Dig into coal mining history The former coal mining towns of Howard and Torbanlea are about 30km north of Maryborough with their old fashioned pubs and historical buildings, including Brooklyn House which was a home of former Prime Minister Andrew Fisher. Queensland’s first female Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin also called Howard home for a time. The Burrum coalfields were just the second to be exploited in the State and played a major role in the early development of the Fraser Coast region. Coal was mined in the area for more than 130 years from 1866 until 1997 and at its peak, the industry employed more than 400. Some 94 shafts and tunnels were dug and the Howard Power Station, which operated between 1951 and 1980 and generated electricity for the entire region, was exclusively supplied by Burrum coal.
Burrum Coast Experience the variety from coal to coastal havens Stretching from Toogoom and Torbanlea to Burrum Heads and Howard, the Burrum Coast takes its name from the Burrum River, where coal was discovered in 1863. Just a short 17km drive along the coast from Hervey Bay is the township of Toogoom which boasts incredible fishing and boating, plus a restaurant located right on the water. It’s a terrific place for an adventure, like riding the Toogoom Mountain Bike Trails, or just relaxing on the beach. Venture a further 18km up the coast to discover the fishing village of Burrum Heads, where the Burrum River meets the ocean. Visitors return year after year and some even opt to become permanent residents.
The Burrum District Museum at Howard houses an impressive collection of memorabilia and the annual Coalfest celebrates the area’s early history. On most market days in Howard, held on the first Saturday of the month, visitors can take a ride on wagons pulled by ‘Rusty’ the restored local coal locomotive which runs along a reconstructed track and tunnel system. Another big feature on the country calendar is the yearly Torbanlea Picnic Races which incorporates tug of war competitions, wood chops and fashions on the field as well as horse racing.
Cycling
The development of more Fraser Coast recreational bike trails and competitive annual cycling events, including 100km and 50km triathlons, are making the region a growing drawcard for cyclists. The premium competitive event for serious athletes and fit families is the Hervey Bay 100 triathlon in November, which uses the picturesque waterfront Esplanade for its 80km bike ride, 2km swim and 18km run. Organisers have added a 50km triathlon to the same weekend, as a development event for those aiming at the senior distance. More than 600 cyclists from as far away as Tasmania, Sydney and northern NSW compete in the senior event, riding four laps of a 20km circuit along the Esplanade from Torquay to Point Vernon and spectators watch the race from numerous vantage points along the way. The Tour de Bay charity ride in September, which begins and ends at the Hervey Bay Community Centre, is less competitive with distances to suit all fitness levels from 10km to a bruising 100km course for the more serious along the Great Sandy Strait. Work is also continuing on the Mary to Bay Trail, following the old rail line from Urangan Pier to Maryborough, which is used heavily by cyclists. About 18km between Urangan to Nikenbah is now sealed and plans are being developed to complete the rest of the
Relax in a marine wonderland
Fishing boats pepper the sea, providing a beautiful backdrop for spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Keep an eye out for the turtles and dugongs that make appearances in the area. Anglers can take advantage of year-round fishing or join the popular annual Burrum Heads Easter Fishing Classic. Drop in a line from the beach and off rock walls or head out in a boat to explore the ocean and river systems. Visitors will also find great kayaking and camping spots along the river. Further inland are the Wongi Waterholes – a beautiful picnic and camping spot fringed by paperbark trees – and Lake Lenthall which is a favoured fishing spot, following major restocking programs in 2017-18 when thousands of Australian bass, barramundi and golden and silver perch were released into the dam. Both are a 30 to 40 minute drive north-west of Maryborough.
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Fraser Coast Holiday Planner
BAMBOO LAND NURSERY & PARKLANDS Bamboo Land is a well-established bamboo and tropical plant nursery with 20 acres of landscaped botanic garden style display gardens. The gardens are located on the beautiful freshwater Burrum River which gives the gardens an almost oasis-like feel. The production side of Bamboo Land supplies tropical plants Australia wide – both retail and wholesale. The retail business and display gardens are open 7 days a week – admission is free. 87 Old Coach Road, Torbanlea | 07 4129 4470 sales@bambooland.com.au www.bambooland.com.au
