Driven By Wot’s On In Queensland
Let’s Drive SEQUEENSLAND
DRIVE
MAP INSIDE
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St George Region
Pacific Coast Way
Moreton Bay Islands
Sunshine Coast
Glass House Mountains & Bribie Island
Granite Belt & National Parks
Toowoomba/Darling Downs
Lockyer Valley
Scenic Rim
South Burnett
Somerset Region
Legend
EXPLO
RE
QUEEN SLAN TODAY D !
Yourwotsoninqld.com.au one-stop website for Queensland festivals, Visit events and markets, Visitor Information Centres, caravan parks and online booking information. Your one-stop website for Queensland festivals, events and markets, Visitor Information Centres, caravan parks and online booking information for the publications below!
2020
2020
Festivals
Events
Highways, Byways & Roads Less Travelled
Markets
2020
3rd Edition
11th Edition Festivals, Events & Markets
Toowoomba
Charleville
Winton
3rd Edition Brisbane & Surrounds - Festivals, Events & Markets
Port Douglas
Gold Coast
Toowoomba
Sunshine Coast
Fraser Coast
Visit wotsoninqld.com.au
INTRODUCTION Discover South East Queensland’s most scenic drives, all within 3 hours of Brisbane, offering local travellers the perfect escape to relax, refresh and reconnect. Welcome to our new, exciting and easy-to-use guide helping locals and tourists discover the best of South East Queensland’s bays, beaches, rivers, hinterlands, valleys and towns. Colourcoded sections complete with drive maps, itineraries, and local insights and knowledge, allow you to plan a quick escape and maximise your holiday experience. A short break goes a long way. Less planning, lower costs and greater frequency make shorter breaks a smart way to holiday. Relax by taking time out of your busy schedule, and at the same time help local businesses. Refresh by spending quality time with those who really matter. Reconnect with people and places, making new and lasting memories. Let’s hit the road South East Queensland! To all our hard working local councils, tourism bodies, businesses and Accredited Visitor Information Centres across South East Queensland, who kindly support this publication through
advertising, we offer our heartfelt thanks. For more information and regular destination updates we encourage you to visit our website wotsoninqld.com.au, sign up to our free monthly newsletters and follow us on social media. Should you require more advice on planning your holiday, or acquiring some local knowledge of places you’re wanting to visit, we recommend contacting or dropping in to the local Visitor Information Centre, or having a good look at visitqueensland.com.au for all the information you’ll need on booking your accommodation and tours. Please don’t forget to travel safely and visit Stay on Track Outback on Facebook and Life Saving Queensland for how to best stay safe on our roads and between the flags. We hope we’ve made your stay safer and more enjoyable!
Damon Letters Managing Director
Published By Kupro Marketing Pty Ltd Market Research Damon Letters Advertising Sales Damon Letters Email damon.letters@letsdrivequeensland.com Photography Tourism & Events Queensland Concept & Design dtb! Advertising Printing Spot Productions Phone 07 3860 5300 Fax 07 3860 5255
Disclaimer: Kupro Marketing Pty Ltd publishes Let’s Drive SEQueensland as a guide only. Content is provided in good faith based on information supplied from government or reputable companies. Information is subject to change without notice. Kupro Marketing Pty Ltd and its contractors cannot be held accountable or liable for any bookings, loss of business, income loss, inconvenience, injury or death as a result of information in this publication. Always check with the relevant authority to confirm the information.
Let’s Drive QUEENSLAND
VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES Somerset Scenic Lakes Drive Kilcoy Visitor Information Centre 41 Hope St, Kilcoy Qld 4515 (07) 5422 0440 www.experiencesomerset.com.au Toogoolawah Visitor Information Centre 29 Factory Rd, Toogoolawah Qld 4313 (07) 5423 1036 www.experiencesomerset.com.au Esk Visitor Information Centre 82 Ipswich St, Esk Qld 4312 (07) 5424 2923 www.experiencesomerset.com.au Fernvale Visitor Information Centre Fernvale Futures Complex, 1483 Brisbane Valley Hwy Fernvale Qld 4306 (07) 5427 0200 www.experiencesomerset.com.au
Somerset and South Burnett Ipswich Visitor Information Centre Queens Park, 14 Queen Victoria Pde Ipswich Qld 4305 (07) 3281 0555 www.discoveripswich.com.au Fernvale Visitor Information Centre Fernvale Futures Complex, 1483 Brisbane Valley Hwy Fernvale Qld 4306 (07) 5427 0200 www.experiencesomerset.com.au Esk Visitor Information Centre 82 Ipswich St, Esk Qld 4312 (07) 5424 2923 www.experiencesomerset.com.au Toogoolawah Visitor Information Centre 29 Factory Rd, Toogoolawah Qld 4313 (07) 5423 1036 www.experiencesomerset.com.au Yarraman Heritage House 26 Miller St, Yarraman Qld 4614 (07) 4163 8111 www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au Blackbutt Visitor Information Centre Les Muller Park, 69 Hart St, Blackbutt Qld 4306 (07) 4189 9236 www.discoversouthburnett.com.au
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Nanango South Burnett Energy Centre 41 Henry St, Nanango Qld 4615 (07) 4189 9446 www.discoversouthburnett.com.au Kingaroy Art and Heritage Precinct 124-128 Haly St, Kingaroy Qld 4610 (07) 4189 9172 www.discoversouthburnett.com.au Wondai Timber Industry Museum 80 Haly St, Wondai Qld 4606 (07) 4189 9251 www.discoversouthburnett.com.au Murgon Visitor Information Centre 63 Lamb St, Murgon Qld 4605 (07) 4189 9387 www.discoversouthburnett.com.au Gympie Lake Alford Visitor Information Centre Lake Alford, 24 Bruce Hwy, Gympie Qld 4570 (07) 5480 5183 or 1800 444 222 www.visitgympieregion.com.au
Rainforests, Lakes,Valleys and Mountains of the Scenic Rim Tamborine Mountain Visitor Information Centre Doughty Park, Main Western Rd North Tamborine Qld 4272 (07) 5545 3200 www.tamborinemtncc.org.au Canungra Visitor Information Centre 12-14 Kidston St, Canungra Qld 4275 (07) 5543 5156 www.canungrainformationcentre.com.au Beaudesert Community Arts & Information Centre 2-14 Enterprise Dr, Beaudesert Qld 4285 (07) 5541 4495 www.beaudesertartsandinfocentre.com Boonah Visitor Information Centre Bicentennial Park, 20 Boonah-Fassifern Rd Boonah Qld 4310 (07) 5463 2233 www.boonahtourism.org.au Rathdowney Information Centre & Historical Museum 82 Mt Lindesay Hwy, Rathdowney Qld 4287 (07) 5544 1222 www.rathdowney.org.au
VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES
This sign denotes accredited visitor information centres. These centres achieved specific industry standards and are recognised as genuine information providers.
Lockyer Valley, Toowoomba, High Country Hamlets and the Brisbane Valley Ipswich Visitor Information Centre Queens Park, 14 Queen Victoria Pde Ipswich Qld 4305 (07) 3281 0555 www.discoveripswich.com.au Lake Apex Visitor Information Centre Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre, 34 Lake Apex Dr Gatton Qld 4343 (07) 5466 3426 www.luvyalockyer.com.au Das Neumann Haus Museum Coffee Shope and Information Centre Cnr William & Patrick Sts, Laidley Qld 4341 (07) 5456 3241 Toowoomba Visitor Information Centre 82-86 James St (Warrego Hwy) Rangeville Qld 4350 (07) 4688 6590 or 1800 331 155 www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au Hampton Visitor Information Centre 8623 New England Hwy, Hampton Qld 4325 (07) 4697 9066 or 1800 009 066 www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au Esk Visitor Information Centre 82 Ipswich St, Esk Qld 4312 (07) 5424 2923 www.experiencesomerset.com.au Fernvale Visitor Information Centre Fernvale Futures Complex, 1483 Brisbane Valley Hwy Fernvale Qld 4306 (07) 5427 0200 www.experiencesomerset.com.au
Toowoomba / Darling Downs Toowoomba Visitor Information Centre 82-86 James St (Warrego Hwy) Rangeville Qld 4350 (07) 4688 6590 or 1800 331 155 www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au Hampton Visitor Information Centre 8623 New England Hwy, Hampton Qld 4352 (07) 4697 9066 or 1800 009 066 www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au Millmerran Museum & Tourist Information Centre Cnr Mary & Edward Streets, Millmerran Qld 4357 (07) 4695 2560 www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au
Pittsworth Visitor Information Centre 50 Short Street, Pittsworth Qld 4356 (07) 4693 2510 www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au Oakey Tourist Information Centre The Historical Railway Station on Bridge Street 176 Bridge Street, Oakey Qld 4401 (07) 4619 6693 www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au Goombungee Visitor Information Centre 89 Mocatta Street, Goombungee Qld 4354 (07) 4696 5600 www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au Yarraman Heritage House 26 Miller Street, Yarraman Qld 4614 (07) 4163 8111 www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au
Granite Belt and National Parks Ipswich Visitor Information Centre Queens Park, 14 Queen Victoria Pde Ipswich Qld 4305 (07) 3281 0555 www.discoveripswich.com.au Warwick Visitor Information Centre 72 Palmerin St, Warwick Qld 4370 (07) 4661 3122 www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au Stanthorpe Visitor Information Centre 28 Leslie Pde, Stanthorpe Qld 4380 (07) 4681 2057 or 1800 762 665 www.southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au
Travel Tips •
Plan your trip with an Accredited Visitor Information Centre.
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Always wear a seatbelt, drink plenty of water and use sunscreen.
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At the beach, be sure to swim only between the red and yellow flags.
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Avoid driving at dawn and dusk to steer clear of native wildlife.
www.stayontrackoutback.qld.gov.au www.lifesaving.com.au
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Let’s Drive QUEENSLAND
VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES Glass House Mountains and Bribie Island Caboolture Visitor Information Centre (BP North Travel Centre) Bruce Hwy, Burpengary Qld 4505 (07) 5428 7455 or 1800 659 500 www.visitmoretonbay.com.au Woodford Visitor Information Centre 127 Archer St, Woodford Qld 4514 (07) 5422 9900 or 1800 667 386 www.visitmoretonbay.com.au Glass House Mountains Visitor Centre Settlers Rotary Park, Cnr Reed St & Bruce Pde Glass House Mountains Qld 4518 (07) 5458 8848 or 1300 847 481 www.visitsunshinecoast.com
Noosa Marina Information Centre 2 Parkyn Court, Tewantin Qld 4565 (07) 5430 5000 or 1300 066 672 www.visitnoosa.com.au Noosa Visitor Information Centre 61 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads Qld 4567 (07) 5430 5000 or 1300 066 672 www.visitnoosa.com.au
Moreton Bay Islands Redlands Coast Visitor Information Centre Redland Bay Harbour, Shore St W Cleveland Qld 4163 1300 667 386 www.redland.qld.gov.au
Bribie Island Visitor Information Centre Benabrow Avenue, Bellara Qld 4507 (07) 3408 9026 or 1800 667 386 www.visitmoretonbay.com.au
Sunshine Coast Mountains to the Sea Caboolture Visitor Information Centre (BP North Travel Centre) Bruce Hwy, Burpengary Qld 4505 (07) 5428 7455 or 1800 659 500 www.visitmoretonbay.com.au Glass House Mountains Visitor Centre Settlers Rotary Park, Cnr Reed St & Bruce Pde Glass House Mountains Qld 4518 (07) 5458 8848 or 1300 847 481 www.visitsunshinecoast.com Maleny Visitor Information Centre 2/23 Maple St, Maleny Qld 4552 (07) 5499 9033 Montville Visitor Information Centre 198 Main St, Montville Qld 4560 (07) 5458 8845 or 1300 847 481 www.visitsunshinecoast.com Gympie Lake Alford Visitor Information Centre 24 Bruce Hwy, Gympie Qld 4570 (07) 5480 5183 or 1800 444 222 www.visitgympieregion.com.au Tewantin Parkyn’s Information Centre 116-120 Poinciana Ave, Tewantin Qld 4565 (07) 5449 7353 or 1300 066 672 www.visitnoosa.com.au
North Gorge Walk
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VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES
Shorncliffe Birsbane City Pier
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Let’s Drive QUEENSLAND
EXPERIENCE SOMERSET
Skip the skyscrapers and escape the traffic Esk
Find calm in the chaos and #ExperienceSomerset.
With three RV Friendly Towns, Somerset is the perfect place to embark on a caraventure.
Enjoy Australia’s longest recreational rail trail – the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail – and cycle, walk or ride a horse to townships bursting with character. Thrill seekers will witness the breathtaking expanse of countryside from a different perspective as you fall from the sky. Bring your fishing gear and drop a line at some of Queensland’s most picturesque lakes, including Somerset and Wivenhoe.
Enjoy country cooking and kick back with a coldie at one of the region’s iconic cafés or pubs. There’s even boutique wineries just waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s thrills or chills, Somerset has something for your next getaway. Start by visiting experiencesomerset.com.au
PLACES OF Interest
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Visit Kilcoy Courthouse Art Gallery at Yowie Park.
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Throw in a fishing line at Lake Somerset or Wivenhoe Dam.
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Discover the array of boutique wineries and cellar doors along the trail.
EXPERIENCE SOMERSET
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Let’s Drive QUEENSLAND
BRISBANE VALLEY RAIL TRAIL This is adventure - Somerset style
This is no highway or byway. It certainly isn’t a road less travelled. The 161km Brisbane Valley Rail Trail stretches from Wulkuraka to Yarraman, taking in historic towns and the heritage listed Lockyer Creek Bridge and Yimbun Railway Tunnel.
to Lowood (8km) and Harlin to Moore (13km). More rigorous routes include Blackbutt to Yarraman (19km), Wulkuraka to Fernvale (23km) and Coominya to Esk (24km).
The trail was named Public Works Project of the Year at the 2019 Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia Awards for Excellence, putting the South East Queensland region of Somerset on the world stage. It’s a mecca for mountain bikers. Home to horse riders and hikers. Clydesdales will do the work if a wagon is more your style. There’s something for everyone – leisurely links like Moore to Linville (7km), Fernvale
Australia’s longest recreational rail trail is dotted with cafés, pubs, bakeries, art galleries and shops. Accommodation options range from camping and caravanning to hotels, motels and boutique B&Bs. So, what are you waiting for? Get out of the car and choose your own adventure – Somerset style.
PLACES OF Interest
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Ride your mountain bike, horse or hike through this off-road and traffic free trail.
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Take a break to view the heritage-listed Lockyer Creek Railway Bridge.
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Experience a piece of history when you ride or walk through the 100m heritage listed Yimbun Railway Tunnel.
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Stop along the way for some refreshments at one of the many cafés, pubs, bakeries, art galleries or shops dotted along the trail.
BRISBANE VALLEY RAIL TRAIL
Toogoolawah Station
experience
BRISBANE VALLEY RAIL TRAIL Australia’s longest recreational rail trail in the heart of South-East Queensland
KILCOY (07) 5422 0440 41 HOPE STREET
TOOGOOLAWAH (07) 5423 1036 29 FACTORY ROAD
ESK (07) 5424 2923 82 IPSWICH STREET
FERNVALE (07) 5427 0200 1483 BRISBANE VALLEY HIGHWAY
experiencesomerset.com.au 13
Let’s Drive QUEENSLAND
SOMERSET SCENIC LAKES DRIVE Breathe in the fresh country air
Hit the road and breathe in the fresh country air as you leave the city and your worries behind. The rural panoramas and water-side stops are a day-tripper’s delight, while the curves, dips and slopes make for an epic ride. Your adventure starts in Yowie country, Kilcoy. Explore the environmental centre and the surrounds of Yowie Park. Why not fuel your morning with a famous Yowie Coffee while you’re there? Head south to Lake Somerset via the expansive beauty of the waters at Kirkleagh, the Spit and Somerset Park. Just below the dam wall, lies the quaint and peaceful village of Somerset Dam. As you travel southward, the waters of Lake Somerset begin to flow into Lake Wivenhoe through the Stanley River. Stop at O’Shea’s Crossing for a peaceful pause, where the two great lakes meet. Next up, the town of Esk awaits, brimming with country cafes, galleries
and authentic Aussie pubs. Esk has the rugged beauty of Mount Glen Rock as its backdrop. Admire the historic shopfronts and pop in to explore offerings of local arts, crafts, fresh produce and antiques. Let the Brisbane Valley Highway be your guide as you venture alongside Lake Wivenhoe. Discover the native flora and fauna at Hamon Cove or Logan Inlet, or take a bushwalk through the scenic Wivenhoe Hill Trails. Visit the Spillway Lookout for amazing views of the Wivenhoe Dam wall before heading to Fernvale to explore its country cafes and quaint shops including the iconic Old Fernvale Bakery.
PLACES OF Interest
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Enjoy a day of water adventure at the day use areas at Kirkleagh and The Spit.
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For those who enjoy calm water-based recreation be sure to visit Wivenhoe Dam.
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Why not stay longer at one of the private campgrounds, holiday houses or retreats.
SOMMERSET SCENIC LAKES DRIVE
Somerset Dam
PLAN YOUR NEXT
KILCOY (07) 5422 0440 41 HOPE STREET
TOOGOOLAWAH (07) 5423 1036 29 FACTORY ROAD
ESK (07) 5424 2923 82 IPSWICH STREET
FERNVALE (07) 5427 0200 1483 BRISBANE VALLEY HIGHWAY
experiencesomerset.com.au 15
Let’s Drive QUEENSLAND
SOMERSET AND SOUTH BURNETT Allow a couple of days for this trip
Head to Ipswich, take time to explore this historic city and the Railway Workshops Museum. Turn off onto the Brisbane Valley Highway, have a look at Fernvale, Lake Wivenhoe, Esk and Toogoolawah. Upon reaching the D’Aguillar Highway head west up and over the Great Dividing Range through the towns of Moore, Blackbutt and Yarraman. From Yarraman you can drive direct to Nanango or through Maidenwell to the spectacular Bunya Mountains National Park. This park celebrates the Bunya Pine and its place in aboriginal folklore as an important food source. Short walks into the National Park are rewarded with splendid views over the surrounding countryside.
From Yarraman the Burnett Highway and its thick pine forests signal your arrival into the South Burnett. Nanango is home to the South Burnett Energy Centre highlighting the nearby Tarong Power Station. Turn off the highway to Kingaroy, centre of the South Burnett and famous for peanut growing. Further on is Wondai and its Timber Museum, and Murgon where many of the South Burnett’s wineries are to be found. Take a different route home to Brisbane via Goomeri, Kilkivan and on through Gympie on the Bruce Highway.
PLACES OF Interest
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Explore the extensive range of walking trails, with panoramic views from Bunya Mountains.
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Discover rich vineyards and taste your way through this enchanting wine region.
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Walk back through time with a visit to Wondai Heritage Museum.
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Bike, walk, or horse ride the South Burnett Rail Trail.
SOMERSET AND SOUTH BURNETT
Bunya Mountains
PLAN YOUR NEXT
escape
experiencesomerset.com.au Lake Somerset Holiday Park
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Let’s Drive QUEENSLAND
SCENIC RIM
Rainforests, lakes, valleys and mountains You can explore the Scenic Rim in a day, but do yourself a favour and allow a couple of days. There’s plenty of accommodation ranging from camping under the stars to luxuriating in resorts. Head down the M1 towards the Gold Coast from Brisbane, cross the Coomera River and turn off the highway through Upper Coomera and Wongawallen to Tamborine Mountain. Take a wander through the Gallery Walk filled with shops and cafes, then there’s wineries, distilleries, Skywalk, ziplines and brewery to visit. The Witches Falls section of Tamborine National Park was Queensland’s first National Park, declared in 1908. Head out of the rainforest down to Tamborine and Beaudesert, or perhaps Canungra to Beechmont, or Lamington National Park set in ancient rainforest.
From Beaudesert you could take a short trip up the valley of the Albert River to the village of Kerry and the gloriously named Lost World. Close by Beaudesert on the way to Rathdowney is Kooralbyn with its resort and golf course. You’ll see Mt Barney and Mt Lindsay from Rathdowney. Two of South East Queensland’s favourite lakes Maroon and Moogerah, ideal for boating, fishing and water skiing, are on the way to Boonah and Aratula. Head back to Brisbane through the rich food bowl of Kalbar, Harrisville, Peak Crossing and Rosevale.
PLACES OF Interest
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Stop off at one of the many stunning lakes, spectacular waterfalls or refreshing swimming holes.
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If you’re after some serious retail therapy, Gallery Walk is the place to visit.
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BYO jet ski and hit the water at Lakes Moogerah and Maroon or paddle your kayak on Lake Wyaralong.
SCENIC RIM
Spicers Peak
Kooroomba Vineyards
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Let’s Drive QUEENSLAND
LOCKYER VALLEY Toowoomba, High Country Hamlets and the Brisbane Valley
A short trip from Brisbane that could be explored in a day, or better still stay overnight along the way. Head west from Brisbane along the Warrego Highway. Drive through the city of Ipswich to see the historic buildings and perhaps the Workshops Rail Museum. Further west head through the rich agricultural lands of the Lockyer Valley. If you’re interested in history the Cobb and Co Tourist drive follows the Cobb and Co route between Ipswich and Toowoomba. Toowoomba is on the crest of the Great Dividing Range and is the second largest inland city in Australia. It is famous for the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, held in September, and is Australia’s longest running floral event. Year-round gardens to visit include the Japanese Garden, Queens Park, Laurel Bank Park and Picnic Point. Other attractions include the Empire Theatre,
the Downs Steam Railway and Museum and Cobb and Co Museum. Heading north on Australia’s Country Way (A3) turn off at Highfields for the short side trip to Spring Bluff scenic railway station. Travel through the hamlets of Cabarlah, Geham, Hampton and Pechey to Crows Nest. Be on the lookout for fresh local produce and antique shops. Head back via Hampton to the scenic route on to Esk through Ravensbourne National Park and get a wonderful view from Gus Beutel Lookout. Explore Esk’s marvellous historic buildings before returning to Brisbane via Lake Wivenhoe.
PLACES OF Interest • • • •
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Don’t miss the Ipswich Nature Centre, located in beautiful Queens Park. Relax under the shade of the 100 year old Jacaranda tree in the park at Das Neumanns Haus. Stop in to the Queensland Transport Museum with its magnificent display of transport. Visit the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers in September each year.
LOCKYER VALLEY
Lockyer Valley
Long lunches in the LOCKYER VALLEY
can help you around
The Toowoomba Region
TOOWOOMBA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE
82 - 86 James Street, Toowoomba Qld 4350 FREECALL 1800 33 11 55 E infocentre@tr.qld.gov.au
HAMPTON VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE
8623 New England Highway, Hampton Qld 4352 FREECALL 1800 009 066 E hamptoninfo@tr.qld.gov.au
www.luvyalockyer.com.au
southernqueenslandcountry.com.au
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Let’s Drive QUEENSLAND
EXPERIENCE TOOWOOMBA / SOMERSET DARLING DOWNS Skip the skyscrapers and escape the traffic Explore what our region has to offer
Spend the day exploring the High Country Hamlets, north of Toowoomba uncovering historical displays, quaint and quirky arts and crafts and taking in the surrounding natural beauty. Start your morning at the Chocolate Cottage Café in Highfield, located in the restored 1877 Highfields school house. Gifts and homewares are also on offer in the neighbouring cottages. Step back in time at the Highfields Pioneer Village and wander through over 50 buildings including antique vehicles and machinery, the century old Heritage Chapel and old-time shops fitted out just as they were in a bygone era, plus their newly acquired Big Cow! Head up the road to Cabarlah, home to Australia’s largest display of German imported grandfather and cuckoo clocks. If all that exploring has built up your appetite, head across the road
to the Farmers Arms Tavern, the oldest pub in Queensland, first licensed in 1863, where you will find generous pub meals for lunch. After filling your belly, it is time to walk off that meal at Ravensbourne National Park. Try out one of the five walking tracks or drive straight to Gus Beutel’s Lookout and take in the panoramic views of the Lockyer Valley and Scenic Rim. Crows Nest National Park is nearby offering up many bushwalking loops. Visit the Crows Nest Museum and Historical Village. On your way out of town, be sure to stop in at Crows Nest Softdrinks, to sample their locally produced drinks.
PLACES OF Interest • Visit the Cobb & Co Museum with its collection of over thirty 19th Century horse-drawn vehicles. • Spring Bluff Railway Station is home to beautifully manicured award-winning gardens. • Enjoy one of Toowoomba’s cultural experiences at the library, art gallery or Empire Theatre. • Visit The Farmers Arms Tavern at Cabarlah, the oldest surviving hotel in Australia.
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TOOWOOMBA / DARLING DOWNS
Table Top Mountain
can help you around
The Toowoomba Region
TOOWOOMBA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE 82 - 86 James Street, Toowoomba Qld 4350 FREECALL 1800 33 11 55 E infocentre@tr.qld.gov.au
HAMPTON VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE
8623 New England Highway, Hampton Qld 4352 FREECALL 1800 009 066 E hamptoninfo@tr.qld.gov.au
southernqueenslandcountry.com.au
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Let’s Drive QUEENSLAND
GRANITE BELT & NATIONAL PARKS Allow a couple of days for this trip
Head west from Brisbane along the Warrego Highway and veer left just before Ipswich onto the Cunningham Highway. Shortly Main Range, part of the Great Dividing Range, comes into view with Cunningham’s Gap showing up as a saddle in the range.
and vineyards. It’s easy to see why this area is called the Granite Belt as its covered in granite outcrops best seen at Girraween National Park.
The trip up the range is spectacular, wind down your windows and listen for the melodic ping of the bellbirds. Stop at the top for a walk in the Main Range National Park.
Explore the area’s wineries which benefit from the cool climate because of its high altitude. As well as apples there’s lots of seasonal produce grown here and served up at the region’s cafes and restaurants.
Heading further south west is the rolling farm country of the Darling Downs and the historic town of Warwick. Take some time to see the many sandstone buildings that tell the story of the town. Australia’s Country Way leads south to Stanthorpe with its apple orchards
For a different route home travel back through Killarney, east of Warwick, visit the spectacular Queen Mary Falls, view the Valley of the Head and head over the spectacular road down the range to Boonah and Brisbane.
PLACES OF Interest
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Try to solve the riddles at the Granite Belt Maze and Mini Golf just north of Stanthorpe.
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Be amazed by the huge granite boulders that tower above open forests at Girraween National Park.
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Visit historical Warwick, known for its roses and rodeo and featuring some of the state’s finest original sandstone buildings.
GRANITE BELT & NATIONAL PARKS
Girraween
Ballandean
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Let’s Drive QUEENSLAND
GLASS HOUSE MOUNTAINS & BRIBIE ISLAND
A day trip that can turn to overnight stays Head up the Bruce Highway to Caboolture, take the turnoff to the D’Aguillar Highway in the direction of Woodford. The road travels through agricultural land with Wamuran being well known for growing pineapples and strawberries. In keeping with Woodford’s art and craft culture the annual Woodford Folk Festival attracts 125,000 visitors, one of Australia’s largest festivals. Not far out of Woodford is the turnoff to Beerwah. Travel through pleasant farming land and the village of Peachester before arriving at Beerwah. Beerwah is famous because of its proximity to Australia Zoo. Turn south from Beerwah along the Steve Irwin
Way for spectacular views of the Glass House Mountains. Shortly after the Steve Irwin Way joins the Bruce Highway turnoff to Bribie Island. Drive through the small towns of Ningi and Bongaree and cross Pumicestone Passage by bridge to Bribie Island. You’ll find so much on Bribie including surf beaches, calm water beaches, fishing, boating, fourwheel driving, camping and golfing. It’s a short drive back to Brisbane returning to the Bruce Highway and south to the city.
PLACES OF Interest
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Get your climbing boots on to discover Mount Tibrogargan.
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Don’t miss a visit to Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, 55 hectares of subtropical rainforest overlooking the Glass House Mountains.
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Get up close and personal with one of Australia Zoo’s animal encounters.
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Take a short detour to Bribie Island, offering beautiful coastal scenery, birdwatching, spring wildflowers, boating and fishing areas.
GLASS HOUSE MOUNTAINS & BRIBIE ISLAND
Glass House Mountains
Bribie Island
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Let’s Drive QUEENSLAND
SUNSHINE COAST MOUNTAINS TO THE SEA Long day trip or stay over night
Head north along the Bruce Highway until you reach Steve Irwin Way not far north of Caboolture. This detour off the highway goes through farmlands and gives spectacular views of the Glass House Mountains. Not far past Australia Zoo you reach Landsborough and can head up the Blackall Range towards Maleny, famous for its craft and local food. Before heading off to Montville take a short detour to Mary Cairncross Park, with its magnificent views. Further along are the villages of Montville and Mapleton, for more great views across to the coast. At Mapleton head downhill to Nambour and across to re-join the Bruce Highway. Heading north just off the highway is Yandina, home of the Ginger Factory.
Further north and just off the highway is Eumundi, famous for arts, crafts and its twice weekly markets. Stay off the highway and head eastwards to Tewantin, Noosaville and famous Noosa Heads. Take a wander along Hastings Street for some food or shopping. Heading south back to Brisbane take the coast road passing Sunshine Beach, Peregian, Coolum, Mudjimba, Maroochydore, Cotton Tree, Alexandra Headland, Mooloolaba, Buddina, Warana, Bokarina, Currimundi, Dicky Beach, Moffat Beach, Shelly Beach, Caloundra and Golden Beach, all with their own special spots worth visiting.
PLACES OF Interest
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Take the kids to the iconic Ginger Factory with fun rides and fascinating tours.
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Be sure to stop at Eumundi, a refreshingly lush and hilly inland shopping village and arts community all centred around the famous Eumundi Markets.
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For those water buffs, Sunshine Coast beaches stretching from Caloundra to Noosa are up there with the best in the world.
SUNSHINE COAST MOUNTAINS TO THE SEA
Alexandra Headland
Mooloolaba Wharf
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Let’s Drive QUEENSLAND
MORETON BAY ISLANDS
One of Brisbane’s hidden secrets One of Brisbane’s hidden secrets is Moreton Bay and its islands, in fact Moreton Island is the third largest sand island in the world, with the highest sandhills in the world. As well as driving around its mainland shores there are ferries that will take you out to the islands. Moreton Island has two ferry operations. Moreton Island Adventures depart from the Port of Brisbane to The Wrecks with a vehicular ferry. Tangalooma Resort runs its own passenger ferry to Tangalooma from Holt Street, Pinkenba on the north side of the river. There is a range of accommodation, from the resort style to camping. A four-wheel drive vehicle is necessary to get around the island. Stradbroke Ferries service North Stradbroke Island by vehicular ferries and passenger ferries from Toondah Harbour at Cleveland. The Stradbroke Flyer runs water taxis from Toondah Harbour to North Stradbroke Island.
Stradbroke offers a good range of accommodation, camping, fishing, swimming, whale watching in season, nature walks and Quandamooka indigenous culture. North Stradbroke Island has many kilometres of bitumen roads. Stradbroke Ferries also run vehicular and Bay Islands Transit run passenger ferries to Lamb, Karragarra, Macleay and Russell Islands from Redland Bay. These islands in Southern Moreton Bay are close together in a sheltered and scenic part of the bay. The islands’ populations are a mix of permanent and holiday visitors.
PLACES OF Interest
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Explore the cluster of sunken ships at Moreton Island Tangalooma Wrecks.
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Hand feed dolphins in their natural environment off the beach at Tangalooma Resort.
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Take a refreshing dip in the Champagne Pools at North Point on Moreton Island.
MORETON BAY ISLANDS
Tangalooma Wrecks
Redlands Coast offers a gateway to coastal adventures, island getaways, Quandamooka cultural experiences and hinterland hidden treasures – all on Brisbane’s doorstep.
Image: Yulu-Burri-Ba Dancers at North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah)
01257 12/19
Renowned for its diverse year-round calendar of special attractions - from major sporting fixtures and competitions to themed festivals and events - the Coast offers an abundance of exciting entertainment for everyone across its villages and islands.
See more of Redlands Coast - drop in to our Visitor Information Centre in Cleveland to find out more.
visitredlandscoast.com.au
Moreton Island
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Let’s Drive QUEENSLAND
PACIFIC COAST WAY
One of Brisbane’s hidden secrets This drive takes you almost all the way up the coast of Queensland. It starts at the Gold Coast, takes you on through the state capital of Brisbane and on to the Sunshine Coast. At historic Maryborough you might like to take a short detour to see the whales in Hervey Bay and visit Fraser Island. Further along the way is Childers, where you can take another short detour to Bundaberg, famous for its rum and the Mon Repos turtle rookery. It’s near here, just north of Fraser Island, that the Great Barrier Reef starts near Lady Elliot Island. Continuing north past the industrial city of Gladstone you’ll come to the beef city of Rockhampton, from which a short detour will take you to Yeppoon and the Capricorn Coast. Continue northwards through the cane fields to the tropical city of Mackay. Along the way there you might like to visit the beautiful Capricorn Caves. At Proserpine a short side trip will take you to Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday Islands. Next is Bowen, famous for its mangoes and the twin towns of Ayr and
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Home Hill on the Burdekin River. From Townsville you can visit Magnetic Island. Continuing north you’ll soon reach Ingham passing the Wallaman Falls, the highest single drop waterfall in Australia. Continue on to Cardwell where there is a ferry to Hinchinbrook Island. Further north are Mission Beach and Tully, where you might meet a Cassowary while on its Spirit of the Rainforest Walk! Then, Innisfail which is famous for its sugar and finally on to Cairns.
Travel Tips
• Tell family and friends your itinerary as part of planning for your trip. • Never pass a service station without checking your fuel gauge. • If your vehicle breaks down in a remote area, stay with the vehicle. • Phone 000 for emergencies.
For all things caravanning visit www.caravanningqld.com.au
PACIFIC COAST WAY
PLACES OF Interest Coolangatta to Cairns distance 1874km
1 72km
2 174km
3 89km
4 384km
5 300km
6 156km
7 204km
8 112km
9 237km
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GOLD COAST
The largest non-capital city in Australia, the Gold Coast is a coastal city with surfing beaches, a high-rise dominated skyline and rainforest hinterland.
BRISBANE
Brisbane is Queensland’s riverside capital city with a population of 2.4 million, making it the third most populous city in Australia.
GYMPIE
Located in the Wide Bay-Burnett District north of Brisbane. Known for world class produce and festivals eg. Gympie Muster.
Kangaroo Point
MARYBOROUGH
A town steeped in history, Maryborough is nestled upon the Mary River and is the birthplace of Pamela Lyndon Travers, the creator of Mary Poppins.
ROCKHAMPTON
Rockhampton, or ‘Rocky’, is the fourth
largest city in Queensland known as the Beef Capital of Australia.
SARINA
Beautiful beaches, turtle nesting, prime fishing and scenic mountain ranges with country hospitality.
BOWEN
One of the many charming towns on the Whitsunday Coast, with award winning beaches and a warm tropical climate.
TOWNSVILLE
Coastal city in north east Queensland, offers diverse experiences from the Great Barrier Reef to the World Heritage Wet Tropics.
INGHAM
Discover the taste of Italian Life with more than half of Ingham’s population of Italian descent.
CAIRNS
The only place on the planet where two World Heritage Wonders sit side by side. Here, the world’s largest reef – The Great Barrier Reef meets the Daintree Rainforest. Mary Poppins Story Bank Museum
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Let’s Drive QUEENSLAND
ST GEORGE REGION
One of Brisbane’s hidden secrets An easy drive from anywhere, the St George Region is a welcoming oasis in Queensland’s Southern Outback. A place like no other, it is one not to be observed but to immerse yourself in. From meandering rivers and sweeping rural plains to well-maintained sealed highways and rugged red dirt roads, it’s the perfect city escape.
of produce and some of the best inland fishing in the country – don’t forget to bring your fishing rod!
Take some time to unwind in the region’s seven towns of St George, Bollon, Dirranbandi, Hebel, Mungindi, Nindigully and Thallon – all uniquely situated on a river. Breathe in the fresh country air, explore the vast landscapes, and enjoy the freedom of St George Region’s wide-open spaces.
Explore pristine national parks with prolific birdlife and native animals including emus, kangaroos, hidden koala colonies, and if you’re lucky, the endangered northern hairy-nosed wombat. By night, lay under a blanket of billions of stars, shining bright in a rich tapestry - it’s a light show like you’ve never seen before.
Experience famous historic Australian pubs, homesteads and painted silos. Meander along the inland rivers and waterways which supply endless fields
Get ready to awake to a new day beyond the city and experience the oasis in the outback that is the St George Region.
PLACES OF Interest
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Explore pristine national parks with their prolific birdlife and native animals.
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Beardmore Dam or Jack Taylor Weir are great spots to picnic and throw in a line.
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Visit the Riversands Wines cellar door, the most westerly winery in Queensland.
ST GEORGE REGION
St George
St George
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Silo artwork at Thallon
Wallam Creek
vic@balonne.qld.gov.au
@stgeorgeregion • #explorestgeorge • stgeorgeregion.com.au
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Let someone else do the driving! Bus Queensland connect the city, the coast and the country. With services operating across Mount Isa, Townsville, Rockhampton, Cunnumulla, Lightning Ridge, Roma, Toowoomba and Brisbane it’s easy and affordable - sit back and enjoy the views
