GETTING HERE
one great journey only 2 hours from brisbane
By Road Let’s get up the mountain! Only 2 hours south-west from Brisbane and 2.5 hours from the Gold Coast, you enter our region at the top of the beautiful Cunningham’s Gap. Continue on Cunningham Highway to reach our main towns of Warwick and then Stanthorpe. Wallangarra, approximately a 2.5 hours drive north on the New England Highway from Armidale, is the access point for travellers from NSW. Grafton, on the Gwydir Highway, is a similar distance.
By Air Brisbane West Wellcamp Airport (Toowoomba) Wellcamp serves as an excellent access point into the Southern Downs & Granite Belt Region. Located one hour north-west of Warwick, this gateway airport offers: • Qantaslink services to Sydney • AirNorth offers direct flights to Cairns and Melbourne • Daily Regional Express (REX) services within Queensland. Stanthorpe Aerodrome Situated on the north-eastern rural fringe of the town, this aerodrome offers easy access to the Granite Belt region. Warwick Aerodrome, Massie Located 10 minutes drive from Warwick, the areodrome offers a fully sealed runway. It’s also home to the Warwick Aero Club and gliding clubs, as well as the annual Wings over Warwick fly-in airshow.
By Coach and Road Transfer At least daily bus services operate between Brisbane, Toowoomba, Warwick and Stanthorpe. • Crisps Coaches - www.crisps.com.au • Greyhound Australia - www.greyhound.com.au • Airport Flyer - www.theairportflyer.com.au
RESIZE VIC ADVERT FOR HERE
www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
3
CONTENTS Our Towns and Villages
6
Nature and Adventure
15
Granite Belt Wine Country
28
Local Flavours 34 Heritage and Culture
38
4 Seasons 42 Event Calendar 44 Accommodation 46 Weddings 48 Tours and Tourist Drives
49
Get social with us! Southern Downs and Granite Belt @SthDownsGBelt @southerndownsandgranitebelt Share your stories by tagging: #southerndowns #granitebelt #granitebeltwine
Come visit The Southern Downs & Granite Belt offers an amazing array of experiences. Book tours and accommodation for your visit at southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au or contact one of our helpful Visitor Information Centres (VICs). See previous page for contact details.
On the cover: Browns Falls, Killarney, Queensland by Stephen Waller @swaller4 4
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
This is Queensland’s
HIGH COUNTRY
Get Up The Mountain Today
As you climb the mountain, the air changes and so will your soul. Feel the powerful natural elements and connections that stimulate the senses. You feel alive. This is a place of real people and real experiences. Let us show you how to live the good life with great food, wine and celebrations. Learn and discover, challenge and stretch; tackle a mountain climb, source fresh food straight from the paddock, create your own wine or ride a bucking bull – tick amazing experiences off your bucket list. Together, let’s chase moments and create memories, let’s find people and places that make us smile, let’s fall in love with life and share it.
GIRRAWEEN NATIONAL PARK @mcguigan_visuals www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
5
OUR TOWNS AND
VILLAGES Get exploring the towns and villages that make this high country region so special. The Southern Downs & Granite Belt region of South East Queensland is home to 3 National Parks, 2 iconic rivers, 10 exceptional tourist drives, Queensland’s premier wine region and more than 40 Cellar Doors. Sitting high on the Great Dividing Range, more than 1000m above sea level, creates a region of four seasons and a climate a world away from Queensland counterparts. The seasons and our rich, historic heritage guide our life, which we celebrate with great food and wine.
KILLARNEY 6
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
@philipgerardmorris
Known as the town of living history, Leyburn is the site of the 1949 Australian Grand Prix, now commemorated annually in August with the Historic Leyburn Sprints. Many of the buildings date back to the mid to late 1800s as this small village came about as a resting point for bullock teams crossing at what was initially named Leslie Crossing, on Patrick Leslie’s original trail.
warwick historic
Highlights xperience the unique sandstone E and authentic interior period pieces of Pringle Cottage (c.1871) at the Warwick Museum.
Famous as the Rose and Rodeo City, Warwick is a thriving regional hub with a relaxed, friendly country town vibe. Warwick was named by the Leslie brothers’, after the main character in their favourite book, “The Last of the Barons”. Following their discovery of Warwick, the agricultural industry in the region boomed resulting in grand sandstone public buildings and exceptional rural homesteads that still grace the town today. This growth continued into the 20th century, giving Warwick a strong dose of Federation architecture. This prosperous history has led to many significant events in Warwick, including Prime Minister Billy Hughes’ historic speech on compulsory conscription at the Warwick Railway Station (1880s). The ‘egg incident’ created such a stir that it led to the establishment of Australia’s Commonwealth Police. The Condamine River, the source of the longest continuous river system in Australia, meanders gently through Warwick before making its way south-west to the ocean near Adelaide, South Australia. Experience its wonder by either walking or cycling the Condamine River Walk, offering picnic and BBQ areas along the way. Throughout the CBD, superb parks and gardens bloom with roses in the Spring and early Summer months. The city even has its own ‘City of Warwick’ (Arofuto) rose. This is horse country; Warwick is home to Australia’s number one Rodeo and is the leading Polocrosse destination in the world. Surrounding horse studs, such as the historic Canning Downs and Lyndhurst having produced Melbourne Cup winners.
TOP TIP: The History & Heritage Trail Guidebook (available at the Warwick VIC), is a guide
AMAZING STARRY NIGHTS
to the heritage and sculpture trails in the area. Also, look for the Historic Warwick logo on information plaques around Warwick, telling the stories of those who came before. @tonnes
Leyburn
The Australian Rodeo Heritage Centre is filled with memorabilia from past legends of the famous Warwick Rodeo (1857) and can be visited throughout the years. isit the Warwick Art Gallery, V where new and exciting exhibitions are held on a regular basis. orn on Canning Downs, Jackie B Howe was the first man to shear 321 sheep by hand in one day. The Jackie Howe Memorial has a picnic area and children’s playground. A sandstone carving of the legendary shearer stands outside the VIC. isit the Steam Railway Museum V or book a journey aboard the Southern Downs Steam Railway. ave a drink at Leyburn’s famous H Royal Hotel (C.1863), the oldest continually licensed premises in Queensland. The Z Special Unit memorial located at Liberator Park. The Leyburn Aerodrome was originally constructed for the Z Force secret commandos during World War II. evel in a starry night. An R astronomers delight, Leyburn is consider one of Queensland’s top 5 astronomy locations.
www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
7
Allora
Made famous by the movie Saving Mr Banks, Allora is the childhood home of the author of Mary Poppins, PL Travers. Her father, Travers Goff managed the Australian Joint Stock Bank, now known as the Mary Poppins House (c.1880). A carved stone in PJ Travers Park, on the corner of Herbert & Drayton Streets, forms a monument to Mary Poppins.
add a little
sunshine #southerndownssunflowers
@samanthalreid
The town of Allora was surveyed in 1859 and land sales began in 1861. It features many timber buildings that showcase the late 1800s and early 1900s architecture. A self-guided walk along a heritage trail offers explanatory plaques of many of the significant buildings and monuments, including The Boer War Memorial - the first of only three Boer War memorials in Queensland.
Did You Know The Talgai Skull, a fossil found on
the Talgai Station, Allora was the first direct proof of the Pleistocene antiquity of humans in Australia. See a replica in the Allora Museum, with the original housed in the Sydney Museum.
@bridgetgt
LAURA GEITZ
Australian Netball Champion Laura was born and bred in Allora, and can’t wait for the day to return home permanently.
“Driving up, as soon as I get past the Cunninghams Gap, I get so excited that I’m nearly home.’’ Courier Mail@LauraFirebirds
MARYVALE Nestled amongst lush farmland, in a picturesque valley, the small village of Maryvale is set in an area of stunning natural beauty. Glengallan Creek, a tributary of the Condamine River runs through Maryvale and is a source of irrigated water for terraced crops in the area. Maryvale is surrounded by mountains that rise to greater than 900 m above sea level. They form the perfect backdrop for the resorts and farm stays operating within the area.
8
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
@jaebydesign
@tonnes
Highlights llora District and Historical Society’s collection consists of detailed A twentieth-century histories of the buildings in the Allora Township. Open every Sunday afternoon. addle up for a breathtaking valley trail ride at Bestbrook Mountain S Resort. Visit Cicada Woman and Yirimbahm Gallery and be inspired by traditional Aboriginal art, craft and story-telling. Meet the locals at Maryvale’s historic pub, the Crown Hotel. Head out to Gap Creek Farm for a motocross weekend. tep back in time at the Glengallan Homestead; enjoy markets at the S start of each season quarterly. Stop for a picnic or camp at Dalymple Creek Rest Area, Allora. An excellent golf course is also available. DID YOU KNOW...Allora is one of
the best in Australia to see sunflowers. Don’t miss great events includingplaces the Allora Heritage Weekend (Jan), Allora Country Music Stampede &Between Horse Trail Muster theRiding months of ??(Feb) or the Allora Community Auction (June), where you can buy everything from false teeth to a wooden leg.
GOOMBURRA RM Williams would often visit Gordon Country, Goomburra, and called it one of the most beautiful parts of Australia! Unspoilt natural beauty abounds in the Goomburra Valley with rugged mountain ranges, spectacular views, trickling streams and rare wildlife all calling the World Heritage listed area home. Just 40 minutes drive north of Warwick the Valley is a must-do for nature lovers with the Goomburra section of the Main Range National Park offering campers and bushwalkers idyllic options to explore. There are open, grassy camping spots with plenty of space to let the kids run free, winding walking tracks through subtropical rainforest, and clear, cool water holes to escape summer’s heat. Should you prefer to lay your head in a comfy bed, accommodation operators offer offers a mix of private campgrounds with creek frontages, along with rustic cabins through to 4-star eco-friendly cottages.
Highlights ake in extraordinary views, high on the Great T Dividing Range from Mount Castle Lookout and Sylvesters Lookout in Main Range National Park. Or take the walk to Araucaria Falls, through subtropical rainforest and past rock pools and towering Hoop Pines. ladfield, between Goomburra and Maryvale, is G home to the famous Raheen Horse Stud, who often set Magic Millions sales records. iscover the region by driving the Cedar Route, D Settlers Route and Falls Drive, visiting Queens Mary Falls. Nearby, take in the amazing vista at Carr’s Lookout; stopping at the mysterious Moss Gardens on the way. If you have a 4WD, don’t miss the 14 Rivers Crossings. ee Yangan’s historic buildings, including the S Yangan Masonic Hall - The Temple with the Long Stairs (1898, and the Yangan School of the Arts (1912). Continue to Killarney and visit the Killarney & District Historical Society Centre and learn about the logging heritage in the area. nique events include Mick Bradford Heavy U Horse Day, Yangan (Oct); Goomburra Jazz and High Tea (July); Goomburra Country Music Stampede (Sept); and the Southern Downs Harvest Lunch at Melrose Station, Killarney (Sept), and the famous Killarney Bonfire Night (July).
roads to nowhere, but life long memories everywhere gl or io us m ou ntai n vi ew s an d pl um m et in g wa te rf al ls “ t h e r o se o f t h e d a r li n g do w ns - a si g h t n e v e r to b e f o r g o tte n ”
Killarney
adam broit
The town of Killarney, surrounded by glorious mountain views and plummeting waterfalls, is one of the most popular destinations in the region. Paragliders love it, with some of the best XC flying in Australia, hosting many a national and world champion. Originally part of Canning Downs, the Killarney Farm was leased in 1856 and the town site was chosen in 1878. Killarney, named by Irish settlers who were reminded of the Killarney lake area of their homeland, was originally an old timber and dairying town. Today it relies on its farming industry producing fabulous beef, potatoes, onions, grain and timber. The Aboriginal Keinjan people occupied a 3600 square kilometre area and the ‘Blucher Tribe’, who occupied the Canning Downs area, established a friendship with the settlers that was never broken. A permanent meeting place was located on Farm Creek between Tannymorel and Killarney as well as a therapeutic healing place, where the water trickled through a seam of coal. In 1864, the Governor of Queensland, Sir George Bowen described his first view of Killarney as The rose of the Darling Downs – a sight never to be forgotten!
Yangan
A quaint rural village (population approx. 200), situated 18kms east of Warwick, at the base of the glorious Swanfels Valley, Yangan offers unique examples of late 1800s timber architecture. Previously named Upper Swan Creek, the town became known as Yangan in 1887, an Aboriginal word thought to mean moving forward or upwards. The small settlement began to grow as a result of the first stage of railway development between Killarney and Warwick. Sandstone was quarried near Yangan and sent to neighbouring Warwick and used in the construction of its magnificent historical buildings including the Town Hall and Police Station.
HEAVY HORSE DAY, YANGAN
www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
9
GORDON COUNTRY is Your Country Reconnect with the great outdoors in Gordon Country, 4,000 acres of rugged and scenic Australian landscape. Close to Toowoomba yet surrounded by open space, Gordon Country is a true escape from the daily grind and the ideal holiday spot for families, recreational groups, bush walkers, bird watchers and families. Your ideal holiday retreat and function venue. Powered sites now available | Camping sites | Cabin stays | Dogs welcome
Ask us about our personalised Wedding packages for 2016.
Image courtesy of Portrait Artistry Photography.
Gordon Country Weddings
1847 Inverramsey Road, Goomburra Phone: 07 4666 6179 or 0488 318 911 stay@gordoncountry.com.au www.gordoncountry.com.au
0422 599 468
www.gordoncountry.com.au
Cnr Claydons and O’Maras Road Killarney, QLD 4373
07 4664 1522 stay@killarneyview.com.au www.killarneyview.com.au
Cabins
R
Cottage
Caravans
Camping
on the Downs BnB & Spa Cottages ❤ Award winning affordable luxury ❤ Relax, Refresh, Re-ignite that something special only 15 mins from Warwick 2 hrs Brisbane ❤ Enjoy the panorama of Swanfels Valley, Yangan close to nature, history, culture, attractions ❤ Complimentary surprises and full country breakfasts included ❤ Couples, singles, groups welcome
295 Swanfels Road Swanfels Valley, Yangan
Ph 07 4664 8587 Mb 0413 936 056 info@r-onthedowns.com www.r-onthedowns.com 10
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
NORTH GRANITE BELT: Dalveen, Cottonvale, Thulimbah, The Summit & Applethorpe Dalveen heralds the northern beginning of the Granite Belt region and the start of the Granite Belt Tourist Drive, which takes you through Cottonvale, Thulimbah and on to the Summit via the back roads past orchards, wineries, and vegetable farms to Applethorpe. In Thulimbah, don’t miss the opportunity to snap a pic with the Big Apple! Famous as one of the coldest places in Queensland, The Summit is home to the highest railway station in Australia, of which the construction was the premise for the establishment of the many northern villages. In 1881, the construction of the new Southern Border Railway Line employed 900 people, creating the establishment of a post office at Dalveen and Dalveen State School, which survives today. Applethorpe was originally named Roessler. However, this German title was changed to appease post-WW1 sensitivities and as the new name denotes, this area is an apple village. For generations, Applethorpe has produced virtually 100% of all apples in Queensland. It was in Applethorpe that the first public cold store and packing house was established in 1945. Education arrived in 1914 with the opening of the Applethorpe School and then some years later a research station that focused on deciduous crops which best suit the four season climate, e.g. apples, stone fruit, grapes and some vegetables. It has undertaken some pioneering work and serves as a valuable resource to Queensland’s farming community. Today, during harvest season, backpackers from around the world descend on the region to help pick the produce and enjoy time on an Australian farm.
#granitebeltbigapple top100experiences.com.au
Highlights surprising piece of rail history, A a 132-year old railway tunnel, which was constructed as part of the Southern Border Railway Line back in the 1800s. Picnic or overnight at Jim Mitchell Park, just off the highway, in Dalveen uy some fruit direct from a B local supplier in Cottonvale and Applethorpe. aw Dogs Australia: A unique L attraction and possibly the only place in Australia where you can watch law dogs trained during one of their regular shows. Church Road, The Summit. et lost at the Granite Belt Maze, G The Summit, and try to solve as many riddles as you can along the way. It’s perfect for all ages. ake you sure you stop at M Stanthorpe Cheese & Jersey Girl’s Cafe, near Thulimbah, where a single herd of Jersey Cows are the source of delicious cheese. ick your own apples (in season) P at Suttons Juice & Cider Factory, Thulimbah. Grab a serving of their amazing apple pie - it’s famous and enjoy it with a glass of cider.
APPLE PICKING @ SUTTON’S
WEST GRANITE BELT: Amiens, Broadwater & Greenlands West of Stanthorpe lay the villages and hamlets of Amiens, Greenlands and Broadwater. This area is famous for large growers of fruit and vegetables, boutique wineries, Mallow Organic Lamb, and art, as well as the Passchendaele State Forest and Donnelly’s Castle. Amiens was one of the region’s post World War I soldier settlements. The need to accommodate these servicemen forced the building of a railway and along the 20 km route were six wayside sidings at Fleurbairx, Pozieres, Bullecourt, Passchendaele, Baupaume and Messines. The terminus was located at Amiens which was named after the French City on the Somme River. The Passchendaele State Forest is ideal for orienteering and trail bike riding. Feeling lucky? Within the forest is the Swipers Gully Fossicking Reserve (see P24).
iscover our famous granite D boulders without hours of climbing at Donnelly’s Castle, near Pozieres. It’s only 200m walk to the top, providing breathtaking views. Surrounded by caves, legend notes it as a Thunderbolt hideout! aste award winning wine at T the numerous wineries in the area including Summit Estate, Boireann, Robert Channon, and Casley Mount Hutton. Castle Glen not only offers wine, but you can also enjoy whiskey and more.
www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
11
Highlights
Tucked up in Granite Belt wine country is Stanthorpe, a town affectionately known as the ‘coldest town in Queensland’ during winter. However, during the warm summer months, the area is blossoming with life: fruit and vegetables fill the fields, the vineyards hang full of grapes and the town has a lively buzz. BEN SOUTHALL Previously known as Quart Pot Creek, a mining rush in 1872 gave Stanthorpe its name: stannum is Latin for tin and thorp is English for village. The town of Stanthorpe (pop. 5500) is now the beating heart of the Granite Belt with a rich multicultural and agricultural heritage, and a cosmopolitan mix of residents, backpackers and travellers. Flowing through the town is the beautiful Quart Pot Creek, with more than 5km of walking and cycling tracks and great picnic and bbq facilities, its the perfect place to spend some time. In the main CBD, you will discover an amazing range of cafes, shops, gift stores and art galleries. Enjoy our European traditions; sit in the Stanthorpe Piazza, with coffee in hand, under the famous Roll Up Tree public art piece and watch the world go by.
SOUTH GRANITE BELT: Severnlea & Glen Aplin These villages abound with small winding roads, award-winning wines, and an abundance of food producers, located either side of New England Highway. Severnlea is another settlement which began life as a railway siding and was originally named after C.A. Lee’s property Beverley. However, confusion with another ‘Beverley’ prompted the Railway Department to request a name change to Severn Lee, combining the name of the river and the property owner. The accepted name became Severnlea. Go fishing in the waterholes along the Severlea River. Take a picnic of local produce and while the day away. Ride your bike along the Granite Belt Bike Trail that travels through the area. The Glen Aplin Hall is home to a regular market - check with the Stanthorpe VIC for dates.
12
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
ave your photo taken with the H Brass Monkey!
THE GRANITE BELT
stanthorpe
very Friday, enjoy the Seasonal E Feast Food, Wine and Farmers Markets in the Stanthorpe Piazza. On the second Sunday of the month, check out the offerings at the Market in the Mountains, Stanthorpe Civic Centre.
Climb Mount Marley and enjoy the picturesque views over Stanthorpe from the lookout. isit the Stanthorpe Regional Art V Gallery, which houses works from prominent Queensland artists and even a Picasso lithograph, The Queensland College of Wine Tourism, home to Varias Restaurant and Banca Ridge Cellar Door. njoy the walk to Stanthorpe’s E famous Red Bridge over Quart Pot Creek was built in 1888 using horse-drawn drays. The Stanthorpe Post Office (c1901) is the first in Australia built after the Federation. However, its magnificent English-made clock, installed in 1903, bears the British Coat of Arms. Maryland Street. tanthorpe Museum will guide you S through the past life of the region. It has a massive nine complete old buildings, including the Wilson’s Downfall Goal, erected in 1876 and reputed to have been Australia’s most secure country goal. ttend the Apple & Grape Harvest A Festival (every 2nd year Feb/March) or go ice-skating and much more at Snowflakes in Stanthorpe (July). isit the Stanthorpe VIC, V overlooking Quart Pot Creek, for local information and delicious produce. You can also hire a bike or take a tour with Granite Belt Bicycle Tours. Ride around the beautiful creek and visit the playgrounds along the way. ind fabulous food, wine and beer F in the south including Jamworks, The Bramble Patch, Brass Monkey Brew House, Whiskey Gully Wines, Kominos Wines, Jester Hill Wines, Savina Lane Wines and Ridgemill Estate. Afterwards, enjoy some art at the Bush Rock Gallery.
The Granite Belt’s largest number of award winning winemakers can be found in Ballandean.
GOLDEN GROVE ESTATE, BALLANDEAN
SOUTH GRANITE BELT: Ballandean, Girraween & Wyberba Ballandean is home to some of the earliest Italian settlers, who back in the 1800s, recognised the region for its ability to grow table grapes and stone fruit. The area is now home to numerous award winning wineries and cafe/restaurants that host fabulous food and wine events throughout the year. Check our website for details. Wyberba is the tiny settlement nestled alongside Girraween National Park and enjoys the natural beauty of its idyllic surrounds east of the New England Highway and just north of the NSW/QLD border. As well as a spectacular national park, Wyberba is home to several popular tourist attractions and accommodation and is just a few minutes drive to the village of Ballandean. No visit to the region is complete without a visit to Girraween. Close to a hundred years ago, before the area became a national park, Wyberba Valley was a thriving settlement of houses, stockyards and farming land – the Taylor family, even lived in an elegant high-set house named Ericdale at the base of the first Pyramid. While little now remains, their presence is remembered, and tributes are paid by many areas in Girraween retaining the names of these special people.
Highlights Visit Ballandean Estate – site of the first Cellar door on the Granite Belt. on’t miss our little bit of Egypt - drive D past our famous hand-made Pyramid or climb the natural made Pyramid at Girraween National Park. o fishing along the Severn River, or G 4WDriving in Sundown National Park. earn how to make exquisite natural L soap at the Washpool Farm Soaperie a treat for the senses. antalise your taste buds at Heavenly T Chocolate, Wyberba.
@lachlan_gardiner
o wine tasting at leading wineries G including Twisted Gum, Just Red Wines, Granite Ridge, Golden Grove Estate, Pyramids Road and Girraween Estate. any of the wineries host regular M events including two of the largest, Opera in the Vineyard (May) and Stanthorpe Rocks (Nov).
awe inspiring
GIRRAWEEN - TRIPADVISOR CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
13
wallangarra
ON THE BORDER
Founded in 1885, the village of Wallangarra is one of the most southern towns in Queensland lying on the border of Queensland and New South Wales. It’s also a town split in two, with the town of Jennings on the New South Wales side. Wallangarra is famous for being the changeover station for trains travelling between Queensland and New South Wales. As the train line gauges differed, Wallangarra is home to a grand station where all interstate travellers changed trains before the coast line was completed in 1930. Before Federation, travellers paid customs duties before crossing the border. This station is now home to the Customs House, the Wallangarra Museum and Café. During WWII, the government created a general army store on the Queensland side of the border, and an ammunition depot the New South Wales side. This was known as the 1 Advanced Ammunition Depot (1AAD). By the 1970s, the depot was the largest ammunition dump in the Southern Hemisphere.
Highlights Visit Wallangarra Museum and Café at the historic Railway Station and learn about its illustrious past. Don’t miss the Wallangarra Border Markets (1st Sunday of the month).
Wallangarra is surrounded by national parks; Girraween, Sundown, Bald Rock (NSW) and Boonoo Boonoo (NSW) are all close by.
Find the hideout of the famous Australian bushranger, Thunderbolt. The path to the hideout is signed, and parking is available. Nearby are remnants of the Brisbane Line tank traps from WWII. In the course of the war there were up to 10 000 troops stationed in the area.
Liston
he Australian Railway Historical Society hosts T bi-annual Winelander Train Journeys from Brisbane to Wallangarra. The Southern Downs Steam Railway regularly visits too.
Highlights of the area include Aloomba Lavender - the perfect place to pick up a beautiful gift and learn about the value of Lavender. It is also a 4000-acre cattle farm.
Located just over the state border and technically in Tenterfield Shire, Liston forms an important part of the Southern Downs & Granite Belt life.
Undercliffe Falls, located on the Bookookoorara Creek, 27kms east of Stanthorpe via Liston, descend 150m, over a 30m wide rock face into a deep pool ideal for swimming in summer.
VISIT THE HISTORIC
WALLANGARRA RAILWAY STATION Museum & Café Open for breakfast and lunch daily & dinner Saturday evenings • We can cater for large groups, buses welcome • Available for private functions/weddings/parties • Gift shop and railway museum on site
• BYO- Air conditioned • Family & pet friendly • Wheel chair access
Conveniently located on the QLD/NSW border | Rockwell St, Wallangarra | 14
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
Open every public holiday (except Christmas Day)
Ph: (07) 4684 3376
NATURE
ADVENTURE Get your bucket list ready - the Southern Downs & Granite Belt offers 7 natural wonders that can’t be missed! Go bushwalking through our amazing national parks, or go on a 4WDriving adventure; cycle past wineries and fabulous attractions; or saddle up and take a horse trail ride through our mountain country. Make your trip to the Southern Downs & Granite Belt epic!
GET HIGH
on fresh mountain air and breathtaking views
THE STEAMERS, MAIN RANGE NATIONAL PARK @mcguigan_visuals www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
15
7
wonders
tick them off your bucket list
GIRRAWEEN shaun johnston
cross the river
Here are our 7 Wonders of the Southern Downs and Granite Belt; must do natural attractions that offer breathtaking vistas that will make you feel ‘on top of the world’. We invite you not to just see them, but experience them. From the World Heritage Listed Gondwana rainforest of Main Range National Park to a Great Walk of Australia, the cascading water of Queen Mary Falls; Mount Superbus, the highest mountain in SE Queensland; the 14 Rivers Crossing 4WD adventure; the precariously balancing boulders and 360-degree views of Girraween National Park’s Pyramid Climb, and finally, the brilliant Red Rock Gorge in Sundown National Park. This is only a small section of what the region offers!
14 times
14 RIVERS CROSSING
01 MAIN RANGE NATIONAL PARK
Rugged mountain ranges, spectacular lookouts and rare wildlife feature in this prestigious Gondwana Rainforest of Australia World Heritage Area Park. A mosaic of vegetation types occurs in the park from rainforests, to open eucalypt forest and Montane Heath. Due to the park’s sheer size, a massive 30, 170.5 ha, it’s divided into four main areas:
Cunninghams Gap
Be impressed by rugged peaks, towering forests and spectacular mountain scenery on even the briefest of visits to Cunningham’s Gap, the best-known section of this park.
Don’t Miss: Explore some easy walking tracks, ranging from 1.6km to 12.4km in length, and offer spectacular views. Best Short Walk: Rainforest circuit, 1.6km return (suitable for visitors with some bushwalking experience). Walk clockwise around this track, marvelling at the stunning views over distinctive volcanic peaks, the Fassifern Valley and Lake Moogerah from the Fassifern Valley lookout. 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.
SCENIC RIM TRAIL
climb to the top of a
mountain
Goomburra At Goomburra, nestled in the western foothills of the Great Dividing Range, take advantage of creek-side camp sites, 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.
Don’t Miss: Explore walking tracks, ranging from short, easy circuits to longer tracks (5–12km), showcasing woodland and rainforest, creeks and waterfalls and scenic lookouts. Watch for echidnas and koalas, satin bowerbirds and yellow-tailed black cockatoos. Best Short Walk: Sylvesters lookout, 940m return (suitable for visitors with some bush walking experience). Immerse yourself in lush a subtropical rainforest where fern and orchid-clad trees tower over the track and enjoy rewarding views from the Main Range escarpment to the rugged peaks of the Scenic Rim. 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.
CARR’S LOOKOUT
watch a stunning
sunset
16
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
SPRING CREEK
Spicers Gap Discover evidence of pioneer travel routes over the Great Dividing Range and enjoy views of the Fassifern Valley at Spicer’s Gap.
Don’t Miss: Follow the trail of old bullock drays and look for signs of the paved road built in the mid-1800s. Picnic near the site of a longgone inn and pioneer graveyard and enjoy the view from Governor’s Chair Lookout. Best Short Walk: Moss’s Well track 120m return (suitable for families with young children). Spot birds in tall open forest and imagine yourself back in the days when this well was the only water for travellers and their teams making their way over the range. 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.
It only takes one drop to change your world
@gracheleannd
02 QUEEN MARY FALLS - THE TRIO The Queen Mary Falls area is the southern section of the Main Range National Park - so special it makes one of our top 7 on its own! It encompasses a trio of falls, including Browns Falls, Daggs Falls, and the impressive Queen Mary Falls that plunge 40m over a sheer basalt rock face.
Don’t Miss: Surrounded by a beautiful park, Queen Mary Falls is a popular picnic destination. Explore a short walk leading to a lookout (400m from the picnic grounds) overlooking the breathtaking falls. During November, look out for fireflies at dusk – an absolute must see. Best Short Walk: Queen Mary Falls circuit, a 2km well defined walking track is suitable for visitors with some bushwalking experience. Delight in the cool spray and refreshing scent of Spring Creek, which plunges 40m
over Queen Mary Falls. Snap a photo of the falls from the bridge beneath, or the lookout above, and spot the well-camouflaged eastern water dragons around the creek’s edge.
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, 11km along the Killarney-Boonah Road. Weather and water levels permitted, Excellent camping, caravan and tourist park facilities are located nearby or for a little more luxury head to Spring Creek Mountain Cafe & Cottages, only 10 minutes drive. Next door, take in spectacular views at Carr’s Lookout.
03 MOUNT SUPERBUS
Not for the faint hearted! Mount Superbus is not the prettiest, after historic logging, but it is the highest peak in SE Queensland at 1375m, and the third highest in Queensland. It’s a remnant of the Main Range shield volcano which erupted around 22 million years ago. On the southern most peak just below the summit lies the wreck of a World War II Lincoln Bomber, which crashed in 1955. Tragically, the plane was flying on a medical evac from Townsville to Brisbane, with a sick baby, when it strayed off course in bad weather. Most of the wreckage still lies near the summit and is a popular day walk for bushwalkers. A limited trail is available to the site; please notify authorities before attempting and take a GPS!
Getting There: Nearest vehicle access is by 4WD to the eastern end of Emu Creek Road, east of Emuvale. www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
17
04 THE SCENIC RIM TRAIL BY SPICERS This is walking at its luxurious best! A Great Walk of Australia, the Scenic Rim Trail is a four-day guided luxury trekking and glamping experience through the Main Range National Park and Spicers Peak Station Nature Reserve. It straddles the Great Diving Range and the regions of the Southern Downs-Granite Belt, and our neighbour, the Scenic Rim. You’ll witness sweeping views of mountains, ridges, escarpments, thick rain forests, eucalypt woodland and ancient volcanic plateaus. Highlights include scaling the twin peaks of Mount Mitchell; the breathtaking view from Governor’s Chair Lookout; viewing remanentsof a historic macadam road from the 1860s used by Cobb and Co; ancient (500-year old) hoop pine forests covered in lichens, moss, elkhorns and birdsnest ferns, and 360-degree views of the region. The nature reserve helps protect ten endangered ecosystems, and 27 at-risk animal species. And because you’ll be a guest of Spicers Retreats, you can expect luxurious accommodation, gourmet food and wine, and attentive service every step of the way. For more information, visit scenicrimtrail.com
“Scenic Rim Trail, awesome experience” TRIPADVISOR
05 14 RIVERS CROSSINGS
Go on a 4WD adventure by discovering the spectacular 14 River Crossings in the Cambanoora Gorge. The Condamine has some of the most scenic 4WDriving this close to Brisbane, following the gorge crossing the Condamine River 14 times. There are some excellent camping sites, picnic sites and some water holes, perfect for a quick dip, which make for an amazing day out for the entire family. Local landmarks including the Dolly on the Rock, Jack Brunton Falls and Paddy’s Knob can be sighted from the track.
Getting There: The road can be started from either end, Boonah or past the Queen Mary Falls at Killarney. To commence the track from Boonah start opposite the Police Station, travel out from Boonah along Rathdowny Road and turn right at Carneys Creek road. During normal conditions, the crossings of the Condamine River are relatively shallow. However, during wet weather the river will rise rapidly making it impassable. The journey should only be done during dry weather. For further information on the Trek conditions, please refer to river levels on the Bureau of Meteorology website. Contact the Warwick VIC for a Step by Step Crossing Guide.
Guestwick Eco Resort
The peace and tranquility will have you feeling relaxed in no time... 333 Cullendore Creek Road, Cullendore NSW
07 4667 9145 0437 512 348 bookings@guestwickecoresort.com.au www.guestwickecoresort.com.au www.cullendorecreekquolls.com 18
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
The Granite Belt owes its name to a literal belt of igneous granite rock that runs through the region. Once the site of active underground volcanos, thousands of years and the elements have left a remarkable ancient landscape of hardened molten magma granite outcrops that protrude from the hillside and look like crazy marbles dropped from a high. They stand guard over the bush with its abundant wildlife, beautiful flora, twisting creeks and rivers. The Granite Belt region is blessed with two national parks - Girraween and Sundown National Parks.
@alloveraustralia
Can You Hold The Pyramid?
06 GIRRAWEEN NATIONAL PARK PYRAMID CLIMB
Scale the prehistoric granite, formed about 250 million years ago from magma at Girraween National Park. The granite creates spectacular precariously balancing boulders, clear streams and tumbling cascades. Nearly 20kms of defined walking tracks, ranging from 20 mins to six hour hikes, that wind their way throughout the park and lead to impressive features including the challenging but totally rewarding Pyramid Walking Trail, The Sphinx, Turtle Rock, Castle Rock, Dr Robert’s Waterhole, Underground Creek and Mt Norman. The area is also home to iconic Australian animals including platypus, echidnas, kangaroos, koalas and even wombats, and 700 or so plant species. The word Girraween is an Aboriginal name for ‘place of flowers’, and in spring and summer delicate wildflowers emerge.
@evertonmi
Don’t Miss: From the Castle Rock and Bald Rock Creek camping areas, explore some of the 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. Best Short Walk: Granite Arch 1.6km return (suitable for families with young children). Take delight in the details—an amazing rock sculpture, a delicate wildflower or a picturepostcard scene. Stand under a magnificent natural stone archway and take a breather beside Bald Creek’s tumbling cascades. The Pyramid Walk: If the climb doesn’t take your breath away, views of Balancing Rock,
@wanderluststorytellers
the Second Pyramid and over Girraween National Park will. Leave the Granite Arch track and weave steadily uphill through eucalypt forests, past rocky outcrops and grassy flats to the base of this massive granite dome. A good level of fitness is required to make the climb up The Pyramid as the ascent of the exposed rock face is steep. Warning: the summit has steep cliffs and potentially slippery surfaces.
Getting There: The 9km, winding bitumen road to the park is located 26km south of
Stanthorpe via the New England Highway, or 11km north of Wallangara at the turn-off to Wyberba.
REBECCA GIBNEY
Leading Australian Actress and Producer After visiting 50 Queensland locations in 60 days, while shooting the acclaimed TV show WANTED, Rebecca Gibney selected Stanthorpe as her favourite destination.
"I really fell in love with Stanthorpe...it was so beautiful, we went to the Girraween National Park, and it was just beautiful. We found this awesome winery, I went back three times in 24 hours, twice for lunch and once for dinner." @rebeccagibneyh
REBECCA IN GIRRAWEEN
www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
19
07
RED ROCK GORGE AT SUNDOWN NATIONAL PARK
The great untamed Sundown National Park offers excellent 4WDriving. You can explore the impressive Red Rock Falls, Mt Lofty, Red Rock Gorge and the steep gorges of Carpenter Gully. The Severn River and remains of pastoral and mining heritage can be discovered via maintained walking tracks, challenging remote walks or the 4WDriving track. More than 150 species of birds have been recorded in the park, making it the perfect location for bird-watching enthusiasts.
@mrbenblance @mim.hackenberg
Don’t Miss: From the Broadwater camping area at the park’s southern end, stroll the 1km graded walk to Permanent Waterhole or, if you’re experienced, explore the Severn River. You will need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to access Red Rock Falls and camp sites along the river at the park’s northern end. Tackle the two-day circuit starting at the park’s eastern boundary and taking in Mount Lofty and Red Rock Falls.
SUNDOWN NATIONAL PARRK
MUST DO BUCKET LIST ATTRACTIONS
Best Short Walk: Red Rock Gorge lookout, 500m return (suitable for visitors with some bushwalking experience). Enjoy the wild isolation of rugged wilderness ranges from a cliff edge where pink, lichen-stained granite reflects changing hues of the shifting sun. Watch peregrine falcons dive onto unsuspecting prey and, in winter, hear mimicking lyrebirds call from deep within the gorge. 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 4WDriving track.
add symbols
Just Over The Border BALD ROCK - AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST EXPOSED GRANITE ROCK Seen Uluru and Mt Augustus? Now discover the largest exposed granite rock formation in the southern hemisphere, and the fourth largest monolith in Australia. Bald Rock, located in Bald Rock National Park (NSW) and adjoining Girraween National Park, rises to 1277m above sea level and towers about 200m above of the surrounding bushland. The awesome granite dome, 750m long and 500m wide, is water streaked, creating a striking view on any day. From the top, you are rewarded sweeping views all the way north to Mt Lindsay. Only 8km east of Bald Rock, Boonoo Boonoo National Park protects one of the region’s few remaining natural river landscapes and is home to the inspiring Boonoo Boonoo Falls, the highest in the region at a massive 210m.
Getting There: From Stanthorpe take the sealed road east across the state border to Amosfield, run south on the Mount Lindsay Road towards Tenterfield and turn right into the 6km Bald Rock National Park access road—about 40km. A vehicle day pass is required.
BICENTENNIAL NATIONAL TRAIL
Founded by R. M. Williams, the 5330‑kilometre Trail traces the pioneering history of Australia’s stockmen, all the way from Healesville in Victoria to Cooktown in Queensland. It’s Australia’s premier long distance, multi-use (cyclists, mountain bike riders, horse riders and walkers) trekking route through national parks, farmland and remote wilderness. Sections 6 and 7 pass through our region, north and south of Killarney, offering spectacular countryside. Learn more at bicentennialnationaltrail.com.au
20
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
PEDDLE TO
produce Touring cyclists have long enjoyed the safe, low-traffic country roads that run the length of the region. Combine your favourite pastime with the Granite Belt Bike Trail, a marked 34 km trail along country roads meandering past wineries and cafes. Bring your own, or hire a bike from Granite Belt Bicycle Hire and Tours. In case you get sidetracked at one of our wineries, Wine Discovery Tours can arrange to have you picked up and get you back to your accommodation. Set your pace and take the time to experience the sights, tastes and smells and stories of the region.
Granite B elt B
ike Trail
Stanthor pe
Quart
Pot Cre ek
Stanthor pe Inset
Se ve rn
Rive r
Severnle a Glen Apl
in Inset
ern Sev
River
Glen Apl
in
ern Sev
River
Legend BIKE TRA
IL
ROAD (no
t part of
ern Sev
RAILWA Y
River
MAIN ROA
trail)
Top Tip:
Download or pick up your copy of the Granite Belt Bike Trail Map - it provides information on elevation, rest areas, cafes, attractions and more!
D/HIGH
Accommodat ion Creek
WAY
Balland
REST ARE
ean
A VISITO R INFORM CENTRE ATION TOURIS
T INFORM
TOILET S WINERY COFFEE RESTAU
SHOP
RANT
Balland
ean Inse
t
ATION
www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
21
get on your bike Let’s Get Riding! The Southern Downs and Granite Belt is a great place for recreational cyclists of any level. Clean, crisp country air and a network of quiet, scenic routes provide ideal cycling conditions. Cyclists can pass by the historical buildings of Warwick, explore the vineyards of the Granite Belt or ride the backroads to any of the delightful villages throughout the region. Or get your adrenaline pumping, climb a mountain or two - we have plenty to pick from, and you will be rewarded with stunning views across the region and beyond. It’s a thrilling experience! Comprehensive maps covering easy, moderate and advanced cycling loops can be downloaded from ridethegreatdivide.com.au.
CARR’S LOOKOUT, NEAR KILLARNEY
@tineli_racing
DON’T MISS
OFF ROAD ADVENTURE
Ride through the picturesque Granite Belt for charity in That Dam Ride. thatdamride.com.au
If you prefer something with an engine, get off-road on your trail bike and check out the epic tracks. We have a number of private properties offering Motor Trail riding, including one with Endure-X facilities. Cherrabah Resort offers guests supervised quad bike rides through 5000 acres of stunning bushland. The Warwick Dirt Bike Club moto-x provides safe moto-x tracks for riders of all ages to test and improve their skills, all in a supervised, controlled environment. 4WD adventures in the Southern Downs & Granite Belt will leave every enthusiast coming back for more. There are a number of private 4X4 properties in the region. Sundown National Park and Talgai, Gambubal, Goomburra and Leyburn State Forests also offer well-maintained facilities. Or take a drive along Emu Creek Road in the Emu Vale Valley, east of Warwick. It’s appropriately named after the creek which the trek crosses several times, before concluding at the base of Mt Superbus. Don’t Miss: The Killarney State School P&F hosts the annual Killarney Border Ranges Trail Ride in March each year - an excellent family weekend. Or, dress up and ride for Prostate Cancer in the Granite Belt Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride (Sept). @sambatham239
22
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
GO WILD
FAUNA The Southern Downs & Granite Belt is an ornithologist’s paradise: •
Discover the wonder of the shy and rarely seen Albert’s Lyrebird in the Main Range National Park (Killarney).
•
Pack your binoculars to meet the high-flying Wedge Tailed Eagles over Girraween National Park, where you will also have a good chance of seeing a fair few of the over 170 bird species in the area.
•
Visit the Morgan Park Resource Reserve (Warwick) with over 20 species of birds including quails, ducks, raptors, needletails, kingfishers, fairy-wrens, honeyeaters, parrots and many more.
•
Want to spot a kangaroo? Our golf courses offer ideal viewings.
•
Guestwick Eco Resort at Cullendore Creek is a widlife sanctuary including quolls, bettongs, owls and even grey-headed flying foxes. An abundance of king parrots, Wonga pigeons, satin bowerbirds, reptiles and amphibians await the wildlife enthusiast and photographer in this area.
•
Rosenthal Scrub is seven hectares of remnant natural bush in south west Warwick, accessed via Schoch Rd, Everest Road and West View Road. As much of Warwick City was covered with this ecosystem and only 10% remains to date, the Society for Growing Australian Plants, Warwick Branch, aims to preserve this unique environmental park for education, bushwalking and bird watching.
FLORA - FIELDS OF WILDFLOWERS In Spring, the Granite Belt comes alive with wildflowers, boasting more than 800 different flowering plant species, with close to 50 listed in the Nature Conservation Act as endangered, vulnerable or rare species. Discover our wildflower trails with the Stanthorpe Rare Wildflower Consortium, who offer Wildflower Walks for interested parties. Contact the Stanthorpe or Warwick VICs for more information.
not so native, but just as beautiful As a region of four seasons, our granite soil delivers magnificent cool climate gardens and parks. In autumn, experience stunning shades of auburn and orange as our deciduous trees turn golden. Warwick is the colloquially known as the ‘City of Roses’ and it’s beautiful rose gardens are a testament to this. The region is also home to several successful lavender farms, including Aloomba Lavender near Liston. They offer visitors a visual feast of colour between November and April. In the Granite Belt, November is poppy month, where we remember those who sacrificed their lives in battle with beautiful fields of red poppies (see VICs for the best viewing locations).
www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
23
FISHING hook a line
Leslie Dam
Located 13km west of Warwick on the Cunningham Highway. Facilities include boat ramp, picnic area with toilets, boat hire and boat fuel, permits and bait available on site.
T EA CH YO U R CH IL D H O W T O FI SH A T O N E OF O U R W EL L ST O CK ED F IS H IN G L O C A T IO N S - X MARK S TH E S P O T
Connolly Dam
Located 15km south-east of Warwick on the New England Highway. Facilities include shore fishing and toilets. Electric motors permitted, but power boating prohibited. Both dams contain Golden Perch, Murray Cod, Silver Perch, Jew and Spangled Perch.
Condamine River
Enjoy the waterholes along the Condamine River. There are plenty of spots worth a try, particularly around the weir in Queens Park or over near the old Parmalat Dairy.
Glenlyon Dam
90km west of Stanthorpe towards Texas, Glenlyon Dam is one of Queensland’s well known freshwater destinations. It’s a 1800ha lake holding 254 000 ML of water at an average depth of 4.3m. Golden Perch dominate catches here, but there is the chance of tangling with a big Murray Cod. A permit (SIP) is required to fish here. Boating restrictions near the dam wall. Note: Use caution when navigating as there are large areas of standing timber and submerged logs in the upper reaches of feeder creeks. You can also hire gear and enjoy a day’s fishing at Cherrabah Resort, Elbow Valley.
Storm King Dam
A short drive south-east from the centre of Stanthorpe town. This is usually wellstocked with Murray Cod, Yellow Belly, Silver Perch, Spangled Perch and Eel-tailed catfish with fishing permits available locally from sporting stores and service stations. Storm King Dam is also a popular spot for water skiing, canoeing, kayaking, and rowing. Permits for boating are available from the Southern Downs Regional Council. You can hire canoes from Sommerville Valley Tourist Park.
Quart Pot Creek
Try your luck in front of the Stanthorpe VIC or near the Granite Street weir. Note, some areas of Quart Pot Creek are restricted.
Severn River
15km south of Stanthorpe with picnic and bbq areas. Offers great spots to cast a line off the banks (spinning lures are popular, however watch the scrub and bushes along the banks). Queens Waterhole, 5kms west of Ballandean is the only NO fishing reserve, otherwise access to most of the river is through private property, so before you set off make sure you have the landowners permission! Sundown National Park also provides access to the Severn. 24
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
FOSSICKING Thanes Creek Fossicking Area
What you may find: Try your luck at striking gold! Thanes Creek fossicking area located approximately 40km west of Warwick, is known to contain alluvial gold, first discovered in Thane in 1868. Fossickers License required. Follow the Cunningham Highway approximately 37km west of Warwick, turn right into Thanes Creek Road, continue for 5km before turning right onto Big Hill Road, 0.9km, further along, the fossicking area is located on the left. Nearby, in Thanes, is the Glendon Camping Grounds which also offers gold fossicking.
Duraki State Forest
What you may find: Gold! 27km west of Warwick on the Cunningham Highway. Three practical access routes, one to each site, off of them off the Highway. Area released as general permission areas for gold, special conditions applicable.
Swiper’s Gully Topaz
Swiper’s Gully is located in the Passchendaele State Forest, near Amiens, 13 km north-west of Stanthorpe. What you may find: Topaz and other gemstones and minerals. Fossickers Licence required. (Note: As of April 2015, a permit to traverse state forest at Swipers Gully is no longer required.)
Talgai State Forest Fossicking Area
What you may find: Gold. 35km north-west of Warwick on the Cunningham Highway. Fossickers Licence required. Available from the Warwick VIC.
horse POWER
Warwick is colloquially known as the Horse Power capital of Queensland Whether it has four legs and hooves or an engine, The Southern Downs & Granite Belt region is home to a number of top class race courses and boasts such well-known annual events as the Warwick Rodeo & Campdraft, the annual Historic Leyburn Sprints and National Polocrosse Championships. It’s adrenaline pumping action on all levels.
@stormlahiffphotography www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
25
HORSES, HORSES, HORSES
@stormlahiffphotography
Experience a ‘Real Queensland’ country cowboy rodeo and horse riding experience only 2 hours from Brisbane From iconic rodeo events to camp drafting, carriage pulling, heavy horse, mountain trail rides, equestrian, polocrosse and stud-breeding, the northern part of the region is horse mad. Warwick is home to Australia’s number one Rodeo and is the leading Polocrosse destination in the world.
Australia’s Most Famous Rodeo
SADDLE UP
There is no better way to roam the High Country than in a saddle
Maybe it’s the culture that surrounds it, maybe it’s the history behind it, but Rodeo is not like any other sport. Dress the part, learn the lingo, and experience 8 seconds of pure adrenaline. Celebrating the traditions of life on the land, the famous Warwick Rodeo & Gold Cup Campdraft takes place on the last full weekend of October. Competitors vie for the prestige and bragging rights of ’winning Warwick’, which boasts Australia’s richest campdrafting prizes. The Rose & Rodeo Festival with its colourful street carnival, craft market and street parade, supports the high flying action at the rodeo grounds.
RACE DAY ACTION
The Place for Polocrosse
s: Don’t Miwsill host
k , Warwic up, In 2019 World C e s s ro c lo o the P from g teams attractin . d the worl .com.au around lo o p rwick a .w w w w
Polo is renown as the sport of kings. Polocrosse, polo with lacrosse, is known as the King Of One Horse, and combines the best part of polo and makes it a little bit more rough and ready. Considered the world’s fastest growing equine sport, polocrosse has been played in Warwick since 1953 and is one of Australia’s leading clubs boasting numerous past and current Australian players. The club’s home in Morgan Park is the Queensland State Equestrian Centre for Polocrosse and the Australian Polocrosse Museum. Check our website for the latest polocrosse events.
Trail Riding Saddle-up and connect with the land on horseback through one of the many trail riding opportunities. Bestbrook Mountain Resort and Cherrabah Resort offer trail rides for guests and visitors. If you have your own steed, go for a ride along the pictersque Bicentennial National Trail. In August, head out the Cambanoora Gorge for the annual The Waddle and Saddle - a mixed ride for horse riders, cyclists and walkers along the historic Condamine River Road, near Killarney.
A Day at the Races Watch out for race days at Armstrong Park, Stanthorpe and Allman Park in Warwick, which always prove a top day to dress up and dust off your fascinators.
26
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
MORGAN PARK DRAGWAY
REV YOUR ENGINES Spend a day out track side where you can enjoy getting up close and personal with the cars and drivers, whether in the pits or around the ‘Show and Shine’ displays that often accompany major events.
Carnell Raceway Stanthorpe
Carnell Raceway, near Stanthorpe, offers more than 15 major event days each year. The 990-metre bitumen sealed circuit track, with a 200m drag strip, hosts drag races, motorbike races, drifting, sprints and short circuit races.
Morgan Park Raceway, Warwick
One of the busiest rural raceways in Australia, Morgan Park feature sprint events, the WDSCC Southern Downs Challenge and Queensland Super Sprint Championships. It is the home of the Queensland State Championships for motor racing, plus the state’s biggest historic motor racing festival held in July or August, hosted by the Historic Racing Car Club of Queensland.. The venue is used Monday to Thursday each week for driver/rider training, and on Friday for event practice by up to 120 participants. The well-positioned grandstands and access to the pits make this a unique motorsport experience and drivers often welcome photo opportunities and take the time to have a yarn with visitors over their prized possessions.
Morgan Park Dragway, Warwick
Get ready for serious racing, fast action with decibel challenging noise; yet it offers a great family atmosphere - often markets and a Show and Shine section will accompany events. Saturdays and Sundays are the days of action for competitions and events, with up to 150 competitors and 2000 spectators.
HISTORIC LEYBURN SPRINTS
DON’T MISS In August each year, the small rural community of Leyburn commemorates its hosting of Queensland’s first-ever Australian Grand Prix in 1949 with the Historic Leyburn Sprints. It’s an action-packed weekend; public streets are closed off in the little township, and 10,000 people gather to watch more than 200 classic cars race against the clock. leyburnmotorsprints.com.au
Sandy Creek Raceway, Allan
Located about 11kms from Warwick, this is home to the Warwick Kart Club. With at least an event a month, the track hosts championships, carnivals, grade titles and professional touring events. Sandy Creek has the reputation as one of the fastest tracks in Queensland.
www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
27
The Granite Belt is a premium wine destination, with more than 40 cellar doors and fabulous gourmet produce, surrounded by prehistoric granite formations. While the region’s reputation for award winning wine has gained national momentum in recent years, it’s the people who bring the story to life, and offer an intimate experience unlike any wine region in Australia.
AUSTRALIAN TRAVELLER 100 INCREDIBLE TRAVEL SECRETS Sprawling with green vineyards dotted with granite boulders, fresh produce and boutique wineries, this is fast becoming one of Australia’s premier wine regions.
SUMMIT ESTATE 28
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
You can taste traditional varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris – or discover our StrangeBirds – luscious and unusual alternative varieties. Wines that delight the senses and satisfy your desire for something new and exciting. The unique terroir with its longer growing season and deep granitic gravels combines with the expertise and innovative approach of the region’s winemakers and vignerons to produce wines of elegance and complexity. Cool climate wines as individual as a fingerprint.
DID YOU KNOW:
#GRANITEBELTWINE
The Granite Belt, internationally recognised as a wine region through its official Geographic Indicator (GI) status, combines much sought after granite terrior, cool climate and high altitude to create award winning wines. With more than 40 cellar doors, wine lovers are quickly adding the Granite Belt to their list of favourite wine regions.
Wine grapes were first planted on the Granite Belt in the 1860s,by the local Catholic parish priest, Father Jerome Davadi
TH E Y M A Y N O T B E G O D S , B U T IN TH E S O U TH E R N D O W N S + G R A N IT E B E LT W
E WORSHI P OUR MA KE R S A NY W AY @coryrossiter
Meet Your Winemakers Our wine producers are the gods of the land, and we want you to meet them. Unlike any other region in Australia, the Granite Belt is an intimate experience between you and the people who have planted, tended (with loving care), harvested and produced award winning wine. They love to talk about their produce and share their story. You will arrive a stranger and leave as a friend.
One of Our Wine Gods - Angelo Puglisi, Ballandean Estate Angelo, considered the patriarch of the Queensland wine industry, was born into wine! The Puglisi family was the first to establish a cellar door on the Granite Belt in 1970. The family tradition of winemaking was established in 1930 when Salvatore Cardillo brought his family to settle in the Stanthorpe area. With the flood of Italian immigrants who settled in Queensland in the first half of the century came many customs and values from the homeland…including a love of good food and wine. Salvatore planted some table grapes on his farm, and from these made quantities of bulk red wine, some of which he sold locally. His son-in-law, Alfio Puglisi, took over the farm in 1941, and this practice continued.
When the baton was passed to Angelo and Mary Puglisi in 1968, they saw the wine potential and replanted the vineyard with several varieties of wine grapes. These were some of the first wine grapes to be planted in the Granite Belt, and this vineyard continues to produce high-quality grapes today. Other Italian families followed their lead – many now celebrating generations of Granite Belt winemakers. The last few years have seen an increasing number of emerging European varieties grown with great success on the Granite Belt. It could now be said that there are more alternative (or as we call them, StrangeBirds) varieties grown here than anywhere else in Australia. www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
29
strangebird
ALTERNATIVE WINE TRAIL Let’s meet the Bird! StrangeBird is the quirky name given to the Granite Belt Wine Country’s self drive alternative wine trail. With more than 25 varieties on the trail, pursue a Strangebird and discover wines you’ve never tasted. Wines that delight the senses and quench your desire for something new and exciting. The popularity of alternative wines is skyrocketing because of their ability to match perfectly with food. Though relatively new to Australia, alternative varietals have been popular in leading European wine regions for generations. The Granite Belt, steeped in European influence, and with similar soils and climate to our European counterparts, is ideally suited to producing these amazing wine varieties and is quickly gaining recognition as Australia’s favourite for alternative wine varieties. Taste a Strangebird today!
Granite Belt Elevation Recognised as a high altitude wine region, the vineyards surrounding Stanthorpe are among the highest in Australia and the decomposed granite soil is similar to the coarse, sandy soil of France’s Southern Burgundy region.
DID YOU KNOW: To be considered alternative a variety must represent
not more than 1% of the total bearing vines in Australia as defined by the Australian Wine and Brandy Corporation (ABWC).
Wine Experiences & Education Get a group together and learn about the intricacies of wine at a private wine tasting, masterclass or vineyard tour. Want to get really serious? Do a wine weekend at the Queensland College of Wine Tourism (QCWT) - the region’s dedication to the development of the Queensland wine industry. Find out more by visiting our website or contacting the Stanthorpe VIC.
M O R E TH A N 15 0 Y EA R S O F W IN E M A K IN G H IS TO R Y 30
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
swirl, sniff, sip
BREWCATION The uninitiated have been heard to say that it takes a lot of beer to make great wine. Boutique brewing can be found in the region showcasing Queensland’s tastiest grains, in a variety of ales and lagers produced by the Brass Monkey Brew House and Granite Belt Brewery.
CIDER RULES What to do with so many apples? Make cider of course! Sutton’s Farm’s award winning apple cider is a celebration of the fruit that first made this region famous.
whiskey ways And the liquor doesn’t stop there, with the region home to Queensland’s only whiskey producer, Castle Glen Distillery. Only the freshest naturally ripened fruit, and the best ingredients go into making their taste sensations, which include, malt whiskies, fortified wines, liqueurs and even fudge.
WINE + BREWERY TOURS Let someone else do the driving on an escorted cellar door or brewery tour. Professional tour operators offer a choice of luxury 4WD or mini-coach tours. There are tours to please every one or our operators can create a personalised tour to meet your special requirements. A few great options include Fillipo’s Tours, Granite Belt Highland Maxi Tours or Wine Discovery Tours. After a unique experience? Check out Granite Belt Bicycle Tours & Hire.
GRANITE BELT BREWERY
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
KEN GARGETT @spitbucket Australian Wine Writer and Judge GREAT WINE DRIVE: Granite Belt Comes of Age Gourmet Traveller Wine, Jan 2016
“Queensland is renown for its beaches, but head inland and discover one of the most exciting up-and-coming wine regions in Australia: Granite Belt. Offering new grape varieties as well as stalwarts shiraz and chardonnay, there is quality at every turn.’’ www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
31
DELICIOUS CRISP SPARKLING WINES AND AWARD WINNING STILL WINES IN A PICTURESQUE SETTING
CELLAR DOOR OPEN WEEKENDS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 10AM-5PM (OTHER TIMES BY APPOINTMENT) GIRRAWEEN ESTATE 41 HICKLING LANE, WYBERBA (0FF OLD WALLANGARRA RD)
07 4684 3186 WWW.GIRRAWEENESTATE.COM.AU
One of the Granite Belts oldest family owned vineyard/winery/cellar door operation. Along with the traditional varieties, Golden Grove Estate specialises in alternative varieties marketed under the Strangebird banner. Our Italian, Spanish and French varieties have won multiple medals and trophies at national shows. Functions are held throughout the year, check website for details.
Phone: 4684 1291 337 Sundown Road Ballandean 4382 Email: sales@goldengroveestate.com.au | Web: www.goldengroveestate.com.au 32
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
& Restaurant Experience fresh beer on tap straight from the brewery and see how a real brewery works. Feel and smell the ingredients. Create your own beer tasting paddle. With delicious food available for lunch and dinner, great craft beer and an extensive range of local wines, Granite Belt Brewery is the perfect venue to sit back and enjoy the good things in life.
(07) 4681 1370 • 146 Glenlyon Drive, Stanthorpe Qld 4380 • www.granitebeltbrewery.com.au
Open daily from 10am Lunch, Dinner and Sunday Breakfast
‘Quintessentially Rustic Cellar Door Picturesque Vineyard Setting’ Nestled on 20 acres of immaculately maintained vineyards, Summit Estate offers a unique and unforgettable cellar door experience. We are renown for our relaxed, informative wine tasting sessions featuring premium boutique wines and friendly professional staff. Discover for yourself...
‘The Romance of Wine’
WEDDINGS, FUNCTIONS & CORPORATE EVENTS 5 Star Winery – James Halliday Wine Companion 2011, 2012, 2015, 2016 Listed in Top 10 Australian wineries to visit – 2011-2012 James Halliday Wine Companion
OPEN 7 DAYS SUMMIT ESTATE WINES, 291 Granite Belt Dr , Thulimbah QLD 4376 | Phone: (07) 4683 2011 www.summitestate.com.au | www.facebook.com/summitestatewines/
Single Vineyard, Dry Grown Granite Belt Wine
CELLAR DOOR WINE TASTING & SALES
Open Weekends & Public Holidays 10am to 4pm (other �mes by appointment)
TWISTED GUM WINES, 2253 EUKEY RD, BALLANDEAN, 07 4684 1282
Spectacular Se�ng Premium Quality Wines Environmental Focus www.twistedgum.com.au www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
33
LOCAL FLAVOURS Remember the taste of a crunchy apple picked ripe from the tree, a sweet tomato plucked straight from the vine, or beef so tender your knife just slides through? These are the flavours of the Southern Downs & Granite Belt - fresh and wholesome like the people who grew them. Buy direct from the grower, producer or maker and you will be richly rewarded. The region is a major food bowl for Queensland, with seasonal produce grown all year. It’s a foodies delight from the paddock to the pantry and the plate. Fill a wicker basket at a market and realise the joy of food in season with real flavour; taste fabulous condiments, cheeses and more; dine in one of our pubs and cafes, or attend a fantastic food event. Find out what we’ve got going and growing on; check out our calendar online and while you are there, download a recipe to two.
From The Soil Since the 1860s, the Southern Downs & Granite Belt has been one of Australia’s leading food producing regions, with over 4200 hectares of production generating close to $300,000 million. The diversity of soil from granite to volcanic loam, climate and elevation create an extremely versatile horticultural zone. Over 2100 hectares of vegetables are grown regionally, with 85 per cent of this area comprising brassicas, lettuce, beans, tomatoes, capsicums and heavy vegetables.
WE LOVE TO CELEBRATE AND EAT With a growing number of iconic events including the Stanthorpe Apple and Grape Harvest Festival, Southern Downs Harvest Lunch and Grazing the Granite Belt, a host of degustation dinners, long lunches and food and wine matching – the Southern Downs and Granite Belt is a mecca for lovers of seasonal, in region produce.
34
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
AUSSIE BEEF STEAKHOUSE
SUTTON’S
You can’t get any better than Southern Downs and Granite Belt beef. The cattle put their heads down to eat, grow and straight to the plate they go - thanks to the lush country and the perfect climate of the region. Pour a glass of Granite Belt red wine and you’ve got this region’s robust flavours presented perfectly. Greg Power, Killarney Butchery
the ultimate foodie vacation from paddock to plate The variety doesn’t end there, the region’s producers also toil the soil to grow celery, parsley, herbs, leeks, silverbeet, Asian greens, sweet corn, eggplant, garlic, celeriac, snow peas and radishes. The warmer areas of the region with heavier volcanic loam soils, including Killarney and Allora, produce potatoes, onions, carrots and pumpkins. Mushrooms may be small, but they’re big in the region, with the area producing over 1500 tonnes with a turnover of $6 million. And with year-round production, you’ll always find fresh, firm mushies at local outlets.
Meat Matters You will taste the flavours of the Southern Downs’ grasses and crops in every mouthful of local beef you find at Allora’s award-winning butchery, and there’s no better side than some creamy mashed local potato. The green hills of Killarney to the east of the region are home to a number of dairy and beef operations, producing succulent morsels. In the west, you will find sheep breeders creating succulent, award winning Mallow Organic Lamb.
Famous For Fruit The Granite Belt’s elevation and climate are perfect for fruit production, with close to 1500 hectares of orchard crops grown. The thriving industry was born through economic diversification and European cultural influence.
The fruits of the region extend far beyond apples, with sweet and juicy stone fruit, pears, persimmons, figs and olive trees also grown on the Granite Belt due to the area’s higher altitude. You haven’t experienced summer if you haven’t savoured a local strawberry! These berries are some of the best to be found in Queensland thanks to mild summer temperatures. The Granite Belt is home to over 125 hectares of production, for both fruit and runner plants.
L
To truly experience Stanthorpe’s best apples you must visit Sutton’s Farm, where you can pick your fruit straight from the tree in season (usually February to June), or take a seat in their shed café and indulge in a slice of their apple pie.
@Killarneyview
THE APPLE CAPIT A
The region is Queensland’s largest supplier of apples, with apple orchards located around the northern and western villages of Cottonvale, Thulimbah, The Summit, Applethorpe and Pozieres.
ALISON ALEXANDER
Food Consultant and Inaugrual Queensland Food Fellow
For me, the beauty of Southern Downs and Granite Belt region is the wonderful diversity of produce, year-round with the change of seasons. The chill of winter and the produce that accompanies this season is so unique to this region being the only one in Queensland that produces cool climate fruit. I savour the first apricots of Summer and annually eagerly await the apple harvest to begin, wondering which variety I will taste first. The region has flourished and is now famous for more than just apples which have been overwhelmingly eclipsed by vegetables, the hidden secret of this bountiful region. The Italian heritage is forever present and is seamlessly transformed into the modern Australian menus present in the restaurants, cafes and winery cellar doors. www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
35
Go To The Source Tourist Drives will take you past the farmgate sales like the popular ‘vege hut in the Swanfels Valley’, as well as large scale commodity crops grown at Gladfield’s and the ‘Eight Mile’. The area is known for cereal crops and sunflowers, planted in rotation as world markets demand. If you’re looking to get up close and personal with produce, and learn from the man in the know, then you need to say G’day to Sam of Sam’s Farm Fresh Fruit and Veg, Cottonvale. Be sure not to head for home empty- handed. If you haven’t found a box of vegies on the road, visit one of our local farmers markets. There’s one somewhere in the region most weekends.
Produce Pantry We have long held the tradition for preserving and preparing our food so it can be enjoyed year round. It’s what our country Nanna’s and Italian Nonna’s have taught us. Fresh produce is converted into tantalising gourmet delights; from olive oil to jam, chutney, sourdough, preserves, vinegar, cheese and more. We’ve lost count of how many awards Bramble Patch, Glen Aplin, have won for their fruit pastes, but a crowd favourite is their berry ice-cream. Just down the road is Jamworks Gourmet Foods, providores of jams and preserves, and the perfect place for a Devonshire Tea.
If you have a sweet tooth, head further south to Heavenly Chocolate in Wyberba, for all things chocolate and the best hot chocolates around. Queensland’s highest, and coldest, artisan cheese makers, Stanthorpe Cheese, produce a range of goodies made from a single herd of purebred Jersey cows. When the season is lush, the cheese is bright and earthy. When the season is frosty, the cheese is intense in flavour.
TO MARKET tanthorpe’s Market in the S Mountains on the second Sunday of the month plus some long weekends.
he Southern Queensland T Country Regional Food Network runs Seasonal Feast Food, Wine and Farmers Markets, every Friday afternoon in the Stanthorpe Piazza; and the second Saturday of the month in Warwick, plus a variety of pop-up appearances.
Don’t have time to tour the region? Visit our VICs; they are stocked full of local delights, many not available anywhere else, including Vivienne’s Cottage Sri Lankan Curry Spices, chutneys and jams.
Country Pubs And Restaurants Oozing With Character Like all good country regions, the Southern Downs and Granite Belt is dotted with pubs and bars most located in historic buildings full of charm and character.
Glengallan Seasonal Farmers Markets on the first Sunday of each season.
Uber Markets in Leslie Park, Warwick on the second Saturday of the month.
Killarney Country Markets on the first Sunday of each month.
We also offer an array of cafe and restaurant options, including lunch amongst the vines. For opening hours and menus see our VICs.
ose City Country Markets R on the second Sunday of the month in Australiana Park, Warwick.
Darling Downs Hotel arwick Pig and Calf Markets W (livestock selling - see how it’s done!) every Wednesday at the Warwick Sale Yards.
(Sandy Creek Pub)
Darling Downs Hotel Full Menu Meals
Friday & Saturday 6:00pm – 8:00pm Sunday 12 noon – 2:00pm
Phone: 4661 3413 345 Sandy Creek Road
36
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
• Snacks day everyday • Snacks allall day everyday • Cold Drinks • Cold Drinks • Tea & Coffee • Tea & Coffee • Poker Machines • Poker Machines • Pool Table & Jukebox • Pool Table & Jukebox • Friday Night Raffles • Friday Night Raffles • Functions Welcome • Functions Welcome • Courtesy Bus • Courtesy Bus
2738883aaH
‘Great Country Atmosphere’ (Sandy Creek Pub) ‘Great Country Atmosphere’
6kms from Warwick
Phone: 4661 3413 on the road to Inglewood
345 Sandy Turn right into Creek Sandy Road Creek Rd
6kms from Warwick on the road to Inglewood travel about 4kms Turn right into Sandy Creek Rd travel about 4kms
CR113572AA
fine preserves & dessertery Brisbane
• Divine berry desserts including ice-creams, waffles, sundaes, poffertjes & sorbet
Warwick Stanthorpe
Severnlea Glen Aplin Ballandean
Tenterfield
Located 15km south of Stanthorpe. 381Townsend Road, Glen Aplin (4km off highway).
• Medal winning gourmet preserves all made on-site and available for tasting • Groups welcome with catering available by appointment
d lover’s a foo
THE BRAMBLE PATCH
paradise
p. (07) 4683 4205
www.bramblepatch.com.au
Open Thursday to Monday 10am – 4pm
Open Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday 10am - 4pm and all public and school holidays. 2117 Pyramids Road Wyberba, just 2klms from the Girraween National Park
Ph 4684 5121 www.heavenlychocolate.com.au
Contact your hosts Terrie & Glenn on (07) 4684 5121 info@wisteriacottage.com.au
Enjoy a delicious European style thick and creamy Hot Chocolate in our delightful garden setting.
Relax in one of 3 fully self contained timber cottages with sweeping views of Wyberba Valley
OPEN FRIDAY TO TUESDAY
amw rk GOURMET FOODS
9:30AM 4:30PM open daily - QLD SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
7 townsend rd glen aplin, qld, 4381 PH: 07 4683 4171 www.jamworks.com.au
100% NATURAL & GLUTEN FREE PRESERVES
www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
37
GLENGALLAN HOMESTEAD
HERITAGE CULTURE Discover the legends and mountains of history in Queensland’s High Country. Let’s unravel the past; travel in the footsteps of the traditional custodians of the land, discover an intriguing colonial past or the path took by our European forebears. Our history is abundant with stories of bravery and adventures all just waiting to be shared. Brave Explorers Who Found The Gap - Botanist Allan Cunningham ventured on to the Darling Downs in 1827 and was captivated by the trees and plants he found there. What made the headlines though was his discovery of a gap in the formidable Great Dividing Range, which more than halved travel to the Downs.
OUR HISTORIC HOMESTEADS Our illustrious agricultural past saw the creation of many prominent homesteads with amazing stories and guest visits, including members of the British Royal Family. Most are still in private use today (sorry, not open to the public), but as you drive through the region you may catch a glimpse, including of the oldest grand homestead in Queensland, Canning Downs, built in the 1840s. One that welcomes visitors is the elegant Glengallan Homestead (1867), near Allora. Glengallan is a rare example of a Queensland two-story homestead of that period. Also, check out Beverley Homestead (1870s) near Severlea, which is now home to Whiskey Gully Wines.
38
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
The First Custodians The north of the region was traditionally home to two groups of people. To the west there were the Gnarabal people and to the east the Gidhaba people. The Granite Belt was a heartland of the Kambu Wal people, who used the area as their summer hunting grounds.
Scottish Nobles Seek Land In 1840, at the age of 25, Patrick Leslie, the son of the ninth Laird of Warthill, with no map and the aid of a tracker and one convict, rode more than 200 miles beyond the furthest limits of settlement in NSW. He was in search of the pastoral paradise described to him by Cunningham. The slab hut built by Patrick, Walter and George Leslie is still in use today on the Canning Downs Thoroughbred Stud.
The region exploded with majestic sandstone buildings, and grand rural homesteads.
The Great Tin Rush In 1872, tin was discovered in Quart Pot Creek and miners from around the world. At the time, it was the largest alluvial tin mining and mineral field in Queensland. A ‘more suitable’ name was sought by the town fathers - Stanthorpe. When the tin prices fell many miners turned to farming. Many were Italians who grew cool climate fruits, grapes and vegetables.
The Mountains Aid Health Many Queenslanders built Summer retreats in the mountains of Stanthorpe, especially those with health problems. The cool, dry climate was valued as an aid to health, especially for those suffering from tuberculosis or chest conditions.
MacArthur Sheep Knowledge
Soldiers Settle
Patrick and George went on to marry Australian ‘royalty’, in Catherine (Kate) and Emmeline MacArthur; their father was Governor Hannibal Macarthur and they were the great nieces of the famous Captain John Macarthur. This union brought exceptional sheep knowledge, creating one of the mostsuccessful farming regions in Australia.
Following the World War I, the Granite Belt was a major resettlement area for soldiers recovering from mustard gas exposure and others were provided with Government land leases. These settlements were named after the French battlefields – Pozieres, Messines, Fleurbaix, Amiens, and Passchendaele.
Rich Grazing Land and Prosperity The rich grazing land was like gold to the early settlers, many fellow Scottish, who were eager to make their fortune in a new land. Warwick became one of the first free settlement in Queensland and the site of the first state school outside of Brisbane.
ABBEY OF THE ROSES
DID YOU KNOW
Prisoners of War During WWII, the region was a Prisoner of War (POW) area. Many Italian and German POWs stayed on after the war ended and brought their love of food and wine with them.
The state’s first recorded case of “bushranging” was in 1864 on the road between Bodumba and Leyburn. The longest roaming bushranger in Australian history, Captain Thunderbolt, established the Bushranger Trail in the region. He purportedly used boulder formations on the Granite Belt as hideouts.
49 Albion Street Warwick QLD
next to the Visitor Information Center
Open Tue - Fri 10 am to 4 pm Sat & Sun 10 am to 1 pm Closed Mon and public holidays
(07) 46610434
www.warwickartgallery.com.au
www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
39
CULTURE + ART OUR ART AND SOUL
Our People Today, the Southern Downs and Granite Belt is home to a multi-cultural community. We have farmers who are ‘real Queenslanders’ brimming with character and whose families have toiled the land in this historical and prosperous region for generations. They have so many stories to tell. In the south, our European-descended migrants (predominantly Italian, German and some Greek) have taught us how to live life through food, wine, music and celebration. We celebrate this with annual events such as Golden Grove’s Sicilian Vintage Lunch and Kominos’ Kefi in the Vineyard, where they will welcome you like ‘Famiglia’. Then, we have those who have escaped the city, from all walks of life, to enjoy life in the ‘slower’ lane and the great outdoors. For all of us, this land is a part of our soul. We would love to share it with you!
REAL FARMERS WHO HAVE TOILED THIS PROSPER OUS LAND FOR GENERAT IONS AN D OU R EU RO PE AN HE RI TA GE TH AT M AK ES YO U FE EL LI KE FA M IG LI A
Our Musicians and Artists...From Little Things Big Things Grow The region supports a burgeoning arts community, with regular exhibitions and performances by local artists. Many draw their inspiration from the diverse landscape and culture. Talented musicians also call the Southern Downs and Granite Belt home - including renowned Australian artists James Blundell and Kev Carmody, the original singer of From Little Things Big Things Grow. From sultry jazz, the cool sounds of blues to country ballads; music vibrates through the mountains. In July each year, Warwick comes alive with Jazz at the iconic, week long Jumpers & Jazz in July Festival. A number of our wineries also host fabulous performances in the vines and under the stars, including Opera in the Vineyard at Ballandean Estate and the Robert Channon Concert Series. Every weekend, there will be live music somewhere!
A Little Bit Famous We may be small, but we like to achieve. Here are a few of our famous residents – both past and present. PLTravers: Author of Mary Poppins. J ohn Seale: Oscar winning Cinematographer - Rain Main, Cold Mountain, The English Patient, Harry Potter and Mad Max Fury Road. drienne Pickering: Actress in A Knowing, The Reef, and Home & Away. Ben Dark: Getaway TV Presenter. im McCosker and Rachel K Bermingham of 4 Ingredients. Kerry O’Brien: 7.30 Report ABC. nna Bligh: Queensland’s first A female Premier. homas Joseph Byrnes: First native T Premier of Queensland. ayne Bennett, Shane Webcke and W Billy Moore: Rugby Champions. Jackie Howe: Champion shearer. reg Ritchie, Wilf Brown and Alan G Marshall: Cricket champions. aura Geitz: Australian Netball L Captain. raham Turner: Flight Centre G Founder. ric Roush: Pharmaceutical chemist E and radio personality. Sir William Flood, High Court Judge.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JAMES BLUNDELL
Country Music Hall of Fame and ARIA Winner This is home! It’s always been my favourite part of the planet. I’ve been very privileged to have had a lot of travel over the years, and I keep coming back to this spot.” @thejblundell
40
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
Exceptional Regional Galleries To Explore The Warwick Art Gallery and the Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery are exceptional, offering international, Australian and local art exhibitions full of life and colour. Both also house excellent permanent collections, including works by William Robinson, Jon Molvig, Margaret Olley, Charles Blackman, Ken Done, Jorg Schmeisser, Dr Ian Henderson, James Guppy, Ian Smith and Mostyn Bramley-Moore. Generous donations from Pamela Bell O.A.M., and William Bowmore A.M. have added considerable depth to the Stanthorpe collection with a number of European artists including Pablo Picasso represented. Don’t miss the annual Stanthorpe Art Festival (Jun-July). The Warwick Art Gallery has a significant collection of historic landscapes, including paintings by Kenneth McQueen and Ray Crooke. It also houses an exciting array of textile art from previous Jumpers & Jazz in July Festivals.
Our Talented Local Artists Local artworks are also on display at our fabulous private galleries, such as Bush Rock Gallery south of Stanthorpe, and wineries. Don’t miss local art events such as the annual It’s a Case of Art in the Mill and Art in the Woolshed. For a crafty affair, you will find great local craft at one of our local markets.
Taking Art Outdoors The Southern Downs Sculpture Trail is a must for lovers of public art. The trail consists of monumental artworks, which celebrate the region’s history and culture, created by local and international artists from local materials (sandstone and granite). For information on the Trail see one of our VICS. For a true outdoor art experience, don’t miss Warwick’s annual Jumpers & Jazz in July Festival. The Roll Up Tree in Stanthorpe’s Piazza, the three metre high Wine Barrel Totem Pole overlooking Quart Pot Creek, and the Brass Monkey by sculpture Chris Humphries are just a few of the outstanding public art pieces that dot the Granite Belt.
JUMPERS & JAZZ IN JULY
TOP THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS 03
Looking for family fun, like you had when you were a child?
Discover Granite caves of bushranger Captain Thunderbolt at Donnelly's Castle.
The unhurried pace of the Southern Downs & Granite Belt will give your children the chance to experience open space and fresh country air...and life long memories.
Australiana Park, Warwick. It’s the first of it’s kind in Queensland.
01
04 Ride the 30 metre flying fox at
05 Meet the local legends including the
Ride around Quart Pot Creek (Stanthorpe) or along the Condamine River (Warwick) stopping at playgrounds or to meet the local ducks along the way.
Tiddalik the Frog (Warwick), the Big Apple (Summit), Fruitisforus (Ballandean), the Pyramid (near Ballandean), and the Brass Monkey (Stanthorpe).
Pick your own strawberries and have a yummy ice-cream or coffee at Strawberry Fields. Pick apples and taste cider at Sutton’s Farm. Or milk a cow and try one of the freshest milkshakes at the Stanthorpe Cheese Factoy. (in season)
Step back in time at the Stanthorpe Museum’s Gaol or climb the red fire truck. Or see real steam trains, like Thomas the Tank, by visiting the Warwick Steam Railway.
02
06
07
FAMILY FUN
Feed the birds and look for koalas at Queen Mary Falls National Park.
08
See captivating Lawdogs in training or discover farm animals at Cherrabah Resort.
09 Be amazed at the Granite Belt Maze. 10 Visit the Warwick Indoor Recreation
and Aquatic Centre, a state-of-the-art complex that blends health and pleasure with four heated pools including a hydrotherapy pool and rapid river ride, along with sports courts, rock climbing, a gymnasium and much more. In summer, take a dip in public swimming pools in Allora, Killarney and Stanthorpe.
www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
41
SEASONS Sitting high on the Great Dividing Range, more than 1000m above sea level, creates a region of four seasons and a climate a world away from Queensland counterparts. It can even snow. The seasons guide life in the Southern Downs and Granite Belt.
Your must go place for winter!
4
The food we produce, the grapes we turn into award-winning wine, the gardens we grow and the lifestyle we enjoy, all depend on the turn of the season. We celebrate this with a rich historical and cultural heritage, with rustic country hospitality. From large festivals, outdoor pursuits to quirky community celebrations and musical talent, there is an event on most weekends to keep you entertained.
42
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
@coryrossiter
get outdoors in summer
CLIMATE The Southern Downs & Granite Belt is warm in summer, but breathtakingly chilly in winter. Though our northern areas, including Warwick, are usually 1-3 degrees warmer than the more elevated Granite Belt. The region is the perfect place to escape the coastal humidity; on average, our summers are approxiamtely five degrees lower in some parts of the region than Brisbane or the Gold Coast with little to no humidity. Layer dressing is the key, as even in winter, from below zero overnight our sunny days can warm up to almost 20 degrees. Always bring a jacket for the evenings.
Winter: Brass Monkey Season Winter is the time to snuggle up in front of a roaring fire and wake to frosty mornings and hazy fog that clears to reveal crisp, clear days. ‘Jack Frost’ visits often; and if you’re very lucky, you will see falling snowflakes in our southern parts. In the Granite Belt, it’s colloquially known as Brass Monkey Season! There is a feeling of indescribable freshness that is invigorating for your soul. Wrestle on the boots and wind a few scarves around your neck and head outdoors. Afterwards, get cosy by the fire savouring slow cooked food, and sensational winter reds. June, July and August are our busy season as visitors flock to chase potential snow and enjoy festivals such as Warwick’s Jumpers and Jazz in July, Christmas in July, Historic Leyburn Sprints, Snowflakes in Stanthorpe and Killarney’s Bonfire Night.
Summer Get outdoors and experience the nature and adventure of the region. This is the perfect time to escape the humidity of the Queensland coast and spoil yourself with stunning summer days, with a fresh breeze that melts into beautiful sunsets and reveal spectacular starry nights. In summer, the paddocks are full of produce; and in the north sunflowers are in bloom. Summer is also the time to explore the great outdoors trekking or 4WDriving though our national parks or watersports on rivers and dams.
Autumn Harvest Fall in love with Autumn. It begins as the leaves on our stately trees turn a vibrant burst of reds, yellows and oranges. The romantic colours on the ground mirror those of the sky, as the sunsets sink to nights cool enough to light a fire. Our paddock to plate produce is being harvested to create unique culinary experiences, including Grazing the Granite Belt. This is apple country – the first apples of the season are picked. Shop roadside for tree-ripened apples and stone fruit and then pack them in your picnic lunch. It’s also vintage time – vignerons have carefully brought in their grapes for crushing to produce award winning wines. Once the harvest and vintage are over - it’s time to celebrate and experience life in full colour.
JUMPERS & JAZZ IN JULY
Spring: Granite Belt Primavera Spring is a beautiful time to visit the Southern Downs & Granite Belt, as the area is in bloom with rare wildflowers and apple blossoms, days are sunny and nights are perfectly cool. Apart from the visual feast, many new wine releases are celebrated with events across the region. Celebrate at the Granite Belt’s Primavera Festival, Italian for spring, and enjoy sensational events, as locals share their passion for food, wine, art, music, culture and nature. Or head to Killarney for the decadent Southern Downs Harvest Lunch. In Warwick, it’s Rodeo Time – experience 8 seconds of pure action!
CELEBRATE the seasons WITH US www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
43
EVENT CALENDAR 2016
See the full events calendar at southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
JAN
Allora Heritage Weekend 23 -25 Jan
Stanthorpe Show 29 - 30 Jan
FEB
Allora Show 5 - 6 Feb
Killarney Show 19 – 20 Feb
Stanthorpe Apple & Grape Harvest Festival 29 Feb – 6 Mar
Morgan Park Raceway Events 13, 20, 27 Feb
MAR
Morgan Park Raceway Events 12, 19 Mar
Warwick Show 18—20 Mar
Border Ranges Trail Ride, Killarney 19 – 20 March
Barastoc Interstate Polocrosse, Warwick 25-27 March
APR
Morgan Park Raceway Events Every weekend in April
MAY
Opera in the Vineyard, Ballandean Estate 1 May
Grazing the Grantite Belt, Ballandean 14 May
Warwick Pentath Run, Warwick 21 – 22 May
Slydogz Rokz, Stanthorpe 27 May
JUNE
Australian Superbike Championship, Morgan Park
JULY
Snowflakes in Stanthorpe 1 – 3 Jul
Historic Racing Car Club, National Historics, Morgan Park 2-3 Jul
Jumpers and Jazz in July, Warwick 21 – 31 Jul
AUG
SEP Warwick Rodeo Weekend 24 - 30 Oct
44
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
NOV
Rocking the Vines, Ballandean 27 March
Historic Leyburn Sprints 20 - 21 Aug
Cambanoora Gorge Waddle & Saddle Killarney 28 Aug
Southern Downs Harvest Lunch, Killarney 17 Sep
OCT
Stanthorpe Rocks, Ballandean 11 – 13 Nov
Warwick Campdraft, Warwick 24 – 30 Oct
BARINGA NURSERY
Baringa Nursery, for all your Flowers, Trees and Shrubs, Inspiration, Products and Service, to satisfy every gardener’s needs. ll “We Sean Australie Nativ Trees”
Nursery Opening Hours Wednesday to Sunday - 9.00 am to 5.00 pm (Coffee and Snacks available in Coffee Shop)
674 Killarney Road, Warwick 4370 Phone: 07 4667 1700 | Mobile: 0414 881 395
Big W, BiLo, Woolworths and NEED A
Gift
Break
FRESHEN YOUR
PACK A
Look
45 SPECIALTY STORES
TAKE A
Picnic
rosecityshoppingworld.com.au |
81 Palmerin Street, Warwick Q 4370 07 4667 0142
For all your financial needs
Come and see our friendly staff today lending insurance savings business rural investment Proud supporters of our local community events
1300 72 44 33
wcu.com.au
Warwick Credit Union AFSL / Australian Credit Licence No: 240556
www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
45
sleep under
AMAZING
starry nights
Book online! he best place to book your T accommodation is online. Go to southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au to start planning your trip and itinerary now. Travelling with a pooch; check out our pet-friendly options. IP: Be sure to ask your provider T about dinner reservatIons during peak seasons, festivals and public holidays.
ALURE STANTHORPE
ACCOMMODATION
Get Packing
SPRING CREEK COTTAGES & CAFE
Time in the country will stay with you forever. It gets into your soul...
From cozy B&Bs, self contained cottages and cabins, lovingly restored heritage properties, luxury glamping, budget camping, architecturally designed deluxe studios to modest and conveniently located motel accommodation, the Southern Downs & Granite Belt is your accommodation destination. Most are located close to nature or wineries. After a day in the great outdoors, come back to a cosy retreat and put your feet up in front of a wood fire. Our accommodation venues are unique and boutique. This is not the place for mass hotel chains, but we can promise you personal attention and country hospitality with all the convenience and style you need.
take in the R ON THE DOWNS
view
A Place of Luxury
Tucked away overlooking vineyards, on top of mountain ranges and at the foothills of giant granite boulders, you will find luxury escapes and hideaways. It’s the perfect place to come with your special ‘someone’s’.
Backpackers
Calling backpackers, this is the place for you. Not only do we offer excellent accommodation facilities and amazing things to do, but in season, there is also a myriad of work opportunities.
KILLARNEY VIEW
Let’s Get Camping From basic amenities to full-service, there are plenty of private and public campgrounds to suit your style of adventure and comfort. Whether you’re hiking into a backcountry campsite or parking your RV, you’ll still be able to witness Big Sky starry nights in Queensland’s High Country. After a few modern comforts, check out our excellent tourist parks which offer cabins, camping kitchens, ensuites, entertainment rooms, outdoor activities and more. For those wanting to get away from it all, our national parks offer good camping facilities. Need to pull up for a short stop - Motorist Rest Areas are located in Dalveen and Allora.
CONFERENCE & EVENTS
Looking for somewhere different to host a conference, work retreat or family reunion? Our stunning backdrop, heritage buildings and fresh mountain air will inspire you and your guests.
With state of the art conference and function facilities at the Queensland College of Wine Tourism and Happy Valley Retreat in Stanthorpe, Cherrabah Resort in Elbow Valley, and the Coachman’s Inn, Warwick, a Southern Downs & Granite Belt conference is unique and competitively priced.
catch up around a
campfire
DIAMONDVALE
Before, after or during your event, discover the art of wine blending, expand your creative prowess with an art class, learn how to crack a whip or ride in a rodeo, get a VIP tent at one of our many events or climb a mountain. Experiences like this make memorable moments! Our VIC Visitor Consultants are available to help you with venue and service options, accommodation including pre/post touring or team building options for your guests, unique gifts, plus general visitor information and maps.
SEVERN-DIPITY
Imagine an event in a vineyard, near a waterfall, in a 150-year-old grand homestead or maybe a fruit shed!
get cozy by the
woodfire
TIE THE
Enchanting and quirky photo opportunities with dozens of superb locations to capture your special day!
KNOT
@coryrossiter @edwinarobertson
Who could say no to romance amid the vines, a proposal under a waterfall or high above the mountains? But the proposal that every girl dreams of is just the first step in the region’s wedding artistry. Get married away from the maddening crowds. This is not a region of large, mass venues - the Southern Downs & Granite Belt offers unique, visually captivating and intimate options perfect for your special day. Our gardens are simply perfect for spring and summer weddings, with roses and lavender in bloom, or what about a more natural setting in one of our many forests or national parks. Perhaps you’d love to wed beside a sparkling lake, a tumbling waterfall, overlooking a vineyard, in a rustic country shed or amongst the barrels at a winery.
Kahler’s
@coryrossiter
For traditionalists, we have the stunning, historic St Mary’s Warwick sandstone cathedral and numerous churches and chapels dotted across the region. Spoil your guests as local chefs work their magic with fresh seasonal produce, creating sensational lunch, cocktail or dinner menus matched to our celebrated regional wines and boutique beers. Return for your wedding anniversary and discover the delights of the region again and again.
Oasis Caravan ParK
• 2 bedroom holiday units • Ensuite cabins • New playground area • Drive Thru powered sites • Campers Kitchen • Rural setting and room to move CR113095AA
98 Wallace Street (New England Hwy), WARWICK 4370
Tel: 07 4661 2874 | admin@kahlersoasis.com.au | www.kahlersoasis.com.au 48
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
TOURS & TOURIST DRIVES
WINE DISCOVERY TOURS
Get off the beaten track and make amazing discoveries
TOURS
Exploring the region’s natural scenery, winding country lanes, boutique wineries, fabulous food providores and unique attractions is best done in the company of local experts who know all the secrets of this beautiful region. Tours can be tailor-made based on your interest. Granite Highlands Maxi Tours and Fillipos Tours offer a range of tour options in their coaches and local drivers enjoy sharing their personal stories of the region. Granite Highlands also offer day trips from Warwick and Toowoomba, plus overnight trips from Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Fillopos offer a full day tour from Brisbane to the Granite Belt, returning at 8pm. Wine Discovery Tours offer personalised tours from the comfort of a large Volkswagen with luxurious seating for 6 guests. Get active and take a Granite Belt Cycle Tour or hire one of their bikes to ride through the region; they will even deliver them to your accommodation!
Tourist Drives, Trails & Itineraries Enjoy the freedom of doing your own thing, but with so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start! To make it easy and to get the most out of your stay, we have put developed suggested itineraries, trails and tourist drives. Follow one of our Top 10 Tourist Drives; if you love wine, discover the famous Strange Bird Alternative Wine Trail, or grab our Heritage Guide and take a walk through history. If you are after a more personalised itinerary, speak to our friendly and knowledgeable staff at our VICs.
top 10 tourist drives 01 Sprint Route: 137km drive takes you
through the via Allan, Cunningham, Pratten, Leyburn, Karara and Thane. It’s all about gold and sprint car racing.
02
Settlers’ Route: 72km round trip via Swan Creek, Yangan, Swanfels Valley, Tannymorel and Killarney; takes you through stunning scenery within a back drop of the Main Range mountains.
03
Falls Drive: It’s all about water and amazing views. 190km via Queen Mary Falls, Carr’s Lookout, The Head, Teviot Falls, Boona and Aratula. An alternate circle route for 4WD vehicles is via the 14 River Crossings
04 Sunflower Route: 66km via
Massie, Allora and Glengallan (along the New England Highway). In Summer, see blooming sunflowers in abundance.
05 Cedar Route: 62km via Swan Creek,
lovers and finishes with some great wineries.
06
Shearer’s Way: 90 kilometres Head west via Texas Road, Glenlyon Dam Road and Mingoola Road to the Bruxner Highway.Go onto Glenlyon Dam or Sundown National Park.
Freestone, Gladfield, Goomburra Section of Main Range National Park. The name “Cedar Route” comes from the timber which originally thrived in the area.
Granite Belt Drive: 12km. The route runs parallel with the New England Highway past some of the Granite Belt’s fruit orchards and through the villages & hamlets of Dalveen, Cottonvale, Thulimbah and The Summit.
07
Armistice Way: 34 km via Thulimbah, Poziers and Amiens. Recognising returning soldier heroes from WWI, the route will also take you past some of our largest fruit and vegetable producers.
09 10
Oracles Way: 64km of scenic back roads to Tenterfield via Amosfield and Mount Lindsay Road, past national parks and beautiful farmland. Download full itineraries and map information online southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au or visit our VICs.
08
Highland Drive: Take the 31km scenic route to Ballandean via Storm King and Eukey. This drive is perfect for nature a www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
49
Real Estate
for property in Warwick
Real Estate and Property Sales on the Southern Downs, Queensland
0408 457 496
Rentals & Property Management “looking after YOU”
07 4661 3663 53 Fitzroy Street, Warwick
www.helenharm.com COMFORT INN WARWICK When you want a quiet, peaceful stay in spacious, clean surroundings then Comfort Inn Warwick provides all you need. First impressions are pleasantly met by the century old sandstone homestead, ‘La Mascotte’ which welcome you as you drive in. Gardens with colourful flowering plants, lavender, roses and jasmine fill the garden beds throughout the complex creating a sensory pleasing atmosphere. 57 Victoria Street, Warwick QLD
07 4661 1699 WWW.COMFORTINNWARWICK.COM.AU
Warwick Rodeo & Gold Cup Campdraft 24th to 30th October 2016 07 4661 9060 | www.warwickshowandrodeo.com.au | info@warwickrodeo.com.au 50
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
Great Country For with
Hospitality activities
Cherrabah offers a unique holiday experience for everyone. You are welcome to come out and stay for the week and participate in our large array of activities, or why not just make a day of it.
The Ideal Venue for • Family getaways • Weddings • Conferences • Students groups • Budget accommodation and camping available • Licensed Restaurant Open for breakfast, lunch and evening meal
for all………
Phone 4667 9177 or email: reception@cherrabah.com.au www.cherrabah.com.au or find us on facebook
Race into
Rupert’s
For the very best of local produce and wine.
Ice cold beers Large groups can be Mouthwatering steaks catered for Great seafood and tempting desserts Ring to book your table
Rupert’s Bar & Grill at Coachman’s Inn Warwick
07 4660 2100
rts
rupe
www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
51
VINEYARD
COTTAGES CAFE
&
All CottAges Are serviCed dAily.
RESTAURANT 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.
28126 New England Highway, Ballandean Stanthorpe QLD 4382 E: info@vineyardcottages.com.au | www.vineyardcottages.com.au
07 4684 1270
“Grown up Flavours for Grown up Palates”
72 Herbert St, Allora, Queensland • www.frogandswallow.com.au
Ph: 07 4666 3682
Tues-Fri 8am – 4pm, Sat 8am – 3pm, Sun 8am – 2pm
Stanthorpe Cheese and Jersey Girls Café Stanthorpe Cheese is the Granite Belt’s only true farmhouse cheese maker. We milk our herd of Jersey cows daily to produce our award-winning range of handmade, gourmet cheeses. The farm shop is open daily 10am – 4pm. Light meals and great coffee and milkshakes in our Jersey Girls Café. We stock a huge range of other local gourmet products, all chosen to perfectly accompany your cheese platter for happy hour tonight.
52
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
Phone 07 4685 2277 Find us on Stanthorpe’s NORTH side Cnr Amiens Rd & Duncan Lane, Thulimbah QLD 4376 www.stanthorpecheese.com.au
Enjoy the experience of a cellar door with a difference. Wine tasting in the winery with the winemaker whilst overlooking the vineyard at 900 metres elevation. Showcasing an extensive range of medal winning red & white, sweet & dry wines from ten varietals. Our shiraz has twice won best Queensland shiraz and the coveted Dick DeLuca trophy. First solar powered and fully insulated winery in QLD. Specialising in many aged red wines. All wines hand crafted and bottled on the premises.
Come and enjoy!
Opening Times: Friday to Monday 9:30am to 4:30pm and Public Holidays. 94 Mount Hutton Road via Texas Road -14km just ten minutes from town. Email: gcasley@hotmail.com Mob: 0427 099 981
www.casleywines.com CHEnin BLAnC. SAuVignOn BLAnC. ViOgniER. VERDELHO. SEMiLLOn. CHARDOnnAy. MuSCADELLO. SHiRAz. CABERnET. MERLOT. MuSCAT
Vineyard
Winery
Cellar Door
Pyramids Road Wines Small volume production All wines produced and bottled on site Personalised service and attention We do everything from grape to glass 25 Wyberba Lane Wyberba via Ballandean Q 4382
Mob: 0432 849 212
Open daily 10:00am to 4:30pm
including school holidays & public holidays
Ph: (07) 4684 5151 info@pyramidsroad.com www.pyramidsroad.com.au
www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
53
Granite Highlands Maxi Tours Specialize in Winery Tours in Stanthorpe. We invite you to join us on our tours throughout the Granite Belt – sampling from a variety of award winning wines and learning more about our great region!
www.maxitours.com.au Freecall – 1800 852 969 P/F: (07) 4681 3969 | M: 0417 192 179
VINEYARD COTTAGES
& CAFE RESTAURANT
The Vineyard Café ...... à la carte dining in Ballandean/Stanthorpe Vineyard Cottages is one of the few retreats offering à la carte in the Stanthorpe area, boasting its own licensed restaurant. The award winning Vineyard Café retains the special ambience of the old country church in which it is set, and offers a warm welcome with caring and generous hospitality. The Vineyard Cafe Dinner menu and the Vineyard Cafe Lunch menu blends culinary tradition with the intelligent use of a wide range of fresh local produce with an increasing emphasis on locally grown and organic sources. Simplicity, quality and freshness are the cornerstones to the creation of our fine cuisine.
28126 New England Highway, Ballandean Stanthorpe QLD 4382 E: info@vineyardcottages.com.au | www.vineyardcottages.com.au
54
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
07 4684 1270
Bookings are essential Ph 07 4684 1270
À la carte dining is available to in house guests of Vineyard Cottages 7 days and may be served to the guest's cottage, in the garden, or in the restaurant.
Opening hOurs The Vineyard Cottages Cafe & restaurant is open to the public. Dinner Wednesday Sunday from 6pm Dinner Mon/Tue please call. Lunch Saturday - Sunday 11.30am - 2.30pm
Nestled in 100 acres of bushland and only minutes from leading Qld wineries & national parks. These cosy 1 & 2 bedroom cottages offer every luxury and a tranquil, romantic escape . . .
.
. Log Fires . Crockery & Linen . Fluffy Bathrobes & Toiletries . Complimentary Port & Chocolates . BBQ . Relaxing Surroundings . Carports . Standard Rates from $140 . Close to Wineries www.accommodationcreekcottages.com.au bookings@accommodationcreekcottages.com.au
Sundown Road, Ballandean Phone: (07) 4684 1144 Mobile: 0417 143 819
Aussie Beef Steakhouse is all about fresh flavours, combined with local produce & …… damn fine steak. Listen to the log fire crackle, enjoy a local wine & see what everyone is talking about.
Open Tues - Sat from 6pm
1 High St, Stanthorpe Ph: 07 4681 1533 www. HighStreetMotorInn.com.au or www.AussieBeefSteakhouse.com.au
TOUR PROFESSIONALS
Showing you the best of the Granite Belt District Stanthorpe Tours with Filippo’s, the tour specialists are for people who enjoy great wine, great food and a great day out on the Granite Belt near Stanthorpe. Discover the famous wineries and special places of interest, whilst enjoying award winning wines with friends. All our drivers are courteous and knowledgeable in the Stanthorpe South East Queensland
www.filippostours.com.au p: 07 4681 3130 m: 0409 877 973 e: tours@filippostours.com.au
FREE CALL 1800 020 383 www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
55
BESTBROOK MOUNTAIN RESORT FARMSTAY
PITSTOP LODGE GUESTHOUSE AND B&B
Whether it is a weekend away with the kids or time to catch up with friends Bestbrook is the destination for you. With self contained cabins, great bush camping, licensed restaurant, Horse riding for all ages and FREE farm activities. The simple pleasures is what makes us unique.
Self-contained Queenslander, can accommodate up to 12 guests in 3 queen bedrooms and 6 dorm-style single beds and 2 bathrooms. Also self-contained cottage (double room with ensuite). Ideal for groups, couples or singles. All linen supplied. Undercover parking. Walking distance to CBD.
p: 07 4666 1282 w: www.bestbrook.com.au e: bestbrook@bestbrook.com.au
p: 07 4661 9393 m: 0417 620 648 w: www.pitstoplodge.com.au e: info@pitstoplodge.com.au
9790 Cunningham Highway, Maryvale Qld 4370
53 Canning Street Warwick QLD 4370
ABBEY OF THE ROSES
KILLARNEY SUNDOWN MOTEL/TOURIST PARK
1891 heritage couples only country manor is a must stay at destination for your buck list. Take a ride on the bikes, play a game of tennis or giant chess, read a book or watch one of the 600 movies on offer. Enjoy the serenity and peace of life with a port in the drawing room before dinner. Murder Mystery, Christmas in July, seasonal occasions, wedding receptions for 120. Tours most week days, phone first.
p: 07 4661 9777 w: www.abbeyoftheroses.com
p: 07 4664 1318 e: sundownmotel@hotkey.net.au
8 Locke Street, Warwick QLD
2-4 Pine Street, Killarney QLD
BUCKAROO MOTOR INN
JACKIE HOWE MOTEL
The Buckaroo Motor Inn is a top-quality motel accommodation complex in a beautiful location, Warwick Queensland. Staffed by friendly hospitality professionals, the inn is a clean, comfortable, affordable place to spend a night - not a fortune. We offer groundfloor motel accommodation with an outdoor pool, just a 3-minute walk from Warwick town centre.
APPLE & GRAPE HARVEST FESTIVAL
p: 07 4661 3755 w: www.buckaroomotorinn.com.au 86 Wood Street, Warwick QLD 4370
56
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
Clean comfortable affordable accommodation. All units fully self contained. New caravan/camping park with all amenities. Wifi / Pet friendly Dump site BBQ Area Laundry
At Jackie Howe Motel we have 26 air conditioned rooms which can accommodate from 1 person in our Double (Queen) rooms right up to a group of 6 in our fully self-contained, 3 bedroom unit. All of our rooms are ground level with a car park located directly outside of you front door. Guests can also enjoy FREE wireless internet and FREE Foxtel in all rooms.
p: 07 4661 2111 w: www.jackiehowemotel.com.au 65 Victoria St,Warwick
KILLARNEY HOTEL MOTEL
MALLOW COTTAGE
Appreciate the quiet town of Killarney and stay at the Killarney Hotel Motel. Meals available everyday. Stay upstairs of the Killarney Hotel in a single, twin, double or queen room and relax on the verandah and enjoy the picturesque views. Light continental breakfast is included. Modern Motel adjacent with Self-Contained Units, Queen beds, Air Con, TVs. (disabled access and facilities available).
Peaceful, idyllic rural retreat just 15 minutes from Stanthorpe. Tastefully furbished 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms ideal for families and groups. Wellbeing program, walks, fishing, birdlife and canoeing. Also home to Mallow Certified Organic Lamb Finalist 2011 and 2014, and Medalist 2012 Delicious Magazine Produce Awards. Order direct and pick up from the farm.
p: 07 4664 1313 w: www.killarneyhotelmotel.com.au
m: 0401 557 338 w: www.mallow.net.au e: cottage@mallow.net.au
17 Willow Street Killarney QLD 4373
SEVERN-DIPITY
Private and secluded in bushland on Severn River. Modern, fully equipped 2 bedroom 2 bathroom cabin with sauna. Self-contained. Experience the Severn Sins. Midweek and summer specials available. Also Terata House 3 bedrooms/2 bathrooms renovated Queenslander with 360 degree views of the working farm from 4 decks. Features a wood fired pizza oven and open plan living.
p: 07 4684 1300 e: sdip@halenet.com.au 38 Mungall Lane, Ballendean QLD 4382
BIRDHOUSE COTTAGE AND B&B Stay in our picture-pretty B&B homestead or spacious self-contained cottage, on a relaxing 3.2 acres of charm and comfort just minutes to Warwick and a short drive to Stanthorpe’s wine region. Sip drinks on the verandah while the sun sets. Light the barbeque, yarn around the campfire and relax.
m: 0427 297 576 w: www.birdhousecottage.com.au 401 Lyndhurst Lane, Warwick QLD 4370
1929 Texas Road Stanthorpe QLD 4380
31 THE ROCKS Villas with Style ‘Relax – Revive – Re-energise’ Studio, one bedroom and two bedroom villas each with unique aspect and privacy. Stylish, modern design with comfort in mind, wood fire, reverse cycle air conditioner, TV/DVD/ Stereo, complimentary DVD library, electric blanket. Packages available. Allow us to ensure your stay is memorable. Private 10 acre property with valley views and rock outcrops.
p: 07 4681 2726 w: www.31therocks.com 31 Brunckhorst Avenue Stanthorpe QLD 4380
GUESTWICK ECO RESORT Guestwick is an eco friendly resort where you can come relax, enjoy the beautiful surroundings while enjoying nature. The property was once part of a large cattle station and then developed into a resort style hide away that has resident quolls, bettongs, bandicoots, bats, owls & possums to name just a few.
p: 4667 9145 w: www.guestwickecoresort.com.au 333 Cullendore Creek Road, Cullendore NSW
www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
57
STACEY’S AT THE GAP
Stacey’s At The Gap is surrounded by 640 acres of bushland adjacent to Main Range National Park, abundant with native flora and fauna and is located just 30 min drive east of Warwick and just over an hour drive from Brisbane. This private venue is fully catered, so leave the washing up and hard work to us.
p: 07 4661 5588 w: www.mcnevins.com.au
PO Box 460, Warwick QLD 4370
Cnr New England Hwy & Glen Rd, Warwick
VINEYARD COTTAGES
KILLARNEY VIEW CABINS & CARAVAN PARK
Situated near the small village of Ballandean just south of Stanthorpe with views across the Ballandean valley to the Roberts Ranges. Perfectly positioned for visiting Queensland’s premier wineries, of which there are now more than 50.
Killarney View is 10 klm’s from Queen Mary Falls. Our cabins offer all the comforts you would expect from 3.5 and 4 star cabins, while still giving you that great country getaway. Enjoy the space and views from our large level powered caravan sites and our flat grassed camping area offering powered and non powered sites.
p: 07 4684 1270 w: www.vineyardcottages.com.au
p: 07 4664 1522 w: www.killarneyview.com.au
28126 New England Highway, Ballandean QLD
Cnr O’Maras & Claydons Road, Killarney QLD
COACHMAN’S INN WARWICK
CITY VIEW MOTEL
Coachman’s Inn comprises of 29 well-appointed units - queen, queen & king single, family, dual key operation and king spa suites as well as 2 bedroom serviced apartments. The property includes a swimming pool and guest laundry. Coachman’s Inn also boasts a magnificently appointed licensed restaurant - Rupert’s Bar & Grill - with an extensive a la carte menu.
Whatever reason for visiting, business or leisure, sport or family commitments, shopping or appointments the 3.5 star motel can accommodate you. We are a family owned and operated business where guests are treated as friends. With 10 modern, fully equipped, ground floor rooms we are offer split system reverse cycle a/c & under covered parking for all rooms.
p: 07 4660 2100 w: www.coachmans.com.au
p: 07 4661 5000 www.cityviewmotelwarwick.com.au
91 Wood Street, Warwick QLD
58
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
McNevin’s Warwick features beautifully appointed facilities, with a range of rooms including spacious, luxury spa suites and huge family rooms. Conveniently located just minutes south of the CBD, beside the Warwick hospital. Enjoy our fully licensed restaurant and cocktail lounge, our friendly staff looking after your every need.
p: 07 4666 1240 w: www.staceys.com.au
Seven beautiful cottages nestled in established formal gardens that maintain their beauty and perfumes all year and host a variety of birdlife.
GO APPLE PICKING
McNEVIN’S WARWICK MOTEL AND GUNYAH RESTAURANT
Cnr Cunningham Hwy & Yangan Road, Warwick
KAHLER’S OASIS CARAVAN PARK
GORDON COUNTRY
Offering a range of accommodation from holiday units and ensuite cabins to powered sites and camping.
Set on more than 4,000 acres - Gordon Country provides an endless and eclectic array of activities.
We are a well respected rural park in a large open area that gives you room to move. Plunge in the pool, surf the net, visit the many attractions or attend an event at nearby Morgan Park.
Whether it’s relaxation you want and reading a book by a running creek, or getting active and hiking to one of the many mountain peaks, rest assured you won’t be disappointed with the adventure or laid back selections.
p: 07 4661 2874 w: www.kahlersoasis.com.au
p: 07 4666 6179 m: 0488 318 911 w: www.gordoncountry.com.au
98 Wallace St (New England Hwy), Warwick QLD 4370
1847 Inverramsey Road, Goomburra QLD 4362
R ON THE DOWNS BNB & SPA COTTAGES
CHERRABAH HOMESTEAD RESORT
• Award winning 4 1/2 star affordable luxury • Relax, Refresh, Re-ignite that something special only 15 mins from Warwick 2 hrs Brisbane • Enjoy the panorama of Swanfels Valley, Yangan close to nature, history, culture, attractions • Complimentary surprises and full country breakfasts included • Couples, singles, groups welcome
Cherrabah offers a unique holiday experience for everyone. You are welcome to come out and stay for the week and participate in our large array of activities, or why not just make a day of it. · Family getaways · Weddings · Conferences · Students groups · Budget accommodation and camping available · Licensed Restaurant Open for breakfast, lunch and evening meal
p: 07 4664 8587 m: 0413 936 056 w: www.r-onthedowns.com
p: 07 4667 9177 w: www.cherrabah.com.au
295 Swanfels Rd Swanfels Valley, Yangan QLD
1 Keoghs Road, Elbow Valley QLD 4370
COMFORT INN WARWICK
WISTERIA COTTAGE
When you want a quiet, peaceful stay in spacious, clean surroundings then Comfort Inn Warwick provides all you need. First impressions are pleasantly met by the century old sandstone homestead, `La Mascotte’ which welcome you as you arrive. Colourful flowering plants, lavender, roses and jasmine fill the garden beds throughout creating a sensory pleasing atmosphere.
The accommodation provides a place for you to put your feet up, relax and feel comfortable. Our cottages are the perfect getaway in Queensland’s mountain granite belt wine district and only 2 kms from our famous Girraween National Park. Fully self contained accommodation cottages nestled at the base of a forested hillside.
p: 07 4661 1699 w: www.comfortinnwarwick.com.au
p: 07 4684 5121 w: www.wisteriacottage.com.au
57 Victoria Street, Warwick QLD
Pyramids Rd, Wyberba Via Ballandean, Qld 4382 www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
59
Limited
✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓
Limited
✓
✓
✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Conference Facilities
✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ one
✓
Room Services
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓
Severnlea | 044 879 4219 www.casitadecampo.com casita_campo@yahoo.com
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓
Casita De Campo Cottages
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓
✓
Free WIFI
✓
✓
Cooking Facilities
✓ ✓ ✓
Fireplace
Stanthorpe | 07 4681 4660 www.bonaways.com.au bonaways@halenet.com.au
A/C
✓
✓
Bonaways
Warwick | 07 4661 1699 www.comfortinnwarwick.com.au comfortinnwarwick@bigpond.com
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓
Warwick | 07 4661 2148 www.birdhousecottage.com.au birdhousecottage@bigpond.com
Comfort Inn Warwick
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓
Birdhouse Cottage B&B
Warwick | 07 4660 2100 www.coachmans.com.au reservations@coachmans.com.au
✓ ✓
✓
✓
Pets Allowed Conditional
Maryvale | 07 4666 1282 www.bestbrook.com.au bestbrook@bestbrook.com.au
Laundry
Bestbrook Mountain Resort
BBQ Facilities
Ballandean | 0405 494 788 www.applegrove.com.au relax@applegrove.com.au
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ 3 Spas
Applegrove Farm
Coachman’s Inn
Pool
Stanthorpe | 07 4681 0251 www.appleblossom.com.au enquiries@appleblossom.com.au
Warwick | 07 4661 5000 www.cityviewmotelwarwick.com.au cityviewmotelwarwick@bigpond.com
Winery
✓
Apple Blossom Cottage
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ Meal Packages
Stanthorpe | 07 4681 4476 www.alurestanthorpe.com.au info@alurestanthorpe.com.au
City View Motel
✓ ✓
Alure Boutique Villas
Elbow Valley, Warwick | 07 4667 9177 www.cherrabah.com.au reception@cherrabah.com.au
Restaurant
Liston | 07 4686 1191 www.aloombalavender.com.au tere@aloomba.com
Cherrabah Resort
Disabled Access
✓
Aloomba Lavender
Warwick | 07 4661 3755 www.buckaroomotorinn.com.au buckaroo-motor-inn@bigpond.com
Camping Unpowered Sites
Ballandean | 07 4684 1144 www.accommodationcreekcottages.com.au bookings@ accommodationcreekcottages.com.au
Buckaroo Motor Inn
Camping Powered Sites
Accommodation Creek Cottages
Stanthorpe | 07 4681 1777 www.boulevardmotel.com.au info@boulevardmotel.com.au
Farm Stay
✓
Stanthorpe | 07 4681 2726 www.31therocks.com.au stay@31therocks.com.au
Boulevard Motel
Guesthouse/B & B
Cabin/Self-Contained Cottage/House
31 The Rocks
Caravan Park/Cabins
Accommodation
Motel /Hotel
Travel Directory
one
✓
✓
✓ ✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓
✓ ✓ ✓
Diamondvale B&B Cottages
Diamondvale | 07 4681 3367 www.diamondvalecottages.com.au stay@diamondvalecottages.com.au
60
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓✓
Conference Facilities
Room Services
Free WIFI
Cooking Facilities
Fireplace
A/C
Laundry
✓ ✓
✓
✓
✓ ✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
Small groups
Stanthorpe | 07 4681 0484 www.grovelyhouse.com.au info@grovelyhouse.com.au
✓
Pets Allowed Conditional
Grovely House
BBQ Facilities
Warwick | 07 4667 0151 www.graftonrose.com relax@graftonrose.com.au
✓
Spa
Grafton Rose Bed & Breakfast
Pool
✓
Winery
Restaurant
Disabled Access
Camping Unpowered Sites
Farm Stay
Camping Powered Sites
Guesthouse/B & B
Ballandean | 07 4684 1263 www.graniteridgewines.com.au info@graniteridgewines.com.au
Cabin/Self-Contained Cottage/House
Fergies Hill Cottage
Caravan Park/Cabins
Accommodation
Motel /Hotel
Travel Directory
Guestwick Eco Resort
Cullendore Creek | 07 4667 9145 www.guestwickecoresort..com.au booking@guestwickecoresort.com.au
Happy Valley Retreat
Stanthorpe | 07 4681 1370 www.happyvalleyretreat.com.au info@happyvalleyretreat.com.au
High Street Motor Inn
Stanthorpe | 07 4681 1533 www.highstreetmotorinn.com.au stay@highstreetmotorinn.com.au
✓
✓
✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓
✓✓ ✓
✓
✓
✓
✓✓
Historic Stannum House
Tenterfield | 02 6736 5538 www.stannumhouse.com.au info@stannumhouse.com.au
✓
Hope Cottage Country Retreat
Leslie | 07 4661 3393 / 0407 613 323 www.assmanshausenwinery.com.au retreat@assmanshausenwinery.com.au
✓
✓
Molly Mac Cottages
Glen Aplin | 07 3286 2338 www.mollymac.com.au bookings@mollymac.com.au
✓
O’Mahony’s
Warwick | 07 4661 1146 accommwarwick@gmail.com
✓
✓
✓ ✓
Warwick | 07 4661 9393 www.pitstoplodge.com.au info@pitstoplodge.com.au
Amiens | 0408 877 457 www.cobbncocabins.com.au possumsandhooterscabins@gmail.com
✓
✓
Pitstop Lodge Bed & Breakfast
Possum’s Hollow & Hooters Hut
Spa
✓
Goomburra | 07 4666 6115 gardner_jennifer@hotmail.com
✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓✓
✓ ✓
✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
Limited
Montrose Farm B & B
✓
✓ ✓✓
Games room
Stanthorpe | 0417 606 647 www.maricpark.com.au info@maricpark.com.au
Partial
Maric Park Cottages
Stanthorpe | 07 4681 4121 www.murraygardens.com.au info@murraygardens.com.au
✓
✓
Greenlands | 040 155 7338 www.mallow.net.au cottage@mallow.net.au
✓
✓ ✓
Mallow Cottage
Murray Gardens Cottages & Motel
✓
✓
limited
Stanthorpe | 07 4681 2572 www.loggersrest.com.au admin@loggersrest.com.au
✓
Spa & sauna
Loggers Rest
✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓
www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
61
Spring Creek Cottages
✓
✓
✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓
✓
Vineyard Cottages & Café
✓ ✓
Ballandean | 07 4684 1270 www.vineyardcottages.com.au info@vineyardcottages.com.au
✓ ✓
Wyberba | 07 4684 5121 www.wisteriacottage.com.au info@wisteriacottage.com.au
Heavenly Chocolate onsite
Wisteria Cottages
✓
✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓
Paid
✓
✓ ✓✓
Limited
Ballandean | 07 4684 1135 www.twinstarguesthouse.com twin-star@bigpond.com
✓
✓ ✓
Limited
Twinstar Guest House & Observatory
✓
✓✓
✓
Storm King Dam | 07 4683 7182 www.stormkingcottage.com.au info@stormkingcottage.com.au
✓ ✓
On request
Storm King Cottage
✓ ✓ ✓
✓
✓
Killarney | 07 4664 7101 www.springcreekcottages.com.au springcreek@westnet.com.au
✓ ✓✓
Caravan Parks Country Style Caravan Park
Glen Aplin | 07 4683 4358 www.countrystylecaravanpark.com.au info@countrystylecaravanpark.com.au
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓
✓ ✓✓
✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓
✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
Playground
Kahler’s Oasis Caravan Park Warwick | 1800 809 426 www.kahlersoasis.com.au admin@kahlersoasis.com.au
✓ ✓
✓
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
✓ ✓
Killarney View Cabins & Caravan Park Killarney | 07 4664 1522 www.killarneyview.com.au stay@killarneyview.com.au
Queen Mary Falls Caravan Park & Cabins Killarney | 07 4664 7151 www.queenmaryfallscaravanpark.com.au queenmaryfalls@bigpond.com
✓
✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓
62
Southern Downs and Granite Belt
Internet Kiosk
✓
Sommerville Valley Tourist Park Stanthorpe | 07 4681 4200 www.sommervillevalley.com.au info@sommervillevalley.com.au
Conference Facilities
✓ ✓
✓
Stanthorpe | www.stanthorpevilla.com.au about@stanthorpevilla.com.au
Room Services
Stanthorpe Villa
Free WIFI
✓
Ballandean | A/H 07 4684 1300 www.severn-dipity.com.au sdip@halenet.com.au
Cooking Facilities
✓ Sauna
Severn-dipity
Fireplace
✓ ✓ ✓
✓
Lyra | 0422 582 644 www.radianceonlyra.com.au radianceonlyra@bigpond.com
A/C
Pets Allowed Conditional
Laundry
BBQ Facilities
Pool
Winery
Restaurant
Disabled Access
Camping Unpowered Sites
Radiance on Lyra
Stanthorpe | 07 4681 3844 www.thevinesmotel.com.au info@thevinesmotel.com.au
Camping Powered Sites
✓
Yangan | 07 4664 8587 www.r-onthedowns.com info@r-onthedowns.com
The Vines Motel & Cottages
Farm Stay
R on the Downs Rural Retreat
Guesthouse/B & B
Cabin/Self-Contained Cottage/House
Caravan Park/Cabins
Accommodation
Motel /Hotel
Travel Directory
KAHLER’S OASIS CARAVAN PARK Art Galleries
Bush Rock Gallery Stanthorpe. Tel: 07 4683 5306 www.graemeschreiber.com.au Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery Stanthorpe. Tel: 07 4681 1874 www.srag.com.au Warwick Art Gallery Warwick. Tel: 07 4661 0434 www.warwickartgallery.com.au
Attractions
Aloomba Lavender Liston. Tel: 07 4686 1191 www.aloombalavender.com.au Allora & District Historical Society, Allora Glengallan Homestead & Heritage Centre Allora. Tel: 07 4667 3866 www.glengallan.com.au Killarney & District Historical Society Killarney. Tel: 0407 140 949 facebook.com/Killarney-District-Historical-Society-Inc Lawdogs Australia The Summit. Tel: 0467 255 337 www.lawdogsaustralia.com.au Market in the Mountains Stanthorpe. Tel: 0417 760 529 www.marketinthemountains.org Stanthorpe Heritage Museum Stanthorpe. Tel: 07 4681 1711 stanthorpemuseum@gmail.com The Granite Belt Maze The Summit. Tel: 07 4683 2181 www.thegranitebeltmaze.com.au Warwick & District Historical Society Warwick. Tel: 07 4661 3234 facebook.com/WarwickandDistrictHistoricalSocietyInc Washpool Farm Soaperie Ballandean. Tel: 07 4684 1080 www.washpoolfarm.com.au
Breweries
Brass Monkey Brew House Severnlea. Tel: 0488 976 401 www.brassmonkeybrewhouseptyltd.com Granite Belt Brewery Stanthorpe. Tel: 07 4681 1370 www.granitebeltbrewery.com.au
Wineries
Banca Ridge Stanthorpe. Tel: 07 4685 5050 www.qcwt.com.au Ballandean Estate Wines Balllandean. Tel: 07 4684 1226 www.ballandeanestate.com.au Boirean Winery The Summit. Tel: 07 4683 2194 www.boireannwinery.com.au Casley Mount Hutton Greenlands. Tel: 0427099981 www.casleywines.com Castle Glen Australia The Summit. Tel: 07 4683 2363 www.castleglenaustralia.com.au Golden Grove Estate Ballandean. Tel: 07 4684 1291 www.goldengroveestate.com.au Girraween Estate Wyberba. Tel: 07 4684 3186 www.girraweenestate.com.au Granite Ridge Wines Ballandean. Tel: 07 4684 1250 www.graniteridgewines.com.au Jester Hill Wines Glen Alpin. Tel: 07 4683 4380 www.jesterhillwines.com.au Just Red Wines Ballandean. Tel: 07 4684 1322 www.justred.com.au
Kominos Wines Glen Aplin. Tel: 07 4683 4311 www.kominoswines.com Pyramids Road Wines Ballandean. Tel: 07 4684 5151 www.pyramidsroad.com.au Ridgemill Estate Severnlea. Tel: 07 4683 5211 www.ridgemillestate.com.au Robert Channon Wines Stanthorpe. Tel: 07 4683 3260 www.robertchannonwines.com.au Savina Lane Wines Severnlea. Tel: 07 4683 5377 www.savinalanewines.com.au Summit Estate Wines Thulimbah. Tel: 07 4683 2011 www.summitestate.com.au Twisted Gum Wines Stanthorpe. Tel: 07 4684 1282 www.twistedgum.com.au Whiskey Gulley Wines Severnlea. Tel: 07 4683 5100 www.whiskeygulleywines.com.au
Restaurants & Gourmet Food Producers
Alexander Motel & Peppercorn Restaurant Warwick. Tel: 07 4661 3888 www.alexandermotel.com Anna’s Restaurant Stanthorpe. Tel: 07 4681 1265 www.annas.com.au Aussie Beef Steakhouse Stanthorpe. Tel: 07 4681 1533 www.aussiebeefsteakhouse.com.au Happy Valley Homestead Restaurant Stanthorpe. Tel: 07 4681 1370 happyvalleyretreat.com.au Heavenly Chocolate Wyberba. Tel: 07 4684 5121 www.heavenlychocolate.com.au Jamworks Gourmet Foods Glen Aplin. Tel: 07 4683 4171 www.jamworks.com.au Jester Café Glen Alpin. Tel: 07 4683 4380 www.jesterhillwines.com.au Rupert’s Bar & Grill Warwick. T: 07 4660 2100 www.coachmans.com.au Spring Creek Mountain Café Killarney. Tel: 07 4664 7101 www.springcreekcottages.com.au Stanthorpe Cheese & Jersey Girls Café Thulimbah Tel: 07 4685 2277 www.stanthorpecheese.com.au Stanthorpe RSL Services Club Stanthorpe. Tel: 07 4681 2324 www.stanthorperslclub.com.au Sutton’s Juice Factory & Apple Cidery Thulimbah. Tel: 07 4685 2464 www.suttonsfarm.com.au The Barrelroom Ballandean. Tel: 07 4684 1326 www.ballandeanestate.com.au The Bramble Patch Glen Aplin. Tel: 07 4683 4205 www.bramplepatch.com.au The Coach House Restaurant & Ray’s Bar Maryvale. Tel: 07 4666 1282 www.bestbrook.com.au The Falls Cafe Killarney. Tel: 07 4664 7151 www.queenmaryfallscaravanpark.com.au The Vineyard Cafe Restaurant Ballandean. Tel: 07 4684 1270 www.vineyardcafe.com.au Varias Restaurant Stanthorpe. Tel: 07 4685 5050 www.qcwt.com.au
Vivienne’s Cottage Spices & Chutney Stanthorpe. Tel: 0403 351 968 www.viviennescottage.com
TOURS & Transport
Granite Belt Bicycle Tours & Hire Stanthorpe. Tel: 0405 604 926 www.granitebeltbicycles.com.au Granite Highlands Maxitours Stanthorpe. Tel: 07 4681 3969 www.maxitours.com.au Fillipo’s Tours Australia Stanthorpe. Tel: 07 4681 3130 www.filippostours.com.au Wine Discovery Tours Stanthorpe. Tel: 0412 579 341 www.winediscoverytours.com.au
Services
Darryl Evans Real Estate Warwick. Tel: 0488 612 975 www.darrylevans.com.au David Schnitzerling & Co Stanthorpe. Tel: 07 4681 2530 Frasers Livestock Warwick. Tel: 07 4661 2922 admin@fraserstransport.com.au Warwick Computer Support Warwick. Tel: 07 4661 9277 www.wcsr.com.au Warwick Credit Union Warwick. Tel: 07 4660 5007 www.warwickcu.com.au
Festivals & Events
Slydogz Events Stanthorpe, Slydogz Rocks 27 May ’16 Stanthorpe Rocks 11 – 13 November ‘16 Tel: 07 4681 4150 www.slydogz.com.au Southern Downs Harvest Lunch Killarney, 14 September ’16 Tel: 0410 860 870 www.southerndownsharvest.com.au Apple & Grape Harvest Festival Stanthorpe, 26 February – 6 March ‘16 Tel: 07 4681 4111 www.appleandgrape.com.au Warwick Show & Rodeo Society Warwick Campdraft and Rodeo, 24 – 30 October ‘16 Tel: 07 4661 9060 www.warwickrodeo.com.au
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Thank you to the organisations, photographers and Instagramers who contributed including Stephen Waller, Gareth McGuigan, Chris McFerran, Cory Rossiter, Storm Lahiff, Amy Walker, Izelle Barnard, Gail Paulsen, Ken Gargett, James Blundell, Laura Geitz, Sam Constanzo, Janet Platz, Ben Blanche, Simon Hamlet, Bev Ruskey, Bridget Teirney, Miriam Hackenburg, Tony Kevin Photography Tony Smith, Tineli Racing, Lachlan Gardiner, The Norris Files, Wanderlust Storytellers, Southern Queensland Country Tourism, Tourism & Events Queensland, Queensland Parks, and Granite Belt Wine & Tourism.
DISCLAIMER
Destination Southern Downs (DSD) has complied and developed this publication in the interests of fostering tourism in the region. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of DSD. 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 DSD (March 2016) www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
63
2018
APPLE AND
GRAPE
Harvest Festival Stanthorpe, Qld
In 2016 we celebrated 50 years of this iconic event. Get ready to join us in 2018! From 23rd February to 4th March, 2018.
• Gala Ball • Open Gardens • Marching Bands • South East Qld Regional Busking Championship • Grand Parade • Multicultural Carnival and Wine Fiesta • Street Carnival • Apple Day • Sports Carnivals • Decorated Windows Competition • Mt Marlay Challenge • Music and entertainment and much more...
Get your friends and family together and mark the dates for the 2018 Apple and Grape Harvest Festival.
Like us on Facebook or visit our website www.appleandgrape.org Proudly sponsored by -