Southern Great Barrier Reef
Where Great Begins
Bundaberg | Bargara | Agnes Water | Gladstone | Rockhampton | Yeppoon Lady Elliot Island | Lady Musgrave Island | Heron Island | Great Keppel Island North Burnett | Cania Gorge | Carnarvon Gorge | Sapphire Gemfields | Emerald
#southerngreatbarrierreef Edition 1 - Published January 2017 For information on advertising in this tourist guide contact Capricorn Enterprise on 07 4927 2055. Photo credit: Thank you to Tourism and Events Queensland, Emily Szilveszter, Nathan White Images, Aynat Designs and the many contributors and advertisers who supplied editorial material and photographs for this publication. Disclaimer: This free guide is published by Capricorn Enterprise, Gladstone Area Promotion and Development Limited and Bundaberg North Burnett Tourism on behalf of the Southern Great Barrier Reef destination. Information is provided in good faith based on information supplied by various other parties and is subject to change without notice. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information supplied, no responsibility can be accepted for loss, damage, inconvenience, delay or injury due to negligence, errors, changes or omissions. Always check the latest information for any changes. All material contained in this publication is subject to copyright and may not be reproduced, copied or transmitted in any form without the prior written consent of Capricorn Enterprise.
Snorkelling off Heron Island
2 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Welcome to the Southern Great Barrier Reef The Southern Great Barrier Reef – a bucket list destination unlike any other; millions of years in the making and built on the very best the Sunshine State has to offer. Your journey starts just four hours north of Brisbane, with flavour country and neverending seasonal produce; stretches inland to the sapphire-rich gemfields and sandstone wilderness; linked to the stunning coast by a chain of tropical islands atop Australia’s greatest natural wonder. Put simply, we’re sun, sand and surf. We’re paddock to plate, from fifth generation farmers to the new-age millennial tastemakers. We’re history rediscovered. We’re open spaces and endless possibilities. We are the Southern Great Barrier Reef… and we’re waiting for you!
D i d y ou know?
The Southern Great Barrier Reef is easily accessible from Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Bundaberg in the south is only four hours’ drive from the state’s capital, and Rockhampton and Gladstone in the north are just over an hour’s flight, plus there are charter flights available directly to the reef islands!
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 3
Keppel Islands off the Capricorn Coast
4 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Where Great Begins... southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 5
MELBOURNE HOBART
entre where Australia’s famous anthem ints at Lark Quarry where evidence of ound 95 million years can be found.
Domestic Airports Train Route
Contents (The Spirit of the Outback Queensland Rail Journey)
G
BLAIR ATHOL
R
Bowen Downs
E
Clermont
A
LEGEND
Islands ............................................................................................... 8
T
Aramac
Capella
Beaches............................................................................................12
D
Sapphire Gemfields
Turtles.................................................................................................14
I
V
Local Flavours..............................................................................16 Barcaldine Drummond Fishing & Boating....................................................................20 CAPRICOR
I
D
N
Downs
Sapphire
N
Childers & Woodgate...................................................... 26
Emerald
Anakie Willows
I
ring heritage, nset onboard iver and walk
Alpha
Drive – Pacific Coast Way...............................................24
Rubyvale
TAUN
Blackwater
LAKE MARABOON
BLACKDOW TABLELAN
Willows Gemfields
G
Bundaberg............................................................................. 28
Springsure
Bargara & Coral Coast...................................................30
R
Agnes Water & Discovery Coast.............................32 Blackall Gladstone & Surrounds................................................ 36
Woo
A
Rolleston
N
Rockhampton Region....................................................40
G
Yeppoon & Capricorn Coast.......................................42 Salvator Rosa
E
Keppel Islands......................................................................44 Section Tambo Drive – Australia’s Country Way.................................46 Drive – Great Inland Way.................................................52
Deepdale Extension Ka Ka Mundi Section CARNARVON NATIONAL PARK Mt Moffatt Carnarvon Section Gorge Section
NUGA NUGA NP LAKE NUGA NUGA
Moolayember Section
Drive – Capricorn Way/Dig the Tropic.....................58 Events Calendar....................................................................... 64 Major Festivals..........................................................................66 Advertising Directory............................................................68 Visitor Information..................................................................BC LEGEND
Domestic Airports Train Routes Touring Routes Pacific Coast Way Great Inland Way Australia’s Country Way Capricorn Way Capricorn Coast Scenic Loop Leichhardt Way 6 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
EXPEDITIO
GREA
DARWIN
T
BA
R
RI
ER
R EE
CAIRNS CAIRNS
F
AUSTRALIA
BRISBANE
PERTH
Marlborough
SYDNEY
ADELAIDE
BYFIELD NP
MELBOURNE
Byfield
HOBART
KEPPEL BAY ISLANDS NP
Yeppoon Pumpkin Island Great Keppel Island North West Island Emu Park Keppel Sands Masthead Heron Island Rockhampton G Island R EA T Fitzroy Reef Curtis Island B Mt Morgan CURTIS ISLAND NP A Llewellyn Reef R R Gladstone IE Mt Larcom Dululu Facing Island R Lady Musgrave Island Boyne Island R Tannum Sands Calliope Benaraby Lady Elliot Island LAKE AWOONGA EURIMBULA NP Town of 1770 Agnes Water Callide Miriam Vale DEEPWATER NP
The Caves
GOODEDULLA NP
NTON NP
Mt Hay
WN ND NP
E
E
F
orabinda Baralaba
Biloela
Banana
Moura
KROOMBIT TOPS NP
Many Peaks
Baffle Creek
LAKE CANIA CANIA GORGE NP
Monto
Theodore
PALMGROVE NP ISLA GORGE NP
LAKE WURUMA
Moore Park Burnett Heads LAKE Mon Repos MONDURAN Bargara Bundaberg Elliott Heads Gin Gin BURRUM COAST NP Woodgate
Mount Perry GOODNIGHT SCRUB NP
ON NP PRECIPICE NP
Taroom
Eidsvold
Hervey Bay
PARADISE DAM
Biggenden
Mundubbera Gayndah AUBURN RIVER NP
Childers
Fraser Island
Maryborough
MOUNT WALSH NP
Must Do’s Turtles
Manta Ray
Sandstone Wilderness
Fossicking
Culinary delights
Reef snorkelling and diving
Walking tracks
Sea and inland fishing
Caves
Farmstay southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 7
Islands
Should you need further proof that the Southern Great Barrier Reef really is ‘where great begins’, you need only to set foot on the warm, white sands of countless tropical islands scattered lovingly along the Central Queensland coastline.
Long Beach, Great Keppel Island
8 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Great Keppel Island Just 30 minutes from Yeppoon’s Capricorn Coast, Great Keppel Island is where you quite literally have your pick of seventeen secluded white-sand beaches to snorkel, sail, dive, fish and swim 365 days a year. Great Keppel Island’s rugged interior is brimming with native flora and fauna and presents an interesting adventure for any happy snappers looking for the elusive rainbow bee-eater or olive-backed sunbird. The island is a popular hiking destination and there are a range of treks and trails weaving their way across the entire 240 hectares for those wanting to get up close and personal with our feathered friends. Stay the night or stay forever! Great Keppel Island offers a range of accommodation from tents, cabins and bungalows through to private waterfront beach houses. Ferries depart every day from Rosslyn Bay Harbour and a number of charters including full day cruises, sailing adventures and extended tour options are also available.
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 9
Scuba diving with Manta Rays at Lady Elliot Island
Heron Island
Lady Musgrave Island
It’s here that the Southern Great Barrier Reef’s well-earned reputation as one of Australia’s premier dive destinations truly comes to the fore.
If sleeping out under stars is more your style, then Lady Musgrave must be your next port of call. It is one of the few islands anywhere along the entire Great Barrier Reef where you can swim, snorkel and dive by day and camp out by night.
Heron Island Resort welcomes guests all year round, with regular transfers available by ferry and seaplane. Fringed with white sand and aqua water, the island offers some of the world’s best snorkel and dive sites just metres from the shore. Guests may also witness the circle of life continue when hundreds of green and loggerhead turtles return to breed and lay their eggs from September to March each year. It’s here, that the world’s most renowned naturalist and film maker embarked on his ‘last great road trip.’ Almost 60 years ago, a young Sir David Attenborough first visited the Southern Great Barrier Reef and he still describes it as ‘his most magical place on earth.’ And if Sir David felt compelled to return, well, it might be high time you too paid a visit to the reef and discover the magic for yourself.
The island is set on 3000 acres of living reef with a protected lagoon, making it a perfect spot for snorkelling, with boat trips departing from the Port of Bundaberg, the Town of 1770 and Gladstone Marina.
Lady Elliot Island A short 25-minute flight from the Bundaberg Airport and you’ll touch down on Lady Elliot Island; the southern-most island, first lady of the reef and literal gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef. The original eco-resort opened in 1984, catering to day trippers and overnight guests and is as popular now as it was then, both above and below the surface. Lady Elliot is known the world over as the home of the majestic manta ray and to date researchers have identified more than 700 individual rays living and thriving in the surrounding waters. Snorkelling and glass bottom boat rides are highly recommended. Flights to the island also depart from Hervey Bay, Gold Coast and Brisbane, making it an ideal way to experience the reef from the state’s capital. So I guess the only question is, what are you waiting for…
10 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Heron Island
Snorkelling at Lady Musgrave Island
D i d y ou know?
The Southern Great Barrier Reef is home to eight iconic sea creatures for you to encounter! While you’re out on the reef, keep an eye out for: n Whales n Manta Rays n Sharks n Turtles n Potato Cod n Giant Clams n Maori Wrasse n Clown Fish “Nemo”
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 11
Beaches
With so many gorgeous beaches to choose from on the Southern Great Barrier Reef’s 300 kilometre coastline, how do you go about finding the best one? Let us show you just the place...
12 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Woodgate Beach is the southern-most beach in our list of favourites. Offering a stunning curve of white sand over 16 kilometres long and backed by a continuous sweep of shady she-oaks, Woodgate Beach offers calm waters, protected from strong swells by Fraser Island and the shallow seas here are home to dugongs and turtles. A 15 minute drive from Bundaberg, nestled into the shores of Bargara’s Coral Coast is Kellys Beach, a family favourite with calm waters and a pleasant reef where you can snorkel straight off the mainland. Further north, the stretch of golden sand at Agnes Water boasts Queensland’s most northerly surf beach and is a popular holiday destination for beach lovers, offering a huge range of accommodation to suit all travellers.
A short drive north is Agnes Water’s sister Town of 1770. With a lush foreshore and calm waters it’s perfect for families or to try watersports such as kayaking or paddle boarding. The sunny days and starry nights continue further north on the Capricorn Coast where the secluded beaches stand sentinel over the beautiful, island studded Keppel Bay. Yeppoon and Emu Park Main Beaches are great places to sculpt a sandcastle, swim in the surf and finish with a feed of fish and chips or if you want to escape the crowds, hit the coastal drive and find a beach all to yourself. Not all of our great pieces of sand are on the mainland. Aqua waters, pristine silica sands and tropical island views; it’s easy to see why Long Beach on Great Keppel Island has been voted number 14 in Australia’s best beaches list. A short 30 minute ferry transfer from the mainland is all it takes to be transported to a tropical paradise.
High tide Town of 1770
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 13
Turtles
The Southern Great Barrier Reef is famous for its turtles. You can witness them nesting on many of our beaches along the coast, spot one from a lookout or even be lucky enough to swim with one on the reef!
14 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
If Master Splinter has taught us anything, it’s that the tiniest of turtles can overcome insurmountable odds – around 1 in 1000 to be precise. And even if you’re not familiar with the famous ‘heroes in a half shell’, you need only to visit the Southern Great Barrier Reef to witness one of nature’s most inspiring sights. Bundaberg’s Mon Repos is home to the largest nesting population of loggerhead turtles in the entire South Pacific and every year between November and March thousands return home to lay their eggs and give life to the next generation of gentle giants. You can also flip out with our flippered friends all along the coastline. Turtles nest the length of the Southern Great Barrier Reef coastline and there are many points on the mainland where turtles and their
nests can be spotted on the countless beaches and from lookouts that grace our coast. Most Southern Great Barrier Reef islands are turtle habitats and offer the chance to swim and snorkel alongside turtles for your opportunity to take that elusive turtle selfie! Lady Elliot Island is home to the critically endangered Hawksbill sea turtle and, along with Heron and Lady Musgrave Islands, is a turtle paradise for green and loggerhead turtles. Great Keppel and the surrounding islands are an important breeding rookery for the flatback turtles. Now if that’s not a reason to ‘shell-e-brate’, we don’t know what is!
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 15
Local Flavours
A fellow foodie once famously wrote: “Life is too short for fake butter or fake people!” The good news is you’ll find scant evidence of either across the Southern Great Barrier Reef.
16 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Instead you’ll find the beating heart of a regional food bowl where salt-of-the-earth farmers and primary producers are as colourful as their never-ending seasonal produce.
across the globe, but lovingly used in local dishes throughout the countless corner cafés and coffee shops, quiet pubs and bustling restaurants.
The bad news is you may be spoilt for choice.
Added to the abundance of produce from the land, Bundaberg has a great variety of locally caught seafood that is sure to be the highlight of any gourmet meal.
Just four hours’ drive north of Brisbane and you’re in flavour country. Bundaberg and the North Burnett are renowned for locally grown fruit and vegetables including avocados, strawberries, figs, macadamias, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, zucchinis and pumpkins. The rich, red Central Queensland soil also produces some of the world’s best citrus and ginger which is not only exported
To wash it all down you have your choice of award-winning local wines, beers and liqueurs from the local producers scattered across the entire region, where daily cellar door tours and tastings are the perfect way to spend a day… or two or three!
Local farms offering fresh produce
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 17
Food Festivals
Wholly Cow Month Rockhampton All throughout May 2017 Heartland Festival North Burnett Region 30 June – 2 July 2017 Winterfeast Bundaberg Region 7–16 July 2017 Strawberry Fair Bargara 5 August 2017 Oceanfest Bundaberg 26 August 2017 Capricorn Food & Wine Festival Rockhampton 15–17 September 2017
Childers wines and liqueurs
Locally caught seafood
18 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Fresh and local taste sensations
The Southern Great Barrier Reef spans hundreds of kilometres along the glorious Central Queensland coastline, so it’s really no surprise that we are in a class of our own when it comes to premium seafood! Gladstone and the Discovery Coast have become somewhat synonymous with the good ol’ Aussie mud crab – so much so there’s even a local footy team that bears the same name. But that’s neither here nor there; what is here however is sustainable, locally caught seafood including sand crab, prawns, succulent scallops, bugs and oysters served fresh 365 days a year. That trend continues up the coast to Keppel Bay where freshly caught reef fish are an everyday gourmet, ranging from red emperor and coral trout to bountiful beach and estuary species like bream, whiting and flathead. Yeppoon and the Capricorn Coast are also the heart of Queensland’s $80 million pineapple industry and our old fashioned country charm rings true with plenty of honesty boxes and rustic timber fruit stalls found at farm gates across the region.
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 19
Fishing & Boating The Southern Great Barrier Reef is quite simply the pinnacle of Australian angling, offering some of the most diverse and more importantly, accessible fishing destinations anywhere in the country.
20 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Most anglers are a little coy – to say the least – when discussing their favourite fishing holes, let alone inviting fellow fishermen into their fabled hotspots to try their luck. Here in Central Queensland, we’re a little friendlier, a little more forthcoming, and a lot more serious about landing the big one. For freshwater fishermen looking for the ultimate road trip, a few strategic stops along the bountiful Bass to Barra Trail will no doubt be your first port of call. The trail includes Bundaberg’s Lake Monduran, where a world record barramundi was caught from a kayak; through to Lake Awoonga on the Discovery Coast, where the elusive saratoga grow to game proportions alongside grunter, spangled perch, yellow belly and eel-tailed catfish.
Rockhampton’s famous Fitzroy River is also popular for mangrove jack, black jew, king salmon and of course, the mighty barramundi. In fact more than 3,200 barra have been tagged and released in the past two decades. If you’re an ‘old salt’ and prefer to wet a line further offshore, vast clusters of colourful reef fringing the coastline can be found from Bundaberg in the south through to Stanage Bay in the north… and everywhere in between. There are a number of charter operators with a wealth of local knowledge offering everything from day trips to week long deep sea fishing adventures.
Get out on the waters of the Southern Great Barrier Reef
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 21
Catch your next meal
D i d y ou know?
The biggest barramundi EVER landed was caught at Lake Monduran near Bundaberg. Measuring 135cm and weighing in at a whopping 44 kilograms, it was caught by a fisherman on a kayak!
22 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Beach fishing
Fishing around Gladstone
The Keppel Islands and surrounding reefs have proved a haven for local delicacies including mackerel (spotties, doggies and spanish), coral trout, grassy sweetlip and tasty reds. Better yet, access to these reefs are less than half an hour from Rosslyn Bay Harbour and surrounding boat ramps in Yeppoon and Emu Park. You also have your choice of inland estuaries including Coorooman Creek, Causeway Lake and Ross Creek for whiting, grunter, flathead and of course delicious mud crabs. Meanwhile headlands like Double Head and Five Rocks are great structures to hone in on if you fancy a feed of bream, cod or mackerel. Gladstone is one of Rockhampton’s closest neighbours and it’s here that you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Have your choice of 20-plus reefs to fish offshore around the Bunker Group of Islands or snake your way through the mangrove-rich estuaries, including known hotspots like the Calliope and Boyne Rivers, the Narrows, Baffle Creek, Dawson River and Turkey Beach. See you on the water. Remember good things come to those who ‘bait!’.
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 23
Pacific Coast Way The Pacific Coast Way links coastal havens, hinterland towns, and major cities all along the east coast, from the Gold Coast to Cairns.
24 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Byfield Yeppoon
Pumpkin Island Great Keppel Island Emu Park
ROCKHAMPTON
Heron Island
Calliope
GLADSTONE Boyne Island Tannum Sands
Lake Awoonga Miriam Vale
Lady Musgrave Island
Town of 1770 Agnes Water
BUNDABERG Gin Gin
Lady Elliot Island
Burnett Heads Mon Repos Bargara Elliott Heads Woodgate
Childers
Elliot Heads beach, Bundaberg
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 25
PACIFIC COAST WAY
Childers & Woodgate Childers It’s perhaps the only town in Queensland that is ‘chilled’ by name and very much by nature. Childers is the beating heart of the regional food bowl and can trace its well-earned reputation back to the 1800s, when it was little more than a sleepy sugar cane settlement with a big future. The area is still famous for its old-world charm and a stroll through the certified National Trust Town is a throwback to Queensland’s colonial past. Boasting more than 25 beautiful heritage-listed buildings, there is perhaps no more picturesque place to start than the historic Butcher Shop built circa 1896, before taking in the famous Palace Hotel, home to the local Visitor Information Centre, the Backpacker Memorial and the Childers Art Space (CHARTS), which features a changing variety of works from local, state and national artists. Childers’ present day produce is sure to whet your appetite for all the Southern Great Barrier Reef has to offer. The surrounding green hills and rich red soil produce some of the most sought after avocados and macadamias you will ever taste and rustic farm stalls speckle the roadside for miles. A number of awardwinning wineries offer daily cellar door tours and tastings and every year, during the last weekend in July, these flourishing local flavours combine for the annual Childers Festival – a grand old
gathering of 40,000-plus people celebrating delicious food, live music and a thriving country culture. The kids won’t let you leave town without trying a famous Mammino Ice Cream – including the signature Red Dirt Jaffa Macadamia – and the Snakes Downunder Reptile Park & Zoo is well worth a visit.
Woodgate When your appetite is well and truly sated, the stunning white beaches of the Central Queensland coastline are just half an hour away. Woodgate has been touted on TripAdvisor as ‘Queensland’s best kept secret’ and who are we to disagree? The beach stretches 16 kilometres and is bordered by the Burrum National Park, where you’ll find four-wheel-drive and hiking trails, hundreds of native bird species and mobs of grey kangaroos looking a little too relaxed! It’s one of the few places where you can camp under stars, right on the beach, with the light lapping of the waves the only soundtrack to your stay. A range of motel accommodation, caravan parks and beach houses are also available for those extended holidays. So, we’re not saying Woodgate has it all, but it’s pretty damn close!
Secluded beaches
26 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Wine tasting in Childers
Don’t miss!
Childers Festival 29–30 July 2017 Entertainment, food, wine and craft stalls
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 27
PACIFIC COAST WAY
Bundaberg You may be blissfully unaware, but those who’ve tasted a tipple of Bundaberg Rum in their time will already have an ornate appreciation of the Southern Great Barrier Reef, thanks to the iconic Aussie rum from whence it came.
It’s become a haven for culture vultures on the back of fantastic live entertainment, premier exhibitions, and many iconic festivals and events rooted in the unique history and culinary gems of the region.
Indeed the similarities are striking – both radiate a rugged yet refined quality; both are steeped in history with an eye to the future; and both can be enjoyed all year round!
As a teenager, aviation pioneer Bert Hinkler famously flew his own hand-built gliders on Mon Repos Beach, which now bears witness to a whole new batch of curious youngsters, trying to make their own way in the big wide world. Mon Repos is home to the largest nesting population of loggerhead turtles in the Southern Hemisphere and every year thousands return home to lay their eggs. And it’s just one of many must-sees for any wideeyed visitor.
Legend has it that even the fish overindulged when the famous distillery burned to the ground in 1936 and millions of litres were lost to the murky depth of the Burnett River. It took three years to rebuild and the heritage timber design still stands today. And while the traditional recipe has changed little in 125 years since the first batch of Bundaberg Rum was bottled, the distillery is now a hugely popular tourist attraction and the town has transformed! Bundaberg is a thriving Central Queensland city boasting the perfect mix of coastline and country; from funky beachside bars and cafés at beautiful Bargara, gourmet local produce and surrounding vineyards, to the picturesque hiking trails of the Hummock – Bundaberg’s very own volcano.
Bundaberg is the jump-off point for Lady Elliot and Lady Musgrave Islands, where you can immerse yourself in the underwater world of the reef and swim among the coral with turtles, manta rays and a cabaret of other sea creatures. Bundaberg is timeless, on trend and unbelievably tasty. We guarantee you’ll be back for another round … Huzzah!
Local Markets
Shalom Local Fruit, Veges & Craft Markets 6am – 12pm, every Sunday during 2017 Shalom College, Fitzgerald St, Bundaberg Wild Scotchman Country Markets 8am – 12pm, every Saturday during 2017 Mulgrave St, Gin Gin Apple Tree Creek Markets 7am – 12pm, second Saturday of the month during 2017 Drummond St, Apple Tree Creek Childers Twilight Markets 5pm – 9pm, last Friday of each quarter during 2017 Millenium Park, Churchill St, Childers
28 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Take a tour around the Bundaberg Rum Distillery
Bundaberg Post Office
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 29
PACIFIC COAST WAY
Bargara & Coral Coast Bargara Bargara is the largest of Bundaberg’s coastal neighbours and is a beautiful blend of the Coral Coast’s best qualities. Waterfront walks, farm fresh produce, temperate beaches and a variety of accommodation are just a few reasons why Bargara is etching itself on bucket lists worldwide… and it’s all just 15 minutes from the Bundaberg CBD. There are plenty of places to picnic along the foreshore, as well as beachside bars and cafés and a selection of surf and souvenir shops to ponder. You can even swim and snorkel the entire length of Kelly’s Beach, from the tidal lagoon at the southern end to the northern basin sheltered by a manmade rock wall.
Burnett Heads and Port Bundaberg The region’s rich history continues at Burnett Heads where the old lighthouse stands testament to a bygone era dating back almost 150 years. Just upstream, the Port of Bundaberg is a real ‘sweet spot’ in every sense of the word – last year the Bundy Sugar Terminal exported more than 516,080 tonnes to world markets! And the favour goes both ways, it’s also the main Port of Entry for yachts entering Australia. Its sheltered marinas and Customs facilities make it a popular first port of call. Retired Australian naval ship the HMAS Tobruk is currently at the Port being prepared to be ‘scuttled’ off the coast of Bundaberg as a dive site in 2019. You can pick up fresh seafood straight from the trawlers, enjoy a picnic of fish & chips, as well as
Swim with turtles out on the reef!
30 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
climbing aboard day trip and charter vessels to the Reef from the Bundaberg Port Marina.
Elliott Heads Elliott Heads is a 10 minute drive to the south of Bargara and it’s here where you can truly unwind, play by the currents and live by the tides. The local caravan park caters from couples to large groups and overlooks the beach. In fact it’s the perfect place for those who want to do it all… or do absolutely nothing!
Mon Repos – “Turtle Beach” Located just seven kilometres from Bundaberg, Mon Repos beach is the largest nesting grounds of the endangered loggerhead turtle. Every year from November to March, hundreds of turtles return home after travelling thousands of kilometres across the wide blue yonder to nest and lay their eggs. But it’s the fact they make it home at all that is perhaps most remarkable. Research shows a great number of loggerheads found at Mon Repos are over 80 years old and travel thousands of kilometres across the open ocean, avoiding predators and utilising the earth’s magnetic field as a prehistoric GPS! It is, you might say, nothing short of ‘turtle-y’ amazing! Turtle puns aside, visitors can get up close and personal with thousands of baby hatchlings as they defy the odds and scramble towards the pristine waters of the Southern Great Barrier Reef, to forge their own path and continue the cycle of life.
Relax on the Bargara foreshore
Don’t miss!
Nightly ranger-guided turtle tours are offered at Mon Repos throughout the entire nesting season between November and March.
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 31
PACIFIC COAST WAY
Agnes Water & Discovery Coast Those in the know will tell you the birthplace of our fair state is actually a little further north than the capital … and a lot more accessible. Agnes Water and the Town of 1770 sit snugly at the halfway point between Bundaberg and Gladstone, and it’s here that Captain James Cook first set foot on the sparkling sands of the Sunshine State. The area is known collectively as the Discovery Coast and if you’re lucky enough to ‘discover’ it for yourself, then you’ll understand why.
Miriam Vale The rustic Queenslanders lining the sleepy streets of Miriam Vale are a welcome sight for long-haul travellers and mark the gateway to the twin towns and clear waters of the Discovery Coast. Miriam Vale is known far and wide for some of the best crab sandwiches anywhere in Australia and has been serving them up for more than three decades. Although if you need further proof, simply sneak a peek at the big, red crab perched proudly on the service station roof! Just one street back from the highway is the green heart of town, where the heritage-listed fig tree stands silent guard over the popular parklands, an obligatory stop for the children (and the children-at-heart).
Miriam Vale
32 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Agnes Water Grab your board and get ready to get active at Agnes Water! Boasting the state’s most northern surf beach, the town is a haven for watersports like surfing, kayaking and kite surfing. As the big sister of the twin seaside towns, Agnes Water offers a range of accommodation to suit all visitors, from backpacker dorms, right up to multi-million dollar beach houses. Not surprisingly, it is fast becoming a regular on travellers’ top ten lists thanks to the rugged coastal setting, ever popular Agnes Blues, Roots and Rock Festival and pumping surf break, all accompanied by the relaxed atmosphere you expect from an authentic coastal town.
Surf’s up at Agnes Water
D i d y ou know?
Not only is Agnes Water home to Queensland’s most northern surf beach, but it is rated one of the most affordable places in Australia to learn to surf!
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 33
PACIFIC COAST WAY
Calm waters of the 1770 inlet
The Town of 1770
Lake Awoonga
The Town of 1770 is the birthplace of Queensland, where, every May, Captain Cook’s historic landing is recreated in detail at the 1770 Festival to audiences of thousands. Today, you can fill your days with coastal pleasures before watching the sun set over the ocean, in a treat only on offer in a handful of east coast locations.
Back on the highway, if you’re looking for a place to splash, fish or relax, Lake Awoonga is a nature lover’s paradise. The lake is stocked with barra, saratoga and sea mullet and has earned a reputation as one the best impound freshwater fishing spots in Australia. Not a keen angler? Then slip into the cool waters for a relaxing dip, leisurely kayak or try your hand at stand up paddle boarding. Or why not pull on some walking shoes and explore the lake’s naturally sculpted landscape teeming with a wondrous array of plants, animals and birds. There are also BBQ areas waiting at the ready, so pack a picnic and enjoy lunch with a view.
The calm blue channels call for early morning swims and paddleboarding and it seems even the animals can’t stay away – during autumn and winter every year, hundreds of thousands of butterflies gently drift in to 1770 in a sight that has to be seen to be believed. Experience it best on the 20 minute Butterfly Walk, starting from the Captain Cook monument, which is only a short stroll from the camp ground and local eateries. The 1770 Marina is also the jumping off point for Lady Musgrave and Fitzroy Reef day trips.
34 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
D i d y ou know?
The little town of 1770 was named after the year in which Captain Cook first stepped ashore in the Endeavour. Today 1770 is still the only town in the world with a number for a name!
Lake Awoonga
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 35
PACIFIC COAST WAY
Gladstone & Surrounds Gladstone By now, you know the Southern Great Barrier Reef region is a land of extraordinary contrast. For every private patch of reef there’s a towering subtropical rainforest; for the sleepy streets of country cattle towns, there’s the award-winning nightspots and niche bars of our city CBDs. But nowhere will you find a more eclectic example of genuine Queensland qualities than Gladstone. It’s the state’s engine room; an industrial powerhouse of global significance that is well and truly at the forefront of the resources industry. But Gladstone is full of unexpected surprises. The city offers an array of entertainment including the Regional Art Gallery & Museum, a huge range of premium restaurants and bars; and local history to boot with countless colonial buildings throughout the CBD. The Tondoon Botanic Gardens are also one of only a few in Australia with all native plant species, attracting more than 100,000 people annually. Accommodation is in
D i d y ou know?
More people per capita own a boat here than almost anywhere else in the country!
Gladstone Marina
36 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
abundance and you can have your pick of caravan parks, hotels, motels and luxury apartments. Venturing up one of the prominent lookouts at Auckland Hill or Round Hill, both offer 360 degree panoramic views of the City, Harbour, Islands and the magnificent Mount Larcom, the landmark that drew Lieutenant Matthew Flinders into Gladstone Harbour. Past the towering smokestacks of Gladstone’s booming industrial precinct, an equally impressive natural deep-water harbour hosts the annual Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race, marked every year by the Gladstone Harbour Festival. The Gladstone Marina pays homage to the city’s nautical history at the Maritime Museum and its surrounding East Shores Precinct and Marina Parklands, which continue to attract people to the city from around the globe. It’s from here at the marina, that local ferry services offer direct passage to tropical islands waiting patiently off the coast.
Make a splash at East Shores
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 37
PACIFIC COAST WAY
Tannum Sands Beach
38 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Adventures abound for the whole family at Heron Island
Heron Island Boasting some of the best diving and snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, Heron Island offers a unique experience where you can truly immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Among the music of seabirds, tracks of turtles and multi-coloured clouds of fish, the feeling that you’re a guest of nature itself is inescapable. Heron Island Resort welcomes guests all year round, with regular transfers available by ferry and seaplane departing from Gladstone.
Quoin, Facing & Curtis Islands Gladstone Harbour is dotted with islands and Quoin Island is just five kilometres from the Gladstone coastline. The island is home to the region’s only turtle rehabilitation centre, and features a fully refurbished resort which is available to book exclusively for families, corporate functions and weddings. For the self-sufficient campers, nearby Facing Island offers visitors a choice of 35 unpowered sites where your only worry is where you’re going to wet a line the next day. The list goes on; right next door Curtis Island offers stunning unspoilt beaches, intimate north-facing bays, sparkling ocean, the Great Barrier Reef, wilderness, wetlands as well as an outback-
style cattle station. The entire region shares an intimate connection with the ocean… and there has never been a better time to chart your course!
North West Island This hidden gem of the Southern Great Barrier Reef welcomes self-sufficient campers to enjoy an untouched paradise. As the second largest coral cay in the Great Barrier Reef, the island offers opportunities for bushwalking, nature study, reef walking, diving and snorkelling. Fishing is also quite popular on the island, but visitors are requested to limit their fishing and to abide by authorised fishing zones. Your remote island adventure is only a permit away from reality.
Boyne Island & Tannum Sands The picturesque coastal communities of Boyne Island and Tannum Sands embody a relaxed coastal lifestyle centred on superb beaches, riverside walkways, parklands and recreational activities. Each year the region plays host to Australia’s biggest family fishing competition, The Boyne Tannum Hookup, which sees fishing enthusiasts travelling from far and wide to join in on the action.
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 39
PACIFIC COAST WAY
Rockhampton Region Rockhampton Last year we told you that Rockhampton was in the quiet throes of a cultural renaissance. Fast forward 12 months later and there is indeed nothing quiet about it. The Beef City is booming; a modern throwback to the heydays of Queensland’s colonial past, offering all your cosmopolitan conveniences in a contemporary riverside setting. There are plenty of places to keep the kids occupied including the beautiful Botanic Gardens and Zoo, which is proudly home to more than 70 species of native and exotic animals including dingoes, wombats, koalas and the wildly popular chimpanzees. And when the sun sets on the mighty Fitzroy River, premium dining can be found along the heritage-listed streets, with some of the best steak houses, restaurants, pubs, clubs and cocktail bars found anywhere in regional Queensland. Rockhampton is the heart of the Fitzroy Basin, Australia’s second largest river system, and bordered by the brooding Berserker Ranges, ultimately delivering the best of both worlds for outdoor and adventure buffs. Mt Archer National Park offers a hearty combination of hiking and mountain bike trails overlooking the city, and the limestone caves of the north offer boundless ecotourism and adventure opportunities. The Fitzroy River is a popular playground for water skiers and fishermen chasing the elusive barramundi and is the site of many colourful festivals and events, celebrations of live music, delicious food and local culture.
The Southern Great Barrier Reef prides itself on quintessential Queensland heritage and you simply can’t experience the Rockhampton of today, without an appreciation of days’ past. Once upon a time, Rockhampton was Australia’s northernmost city and even touted as the future state capital, thanks largely to the region’s thriving resource and beef industries, which continue today. In fact you need only look out the window when driving into town for proof of our pastoral pedigree, with six iconic bull statues standing proud throughout the city, and an undercover rodeo arena with live bull rides every Friday night to boot. With direct flights from Brisbane and the Gold Coast, as well as first class road and rail connectivity, there’s really no point reading about it… it’s time to experience the Beef Capital for yourself!
Mount Morgan Any tale tracing Rockhampton’s fortunes must also make mention of the legacy left behind by the nearby Mount Morgan Gold Mine which, at its peak, was once believed to be the single richest gold mine in the world! The exquisite heritage-listed sandstone buildings lining Quay Street Rockhampton are a stunning testament to the mine’s ‘golden years’ of production, while daily tours through the town of Mount Morgan and the actual mine site also offer a rare glimpse back in time.
Watch bull riding at the Great Western Hotel
Local Markets
Rockhampton Arcade Markets 8am – 12:30pm, Every Sunday morning during 2017 Kern Arcade Carpark, Rockhampton Rockhampton Heritage Village Markets 8am – 2pm, 26 January, 12 March, 14 May, 9 July, 10 September and 26 November 2017 Heritage Village, Rockhampton The Handmade Expo Markets 8am – 1pm, Fourth Saturday of the Month except 20 May, 29 July, 30 September 16 December 2017 Rockhampton Showgrounds
40 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Overlooking the Fitzroy River and Mount Archer
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 41
PACIFIC COAST WAY
Yeppoon & Capricorn Coast Welcome to paradise lost; a lazy 250 kilometres of sparkling coastline and endless possibilities, stretching from Stanage Bay to the mouth of the mighty Fitzroy River. And, at the heart of it all, twin seaside villages and postcard vistas, overlooking Great Keppel Island, where fishing, boating, snorkelling, paddle boarding and swimming are a morning ritual every day of the year.
Yeppoon Yeppoon is the cultural centre of the Capricorn Coast and the tiered foreshore and stage area plays host to some of the area’s favourite events. The town is home to a charming range of beach-chic boutiques and coastal cafés, and the award-winning Keppel Kraken, a water play area unlike any other including a mythical sea creature centre-piece, set against the spectacular backdrop of Keppel Bay. Yeppoon has a strong reputation as a producer of tropical and exotic fruits (mangos, pineapples, lychees) and is home to some of the largest producing pineapple farms in the State. The annual Yeppoon Lions Tropical Pinefest, held every October, is a celebration of the region’s history as a pineapple producing area.
Take a stroll along Yeppoon’s esplanade
42 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Emu Park On the southern end of the Capricorn Coast, Emu Park is coastal chill personified, complemented by green leafy parks, sandy beaches and rugged headlands. It’s also home to arguably the most impressive war memorial found anywhere in regional Australia, a stunning sandstone and cast-iron monument, gatehouse museum and timber boardwalk. It culminates in a viewing deck which sits just below the iconic Singing Ship monument, commissioned in 1970 to commemorate the bicentenary of Captain Cook’s first voyage to Australia.
Byfield And if you’re hankering for more of a tree change than a sea change, well we know just the place, where the rainforest meets the reef! Byfield National Park and State Forest is 15,000 hectares of rugged granite peaks, deep-water creeks and camping areas set amongst lush sub-tropical rainforest. It’s the only place in the world you’ll find the Byfield Fern, and a firm favourite of nature lovers from near and far, thanks to the many retreat and cabin style accommodation options available, while the resident artisans ensure you can also enjoy a little retail therapy while you’re here!
Local Markets
Yeppoon Community Markets 6am – 10am, Every Saturday morning during 2017 Yeppoon Showgrounds Fig Tree Creek Markets 8am – 12noon, Every 1st Sunday of the month during 2017 Figtree Creek, Yeppoon Bell Park Markets 8am – 12noon, Every 3rd Sunday of the month during 2017 Bell Park, Emu Park
Singing Ship monument, Emu Park
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 43
PACIFIC COAST WAY
Keppel Islands Great Keppel Island It answers all of the “What do you look for on an island getaway” questions with ease: crystal blue waters, white sand, coral reefs and palm trees...tick, tick, tick and tick. But Great Keppel Island is more than just an island to tick and flick off your destination list. Great Keppel Island has arguably the best beaches of any Great Barrier Reef island, safe swimming and water temperatures that entice at any time of year; but the real kicker is that if you wish, you can enjoy all of this in virtual isolation and be back on the mainland in a mere 30 minutes! With the protection of a fringing reef, the waters surrounding the Keppels are amazingly calm, making it perfect for all types of water sports such as snorkelling, sea kayaking, water-skiing and tubing. From tents, cabins and bungalows, through to private beach houses skirting the water’s edge, there is plenty of options to choose from. Ferries depart every day to Great Keppel Island from Rosslyn Bay Harbour. A number of charters including full day
Deserted beaches and crystal blue waters of Great Keppel Island
44 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
cruises, sailing and snorkelling adventures and extended tour options are also available from Keppel Bay Marina. The island is approximately 240 hectares in size and an interior rich with native flora and fauna, all waiting for you to explore. Ninety percent of the island is bushland so it’s a bird watcher’s paradise, with over 90 species of birds identified, living amongst many different habitats. Bushwalking tracks disperse trekkers around the island to pristine beaches, or spectacular lookouts. Dolphins are often seen close to the main beaches during winter months and the occasional whale makes an appearance in the bay on their yearly migrations. Brush tail possums are numerous, as well as blue-tongue lizards and goannas.
Pumpkin Island Pumpkin Island is a hidden secret of the Keppel group of islands. Located just a 30 minute boat transfer from Keppel Bay Marina, this tiny gem – just six hectares in total – offers you eco-friendly selfcatering units that are powered by the wind and the sun! Book a stay in one of their beachfront cottages or rent the entire private island for up to 34 guests, and live like a millionaire at a fraction of the cost.
D i d y ou know?
Great Keppel Island is only a 30 minute boat ride from the mainland, making it one of the closest and affordable places to visit the Southern Great Barrier Reef!
Snorkel straight off the beach
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 45
Australia’s
Country Way Australia’s Country Way guides you to the delights and treasures that pepper the countryside of the Great Dividing Range. From Sydney to Rockhampton, winding roads reveal sweeping vistas, seasonal produce and welcoming hospitality. Australia’s Country Way is the classic road trip.
Drive – Australia’s Country
Kroombit Tops
46 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Yeppoon ROCKHAMPTON
Mount Morgan GLADSTONE
Dululu
Biloela
Monto
BUNDABERG
y Way Eidsvold Mundubbera Gayndah
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 47
AUSTRALIA’S COUNTRY WAY
Landscape of the North Burnett Region
Orange farms around Gayndah
48 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Cania Gorge National Park
Road trips aren’t measured by mile markers, but by moments. They’re one of the last true frontiers for travellers and holiday makers who want nothing more than to put the pedal down and explore the shimmering straights before them – a seemingly simple ask that’s become increasingly difficult with limited holiday time and looming deadlines. Well perhaps you don’t need more vacation days, you just need better ones… and you’re in luck! Australia’s Country Way starts life south of the border, snaking its way from Sydney through the southern half of the Sunshine State, but it’s on the back roads of Central Queensland, where city streetscapes give way to western sunsets that it truly comes to life. The Country Way is as much about savouring the journey as it is reaching your destination and Gayndah is the first stop to start satisfying those culinary curiosities. It lays claim to being the oldest town in Queensland and with good reason; sheep and mining brought settlers to the area in 1849, but it was the rich red soils and year round sunshine that established Gayndah as the heart of Queensland’s citrus industry, and that combination of old world charm and farm fresh produce is still very much alive and well. A number of heritage-listed buildings line the streets including Mellors Drapery – one of the few buildings in Australia which still uses a flying fox to deal with transactions – while the nearby Art Gallery and Museum help paint a vivid picture of the region’s rich history.
It’s also home to the Gayndah Orange Festival – the state’s self-proclaimed ‘oldest, boldest and goldest’ celebration of local produce and culture – and this year will mark its 60th birthday. In nearby Mundubbera – just half an hour west – one local industry is working to ensure the entire region remains at the forefront of Queensland’s thriving agricultural industry. ‘Bugs for Bugs’ produce predatory bugs for crops and agriculture, cutting down on the need for chemical sprays. In addition to the local historical museum and Meeting Place of the Waters Mural, Munduberra is also home to ‘Enormous Ellendale’ – a giant mandarin that takes pride of place on Queensland’s list of colossal icons. Auburn National Park, where the Auburn, Boyne and Burnett Rivers meet, is close by and is a popular stop for campers. The A3 Highway continues onward to Eidsvold where the RM Williams Bush Learning Centre stands testament to the genuine pioneering spirit, character and courage of Queensland’s country folk. The centre pays tribute to the man himself, who rose from swaggie to self-made millionaire and retired to his Rockybar property just outside the town itself. It’s a must for any visitor on Australia’s Country Way and is also home to an Art Gallery and Visitor Information Centre. Eidsvold is a centre of Central Queensland heritage including the local museum and Archer Homestead, which has remained almost untouched for over 100 years.
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 49
AUSTRALIA’S COUNTRY WAY
And if it’s history you’re after, Aboriginal artwork splashed across the towering sandstone walls of Monto’s Cania Gorge, details a way of life that’s remained unchanged for almost 20,000 years. These days the Sandstone Wilderness is a hugely popular bushwalking destination with a number of picturesque hikes ranging from beginner to experienced. Monto can trace its roots back to the 1920s when pioneering families established thriving cattle and timber industries, but more recently it’s the rugged natural surroundings of Cania Dam and Kalpowar State Forest that have well and truly put the region on the map. From here your iconic road trip will take you to Kroombit Tops National Park, where the spectacular hinterland views showcase the rugged natural beauty of the Coral Coast. Kroombit is one of the last bastions of truly primitive wilderness; it’s the only known home of the critically endangered Kroombit Tinkerfrog and the
Kroombit Tops National Park is a 4WD enthusiast’s dream
50 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
final resting place of a World War II B-24D Liberator bomber which went down on a rainy night in 1945. Camping sites are available and there is a raft of four-wheel drive tracks to explore. Now it’s only fitting that your trip ends in the town that gave birth to modern Central Queensland. Mount Morgan was once home to the richest gold mine in the world and is rumoured ‘to have paid the national debt twice over.’ The once thriving boom town with no less than 27 pubs is now a charming reminder of days past nestled quietly on the Dee River. Stunning colonial buildings are lovingly scattered throughout the town and Mount Morgan Mine is now a popular tourist attraction, including tours of the heritage mine site, a century old suspension bridge; and pictureperfect view from Arthur Timms Lookout. For those looking for the ultimate road trip, Australia’s Country Way is calling… and now you must go.
Mount Morgan Mine
Kroombit Tops National Park lookout
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 51
Great Inland Way The Great Inland way starts in Sydney and takes in much of central New South Wales before reaching the Queensland border at Hebel. The Queensland leg of the Great Inland Way road trip extends 1863 kilometres from Outback Queensland to the Coral Sea.
Drive – Australia’s Country
52 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Clermont
Capella
Sapphire Gemfields
EMERALD
M
Springsure
Rolleston
y Way Carnarvon Gorge National Park
Virgin Rock, Springsure
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 53
GREAT INLAND WAY
The towering sandstone walls of the Amphitheatre, Carnarvon Gorge
54 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Boolimba Buff Lookout, Carnarvon Gorge
It’s the subtle simplicity of Australia’s Great Inland Way that sets it apart from other ‘conventional’ touring routes. There are no surplus superlatives to describe it and what you see is very much what you get. The Great Inland Way delves deep into Central Queensland’s iconic interior and is indeed one of the Sunshine State’s ‘great’ road trips. It stretches exactly 1863 kilometres from Sydney through to Cairns, and any traveller who has experienced the rugged majesty of Carnarvon Gorge knows full well it is worth every second behind the wheel. The Carnarvon National Park and surrounding area has been revered by the traditional owners since the dreamtime; Aboriginal art dating back tens of thousands of years is etched across the towering sandstone walls and local tales tell of the rainbow serpents that still live in the water flowing through Carnarvon Creek. The gorge itself can best be described as a subtropical oasis hidden in the rugged Central Highland ranges – the sandy brown and golden orange of the soft sandstone stands in stark contrast to the vibrant green plant life including prehistoric
Sorghum Fields and Peak Range
cycads and fan palms. The area has become a hiking mecca for bushwalkers and nature lovers from far and wide, thanks to the 27 kilometres of hiking trails winding their way through to natural pools, Aboriginal art sites and smaller surrounding gorges. More than 170 species of birds make it a popular stop for bird watchers and a variety of accommodation is available depending on the time of year. Day visits are also an enjoyable option for those who have decided to spend a few days in nearby Rolleston – a quaint country town with a colourful past. It was once the last bastion for notorious cattle duffers James and Patrick Kenniff, who are widely recognised as the last of Australia’s legendary bushrangers. This pioneering spirit is on show for all to see at Beazley Park where the historic Boundary Riders Hut now sits after being restored and resited to its current location. For happy snappers looking for the ultimate inspiration, a visit to Lake Nuga Nuga is a must for any photographic itinerary. The still water is perfect for canoeing and kayaking during the day while the brilliant sunsets, flowering water lillies and twisted timber make for spectacular subjects as the sun goes down. Camping is available on site although a 4WD is highly recommended.
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 55
GREAT INLAND WAY
And when you’ve had your photography fill, set a course for Springsure and the beautiful natural springs and waterways for which it’s named. Nestled under Mount Zamia and spectacular Virgin Rock, the town was once a welcome wagon stop between Rockhampton and the Barcoo country and the relics of Springsure’s rugged colonial past are part of its charm today. The heritage-listed hospital was built way back in 1868 while the Cairdbeign Homestead and Old Rainworth Fort provide a rare glimpse back in time. The Staircase Range Cutting, built in 1905 by Chinese labour, pays tribute to the early wagon trails and is also well worth a visit. Onward now to Emerald and the gateway to one of the richest sapphire fields in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s here you’ll find the largest Van Gogh sunflower painting in the world, reaching skywards for 25 metres. Emerald is the unofficial capital of the Central Highlands and indeed the Central Queensland coal industry. But more importantly, it’s a sought-after destination for travellers thanks to the modern facilities, thriving dining precinct
Lake Maraboon
56 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
and close proximity to the red claw-rich Lake Maraboon. Big barramundi are also regularly reeled in from the depths and free electric and wood-fired barbecues are available. The entire Central Highlands is steeped in tradition, and nowhere is that more evident than Capella. One of the town’s many colourful pole murals commemorates the placing of emu feathers in hats of the Aussie Light Horse Brigade, which began right here in Central Queensland during the Great Shearers Strike of 1891, when Capella was little more than a grazing settlement. Today it’s a colonial icon and home to the largest restored shingle roofed station homestead in Australia. The Peak Downs Homestead was built in 1869 from pit sawn spotted gum and is a tribute to 19th century carpentry. The Gordon Downs Woolshed also boasts a comprehensive collection of tractors and machinery used to establish the local grain industry following WWII. But again, don’t take our word for it. Hit the road and discover for yourself just how ‘great’ the Inland Way can be!
Local
Festivals
Central Highlands Sunflower Festival 15 April 2017 Gemfest – Festival of Gems 10 – 13 August 2017 Central Highlands Multicultural Festival 26 August 2017
Emerald’s Historic Railway Station
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 57
Capricorn Way D I G
T H E
T R O P I C
The Capricorn Way links the Southern Great Barrier Reef with the Queensland Outback. Follow the self-drive touring trail ”Dig the Tropic“ to uncover the history of Australia – from the Jurassic era to the present day. Explore ancient limestone caverns at Capricorn Caves, visit Mount Morgan; home to one of the world’s richest gold mines, discover Thundereggs at Mt Hay and fossick for gems on the Sapphire Gemfields.
Blackdown Tablelands
58 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Clermont
Capella
Yeppoon ROCKHAMPTON
Rubyvale EMERALD
Sapphire
Blackwater
Anakie
Mount Morgan
Willows
GLADSTONE
Dululu
Springsure
Rolleston
Biloela
Monto Carnarvon Gorge National Park
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 59
CAPRICORN WAY
Blackdown Tableland National Park
Thundereggs, Mt Hay
60 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Explore the Capricorn Caves
Very few places can proudly boast of being the perfect contradiction, where your surroundings feel strangely foreign yet distinctly familiar. But then again, very few places compare to the Southern Great Barrier Reef. It’s where the outback meets the reef and has done for millions of years. And it’s here that Central Queensland’s prehistoric past comes to life all over again! Dig the Tropic follows the Tropic of Capricorn and is the only known trail of its kind anywhere in the world. Here you create your own self-drive itinerary, taking in 15 unique tourism destinations along the way that give new meaning to the land down under! Just north of Rockhampton, the township of The Caves is home to some of the most spectacular and geologically significant caves in Queensland. Discovered by the Olsen family in 1881, Capricorn Caves are the state’s oldest running tourist attraction. Originally formed from an ancient coral reef over 400 million years ago, the above-ground limestone caves form huge chambers adorned with stalactites and harbouring rare ferns and elusive, tiny insectivorous bats. A wide range of guided experiences have been developed at this multi-award winning ecotourism attraction with something for all ages, abilities and interests with wheelchair accessible cave tours, adventure challenges and a Journey of Discovery.
Mt Hay is home to the famous Central Queensland thundereggs – stunning crystalline formations that occur when gas bubbles in molten lava solidify on cooling producing stunning natural designs, with designer names to boot like ‘Hot Lips’ and ‘Fairy House’. Guided fossicking tours are run on demand and the Mt Hay gift shop also stocks a large range of semiprecious gems, cut and polished on site, as well as internationally renowned Aradon Fine Pewter. Caravan and camping facilities are available and pets are welcome. The Tropic Trail heads west to Blackdown Tableland National Park where some of the most picturesque natural rock formations found anywhere in Queensland rise boldly above the surrounding plains. It’s the traditional home of the Ghungalu people and ancient Aboriginal art adorns the colossal boulders that have stood silently in place since the Dreamtime. Unique plant communities thrive in the cooler climates and are visible from a range of natural lookouts, while the seasonal water holes are a welcome reward after hiking the myriad of local bushwalks. Camping is available at the Munall Campground and the 19 kilometre loop road is best explored by four-wheel drive.
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 61
CAPRICORN WAY
A little further west, Central Queensland’s reputation as Australia’s engine room is on show for all to see and it starts in air-conditioned comfort. Coal was first discovered in Blackwater way back in 1845, when Ludwig Leichhardt was meandering his way around the Central Highlands en route to the Northern Territory, although it was more than a century later that the town really started to develop. Today Blackwater gives visitors an unparalleled look at the Australian coal industry, from the size and scale to new technologies and the future of fossil fuels. And for the adventurous, guided tours are available where you can get down and dirty on a real mine site and witness firsthand Queensland’s premier industry in action. In 1873, Archibald John Richardson unknowingly changed the course of Central Queensland’s history, when he stumbled upon sapphire deposits in the rocky soil near Sapphire Retreats Creek.
Fossicking for gems at the Sapphire Gemfields
62 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Fast forward almost 145 years later and the Sapphire Gemfields, just 45 minutes west of Emerald, are home to the largest gemfields in the Southern Hemisphere. The small settlements of Anakie, Rubyvale, Sapphire and the Willows are teeming with semi-precious stones of all shapes and sizes including sapphires and rubies… you just have to know where to look! Guided underground mine tours are widely available or why not tag-along on a digging tour; book a self-drive fossicking tour complete with maps and mining equipment or try your luck at a fossicking park and sift through a bucket of sapphire wash keeping an eye out for the motherload. The opportunities are endless, but the Dig the Tropic Trail doesn’t stop there – keep heading west into dinosaur country, where you can discover an abundance of dinosaur fossils around Longreach, Winton and Boulia. Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time to explore the underground!
Rubyvale Observatory
Uncut sapphire
Don’t Miss
Every August the small town of Anakie is inundated with gem enthusiasts for the annual ”Gemfest – Festival of Gems“. This four day event brings thousands of gem specialists, jewellers and devotees alike and this year will be celebrating its 30th anniversary.
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 63
SOUTHERN GREAT BARRIER REEF
Events Calendar Event Hatching Turtle Name - Month
JANUARY
2017
Capricorn Caves Summer Solstice Light Spectacle (Rockhampton)...........................................................December – Mid January Turtle Hatching...............................................................................January – March Australia Day Beach Party (Yeppoon)....................................... 26 January
Agnes Water Blues Roots and Rock Festival
FEBRUARY Agnes Water Blues Roots and Rock Festival..........................................................................17 – 19 February Reef to Beach Longboard Classic (Agnes Water)................................................................................25 – 26 February
MARCH Opera in the Caves
West End to Broadway - In the Caves (Rockhampton)..........................................................................................3 – 5 March Bundaberg Arts Festival.....................................................................4 – 11 March Crocodile Hatching (Rockhampton).......................................March – May
APRIL Festival of the Wind (Emu Park)................................................................9 April Gladstone Harbour Festival.............................................................12 – 16 April Gladstone Harbour Festival
Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race............................................. 14 – 16 April Central Highlands Easter Sunflower Festival (Emerald).....................................................................15 April Golden Mount Festival (Mount Morgan) .......................27 April – 1 May Elders Country Music Campout (Boyne Valley).........................................................................................28 – 30 April Boyne Tannum Hook Up.................................................................28 – 30 April
Wholly Cow Month
Gayndah Orange Festival........................................................ 29 April – 1 May
MAY Wholly Cow Month (Rockhampton)...............................Throughout May Captain Cook 1770 Festival..............................................................19 – 21 May Old Station Fly In & Heritage Show (Raglan).....................26 – 28 May Opera in the Caves (Rockhampton).........................................26 – 28 May Eco Fest
JUNE Bundaberg Ring Road Run............................................................................4 June Eco Fest (Gladstone)..........................................................................................4 June Mt Larcom Show....................................................................................24 – 25 June Heartland Festival (North Burnett).................................... 30 June – 2 July Rockhampton Winter Racing Carnival........................Throughout June
64 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
SOUTHERN GREAT BARRIER REEF – EVENTS CALENDAR 2017
Rockhampton Winter Racing Carnival
JULY Winterfeast (Bundaberg)........................................................................ 7 – 16 July Rockhampton River Festival..............................................................14 – 16 July Paradise Lagoons Campdraft (Rockhampton)................. 20 – 23 July Childers Festival...................................................................................... 29 – 30 July
AUGUST Yeppoon Triathlon Festival
Gladstone Show.............................................................................................4 August Brisbane to Keppel Tropical Yacht Race............................. 4 – 8 August Bargara Strawberry Fair...........................................................................5 August Yeppoon Triathlon Festival............................................................5 – 6 August Cane to Coral Fun Run (Bundaberg)................................................6 August Gemfest, Festival of Gems (Sapphire Gemfields)......10 – 13 August Village Festival (Yeppoon)............................................................11 – 13 August Botanic to Bridge (Gladstone)........................................................... 20 August
Bargara Strawberry Fair
Oceanfest (Bundaberg).........................................................................26 August Central Highlands Multicultural Festival (Emerald)...........26 August
SEPTEMBER Gladstone – Multicultural Festival...........................................3 September Yeppoon Coastguard Tight Lines Fishing Classic............................................................................8 – 10 September Capricorn Food and Wine Festival
Capricorn Food & Wine Festival (Rockhampton)...........................................................................15 – 17 September Monto Dairy Carnival......................................................................23 September
OCTOBER Yeppoon Running Festival.................................................................... 1 October Crush Festival of the Arts (Bundaberg)............................ 6 – 15 October Yeppoon Lions Tropical Pinefest (Yeppoon)............... 13 – 15 October Great Barrier Reef Swim
Spirit of Bundaberg Festival ..............................................................14 October Capricorn Film Festival (Gladstone)................................24 – 29 October Emu Park Oktoberfest.........................................................................28 October
NOVEMBER Opera in the Caves (Rockhampton).................................3 – 5 November Great Barrier Reef Swim (Heron Island)........................4 – 8 November Nesting Turtles
Bundy Cup Touch Football Competition...................................November Turtle Nesting...........................................................................November – March
DECEMBER Capricorn Caves Summer Solstice Light Spectacle (Rockhampton)...........................................................December – Mid January
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 65
SOUTHERN GREAT BARRIER REEF – MAJOR FESTIVALS
12-16 April
Gladstone Harbour Festival (Gladstone) The 54th annual Gladstone Harbour Festival will once again entice, excite and engage the Gladstone community and visitors to the region. The festival is absolutely jam-packed with a fantastic variety of free entertainment on the GPC Marina Main Stage, fun rides for the kids, a great selection of tasty foods, plenty of novelty events, interactive activities and much more!
Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race (Gladstone) The Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race is one of Australia’s flagship offshore yacht races. It is an icon of Queensland and the highest profile Easter Weekend sporting event, setting sail on Good Friday annually. From the start at Shorncliffe, yachts proceed via a mark off Redcliffe Point to the North West Channel up to Caloundra and through to Gladstone. Entrants include the country’s best Queensland based race boats as well as interstate rivals.
28-30 April
Boyne Tannum Hookup (Gladstone) The Boyne Tannum Hookup is Australia’s Biggest Family Fishing Competition, with both adult and junior categories. This event is held at Boyne Island, a beautiful location on the Central Queensland Coast. With a prize pool worth over $300,000, the event attracts thousands of registered fishing competitors and visitors to Bray Park, Boyne Island where fishing weighins, family entertainment and delicious food is provided over the three days of competition.
Heartland Festival (Bundaberg / North Burnett) Fine wine, gourmet food, art, flowers and entertainment are just some of the many reasons to mark the North Burnett Heartland Festival 3-day culinary tourism event in your calendars. From Twilight Wine & Cheese to delicious dining experiences to Saturday’s incredible Market Day, there will be many opportunities to taste the region and all things made, grown and produced in the North Burnett.
7-16 July
30 June 2 July
Winterfeast (Bundaberg) On the Southern Great Barrier Reef, a true paddock to plate festival is served up across the Bundaberg region every July. Winterfeast events promise only the most juicy, lip-smackingly delicious produce from one of Australia’s food bowls. Pairing Australia’s finest produce from local growers with award winning cafes, national icons and local foodie tours is what makes the recipe for what is scrumptiously known as Bundaberg’s 2017 Winterfeast food festival.
Rockhampton River Festival (Rockhampton) The Rockhampton River Festival brings the colourful past, creative present and bright future of Rockhampton together for a massive three day celebration. The truly unique and memorable experience, showcasing the region’s immense talent, culture, arts, food and spirit, takes place on the banks of the mighty Fitzroy River.
66 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
14-16 April
14-16 July
SOUTHERN GREAT BARRIER REEF – MAJOR FESTIVALS
20-23 July
Paradise Lagoons Campdraft (Rockhampton) Experience the true outback at the preeminent and richest campdraft in Australia. The sport of campdrafting is uniquely Australian, with its origins dating back to the late 1800s, a display of the skills of the finest stock horses and riders as they separate a steer from a group of cattle and draft it around a course. The world-class venue on a working cattle property, the family entertainment and the social events attract 12,000 people each year in the heart of Queensland.
Childers Festival (Bundaberg) The Childers Festival, an event so good it stops the Bruce Highway, will be held from 29 – 30 July. Saturday festivities will commence at 2pm with Stage One playing until late. Sunday, the main day of the festival, will see an exciting blend of stalls, five stages of non-stop multicultural entertainment and mouth-watering cuisine from all parts of the globe, take over the main street of Childers!
10-13 August
Gemfest – Festival of Gems (Sapphire Gemfields) Gemfest – Festival of Gems is Australia’s largest Sapphire exhibition, where locals and tourists come to buy and sell treasures, view amazing specimens usually kept behind closed doors in private collections, and party all day and all night in the glorious winter weather of Central Queensland, inland from the Southern Great Barrier Reef.
Village Festival (Yeppoon) The CQUniversity Village Festival is the premier music, arts & cultural event for Central Queensland. A free showcase of music, performing arts, lifestyle & hospitality over three days, the festival features both national profile artists as well as local and regional talent across the main stage and four different venues. Take in the spectacular views across Keppel Bay and the Southern Great Barrier Reef as you party with 15,000 revellers in the centre of Yeppoon.
6-15 October
29-30 July
11-13 August
Crush Festival of the Arts (Bundaberg) The Crush Festival lights imaginations with live performances, exhibitions and events that celebrate the stories of the Bundaberg region through the arts. The 10-day program features the Crush Carnivale, WriteFest, Spirit of Bundaberg, hands on workshops, pop up performances, outdoor music and sculpture, exhibitions, open studios and more. The program is available online from August and will be held in venues across the Bundaberg region in October.
Turtle Season If you’re travelling to the Southern Great Barrier Reef between November and March, keep your eyes peeled at beaches across the region for turtles. Mama turtles come ashore to lay their eggs and then later in the season the baby hatchlings emerge and make their way back to the ocean. Mon Repos beach has the most nesting turtles, but you can witness this miracle of life all along the Southern Great Barrier Reef coastline and islands.
Nov to Mar
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 67
EXPLORE THE SOUTHERN GREAT BARRIER REEF
Discover the Southern Great Barrier Reef for yourself with Avis, the car rental company that knows Australia best. • Wide range of vehicles • Great rates and service
avis.com.au
• Add a GPS to your rental for self-drive tours • Plus earn Qantas Frequent Flyer Points
136 333
Mobile App
Advertising Directory Bundaberg Accommodation.................................................. 71 Bundaberg Things to Do........................................................... 74 Agnes Water & 1770...................................................................... 80 Gladstone............................................................................................. 81 Rockhampton Accommodation.......................................... 84 Rockhampton Things to Do.................................................... 85 Yeppoon & Capricorn Coast Accommodation........... 88 Yeppoon & Capricorn Coast Things to Do.................... 92 Great Keppel Island....................................................................... 94 Central Highlands.......................................................................... 96 Visitor Information......................................................................... 100
Queensland Rail Travel Discover the Southern Great Barrier Reef P: 1300 783 553 Discover the Southern Great Barrier Reef with a journey aboard the Tilt Train. Train travel offers an experience unlike any other, whether starting your holiday or visiting family and friends, your journey aboard is as much a part of your experience as the destination. With regular services from Brisbane to Bundaberg and through to Rockhampton, the Tilt Train is a convenient alternative to driving or travelling by coach. Fitted with modern facilities, enjoy the convenience of Economy Seats or upgrade to the comfort of a Business Seat with extra room and complimentary WiFi on board. Watch a movie from the onboard entertainment program and enjoy a great selection of meals, light refreshments and beverages available from the Galley car. Escaping to the Southern Great Barrier Reef is easy aboard the Tilt Train and with so many stations along our beautiful Queensland coast you can hop off and explore. Visit destinations including Bundaberg, Bargara, Town of 1770, Gladstone, Rockhampton and Yeppoon. Whether you are travelling for business or pleasure the Tilt Train offers regular services allowing you to sit back and watch the world go by.
E: reservations@qr.com.au W: www.queenslandrailtravel.com.au
70 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
BUNDABERG – ACCOMMODATION
ZEN Beach Retreat 54 Miller Street, Bargara (located on Kelly’s Beach), Queensland P: +61 7 4154 7757 ZEN Beach Retreat is Your Unique Retreat Experience. Located in the Southern Great Barrier Reef on absolute beachfront with direct access to the golden sands of Queensland’s coast. We are a boutique retreat, our absolute focus has been on exclusivity, privacy and personalising your retreat experience in one of the most idyllic natural settings you could imagine. ZEN’s brand new facilities have been custom built for corporate, group and family retreats – a great location where you can deeply engage with your team or relax with friends and family. I know just the place you will always remember! ZEN Beach Retreat. ZEN Beach Retreat is available on an exclusive basis and is taking bookings through to early 2019.
Features ●
● ● ●
● ●
Private, direct access to pristine uncrowded beach and beachfront sky lounge Main residence and villa accommodation for up to 22 people Tropical ZEN gardens throughout with outdoor bali hut dining area Exclusive corporate retreat use with meeting options overlooking the ocean and gardens Exclusive group and family use with multiple relaxation zones Fully self contained and licensed venue options
E: info@zenbeachretreat.com FB: @ZENBeachRetreat.Australia W: www.zenbeachretreat.com
Koola Beach Apartments Bargara 52 Johnson Street, Bargara, Queensland FREE CALL: 1800 981 815
Bundaberg East Cabin and Tourist Park
83 Princess Street, Bundaberg East, Queensland P: 07 4152 8899 Cabins – self-contained; Powered Grassed Sites; Large Ensuite Sites – double slabs; Pool; Camp Kitchen; Laundry; BBQ; Pets (Sites Only) E: info@bundabergtouristpark.com.au W: www.bundabergtouristpark.com.au
Shoreline Apartments 104 Miller Street, Bargara, Queensland P: 07 4159 1180 | FB/I: @bargarashoreline Bargara Shoreline is an absolute beachfront, fully selfcontained apartment complex that offers a variety of accommodation styles. We have the luxury of being directly opposite the beautiful Bargara Golf Course and only metres to the man made ‘Bargara Basin’ (safe swimming lagoon).
Koola Beach Apartments provide stylish self-contained 4 Star accommodation at Bargara Beach. Just a 400 metre stroll across beachside parkland to Nielson Park patrolled surf beach and 700 metres along an oceanfront walkway to Bargara Village restaurants, hotel and shops. All apartments feature a full kitchen, dining area, lounge with 40” TV/Foxtel, bathroom, laundry, free WiFi and balconies overlooking adjoining parkland. The complex includes an outdoor swimming pool/spa, BBQ area and secure basement car parking with a lift to all floors. E: relax@koolabeach.com.au W: www.koolabeach.com.au
E: info@shorelineapartments.com.au W: www.shorelineapartments.com.au
Kellys Beach Resort 6-10 Trevors Road, Bargara, Queensland P: +61 7 4154 7200 Eco-Certified resort bordering a nature reserve with selfcontained and stand alone villas on 5 acres of gardens a block back from the beach. E: perfectholiday@kellysbeachresort.com.au W: www.kellysbeachresort.com.au
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 71
BUNDABERG – ACCOMMODATION
Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort – Southern Great Barrier Reef Lady Elliot Island, Queensland (approx. 80km NE of Bundaberg) FREE CALL: 1800 072 200 | P: 61 7 5536 3644 Lady Elliot is a true coral cay located on the southern tip of Australia’s iconic Great Barrier Reef, 80 kilometres north-east of Bundaberg, just north of Fraser Island. The Island is situated within a highly protected ’Green Zone’ of the Marine National Park and is a sanctuary for over 1,200 species of marine life. Lady Elliot Island is regarded as one of the best diving and snorkelling locations on the Great Barrier Reef and is renowned for its healthy coral reef and abundance of turtles, manta rays, reef sharks and the entire cast of Finding Nemo. They operate a small unpretentious 41 room Eco Resort on Lady Elliot Island which strives to provide guests with a genuine eco-tourism experience. Guests can enjoy a day-trip or stay for a few days to explore this incredible marine eco-system. Scenic flights to Lady Elliot Island depart daily from the Gold Coast, Brisbane (Redcliffe), Hervey Bay/Fraser Coast or Bundaberg.
E: reservations@ladyelliot.com.au W: www.ladyelliot.com.au
The Point Resort Bargara Beach 19 – 25 The Esplanade, Bargara, Queensland P: 07 4150 5000 | FREE CALL: 1800 823 911
Sandcastles on the Beach 82 Miller Street, Bargara, Queensland P: 07 4159 2175 Welcome to Sandcastles on the Beach at Bargara, a self catering apartment resort. Without doubt our intimate holiday resort has arguably one of the best locations in Bargara right on the ocean front with uninterrupted views. E: info@bargarasandcastles.com.au W: www.bargarasandcastles.com.au
Bargara Beach Motor Inn 7A Bauer Street, Bargara, Queensland P: 07 4159 2395 The Bargara Beach Motor Inn offers out guests quality 3.5 star motel accommodation. Located 100 metres from the beautiful Bargara beach, we invite you to come and stay with us at Bargara. Whether on holidays or business, you will enjoy the clean comfortable rooms and the friendly, relaxed atmosphere. E: holiday@bargarainn.com.au W: www.bargarainn.com.au
The Point Resort is centrally located along the esplanade and close to Kellys Beach, The Basin and the Golf Club. Choose from spacious 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments with sunset or ocean views featuring air conditioning, full kitchen and laundry facilities and free wireless internet access. Resort facilities include a resort pool and spa, mini putt-putt golf, BBQ entertainment area and free car parking. The Point Resort is the perfect choice for couples and families wanting Bargara accommodation. E: thepoint@pointblueresorts.com.au W: www.thepointbargarabeach.com.au
72 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Manta Bargara 95-97 The Esplanade, Bargara, Queensland P: 07 4159 2266 4 ½ Star Oceanfront Apartments, situated at the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef and just a short 5 minute drive to Mon Repos Turtle Rookery. Features include ocean views; 1, 2 & 3 bedroom fully selfcontained apartments, all with spa baths; gym. E: holiday@mantabargara.com.au W: www.mantabargara.com.au
BUNDABERG – ACCOMMODATION
Burnett Heads Holiday Park
Moore Park Beach Holiday Park
Paul Mittelheuser Drive, Burnett Heads, Queensland P: 07 4159 4313
Park Drive, Moore Park Beach, Queensland P: 07 4154 8388
Peaceful waterfront location, near boat harbour for tours to Lady Musgrave and Great Southern Barrier Reef. Cabins and powered sites available.
Absolute beachfront location with swimming pool onsite. Variety of grass or slab sites, both powered/ unpowered and self-contained cabins. Pets welcome.
E: burnettheads@bundaberg.qld.gov.au W: www.bundabergholidayparks.com.au
E: moorepark@bundaberg.qld.gov.au W: www.bundabergholidayparks.com.au
Miara Holiday Park
Elliott Heads Holiday Park
1200 Miara Road, Yandaran, Queensland P: 07 4156 1171
Lihs Street, Elliott Heads, Queensland P: 07 4159 6193
Located on the Kolan River where it meets the ocean. Ideal for fishing with onsite kiosk, BBQs and playground.
Quiet beachfront park with ocean view cabins and powered/unpowered sites available. Ideal water sport location with kiosk, patrolled beach and playground.
E: miara@bundaberg.qld.gov.au W: www.bundabergholidayparks.com.au
E: elliottheads@bundaberg.qld.gov.au W: www.bundabergholidayparks.com.au
Mango Hill Cottages B&B – Childers
Mundubbera Three Rivers Tourist Park
8 Mango Hill Drive, Childers, Queensland P: 07 4126 1311 | M: 0408 875 305
37 Strathdee Street, Mundubbera, Queensland P: 07 4165 3000
Quaint, comfortable cottage-style accommodation. Be calmed and soothed by the warmth of timber, the peace of a rural setting, a country garden and birdsong.
Diverse range of accommodation styles. New themed cabins. Modern, clean facilities. Spacious sites and amenities. Free WiFi. Fresh, local produce. Broaden your options. Be curious…
E: mangohillcottagebb@bigpond.com W: www.mangohillcottages.com
E: admin@threeriverspark.com.au W: www.threeriverspark.com.au
Take a ride along the coastline at Bargara
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 73
BUNDABERG – THINGS TO DO
Bundaberg Rum Distillery Hills Street, Bundaberg, Queensland P: 07 4131 2999 | #HomeofBundy Under the careful and crafty eyes of our Distillers, Blenders and Bondsman, millions of litres of Australia’s iconic Bundaberg Rum are aged to perfection here at the Bundaberg Rum Distillery. Now, following an $8.5M upgrade in 2016, you can explore the Distillery for yourself through a range of new and updated tour options. Museum Experience: After protecting and ageing our rums since the 70s, Bondstore #7 has been given new life by being transformed into our immersive Bundaberg Rum Museum. Weave through hand crafted vats at your own pace as you embark on a journey through the rich history of Australia’s iconic rum. Distillery Experience: Explore the inner workings of the rum-making process. It starts by showcasing the innovative processes that deliver the molasses from Millaquin Sugar Mill, before moving onto fermenting and distilling where the magic really happens. Finally visitors get to enjoy the Grand Barrel House which shares ‘some’ of the secrets behind the ageing and maturing process. Blend Your Own Rum Experience: Spend time with a blending expert as you pour straight from the barrel. Using five, never before released to the public rums that have been aged in ex-sherry, bourbon, scotch, port and heavy charred American oak barrels – there’s something to suit every palate. When complete, each blend is as unique as the blender that has crafted it, you get to take home two personalised bottles – one for now, one for later on.
E: Distillery@bundabergrum.com FB/I: @BundabergRum W: www.bundabergrum.com.au
Hinkler Central Shopping Centre
Hinkler Hall of Aviation
16 Maryborough Street, Bundaberg, Queensland P: 07 4152 9888
Bundaberg Botanic Gardens, 6 Mt Perry Rd, Bundaberg North, Qld P: 07 4130 4400 | F: 07 4130 4410
Hinkler Central is the premium shopping destination in Bundaberg. The Centre is ideally located on the southern edge of Bundaberg’s Central Business District, just 360 kilometres north of Brisbane. Hinkler Central offers the convenience of Coles, Woolworths and Kmart plus over 70 specialty stores all under one roof. The Centre offers a relaxed, air conditioned, single level shopping experience and features a superior combination of fashion, homewares, food and leisure retailers with over 1,000 free parking spaces including undercover.
Set within the lush Bundaberg Botanic Gardens, the Hinkler Hall of Aviation brings to life the adventures and achievements of Australia’s famous pioneer solo aviator Bert Hinkler. Become part of the story through flight simulators and distinctive glide simulators, movie theatrettes, six display aircraft and the many unique museum exhibits and interactive displays right at your fingertips, including the beautifully restored Hinkler House ‘Mon Repos’, Bert Hinkler’s relocated English home. Don’t miss this memorable experience in the Bundaberg region, Queensland.
E: info@hinklercentral.com.au W: www.hinklercentral.com.au
E: info@hinklerhallofaviation.com W: www.hinklerhallofaviation.com
76 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
BUNDABERG – THINGS TO DO
The Bundaberg Barrel 147 Bargara Road, Bundaberg, Queensland P: + 61 (0) 7 4154 5480 Discover the secrets of Bundaberg Brewed Drinks with a variety of hands-on activities at the home of ginger beer. Take an amazing journey through the True Brew Experience Tour. Use our interactive touch screens to see what happens to the humble ginger root as it’s crushed, brewed and fermented to make the world’s finest ginger beer. You can also sit back and enjoy the unique 15 minute 3D hologram adventure, ‘Doug’s Promised Land’ in our theatre. The Sampling Bar offers free product tastings of our entire range of brewed drinks. At last count there were 14 delicious flavours to try, including our famous Bundaberg Ginger Beer. You’re sure to find something in the Gift Shop to treat yourself, and perhaps take something special home for your loved ones too. Popular items include delicious foods and sweets, unique glassware, clothing for all ages, Bundaberg souvenirs and so much more. And of course there’s a huge selection of Bundaberg Brewed Drinks available too, that you can take home and savour.
Opening Times ● ●
Monday – Saturday 9:00am – 4:30pm Sunday 10:00am – 3:00pm
E: visitors@bundaberg.com W: www.bundaberg.com
Crush Festival PO Box 44, Bundaberg, Queensland P: 0488 1974 00 | CONTACT: Crush Festival Co-ordinator
Bundy Food Tours Suzie Clarke P: 0409 491 944 | FB/I: @bundyfoodtours Join Suzie on a half day tour visiting farms and food producers, with a cuppa and local produce picnic included. E: suzie@bundyfoodtours.com.au W: www.bundyfoodtours.com.au
Bundaberg Coaches 20 Verdant Siding Road, Thabeban, Queensland P: 07 4153 1037 Privately owned coach tour and charter operation with an ever-increasing reputation for innovative tours, quality coaches and unbeatable value for money. We provide a more comfortable, safer and ultimately more reliable service.
Visit the Bundaberg Region for 10 days of exciting arts and cultural experiences that tell the stories of our region. Held in October (6 – 15th), the Crush Festival includes WriteFest, contemporary circus, music, children’s activities, exhibitions and film celebrating the cultural vitality, beautiful climate and outdoor spaces of our region. The Crush Festival is a vibrant program bringing new and creative opportunities for everyone to enjoy. Full program information can be found at www.crushfestivalqld.com.au E: hello@crushfestivalqld.com.au W: www.crushfestivalqld.com.au
E: info@bundaberg-coaches.com.au W: www.bundaberg-coaches.com.au
Bundy Belle 11e Petersen Street, Bundaberg East, Queensland P: 0427 099 009 (Departs from Grunske’s) Enjoy a tranquil 2 ½ hour river cruise on the beautiful Burnett River with commentary on the colourful history. Complimentary tea and coffee – BYO drinks. Enjoy a relaxed dining experience at Grunske’s before or after your cruise. E: bundabergferryco@bigpond.com W: www.burnettrivercruises.com.au
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 77
BUNDABERG – THINGS TO DO
Bargara Brewing Company 10 Tantitha Street, Bundaberg, Queensland P: 07 4152 1675 Bargara Brewing Company’s Brewhouse in the Bundaberg CBD is an essential stop for anyone visiting the Bundaberg region. A wide selection of Craft Beer and Cider brewed on site in a family friendly, trendy, open plan Brewhouse. Come in and enjoy the live music on a Friday and Saturday, try a tasting paddle or two, of the amazing beers like Drunk Fish Pale Ale, Ginja Ninja, Phat Heffa or Rusty Roo. Enjoy a game of ping-pong or giant jenga, while nibbling on some local macadamia nuts, then tuck into an amazing fresh Prosciutto, Rocket & Parmesan Pizza with your pint of Thirsty Turtle. We also serve a range of wine, spirits and cocktails! Grab a 2L growler, t-shirt and mixed six-pack on your way out. If you love finding the source, this is it – an independent, family owned regional brewery and restaurant. “Best Craft beers in the Southern Hemisphere” – Don’t take our word for it, check out our reviews on TripAdvisor and Facebook. #visitbargara #bargarabrewingco
E: thebrewhouse@outlook.com.au FB: TheBrewhouseBundaberg W: www.bargarabrewingco.com.au
Fairymead House Sugar History Museum Bundaberg Botanic Gardens via Thornhill St, Bundaberg North, Qld P: 07 4130 4400 | F: 07 4130 4410
Heartland Festival North Burnett, Queensland P: 0427 755 850 Earthy, delicious and a little bit country. Enjoy the best produce from the North Burnett Friday 30 June – Sunday 2 July. Don’t miss the Farmers Market, at Gayndah, Saturday July 1. E: info@heartlandfestival.com.au W: www.heartlandfestival.com.au
Amandine Lavender 288 Seaview Road, Bundaberg, Queensland P: 07 41 547314 Amandine Lavender is a boutique lavender farm and gift shop adorned with our own products, unique gifts and all things purple. We are open 10am until 4pm daily.
W: www.amandinelavender.com.au
Set within the lush Bundaberg Botanic Gardens, Fairymead House Sugar History Museum brings to life the fascinating story of sugar from the Bundaberg region. Share in the history of the pioneer sugar families and discover the process of producing sugar, from cane to crystal. Be enchanted by Indian bungalow architecture as you explore this grand plantation house and imagine life on a sugar cane plantation back in the late 1800s. Don’t miss this unique experience in the Bundaberg region, Queensland. E: info@fairymeadhouse.com.au W: www.fairymeadhouse.com.au
78 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Hill Of Promise Winery & Cellar Door - Childers 8 Mango Hill Drive, Childers (4km south), Queensland P: 07 4126 1311 | M: 0408 875 305 Discover a truly local experience enjoying Childers award-winning preservative-free wines and fortifieds. Talk with the passionate wine-making team inspired by Sicilian heritage. Cellar Door OPEN 7 DAYS 10am – 4pm for tastings and sales (group bookings welcome). E: mangohillcottagebb@bigpond.com W: www.hillofpromise.com
BUNDABERG – THINGS TO DO
Friendlies Afterhours Medical Service
Friendly Society Pharmacy
19-23 Bingera Street, Bundaberg, Queensland P: 07 4331 1777
9 Barolin Street, Bundaberg, Queensland P: 07 4154 0540
The Friendlies Afterhours Medical Service is an Afterhours General Practice, providing you with the security and comfort of medical care when you are away from your regular doctor’s surgery. No private health cover is required and no appointment is necessary. We are open 12noon to 6pm on Saturdays and 9am to 6pm on Sundays and Public holidays. Our service is staffed by doctors from Bundaberg’s most reputable GP Clinics, so you know your health is in safe hands.
The Friendly Society Pharmacy is a full service pharmacy, offering expert medicine advice, with a pharmacist available for you to talk to at all times. We can offer medication packing services, and can look after the needs of DVA card holders. We are the only Bundaberg stockist of leading cosmetic brands Estee Lauder, Clinique, Shiseido and Chanel. We also stock Bundaberg’s largest range of home health mobility aids, including scooters, lift chairs, walkers, accessories and much more. The Friendlies also offer an extensive range of comfort shoes from HomyPed to Orthaheel and Softouch.
W: www.thefriendlies.org.au/afterhours
W: www.thefriendlies.org.au/pharmacy
Mystery Craters 100m off Bundaberg/Gin Gin Highway, Bundaberg, Qld P: 07 4157 7291 35 Craters – 25 million years old; Antique machinery; 5 metre T-REX replica; Kiosk; “Myrtle” the life sized TURTLE; Gifts; Fairy garden; Rocks and fossils E: mysterycraters@gmail.com W: www.mysterycraters.com.au
Bundaberg Visitor Information Centre 271 Bourbong Street, Bundaberg, Queensland P: 07 4153 8888 Pop into our accredited Visitor Information Centre in Bundaberg for a chat with a knowledgeable local who has a passion for their local area. E: info@bundabergregion.org W: www.bundabergregion.info
Burnett River, Bundaberg
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 79
AGNES WATER & 1770 - ACCOMMODATION & THINGS TO DO
1770 LARC! Tours
Discover 1770 Caltex Complex, Round Hill Road, Agnes Water, Qld P: 07 4974 7557
P: 07 4974 9422 Book Lady Musgrave and Lady Elliot Island Reef Tours, great range of souvenirs, group and school specialist, beach toys, bike hire, free maps, information. E: admin@discover1770.com.au W: www.discover1770.com.au
1770 Liquid Adventures P: 0428 956 630
Fully guided kayak tours and kayak hire. Explore 1770 with us – we show you the best the area has to offer!
LARCing is an amazing, addictive and simply LARCtastic activity that’s been departing from the 1770 Marina since 1994! 1770 LARC! Tours operate two pink amphibian vessels, to cruise through the clear water and coast along the beach exploring the National Parks and pristine waterways bordering the Birthplace of Queensland – the Town of 1770 – in Queensland’s Southern Great Barrier Reef region. Book now to soak up paradise, LARC! style: ● Paradise Tour ● Goolimbil Walkabout cultural tour ● LARC + Lunch! ● Afternoon Cruise E: info@1770larctours.com.au W: www.1770larctours.com.au
Sandcastles 1770 Motel & Resort 40 Captain Cook Drive, Agnes Water, Queensland P: 07 4974 9428
E: info@1770liquidadventures.com.au W: www.1770liquidadventures.com.au
1770reef Great Barrier Reef Eco Tours P: 07 4972 7222
Experience the world class snorkelling, glass bottom boat tours on the Lady Musgrave Lagoon and Island walks along Lady Musgrave Island. All-inclusive tours departing daily from the 1770 Marina. E: tours@1770reef.com.au W: www.1770reef.com.au
Agnes Water Beach Club 3 Agnes Street, Agnes Water, Queensland P: 07 4974 7355 | TOLL FREE: 1300 731 667 | F: 07 4974 7801
Centrally located with direct beach access. Budget through to luxury accommodation with onsite café & bar. Easy walk to shops. E: info@sandcastles1770.com.au W: www.sandcastles1770.com.au
The Lovely Cottages & Outdoor Art Gallery 61 Bicentennial Drive, Agnes Water, Queensland P: 07 4974 9554 | M: 0411 078 810 Enjoy the private air-conditioned cottages and tranquil setting, unique art gallery, lagoon style pool, campfire and feeding the resident turtles. E: thelovelycottages@outlook.com W: www.thelovelycottages.com.au
Agnes Water / 1770 Visitor Information Centre 71 Springs Road, Agnes Water, Queensland P: +61 07 4902 1533 Visit Agnes Water’s accredited Visitor Information Centre where you can book your accommodation, tours, transport and activities for an unforgettable holiday in the Southern Great Barrier Reef. E: agneswatervic@gapdl.com.au
80 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Agnes Water Beach Club offers guests affordable luxury in the heart of Agnes Water. The one and two bedroom fully self-contained apartments are located only a minute’s walk from Queensland’s most northern surf beach, cafés and boutique shops. Stone bench tops, stainless steel appliances, quality furnishings and large balcony are just some of the quality aspects to every room. Comfort of the reverse cycle air-conditioning and a heated pool makes for an enjoyable stay also.
E: reservations@agneswaterbeachclub.com.au W: www.agneswaterbeachclub.com.au
GLADSTONE – ACCOMMODATION & THINGS TO DO
Mercure Gladstone
Oaks Grand Gladstone
Cnr Bell and O’Connell Street, Gladstone, Queensland P: 61 7 4979 8200
79 Goondoon Street, Gladstone, Queensland P: 1300 725 544
Located minutes from the CBD, marina and airport, our stylish and modern hotel features a variety of 60 spacious rooms, ideal for business and leisure travellers. Boasting covered parking, meeting space, room service and laundry facilities as well as sharing a sharply designed and expansive foyer with the Yaralla Sports Club. Guests have direct access to bars, restaurants, gaming facilities and 24hr gym. Recognised in the Best in Business awards by being judged the Best Accommodation and Resort for the Gladstone region for 2016. Our mission is to provide customer service exceeding our guests’ expectations.
As the premier choice in the region, Oaks Grand Gladstone offers deluxe accommodation and a highly sought-after position in the heart of Gladstone’s CBD. Located on Goondoon Street, and connected to its own pub, restaurants and bar, the hotel is in walking distance to the Gladstone Entertainment & Convention Centre, Gladstone Marina, and the family-friendly East Shores Precinct. Oaks Grand Gladstone offers a unique and stylish base to soak in the myriad sights and activities the town has on offer.
E: reservations@gladstonemercure.com.au W: www.mercure.com/gb/hotel-8544-mercure-gladstone/index.shtml
E: grandgladstone@theoaksgroup.com.au W: www.oakshotels.com
Metro Hotel & Apartments Gladstone
Discover The Hinterland Tours
22-24 Roseberry Street, Gladstone, Queensland P: 07 4972 4711
P: 0411 058 407
In the centre of Gladstone’s administrative, dining and entertainment district, offering spacious apartments with kitchen, laundry and balconies.
4WD tour through Hinterlands with rugged, yet beautiful landscapes with memorable panoramic views, sweeping gorges, peaceful creeks and hidden discoveries.
E: gladstone@metrohg.com W: www.metrohotels.com.au
E: discoverthehinterlandtours@outlook.com W: www.discoverthehinterlandtours.com
Gladstone Palms Motor Inn
Lake Awoonga Boating & Leisure Hire
Cnr Far Street & Dawson Highway, Gladstone, Queensland P: 07 4971 3000
Lake Awoonga, Benaraby, Queensland P: 0457 929 889 | M: 0413 148 476
Gladstone Palms Motor Inn offers you the best in comfortable and affordable accommodation, in a sought after location.
An amazing place to enjoy various water activities such as boating, kayaking, paddle boarding and more. Located 20 minutes south of Gladstone. E: la.boathire@gmail.com W: www.lakeawoongaboatingandleisurehire.com
E: info@gladstonepalmsmotorinn.com.au W: www.gladstonepalmsmotorinn.com.au
Gladstone Visitor Information Centre Marina Ferry Terminal, 72 Bryan Jordan Drive, Gladstone P: +61 07 4972 9000 Visit Gladstone’s accredited Visitor Information Centre where you can book your accommodation, tours, transport and activities for an unforgettable holiday in the Southern Great Barrier Reef. E: gladstonevic@gapdl.com.au
82 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
Lake Awoonga
GLADSTONE – ACCOMMODATION & THINGS TO DO
Curtis Ferry Services – North West Island Reef Camping P: 61 7 4972 6990
Curtis Ferry Services will help you escape to the second largest coral cay in the Great Barrier reef, the beautiful North West Island, where the campground is right on the reef. Enjoy lazy days on the beach, snorkelling amongst the coral gardens, diving the reef, fishing the deep or kayaking the reef flats. North West Island is located in the Capricorn bunkers group which consists of 22 reefs and 16 coral cays and home of the Great 8: ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Whales Turtles Sharks Clown fish Giant clams Manta rays Cod Maori wrasse
Along with the Great 8, 22 species of seabirds call into North West Island including the Black Noddies and Wedge-tail Shearwater. Contact us today to arrange your transfer to paradise!
E: info@curtisferryservices.com.au W: www.curtisferryservices.com.au
Gladstone Ports Corporation’s East Shores Precinct Flinders Parade, Gladstone, Queensland P: 1800 243 GPC (472)
‘MV Night Crossing’ Gladstone Coral Charters P: 07 4972 2285
East Shores – Gladstone Coal Exporters Maritime Precinct is an exciting destination for the Gladstone region that showcases Gladstone Harbour and its proud maritime history. Gladstone Ports Corporation’s multi-award winning community parkland is a place to meet, relax and enjoy the world-class waterfront with a water play park, public artworks, a waterfront boardwalk, BBQs and plenty of green, open spaces. East Shores is also home to the popular Feast on East Markets, which take place when cruise ships visit the Port of Gladstone.
Live aboard ‘MV Night Crossing’ for a week and experience the ultimate in reef fishing that comes with the isolation of the Swain Reefs, 120nm offshore. Guests are surrounded by luxury onboard, with generous meals, two berth air-conditioned cabins serviced daily, 6 custom built fishing dories and 5 experienced crew to ensure a great holiday. You keep the catch, all filleted, bagged and snap frozen. Coral Sea Charters also available. ‘MV Night Crossing’ departs Gladstone Marina Queensland every Friday afternoon.
W: www.gpcl.com.au
E: info@nightcrossing.com.au W: www.nightcrossing.com.au
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 83
ROCKHAMPTON – ACCOMMODATION
Travelodge Rockhampton 86 Victoria Parade, Rockhampton, Queensland P: 07 4994 5000
Henderson Park Farm Retreat 88 C.H Barretts Road, Barmoya via Rockhampton, Qld P: 07 4934 2794 A little piece of paradise. Working cattle property 30 minutes north of Rockhampton. Luxurious selfcontained cabins and ensuited rooms – accommodation and function venue. E: info@hendersonpark.com.au W: www.hendersonpark.com.au
Denison Boutique Hotel 233 Denison Street, Rockhampton, Queensland P: 07 4923 7378 Affordable Luxury Heritage Accommodation, surrounded in hedged gardens. Relax with a Four Posted King Bed, Spa Bath, Unlimited Wifi, Buffet Breakfast, off street parking from only $129.00.
Travelodge Rockhampton is located in the heart of Rockhampton with breathtaking views of the Fitzroy River. Just a short drive from the airport, the hotel gives access to all Rockhampton has to offer as well as being a great place from which to explore the Queensland coast, including the famous Great Keppel Island. Stay in one of our comfortable 74 hotel rooms, many with kitchenette and microwave facilities. Relax by the outdoor swimming pool or snuggle up in bed with in-room movies. SAVE 10% off your stay when you use the promo code ROCKHAMPTON E: trok@travelodge.com.au W: www.travelodgehotels.com.au
E: contact@denisonhotel.com.au W: www.denisonboutiquehotel.com.au
Rockhampton Serviced Apartments 128 Denham Street, Rockhampton, Queensland P: 07 4922 9222 Ideal destination whilst staying in Rockhampton. Several accommodation styles are available, each with their distinctive setting. Free WiFi and free parking. E: bookings@rockhamptonservicedapartments.com.au W: www.rockhamptonservicedapartments.com.au
Empire Apartment Hotel
Edge Apartment Hotel
5 East Street, Rockhampton, Queensland P: 07 4936 0000
102 Victoria Parade, Rockhampton, Queensland P: 07 4930 1000
We welcome you to Experience the Empire and see Rockhampton like never before! In the heart of the CBD Riverfront Precinct with retail shopping, supermarkets, art gallery, cafés, restaurants and theatre, our rooms are modern, spacious and have their own balcony. There is free WiFi and three onsite dining options – a steakhouse, café, and Italian restaurant – all with chargeback, a tropically landscaped 20m pool and gym, 24hr reception, and undercover secure parking. The Empire won silver for best ‘Deluxe Accommodation’ at the 2016 Qld Tourism Awards.
The Edge welcomes you to Rockhampton and the beautiful Southern Great Barrier Reef Region. Designed to capture the panoramic river and city views, The Edge is Rockhampton’s leading 4.5 Star Apartment Hotel. Ideally positioned in Rockhampton’s CBD Riverfront Precinct, enjoy our stylish hotel rooms or spectacular panorama from our serviced apartments with personalised 24-hour guest service, onsite bar and restaurant. Located only minutes from the Airport, The Edge is your new home away from home and the premier accommodation choice in Rockhampton.
E: stay@empirerockhampton.com.au W: www.empirerockhampton.com.au
E: stay@theedgeapartments.com.au W: www.theedgeapartments.com.au
84 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
ROCKHAMPTON – ACCOMMODATION & THINGS TO DO
Quest Rockhampton 48 Victoria Parade, Rockhampton, Queensland P: 07 4920 5300 | F: 07 4920 5399
Mt Hay Gemstone Tourist Park 3665 Capricorn Highway, Wycarbah, Queensland P: 07 4934 7183 | F: 07 4934 7346
Executive studio rooms. One and two bedroom apartments, within walking distance to the CBD. Free WiFi and secure parking available. E: questrockhampton@questapartments.com.au W: www.questrockhampton.com.au
Winter Sun Motel Yaamba Road (Bruce Highway), North Rockhampton P: 07 4928 8722 Quiet and clean. Comfortable beds. Free Wi-Fi. Undercover parking. Ground floor rooms available. Takeaway and major shopping centres within walking distance. E: stay@wintersunrockhampton.com.au W: www.wintersunrockhampton.com.au
Myella Farm Stay 1591 Baralaba/Rannes Road, Baralaba, Queensland P: 07 4998 1290 Experience outback life on our genuine cattle farm. Enjoy horse riding, motorbikes, 4WD tours, cow milking, air-conditioned ensuite accommodation, great meals, pool, camping and kangaroos guaranteed. E: myella@bigpond.com W: www.myella.com
Located 30 minutes west of Rockhampton at the foot of an extinct volcano, Mt. Hay is home to the famous, 120-million-year-old Thundereggs (volcanic birthstones) and Rainforest Jasper (Spherulitic Rhyolite). Here, visitors can experience the thrill of fossicking for their own unique treasures. Keep what you find (including some free cutting). View the Aradon Fine Pewter Factory. Browse the gift shop, or stay awhile in the caravan park and campground. Pets welcome. Admission to Park free, fees apply to activities – enclosed footwear required. We have a large range of rough Australian gemstone material for sale. Open 7 days 8.30am – 4.30pm GPS: 150.20904, 23.565565. E: mthaygems@aradon.com.au W: www.mthaygems.com.au
Kershaw Gardens, Rockhampton
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 85
ROCKHAMPTON – THINGS TO DO
Capricorn Caves 30 Olsens Caves Road, The Caves, Queensland P: 07 4934 2883 Located just off Highway One, north of Rockhampton, Capricorn Caves offers exciting experiences for everyone. On the Cathedral tour enjoy a leisurely wheelchair accessible walk through ancient caves formed from a coral reef 390 million years ago. Marvel at the rare ferns, tree roots and stalactite decorations. Be spellbound by the perfect natural acoustics of the Cathedral Chamber, a popular venue for weddings and Underground Opera. Looking for a world class adventure experience to brag about? Try wild caving or abseiling down a natural rock face or check out the climbing wall. Queensland Museum’s internationally significant discoveries of mega fauna fossils in Capricorn Caves can be examined on the Discovery tour. For family activities book a family adventure tour or Bats and Bones experience. The 33 hectare property offers a range of accommodation from tent camping, caravan park and spacious cabins in the bush. Enjoy alfresco dining in the kiosk café and at night light a camp fire under starlit skies.
Features ● ● ● ● ● ●
Cave Tours Adventure Caving Family Activities Cabins and Caravan Park Kiosk and Pool Free Wifi
E: admin@capricorncaves.com.au W: www.capricorncaves.com.au
FLOW Visitors Centre Old Post Office Building, Cnr Denham & East Streets, Rockhampton P: 07 4999 2800
Archer Park Rail Museum 51-87 Denison Street, Rockhampton, Queensland P: 07 4922 2774 1899 Historic Railway Station – Steam Tram rides on Sundays, railway exhibits, various historic Engines and Carriages and an amazing soundscape! E: archerpark@bigpond.com W: www.qldrailheritage.com/archerpark
Dreamtime Cultural Centre Bruce Highway, North Rockhampton, Queensland P: 07 4936 1655 30 acres of natural bushland, on Ancient Tribal Sites – Central Queensland’s largest Aboriginal cultural centre. Open Monday – Friday 10am – 3.30pm. Guided tours from 10.30am.
Looking for something fun, free and interactive to do in Rockhampton? Discover FLOW Visitors Centre, a public interpretive space created by Fitzroy Basin Association Inc. Tour the ‘region-in-a-room’ – find interactive maps; inspirational story walls and images; and short, engaging videos featuring cute reef characters and local farmers; as well as a kid’s corner with plenty to keep them amused. The centre is open from 10am – 3pm, Tuesday to Thursday (excluding public holidays). E: flow@fba.org.au W: www.discovercq.com
86 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
E: dtime1@iinet.net.au W: www.dreamtimecentre.com.au
The Tropic of Capricorn Spire Visitor Information Centre Rockhampton Gladstone Road, Rockhampton, Queensland P: 1800 676 701 Stop in to find out what there is to do and see within the region and let us help you plan your holiday. E: info@capricorntourism.com.au W: www.capricornholidays.com.au
ROCKHAMPTON – THINGS TO DO
Mount Morgan Railway Museum and Visitor Information Centre 1 Railway Parade, Mount Morgan, Queensland P: 07 4938 2312 Mount Morgan, nestled in the Dee Ranges, is situated approximately 38km south west of Rockhampton. This former mining town was home to one of the largest open cut gold and copper mines in the Southern Hemisphere and is still steeped in this rich mining history and heritage. In the early 1900s Mount Morgan reached a population of 18,000 and was one of the busiest towns in Queensland and today this historical town is home for 2,500 locals who enjoy a relaxed lifestyle in a semi-rural setting. Mount Morgan has plenty to attract the visitor with accommodation, hospitality, parks, sporting facilities, museums and access to the old mine site through guided mine tours. The No 7 or “Big Dam” supplies the town’s water and is an aquatic playground for fishing and water activities, with an undercover outdoor play area, full barbecue facilities and proves a popular spot for locals and visitors. Today Mount Morgan has 4 hotels, 2 motel and van parks, cafes, bakery, supermarket and an array of shopping opportunities within the CBD area. Mount Morgan Railway Museum and Tourist Information Centre is open 9am–4pm daily.
Features ● ● ● ● ●
Railway Museum with Historic Platform Displays and Rolling Stock 3D Movie Presentation of the Rach Railway Souvenir and Refreshment Kiosk Enquire about a guided Mount Morgan Mine Tour and Town Attractions Stop in and chat with our friendly staff about Mount Morgan’s rich history
E: mmpad@bigpond.com W: www.mountmorgan.org.au
Mount Morgan Guided Tours TMC Tours 1 Railway Parade, Information Centre and Information Centre (Rail Museum), Mount Morgan, Queensland P: 07 49 381 823 Mount Morgan Tours TMC Tours – Experience the Magic to Discover the Past – Historic Mount Morgan Central Queensland. Take a trip back in time to historic Mount Morgan, only a 30 minute drive from Rockhampton. Once boasting a bustling township that supported one of the largest working gold and copper mines in Australia, Mount Morgan offers visitors a fascinating journey in time into Australia’s rich gold mining heritage and historic past. Join our daily short guided bus tours that depart from the town’s Information Centre. View the many heritage buildings and pubs throughout the town all with their own stories to tell as we head to the old mine. See displays of old mining equipment and visit the Michael Durrant’s fossil rooms featuring early Jurassic footprint casts and fossils. Be in awe at the Big Stack and the Open Cut pit from the viewing platform. Learn about the environmental projects underway on the mine site. Delve into Australia’s amazing gold mining heritage, a true journey back in time.
Features ● ● ● ● ●
Two hour guided tour Professional guides Only way to access the heritage listed mine School groups and large private coaches welcome Bookings essential
E: tmctours@iprimus.com.au W: www.tmctours.com.au
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 87
YEPPOON & CAPRICORN COAST – ACCOMMODATION
Coolwaters Holiday Village 760 Scenic Highway, Kinka Beach P: 07 4939 6102 | FREE CALL: 1800 266 556 At Coolwaters Holiday Village we have a motto “FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY”. With a massive water park, large resort pool, extra large jumping pillow, swings, 2 children play areas, full size tennis court with lights, ½ basketball court all to keep the children excited and busy! Oops, did I mention the BMX track, the pedal carts and the kayaks!! Mums and Dads can sit back and relax in our newly refurbished units or cabins, or camp on one of our hugely popular deluxe ensuite sites, all the time knowing the children are in a fun and safe environment. In our winter months Coolwaters Holiday Village provides a more relaxed environment with bistro nights, free scone morning teas, bush poetry around one of our 3 camp fire pits, organised weekly bowls and golf trips, beautiful morning walks with your dog at Kinka Beach across the road, relaxing bush walks in our 120 acres of seaside rainforest or casting a line into the Causeway Lake. Coolwaters Holiday Village has one of Queensland’s largest Camp and Conference Centres accommodating and catering for groups as large as 200. Special interest groups, weddings, Christmas parties, birthday parties and family reunions are also a favourite at Coolwaters.
E: info@coolwaters.com.au W: www.coolwaters.com.au
Villa Mar Colina 34 Adelaide Street, Yeppoon, Queensland P: 07 4939 3177
Sail Inn 19 James Street, Yeppoon, Queensland P: 07 4939 1130 Located in the heart of Yeppoon’s CBD. Easy walking distance to restaurants, shops, groceries and the beach. TripAdvisor Rating 8.2. E: hello@sailinn.com.au W: www.sailinn.com.au
Capricorn Coast Visitor Information Centre Ross Creek Roundabout, Scenic Highway, Yeppoon, Qld P: 1800 675 785 Your one stop shop to find out what’s happening on the Capricorn Coast and book your accommodation, tours and much more. E: yeppoon@capricorntourism.com.au W: www.capricornholidays.com.au
Situated high on Yeppoon’s Bluff Point, Villa Mar Colina features 15 beautifully appointed Mediterranean style, fully self contained one, two and three bedroom villas, with individual private garages. Boasting million dollar views across Keppel Bay, lush tropical gardens and a stunning illusion pool Villa Mar Colina has all you need for a relaxing getaway. Just 150 metres from Yeppoon’s beachfront, great shopping and superb restaurants, Villa Mar Colina is your place to stay on the Capricorn Coast. E: stay@villamarcolina.com.au W: www.villamarcolina.com.au Yeppoon, Capricorn Coast
88 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
t ’s s a o C n r ico r p a C e h tion T a n i t s e d y a d i l o h e t i favour
●
●
Queensland’s largest outdoor picture theatre with kiosk Large powered and unpowered sites
●
10 Accommodation options sleeping 2–24 people (all linen supplied) Large clean modern amenities
●
Swimming pool and 34m waterslide
●
Kangaroo jumper and 2 large playgrounds
●
Shop/ice/bait
●
BBQs and camp kitchen
●
15 acres of manicured lawns and gardens
●
Closest accommodation to Rosslyn Bay Harbour
●
School camp bunk house
●
250m to the beautiful Mulambin Beach
●
Liquor Licensed
●
TV Cable connection
●
Disabled/wheelchair cottage
●
FREE WiFi
●
Wildin Way, Mulambin, Yeppoon QLD 4703 www.big4capricornpalms.com.au stay@big4capricornpalms.com.au 07 4933 6144 | Reservations: 1800 068 703 @BIG4.Capricorn.Palms
YEPPOON & CAPRICORN COAST – ACCOMMODATION
Salt Apartments 32-34 Anzac Parade, Yeppoon, Queensland P: 07 4925 2200 The picture of beachfront perfection awaits you at Salt, Yeppoon’s newest premium 4.5-Star apartments. Situated on Yeppoon’s magnificent Main Beach, Salt offers unsurpassed ocean views from every luxurious apartment. Salt’s architecturally inspired building boasts fifty spacious 1, 2, 3-bedroom and penthouse apartments spread across five levels, all unrivalled in terms of size and quality of finishes. Double bathroom vanities, glass splash-backs, stone bench-tops, and SMEG appliances are standard in all apartments, with marble bench-tops and Miele appliances in penthouse apartments. The mesmerising views out across shimmering Rosslyn Bay, to Great Keppel Island, and over to the CBD are absolutely breathtaking. Enjoy Salt’s first class facilities including two resort style pools and entertainment area, gym, large conference centre and exceptional beachfront dining.
Features ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Brand New Complex Rare Beachfront Location Magnificent Ocean Views from Every Apartment Superior Appointments and Amenities Ground Floor Restaurants and Cafes Conference and Function Rooms 2 Resort Pools
E: stay@saltyeppoon.com.au W: www.saltyeppoon.com.au
Echelon Apartments 18-22 Anzac Parade, Yeppoon, Queensland P: 07 4939 0900 Located opposite Main Beach in the heart of Yeppoon’s CBD, Echelon is one of Yeppoon’s unique beachfront 4.5 Star properties. Offering spectacular ocean views of the Keppel Islands and the gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef. An ideal choice for both families and couples to relax and enjoy the tropical ambience, or take up the exciting offerings of the Capricorn Coast. Fully self-contained, guests have everything at their fingertips with the added enjoyment of being able to use the guest rooftop swimming pool and adjoining alfresco dining and BBQ area. Echelon provides spacious well-appointed 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments all with spacious open plan living and dining areas extending onto a private balcony with contemporary outdoor furniture. A fully equipped kitchen finished with Caesarstone bench tops, full size fridge and dishwasher, SMEG four burner cook top, oven and microwave. Each apartment is equipped with reverse cycle air-conditioning and has complimentary WiFi, Austar and secure undercover parking.
Features ● ● ● ● ● ●
4.5 Star Luxury Self-Contained Apartments opposite Main Beach Cafes and Restaurants in Echelon’s Own Retail Arcade Spectacular Views to the Keppel Islands A Stroll Away from the Sailing and Surf Clubs Large Balconies with Outdoor Settings Rooftop Pool and Recreational BBQ Alfresco Area
E: managers@echelonyeppoon.com.au W: www.echelonyeppoon.com.au
90 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
YEPPOON & CAPRICORN COAST – ACCOMMODATION
Beaches on Lammermoor 96-98 Scenic Highway, Yeppoon, Queensland P: 07 4913 8300 Ideally located opposite Lammermoor Beach, with panoramic views of the Keppel Island Group and the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Minutes from Keppel Bay and Yeppoon CBD. Beaches complex surrounds an extensive resort lagoon and spa designed to reflect and complement the pristine rural hinterland setting beyond. Families can relax and enjoy the lagoon recreational area or cross the road for a swim at the beach. With a distinct touch of luxury each apartment is appointed with two bathrooms, a lounge, dining and full sized kitchen which follows on to a generous balcony with its own outdoor setting. 1, 2 and 3 bedroom 4.5 Star apartments catering for all family sizes – you won’t need to go anywhere else.
Features ● ● ● ● ● ●
Family Friendly Resort Lagoon Pool BBQs and Outdoor Dining Facilities Security Undercover Parking Weekly Servicing Steps away to Lammermoor Beach Peaceful Hinterland Setting, minutes away from Yeppoon or Rosslyn Bay Marina
E: info@beachesonlammermoor.com.au W: www.beachesonlammermoor.com.au
Rosslyn Bay Resort & Spa 34-48 Vin E Jones Drive, Rosslyn Bay, Queensland P: 07 4933 6333
Causeway Caravan Park 11 Causeway Esplanade, Causeway Lake, Yeppoon, Qld P: 07 4933 6356 Shady lakeside location south of Yeppoon. Offering AC cabins, powered, tent and large motorhome sites. Shop with gas, ice, hire boats. Pets on application. E: info@causewaycaravanpark.com.au W: www.causewaycaravanpark.com.au
Poinciana Tourist Park 9 Scenic Highway, Via Percy Ford St, Cooee Bay, Yeppoon P: 07 4939 1601 Relax and enjoy our tropical surroundings. Close to beaches, shops and tourist activities. Caravan, camping sites and self-contained cabins. Pet friendly.
Rosslyn Bay Resort & Spa is your complete holiday destination. Our resort offers spa bungalows and family apartments overlooking breathtaking Kemp Beach. Treat yourself in our wellness spa or dine in our award-winning Beaches Restaurant. Immerse yourself in the beauty of surrounding national parks, secluded beach or set sail to Great Keppel Island. We host a range of events including Sunday Argentinian Parilla with live music, wellness retreats as well as hosting intimate weddings and corporate conferences with a difference. E: enquiries@rosslynbayresort.com.au W: www.rosslynbayresort.com.au
E: poincian@bigpond.net.au W: www.poincianatouristpark.com.au
The Coast Motel 52 Scenic Highway, Yeppoon, Queensland P: 07 4930 2325 4 star modern spacious rooms. Free Foxtel, Free WiFi. Breakfast cooked to order beside the pool. Next to family friendly Capricorn Tavern. Disabled access. E: stay@thecoastmotel.com.au W: www.thecoastmotel.com.au
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 91
YEPPOON & CAPRICORN COAST – THINGS TO DO
Keppel Kraken Water Play Area Yeppoon Foreshore, Queensland P: 07 4913 5000 Taking pride of place on the Yeppoon Foreshore, the Keppel Kraken is a water play feature quite unlike any other. With a mythical sea creature centrepiece and set against the spectacular backdrop of Keppel Bay, Yeppoon’s newest tourist attraction is the perfect place to soak up some sunshine on the beautiful Capricorn Coast. Featuring a host of interactive elements including water cannons, jets and a unique umbrella bucket – the only one of its kind in Queensland – the Keppel Kraken is guaranteed fun for the whole family. Timber decks and custom made picnic tables are the perfect place for mum and dad to enjoy a summer barbecue while the kids make the most of the play area, including five spectacular sea creature sculptures that have to be seen to be believed! But don’t take our word for it. The Keppel Kraken is located right in the heart of Yeppoon and just minutes from luxury beach front accommodation, gourmet dining and a thriving retail precinct, so why not come and experience all the Capricorn Coast has to offer.
Features ● ● ● ● ●
Unique umbrella spray bucket Five stunning sea creature sculptures Timber decking and picnic areas Located right in the heart of the Yeppoon CBD Close to a range of dining retail and accommodation options
E: enquiries@livingstone.qld.gov.au W: www.livingstone.qld.gov.au
The Centenary of Anzac Memorial Walk
The Singing Ship
Emu Street, Emu Park, Queensland P: 1300 790 919
Tennent Memorial Drive, Kele Park, Emu Park, Queensland P: 1300 790 919
Emu Park’s spectacular Centenary of Anzac Memorial features a stunning sandstone and cast iron monument, moving public art work and interpretative information panels – all linked by a 175 metre timber boardwalk wrapping around the rocky headland. The newly constructed Gatehouse Museum also features hundreds of historic photographs and stories from some of Australia’s most significant battles including the Gallipoli campaign, Frommelle, the Battle of Lone Pine and of course the legend of the ANZAC.
Even to out-of-towners, the Singing Ship is synonymous with Emu Park. The iconic monument was commissioned in 1970 to commemorate the bicentenary of Captain Cook’s first voyage down under, and for the last 46 years has provided a beautiful backdrop for weddings, family picnics and everything in between. And in case you’re wondering, yes… it really sings! The monument was designed to produce a musical sound through fluted pipes as the breezes passes through the unique design.
E: enquiries@livingstone.qld.gov.au W: www.livingstone.qld.gov.au
E: enquiries@livingstone.qld.gov.au W: www.livingstone.qld.gov.au
92 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
YEPPOON & CAPRICORN COAST – THINGS TO DO
The Waterline Restaurant Keppel Bay Marina, Rosslyn Bay, Queensland P: 07 4933 6244
Crave Surf Industries Shop 19/20, Yeppoon Central, Yeppoon, Queensland P: 07 4939 8182 Crave stocks all the latest surf and street wear fashions for the entire family – Sizes 0 through to 3XL. Open 7 days – Yeppoon Central. E: crave@gottwo.com.au I: cravesurf FB: www.facebook.com/cravesurf
Footlights Theatre Restaurant 123 Rockhampton Road, Yeppoon, Queensland P: 07 4939 2399
Footlights is the perfect place for any occasion or just a great night out. Footlights it’s for you!
Located on the deck at Keppel Bay Marina, The Waterline Restaurant offers the only uninterrupted waterfront views on the Capricorn Coast. This is the place where the reef meets the beef and the menu showcases the best local seafood fresh from the boats, and their famous local Banana Station Beef sourced from their own cattle properties in Central Queensland. Enjoy al fresco dining for breakfast, lunch or dinner followed by a stroll on the marina docks, it is a highlight of every Capricorn Coast holiday experience. All Day Dining from 7am 7 days | Evening Dining Wed–Sun E: thewaterline@keppelbaymarina.com.au W: www.keppelbaymarina.com.au
Nob Creek Pottery and Byfield Mountain Retreat 216 Arnolds Road, Byfield, Queensland P: 07 4935 1161 | M: 0428 192 601
E: info@footlights.com.au W: www.footlights.com.au
Kanangra Heights Restaurant 580 Tanby Road, Yeppoon, Queensland P: 07 4913 6124 From high teas and seafood to tapas and pizza, Kanangra offers an elegant relaxed dining experience. Hinterland location with seaviews. E: kanangraheights@hotmail.com W: www.kanangraheights.com
Koorana Crocodile Farm 65 Savages Road, Coowonga, Queensland P: 07 4934 4749
An award winning rustic rainforest gallery with a large collection of pottery, glass, jewellery, paintings and bathroom hand basins. Meet the potters, see the workshop. E: info@nobcreekpottery.com.au W: www.nobcreekpottery.com.au
FERNS HIDEAWAY Ferns Hideaway Resort Secluded colonial styled resort nestled beside a 67 Cahills Road, Byfield, Queensland creek. P:rainforest 07 4935 1235The | M: 0408 351 235 Restaurant is open for lunch Friday, Saturday and Sunday,
Secluded with cabins, camping and and offersrainforest a modern àresort la carte menu, boasting freshRestaurant open for lunch caravans 7 days a week. local ingredients. log Friday, SaturdayEnjoy and Sunday, and dinner Saturday night fires,live liveentertainment entertainment on with on Saturday and Sunday. weekends and an abundance of wildlife. Accommodation E:cabins, genevieve.martin@bigpond.com rooms, camping and caravans 7 days a week. W: www.fernshideawayresort.com 67 Cahills Road, Byfield 4703 P: 07 4935 1235 Group bookings “anytime” are welcome www.fernshideaway.com.au
Koorana Crocodile Farm has a mission – to ensure that every customer has fun, learns a lot about crocodiles and eats very well! Home to over 5,000 crocodiles, you can learn about crocodile behaviour on our daily tours (10:30am and 1pm) and even get a chance to hold a small crocodile at the end. Hatching is a yearly highlight (late January to April) – see a baby dinosaur being born! Lunch is available 12noon – 1pm and our shop has many crocodile skin products available. E: kooranacrocodilefarm@gmail.com W: www.koorana.com.au
Swimming at Stoney Creek, Byfield
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 93
Great Keppel Island HIdeawaY
YEPPOON Rosslyn Bay Ferry Departure
GREAT KEPPEL ISLAND
EMU PARK
ROCKHAMPTON
Your island hideaway...
Stay & Unwind
Great Keppel Island is a short 30 minute ferry transfer from Yeppoon and arguably has the best beaches of any Great Barrier Reef island with fantastic year round swimming.
Great Keppel Island Hideaway offers a variety of relaxed island accommodation to suit every traveler. Beachfront Cabins Island Cabins Garden Rooms A Frame and Hideaway House Bunkhouse Cabins
The island is home to 17 pristine whitesand beaches and an interior rich with native flora and fauna. If you enjoy a leisurely bush walk, chances are you’ll find a beach all to yourself! Great Keppel Island Hideaway welcomes guests to share their barefoot island paradise, an authentic locally owned Island resort, situated on the Southern Great Barrier Reef.
Bar & Bistro Offering a fully licensed bar and bistro, you’re sure to enjoy the casual atmosphere and spectacular views. - Open 7 days from 8am until late - Serving Breakfast, Lunch & dinner - Island day guests welcome
Tour & Activities
accommodation bookings: Great Keppel Island HIdeaway
07 4939 2050
Great Keppel is the perfect place to do nothing, but if you are feeling energetic, there’s no shortage of activities... Jet ski tours l Kayak tours l Stand up Paddle boarding l Fishing tours l Snorkel Tube rides l water skiing l Coral Cruises & Sunset Cruises l Bush walking l + More
Getting Here Ferries depart the mainland daily to Great Keppel Island with Keppel Konnections.
Island transfer bookings: Keppel Konnections Keppel Bay Marina (Red Jetty)
07 4939 5404
keppelkonnections.com.au
w w w. G R e AT K e p p e l I S l A n d H I d e AwAy. Co M . Au
KEPPEL ISLANDS - ACCOMMODATION AND THINGS TO DO
Freedom Fast Cats John Howes Drive, Pier One, Yeppoon, Queensland P: 07 4933 6888 Freedom Fast Cats takes you through the spectacular Keppel Bay Islands; located at the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef near the Tropic of Capricorn, and boasting some of the most pristine beaches and unspoilt habitats the reef has to offer. Join the experienced crew for a memorable day exploring the Keppel Bay Islands. They have a range of different cruising options to suit all ages. If you like a more laid back pace, sit back, relax and soak up the scenery as you cruise the coves and beaches. For the more adventurous type they have glass bottom boat cruises, snorkelling and the famous boom-netting. Guaranteed to be a highlight of your visit to the Capricorn Coast!
Features ● ● ● ● ●
Great Keppel Island Transfers Adventure Cruises Coral Cruises Charters Water Taxi
E: info@freedomfastcats.com W: www.freedomfastcats.com
Pumpkin Island Capricorn Coast P: 07 4939 4413
Sail Capricornia Keppel Bay Marina, Queensland P: 07 4933 6244 | M: 0402 102 373 Come sailing in beautiful Keppel Bay aboard Grace. Swim, snorkel and explore the Keppel islands on our fully-catered day cruises. E: info@keppelbaymarina.com.au W: www.sailcapricornia.com.au
Great Keppel Cruises Great Keppel Island, Queensland P: 0401 053 666 Come sail the waters of the Keppel Island group. Snorkel, swim, explore, relax. Half, full day and sunset cruises, overnight charters. E: sailing@greatkeppelcruises.com.au W: www.greatkeppelcruises.com.au
One of Australia’s best-kept secrets and the ultimate getaway for couples, families or groups. This tiny gem offers eco-friendly accommodation for up to 34 guests in 7 self-catering units powered by wind and sun. The wildlife will delight you; see dolphins, turtles and whales in season. Fish the rich waters, snorkel or experience coral reefs from glass bottom kayaks or paddle boards, harvest oysters off the rocks, wander secluded beaches or simply laze in a hammock. E: bookings@pumpkinisland.com.au W: www.pumpkinisland.com.au
Great Keppel Island Holiday Village 80 Esplanade, The Keppels, Queensland P: 07 4939 8655 | FREE CALL: 1800 KEPPEL Known as “The Quiet Alternative”, the Village is the perfect place for you to experience slow, lazy days of island life. Nestled in palm and gum trees less than a minute’s walk to two beautiful white sand beaches, enjoy a holiday with a difference in a down-to-earth and friendly environment. E: admin@gkiholidayvillage.com.au W: www.gkiholidayvillage.com.au
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 95
Start your adventure here... Takarakka Bush Resort
Certificate of Excellence
Join us at facebook.com/takarakka Book online now at takarakka.com.au
CENTRAL HIGHLANDS - ACCOMMODATION & THINGS TO DO
Sandstone Park Carnarvon Gorge, Queensland P: 07 4984 4679 Exquisite views and spacious drive through sites – that’s what you will experience when you visit Queensland’s newest caravan park, Sandstone Park at Carnarvon Gorge. Located only five minutes’ drive from the national park walking tracks on sealed roads, our caravan park has been built with your every desire in mind. Every site has stunning 360° views of the surrounding ranges, all sites are drive through and where possible spaced a minimum of 30 metres apart to ensure maximum enjoyment and comfort during your stay. Carnarvon Gorge is the secret jewel of Australia. During your stay you can visit spectacular ancient displays of Aboriginal artwork, have the gorge brought alive in front of your eyes with a guided tour or explore the hidden ranges untouched by civilisation from the air. Or just take a moment to sit back and enjoy the serenity of Sandstone Park. The recommended stay is from 4 to 6 days to truly enjoy it all. Carnarvon Gorge is the ultimate destination to rejuvenate the soul. ●
● ● ● ● ● ●
Drive through spacious sites with 360° views of Carnarvon National Park Premium clean amenities Pet friendly Dump point Located at the entrance to Carnarvon Gorge Exclusive access to Carnarvon Creek 24HR online booking available at www.sandstonepark.com.au
E: info@sandstonepark.com.au W: www.sandstonepark.com.au
Miners Heritage Walk-In Mine 97 Heritage Road, Rubyvale, Queensland P: 07 4985 4444 Australia’s largest underground sapphire mine tour... Visit Miners Heritage Walk-In Mine and discover the amazing world of sapphires. Guided mine tours depart from 9.15am, we will take you 15 metres underground and through 440 metres of hand dug tunnels. Learn about the formation of sapphires and marvel at the original ‘monkey drive’ tunnels that date back to 1906 – don’t forget to bring your camera! Want to find your own sapphires? Buy a bucket of ‘wash’, straight from our mine to you. We’ll help you identify and find your own sapphires to take home. With over 60 years’ combined jewellery knowledge we can help you find that extra special souvenir. Our award winning showroom has the largest display of local sapphires, exquisite handmade gold jewellery, sapphire and semi-precious silver jewellery plus crystals, fossils and gems from all over the world. Come and experience Miners Heritage Walk-In Mine, your one stop introduction to the Sapphire Gemfields. APRIL – SEPT 9am-5pm | OCT – MARCH 9am-3pm
Features ● ● ● ● ● ●
Fully Guided Mine Tour (minimum 2 people) Unique Handcrafted Jewellery Underground Museum Fossicking Park Established 1984 Open 7 Days
E: admin@minersheritage.com.au W: www.minersheritage.com.au
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au 97
CENTRAL HIGHLANDS - ACCOMMODATION & THINGS TO DO
Emerald Visitor Information Centre
Blackwater International Coal Centre
3 Clermont Street, Emerald, Queensland P: 07 4982 4142
Capricorn Highway, Blackwater, Queensland P: 07 4982 7755
Got questions on the Sapphire Gemfields, Carnarvon Gorge, a local festival or event and want the right answers? Let the Emerald Visitor Information Centre staff set you on the right road.
Blackwater; the coal capital of Queensland with a big story to tell. Visit the Australian Coal Mining Museum, tour a working coal mine or have a coffee, cake and a chat in the café.
E: emerald@chdc.com.au W: www.centralhighlands.com.au
E: manager@bicc.com.au W: www.bicc.com.au
Springsure Woolshed Visitor Centre
Duaringa Visitor Centre
Gregory Highway, Springsure, Queensland P: 07 4984 1961
Capricorn Highway, Duaringa, Queensland P: 07 4935 7077
Steeped in pioneering history and nestled in the foothills of the Minerva Ranges, the staff at the Woolshed can ensure that your stay in Springsure is a memorable one.
The gateway to Queensland’s Central Highlands, the Duaringa Visitor Centre will give you the latest info to ensure that you enjoy your Duaringa stay.
W: www.centralhighlands.com.au
W: www.centralhighlands.com.au
Gemfest – Festival of Gems 10th - 13th August 2017 | Anakie, Queensland P: 07 4985 4375
Capella Pioneer Village Cnr Gregory Highway & Walsh Street, Capella, Queensland P: 07 4984 9425 1869 Peak Downs homestead. >5000 objects in 17 buildings. Cinema. Vintage Farming Machinery. Wool industry. Rail. Capella Life. $12 Adults. $9 Seniors/ Students. Tour and school group bookings welcome. E: mhburns@bigpond.com W: www.capella.com.au
The Big Easel, Emerald
Gemfest – Festival of Gems is an annual four day event that celebrates and showcases the high-quality sapphires of the Sapphire Gemfields in the Highlands of Central Queensland. This year we celebrate our 30th anniversary! Held in Anakie 10th – 13th August 2017 with local, national and international traders providing a glittering array of all earth’s treasurers – precious and semi-precious gems and jewellery, crystals, fossils and a variety of other goods. There’s street theatre and stage entertainment – workshops – demonstrations plus activities and exhibitions throughout the four townships. E: info@gemfest.com.au W: www.gemfest.com.au
98 southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au
DISCOVER THE STORY BEHIND AUSTRALIA’S
MOST ICONIC RUM MUSEUM EXPERIENCE TOUR Located within a retired Bondstore that has previously aged some of Bundaberg’s finest rums; this self-paced interactive Bundaberg Rum Museum Experience will allow you to see, touch and smell your way through the rich history of Bundaberg Rum.
DISTILLERY EXPERIENCE TOUR After exploring the Bundaberg Rum Museum Experience and immersing yourself in the rich history of Bundaberg Rum, join one of our expert Distillery Guides on a guided journey deep into the heart of our fully operational Bundaberg Rum Distillery.
BLEND YOUR OWN RUM EXPERIENCE TOUR Ever wanted to become a Master Blender? Well now you can! Following a Distillery Tour, spend 60 minutes with expert guides, who will teach you the art of tasting and blending rum straight from the barrel. Walk away with two of your very own personalised blends with your name on it. One for later, one for later on.
BOOK YOUR BUNDABERG RUM EXPERIENCE TODAY www.bundabergrum.com.au
P (077)) 4131 2999 A Hills Street, Bundaberg QLD 4670
BUNDABERG RUM DISTILLERY
BUNDABERG RUM
#HOMEOFBUNDY
WWW.BUNDABERGRUM.COM.AU
Road
Getting Here Queensland’s Southern Great Barrier Reef is easily accessible from Brisbane or Sydney and is serviced by all major Australian carriers. Roads are well signed. From
To
Travel Time by Road
Kms Travelled
Brisbane
Bundaberg
4 hours 40 mins
368kms
Brisbane
Gladstone
6 hours 45 mins
531kms
Brisbane
Rockhampton
7 hours 50 mins
632kms
Brisbane
Emerald
1 hour 25 mins (air)
656kms
Bundaberg
Agnes Water/1770
1 hour 45 mins
122kms
Bundaberg
Cania Gorge
2 hours 55 mins
203kms
Gladstone
Agnes Water/1770
1 hour 45 mins
125kms
Gladstone
Rockhampton
1 hour 25 mins
108kms
Rockhampton
Emerald
3 hours 15 mins
270kms
Emerald
Rubyvale
51 mins
61kms
Emerald
Carnarvon Gorge
3 hours 50 mins
288kms
Carnarvon Gorge
Cania Gorge
5 hours 15 mins
398kms
Cania Gorge
Agnes Water/1770
3 hours 15 mins
181kms
See inside our guide for great driving options to visit the Southern Great Barrier Reef Region.
Air
QantasLink flies from Brisbane to Bundaberg, Gladstone,Rockhampton, Biloela and Emerald. Visit www.qantas.com.au. Virgin Australia flies from Brisbane to Rockhampton, Gladstone, Bundaberg and Emerald. Visit www.virginaustralia.com.au JetGo flies from Gold Coast to Rockhampton and from Townsville to Rockhampton (Sun, Mon, Thurs). Visit www.jetgo.com
Rail
The new Spirit of Queensland travels between Brisbane and Cairns with five* services per week. Tilt Train departs Brisbane daily for Bundaberg, Gladstone and Rockhampton. Spirit of the Outback departs Brisbane twice weekly for Longreach (via Rockhampton).
Temperature Guide Celsius
Fahrenheit
Summer
Dec – Feb
21 – 38°
69 – 100°
Autumn
Mar – May
12 – 35°
53 – 95°
Winter
Jun – Aug
8 – 27°
46 – 80°
Spring
Sep – Nov
12 – 30°
53 – 86°
*Temperature ranges are approximate averages only.
* For timetables and more information visit www.queenslandrailtravel.com.au or phone 1300 783 553.
Bus
Greyhound Australia coaches offers a range of flexible itinerary options to suit all travel preferences. Visit www.greyhound.com.au or phone 07 3868 0937
Visitor Information Centres Bundaberg Information Centre 271 Bourbong Street, Bundaberg Ph: 1300 722 099 info@bundabergregion.org Miriam Vale Visitor Information Centre Corner Bruce Highway and Roe Street, Mirriam Vale Gin Gin Information Centre Mulgrave Street, Gin Gin Childers Information Centre Palace Building, 72 Churchill Street, Childers RM Williams Australian Bush Learning Centre & Visitor Information 23767 Gayndah - Monto Road, Eidsvold
Agnes Water / 1770 Visitor Information Centre 71 Springs Road, Agnes Water Ph: 07 4902 1533 agneswatervic@gapdl.com.au
Capricorn Coast Visitor Information Centre Ross Creek Roundabout, Yeppoon 1800 675 785 yeppoon@capricorntourism.com.au
Gladstone Visitor Information Centre Marina Ferry Terminal 72 Bryan Jordan Drive, Gladstone Ph: 07 4972 9000 gladstonevic@gapdl.com.au
Emerald Visitor Information Centre 3 Clermonth Street, Emerald Ph: 07 4982 4142 emerald@chdc.com.au
Tropic of Capricorn Spire Visitor Information Centre Gladstone Road, Rockhampton Ph: 1800 676 701 info@capricorntourism.com.au Heritage Village Visitor Information Centre Boundary Road, Parkhurst
#southerngreatbarrierreef
Blackwater International Coal Centre Capricorn Highway, Blackwater Springsure Woolshed Visitor Centre Gregory Highway, Springsure Duaringa Visitor Centre Capricorn Highway, Duaringa
southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au