St George & Surrounds Travellers' Guide

ST GEORGE & SURROUNDS Travellers’ Guide

Experience the Balonne Shire St George • Dirranbandi • Hebel Bollon • Nindigully • Thallon • Mungindi www.balonne.qld.gov.au stgeorgeandsurrounds

Welcome to St George & Surrounds What does relaxing and holidays mean to you? Does it mean winding down in wide open spaces, exploring the vast outback or getting to know a local?

Whatever your style, there’s a spot just right for you in St George and its surrounds. It’s home to an oasis in the bush with long summers, stunning landscapes, white cotton fields, preserved history and the majestic Balonne River.

Stepping onto the red soil you will immediately feel the unique mix of local and rural influence wherever you go within the Balonne Shire. Throughout our Shire, you can walk amongst the very trees Sir Major Thomas Mitchell explored and catch a glimpse of droving cattle like the days of old. The Balonne Shire showcases the best the west has to offer; the vastness allows you to roam free and visit townships rich in history.

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2019 St George & Surrounds Travellers’ Guide

Contents 04 St George & Surrounds Bucket List 05 Facilities & Services 06 Experience the Balonne Shire 10 St George 16 St George Town Map 20 Dirranbandi 21 Hebel 22 Bollon 24 Nindigully 25 Thallon

Welcome from our Mayor

26 Mungindi 27 Fishing 28 Self-Drive Trails 31

Business Directory Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre 114 St George’s Terrace, St George – 07 4620 8877 vic@balonne.qld.gov.au www.balonne.qld.gov.au

stgeorgeandsurrounds

Welcome to the Beautiful Balonne Shire!

Our Shire showcases the original tracks of the Cobb & Co Coaches, rural lifestyle, cotton, wheat and hay farming, artesian water and a range of country characters.

The Balonne Shire is made up of St George, Bollon, Dirranbandi, Hebel, Mungindi, Thallon and Nindigully. All seven communities are situated by a river so why not extend your stay and go fishing on the banks of the Barwon, Balonne, Moonie, Balonne-Minor, Narran Rivers and Wallam Creek.

Our Visitor Information Centre in St George is definitely your first stop to meet our friendly and informed staff who will ensure that you get the best out of your stay in our beautiful Shire.

Richard Marsh – Mayor

Welcome to Country We acknowledge the traditional owners of this region, all of whom have a deep attachment to the Balonne Shire. As you pass through these lands, we ask that you respect the country on which you walk and that you leave Mother earth as you found her.

Stop and reflect about where you are, and learn about the history and the peoples of this area.

We wish you a safe journey through our traditional lands, and hope you appreciate all of its beauty.

Traditional Custodians www.balonne.qld.gov.au

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Check off our Bucket List of Things to Do in St George & Surrounds....

1.

arvel at hand-carved illuminated emu eggs at the M Unique Egg, St George

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Tackle a road train burger at the Nindigully Pub

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Take a trip back in time at the St George Heritage Centre

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iew the colourful artwork by John Murray which V adorns the Hebel Hotel

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Catch a Murray Cod at the Jack Dwyer Park in Dirranbandi

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ouch a piece of colonial history at the One Ton Post T in Mungindi – JB Cameron’s 1881 original Qld/NSW border surveyors peg

9.

earn about the local cotton industry by following L St George’s cotton self-drive trail

ake in the sunset Sandytown River Cruise along the T Balonne River, St George

et a selfie at the colourful Silos and with William the G Giant Northern Hairy-Nosed Wombat in Thallon

10. Sample wine from Queensland’s most western vineyard – Riversands Winery, St George

Road Train Burger, Nindigully Pub

The TheUnique UniqueEgg Egg

Artwork by John Murray, Hebel Hotel

William the Giant Northern Hairy-Nosed Wombat

PHOTO COURTESY OF JANE HODGES

Sandytown River Cruise

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2019 St George & Surrounds Travellers’ Guide

Facilities & Services The Balonne Shire is located west of the Great Dividing Range and east of the Outback. From here, it won’t take you long to get to the bigger centre of Toowoomba, or to the Outback.

This nook of Queensland offers the perfect combination of small town culture with excellent facilities for visitors – whether you’re staying overnight or for a few weeks.

Air Regional Express (Rex) is Australia’s largest independent regional airline operating to 59 destinations throughout all states in Australia. Rex offers flights from St George to West Wellcamp Airport and Brisbane twice a week on Wednesday and Sunday (flight schedules are subject to change).

Rex Airlines

Car Hire Car hire is available from the Caltex Service Station in St George, which is an agent for Hertz. For car hire bookings and/or more information call 07 4625 5322.

Coach The Balonne Shire is also serviced by regular Bus Queensland services to and from many towns within the South West region. For bookings and/or more information call 1300 287 537 or visit www.busqld.com.au

Road The Shire hub, St George, straddles the intersections of five highways including the Moonie, Carnarvon, Castlereagh, Barwon and Balonne Highways, which provide perfect road access. In addition to this, the Balonne Shire is also located on the Adventure Way and Great Inland Way highway tourist routes.

For up-to-date road conditions, contact the Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre on 07 4620 8877 or visit the Queensland Government Traffic and Travel Information website: www.131940.qld.gov.au or call 13 19 40.

Bus Queensland

Mobile Phone Coverage

Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre

St George has mobile phone coverage from Telstra and Optus networks. In the surrounding towns in the Shire, the Telstra Next G network is the only network available within a small radius of the town.

Make the Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre your first stop when looking for local tourist information and accommodation. Situated overlooking the Balonne River (114 St George’s Terrace),

parking is accessible at the rear with caravan parking in Roe Street. The town bore water supply is available to fill up the caravan for the next leg of your journey.

The centre is open from 8.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm during weekends and public holidays. www.balonne.qld.gov.au

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Experience the Balonne Shire

Balonne River, St George

Camping Across the Shire there’s a balance between camping for the self-sufficient traveller and relaxing caravan parks for those looking for some creature comforts. There are four designated camping areas in the Balonne Shire. If travellers choose to camp in areas other than caravan parks in the Balonne Shire they may do so at their own risk.

Designated camping areas: Bollon – Wallam Creek If you are looking for a quiet, Outback and comfortable camping spot with amenities, then Bollon’s Wallam Creek will tick all the boxes. To find out more, refer to the Bollon section of this brochure.

Nindigully Tourist & Visitor Area Just 45 km south-east of St George, ‘The Gully’ as it’s locally known, has a picturesque camping area perched between the Moonie River and the famous Nindigully Pub. Here you’ll have access to toilets, showers, the Nindigully Pub, tables and chairs, and the river walkway. To find out more, refer to the Nindigully section of this brochure.

McGeever Recreational Grounds – Thallon Next to the giant grain silos, there is a quiet camping area located at the McGeever Recreational Grounds which includes toilets and showers. For those who are accustomed to greater comforts,

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there is power available by contacting Thallon’s Town Officer on 0427 259 095.

a spot of fishing. Please note there are no amenities available.

Barwon River Camp Area – Mungindi

National Parks

This basic camping area is set on the north bank of the Barwon River in Mungindi, 118 km south-east of St George. There are toilets available for campers. This area is also a great spot for a day of fishing where you are sure to catch a Yellowbelly or Murray Cod. For more information please contact the Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre on 07 4620 8877.

There are many things to see and do in the two national parks located within the beautiful Balonne Shire. You can set up your own bush camp, go for bushwalks and experience nature, do a spot of bird watching, and immerse yourself in the abundance of flora and fauna.

Self-sufficient campers can stay at this site, 3 km west of Dirranbandi on Dirranbandi– Bollon Road, around 94 km south of St George. You’ll need to bring your own drinking water as there are no facilities available at this area. For more information please contact the Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre on 07 4620 8877.

To make the most of your national park experience, ensure you plan ahead and are well prepared with adequate equipment and supplies. To book an e-permit to camp in both of our national parks, you can either book online via www.qld.gov. au/camping or phone 13 74 68 (13 QGOV).

Stay up to date with detailed national parks information; visit Queensland National Parks, Recreation, Sport and Racing www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks.

Dirranbandi – Low Cost Camping

Thrushton National Park

For low cost camping in Dirranbandi contact Dirranbandi RTC on 07 4625 8411.

Thrushton National Park is approximately 40 km north east of Bollon and accessible via dirt roads (dry weather only).

Balonne Minor – Dirranbandi

Warroo Bridge Are you a fully self-contained traveller?

Then Warroo Bridge is the ideal location for you. Only 52 km north of St George on the way to Surat, you will see the ‘Waganui/ Warroo Bridge’ sign. Travel a further 9 km west along the sealed road until you reach Warroo Bridge where you’ll uncover the perfect spot to set up camp, and relax with

2019 St George & Surrounds Travellers’ Guide

Did you know?

The name Balonne is believed to be of Aboriginal (Mandandanji) origin meaning ‘water or running stream’ and ‘pelican’.

There is a diverse range of plants and animals that thrive within Thrushton and over 100 species of birds have been recorded in the area.

During spring, the wildflowers bloom and they become a special feature of this park. If you are a keen bush walker and like to use your compass, you will enjoy navigating yourself around the park as there are no designated walking tracks.

To get to Thrushton National Park from St George, drive 51 km west along the Balonne Highway towards Bollon. When you reach the Boolba tennis courts, take the next right and follow the road for 36.3 km (which eventually becomes Cypress Tank Road) until you reach the Rutherglen Road turnoff. Follow Rutherglen Road for 14.5 km until you reach the eastern corner of the park. For those travelling from Bollon, drive 14 km east along the Balonne Highway towards St George, turn left at the Mourilyan Road and travel 17 km north to reach the southern boundary of the park. If you open any gates on your travels then please remember to close them.

Black Knight blueberries

Culgoa Floodplain National Park Culgoa Floodplain National Park is another great side trip for campers and birdwatchers. The park is remote, so prepare to be totally self-sufficient and well equipped. Culgoa Floodplain National Park is approximately 50 km south west of Hebel and accessible via dirt roads (dry weather only) and a 4WD vehicle is recommended.

On arrival to Culgoa Floodplain National Park, check into the Ranger’s office to pick up a detailed map of access tracks and camping areas. Bush camping is permitted at the Byra Lagoon and Redbank Hut bush camping areas. This park is a birdwatcher’s haven with more than 150 bird species recorded. Pack your camera to capture the abundance of wildlife and nature that call this national park home.

To get there from Hebel, travel south west towards Goodooga along the dirt road.

After 45 km, turn right into Brenda Road and take the left fork after the cattle grid.

Follow the ‘Byra 7 km’ sign until you reach the eastern boundary of the park.

Agriculture Were you aware that the Balonne Shire has a diverse range of agricultural industries? Irrigated crops including cotton, grapes, onions and other opportunistic horticulture crops are

Picking broccoli

made possible by the several major waterways which traverse it. The Shire’s rural landscapes also support dry land cropping, beef, sheep and wool production.

Many tourists often enquire about the fluffy white cotton they see scattered alongside the roads throughout the Balonne Shire. Cotton is the Shire’s predominant industry, with Dirranbandi home to the largest irrigated cotton farm in the southern hemisphere, Cubbie Station.

Cotton seeds are planted in October (spring) and the plants grow into green, bushy shrubs approximately one metre in height. Cotton requires irrigation (watering) every 2-3 weeks depending on the climate and rainfall. During March/ April the cotton is picked using large mechanical harvesters which are then compacted into cotton modules and sent off to the cotton gin for processing. If you would like to learn about the local cotton industry, turn to page 28 for the Cotton Self-Drive Trail. www.balonne.qld.gov.au

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The Balonne Shire, and in particular the Thallon area, is regarded as some of Queensland’s best wheat growing country. Between September and November the grain depots are a bustling place with the harvest of the winter grain crops. A testament to this, the Thallon Graincorp depot recorded the second highest volume of grain in Queensland during the 2012-13 harvest. Grain from the Balonne Shire is transported via road or rail to the Port of Brisbane where it is exported overseas.

The sheep and wool industry was historically the predominant industry in the Balonne Shire prior to cotton. The country surrounding Bollon and between the Moonie, Balonne and Narran Rivers was regarded as some of the best sheep country within Queensland. The Heritage Centre and Deb’s Café in Bollon provide shearing displays which are testament to this.

Have you ever eaten those lovely juicy grapes around Christmas time and wondered where they came from? They are more than likely from St George.

If you would like to sample some local products head to Riversands Vineyards which produce both table and wine grapes. Wine grapes are made into red and white table wines, ports and liqueurs.

Table grapes are sold as fresh fruit to supermarkets and also made into grape jams and chutneys.

There is plenty of seasonal work available during the summer harvest periods and other periods throughout the year. For

those seeking employment opportunities call BEST Employment on 07 4625 1462.

Sport St George is fortunate to have a variety of sporting facilities and clubs. Pick up a comprehensive list of all sporting groups from the Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre.

Bird Watching If bird watching is one of your loves then the Balonne Shire will provide you with plenty of bird watching opportunities.

Some of the best spots to observe the birds are along the seven rivers which traverse the Shire, and at Beardmore Dam, Buckinbah Weir, Nindigully, Bollon and the untouched and secluded Thrushton and Culgoa National Parks.

Via appointment, Sandytown River Cruises offers bird watching tours on the Balonne River at St George. If you would like to make a booking call Brett from Sandytown River Cruises on 0400 219 379.

From the Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre, you can also pick up a list of birds which frequent the area.

PHOTO COURTESY OF RIVERSANDS VINEYARD

Horticulture is another important part of the Balonne Shire’s agriculture industry and includes crops such as blueberries, broccoli, table grapes, onions, salad onions

and garlic. Carrot growing is the latest industry to be developed in St George.

Rocky Lamattina and Sons has expanded their Victorian based operations with the purchase of an 800 acre farm on the northern edge of St George. St George was selected, as the area offered secure water access and red, sandy soil with good drainage which is well suited to carrot production. Carrots are grown during the winter months in St George and have proven ideal for carrot growing which provides another growing window and increases access to local markets that require a Queensland grown carrot. The farm consists of 12 centre pivot irrigators of which 200 acres are planted to carrots each season. Carrots are trucked to Lamattina’s processing and packaging plant at Wemen in Victoria.

Cotton bales in the paddock

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2019 St George & Surrounds Travellers’ Guide

Grape picking

PHOTO COURTESY OF MARK SHWERIN

Experience the Balonne Shire

Carrot growing

St George Cotton Farm & Vineyard Tours ✦ 4 hour guided tour ✦ Learn about cotton & grape production ✦ Enjoy a wine tasting & lunch ✦ Running May – September every Thursday For all Cotton Farm & Winery Tour bookings please contact the Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre on (07) 4620 8877 or email vic@balonne.qld.gov.au or Riversands Vineyards.

Riversands Wines

Whytes Road, St George Q 4487 P 07 4625 3643 E: sales@riversandswines.com www.riversandswines.com/events

www.balonne.qld.gov.au

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St George Events: • Easter in the Vines • St George Show • Yellowbelly Country Music Festival • St George Picnic Races • St George Campdraft • St George Polocrosse • St George Fishing Competition • River Dragon Multi-Cultural Festival • BF Goodrich CAMS Australian Off-Road Championships Race Points of Interest: • Cotton Self-Drive Trail • St George Riverbank Walkway • Jack Taylor Weir and Andrew Nixon Bridge • The Unique Egg • Riversands Wines • Sandytown River Cruises • St George Pilots Memorial • 1917 T-Model Ford Baker’s Truck Drive • Beardmore Dam • St George Heritage Trail • Cacti Garden • Miniature Car Collection • Cotton Farm & Winery Tours (May – September) • Mani Tribes Art Gallery

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2019 St George & Surrounds Travellers’ Guide

Pilots Memorial

From the moment you arrive to the time you leave, St George relaxes the senses in all the right ways. Perched on the banks of the mighty Balonne River, it is the perfect base from which to explore the beautiful Balonne Shire.

Car weary legs will appreciate the twokilometre stretch of shady riverbank walkway flanking the town. A star feature, the riverbank walkway begins below the Jack Taylor Weir. There you’ll find a commemorative stone to mark Sir Major Thomas Mitchell’s crossing of the Balonne River on St George’s Day back in 1846.

Further along the riverbank walkway, a marker showcases the flood heights of the swollen Balonne River from years gone by.

A fighter pilot war memorial pays tribute to two brave men hailing from St George.

One of these men, Squadron Leader John Jackson, bravely served in World War II in some of its most dangerous battles and was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) medal for his work in the Middle East after destroying seven aircraft. Less than six months later, Jackson led his squadron of Kittyhawks in the Battle of Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea which prevented the Japanese advancement into the country. In recognition of his efforts, Jacksons International Airport at Port Moresby is named in his honour. The other serviceman, Warrant Officer Leonard

War Memorial Wall

Waters, was the first Aboriginal fighter pilot in the Royal Australian Air Force. The legacy of these two locals will forever be remembered on the sandstone monument overlooking the Balonne River.

Also located near these memorials is the War Memorial Wall. This monument commemorates those who served in all conflicts. The Memorial Wall was officially unveiled on April 25th 2016.

To really take in the Balonne River’s magnitude of water, pack a few drinks and nibbles and jump on board 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. Try a leisurely afternoon cruise, fishing tour or a full moon evening cruise. To make a booking call Brett on 0400 219 379. www.balonne.qld.gov.au

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JCM’s Auto & Fuel

Kamarooka Tourist Park

For all your automotive needs while in St George • Auto and electrical parts including RedArc

Clean • Quiet • Friendly

• Supercharge batteries

• Air-conditioned modern cabins and rustic log cabins

• Family and single, ensuited and self contained

• Fishing gear

• Large clean modern amenities

• Close to shops

• Bait and ice

• Grassed shady sites

• Camp kitchen, free BBQ

• Drive through powered sites

• LPG bottle refills

• Heated therapeutic pool

• Balonne Ice Works on site

• Free Wi-Fi

• Inspections invited

And we stock more than just automotive needs: • Handmade and freshly baked gourmet pies • Sandwiches, cakes and chips • Drinks and ice creams • Grocery lines

info@kamarookatouristpark.com.au 07 4625 3120

0410 642 174 | anoopgasl@gmail.com 121 Victoria Street, St George QLD 4487

56 Victoria Street, St George QLD 4487

St George Medical Centre

St George Caravan Park

Professional and committed team MON – FRI 8am to 6pm | SAT 8.30am to 12pm

Your hosts Ann & Ivan Bradley welcome you Situated 100m from the Balonne River

Antenatal appointments, pre-employment drivers and insurance medicals, minor surgery, skin checks, vaccinations, drug screens, mental health and chronic disease management plans.

Onsite allied health providers include: • • • • •

Pathology onsite Physiotherapy Occupational therapy Massage therapy Ultrasound

• • • • •

Podiatry Optometry Exercise physiologist AOD counselling Counselling

• Speech pathology • Diabetic educator • Aboriginal health coordinator • Dietitian

If you would like more information, please ask one of our team so we can help you with all of your primary healthcare needs.

stgmed.com.au 07 4625 5344 116 Alfred Street, St George QLD 4487

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2019 St George & Surrounds Travellers’ Guide

• Ensuite cabins • Grass drive thru sites • Grass tent/camp sites • Powered and unpowered sites • Gas barbeques • Clean amenities • Laundry facilities • Clean, quiet and friendly • Pets under control welcomed • Park pet friendly but no pets in cabins

07 4625 5778 221 Victoria Street, St George QLD 4487

St George Riverfront Tourist Park

Kapunda Fishing Park is set amongst 40 acres of natural bush and river, featuring original untouched Aboriginal memorabilia including bush tucker, scar trees and natural billabongs. > Absolute riverfront powered & unpowered sites for all sizes > Motor home/caravan & camping/tent sites > All sites with individual fire places > Go bird watching amongst the native fauna & flora > Pets conditional > Cafe & convenience store > Bait & fishing accessories > Firewood, ice, coffee > Clean amenities running treated river water, not town bore water > Private customers-only boat ramp > 24hr park security/boom gate > All-weather access roads through the park

Find and like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/KapundaFishingPark Email us at kapundafishingpark@gmail.com

P 0408 183 134 or 07 4625 5546 www.balonne.qld.gov.au

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For all your Electrical, IT, Furniture, Bedding, Cookware & Air Conditioning needs, see the friendly staff at Balonne Betta Home Living Merino Motor Inn • 27 ground floor units

BRETT & LIZ

• Parking out the front of each unit – some undercover • Licensed restaurant and bar – restaurant open Monday – Saturday • Room service available • Breakfast available (cooked/continental) • Meeting room suitable for functions • Pool and large undercover BBQ area • All rooms non smoking • Microwave in all rooms • R/C air con • Guest laundry

UHFs & TELSTRA PREPAID MOBILE PHONES AVAILABLE

• Free Wi-Fi

merinomotorinn.com.au 07 4625 3333 | bookings@merinomotorinn.com.au 78 Victoria Street, St George QLD 4487

BALONNE BETTA HOME LIVING

21 Henry Street, ST GEORGE | Ph: (07) 4625 5249 www.betta.com.au | balonne@my.betta.com.au

The Hair & Beauty Hutt

Jacaranda Country Motel

• Haircuts

• 18 non-smoking rooms

• Microwave available

• Colours

• Disabled unit

• Saltwater pool

• Perming

• Free Wi-Fi

• Gazebo

• Waxing and tinting

• Foxtel

• Barbecue area

• ghd stockist

• Guest laundry

• Hair accessories

• RC aircon

• À la carte room service Monday – Thursday

• Undercover parking all units • Off street parking

07 4625 4778 201 Victoria Street, St George QLD 4487

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2019 St George & Surrounds Travellers’ Guide

• Cooked/Continental breakfast available daily

jacarandacountrymotel.com.au 07 4625 1011 | info@jacarandacountrymotel.com.au 78–80 Grey Street, St George QLD 4487

St George

nowned Great location, Re too big No rig • • • • • • •

hospitality

Perfectly located, Pelican Rest is 1.6km north of town on the Roma Road 8 acres of spacious parkland with trees and huge grassy sites Your tranquil ‘country oasis’ in St George for short or longer stays 12m heated therapeutic swimming pool Excellent town drinking water Pet friendly / conditions apply FREE Wi-Fi

✔ Modern Ensuite Studio, Deluxe Cabins ✔ Superior 1 & 2 Bed + Family Cabins ✔ Kitchenette, Microwave, Hot Plate, Fridge ✔ Reverse Cycle A/C ✔ Linen Included ✔ Outdoor Table & Chairs ✔ Non Smoking Cabins ✔ FREE Wi-Fi ✔ Parking next to Cabins

✔ Large Drive Thru Sites – 25m+ ✔ Powered & Unpowered Grass Sites ✔ Camping Sites ✔ Modern Amenities & Disabled Facilities ✔ Guest Laundry ✔ Camp Kitchen, BBQs, Pizza Oven ✔ Carousel Wood Fire ✔ Gas Refills, Ice, Kiosk ✔ Dump Point

Complimentary Shuttle to local hotels. Caravan & Boat Storage on request.

12022 Carnarvon Hwy, St George Q 4487

P 07 4625 3398 | 07 4625 1033

info@pelicanrest.com.au | www.pelicanrest.com.au Owners / hosts Phil & Sheryn Blundstone

Riversands Wines “A bush story in every glass” Visit our cellar door

Free Wine Tasting | Garden Café | Unique Gifts | Group Functions

Riversands Easter in the Vines ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦

Held annually on Easter Saturday & Sunday Live music Family fun BBQ lunch packs

Open 7 days | Monday to Saturday 9am - 5pm | Sunday 9am - 4pm | BOOK ONLINE Whytes Road, St George Q 4487 P 07 4625 3643 E: sales@riversandswines.com www.riversandswines.com/events

www.balonne.qld.gov.au

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Cacti & Succulent Garden

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The Unique Egg

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Mani Tribes Art Gallery

St George Bakery

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St George Heritage Centre

(1917 T Model Ford Bakery Truck)

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Jacaranda Country Motel

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Riverview Hotel

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Merino Motor Inn

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Australian Hotel Motel

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Riverland Motor Inn

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St George Caravan Park

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Balonne River Motor Inn

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Kamarooka Tourist Park

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St George Hotel Motel

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Pelican Rest Tourist Park

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Cobb & Co Hotel

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St George Riverfront Tourist Park

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(Thungaby Rd) - 14km Surat - 117km Roma 194km Dalby 302km

Nindigully - 45km Thallon - 75km Dirranbandi - 97km Mungindi - 118km Hebel - 162km Goondiwindi - 203km Lightning Ridge - 238km

Tennis Court

Canoe Launch

Lawn Bowls

Shopping Centre

Health Services Fuel Station

Public Toilets

CARNARV ON HWY CLIFF PAR SONS DRIVE

ST GEORGE AIRPORT

Visitor Information Centre

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Free Electric BBQ

Police Station

Playground

Ambulance

Laundromat

Fire Brigade

Cycling/Walking Track

Post Office

Memorial/Monument

Library

Amphitheatre

Creative Arts Education Centres

Boat Ramp

Swimming Pool

Church

St George Men’s Shed

Mitre 10 store Aged Care Facility

Dump Point

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www.balonne.qld.gov.au

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History • T he township of St George was named by explorer Sir Major Thomas Mitchell who crossed the Balonne River on Saint George’s Day, 23rd April 1846.

• T he Jack Taylor Weir – Andrew Nixon Bridge was constructed from 1948-52 and Beardmore Dam followed twenty years later from 1968-72.

When spring approaches, the wildflowers begin to bloom across beautiful Balonne. Take the time to stop and enjoy their beauty.

Elizabeth Behrend from Andarr on the Terrace Bed & Breakfast in St George offers 4WD wildflower tours upon request from August to October each year. If you would like to request more information contact Elizabeth on 0427 254 230.

Trent Challenger from St George Bakery with his 1917 T-Model Ford Baker’s Truck

Fill in the morning or afternoon by experiencing the St George Cotton SelfDrive Trail. Pack your thermos and smoko as you head off and get to know more about the local cotton industry. Turn to page 28 to embark on the Cotton SelfDrive Trail.

In an unassuming small low set brick building in the main street of town, you will find the

Balonne River Motor Inn Newly Renovated • King, Queen, Twin, Family, Economy and Budget Rooms • Ensuites • High quality, new pillow top mattresses • Microwaves • Foxtel • Free WiFi • Pool and BBQ area • Undercover parking – except Economy rooms

humble emu egg carved into a stunning, illuminated piece of art at the Unique Egg. Local character and artisan Steve Margaritis – or ‘Stavros’ as we know him – has hand carved an amazing variety of patterns and scenes on each egg and illuminated them.

This is the world’s only display of hand carved, illuminated emu eggs, which have been gifted as far as the White House!

The Unique Egg Carved Illuminated Emu Eggs The Unique Egg, located at The Balonne Sports Store, is where you will find the humble emu egg carved into a stunning, illuminated piece of art.

Local character and artisan Steve (‘Stavros’) Margaritis has hand carved an amazing variety of patterns and scenes on each egg and illuminated them.

This is the world’s only display of hand carved, illuminated emu eggs, which have been gifted as far as the White House!

Open Monday – Friday 9.00am to 12 noon | 2.00pm to 5.00pm; Saturday 9.00am to 12 noon.

• Split system air-conditioners – except Budget rooms • Many dining options located within walking distance • Off street parking for trailers, buses and vans

balonnerivermotorinn.com.au 07 4625 5155 | info@balonnerivermotorinn.com.au

FB: The Unique Egg 07 4625 3490

52-54 Victoria Street, St George QLD 4487

108 Victoria Street, St George QLD 4487

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2019 St George & Surrounds Travellers’ Guide

St George

War Memorial The World War Memorial is located on the hospital grounds, along the riverside of the current hospital facilities. It was constructed in 1928 and was once the entrance to the St George Memorial Hospital.

retrace their family history will want to call into the St George Heritage Centre and browse their collection of artefacts, historical information, blacksmith, printing press, old gaol and courthouse.

Please contact the friendly staff at the Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre for their opening hours as the Heritage Centre is manned by volunteers.

Offering à la carte dining, buzzing cafés, pub grub and take away, you will find what your taste buds desire in St George.

For the wine lover, Riversands Wines satisfies your thirst for a good drop.

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

Beardmore Dam through the Cotton SelfDrive Trail on page 28.

Take a ride on board a classic 1917 T-Model Ford Bakery truck. For only $5, Trent from the St George Bakery will take you on a guided tour around town. Trent is available until lunch time, and all funds raised go towards the invaluable Royal Flying Doctor Service.

If you still have time to spare in St George, then give Roy and Jan Aldridge a call on 07 4625 4190 to arrange a viewing of their impressive cacti garden, for just a gold coin donation, with the proceeds going towards the Hear and Say Centre. Car enthusiasts will appreciate Doug and Kerry King’s miniature car collection specialising in diecast cars. Call 07 4625 3636 to arrange a viewing of the remarkable collection for a gold coin donation, the funds raised going towards Care Flight.

Take a trip to the outskirts of town to rest at the Beardmore Dam recreation area where you’ll have the chance to spot a mob of kangaroos lazing around.

Upstream from the Beardmore Dam is the point where the Maranoa and Balonne Rivers meet forming the northern catchment of the Murray Darling Basin.

Find out more on the importance of

Take a step back in time as early as the 1800s by discovering the St George Heritage Trail. Pick up a brochure from the Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre and follow the 45 minute drive trail to explore important historical sites, colourful stories, and buildings that have shaped the town’s history. The keenest of history buffs and those wanting to

When the day’s exploring is done, rest and unwind by checking out one of the following accommodation options: relaxing caravan parks; fully self-contained cabins; immaculate motels; peaceful and quiet bed and breakfast; or a basic unpowered camping spot. You are guaranteed to find accommodation to suit you and your budget.

World War Memorial

Cross Engineering

www.stgeorgeqld.com

Cross Engineering specialises in heavy and general welding and fabrication, in addition to supplying steel and fencing supplies throughout Queensland and across northern New South Wales to the agriculture, oil and gas, energy, water, civil construction and transport industries, as well as to local and state government. They have developed a reputation for quality and responsiveness, coupled with practical, robust and well-managed solutions.

Cross Engineering has the flexibility to provide customers with either onsite or workshop solutions, from its fully equipped workshop in St George, south-west Queensland.

Local online information and events calendar

crossengineering.com.au 07 4625 5012 | admin@crossengineering.com.au 24-44 Buchan Bypass, St George QLD 4487

• Cost Effective Promotion – Online Business Directory

stgeorgeqld.com stgeorgecalendaronline.com.au 0428 259 299 | liz@stgeorgeqld.com

www.balonne.qld.gov.au

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Dirranbandi History • O n the 4th August 1885 the town site was proclaimed and named Dirranbandi after an Aboriginal word meaning ‘frogs croaking in a swamp at night’.

• I n May 1913 the South West railway line was officially opened in Dirranbandi and serviced the 413 km mail run from Warwick for 80 years.

• D uring the January and February 2011 flood, Dirranbandi was surrounded by flood waters but safely protected by the town’s levee banks and isolated for over six weeks. Supplies had to be airlifted into town on a regular basis.

Rail and River Precinct

Stone cotton bale in memory of Des Stevenson

South west of St George, Dirranbandi is a small country town that comes alive through the cotton harvest months. If you have heard of the famous Cubbie Station, then you will be interested to know that the largest irrigated cotton farm in the southern hemisphere is only a stone’s throw away from this small town. As you drive into Dirranbandi, you’ll pass by the town’s levee bank which is famous for having saved the town from flooding on more than one occasion.

Dirranbandi marks the end of the South West rail line and was the destination of the very last mail train to operate in Australia. On a visit to Railway Park, you’ll find the old waiting room, the original parcels office and the 1913 Station Master’s residence, which is now the Rural Transaction Centre. Here you will have the opportunity to talk to a local and find out some further history on the town. While meandering through the park you will uncover a stone cotton bale in memory of the late Des Stevenson, the pioneer of the cotton industry in Dirranbandi and the famed Cubbie Station. A neighbouring bronze statue in the centre of town celebrates the remarkable story of Aboriginal man Tom Dancey – the 1910 winner of Australia’s most famous foot race the Stawell Gift.

On the opposite side of the street – adjacent to the homeware and gift shops – enjoy the colourful mosaic walkway that shows an artistic take of the town’s history. If you’re looking for a quiet spot to picnic, throw in a line, or stretch your legs, then head to the Jack Dwyer Memorial Park on the edge of town.

If you’re planning to stay the night then Dirranbandi has you covered with a caravan park, two motels and a hotel.

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2019 St George & Surrounds Travellers’ Guide

Rural Transaction Centre Tourist Information Open Monday to Friday 9am – 3.30pm (closed for lunch 12.30pm – 1pm) • Rental Office • Centrelink • Queensland Library Services • Internet Public Access Terminals • Tourist Information • QGAP Agency • Secretarial Services • Find us on Facebook: Dirran Hub

dirtc@bigpond.com 07 4625 8411 | F: 07 4625 8433 35 – 37 Railway Street, Dirranbandi QLD 4486

Hebel

Hebel Rest Stop

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. Hebel’s interesting history has been narrated through the public art piece, the Hebel Historical Circle. Out of the red earth, tall timber posts hover over illustrated signs; each telling their own story of Hebel’s history. Complete with play equipment, there is something to keep everyone occupied.

Events

• Hebel Hotel

• Hebel Seafood Night

• Hebel Historical Circle

Points of Interest

• Culgoa Floodplain National Park

• Hebel General Store

• Bokhara River

Hebel Hotel is a gem of a country pub.

Colourful artwork by Lightning Ridge’s famous artist, 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. Cabin accommodation is available here too.

Hebel General Store and Caravan Park has kept much of its original 1890s dancehall character and 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.

Pull in for the night and stay at one of the affordable caravan sites or cabins.

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

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. For more information on the national parks please turn to page 6.

Hebel General Store

History • T he town was first known as Kelly’s Point. Dan Kelly and Steve Hart, members of the infamous Ned Kelly gang are said to have lived here in secret.

• T he town’s name was changed to Hebel in the 1880s, although its origins remain a mystery. Some suggest the town was named after a German settler, Weiner Von Hebel. Others suggest it comes from an Aboriginal word meaning ‘hot place’.

• T he Hebel Hotel opened in 1894 as a Cobb & Co changing station and was originally called the Commercial Hotel.

www.balonne.qld.gov.au

21

Bollon

Bollon Heritage Centre

The soil gets redder as you approach this great little western town, and sitting on the banks of the peaceful Wallam Creek is the tranquil town of Bollon.

Steele who served in the Royal Australian Air Force during World War II and was awarded the prestigious Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) medal.

At the caravan and camping area there are plenty of shady spaces to park the van for a few days on the edge of the picturesque creek, and an easy 1.2 km stroll along the creek-side walkway provides access to the little town’s main street. Along the walkway you can appreciate Aboriginal dreamtime artwork and exert some energy on the exercise equipment that flanks the walkway. So that you won’t have to ‘rough it’, you’ll have the comfort of free showers and toilets as well.

Bollon is well known for its numerous shearing teams and long association with the profession, with many of the town’s male population working in the industry.

As a tribute to this, Deb’s Café, in the main street isn’t just a country café offering a hearty bite to eat and groceries; it also has a historical display which shows this little town’s proud association with shearing and the sheep industry.

Have your camera ready as Bollon is famous for emus strolling the streets. If you do one thing in town, make it the Bollon Heritage Centre. Nestled in the heart of the main street, it’s easy to spend the afternoon retracing Bollon’s history. Even the keenest history buff will be pleasantly surprised by the range of artefacts and stories that narrate the town’s rural history and Aboriginal culture. Be sure to check out the mementos of visiting politicians displayed on the walls.

Nearby at the Walter Austin Memorial Park lies the Bollon Returned Servicemen Memorial Wall. This monument features Flight Lieutenant George John (aka Jock)

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The friendly staff at Bollon Post Office can assist you with any tourist information queries you have and help you find a memento that best reflects your time in Bollon.

The Bollon Hotel also offers accommodation and meals for the hungry traveller.

Thrushton National Park is 40 km north east of Bollon via dirt roads. For more information on the national parks please turn to page 6.

Events • Bollon Regatta • Bollon Sports Shears • Bollon B&S

2019 St George & Surrounds Travellers’ Guide

Points of Interest • Camping • A boriginal Dreamtime Artwork along the Walkway • Bollon Heritage Centre • W alter Austin Memorial Park featuring the Bollon Returned Servicemen Memorial Wall • Bollon Post Office • Deb’s Café • Bollon Hotel • Thrushton National Park

History • B ollon was officially recognised as a town in 1879. It is believed the town’s name originated from the indigenous word ‘Bolion’, meaning stone tomahawk or axe and was later adapted to the word Bollon.

• T he major flooding experienced in Bollon during 2010 saw the majority of the town inundated with flood waters, apart from the pub, which remained the driest point in the main street.

Bollon Hotel

Deb’s Café

Family Friendly Local Pub in rural Queensland

Home of the shearers

• Open 7 days a week

• Take-aways

• Meals available 7 days

• Groceries

• Lunch 12pm – 2pm

• Laundromat

• Dinner 6pm – 8pm

• Historic shearing display

• Air-conditioned bar and dining area

• Local tourist information

• Air-conditioned accommodation

• Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 8am – 6pm; Friday to Sunday 8am – 7pm

• Fireplace in bar area • Pet friendly

facebook.com/bollonhotel 07 4625 6188 | paddyjames1@hotmail.com 30 Main Street, Bollon QLD 4488

07 4625 6118 18 Main Street, Bollon QLD 4488

Bollon Heritage Centre Everyone welcome – Gold coin donation Come in and visit the friendly staff at the Bollon Heritage Centre and enjoy a flash back in time!

• War memorabilia • Shearing and wool history • Town history • Flooding history • Indigenous culture history

Paddling down Wallam Creek

07 4625 6381 Main Street, Bollon QLD 4488

www.balonne.qld.gov.au

23

Nindigully

Longest continually licensed pub in Queensland

Just 45 km 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, having been established in 1864, the rustic Nindigully Pub is the longest continually licensed pub in Queensland. Have you seen the film ‘Paperback Hero’? It 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. Savour the company in the beer garden with a cold beer pulled from the keg. Pack your appetite as the challenge of the ‘road train’ awaits – a whopper 5kg burger, big enough to feed you and 10 of your closest mates.

Park the van for a few days alongside the tree-lined Moonie River at the Nindigully Tourist and Visitor Area located just below the Nindigully Pub. Fill your day by taking a stroll along The Gully Walk – a purpose built historical river walkway, perch up on the tables and chairs with a book, or head up to the Nindigully Pub for happy hour.

History • I n its heyday Nindigully’s main street and adjoining streets were full. There was a hall, a school, accommodation house, post office, telephone exchange, mechanics, a fine vegetable garden on the banks of the Moonie River, a store and the pub which served as a Cobb & Co changeover station.

• T he pub has had many names over its 150+ year history. The first and current name was Nindigully Hotel, but it has also been known as The Grand Hotel, Travellers Rest Hotel, Sportsmans Arms Hotel and Sternes Hotel.

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Beer Garden at the Nindigully Pub

2019 St George & Surrounds Travellers’ Guide

Toilets and showers are available here for those of you who are looking for some comforts.

Events • Nindigully Campdraft • Nindigully Pig Races

Points of Interest • Nindigully Pub • N indigully Tourist and Visitor Area • M oonie River Fishing and Camping Area

Thallon busy highway waiting to satisfy your appetite for food and local history. Enjoy the ever changing ‘Local Images’ Photographic Exhibition and watch a fascinating video on the Northern HairyNosed Wombat. Pick up a brochure on one of the Local History Trails or choose from a range of historical publications available for purchase. At the tourist information stand, you can stock up on information to keep you travelling, or if you arrive later in the day then Francis Hotel offers accommodation and delicious pub meals. If you’ve forgotten some groceries or you need to post a postcard from Thallon, Francis Hotel has you covered there too through their convenience store and Australia Post facilities.

Events • Thallon Carp Busters

Points of Interest • McGeever Recreational Grounds The beautiful silo art at Thallon

• Thallon Town Park • Francis Hotel

Further south from Nindigully, head onto the township of Thallon where you will find the relaxed camping area located at the McGeever Recreational Grounds, which includes toilets and showers. For those looking for some comforts, there is power available by contacting Thallon’s Town Officer on 0427 259 095.

• Watering Hole Mural (silos) • ANZAC Memorial • Giant Northern Hairy-Nosed Wombat statue • Local Images Photographic Exhibition • History Trails

Signalling your approach into Thallon, the giant grain silos act as landmarks for the town, featuring the spectacular ‘Watering Hole’ mural painted in July 2017. To best enjoy them please use the designated viewing platform and do not enter the GrainCorp site. Thallon is surrounded by prime grain growing country and draws grain in from Weengallon, Nindigully, Mungindi, Dirranbandi and Thallon. In the 2012-2013 harvest, Thallon recorded the second largest grain intake in Queensland, behind that of Goondiwindi. Wheat, chickpeas and oats are just some of the crops grown in the Thallon area which are transported by truck or train into the Port of Brisbane for export. The Thallon district is also known for its beef, sheep and lamb production.

Thallon’s town park is a perfect place to stop and break the drive with shady trees and facilities including a playground, picnic tables, free electric BBQ and toilets. The park also features a granite ‘Anzac Digger’ war memorial statue built by the Thallon Progress Association to commemorate the Centenary of Gallipoli. The park also now features a giant Northern HairyNosed Wombat statue.

Thallon’s Francis Hotel is not a pub to pass! Named after Harold Francis, one of the early licensees, the hotel stands metres off the

History • T hallon was gazetted in 1911 and the town was named after the Commissioner for Railways – Mr JF Thallon who developed most of Queensland’s rail system when the railway line was extended west from Talwood to Thallon.

• T hallon’s first permanent grain storage facility was built in 1969. In 1977 two giant concrete silos were constructed followed by another two silos in 1982.

Francis Hotel Open 7 days – 8am till Late The Pub with the Lot:

Local Attractions:

• Friendly country atmosphere

• ‘The Watering Hole Silos’ mural

• Cold beer

• William the Giant Wombat

• Great meals 7 days a week

• ‘Local images’ photo gallery

• Clean budget accommodation

• History trails

• Tourist information

• Catch a cod in the Moonie River

• General store and post office

• Bush cricket

• Local souvenirs For upcoming events, follow the pub on Facebook or check out our website.

thallonpub.com.au 07 4625 9188 | thallonpub@bigpond.com 16 Pine Street, Thallon QLD 4497

www.balonne.qld.gov.au

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Mungindi miles east from Barringun to the Barwon River. The One Ton Post was placed on the west bank of the Barwon River near Mungindi to mark the end of the survey of the 29th parallel (degree of latitude) in October 1881.

Mungindi’s uniqueness continues as a town which straddles the Barwon River, with either side of the river marking the border between Queensland and New South Wales. Not only does Mungindi have two police stations on either side of the border, but this quirky town runs on two time zones in the warmer months due to eastern daylight saving time!

Once you’ve gone and placed your hands on the One Ton Post, head towards Mungindi and pull in for a cuppa at the Barwon River Parkland, where one foot can step you over the border into New South Wales. The shady trees offer an ideal place to picnic, fish and rest before continuing on your journey.

Looking to soak those weary bones? Then Mungindi’s hot artesian pool will be a great spot for you to rest up, relax and rejuvenate for the afternoon in the mineral rich water. The opening hours vary between the summer and winter months.

For more information call the Mungindi Rural Transaction Centre on 02 6753 2389.

One Ton Post

Have you ever wanted to go to Cameron Corner to see surveyor JB Cameron’s famous surveyor peg but haven’t quite made it? Then you need not go any further as Mungindi will fulfil this wish, and remarkably you can place your hands on the very peg that JB Cameron erected with his own hands over a century ago. It gets better; the One Ton Post is the original survey peg whereas Cameron Corner has sadly had to replace theirs with a cement marker.

In the thick of the bush just outside of Mungindi, the One Ton Post stands out as a remarkable physical monument erected by surveyor JB Cameron to mark the end of the arduous three year task of surveying the straight section of the Queensland/ New South Wales border, from Cameron Corner to the Barwon River. Following the completion of the survey from Barringun to Cameron Corner, JB Cameron then set out to survey the 199.5

On the northern outskirts of Mungindi sits the iconic sandstone Two Mile Hotel. Pull over for a counter meal and play a game of pool in true pub style while listening to tunes from the jukebox. While you’re having your beer, check out the lacquered mahogany bar with charred shrapnel embedded in it; they’re the only remnants of the fire that destroyed the original hotel back in 2010. The pub was originally established in 1908. The ‘2 Mile’ as it’s locally known, offers a handful of motel rooms and backpacker accommodation.

As you cross over the New South Wales border into town, make sure you stop at the Mungindi Rural Transaction Centre to find out further visitor information on the Moree Plains Shire before continuing on your journey. While you’re in the main street take a browse through the country homewares and clothing shops and enjoy a tasty treat at the delightful Shafay’s Mungindi (Café Style). The Jolly Swagman Hotel Motel offers meals and accommodation or you might like to pull your van into the shady Mungindi Caravan Park.

Events

Mungindi Rural Transaction Centre Information Centre/Library Hours: Mon to Fri 9.30am – 1pm & 1.30pm – 4.30pm.

RV Housekeeping: The dump point is located at the Mungindi Oval beside the toilets. Free camping is available at the river park (Qld side).

• Mungindi Show • Mungindi Picnic Races

Points of Interest • One Ton Post

Winter Hot Pool Hours: Mon to Sat 7.30am – midday; Sun 2pm – 5pm; Adults $5 & Children $4.

• Mungindi hot artesian pool

Summer Pool Hours Oct – April (inclusive): Mon & Thurs 6.30am – midday & 3pm – 7pm; Tues 3pm – 7pm; Wed, Fri & Sat 10am – 2pm & 3pm – 7pm; Sun 11am – 2pm & 3pm – 7pm.

• Two Mile Hotel • Barwon River Parkland • Mungindi Rural Transaction Centre

mungindi.com.au 02 6753 2389 | mungindi.staff@mpsc.nsw.gov.au 153 St George Street, Mungindi QLD 2406

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2019 St George & Surrounds Travellers’ Guide

• Jolly Swagman Hotel • Mungindi Caravan Park

Fishing TO ROMA, SURAT

ay

t Inl and W

er

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HW

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(Moonie River)

76km

21km

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To help you get a head start, check out the list below for suggested spots to drop in a line.

Boolba

Adventure Way

112km

You’ll have plenty of freedom while in pursuit of ‘the catch of the day’ as you don’t require a fishing licence here.

Closed freshwater cod season applies to the Balonne River Weir from 1st September – 30th November.

Thrushton National Park

(Wallam Creek)

• M itre 10, Golders, JCM’s Auto & Fuel and Balonne Sports Store-Unique Egg all stock fishing line and tackle

r ve Ri oa

TO MITCHELL

BO

• T he 5 Star Handimarket, JCM’s Auto & Fuel and BP Service Station all sell bait

Waroo Bridge (61 km)

Ma ran

reek mC alla W

If you’re looking to catch your own dinner while you’re on the road, then the Balonne Shire’s rivers will no doubt prove to be the perfect catch. The rivers and waterways which traverse the Balonne Shire are renowned for Yellowbelly and Murray Cod. If you’ve turned up to the inland fishing capital of Queensland without the right equipment to get a line in the water then the following businesses in St George can help you out:

(Barwon River)

TO MOREE

• W arroo Bridge, St George (61 km north) • B eardmore Dam, St George • Balonne River, St George • Buckinbah Weir, St George • Jack Dwyer Park, Dirranbandi

Murray Cod

• B alonne Minor Bridge, Dirranbandi • Bokhara River, Hebel • Wallam Creek, Bollon • Moonie River, Nindigully

Yellowbelly

Blue Claw Yabby

• Barwon River, Mungindi • Old Bullamon Bridge, Thallon • S t George Riverfront Tourist Park

Fish Guide Golden Perch (Yellowbelly) Bronze to slate green above, sides golden olive shading to yellow or white below. Best eating fish of the western streams. The flesh is firm, white with good flavour. Average Size: [can reach 23kg in QLD]. Best Bait: Shrimp, worms & prawns. Bag Limit: 10.

Minimum Size: 30cm.

Murray Cod Green above and pale cream below. The tail and dorsal fins are covered with many green spots. Average Size: 8kg-35kg.

Best Bait: Small fish, do not use carp.

Bag Limit: 2. Minimum Size: 60cm.

Yabbies Blue Claw: Body is usually blue-brown, native to Queensland. Egg carrying females and young must be returned to the water. Bag Limit: 100.

Red Claw not found in Balonne Shire.

Carp (Cyprinus Carpio) is also found in our waterways. Carp must not be returned to the water alive or dead.

Using carp for any reason, such as for eating or use as fertiliser, is not permitted in Queensland.

Please note: Riverbanks can become inaccessible and very boggy during and after wet weather. The access can be restricted for up to two weeks.

• T he spots mentioned in the map are NOT all designated camping locations but are nice spots along the river for fishing. There are limited or no facilities at these locations.

• D rought and below average rainfall can affect water levels and restrict fishing at these locations. www.balonne.qld.gov.au

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Self-Drive Trails Cotton Self-Drive Distance: 94 km Time: 1.5-2hrs The cotton self-drive trail will take you on a journey illustrating the history and development of St George’s irrigation and cotton industry with interpretive signage at each location.

Were you aware that cotton is a natural fibre grown on a plant related to the hibiscus?

The seeds are planted in October (spring) and cotton plants grow into green, bushy shrubs approximately one metre in height.

Cotton requires irrigation (watering) every 2-3 weeks depending on the climate and rainfall. The plant briefly grows cream then pink coloured flowers that once pollinated drop off and are replaced with ‘fruit’, better known as cotton bolls. Inside each cotton boll is the fluffy white lint that we’re all familiar with, as well as numerous fuzzy cotton seeds. The main cotton season is between October to March/April each year.

The Balonne River forms part of the Murray Darling Basin system and is a continuation from the Condamine and Maranoa river systems. The river flows from St George in a south west direction towards Dirranbandi and breaks into two rivers – Culgoa and Balonne Minor River. The Balonne Minor River then separates into the Ballandool, Bokhara and Narran Rivers.

1. Jack Taylor Weir – Andrew Nixon Bridge This 94 km cotton self-drive trail commences at the Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre. From here, drive 1.3 km along St George’s Terrace towards our first stop – the Jack Taylor Weir – Andrew Nixon Bridge.

There is ample parking at Cavanough Park which provides the perfect opportunity to capture a photo of this iconic bridge.

Before you return to your vehicle, you will find a commemorative stone to mark Sir

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Irrigation channel at sunset

Tourist drive to 2 Beardmore Dam

St

r on ive ce rv R a a rn ne err Ca lon e’s T a B rg o Ge

y wa gh i H

Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre

Salmon Road

Irrigation is vital for the production of cotton, grapes and other opportunistic small crops. The St George Irrigation Scheme was approved in 1953 for the purpose of irrigation and town water supply. The St George irrigation area consists of a channel system relaying water to a large farming area 8 km south-east of St George. The vast 213 km open earth channel system supplies water from Beardmore Dam located north of St George, via Thuraggi watercourse and the SunWater pump station facility in Hutt Street. The water from the Thuraggi watercourse travels through Moolabah Weir and then Buckinbah Weir before being released into the irrigation farming area through manually operated gravity flow control structures.

ST GEORGE Tourist von Hw drive to y 3 4 5 St George Airport

Vanderfield

1 Jack Taylor Weir – Andrew Nixon Bridge

Major Thomas Mitchell’s crossing of the Balonne River on St George’s Day in 1846.

2. Beardmore Dam (Lake Kajarabie) Our next stop is Beardmore Dam which is located 22 km north of St George. Start this part of the trail by driving back along

2019 St George & Surrounds Travellers’ Guide

Carnar

St George’s Terrace, where you will notice a large pump station on the corner of Hutt Street. The SunWater pump station on the corner provides water to the St George irrigation channels at a maximum rate of 110 mega litres per day and was constructed the same time as the Jack Taylor Weir.

Buckinbah Weir

As you continue driving along the river, you can appreciate the magnitude of the beautiful Balonne River. Across from the Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre lies a marker that showcases the flood heights of the swollen Balonne River from years gone by. The river is very popular for fishing, boating and other water sports.

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When you reach the end of St George’s Terrace, follow the bend in the road and then turn left onto Victoria Street which becomes the Carnarvon Highway. From here, travel 12.8 km, until you reach Thungaby Road where you will turn left.

As you travel north along the Carnarvon Highway, you will be driving parallel to the beautiful Balonne River towards Surat.

Once you’ve turned onto Thungaby Road, follow the bitumen road for a further 8 km out to Beardmore Dam.

3. St George Irrigation Area

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Salmon Road

Once you have finished exploring Beardmore Dam, we will now head out to the St George irrigation area. Drive back along the bitumen road and turn right onto Carnarvon Highway, back towards St George and from here travel 6.7 km until you see the Salmon Road sign. Turn left here, and follow the road to the end where it meets the Carnarvon Highway again.

Turn left at the T- junction, and only 3 km down the road you will begin approaching the St George irrigation area and cotton farms. You will approach a turnoff on your left to Buckinbah Weir, which is also known as Buckinbah Road.

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www.balonne.qld.gov.au

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Self-Drive Trails

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From here, the cotton modules are loaded onto trucks and sent off to the cotton gin where they await processing.

St George Irrigation Area 3

5. St George Cotton Gin

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The cotton farms are irrigated using siphons that flood the paddock and gravity feed down each row. Any excess

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Our next stop is Buckinbah Weir. To get there, turn left onto Buckinbah Road and follow the bitumen road straight ahead for 10.8 km until you come across a water reserve. Along the way you will notice several water storage dams on your right hand side which farmers utilise to capture rainfall and hold their water allocation delivered via the St George Irrigation Scheme.

The St George irrigation area is part of the Murray Darling Basin and is therefore part of the broader Murray Darling Basin Plan (MDBP). The MDBP provides a coordinated approach to water use across QLD, NSW, ACT, VIC and SA, and means a reduction in water allocation for agricultural purposes to ensure the environmental sustainability of the extensive river systems across the Murray Darling Basin. The MDBP will be rolled out over seven years with an aim to achieve a balance between environmental, economic and social considerations. The extent of the economic and social impact of the MDBP on the communities within the Balonne Shire is not yet fully known although it is acknowledged that there will be some degree of impact.

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5 St George Cotton Gin

water from the farm is recycled and pumped back into water storage facilities, to ensure that not a single drop of water is wasted.

Once you have finished looking around, travel back along Buckinbah Road for 4.6 km until you reach Bundoran Road. Turn left onto Bundoran Road, where you will be able to get a good view of the cotton farms and paddocks.

During March/April the cotton is picked using large mechanical harvesters which are then compacted into cotton modules.

There are two types of cotton modules that are produced: Rectangle cotton modules – Cotton harvesters pick the cotton which is then transported to the module builder machine via a boll buggy. The module builder compresses the cotton into large rectangular cotton modules which are then covered with a large tarp. The average rectangular cotton module weighs between 12 - 16 tonnes, producing 22 - 28 bales of ginned cotton.

Round cotton modules – In 2010 there was a new cotton harvester introduced in which the cotton harvester picks the cotton and rolls it up at the rear of the machine and encases it in yellow plastic. The cotton harvester is considered modern technology as it was developed to reduce the cost of labour

2019 St George & Surrounds Travellers’ Guide

and machinery by eliminating the boll buggy and module building process. The average round cotton module weighs approximately 2.5 tonnes, producing 4 bales of ginned cotton.

As you continue driving along Bundoran Road you are now heading towards the cotton gin. After 4 km you will approach an intersection with a sign indicating Ian Paul Road. Turn right, and continue along Bundoran Road until you approach the St George Cotton Gin on your right.

Prior to reaching the Carnarvon Highway intersection, there is an area to pull over on the left. The St George Cotton Gin was closed in 2014. The Beardmore Gin at St George was completed in 1999 and still operates today.

Turn right onto Carnarvon Highway and travel back towards St George, and along the way you’ll see more cotton farms and irrigation channels traversing the highway.

After 17 km, you will approach the St George airport on your left and John Deere is opposite on your right. If you would like to park your vehicle, turn left into the airport at Cliff Parsons Drive.

From here it’s only a short stroll across the road to catch a glimpse of the machinery used on the farms including cotton pickers, tractors, harvesters, spray rigs and more. You may be interested to know that a cotton picker costs approximately $750,000 and is purchased in US dollars. Vanderfield was originally established in Toowoomba in 1963, and expanded their business to St George in 1982. In addition to John Deere, there is a Case dealership in town located at the St George Machinery Centre at 179 Victoria Street.

We hope you have enjoyed the cotton self-drive trail. Our friendly staff and volunteers at the Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre will be happy to answer any other questions that you might have, and offer a full range of cotton souvenirs for you to browse including postcards, hat badges, stickers, magnets, cotton soaps, body lotions, postcards, John Deere and Case merchandise and more.

Directory Accommodation

St George Hospital

07 4620 2222

Bollon

Balonne Shire Council www.balonne.qld.gov.au

07 4620 8888

Bollon Hotel

07 4625 6188

Meals

Dirranbandi Dirranbandi Caravan Park

07 4625 8707

Bollon

Dirranbandi Hotel Motel

07 4625 8299

Bollon Hotel

07 4625 6188

Dirranbandi Motor Inn

07 4620 7000

Deb’s Café

07 4625 6118

Dirran Pub

07 4625 8322

Dirranbandi Dirranbandi Hotel Motel

07 4625 8299

07 4625 0923

Dirranbandi Motor Inn

07 4620 7000

07 4625 0920

Dirran Pub

07 4625 8322

Tucka Shack

07 4620 7476

Hebel Hebel Hotel Hebel General Store & Caravan Park Thallon Francis Hotel

07 4625 9188

Hebel

Mungindi

Hebel General Store & Caravan Park

07 4625 0920

Two Mile Hotel

02 6753 2051

Hebel Hotel

07 4625 0923

Jolly Swagman Hotel Motel

02 6753 2022

Mungindi

Mungindi Caravan Park

0428 565 128

Two Mile Hotel

02 6753 2051

Jolly Swagman Hotel Motel

02 6753 2022

Mungindi RSL

02 6753 2100

Nindigully Nindigully Pub www.nindigully.com

07 4625 9637

Nindigullly

St George

Nindigully Pub

Andarr on the Terrace Bed & Breakfast 0427 254 230 www.andarrbedandbreakfaststgeorgeqld.com

Thallon

Australian Hotel Motel

07 4625 5000

Balonne River Motor Inn

07 4625 5155

Blenheim Backpackers

07 4625 1538

Cobb & Co Hotel

07 4625 5655

Jacaranda Country Motel www.jacarandacountrymotel.com.au

07 4625 1011

Kamarooka Tourist Park

07 4625 3120

St George Riverfront Tourist Park

07 4625 5546

Merino Motor Inn www.merinmotorinn.com.au

07 4625 3333

Pelican Rest Tourist Park www.pelicanrest.com.au

07 4625 3398

Riverland Motor Inn www.riverlandmotorinn.com.au

07 4625 1229

Riverside Retreat

0407 673 674

St George Caravan Park

07 4625 5778

St George Hotel Motel

07 4625 4444

Important Contacts Emergency – Police, Fire, Ambulance

000

SES (State Emergency Services)

13 25 00

Queensand Road Conditions – Traffic Travel & Information www.131940.qld.gov.au

13 19 40

New South Wales Traffic Road Reports www.livetraffic.com

13 17 00

RACQ Roadside Assistance

13 19 05

Dirranbandi Hospital

07 4625 8222

Mungindi Hospital

02 6705 6100

07 4625 9637

Francis Hotel

07 4625 9188

St George 5 Star Handimarket

07 4625 3031

Andarr on the Terrace (appointments only)

07 4625 3071

Asian Pearl Chinese Restaurant

07 4625 3668

Australian Hotel Motel

07 4625 5000

BP St George

07 4625 3411

Cobb & Co Hotel

07 4625 5655

Delicate

07 4625 5666

The Farmhouse

07 4625 1215

Food Basket

0459 793 852

Merino Restaurant www.merinomotorinn.com.au

07 4625 3333

Rivers Restaurant www.riverlandmotorinn.com.au

07 4625 1229

Riversands Wines Café www.riversandswines.com

07 4625 3643

Stevie-Jeans

07 4625 3223

St George Bakery

07 4625 3777

St George Hotel Motel

07 4625 4444

The Pit Stop Café

07 4625 4368

Visitor Information Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre Email vic@balonne.qld.gov.au

07 4620 8877

Dirranbandi Rural Transaction Centre

07 4625 8411

Mungindi Rural Transaction Centre

02 6753 2389

www.balonne.qld.gov.au

31

Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre 114 St George’s Terrace, St George 07 4620 8877 vic@balonne.qld.gov.au

www.balonne.qld.gov.au Printed 2019