in 1933 in the Queenslander style.

Now a country stay bed and breakfast, the historic Cecil Plains Homestead was once the focal point of life on Cecil Plains Station, which was claimed in 1841 by Henry Stuart Russell.

Plan your visit for the Ludwig Leichhardt Weekend celebrations on the third weekend in May. In 1844 and 1847 Ludwig Leichhardt used Cecil Plains Station as the base for his botanical expeditions into the surrounding region.

Jondaryan Jondaryan is a quaint rural township, home to The Woolshed and Station Village.

Built in 1859, The Woolshed at Jondaryan is Queensland’s oldest operating woolshed. You can join one of two daily guided tours to learn about the history of Jondaryan Station and its role in the development of pastoralism on the Darling Downs. Stroll back in time through a fascinating complex of historic buildings, machinery and collections.

At the three-day Australian Heritage Festival, held in May, you can see shearing, bullock and horse teams in action, blacksmithing, vintage tractors, engines, trucks and cars. People come from all over Australia to display traditional bush crafts and be part of the atmosphere as machinery from the museum whirrs into operation.

You can stay at The Woolshed in accommodation ranging from selfcontained, ensuited twin-share cottages, rustic cabins and comfortable shearers’ quarters to the more basic safari tents, caravan and camping sites. The shearers’ quarters feature an authentic sawdust-floored cookhouse with an open fire and wood stove as well as the modern comforts of a fridge, hot shower and toilet.

Oakey The Oakey area offers a real country experience – genuine country hospitality and the chance to make a deep connection with the town’s rich pioneering history.

The Oakey Historical Museum has faithfully preserved the everyday lifestyle of the town’s forebears for new generations to enjoy. The collection is a must-see for every visitor.

A popular drawcard is the Museum of Australian Army Flying where you’ll see every kind of aircraft flown by the Australian Army since World War II, including the latest high-tech military helicopters. There are other remarkable

flying machines including a replica Bristol Boxkite as used to train pilots in World War I. If you’ve ever dreamt of flying, stop off at Darling Downs Soaring Club at McCaffrey Field near Jondaryan.

Experience the wonder of silent flight, gliding over a patchwork of farmlands with Australia’s premier gliding club.

Goombungee and Kingsthorpe Take a quiet side-track from the Warrego Highway or New England Highway to find the hamlets of Kingsthorpe and Goombungee.

Kingsthorpe is just a 15-minute panoramic drive west of Toowoomba.

Stop at Mt Kingsthorpe Park Lookout just outside of town. A graded walking track from the car park to the summit provides expansive views across the Darling Downs. The Gowrie Pub has a crackling fire in winter and there’s always a cold beer on tap.

A little further on, Goombungee’s streets are lined with jacarandas and silky oaks, which provide a spectacular display in late spring.

The Pioneer Arms Hotel, dating back to 1897, is a great lunch destination serving hearty country fare and a warm welcome. The Rosalie Gallery hosts an ever-changing display of works by the region’s artists. And if you have your clubs in the car you’re welcome at the local, challenging nine-hole golf course.

Country hospitality and adventure Just an hour’s drive from Brisbane, Spicers Hidden Vale is a 12,000 acre country farm centred around a historical homestead. With a family-friendly restaurant, cottage-style accommodation, day spa, animal nursery and outdoor activities it’s a retreat for the whole family.

Spicers Hidden Vale • 617 Grandchester Mt Mort Rd, Grandchester QLD 1300 275 213

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2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

www.spicersgroup.com.au

lity a it p s o H y r t n u o C nd Carnival Colour a

f l e s r u o y Pute picture in th

Bookings or enquiries phone Stonestreets Coaches

1300 555 899

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

www.stonestreets.com.au

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Black Forest Hill Cuckoo Clock Centre, Cabarlah

Crows Nest Perched on the crest of the Great Dividing Range, the old timber town of Crows Nest lies amongst pretty, undulating hills and is built around an attractive village green. In the centre of the green, known as Centenary Park, is the statue of Jimmy Crow, a local Aboriginal man, after whom some believe the town was named.

Its streets are filled with striking old buildings that house antique shops, cafés, galleries and a museum.

Centenary Park has won awards for its design, including its innovative underground water catchment.

Held in October each year, the Crows Nest Festival includes the infamous Perseverance Cup (worm racing at its best!) along with street parades, entertainment, poet’s breakfast, art trails and garden exhibitions.

This small town packs a lot of historical punch. Within an easy walk of the town centre, you’ll find Salts Antiques, Carbethon Folk Museum, the Regional Art Gallery and a community arts and crafts centre. After hoofing it around town make for the Applegum Walk – a pleasant stroll along the creek between Bullocky’s Rest and Warmann Park. The Crows Nest Show is a significant regional event held annually in May. Pack a picnic to enjoy in nearby Crows Nest National Park where you’ll find bird watching and bushwalking trails through 36

Museum of Australian Army Flying, Oakey

the eucalypt forest. After rains you’ll see Crows Nest Falls in action. You may even spot a brush-tailed rock wallaby perched on the high granite boulders.

Highfields Just a short drive north of Toowoomba along the New England Highway is Highfields, a blooming community with many unique and specialised art and craft stores. Beautiful parks, delightful walking tracks, cafés and an historical village make this a lovely spot to spend a day or two.

With breathtaking vistas to the Bunya Mountains and a diverse range of plants of local provenance, the 4.7-hectare Peacehaven Botanic Park is one of the most outstanding gardens on the Downs.

You’ll find fresh air and an opportunity to immerse yourself in tranquil natural surrounds. Nearby Davidson Arboretum is another public park bequeathed to the people with over 400 varieties of temperate deciduous trees, including some very rare species.

Highfields Pioneer Historical Village keeps alive memories of years gone by. You’ll discover a rare and unusual collection of vintage machinery, a fully operational blacksmith shop and a collection of restored antique radios.

The annual Easter Vintage Festival is held here over three days and draws large crowds.

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Gary Arnold Coordinator Public Gardens (North), Toowoomba Regional Council “If you’re visiting the ‘Garden City’ of Toowoomba in October, a must is the State Rose Garden in Holberton Street – the roses are in full bloom and absolutely beautiful. If you visit from late December through to February you can take in the spectacular vibrant colours of summer flowers on display in Queens Park, Picnic Point, Laurel Bank Park and the Historic Spring Bluff Railway Station.

Abbie Lane, Highfields

Within close proximity along the highway you’ll find local crafts and good coffee at Abbie Lane Arts and Craft Village, the Village Green where the famous Chocolate Cottage is located, Jacaranda Manor and Danish Flower Art.

Cabarlah Further along the highway is Cabarlah.

It’s a great spot for a good country pub meal at the Farmers Arms Tavern, one of the longest continually licensed pubs in Queensland. Nearby is the original railway station master’s house which now is home to Colours of San Cris; a South American-themed shop full of colourful treasures.

On the hill is the Black Forest Hill Cuckoo Clock Centre, where you’ll find an impressive collection of cuckoo and grandfather clocks, the Black Forest Hill Coffee House and Hillcrest Nursery.

Quality French antiques and giftware are located at La Maison de France, a short stroll away. A monthly market is held at Cabarlah Sports Grounds.

Hampton At the top of the escarpment on the Great Dividing Range, Hampton is a picturesque village surrounded by forests and striking natural beauty. At 715 metres above sea level, it’s the heart of the high country and home to a

thriving arts community. Its rich volcanic soils and temperate climate make it one of Southern Queensland Country’s most productive food bowls. The Hampton area supplies much of the State’s rhubarb and avocados.

Stop to chat to a local at the Hampton Visitor Information Centre and browse the historic 100-year-old building.

If you’re travelling with a caravan or motor home, Chapman Park is a designated overnight rest stop within an easy walk of Flavours Café and a general store.

Spring Bluff Railway Station is located on the main railway line between Ipswich and Toowoomba. Its significance stems from 130 years of railway history and the attraction of its prize-wining landscaped gardens. The grounds are open every day for visitors to enjoy a picnic or BBQ (electric) while the Spring Bluff Café is open from 9.30am – 4.30pm Friday – Sunday for light meals, coffee or delicious treats. Spring Bluff Railway Station has been one of the most romantic outdoor wedding venues in the region due to its quaint country feel – such a magical atmosphere! Whatever the reason for visiting Spring Bluff Railway Station – picnic, Café coffee, family day, wedding, or just relaxing in the peaceful surrounds – you’ll love visiting this unique piece of paradise.

Spring Bluff Railway Station

T 07 4688 6883 (General enquiries) • 07 5462 0367 (Wedding enquiries and bookings) • 07 4630 8177 (Café enquiries and bookings)

Drive (off Murphy’s Creek Road), Springand BluffToowoomba.

Q 4352 (just outside E claire.mcgovern@toowoombaRC.qld.gov.au • W springbluff.com.au y Station is located McCormack on the main railway line between Ipswich Its Toowoomba) significance• stems from 130 years of railway history Spring Railwaymaintained Station is located thesurrounds main railway between andyears Toowoomba.

Its significance stems from 130 years of railwa f its landscaped gardens.

TheBluff beautifully gardensonand havelinebeen tendedIpswich for many winning awards in the annual and the attraction of its landscaped gardens.

The beautifully maintained gardens and surrounds have been tended for many years winning award competition. The grounds are open every day for visitors to enjoy a picnic or BBQ (electric) while the Spring Bluff Café is open from Carnival of Flowers competition.

The grounds are open every day for visitors to enjoy a picnic or BBQ (electric) while the Spring Bluff Café 37is open www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au iday-Sunday for a light meal, coffee or delicious treat.

9.30am-4.30pm Friday-Sunday for a light meal, coffee or delicious treat.

Maclagan

Picnic Point, Toowoomba

Sunflower field, Cambooya

Highfields Pioneer Historical Village

Gus Beutels Lookout, Ravensbourne

Carnival of Flowers, Toowoomba

Each May you can join the locals at the Hampton Food and Arts Festival – a celebration of regional food and wine, along with the creativity of the region’s artists and craftspeople.

Hampton offers easy access to the Ravensbourne and Crows Nest National Parks, and nearby Lakes Cressbrook and Perseverance.

Ravensbourne Perched on the edge of the Great Dividing Range, Ravensbourne was a traditional bush tucker refreshment stop for Aboriginal people en route to and from the Bunya Mountains nut festivals.

Punctuated by patches of rainforest, the drive to Ravensbourne along the winding Esk-Hampton Road is one of the prettiest in the region.

Ravensbourne National Park is a day-use park with short walks through rainforest and open eucalypt forest teeming with native birds. Gus Beutel’s Lookout provides a panoramic view over the Lockyer Valley and the Border Ranges, and offers a beautiful picnic spot. You can go bushwalking, boating, fishing, bird watching or picnic at nearby Lakes Cressbrook and Perseverance.

There’s a well-appointed camping ground at Lake Cressbrook or you can relax and revitalise in the high country air with a stay in self-contained accommodation amid Ravensbourne’s rainforest and rolling hills.

vantage is from the suspension bridge in Swinging Bridge Park.

Each February Cooyar’s Agricultural Show features great country competitions, including a night rodeo.

Easily accessed from Cooyar, the tiny Palms National Park preserves remnant rainforest and a stand of piccabeen palms in a spring-fed gully.

Maclagan and Quinalow Maclagan at the foothills of the Bunya Mountains, and close neighbour Quinalow, perched on Myall Creek, are friendly country towns.

From Quinalow you can access the old Muntapa Rail Tunnel to see a bentwinged bat colony living within.

The park near the entrance has picnic tables and barbeques, a viewing platform, and toilets. Interpretative signs detail the history of the rail and the 287-metre tunnel, which was dug by hand in 1913.

Cooyar Located north of Toowoomba on the New England Highway, Cooyar is a tranquil country village. The wide verandahs of the Cooyar Hotel are a friendly spot for a drink and the low-down on what to see and do around town. You’ll have to be up early or wait patiently at dusk to spot a platypus in Cooyar Creek. The best

Queens Park, Toowoomba

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Take a country drive

78km

Cecil Plains

Open Plains Steele Rudd Country Drive (Day Tour) Destinations – Toowoomba/Cecil Plains/ Millmerran/Pittsworth/Cambooya/ Nobby

Toowoomba 40km

25km Cambooya

Pittsworth

45km

Leave the cities and towns behind and meet the real Darling Downs through its publicans and locals. Discover the history and characters that inspired Rudd’s ‘On Our Selection’ and ‘Dad and Dave’ through the Millmerran murals and the Pittsworth Historical Village.

42km

22km

Felton

Nobby

Millmerran

Warwick

Cooyar

26km

Maclagan

57km

Farmers Country Drive (3⁄4 Day Tour) Destinations – Toowoomba/Oakey/ Jondaryan/Maclagan/Cooyar/ Goombungee Check out the Museum of Australian Army Flying at Oakey enroute to The Woolshed at Jondaryan. Take in the paddocks as you loop through farming country, stop in for a friendly beverage at one of the country pubs, or pop into a winery for a tasting before heading home.

35km

Goombungee

Jondaryan 15km

Oakey

28km

Kingaroy

High Country Drive (Half Day Tour)

Head to the hills for a walk in the cooler climes of the national parks and lakes around Crows Nest and Ravensbourne.

Visit the past at Highfields Pioneer Village and the historic Spring Bluff Railway Station. Recharge with a bite to eat in one of the quaint cafés.

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Lake Cressbrook

Crows Nest

Destinations – Toowoomba/Highfields/ Hampton/Crows Nest/Ravensbourne

Lake Perseverance

11km Hampton 19km Highfields

Toowoomba

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

18km

Ravensbourne

Esk

Toowoomba

www.australiascountryway.com.au

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The South Burnett MUST-DOS: Walk, cycle or ride the old Brisbane Valley Rail Trail – Yarraman to Moore, crossing the Blackbutt Range Walk, birdwatch and breathe in the fresh air in the Bunya Mountains Picnic, fish and water ski at BjelkePetersen Dam and Lake Boondooma Connect with nature at Coomba Falls’ hidden waterhole near Maidenwell Tour the region’s vineyards and cellar doors

MUST-SEES: Local woodworkers crafting timber treasures The sunset from Boat Mountain A country race meeting or agricultural show The nest of the bower bird adorned with collected blue ornaments – Bunya Mountains Browse local markets, interactive museums and artisan galleries

Bunya Mountains National Park

Peanut farm, Kingaroy

In Southern Queensland Country’s crowning glory, the South Burnett, you’ll find all the ingredients of a great country holiday. A good mix of places to stay and a warm welcome from the locals is just the start. There’s an exciting wine trail to explore, red soil paddocks yielding fine local produce, easy access to the wildlife, waterfalls and walking trails of the Bunya Mountains, great fishing and water sports at Lake Boondooma and BjelkePetersen Dam and night skies twinkling with stars. Escaping here means good family times, getting back to nature, fresh air and freedom.

Kingaroy Surrounded by picturesque farmlands interspersed with low rolling hills, Kingaroy is the largest town in the South Burnett and central to this diverse and beautiful region. Well serviced by numerous large retail chains, and many services that you would expect to find in larger towns, Kingaroy plays host to a variety of accommodation options including modern motels, cabins, caravan parks, cosy B&Bs, self-contained retreats, vineyard cottages and farm stays.

Taabinga Homestead, Kingaroy

From here you can explore one of Australia’s most exciting new boutique wine regions. With a low-humidity, climate similar to the acclaimed Hunter Valley, Kingaroy and the South Burnett are ideally suited for grape cultivation.

The first vines were planted in 1995 and now you can visit and taste wine at more than five cellar doors nearby (plus another five in the Moffatdale region, near Murgon).

There’s plenty of variety to explore on the wine trail, at venues ranging from some of Queensland’s largest wineries to small

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many other crops and there’s a growing gourmet food scene with chefs featuring local produce on menus at many of the award-winning restaurants and cafés around town (try the mouth-watering local Barker’s Creek Pork).

boutique vineyards. Verdelho is the region’s signature varietal, along with all the usual favourites, and exciting alternative varieties, such as sangiovese and viognier.

Drop into the Kingaroy Visitor Information Centre in the town’s Arts and Heritage Precinct to chat to locals who can help you plan your itinerary.

Acting as a shopfront to the region’s locally produced products, arts and craft, the centre is a one-stop shop for a succinct snapshot of the region and an enjoyable space to browse the local talents and wares. The precinct is home to Kingaroy Heritage Museum and a collection of historic buildings ranging from Carroll’s Cottage (the first building constructed in Kingaroy) through to the Carrollee Hotel and the Shire’s earliest Council chambers.

Kingaroy is renowned for its peanut production – you can’t miss the towering silos. Stop off to try local icon The Peanut Van’s tasty range of more than 20 types of flavoured peanuts as well as boiled, chocolate-coated and roasted peanuts. Kingaroy’s rich soils also yield

Taste South Burnett at the heritage-listed Old Butter Factory is a combined cellar door and providore where you can enjoy tastings of local boutique wines, regional gourmet produce (including awardwinning Kingaroy cheese) and a range of freshly made fudge. At Kingaroy Kitchen

Walk, Cycle, Ride

Wondai

44

on Kingaroy Street you can sample and buy a wide range of freshly made country jams, pickles, chutneys and biscuits.

Located on the northern outskirts of Kingaroy, the Booie Range is fast gaining a reputation for its selection of wineries, cellar doors, restaurants and boutique accommodation options.

If you’re in town on the second Saturday of March, get along to the South Burnett Wine & Food in The Park Festival. Apart from live entertainment, sampling local wines and food, you can learn more at the PCA South Burnett Regional Cuisine Showcase. Other major events to plan for are the Kingaroy Show and the Burrandowan Picnic Races both in May, and Motors in Motion in October.

Panoramic views can be had from lookouts at Apex Park and at nearby Mt Wooroolin, which is also a nature refuge where you might spy regent bower birds or the black breasted quail. Water birds can be studied from bird hides at nearby Gordonbrook Dam and the Wooroolin wetlands. The Visitor Information Centre can advise on access to these areas.

Mountain views, the song of the Bellbird and the native flora meld with history and heritage on the trail which meanders atop the Blackbutt Range, affording a serene bush outlook with clear blue skies..

Discover the: • History of the Railway Line • Unmarked grave of a railworker • Hidden Railway Tunnel • ‘Fettlers Rest’ Sculptures Use our facilities: • Hitching Rails • Toilet Facilities • Shade for your lunch

Trail Distance: → → → → →

Moore to Blackbutt (Nukku Road): 33.5km Moore to Linville Station: 7 km Linville Station to Benarkin: 18 km Benarkin to Blackbutt: 4.6 km Blackbutt to Nukku Overhead Bridge: 3.9 km

Make your booking today to: Robyn Gray (07) 5424 8138 Jeff Maudsley (07) 4163 0305

Moore to Blackbutt Rail Trail 2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Timber Museum, Wondai

The Bunya Mountains The South Burnett offers easy access to the majestic Bunya Mountains, which, at an elevation of over 1,100m above sea level, are the region’s high point – in a variety of ways. Less than an hour from Kingaroy and Maidenwell, this natural wonderland is an offshoot of the Great Dividing Range formed about 30 million years ago and shelters the largest stand of ancient bunya pines in the world today.

Traditionally, Aboriginal tribes used the Mountains as a meeting place. They feasted seasonally on roasted bunya nuts collected from the pines. Each protein-rich egg-shaped nut can be up to 30cm long and weigh 10kg. Be sure to sample some of the local bunya nut dishes on offer.

Declared a National Park in 1908, it is the second oldest in Queensland.

You’ll discover a mix of moist, dense subtropical and dry sclerophyll rainforest, waterfalls, grasslands, open forests and woodlands. Take to the walking trails to see native wildlife, wallabies and pademelons as well as 121 species of birds including brilliantly coloured king parrots, satin bowerbirds and crimson rosellas. The area offers the quiet allure of a retreat environment for families, groups and couples. You’ll feel the seasons change in the mountains. Summer days are pleasantly warm, wildflowers and new growth signal spring, the trees change hue during autumn and in winter a mountain chalet is just the place to relax in front of a cosy crackling fire.

You’ll find everything you need for a day trip or an extended stay – coffee shops, licensed tea rooms, BYO restaurant, general store, camp sites, cabins and holiday houses.

Blackbutt The distinctive song of the Bellbird can be heard in the natural surrounds of Blackbutt, a pretty town, rich in history and heritage and framed by native flora and mountain views. Bushwalkers, cyclists and horse riders tend to use the Blackbutt Rail Head as their main access point to the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail – refer to the Yarraman section for more details. Blackbutt is also a great place to join the Bicentennial National Trail, a trail open to walkers, mountain bikers and horse riders which links up over 5,000km of old stock routes along the Great Dividing Range from Victoria to Tropical North Queensland.

In town, next to the park, you’ll find the Visitor Information Centre housed in a replica of an old slab hut. Ask for advice on local art and directions to the Woodfired Bakery where you can buy one of Australia’s best pies. Cosy accommodation can be found at a range of quality establishments. If you’re travelling in September plan for The Bloomin’ Beautiful Blackbutt Festival, a celebration of agriculture, the beauty of the countryside and the local creative community.

Kerry Heaney Food contributor – bmag, Tiger Tales, Brisbane Where Publisher – Eat, drink + be Kerry http://eatdrinkandbekerry. blogspot.com “Pop into The Left Bank in Kilkivan, sample local red claw and take home some of Bruce’s popular preserves and relishes.

Enjoy some of the best panoramic views in the district at Bello Vista on Booie Ridge, Kingaroy.

Dine on the deck or try their bottomless Sunday breakfast.”

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Handcrafted ...Handspun ...Handmade ...

Browse the region’s specially curated local hand crafted arts, produce and gourmet provisions.

46

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Our local country artisanal wares are available at these two amazing locations: Kingaroy information art and heritage Precinct

south burnett Wondai timber museum

128 Haly Street, Kingaroy

80 Haly Street, Wondai

Telephone: 07 4189 9172

Telephone: 07 4189 9251

enjoy:

enjoy:

~ locally Handcrafted itemS

~ locally Handcrafted itemS

~ HamperS

~ WoodcrafterS WorKSHop

~ quality art exHiBitionS

~ Wagon camp life-Size diorama

~ Heritage muSeum

~ corn coB penS

~ interactive diSplayS and exHiBitS

~ large Selection of Wooden giftS

~ largeSt range of regional

~ Wooden furniture range

produce ~ Wi-fi/internet acceSS

southburnett.qld.gov.au www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

47

South Burnett Energy Centre, Nanango

Burrandowan Picnic Races

Coomba Waterhole

Maidenwell Astonomical Observatory

Bunya Mountains National Park

Yarraman Fringed by hoop pine plantation forests, bunya pines and picturesque grazing countryside, the timber town of Yarraman sits at the junction of the D’Aguilar and New England Highways. Hotel/ motel, B&B, caravan park and cabin accommodation is available.

You’ll find a wealth of local information at Yarraman Heritage and Information Centre along with historical buildings and a museum featuring war memorabilia and displays of the timber and power industries. Held annually on the last full weekend of September, the Colours of Yarraman Festival is a community celebration of creativity through photographic competitions and displays, gardens, art and family activities.

48

Walkers, cyclists and horse riders can see nature at a relaxed pace on this part of the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.

Commencing at Yarraman, with entry points in Blackbutt, Benarkin, Linville and Moore, the 161km recreation trail follows the old Brisbane Valley railway line along the western side of the Brisbane River, meandering through small towns and agricultural landscapes and concluding at Wulkuraka, west of Ipswich. Closed to vehicles, the trail is one of the best places to see the elusive, endangered, ground dwelling blackbreasted button-quail, which have been sighted in hoop pine thickets.

Maidenwell Maidenwell is a charming village at the gateway to the Bunya Mountains.

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Stop in at the quaint country pub for a beer or relax over lunch and a coffee at the Maidenwell Trading Post (home to locally grown Yalbury Olive products).

Don’t miss Maidenwell Astronomical Observatory – Queensland’s largest selffunded observatory with tours available daily. The magnificent Coomba Falls is just out of town as well. Be sure to fuel up in Maidenwell before you head up to the Bunya Mountains, as the next available fuel stop is not until you descend into Kumbia and Kingaroy on the other side of the mountain.

Nanango Nanango – Queensland’s fourth oldest town and the second largest in the South Burnett – is a vibrant centre steeped in heritage while still retaining its tranquil

Boondooma Dam

rural charm. This friendly country town surrounded by vine scrublands and eucalypt forests enjoys cool summers and brisk winters. Tarong Power Station and Coal Mine are close by, and Nanango hosts the newly restored state-of-theart South Burnett Energy Centre, on the Burnett Highway, where you can learn about energy generation and see original 1933 working motors. Be sure to stop by the centre for the children to stretch their legs and ride the power-generating bike complete with gumball reward.

Peter Divljak Passionate Fisherman & Manager, Yallakool Caravan Park on Bjelke-Petersen Dam “I love fishing the drop offs in the timbered sections of the BjelkePetersen Dam. There is nothing better than getting up there away from everything with not a sound to be heard except the squeal of your drag when a fish is on. My favourite lures to use are blades and semi hard lures. We have all of your tackle needs taken care of in our shop at the caravan park.

Feel free to come in and ask me for advice. I’m happy to help.”

Also on the D’Aguilar Highway are the Tipperary Flat pioneering displays that paint a vivid picture of life as it used to be. You can also visit nearby Ringsfield House – a large, grand, turn of the century Queenslander designed by famed architect Robin Dods and faithfully restored and furnished to reflect its diverse history.

Get into the country spirit at the local horse races – Lee Park Racetrack hosts six meetings a year. For racing of a more hair-raising nature, the South Burnett GoKart track is also nearby.

Other annual events where you can soak up the country vibe include the Nanango Show in April, Big Screen Australian Film Festival and the Nanango Arts Festival in May, the Nanango Country Music Muster in September and Mardi Gras in October.

Wondai Wondai is the ideal place from which to explore local art and craft, museums and Lake Boondooma. Between the towns of Murgon and Kingaroy, Wondai features

cattle and grain growing country as well as grasslands interspersed with eucalypt forests. Here you’ll find art and heritage lining the streets, historic buildings and attractive landscaped parks and gardens.

Don’t miss the multi award-winning South Burnett Timber Industry Museum which includes a Woodcrafters Workshop where local woodworkers demonstrate their skills. Wondai Regional Art Gallery features a new exhibition the first Friday of each month. Be on the lookout for their Blue Pole Art dotted around the district. Nearby is the Wondai Heritage Museum where you can see the original operating theatre from the first hospital built in the region in 1915, and an historic bugle played at the Japanese First Army Surrender to the Australians aboard ‘HMAS Rockhampton’ in the Dutch East Indies in 1945.

Have a beer and a yarn with the locals at the well-known historic Tingoora Hotel about 10km south of Wondai. It’s also worth stopping at Hivesville Hotel on your way to Lake Boondooma to see the impressive pressed metal ceilings and an extensive woodwork display.

Lake Boondooma Peaceful Lake Boondooma is a paradise for anglers, campers, birdwatchers and water sports enthusiasts. The 1900ha dam was purpose-built across the Boyne River in 1983 to provide a water supply to the Tarong Power Station. A mix of 200,000 golden perch (yellowbelly), silver perch and Australian bass fingerlings are released annually into the

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49

Bjelke-Petersen Dam

dam, making it one of the most popular and consistent inland camping and fishing spots in South East Queensland.

Sign up for the Boondooma Fishing Competition held each February or try your skill at numerous freshwater catch and release tournaments during the year. Lake Boondooma Caravan and Recreation Park, on the foreshores of the dam, offers caravan and camping sites, a bunkhouse and cabins along with tennis courts, modern amenities blocks, a kiosk and landscaped picnic and barbeque areas.

and offers the perfect base to discover the Barambah Wine Trail. The trail takes in the nearby winery area of Moffatdale where you’ll find the largest vineyard in Queensland and five vineyards and cellar doors within a 15km radius of Murgon. Winery restaurants on the trail offer everything from light lunches to sumptuous banquets (try Moffatdale Ridge’s renowned Tuscan Feast on the last Sunday of the month), all matched to their quality wines. If you want to linger longer to enjoy more of the fresh air and country hospitality, you’ll find a number of modern B&Bs and farm stays.

You can see one of the oldest settlements in the area, just a short drive away at Durong. Historic Boondooma Homestead (circa 1850), and a cluster of historical buildings have been authentically restored and are open daily.

Nearby Proston is noted as a major growing area for duboisia – a native tree valued for its pharmaceutical properties.

The Proston Show and Campdraft is held over three days each March. Onsite camping and adventure tracks for fourwheel-driving enthusiasts are available at Manar Tourist Park on the Boyne River, around an hour from Lake Boondooma.

Murgon Amid tranquil bushland and diverse farmlands, the historic town of Murgon, settled in 1846, offers a relaxed pace

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Drop into Murgon Information Centre for maps of the wine trail and a local heritage-listed fossil site as well as advice on local nature trails and the Tableland Scenic Drive. For an unsurpassed view across the South Burnett countryside head up to Boat Mountain, a flat-topped ridge shaped like an upturned boat, which rises to 589m.

Walking tracks allow birdwatchers and naturalists to see native flora and fauna in a virtually undisturbed habitat.

Murgon’s early dairy industry days are honoured in The Dairy and Heritage Museum, the only one of its kind in Queensland. The museum also has a range of telephones and manual exchanges, all in working order.

Kinbombi Beef (Macalister Street, Murgon) is a butcher shop selling local beef grown on Kinbombi Station at Goomeri. Nearby Yallakool Caravan Park at Bjelke-Petersen Dam is an angler’s paradise.

Bjelke-Petersen Dam (Lake Barambah) Mackenzie Divljak, Fisherman and son, aged 8 “I love going out with Dad on the boat. I caught this little Bass on this cool little lure.“

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Just off the Murgon-Goomeri Road, nestled in the Moffatdale wine region, is Bjelke-Petersen Dam. At Yallakool Caravan Park, right on the banks of the dam, you can access swimming, boating, water skiing and fishing – golden perch (yellowbelly) are the prized catch in these parts. You can camp, park a caravan on

a powered or unpowered site or book a self-contained villa. The park also offers a camp kitchen, swimming pool, picnic facilities and a kiosk – a great budgetfriendly holiday for all of the family.

Keep an eye out for black swans, ducks, pelicans and cormorants on the water as well as koalas in the eucalypts and wallabies and kangaroos who visit the water’s edge at dawn and dusk.

Kilkivan and Goomeri Kilkivan, at the north-eastern access point to the South Burnett, was the site of Queensland’s first gold strike in 1852.

Stop off at the Rossmore Road Mine to get a feel for the gold rush fever that once swept the area.

You can join in with more than 1,000 riders who trek along parts of the Bicentennial National Trail on the annual Kilkivan Great Horse Ride held in March.

If you’re in town on Sunday morning, you’ll find locally produced fruit, vegetables and craft at Kilkivan Markets in Lester Millar Park, between 7am – 11am.

Local country meats and produce from nearby Fat Hen Farm (olive oils, marinated olives and preserved lemons) are available at Kilkivan Meats on Bligh Street.

Drive on through to Goomeri to discover true country charm, and hunt for antiques and second-hand relics.

Goomeri’s popular Pumpkin Festival in May features pumpkin rolling competitions down the main street and fantastic family entertainment. Stop into Goomeri Cheeseworld to put together a picnic of cheeses, olives and deli staples, or grab a meal and a beer at the beautifully restored hotel.

You’ll find a tranquil picnic spot and forest walking trails at Kinbombi Falls, just east of Goomeri off the Wide Bay Highway.

You can also discover the grand pastoral history of Boonara Homestead built in 1862 for David Jones (of department store fame). Here you can enjoy a Devonshire tea or stay the night in stately surrounds.

image replace with 107212

Bridgeman Downs Winery, South Burnett

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THROW A LINE IN THE WATER TELL CAMPFIRE STORIES UNDER THE STARS STAY IN THE TENT OR CABINS

SOUTH BURNETT Bjelke-Petersen Dam

Lake Boondooma

Only 8km from Murgon and a short 2 1/2 hours from Brisbane is Bjelke-Petersen Dam. Stay at award winning Yallakool Park on BP Dam

Lake Boondooma, located near Proston, is only 3 1/2 hours from Brisbane.

Stay at Lake Boondooma Caravan and Recreation Park.

villa & cabin accommodation ensuited caravan sites powered & unpowered sites swimming pool camp kitchen tennis court

Yallakool Caravan Park on Bjelke-Petersen Dam

(07) 4168 4746

yallakool@southburnett.qld.gov.au www.yallakoolpark.com.au

self contained cabins powered & unpowered sites kiosk camp kitchen refuelling facilities walking tracks

Lake Boondooma Caravan and Recreation Park

(07) 4168 9694

lakeboondooma@skymesh.com.au www.lakeboondooma.com.au

BOOK ONLINE FROM APRIL

Dams proudly owned by South Burnett Regional Council 52

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers Guide

Take a country drive Wine & Heritage Long Weekend (4 Days) Destinations – Gympie/Kilkivan/ Goomeri/Murgon/Kingaroy/Nanango/ Bunya Mountains/Yarraman/Kilcoy

51km

Kilkivan Goomeri Murgon

Day 1 – Depart Brisbane and travel north through Gympie to Kilkivan, take in the antique shops and grab a coffee before continuing inland. Taste gourmet cheeses in Goomeri and sample the wines of the South Burnett. Overnight in Goomeri/Murgon/Moffatdale region.

45km

25km Gympie

Lake Barambah 60km

169km

Kingaroy

Day 2 – Head towards Kingaroy, take in more wineries enroute and more cheeses on arrival. Overnight at a farmstay or cottage in the Kingaroy region.

24km

66km

Nanango

Bunya Mountains National Park

Day 3 – Visit Ringsfield House, a living museum in Nanango before heading into the majestic Bunya Mountains to bush walk and enjoy the scenery. Overnight in the Bunya Mountains.

Yarraman

Dalby

Benarkin State Forest

Toowoomba

Day 4 – Take a leisurely scenic drive back to Brisbane via the D’Aguilar Highway (northern route) or the New England and Warrego Highways (southern route).

68km Kilcoy

Brisbane

Kilkivan Goomeri

25km

Murgon Wondai 31km

Lake Barambah 60km

Grapes & Gourmets Drive (Day Tour)

Kingaroy

Destinations – Wondai/Murgon/ Goomeri/Kilkivan/Nanango

66km

Start this loop from Nanango in the south or Kilkivan in the north. Enjoy tastings and sales of award-winning wines, gourmet cheeses, local produce and friendly country hospitality. Don’t miss the famous Peanut Vans in Kingaroy and Nanango!

Nanango

Bunya Mountains National Park Dalby

45km

Proston

Past & Present Drive (Day Tour)

Journey into the past through museums in Murgon and Kilkivan and the historic Boondooma Homestead. Discover the rich story of the region’s timber industry in Wondai. Meet the locals at the Hivesville and Tingoora hotels and enjoy the parks and lakes of the region on this day out.

Goomeri

201km Brisbane

Kilkivan 25km

Murgon

55km

Destinations – Kilkivan/Goomeri/ Murgon/Cherbourg/Wondai/ Durong/Proston

Benarkin State Forest

Toowoomba

Cherbourg

Wondai

71km Durong

31km

Lake Barambah

60km

Kingaroy 66km

Nanango

Bunya Mountains National Park Dalby

Toowoomba

Benarkin State Forest

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Brisbane

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Southern Downs and Granite Belt MUST-DOS: Bush walk at Killarney’s Queen Mary Falls Savour the region’s fresh seasonal produce direct from the farm Swim, sail, water ski or fish at Storm King Dam or Leslie Dam Embrace the chill and hear vibrant music at Warwick’s Jumpers and Jazz in July Traverse the Strange Bird alternative wine trail

MUST-SEES: Spectacular views from the top of Girraween National Park Walk Warwick’s ‘Heritage and Historic Building Trail’ including Glengallan Homestead and Abbey of the Roses Stanthorpe’s picturesque Quart Pot Creek during the “Brass Monkey” season Bull riding at Warwick Rodeo Cultural diversity at wineries providing delicious food, beverages and entertainment

R on the Downs, Yangan

Sutton's Farm, Thulimbah

An easy escape from Brisbane or the Gold Coast, the Southern Downs and Granite Belt is a region of diverse and rugged beauty, taking in the towns of Stanthorpe and Warwick and a string of creative and friendly villages. There’s a rich history to be explored in these parts and many delights for the senses. Here you’ll see autumn’s changing hues, taste juicy just-picked summer fruit and seasonal vegetables, feel spring’s revitalising energy and cosy up beside crackling fires in winter – and of course, enjoy Queensland’s most awarded wines.

It’s a place to get back to nature and reconnect with each other. You can explore untouched national parks, creeks and waterfalls; sample delicious local produce sourced from some of Queensland’s most fertile farmlands and hit the wine trail to meet winemakers at the cellar door.

There are plenty of places to rest your head from caravan and camping sites to farm stays, cabins, motels, luxury retreats and friendly bed and breakfast guesthouses.

Stanthorpe and surrounds

At the heart of the Granite Belt, Stanthorpe gives easy access to big sky panoramas, spectacular countryside dotted with

precariously balancing prehistoric granite boulders and a generally cooler, temperate climate (there’s even an occasional winter snow-fall!)

Originally established by tin miners in the 1870s, nowadays, thanks to its unique microclimate and granitic soil, the region is nationally recognised for its winemaking and diversity of produce.

Look out for apples, pears, berries, stone fruit, persimmons, figs, olives and a huge range of vegetables in season.

Wander through Stanthorpe and surrounding villages and you’ll also discover award-winning artisan bread and meat pies, gourmet outlets, locally cured meats, hand-made jams and preserves, farmhouse cheeses, vinegar, chocolates, olive oil and of course the outstanding wines!

Grapes have been grown in the Granite Belt since the 1870s and the region is steadily developing a national reputation as a leading wine producer. You can taste whites including verdelho, semillon, chardonnay and sauvignon blanc; and classic full flavoured reds including shiraz, merlot and cabernet sauvignon varieties.

Those with a more adventurous palate should follow the Strange Bird alternative

wine trail, which covers some of the more unusual varieties including viognier, mourvedre and tempranillo.

If you’re more interested in the grain than the grape, there is even a new microbrewery in Stanthorpe, where you can sample six locally brewed beers on tap including Kolsch, Pilsner, Wheat Beer, India Pale Ale, Irish Red Ale and a Porter. Cheers!

Top Wineries James Halliday, Australia's most respected wine critic, rates several Granite Belt wineries highly: Boireann Wines – 5 red stars (highest possible rating) Symphony Hill Wines – 5 stars Golden Grove Estate – 4.5 stars Ballandean Estate – 4.5 stars Lucas Estate – 4 stars Ravens Croft Wines – 4 stars Tobin Wines – 4 stars Heritage Estate – 4 stars Robert Channon Wines – 4 stars Summit Estate – 4 stars

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be elevated

SIPPERS @ BALLANDEAN

MARIC PARK

For a luxury getaway, 4 bedroom Guest House perfect for groups or couples. Easy access to outstanding wineries, orchards, galleries and restaurants, Sippers is the ultimate Stanthorpe getaway. A perfect country retreat.

Fully self contained luxurious cottages, 5km from Stanthorpe in rural setting with bushwalking.

Comfortable king size bed.

Combined living and dining area offers guests plenty of room to relax after a day spent visiting local wineries and attractions. Enjoy the warmth of the wood fire in winter or sit on the deck and enjoy the sunset.

Dedicated home theatre for your enjoyment.

2655 Eukey Road, Ballandean, Q 4382 t. +61 7 4683 4121 m. +61 409 788772 e. sippers@ballandean.net.au www.ballandean.net.au

144 Reilly Road, Stanthorpe, Q 4380 t. +61 (0)417 606 647 e. info@maricpark.com.au www.maricpark.com.au

ROVERS REST GUESTHOUSE

GRANITE BELT DAIRY

A warm welcome awaits you when you choose to stay at Rovers Rest.

The Granite Belt’s premier dairy farm & cheese factory.

Come and sample our range of hand-made cheeses and stay for lunch at the Jersey Girls Cafe.

4 studios + guesthouse, close to wineries & national parks, 80 acres of tranquil bush setting, fireplace.

20 Fletcher Rd Glen Aplin, Q 4381 t. +61 7 4683 4121 m. +61 409 788772 e. bookings@roversrest.com.au www.roversrest.com.au

HIDDEN CREEK WINERY

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Open 7 days 10am - 4pm

Cnr Amiens Rd & Duncan Lane, Thulimbah, Q 4376 t. +61 7 4685 2277 e. info@granitebeltdairy.com.au www.granitebeltdairy.com.au

SEVERN-DIPITY

DIAMONDVALE COTTAGES

Situated high in the Granite Belt hills, our deliciously characterful wines are inspired by the inland European areas and pair beautifully with our authentic cafe food. Open Mon & Fri 11 - 3, Sat, Sun and PH 10 - 4

Private & secluded in bushland on Severn River. Modern fully equipped 2 bedroom 2 bathroom cabin with sauna. Self contained. Experience the Severn Sins. Midweek & Summer Specials available

Stanthorpe’s best location • 30 tranquil creek-side acres 2km to town • 4 Luxurious cottages • No road noise • Breakfasts available • Privacy and comfort • Unique Pioneer Hut BBQ area • from $90 PP twin

2271 Eukey Road, Ballandean, Q 4382 t. +61 7 4684 1383 e. info@hiddencreek.com.au www.hiddencreek.com.au

38 Mungall Lane, Ballandean, Q 4382 t. +61 (0)418 797 791 e. sdip@halenet.com.au www.severn-dipity.com.au

26 Diamondvale Rd, Stanthorpe, Q 4380 t. +61 7 4681 3367 e. stay@diamondvalecottages.com.au www.diamondvalecottages.com.au

2013 Southern Queensland Country Travellers Guide

Fancy a bit of barefoot grape crushing or getting to know the locals in a friendly apple peeling competition? The Biennial Apple and Grape Harvest Festival, held each even numbered year in early March, celebrates the harvest. It also includes a Food and Wine Fiesta and the fortnightly held Markets in the Mountains.

Several local tour companies run yearround tours of the winery trail and other attractions. Bookings can be made at the Visitor Information Centres. Tours are particularly popular during winter months, known as the ‘Brass Monkey Season’.

Alison Alexander, Food Consultant, Queensland Food Fellow & Granite Belt Fan! http://seasonalpursuits. wordpress.com “An all time favourite for me is Sutton’s Farm at Thulimbah.

Stroll through the orchard picking apples to work up an appetite to enjoy some of the treats in their café made using local produce.

Their apple pie served with apple cider ice cream is outstanding!

Make sure you take home some cider, which won 2012 Champion Cider of Show in Brisbane.”

Many Italian settlers made this region home and eating out in Stanthorpe includes traditional Italian-themed restaurants and delis as well as winery cafés, a bake house and modern Australian cuisine. The local pubs offer traditional fare, plus everything from a cosy drink beside the fire to a cool ale in the beer garden on a summer’s evening. The district also offers a variety of international cuisine including German, Thai and Italian.

Stanthorpe’s ‘make it, bake it, sew it or grow it’ quality craft market is held on the second and fourth Sunday of each

month at the Stanthorpe ‘Market in the Mountains’. On the first Sunday of the month you’ll find The Border Railway Markets and a new café at the historic Wallangarra Railway Station.

Keen foodies should look out for local meats, almonds and chestnuts, wild asparagus and wild fennel, with crops of saffron further enhancing the region’s food culture.

The Granite Belt is home to the Queensland College of Wine Tourism.

You can do a wine tasting at the College’s Banca Ridge Cellar Door and lunch on dishes featuring local produce at their Varias Restaurant. In late spring/early summer keep your nose at the ready and your eyes peeled for beautiful fields of lavender – a photographer’s dream and shoppers can find an excellent range of lavender gifts on offer year-round.

Check out what’s on at Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery, renowned for its exhibitions of both national and local importance. You can also see and purchase the works of local artists at community artspace, Artworks on Davadi (corner Davadi and Lock Streets, Stanthorpe), open Monday to Saturday 10am–4pm.

To trace the history of the Granite Belt, first visit the well presented Stanthorpe and District Historical Museum. Then follow the Heritage Trail, which reveals significant historical landmarks and brings to life the stories of old. You’ll discover Wallangarra Railway Station, the panoramic views of the Soldiers’ Memorial built to mark the end of the Boer War; the beauty of Red Bridge; impressive historic buildings including El Arish (Place of Rest) built as a summer house for Major Chauvel, the Federation Post Office, and the Masel Residence – one of Queensland’s first examples of modern international architecture.

Just south of Stanthorpe, Girraween National Park is a favourite for bushwalkers and campers. It offers spectacular granite rock formations and stunning wildflower displays during spring. Adjacent to Girraween are Bald Rock and Boonoo Boonoo National Parks. Bald Rock National Park has the largest granite rock formation in the Southern Hemisphere, providing excellent views over the surrounding terrain. At Boonoo Boonoo National Park you can view the river as it cascades down a sheer rock face into the gorge below.

Nearby Sundown National Park has peaks rising over 1,000m and is largely wilderness. Although most of the park is four-wheel-drive territory, the campsites at the western corner are accessible by two-wheel-drive vehicles.

It’s a brilliant walking and birdwatching destination. Keep your eye out for over 150 species including the turquoise parrot (a park specialty), azure kingfishers, diamond firetails and redcapped robins. You could also spot laced monitor lizards, eastern grey kangaroos and red-necked wallabies.

You’ll spot many waterbirds at Storm King Dam, 10km south-east of Stanthorpe. Take a picnic to this picturesque rural setting and throw in a line or paddle your canoe.

Granite Belt villages From Dalveen in the north through Ballandean to Wallangarra on the New England Highway, you’ll discover many small towns and villages surrounding Stanthorpe.

It’s a small but interesting hop between each, adding up to a superbly satisfying journey.

Dalveen Just off the highway at the start of Granite Belt Drive, Dalveen is a growing artisan village. You can buy work by local artists and craftspeople including leadlight, handmade porcelain dolls and unique fashions. The Granite Belt Drive (formerly known as The Fruit Run) runs to Applethorpe, just north of Stanthorpe.

Driving parallel with the New England Highway, this route provides access to a number of wineries, eateries and local food providores.

Thulimbah Straddling the New England Highway at Thulimbah, a range of providores offer specialty items, local produce and meals.

Here you’re in the thick of ‘apple country’ – the only place in Queensland with just the right climate and growing conditions for premium apple orchards. And it wouldn’t be the Granite Belt if there wasn’t a winery or two nearby!

The Summit Find Queensland’s highest railway station here or get lost in the maze. The area also produces more than 100 varieties of wine, liqueurs and specialty products.

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Spicers Peak Lodge, Maryvale

Amiens Heading west along Amiens Road you’ll find an area of post-World War I soldier settlements: Fleurbaix, Bullecourt, Passchendaele, Bapaume, Messines and Pozieres. Along this drive route are also many fine wineries. Near Pozieres follow the signs to a rock formation called Donnelly’s Castle. You can picnic here and enjoy panoramic views from what was once a hideout of ‘Thunderbolt’, a bushranger who roamed the New England Tableland.

Severnlea Just south of Stanthorpe, the village of Severnlea is a centre for commercial fruit production and also known for topaz fossicking. You’ll find several wineries in the area including Lucas Estate, which holds regular music events.

Warwick Races

Venture off the highway down side roads and byways, as these provide access to roadside fruit stalls stocking seasonal stone fruits and berries. Don’t miss Mt Stirling Olives along Collins Road, Glen Aplin.

Estate, Golden Grove Estate, Bungawarra and Tobin Wines. Head east to find Symphony Hill Wines and Hidden Creek Winery & Cafe in the foothills of Girraween National Park.

Glen Aplin

Wyberba

Set in the hills above Glen Aplin, the Bramble Patch is a working berry farm specialising in tastings and sales of nationally award-winning, hand-made gourmet jams, dessert sauces, meat sauces, relishes, vinegars and fortified berry wines. Glen Aplin is also home to a number of wineries.

A few minutes’ drive south from Ballandean, Wyberba is a small village alongside Girraween National Park. Try the limited release mouvedre at Pyramid Road Wines and stop at Girraween Estate’s cellar door for a taste of their sparkling wine and other award winners.

Drop into Heavenly Chocolate to be tempted by ice cream, local gourmet treats and 17 flavours of handcrafted chocolate.

Stay in Wyberba or camp in Girraween National Park to explore the park’s huge granite boulders towering above open forests. Enjoy wildflowers in spring, climb

Ballandean Ballandean has the largest cluster of wineries on the Granite Belt. Stopover at Vineyard Cottages and Café on the highway, then head west to Ballandean

Power down in your fully appointed eco accredited self contained cottage at this 4 star getaway in the beautiful upper Goomburra Valley. The picturesque 130 acre property borders Heritage Listed Main Range National Park – Goomburra Section.

Admire spectacular views over the Scenic Rim towards Brisbane and Lake Moogerah, waterfalls, bountiful flora and fauna when you explore the numerous walking trails. If rest is what you seek, Goomburra Forest Retreat provides tranquility in a relaxing environment. Choose from studio or one bedroom cottages which are spaced well apart for privacy.

A secluded haven in the forest, Goomburra Forest Retreat is ideal for your short break or extended holiday.

For the more independent traveller, Goomburra Forest Retreat also features a newly established caravan park. This family-friendly park offers full amenities and grassed, level sites with creek frontage.

P: 07 4666 6058 F: 07 4666 6055 E: relax@goomburraforestretreat.com.au W: goomburraforestretreat.com.au A: 268 Forestry Reserve Road, Goomburra QLD 4362

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2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Sue Gordon Goomburra local & owner, Gordon Country One spot you shouldn’t miss is the stunning Banshee Valley – adjoining Main Range National Park – it’s not part of the National Park, so you can have a campfire, and bring your dogs and your horses to ride in more than 4,000 acres of unspoilt bush. It’s an amazingly beautiful, wild place where you’ll hear the tinkling calls of bell birds, see koalas in the wild, walk along the beautiful creek and go fishing and yabbying at Moonlight Dam, a spectacular spot on the top of the Great Dividing Range. It’s a real experience of Australia the way it used to be.”

Southern Downs Steam Railway, Warwick

The Pyramid for great views of Balancing Rock and immerse yourself in nature on more than 30km of walking trails.

Warwick and surrounds

Sitting gracefully on the banks of the Condamine River, historic Warwick – known for its roses and rodeo – features some of the state’s finest original sandstone buildings. From here it’s an easy drive to explore the friendly villages and small towns of the Southern Downs.

Known as the ‘Rose and Rodeo Capital’, Warwick was settled over 150 years ago and has an interesting history to tell. Drop into the Warwick Visitor Information Centre for a copy of the ‘Heritage and Historic Building Trails’ and you’re on your way.

The trail takes in well-preserved churches, cottages, railway stations and schools – taking you back to the days when people travelled in horse-drawn carts.

Two must-see attractions along the trail are Abbey of the Roses – a castle-like sandstone country manor with its own chapel; and the Warwick and District Historical Museum – the best place in town to discover life as it was like from the 1890s to the 1950s.

Another highlight is a stroll through Leslie Park to see the ‘City of Warwick’ red rose (Arofuto).

Warwick’s famous Rose and Rodeo Festival is held on the last weekend in October. Come and see Australia’s best rodeo riders compete for their share in the glory.

Now boasting some of the country’s richest prizes, the Rodeo can trace its roots to a professional buck jumping contest of 1857. At the Australian Rodeo Heritage Centre you can explore the tales and memorabilia of rodeo pioneers and champions. Warwick’s famous son, Jackie Howe, who still holds the bladeshearing world record set in 1892 for 321 sheep shorn in a day, is recognised with two memorials in Warwick – a sandstone sculpture of the shearer in action sits in the rose garden outside the Visitor Information Centre, while a pod of wool bales with a giant set of blade shears atop sits in Jackie Howe Park at the northern entrance to Warwick.

Plan your visit to take in Wednesday’s Pig & Calf Sale or for the Jumpers and Jazz in July Festival where the deciduous trees of the main street are dressed with custom-knitted jumpers and the sounds of live music fill the city.

Steam train buffs should plan their visit to take a trip on the Southern Downs Steam Railway’s “Downs Dasher” C17 Steam Locomotive No. 971 built in 1950.

Runs operate monthly from Warwick to Clifton or Wallangarra. For details see www.southerndownssteamrailway.com.au.

Keen anglers can throw a line in the Condamine River, or enjoy shore fishing at Connolly Dam, a short drive south-east of Warwick off the New England Highway. Nearby Leslie Dam is a great picnic and swimming spot and is well stocked for shore and boat fishing.

A short drive north-east of Warwick you’ll discover the Goomburra section

of the World Heritage-listed Main Range National Park. Here you’ll find flowing creeks, cascading waterfalls, prolific birdlife, koala colonies and walks through some of the best bush and temperate rainforests in the country.

The National Park offers two open, grassy camping areas that hug Dalrymple Creek in the western foothills of the range. Or, adjoining the National Park, you can camp at Goomburra Valley Campground or stay in cottages at Goomburra Forest Retreat. Or, to experience what the late R.M. Williams described as “one of the most beautiful places in Queensland”, stay at Gordon Country, a 4000-acre high country working cattle property. Here you can camp creek-side or stay in a cabin.

Activities include swimming in deep waterholes, four-wheel-driving along the top of the Great Divide and challenging yourself on hiking and mountain bike trails.

Southern Downs villages The villages of Allora, Killarney, Yangan and Leyburn are within easy reach of Warwick.

Allora Lined with heritage buildings, Allora’s main street comes to life on the signed Heritage Trail walk. Saint David’s Anglican Church, built in 1888, is one of the finest examples of a timber church in country Queensland. Nearby, Glengallan Homestead, Heritage Centre and Café (open weekends 10am – 4pm) offers a rare glimpse of the lifestyle of wealthy colonialists and the decline of large

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pastoral runs. Glengallan Markets are held on the first Sunday of each new season – autumn, winter, spring and summer.

Killarney Killarney’s rolling green hills, deep secluded valleys and dramatic waterfalls offer picture postcard views and the best scenic country drives in the region. Once a timber and dairying town, it’s now a thriving mixed-farming district known for its premium beef and lamb, potatoes, onions, grain and timber. The Killarney Heritage Centre has a good collection of local historical photos, documents and small artefacts and specialises in researching local family history. Drop into Willow Gallery, an artist's co-operative on Willow Street (open 10am – 3pm weekdays and most public holidays), to see work by local artists and for visitor information, local tips and brochures.

Drive east into the mountains for Browns Falls, Daggs Falls and the spectacular

Queen Mary Falls, where Spring Creek tumbles dramatically over a 40m cliff.

Nearby, next to Carrs Lookout, Spring Creek Mountain Café offers fine cuisine and spectacular views.

Yangan The village of Yangan sits on Swan Creek at the head of the picturesque Swanfels Valley. The town was developed to serve the industries of the Swanfels Valley, with a police station, school and church existing prior to 1884.

The sandstone used in many of Warwick’s magnificent buildings including the police station and town hall, was quarried in this area. The Yangan Masonic Hall, acquired by Yangan Lodge in 1912, was originally built as the School of Arts (circa 1898).

Made of local timber, it stands today as a distinctive landmark and symbol of the town’s former prosperity.

Leyburn Leyburn’s stately heritage streets roar to life each August, when thousands come to watch cars race in the Historic Motor Sprint. Stop for a beer, a yarn and some real country cooking at the historic Royal Hotel. Built in 1863 this pub vies for the title of Queensland's oldest continually licensed premises. It is now owned by former Broncos rugby league star Shane Webcke. Your heritage trail should include Leyburn School, circa 1862; Leyburn cemetery, St Matthew’s Catholic Church and St Augustine’s Anglican Church; Liberator Park which has a memorial to ‘Z Special Unit’ stationed here in World War II; and Leyburn airstrip, the site for the first Australian Motor Racing Grand Prix in 1949. And don’t miss Leyburn’s amazing night sky.

Nearby Pratten was once a bustling goldfield. You can still try your luck at Thanes Creek fossicking reserve.

Girraween National Park

Queensland’s leading luxury lodge Offering a unique blend of spectacular views, luxury accommodation, day spa treatments and fine dining, Spicers Peak Lodge is an intimate destination for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Winner 2011 Best Luxury Accommodation, Queensland.

Spicers Peak Lodge • Off South Branch Road, Maryvale, Scenic Rim QLD 1300 478 179

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2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

www.spicersgroup.com.au

KAHLER’S OASIS CARAVAN PARK

KAH1875TDG181110.JCA

the ideal stopover

• 2 Bedroom Holiday Units • Ensuite Cabins • Spacious Amenities Block • Drive Thru Powered Sites • Brand New Campers Kitchen, Undercover Area for Groups • Rural Setting with Room to Move

New England Highway, Warwick QLD 4370

Reservations 1800 809 426

kahlersoasis.com.au

Camping in comfort Enjoy luxury beneath the stars in safari-style tents on a 5000 acre private nature refuge. An all-inclusive experience with all meals prepared by your private chef, Spicers Canopy in the Scenic Rim offers an escape from city life without compromising comfort.

Spicers Peak Lodge • Off South Branch Road, Maryvale, Scenic Rim QLD 1300 112 908

www.spicersgroup.com.au

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granite belt alternative wine trail

explores broader horizons…

Looking for something beyond Chardonnay and Shiraz?

Strange Bird is the name we’ve given to the Granite Belt’s alternative grape varieties.

Pursuing the Strange Bird trail will give you a chance to dip into a bottle of Viognier or Mourvedre; learn how to pronounce Gewürztraminer or discuss the perfect food match for a bottle of Tempranillo.

Our unique terrior, with altitudes ranging from 700m to 1300m, allows us to grow Cabernet, Merlot, Shiraz, Chardonnay, alternative grape varieties.

To be considered alternative a variety must represent not more than 1% of the by the Australian Wine and Brandy Corporation (ABWC). Tagged the ‘next generation of wine’, alternative varietals have been popular in leading European wine regions for generations, and are emerging in popularity because of their ability to match perfectly with food.

On the Strange Bird wine trail you will not be short of choice. Elevate your taste, discover a sense of adventure and educate your palate. Follow the trail, take a detour, adopt a strange bird and take it home today …

Only a limited quantity of all these wines produced annually For more information including opening times please call 1800 SO COOL or visit www.granitebeltwinecountry.com.au

62 2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide www.granitebeltwinecountry.com.au

Yangan

The Bramble Patch

Queen Mary Falls, Killarney

Regional flavours

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Take a country drive Scenic Rim and Southern Downs Long Weekend (incl The Falls Drive with 14 River Crossings option) (3 Day Tour) Destinations – Brisbane/Boonah/The Falls/Killarney/Warwick/Toowoomba Day 1 – Depart Brisbane and head towards Boonah in the Scenic Rim, stop into a country pub or café for lunch.

Settle into a farmstay or eco-cabin before taking a bushwalk. Overnight Scenic Rim.

Day 2 – Head south via the spectacular Falls Drive. For the committed walker a stop off at Moss Gardens is worthwhile. Stop at Carr’s Lookout and the famous Spring Creek Café for a coffee or lunch before travelling to the Queen Mary Falls lookout and circuit. The day ends with a pleasant drive into Killarney or onto Warwick.

Overnight Killarney or Warwick region.

Day 3 – Explore the Warwick region including the Australian Rodeo Heritage Centre and the Jackie Howe Memorial in the morning before continuing on your way to Brisbane or Toowoomba.

Day 2 4WD OPTION – Take the 14 River Crossing route off Spring Creek Road and follow the Condamine River to discover this beautiful river and gorge system (check conditions at the Boonah Visitor Information Centre prior to departure).

Brisbane

Toowoomba

108km

85km

Main Range National Park

Boonah

Lake Moogerah 56km

Warwick Lake Leslie

The Falls 33km

Killarney

Vineyards and High Country (4 Day Tour) Destinations – Stanthorpe/Warwick/ Toowoomba/Crows Nest/Kingaroy/ Murgon/Goomeri Day 1 – Enjoy a sample or three of the award-winning wines from the vineyards around Stanthorpe before heading north to Warwick. Take in the Memorial for legendary shearer Jackie Howe and other heritage sites before moving onto Toowoomba. Overnight Toowoomba.

Koreelah National Park

Mount Barney National Park

Day 3 – Take a walk in one of the national parks before travelling further north to the South Burnett. Enjoy wineries, cheese tasting and regional heritage exhibits and sites. Overnight in Kingaroy/Murgon region.

Day 4 – Continue to indulge in the award-winning wines or sample the multiple flavours of nuts available from the famous Peanut Van in Kingaroy or Nanango before continuing on your way north.

Goomeri

Murgon 62.5km Kingaroy

108km

Crows Nest

Toowoomba

Day 2 – Shop, dine or just relax in famous Queens Park for the day before heading further north along the range. Overnight at a B&B or cottage in Ravensbourne, Hampton or Crows Nest.

85km

Warwick 61km Stanthorpe

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2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Take a country drive Southern Country Loop (4 Day Tour) Destinations – Goondiwindi/Texas/ Glenlyon Dam/Stanthorpe/Warwick/ Allora/Toowoomba/Pittsworth/ Millmerran/Goondiwindi (580km) Day 1 – Depart Goondiwindi and travel along the border to Texas via Yelarbon.

Experience the heritage of the area at the Texas Heritage Centre and Tobacco Museum and make an appointment to view the Texas historical rabbit processing works. Overnight Texas.

Day 2 – Head to Glenlyon Dam for a spot of fishing or just to relax on the shore.

From here continue onto Stanthorpe and sample award-winning cool climate wines. Also pick up some fresh regional produce from roadside stalls and markets. Overnight in Stanthorpe at a B&B, cottage or retreat.

Day 3 – Travel north to Warwick, take in the Australian Rodeo Heritage Centre and the Jackie Howe Memorial and grab a coffee at one of the cafés. Continue onto Toowoomba which offers a range of town and country experiences, shop til you drop, take in an exhibition at the Regional Gallery, dine at an award-winning 161km restaurant or catch a performance at the Empire Theatre.

Overnight Toowoomba.

Goondiwindi Day 4 – Depart town 92km for the country, stop in at the Pittsworth Pioneer Historical Village and Museum before taking in the historical murals of Millmerran depicting various stages of the region’s history. Enjoy a hearty meal and country hospitality at one of the pubs enroute before finding yourself back in Gundy (Goondiwindi).

Toowoomba 81km Pittsworth Western Creek State Forest

Millmerran

58km Allora 25km

Wondul Range National Park

Warwick 61km

Inglewood 54km Texas

Stanthorpe

94km Glenlyon Dam Sundown National Park

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Girraween National Park

Southern Downs

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Goondiwindi and surrounds MUST-DOS: Picnic in the Botanic Gardens Sample fresh local produce at the annual Gourmet in Gundy Enjoy many activities including water skiing at the Natural Heritage and Water Park Compete in the Hell of The West Triathlon Indulge in retail therapy

MUST-SEES: Sunset over the Macintyre River Customs House Museum (Wed – Mon) Jacarandas in full bloom in late spring Hell of the West Triathlon winner crossing the line!

Statue of the mighty Gunsynd

Waterway, Goondiwindi

Town centre, Goondiwindi

Sitting peacefully on the banks of the Macintyre River at the junction of five major highways, Goondiwindi is a well-established border town. Its name was derived from an Aboriginal word ‘Goonawinna’ meaning “the resting place of the birds” – and it’s the perfect place for travellers to rest awhile and spend some time. With all you could want by way of amenities, an interesting history to explore, great food and warm country hospitality, it’ll be time well spent.

The QLD/NSW border is marked by the great Macintyre River, which creates a scenic backdrop for this friendly and prosperous country town.

Home to around 6,000 locals and servicing approximately 15,000, its neat tree-lined streets, well maintained public buildings, sporting facilities and relaxed town centre are a good measure of the community spirit and civic pride you’ll find here. That, naturally, extends to welcoming travellers to join in the activities, events and festivals and the local way of life.

You’ll find a range of accommodation here and once you’re settled there’s shopping, dining, and so much more to do around town and beyond.

You’ll find it’s a vibrant, contemporary place with excellent facilities and amenities and its river frontage provides a unique and tranquil setting for one of Queensland’s fastest growing rural communities.

Marshall and Herbert Streets offer a terrific range of shopping experiences.

You’ll find everything from gifts and home wares to quality clothing stores.

Since you’re in these parts why not look the part and treat yourself to a new pair of boots, moleskins and an Akubra hat from one of the local country outfitters?

Photographers often turn their lenses to the heritage buildings and country landscapes. In late spring you’ll see a breath-taking display as jacaranda trees lining the streets burst into full purple bloom.

Marshall Street is also eat street with many cafés where you can indulge in a good coffee, country-style cakes and baked goods as well as tasty light meals. The locals love to eat well and you will too!

If you’re visiting in September make sure to time your stay to coincide with the cultural celebration that is Gourmet In Gundy. 2013 marks the fifteenth annual festival, which features the best of local food, wine, art and music. The weekend is full of sporting and cultural events and is a true community get-together and a highlight of the cultural calendar. Also in September is a highlight of a different kind – a country kind no less – the Plucked Duck Bachelors and Spinsters Ball is a shindig you’ll only find in the country.

The social calendar is quite a busy one with many other not-to-be-missed events. In February there is the not for the faint-hearted, self-explanatory Hell of the West Triathlon. Gluttons for punishment can stay around until March for ‘Torture on the Border,’ a triathlon run by our nearby neighbours in Texas.

The Riverjam Music Concert Competition is the highlight of March. April’s Goondiwindi Picnic Races are a chance to mix it with the locals and the muddy action of the Gundy 400 Off Road Races on the second weekend in August draws enthusiasts from around Australia.

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Gourmet in Gundy

Gourmet in Gundy

Waterway, Goondiwindi

Simone Tully Cattle farmer and Goondiwindi local “Oh my gosh I’ve never lived in a more social area. Throughout the winter you’ll find us most weekends cheering on the Goondiwindi Emus rugby or socialising at the North Star and Goondiwindi Polo.

It feels like the famous Geebung Polo Club a la outback! Check your calendar and join us. During the summer it’s usually a long lunch at one of the many fishing spots along the river. For a Friday night chinwag with the locals (me), drop by the Codfish Hotel in Yetman on your way into Gundy.”

Cotton farm, Goondiwindi

Goondiwindi Vistor Information Centre

Gunsynd statue

Victoria Hotel, Goondiwindi

On a self-guided walk around town you’ll find the recently refurbished iconic Victoria Hotel, built in the era of Queen Victoria and then added to in the 1920s.

The Vic features some of the most outstanding architecture in Goondiwindi.

Situated in the heart of the main street, you can’t miss this old dame – a sturdy building of brick and timber, with a criss-cross of dark panelling and white lattice on its facades, stained-glass windows and doorways, crowned by an ornamental (and slightly off-kilter) tower. An eye-catching building indeed: a picturesque mix of Victoriana and Jazz Age, with a dash of Early Colonial.

Be sure to drop by the Gunsynd Statue located near the original Border bridge. It commemorates the famous ‘Goondiwindi Grey’ – a racehorse who was bought for a measly $1200 by four partners (The Goondiwindi Syndicate), with the aim of winning a local bush race. The Grey went on to win 29 races including the Cox Plate and the four big mile races: The Doncaster, The Epsom, The George Adams and The Toorak in one

season. Needless to say he won the hearts of punters in the late 60s and early 70s. Across the road in the Library Complex, the Gunsynd Memorabilia Tribute displays photographs and information about this champion horse.

You will find the Visitor Information Centre in the same building.

You’ll get a good feel for the local history with a visit to the Customs House Museum (open 10am – 4pm, Wednesday to Monday). A border customs point before federation, this authentically restored building and its magnificent cottage garden house a rich and colourful collection of mementos from yesteryear. Also in the grounds is Martha’s Cottage, built in 1875.

Primary production and agribusiness are a vital part of the local economy. You can gain an appreciation for living on the land by joining Goondiwindi Top Tours threehour guided bus tour of Goondiwindi Cotton, a cotton gin and a cotton farm (Monday to Friday).

Goondiwindi

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Goondiwindi region

time well spent Explore Goondiwindi region – it will be .qld.au Websites: grc.qld.gov.au • goondiwindi g.au texasqld4385.com.au • inglewood.or

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water skiing and sailing on beautiful Lake Coolmunda; and taking in the perfume at the award-winning lavender farm and shop. Don’t forget to call into the Inglewood Heritage Centre, diagonally opposite the Lions Park, and view the Australian Tobacco Museum display along with written and pictorial records of Inglewood and the surrounding district from its earliest days.

Nature at her best Connecting with nature is a precious part of life here.

Birdwatchers will find an amazing array of birdlife in the local area – download the special Birdwatchers brochure from www.goondiwindi.qld.gov.au or pick up a fishing and camping guide from the Visitor Information Centre.

There are many parks and gardens where you can relax and breathe the fresh country air. Pack a picnic and take your time enjoying the Botanic Gardens of the Western Woodlands.

You can also tour an olive grove and find out all about the process from the planting to the picking and finished products. Tours of most local attractions are by appointment and contact details can be found on www.inglewood.org.au.

Early birds can catch the Macintyre at her best on an early morning walk or at the other end of the day, it’s magic on a sunset stroll. Enjoy water skiing and other water sports at the Natural Heritage and Water Park.

Goondiwindi and surrounds is noted for some of the best inland fishing in Australia. Local rivers run with golden perch (yellowbelly) and Murray cod. For tips on bag and size limits and seasonal fishing regulations pick up your free Camping and Fishing Guide from the Visitor Information Centre.

Enjoy birdwatching for the numerous species present including colourful grass parrots, wrens, raptors and the rare regent honey eater. Keep an eye out too for the unique Inglewood wattle and the native cypress. You may even spot a platypus in a quiet stream.

Venturing further afield, Lake Coolmunda is an easy half or full day trip, just 12km east of Inglewood on the Cunningham Highway.

At capacity the lake stretches 1740ha and is a magnet for birds and especially popular with waterbirds and waders. There are some pretty picnic spots along its tree-lined shores and if you have your own canoe or boat there’s a launch ramp. Water skiing is a popular activity and excellent fishing can be enjoyed from either a boat or off the shore.

“Catch the Country Spirit”, spend a few days here and you’ll reconnect with nature and get very used to the relaxed country lifestyle the friendly locals love.

An hour south east of Goondiwindi you’ll find Yelarbon Desert and Spinifex Country. This geologically distinct area is characterised by a naturally occurring salinity scald, and this naturally hostile environment results in some unique vegetation and habitats, including spinifex grass (Triodia scariosa).

Many animals live in this harsh environment including seven species of frogs, seven species of reptiles, a species of native, mouse-sized marsupial and nearly sixty species of birds. Stop and take a walk through the spinifex, or join Spinifex Country Tours’ interactive driving or walking tour.

Inglewood Midway between Goondiwindi and Warwick on the Cunningham Highway you’ll find Inglewood, sitting peacefully on the banks of the serene Macintyre Brook.

Established in 1862, this friendly country town is blessed with fertile agricultural lands and is home to a thriving rural economy and just over 1,000 people.

Once a significant tobacco producing area, these days the focus is on sheep and cattle grazing, timber milling, and the farming of fodder, grains and horticultural crops. While you’re in town sample and take home some local produce including wine, olives, olive oil and high quality honey.

Inglewood is an RV-friendly town with camping available by the Macintyre Brook for fully self-contained motor homes and vans. Directly opposite is

Texas Within easy reach of Goondiwindi is the tiny town of Texas, perched on the banks of the peaceful Dumaresq River.

Here you’ll find excellent fishing, great camping spots and the serenity of rural landscapes.

the popular Lions Park with travellers' rest area and many play activities for the children. Enjoy a walk on the sealed walkways along the river bank into the recently rejuvenated central business area where you can explore an interesting range of local shops.

For travellers there’s a great mix of high quality, old-fashioned service, modern facilities and a diverse range of country activities.

The area is renowned for its natural beauty and one of the best ways to explore is on a local tourist drive. Drop into the Information Centre on Albert Street for maps of the local attractions.

If you’re visiting in late winter or early spring you’ll see and smell the beautiful wildflowers that dot the countryside.

There’s plenty else to see and do in and around Inglewood including: strolling in the town’s restful park; fishing, boating,

Texas was named over a land claim in the 1850s, which bore many similarities to one happening at the same time in the Republic of Texas and Mexico in the United States. In recognition of this, Pecan Park is planted with pecan trees donated by the people of Texas in the United States. The town was established on the river flats in 1875 but was later relocated after the disastrous floods of 1890 and 1921. You’ll see that remnants of the original historic township still exist.

Drop in to see the friendly locals and collect some brochures at the Texas Visitor Information Centre on High Street.

The Texas Cultural Centre and Regional Art Gallery is a must see with regular touring and local exhibitions as well as the outstanding photographic display of the 2011 flood. Before you start exploring get your bearings at Beacon Lookout, which offers panoramic views over the area.

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Macintyre River, Goondiwindi

Texas has an interesting tobacco growing past, an era extensively recorded in the Texas Heritage Centre and Tobacco Museum.

Farming of sheep and cattle is the dominant industry today, with fodder, cotton and horticultural crops adding to the mix. Texas is also home to the largest cattle feed lot in Australia and a silver mine situated in the historic Silver Spur mining area.

Great for fishing, canoeing, picnicking, four-wheel-driving, hiking and camping, the Dumaresq River winds through gentle hills and rocks and is crossed by the historic weirs of Bonshaw, Cunningham and Glenarbon. The fertile river flats are dotted with old tobacco barn relics and grape vines now flourish alongside many other crops.

Texas is an RV-friendly town with camping by the Dumaresq River available.

While you’re here, throw a line in the river or in the spectacular Glenlyon Dam to discover what the locals think is the best Murray cod fishing in Australia.

and Tobacco Museum housed in restored local historic buildings.

Restoration of the old riverside freezing works and rabbit processing building is underway to preserve this important part in the town’s history and is believed to be the only existing rabbit works left in the country. The building also houses a collection of antique motors and memorabilia and can be viewed by appointment – (07) 4653 1106.

Nearby the 14,000ha Sundown National Park is mostly four-wheel-drive only territory, with campsites at the western corner accessible by two-wheel-drive vehicles. It’s a brilliant walking and birdwatching destination.

Each September the Texas Country Music Round Up brings together country performers and music buffs, bush poets, and even gospel singers. There’s also an old time dance so start practising your foxtrot!

The Texas Cup Race meeting every December is the other major event becoming very popular with visitors keen to experience the unique bush racing and friendly local hospitality.

Glenlyon Dam also offers camping, sail boarding and canoeing.

Cunningham Weir marks the spot where explorer Allan Cunningham crossed the Dumaresq River in 1827. To learn about this story and many more from the area’s rich past, visit the Texas Heritage Centre 72

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Felicity Klausen, Traveller from Brisbane “To get a real feel for Goondiwindi – the history, agriculture and the people – join Gundy Top Tours three hour town and cotton tour.

It runs weekdays from March to October and includes town highlights, a damper morning tea at Gundy Cotton, a visit to a mixed grain and cotton farm and the cotton gin, and lots of yarns about the history and colourful characters. You’ll meet some genuine locals and find out all about the story of cotton from the farm to the finished garment.”

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St George and surrounds MUST-DOS: Throw a line in at Dirranbandi in search of the great Murray cod Enjoy free wine tasting at Riversands Winery Take a stroll along the Wallam Creek walkway in Bollon Enjoy a Sandytown River Cruise along the Balonne River Taste kangaroo pizza and wattle seed scones on the Nullawokka Aboriginal Tour in Bollon

MUST-SEES: See carved illuminated emu eggs at The Unique Egg Check out the flood marker pole in St George Spot emus walking down the main street in Bollon View colourful artwork by John Murray, adorning the front of the Hebel Pub The Nindigully Pub perched on the banks of the Moonie River

Campdraft

Fishing on the Balonne River, St George

Perched on the banks of the mighty Balonne River and towered by beautiful river gums, St George is an oasis in the bush. Life here is easy with the river the source of rest and play for the friendly locals who welcome visitors to share their town.

Get your bearings with a walk along the two-kilometre stretch of shady riverbank walkway flanking the town.

Below the Jack Taylor Weir is where explorer Major Thomas Mitchell crossed the Balonne River back in 1846 and gave St George its name.

Better still, pack a few drinks and nibbles and jump onboard a Sandytown River Cruise. As you idle down the middle of the river, sit back and enjoy the views and abundant birdlife including pelicans, cockatoos and eagles. Book a leisurely afternoon cruise, fishing tour or full moon evening cruise.

Keen anglers won’t be disappointed.

The Balonne Shire has a reputation for the best inland fishing in Queensland, with no fewer than seven river systems traversing it. Settle in at the riverbank for a quiet afternoon in search of the great Murray cod and yellowbelly. There are also plenty of quiet spots to picnic and throw in a line like Beardmore Dam and Jack Taylor Weir.

There is no shortage of fishing events to keep the family entertained; Thallon Carp Busting Competition in March, Dirranbandi Family Fishing Competition over Easter, Dirranbandi Carp Buster in October and the annual St George Family Fishing Competition in September.

You’ll have a whole new appreciation for the humble egg once you’ve visited The Unique Egg in St George. You’ll see the work of local character and artisan Steve Margaritis – ‘Stevie the Greek’ to

Dana Gluzde Local St George foodie, wine lover, writer and photographer “The farms in our shire supply a huge amount of fresh produce to the rest of Australia. And there’s no shortage of places to eat or drink here – from restaurants to gourmet delis and cafés. In St George I love the toasted paninis at DeliCate, the lattes at Stevie Jeans and the quiet, shady garden at Riversands Wines where the only thing I have to decide is whether it’s coffee or wine today?!”

Nindigully Just 45km south-east of St George,“The Gully” as it’s locally known, is pretty much four houses and a pub on a riverbank. But what a pub, what a view and what characters you’ll find! Perched on the banks of the Moonie River, Nindigully Pub (established in 1864) vies for the position of Queensland's oldest continually licensed pub in Queensland. It’s like something out of an outback movie, in fact, the film ‘Paperback Hero’, was filmed here and the café’s boomerangs remain perched in place.

You’ll have no trouble unwinding on the verandah of the pub as it hums with the chatter of travellers and locals alike, enjoying happy hour and live acoustic music. Pack your appetite as the challenge of the ‘road train’ awaits – a whopper burger, big enough to feed you and 100 of your closest mates! There are plenty of spots to immerse yourself in bushland – nature has right of way here. Set up your caravan or tent along the scenic tree-lined riverbank or book into one of the pub’s rustic rooms.

The pub runs events year-round, including markets, pig races and New Year's Eve fireworks. Further south from Nindigully, along the Carnarvon Highway, head onto the townships of Thallon and Mungindi.

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Bollon

Riversands Winery

his friends – and his talented daughter Panorea – who have created the world’s only display of carved, illuminated emu eggs.

Down tree-lined streets you’ll find great coffee, gourmet delis, award-winning restaurants and quality pub grub. And don’t miss a visit to the most westerly winery in Queensland – Riversands.

Wile away the afternoon with a free, personalised wine tasting at the cellar door followed by scones and homemade jam or a cheese platter and a glass of wine in their shady country garden.

Check out the wine labels which feature country characters and legendary locals. Looking for a unique souvenir?

Browse the ‘shoe rack’, where boots of politicians and outback heroes are fashioned in pottery and filled with port.

If you’re here at Easter, Riversands hosts Easter In The Vines.

Hebel In the little town of Hebel it feels like time has stood still, leaving behind tales of the Ned Kelly gang, Cobb & Co and dance halls. Be sure to stretch your legs whilst walking around the Hebel Historical Circle, a public art piece which illustrates the stories in Hebel's history. Hebel Hotel is a gem of a country pub. Colourful artwork by John Murray adorns the front of the pub, with the interior decked out in recycled furniture made from reclaimed bush finds. It’s the kind of quirky place you’ll want to linger to get to know the locals over a cold beer.

Built as a dance hall in 1897, Hebel General Store retains its original dance 76

floor but now offers amazing home cooked cakes, desserts and meals. By night it’s a restaurant under the stars complete with white tablecloths and flowers on the tables.

Spend the afternoon fishing or setting the yabby pots in the Bokhara River, just a stone’s throw from the main street.

You can bush camp at the river or for a bit more comfort there are caravan and camping sites as well as air-conditioned accommodation on offer in town.

Use Hebel as your base for visiting the untouched Culgoa Floodplain National Park, a good side trip for campers and birdwatchers. This is nature at its best so be prepared to be totally self-sufficient.

Bollon township sits on the banks of peaceful Wallam Creek. The free caravan and camping area complete with showers and toilets is the perfect spot to rest up for a few days. Take a stroll into Bollon along the new 1.2km creek-side walkway.

Keep an eye out for koalas, echidnas and emus. Kangaroos laze in the backyard of the Post Office and sheep graze the paddocks adjoining the main street. If you do one thing in town make it the Nullawokka Aboriginal Tour run by Bill, which includes bush tucker morning tea like you’ll experience nowhere else – wattle seed scones, lemon myrtle cakes and kangaroo pizza. Bill is a descendant of the Kooma People and everyone raves about this tour! Spend the afternoon retracing Bollon’s rural history at the Heritage Centre or browse around the historical shearing display at Deb’s Café.

For the serious campers and four-wheel drive enthusiasts, Thrushton National Park is 60km north of Bollon via dirt roads.

Experience this part of Southern Queensland Country your way. Do you prefer to chill out on your own, meet other travellers or get to know a local? Whether you imagine quiet nights by the campfire or the lively atmosphere of a country pub, turn your dreams into reality when you visit the west. As the sign on the Bollon Pub aptly sums up ‘there are no strangers here, just friends you haven’t met yet.'

Dirranbandi En route to Hebel, stop for a coffee, a shop and a look around Dirranbandi, the town that marks the end of the South West rail line. As you enter town you’ll pass by the levee bank, which is famous for having saved the town from flooding on more than one occasion. Be sure to pull in and stretch your legs along the walkway at picturesque Jack Dwyer Memorial Park upon the riverbank.

On a visit to Railway Park, you’ll find the 1913 Station Master’s residence, which is now home to the Rural Transaction Centre, the old waiting room and parcels office, and the statue of Aboriginal Stockman and boundary rider, Tom Dancey, who won Australia's most famous footrace, the Stawell Gift in 1910.

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Victoria Podolski Bollon local “Where do I go to unwind? Just down the road. The Wallam Creek has it all. I can kick back with the fishing rod in hand, listen to the brolgas in the background, stroll on the creek path looking for koalas or take the kayak up the creek."

Nindigully Pub

Take a country drive Cecil Plains to Tara Fishing Tour (7 Day Tour) Destinations – Cecil Plains/ Millmerran/ Goondiwindi/Nindigully/Dirranbandi/ St George/Surat/Meandarra/Tara Day 1 – Begin your Western Downs fishing adventure at the Cecil Plains Weir. After a few hours in the fresh air take your appetite to Millmerran for a bite to eat and stock up on supplies. After lunch travel to Yarramalong Weir for an afternoon of relaxed fishing. Stay the night at the Weir or make your way back to Millmerran and enjoy the famous Southern Queensland Country hospitality.

Day 2 – Get an early start and leave Millmerran for Goondiwindi Town Common which is good for bank fishing.

Surat

Day 5 – Travel to the Jack Taylor Weir at St George for a spot of early morning fishing. Head into town for lunch and then onto Beardmore Dam. Spend the night in St George and indulge in some authentic country tucker.

Spend the morning fishing then catch lunch in Goondiwindi. Head for the Goondiwindi boat ramp and unwind.

Spend the night in Goondiwindi enjoying the local scene and chatting with colourful country characters.

Day 6 – Say farewell to St George and make your way to Bingi Crossing just past Surat. Have lunch in town and then on to Beldene Waterhole. Travel back to your accommodation in Surat for the night.

Day 3 – Leave Goondiwindi for Lalguli Reserve near Talwood for your morning fishing fix. Make your way to Nindigully, have a bite to eat at the famous pub and spend the afternoon fishing the banks of the Moonie River. Spend the night at the Nindigully Pub or camp on the banks of the river.

Day 4 – From Nindigully travel towards St George, take the turnoff to Dirranbandi and head to the Balonne Minor Bridge.

From here make your way to Wallam Creek at Bollon. Spend the afternoon fishing and camp for the night under a starry sky.

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Tara

Meandarra

Day 7 – Leave Surat and head for Brigalow Creek at picturesque Meandarra. After lunch it’s on to Tara Lagoon for an afternoon of fishing.

Overnight in Tara before heading home or on to your next adventure.

Dalby

89km

66km 88km

117km

Cecil Plains

Toowoomba Pittsworth

Millmerran St George 160km

95km Nindigully Dirranbandi

158km Goondiwindi

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Balonne River, St George

Australian Hotel, St George

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The Unique Egg, St George 2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Sandytown River Cruise

Nindigully Pub

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Roma and surrounds MUST-DOS: Pick a winner at Roma Picnic Races – March www.romaraces.org.au Celebrate Easter in the Country www.easterinthecountry.com.au Enjoy country hospitality at the Roma Show – May www.romashow.com Pick a winner at the Roma Cup – the race that stops a region – November www.romaraces.org.au . Visit the Farmers and Artisans Markets 3rd Saturday of the month @ Big Rig Parklands www.wheninroma.com.au

MUST-SEES: Visit the Big Rig Oil Patch and Night Show Attend the Roma Saleyards’ Auctions Tuesday and Thursday Mt Abundance Homestead by appointment – Ph: (07) 4622 3183 Avenue of Heroes Stunning stained-glass and leadlight windows of St Paul’s Anglican Church circa 1876

Big Rig Oil and Gas Interpretative Centre, Roma

To learn more about Roma’s history, visit the three dimensional clay mural at Roma Bungil Community Cultural Centre.

Created in 1988 by then local artists John and Maureen Morrison, the mural depicts the history and development of Roma and the surrounding district. A whopping two tonnes of a special clay mix was used in its construction. Some 350 hours went into the slab work, sculpture, coil building and the hollowing of each of the 375 tiles which comprise the mural.

And remember, if you’re keen to perch on the fence and watch the action at Roma’s cattle sale – the largest in the Southern Hemisphere – be sure to time your visit for a Tuesday or Thursday and you can witness the sale of up to 12,000 head of cattle in a single day.

Mt Abundance Homestead, Roma

To find yourself amid the colour and action of a cattle sale at Roma’s Saleyards is to begin to taste and smell what life in the primary service centre of south-west Queensland is all about. An easy 350km drive north-west of Toowoomba, Roma is the quintessential country town, rich in pioneering history.

You are assured of a warm welcome, plenty to explore and all the services a traveller could want.

There’s a varied calendar of events from Picnic Races, the Roma Cup and Easter in the Country, to the multicultural Santos Food and Fire Festival and all the fun of the Roma Show, so plan your trip to mix it with the locals.

Built on a rich pioneering history, modern-day Roma is alive with friendly characters and interactive experiences that convey colourful stories of the past.

Many historic buildings and public sites are well preserved. To glean a real feel for the town, take a walk along the heritagelisted Heroes’ Avenue planted with more than 100 bottle trees – each a memorial to a local soldier who lost his life in World War I.

Wander back through time along Roma’s Historical Walk, taking in significant landmarks – including Roma Court House (built 1901) to trace the beginnings of this important south-western town (circa 1860). It is well worth teeing up a visit to Mt Abundance Homestead – built in 1860, the site of the region’s first settlement, which had important links to early explorers Sir Thomas Mitchell and Ludwig Leichhardt. It was home to Roma’s first Post Office and you will see the remains of old buildings, an underground cellar and the graves of early settlers.

Don’t miss the Big Rig Oil and Gas Interpretative Centre and Night Show for an interactive insight into the hardships and heroic stories of oil drilling and exploration. Visit the ‘Oil Patch’ to get up close to impressive rigs and historical machinery, including the last steam driven oil rig and one of the first diesel powered rigs ever used in Australia.

The kids will love putting on a hard hat and competing in the Big Rig Oil Patch Challenge for Kids. Nightly, the outdoor light and sound show tells the story of Roma’s early 20th century oil and gas exploration and the Great Fire of 1908.

Bottle tree flower

Peter Keegan Roma local and historian “If you’re travelling in this area around October and November, keep an eye out for Roma’s new floral emblem, the bottle tree flower. This beautiful flower was chosen as part of Roma’s 150th year anniversary celebrations in 2012. There are over 1,000 bottle trees (Brachychiton rupestris) in the streets of Roma. On Wyndham and Bungil Streets you’ll find an avenue of more than 90 bottle trees – a living memorial, with each tree dedicated to a local soldier who fell in WWI. The trees produce spectacular juvenile red leaves, and these small, but remarkable, flowers measure about 15mm across.”

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Carnarvon Gorge, Injune

Yuleba To look at it on a map, Yuleba looks like a little town on the Warrego Highway about mid-way between Roma and Miles. Sure, it is a well-equipped little town offering many services for travellers, but it’s also a place with a rich and important history and more than a thing or two to entice you to stay awhile.

Yuleba features in the story of the Cobb & Co era, as it was between Surat and Yuleba that Cobb & Co scheduled its very last horse-drawn coach mail run on 16 August 1924. You can retrace that last run and visit sites of local significance such as the Cobb & Co Mural, Aboriginal native wells (also a pleasant picnic spot) and Cobb & Co Corduroys – where cypress 82

pines were laid to make roads passable in the horse-drawn era.

Keen fossickers can hunt for opalised and petrified wood and agates at The Maryanne, and there’s plenty of room for bush camping beside the dam.

Yuleba’s scenic Judd’s Lagoon and Wetlands is abundant in flora and fauna, providing a tranquil natural backdrop for bush camping and the perfect spot to relax and connect with nature.

Wallumbilla If you stop for freshly baked scones with jam and cream at Wallumbilla’s Calico Cottage and Visitor Information Centre, you’re sure to meet a local who will happily give you the rundown on

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what to see and do in town. ‘Wallum’, as the locals call it, is known for its friendly hospitality and its relaxed pace. Make sure you take your time to savour a good coffee and browse the Cottage’s local produce, art and craft before you set off exploring.

Wallumbilla’s Heritage Centre offers interesting interpretative displays, historic memorabilia and many old photographs of the early days. At Wallumbilla Railway Station rail buffs can learn about the district’s tragic rail disaster of 1956, a collision between the Westlander and the Western Mail.

Geoff Fearnside Injune Information Centre Volunteer “Have you ever met a platypus on the way to a shop? My wife Gloria and I visited Carnarvon Gorge recently with friends and we observed a platypus swimming in Carnarvon Creek. Your best bet to see one of these shy creatures is early morning and at dusk. When we mentioned it to the Takarakka Bush Resort staff, they told us that they had seen a platypus walking up the drive towards the shop!

Perhaps he wanted an ice cream!?”

Visitor Information Centre, Injune

Injune and surrounds Set your bearings for adventure! Tucked at the foot of the majestic Carnarvon Range, 90km north of Roma on the Great Inland Way, the thriving township of Injune is the perfect base for adventurous travellers.

You’re in for a friendly welcome, spectacular views, awesome natural landforms and an abundance of flora and fauna.

Using Injune as your base you can experience stunning, untouched sections of local National Parks including Nuga Nuga, Carnarvon, Mt Moffatt, Lonesome and Beilba.

Well equipped to service travellers, you’ll find everything you need in town from food and fuel to camping, hiking and fishing gear.

The region is a very special place – home to some of inland Queensland’s most diverse flora and more than 40 regional ecosystems are known to exist. You’ll discover varied landscapes characterised by a mix of sedimentary and volcanic rock and a rich mosaic of plant habitats.

Sheer spectacular sandstone gorges and cliffs afford magnificent views. In this unique environment you could spy 210 bird species and 60 species of mammals, nine species of fish and 20 species of bats. And you could come face to face with nine species of invertebrates only found in the Carnarvon Range.

So it really is a one-of-a-kind place!

And Carnarvon National Park is one of the best places in the country to see Aboriginal rock art galleries.

Injune is strong in community spirit and a warm invitation is always extended to visitors to participate in local events. For a

true taste of life in the country, plan your visit for April’s Golden Bit Campdraft or the “Where Country Is” festival in May. In June you can join the biggest celebration of the year, “Injune in June”; and the Injune Rodeo each September is an action-packed weekend of family fun.

With an abundance of natural pastures and resources, Injune is a microcosm of outback development, from old time family dairy farms to intensive modern farming and gas fields. Renowned for its role in the timber, cattle and natural gas industries, both past and present, it is a town that relishes its historical heritage.

Oh and you’ll no doubt see the Dingo Barrier Fence – it’s not to keep you from leaving town – this 5,600km fence line is the world’s longest and was constructed to protect 26.5 million hectares of grazing country.

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Downs, built in 1911 by Australian pastoral legend, Sir Samuel McCaughey.

The Mitchell Campdraft, the Mitchell Show, the Camel Races and the Fire and Water Festival are yearly highlights. The Mitchell Rodeo and Christmas in the Park round off the year each December.

Muckadilla ‘Mucka’, as the locals call it, is a friendly little rural town with well kept native gardens, a fine example of the sense of community which you’ll find in abundance here.

Mungallala Mungallala was the original site of a Cobb & Co Changing Station, railway town and more recently a cypress mill.

So why not follow in the footsteps of a bygone era – stop and rest the “horses”, feed the passengers and catch up with local news.

Amby Bonus Downs, Mitchell

Mitchell and surrounds Soaking in the soothing mineral springs at Mitchell is just one of the surprises that awaits you in this quaint town on the edge of the outback.

Just 87km west of Roma via the Warrego Highway, Mitchell sits peacefully on the banks of the Maranoa River. It lies in the westerly-most reaches of Southern Queensland Country and services the adjoining communities of Amby, Muckadilla and Mungallala.

And in this vibrant rural community you’re assured of a warm welcome and an invitation to share in the relaxed lifestyle locals love. Here you can experience the outback way of life as well as enjoy great food, good coffee and a range of cultural experiences and activities.

Many a sun-scorched traveller has found bliss floating in the thermal mineralised waters of the Great Artesian Spa. It’s relaxing for the body and therapeutic for the soul, and a precious natural resource that the locals proudly share. Located in Mitchell’s aquatic centre, the Spa offers two large pools – one warm and one cool – of natural artesian water. It has been designed for easy access, with a hydro chair for those with restricted mobility.

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You can explore magnificent sandstone formations, and pristine native ecosystems and take in magnificent panoramic vistas at numerous sites throughout the area. Accessing the Mt Moffatt section of Carnarvon National Park is easy from Mitchell. Nature lovers will be impressed with the abundance of wildlife including over 250 bird species living in and visiting the area.

Mitchell’s active community is keen to preserve the treasures and lessons from the past and have created a range of heritage and cultural displays covering its local indigenous cultural heritage, early explorers and pioneers, bushranging past and social history.

Make your first stop the Heritage Museum – packed full of local history, historical items and photographs.

Don’t miss Major Mitchell’s Campsite – established in 1846 on his 4th expedition to map an overland route from Sydney to Darwin.

For a taste of the town’s chequered past take in the history at Kenniff Court House – the original courthouse where local bushrangers, the Kenniff Brothers, were committed to stand trial in 1902.

And well worth a visit is working property and fully restored homestead Bonus

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

This quaint town is well known for its country hospitality – so stop and meet the locals and take up the challenge of the ‘no horse’ golf course.

Brian Rush Mitchell local and Manager Great Artesian Spa “Three kilometres from Mitchell and a million miles from anywhere is the Neil Turner Weir on the Maranoa River. Camping is permitted on the banks in the shade of the gums where the silence is only interrupted by the birds. It’s my favourite spot as the sun sets in the western sky.”

Cobb & Co Changing Station, Surat

Surat and surrounds Fresh air and great fishing are two good reasons to spend some time in the picturesque little town of Surat, midway between St George and Roma on the Great Inland Way. But they’re not the only things you’ll find in this relaxed river town. Take your time to soak up the history of Cobb & Co, unwind on a river walk or picnic in the tranquil surrounds of the Balonne’s riverside parklands.

Early mornings are gold for birdwatchers.

Active types can get out on the river water skiing or jetskiing and then there’s the fishing. The Balonne is an angler’s paradise and locals are only too happy to swap fishing tips and recommend favourite spots to wet a line.

Steeped in history with links to Cobb & Co and the ‘boom time’ of the wool-growing industry, Surat is a ‘must-see’ for any history buff. Here you’ll get a taste of life as it used to be. The Cobb & Co Changing Station, the original site of the Cobb & Co Store and a ‘drop-off’ point for coach travellers and goods, houses a museum of regularly changing displays depicting the lifestyles of yesteryear including a 14-seater Cobb & Co coach.

The complex houses the Surat on Balonne Gallery, featuring local and travelling exhibitions, and the Window to the Balonne Aquarium – a 25,000 litre fresh water aquarium displaying a range of native fish species.

family histories of Aboriginal families who lived on the site in the mid 1900s.

Nature lovers and photographers visiting from January to May will love Beranga Creek with its blanket of colourful water lillies.

Events and festivals are an important part of Surat’s social calendar. In March, help celebrate the River Festival; try your luck at the Family Secret Weight Mega Fishing Competition in May; take in the Cobb & Co Campdraft in May and the Surat Diggers Races in September.

Make a visit to the Aboriginal Interpretative Shelter, which displays www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Take a country drive The North Western Fishing Trail (7 Day Tour) Destinations – Lake Cooby/Highfields/ Dalby/Chinchilla/Condamine/Miles/ Injune/Roma/Mitchell/Yuleba Day 1 – The day begins at Lake Cooby.

Stop at Highfields for lunch and then drive out to Dalby via Toowoomba for an afternoon of fishing at Loudoun Bridge.

Camp here or head back to Dalby for a night on the town embracing western hospitality at its best.

Day 2 – Off to the Jandowae Dam and then on to Archers Crossing just outside Chinchilla. Have a picnic lunch and spend the afternoon fishing before making your way to accommodation in Chinchilla.

Day 3 – See the sunrise at the Chinchilla Weir and fish until hunger gets the better of you. Have a pub lunch in downtown Chinchilla before making your way to Caliguel Lagoon at Condamine. Spend the night at the Lagoon or enjoy a local farmstay experience.

Injune 91km Mitchell

Roma 87km

Yuleba 59km

Day 4 – Leave Condamine and make your way to Gil Weir at Miles. Have lunch in Miles and then travel on to Injune via Roma. Stay the night and make sure to pick up some supplies for tomorrow.

Day 5 – Leave for Lake Nuga Nuga and spend the morning fishing. Have a picnic lunch and then travel to Roma. Stay in Roma for the night and experience the Big Rig night show or meet locals in one of the numerous pubs.

Day 6 – Travel a bit further west to Mitchell, and visit the Great Artesian Spa. Pick up some more supplies, and continue your relaxing day with some fishing at Neil Turner Weir before camping the night.

Day 7 – Say farewell to Mitchell and travel to Yuleba. Have a picnic lunch in Yuleba and spend the afternoon fishing at Judd’s Lagoon. Stay the night at the Lagoon or make your way to Miles for some Southern Queensland Country style hospitality.

Miles 81km

Chinchilla

32km Condamine

60km

82km Dalby

Lake Cooby 22km Toowoomba

Great Artesian Spa, Mitchell

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Carnarvon National Park

Take a country drive Coast to Carnarvon (4 Day Tour) Destinations - Brisbane/Toowoomba/ Dalby/Roma/Carnarvon Gorge (720km) Day 1 – Depart Brisbane and travel west to Toowoomba. Enjoy lunch at an awardwinning restaurant before visiting the regional gallery and taking in a show at the Empire Theatre. Overnight Toowoomba.

Carnarvon National Park

Carnarvon Gorge

Day 2 – Continue west towards Dalby, visit The Woolshed at Jondaryan enroute.

Enjoy country hospitality and a hearty lunch in Dalby before continuing on to

Roma. Visit the Big Rig, a living memorial to Australia’s pioneers of the oil and gas industry and take a walk back in time through the informative plaques of the Roma Heritage Trail. Overnight Roma.

Day 3 – Travel north towards Emerald through Injune before turning west towards Carnarvon National Park. Stop into the Ranger Station in preparation for walking the Gorge the next day.

Ring ahead to book a guide to get the most out of the experience. Overnight Carnarvon Gorge.

Day 4 – Walk the spectacular Carnarvon Gorge.

242km

Roma

268km

Dalby

83km 125km

Brisbane

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Dalby and surrounds MUST-DOS: Walk the self-guided Dalby Heritage Trail to see historical buildings, churches and memorials Follow the region’s bird trails – pick up a brochure at the Visitor Information Centres in Dalby and Jandowae Take a walk along the picturesque Myall Creek Back a winner at Moonie Yabbie Races Walk the 4km Scenic Circuit Track, Bunya Mountains National Park

MUST-SEES:

Dalby Pioneer Museum The Dingo Barrier Fence – at 5,600km, it is the longest man-made structure in the world and begins near Jandowae Stately Jimbour House and Gardens The action of Dalby Wambo Cattle Sale Yards Dawn birdwatching at Lake Broadwater to see ducks, moorhens, grebes, cormorants, darters, herons, swans, stilts, jabirus and brolgas

Jimbour House

Town centre, Dalby

A taste of life as it used to be is what’s in store when you stay a while in Dalby, an easy 85km west along the Warrego Highway from Toowoomba. You’ll discover tranquil country landscapes, a well-preserved heritage, access to untouched natural places and a hive of rural enterprise. The pace is easy and good old-fashioned hospitality is alive and well in these parts.

Atop fertile black soil plains, this region is rich in coal and natural gas reserves and one of the most agriculturally diverse regions in Australia.

Driving the highways around town you’ll see patchwork fields of wheat, sorghum, cotton, sunflowers, chickpeas, mung beans and corn.

Sheep, pigs and cattle are the mainstay of livestock production and there’s also an agricultural college focused on best practice farming for the region. But enough about business, you’re here on holidays!

In addition to a great selection of quality hotels and motels, B&Bs, farm stays and caravan parks, you’ll find a number of alternative stay areas suitable for camping, caravans and RVs along creeks and rivers and in beautiful bush settings throughout the towns of the Western Downs. Ask a friendly local for further information when you visit our network of Visitor Information Centres.

The best travel tip here is simple: don’t rush or you’ll miss it! To get the best from this charming country town, take your time to talk to locals and delve into the history and stories that give it a character all of its own.

Hit the Heritage Trail to explore on foot some of Dalby’s historic buildings. Start at St Joseph’s Catholic Church, built in 1921.

Its impressive barrel ceiling of pressed metal and beautiful rose window is typical of the Romanesque style. On the trail you’ll also discover the old police station dating from the mid-1860s; the Art Centre, which was once the Bath House; and Mary’s Commercial Hotel (1885) – one of the oldest and most legendary pubs on the Western Downs, where you’ll find traditional country pub meals and warm hospitality. As they pass a cold one over the bar, staff still greet patrons with ‘happy days love!’ coined by one-time owner Mary Barry more than 60 years ago. It’s a great place to strike up a chat with a local character. You won’t have to look far, just turn to the person beside you!

Keep an eye out too for “The Muster” painted in the bar by famous Queensland artist and founder of the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, Hugh Sawrey (1919 – 1999) as a thankyou to Mary for her kindness during his stay at the hotel in 1962.

Art buffs should also visit Creative Interiors in Cunningham Street to see the work of internationally awarded

Church, Dalby

local painter Cathy McClelland. It gives a beautiful insight into local landscapes, flora and fauna including breathtaking works of the Bunya Mountains. In 2012 Cathy’s work featured in an exhibition at New York’s Agora Gallery and on digital screens in Times Square.

You can delve further into the local history at Pioneer Park Museum. Exhibits include working farm machinery from the late 1800s and early 1900s, early fashions and household memorabilia and an extensive collection of minerals, rocks and fossils. There’s also a craft store featuring the work of local artisans.

The Myall Creek Walk is popular with birdwatchers and it’s signed with plaques detailing places of historical significance.

For a great picnic spot with a children’s adventure playground, head to Thomas Jack Park on the edge of town.

There’s probably no better place for local flavour than the vibrant atmosphere of the weekly Dalby Wambo Sale Yards.

Held on Wednesday, it is one of the largest one-day selling centres for cattle in Queensland.

Events to travel for include Dalby Show in April; Dalby Picnic Races in May; the Delicious & Delightful Festival incorporating Dalby’s 150th birthday celebrations in August/September; and Australia’s largest Stock Horse Sale and Campdraft on the first week of December. Each November buses run

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Dalby Visitor Information Centre (07) 4679 4461 Chinchilla Visitor Information Centre (07) 4679 4491

From Taroom

Miles Visitor Information Centre (07) 4627 1492

From Roma

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our western downs experience - explore - enjoy

Located only 209 kilometres west of Brisbane, Our Western Downs is a vibrant region, rich in attractions and destinations, such as Jimbour House, Miles and District Historical Village and the Meandarra ANZAC Memorial Museum.

Our region plays host to a number of vibrant and colourful events. These are unique to our western downs and include events such as Chinchilla’s Melon Festival, Opera at Jimbour, Tara’s Festival of Culture and Camel Races, the Miles Beef Bells and Bottle Tree Festival and Dalby’s Delicious and DeLIGHTful Festival.

Before exploring the region, drop into one of our freindly Visitor Information Centres to absorb some of the local knowledge.

While you are there, be sure to grab one of our local and regional guides to help introduce you to the area. They are packed full of things to see and do, along with an insight into the history of our towns.

So, for an authentic country experience come and explore our region and discover why we are proud to call our western downs home!

For more information ourwesterndowns.com or 1300 COUNCIL (1300 268 624)

Lake Broadwater, Dalby

from Dalby to the nearby Moonie Yabbie Races – a quirkier country event you won’t find!

Dalby is one of the closest towns in Southern Queensland Country to base yourself to explore the majestic Bunya Mountains. Here you can enjoy fresh mountain air on a walk amid the largest stand of ancient Bunya pines in the world today.

You can pack a picnic and do a day drive or pack provisions to camp a few nights (or stay in a holiday house or cabin).

Bunya Mountains National Park offers short easy walks of 500m or extended hikes up to 10km. The easy 90-minute circuit track at Danabah traverses rock pools, waterfalls and a huge strangler fig tree. More than 120 species of birds have been recorded including king parrots, crimson rosellas, currawongs, bowerbirds, finches, wrens and cat birds.

Another easy excursion is Lake Broadwater Conservation Park – which protects the only natural lake on the Darling Downs and the surrounding cypress and brigalow. You can go swimming, boating and water skiing, picnic under river red gums or relax and enjoy the wildlife and wildflowers.

There’s an elevated bird hide, a 2km track joining the two camping areas or a 5km (return) self-guided drive.

country community, where you can expect to find many of the amenities of much larger towns. The Dingo Barrier Fence – ‘the longest fence in the world’ has its northern end near Jandowae. The fence is 5,600km long and stretches to the Great Australian Bight. A 2m dingo sculpture

by Scottish artist, Andy Scott, takes pride of place in Jandowae’s main street, and don’t miss the monthly country markets.

The biennial Timbertown Festival, next in June 2014, features markets, roving entertainment, a gala art show, a ute show, a rodeo and bronc extravaganza.

Jimbour An easy drive north-east of Dalby is the historic heritage-listed Jimbour House, circa 1876. This French classic design sandstone homestead takes its name from Jimbour Station, a vast pastoral holding that once stretched from the Bunya Mountains to the Condamine River. It is now the hub of a working grain and cattle property. Visitors are welcome daily to tour the grounds and magnificent gardens on the “Living History Walk”, an experience of historical plaques, sights and sounds that bring a rich and colourful heritage to life. Returning in 2013 is Queensland Music Festival’s biennial “Opera at Jimbour” featuring Brisbane Philharmonic Orchestra and special guest performers.

Bell Jandowae North of Dalby, the town of Jandowae welcomes visitors to their friendly

Nestled between the Bunya Mountains and fertile farmlands, Bell is a picturesque country township. Once

part of Jimbour Station, Bell is rich in pastoral and agricultural heritage and home to cropping and livestock farming today. Here you’ll find a charming, connected community and a warm South Queensland Country welcome.

Country handicrafts by local artisans are showcased beautifully in Bell. Follow the signs to the Bell Bunya Community Centre.

Here you’ll find the Bell Visitor Information Centre, Bluebells Art Gallery and a coffee shop, open daily from 10am – 3pm.

Also worth a visit are Bell Heritage Parkland, Popey’s Shed, and the Biblical Garden and murals at Our Lady Help of Christians Catholic Church.

Many other quaint townships are dotted throughout this region. Kaimkillenbun has the longest single place name in Queensland and is known locally simply as ‘The Bun’. Heading west on the Warrego Highway, Macalister is the site of a large grain handling depot and coal loading facility. Further west is the township of Warra.

At Richard Best Memorial Park is the restored former Warra Railway Station.

A short walk from the park you’ll find the 1844 campsite of explorer Ludwig Leichhardt. Be sure to drop into Warra Hotel, a grand rambling pub, built in 1906 in the ‘Queenslander’ style. Apart from serving you a cold beer, Wal, the publican – who has been in the hotel for as long as anyone can remember – will be very happy to have a yarn on life in Warra and what to see and do in town.

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Take a country drive Jandowae

Bunya Foothills Drive (Half Day Tour) Destinations – Dalby/Jandowae/Bell/ Maclagan/Jondaryan

48km

Start your trip with a visit to the iconic Woolshed at Jondaryan. Try some wines, see the start of the Dingo Fence near Jandowae, sample country hospitality in the region’s pubs and look back in time at the museums while taking in the paddocks, parks, lakes and friendly country welcomes.

Bell

49km 38km

Maclagan

Dalby 35km

40km

Jondaryan

Waterhole, Dalby

43km

Cathy McClelland Local landscape, bird & wildlife artist and cattle farmer www.cathymcclelland.com.au “I can thoroughly recommend the Mt Kiangarow walk – it’s the highest point in the Bunya Mountains at 1135 metres, and a wild and beautiful spot that inspires a lot of my art. I absolutely adore the ancient grass trees that grow there. Most of the year there are spectacular views but in winter, the best part for me is that the trail is shrouded in mountain mists.

Toowoomba

In summer it's cooler up there, an escape from the heat – nothing better than breathing in that fresh mountain air. You can pick up a walking map from the rangers’ office at Dandabah.

Pack a picnic or try the bush foods and view artwork by local artists at Bunya Forest Gallery. Kay’s own recipe for delicious bunya nut scones with hand-made local Lilly Pilly jam and clotted cream are to-die-for! Keep an eye out for my paintings there and in Creative Interiors (opposite Coffee Club) in Dalby.”

Thomas Jack Park, Dalby

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Bell

Lagoon, Tara

Moonie Crossroads

Condamine

Myall Park, Glenmorgan

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Chinchilla Melon Festival

Chinchilla and surrounds Famous for its melons and a renowned spot for fossicking, fishing, bushwalking and camping, the colourful little Western Downs town of Chinchilla is an easy 81km drive west of Dalby along the Warrego Highway.

Producing 25% of the country’s watermelons, rockmelons and honeydew melons, Chinchilla is the undisputed melon capital. So if strapping on a pair of melons and racing for glory sounds like your kind of fun, Chinchilla Melon Festival is your kind of event. Perhaps nothing captures the strong community spirit of this town better than the biennial festival. If you’re not a skier, there’s always the hilarious melon bungee, melon eating, pip spitting or smashing competitions, farm tours and fireworks.

Named from the Aboriginal word jinchilla, meaning a termite resistant cypress pine, Chinchilla is a peaceful and pretty town. Its beautiful tree-lined main street is just off the highway. Head to the Cultural Centre, the pride of the street. Its award-winning design includes a cinema, library and the White Gums Art Gallery. Highlights of the collection include works by Rex Bacchaus-Smith; a goanna sculpture by Peter Kosina, made from recycled metal from the nearby Kogan Creek Power Project; and a large collection of botanical drawings and photographs of acacias in the region by local artist and naturalist Grace Lithgow.

Take your time to sit back and relax at the restored Queenslander-style Club Hotel or one of the popular cafés before exploring the quaint country shops.

Fossickers from around the world come in search of much sought after “Chinchilla Red” petrified wood. Pick up an official Queensland Mines & Energy Fossicking licence from the Visitor Information Centre.

Ask for information on the seven tourist drives of the district. They’ll take you down sidetracks and byways to experience an amazing array of wildlife and flora, local history and significant landmarks.

Well worth a visit is the Chinchilla Historical Museum. Its collection features many important transport pieces including a steam driven sawmill and the first-ever ticket issued by Qantas for the first flight from Longreach to Cloncurry to passenger Mr A. Kennedy. There’s also an excellent display of petrified wood and a prickly pear exhibit celebrating the saving of local and national farmlands from prickly pear by the introduction of the cactoblastis moth and larva from South America. Moths were hatched in Chinchilla and distributed nationally.

David Fuller Retired Chinchilla farmer and former newspaper owner “Archer’s Crossing, about 7km east of Chinchilla, is my favourite spot to throw a line into the Condamine River. It’s always been a popular weekend picnic spot for locals. It’s still a great place to take a picnic, as there are plenty of cool shady areas and with a bit of luck, you might catch a yellow belly or jew, and in the winter a cod. Watch out for the Archer’s Crossing sign on your left as you drive along the Warrego Highway approaching town.”

The Boonarga Cactoblastis Memorial Hall also commemorates the eradication of prickly pear, and interpretive signs behind the shelter tell more of this www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Club Hotel, Chinchilla

amazing story. The only hall in the Southern Hemisphere to be built in honour of an insect!

Discover headstones dating back to 1892 on a wander through Pioneer Cemetery; or visit the nearby monument in honour of explorer Ludwig Leichhardt, who passed through in 1844. The history of the logging industry, which was one of the main industries of the region, is told in the newly built Cypress Pines Interpretive Centre at the Chinchilla Museum.

You can relax in the heart of town with a barbecue and a walk at Charleys Creek Riverside Park. Just five minutes from town, Chinchilla Weir is popular for fishing and watersports. Good fishing can be had on the Condamine River too – pick up a map and some local tips at the Visitor Information Centre.

You can soak up the country atmosphere at one of many local events including Chinchilla Races in March, Chinchilla annual show in May, and the equestrian highlight, the Grandfather Clock Campdraft, a traditional three-day event held in October.

Local Country Markets are held at the Visitor Information Centre on the 3rd Sunday of each month.

Brigalow and Kogan Huge grain silos herald your arrival in Brigalow, just 20km to the east of Chinchilla on the Warrego Highway. The 96

town offers a pleasant park and general store. Nearby attractions include the Boonarga Cactoblastis Hall and the Brigalow Lutheran Cemetery.

A little east of Brigalow on the Condamine Highway you’ll find the quiet town of Kogan. On the way you can’t miss Kogan Creek Power Station, Australia’s most modern and environmentally friendly. Stop at the viewing area to read about the important stages of converting coal to electricity and the enormity of the project.

Kogan Park is a good spot for a picnic, or visit the atmospheric Kogan Hotel.

The new Hugh Sawrey walkway commemorates the memory of this one-time Kogan resident and famous bush artist with a metal sculpture by local artist Dion Cross. You’ll also find artist Bodo Muche’s life-size bronze “Bush Friendship” sculpture featuring Sawrey playing cards with his best mate, former Kogan publican Nelson “Darkie” Dwyer.

Miles and surrounds Sitting at the junction of the Warrego and Leichhardt Highways, Miles is a vibrant rural township known for its spring wildflowers and a well-preserved “living” pioneering history.

There is nothing quite like the sight and scent of the Miles countryside blanketed in native spring wildflowers. It is one of the seasonal charms of this region and draws people from around the

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Field in Chinchilla

Miles Historical Village

country. Whenever you visit you’ll find a living history, an active art and cultural community and the relaxed atmosphere of country hospitality.

Originally named “Dogwood Crossing”, Miles was established on a track blazed by the explorer, Ludwig Leichhardt in 1844. Life as it was back then has been realistically preserved at the Miles Historical Village and Museum. Here you literally step back in time to explore more than 30 buildings in a streetscape setting.

A hospital, café, bank, post office and bakery and many more turn of the century buildings feature alongside amazing shell and lapidary displays and an extensive collection of war memorabilia.

Self-drive tour brochures and fishing and wildflower trail guides of the district are available from the Miles Visitor Information Centre, also located at the Historical Village.

Don’t miss Dogwood Crossing, Miles, where you will see seven metre tall bottle trees forming a stunning colonnade down the centre of the building. Here you can relax and explore colourful tales, local life stories, incredible feats and epic events which have made the region the place it is today. There’s also a library, the John Mullins Memorial Art Gallery and an IT Centre where you can access the Internet.

The Dogwood Creek walking track is also a relaxing way to explore the native flora and fauna around Miles.

Great spot for fishing, Condamine

You can mingle with the locals at Miles Picnic Races each February and see bucking bulls at Miles Rodeo in October.

Every second year in September, join in the celebration of the Beef, Bells and Bottle Tree Festival coinciding with the anniversary of the Miles Historical Village and the beginning of the wildflower season.

Condamine You’re in the heart of cattle country here.

Condamine is famous for the invention of the Condamine or Bullfrog Bell. Hung from the necks of working bullocks, the bells ensured stockmen could locate their roaming cattle from distances as far as three or four miles away and they were even able to determine the distance of

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Sunset at Condamine

Chinchilla Historical Museum

a bullock by the sound of its bell. Learn more of this history when you stop to read the inscription on the side of the large replica bell in Bell Park.

Condamine is rugby mad with no less than three teams – no mean feat for a town of 145 residents! Drop in to catch a weekend match or plan your visit for Condamine Rodeo and Campdraft in October.

Dulacca and Drillham First came the railway (in 1879) and then came the towns. Named after nearby Dulacca Station, Dulacca is the site of the first push to eradicate the prickly pear, 98

Railway, Tara

spurred on by the government’s reward of 40,000ha of land to whoever could restore their land to its original state.

Cool off with a beer at the town’s hotel, known as the ‘Waterhole on the Hill’, which dates back to 1908. If you are in the area in October be sure to get along to the Dulacca Rodeo.

Drillham was once a thriving metropolis closely linked to the railway. The town’s weir on the creek provided water for steam locomotives. Today a variety of quality grain crops and some of Australia’s best livestock are produced here.

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Lambs at The Gums

Wandoan

Wandoan and surrounds The quiet wheat and cattle town of Wandoan is the perfect stopover between Miles and Taroom as you travel along the Leichhardt Highway.

The fertile Brigalow country that yields strong harvests and healthy cattle isn’t just a picturesque backdrop. It’s home to friendly people, a proud heritage and some of the best bush camping and fishing spots on the Western Downs.

The region is rich in coal and gas deposits, exploration of which are set to expand the town’s facilities and population. Wandoan traces its European origins back to 1844 when Ludwig Leichhardt passed through on his expedition from Jimbour to Port Essington. Leichhardt’s glowing report on the area stimulated a land grab, which resulted in the establishment of Juandah Station in 1849. Originally known as Juandah, the town was renamed Wandoan in 1926 and grew significantly after World War II when large tracks of fertile land were offered in the Soldier Settler Land Ballots of the 1950s.

Today the vast patchwork fields of wheat, sorghum and grazing cattle, and the huge grain silos on the horizon are testament to the productivity of the land.

But it’s the people here who are the heart of town.

Pull up a bar stool at the Juandah Hotel to get the lead from a local. They’ll tell

you a yarn, fill you in on local happenings and they might even let you in on their favourite place to throw in a line!

Wandoan Information Centre in O’Sullivan Park on Zupp Road is also a good place to get the local low-down.

There are a few must-dos when you’re in town. Take a picnic to enjoy around the lakes of the restful Waterloo Plain Environmental Park. Many waterbirds thrive in the wetlands.

Juandah Historical Site, Wandoan

The park features sculpted sandstone cliffs, peaks, striking rock formations and a maze of gorges that change colour with the movement of the sun.

Eucalypt forests hug the ridge-tops while dry rainforests cling to gullies and shaded slopes. In spring, wildflowers bloom in rocky ground. Keep an eye out for rock wallabies, wedge-tailed eagles and peregrine falcons riding breezes and honeyeaters feeding on wattles.

The Wandoan Heritage Trail will lead you to more than 20 points of interest including the Juandah Historical Site with its informative interpretive panels about the Soldier Settlers and Leichhardt; and to O’Sullivan Park to meet a local hero.

Here you’ll find the statue of Mick the dog that saved his master’s life after he fell from his horse on Juandah Station.

Mick ran home for help with a message scratched on a tobacco tin tucked under his collar.

For a small town there sure is a lot going on. Enjoy a great day of football at the Lindsay Williams shield in February; mix it with the locals for Wandoan Diggers Race Day in March and the Polocrosse Carnival in June; and feel the excitement of the Bucking for Cancer Rodeo in April.

A good day drive picnic destination from Wandoan is Isla Gorge National Park, about 100km to the north. Here you can immerse yourself in a wild and natural environment a million miles from city life.

Visitor Information Centre, Wandoan

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Vintage Car Museum, Glenmorgan

Tara and surrounds Take the road less travelled and you’ll end up in the peaceful Tara region, as far from city life as you can imagine. Accessed off the main Moonie and Warrego Highways, Tara is literally ‘off the beaten track’ and that’s just how the locals like it!

If you’re hankering to totally escape the stress of the city, you’ll find life in Tara happens at a relaxed pace and travellers are always welcome to stay a while.

When you arrive in town, drop into the Tara Information Centre to chat to a local about what to see and do.

Enjoy the Lagoon Parklands featuring Settlers Park and the Walk of Remembrance Garden. The lagoon offers a cool respite and it serves as the local fitness precinct complete with outdoor gym. You can picnic by the water’s edge, fish, cycle or take the interpretive walk to see an abundance of birdlife.

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Taking the quirky self-guided ‘Tara Yesteryears by Shanks Pony’ walking tour is the best way to get a feel for this little town.

Tara’s Commercial Hotel is home to several paintings by famed artist Hugh Sawrey that he painted while passing through in the 60s. And don’t miss the chance to meet and see the work of Barbara Geisel, an internationally acclaimed wool artist and local resident.

By appointment only – enquire at the Information Centre.

Take a step back in time with a visit to the Tara & District Historical Museum.

The museum has a variety of treasures including shearing memorabilia, projection equipment from the Blue Moon Picture Theatre and chains from the town’s first jail. You can even stand at the original railway station and view a display of wooden rail wagons. There’s also a 1950s log cabin

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

scout den, a replica of the first one built in the United Kingdom.

You can try your skills on the sand green of Tara’s 18-hole golf course or visit Wieambilla South Country Club, set amongst peaceful treed surroundings, 30km north of town.

There is a surprising mix of cultures in this little town of 1,000 people. They celebrate biennially (next in August 2014) with a Festival of Culture and Camel Races featuring the foods of their heritage. Another biennial event (next in May 2014) is the Bloomin’ Creative Showcase featuring the work of local artists.

Other local events to plan for include Tara Markets (first Saturday of each month), Tara Show in March and regular campdrafts, polocrosse, horse racing and sheepdog trials.

The Gums and Hannaford

Meandarra

The Gums and Hannaford are two small settlements west of Tara that make for a good half-day trip. The first postmistress named The Gums, after what the drovers called their meeting place nearby. It’s a tranquil location for a stop in your travels or short-term campsite, enjoying the birdlife in the natural surrounds.

Hannaford, originally called Red Hill, was renamed after a prominent settler of the area, Samuel Hannaford.

Country shenanigans are guaranteed at Meandarra Crazy Cockies Bachelors & Spinsters Ball each February, but most other times Meandarra is a peaceful place on the banks of the Brigalow Creek.

Flinton and Westmar Flinton was the area’s first recorded settlement in 1840, even prior to Leichhardt’s journey in 1847. It has been the home of the famous Flinton Races held every Easter since 1912. The colour and spectacle at one of the oldest bush races in Australia has earned it the title ‘Melbourne Cup of the West’.

Nearby Westmar is a small town on the Moonie Highway. The Andersen brothers, owners of Western and Maranoa Transport companies, opened a fuel depot and rest stop at this location. The name Westmar was derived from the first part of the words WESTern and MARanoa.

The creek offers camping, superb fishing, rare water lilies and the chance to see koalas in their natural habitat. Ask a friendly local the history behind the Me and Darra statue and don’t miss the Meandarra ANZAC Memorial Museum – a salute to the bravery and self sacrifice of the first ANZACs, it houses a comprehensive display of military memorabilia, collected over the past 30 years. Visit their Open Day each April.

Glenmorgan A small community with plenty of character and charm, you’ll see why Glenmorgan was the winner of the 2008 Queensland Bush Spirit Award.

There are three must-dos in town: Monty’s Garage Vintage Car Museum; discover the town’s history at the End of the Line railway siding; and walk the trails at the internationally recognised Myall Park Botanic Garden. Home of the beautiful ‘Robyn Gordon’ grevillea,

the garden has an extensive display of Australian flora and fauna, as well as artworks throughout. The Botanic Garden holds an open day each August.

Moonie And they’re racing! Not an unusual call in the horseracing obsessed country, but in Moonie the highlight of the year is the Yabbie Races!

Billed as the race that stops the outback, Moonie Yabbie Races are a one-ofa-kind quirky country event run each November by the Moonie Sports Club.

Race action, fashions on the field, food and live entertainment make for the best day out you’ll have all year.

You’ll find Moonie on the crossroads of the Moonie and Leichhardt Highways. It is the site of Australia’s first commercial oil field. Established in 1961, it still operates today. For a small town, Moonie is a vibrant place.

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

Cecil Plains

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Ask a local Accredited Information Centres can help you travel around the regions. Keep an eye out for the blue and yellow sign for friendly advice on where to stay, what to do or just chat with a local about the area.

Toowoomba and Darling Downs

Yarraman Heritage House 26 Miller Street, Yarraman Ph: (07) 4163 8111 www.toowoombaholidays.com.au

South Burnett

Hampton Visitor Information Centre 8623 New England Highway, Hampton Ph: 1800 009 066 E: hamptoninfo@toowoombarc.qld.gov.au www.toowoombaholidays.com.au

Blackbutt and Benarkin Visitor Information Centre Les Muller Park, Hart Street, Blackbutt Ph: (07) 4163 0633 E: blackbuttvic@southburnett.qld.gov.au www.southburnettholidays.com.au

Toowoomba Visitor Information Centre 86 James Street, Toowoomba Ph: 1800 331 155 E: infocentre@toowoombarc.qld.gov.au www.toowoombaholidays.com.au

Kingaroy Information, Art and Heritage Precinct 128 Haly Street, Kingaroy Ph: (07) 4189 9172 E: kingaroyvic@southburnett.qld.gov.au www.southburnettholidays.com.au

Goombungee Visitor Information Centre Rosalie Gallery, 89 Mocatta Street, Goombungee Ph: (07) 4696 5600 E: goombungeeinfo@toowoombarc.qld.gov.au www.toowoombaholidays.com.au

Murgon Visitor information Centre Lamb Street, Murgon Ph: (07) 4189 9357 E: murgonvic@southburnett.qld.gov.au www.southburnettholidays.com.au

Millmerran Museum and Visitor Information Centre 24 Charlotte Street, Millmerran Ph: (07) 4695 2560 E: millmerraninfo@toowoombarcqld.gov.au www.toowoombaholidays.com.au Pittsworth Information Centre 50 Short Street, Pittsworth Ph: (07) 4693 2510 E: pittsworthinfo@toowoombarc.qld.gov.au www.toowoombaholidays.com.au 102

Chinchilla Visitor Information Centre

South Burnett Energy Centre (Nanango) 41 Henry Street, Nanango Ph: (07) 4189 9446 E: nanangovic@southburnett.qld.gov.au www.southburnettholidays.com.au South Burnett Timber Industry Museum (Wondai) 80 Haly Street, Wondai Ph: (07) 4189 9251 E: wondaivic@southburnett.qld.gov.au www.southburnettholidays.com.au

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Southern Downs and Granite Belt Stanthorpe Visitor Information Centre 28 Leslie Parade, Stanthorpe Ph: 1800 762 665 E: info@granitebeltwinecountry.com.au www.granitebeltwinecountry.com.au Warwick Visitor Information Centre 49 Albion Street, Warwick Ph: 1800 060 877 E: visit@warwickevents.com www.warwickevents.com

Western Downs Balonne Visitor Information Centre Cnr Roe Street and The Terrace, St George Ph: (07) 4620 8877 E: vic@balonne.qld.gov.au www.balonne.qld.gov.au Chinchilla Visitor Information Centre Warrego Highway, Chinchilla Ph: (07) 4679 4471 E: chinchilla.tic@wdrc.qld.gov.au www.chinchilla.org.au Dalby Visitor Information Centre Thomas Jack Park, Drayton Street, Dalby Ph: (07) 4679 4461 E: dalby.vic@wdrc.qld.gov.au www.dalby.info Goondiwindi Visitor Information Centre Cnr Bowen and McLean Streets, Goondiwindi Ph: (07) 4671 2653 E: vic@goondiwindi.qld.au www.goondiwindi.qld.au

Warwick Visitor Information Centre

Inglewood Visitor Information Centre 18 Elizabeth Street, Inglewood Ph: (07) 4652 0208 E: inglewoodvic@grc.qld.gov.au www.goondiwindirc.qld.gov.au Injune Visitor Information Centre Hutton Street, Injune Ph: (07) 4626 0503 E: injunevic@maranoa.qld.gov.au www.injune.net.au Miles Visitor Information Centre Murilla Street (Warrego Highway), Miles Ph: (07) 4627 1492 E: mileshistoricalsoc@bigpond.com www.mhv.org.au Roma Visitor Information Centre The Big Rig, Warrego Highway, Roma Ph: (07) 4622 8676 E: info@wheninroma.com.au www.wheninroma.com.au Surat Visitor Information Centre Cobb & Co Changing Station 62 Burrowes Street, Surat Ph: (07) 4626 5136 E: suratlibrary@maranoa.qld.gov.au Bell Visitor Information Centre 22 Dennis Street, Bell Ph: (07) 4663 1102 Bollon Heritage & Craft Centre Main Street, Bollon Ph: (07) 4625 6108

Wandoan Visitor Information Centre 41 Royds Street, Wandoan Ph: (07) 4627 5227

Calico Cottage Warrego Highway, Wallumbilla Ph: (07) 4623 4244 Dirranbandi Rural Transaction Centre 35–37 Railway Street, Dirranbandi Ph: (07) 4625 8411 Hebel General Store & Caravan Park William Street, Hebel Ph: (07) 4625 0920 Jandowae Visitor Information Centre Cnr George and High Street, Jandowae Ph: (07) 4679 4480 Mitchell Visitor Information Centre Great Artesian Spa Complex 2 Cambridge Street, Mitchell Ph: (07) 4624 6923 Moonie Rural Transaction Centre Leichhardt and Moonie Highways, Moonie Ph: (07) 4665 0189 Mungindi Visitor Information Moree Plains Council Office 153 St George Street, Mungindi Ph: (02) 6753 2389

Hampton Visitor Information Centre

This symbol recognises Accredited Visitor Information Centres. These centres have achieved accreditation by meeting specified industry standards and are recognised as genuine, quality information providers.

Regional Tourism Organisation

If you would like to find out more about the regions featured in this guide, visit the Southern Queensland Country website www.southernqueenslandcountry. com.au For further copies of the Travellers' Guide please phone 1800 688 949.

Tara Visitor Information Council Customer Service Centre 19 Fry Street, Tara Ph: (07) 4665 3133 Texas News High Street, Texas Ph: (07) 4653 1106 or (07) 4653 1384 E: texasqldinc@live.com.au www.texasqld4385.com.au www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Travel Directory Toowoomba & surrounds

Travel Directory Toowoomba & surrounds

HOMEWOOD COTTAGES

An exquisite 1 ha arboretum of beautiful autumn trees, labyrinth garden and exotic plants surrounds this picturesque setting.

Homewood Cottages has two self contained 1 and 2 bedroom themed cottages.

Romantic, relaxing weekends with the option of longer stays. Suitable for garden weddings within the arboretum with its wedding arch and rotunda.

PRESTON PEAK WINES

ecoRIDGE HIDEAWAY ★★★★ Rejuvenate, Contemplate, Escape.

Waiting for approval

Only 15 minutes’ drive to Toowoomba.

“One week later and still wishing we were back,” Diana, TripAdvisor. The setting: Cosy Chalets perched on a ridge. Breathtaking views. Spa. Woodheater. Bushwalking. Close to winery. Your experience: Peace and tranquility.

Magical sunrises. Abundant wildlife. Let yourself be entertained and soothed by Nature!

0459 686 239 www.homewoodcottages.com.au

07 4630 9636 www.ecoridgehideaway.com.au

11 Cawdor Road, Highfields QLD 4352

712 Rockmount Road, Preston via Toowoomba

FAMILY OWNED, ESTABLISHED 1995 You are invited to visit Preston Peak Wines Cellar Door and Vineyard Cafe. With a large range of wines and over 300 wine awards, you are certain to find that special wine you have been searching for! Preston Peak’s vineyards are hand-tended and the grapes hand-picked to create unique and delicious wines of the highest quality. You can enjoy these wines in the beautiful surrounds of the cellar door, situated atop the Range Escarpment, a leisurely 15 minute drive from Toowoomba’s CBD. The Cafe offers tasty platters and pizzas designed to complement the wines, which you can savour while experiencing breathtaking views of Tabletop Mountain, the Lockyer Valley and beyond.

To take advantage of member’s generous discounts and benefits, join Preston Peak’s Wine Society, and start saving immediately.

We look forward to welcoming you!

Open Wed, Thurs, Fri 11am to 3pm; Sat, Sun 11am to 5pm; Closed public holidays

07 4630 9499 E: info@prestonpeak.com www.prestonpeak.com 31 Preston Peak Lane, Toowoomba QLD 4352

Twelve 4 star newly renovated suites, two self-contained family apartments, gazebo and BBQ area, peaceful parkland setting close to town, scenic drive 40km north of Toowoomba, close to National Parks, lakes and Bunya Mountains.

2 night package deal – accommodation, evening meals & breakfast – only $100 per person/ per night/twin share. Bookings essential.

07 4698 1399 www.crowsnestmotel.com.au 7547 New England Highway, Crows Nest QLD 4355

BEST WESTERN APPLEGUM INN

This charming Toowoomba Motel is located in leafy, picturesque Margaret Street opposite the entrance to the Toowoomba Grammar School and is only one kilometre from the CBD. There is no highway noise and the motel is close to several specialist medical centres and St. Vincent’s Hospital. The Empire Theatre, Cobb+Co Museum, Queen’s Park, Weis’ Seafood Restaurant and sporting stadiums are all close by.

The motel offers clean and comfortable ground floor units, undercover parking, Foxtel channels and a salt water swimming pool.

The licensed restaurant offers breakfast daily and evening meals Monday to Friday.

This friendly, family operated motel is the perfect choice when attending the city’s annual carnivals, festivals, shows, sporting and cultural events.

TOOWOOMBA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

HAMPTON VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

1800 33 11 55 www.toowoombaholidays.com.au

1800 009 066 www.toowoombaholidays.com.au

07 4632 2088 or 1800 659 142 E: bw97104@bestwestern.com.au www.bestwestern.com.au/applegum

86 James St (Warrego Hwy), Toowoomba QLD 4350

8623 New England Highway, Hampton QLD 4352

41 Margaret Street, Toowoomba QLD 4350

Let our friendly and knowledgeable staff assist you with local advice and information; accommodation options; online events register; maps and books; local product, handicrafts and souvenirs. Parking is available for cars, coaches and caravans.

Open daily 9am-5pm (closed Good Friday & Christmas Day).

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CROWS NEST MOTEL

Take a short drive north from Toowoomba and discover the natural beauty and unique attractions of the high country of the Darling Downs in the Highfields, Ravensbourne and Crows Nest Region. Call us or drop in and speak to a friendly local. Open daily 9am – 5pm. Car, coach and caravan parking.

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Travel Directory Toowoomba & surrounds

Travel Directory Toowoomba & surrounds

BIG4 TOOWOOMBA GARDEN CITY HOLIDAY PARK Toowoomba’s Quietest

Self-Contained 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Cabins (Can Sleep up to 10 People) Ensuite Sites & Powered Sites Off The Highway & Secluded Clean Amenities Two Heated Pools & Spa – Free Gas BBQs Children’s Heated Pool with Wading Area & Slide Close to University & Westridge Shops Beautifully Landscaped Surrounds

07 4635 1747 E: info@big4toowoombagchp.com.au www.big4toowoombagchp.com.au 34A Eiser Street, Harristown Toowoomba QLD 4350

HARROW GARDENS AND HOMESTEAD

DARLING DOWNS ZOO Open 6 days – closed Tuesdays.

Southern Queensland Country’s only zoo has a wide range of animals from around the world. There are picnic tables, a kiosk and plenty of souvenirs. EFTPOS is available.

Free parking for cars, caravans and coaches.

You’ve got to see it to believe it!

Open Weekends (2013) Mar 16-17, Sept 2122, 28-29, and Nov 2-3, group bookings by appointment year-round. The Historic 100m2 Homestead built in the 1860s features hoop pine, cedar panelling and beautiful wide verandahs. The picturesque gardens display beautiful roses, lake with water lilies, fish pond and luscious greenery.

Please visit www.harrowgardens.com

07 4696 4107 www.darlingdownszoo.com.au

0451 545 523 E: harrowgardens@hotmail.com

Gatton-Clifton Road, Pilton QLD 4361

700 Cambooya/Felton Rd, Cambooya QLD 4358

HIGHFIELDS PIONEER VILLAGE

COBB+CO MUSEUM

Home of the white lions

MUSEUM OF AUSTRALIAN ARMY FLYING

Experience the adventure and romance of our military pioneer aviators and see the progression from “Those Magnificent Men In Their Flying Machines” to present day. Marvel at their courage and view the historic aircraft on display since World War II. Visitors will see many beautifully presented aircraft with strong connections to Army aviation that have been restored to original condition. Also, there are images and valuable memorabilia from World War l, to current operations overseas where the Australian Army is using aviation resources.

Modern facilities available including disabled access, picnic shelters, rest rooms, BBQs and souvenir shop. Entrance charges are: Adults $7.00, Family of 2 Adults and up to 3 Children $15.00, Children $2.00 and Pension card holders $5.00. Guided tours (30 - 60 minutes) can be arranged if booked in advance.

Opening Times: 10am - 3pm Wed to Sun.

07 4577 7666 E: austarmy.flyingmuseum@defence.gov.au www.161recceflt.org.au/MAAF/Homepage.htm Army Airfield, Oakey QLD 4401

Just 15 mins north of Toowoomba and covers an area of 20 acres with over 50 building of historic interest, pleasant surroundings and picnic facilities.

Visit the Animal Nursery, see Vintage Cars and Trucks, enjoy delicious Billy Tea and Damper. No matter how old you are, there is something for everyone at the Highfields Pioneer Village!

It’s all about what you can do at Cobb+Co Museum You can touch our exhibitions, create in our hands on workshops, taste our hand made delights, try our daily “Have a Go” session and discover in our children’s areas.

Full details of all our exhibitions, hands on workshops and school holiday programs are available online.

07 4696 6309 www.highfieldspioneervillage.com.au

07 4659 4900 www.cobbandco.qm.qld.gov.au

73 Wirraglen Road, Highfields QLD 4352

27 Lindsay Street, Toowoomba QLD 4350

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Travel Directory The South Burnett

RAVENSBOURNE FOREST CHALETS Relax and revitalise in the clear mountain air and for those romantic winter evenings, curl up and enjoy the warmth and romance of the log fire or double spa.

Only 90 minutes from Brisbane, this getaway offers the ultimate romantic experience with privacy and tranquillity. Ravensbourne Forest Chalets are in private rainforest on 40 acres of forestland.

07 4697 8185 or 0428 763 901 www.ravensbourneforestchalets.com.au 84 Palmtree Road, Palmtree QLD 4352

MULANAH GARDENS B&B COTTAGES ★★★★★

Luxury Accommodation & Wedding Venue

FORDSDALE HORSEBACK ADVENTURES & ACCOMMODATION Fordsdale is situated 30 km SW of Gatton.

Families are able to come and explore our rugged hills and creek. We cater from beginners to experienced horse riders.

Come and enjoy our beautiful trails and country hospitality. Horse riding from $66.

We offer two farm houses (self or fully catered) and camping as accommodation.

Travelling on uncluttered roads south of Kingaroy/South Burnett towards The Bunya Mountains National Park, you will find Luxury accommodation with tranquillity & beautifully landscaped gardens. Two well-appointed cottages offer panoramic views with each having a 4 1/2 Star AAA Rating giving you luxury & comfort with a high standard.

5 Ft corner spas Wood heaters / Air-conditioned Fully self-contained kitchens Swedish massage Honeymoon packages Gourmet platters; Night meals ordered & delivered to your table Mulanah Gardens also offer Venue Hire for Weddings, Receptions & small functions.

BETHANY COTTAGES & TOURS John and Karyn Bjelke-Petersen welcome you to their peaceful cottages. They are set on the highest hill in the district, overlooking local farms and the Bunya Mountains. The views will amaze you, day and night.

One, two bedroom & spa cottages available Light breakfast included in tariff Barbeques at each cottage All feature air-conditioning and fireplaces Pet friendly – just ask us!

Abundant wildlife and birds – perfect for photographers Tours of Bethany are available each Wed and Sat at 2pm (bookings for tours are requested to assist with catering) Tour includes a commentary, afternoon tea (pumpkin scones of course!) and memorabilia on display

07 5462 7526 or 0427 584 363 www.fordsdalefarmstay.com

07 4164 3142 E: kath@mulanahgardens.com www.mulanahgardens.com

07 4162 7046 or 0427 143 117 E: info@bethany.net.au www.bethany.net.au

171 Wagners Road, Fordsdale QLD 4343

736 Deep Creek Rd, Inverlaw via Kingaroy QLD 4610

218 Peterson Drive, Kingaroy QLD 4610

tick THE WORKSHOPS RAIL MUSEUM All aboard for a wholly interactive authentic heritage and cultural experience located at Australia’s oldest railway workshops still in operation. Make history come alive with hands-on exhibits, multi-media encounters and colourful stories coupled with huge steam locomotives and massive industrial machinery.

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BARAMBAH BUSH CARAVAN PARK ★★★★

Enjoy our quiet natural surroundings, peaceful atmosphere and accredited 3.5 star accommodation. Walk in native bushland and observe the variety of wildlife that calls our park home. With clean spacious amenities, camp kitchen and laundry, shady sites and campfires, internet access, we are in the heart of the Barambah Wine Trail.

YARRAMAN CARAVAN PARK

A great place to relax and enjoy the magic of the South Burnett Region, including wineries, forest activities, Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, National Parks and the Observatory.

We have cabins and a range of sites (including ensuite & drive through), pool, camp fire, camp kitchen, low weekly rates and group discounts.

07 3432 5100 www.theworkshops.qm.qld.gov.au

07 4168 1085 www.barambahbush.com.au

1800 288 560 www.yarramancp.com.au

North Street, North Ipswich QLD 4305

Barambah Road, Murgon QLD 4605

12121 D’Aguilar Highway, Yarraman QLD 4614

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Travel Directory The South Burnett

Travel Directory The South Burnett

ROCK-AL-ROY BED & BREAKFAST

“MINMORE” FARM STAY B&B

07 4162 3061 www.rockalroybedbreakfast.com.au

07 4164 3196

15 Kearney Street, Kingaroy QLD 4610

M/S90 “Minmore” Via Kingaroy QLD 4610

Owners Max & Lyn Lehmann built their home in 1997 and have operated Rock-Al-Roy B&B since April 2002. We are a modern Queenslander style home on the outskirts of Kingaroy with verandahs that offer panoramic views over the town and surrounding countryside. We offer traditional bed and breakfast accommodation and also dinner at night if required. Great alternative to motel/cabin style accommodation.

7,000 hectare beef producing property.

Feed the animals and gather the eggs.

Bikes for children, bush walks, bird watching, abundant wildlife, 40 mins to Bunya Mts. Close to wineries, golf course and gliding at Kingaroy Airport. 3½ star Homestead.

3 star Cottage for families. Pets welcome upon application. Fully self contained.

Meals available upon request.

DISCOVER CRANE WINES

Looking for a special place to visit today?

WIIKIRRI RETREAT

Discover Crane Wines, the first winery in the South Burnett, and the friendliest, where you can feel like part of our family, swapping yarns with the winemaker, or relaxing with friends.

Sink into a chair and feel right at home whilst feasting on a Crane gourmet platter, loving the views, and sipping Crane Wines, hand crafted on the premises.

Stay for an afternoon or indulge yourself with a stay in our beautifully appointed B&B, which can accommodate up to two couples.

Furnished in keeping with the venerable age of the homestead, your private verandah is the perfect place to enjoy your complimentary breakfast as you watch the sun climbing over the valley, or perhaps your complimentary bottle of Crane Wines at moon rise.

Whichever you choose, visit Crane Wines and create some memorable moments.

OPEN 7 DAYS, 10:00 am til 4:00 pm

TAABINGA HOMESTEAD

our doorstep - horseriders, mountain bike cyclists, birdwatchers, walkers. Groups welcome.

Relax. Luxurious accommodation - Wiikirri Cottage or the 2 bedroom guest wing. Delicious breakfasts.

Rejuvenate. Breathe fresh mountain air. Listen to birdsong. Gaze at the night sky. Book a massage. Celebrate. Anniversary weekend.

Your wedding.

History is alive at Taabinga Homestead, occupied since 1846. Accommodation is offered in comfortable sunny cottages set amongst the Homestead’s gardens and outbuildings. Enjoy the ambiance of the Homestead or explore the many local attractions of the South Burnett, including the Bunya Mountains National Park.

07 4170 0395 www.wiikirriretreat.com.au

07 4164 5531 www.taabingahomestead.com

07 4162 7647 E: info@cranewines.com.au www.cranewines.com.au

15 Bowman Road, Blackbutt QLD 4306

7 Old Taabinga Road, Haly Creek QLD 4610

162 Haydens Road, Booie Kingaroy QLD 4610

Explore. The Brisbane Valley Rail Trail right at

tick SOUTH BURNETT COUNTRY ESCAPES Discover an array of unique and comfortable accommodation including farm stays, self-contained cottages and traditional B&Bs. Our diverse group caters for couples, families and individuals allowing you to explore the beautiful South Burnett region. Drive from Blackbutt in the south through to Kilkivan in the north. Queensland’s warmest welcome is guaranteed with authentic country hospitality.

www.staysouthburnett.com.au

TASTE SOUTH BURNETT

DESHONS RETREAT

Based at Kingaroy’s heritage-listed Old Butter Factory, we act as a cellar door for local boutique wineries, and a retail outlet for the best in regional gourmet foods, plus our own creamy fudge. We are a must see on your next South Burnett adventure!

Delicious, boutique, wine country retreats.

Perched above the panoramic Booie Valley, these king-sized retreats brim with character.

Cool breezes & wood-fired warmth plus an eclectic blend of art & playful vintage make for a love experience. With fresh, farm-to-fork produce & your choice of relaxed or adventurous activities, you have the perfect, hip getaway.

07 4162 8222 www.tastesouthburnett.com.au

07 4163 6688 www.deshons.com.au

67 William Street, Kingaroy QLD 4610

164 Haydens Road, Kingaroy QLD 4610

Share our passion for the fine food, wine and country life in Queensland’s exquisite South Burnett

Sassy, luxe, designer retreats

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Travel Directory The South Burnett

Travel Directory Southern Downs & Granite Belt

MAIDENWELL ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATORY

BURRANDOWAN PICNIC RACES

GIRRAWEEN COUNTRY INN

View the Moon, Planets and Stars up close in powerful telescopes. Night and/or Day shows to suit all ages. Ideal venue visit for schools and community groups. Close to Bunya Mts, Nanango and Kingaroy. Mention and show this ad for discount night visit.

Treat yourself to a day of true bush racing and country hospitality. Enjoy a full 5 race program, plenty of off the track entertainment: “Fashion on the Field” competition, the esteemed Burrandowan fashion parade, and live music. Sample the range of delicious food available and shout a round at the bar.

Camping is available and don’t forget to BYO tools for the famous pit fire BBQ!

hosted accommodation destinations, where beds are king size, towels fluffy and the air is country fresh. In the evening, with a local wine, be spoilt by our chef Valerio, recently arrived from Sorrento.

Also available is a self standing, self catering Loft/Chalet accommodating small groups (max. 10 people). Visit our website – www.girraweencountryinn.com.au

07 4164 6194 www.maidenwellobservatory.com

07 4164 8147 www.burrandowan.com.au

07 4683 7109 E: info@girraweencountryinn.com.au

4150 Kingaroy-Cooyar Rd, Maidenwell QLD 4615

Burra Burri Road, Kingaroy QLD 4610

Eukey Road, Ballandean QLD 4382

Experience a night of stargazing with a professional astronomer

11 MAY 2013

Be Welcomed at one of the region’s favourite

MURRAY GARDENS COTTAGES & MOTEL

Set on 17 acres of bushland – 2 minutes to Stanthorpe CBD Meals to rooms, free Wi-Fi, pet friendly, undercover parking and plenty of space for coaches Two bedroom fully self contained cottages (some with woodfires), and air-conditioned spacious motel rooms with microwaves Something for everyone! Pool, gym, super fun snail hunt, volleyball and basketball court, table tennis, giant chess/checkers, darts, foosball, hammocks, outdoor braziers, two BBQ areas, communal kitchen Onsite friendly staff at your service to assist with any of your enquiries

Stay, Play, Workout or Chillout!!!

07 4681 4121 E: info@MurrayGardens.com.au

www.MurrayGardens.com.au 10 Pancor Road, Stanthorpe QLD 4380

SPRING CREEK MOUNTAIN CAFÉ & COTTAGES ★★★★

One of the last undiscovered jewels of SEQ and winner of the Heritage Business Excellence Awards for 2008 and 2011

McNEVINS WARWICK MOTEL

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GORDON COUNTRY

Situated 1030m above sea level, Spring Creek Mountain overlooks some of Queensland’s finest natural attractions.

Our 3 cottages capture the breathtaking views of the Condamine Gorge, Wilson’s Peak and the Border Ranges. Casual dining with serious flavours, local produce and spectacular views.

Accommodation specials available.

Full gourmet breakfast is included in all accommodation packages and the Café is open every evening for dinner for our inhouse guests, and for outside guests, by reservation only.

Café Opening Hours: Wednesday to Friday 10AM – 5PM Saturday & Sunday 8AM – 5PM Accommodation available 7 days per week.

Beautifully appointed facilities including QUEEN - KING - FAMILY - EXECUTIVE SPA SUITES. Austar, large 42” LCD TV, free wireless internet, swimming pool and guest laundry. Our fully licensed restaurant and bar caters for weddings, conferences and functions. Conveniently located next to Warwick Hospital and minutes from the CBD and Morgan Park. Award winning gardens.

”One of the most beautiful places in Qld” – the late R.M. Williams

07 4661 5588 www.mcnevins.com.au

07 4666 6179 www.gordoncountry.com.au

07 4664 7101 E: info@springcreekcottages.com.au www.springcreekcottages.com.au

Cnr New England H’way & Glen Rd, Warwick QLD 4370

1847 Inverramsey Road, Goomburra QLD 4362

Spring Creek Road, Killarney QLD 4373

Camp along 14kms of flowing creeks, cascading waterfalls and rainforest walks, stay in a cabin, 4WD along top Great Divide, walk amongst Bellbird and Koala colonies in the wild, ride mountain bike trails and enjoy open campfires under the stars. A private ’National Park’ …where even your dogs and horses are most welcome.

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Travel Directory Southern Downs & Granite Belt

Travel Directory Southern Downs & Granite Belt

VINEYARD COTTAGES & RESTAURANT ★★★★★

Boutique Stanthorpe Accommodation – region’s highest AAA rating Enjoy guilt free indulgence in our green star rated eco friendly accommodation and discover the wow factor in the taste of freshly harvested local food.

7 Private cottages nestle in the established gardens of Vineyard Cottages in the small village of Ballandean, 15km south of Stanthorpe and perfectly positioned for Queensland’s premier wineries (over 50). Views extend from Girraween National Park, across the Roberts Ranges in the south and to Sundown National Park in the west.

Vineyard Cottages is one of the few retreats on the Granite Belt to boast its own licensed restaurant. The restaurant is a Stanthorpe institution and features the best local produce and wines of the Stanthorpe / Granite Belt region as well as from around Australia.

The Vineyard Cafe lunch and dinner menus blend culinary tradition – the intelligent use of a wide range of fresh local produce with an increasing emphasis on locally grown and organic sources.

All Cottages are serviced Daily.

The Southern Downs and Granite Belt

07 4684 1270 E: info@vineyardcottages.com.au www.vineyardcottages.com.au 28126 New England Highway, Ballandean Stanthorpe QLD 4382

R ON THE DOWNS RURAL RETREAT

GOOMBURRA VALLEY CAMPGROUND

♥Award winning ♥Honeymoon and ♥Escape Hero Destination - ♥disability friendly. ♥Couples, Singles, Groups = one or more nights stay welcome = luxury at realistic prices. ♥Romantic, Relaxing, and ♥spacious ensuited themed suites ♥Federation Homestead ♥Magical Tree-House, or ♥Intimate Early Settler’s Cottage.

All with breath-taking views in beautiful, historic Swanfels Valley, Yangan (only 2 hrs from Brisbane, 15 mins from Warwick or Killarney). Scrumptious full breakfasts incl.

Other delicious country meals available.

Go on.....♥Re-ignite & ♥Savour that something special.......♥BOOK NOW!!!

Located on the Darling Downs, Goomburra Valley Campground is situated on the banks of Dalrymple Creek. Camp in spacious, shady, grassed campsites with a fireplace. Perfect for the whole family and only two hours from Brisbane, one hour from Toowoomba. Great for birdwatching, hiking, swimming or just getting away from it all. Enjoy the peace and quiet of Goomburra Valley Campground.

Powered & unpowered sites.

Fireplaces & BBQs. Clean amenities.

Laundry & washing up facilities.

Plenty of room for caravan clubs & groups.

Catering available for groups or functions.

07 4664 8587 or 0413 936 056 E: info@r-onthedowns.com www.r-onthedowns.com

07 4666 6006 E: enquiries@goomburravalleycampground.com.au www.goomburravalleycampground.com.au

07 4666 1282 E: bestbrook@bestbrook.com.au www.bestbrook.com.au

295 Swanfels Road, Yangan QLD 4371

2013 Inverramsay Road, Goomburra QLD 4362

9790 Cunningham Highway, Maryvale QLD 4370

★★★★★

BESTBROOK MOUNTAIN RESORT

Bush Camping at its Best!

Located in the foot hills of Main Range National Park, Bestbrook provides an authentic farm-stay experience the whole family will enjoy. Choose from self contained cottages, bunk house accommodation or the best bush camping around. Activities on offer include animal feeding, bush walking, cow milking, billy tea & damper, whip cracking, horse riding plus loads more.

9 self contained cottages Powered and unpowered bush camping Conference facilities Restaurant and Bar Swimming pool Horse riding

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Travel Directory Southern Downs & Granite Belt

Travel Directory Dalby, St George, Miles & surrounds

QUEEN MARY FALLS CARAVAN PARK ★★★★

BONAWAYS

Bonaways is a fully self contained holiday home located on the main street of Stanthorpe and is within walking distance of the shops, restaurants and parks.

Bonaways is available for overnight, weekday and weekend accommodation and highly suited for groups of up to 13 people but also available for smaller groups, couples and individuals.

Established in 1864, on the Moonie River front, this iconic Queensland Outback style pub offers ample free riverside camping, fishing, hot showers and WCs at the pub. Caravans & RVs welcome. Restaurant open 7 days with resident chefs, we are home of Australia’s biggest 10 Burgers (5-25 kilos). Annual McGrath Foundation Pink Day (June 8), Variety Club of Qld V8 Supercow Racing (Oct 5) & RFDS Pig Races (Nov 30). Monthly Markets.

07 4664 7151 www.queenmaryfallscaravanpark.com.au

07 4681 4660 www.bonaways.com.au

07 4625 9637 or 0428 744 292 www.nindigully.com

676 Spring Creek Road, The Falls Killarney QLD 4373

33 Wallangarra Road, Stanthorpe QLD 4380

Sternes Street, Nindigully QLD 4497

Bush setting / campfires / lots of wildlife Powered and unpowered lawn sites Self contained bush cabins Café (open Friday – Wednesday) Clean amenities and laundry facilities Packages available Camp kitchen

NINDIGULLY PUB

PELICAN REST TOURIST PARK Top tourist park Free Wi-Fi Quiet and spacious atmosphere 23m long drive-through grass sites Camp kitchen and BBQs Modern amenities Self contained ensuite cabins

QUEENSLAND COLLEGE OF WINE TOURISM Varias at QCWT offers an extensive daily

lunch menu featuring modern contemporary cuisine with influences from both French and Italian cooking. Varias’s seasonal menus emphasise the abundance of quality ingredients available in the region showcasing our ‘local heros’, the farmers and artisan producers of the granite belt.

Our beautiful, contemporary grounds and function rooms offer a unique ambience and perfect location for a wedding, function or conference.

The Banca Ridge cellar door co-located with Varias offers tastings of the full range of Banca Ridge wines, including a number of “Strangebirds”.

Open to the public daily from 10.00am – 3.00pm. For private functions, conferences and weddings please contact our office.

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MYALL PARK BOTANIC GARDEN

07 4625 3398 www.pelicanrest.com.au 12022 Carnarvon Highway, St George QLD 4487

Come explore our heritage listed, bushland botanic garden, home of the Grevillea ‘Robyn Gordon’ We are located in the Western Downs region, 400 kms from Brisbane. When travelling in the region, we are close to the centres of Roma, Surat, Chinchilla, Condamine, Miles, Moonie and Dalby.

Discover amazing flora Discover incredible fauna Discover surprises along a series of walks Accommodation available – stay in our Cottage or The Quarters Camping available Caravanners welcome – powered or non powered sites We are only 7 kms from Glenmorgan.

Follow the signs from town.

07 4685 5050 E: qcwt@usq.edu.au www.varias.com.au

07 4665 6705 E: myallparkbotanic@bigpond.com www.myallparkbotanicgarden.org.au

22 Caves Road, Stanthorpe QLD 4380

Myall Park Road, Glenmorgan QLD 4423

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

STARLINE MOTOR INN

The best value for Miles around 22 newly refurbished reverse cycle AC units Fully licensed with Austar, RSL/Memorial Club at rear gate Ample parking - coaches, boats & trailers Queen beds, wireless broadband, all units on ground floor Evening meals to units Large private saltwater pool

07 4627 1322 www.starlinemotorinn.com 97 Murilla Street, Miles QLD 4415

Plan your country getaway

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Plan your country getaway

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2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Why not leave the every day behind and head out west for an Outback experience you’ll never forget!

Outback Queensland Eventures feature an action packed schedule of events including the famous Julia Creek Dirt n Dust Festival, Tree of Knowledge Festival and the Harry Redford Cattle Drive to mention just a few.

So what are you waiting for? To view more events and plan your Outback Queensland Eventure visit adventureoutback.com.au or phone 1800 247 966.

OUETENBSALACNKD QU

E V E N TU RE

outb adventure

TREE OF KNOWLEDGE FESTIVAL

MUSIC IN THE MULGA

S

ack.com.a

BLACKALL HEARTLAND FESTIVAL

Barcaldine

via Eulo

Blackall

TRAILBLAZER

OUTBACK FESTIVAL

INTERNATIONAL YABBY RACES

Charleville

Winton

DIRT N DUST FESTIVAL Julia Creek

PORCUPINE GORGE CHALLENGE

RICHMOND FOSSIL FESTIVAL

via Hughenden

Richmond

BOULIA CAMEL RACES Boulia

THE GREGORY DOWN RIVER CANOE RACE Gregory

HARRY REDFORD CATTLE DRIVE Aramac

Windorah

CHARLEVILLE CUP FESTIVAL Charleville

BIG RED RUN

ASHOF HORSE AND HERITAGE EXPO

Diamantina

Longreach

TEN DAYS IN THE TOWERS

u

Outback Queensland Travellers’ Guide 2013

OUTBACK QUEENSLAND

Charters Towers

QUILPIE STREET PARTY Quilpie Adavale | Alpha | Aramac | Augathella | Balfes Creek | Barcaldine | Bedourie | Belyando Crossing | Betoota | Birdsville | Blackall | Bluewater Springs Boulia | Burke & Wills Junction | Cameron Corner | Camooweal | Charleville | Charters Towers | Cheepie | Cloncurry | Cooladdi | Corfield | Cunnamulla Dajarra | Duchess | Emmet | Eromanga | Eulo | Greenvale | Herveys Range Community | Hidden Valley | Homestead | Hughenden | Hungerford Ilfracombe | Isisford | Jericho | Julia Creek | Jundah | Kajabbi | Kynuna | Longreach | McKinlay | Middleton | Mingela | Morven | Mount Isa | Muttaburra | Nelia Noccundra | Opalton | Pentland | Prairie | Quamby | Quilpie | Ravenswood | Richmond | Rubyvale | Sapphire | Stamford | Stonehenge | Tambo Thargomindah | Toompine | Torrens Creek | Urandangi | Windorah | Winton | Wyandra | Yaraka | Yowah

adventureoutback.com.au

For your FREE copy of the Travellers’ Guide call 1800 247 966

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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craft beer Open daily from 10am

• •craft craft beer beer onon tap tap• •tasting tasting paddles paddles• •brewery brewery viewing viewing lounge lounge• •meals meals available available • •cabin cabin accommodation accommodation 07 4681 1370 146 Glenlyon Drive, Stanthorpe

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granitebeltbrewery.com.au

2013/14 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide