Noosa Outback Magazine Issue 13

Just a short drive from the beautiful beaches of Noosa and the Sunshine Coast is “Noosa Outback” where the “Outback meets the Surf”.

There are mountains to climb and lakes to see and amazing National Parks for all to enjoy. Take a country drive through historical townships, stop on the way to buy some fresh local produce from farm stores and local market vendors and take in the stunning scenery.

There are experiences galore such as riding the historic Mary Valley Rattler, catching a silent movie at the Pomona Majestic Theatre, visit the Kenilworth Cheese Factory or take a bush walk through majestic forests.

You can spend a day or stay and play for days on end. There are so many places to stay you are spoilt for choice with farm stays, camping options, B&Bs and cabins.

There are vast amounts of countryside for you to explore. To get the real feel of the Noosa Outback try horse riding, mountain biking or a bush walk.

From rolling hills, to lush green pastures, rocky outcrops and magnificent waterfalls - Noosa Outback has so much to offer that it will keep you coming back for more!

AMAMOOR

Amamoor is a small country village that comes alive in August for the Country Music Muster when thousands descend to hear some of Australia’s greatest country music. There are also some hidden gems to be found all year around.

Amamoor Station is famous for the lovingly restored Mary Valley Rattler heritage steam train which is an experience of yesteryear that everyone will enjoy.

The Amamoor State Forest is a bird lover’s delight with over 120 species able to be found in its riverine forests. Amamoor Creek is also renowned for finding platypus at play at dawn and dusk. There are several walking

tracks through the forest from short walks to longer treks for the more adventurous. Home to Mary Valley Adventure Trails, you can take a guided horse ride through the Mary Valley from a half day ride to multi-day rides.

If you are looking for somewhere to stay, Amamoor Lodge provides relaxing boutique country accommodation with fine country hospitality. Or for camping, Cedar Grove on the banks of Amamoor Creek is a great spot to pitch the tent.

Mary River Rattler Train

Tozer St Gympie tree

Amamoor State Forest

Amamoor Creek Rd Amamoor

SUITCASE-ROLLING

Amamoor Lodge

368 Kandanga Amamoor Rd Amamoor

Rattler Turn at Amamoor Station.

Amamoor Creek.

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BOREEN POINT

Boreen Point is situated on Queensland’s largest saltwater lake, Lake Cootharaba and is a gateway to the upper Noosa River and Noosa Everglades making it the perfect spot for boating and fishing and enjoying all that this beautiful natural environment has to offer.

The historic Apollonian Hotel is a magnificent reminder of times past built of hoop pine and cedar and surrounded by wide verandahs. It is renowned for its

hearty Sunday spit roasts which always attract a big crowd.

Lake Cootharaba Sailing Club is a must for any sailing enthusiasts with predominant sea breezes providing some of the best flat water sailing conditions in the world.

Accommodation options abound from camping at Harry’s Hut, glamping at the 65 acre Habitat Noosa which has its own microbrewery or taking in the luxury of Alaya Verde B&B are just a few of the options.

Whether you go it alone or jump on a tour, exploring this area provides some unique experiences.

SUITCASE-ROLLING

Habitat Noosa

204 Lake Flat Rd Boreen Point

Lake Cootharaba Sailing Club

24 Boreen Pde Boreen Point

Apollonian Hotel

19 Laguna St Boreen Point

Two girls in Everglades. Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland.

4569

COORAN

A quirky town, Cooran is great for a visit on your tour through the hinterland. Find unique treasures in Fabulous Finds, sip a signature micro-brew in Noosa Hinterland Brewing Co and get a delectable bite to eat in the popular Hinterland Restaurant.

The 5km winding dirt trip up Tablelands Road to James McKane lookout is well worth the trip offering spectacular views over the hinterland, wood BBQs, picnic shelters and a large grassy area perfect for a game of cricket or to kick the footy.

For nature lovers, there is access to the Noosa Trails including the Cooran Tableland Lookout. Nearby Mothar Mountain State Forest offers more walking tracks and swimming holes.

The Cooran Tall Trees Exhibition transforms this hinterland town into a vibrant open-air gallery, showcasing the artistic local talents during the last weekend of October.

Noosa Hinterland Brewing Co

28 King St Cooran

SUITCASE-ROLLING

James McKane Lookout

Tablelands Rd Cooran

Hinterland Restaurant

16 King St Cooran

Cooran Playground.

View from Cooran. Photo: Julie McLaws

Pinbarren Countryside. Photo: Leanne M Airey.

Cooran Hall.

COOROY

The Heart of Noosa Hinterland, Cooroy is a charming country town with a big heart and a lot to do and see.

Offering a diversity of experiences including heritage, nature, arts, sports, shopping and a great selection of cafes, restaurants and accommodation options, this town makes a great base to explore the region further.

For nature lovers, Cooroy is home to several of the Noosa Trail networks, the Noosa Botanic Gardens and Lake Macdonald.

The town is saturated in cultural & heritage experiences with community artworks incorporated throughout the

streets, art exhibitions and workshops at the Butter Factory Arts Centre and the Cooroy Mill Site with its interesting heritage buildings from the milling era and woodworking clubs.

The new Hinterland Adventure Playground is unique, naturebased and packed full of fun for all ages and abilities. The facilities include waterplay, flying fox, swings, natural and rock play areas, sand pit, rocket ship, green spaces, sensory garden, tunnels and more. It also offers picnic areas, BBQ and amenities making it a great spot for families and gatherings.

WATER

Noosa Botanic Gardens & Lake MacDonald

Lake MacDonald Dr Lake MacDonald

PAINT-BRUSH

Butter Factory Arts Centre

11A Maple St Cooroy

Cooroy RSL

25 Maple St Cooroy

For all the information about this great Noosa Outback town visit their free community website at

Cooroy.online

Cooroy Mountain.

4562

EUMUNDI

Famous for its artisan markets, held each Wednesday & Saturday, Eumundi also offers some interesting shopping options such as Berkelouw Book Barn and Cafe, Pearls for Girls and several art galleries offering unique treasures.

The main street is lined with memorial Fig Trees and public art sculptures are dotted around the town making for an interesting stroll.

Eumundi delights with cafes, restaurants showcasing local produce, bakeries, and diverse eateries. Find your perfect bite, from casual to global. Craving a classic pub atmosphere? Two hotels boast historic charm and delicious pub fare.

Caplick Park is a great adventure playground for the kids. Dive into the cool waters of the local swimming pool, unleash your competitive spirit on the tennis courts, or shred the ramps at the skate park.

Eumundi Markets

Located throughout Eumundi

Eumundi RV Stopover

2 Albert St Eumundi

Matso's Sunshine Coast

85 Memorial Dr Eumundi

Eumundi. Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland

FLAXTON

A town of restaurants, guest houses, and art galleries surrounded by avocado orchards, Flaxton is one of the prettiest of the Blackall Range settlements.

To the east are sweeping views to the ocean’s horizon providing the perfect spot to catch a stunning sunrise.

To the west is the subtropical rainforest of Kondalilla Falls National Park providing beautiful

walking trails, picnic areas and rock pools to cool off in.

Worth a visit is The Barn on Flaxton which sells fashion, gifts and has a great verandah cafe. Everything is homemade just like Grandma used to make.

Flaxton Gardens is an iconic high tea, dining and wedding venue with coastal views stretching from Noosa to Moreton Island.

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Kondalilla Falls National Park

Kondalilla Falls Rd Flaxton

The Barn on Flaxton

445 Flaxton Dr Flaxton

Flaxton Gardens

313-327 Flaxton Dr Flaxton

Take home some local produce from The Barn on Flaxton.

4560

Bush swim at Kondalilla Falls National Park.

IMBIL

The rural town of Imbil is the largest in the Mary Valley and is nestled on the banks of the Yabba Creek. The township offers parklands, a variety of shops and services and the weekly Imbil Country Market on Sunday. The Rattler Café and Imbil Railway Hotel offer dining options.

A steep haul to the Imbil Lookout presents incomparable, near 360-degree views to Kenilworth, the mountains, and the Sunshine Coast. While Queensland’s newest rail trail offers a 4.7km walk or ride from Imbil to Brooloo passing through state forests.

Nearby Imbil State Forest offers hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, swimming and walking.

For the equestrian enthusiast, Stirlings Crossing Equestrian Centre combines state of the art facilities providing all requirements for a variety of equestrian related events.

Imbil is home to the Mary Valley Show in August each year which is a traditional country show with ring events, rodeo, woodchop and more.

Imbil Country Market

Yabba Creek Rd Imbil

Railway Hotel

110 Yabba Creek Rd Imbil

Mary Valley Show

Imbil Showgrounds Imbil

Fresh local produce and homemade wares to be found at the Imbil Country Market.

4570

KANDANGA

Kandanga is an RV friendly town on the banks of Kandanga Creek.

The surrounding countryside boasts rich pastures, orchards and spectacular views of Noosa Outback. You can also often see koalas in and around town.

The original 100 year old Kandanga Hotel burnt to the ground but was

rebuilt in 2017 and boasts lovely bull nose verandas and is a great spot for a good feed.

Kandanga Country Club has dining in the Double Bridge Dining Restaurant. The venue includes bowling greens and gaming machines and there is RV Camping adjacent.

Kandanga Country Club

4 Bowling Club Rd Kandanga

Kandanga Hotel

40 Main St Kandanga

Kandanga Farm Store

93 Main St Kandanga

Gympie – the real treasure is the town. Photo: Mal Dodt

4574

KENILWORTH

Kenilworth is one of the larger towns in Noosa Outback and oozes country charm. Their Living History Museum offers dairying and timber industry displays, a film presentation, tanners store and machinery shed and working displays of a school room, laundry and telephone system.

Central to the town is a park with a fantastic playground situated just across the road from the Kenilworth Dairies cheese, yoghurt and ice-cream factory.

Their factory shop provides samples of their products and you can also purchase their products and other locally produced gourmet goodies.

There are a good selection of eateries, shops and experiences on offer and a wander down the main street is sure to unearth some delights. The Kenilworth Country Bakery is a must visit for the sweet tooth – home to the 1kg donut challenge and Australia’s first coffee in donut!

Kenilworth Hotel is a traditional Aussie pub with good value accommodation and there is camping at the show grounds. Just up the road there is camping and cabins at Kenilworth Homestead.

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Kenilworth Historical Museum

7/9 Alexandra St Kenilworth

carrot

Kenilworth Dairies

41 Charles St Kenilworth

STAR

Kenilworth Hotel & Brewery

18 Elizabeth St Kenilworth

Thilba Thalba Viewpoint Delicia Section.

Photo: Queensland Government

Booloumba Falls. Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland

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Brooloo

Imbil

Kandanga

Amamoor

Kenilworth

Gympie

Conondale

Mary River

Lake

Borumba Lake Borumba Camping Ground in the heart of the Noosa Outback

Historic Village

NOOSA OUTBACK

For a tiny town, Kin Kin certainly punches above its weight. Blessed with glorious scenery, a gourmet cafe, an historic pub and a jewel box of a gift shop, Kin Kin offers visitors fabulous food, relaxation and a chance to find something unique and local to take home afterwards.

The award-winning Kin Kin General Store and Cafe aka ‘The Black Ant’ is a must for brekkie or lunch. With a tantalising menu celebrating local produce, delicious seasonal foods, homemade ice-cream and

great locally grown coffee what more could one ask for? Take home their pizzas or lasagne.

As an appetiser or for afterlunch exercise, stroll around the remarkable shelves of the one-ofkind Kin Kin Depot. This sparkling gift shop showcases the best of local art, jewellery, leather goods, candles and beauty products as well as hand-picked pressies from around the world.

There are multiple options to enjoy the natural beauty of Kin Kin with three Noosa Trails accessible ranging from 11km to 25 km. Or for a shorter nature experience, take a short stroll through the Arboretum or along the Dogrell Forest Trail.

Kin Kin Arboretum

Pomona Kin Kin Rd Kin Kin

Kin Kin General Store & The Black Ant

56 Main St Kin Kin gift

Kin Kin Depot

63 Main St Kin Kin

Bushwalking at Steamy Hill near Kin Kin.

The Black Ant at Kin Kin General store.

Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland.

A rosie view of the world through The Depot’s front window.

4570

LAKE BORUMBA

Lake Borumba is a stunning gem nestled in the heart of Noosa Outback, just 11 kilometres from the charming township of Imbil.

With an impressive 480 hectares of surface area, Lake Borumba is a water playground for those who love canoeing, boating, water skiing or fishing.

The lake is teeming with fish thanks to the tireless efforts of the Lake Borumba Fish Stocking

Association, which stocks it with Australian bass, golden perch, silver perch, and Mary River cod. Fishing permits are required, and the fees collected go towards maintaining the healthy fish population. The lake also boasts a thriving population of saratoga, a living legacy of past stocking efforts.

Situated just 800 metres from the lake's edge and nestled beside Yabba Creek, Lake Borumba Caravan and Camping Ground offers both powered and unpowered sites. The campground also features an outdoor camp kitchen, fire pits, showers, toilets, and even free use of kayaks and a volleyball court, ensuring a fun and comfortable stay for visitors.

Borumba Dam Picnic Grounds

Yabba Creek Rd Lake Borumba

Lake Borumba Caravan & Camping Ground

1484 Yabba Creek Rd Lake Borumba

Tribute to the local platypuses at Lake Borumba.

Camping at Lake Borumba Caravan & Camping Ground

4552

MALENY

A postcard shot is around every twist in the road in Maleny’s dairy country of lush, rolling green hills high on the Blackall Range.

Offering numerous scenic spots, culinary delights and idyllic places to stay, Maleny has a lot to offer any explorer of the region.

Maleny village has the Obi Obi Creek winding around it with playful platypus able to be spotted if you are lucky. The

main street offers a selection of delectable dining options as well as hidden treasures in the retail shops.

Must see spots around Maleny include Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, Gardners Falls, Maleny Botanic Garden and Bird World, Baroon Pocket Dam, Maleny Dairy and Art on Cairncross. On the long weekend in May the Wood Expo at Maleny Showgrounds offers up a celebration of timber.

WATER

Gardners Falls

Obi Ln Maleny

DOVE

Maleny Botanic Garden & Bird World

233 Maleny Stanley Rd Maleny

PAINT-BRUSH

Art on Cairncross

3 Panorama Pl Maleny

Foodies Delight Maleny.

Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland.

Mary Cairncross Park. Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland.

Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland.

4560

MAPLETON

Mapleton Falls National Park is home to abundant native flora and fauna and the stunning Mapleton Falls with a number of day walks and a viewing platform that soaks up the magnificent Mary Valley.

For a great picnic spot visit The Lilyponds which was for many years a swamp and underwent an $800,000 makeover to turn it into a community park. There are free BBQ's, children's play park and covered seating areas.

Also, Delicia Road Conservation Park is worth a visit for the 2.2 km walk called the Linda Garrett circuit which passes through rainforest, a palm grove and tall, wet, eucalypt forest. The great

barred frog may be seen along Gheerulla Creek and birdwatchers may hear the melodic, drumming call of the endangered marbled frogmouth.

After your explorations you might like to stop into the village and grab a bite to eat at the Mapleton Tavern or one of the quaint cafes along the hilltop.

Mapleton Observatory is a nighttime adventure that is worth a visit with open nights once a month and the ability to book your own night.

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Mapleton Falls National Park

Mapleton Falls Rd Mapleton

WATER

Mapleton Lilyponds

130 Obi Obi Road Mapleton

METEOR

Mapleton Observatory

Flaxton Dr Mapleton

Blooming water lillies.

Mapleton family picnic. Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland

Wompoo Walk at Mapleton Falls.

4560

MONTVILLE

Glorious views of the Sunshine Coast abound in Montville as does the selection of local accommodation on offer with everything from B&Bs to cottages and cabins many with delightful views and surprising amenities.

The township offers up a huge selection of unique shopping experiences such as Montville Woods Gallery. If looking for that unique take home momento, Montville probably has what you are after with art, fashion and

antiques all on offer in abundance. With a plethora of dining options you won’t go hungry either. The Edge Restaurant is worth a visit with the deck perched on the edge of the escarpment offering panoramic views of the Coast. For a great café with creative vibe, Priscilla's Gallery is a must for art & food lovers alike.

Offering up the romance of the hinterland, Montville is also a popular spot for weddings and romantic getaways. Home also to Baroon Pocket Dam Recreational Area with a nice picnic area and lovely views across the lake. The indulgent Secrets on the Lake has a café restaurant overlooking the lake and the tree-top cabins are absolutely delightful.

Clock Shop

194 Main St Montville

Montville Mountain Inn

118 Main St Montville

Priscilla's Gallery

190 Main St Montville

Secrets on the Lake in Montville.

Gardners Falls, Maleny.

4568

POMONA

Located at the base of the towering Mount Cooroora, Pomona is a lovely country village with a diversity of offerings. The hike to the summit of the mountain is challenging but rewards with sweeping views of Noosa Outback.

If heritage is your interest, Noosa Shire Museum should be your first port of call with a vast and varied collection from the past.

Every Saturday from 7am to 11.30am are the Pomona Country Markets followed by a silent movie at the Majestic Theatre commencing at noon. The heritage listed, Majestic Theatre has been operating since the silent film era and they also host regular events

with live entertainment and classic cult screenings.

The Pomona Railway Station has been converted into an art gallery, with a series of halls that have displays of local arts and crafts, well worth a visit for any art lover.

There are a variety of eateries, shops and antique stores to keep you busy as you roam around the town.

Mount Cooroora

Jampot Creek Rd Pomona LANDMARK

Noosa Shire Museum

29 Factory St Pomona film

Majestic Theatre

3 Factory St Pomona

Stroll through the Pomona Markets.

Countryside. Photo: Leanne M Airey

4570

TRAVESTON

Traveston, despite lacking a bustling town centre, charms with its rural character and unexpected gems.

Whether you're seeking a scenic drive connecting Cooran to the idyllic Mary Valley or hidden treasures to discover, this quaint locality has something for everyone.

Start your Traveston adventure with a pitstop at Traveston Service Station, where Matilda, the giant kangaroo mascot from the 1982 Commonwealth Games, stands proudly.

For a delightful weekend treat, indulge in light lunches and wine tastings at Dingo Creek Vineyard.

For some family fun, escape to Cobb & Co Nine Mile Camping Ground, where a pirate ship playground, tractor rides and more, promise unforgettable memories amidst 50 lush acres.

Just up the road, Garapine awaits with 180 acres of natural beauty, offering exploration through its Mountain Bike Park and cosy accommodations.

So, ditch the traditional town centre and embrace the unique charm that Traveston has to offer!

bicycle

Garapine Mountain Bike Park

24 Mountain View Rd Kybong

Dingo Creek Vineyard

265 Tandur Traveston Rd Traveston

PAINT-BRUSH

Cobb & Co Nine Mile

Camping Ground

1484 Noosa Rd, Tandur

Matilda at the Traveston Service Station.

Dingo Creek Vineyard Share Platter.

Towering Eucalypt.

Cobb & Co. Nine Mile Camping Ground.

4561

YANDINA

Yandina has a host of experiences to offer the explorer of Noosa Outback. Yandina Historic House Information Centre offers an art gallery, crafts, gifts and Devonshire tea and coffee.

Just up the road is the Ginger Factory with train and boat rides, tours and educational shows set in beautiful sub-tropical gardens. Their café and retail outlet provide everything gingery! Across the road is Nutworks and the Chocolate Factory where you can view factory processing of macadamia nuts, chocolate panning and roasting.

A meal at the award winning Spirit House restaurant or a class in their cooking school is definitely

something that should be on the must-do list. Nearby Wappa Falls and Wappa Dam offers a short walk and some rock hopping with some picture snapping opportunities.

The Wappa Falls Observatory is one of Queensland’s leading private observatories with 16 telescopes and providing both day and night time shows that are humorous, fun and informative. To the east of Yandina, Mount Ninderry offers an easy climb for those interested in a bit of bushwalking.

The Ginger Factory

50 Pioneer Rd Yandina

The Spirit House Restaurant & Cooking School

20 Ninderry Rd Yandina

METEOR

Wappa Falls Observatory

191 Wappa Falls Rd Yandina

Wappa Falls, Yandina.

Steam train at The Ginger Factory.

Cooking class at the Spirit House.