Experience Chinchilla
Welcome
From the Community...
Chinchilla Community Commerce & Industry Inc.
Chinchilla is a vibrant community, ideal for living, working, and playing. Located in the Surat Basin, our town offers economic prosperity and exceptional liveability. With a diverse industry base and excellent education and employment opportunities, Chinchilla thrives.
From the Mayor...
Mayor Andrew Smith Western Downs Regional Council
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the wonderful Western Downs!
I invite you to explore everything that our vast and vibrant region has to offer. Whether you’ve recently moved to the Western Downs, or are thinking about making a move, our Welcome Guides will give you an overview of the opportunities that await you and your family in our region.
This guide is packed full of helpful information about our local schools, community and sporting groups, essential services, regional events, attractions, and much more. Offering the best of the laid-back
Our community features a wide range of sporting, recreational, and support service facilities, ensuring a high quality of life. Chinchilla hosts events like the One Long Table Multicultural Food Festival, Community Christmas Celebrations, and the Regional Business Summit.
We’re proud of our progress and strong sense of community. Visit and discover why so many fall in love with Chinchilla.
rural lifestyle combined with urban convenience, stunning natural landscapes, and active communities filled with friendly locals, there really is something for everyone in the Western Downs.
We have a saying on the Western Downs - it’s the people that make it. I am excited to be able to offer support to our newcomers, and hope that these guides will help you to learn more about your new home and the wonderful, vibrant Western Downs community.
Located two hours north west of Toowoomba on the Warrego Highway, between Miles and Dalby, Chinchilla is known as the melon capital of Australia, producing 25 percent of all Australian watermelons.
Including the surrounding townships of Brigalow, Kogan and Warra, Chinchilla also has a rich history in fossicking for petrified wood, attracting fossickers from all over the world to seek out its own special variety, Chinchilla Red. The Chinchilla Weir is also popular with locals and visitors interested in birdwatching, camping, fishing and water sports.
Chinchilla has no shortage of medical facilities, including its own hospital, private dental practices, general practitioners and a number of specialists.
With plenty of open space and outdoor activities, including the new Chinchilla Cultural Precinct, an award-winning 4.2 hectare Botanic Parkland, and the refurbished multi-purpose skate park, Chinchilla is a popular town to raise a family and a thriving community punching well above its weight.
Welcome to
Four reasons to call the Western Downs
h ome...
The Western Downs is home to more than 35,000 residents and almost 10,000 families. The median age of our population is 37 years, and 8% of our residents were born overseas. We are proud to be a multicultural community and support diversity and inclusivity.
Combining a country lifestyle with modern living and conveniences, the Western Downs has an assortment of urban centres, quiet small towns, rural lifestyle blocks and an abundance of recreation spaces — something to suit everyone!
Living in the Western Downs is affordable compared to many parts of Queensland. Our average weekly rent is 45% cheaper than Brisbane. Across the region, the average residential home price is around $300,000 — almost half of the median regional Queensland house price.
The Western Downs’ diverse economic base means that opportunities are plentiful across agriculture, intensive agriculture, energy and manufacturing industries. With large projects in infrastructure, energy and agriculture on the horizon, our local economy is buzzing with investors from all over the world.
Getting Around
The Western Downs covers an area of 38,000 square kilometres — roughly the size of Switzerland. We invite you to explore our vast region and enjoy what the Western Downs has to offer.
Chinchilla to...
Brisbane
Dalby
Gold Coast
Goondiwindi
Jandowae
Miles
Roma
Sunshine Coast
Tara
Toowoomba
Wandoan
Brisbane Airport
Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport
Life in the Western Downs is rich with experiences and events that attract Queensland and interstate travellers. See what’s on the calendar for the Chinchilla district...
Words Out West Apr Anzac Day
July Opera at Jimbour
June
Sep
World Science Festival Queensland NAIDOC Week
Chinchilla Touch Fast 4 Carnival
Aug
One Long Table
Chinchilla Show
Chinchilla Auto Show
Meet a Local
Terri, Founder of Red Hill Creative
Terri was born and raised on a farm just north of Chinchilla, and it’s truly a part of who she is. After moving away right out of high school, Terri returned home and has now been back for over 10 years raising her family. Her favourite thing about the town that has ‘given her so much’ is the sense of connection and familiar faces wherever she goes, with the ‘warmth of the community unmatched’.
Below are Terri’s insider tips for living in Chinchilla.
The Western Downs...
has this perfect blend of opportunity and peace. It’s a place where you can build a meaningful career or business while still enjoying a slower, more intentional pace of life. The landscape, the people, and the lifestyle: it all keeps me grounded and inspired.
I always look forward to...
the Chinchilla Melon Festival. The event was started to give the community a much needed boost economically and spiritually after years of drought, and ever since has been an integral celebration on the community’s calendar!
When friends visit...
we love taking them to the Botanic Parklands or out to the weir for a BBQ and play. Plus an obligatory photo opportunity at the giant watermelon! We are so lucky to have such a variety of spaces to enjoy.
I don’t think I could choose...
my favourite time of year. From mild sunny winters, to the wildflowers and jacarandas in spring, the outdoor get togethers and summer storms, through to the rich golden energy of autumn. Each season offers its own unique rhythm, and that’s what I love most about living here—it’s always changing, always beautiful.
I’ve seen Chinchilla grow...
in amazing ways over the years. We’ve embraced new businesses and opportunities while still holding onto that small-town charm and strong sense of community.
Only locals know... that Chinchilla watermelons are truly the most delicious grown in Australia!
I enjoy the simplicity of rural living but also thrive on the creativity my work brings to the community.
Eat
The Western Downs is one of Australia’s largest primary producers and our abundant local produce offers a chance for residents to explore our local produce. Here’s a taste of what the Chinchilla district has to offer...
Welcome to
Chinchilla
Charleys Creek Cafe
Cheong Kong
Chinese Restaurant
Chinchilla Bowls Club
Chinchilla Cinema Candy Bar
Chinchilla Farmers Market
Chinchilla Great Western Motor Inn
Chinchilla RSL Memorial Club
Domino’s Pizza
Brigalow
Brigalow General Store
Dorney’s Cake Shop
Drakes Chinchilla FoodWorks
Fuzzy’s Bakery
Gleeson Quality Meats
Purple Cow Butchery
Salty’s Seafood Takeaway
Thai House Chinchilla
Masala Hut
KFC McDonald’s
Merritt’s Bakery
Palms Restaurant
Panache Cafe and Homewares
Kogan
Kogan Hotel
White Rock Café
The Club Hotel
The Coffee Club Café Chinchilla
The Commercial Hotel Chinchilla
The Palms Motel
Subway Woolworths
Warra
Liberty Warra
Warra Hotel
The Big Melon Play
Chinchilla Museum
Take a step back in time and visit the Chinchilla Historical Museum to experience the town just as it was in its pioneering days. On the first Sunday of the month, let the kids slip back to yesteryear riding the miniature train that snakes through the museum grounds.
Barakula Forest
Barakula is the largest state forest in the Southern Hemisphere: great for cycling, taking a drive along the forest roads and bush walking.
Chinchilla Weir
A great spot for fishing, swimming and bird watching, with a newlyupgraded campground perfect for weekend staycations.
Visit Wotif’s ‘Next Big Thing’ attraction for a fun photo or selfie. While you’re there, stop by the Visitor Information Centre to get your fossicking license.
Charley’s Creek
Charley’s Creek winds its way around the outskirts of town and there’s a walking track beside the watercourse to hug its journey.
Chinchilla Botanic Parkland
Spread over 4.2 hectares of green space, kids can make a splash in the watermelon-themed water park, show off their best Spider-Man impersonation on the rock climbing wall, or ride their bike or scooter along the enclosed pathways throughout the parkland.
Welcome to
Experience Chinchilla: our small town has a big heart. With plenty to do, including cultural activities, active sporting clubs and groups, and the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors, there’s something for the whole family.
Learn
Education for all ages is a priority in the Western Downs. There are 33 schools and 25 regulated childhood education and childcare services in the region. Our libraries also offer online education programs.
Connect
Brigalow Cricket Club
Brigalow Tennis Club
Canaga Cricket Club
Chilla Chicks Line Dancing
Chinchilla A & P Assoc
Chinchilla Aero Club
Chinchilla Archery Club
Chinchilla Bowls Club
Chinchilla Cadets
Chinchilla Campdraft Association
Chinchilla Clay Target Club
Chinchilla Concert Band
Chinchilla Country Music Club
Chinchilla Cricket Club
Chinchilla Fishing and Restocking Club Inc
Chinchilla Garden Club
Chinchilla Golf Club
Chinchilla Gun Club
Chinchilla Gymnastic Club
Chinchilla Lapidary Group
Chinchilla Motocross Club
Chinchilla Netball Association
Chinchilla Patches & Piecemakers
Chinchilla Polocrosse Club
Chinchilla Pony Club
Chinchilla Ski Club
Chinchilla Sharks Amateur Swimming Club Inc
Chinchilla Squash Club
Chinchilla Tennis Association
Chinchilla Touch Association
Crossroads Cricket Club
Football Chinchilla
Girl Guides Chinchilla
Keen to volunteer?
Chinchilla Race Club
Chinchilla Rugby League Football Club
Grandfather Clock Campdraft Association
Lapunyah Art Gallery
Chinchilla Potters and Painters Scouts Chinchilla
Southern Star Academy of Dance Glow Dance Co
Xpression Dance Academy
Visit www.wdrc.qld.gov.au/community-recreation/volunteering
Welcome to
Enjoy a warm connection and immerse yourself in Chinchilla, where a wide variety of community and cultural groups—from the arts to social gatherings and volunteering— await you.
Essential Services
Ambulance, Police & Fire
000
Chinchilla Ambulance Station
07 4662 7000
Chinchilla Fire Station
07 4662 7166
Chinchilla Police Station
07 4672 9666
Chinchilla Rural Fire Brigade
07 4665 5102
Kogan & District Rural Fire Brigade
07 4668 1855
State Emergency Service (SES)
132 500 Emergency
Ergon Energy Faults
132 296
Southern Cross Care Illoura Village 07 4628 5395
Additional Services
Australia Post 13 13 18
Chinchilla Library
07 4660 7270
07 4662 8888 Medical
Chinchilla Hospital
Chinchilla Pharmacy
07 4662 7162
Chinchilla Dental Practice
07 4662 8311
Chinchilla Medical Practice
07 4662 7188
Eyecare Eyewear 07 4668 9888
Your Pharmacy
Chinchilla 07 4662 8588
Goondir Health Services
07 4573 6841
Community Groups
Apex Club Chinchilla
Blue Light Chinchilla
Brigalow Hall Committee
Brigalow Bush Carnival Committee
Brigalow State School P&C
Chinchilla Auto & Motor Group
Chinchilla Christian College Playgroup
Chinchilla Concert Band
Chinchilla Historical Society Inc
Chinchilla Horticultural Society
Chinchilla Rural Fire Brigade
Chinchilla SES
Chinchilla Scout Group
Combined Churches
Welcome to Country Womens Association Kup of Kindness
Farm Angels
Kogan Progress Association & Memorial Hall
Kogan & District Neighbourhood Watch & Community
Lions Club Chinchilla
Meals on Wheels
Chinchilla
Rotary Club
Chinchilla
Country Hope Church
Presbyterian Church
St Cecilia’s
Jehovah’s Witness
Gospel Hall Life Church
Our Lady Help of Christians Chinchilla Catholic Church
Chinchilla Parish
Seventh Day Adventist
Trinity Lutheran Church
Uniting Church
The Western Downs is a region that is visionary and progressive and hasn’t become stale and out of date.
Meet a Local
Seth,Founder of Gerkies.com.au and Gerkies Storm Chasing
A Chinchilla local for 17 years, Seth has seen the region become a hotspot for business, tourism and lifestyle. As an in-demand cinematographer, you’ll be hard-pressed to find Seth without a camera in hand — whether it’s capturing one of many local events on Chinchilla’s calendar, or on the road in pursuit of severe weather events as one-half of father/son duo Gerkies Storm Chasing.
Below are Seth’s insider tips for living in Chinchilla.
My favourite thing about Chinchilla is...
it has always been genuinely friendly. People are supportive and are community orientated. Businesses seek opportunities to collaborate, locals always support community events, and most people know each other which allows me to feel connected and a part of a wider team.
I’d describe my lifestyle as... peaceful, safe and welcoming.
As a business owner...
we support and sponsor local community events including One Long Table and NAIDOC week — it’s a great opportunity to give back to our community who have given so much to us. For example, our communityfocused Facebook page (Gerkies Storm Chasing), has an audience of 24k+ thanks to local followers.
Chinchilla has the best wide-open landscapes...
and vast, unobstructed views — I enjoy watching a thunderstorm move over me from 50km away. It’s one of the best spots nation-wide for storm chasing. During quieter storm months, these unique landscapes make for perfect footage for my upcoming documentary.
I always look forward to...
meeting and working with new people. Most people are supportive, down to earth and genuine. There’s something about the respect that majority of people have for each other here in Chinchilla.
Only locals know...
this region is just as good as the east coast areas, without sitting in traffic every morning for two hours just to get to work.
Chinchilla Customer Service Centre
80-86 Heeney St, Chinchilla QLD 4413
1300 COUNCIL (1300 268 624)
www.wdrc.qld.gov.au info@wdrc.qld.gov.au
Visitor Information Centre
Warrego Highway, Chinchilla QLD 4413
07 4660 7291
www.westerndownsqueensland.com.au tourism@wdrc.qld.gov.au
Chinchilla Community Commerce & Industry Inc.
Dorney Building, 97 Chinchilla St
Chinchilla QLD 4413
07 4668 9172
www.chinchilla.com.au events@chinchilla.org.au
Want to know more about who’s who and what’s happening in your town?
www.mycommunitydirectory.com.au/ Queensland/Western_Downs
Welcome to
Acknowledgements
With thanks to Shell’ s QGC Business
With a third of our staff and contractors calling the Western Downs home, we know the region is a fantastic place to live, work and raise a family.
We want more of our employees living locally and we know the Western Downs has so much to offer. We are proud to support the production of these welcome guides for people moving to the area.
Relocating anywhere new is often daunting, with many factors unknown. With information on key resources such as schools, services, businesses and community groups easily accessible in these packs, we’re confident the transition for individuals and families will be made easier.
And by showcasing the unique character of what brings the towns ‘alive’ we are confident your new life in the Western Downs will be exciting.
This guide was funded by Shell’s QGC Business and produced by Western Downs Regional Council. Information is current as at 1 January 2025. With thanks to Gerkies, Terri and Seth.
Notes
Welcome to
