Mackay
SHORT DRIVES uncover the unforgettable
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What’s inside MACKAY REGION Northern Beaches, Eimeo, The Leap, Cape Hillsborough, Seaforth and St Helens.....................................04 Sarina, Cape Palmerston and Clairview...............................................................12 Pioneer Valley, Finch Hatton and Eungella (via Mirani)....................................18 Hook, line and sinker.......................................... 48 WHITSUNDAY REGION Proserpine, Airlie Beach and Shute Harbour.......................................................... 22 Collinsville and Bowen River Hotel........... 28 Dingo Beach, Hydeaway Bay and Cape Gloucester............................................34 Bowen..............................................................................38 BOTH REGIONS Eungella and Collinsville...................................44 Insta-worthy locations........................................ 46 Map.......................................................Centre spread
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Mackay
More ‘wows’ at every stop This region of Central Queensland is a chain of charming communities, each with unique personalities, natural experiences and unforgettable attractions. These short drive itineraries are designed to give you more to see and less time behind the wheel. Whether you’re a couple of love birds wanting to see more of Queensland, a family looking to make memories or a group of friends re-inventing the road trip, you’ll fall in love with this region. Waterfalls, lakes, rivers, creeks and countless pristine beaches help feed diverse landscapes of everything from fields of sugarcane to lush rainforests. All you need to do is choose how you’d like to experience them. While the experiences feed the soul, local farmers, artisans and chefs will keep your body fuelled and ready for exploration. Fertile soils drenched in sunshine are the perfect foundation for the locals’ love of good food. Whether you’re stepping back in time on a historical experience or ramping up your adrenalin on a heart-pumping tour, these itineraries are full of a hundred little moments that together make for a truly unforgettable holiday that you’ll talk about for years to come. Fill the tank and start the engine. Let’s make some memories.
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NORTHERN BEACHES, EIMEO, THE LEAP, CAPE HILLSBOROUGH, SEAFORTH AND ST HELENS
Sand in your toes, stories of tragedy, stunning views, breakfast with wildlife and some world-class fishing. Get ready for an itinerary with unforgettable experiences for explorers of all ages.
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Northern Beaches
For many of us, a trip to the beach has an almost transformative effect. It’s something to do with fresh sea air filling your lungs, saltwater in your hair and sand between your toes. Just 20 minutes from the centre of Mackay, you’ll find a collection of beaches to suit every need.
Blacks Beach
Bucasia Beach
This is the longest stretch of beach in Mackay with 6km of pure golden sand and palm trees providing endless perfect locations for reading. You’ll often find fishermen near the creek mouth at the southern end.
Drive or walk along the picture perfect esplanade or stop at a picnic table or playground to take in the beauty. With a nearby boat ramp, this is also a popular fishing spot.
Dolphin Heads
Shoal Point
Don’t forget your camera so you can capture the unique natural headlands in the shapes of dolphins.
Low tide creates a field of exploration, giving the intrepid access to Green Island just offshore. Back on the beach a playground and picnic area with barbeques, toilets and showers makes this an easy beach to love.
Eimeo Beach Popular with families for its safe patrolled waters, playground and barbeque facilities, Eimeo Beach is pure, good old-fashioned fun.
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Eimeo The patrolled waters of Eimeo Beach are perfect for swimming. With a playground nearby, this is easily one of the best beaches for kids in the region and they’ll love searching for crabs in the rocks. Wash off the sand under the beach showers on the Esplanade, then claim a picnic table or barbeque primed to make the perfect sausage sandwich lunch. You simply cannot visit Eimeo without seeing the Eimeo Pacific Hotel. To get there, drive through Mango Avenue. This perfectly picturesque street is lined with houses and shadowed by the outstretched branches of mango trees that are so old they’re actually heritage listed. Step out onto the deck at Eimeo Pacific Hotel to take in one of the most breathtaking ocean views you’ll ever experience. This is an unforgettable venue for a wellearned cold beer, lunch or dinner, from the extensive menu. Time your visit for a Sunday afternoon to take in the view to a soundtrack of live music.
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The Leap From Eimeo, drive 25 minutes west to discover a ruggedly beautiful mountain walk that is steeped in a tale so tragic it remains part of local folklore. Originally named Mandarana, this tall rocky outcrop is hundreds of metres in height. The tale begins in 1867 when a group of Aboriginal people were chased up the mountain. When they reached the peak, the story gets hazy with multiple different accounts as to what actually happened. However, one truth remains. An Aboriginal woman in the group either fell, was pushed or jumped off the peak.
One account claims she carried a child with her. While the mother perished, the child is said to have grown up to marry and raise a family in the local area. Her name was Johanna Hazeldine and her grave can be found today in the Mackay Cemetery. Given its history, The Leap remains a culturally important site and also part of a National Park. While it is not recommended to climb The Leap, it is a beautiful peak surrounded by a patchwork of fields. It is a constant reminder of a living and breathing element of this region’s history and one that deserves our respect. Short Drives Mackay
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The beauty of having a coastal national park is the chance to incorporate beach experiences in your park exploration.
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Cape Hillsborough Cape Hillsborough is 25 minutes north of The Leap and 40 minutes’ drive north of Mackay through carpets of sugar cane that dissolve into untouched Australian bushland. From this unique location it’s actually possible to walk to one of the Whitsunday Islands. Wedge Island is an easy 15 minute walk from the mainland and offers the chance for kids, both young and old, to explore rock pools along the way for hidden crustaceans. By far the most renowned attraction of the region is Cape Hillsborough National Park, a 1012ha of ruggedly beautiful coastal national park flush with lowland rainforest and vine forests growing along creek beds and hillside gullies. While named by Captain James Cook on his 1770 expedition to Australia, the Yuibera people have been connected to this land for thousands of years. There are 4 short walks ranging in length from 1.2 to 5.2 kilometres. Along the way you’ll find yourself in the stunning natural habitat of 140 different bird species, 22 mammals and 500 plant species. The beauty of having a coastal national park is the chance to incorporate beach experiences in your park exploration, and the sandy coast of Cape Hillsborough National Park is home to a truly unforgettable and intimate Aussie wildlife experience. Accommodation is available at the Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park. Wake up early and descend onto the sand to find families of Eastern Grey Kangaroos and Wallabies that come to the beach to feed on mangrove seed pods. The opportunity to be this close to wild kangaroos is rare, but when you combine it with the truly stunning backdrop of a coast sunrise, you have a memory that will never fade. Don’t neglect the Andrew’s Point Lookout, which is a 2.8km return walk from the beach. On your way out of the park, stop in at The Old Station Teahouse. This afternoon tea hot spot was transformed from the old Marian Railway Station and is now home to delicious eats set amongst stunning gardens. Short Drives Mackay
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Seaforth Only five minutes west of Cape Hillsborough, you’ll find the next edition in this tour of beautiful coastal communities. Let’s hope you brought your fishing gear. Seaforth easily offers some of the best fishing in the entire region. We recommend visiting Victor Creek for anglers chasing the mighty barramundi. Fish off the creek bed or bring the tinnie and launch off the boat ramp. Just minutes offshore you’ll find the bountiful fishing grounds of North and South Redcliff Island. They’re so close that you can even walk to them on low tide. Stop in on North Redcliff Island and climb to the top
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for views across the ocean dotted by turtles and whales surfacing for breath. Don’t miss the chance to cast around Newry Island. Trolling will put you in the habitat of colourful reef fish. When you’re finished fishing take the time to explore the island. Lying within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, the island offers pearl-coloured beaches, exposed rocky headlands and dense forest. If you follow the trail, you’ll wander past the ruins of an old resort, through rainforest and near-perfect views of the surrounding islands.
St Helens From an island fishing safari to a coastal town of less than 200 residents, you’ll find St Helens just 30 minutes north of Seaforth. The town was originally known as Wootaroo but was changed in the early 1970’s. The kids will love to explore St Helens Creek’s crystal-clear waters. Stop to skip stones and splash about. Move on to St Helens beach, a 2.3km long north-east facing beach. A low rocky point fringed by mangrove forms the northern
boundary of the beach, while a tidal inlet and the notorious 65m high conical Skull Knob border the southern end. From the beach you can spot Rabbit Island just 5km to the east. Not just a wonderful visual point, the island provides great protection for swimming on the beach at high tide. On the way home feel the warmth in your skin from days in the sunshine and debate which beach is your favourite.
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SARINA, CAPE PALMERSTON AND CLAIRVIEW
This region is sugary sweet and full of nature’s untamed beauty, providing sanctuaries for turtles, dugongs, whales and countless birds and other animals. It also offers unique ways to immerse yourself in these unforgettable locations.
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Sarina Amongst the foothills of the Connors Range you’ll find Sarina, a town of sweet country hospitality just 30 minutes’ drive south of Mackay. The Field of Dreams Parkland is the perfect place to start your exploration. Here you’ll find the Visitor Information Centre housed in the old Sarina Court House. Imagine how many stories these walls have heard since they were built in 1906. In the same parkland you’ll also find the Sarina Tourist Art and Craft Centre. Pick out a hand-crafted souvenir of your trip. The kids will love the hand-made wooden toys. The phrase, ‘They don’t make them like they used to,’ comes to mind. A short walk will find you stepping back in time at the Sarina Historical Centre or contemplating brushstrokes at the Yukan Art Gallery. The next stop is sweet indeed and, again, a short walk away. The Sarina Sugar Shed is Australia’s only miniature sugar mill and distillery. Take in displays of how the sugar process works or join the tour and taste some of the team’s award-winning products. Whether you just choose to visit one of the above attractions or all, there is plenty to do and see at the Field of Dreams Parklands. You’ll know you’ve reached the centre of town when you meet Buffy. The giant cane toad statue pays homage to the animal that was introduced to help protect surrounding sugarcane fields from the sugarcane bug, only to become a pest itself. If fairy floss at the Sugar Shed isn’t enough to satisfy the hunger cravings, stop in at Third Ground Coffee House, a boutique café, community garden, homesteading school and community marketplace right in the heart of town. If you’re interested in the region’s mining sector, head to Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal at Hay Point. Follow the interpretive signage and see the impressive 3.8km jetty - one of the largest in the world!
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Time to cool off under the shade of a palm tree, sink your toes in the sand and dive into the ocean. In Sarina, the first decision on beach day is which beach to start with.
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Sarina Beach Golden sands and calm waters on one side, an esplanade with barbeque facilities and restaurants on the other. This is an easy beach to love. Just ask the turtles that continue to return to lay their eggs each year.
Grasstree Beach This shallow bay of inviting water is fringed by sweeping trees, giving it a postcard effect. The end of the bay wraps around the point, making for interesting beachcombing.
Salonika Beach There’s plenty to see at Salonika Beach with two kilometres of sand and views of Victor Island beyond. Float on your back in the ocean and cast your eyes skywards in search of the black cockatoos and sea eagles that call this beach home. The adjoining Lake Barfield is a thriving bird sanctuary and great place to watch the elegant dance of black swans, white herons and egrets.
Campwin Beach You’d be forgiven for thinking Campwin Beach is actually Sarina Beach. The two beaches share the same stretch of coast, however Leeper Reef and the rock flats separate them at low tide. Campwin is a great spot for fishing or searching for oysters and mussels in the rocks.
Armstrong Beach Another popular swimming beach, Armstrong Beach sits on a stretch of coastline that includes Freshwater Point. It was named by Captain Cook when he came to shore on his 1770 expedition in search of fresh water. Short Drives Mackay
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Cape Palmerston Dust the sand off your feet and drive 40 minutes south to Cape Palmerston to discover a stretch of coastline that remains seemingly unchanged since Captain Cook sailed pass in 1770. Cape Palmerston celebrates its untouched rugged beauty with nature-based campsites, boat ramps and a celebrated National Park. If you’re keen to hammer in some tent pegs or bring the caravan, we recommend campsites at Cape Creek, Clarke Bay and Windmill Bay. Explore the surrounding landscape of the Windmill Bay campsite to find traces of Aboriginal inhabitants of the past or the hidden bush windmill which inspired the Bay’s name.
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Four wheel drive enthusiasts will love driving along the beach at Clarke Bay or heading into Cape Palmerston National Park. The park is an adventure with tidal changes that can be tricky. Make sure to check tide times so you don’t get caught. Once in the massive 7,200ha park, there is plenty to explore with windswept headlands, rainforest, swamp, sand dunes and beaches comprising ecosystems that thrive in their environment. Climb the 344 metre high Mount Funnel and be rewarded with views towards Northumberland Islands. Or bring along your boat and use the park’s ramp to access sheltered offshore fishing locations.
Clairview Clairview is a 45-minute drive from Cape Palmerston or 123 kilometres south of Mackay. As you drive in, you’ll feel the laid-back, natural warmth of this rustic beachside community. Capture that feeling of paradise as you walk along soft golden sands, sit under the palm trees to read or build sandcastles while you watch the fishermen casting lines into the ocean. If you can’t pull yourself away from Clairview’s coastline, take advantage of beachfront campsites that will have you waking up to the sun rising over the ocean, as rainbow lorikeets sing their good mornings in the trees. So untouched in its beauty, Clairview attracts many turtles that can be seen surfacing for air or laying
eggs on the beach during season. But it was another very unique marine animal that caused authorities to establish an official sanctuary here in 1997. Dugongs are an endangered marine mammal that can grow up to 3.5m in length and weigh up to a whopping 230kg. These gentle giants can often be seen using their paddle-like forelimbs and broad flat tail to forage for sea grass and surface for breath. For the best chance of spotting dugongs, grab a kayak, paddle out and have the camera ready. Retire the kayak, spread out a picnic blanket and relive the old-fashioned fun of childhood beach holidays. Clairview is a reminder of how joyful the simple life can really be. Short Drives Mackay
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PIONEER VALLEY, FINCH HATTON AND EUNGELLA (VIA MIRANI)
On this itinerary, the journey is just as memorable as the destination. Welcome to the home of picturesque drives, clear waterfalls, operatic heritage and famous pies.
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Pioneer Valley This unforgettable journey through the Pioneer Valley is just a 40-minute drive west of Mackay. The highway stretches out before you as endless fields of sugarcane wave from side-to-side and the towering green mountains smile down ahead of you like welcoming giants. It is one of the richest sugarcane growing areas in Australia, and this valley is by far one of the most picturesque.
Mirani Don’t miss stopping in the heart of the Pioneer Valley on your way to Eungella. The town was originally named Hamilton and much argument surrounds its current title with some locals saying it derives from a local Aboriginal word and others sticking with folklore tales that it’s actually a dedication of sorts - a combination of the names ‘Mary’ and ‘Annie’. But this little rural town wears its history on its sleeve. The Pioneer Valley Museum is home to historic artefacts of industry, an extensive photographic collection, Indigenous history and even the fossilised remains of a Diprotodon. Mirani is also home to Melba House. Once the home of famous Australian opera singer Nellie Melba, the house,
which has been moved twice, now overlooks the Pioneer River and houses both operatic memorabilia and the local Visitor Information Centre. Pull out your swimmers and cool off at Platypus Beach, a swimming hole that’s popular with the locals.
Fabulous Food Spots Local produce abounds in this region of fertile soils and sunshine. The friendly volunteers at the Visitor Information Centres in Sarina, Mackay or Pioneer Valley can inform you on what’s in season.
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Finch Hatton Gorge Finch Hatton Gorge is home to two beautiful, natural waterfall experiences and is perfect for young adults but loved by all.
An unmissable Young Adult activity
Walk through rich tropical rainforest and past large boulders for a little more than 45-minutes and watch as the trees open out to a lookout above the rhythmic flow of the Araluen Cascades.
Zip Line Over the Rainforest Canopy - Take a deep breath as you leap 25 metres above the earth, then enjoy the incredible experience of sailing through the rainforest canopy on a zipline.
Or bring your swimmers and step into the clear rock pools of the Wheel of Fire Waterfalls as the water flows freely from above you. 20
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Eungella Just 20 minutes’ drive further west of Finch Hatton is Eungella. The final section of the road up the mountain is steep and windy and not suitable for caravans. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll never forget this incredible natural gem of Central Queensland. Drive through the picturesque Pioneer Valley and watch a masterpiece of waterfalls, volcanic boulders and sugar cane fields expand out in front of you. High above the surrounding plains you’ll find a misty forest-clad mountain refuge in Eungella National Park. It’s one of Queensland’s most ecologically diverse parks. There are 860 plant species and many unique and unusual animal species including the Eungella dayfrog, Eungella spiny cray and Eungella honeyeater. By far the most popular animal to see in the billabong waters around Eungella is the
elusive platypus. Back in the 19th Century when explorers first sent back descriptions of the platypuses they had found, they were written off as a hoax. Today, you’ll find purpose-built viewing platforms in the national park at Broken River. Sit quietly and feel your breath catch as you see your first platypus break the water’s surface. There are more than 20km of walking tracks with trails that vary in difficulty and length from 30 minutes to full day walks. There’s camping at Eungella Dam, Crediton Hall and accommodation at the Broken River Mountain Resort. When you’d like to cool off head to Eungella Dam for a swim, fish or water sports. Get active on the hiking and mountain biking trails or just relax at the campground picnic areas. Short Drives Mackay
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PROSERPINE, AIRLIE BEACH AND SHUTE HARBOUR, THE WHITSUNDAYS
This itinerary takes you to three communities that are within 35 minutes of each other but include incredibly diverse experiences from fishing freshwater dams to lazy lunches surrounded by million dollar yachts.
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Proserpine Named after the goddess of grain and harvest, Proserpine retains its pioneering spirit and easy small-town charm. It wears its history with pride and celebrates its natural splendour with a variety of ways to enjoy it. Proserpine is 1 hour and 30 minutes north of Mackay. Born from a pioneering history of fertile soils, sugary-sweet crops and cattle, you’ll see history showcased in the numerous exhibits of industry and life in times gone by at Proserpine Museum. History is also on display in the art deco architecture of the shops in the town’s main street and the country-style hotels serving up delicious meals and old-fashioned service. Nestled amongst the sugar cane fields, trees and wildlife, the picturesque 18-hole Proserpine Golf Course is a great place to swing into action. The first 9 holes will feel quite friendly compared to the last nine holes that are dotted amongst the winding creek. When it’s time to cool off, dive into the Proserpine Waterpark and community pool
or head to one of the locals’ favourite spots, Lake Proserpine. Also known as Peter Faust Dam, Lake Proserpine is a 30 minute drive from town and is a popular spot for freshwater fishing, water skiing, jet-skiing and kayaks. The Lake has undergone a major upgrade and offers toilets, showers, boat washdown bays, fire pits, tables, chairs and barbeque facilities. Stay a little longer with 72-hour lakeside camping facilities. Grassy banks slope gently down to the lake, opening out to an expanse of water dotted with underwater forests and lily pads. It’s big enough to find a quiet spot or get into the thick of the action. Before you leave town, stop in at Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation to perk up with great coffee and delicious food. Enjoy wandering through the farm animal enclosures and saying hello to the exotic birds. The kids will also love the indoor playground. The Whitsundays Visitor Information Centre is right next door. Short Drives Mackay
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Airlie Beach The Heart of The Whitsundays and the jumping off point to the iconic Great Barrier Reef and 74 stunning islands beyond, Airlie Beach is a wonderful base for your Whitsundays drive holiday. Accommodation to suit all needs and budgets. Activities to suit all ages. Airlie Beach is 25 minutes’ drive from Proserpine. This year-round summer town is too often forgotten in lieu of jetting off to the reef or islands, but a little time spent in Airlie Beach will uncover a thriving community with plenty to do. Get sandy without hitting the islands on one of the local beaches - Airlie, Coral, Conway, Wilson or Boathaven Beach. Or join the professionals with diving, snorkelling and sailing day trips, learn to sail experiences, whale watching, boat hire and fishing charters all at the ready. Back on land a trip with the Whitsundays Crocodile Safari will get your blood pumping. This educational tour is popular with all ages, combining fascinating facts with the thrill of spotting wild crocodiles. Don’t forget that Conway National Park’s hiking tracks and waterfalls are just minutes away. Stroll down the main street, popping in and out of boutiques, gift shops and art galleries, punctuated by alfresco restaurants, cars and bars. European, Indian, modern Australian, Asian or Mexican - there’s a place for every tastebud. Hit the esplanade on a Saturday morning to stroll the stalls of locally made jewellery, clothes and crafts at the Airlie Beach Markets.
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Top 3 Kids’ Activities Jump in the back of a Just Tuk’n Around Tuk Tuk for a tour around Airlie Beach that includes all the popular sights plus a few secret ones that only the locals know about. Cool off in the Airlie Beach Lagoon. Located right in the middle of the main street the lagoon offers an expansive pool with varying depths, overlooking the sea ... and it’s free. Conquer the Airlie Beach Foreshore Playground. Complete its 10.5m high skywalk, explore every sky cabin, scream down all the mega slides and yell pirate curses from the multi-level pirate ship.
Top 3 Young Adult Activities Strap on a life jacket and feel the horse power surge as you turn the accelerator up and jetski towards adventure. Get swept up in the adventure and adrenalin of white sails and blue waters on a learn to sail adventure. Paddy’s Shenanigans is a very popular Irish pub that you mustn’t miss out on! A true local favourite, this place offers great live music performances and a balance of seating and open dance space.
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Shute Harbour An easy 12 minute drive west of Airlie Beach through Conway National Park you’ll first spot Shute Harbour from the elevated road, offering a stunning view of blue waters dotted with white boats. Currently undergoing a multi-million dollar refurbishment, Shute Harbour is set to be reborn as a modern marina hub with resort and lifestyle facilities.
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During this time of evolution, the views of Whitsunday Passage are still worth a visit. Take your time with the view from the top of a kayak or relaxing in a deck chair from your campsite. Back on dry land, take a drive up to the top of Coral Point or walk to the scenic lookout at Mount Rooper.
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COLLINSVILLE AND BOWEN RIVER HOTEL, THE WHITSUNDAYS
This itinerary transports you back in time through stories of struggle and mateship before showcasing the natural beauty and wonder of the region’s bushland communities, wildlife and genuine hospitality.
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Collinsville Your journey begins in the foothills of the Clarke Range, in the historic mining town of Collinsville. Collinsville is a two hour drive north of Mackay and then a further one hour west from Bowen. Its heritage is steeped in mining with coal playing a huge role in the growth of the town and its people. Dive back into the past by strolling past the historical mining murals and uncover a storybook of strife and community spirit in the interactive displays, audiovisual exhibits and theatrettes of the Miners Memorial and Coalface Experience Museum. Go from living history to natural wonders by hitting the walkway from Collinsville to Scottville - it’s also a great bike track if you brought your wheels. Get a little closer to injured and orphaned Australian wildlife and celebrate the incredible labour of love local couple Carol and Vince Cosentino have put into Wurra Yumba Kangaroo House. Contact them via kangaroohouse.org to organise a visit.
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Here are our Top 8 Things to Do: 1.
Drop into the Collinsville Visitor Information Centre at the RV-friendly showgrounds and chat to the friendly staff for the latest information and tips. There is room to leave your caravan here while you explore the town.
2. Whether you’re hankering for a hot pie or a hearty big breakfast, Collinsville has an array of breakfast options on offer.
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5. While in town, look for the various ‘selfie walls’ where you can photograph yourself alongside paintings of the much-loved pit ponies. 6. Explore Stanley Street and Scottville Road for shopping and places to eat.
3. Stop at the park on Sonoma Street to take in the Pit Pony Experience. Centred around a life-size bronze sculpture, the project celebrates the lives of Australia’s last working mine pit ponies.
7. Before leaving Collinsville, take the Mt Coolon Road heading out of town and check out the scale of the coal mines beside the road before arriving at the Bowen River - once you cross the river you can turn to the left and follow a dirt road 10 kilometres to the Bowen River Weir - great for fishing!
4. Head to the Coalface Experience, on Railway Road, a celebration of the town’s mining history and a fascinating look at life underground for the many miners who worked there. With interactive displays, historical records, audiovisual exhibits, and theatrettes, you’ll want to allow yourself 1-2 hours.
8. After seeing the Bowen River, head back through Collinsville and turn left onto Strathmore Road. Thirty minutes along this unsealed road is the historic Bowen River Hotel. Originally built as a homestead in 1862, the hotel is steeped in history and has a couple of spooky stories to tell.
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Our 4 Favourite Natural Swimming Spots Terry’s Creek
3 Mile Creek
40 Foot
Pelican Creek
Take a short bushwalk under the canopy of eucalyptus forests to this small swimming hole. A low rock plateau runs with a small waterfall that creates a serene atmosphere and beautiful pictures.
At an altitude of more than 480m above sea level, Mount Devlin is home to a waterfall known lovingly at 40 Foot. It’s an easy 15 to 20 minute hike and a beautiful location to cool off surrounded by nature’s glory.
Part of the Pelican Creek system, this clear water creek is located 15 minutes west of Collinsville and has a sweet picnic area to refuel after your swim.
Running from the north east of town, Pelican Creek is lined with green trees and shrubbery. Its cool, calm waters provide a pristine sanctuary from hot summer days.
Be croc-wise in croc country Always obey crocodile warning signs. Never swim where crocodiles may be present, even if you don’t see any signs.
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Bowen River Hotel Next stop on your journey is the Bowen River Hotel, a 35 minute drive from Collinsville. This hotel’s story began around 1860. For 30 years its pages remained closed as it laid abandoned and unloved before being rebuilt in 2003 to a new glory. Now a beautiful example of careful bush carpentry, the Bowen River Hotel is a licensed bar with a casual beer garden. It serves lunch and dinner surrounded by heritage and character that is literally plastered to its walls in the form of photographs, paper clippings and memorabilia from yesteryear.
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Mt Coolon A 1 hour and 45 minute part bitumen and part dirt track drive from Collinsville, you’ll find yourself in the real life setting of a murder mystery so captivating that is remains part of the region’s folklore today. Welcome to Mt Coolon.
In November of 1918, Thomas Coolon lost his gold mining claim in court. Coolon went on to shoot the man who instigated the court action, plus three other people before turning the gun on himself.
Located on Yangga tribal lands, this community was originally called Koala, but renamed after a gold prospector Thomas Coolon, the villain of our story.
On the day he shot himself Coolon arranged for Barclay to provide for his wife. Barclay’s Battery, a gold processing plant, still stands today and is now heritage listed.
Jackeroo Luke Reynolds discovered gold here in 1913. Thomas Coolon was the first to peg a claim in 1914. Another prospector who was quick on the up take was James Barclay. Thomas and James became close friends.
Don’t forget to bring your trail bike to explore the bush trails and ensure that you stop off at the retro On the Grind coffee van. Ashton mans the van from 4am to 11am and offers the best coffee in town.
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DINGO BEACH, HYDEAWAY BAY AND CAPE GLOUCESTER, THE WHITSUNDAYS
Welcome to the forgotten paradise. Pristine stretches of sandy beaches. Clear waters and fringing coral reefs. Not another soul in sight.
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Just less than two hours north of Mackay through cattle country you will uncover a string of hamlet communities that are kissed by mother nature but forgotten by the rest of the world. Untouched kilometres of sand merge into the blue ocean masterpiece for lazy days of beachcombing and reading, plus incredible snorkelling, fishing, kayaking and paddle boarding.
Dingo Beach First stop is a small community and shady stretch of white sand known as Dingo Beach. Discovered by an adventurous motorist in 1926, Dingo Beach became a weekend spot for the people of Proserpine and Bowen. Not much has changed since then and that’s the way the locals like it. There is an easy, ‘no worries’ attitude to this town, which is little more than a collection of houses, each with a boat in front, a corner store and the beloved Dingo Beach Pub. Hire a ‘tinnie’, that’s what the locals call a small boat, and make the short motor across to beautiful Saddleback Island. Pack a picnic lunch and take the snorkelling gear and you’ll likely find you have this untouched island to yourself and may even get the chance to swim with the majestic manta rays. The Dingo Beach Pub is definitely worth stopping at for a meal among friendly locals before you leave.
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Hydeaway Bay Just a little further up the road you’ll watch cattle country turn into dry bushland that breaks open to dramatic ocean views that are fit for a movie set. Originally a series of summer shacks for local fishermen and farmers, there are now a few hundred houses scattered along the beach and the nearby hill. Most are either holiday houses or a family’s pride and joy facing out on to million dollar views. There are five public access points onto the beach which is always quiet. You may not see another person but you’ll likely spot dugongs, dolphins, turtles and even whales during the migration season.
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Cape Gloucester A few more kilometres down the road and the Queensland coast juts out into the Whitsunday passage, stretching its arms out towards nearby Gloucester Island. The island shelters the main beach of the cape. The sands lie on the eastern side of the foreland and stretch for 1.2km in length. The beach itself offers another secret patch of sand to read a book in stunning solitude or soak in the Pacific Ocean. If you’re yearning to speak with friendly locals, nearby Cape Gloucester Resort is home to a popular restaurant and bar that often offers live music as a soundtrack to a lazy, long Sunday lunch with one of the finest views you’ve ever seen. There are plenty of shady grass areas for the kids to run and, of course, the beach is always popular for sandcastle competitions and exploration. Watch out for the local wallabies.
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BOWEN, THE WHITSUNDAYS
What do you get when you mix small town hospitality with some of the most beautiful beaches that you’ve ever seen in your life? You get one of the region’s undiscovered treasures. Welcome to Bowen.
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From Cape Gloucester Bowen is a two-hour drive north of Mackay. Start your Bowen adventure one of the most beautiful short coastal walks in the country.
The 2.5km walk from Rose Bay through granite cliffs offers unforgettable ocean views. Descend to Murrays Bay then on to Horseshoe Bay Lookout. Both Rose and Horseshoe Bays are two of Bowen’s most beautiful snorkelling destinations. After breakfast take a trip through the history of North Queensland’s oldest town. Yasso Point, at the northern end of Queens Beach, commemorates the journey of the South Sea Islanders who were brought to the region to work on cane fields. There are almost 30 murals located throughout the town depicting a diverse history of early settlement, numerous industries and some of the pioneers who helped shaped the town. Head up to Flagstaff Hill for absolutely spectacular views of Cape Edgecumbe Bay, the North Head Island and Whitsunday Islands. Then turn around in the opposite
direction and the whole of Bowen and its surrounds are spread out before you, as far as the eye can see. This is one spot you won’t want to be without a camera! Stop off at the Bowen Museum and walk through the original Mossvale Station homestead, built in 1872. The home is set up complete with period furniture and an insight into early settler life. Bowen was established in 1861 and the still-operating salt works attests to its being at the centre of Queensland’s salt industry in the 20th century. Be sure to visit Bowen Historical Society & Museum, on Gordon Street, and also the Catalina museum and memorial at the front beach, which celebrates the brave pilots who used Bowen as a base in World War II. The Grandview Hotel was the setting of the iconic pub from Baz Luhrmann’s movie ‘Australia’.
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Bowen’s World Class Beaches at a Glance The afternoon is the perfect time to cool off at the beach. With seven of the most beautiful beaches you’ve ever seen all within 10 minutes’ drive of each other, the problem is choosing which one.
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Bowen Foreshore At the end of the main street, Bowen’s stunning foreshore is an incredible playground. Its expansive waters are a hive of water sports activities and a great place to spot turtles or step onto the sand flats and walk among the soldier crabs. Walk out on to the jetty, along the foreshore and to the harbour. You’ll find a waterpark, skatepark and playground. Picnic tables and free barbeques are also available.
Horseshoe Bay Bowen’s most iconic beach, Horseshoe Bay is protected by two granite outcrops creating a haven for swimmers, snorkellers, divers and fish. Aside from the reef fringing the Bay’s rocks, swimmers can also explore Bywa, a 3.4m high underwater sculpture which is part of the Whitsundays Ngaro Underwater Marine sculpture trail. The Horseshoe Bay Café serves a delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner and has a killer cocktail bar.
Murrays Bay Nestled in between Horseshoe Bay and Rose Bay, Murrays Bay is one of those places that just feels untouched. You’ll find local runners completing their daily pilgrimage and the perfect location for finally reading that book and cooling off in azure seas.
Rose Bay
Kings Beach
Don’t ask the locals if they like Horseshoe or Rose Bay better, unless you’re ready for an argument. Explore Rose Bay’s rock pools at low tide while you gaze out across views of Gloucester Island. This protected bay is popular for swimming, snorkelling and diving.
This expansive beach is a little more castaway in style with views over Gloucester, Middle and Stone Island. The beach offers the contrast of granite boulders and huge sweeping stretches of sand, dotted with the occasional fishermen or kite-surfer.
Grays Bay Grays Bay is stunningly picturesque and an impressive sunset location. This wide bay is protected and home to a two-lane boat ramp, making it perfect for water sports, paddleboards, canoes or kayaks. Adjacent to Grays Bay is an Instagram perfect pocket beach with shaded picnic tables and free barbeques.
Queens Beach Every King needs a Queen. The longest beach in Bowen, Queens Beach is popular for walkers taking advantage of its 5km natural walking track. You’ll find the mouth of the Don River and historic Yasso Point at one end and a large playground, skatepark, basketball courts, and the beginning of a bicycle circuit at the other. Short Drives Mackay
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FOOD The Bowen area is one of Australia’s great food bowls. As well as the famous Bowen Mango which is in season in summer, horticultural farms produce much of Australia’s winter vegetable crops. Call down to the marina to purchase freshly caught seafood. Take a look at your options at www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au/ visitor-information/where-to-eat
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Top 3 Kids’ Activities Playground Olympics - you could easily spend a day just visiting all the different playgrounds in Bowen, our favourites are the Harbour playground which is minutes’ walk from the foreshore skatepark and waterpark. Don’t forget there’s a little playground at Le Sorelle Coffee House (good for kids and parents). Go retro! Hire some skates and go for a sunset roller skate with the local PCYC from 5.30pm every Friday night. The skate rink has a view spanning across the foreshore and harbour. Go mango hunting. Don’t be fooled by the giant mango that sits on the Bowen foreshore, the real Big Mango is at the town’s entry. After your Instagram mango moment, head to the Information Centre for the best mango sorbet you’ve ever tasted.
Top 3 Young Adult Activities Movie Buffs shouldn’t miss the Summergarden Theatre. It’s Queensland’s oldest privatelyowned cinema and is full of charm and character ... as well as a series of blockbuster and family favourite movies. See who will be the first to spot all 19 murals chronicling more than 150 years of Bowen’s history. Bring along your kayak or stand up paddle board and take in the view of Bowen’s stunning beaches and bays from an all new angle. Grays Bay and the pocket beach are one of our favourite spots.
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EUNGELLA AND COLLINSVILLE
Watch platypuses splash in Broken River, learn about a folklore mystery, take a bike track through Central Queensland history and uncover a beach destination that you’ll be talking about for years. From forest to the sea, this itinerary is all about the unexpected.
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Eungella Welcome to a haven of mist-covered national park, big fishing dams and rare Australian animals. To find out more about Eungella, visit page 21.
Collinsville With a mining heritage, stunning natural swimming spots and a genuine small-town welcome, Collinsville is an unexpected surprise. Find out more on page 29.
Which way There are multiple routes from Eungella to Collinsville. Take Lizzie Creek Road then turn right on Elphinstone Road following the pipeline to Collinsville. You’ll drive through some beautiful rural landscapes, forests and mountains.
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Insta-Worthy Locations Wild animal encounters, endless views of oceans and rainforests, heart-pumping moments and retro throw backs to remember – live the moment and capture it forever.
Looking Out from Lamberts - just 15 minutes from the heart of Mackay you could find yourself snapping an epic holiday shot of a stunning water horizon, the Cumberland Islands in the distance and, if you’re lucky, humpback whales breaching in the foreground. Drink at Eimeo Pacific Hotel - think a tropical cocktail in the sunshine against a white table with an unforgettable view of the Central Queensland coastline stretching out on the horizon. Capture that Sugar High - fill the camera lens with sugar sweet shades of pink fairy-floss-covered smiles at the Sarina Sugar Shed. 46
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Never Smile at a Crocodile - but you can capture a photo of their pearly whites while on tour with Whitsundays Crocodile Safari. Get Snappy at Dolphin Heads - Mackay’s northern beaches are all insta-worthy but these unique natural headlands have been sculpted by mother nature in the shape of … you guessed it, dolphin heads. Kayaking with Dugongs - these incredible, endangered marine mammals call the calm waters of Clairview home. Keep your eyes peeled as you paddle out, as you may be lucky enough to capture a kayak selfie with a dugong.
Take Flight in Finch Hatton - clip into your harness and jump. Fly hundreds of metres across the Finch Hatton rainforest and enjoy the thrill of flying through the canopy. Dancing in the Sunshine - capture the rhythm of live music on a long lazy lunch at Cape Gloucester Resort’s beachfront restaurant. Breakfast with the Kangaroos - descend onto the pre-dawn hush of the Cape Hillsborough beach. Sit in wait as families of Eastern Grey Kangaroos and Wallabies gather to feast on mangrove seed pods. Get Retro on a Skate Date - good old fashioned fun and laughter guaranteed as you strap on your skates and hit the Bowen Skate Rink for a Friday night sunset roll. Short Drives Mackay
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HOOK, LINE AND SINKER
Isaac Coast
A picturesque part of the Great Barrier Reef that is often under-explored, Mackay is a tackle box of dams, beaches, rivers, creeks and offshore reefs. Gear up!
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This stretch of coast is a banquet of fishing hot spots teeming with everything from heart-pumping Spanish mackerel to fat, juicy mudcrabs. Start on the beaches, sticking to the mangroves of Cape Palmerston, St Lawrence and Clairview. You’ll find a boat ramp at Clairview - the perfect spot to launch your crab pots.
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Seaforth Grab a tinnie and go on a fishing safari. Start in Victor Creek and reel in some barramundi and salmon. Drop a line at Cluny Creek then head out to sea, stopping offshore at Newry Island where your line will get smashed by coral trout, trevally and the barracuda speed-machines.
Kinchant, Teemburra and Eungella Dams These three dams are all within 90 minutes of Mackay. Expansive open waters make Kinchant Dam one of Australia’s most reliable sources for barramundi that are bigger than a metre in length. Teemburra Dam can be a challenging location but it’s brimming with barramundi, so well worth the trip. If it’s feisty sooty grunter that you’re after, then Eungella Dam has them in spades.
Mackay Marina and Northern Beaches Target whiting and flathead off Mackay’s picturesque northern beaches. Stand tall on the break wall off Mackay’s Marina and don’t forget your heavy gear. You’ll need it to handle the pull of these tuna.
Pioneer River With 120km of river and plenty of access points, this river runs wild with fish. Forgan Bridge or Hospital Bridge are very popular bridge fishing spots with dedicated platforms to make access easy. Or get even closer on a kayak. You’ll find a huge variety of species in the upper reaches of the river below the Dumbleton Weir, including barramundi, mangrove jack and salmon.
Offshore Islands and Reefs If you fancy chasing line-smashing pelagics or the thrill of sports fish, you’ll find islands and reefs full of fighting fish all within minutes of the mainland. Part of the spectacular Great Barrier Reef, the waters off Mackay are teeming with reefs, bombies and bait balls that all attract plate-worthy catches. Drift through the channel using squid for bait to attract red emperor, nannygai and sweetlip.
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