Southern Queensland Country 2015/16 Visitors' Guide

Southern Queensland Country 2015/16 Visitors' Guide

QUEENSLAND

SOUTHERN QUEENSLAND COUNTRY

Queen Mary Falls, Killar

BRISBANE

Toowoomba and Darling Downs | South Burnett | Southern Downs and Granite Belt Goondiwindi and surrounds | St George and surrounds | Roma and surrounds | Dalby and surrounds

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

ney

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Beyond Your Expectations

Torres Strait GREAT R B A R R I E

DARWIN

DRIVING INFORMATION

Gulf of Carpentaria

R

E

E F

For road condition reports visit: www.131940.qld.gov.au and www.racq.com.au

Cape York Peninsula

For more Queensland information visit: www.queensland.com

Port Douglas

Cairns

TRAVELLING DISTANCES (KM)

Mackay

Tobermorey DO NO H

Queens land UE H

Hamilton Island Conway NP

WY

Y

NT

Airlie Beach Proserpine

Mount Isa

HW

PLE

Alice Springs DESTINATIONS WITHIN QUEENSLAND Brisbane to Toowoomba ........................... 125 Brisbane to Warwick..................................... 154 Brisbane to Kingaroy .....................................211 Brisbane to Stanthorpe .............................. 214 Brisbane to Goondiwindi .........................349 Brisbane to Roma ........................................... 475

Townsville

PA C I F I C

MAJOR CITIES INTO BRISBANE Sydney to Brisbane via Pacific Highway ......................................928 Sydney to Brisbane via New England Highway ......................973 Sydney to Brisbane via Newell Highway ....................................1254 N o rthe rn Melbourne to Brisbane via Newell Highway .....................................1674 Te rri to r y Adelaide to Brisbane via Barrier Highway/ Newell Highway............................................2100 Y HWY

Rockhampton

TROPIC OF CAPRICORN

Longreach

TROPIC OF CAPRICORN

Gladstone Bundaberg

Carnarvon NP Expedition NP

Fraser Island

Hervey Bay

Injune Roma

Charleville

Sou th Aus tra l ia

Mitchell

Dalby

Innamincka

Stanthorpe to Kingaroy ...........................306 St George to Emerald ..................................598 Goondiwindi to Rockhampton (Leichhardt Way) .............................................696

Noosa Maroochydore

Kingaroy

Miles Moonie

St George

BRISBANE

Toowoomba Warwick

Cunnamulla

Gold Coast

Goondiwindi

E LL

HW

Y

Stanthorpe Main Range NP Mt Barney NP

Moree

Grafton Y

NEW

Marree

IFIC

Port Macquarie

PA C

Dubbo

N ew Sou th Wa les

LL

H

W

Aus tra l ian Cap i ta l Te rri to r y

SYDNEY

WE

AY KI D MAN W

Newcastle Y

NE

Port Augusta

Y

Tamworth

HW

AN

W

Coffs Harbour

H

N EW E

NGL

D

ADELAIDE CANBERRA

Victo ria

LEGEND International Airports Domestic Airports Train Routes Touring Routes Adventure Way Great Inland Way (A7 & A55) Australia’s Country Way (A3) Warrego Highway (A2)

MELBOURNE

CONTENTS

Leichhardt Way The Gore Highway The Cunningham Highway

Map

2

Golfing

26

St George and surrounds

82

Getting Here and Around

4

Toowoomba and surrounds

28

• Take a country drive

87

Follow a Highway

5

Welcome to Southern Queensland Country

• Take a country drive

44

6

Southern Queensland Country Regional Flavours

9

Markets

12

Helpful Apps

16

Calendar of Events 2015/16

18

National Parks

22

South Burnett

46

Roma and surrounds • Take a country drive

88 94 97

• Take a country drive

55

• Seasonal Produce Calendar

57

Southern Downs and Granite Belt

58

Ask a local

104

• Take a country drive

70

Travel Directory

106

Goondiwindi and surrounds

72

Index

112

Dalby and surrounds • Take a country drive

103

Acknowledgements: Toowoomba Regional Council, Southern Downs Regional Council, South Burnett Regional Council, Goondiwindi Regional Council, Balonne Shire Council, Maranoa Regional Council, Western Downs Regional Council and Tourism and Events Queensland. Some images courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland, David Kelly, Jewels Lynch Photography, Pirie Bath Photography, Lauren Bath, Stephen Waller Photography, Lee Haskings, MJL Photography, Dan Proud Photography, Cory Rossiter Photography, Granite Belt Wine Tourism, Department of National Parks, Recreation, Sport and Racing, Karen Smith, Fiona Stone Photography, Hampton Festival, Sarah Whyte Photography, Matt Edwards Photography, Robert Ashdown, Maxime Coquard, Jane Hodges, Bluedog Photography and Handmade in Country. Southern Queensland Country Tourism has compiled and developed this publication in the interests of fostering and developing tourism in Queensland. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of Southern Queensland Country Tourism. Every effort has been made to ensure the information contained in this publication is true and correct at the time of publication. The publishers accept no responsibility or liability for the information contained in advertisements or editorial. This publication is not produced or licensed to third parties for sale. Published by Southern Queensland Country Tourism (March 2015 © Southern Queensland Country Tourism 2015).

Carnarvon NP

Nuga Nuga NP Lake Nuga Nuga

Carnarvon Gorge

Isla Gorge NP

Cracow

Robinson Gorge Lonesome Section Expedition NP

Precipice NP

Rockybar

Expedition NP

Taroom Lei

ch ha

Womblebank

rd t Way

INJUNE Forest Vale Gre

at

WANDOAN

Inl

an d

Guluguba

Wa y

Chesterton Range NP

MITCHELL Mungallala

Muckadilla Amby

Wallumbilla

Wa r r e g o H i g h w a y

ROMA

Jackson

Yuleba

Drillham

MILES

Columboola

Dulacca

CHINCHILLA

Condamine

SURAT Glenmorgan

Kogan

TARA

Wa

y

Hannaford

ay Le ic h h a r d t W

WESTERN COUNTRY

The Gums

G reat

Inl a

nd

Meandarra

Mo

Thrushton NP

o

H nie

igh

wa y

Moonie Southwood NP Lake Kajarabie

Westmar Boolba

Gre

at I

nl a

nd

Wa

y

BOLLON

G

Alton NP

ST GEORGE

B a r wo n H

Nindigully

ig hwa

y

Toobeah

Weengallon Talwood

Dirranbandi

GOONDIWINDI

Thallon Ca r na r vo n H

2

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

C a r n a r vo n H i g h w

Moree ay

Ne

Mungindi

we

ll H

ig h

wa

y

y

ig hw a

Hebel

Moree

Great Sandy NP n tr y W

Biggenden

rne

RI

ER

RE

EF

Hig

Mount Walsh NP

hw ay )

Gayndah Gayndah

DARWIN

MARYBOROUGH

tt

Mundubbera

Woowoonga NP

Bu

R BA

ay (

G R EA T

A u s t r a l i a ’s C o u

Poona NP

SOUTHERN QUEENSLAND COUNTRY

QUEENSLAND

AUSTRALIA PERTH

BRISBANE

CANBERRA SYDNEY

ADELAIDE MELBOURNE

HOBART

Pa c i c Co a s t To

Kilkivan

Cloyna Nangur NP

Proston

Great Sandy NP

te

Goomeri

(Br

Murgon

uce

GYMPIE

Hig ay )

Durong

Lake Barambah Cherbourg NP

Eumundi

KINGAROY

Jandowae Jandowae

Warra Wa

rre

go

Hig

hw

Coolum Beach Maroochydore Mooloolaba

Maleny Blackbutt

Yarraman Bell

Noosa NP

Conondale NP

Bunya Tarong NP Mountains NP

Jimbour Jimbour

Noosa Heads

Lake Weyba

Nambour

NANANGO

Maidenwell Brigalow

Lake Cootharaba

hw

Wondai

SOUTH BURNETT

Rainbow Beach

Tin Can Bay

uri ng R ou

Woroon NP

Boondooma Lake

Cooyar Cooyar

D ’A g u i l a r H i

ghw

Caloundra

Landsborough Kilcoy

ay

Macalister

Bribie Island NP

Bribie Island

Somerset Dam

ay

Cape Moreton

Caboolture Crows Nest Lake

DALBY Goombungee Jondaryan

Kingsthorpe

Wa r r e g o H i g

BOONAH

Beaudesert

Dalveen

Mt Barney NP Mt Clunie NP

Mo

un

Tooloom NP Captains Creek NP

Yabbra NP

Surfers Paradise

Mudgeeraba Coolangatta Tweed Heads Springbrook

t

Lamington NP Border Ranges NP

Maryland NP

The Summit

Nerang

Lin

Killarney

STANTHORPE Ballandean

Main Range NP

WARWICK

SOUTHERN DOWNS & G R A N I T E B E LT

Glen Aplin

Lake Moogerah

i ghw

Yangan ni Cu n n g h a m H i g hw ay

TEXAS TEXAS

South Stradbroke Island

Tamborine

Allora

Thulimbah

Southern Moreton Bay Islands NP

Warrill View

Clifton

Leyburn

North Stradbroke Island

Beenleigh

Main Range NP

Coolmunda Dam

Blue Lake NP

IPSWICH

Cambooya

w ay

Millmerran

INGLEWOOD INGLEWOOD

hw ay

ay

Hig h

BRISBANE

yH

G

ore

GATTON

g l a n d H i g hway

& DARLING

g hway

Wynnum

Highfields

TOOWOOMBA TOOWOOMBA

e Hi

Moreton Island

Lake Samsonvale

D’Aguilar Range NP

Hampton

Oakey

Cecil Plains

Lake Wivenhoe

dsa

Lake Broadwater NP

Moreton Island NP

Cressbrook ESK Crows Nest NP Ravensbourne NP

Ne w En

G or

Fraser Island

Hervey Bay

Childers

Toonumbar NP Richmond Range NP

Murwillumbah Mt Warning NP

Mooba NP

Mebbin NP Nightcap NP

Severnlea Girraween NP

Sundown NP

Bald Rock NP Basket Swamp NP

Boonoo Boonoo NP Mallanganee NP www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

3

Getting Here and Around

Kooroongarra, Millmerran

QantasLink www.qantas.com.au Ph: 13 13 13

Bus Queensland www.busqld.com.au Ph: (07) 4633 1177

The region is well connected via highways and road networks including the Cunningham, New England, Warrego, D’Aguilar, Brisbane Valley and Gore Highways, the Leichhardt Way, the Great Inland Way, the Adventure Way and Australia’s Country Way. To plan your journey, check out our suggested itineraries (featured throughout this guide), Drive Queensland’s site www.drivequeensland.com.au or RACQ’s easy to use trip planner www.racq.com.au

QantasLink flies daily to Toowoomba (Brisbane West Wellcamp Airport) from Sydney with connections from Australian capital cities. Services also operate between Brisbane and Roma.

Crisps Coaches www.crisps.com.au Ph: (07) 4661 8333

By Air

By Coach

The region is easily accessed via commercial domestic airports located in Toowoomba (Brisbane West Wellcamp Airport), Roma and St George. These airports are serviced by the following airlines:

Regular coach services operate to and around the region, linking Brisbane, Toowoomba, Warwick, Stanthorpe and beyond, with connections to air, rail and local buses.

Accessing Southern Queensland Country is easy by road, air, coach or rail.

By Road

Regional Express Airlines – REX Airlines www.rex.com.au Ph: 13 17 13 Services operate between Brisbane and St George via Toowoomba (Brisbane West Wellcamp Airport).

Greyhound Australia www.greyhound.com.au Ph: 1300 473 946 Stonestreets Coaches www.stonestreets.com.au Ph: 1300 555 899 The Airport Flyer (Brisbane West Wellcamp Airport to Toowoomba, Brisbane Airport to Toowoomba) www.theairportflyer.com.au Ph: (07) 4630 1444

By Rail The Westlander www.queenslandrail.com.au Ph: 1800 872 467

Nambour 102 Brisbane DISTANCE CALCULATOR This scenic journey from Brisbane travels 140 40 Ipswich All distances are across the Great Dividing Range to measured in kilometres.

Toowoomba, through the rich farmlands 94 Surfers Paradise 182 78 of the Darling Downs and continues 205 211 188 279 Kingaroy through the Western Country to its final Bunya Mountains 255 243 207 298 74 destination of Charleville.

Dalby 48 256 208 172 279 110 222 125 89 180 150 118 83 Toowoomba Warwick 279 154 119 186 233 200 166 83 Stanthorpe 340 214 180 247 306 261 226 144 61 109 108 Inglewood 153 388 266 228 295 278 216 169 521 475 440 530 340 293 267 351 433 493 427 Roma 335 290 254 345 155 107 82 166 247 308 251 186 Chinchilla 559 512 476 566 413 351 303 387 400 400 291 195 303 St George 445 349 320 387 321 259 211 223 201 200 92 342 241 202 Goondiwindi 274 209 430 Mitchell 609 564 528 618 428 381 355 439 521 581 515 88 524 585 278 286 434 178 Injune 91 519 612 567 531 622 432 384 358 442 767 718 682 772 583 535 509 593 675 736 669 242 428 437 585 329 151 Carnarvon Gorge 4

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Follow a Highway

Warrego Highway Start/Finish: Dalby – Mitchell Distance: 355km

Great Inland Way Start/Finish: Hebel – Carnarvon Gorge Distance: 482km Highlights on this stretch of the Great Inland Way include the historic Nindigully Pub, the most western winery in Queensland (Riversands Wines), the Unique Egg (featuring hand-carved illuminated emu eggs), fantastic fishing spots, the Cobb & Co Changing Station in Surat, the Big Rig Oil Patch and Night Show and the Roma Saleyards. Before finishing your trip with an adventure through the breathtaking Carnarvon National Park, make sure to stock up on supplies in the picturesque town of Injune.

Highlights of this section of the Warrego Highway include many informative historical places of interest including the Dalby Pioneer Park Museum, Jimbour House, the Chinchilla Historical Museum and Miles Historical Village. Stop in at Calico Cottage at Wallumbilla and browse the arts and crafts, while further along the highway you can discover the importance and exploration of the oil and gas industry in Roma at the Big Rig. Continue on to Mitchell where you can relax in the soothing waters of the renowned Great Artesian Spa and stay awhile at the historic homestead of Bonus Downs.

Leichhardt Way

Adventure Way

Start/Finish: Goondiwindi – Wandoan Distance: 297km

Start/Finish: Dalby – St George Distance: 303km Starting in Dalby, visit the Pioneer Park Museum which has a wide range of exhibits on local history, while nearby is the historic Jimbour House where you can take a stroll around the gardens and experience the grandeur of the circa 1876 house. South-west is Moonie, which features the Moonie crossroads with brilliant murals depicting the history of Moonie, the site of Australia’s first commercial oilfield.

Goondiwindi is the gateway to the Western Country, with cotton and wheat growing alongside the beef and wool industries. Customs House Museum in Goondiwindi hosts an extensive collection of memorabilia and the Gunsynd statue and museum across the road are fine testaments to the racehorse affectionately known as the Goondiwindi Grey. Head north to Moonie and just past here make a slight detour to the towns of Meandarra and Glenmorgan. Here you

can visit the Meandarra ANZAC Memorial Museum, Monty’s Garage Vintage Car Museum and the Myall Park Botanic Garden. Get back on the Leichhardt and check out the Dogwood Crossing complex at Miles, before ending up in Wandoan where you can follow the local heritage trail with 20 points of interest.

Australia’s Country Way Start/Finish: Wallangarra – Goomeri Distance: 378km Australia’s Country Way is characterised by winding roads with sweeping vistas flanked by kilometres of crops and grazing livestock, welcoming towns imbued with history, seasonal produce to savour, and stunning natural formations. Natural highlights include Main Range National Park, Queen Mary Falls, and Girraween National Park in the southern section; Crows Nest and Ravensbourne National Parks just out of Toowoomba; and The Palms and the majestic Bunya Mountains National Parks further north. Along the way there are boutique wineries and cellar doors to be discovered. Check out Stanthorpe in the south and Murgon in the north.

City highlights include historic Warwick and the sophisticated dining options of Toowoomba. Or sample bush foods, cold-pressed olive oil, the region’s prime beef and other quality produce in the South Burnett.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT VISITING SOUTHERN QUEENSLAND COUNTRY Ph: 1800 688 949 southernqueenslandcountry.com.au www.facebook.com/southernqueenslandcountry

www.twitter.com/sqcountry

Follow a highway

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5

Welcome to Southern Queensland Country We’re so glad you’ve discovered our little secret – Queensland’s top country getaway destination. In our unique and very special part of the world you’ll experience a warm welcome and an opportunity to share our authentic way of life.

6

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide Enjoying a long lunch, Yangan

Hampton Festival, Hampton

Here we’re blessed with four distinct seasons and breathtaking natural beauty all around. You can taste our fresh regional flavours, experience a colourful history and heritage woven into our daily lives, enjoy the laidback comforts of country hospitality and partake in a calendar of great events that show our true colours – unpretentious and sociable with our own style of fun.

And you won’t find strangers here…just friends you haven’t met yet! With locals as colourful as our legendary sunsets, you’ll discover a friendly place, where there’s time to take your time. Here you can slow down and re-connect with nature and with each other.

Starting just 90 minutes’ drive from Brisbane, the region is rich in agriculture and industry and takes in Toowoomba and the Darling Downs, the Southern Downs and Granite Belt, the South Burnett and the Western Country – an area stretching from the border town of Goondiwindi in the south to Carnarvon Gorge in the north, from Dalby in the east to St George and Mitchell in the west.

We’re chuffed that our new Brisbane West Wellcamp Airport opened in late 2014, offering easy access with daily flights from Sydney to Toowoomba with QantasLink and from Toowoomba to St George with REX Airlines.

Toowoomba offers a cosmopolitancountry vibe and all the amenities you’d expect of a regional city. You’ll also find a network of sizable towns and service centres such as Warwick, Goondiwindi, St George, Kingaroy, Dalby and Stanthorpe; as well as peaceful townships and quaint hamlets.

You’ll find a diverse range of experiences: from exploring the cultural capital of Toowoomba to marvelling at ancient Aboriginal rock art galleries in Carnarvon National Park; from fresh water fishing in wild rivers to soaking in an artesian spa on the edge of the outback; and from tasting local produce and awardwinning wines in the Granite Belt and the South Burnett to sitting on the fence at a thrill-a-minute country cattle sale – it’s all uniquely Southern Queensland Country and it’s all within easy reach.

Savour country life There really is time to breathe deep and savour a taste of life in the country.

There’s no rush. Do as the locals do – stop to smell the wildflowers, chat a while and take the country roads less travelled.

Here you’ll experience luxury of a different kind – quality time together and the restorative powers of nature – the essence of country life.

You can reconnect with one another and the kids can experience life off the air, maybe for the first time! They’ll forget the TV, the iPad and Xbox – there’s fish to be caught, tents to pitch, koalas to spot and berries to pick!

Money can’t buy the feeling you get camping under a night sky lit by thousands of stars or the sense of ‘everything’s in its place’ when it’s just you and your loved ones amid the sounds and smells of the bush.

The sense of history you get exploring our heritage towns is palpable too. It’s evident in the well preserved historic buildings and interactive museums, but it’s also alive and well in the heritage walks, the tours of historic sites and in colourful yarns that the locals tell.

Season by season you see nature reinvent herself – spring wildflowers burst forth, the warmth of summer and harvest time, a colourful autumn showing, clear winter skies and fresh crisp air. And there’s an abundance of fresh seasonal produce readily available.

There’s always something different to experience in Southern Queensland Country and a range of places to lay your head from camping and caravan parks to hotels and motels, country pub rooms, farm stays and self-contained cottages. There are also alternative

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7

stay areas for camping, caravans and RVs along creeks and rivers and in beautiful bush settings throughout the region. Ask a friendly local for further information when you visit our network of Visitor Information Centres.

One thing is guaranteed; time here will reinvigorate your senses and engage your soul. So what are you waiting for – come and join us in Southern Queensland Country!

Savour Fresh Regional Flavours Southern Queensland Country is home to some of Australia’s richest farmlands which produce an abundance of fresh seasonal foods.

Almost every type of fruit, vegetable and grain grows in the fertile soils here.

The Darling Downs is blessed with flat plains of rich, black volcanic soils, famed for producing wheat, oilseeds, oats, fruit and legumes.

Dalby, north-west of Toowoomba, is the centre of the state’s richest wheat growing area. Further west, Chinchilla is known as Australia’s melon capital, producing the lion’s share of watermelons, rockmelons and honey dews. The cooler climate Granite Belt is famed for its apples, grapes and stonefruit, while the South Burnett also grows grapes as well as peanuts, olives and many varieties of vegetables.

Golden Grove Estate, Ballandean

Throughout the region you’ll drive along roads that crisscross farmlands and traverse winding creeks and rich pastures where beef and dairy cattle roam and graze freely. The region’s farms also run poultry, pigs, sheep and lamb stock.

It’s easy to appreciate the progression of food from the paddock to your plate here. Order what’s local and seasonal from our restaurants, café and country pub menus; visit country butchers for local eggs, chickens, lamb, beef and pork; buy just-picked goodies from roadside fruit and vegetable stalls (look out for them in the South Burnett, Dalby, Chinchilla, Stanthorpe, and the villages of the Granite Belt), and at local green grocers; take your pick of produce, jams and preserves at town and country weekend markets and get a belly ache eating more than your fill on a pick-your-own-berries adventure in the Granite Belt.

Sample award-winning wines Southern Queensland Country is home to the state’s only two GI (Geographical Indication) wine zones: the Granite Belt and the South Burnett.

Grapes have been grown in the Granite Belt since the 1870s and today, their wineries are the most awarded in Queensland. The area’s proven

whites include verdelho, semillon, chardonnay and sauvignon blanc; while classic full flavoured reds to try include shiraz, merlot and cabernet sauvignon varieties. If you have a more adventurous palate, hit the Strange Bird alternative wine trail, to sample some of the more unusual varieties including viognier, mourvedre and tempranillo.

The South Burnett, with its warm summer days, cool crisp nights and fertile soils is home to a boutique wine industry which although barely a decade old, boasts over a dozen wineries and many award-winning drops. Vineyards sit alongside olive groves, timber plantations, orchards and traditional agriculture. This palate of contrasting colours makes for breathtaking scenery and each stop provides a new experience. On a leisurely drive through the rolling countryside of the Darling Downs you’ll find vineyards and boutique wineries offering cellar door tastings along with sweeping views across wide plains and mountain vistas.

And don’t miss a wine tasting and a cheese platter at Riversands, Queensland’s western-most winery at St George.

Apples, Sutton’s Farm , Thulimbah

Experience Southern Queensland Country Regional Flavours Don’t miss these premium food and wine experiences:

Ballandean Estate 354 Sundown Rd, Ballandean Cellar door open for meals and tastings Open 9am–5pm Mon – Sun Ph: (07) 4684 1226 www.ballandeanestate.com Nectarines, Stanthorpe

Boireann Winery 26 Donelly’s Castle Rd, The Summit Open 10am–4pm daily Ph: (07) 4683 2194 www.boireannwinery.com.au

Castle Glen Liqueurs 3184 Amiens Rd, The Summit 10am–4pm Sun – Fri 10am–5pm Sat Ph: (07) 4683 2363 www.castleglenaustralia.com.au

Cobbs Coffee Shop, Cobb + Co Museum 27 Lindsay St, Toowoomba Open 10am–4pm daily Ph: (07) 4659 4900 www.cobbandco.qm.qld.gov.au

Coolmunda Olives 6 Mosquito Creek Rd, Inglewood By appointment Ph: 0488 200 025 www.coololives.com.au

Golden Grove Estate 337 Sundown Rd, Ballandean Open 9am–4pm daily Ph: (07) 4684 1291 www.goldengroveestate.com.au

Granite Belt Brewery Located at Happy Valley Retreat 146 Glenlyon Drive, Stanthorpe Ph: (07) 4681 1370 www.granitebeltbrewery.com.au

Hidden Creek Winery & Café 2271 Eukey Rd, Ballandean 11am–3pm Mon & Fri 10am–4pm Sat & Sun Ph: (07) 4684 1383 www.hiddencreek.com.au

Cheese, Stanthorpe

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9

Captain's Paddock, Kingaroy

Holland Wines 89 Pierces Creek Rd, Crows Nest 8:30am–4:30pm Tues – Fri 9:30am–4pm Sat & Sun Ph: (07) 4698 2277 www.hollandwines.com.au

Jester Hill Winery 292 Mt Stirling Rd, Glen Aplin 11am–3pm Fri – Mon (Jester Café) 10am–5pm Fri – Mon (Cellar Door) Ph: (07) 4683 4380 www.jesterhillwines.com.au

Queensland College of Wine Tourism 22 Caves Rd, Stanthorpe Ph: (07) 4685 5050 www.qcwt.com.au

Ridgemill Estate 218 Donges Rd, Severnlea 10am–5pm Fri – Mon 10am–3pm Sun Ph: (07) 4683 5211 www.ridgemillestate.com

Savina Lane Wines 90 Savina Lane, Severnlea 10am–5pm Wed – Sat Ph: (07) 4683 5377 www.savinalanewines.com.au

Berries, Glen Aplin

Stanthorpe Cheese 4 Duncan Lane, Thulimbah 10am–4pm daily, P/Hol Ph: (07) 4685 2277 www.stanthorpecheese.com.au

Sutton’s Juice and Cidery 10 Halloran Drive, Thulimbah 9:30am–4:30pm daily Ph: (07) 4685 2464 www.suttonsfarm.com.au

Olives, Bunnyconnellen

10

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors' Guide

Symphony Hill Wines 2017 Eukey Rd, Ballandean 10am–4pm daily Ph: (07) 4684 1388 www.symphonyhill.com.au

TASTE South Burnett Shop 4, 36 Alford St, Kingaroy 11am–5:30pm Mon – Fri 10am–4pm Sat, Sun, P/Hol Ph: (07) 4162 8222 www.tastesouthburnett.com.au

The Barrel Room 354 Sundown Rd, Ballandean 11:30am–2:30pm Mon, Wed – Sun (Lunch) 6pm–late Thurs – Sun (Dinner – Bookings essential) Ph: (07) 4684 1326 www.thebarrel-room.com

The Bramble Patch 381 Townsend Rd, Glen Aplin 10am–4pm Thurs – Mon Ph: (07) 4683 4205 www.bramblepatch.com.au

Twisted Gum Vineyard 2253 Eukey Rd, Ballandean 10am–4pm W’ends Ph: (07) 4684 1282 www.twistedgum.com.au

Woolshed at Jondaryan Café 264 Jondaryan-Evanslea Rd, Jondaryan 9am–4:30pm daily Ph: (07) 4692 2229 www.jondaryanwoolshed.com.au Sorghum crop, Dalby

Veraison Restaurant, Toowoomba

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11

Markets*

You’ll find many town and country markets throughout Southern Queensland Country selling everything from bric-a-brac and old wares to fresh produce, art and craft. They’re a great place to get to know the locals and pick up a bargain! Keep this list handy when you’re travelling through the region.

Toowoomba and surrounds PCYC Markets Every Sunday 219a James St, Toowoomba 7:00am – 12:30pm P: (07) 4632 8316 E: gavin.pike@pcyc.org.au Queen’s Park Markets 3rd Sunday of the Month Queen’s Park, Lindsay St, Toowoomba 8:00am – 1:00pm P: (07) 4690 4186 E: jo-ann.capp@stvincents.org.au Pittsworth Country Markets Last Saturday of the Month (except Dec) Pittsworth Showgrounds, Pittsworth 8:00am – 1:00pm P: (07) 4693 5165 www.pittsworthcountrymarkets.webs.com Crows Nest Lions Village Markets 1st Sunday of each Month Centenary Park, Crows Nest 7:00am – 12:00noon M: 0429 678 120 www.crowsnest.info

Bell Markets 3rd Sunday every 3 Months Pips ‘N’ Cherries, Ensor St, Bell 8:00am – 12:00noon P: (07) 4663 1087

South Burnett Bunya Mountains Markets Last Sunday every Month Bunya Mountains 9:00am – 2:00pm Blackbutt Lions Country Markets 3rd Sunday of the Month Council Park, Blackbutt 7:00am – 12:00noon P: (07) 4170 0068 Bridgeman Downs Winery Vintners Markets 3rd Sunday of the Month 8:00am – 2:00pm P: (07) 4168 4784 www.bridgemandowns.com Hivesville Country Markets 4th Sunday of the Month Hivesville Sports Grounds, Hivesville 6:00am – 1:00pm M: 0459 493 511

Pittsworth Lions Club Markets 3rd Sunday of April and November Pittsworth Pioneer Village, Pittsworth 8:00am – 12:00noon P: (07) 4693 3308

Kilkivan Markets Every Sunday Lester Millar Park, Kilkivan 7:00am – 11:00am P: (07) 5484 1032

Cabarlah Markets Last Sunday of the Month (except December) Cabarlah Sports Ground New England Highway, Cabarlah 8:00am – 12:30pm P: (07) 4696 8152 www.cabarlah-markets.org.au

Kumbia Markets 2nd Saturday of the Month Bell St, Kumbia 7:00am – 11:00am P: (07) 4164 4461

Nobby Country Markets 1st Sunday of the month, Nobby Village Park, Tooth St, Nobby 8:00am – 12:00noon M: 0487 944 999 www.nobbycountrymarkets.com Murphys Creek Markets 2nd Saturday of the Month Adjacent to Murphys Creek Tavern, Murphys Creek Rd, Murphys Creek 7:00am – 12:30pm P: (07) 4630 5999 (Sue) E: smhaughey@hotmail.com 12

Margaret St Markets 1st Sunday of the Month Toowoomba CBD, Margaret St, Toowoomba 8:00am – 2:00pm M: 0429 729 169 (Jan Gorring) www.facebook.com/MargaretStreetMarkets

Local Produce Markets Every Thursday O’Neil Square, Kingaroy 12:00noon – 6.30pm M: 0417 756 528 Murgon CBD markets 2nd Sunday of the Month Main St, Murgon 10:00am – 4:00pm P: (07) 4168 1915 Kingaroy Friendship Markets 3rd Saturday of the Month Senior Citizens Hall, Kingaroy 6:30am – 12:00noon P: (07) 4162 7300

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Nanango Country Markets 1st Saturday of the Month Nanango Show Grounds, Nanango 6:00am – 12:00noon M: 0427 631 273 Wondai Country Markets 4th Saturday of the Month Coronation Park, Wondai 7:00am – 12:00noon P: (07) 4168 5926 Yarraman Markets 2nd Saturday of the Month Cnr Toomey & Margaret Sts, Yarraman 6:30am – 12:00noon M: 0459 638 282

Southern Downs and Granite Belt Glengallan Markets 1st Sunday of each season Glengallan Homestead 8:00am – 1:00pm P: (07) 4667 3866 Border Railway Markets 1st Sunday of the Month Wallangarra Railway Station, Wallangarra 8:00am – 12:30pm Glengallan Seasonal Markets 1st Sunday of the new season Glengallan Homestead, Allora 8:00am – 1:00pm P: (07) 4667 3866 www.glengallan.org.au Jumpers and Jazz Markets 26th July 2015 Leslie Park, Warwick 9:00am – 3:00pm P: (07) 4661 9073 Killarney Country Markets 1st Sunday of the Month Canning Park, Killarney 9:00am – 2:00pm P: (07) 4664 1656 Markets in the Mountains 2nd & 4th Sunday of the Month Civic Centre, Stanthorpe 8:00am – 12:00noon M: 0417 760 529 www.marketinthemountains.org Rose City Country Markets 2nd Sunday of the Month Australiana Park, Warwick 8:00am – 12:00noon P: (07) 4661 5972

Warwick Easter Fair Easter Sunday Leslie Park, Warwick 9:00am – 3:00pm P: (07) 4661 9073 Rose and Rodeo Festival Markets 24th October 2015 Leslie Park, Warwick 9:00am – 2:00pm M: 0411 335 193

Western Country Chinchilla Markets 3rd Sunday of the Month Visitor Information Centre, Warrego Highway, Chinchilla 7:00am – 12:30pm P: (07) 4679 4491 Dalby Markets 3rd Saturday of the Month Dalby Showgrounds Nicholson St, Dalby 6:00am – 12:00noon M: 0429 696 775 Jandowae Markets and Miniature Railway 4th Sunday of the Month Lions Park, Jandowae 8:00am – 12:00noon P: (07) 4679 4480

Nindigully Pub Markets Last Sunday of the Month Nindigully Pub, Sterns St, Nindigully 9:00am – 2:00pm M: 0421 088 372 www.nindigullypub.com Tara Markets 1st Saturday of the Month Day St (Beside Grevillia Park), Tara 8:00am – 12:00noon P: (07) 4679 4104 Warra Country Markets 2nd Saturday every 3 Months Richard Best Memorial Park, Warrego Highway 8:00am – 12:00noon P: (07) 4679 4480 Miles Markets 2nd Saturday of the Month St Lukes Anglican Church, Dawson St, Miles 8:30am – 12:00noon Ph: (07) 4627 1492 Goondiwindi Town Markets 2nd Sunday of the Month Town Park, Marshall St, Goondiwindi 8:00am – 2:00pm

Farmers Market sign, Southern Downs

Goondiwindi Christmas Markets 6 December Community Cultural Centre, Goondiwindi www.goondiwindirc.com.au Roma Farmers and Artisans Markets 3rd Saturday of the Month (Feb–Nov) The Big Rig Parklands, Warrego Highway, Roma 8:00am – 12:30pm P: (07) 4622 8676 Roma RSL Markets 1st Sunday of the Month (Feb–Dec) RSL Hall, Quintin St, Roma 8:00am – 1:00pm M: 0418 896 021 Surat Spirit of the River – Riverside Markets Last Saturday of the Month – every 3 months from February Riverside Parklands, Marcus St, Surat 7:00am – 1:00pm M: 0439 718 340 *Market details correct at time of publishing.

Felton Food Festival

Nature at her best You’ll find nature is still intact here – peaceful landscapes, rivers teeming with fish, quiet waterfalls, ancient gorges and an abundance of wildlife in the untamed bush. It’s not built out, fished out or deforested. And there are many ways you can lose yourself in the natural world … walk and birdwatch on bush trails, set up camp on a grassy river flat, scale huge granite boulders of Girraween National Park, fish in a glistening river, paddle a canoe, hike in the largest stand of Bunya pines in the world, marvel at Toowoomba’s spring flower display or simply enjoy the fresh air and views on a country drive. Slow down and breathe deep.

Fish our rivers, lakes and dams Keen anglers get set for adventure!

Southern Queensland Country has a reputation for the best inland fishing in Queensland, with no fewer than 15 dams and seven river systems traversing it.

Wade in the shallows, throw in a line from a shady riverbank, or launch your boat or canoe in search of the great Murray cod, Australian bass, sleepy cod, sooty grunter, yellowbelly, silver perch, saratoga, Barcoo grunter, jewfish and river blackfish.

There are also plenty of picturesque waterways where you can combine fishing with picnicking and camping.

And there is no shortage of annual fishing events to keep the family entertained: Boondooma Dam Yellow-belly Fishing Competition and Bjelke-Petersen Dam Yamaha Bass Pro Challenge in February; Thallon Carp Busting Competition in March and Dirranbandi Family Fishing Competition over Easter; St George’s Family Fishing Competition in September; and Bjelke-Petersen Dam’s Fishing Classic in October and Golden Lure Competition in November.

Events country-style No one throws a party quite like the locals of Southern Queensland Country. Downto- earth country hospitality, an irreverent sense of fun and the ability to laugh at themselves sets the scene for festivals and events celebrating the region’s unique lifestyle and heritage. From the cultural to the quirky, you’ll find it all here. Where else could you bet on yabbies racing, roll watermelons down a main street, watch the best rodeo riders in action and savour delectable local food and wines? Only here!

Plan your trip to enter a freshwater fishing tournament, celebrate with the locals at a heritage festival or enjoy the spectacle of a country picnic race meeting.

Major events not to be missed include Roma’s Easter In the Country celebrations; Toowoomba’s Easterfest and Carnival of Flowers in September; Warwick’s Jumpers and Jazz in July, and the Goomeri Pumpkin Festival in May, 60km north of Kingaroy.

Ready, steady, fish!

Fisheries Queensland's Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme (SIPS) requires anglers (over 18 years old) who fish in certain dams to purchase a permit before they throw in a line. A 10% discount applies for holders of all entitlement cards.

Fishing tips, fishing trail maps and permits can be obtained from Visitor Information Centres throughout the region. Or you can purchase permits from small businesses in the vicinity of the dams, or contact the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries on 13 25 23 or online at www.daff.qld.gov.au/fisheries Boondooma Dam – Camping

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2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Creative communities You can’t help but discover our artistic communities on your travels.

Creativity blossoms in the country. Many towns also feature council-run art galleries as well as artist-run spaces displaying and selling the works of local painters, potters, sculptors and craftspeople.

Handmade in country What better mementos of your travels in Southern Queensland Country than the works of local creative artisans? You can take home time-honoured craft – in the form of one-of-a-kind jewellery, millinery, clothing, leatherwork, furniture and gifts or traditional hand-made preserves and jams. Crafted with skill, often from local materials and ingredients, you’ll find just the right keepsake at artisans’ studios, Visitor Information Centres and country markets throughout the region.

Take the lead from a local Drop in to any Visitor Information Centre throughout Southern Queensland Country and you’ll find a friendly country welcome from people who know the local area first-hand. There are maps and brochures and good advice on a diverse range of interesting attractions, accommodation and visitor services.

Come on in to check the road conditions, local events or where to throw in a line!

Hit the Heritage Trail You won’t have to go far to explore our region’s fascinating history. You’ll find the present pays homage to the past in every town. Our modern streetscapes tell a story of a bygone era, with many of the historic buildings – churches, pubs, banks and grand old homes among them – restored to their original grace and many still in use today. Memorials, interactive museums and private collections piece together the stories that make our towns tick – bringing to life the indigenous and pioneering history along with the people and points in history that have shaped this unique region. If pub walls could talk, there would be some interesting yarns. Luckily many pub walls are decorated in old photographs, artworks by famous bush artists, old newspaper clippings, memorabilia and pieces of local history that paint a vivid picture. What the walls can’t tell you, you’ll hear from the locals – tall stories and colourful local lore come with the territory! Visitor Information Centres can give you the rundown on historical museums, attractions and tours and maps for self-guided heritage walking trails.

Lara Lamb Assoc Prof, University of Southern Qld, Toowoomba “Tosari Galleries in Margaret Street are great supporters of the city’s creative artists – hosting regular exhibitions and artist talks. If you’re looking for a keep-sake of your visit, you’ll find something gorgeous, handmade and one-of-a-kind from their range of artisancrafted jewellery, ceramics or artworks.”

Kingaroy Visitor Information Centre

Some highlights of the heritage trail include: Toowoomba’s Royal Bull’s Head Inn (circa 1850) The Woolshed at Jondaryan Country Pubs – Rudd’s Pub, Nobby, Nindigully Pub, Injune Hotel, Victoria Hotel, Goondiwindi Heritage-listed Jimbour House and gardens (circa 1876) Churches including St Augustine’s, Leyburn 187, St Paul’s, Roma 1876, and St Lukes, Toowoomba 1897 Miles Historical Village Museum, Toowoomba’s Cobb + Co Museum and Wondai Timber Museum Carnarvon Gorge indigenous rock art sites – carvings and paintings dated at up to 19,500 years old.

Handmade in country

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Helpful Apps to guide you through some Southern Queensland Country Experiences Savour SQC Food, Wine and Touring App If you’re driving in Southern Queensland Country, download the Savour Southern Queensland Country Food, Wine and Touring app. The app highlights places to eat, drink, stay and play in South Burnett, Southern Downs/Granite Belt and Toowoomba/Darling Down regions.

Utilising the latest technology, it features food and wine trails that can be downloaded into GPS units.

Toowoomba Region Transport Heritage Trail – Wheels, Wings & Water Take a fascinating journey into Toowoomba’s transport history. This app, available for iPhone and Android devices, highlights the importance of indigenous walking tracks; the diversity of horse-drawn vehicles; the power and beauty of the steam train; the ingenuity of the early electric car; the robustness of the Boomerang fighter plane; and the sheer brute force of the Mac truck.

Info Centre Finder Southern Queensland Country’s tourism attractions and Visitor Information Centres are now just a click away with the Info Centre Finder app. Locate a nearby Accredited Visitor Information Centre and get inspiration for your holiday by uncovering ‘local’ recommendations for the best places to visit and things to do in the region.

This is Queensland

Bunya Mountains, South Burnett

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2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

The new This is Queensland app puts the best of Southern Queensland Country at your fingertips. The app will help you find nearby tourist attractions, WiFi hotspots and discover content shared by Queensland holiday experts.

Farm, Warwick

Main Range National Park

The Spotted Cow, Toowoomba

Fresh seasonal produce

Bunya Mountains

Calendar of Events 2015/16 MAR

High Altitude Hot Rod Run Toowoomba 6–8 Mar

Stanthorpe Rodeo Stanthorpe 7 Mar

Roma Picnic Races Roma 13–14 Mar Wine and Food in the Park, South Burnett

Wine and Food in the Park Festival Kingaroy 14 Mar

USQ Shakespeare in the Park Toowoomba 19–23 Mar

Queensland Country Showcase Race Day Goondiwindi 22 Mar

Border Rangers Trail Bike Ride Killarney 28–29 Mar

Roma Picnic Races, Roma

APR

Easter in the Country Festival Roma 2–6 Apr

Easterfest Toowoomba 2–5 Apr Easter in the Country, Roma

Millmerran Easter Hot Rod Run Millmerran 2–6 Apr

Easter on the Macintyre Goondiwindi 3–5 Apr

Easter at the Woolshed Jondaryan 3–5 Apr

Nanango Easter Saturday Races Nanango 4 Apr Easterfest, Toowoomba

Felton Food Festival, Felton

Warwick Easter Fair Warwick 4 Apr

Flinton Races Flinton 4 Apr

Felton Food Festival Felton 12 Apr

Australian Campdraft Association – National Finals St George 14–18 Apr

Felton Food Festival, Felton

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2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Easter in the Vines St George 4–5 Apr

Easter Vintage Festival Highfields 4–6 Apr

Wondai Garden Expo Wondai 18–19 Apr

Spirit of the Bush Heritage Weekend and Muster Boondooma 22–26 Apr

SEE THE FULL EVENTS CALENDAR AT

SOUTHERNQUEENSLANDCOUNTRY.COM.AU/EVENTS

MAY

‘Where Country Is’ Festival Injune 1–3 May

Weetwood Cup Toowoomba 2 May

Opera in the Vineyard Ballandean 2 May Opera in the Vineyard, Ballandean

Southern Downs Harvest Killarney 2 May

Heavy Horse Festival Yangan 3 May

Burrandowan Picnic Races Burrandowan 9 May

Hampton Festival Hampton 17 May Hampton Festival, Hampton

FKG Tour of Toowoomba Toowoomba 21–24 May

Sutton’s Cider Festival Thulimbah 23 May

Warwick Pentath Run Warwick 23–24 May

Goomeri Pumpkin Festival Goomeri 31 May FKG Tour of Toowoomba

JUN

Toowoomba Wine Show & Tasting Toowoomba 6–7 Jun

Killarney Cup Killarney 27 Jun Goomeri Pumpkin Festival, Goomeri

JUL

Abbey of the Roses Christmas in July Warwick 4, 11, 18, 25 Jul

Chill Out Beer Festival Stanthorpe 4 Jul

USQ McGregor Winter School Toowoomba 6–10 Jul

Yellowbelly Country Music Festival St George 14–20 Jul

Jumpers and Jazz in July Warwick 16–26 Jul

Killarney Bonfire Night Killarney 18 Jul

Tara Festival of Culture & Camel Races, Tara

Jazz on the Mountain Maryvale 18 Jul

Opera at Jimbour Jimbour 25 Jul

Tara Festival of Culture & Camel Races Tara 31 Jul – 2 Aug Jumpers and Jazz in July, Warwick

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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AUG

Toowoomba Languages Historic Leyburn Sprints & Cultures Festival Leyburn Toowoomba 15–16 Aug 9 Aug Leyburn Sprints, Leyburn

Rose Bowl Polocrosse Carnival Warwick 21–23 Aug

Dalby’s Delicious and DeLIGHTful Festival Dalby 22–23 Aug Warwick Polocrosse, Warwick

SEP

Millmerran Sheep Races Millmerran 29 Aug Jackie Howe Festival, Jondaryan

Pittsworth Sprints Pittsworth 4–6 Sep

Jackie Howe Festival of the Golden Shears Jondaryan 4–6 Sep

Bloomin’ Beautiful Blackbutt Festival Blackbutt 12–13 Sep

Gourmet in Gundy Goondiwindi 12–13 Sep

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers Toowoomba 18–27 Sep

Texas Country Music Roundup Texas 21–27 Sep

Cycle Queensland – Darling Downs Loop Darling Downs 5–13 Sep

Wings over Warwick Warwick 12 Sep

Gourmet in Gundy, Goondiwindi

Bony Mountain Music Festival Warwick 18–20 Sep

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, Toowoomba

OCT

South Burnett Cherbourg On Show Long Weekend Festival South Burnett 2–5 Oct

Heritage Nanango Mardi Gras Nanango 3 Oct

Roma Rocks Roma 3–4 Oct

Bjelke-Petersen Dam Pittsworth Fine Foods and Austackle Inland Family Craft Spectacular Fishing Classic Pittsworth Murgon 9–11 Oct 3–4 Oct

The Waterhole Rocks Festival Nanango 16–18 Oct Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, Toowoomba

Warwick Gold Cup Campdraft and Rodeo Warwick 19–25 Oct

Australian Small Winemakers Show Stanthorpe 24 Oct Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, Toowoomba

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Oktoberfest Stanthorpe 3–4 Oct

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Warwick Rodeo, Warwick

NOV

Stanthorpe Rocks Ballandean 14–15 Nov

Bush Christmas Exhibition Toowoomba 20–29 Nov

Roma Cup Roma 21 Nov

Nindigully Pig Races Nindigully 28 Nov

Moonie Yabbie Races Moonie 28 Nov Roma Cup, Roma

DEC

Hand Made Under the Stars Toowoomba 3 Dec

Christmas Carnival Toowoomba 3 Dec

Toowoomba Christmas Wonderland Toowoomba 5–24 Dec

Texas Races Texas 12 Dec

New Year’s Eve Bush Dance Jondaryan 31 Dec

New Year’s Eve Race Day Toowoomba 31 Dec

Hell of the West, Goondiwindi

JAN 2016

Australia Day Weekend Jondaryan 26–28 Jan

Allora Heritage Weekend Allora 27–28 Jan New Year’s Eve Bush Dance, Jondaryan Woolshed

Hell of the West Goondiwindi 31 Jan

FEB 2016

Sicilian Vintage Lunch, Ballandean

Sicilian Vintage Lunch Ballandean 6 Feb

QLD PGA Tournament Toowoomba 19–22 Feb QLD PGA

Have a Go! Festival Toowoomba 20–21 Feb Have a Go! Festival, Toowoomba

Event information correct at time of publishing www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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National Parks Bald Rock National Park

(Granite Belt)

A popular attraction for Granite Belt visitors, this park is located just on the New South Wales side of the NSW/ QLD border. Bald Rock is the largest of a series of granite domes in this 8,000ha national park where you can explore granite canyons, stone arches and echo points.

Don’t miss: Take a trail to Bald Rock or Little Bald Rock and be rewarded with views into Girraween National Park.

Enjoy a shady picnic, spot wildlife and see many different species of birds.

Getting there: From Stanthorpe take the sealed road east across the state border to Amosfield, run south on the Mount Lindsay Road towards Tenterfield and turn right into the 6km Bald Rock National Park access road – about 40km. A vehicle day pass is required and camping fees apply. Go to www.environment.nsw.gov.au/ NationalParks or call (02) 6736 4298 for more information.

Barakula State Forest

(Western Country)

Visit the largest state forest in the Southern Hemisphere and enjoy outstanding wildflower displays during late winter or spring. Explore the Barakula State Forest 22

Girraween National Park

Drive to see many of the area’s key landmarks.

Campers must be fully self-sufficient.

Getting there: From Chinchilla, travel 45km on Auburn Road and follow signage. As this is a working forest, beware of trucks.

Benarkin State Forest

(South Burnett)

you might also see black-striped wallabies and echidnas by day or pygmy-possums and sugar gliders at night. Camping is not allowed in the park.

Getting there: About 12km north of Murgon.

Some sections of road are unsealed.

Bunya Mountains National Park

(South Burnett) In the Blackbutt Range, explore a scenic forest drive through rainforest, hoop pine plantations and eucalypt forests. Ride your horse along the Bicentennial National Trail and the Brisbane Valley Trail. Picnic at Emu Creek then cool off with a swim. Camp at Clancy’s camping area where dogs are permitted.

Getting there: Benarkin is about 2 hours north-west of Brisbane off the D’Aguilar Highway. The final 16km to camping areas is via winding gravel roads. The camping area is 20km from Blackbutt along the forest drive.

Boat Mountain Regional Park

(South Burnett)

Relax and enjoy nature in this small park.

Discover a distinctive flat-topped ridge, shaped like an upturned boat, clad in dry rainforest and open eucalypt woodland.

Take short walks – tracks range from 370m to 2.2km – to lookouts for views over the surrounding countryside. Go birdwatching;

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Here you’ll discover the world’s largest remaining stand of bunya pine rainforest protected in Queensland’s second oldest national park. Find out about the park’s strong cultural connections – Aboriginal people gathered here from afar during bunya nut season for bunya festivals until the late 1800s. Relax at one of the camping areas where it’s blissfully cool in summer and perfect for warming camp fires in winter.

Don’t miss: Enjoy walks (ranging from 500m to 10km in length) through bunya pine forest, eucalypt forest and rainforest.

Discover mountain scenery and grassy ‘balds’ and have fun spotting an incredible variety of birds.

Getting there: The Bunya Mountains is 55km north-east of Dalby or 56km south-west of Kingaroy. The drive from Brisbane takes around 3 hours. The access routes to the park are steep and winding, and are not recommended for caravans or trailers.

Carnarvon National Park – Carnarvon Gorge Park

Crows Nest National Park

(Toowoomba and the Darling Downs)

Peak and a 1.2km return walk to Cattle Dip Lookout. Campers must be selfsufficient, including water.

(Western Country)

Discover this oasis in the semi-arid heart of Queensland. You’ll find a steep-sided gorge carved by the ever-flowing Carnarvon Creek, set amongst towering white sandstone cliffs.

Don’t miss: Set out to explore, choosing from tracks that range from easy to challenging and advanced remote walks.

Discover dramatic sandstone cliffs, remnant rainforest and Aboriginal rock art.

The 86km Carnarvon Great Walk, linking Carnarvon Gorge and Mount Moffatt, takes 6 to 7 days (for experienced and wellprepared walkers only). Don’t miss the ‘Connect with Nature’ activities that may be offered during Queensland school holidays. Visit www.nprsr.qld.gov.au for details of campsites and activities.

Getting there: From Injune, drive 111km north along the Carnarvon Developmental Road to the signed turnoff. From the turnoff, drive 45km to the park. The last 14km of road is unsealed. After heavy rain the unsealed section may become impassable – check with RACQ for conditions before setting out.

Carnarvon National Park – Mount Moffatt (Western Country)

Discover spectacular creek scenery, granite outcrops, a scenic waterfall and eucalypt forest remnants on the edge of the Great Dividing Range.

Don’t miss: Follow the creek to the Cascades and Crows Nest Falls, then enjoy scenic views over the Valley of Diamonds from Koonin Lookout. Cool off in Bottlebrush Pool. Watch for vulnerable brush-tailed rock wallabies, small forest birds and cliff-nesting peregrine falcons.

Getting there: The park is located 50km north of Toowoomba via the New England Highway or 44km west of Esk via the Esk-Hampton Road.

Expedition National Park — Robinson Gorge Section

Getting there: 89km north-west of Taroom via the Leichhardt Way, Glenhaughton Road. The last 16km is suitable for 4WD vehicles only.

Expedition National Park — Lonesome Section (Western Country)

Enjoy spectacular views of the southern end of the Arcadia Valley and the Dawson River when bush camping in this section of the park. Campers must be self-sufficient, including water.

Getting there: From Injune, travel 37km north on the Carnarvon Developmental Road and turn right onto the Arcadia Valley Access Road. Drive 18km (of which 4km is gravel) to Lonesome.

(Western Country)

Explore magnificent sandstone scenery and palm-filled valleys in this large park.

Scenic Robinson Gorge winds for more than 14km between sheer sandstone cliffs from a broad, shallow basin, through the most spectacular section – the ‘Cattle Dip’ – where sandstone cliffs rise up to 100m above the creek.

Don’t miss: Explore moderately difficult walking tracks, including two 4km return walks to Robinson Gorge and Shepherd’s

Bunya Mountains National Park

Legend Experience this remote part of Carnarvon National Park that features spectacular sandstone towers, dramatic gorges, open woodlands and a rich cultural heritage. Campers must be self-sufficient, including water.

Don’t miss: Explore walking tracks leading to unusual rock formations such as The Chimneys and Cathedral Rock; and cultural heritage sites, such as the Tombs rock art site.

Getting there: Via the Forestvale Road from Mitchell (220km) or 160km north-west of Injune, via Womblebank Station. Eighty kilometres of the road from Mitchell is unsealed and care should be taken. A high clearance 4WD is recommended. The road to Mount Moffatt is not accessible in wet weather.

Check weather conditions before travelling.

Camping

Cycling trails

Wheelchair access

Caravan sites

Showers

Camp fires permitted

Picnic area

Swimming

No open fires

Picnic table with shelter

Fishing

Toilets

BBQ – Gas/Fuel

Dogs allowed (on leash)

Trailer sites

BBQ – Wood

Horseriding

Canoeing/kayaking

BBQ – Electric

4WD access

Boating

Easy walks

Information

World Heritage

Advanced walks

Park Office onsite

Lookouts

Trail bikes permitted*

Refreshments

*Registered bikes with licensed riders permitted on formed tracks and roads within the reserve.

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Girraween National Park

Don’t miss: Explore some of the easy walking tracks, ranging from 1.6km to 12.4km in length, which pass through rainforest, open eucalypt forest and heath, and offer spectacular views.

sealed approach from Boonah along the Boonah-Killarney Road. A more accessible route is via Killarney, about 40km south-east of Warwick, 11km along the Killarney-Boonah Road.

Be delighted by the sheer size of huge granite boulders towering above open forests, contrasting with the delicate spring wildflowers that splash colour across the landscape in spring.

Getting there: The Cunningham Highway passes through Main Range National Park at Cunningham’s Gap, about 116km south-west of Brisbane and 50km east of Warwick.

Main Range National Park — Spicer’s Gap

(Granite Belt)

Don’t miss: From the Castle Rock and Bald Rock Creek camping areas, explore some of the 17km of walking tracks.

Climb the First Pyramid to see Balancing Rock and for great views over the park.

Watch for blue wrens, yellow-tufted honey eaters, bearded dragons and perhaps a common wombat. Superb lyrebirds live here but are rarely seen.

Getting there: Located 35km south of Stanthorpe via the New England Highway, Girraween is one of Queensland’s best loved national parks.

Lake Broadwater Regional Park

(Toowoomba and the Darling Downs)

Relax and appreciate nature in this park featuring a semi-permanent lake surrounded by cypress pine, eucalypt and brigalow open woodland. An important refuge for waterbirds and other wildlife, the lake is popular for birdwatching, picnicking and boating.

Don’t miss: Walk along the lake’s shore, birdwatch from the hide or picnic under a shady red gum beside the lake. Set up camp beside the lake. You need a permit to take your boat on the water.

Getting there: Turn off the Moonie Highway 20km south-west of Dalby and drive a further 10km to the park.

Main Range National Park — Cunningham’s Gap (Southern Downs)

Be impressed by rugged peaks, towering forests and spectacular mountain scenery on even the briefest of visits to Cunningham’s Gap, the best known section of this World Heritage-listed park.

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Main Range National Park — Goomburra (Southern Downs)

At Goomburra, nestled in the western foothills of the Great Dividing Range, take advantage of creek-side campsites, picnic spots and walks. From the top of the range, enjoy views over the Fassifern Valley towards the Border Ranges in the south and across Mount Castle in the north.

Don’t miss: Camp in pleasant grassy camping areas and explore rainforest and creek-based walks. There are 3 walking tracks from the 2 camping areas ranging in distance from an easy 1.2km circuit to a 6km track, showcasing waterfalls and freshwater habitats. Take a drive along the lookout road to reach more walking tracks and scenic lookouts.

Watch for echidnas and koalas, satin bowerbirds and yellow-tailed black cockatoos.

Getting there: The park is located 97km from Toowoomba or 54km from Warwick.

The last 6km is unsealed and may be closed after heavy rain.

Main Range National Park — Queen Mary Falls (Southern Downs)

Enjoy the spectacle of Spring Creek plunging 40m over a sheer rock face at Queen Mary Falls – a popular picnic destination. Stay in the private camping/ caravan park located nearby. Explore a short walk leading to a lookout overlooking the breathtaking falls, or take the 2km track down to the floor of the gorge.

Getting there: To access the park take the Falls Drive tourist route, a steep but

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(Southern Downs) Discover evidence of pioneer travel routes over the Great Dividing Range and enjoy views of the Fassifern Valley at historic Spicer’s Gap. Don’t miss: Follow the trail of old bullock days and look for signs of the paved road built in the mid-1800s. Stay in the small camping area and have a picnic near the location of a long-gone inn and pioneer graveyard. Search for Moss’s Well. Enjoy the view from Governor’s Chair Lookout.

Getting there: Take the Spicer’s Gap turnoff from the Cunningham Highway, 5km west of Aratula. The last 5km of Spicer’s Gap Road is unsealed and steep in places.

Mount Basalt Reserve

(Toowoomba and the Darling Downs) Discover striking volcanic formations and a walking track through 10ha of scrub.

Don’t miss: Follow the track to 2 rocky peaks past geological features and farmland views.

Getting there: From Toowoomba, take the Gore Highway to Millmerran, then drive 18km south on the Kooroongarra Road to the reserve.

Nuga Nuga National Park

(Western Country)

No facilities, must be self-sufficient.

Discover rare woodland communities when you bush camp by the shores of Lake Nuga Nuga – one of the largest natural lakes in the central highlands.

Enjoy spotting the prolific birdlife and, at certain times of the year, capture photographs of the lake dappled with colourful waterlilies. The lake completely dries up at times.

Southern Queensland Country Golfing In Southern Queensland Country,

Toowoomba and Darling Downs

the golf courses are first-rate and the

Bell Golf Club Recreation Reserve, Bell Ph: (07) 4663 1198 9 hole

scenery sublime – you’ve found the perfect short-break golfing getaway!

Visiting golfers can play a range of sophisticated championship courses with contemporary club house facilities or more modest and relaxed greens that offer a quiet game with only birds and kangaroos for company. What they all have in common is the crisp clean air, rolling hills, dramatic sunsets, friendly locals and wildlife that typify Southern Queensland Country.

In recent years, Toowoomba’s magnificent City Golf Club has played host to Queensland’s flagship professional golf tournament, the Queensland PGA Championships.

The week-long event, which has been secured until 2017, attracts an impressive field of Australian and

Clifton Golf Club Leyburn Road, Clifton Ph: (07) 4695 8522 www.cliftongolf.com 9 hole

Borneo Barracks Golf Club New England Highway, Cabarlah Ph: (07) 4694 6183 11 hole

Eustondale Golf Course 88 Euston Road, Toowoomba Ph: (07) 4630 2220 www.eustondalegolf.com.au 18 hole

Cecil Plains Golf Club Dalby Road, Cecil Plains Ph: (07) 4668 0155 9 hole

Goombungee Golf Club Golf Course Road, Goombungee Ph: (07) 4696 5245 9 hole

Crows Nest Golf Club Golf Course Road, Crows Nest Ph: (07) 4698 1408 9 hole

Toowoomba Golf Club 235 – 323 Rowbotham Street, Middle Ridge, Toowoomba Ph: (07) 4635 1219 www.toowoombagolfclub.com.au 18 hole

City Golf Club Toowoomba 254 South Street, Toowoomba Ph: (07) 4636 9000 www.citygolf.com.au 18 hole

International golfers. Over the years, the PGA Tour of Australasia has provided early career opportunities for some of the world’s best professionals such as Greg Norman, Peter Senior, Wayne Grady, Ian Baker-Finch, Rod Pampling and Adam Scott.

Breathe in the fresh country air as you make your way around some of the oldest and finest golf courses in the state.

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Clubhouse, Toowoomba Golf Club

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Millmerran Golf Club Golf Club Road, Millmerran Ph: (07) 4695 1476 9 hole

Oakey Golf Club Cnr Warrego Hwy & Mt Tyson Rd, Oakey Ph: (07) 4692 2158 11 hole

Killarney Golf Club Willow Street, Killarney Ph: (07) 4664 1183 9 hole

Injune Golf Club Komine Lane, Injune Ph: (07) 4626 1258 9 hole

Pittsworth Golf Club Hill Street, Pittsworth Ph: (07) 4693 1275 9 hole

Allora Golf Club Warwick Street, Allora Ph: (07) 4666 3380 9 hole

Jandowae Golf Club Durah Road, Jandowae Ph: (07) 4668 5349 9 hole

South Burnett Blackbutt Golf Club Bowman Road, Blackbutt Ph: (07) 4163 0180 18 hole

Inglewood Golf Club Cunningham Highway, Inglewood Ph: (07) 4652 1251 18 hole

Goomeri Golf Club Road, Goomeri Ph: (07) 4168 4145 9 hole

Wallangarra Army Area Golf Club Army Avenue, Wallangarra Ph: (07) 4684 3188 9 hole

Kilkivan Country Golf Club Tansey Road, Kilkivan Ph: (07) 5484 1347 9 hole

Western Country

Kingaroy Golf Club Bunya Highway, Kingaroy Ph: (07) 4162 1720 www.kingaroygolfclub.com.au 18 hole Kumbia and District Golf Course Bunya Highway, Kumbia Ph: (07) 4164 4205 18 hole Murgon Golf Club Bunya Highway, Murgon Ph: (07) 4168 1608 9 hole Nanango Golf Club D'Aguilar Highway, Nanango Ph: (07) 4163 1463 www.nanangogolfclub.com.au 9 hole Proston District Golf Course Brigooda Road, Proston Ph: (07) 4168 9367 9 hole Wondai Golf Club Bunya Highway, Wondai Ph: (07) 4168 5582 9 hole

Southern Downs and Granite Belt Warwick Golf Club Hawker Road, Warwick Ph: (07) 4661 3664 www.warwickgolfclub.com.au 18 hole Stanthorpe Golf Club 50 Amosfield Road, Stanthorpe Ph: (07) 4681 1276 18 hole

Chinchilla Golf Club Warrego Highway, Chinchilla Ph: (07) 4662 7438 9 hole Condamine Golf Club Moonie Highway, Condamine Ph: (07) 4627 7166 18 hole Dalby Golf Club Moreton Street, Dalby Ph: (07) 4662 2259 www.dalbygolfclub.com.au 18 hole Dunkeld Memorial Golf Club Dunkeld via Mitchell Ph: (07) 4623 2684 9 hole Goondiwindi Golf Club Hindmarsh Street, Goondiwindi Ph: (07) 4671 1171 18 hole

Miles Golf Club Leichhardt Way, Miles Ph: (07) 4627 1268 18 hole Roma Golf Club 119 Tiffin Street, Roma Ph: (07) 4622 1233 18 hole St George Golf Club Golf Links Road, St George Ph: (07) 4625 3283 18 hole Surat Golf Club King Street, Surat Ph: (07) 4626 5258 www.suratgolfclub.webs.com 18 hole Tara Golf Club Kogan Road, Tara Ph: (07) 4665 3148 18 hole Texas Golf Club Mingoola Road, Texas Ph: (07) 4653 1420 18 hole Wandoan Golf Club Golf Club Road, Wandoan Ph: (07) 4627 4217 18 hole Yuleba Golf Club Scott Street, Yuleba Ph: (07) 4623 5150 9 hole

Justin Smith Professional golfer “Growing up in Toowoomba for the first 28 years of my life, I’ve played many of the courses on the Darling Downs and Granite Belt. The Dalby Golf Club, 85km west of Toowoomba, is one of the best “country courses” around. The fairways are a mixture of couch grass and kikuyu grass, and the greens are Bermuda 328 – exceptional all year round. Be sure to have your irons dialled in for your approach shots to enjoy a leisurely stroll up the fairways between the towering gums.”

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Toowoomba and surrounds MUST-DOS: See a show at the Empire Theatre Have a meal at a true-blue country pub Experience spring at its blooming best at the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers Sample providore to plate gourmet food and wine culture Explore the Toowoomba Tourist Drive

MUST-SEES: Cobb+Co. Museum The view from Picnic Point Lookout Award-winning parks and gardens each spring Japanese Garden – Ju Raku En, at the University of Southern Queensland Magnificently restored art deco style Empire Theatre

Carnival of Flowers, Toowoomba Laurel Bank Park, Toowoomba

Cobb+Co. Museum

Crisp winter air, knee-deep autumn leaves, clear summer days and a riot of colour in spring; nowhere else in Queensland will you experience all four seasons as distinctively as right here.

Just 90 minutes from Brisbane, Toowoomba crowns the edge of the Great Dividing Range 700 metres above sea level, overlooking the Lockyer Valley. So close but a world away, Southern Queensland Country's largest city still has a country town vibe.

Treat your senses… literally, to the annual Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers and local gourmet produce. Queensland’s Garden City, Toowoomba, has more than 150 public parks and gardens to enjoy.

Come and taste the colours of spring at the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers.

Enjoy our ten-day festival of non-stop fun and laughter, fireworks, parades, the coolest music and entertainment as well as the sensational wines and tantalising tastes of the region. For a full list of events on offer check out www.tcof.com.au.

From March to May mellow tints of red and gold mark the autumn showing. In the winter months, enjoy rugging up and winding down. Spicy scents of local wines and delicious foods will tantalise the tastebuds and warm the soul.

To the west you’ll find rolling plains which are home to little rural townships, and warm bed and breakfasts. Cruise north to Crows Nest through hamlets strung along the eastern escarpment and check out nurseries, cafés, museums and galleries. Head south into the country that was the setting for Steele Rudd’s stories, and enjoy the atmosphere in rustic historic pubs. In the north-west, the Bunya Mountains rise dramatically against the sky and offer spectacular mountain scenery, walking trails and abundant wildlife.

A living history Toowoomba’s colonial history traces back to the early 1840s with the establishment of the first store on the Downs at “The Springs”, soon thereafter renamed Drayton. In the late

1840s, Drayton had its own newspaper, general store and trading post. The National Trust-owned Royal Bull’s Head Inn dates from that period and you can still see it on Brisbane Street today.

A drought in 1850 saw many re-settle a few kilometres to the north-east at what was to become Toowoomba. After rapid expansion a new municipality was proclaimed in 1860, a township in 1892 and a city in 1904.

Toowoomba and its surrounds are strongly linked by an interconnected history that you can discover is alive and well in interactive museums, historical attractions and in streetscapes dotted with stately architecture.

Make your first stop on the history trail the Cobb+Co. Museum. You’ll find an outstanding collection of horse-drawn vehicles and the story of the natural and cultural history of Toowoomba and the Darling Downs. You can trace Cobb+Co.’s role in the expansion of the Southern Queensland Country region,

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beginning as a small mail run in 1866 transporting mail and passengers to Brisbane and beyond. You may even be interested in a workshop at the museum’s National Carriage Factory – a training centre giving new life to a wide range of heritage skills including blacksmithing, saddlery, silver smithing and glass art.

Toowoomba’s wealthy beginnings can be seen in the Toowoomba City Hall, and many heritage-listed buildings in Russell Street. Immediately to the east of the Central Business District is the Caledonian Estate, an area of early 20th century housing, ranging from humble workers’ cottages to large stately homes, in the classic wooden Queenslander style. Visitors can enjoy a high tea in the heritage-listed Toowoomba Railway Station, amid the elegant ambience of yesteryear.

You can see a show at Toowoomba’s premier stage and music venue, the art deco era Empire Theatre. After years of neglect, the Empire was beautifully renovated in the late 1990s. Now able to seat 1,600 people, it is the largest regional theatre in Australia. Small group historical tours are run upon request.

Discover the fascinating lives of early settlers on the twilight Tombstone Tours (autumn and spring) of Drayton and Toowoomba Cemetery.

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Treat Your Senses

Arts & Culture

Spend some time relaxing in the meticulously tended Queens Park – one of the key settings for Toowoomba’s Carnival of Flowers.

Adjacent to the CBD, the park features stunning floral beds, open spaces and tree-lined paths.

Easterfest music festival is staged here over the Easter long weekend.

Established in 1938, Toowoomba’s Art Gallery is the oldest in regional Queensland. It is home to the Lionel Lindsay Art Gallery and Library, and more than 400 significant Australian works by the Lindsay family and the likes of Frederick McCubbin, Arthur Streeton, Tom Roberts and Rupert Bunny. Local artists are also featured.

Featuring more than 1,500 roses, the State Rose Garden in historic Newtown Park is a living memorial to the people of Toowoomba and surrounds, with interpretive plaques telling the history of roses, the park and its people since 1913.

You can also see the work of established and emerging local artists at Tosari Galleries in Margaret Street – it’s a great place to find original artworks, limited edition prints and a range of beautiful artisan glass, ceramic and timber souvenirs.

Laurel Bank Park and the Scented Gardens feature fragrant blooms, herbs and shrubs as well as a playground, picnic area and croquet greens.

Picnic Point Park offers spectacular views of the Lockyer Valley and graded walks along the range escarpment.

Tranquility abounds at both Toowoomba’s Bicentennial Waterbird Habitat – a diverse wetland designed to attract a variety of waterbirds; and at the University of Southern Queensland’s Japanese Garden (Ju Raku En) which seamlessly combines water, grass, rocks, paths and Japanese plant species.

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In contrast, No Comply Gallery in Laurel Street shows contemporary cutting-edge works.

The First Coat Street Art Festival in May transforms the city’s empty walls into colourful large-scale murals – pick up a self-guided mural trail map along with the Toowoomba Antiques and Art Guide from the Toowoomba Visitor Information Centre.

The Empire Theatre curates an ever-changing program of music and drama, while the University of Southern Queensland’s Artworx program presents innovative music, drama and art showcasing emerging student artists as well as professional guest artists.

Enjoy regional flavours Blessed with rich, black volcanic soils, the Toowoomba Range and eastern Darling Downs produce most of the state’s wheat, and much of its oilseeds, oats, legumes and fruit. It’s also a major production area for a range of vegetable crops including potatoes, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, onions, carrots, lettuce, sweet corn and celery. The region’s quality pastures also ensure it’s a productive cattle and dairying area.

To the north, the rich red soil produces olives, avocados and rhubarb, while the southern areas are prime grain production areas. With this abundance of local produce at their fingertips and award-winning wineries nearby, Toowoomba’s chefs are happy chefs.

You’ll find many quality restaurants and cafés in town along with some of the swishest pub grub around. Known as “Eat Street”, you’ll find many places to dine along Margaret Street. One you shouldn’t miss is Veraison (205 Margaret Street), which earned a coveted Chef's Hat Award from the Australian Good Food & Travel Guide for the third year running in 2014.

Coffee culture is thriving in Toowoomba.

Try the brews at Bunker Records on Margaret Street (where you’ll also pick up some classic vinyl) and take a wander down Searles Walk near the Regional Gallery – a laneway painted by local artists that leads to Ground Up – a hip breakfast and lunch spot where coffee is king!

Don’t miss the award-winning pies at Born & Bread Bakery in Bridge Street Plaza, Toowoomba; or if you want to select and cook your own local meat, Paynes Meats have the best grass fed cuts around (corner Herries and Hume Street).

grapes and offering eight boutique varieties for tasting at the cellar door.

If you’re in Crows Nest on a Sunday between 10am and 4pm, drop into Bunnyconnellen Olive Grove and Vineyard to taste their award-winning

In Hampton stretch your legs at Hampton Blue where you can pick your own organic blueberries and raspberries and buy a selection of hand-made jams, coulis and dessert sauces. In Pittsworth drop into Chalala Micro Bakery for authentic wood-fired sourdough breads and handcrafted mueslis made from the finest organic ingredients.

If you want to learn how to get the best from local produce, join a small group class at Sauce Cooking School in Station Street, Toowoomba. Kids can even join a class during school holidays.

You can taste wines at the cellar door of Toowoomba's own winery; Preston Peak, terraced atop the range escarpment only five minutes south of town. Here you’ll find rose gardens, an olive grove and magnificent views of Table Top Mountain, the Lockyer Valley and the Darling Downs.

Near Kingsthorpe you will find 2nd to None Winery, a full working winery, cellar door and café. Toowoomba Hills Estate at Vale View is open by appointment and also offers cellar door sales from their full working winery.

Sample a drop at the picturesque Holland Wines near Crows Nest – a small vineyard growing shiraz and chardonnay

Dana Hassall Professional Musician & Toyota Star Maker Top 10 Finalist 2014 ”I was born and raised on the Darling Downs and have been playing venues and events in the Toowoomba region for almost 15 years. As a professional singer/ songwriter I love that Toowoomba has such a great creative arts scene. My favourite venue is Bon Amici Wine Bar and Café in Margaret Street. The atmosphere is really cool there and the owners are very supportive of original music. “

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Queens Park, Toowoomba

Empire Theatre, Toowoomba

premium quality extra virgin olive oil, table olives, olive tapenade, fine wine and hand-made gourmet foods.

Bunnyconnellen has won 29 medals at the Sydney Royal Fine Food Show and been a Gold Medal winner at the Vogue Entertaining and Travel Food Awards.

Cambooya The little village of Cambooya is the heart of Steele Rudd Country.

Australian author Arthur Hoey Davis, who wrote under the pen name ”Steele Rudd“ and is best known for On Our Selection, spent much of his childhood on his family’s small block at Emu Creek near East Greenmount.

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A replica of Rudd’s slab-and-shingle hut stands in Greenmount as a display of subsistence farmers’ way of life, as depicted in On Our Selection.

The Soldiers’ Memorial Hall near Greenmount is another interesting local building to explore, along with the native vegetation in Federation Park at Vale View.

Cambooya’s Bull and Barley Inn has recently been restored to reflect its original 1900s old world atmosphere. You’ll find memorabilia and photographs adorning the walls, with all beverages requiring cooling being chilled in the Inn’s original cedar

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chiller box. There is a restaurant and accommodation available on-site.

Clifton If you think of a quintessential country town streetscape, you’ve got Clifton in mind. Dating back to 1875, this classic little town halfway between Toowoomba and Warwick has been used in a number of Australian movies including The Thornbirds.

Set on the wide fertile plains of the Darling Downs, Clifton began as Clifton Station, running cattle in the first year of the Downs’ settlement. Wheat was grown for many years and nowadays

The Woolshed at Jondaryan

Spotted Cow, Toowoomba

First Coat Street Art Festival, Toowoomba

Camp oven, Millmerran

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Picnic Point

it’s an agriculturally diverse producer of cattle, cereal crops, sunflowers and honey.

To discover the town’s oldest and newest treasures, the Clifton Heritage Walking Trail is a must. The self-guided tour commences from the railway station and finishes at the cemetery, incorporating 43 sites.

Immerse yourself in the area’s pioneering past at the Clifton and District Historical Museum in the old Butter Factory Building. You’ll see a 1930s dining room, a pioneer bedroom, an early hospital ward, kitchen and children’s room.

A short drive north of Clifton is Nobby and the well-known Rudd’s Pub. The pub is dedicated to author Steele Rudd, who found inspiration among his drinking partners for the stories in On Our Selection.

Plan your visit for lunchtime as there are plenty of local characters to share a yarn around the bar. The food here is great with juicy steaks as big as the plate! The pub walls are adorned with an extensive display of historic memorabilia and photographs of the area’s pioneering past.

A short stroll from the pub is a memorial to Sister Kenny, a one-time resident of Nobby known for her revolutionary treatment of polio.

Just out of town, on the Gatton-Clifton road is Queensland’s newest zoo, 34

Range Antiques, Toowoomba

Darling Downs Zoo. You’ll see animals from Australia, Africa, South America and South East Asia, with the white lions being a special and popular attraction.

If you’re travelling in early March be sure to plan for the Pittsworth Show, the annual celebration of all that is great about living in rural Queensland.

Pittsworth

In September you can expect to see more 10-gallon hats than usual in town

A pleasant 30-minute drive from Toowoomba, just off the Gore Highway is Pittsworth. Here lies some of the richest farming land in Australia.

You’ll discover a town equipped with modern facilities and everything you’ll need for your journey; however there’s still a country town feel and a strong sense of history.

The Pittsworth Pioneer Historical Village showcases the early development of the area and is dedicated to the memory of the feats of Arthur Postle – the “Crimson Flash”.

Once the world’s fastest athlete, Postle grew up in the region and developed his love of running on the family farm.

Crafty travellers will be interested in the Lady Fletcher Lace Room which houses one of Australia’s largest lace collections. While at the RSL Display Centre, you can view an extensive collection of wartime memorabilia.

In Hume Street is the gracious St Stephen’s Catholic Church, constructed in 1908. Just around the corner, St Andrew’s Anglican Church is also worth a visit to view the magnificent stained-glass windows.

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Dominique Rizzo Celebrity Chef & TV Presenter ”Don’t miss Hampton Blue organic mixed berry farm, 30 kilometres north of Toowoomba.

You can pick your own fresh berries from November to February and also pick up some gorgeous fresh or frozen berries, jams, vinegars, sauces and sweet treats. Rob and Sue are always so wonderfully welcoming and so passionate about their berries; it’s a definite place to visit.“

The Chocolate Cottage Café, Highfields

for the annual Broxburn Bash. You’ll catch bush poetry, food and fun and a variety of musical styles including some fantastic country music acts.

Be sure not to miss the series of larger than life murals throughout the area depicting the history of the town’s development.

Get tinkering now if you want to put the car on the track or take part in the legendary burn out competition at September’s Pittsworth Sprints – a fun weekend of time trials around a street circuit.

Consecrated in 1887, the National Trust-listed All Saints Anglican Church in Yandilla is the oldest building in the district and believed to be the second oldest church in Queensland.

Be sure to get a real taste for our regional flavours and get along to October’s Pittsworth Craft and Fine Food Spectacular. Local artisans present their hand-made crafts and regional foods for sale at the Town Hall with more than 60 stalls.

It's worth the 19-kilometre drive south of Millmerran to see the Mt Basalt reserve – a unique geological and environmental area featuring rare volcanic formations. There are a variety of walking trails and spectacular views of the surrounding farm lands and nearby power station from the Commodore Peak Lookout.

Millmerran The rich agricultural area of the Condamine and Macintyre catchments help to make Millmerran a prosperous rural town. If you’re travelling with a caravan or motor home, Walpole Park is a designated overnight rest stop within an easy walk of Campbell Street.

There’s a firm nod to the past at the Millmerran Museum, with something of interest for everyone from buildings and displays to memorabilia of times gone by. Don’t miss the prized “water baby” – a 28 foot steam vessel which was made at Yandilla Station in 1878.

Call into the Information Centre located at the Millmerran Museum, Charlotte Street, for the lowdown on what to do in the area.

Tosari Galleries, Toowoomba

Millmerran’s busy events calendar includes the classic biennial Australian Camp Oven Festival (next in 2016).

Not only can you throw a damper, you can eat your fill of camp oven tucker, hear bush poetry and listen to country music.

Other events to plan for include Millmerran Show on the first weekend in March; the annual Millmerran Sheep Races – a six-race program followed by a Calcutta in August, the Chisholm Trail, a single action shooting event, and the biennial (odd years) gathering of the Sporting Shooters Association of Australia for the National Open Rendezvous.

Boules, Preston Peak

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c i t s a t n ! s a n o i t F tina s e d y a d i l ho

day tours | weekend tours | extended tours

www.stonestreets.com.au | 07 4687 5555 36

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Abbie Lane, Highfields

A short drive north, the village of Cecil Plains is steeped in history and home of one of the largest cotton gins in Queensland. Drop into the 1933 Queenslander style Hotel Victory for Devonshire tea or a cold beer and have a chat with the locals.

Now a country stay bed and breakfast, the historic Cecil Plains Homestead was once the focal point of life on Cecil Plains Station, which was claimed in 1841 by Henry Stuart Russell. In 1844 and 1847 explorer Ludwig Leichhardt used Cecil Plains Station as the base for his botanical expeditions into the surrounding region.

time through a fascinating complex of historic buildings, machinery and collections.

At the three day Jackie Howe Festival of the Golden Shears held in September, you can see shearing demonstrations, bullock and horse teams in action, blacksmithing, fashion shows, vintage tractors and machinery and sheep dog trials. Visitors come from all over Australia to display traditional bush crafts and to be part of the atmosphere as steam powered machinery whirrs into action.

Try your hand at fishing for the elusive Murray cod on the Condamine River or stay a while in the Cecil Plains Rural Retreat Caravan Park which is located within close proximity to local attractions.

You can stay at the Woolshed in accommodation ranging from selfcontained cottages, rustic cabins and comfortable shearers’ quarters, to powered and non-powered van and camping sites. Enjoy delicious modern Australian cuisine at the Woolshed Café Restaurant which overlooks the surrounding pasture.

Jondaryan

Oakey

A quaint rural township and home to The Woolshed and Station Village, Jondaryan offers beautiful scenic outlooks and is easily accessible from anywhere in South East Queensland.

The Oakey area offers a real country experience – genuine country hospitality and the chance to make a deep connection with the town’s rich pioneering history. The Oakey Historical Museum has faithfully preserved the everyday lifestyle of the town’s forebears for new generations to enjoy. The collection is a must-see for every visitor.

Built in 1859, the Jondaryan Woolshed is Queensland’s oldest operating woolshed. You can join one of two daily guided tours to learn about the history of Jondaryan Station and its role in the development of pastoralism on the Darling Downs. Stroll back in

A popular drawcard is the Australian Army Flying Museum where you’ll see every kind of aircraft flown by the Australian Army since World War II,

Sally McCreath Felton Food Festival – Coordinator ”Winding down the window and taking a carefree drive along the narrow back roads through the Felton Valley is a magical experience and something I love to do. Many different crops are grown and the paddocks are a kaleidoscope of colour: every shade of green, the vivid yellow of sunflowers in bloom, the autumnal hue of ripening sorghum and the golden glow of wheat and barley is what makes this place so special.“

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Sunset, Cabarlah

including the latest high-tech military helicopters. There are other remarkable flying machines including a replica Bristol Boxkite as used to train pilots in World War I.

Goombungee and Kingsthorpe Take a quiet side-track from the Warrego Highway or New England Highway to find the hamlets of Kingsthorpe and Goombungee.

Kingsthorpe is just a 15-minute panoramic drive west of Toowoomba.

Stop at Mt Kingsthorpe Park lookout just outside of town, where a graded walking track from the car park to the summit provides expansive views

across the Darling Downs. The Gowrie pub has a crackling fire in winter and there’s always a cold beer on tap.

A little further on, Goombungee’s streets are lined with jacarandas and silky oaks, which provide a spectacular display in late spring.

The Pioneer Arms Hotel, dating back to 1897 is a great lunch destination serving hearty country fare and a warm welcome. The Rosalie Gallery hosts an ever-changing display of works by the region’s artists. And if you have your clubs in the car you’re welcome at the local, challenging nine-hole golf course.

Crows Nest Perched on the crest of the Great Dividing Range, the old timber town of Crows Nest lies amongst beautiful, undulating hills and is built around an attractive village green. In the centre of the green, known as Centenary Park, is the statue of Jimmy Crow, a local Aboriginal man, after whom some believe the town was named.

The streets are lined with striking old buildings that house an antique emporium, café, galleries and a museum. Centenary Park has won awards for its design, including its innovative underground water catchment.

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2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

This small town packs a lot of historical punch. Within an easy walk of the town centre, you’ll find Salts Antiques, Carbethon Folk Museum, the Regional Art Gallery and a community arts and crafts centre. After hoofing it around town make for the Applegum walk – a pleasant stroll along the creek between Bullockys Rest and Hartmann Park.

The Crows Nest Show is a significant regional event held annually in May. Pack a picnic to enjoy in nearby Crows Nest National Park where you’ll find birdwatching and bushwalking trails through the eucalypt forest. After rains you’ll see Crows Nest Falls in action and you may even spot a brush-tailed rock wallaby perched on high granite boulders.

Highfields Just a short drive north of Toowoomba along the New England Highway is Highfields, a blooming community with many unique and specialised art and craft stores. Beautiful parks, delightful walking tracks, lovely cafés and an historical village make this a lovely spot to spend a day or two.

With breathtaking vistas to the Bunya Mountains and a diverse range of local plants, the 4.7-hectare Peacehaven Botanic Park is one of the most outstanding public gardens on the Downs. You’ll find fresh air and an opportunity to immerse yourself in tranquil natural surrounds. Nearby Davidson Arboretum is a public park gifted to the people of the region by locals Ken and Mary Davidson, who spent 20 years planting more than 400 varieties of temperate deciduous trees, including some very rare species.

It is a wonderful spectacle of autumn colouring in May/June.

Highfields Pioneer Historical Village keeps alive memories of years gone by. You’ll discover a rare and unusual collection of vintage machinery, a fully operational blacksmith shop and a collection of restored antique radios.

Join in the annual Easter Vintage Festival held here over three days.

Along the highway you'll find Abbie Lane Arts and Craft Village, the famous Chocolate Cottage at the Village Green, Jacaranda Manor for gifts and snacks and Danish Flower Art are within close proximity.

Cabarlah Further along the highway is Cabarlah.

A great spot for a good country meal is the Farmers Arms Tavern, one of the longest continually licensed pubs in Queensland. Nearby is the original railway stationmaster's house which now is home to Colours of San Cris; a South American-themed shop full of colourful treasures.

On the hill is the Black Forest Hill Cuckoo Clock Centre, where you’ll find an impressive collection of cuckoo and grandfather clocks, and the Forest Hill Coffee House. Quality French antiques and giftware are located at Cyrano Maison de France, a short stroll away, with monthly markets held at the Cabarlah Sports Grounds.

Hampton At the top of the escarpment on the Great Dividing Range, Hampton is the picturesque village surrounded by forests and striking natural beauty.

At 715 metres above sea level, it’s the heart of the high country and home to a thriving arts community. Its rich volcanic soils and temperate climate make it one of Southern Queensland Country’s most

Open 7 Days from 8:30am - 4:30pm To book, please phone (07) 4692 2229 jondaryanwoolshed.com.au facebook.com/JondaryanWoolshed

At the heart of the Woolshed is the museum village. Rich in history, the Woolshed itself is the original sheep-shearing shed with tours running daily. Experience a tour of the museum, watch a shearing demonstration, visit the animal nursery, or take a horse and cart ride throughout the property.

Celebrate your special occasion in one of the world’s most unique venues. The Woolshed provides the perfect combination of vintage elegance and modern hospitality. Stay at the Woolshed as they offer camping as well as self-contained cottages and cabins with access to amenities.

You will love visiting the Woolshed at Jondaryan amongst the serenity of the Australian bush. Dine at the new Woolshed Cafe Restaurant with weekly specials and barista-made coffee! The Woolshed Cafe is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00am until 4:30pm and late on Fridays!

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Queens Park, Toowoomba

Cobb+Co. Museum

Hodgsonvale, en route from Toowoomba to Nobby

Highfields Pioneer Historical Village

productive food bowls, supplying much of the state’s rhubarb and avocados.

Stop to chat to a local at the Hampton Visitor Information Centre and browse the historic 110-year-old building.

If you’re travelling with a caravan or motor home, Chapman Park is a designated overnight rest stop within an easy walk of Flavours Café and a general store.

Each May you can join the locals at the Hampton Festival – a celebration of regional food, wine and music, along with the creativity of the region’s artists and craftspeople.

Hampton offers easy access to the Ravensbourne and Crows Nest National Parks, and nearby Lakes Cressbrook and Perseverance.

Ravensbourne Perched on the edge of the Great Dividing Range, Ravensbourne was a traditional bush tucker refreshment stop for Aboriginal people en route to and from the Bunya Mountains nut festivals.

Punctuated by patches of rainforest, the drive to Ravensbourne along the winding Esk-Hampton road is one of the prettiest in the region.

Ravensbourne National Park is a day-use park with short walks through rainforest and open eucalypt forest teeming with native birds. Gus Beutel’s Lookout provides a panoramic view over the Lockyer Valley and the Border Ranges, and offers a beautiful picnic spot.

Garden, Toowoomba

Spring Bluff Railway Station is located on the main railway line between Ipswich and Toowoomba. Its significance stems from nearly 150 years of railway history and the attraction of its prize-winning landscaped gardens. The grounds are open every day for visitors to enjoy a picnic or BBQ (electric) while the Spring Bluff Café is open from 9.30am – 4.30pm Thursday – Sunday for light meals, coffee or delicious treats. Spring Bluff Railway Station has been one of the most romantic outdoor wedding venues in the region due to its quaint country feel – such a magical atmosphere! Whatever the reason for visiting Spring Bluff Railway Station – picnic, Café coffee, family day, wedding, or just relaxing in the peaceful surrounds – you’ll love visiting this unique piece of paradise.

T 07 4688 6883 (General enquiries) • 07 5462 0367 (Wedding enquiries and bookings) • 07 4630 8177 or 0437 636 969 (Café enquiries and bookings) McCormack Drive (off Murphy’s Creek Road), Spring Bluff Q 4352 (just outside Toowoomba) • E claire.mcgovern@toowoombaRC.qld.gov.au • W springbluff.com.au

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Felton Food Festival

Sunflower field, Felton

Picnic Point, Toowoomba

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Gowrie

2014/15 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Guide

Fresh produce, Toowoomba

Ju Raku En Japanese Garden, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba

There’s a well-appointed camping ground at Lake Cressbrook or you can relax and revitalise in the high country air with a stay in self-contained accommodation amid Ravensbourne’s rainforest and rolling hills.

From Quinalow you can access the old Muntapa Rail Tunnel to see a bentwinged bat colony living within.

The park near the entrance has picnic tables and barbeques, a viewing platform and toilets. Interpretative signs detail the history of the rail and the 287-metre tunnel, which was dug by hand in 1913.

Maclagan and Quinalow

Cooyar

You can go bushwalking, boating, fishing, birdwatching or picnic at nearby Lakes Cressbrook and Perseverance.

Maclagan at the foothills of the Bunya Mountains, and close neighbour Quinalow, perched on Myall Creek, are friendly country towns.

Located north of Toowoomba on the New England Highway, Cooyar is a tranquil country village. The wide verandahs of the Cooyar Hotel are a friendly spot for

a drink and the lowdown on what to see and do around town. You’ll have to be up early or wait patiently at dusk to spot a platypus in Cooyar Creek, with the best vantage point from the suspension bridge in Swinging Bridge Park.

Each February Cooyar’s Agricultural Show features great country competitions, including a night rodeo.

Easily accessed from Cooyar, the tiny Palms National Park preserves remnant rainforest and a stand of piccabeen palms in a spring-fed gully.

B&B, Toowoomba

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Take a country drive

78km

Cecil Plains

Open Plains Steele Rudd Country Drive (Day Tour)

Toowoomba 40km

Destinations – Toowoomba/Cecil Plains/ Millmerran/Pittsworth/Cambooya/Nobby Take a country drive to meet the real Darling Downs through its publicans and locals. Drop into Rudd's Pub in Nobby to discover the history and characters that inspired Rudd’s On Our Selection and Dad and Dave stories. Delve further into local history via the Millmerran murals and Pittsworth Historical Village.

25km Cambooya

Pittsworth

45km

42km

22km

Felton

Nobby

Millmerran

Warwick

Cooyar

26km

Maclagan

57km

Farmers Country Drive (3⁄4 Day Tour) Destinations – Toowoomba/Oakey/ Jondaryan/Maclagan/Cooyar/ Goombungee Check out the Australian Army Flying Museum at Oakey en route to The Woolshed at Jondaryan. Take in the paddocks as you loop through farming country, stop in for a friendly beverage at one of the country pubs, or pop into a winery for a tasting before heading home.

35km

Goombungee

Jondaryan 15km

Oakey

28km

Kingaroy

High Country Drive (Half Day Tour)

Head to the hills for a walk in the cooler climes of the national parks and lakes around Crows Nest and Ravensbourne.

Visit the past at Highfields Pioneer Village and the historic Spring Bluff Railway Station. Recharge with a bite to eat in one of the quaint cafés.

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Lake Cressbrook

Crows Nest

Destinations – Toowoomba/Highfields/ Hampton/Crows Nest/Ravensbourne

Lake Perseverance

11km Hampton 19km Highfields

Toowoomba

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

18km

Ravensbourne

Esk

Toowoomba

ROCKHAMPTON TOOWOOMBA TAMWORTH

SYDNEY

Sydney to Rockhampton via Tamworth Sydney newcaStle Singleton MuSwellbrook Scone taMworth arMidale guyra glen inneS inverell tenterfield Stanthorpe warwick clifton toowooMba crowS neSt yarraMan nanango kingaroy wondai Murgon gayndah Mundubbera eidSvold Monto biloela Mount Morgan rockhaMpton

australiascountryway.com.au www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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South Burnett MUST-DOS: Walk, cycle or ride the old Brisbane Valley Rail Trail – Yarraman to Moore, crossing the Blackbutt Range Walk, birdwatch and breathe fresh air in the Bunya Mountains Picnic, fish and ski at Bjelke-Petersen Dam and Lake Boondooma Connect with nature at Coomba Falls’ hidden waterhole near Maidenwell Tour the region’s vineyards and cellar doors

MUST-SEES: Local woodworkers crafting timber treasures The sunset from Boat Mountain A country race meeting or agricultural show The nest of the bower bird adorned with collected blue ornaments – Bunya Mountains Browse local markets, interactive museums and artisan galleries

Captain's Paddock, Kingaroy 2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Bethany Cottages, Kingaroy

In Southern Queensland Country’s crowning glory, the South Burnett, you’ll find all the ingredients of a great country holiday. A good mix of places to stay and a warm welcome from the locals is just the start. There’s an exciting wine trail to explore, red soil paddocks yielding fine local produce, easy access to the wildlife, waterfalls and walking trails of the Bunya Mountains, great fishing and water sports at Lake Boondooma and BjelkePetersen Dam and night skies twinkling with stars. Escaping here means good family times, getting back to nature, fresh air and freedom.

Kingaroy Surrounded by picturesque farmlands interspersed with low rolling hills, Kingaroy is the largest town in the South Burnett and central to this diverse and beautiful region.

Well serviced by numerous large retail chains, and many services that you would expect to find in larger towns, Kingaroy plays host to a variety of accommodation options including modern motels, cabins/ caravan parks, cosy B&Bs, self-contained retreats, vineyard cottages and farm stays.

From here you can explore one of Australia’s most exciting new boutique wine regions. With a low-humidity climate similar to the acclaimed Hunter Valley, Kingaroy and the South Burnett are ideally suited for grape cultivation. The first vines were planted in 1995 and now you can visit and taste wine at five cellar doors nearby (plus another five in the Moffatdale region, near Murgon).

There’s plenty of variety to explore on the wine trail, at venues ranging from some of Queensland’s largest wineries to small boutique vineyards. Verdelho is the region's signature varietal, along with all the usual favourites, and exciting alternative varieties, such as sangiovese and viognier.

Kingaroy is renowned for its peanut production – you can’t miss the towering silos in the town’s centre. Stop off to try local icon The Peanut Van’s tasty range of more than 20 types of flavoured peanuts as well as boiled, chocolate-coated and roasted peanuts. Kingaroy’s rich soils also yield many other crops and there’s a growing gourmet food scene with chefs featuring local produce on menus at many of the award-winning restaurants and cafés around town (try the mouth-watering local Barker's Creek Pork).

Drop into the Kingaroy Visitor Information Centre in the town's Arts and Heritage Precinct to chat to locals who can help you plan your itinerary. Acting as a shopfront to the region’s locally produced products, arts and craft, the centre is a one-stop shop for a succinct snapshot of the region and an enjoyable space to browse local wares.

The precinct is home to Kingaroy Heritage Museum and a collection of historic buildings ranging from Carroll's Cottage (the first building constructed in Kingaroy) to the Shire's earliest council chambers, located next to the iconic Carrollee Hotel.

Bunya Mountains National Park

Taste South Burnett in Kingaroy’s CBD is a combined cellar door and providore where you can enjoy tastings of local boutique wines, regional gourmet produce (including award-winning Kingaroy Cheese) and a range of freshly made fudge. At Kingaroy Kitchen on Kingaroy Street you can sample and buy a wide range of freshly made country jams, pickles, chutneys and biscuits.

If you’re in town on the second Saturday of March get along to the South Burnett Wine & Food in The Park Festival. Apart from live entertainment, sampling local wines and food, you can learn more at the PCA South Burnett Regional Cuisine Showcase. Other major events to plan for are the Kingaroy Show and the Burrandowan Picnic Races both in May, and Motors in Motion in October.

Panoramic views can be enjoyed from lookouts at Apex Park and at nearby Mt Wooroolin, which is also a nature refuge where you might spy regent bower birds or the black breasted quail. Water birds can be studied from bird hides at nearby Gordonbrook Dam and the Wooroolin wetlands. The Visitor Information Centre can advise on access to these areas.

Star gazers set your sights on the new Kingaroy Astronomical Observatory (formerly located in Maidenwell), due to open at Kingaroy Airport in March 2015, in time for the total lunar eclipse on April 4.

Tours are available daily.

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Booie Range What a view! On the northern outskirts of Kingaroy, the Booie Range is fast gaining a reputation as a tourist must-do thanks to wineries, cellar doors, restaurants and boutique accommodation. The Range offers majestic panoramic views spanning hundreds of kilometres – north-east beyond Bjelke-Petersen Dam toward Gympie; east toward Amamoor, Kandanga and Coolum; and north toward Kenilworth.

At some 600 metres above sea-level, it’s one of the area’s prime spots to appreciate the vastness and beauty of the surrounds.

The Bunya Mountains The South Burnett offers easy access to the majestic Bunya Mountains, which, at an elevation of over 1,100 metres above sea level, are the region’s high point – in a variety of ways. Less than an hour from Kingaroy and Maidenwell, this natural wonderland is an offshoot of the Great Dividing Range formed about 30 million years ago and shelters the largest ancient bunya pine forest in the world today.

Traditionally, Aboriginal tribes used the Mountains as a meeting place. They feasted seasonally on roasted bunya nuts collected from the pines. Each protein-rich egg-shaped nut can be up to 30cm long and weigh 10kg. Be sure to sample some of the local bunya nut dishes on offer.

Declared a National Park in 1908, it is the second oldest in Queensland. You’ll discover a mix of moist, dense subtropical and dry sclerophyll rainforest, waterfalls, grasslands, open forests and woodlands.

Take to the walking trails to see native wildlife, wallabies and pademelons as well as 121 species of birds including brilliantly coloured king parrots, satin bower birds and crimson rosellas. The area offers the quiet allure of a retreat environment for families, groups and couples. You’ll feel the seasons change in the mountains.

Summer days are pleasantly warm, wildflowers and new growth signal spring, the trees change hue during autumn and in winter a mountain chalet is just the place to relax in front of a cosy crackling fire.

You’ll find everything you need for a day trip or an extended stay – coffee shops, licensed tea rooms, restaurant, general store, camp sites, cabins and holiday houses.

Blackbutt

Shannon Scott Owner TASTE South Burnett, Kingaroy “Our must do is a picnic at Mt Wooroolin, just outside of Kingaroy. The sweeping vistas of the Bunya Mountains, Gordonbrook Dam, the famous peanut silos and the picturesque red-soil pastures of the South Burnett provide a stunning backdrop for the place that we love. A platter of local deli goods, washed down with a glass of quality South Burnett wine, makes this the perfect beginning to a South Burnett adventure!”

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The distinctive song of the bellbird can be heard in the natural surrounds of Blackbutt, a pretty town, rich in history and heritage and framed by native flora and mountain views. Bushwalkers, cyclists and horse riders tend to use the Blackbutt Rail Head as their main access point to the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail – refer to the Yarraman section for more details. Blackbutt is also a great place to join the Bicentennial National Trail, a trail open to walkers, mountain bikers and horse riders which links up over 5000 kilometres of old stock routes along the Great Dividing Range from Victoria to Far North Queensland.

In town, next to the park, you’ll find the Visitor Information Centre housed in a replica of an old slab hut. Ask for advice on local art and directions to the Woodfired Bakery where you can buy one of Australia’s best pies. Cosy accommodation can be found at a range of quality establishments. If you’re travelling in September plan for The Bloomin’ Beautiful Blackbutt Festival, a celebration of agriculture, the beauty of the countryside and the local creative community.

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Yarraman Fringed by hoop pine plantation forests, bunya pines and picturesque grazing countryside, the timber town of Yarraman sits at the junction of the D’Aguilar and New England Highways. Hotel/ Motel, B&B, caravan park and cabin accommodation is available.

You’ll find a wealth of local information at Yarraman Heritage and Information Centre along with historical buildings and a museum featuring war memorabilia and displays of the timber and power industries. Held annually on the last full weekend of September, the Colours of Yarraman Festival is a community celebration of creativity through photographic competitions and displays, gardens, art and family activities.

Walkers, cyclists and horse riders can see nature at a relaxed pace on part of the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail. Commencing at Yarraman, with entry points in Blackbutt, Benarkin, Linville and Moore, the 161-kilometre recreation trail follows the old Brisbane Valley railway line along the western side of the Brisbane River, meandering through small towns and agricultural landscapes and concluding at Wulkuraka, west of Ipswich. Closed to vehicles, the trail is one the best places to see the elusive, endangered, ground dwelling black-breasted button-quail, which has been sighted in hoop pine thickets.

Maidenwell Maidenwell is a charming village at the gateway to the Bunya Mountains. Stop in at the quaint country pub for a beer or relax over lunch and a coffee at the Maidenwell Trading Post (home to locally-grown Yalbury Olive products). The magnificent Coomba Falls is just out of town. Be sure to fuel up in Maidenwell before you head up to the Bunya Mountains, as the next available fuel stop is not until you descend into Kumbia and Kingaroy on the other side of the mountain.

Nanango Queensland’s fourth oldest town and the second largest in the South Burnett, Nanango is a vibrant centre steeped in heritage while still retaining its tranquil rural charm. This friendly country town surrounded by vine scrublands and eucalypt forests enjoys cool summers and brisk winters. Tarong Power Station and Coal Mine are close by, and Nanango hosts the newly restored state-of-the-art South Burnett Energy Centre, on the Burnett

Maidenwell Pub, Maidenwell

Highway, where you can learn about energy generation and see original 1933 working motors. Be sure to stop by the centre for the children to stretch their legs and ride the power-generating bike complete with gumball reward.

Also on the D’Aguilar Highway are the Tipperary Flat pioneering displays that paint a vivid picture of life as it used to be. You can also visit nearby Ringsfield House – a large, grand turn of the century Queenslander designed by famed architect Robin Dods and faithfully restored and furnished to reflect its diverse history.

Lindsay & Rhonda Kath Owners Mulanah Gardens, B&B Cottages, near Kingaroy “While you’re in the beautiful South Burnett, make your first port of call one of our local Tourist Information Centres – there’s one in each town and the staff are a mine of information. The Kingaroy Heritage Museum is simply a must-see and take time to visit the Wondai Art Gallery and the Timber Museum – great local history and a fantastic display of local talent.”

Refuel your spirit Just three hours’ drive from Brisbane awaits the cool, peaceful air of the mountains.

The story of your visit is yet to be written.

Phone 07 4668 3126 90+ Holiday Homes and Chalets From Couples to Large Groups Host Functions and Weddings 11821 BUN SQC 182x85 Ad.indd 2

23/01/2014 3:08 pm

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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The South Burnett Experience

Walk, Cycle, Ride

Discover the beautiful South Burnett by doing a lot or very little. You can enjoy fishing, water sports, bushwalking, four wheel driving and exploring the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail or take a more laid back approach and visit the region’s wineries, markets and café scenes. The South Burnett is home to Bjelke-Petersen Dam and Lake Boondooma Dam and both of these sites along with the breathtakingly beautiful Bunya Mountains are a must visit on your South Burnett itinerary.

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Rail Trail Mountain views, the song of the Bellbird and the native flora meld with history and heritage on the trail which meanders atop the Blackbutt Range, affording a serene bush outlook with clear blue skies....

Discover the: • • • •

History of the Railway Line Upper reaches of the Brisbane River Bicentennial National Trail ‘Fettlers Rest’ Sculptures

Make your booking today to: • •

Robyn Gray Ph: (07) 5424 8138 Geoff Maudsley Ph: (07) 4163 0305

Use our facilities: • • •

Hitching Rails Toilet Facilities Shade for your lunch

Moore to Blackbutt to Yarraman Rail Trail

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

To discover all the region has to offer, visit

www.southburnett.qld.gov.au www.southburnettdirections.com.au For regional events listing visit www.southburnett.com.au .

Bunya Mountains

Dams Yallakool Caravan & Recreation Park on Bjelke-Petersen Dam villa & cabin accommodation powered & unpowered sites swimming pool & tennis court ensuited caravan sites camp kitchen dump point

Book your BP Dam stay today on (07) 4168 4746

ONLY 1 HOUR APART

and only a couple of hours from Brisbane

Lake Boondooma Caravan and Recreation Park self contained cabins powered & unpowered sites kiosk camp kitchen refuelling facilities walking tracks dump point

Book your Boondooma stay today onwww.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au (07) 4168 9694

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Bridgeman Downs Winery, South Burnett

Get into the country spirit at the local horse races – Lee Park Racetrack hosts six meetings a year. For racing of a more hairraising nature, the South Burnett Go-Kart track is also close by.

Other annual events where you can soak up the country vibe include the Nanango Show in April, Big Screen Australian Film Festival and the Nanango Arts Festival in May, the Nanango Country Music Muster in September and Mardi Gras in October.

Wondai Wondai is the ideal place from which to explore local art and craft, museums and Lake Boondooma. Between the towns of Murgon and Kingaroy, Wondai features cattle and grain growing country as well as grasslands interspersed with eucalypt forests. Here you’ll find art and heritage

Brisbane Valley Rail Trail

lining the streets, historic buildings and attractive landscaped parks and gardens.

Don’t miss the multi award-winning South Burnett Timber Industry Museum which includes a Woodcrafters Workshop where local woodworkers demonstrate their skills. Wondai Regional Art Gallery features a new exhibition the first Friday of each month. Be on the lookout for their Blue Pole Art dotted around the district. Nearby is the Wondai Heritage Museum where you can see the original operating theatre from the first hospital built in the region in 1915, and an historic bugle played at the Japanese First Army Surrender to the Australians aboard “HMAS Rockhampton” in the Dutch East Indies in 1945.

Have a beer and a yarn with the locals at the well-known historic Tingoora Hotel

Redrock on Booie offers stylish, intimate, private cottages on the edge of the Booie Range, with stunning panoramic views, peace and seclusion.

With direct access to the Bello Vista Restaurant, Captains Paddock Vineyard Cafe, and Cranes Winery, Redrock on Booie is the ideal retreat in the glorious South Burnett.

The cottages are self-contained and feature wood fires, spa baths, open decks and country breakfast hampers.

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about ten kilometres south of Wondai. It’s also worth stopping at Hivesville Hotel on your way to Lake Boondooma to see the impressive pressed metal ceilings and an extensive woodwork display.

Lake Boondooma Peaceful Lake Boondooma is paradise for anglers, campers, birdwatchers and water sports enthusiasts. The 1900-hectare dam was purpose-built across the Boyne River in 1983 to provide a water supply to the Tarong Power Station. A mix of 200,000 golden perch (yellowbelly), silver perch and Australian bass fingerlings are released annually into the dam, making it one of the most popular and consistent inland camping and fishing spots in South East Queensland.

Sign up for the Boondooma Fishing Competition held each February or try

With cool crisp nights all year round, the Booie Range is the perfect spot to unwind, de-stress, and discover the magic of the beautiful South Burnett.

So come and relax, refresh and revitalise. Pamper yourself in paradise at Redrock on Booie.You deserve it!

45 Millers Rd, Booie Range Via Kingaroy Qld 4619 • P: + 61 07 4162 4943 • E: info@redrockonbooie.com www.redrockonbooie.com

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Redrock on Booie

Bunya Mountains

your skill at numerous freshwater catch and release tournaments during the year.

Lake Boondooma Caravan and Recreation Park, on the foreshores of the dam, offers caravan and camping sites, a bunkhouse and cabins along with tennis courts, modern amenities blocks, a kiosk and landscaped picnic and barbeque areas.

camping and adventure tracks for fourwheel-driving enthusiasts are available at Manar Tourist Park on the Boyne River, around an hour from Lake Boondooma.

Murgon

You can see one of the oldest settlements in the area, just a short drive away at Durong. Historic Boondooma Homestead (circa 1850) and a cluster of historical buildings have been authentically restored and are open daily.

Amid tranquil bush land and diverse farmlands, the historic town of Murgon, settled in 1846, offers a relaxed pace and it’s the perfect base to discover the Barambah Wine Trail. The trail takes in the nearby winery area of Moffatdale where you’ll find the largest vineyard in Queensland and five vineyards and cellar doors within a 15-kilometre radius of Murgon.

Nearby Proston is noted as a major growing area for duboisia – a native tree valued for its pharmaceutical properties.

The Proston Show and Campdraft is held over three days each March. Onsite

Drop into Murgon Information Centre for maps of the wine trail and advice on local nature trails and the Tableland Scenic Drive. For an unsurpassed view across the South Burnett countryside head up to

Boat Mountain, a flat-topped ridge shaped like an upturned boat, which rises to 589 metres. Walking tracks allow birdwatchers and naturalists to see native flora and fauna in a virtually undisturbed habitat.

Murgon’s early dairy industry days are honoured in The Dairy and Heritage Museum, the only one of its kind in Queensland. The museum also has a range of telephones and manual exchanges, all in working order.

Moffatdale Named by original German settlers, Moffatdale lies in the heart of the South Burnett’s wine growing region. Home to many cellar doors and restaurants, it’s the perfect spot for a day or two exploring, sampling wine and indulging in gourmet food. Winery restaurants on the Barambah

Slow down, breathe deep, enjoy Bunya time.

• Accommodation - studio & 2 bedroom units, chalets • Elz Bistro & Lyrics Restaurant - both fully licensed

• General Store - local products, art gallery & souvenirs • Daily wild bird feeding

• 50 metres from Bunya Mountains National Park walking track entrances

Ph: 07 4668 3131 I E: info@thebunyas.com.au I www.thebunyas.com.au www.instagram/thebunyas I www.facebook.com/thebunyas Bunya Avenue, Dandabah QLD 4405

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Bjelke-Petersen Dam

Wine Trail offer everything from light lunches to sumptuous banquets, all matched to their quality wines. If you want to linger longer to enjoy more of the fresh air and country hospitality, you’ll find a number of modern B&Bs and farm stays.

Given the area’s close proximity to Murgon and Wondai, Moffatdale provides the perfect escape while still being close to boutique accommodation, shops and the South Burnett’s dams.

Bjelke-Petersen Dam (Lake Barambah) Just off the Murgon-Goomeri Road, nestled in the Moffatdale wine region, is BjelkePetersen Dam. At Yallakool Caravan & Recreation Park, right on the banks of the dam, you can access swimming, boating, water skiing and fishing – golden perch (yellowbelly) are the prized catch in these parts. You can camp, park a caravan on a powered or unpowered site or book a selfcontained villa. The park also offers a camp kitchen, swimming pool, picnic facilities and a kiosk. Yallakool is a great budgetfriendly holiday for all of the family.

Keep an eye out for black swans, ducks, pelicans and cormorants on the water as well as koalas in the eucalypts and wallabies and kangaroos who visit the water’s edge at dawn and dusk.

Kilkivan & Goomeri Kilkivan, at the north-eastern access point to the South Burnett, was the site of Queensland’s first gold strike in 1852.

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Stop off at the Rossmore Road Mine to get a feel for the gold rush fever that once swept the area.

You can join in with more than 1000 riders who trek along parts of the Bicentennial National Trail on the annual Kilkivan Great Horse Ride held in March.

If you’re in town on Sunday morning, you’ll find locally produced fruit, vegetables and craft at Kilkivan Markets in Lester Millar Park, between 7am–11am. Local country meats and produce from nearby Fat Hen Farm (olive oils, marinated olives and preserved lemons) are available at Kilkivan Meats on Bligh Street.

Drive on through to Goomeri to discover true country charm, and hunt for antiques and second-hand relics.

Goomeri’s popular Pumpkin Festival in May features pumpkin rolling down the main street and fantastic family entertainment. Stop into Goomeri Cheeseworld to put together a picnic of cheeses, olives and deli staples, or grab a meal and a beer at the beautifully restored hotel.

You’ll find a tranquil picnic spot and forest walking trails at Kinbombi Falls, just east of Goomeri off the Wide Bay Highway.

You can also discover the grand pastoral history of Boonara Homestead built in 1862 for David Jones (of department store fame). Here you can do a tour and enjoy a Devonshire tea in stately surrounds.

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Eleanor Sharpe Owner, Elz Bistro & Lyrics Restaurant, The Bunyas “I just love the drive to the Bunya Mountains. It really makes you slow down and breathe deep!

The windy roads and the always-green foliage as you reach the top of the mountain… you can just feel yourself relax.

Then the wallabies greet you and the smiles start, particularly if you have children with you. You are now on Bunya time!”

Take a country drive Wine & Heritage Long Weekend (4 Days) Destinations – Gympie/Kilkivan/ Goomeri/Murgon/Kingaroy/Nanango/ Bunya Mountains/Yarraman/Kilcoy

51km

Kilkivan Goomeri Murgon

Day 1 – Depart Brisbane and travel north through Gympie to Kilkivan, take in the antique shops and grab a coffee before continuing inland. Taste gourmet cheeses in Goomeri and sample the wines of the South Burnett. Overnight in Goomeri/Murgon/Moffatdale region.

45km

25km Gympie

Lake Barambah 60km

169km

Kingaroy

Day 2 – Head towards Kingaroy, take in more wineries en route and more cheeses on arrival. Overnight at a farm stay or cottage in the Kingaroy region.

24km

66km

Nanango

Bunya Mountains National Park

Day 3 – Visit Ringsfield House, a living museum in Nanango before heading into the majestic Bunya Mountains to bush walk and enjoy the scenery. Overnight in the Bunya Mountains.

Yarraman

Dalby

Benarkin State Forest

Toowoomba

Day 4 – Take a leisurely scenic drive back to Brisbane via the D’Aguilar Highway (northern route) or the New England and Warrego Highways (southern route).

68km Kilcoy

Brisbane

Kilkivan Goomeri

25km

Murgon Wondai 31km

Lake Barambah 60km Kingaroy

Grapes & Gourmets’ Drive (Day Tour) 66km

Destinations – Wondai/Murgon/ Goomeri/Kilkivan/Nanango Start this loop from Nanango in the south or Kilkivan in the north. Enjoy tastings and sales of award-winning wines, gourmet cheeses, local produce and friendly country hospitality. Don’t miss the famous Peanut Van in Kingaroy and visit the Peanut Wagon in Nanango.

Nanango

Bunya Mountains National Park Dalby

45km

Proston

Past & Present Drive (Day Tour)

Journey into the past through museums in Murgon and Kilkivan and the historic Boondooma Homestead. Discover the rich story of the region’s timber industry in Wondai. Meet the locals at the Hivesville and Tingoora hotels and enjoy the parks and lakes of the region on this day out.

Goomeri

201km Brisbane

Kilkivan 25km

Murgon

55km

Destinations – Kilkivan/Goomeri/ Murgon/Cherbourg/Wondai/ Durong/Proston

Benarkin State Forest

Toowoomba

Cherbourg

Wondai

71km Durong

31km

Lake Barambah

60km

Kingaroy 66km

Nanango

Bunya Mountains National Park Dalby

Toowoomba

Benarkin State Forest

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

Brisbane

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The Great Bunya Drive The Great Bunya Drive is a scenic self-drive route meandering through 390 kilometres of beautiful country landscapes between Toowoomba and Gympie, encompassing both the Darling Downs and South Burnett regions. There are wineries, gourmet cafés, heritage museums, country markets and stunning national parks waiting to be explored.

From Brisbane, head to the vibrant city of Toowoomba to begin your journey. Take some time to explore the city – there’s a lot to take in, from the spectacular views at Picnic Point to the fascinating displays and workshops at Cobb+Co. Museum. From Toowoomba, follow the Warrego Highway west through Oakey, Jondaryan and Dalby – stop off at the Australian Army Flying Museum at Oakey, the Woolshed at Jondaryan or the Dalby Pioneer Museum if time permits.

Kilkivan Goomeri

Murgon

Make your way north via Jimbour where you can view the historic heritage-listed Jimbour House; then head onwards through the picturesque country township of Bell.

From Bell, make your way to Bunya Mountains National Park, Queensland’s second oldest National Park. This natural wonderland was formed about 30 million years ago and shelters the largest stand of ancient bunya pines in the world today. The Bunya Mountains is a mix of moist rainforest, grasslands, open forests and woodlands and is home to distinct plant and animal communities, with over 30 rare and threatened species.

Travel towards Australia’s peanut capital Kingaroy via Maidenwell and Nanango. From here, make your way north-east towards Gympie, taking in the charming towns of Murgon, Goomeri and Kilkivan along the way.

51km

Gympie

Wondai Wooroolin 4

Crawford

Tingoora Memerambi

Kingaroy 24km

Nanango

Bunya Mountains National Park Dandabah

30km

Maidenwell

Bell 40km

Dalby 28km

Bowenville

Jondaryan

Oakey 28km

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Toowoomba

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Visitors' Guide

Brisbane 56

Seasonal Produce

Sutton's Farm, Thulimbah

This seasonal calendar is your ‘at a glance guide’ to produce in Southern Queensland Country. For more information on the other types of produce in the region, such as livestock or other crops, please contact the Visitor Information Centres listed in this guide.

IN SEASON CALENDAR

stonefruit

berries

table grapes

pears

apples

Fruit Hi Early/Red Delicious Royal Gala Jonathon Granny Smith Fuji Braeburn Sundowner Pink Lady Williams Packham Beurre Bosc Winter Cole Nashi Black Muscat Early Muscat Cardinal Purple Cornichian Red Globe Strawberry Raspberry Boysenberry Apricot Cherry Nectarine Peach Plum Persimmon Figs Olives

D J FM AM J J A S ON

Vegetables

D J FM AM J J A S ON

Beans Broccoli Brussel Sprouts Cabbage Capsicum Cauliflower Celery Chinese Cabbage Cucumber Eggplant Leeks Lettuce Parsley Peas (Green) Peas (Snow) Peas (Sugar Snap) Mushroom Pumpkin Rockmelon Shallots Silverbeet Spinach Squash Sweet Corn Tomatoes Zucchini

fresh cold storage summer autumn winter

spring

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Southern Downs and Granite Belt MUST-DOS: Bush walk at Killarney’s Queen Mary Falls Savour the region’s farm-fresh seasonal produce and locally made wine Swim, sail, water ski or fish at Glenlyon, Storm King or Lake Leslie Dams Embrace the chill and hear vibrant music at Warwick’s Jumpers & Jazz in July Follow the Granite Belt Strange Bird wine trail

MUST-SEES: Spectacular views from the top of Girraween National Park Walk Warwick’s “Heritage and Historic Building Trail” including Glengallan Homestead and Abbey of the Roses Stanthorpe’s picturesque Quart Pot Creek during the “Brass Monkey” season Bull riding at Warwick Rodeo Cultural diversity at wineries providing delicious food, beverages and entertainment

Abbey of the Roses, Warwick 2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Sutton's Farm, Thulimbah

An easy escape from Brisbane or the Gold Coast, the Southern Downs and Granite Belt is a region of diverse and rugged beauty, taking in the urban centres of Warwick and Stanthorpe, the quaint town of Killarney and a string of creative and friendly villages. There’s a rich history to explore and many delights for the senses. Here you’ll see autumn’s changing hues, taste juicy just-picked summer fruit and seasonal vegetables, feel spring’s revitalising energy and cosy up beside crackling fires in winter – and of course, enjoy Queensland’s most awarded wines.

It’s a place to get back to nature and reconnect with each other. You can explore untouched national parks, creeks and waterfalls, sample delicious local produce sourced from some of Queensland’s most fertile farmlands and hit the wine trail to meet winemakers at the cellar door.

There are plenty of places to rest your head, from caravan and camping sites to farm stays, cabins, motels, luxury retreats and friendly bed and breakfast guesthouses.

Warwick and surrounds

Sitting gracefully on the banks of the Condamine River, historic Warwick – known for its roses and rodeo – is home to some of the state’s finest original

sandstone buildings. Known as the “Rose and Rodeo Capital”, Warwick was settled over 150 years ago and has an interesting history. Pick up a copy of Heritage and Historic Building Trails from Warwick Visitor Information Centre and you’re on your way.

The trail takes in well-preserved churches, cottages, railway stations and schools. In the main street, the imposing statue of Thomas Byrnes pays tribute to the talented son of poor Irish immigrants, who, following his career in law, was elected as the local member in 1896. Byrnes became Queensland Premier in 1898 and died from pneumonia after only five months in office, aged just 38 years. His statue stands proud and tall but is not immune to local good humour when he is adorned with colourful scarves and a beanie for the annual Jumpers & Jazz Festival.

Two must-sees along the trail are the Warwick and District Historical Museum – the best place to discover life as it was from the 1890s to the 1950s; and Abbey of the Roses – formerly Our Lady of Assumption Convent, originally built for the Sisters of Mercy. For almost 100 years it was the ‘heart’ of Warwick’s Catholic community; in its new life it is a popular boutique guest house and function centre.

In Warwick, the “Rose City”, beautiful rose gardens are planted in the CBD;

Jocelyn Hancock Consultant chef and business woman “My connection to the Southern Downs, specifically Killarney, is certainly deep rooted and more than ever I’m passionate about the ‘great south east’, not just for the food it can produce. I love the Great Dividing Range, it’s rugged and diverse, full of ancient rainforest trees and great walks. The Killarney butcher shop sells fabulous local meats, local honey and free range eggs too; and they can usually tell you whose beast the rib fillet comes from. The Enchanted Garden in Warwick is a great nursery; Claire Cunningham has wonderful local plant knowledge to start your farmhouse garden and orchard. Spend half an hour at the pig auction at the Warwick pig and calf sale (Wednesdays from 10am). The auctioneers are amazing!

For me the area offers a complete rural environment: farmers, friendly locals, great soil and you are always in touch with the weather!”

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Spicers Peak Lodge, Maryvale

at the Visitor Information Centre, the Warwick and District Historical Society Museum and on the northern approach to the city.

Warwick celebrates winter in a big way with its iconic annual Jumpers & Jazz in July – a festival that’s a bit wacky, full of community spirit and a whole lot of country fun, celebrating everything wonderful about the season. Over ten days, art takes over the CBD streets, with 120 trees adorned with vividly coloured and often very comical textile installations ranging from knitting and crochet to felting, weaving and inventive creations with recyclables.

Live jazz, markets, delicious tastes and bucket loads of country hospitality are also on offer.

Warwick Rodeo

Warwick’s famous Rose and Rodeo Festival, held on the last weekend in October, boasts some of the country’s richest prizes. The rodeo began as a professional buck jumping contest in 1857, and now extends over a week and draws numbers in the tens of thousands, all keen to see the thrill of the bucking bulls, camp drafting and barrel races. The street parade and a sprawling market at Leslie Park are not to be missed. The tales and memorabilia of rodeo pioneers and champions come to life at the Australian Rodeo Heritage Centre.

Warwick’s famous son Jackie Howe, who still holds the blade-shearing world record set in 1892 for 321 sheep shorn in a day, is recognised with two memorials in Warwick – a sandstone sculpture of the

shearer in action sits in the rose garden outside the Visitor Information Centre, while a pod of wool bales with a giant set of blade shears atop sits in Jackie Howe Park at the northern entrance to Warwick.

Warwick has an enviable reputation for excellence in both horse power and horse sports, with Morgan Park home to world-class raceway and equestrian facilities.

A place not to be missed is Glengallan Homestead, 19 kilometres north of Warwick. This grand old home has been uninhabited for more than half its life and so it remains frozen in time. The 1867 two-storey sandstone Glengallan is an iconic heritage place, a rare example of a substantial 19th century country house

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2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

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Southern Downs Steam Railway, Warwick

in Queensland. Glengallan is a tribute to its visionary builder and to 19th century craftsmen, and also to the 21st century team responsible for the delicately balanced restoration that enables visitors to experience the best and the worst of its times. The careful renovation extends to the gardens with local history buffs taking care to re-create the garden bed shapes using plants of the homestead’s heyday. The site has a café and tours are conducted – and be sure to time your visit to catch the Glengallan Homestead markets – dates can be found at www.glengallan.org.au.

Steam train buffs should plan their visit to take a trip on the Southern Downs Steam Railway’s “Downs Dasher” C17

Steam Locomotive No. 971 built in 1950.

Runs operate monthly from Warwick to Clifton or Wallangarra. For details see www.southerndownssteamrailway.com.au.

Keen anglers can throw a line in the Condamine River, or enjoy shore fishing at Connolly Dam, a short drive south-east of Warwick off the New England Highway.

Nearby Lake Leslie Dam is a great picnic and swimming spot and is well stocked for shore and boat fishing.

A short drive north-east of Warwick you’ll discover the Goomburra section of the World Heritage-listed Main Range National Park. Here you’ll find flowing creeks, cascading waterfalls, prolific birdlife, koala colonies and walks

Killarney Bonfire Night, Killarney

through some of the best bush and temperate rainforests in the country.

The national park offers two open, grassy camping areas that hug Dalrymple Creek in the western foothills of the range. Or, adjoining the national park, you can camp at Goomburra Valley Campground or stay in cottages at Goomburra Forest Retreat. To experience what the late RM Williams described as “one of the most beautiful places in Queensland”, stay at Gordon Country, a 4000-acre high country working cattle property. Here you can camp creek-side or stay in a cabin. Activities include swimming in deep water holes, fourwheel-driving along the top of the Great Divide and challenging yourself on hiking and mountain bike trails.

WE ARE A FARM STAY WITH A DIFFERENCE OFFERING: • Self contained cabins • FREE farm activities • Guided bushwalks • Swimming pool • The best bush camping • Horse riding • Plus a Restaurant & Bar • Jumping castle for the kids

9790 Cunningham Highway, Maryvale Qld 4370 P: +61 7 4666 1282 E: bestbrook@bestbrook.com.au www.bestbrook.com.au

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Allora windmill

Southern Downs Villages From Warwick it’s an easy drive to explore the friendly villages of Allora, Killarney, Yangan and Leyburn.

Allora With a relaxed country town feel, Allora is a perfect rest stop. Try one of the three historic pubs for lunch, or pick a spot for a tranquil break in the parks which line the Dalrymple Creek that meanders through the town.

The author of Mary Poppins, PL Travers, lived in Allora as a child when her father Travers Goff managed the Australian Joint Stock Bank, now known as Mary Poppins House (circa 1880). A carved stone at the southern approach to town forms a monument to Mary Poppins.

Yangan

Allora features many timber buildings that showcase late 1800s and early 1900s architecture including the CBC Bank, the Railway Hotel, the old Shire Chambers, the Queensland National Bank, the Commercial Hotel and St David’s Anglican Church.

Killarney Killarney’s rolling green hills, deep secluded valleys and dramatic waterfalls offer picture postcard views and the best scenic country drives in the region. Once a timber and dairying town, it’s now a thriving mixed-farming district known for its premium beef and lamb, potatoes, onions, grain and timber. The Killarney Heritage Centre has a good collection of local historical photos, documents and small artifacts and specialises in researching local family history. Drop into

Willow Gallery, an artists’ co-operative on Willow Street (open 9am–4pm Friday to Monday and most public holidays), to see work by local artists and for visitor information, local tips and brochures.

And in the park opposite, you can catch Killarney Country Markets on the last Sunday of the month. You can make town your base, staying in pub, caravan or well-appointed cabin accommodation or opt to be closer to nature and set up your own camp.

Drive east into the mountains for Browns Falls, Daggs Falls and the spectacular Queen Mary Falls, where Spring Creek tumbles dramatically over a 40-metre cliff. This tranquil little spot is perfect for a picnic or a caravan or camping holiday in the mountains. Or you can stay in

stay@killarneyview.com.au www.killarneyview.com.au Cnr Claydons and O’Maras Road Killarney QLD 4373 07 4664 1522

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2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Queen Mary Falls, Killarney

comfortable cabins set in natural bush settings. Make sure you try “The Falls” café for gourmet burgers, Devonshire teas and wonderful home-baked cakes, best enjoyed outside on the deck overlooking the lovely grounds and bird feeding area.

Nearby, next to Carrs Lookout, you can stay at Spring Creek Mountain Cottages and their café offers fine cuisine featuring local produce along with spectacular views. Situated 1005 metres above sea level, the property overlooks breathtaking natural attractions – The Condamine Gorge, Wilson’s Peak, The Border Ranges and World Heritage-listed rainforest.

Yangan The village of Yangan sits on Swan Creek at the head of the picturesque Swanfels

Valley. The town was developed to serve the industries of the Swanfels Valley, with a police station, school and church existing prior to 1884.

The sandstone used in many of Warwick’s magnificent buildings including the police station and town hall, was quarried in this area.

The Yangan Masonic Hall, acquired by Yangan Lodge in 1912, was originally built as the School of Arts (circa 1898).

Made of local timber, it stands today as a distinctive landmark and symbol of the town’s former prosperity.

Leyburn Leyburn’s stately heritage streets roar to life each August, when thousands come to watch cars race in the historic

Leyburn Motor Sprint. Much more than the races, there’s also the Show ‘n Shine event featuring classic cars from the 1950s to today and the Retro Caravan Show. Drop in for a beer, a yarn and some real country cooking at the historic Royal Hotel. It’s one of Queensland’s oldest continually licensed pubs and has been a fixture in town for more than 150 years. Your heritage trail should include Leyburn School, circa 1862; Leyburn cemetery, St Matthew’s Catholic Church and St Augustine’s Anglican Church; Liberator Park which has a memorial to “Z Special Unit” stationed here in World War II; and Leyburn airstrip, the site for the first Australian Motor Racing Grand Prix in 1949. And don’t miss Leyburn’s amazing night sky.

Nearby Pratten was once a bustling goldfield. You can still try your luck at Thanes Creek fossicking reserve.

Stanthorpe and surrounds

At the heart of the Granite Belt, Stanthorpe gives easy access to big sky panoramas, spectacular countryside dotted with precariously balancing prehistoric granite boulders and a generally cooler, temperate climate (there’s even an occasional winter snow-fall!)

Originally established by tin miners in the 1870s, and gazetted in 1905 by the Queensland Government as “The Health Resort of Queensland”, the region is nowadays, thanks to its unique microclimate and granitic soil, recognised nationally for its winemaking and diversity of produce. Look out

Breathtaking views, superb cuisine, luxury self-contained cabins Waterfalls, walks and wildlife just two glorious hours from Brisbane

2 hours from Brisbane and the coast. Just 7km from stunning Queen Mary Falls. Follow us on Facebook for menus and special offers www.facebook.com/springcreekcafecottages www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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for apples, pears, berries, stone fruit, persimmon, figs, olives and a huge range of vegetables in season.

celebrates the harvest. It also includes a Food and Wine Fiesta and Markets in the Mountains.

Wander through Stanthorpe and surrounding villages and you’ll also discover award-winning artisan bread and meat pies, gourmet outlets, locally cured meats, hand-made jams and preserves, farmhouse cheeses, vinegar, chocolates, olive oil and of course the outstanding wines!

Several local tour companies run yearround tours of the winery trail and other attractions. Bookings can be made at the Visitor Information Centre. Tours are particularly popular during winter months, known as the “Brass Monkey Season”.

Grapes have been grown in the Granite Belt since the 1870s and the region is steadily developing a national reputation as a leading wine producer. You can taste whites including verdelho, semillon, chardonnay and sauvignon blanc; and classic full flavoured reds including shiraz, merlot and cabernet sauvignon varieties.

Unique to the region is the Strange Bird alternative wine trail, which covers some of the more unusual varieties including viognier, mourvedre and tempranillo.

If you’re more interested in the grain than the grape, there is even a microbrewery in Stanthorpe, Granite Belt Brewery, where you can sample seven locally brewed beers on tap including Kolsch, Pilsner, Wheat Beer, India Pale Ale, Irish Red Ale, a Porter and a specialty beer each season. Cheers!

Fancy a bit of barefoot grape crushing or getting to know the locals in a friendly apple peeling competition? The biennial Apple and Grape Harvest Festival, held each even numbered year in early March,

64

saffron further enhancing the region’s food culture.

The Granite Belt is home to the Queensland College of Wine Tourism (QCWT). You can do a wine tasting at the

What is wine without cheese? You can taste some of the region’s best made from Jersey milk at Stanthorpe Cheese.

Their milkshakes are also legendary!

Many Italian settlers made this region home, and eating out in Stanthorpe includes traditional Italian-themed restaurants and delis as well as winery cafés, a bake house and modern Australian cuisine. The local pubs offer traditional fare, plus everything from a cosy drink beside the fire to a cool ale in the beer garden on a summer's evening.

The district also offers a variety of international cuisine including German, Thai and Italian.

Stanthorpe’s “make it, bake it, sew it or grow it” quality craft market is held on the second Sunday of each month and on long weekends at the Stanthorpe “Market in the Mountains”. On the first Sunday of the month you’ll find The Border Railway Markets and a new café at the historic Wallangarra Railway Station.

Keen foodies should look out for local meats, almonds and chestnuts, wild asparagus and wild fennel, with crops of

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

James Halliday Australian wine writer and critic, winemaker and senior wine competition judge “The truly excellent quality of the wines currently coming from the leading wineries of the Granite Belt has set the benchmark for their worthy counterparts in South Burnett. These wines confidently stand comparison with Australia’s best.”

College’s Banca Ridge Cellar Door and lunch on dishes featuring local produce at their Varias Restaurant. The College’s “Winemaker for a Weekend” course guides you, ‘hands on’, through the art of winemaking in a sensational food and wine experience. Monthly cooking classes and “Meet the Maker” tours to local farms are also on offer.

In late spring/early summer beautiful fields of lavender are a photographer’s dream and shoppers can find an excellent range of lavender gifts on offer year-round.

Check out what’s on at Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery, renowned for its exhibitions of both national and local importance. There is a constantly changing exhibition schedule and a permanent collection of almost 900 pieces displaying everything from works on paper to ceramics to sculpture by noted Australian established and emerging artists as well as local artists.

The gallery is open six days a week – 10am to 4pm Tuesdays to Fridays (closed Mondays) and 10am to 1pm Saturdays and Sundays.

To trace the history of the Granite Belt, first visit the well-presented Stanthorpe and District Historical Museum. Then follow the Heritage Trail, which reveals significant historical landmarks and brings to life the stories of old. You’ll discover Wallangarra Railway Station, the panoramic views of the Soldiers’ Memorial built to mark the end of the Boer War; the beauty of Red Bridge; impressive historic buildings including El Arish (Place of Rest) built as a summer house for Major Chauvel, the Federation Post Office, and the Masel Residence – one of Queensland’s first examples of modern international architecture.

Just south of Stanthorpe, Girraween National Park is a favourite for bushwalkers and campers. It offers spectacular granite rock formations and stunning wildflower displays during spring. Girraween, meaning “place of flowers”, is ideal for families with a choice of easy short walks (15 minutes) through to longer walks (3 – 4 hours) through preserved natural environments.

An information centre on site offers a wide range of booklets and brochures about the geography, animal and plant life and history of the national park.

Top Wineries James Halliday, Australia’s most respected wine critic, rates several Granite Belt wineries highly:

★★★★★ Boireann Wines Golden Grove Estate Sirromet Wines (Granite Belt vineyards, Mt Cotton Cellar Door) Symphony Hill Wines Jester Hill Wines Ballandean Estate Summit Estate

★★★★ Heritage Estate Ridgemill Estate Tobin Wines Twisted Gum Wines

★★★★ Ravens Croft Wines

craft beer

OPEN DAILY FROM 10AM

• craft beer on tap • tasting paddles • brewery viewing lounge • • meals available • cabin accommodation •

Ph: 07 4681 1370 • 146 Glenlyon Drive, Stanthorpe granitebeltbrewery.com.au

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Diamondvale Cottages, Stanthorpe

Contact Stanthorpe Rare Wildflowers Consortium on (07) 4683 6374 for information, booklets and free tours.

Adjacent to Girraween are Bald Rock and Boonoo Boonoo National Parks.

Bald Rock National Park has the largest granite rock formation in the southern hemisphere, providing excellent views over the surrounding terrain. At Boonoo Boonoo National Park you can view the river as it cascades down a sheer rock face into the gorge below.

Nearby Sundown National Park has peaks rising over 1000 metres and is largely wilderness. Although most of the park is four-wheel-drive territory, the campsites at the western corner are accessible by two-wheel-drive vehicles.

It’s a brilliant walking and birdwatching destination. Keep your eye out for more than 150 species including the

turquoise parrot (a park specialty), azure kingfishers, diamond firetails and redcapped robins. You could also spot laced monitor lizards, eastern grey kangaroos and red-necked wallabies.

You’ll spot many water birds at Storm King Dam, ten kilometres south-east of Stanthorpe. Take a picnic to this picturesque rural setting and throw in a line or paddle your canoe.

Granite Belt Villages From Dalveen in the north through Ballandean to Wallangarra on the New England Highway, you’ll discover many small towns and villages surrounding Stanthorpe.

It’s a small but interesting hop between each, adding up to a superbly satisfying journey.

Dalveen Just off the highway at the start of Granite Belt Drive, Dalveen is a growing artisan village. You can buy work by local artists and craftspeople including leadlight, handmade porcelain dolls and unique fashions. The Granite Belt Drive (formerly known as The Fruit Run) runs to Applethorpe, just north of Stanthorpe. Driving parallel with the New England Highway, this route provides access to a number of wineries, eateries and local food providers.

Thulimbah Straddling the New England Highway at Thulimbah, a range of providores offer specialty items, local produce and meals. Here you’re in the thick of “apple country” – the only place in Queensland with just the right climate and growing conditions for premium apple orchards.

And of course it wouldn’t be the Granite Belt if there wasn’t a winery or two nearby!

Storm King Dam, Stanthorpe

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2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Vineyard, Ballandean

The Summit Find Queensland’s highest railway station here or get lost in the maze. The area also produces more than 100 varieties of wine, liqueurs and specialty products.

Amiens Heading west along Amiens Road you’ll find an area of post-World War I soldier settlements: Fleurbaix, Bullecourt, Passchendaele, Bapaume, Messines and Pozieres. Along this drive route are also many fine wineries. Near Pozieres follow the signs to a rock formation called Donnelly’s Castle. You can picnic here and enjoy panoramic views from what was once a hideout of “Thunderbolt”, a bushranger who roamed the New England Tableland.

Carrs Lookout, Killarney

at Vineyard Cottages and Café on the highway, then head west to Ballandean Estate, Golden Grove Estate, Bungawarra and Tobin Wines. Head east to find Symphony Hill Wines, Twisted Gum Wines and Hidden Creek Winery & Café in the foothills of Girraween National Park.

Wyberba A few minutes’ drive south from Ballandean, Wyberba is a small village alongside Girraween National Park. Try the mourvedre at Pyramid Road Wines

and stop at Girraween Estate’s cellar door for a taste of their sparkling wine and other award winners. Drop into Heavenly Chocolate to be tempted by ice cream, local gourmet treats and 17 flavours of handcrafted chocolate. Stay in Wyberba or camp in Girraween National Park to explore the park’s huge granite boulders towering above open forests. Enjoy wildflowers in spring, climb The Pyramid for great views of Balancing Rock and immerse yourself in nature on more than 30 kilometres of walking trails.

Severnlea Just south of Stanthorpe, the village of Severnlea is a centre for commercial fruit production and also topaz fossicking.

You’ll find several wineries in the area including Lucas Estate and Savina Lane Wines.

Venture off the highway down side roads and byways, as these provide access to farms stocked with seasonal stone fruits and berries.

Glen Aplin Set in the hills above Glen Aplin, the Bramble Patch is a boutique gourmet food manufacturer specialising in tastings and sales of nationally awardwinning, hand-made gourmet jams, dessert sauces, meat sauces, relishes, vinegars and fortified berry wines.

Glen Aplin is also home to a number of wineries. Don’t miss Mt Stirling Olives along Collins Road, Glen Aplin.

Ballandean Ballandean has the largest cluster of wineries on the Granite Belt. Stopover

Golden Grove Estate, Ballandean

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Goldern Grove Estate, Ballandean

SAMPLE 30 CELLAR DOORS & A FLOCK OF STRANGE BIRDS ON THE GRANITE BELT Take a scenic 3-hour drive from Brisbane and discover an elevated region of dramatic beauty, with cool summer nights and log fire winters.

It’s part of Queensland yet it’s another country.

The longer growing season produces cool climate wines of elegance and complexity - wines as individual as a fingerprint.

A host of cellar doors offer a personal, unhurried wine experience.

You can try superb alternative varietal wines - known here as Strange Birds - as well as many other award-winning mainstream wines.

Come up to another country sometime soon.

www.granitebeltwinecountry.com.au

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2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Ask for your copy now

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

Dawn from the Pyramids, Girraween National Park

Take a country drive Scenic Rim and Southern Downs Long Weekend (incl The Falls Drive with 14 River Crossings option) (3 Day Tour) Destinations – Brisbane/Boonah/The Falls/Killarney/Warwick/Toowoomba Day 1 – Depart Brisbane and head towards Boonah in the Scenic Rim, stop into a country pub or café for lunch.

Settle into a farmstay or eco-cabin before taking a bushwalk. Overnight Scenic Rim.

Day 2 – Head south via the spectacular Falls Drive. For the committed walker a stop off at Moss Gardens is worthwhile. Stop at Carr’s Lookout and the famous Spring Creek Café for a coffee or lunch before travelling to the Queen Mary Falls lookout and circuit. The day ends with a pleasant drive into Killarney or onto Warwick.

Overnight Killarney or Warwick region.

Day 3 – Explore the Warwick region including the Australian Rodeo Heritage Centre and the Jackie Howe Memorial in the morning before continuing on your way to Brisbane or Toowoomba.

Day 2 4WD OPTION – Take the 14 River Crossing route off Spring Creek Road and follow the Condamine River to discover this beautiful river and gorge system (check conditions at the Boonah Visitor Information Centre prior to departure).

Brisbane

Toowoomba

108km

85km

Main Range National Park

Boonah

Lake Moogerah Yangan

Warwick Lake Leslie

56km

The Falls 33km

Killarney

Vineyards and High Country (4 Day Tour) Destinations – Stanthorpe/Warwick/ Toowoomba/Crows Nest/Kingaroy/ Murgon/Goomeri Day 1 – Enjoy a sample or three of the award-winning wines from the vineyards around Stanthorpe before heading north to Warwick. Take in the Memorial for legendary shearer Jackie Howe and other heritage sites before moving onto Toowoomba. Overnight Toowoomba.

Koreelah National Park

Mount Barney National Park

Day 3 – Take a walk in one of the national parks before travelling further north to the South Burnett. Enjoy wineries, cheese tasting and regional heritage exhibits and sites. Overnight in Kingaroy/Murgon region.

Day 4 – Continue to indulge in the awardwinning wines or sample the multiple flavours of nuts available from the famous Peanut Van in Kingaroy and the Peanut Wagon in Nanango.

Goomeri

Murgon 62.5km Kingaroy

108km

Crows Nest

Toowoomba

Day 2 – Shop, dine or just relax in famous Queens Park for the day before heading further north along the range. Overnight at a B&B or cottage in Ravensbourne, Hampton or Crows Nest.

85km

Warwick 61km Stanthorpe

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Take a country drive Southern Country Loop (4 Day Tour) Destinations – Goondiwindi/Texas/ Glenlyon Dam/Stanthorpe/Warwick/ Allora/Toowoomba/Pittsworth/ Millmerran/Goondiwindi (580km) Day 1 – Depart Goondiwindi and travel along the border to Texas via Yelarbon.

Experience the heritage of the area at the Texas Heritage Centre and Tobacco Museum and make an appointment to view the Texas historical rabbit processing works. Overnight Texas.

Day 2 – Head to Glenlyon Dam for a spot of fishing or just to relax on the shore.

From here continue onto Stanthorpe and sample award-winning cool climate wines. Also pick up some fresh regional produce from roadside stalls and markets. Overnight in Stanthorpe at a B&B, cottage or retreat.

Day 3 – Travel north to Warwick, take in the Australian Rodeo Heritage Centre and the Jackie Howe Memorial and grab a coffee at one of the cafés. Continue onto Toowoomba which offers a range of town and country experiences, shop til you drop, take in an exhibition at the Regional Gallery, dine at an award-winning 161km restaurant or catch a performance at the Empire Theatre.

Overnight Toowoomba.

Goondiwindi Day 4 – Depart town 92km for the country, stop in at the Pittsworth Pioneer Historical Village and Museum before taking in the historical murals of Millmerran depicting various stages of the region’s history. Enjoy a hearty meal and country hospitality at one of the pubs en route before finding yourself back in Gundy (Goondiwindi).

Toowoomba 81km Pittsworth Western Creek State Forest

Millmerran

58km Allora 25km

Wondul Range National Park

Warwick 61km

Inglewood 54km Texas

94km Glenlyon Dam Sundown National Park

Stanthorpe Girraween National Park

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au Condamine River, Warwick

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Goondiwindi and surrounds MUST-DOS: Picnic in the Botanic Gardens Sample fresh local produce at the annual Gourmet in Gundy Enjoy many activities including water skiing at the Natural Heritage and Water Park Compete in the Hell of The West Triathlon Indulge in retail therapy

MUST-SEES: Sunset over the Macintyre River Customs House Museum (Wed – Mon) Jacarandas in full bloom in late spring Hell of the West Triathlon winner cross the line!

Statue of the mighty Gunsynd

Goondiwindi town 2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Gourmet in Gundy

Sitting peacefully on the banks of the Macintyre River at the junction of five major highways, Goondiwindi is a well-established border town. Its name was derived from an Aboriginal word Goonawinna meaning “the resting place of the birds” – and it’s the perfect place for travellers to rest awhile and spend some time. With all you could want by way of amenities, an interesting history to explore, great food and warm country hospitality, it’ll be time well spent.

The QLD/NSW border is marked by the great Macintyre River, which creates a scenic backdrop for this friendly and prosperous country town.

You’ll find it’s a vibrant, contemporary place with excellent facilities and amenities and its river frontage provides a unique and tranquil setting for one of Queensland’s fastest growing rural communities.

Photographers often turn their lenses to the heritage buildings and country landscapes. In late spring you’ll see a breathtaking display as jacaranda trees lining the streets burst into full purple bloom.

Home to around 6,000 locals and servicing approximately 15,000, its neat tree-lined streets, well maintained public buildings, sporting facilities and relaxed town centre are a good measure of the community spirit and civic pride you’ll find here. That, naturally, extends to welcoming travellers to join in the activities, events and festivals and the local way of life.

You’ll find a range of accommodation here and once you’re settled there’s shopping, dining and so much more to do around town and beyond.

Marshall and Herbert Streets offer a terrific range of shopping experiences. You’ll find everything from gifts and home wares to quality clothing stores. Since you’re in these parts why not look the part and treat yourself to a new pair of boots, moleskins and an Akubra hat from one of the local country outfitters?

Marshall Street is also eat street with many chic cafés where you can indulge in a good coffee, country-style cakes and baked goods as well as tasty light meals. The locals love to eat well and you will too!

If you’re visiting in September make sure to time your stay to coincide with the cultural celebration that is Gourmet In Gundy. The annual festival features the best of local food, wine, art and music. The weekend is full of sporting and cultural events and is a true community get-together and a highlight of the cultural calendar. Also in September is a highlight of a different kind – a country kind no less – the Plucked Duck Bachelors and Spinsters Ball is a shindig you’ll only find in the country.

The social calendar is quite a busy one with many other not-to-be-missed events. Late January there is the not for the faint-hearted, self-explanatory Hell of the West Triathlon. Gluttons for punishment can return in March for “Torture on the Border” a triathlon run

Liesl Richards Administrator Hell of the West Triathlon “Don’t miss Goondiwindi Water Park – it’s free and the facilities cater for everyone. You’ll find a playground for the kids, amenities, swimming area and barbeques. It’s bliss to sit back under a shady tree, watching the boats on the ski circuit, or you can work up an appetite exploring the signed walking tracks. Be sure to keep an eye out for birds and other outback wildlife.”

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Goondiwindi Visitor Information Centre

by our nearby neighbours in Texas.

Easter on the Macintyre is becoming a popular weekend of events for visitors to experience real Goondiwindi hospitality.

Throughout the year Goondiwindi hosts several race meetings which are a chance to mix it with the locals. The River Jam Music Concert competition and the muddy action of the Gundy 400 Off Road Races are other event highlights. Current dates for all events can be found on www.goondiwindi.qld.au.

On a self-guided walk around town you’ll find the iconic Victoria Hotel, built in the era of Queen Victoria and then added to in the 1920s. The Vic features some of the most outstanding architecture in Goondiwindi. Situated in the heart of the main street, you can’t miss this old dame – a sturdy building of brick and timber, with a criss-cross of dark panelling and

white lattice on its facades, stainedglass windows and doorways, crowned by an ornamental (and slight off-kilter) tower. An eye-catching building indeed: a picturesque mix of Victoriana and Jazz Age, with a dash of Early Colonial.

Be sure to drop by the Gunsynd Statue located near the original Border bridge. It commemorates the famous “Goondiwindi Grey” – a racehorse who was bought for a measly $1200 by four partners (The Goondiwindi Syndicate) with the aim of winning a local bush race. The Grey went on to win 29 races including the Cox Plate and the four big mile races: The Doncaster, The Epsom, The George Adams and The Toorak in one season.

Needless to say he won the hearts of punters in the late 60s and early 70s.

Across the road in the Library Complex, the Gunsynd Memorabilia Tribute displays

photographs and information about this champion horse. You will find the Visitor Information Centre in the same building.

You’ll get a good feel for the local history with a visit to the Customs House Museum (open 10am–4pm, Wednesday – Monday). A border customs point before federation, this authentically restored building and its magnificent cottage garden house a rich and colourful collection of mementos from yesteryear.

Also in the grounds is Martha’s Cottage, built in 1875.

Primary production and agribusiness are a vital part of the local economy. You can gain an appreciation for living on the land by joining Goondiwindi Top Tours threehour guided bus tour of Goondiwindi Cotton, a cotton gin and a cotton farm (Monday to Friday).

time Explore Goondiwindi region – it will be u Websites: grc.qld.gov.au • goondiwindi.qld.a texasqld4385.com.au • inglewood.org.au

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well spent

Nature at her best Connecting with nature is a precious part of life here. Birdwatchers will find an amazing array of birdlife in the local area – download the special Birdwatchers brochure from www.goondiwindi.qld.gov.au or pick up a fishing and camping guide from the Visitor Information Centre.

There are many parks and gardens where you can relax and breathe the fresh country air. Pack a picnic and take your time enjoying the botanic gardens of the Western Woodlands.

Early birds can catch the MacIntyre at her best on an early morning walk or at the other end of the day, it’s magic on a sunset stroll. Enjoy water skiing and other water sports at the Natural Heritage and Water Park.

Goondiwindi and surrounds is noted for some of the best inland fishing in Australia. Local rivers run with golden perch (yellowbelly) and Murray cod. For tips on bag and size limits and seasonal fishing regulations pick up your free Camping and Fishing Guide from the Visitor Information Centre.

Venturing further afield, Lake Coolmunda is an easy half or full day trip, just 12 kilometres east of Inglewood on the Cunningham Highway.

Waterway, Goondiwindi

At capacity the lake stretches 1740 hectares and is a magnet for birds and especially popular with water birds and waders. There are some pretty picnic spots along its tree-lined shores and if you have your own canoe or boat there’s a launch ramp. Water skiing is a popular activity and excellent fishing can be enjoyed from either a boat or off the shore.

An hour south-east of Goondiwindi you’ll find the Yelarbon Desert and Spinifex Country. This geologically distinct area is characterised by a naturally occurring salinity scald, and this naturally hostile environment results in some unique vegetation and habitat, including spinifex grass (Triodia scariosa).

Many animals live in this harsh environment including seven species of frogs, seven species of reptiles, a species of native, mouse-sized marsupial and nearly sixty species of birds. Stop and take a walk through the spinifex.

Inglewood Midway between Goondiwindi and Warwick on the Cunningham Highway you’ll find Inglewood, sitting peacefully on the banks of the serene Macintyre Brook.

Established in 1862, this friendly country town is blessed with fertile agricultural lands and is home to a thriving rural economy and just over 1000 people.

Once a significant tobacco producing area, these days the focus is on sheep and cattle grazing, timber milling, and the farming of fodder, grains and horticultural crops. While you’re in town sample and take home some local produce including wine, olives, olive oil and high quality honey.

Inglewood is an RV-friendly town with camping available by the Macintyre Brook for fully self-contained motor homes and vans. Directly opposite is

Heritage Centre, Inglewood

the popular Lions Park with travellers’ rest area and many play activities for the children. Enjoy a walk on the sealed walkways along the river bank into the recently rejuvenated central business area where you can explore an interesting range of local shops. For travellers there’s a great mix of high quality, old-fashioned service, modern facilities and a diverse range of country activities.

the town’s restful park; fishing, boating, water skiing and sailing on beautiful Lake Coolmunda; taking in the perfume at the award-winning lavender farm and shop. Don't forget to call into the Inglewood Heritage Centre, diagonally opposite Lions Park, and view the Australian Tobacco Museum display along with written and pictorial records of Inglewood and the surrounding district from its earliest days.

The area is renowned for its natural beauty and one of the best ways to explore is on a local tourist drive. Drop into the Information Centre on Albert Street for maps of the local attractions.

If you’re visiting in late winter or early spring you’ll see and smell the beautiful wildflowers that dot the countryside.

You can also tour an olive grove and find out all about the process from the planting to the picking and finished products. Tours of most local attractions are by appointment and contact details can be found on www. inglewood.org.au .

There’s plenty else to see and do in and around Inglewood including: strolling in

Enjoy birdwatching for the numerous species present including colourful grass parrots, wrens, raptors and the rare regent honey eater. Keep an eye

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Gunsynd statue, Goondiwindi

Customs House, Goondiwindi

Mark Hinchliffe Freelance Journalist and Founder of MotorbikeWriter.com “It was both an honour and fun to be part of the committee that established Texas as the first mainland Australian motorcyclefriendly town. The fun part is the rollercoaster nature of the roads around the town that provide panoramic vistas at every challenging turn. There are roads here to suit every type of bike and I’m enjoying exploring them all.”

Cotton farm, Goondiwindi

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2015/16 2014/15 Southern Queensland Country Travellers' Visitors’ Guide Guide Gourmet in Gundy, Goondiwindi Tobacco barns, Texas

Macintyre River, Goondiwindi

out too for the unique Inglewood wattle and the native cypress. You may even spot a platypus in a quiet stream.

Drop in to see the friendly locals and collect some brochures at Texas Information Centre on High Street.

“Catch the Country Spirit”, spend a few days here and you’ll reconnect with nature and get very used to the relaxed country lifestyle the friendly locals love.

The Texas Cultural Centre and Regional Art Gallery is a must-see with regular touring and local exhibitions as well as the outstanding photographic display of the 2011 flood. Before you start exploring get your bearings at Beacon Lookout, which offers panoramic views over the area.

Texas Within easy reach of Goondiwindi is the tiny town of Texas, perched on the banks of the peaceful Dumaresq River. Here you’ll find excellent fishing, great camping spots and the serenity of rural landscapes.

Texas was named over a land claim in the 1850s, which bore many similarities to one happening at the same time in the Republic of Texas and Mexico in the United States. In recognition of this, Pecan Park is planted with pecan trees donated by the people of Texas in the United States. The town was established on the river flats in 1875 but was later relocated after the disastrous floods of 1890 and 1921. You’ll see that remnants of the original historic township still exist.

Texas has an interesting tobacco growing past, an era extensively recorded in the Texas Heritage Centre and Tobacco Museum.

Farming of sheep and cattle is the dominant industry today, with fodder, cotton and horticultural crops adding to the mix. Texas is also home to the largest cattle feed lot in Australia and a silver mine situated in the historic Silver Spur mining area.

Great for fishing, canoeing, picnicking, four-wheel-driving, hiking and camping, the Dumaresq River winds through gentle

hills and rocks and is crossed by the historic weirs of Bonshaw, Cunningham and Glenarbon. The fertile river flats are dotted with old tobacco barn relics and grape vines now flourish alongside many other crops.

Texas is the first official motorcyclefriendly town in Australia and maps of suitable routes for motorcycle enthusiasts can be found at www.southernqueenslandcountry.com. au/destinations/texas.

Texas is an RV-friendly town with camping by the Dumaresq River available.

While you’re here, throw a line in the river or in the spectacular Glenlyon Dam to discover what the locals think is the best Murray cod fishing in Australia.

Glenlyon Dam also offers camping, sail boarding and canoeing.

Cunningham Weir marks the spot where explorer Allan Cunningham crossed the Dumaresq River in 1827. To learn about this story and many more

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Pelicans, Lake Coolmunda

from the area’s rich past, visit the Texas Heritage Centre and Tobacco Museum housed in restored local historic buildings.

Restoration of the old Riverside Freezing Works and Rabbit Processing building is underway. It is believed to be the only existing rabbit works left in the country. The building also houses a collection of antique motors and memorabilia and can be viewed by appointment.

Nearby the 14,000 hectare Sundown National Park is mostly four-wheeldrive only territory, with campsites at the western corner accessible by two-wheel-drive vehicles. It’s a brilliant walking and birdwatching destination.

Each September the Texas Country Music Round Up brings together country performers and music buffs, bush poets, and even gospel singers.

There's an old-time dance too, so start practising your fox trot!

The Texas Cup Race meeting every December is the other major event becoming very popular with visitors keen to experience the colour and spectacle of a unique bush race and friendly local hospitality.

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Sunset, Moonie River

www.leichhardtway.com

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au ASK FOR A BROCHURE AT YOUR NEAREST VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

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Victoria Hotel, Goondiwindi www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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St George and surrounds MUST-DOS: Throw a line in at Dirranbandi in search of the great Murray cod Enjoy a cheese platter over a free wine tasting at Riversands Wines in St George Enjoy a sunset Sandytown River Cruise along the Balonne River in St George Learn more about the local cotton industry on St George’s self-drive cotton trail Tackle a 5kg roadtrain burger at the Nindigully Pub, perched on the banks of the Moonie River

MUST-SEES: Hand-carved illuminated emu eggs at The Unique Egg, St George Aboriginal dreamtime artwork along the Wallam Creek walkway in Bollon JB Cameron’s 1881 original QLD/NSW border surveyor’s peg, the One Ton Post at Mungindi Colourful artwork by John Murray adorning the front of the Hebel Hotel Thallon’s impressive grain silos

Balonne River, St George

Nindigully

Perched on the banks of the mighty Balonne River and towered by beautiful river gums, St George is an oasis in the bush. Life here is easy with the river the source of rest and play for the friendly locals who welcome visitors to share their town.

Get your bearings with a walk along the two-kilometre stretch of shady riverbank walkway flanking the town. Below the Jack Taylor Weir is where explorer Major Thomas Mitchell crossed the Balonne River back in 1846 and gave St George its name.

Better still, pack a few drinks and nibbles and jump on board a Sandytown River Cruise. As you idle down the middle of the river, sit back and enjoy the views and abundant birdlife including pelicans, cockatoos and eagles. Book a leisurely afternoon cruise, fishing tour or full moon evening cruise.

Keen anglers won’t be disappointed. The Balonne Shire has a reputation for the best inland fishing in Queensland, with seven river systems traversing it. Settle in at the

The Balonne Shire is a great place to stop en route to the Outback and to help you plan your trip you’ll find plenty of information at www.beautifulbalonne.com.au or YouTube “Balonne Shire Council Visit Here” for a sneak preview.

Nindigully Just 45 kilometres south-east of St George,“The Gully” as it’s locally known, is pretty much four houses and a pub on a riverbank.

But what a pub, what a view and what characters you’ll find! Perched on the banks of the Moonie River, Nindigully Pub (established in 1864) vies for the position of Queensland’s oldest continually licensed pub. It’s like something out of an outback movie, in fact, the film Paperback Hero was filmed here and the café’s boomerangs remain perched in place.

You’ll have no trouble unwinding on the verandah of the pub as it hums with the chatter of travellers

riverbank for a quiet afternoon in search of the great Murray cod and yellowbelly. There are also plenty of quiet spots to picnic and throw in a line like Beardmore Dam and Jack Taylor Weir.

There is no shortage of fishing events to keep the family entertained; Dirranbandi Family Fishing Competition over Easter, Dirranbandi Carp Buster in October and the annual St George Family Fishing Competition in September.

If country music is your thing then head to St George on the third week of July for the Yellowbelly Country Music Festival. It’s a great week of country music, bush ballads and other fun activities. There’s a range of accommodation options including caravan

and locals alike, enjoying happy hour and live acoustic music. Pack your appetite as the challenge of the “road train” awaits – a whopper burger, big enough to feed you and 10 of your closest mates.

There are plenty of spots to immerse yourself in bushland – nature has right of way here. Set up your caravan or tent among the scenic tree-lined riverbank at the Nindigully Tourist and Visitor Area (free camping) or book into one of the pub’s rustic rooms.

Further south from Nindigully, along the Carnarvon Highway, head onto the townships of Thallon and Mungindi.

parks, hotels, motels or the St George showgrounds.

You’ll have a whole new appreciation for the humble egg once you’ve visited the Unique Egg in St George. You’ll see the work of local character and artisan Steve Margaritis – “Stavros” to his friends – who has created the world’s only display of carved, illuminated emu eggs.

Down tree-lined streets you’ll find great coffee, gourmet delis, award-winning restaurants and quality pub grub. And don’t miss a visit to the most westerly winery in Queensland – Riversands Wines.

Wile away the afternoon with a free, personalised wine tasting at the cellar door followed by scones and home-made jam or

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DeliCate, St George

Hebel Pub

a cheese platter and a glass of wine in their shady country garden. Check out the wine labels which feature country characters and legendary locals. Looking for a unique souvenir? Browse the “shoe rack”, where boots of politicians and outback heroes are fashioned in pottery and filled with port. If you visit at Easter, Riversands hosts Easter In The Vines.

Thallon Further south from Nindigully, head onto the township of Thallon where you will find the relaxed free camping area located at the Thallon Recreational Grounds which includes toilets and showers. The Francis Hotel is a pub not to pass! Serving homemade food and barista-made espresso coffee let your taste buds dance amongst the old walls and artefacts of the pub; write a postcard and send to your family and friends at the post office located within the pub. If you arrive later in the day, Francis Hotel offers accommodation and “real deal” pub meals. If you forgot some groceries the hotel has a general store where phone credit is available.

Hebel

Dirranbandi

In the little town of Hebel it feels like time has stood still, leaving behind tales of the Ned Kelly gang, Cobb & Co and dance halls. Hebel Hotel is a gem of a country pub. Colourful artwork by John Murray adorns the front of the pub, with the interior decked out in recycled furniture made from reclaimed bush finds. It’s the kind of quirky place you’ll want to linger to get to know the locals over a cold beer. Hebel General Store and Caravan Park has kept much of its original 1890s dancehall character and offers amazing home cooked cakes, desserts and meals. By night it’s a restaurant under the stars complete with white tablecloths and flowers on the tables.

En route to Hebel, stop for a coffee, a shop and a look around Dirranbandi, the town that marks the end of the South West rail line. As you enter town you’ll pass by the levee bank, which is famous for having saved the town from flooding on more than one occasion. Be sure to pull in and stretch your legs along the walkway at picturesque Jack Dwyer Memorial Park upon the riverbank.

Spend the afternoon fishing or setting the yabby pots in the Bokhara River, just a stone’s throw from the main street. There are caravan and camping sites as well as airconditioned accommodation on offer in town.

Use Hebel as your base for visiting the untouched Culgoa Floodplain National Park, a good side trip for campers and birdwatchers. This is nature at its best so be prepared to be totally self-sufficient.

Guy Wilkinson Travel Writer/Photojournalist guywilkinson.com “A visit to St George is all about the characters you’ll meet in an authentic country setting.

You’ll find the best of them at the nearby Nindigully Pub, about a 20- minute drive out of town. If you’re lucky, you may even catch local bush poet Mark Thompson who’ll treat you to a searing rendition of poetry from the likes of Henry Lawson and Banjo Paterson while you blow the froth off a couple and watch the sunset over the desert plains.”

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On a visit to Railway Park, you’ll find the old waiting room, the original parcels office and the 1913 Station Master’s residence, which is now the Rural Transaction Centre and provides visitor information. A bronze statue in the centre of town celebrates the remarkable story of Aboriginal man Tom Dancey, the 1910 winner of Australia’s most famous foot race, the Stawell Gift.

Mungindi Mungindi is a town which straddles the Barwon River, with either side of the river marking the border between Queensland and New South Wales.

In the thick of the bush just outside of Mungindi, the One Ton Post stands out as a remarkable physical monument erected by surveyor JB Cameron to mark the end of the arduous three year task of surveying the straight section of the Queensland/ New South Wales border, from Cameron Corner to the Barwon River. The One Ton Post was placed on the west bank of the Barwon River near Mungindi to mark the end of the survey of the 29th parallel (degree of latitude) in October 1881.

On the northern outskirts of Mungindi sits the iconic sandstone Two Mile Hotel. Pull over for a counter meal and play a game of pool in true pub style while listening to the tunes from the jukebox. While you’re having your beer, check out the

Riversands Winery, St George

lacquered mahogany bar with charred shrapnel embedded in it; they’re the only remnants of the fire that destroyed the original hotel back in 2010. The pub was originally established in 1908. The “2 Mile” as it’s locally known, offers a handful of motel rooms and backpacker accommodation.

Bollon Bollon township sits on the banks of peaceful Wallam Creek. The free caravan and camping area complete with showers and toilets is the perfect spot to rest up for a few days. Take a stroll into Bollon along the new 1.2-kilometre creek-side walkway. Keep an eye out for emus strolling the streets.

Spend the afternoon retracing Bollon’s rural history at the Heritage Centre or browse around the historical shearing display at Deb’s Café.

For serious campers and four-wheel-drive enthusiasts, Thrushton National Park is 60 kilometres north of Bollon via dirt roads.

Experience St George and surrounds your way. Do you prefer to chill out on your own, meet other travellers or get to know a local? Whether you imagine quiet nights by the campfire or the lively atmosphere of a country pub, turn your dreams into reality when you visit the west. As the sign on the Bollon Pub aptly sums up “there are no strangers here, just friends you haven’t met yet”.

Fishing Balonne River, St George

Campdraft, St George www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Balonne River, St George

Balonne River, St George

Birdwatching, St George

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Wallam Creek,2015/16 Bollon Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Unique Egg

Camping, Surat

Take a country drive Cecil Plains to Tara Fishing Tour (7 Day Tour) Destinations – Cecil Plains/ Millmerran/ Goondiwindi/Nindigully/Thallon/Dirranbandi/ St George/Surat/Meandarra/Tara Day 1 – Begin your Western Country fishing adventure at the Cecil Plains Weir.

After a few hours in the fresh air take your appetite to Millmerran for a bite to eat and stock up on supplies. After lunch travel to Yarramalong Weir for an afternoon of relaxed fishing. Stay the night at the Weir or make your way back to Millmerran and enjoy the famous Southern Queensland Country hospitality.

Day 2 – Get an early start and leave Millmerran for Goondiwindi Town Common which is good for bank fishing. Spend the morning fishing then catch lunch in

Goondiwindi. Head for the Goondiwindi boat ramp and unwind. Spend the night in Goondiwindi enjoying the local scene and chatting with colourful country characters.

Day 3 – Leave Goondiwindi for Lalguli Reserve near Talwood for your morning fishing fix. Make your way to Nindigully, have a bite to eat at the famous pub and spend the afternoon fishing the banks of the Moonie River. Spend the night at the Nindigully Pub or camp on the banks of the river.

Day 4 – From Nindigully follow the path of the Moonie River to Thallon and wet a line at Barney’s Beach. Enjoy lunch at the local pub then head to Dirranbandi for a spot of fishing at the Balonne Minor Bridge. From here make the afternoon drive to Wallam Creek at Bollon and spend the evening camping under a starry sky.

Surat

83km

Tara

Meandarra

Day 5 – Travel to the Jack Taylor Weir at St George for a spot of morning fishing.

Head into town for lunch and then on to Beardmore Dam. Spend the night in St George and indulge in some authentic country tucker.

Day 6 – Say farewell to St George and make your way to Bingi Crossing just past Surat. Have lunch in town and then on to Beldene Waterhole. Travel back to your accommodation in Surat for the night.

Day 7 – Leave Surat and head for Brigalow Creek at picturesque Meandarra. After lunch it’s on to Tara Lagoon for an afternoon of fishing. Overnight in Tara before heading home or on to your next adventure.

Dalby

89km

66km 88km

117km

Bollon

Cecil Plains

Toowoomba Pittsworth

Millmerran

113km St George 160km

106km Nindigully 65km Dirranbandi

158km 33km Thallon

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Roma and surrounds MUST-DOS: Celebrate the excitement of Easter in the Country with friends and family in Roma Take in the history of an Australian icon with a journey along the Cobb & Co Way – the route taken by the last Cobb & Co Coach Service in Australia Experience the thrill of picking a winner at the Roma Picnic Races (March) and Roma Cup (November) Treat your taste buds and sense of adventure at the Food and Fire Fest in Roma – (September) . Spend a day relaxing as you soak in the mineralised waters of the Great Artesian Spa, Mitchell

MUST-SEES: The Big Rig Oil Patch and Night Show, Roma Roma Saleyards cattle auctions – every Tuesday and Thursday Cobb & Co Changing Station Museum, Surat on Balonne Art Gallery and the 25,000-litre Window to the Balonne fresh water aquarium, Surat The awe-inspiring and unique Carnarvon, Expedition and Nuga Nuga National Parks, to the north of Injune and Mitchell The vibrant colours of native birds and waterlilies in bloom from April to October at Judd’s Lagoon (Yuleba), Beranga Creek (Surat) and Lake Nuga Nuga (north of Injune)

Southern Centre, Queensland Big Rig Oil and2015/16 Gas Interpretative Roma Country Visitors’ Guide

Roma Races, Roma

trees – each a memorial to a local soldier who lost his life in World War I. Wander back through time along Roma’s Historical Walk, taking in significant landmarks – including the Roma Court House where the infamous cattle thief, Harry Redford (“Captain Starlight”) and his white bull were star attractions during his trial. During your walk, see the Three Dimensional Clay Mural at Roma’s Community Cultural Centre.

Built on rich pioneering history, Roma’s many historic buildings and public sites are well preserved. Take a stroll along the heritage-listed Heroes’ Avenue – a walk around town that’s planted with 140 bottle

The Big Rig Oil and Gas Interpretative Centre and Night Show gives an interactive insight into the hardships and heroic stories of oil drilling and exploration in the region. Visit the “Oil Patch” to get up close

Be part of the action at Roma’s cattle sale, the largest in Australia. Time your visit to experience the excitement of the sales held every Tuesday and Thursday. Take a tour with a local farmer or stockman while witnessing the sale of up to 13,000 head of cattle in a single day.

Muckadilla “Mucka”, as the locals call it, is a small town with an impressive history. Make sure

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Roma is just a short flight from Brisbane, or an easy drive destination at the junction of the Warrego Highway and the Great Inland Way. Roma’s rich history and signature events including the Picnic Races, the Roma Cup, Food and Fire Fest and Easter in the Country, create lasting memories and tempt travellers from all walks of life.

to impressive rigs and gain a fantastic insight into the progress of Australia’s oil and gas industry. Nightly, the outdoor light and sound show tells the story of Roma’s early oil and gas exploration and the Great Fire of 1908.

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Finding yourself amid the action of a cattle sale at the Roma Saleyards is just a taste of what life in south-west Queensland is all about.

Mt Abundance Homestead, Roma

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Saleyards, Roma

Judd’s Lagoon, Yuleba

Courtney Bylett (on right) Nurse – Royal Flying Doctor Service “Roma Cup is an event my friends and I look forward to every year; it’s where city and country come together. People travel from all over to catch up with old mates, enjoy a cold beer, a punt and maybe even the chance to meet someone new!

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2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Easter in theGuide Country Bush Poets’ Breakfast, Roma

For years I camped at the track, which is fun, but now I prefer the comfort of an air conditioned hotel room where I can pull the curtains and sleep in the next morning! In my younger days I liked the track-side action, these days watching from the members’ tent is more my scene; where the drinks are poured by the nip and one can sit down with mates to enjoy platters of food before dancing the night away.”

St Paul's stained-glass windows, Roma

Visitor Information Centre, Injune

you visit the native gardens, Leichhardt Monument and Whistle Stop, which are all fine examples of the wonderful sense of community found in abundance here.

Yuleba Yuleba, located on the Warrego Highway, mid-way between Roma and Miles, is the site where Cobb & Co scheduled its very last horse-drawn coach mail run on 16 August, 1924.

You can retrace the last Cobb & Co run and visit sites such as the Cobb & Co Mural, Aboriginal native wells (also a pleasant picnic spot) and Cobb & Co Corduroys – where cypress pines were laid to make roads passable in a bygone era.

Take the time to stop in at the general store for supplies and just across the road at Garth Cox Park you will find a perfect shady spot for a barbeque. The park is home to Yuleba’s cenotaph, where the town’s fallen are honoured.

Yuleba’s scenic Judd’s Lagoon and Wetlands is abundant in flora and fauna, providing a tranquil natural backdrop for bush camping.

Wallumbilla If you stop for freshly baked scones with jam and cream at Wallumbilla’s Calico Cottage and Visitor Information Centre, you’re sure to meet a local who will happily give you the rundown on what to see and do.

The “Billa”, as the locals call it, is known for its friendly hospitality and relaxed pace.

Take time to savour a “cuppa” and browse the Cottage’s local produce, arts and crafts.

Wallumbilla’s Heritage Centre offers interesting interpretative displays and historic memorabilia. At Wallumbilla Railway Station learn about the district’s tragic rail disaster of 1956, where the Westlander and the Western Mail collided.

Jackson Located just 25 kilometres east of Yuleba on the Warrego Highway, Jackson is a small town with a wonderful history. Stop at the Jackson Playshed, once the old school house, to learn about the early days of life on the land and the growth of this unique area.

Injune and surrounds Tucked at the foot of the majestic Carnarvon Ranges, 90 kilometres north of Roma on the Great Inland Way, the thriving township of Injune is the perfect base for exploring.

Aboriginal people lived in the area 19,500 years ago.

Injune is strong in community spirit and visitors are warmly welcomed to join in local events. For a true taste of the country, visit during April’s Golden Bit Campdraft, or “Injune – Where Country Is” in May. In June you can enjoy a delicious meal around the campfire at “Injune in June”.

From Injune you can experience the stunning natural beauty of the Carnarvon Gorge and Mt Moffatt sections of the Carnarvon National Park, or explore the untouched beauty of Nuga Nuga National Park and the Lonesome and Beilba sections of Expedition National Park. Don’t miss the breathtaking view of Arcadia Valley, just off the highway.

Well equipped to service travellers, Injune welcomes visitors to their supermarket, café, fuel stations and a range of accommodation. Relax in Henricks Park, a local volunteer project that hints at the history and progress of Injune. Stroll along the lagoon walk, which meanders around a tranquil bush lagoon. The main street is dotted with “Characters of Injune” – sculptures that tell the tales of local characters and their exceptional pioneering history.

The region is very special – home to some of inland Queensland’s most diverse flora and ecosystems. In this unique environment you could spy 201 bird species and 60 species of mammals, nine species of fish and 20 species of bats.

Carnarvon National Park is one of the best and most easily accessible places in the country to see Aboriginal rock art galleries; carbon dating of rock art sites tells us that

Debbie Duff Tourism Officer Maranoa Regional Council – Injune “We recently visited the Lonesome National Park lookout, and watched the sun colour the sandstone cliffs pink as it set in the west.

Earlier we walked along the river, and watched the birds feed on the nectar of the Dawson River bottle brush.

A long way away we could hear a dingo calling his mate. We had a lovely time taking photos and enjoying a glass of wine at sunset.”

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Mungallala Hotel

Great Artesian Spa, Mitchell

Cobb & Co Changing Station, Surat

With an abundance of natural pastures and resources, Injune is a microcosm of outback development, from old time soldier settlement farms to the modern day activities of cypress pine milling, cattle grazing and gas fields.

Oh and you’ll no doubt see the Dingo Barrier Fence, just north of Injune – it’s not to keep you from leaving town; this 2,500 kilometre fenceline is the world’s longest and was constructed to protect the 26.5 million hectares of grazing country.

Mitchell and surrounds Famous for its mineral springs, Mitchell is just 87 kilometres west of Roma via the Warrego Highway, situated on the banks of the Maranoa River.

Many a weary traveller has found bliss floating in the thermal mineralised waters of the Great Artesian Spa. It’s relaxing for the body and therapeutic for the soul. Located in Mitchell’s aquatic centre, the Spa offers two large pools 92

– one warm and one cool – of natural artesian water. It has been designed for easy access, with a hydro chair for those with restricted mobility.

It’s well worth a visit to working property and fully restored homestead Bonus Downs, built in 1911 by Australian pastoral legend, Sir Samuel McCaughey.

You can explore magnificent sandstone formations, native ecosystems and take in magnificent panoramic vistas at numerous sites throughout the area. The Mt Moffatt section of Carnarvon National Park is easily accessed from Mitchell and offers an abundance of wildlife including over 250 bird species in the area.

Movie buffs can relive the magic and romance of an old picture theatre and go behind the scenes with a visit to the original projection room of the Maranoa Theatre.

Make your first stop the Heritage Museum – packed full of local history.

Follow this with a visit to the Kenniff Court House – the original courthouse where local bushrangers, the Kenniff Brothers, were committed to stand trial in 1902.

Don’t miss Major Mitchell’s Campsite – established in 1846 on his fourth expedition to map an overland route from Sydney to Darwin.

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The Tooloombilla Rodeo and Campdraft, Mitchell Show, Camel Races and Ute Muster and Rabobank Mitchell Art Show are yearly highlights. Christmas in the Park rounds off the year each December.

Mungallala Mungallala was the original site of a Cobb & Co Changing Station, then a railway town and more recently a cypress mill. Follow in the footsteps of a bygone era – stop and rest the “horses”, feed the passengers and catch up with local news.

Amby This quaint town is well known for its country hospitality – so stop and meet

Commercial Hotel, Roma

Carnarvon National Park

Calico Cottage, Wallumbilla

the locals, pull up a stool at the Amby Hotel or take up the challenge of the 9-hole “no horse” golf course.

and the Window to the Balonne aquarium – a 25,000 litre fresh water aquarium displaying a range of native fish species.

Surat and surrounds

Just around the corner is the Astor Theatre – an outstanding example of 1920s architecture and originally an open air theatre.

Great fishing on the Balonne River is just one of many reasons to spend time in the picturesque town of Surat, midway between St George and Roma on the Great Inland Way. Early mornings are gold for birdwatching, fishing and for active types, there’s water skiing and jet skiing. The Balonne is an angler’s paradise and locals are only too happy to swap fishing tips and recommend favourite spots to wet a line.

Steeped in the history of Cobb & Co and the “boom time” of wool-growing, Surat is a “must-see” for any history buff. The Cobb & Co Changing Station, the original site of the Cobb & Co Store and a “dropoff” point for coach travellers, is now a beautiful museum. The complex is also home to the Surat on Balonne Gallery, featuring local and travelling exhibitions,

Surat

Visit the Aboriginal Interpretative Shelter, which displays family histories of Aboriginal families who lived on the site in the mid-1900s.

Nature lovers and photographers visiting from January to May will love Beranga Creek with its blanket of colourful waterlilies.

Events and festivals are an important part of Surat’s social calendar. Pick up that special local memento at the Riverside Markets held quarterly from February, or try your luck at the Family Secret Weight Fishing Competition and Carp Busters in June and the Surat Diggers Races in September.

Carnarvon Gorge, Injune

Take a country drive The North Western Fishing Trail (7 Day Tour) Destinations – Lake Cooby/Highfields/ Dalby/Chinchilla/Condamine/Miles/ Injune/Roma/Mitchell/Yuleba Day 1 – The day begins at Lake Cooby.

Stop at Highfields for lunch and then drive out to Dalby via Toowoomba for an afternoon of fishing at Loudoun Bridge.

Camp here or head back to Dalby for a night on the town embracing western hospitality at its best.

Day 2 – Off to the Jandowae Dam and then on to Archers Crossing just outside Chinchilla. Have a picnic lunch and spend the afternoon fishing before making your way to accommodation in Chinchilla.

Day 3 – See the sunrise at the Chinchilla Weir and fish until hunger gets the better of you. Have a pub lunch in downtown Chinchilla before making your way to Caliguel Lagoon at Condamine. Spend the night at the Lagoon or enjoy a local farmstay experience.

Injune 91km Mitchell

Roma 87km

Yuleba 59km

Day 4 – Leave Condamine and make your way to Gil Weir at Miles. Have lunch in Miles and then travel on to Injune via Roma. Stay the night and make sure to pick up some supplies for tomorrow.

Day 5 – Leave for Lake Nuga Nuga and spend the morning fishing. Have a picnic lunch and then travel to Roma. Stay in Roma for the night and experience the Big Rig night show or meet locals in one of the numerous pubs.

Day 6 – Travel a bit further west to Mitchell, and visit the Great Artesian Spa. Pick up some more supplies, and continue your relaxing day with some fishing at Neil Turner Weir before camping the night.

Day 7 – Say farewell to Mitchell and travel to Yuleba. Have a picnic lunch in Yuleba and spend the afternoon fishing at Judd’s Lagoon. Stay the night at the Lagoon or make your way to Miles for some Southern Queensland Country style hospitality.

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Lake Cooby 22km Toowoomba

Wallumbilla Heritage Complex

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Bulimba Bluff Walk, Carnarvon

Take a country drive Coast to Carnarvon (4 Day Tour) Destinations – Brisbane/Toowoomba/ Dalby/Roma/Carnarvon Gorge (720km) Day 1 – Depart Brisbane and travel west to Toowoomba. Enjoy lunch at an awardwinning restaurant before visiting the regional gallery and taking in a show at the Empire Theatre. Overnight Toowoomba.

Carnarvon National Park

Carnarvon Gorge

Day 2 – Continue west towards Dalby, visit The Woolshed at Jondaryan en route.

Enjoy country hospitality and a hearty lunch in Dalby before continuing on to

Roma. Visit the Big Rig, a living memorial to Australia’s pioneers of the oil and gas industry and take a walk back in time through the informative plaques of the Roma Heritage Trail. Overnight Roma.

Day 3 – Travel north towards Emerald through Injune before turning west towards Carnarvon National Park. Stop into the Ranger Station in preparation for walking the Gorge the next day.

Ring ahead to book a guide to get the most out of the experience. Overnight Carnarvon Gorge.

Day 4 – Walk the spectacular Carnarvon Gorge.

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Dalby Visitor Information Centre (07) 4679 4461 Chinchilla Visitor Information Centre (07) 4679 4491

From Taroom

Miles Visitor Information Centre (07) 4627 1492

From Roma

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our western downs

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Located only 209 kilometres west of Brisbane, Our Western Downs is a vibrant region, rich in attractions and destinations, such as Jimbour House, Miles Historical Village Museum and the Meandarra ANZAC Memorial Museum.

Our region plays host to a number of vibrant and colourful events. These are unique to our western downs and include events such as Chinchilla’s Melon Festival, Opera at Jimbour, Jandowae Timbertown Festival, Tara’s Festival of Culture and Camel Races, the Miles Beef Bells and Bottle Tree Festival and Dalby’s Delicious and DeLIGHTful Festival.

Before you explore our region visit our website or drop into one of our freindly Visitor Information Centres to absorb some of the local knowledge. While you are there, be sure to grab one of our local and regional guides to help introduce you to the area. They are packed full of things to see and do, along with an insight into the history of our towns.

So, for an authentic country experience come and explore our region and discover why we are proud to call our western downs home!

For more information ourwesterndowns.com or 1300 COUNCIL (1300 268 624)

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Dalby and surrounds MUST-DOS: Explore our unique native flora at the internationally recognised Myall Park Botanic Garden in Glenmorgan Try your hand at melon-bungee or melon-skiing at our renowned Chinchilla Melon Festival Experience the breathtaking ambience of Opera at Jimbour in the fresh country air of Jimbour Station Browse the latest exhibition at one of the many galleries dotted throughout the region Discover the history of local communities on a Heritage Trail – visit ourwesterndowns.com or a Visitor Information Centre for a brochure

MUST-SEES: The majestic Meandarra ANZAC Memorial Museum The Dingo Barrier Fence – at 5600km, it is the longest fence in the world and begins near Jandowae Heritage-listed Jimbour House and Gardens The Miles Historical Village Museum Dawn birdwatching at Lake Broadwater to see ducks, moorhens, grebes, cormorants, darters, herons, swans, stilts, jabirus and brolgas

Bottletree, Condamine

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Jimbour House, Jimbour

A taste of life as it used to be is what’s in store when you stay a while in Dalby, an easy 85 kilometres west along the Warrego Highway from Toowoomba.

You’ll discover tranquil country landscapes, a well-preserved heritage, access to untouched natural places and a hive of rural enterprise. The pace is easy and good old-fashioned hospitality is alive and well in these parts.

The best travel tip here is simple: don’t rush or you’ll miss it! To get the best from this charming country town, take your time to talk to locals and delve into the history and stories that give it a character all its own.

Hit the Heritage Trail to explore on foot some of Dalby’s historic buildings. Start at St Joseph’s Catholic Church, built in 1921; discover the old police station dating from the mid-1860s; the Art Centre, which was once the Bath House; and Mary's Commercial Hotel (1885) – one of oldest and most legendary pubs on the Western Downs.

You can delve further into the local history at Pioneer Park Museum. Exhibits include working farm machinery from the late 1800s and early 1900s, early fashions and household memorabilia and an extensive collection of minerals, rocks and fossils. Of notable interest is the handwritten letter by Ned Kelly asking authorities to allow his mother to visit him in prison.

The Myall Creek Parklands Walkway is popular with birdwatchers and it’s also signed with plaques detailing places 98

of historical significance. For a great picnic spot with a children’s adventure playground, head to Thomas Jack Park on the edge of town.

There’s probably no place better for local flavour than the vibrant atmosphere of Dalby Wambo Sale Yards – one of the largest one-day selling centres for cattle in Queensland, open Wednesdays.

Events to travel for include the Dalby Show in April; Dalby Picnic Races in May; the Delicious & DeLIGHTful Festival in August; and Australia’s largest Stock Horse Sale and Campdraft on the first week of December.

Dalby is one of the closest towns in Southern Queensland Country to base yourself to explore the majestic Bunya Mountains. Another easy excursion is Lake Broadwater Regional Park – which protects the only natural lake on the Darling Downs and the surrounding cypress and brigalow. You can go swimming, boating and water skiing or picnic under river red gums, relax and enjoy the wildlife and wildflowers.

Jandowae and surrounds North of Dalby, the town of Jandowae welcomes visitors to their friendly country community. The Dingo Barrier Fence – “the longest fence in the world” has its northern end near Jandowae.

The fence is 5600 kilometres long and stretches to the Great Australian Bight.

A two-metre dingo sculpture by Scottish artist, Andy Scott, takes pride of place in Jandowae’s main street, and don’t miss the monthly country markets. The biennial Timbertown Festival, next in

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June 2016, features markets, roving entertainment, a gala art show, a ute show, a rodeo and bronc extravaganza.

Jimbour An easy drive north-east of Dalby is the historic heritage-listed Jimbour House, circa 1876. This French classic design sandstone homestead takes its name from Jimbour Station, a vast pastoral holding that once stretched from the Bunya Mountains to the Condamine River. Visitors are welcome daily to tour the grounds and magnificent gardens on the “Living History Walk”, an experience of historical plaques, sights and sounds that bring a rich and colourful heritage to life. Jimbour Station hosts the biennial event “Opera at Jimbour” (next in 2015) where orchestral music and special guests perform for visitors from across the state in the open country air.

South of Jimbour along the Warrego Highway is the township of Warra.

At Richard Best Memorial Park is the restored former Warra Railway Station.

A short walk from the park you’ll find the 1844 campsite of explorer Ludwig Leichhardt.

Bell Nestled between the Bunya Mountains and fertile farmlands, Bell is a picturesque country township, rich in pastoral and agricultural heritage and home to cropping and livestock farming.

Follow the signs to the Bell Bunya Community Centre. Here you’ll find the Bell Visitor Information Centre, Bluebelles Art Gallery and a coffee shop, open daily from 10am–3pm.

Chinchilla Melon Festival

Also worth a visit are Bell Heritage Parkland, Popey’s Shed, and the Biblical Garden and murals at Our Lady Help of Christians Catholic Church.

Many other quaint townships are dotted throughout this region. Kaimkillenbun has the longest single place name in Queensland and is known simply as “The Bun” by locals. Heading west on the Warrego Highway, Macalister is the site of a large grain handling depot and coal loading facility.

Chinchilla and surrounds Famous for its melons and a renowned spot for fishing, bushwalking and camping, the colourful town of Chinchilla is an easy 81-kilometre drive west of Dalby along the Warrego Highway.

Having once produced 25% of the country’s watermelons, rockmelons and honeydew melons, Chinchilla is fondly known as the melon capital. So if strapping on a pair of melons and racing for glory sounds like your kind of fun, Chinchilla Melon Festival (next in 2015) is your kind of event. Perhaps nothing captures the strong community spirit of this town better than the biennial festival.

If you’re not a skier, there’s always the hilarious melon bungee, melon eating, pip spitting or smashing competitions, farm tours and fireworks.

Named from the Aboriginal word jinchilla, meaning a termite resistant cypress pine, Chinchilla is a peaceful and pretty town. Its beautiful tree-lined main street is just off the highway. Head to the Cultural Centre, the pride of the street. Its award-winning design includes

a cinema, library and Chinchilla White Gums Art Gallery.

Well worth a visit is the Chinchilla Historical Museum. Its collection features many important transport pieces including a steam-driven sawmill and the first-ever ticket issued by Qantas for the first flight from Longreach to Cloncurry.

There’s also an excellent display of petrified wood and a prickly pear exhibit celebrating the saving of local and national farmlands from prickly pear by the introduction of the cactoblastis moth and larva from South America.

Windmill, Bell

Local country markets are held at the Visitor Information Centre on the third Sunday of each month.

Not far from Chinchilla, the Boonarga Cactoblastis Memorial Hall also commemorates the eradication of prickly pear, and interpretive signs behind the shelter tell more of this amazing story.

The only hall in the southern hemisphere to be built in honour of an insect!

Discover headstones dating back to 1892 on a wander through Pioneer Cemetery; or visit the nearby monument in honour of explorer Ludwig Leichhardt, who passed through in 1844.

Just five minutes from town, Chinchilla Weir is popular for fishing and water sports. Good fishing can be had on the Condamine River too – pick up a map and some local tips at the Visitor Information Centre.

You can soak up the country atmosphere at one of many local events including Chinchilla Races in March, Chinchilla annual show in May, and the equestrian highlight, the Grandfather Clock Campdraft, a traditional three-day event held in October.

Karl Graham Manager, Jimbour Station “Established in 1875 Jimbour House is one of the “must-see” destinations on the Western Downs.

The magnificent iconic sandstone building with its manicured gardens is steeped in history as it overlooks the fertile rich soils of the Jimbour Plains.

The property caters for selfguided historical walks in a picturesque and relaxed atmosphere.”

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Brigalow and Kogan Huge grain silos herald your arrival in Brigalow, just 20 kilometres to the east of Chinchilla on the Warrego Highway.

The town offers a pleasant park and general store.

A little south-east of Brigalow on the Condamine Highway you’ll find the quiet town of Kogan. On the way you can’t miss Kogan Creek Power Station, Australia’s most modern and environmentally friendly. Stop at the viewing area to read about the important stages of converting coal to electricity and the enormity of the project.

The Hugh Sawrey walkway commemorates the memory of this one-time Kogan resident and famous bush artist with a metal sculpture by local artist Dion Cross. You’ll also find artist Bodo Muche’s life-size bronze “Bush Friendship” sculpture featuring Sawrey playing cards with his best mate, former Kogan publican Nelson “Darkie” Dwyer.

Miles and surrounds Sitting at the junction of the Warrego Highway and Leichhardt Way, Miles is a vibrant rural township known for its spring wildflowers and a well-preserved “living” pioneering history.

Originally named “Dogwood Crossing”, Miles was established on a track blazed by the explorer Ludwig Leichhardt in 1844. Life as it was back then has been realistically preserved at the Miles Historical Village Museum. Here you literally step back in time to explore more than 30 buildings in a streetscape setting. Authentic and exact replica turn-of-the century buildings feature alongside amazing shell and lapidary displays and an extensive collection of war memorabilia.

Self-drive tour brochures, fishing, and wildflower trail guides of the district are available from the Miles Visitor Information Centre, also located at the Historical Village.

Don’t miss Dogwood Crossing where you will see seven-metre tall bottle trees forming a stunning colonnade down the centre of the building. Here you can relax and explore colourful tales, local life stories, and epic events which have made the region the place it is today. There’s also a library, the John Mullins Memorial Art Gallery and IT Centre.

You can mingle with the locals at the Miles Picnic Races each February, or join 100

in the celebrations of the Beef, Bells and Bottle Tree Festival (next in September 2016), coinciding with the beginning of the wildflower season.

Condamine You’re in the heart of cattle country here.

Condamine is famous for the invention of the Condamine or Bullfrog Bell. Hung from the necks of working bullocks, the bells ensured stockmen could locate their roaming cattle from long distances.

Learn more of this history when you stop to read the inscription on the side of the large replica bell in Bell Park.

Condamine is rugby mad with no less than three teams. Drop in to catch a weekend match or plan your visit for Condamine Rodeo and Campdraft in October.

Dulacca and Drillham First came the railway (in 1879) and then came the towns. Named after nearby Dulacca Station, Dulacca is the site of the first push to eradicate the prickly pear.

Cool off with a beer at the town’s hotel, known as the “Waterhole on the Hill”, which dates back to 1908. If you are in the area in October be sure to get along to the Dulacca Rodeo.

Drillham was once a thriving metropolis closely linked to the railway. The town’s weir on the creek provided water for steam locomotives. Today a variety of quality grain crops and some of Australia’s best livestock are produced here.

Wandoan and surrounds The quiet wheat and cattle town of Wandoan is the perfect stopover between Miles and Taroom as you travel along the Leichhardt Way. The fertile Brigalow country that yields strong harvests and healthy cattle isn’t just a picturesque backdrop. It’s home to friendly people, a proud heritage and some of the best bush camping and fishing spots on the Western Downs.

Wandoan Information Centre in O’Sullivan Park on Zupp Road is a good place to get the local low-down. There are a few mustdos when you’re in town. Take a picnic to enjoy around the lakes of the restful Waterloo Plain Environmental Park. Many waterbirds thrive in the wetlands.

The Wandoan Heritage Trail will lead you to more than 20 points of interest including the Juandah Historical Site, with its informative panels about the Soldier Settlers and Leichhardt, and to O'Sullivan Park to meet a local hero. Well,

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Dogwood Crossing, Miles

you’ll find the statue of Mick the dog that saved his master's life after he fell from his horse on Juandah station. Mick ran home for help with a message scratched on a tobacco tin tucked under his collar.

For a small town there sure is a lot going on. Enjoy a great day of football at the Lindsay Williams shield in February; mix it with the locals for Wandoan Diggers Race Day in March and the Polocrosse Carnival in June; and feel the excitement of the Bucking for Cancer Rodeo in April.

Tara and surrounds Take the road less travelled and you’ll end up in the peaceful Tara region. Accessed off the main Moonie and Warrego Highways, Tara is literally “off the beaten track”. When you arrive in town, drop into the Tara Information Centre to chat to a local about what to see and do.

Enjoy the Lagoon Parklands featuring Settlers Park and the Walk of Remembrance Garden. The lagoon offers a cool respite and it serves as the local fitness precinct complete with outdoor gym. You can picnic by the water’s edge, fish, cycle or take the interpretive walk to see an abundance of birdlife.

Taking the quirky self-guided “Tara yesteryears by Shanks pony” walking tour is the best way to get a feel for this little town.

Tara’s Commercial Hotel is home to several paintings by famed artist Hugh Sawrey that he painted while passing through in the 60s.

Take a step back in time with a visit to the Tara & District Historical Museum.

The museum has a variety of treasures including shearing memorabilia, projection equipment from the Blue Moon Picture Theatre and chains from the town’s first jail.

Miles Historical Village and Museum, Miles

There is a surprising mix of cultures in this little town of 1000 people. They celebrate biennially with a Festival of Culture and Camel Races (next in August 2015). This unique event is an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of culture in the Tara region, with fun and entertainment for all ages. Boasting a range of workshops, displays and cuisine as well as two full days of camel racing action, the Tara Festival of Culture and Camel Races is an event not to be missed!

Other local events to plan for include Tara Markets (first Saturday of each month), Tara Show in March and regular campdrafts, polocrosse, horse racing and sheepdog trials.

The Gums and Hannaford The Gums and Hannaford are two small settlements west of Tara. The first postmistress named the Gums, after what the drovers called their meeting place nearby. Hannaford, originally called Red Hill, was renamed after a prominent settler of the area, Samuel Hannaford.

Flinton and Westmar Flinton was the area’s first recorded settlement in 1840, even prior to Leichhardt’s journey in 1847. It has been the home of the famous Flinton Races held every Easter since 1912. The colour and spectacle at one of the oldest bush races in Australia has earned it the title “Melbourne Cup of the West”.

Nearby Westmar is a small town on the Moonie Highway with a great roadhouse where you can refuel and replenish on your way out west.

Meandarra Meandarra is a peaceful place on the banks of the Brigalow Creek.

Wandoan

The creek offers camping, superb fishing, rare waterlilies and the chance to see koalas in their natural habitat.

Ask a friendly local about the history behind the Me and Darra statue and don’t miss the Meandarra ANZAC Memorial Museum – a salute to the bravery and selfsacrifice of the first ANZACs, it houses a comprehensive display of military memorabilia, collected over the past 30 years. Visit their Open Day each April.

Glenmorgan A small community with plenty of character and charm, you’ll see why Glenmorgan was the winner of the 2008 Queensland Bush Spirit Award.

There are three must-dos in town: Monty’s Garage Vintage Car Museum; discover the town’s history at the End of the Line railway siding; and walk the trails at the internationally recognised Myall Park Botanic Garden. Home of the beautiful “Robyn Gordon” Grevillea, the garden has an extensive display of Australian flora and fauna, as well as artworks throughout. The Botanic Garden holds an open day each August.

Moonie And they’re racing! Not an unusual call in the horseracing obsessed country, but in Moonie the highlight of the year is the Yabbie Races!

Billed as the race that stops the outback, Moonie Yabbie Races are a one-ofa-kind quirky country event run each November by the Moonie Sports Club.

You’ll find Moonie on the crossroads of the Moonie Highway and Leichhardt Way. It is the site of Australia’s first commercial oil field. Established in 1961, it still operates today. For a small town, Moonie is a vibrant place.

Christine Retschlag Award-winning Travel Writer & Blogger – The Global Goddess – www.theglobalgoddess.com “Of all the destinations, shows and performances around the world that I’ve been privileged to experience this year, my visit to the Dalby Cattle Sales was the best theatre I witnessed by a country mile. Writers like me can’t script the characters and colour that unfolds at the cattle sales – with the blokes in their Akubras and Wranglers bidding over beasts. For a city girl like me, standing up on the viewing platform, the smell of manure, the scent of testosterone, and the bellow of the cattle was incredibly intoxicating. This is authentic Australia at its very best, and it’s free!”

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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This is the quiet alternative tourist route between Queensland and New South Wales. Stretching from the Fossickers Way at Warialda in New South Wales and joining with the Country Way at Mundubbera in Queensland.

The Rural Getaway provides the most direct route from Tamworth to Rockhampton.

Leaving the busy highways gives travellers the opportunity to discover the natural beauty of rural communities at a more leisurely, peaceful country pace.

Take the time to chat with the local characters whilst enjoying a counter lunch at a town pub, a glass of wine at a winery or a round of golf at one of the delightful country courses.

Join in with celebrations and events that are often unique, inspiring and exciting.

Explore the diverse nature of the route by way of scenic walks amongst the varying bird species and wildlife or enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views from the lookouts established at many locations along the way.

Enjoy the fascinating histories in these areas by visiting the museums and information centres where everything has been documented and displayed for your pleasure and enjoyment.

Much can be gleaned from locals or simply by walking or driving around to view landmarks and local heritage displays. Friendly country people you’ll meet on the way will make it easy to relax and unwind.

Travel the Rural Getaway, the quiet alternative and embrace the best that rural communities have to offer.

So much to experience, So many sights to see “Enjoy the Journey” AND “Come Back Soon” Pick up a Brochure at:

Mundubbera: 1300 696 272 admin@northburnett.qld.gov.au Dalby: 07 4679 4461 dalby.vic@wdrc.qld.gov.au Warialda: 02 6729 0046 warialdatourism@gwydir.nsw.gov.au 102

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

www.ruralgetaway.info

Take a country drive

Jandowae

Bunya Foothills Drive (Half Day Tour) Destinations – Dalby/Jandowae/Bell/ Maclagan/Jondaryan Start your trip with a visit to the iconic Woolshed at Jondaryan. Try some wines, see the start of the Dingo Fence near Jandowae, sample country hospitality in the region’s pubs and look back in time at the museums while taking in the paddocks, parks, lakes and friendly country welcomes.

48km

Bell

49km 38km

Maclagan

Dalby 35km

40km

Jondaryan 43km

Chinamans Lagoon, Miles

Toowoomba

Monty’s Garage, Glenmorgan

Hugh Sawrey Walkway, Kogan Moonie Yabbie Races, Moonie 103 www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

Ask a local Accredited Information Centres can help you travel around the regions. Keep an eye out for the blue and yellow sign for friendly advice on where to stay, what to do or just chat with a local about the area.

Kingaroy Visitor Information Centre 128 Haly St, Kingaroy Ph: 07 4189 9172 E: kingaroyvic@southburnett.qld.gov.au www.southburnett.com.au

Toowoomba and Darling Downs

Murgon Visitor Information Centre Lamb St, Murgon Ph: 07 4168 3864 E: murgonvic@southburnett.qld.gov.au www.southburnett.com.au

Toowoomba Visitor Information Centre 86 James St, Toowoomba Ph: 1800 331 155 E: infocentre@toowoombarc.qld.gov.au www.toowoombarc.qld.gov.au Hampton Visitor Information Centre 8623 New England Hwy, Hampton Ph: 1800 009 066 E: hamptoninfo@toowoombarc.qld.gov.au www.toowoombarc.qld.gov.au Goombungee Visitor Information Centre Rosalie Gallery, 89 Mocatta St, Goombungee Ph: 07 4696 5600 E: goombungeeinfo@toowoombarc.qld.gov.au www.toowoombarc.com.au Millmerran Museum and Visitor Information Centre 24 Charlotte St, Millmerran Ph: 07 4695 2560 E: millmerraninfo@toowoombarc.qld.gov.au www.millmerran.net.au

Nanango Visitor Information Centre South Burnett Energy Centre, 41 Henry St, Nanango Ph: 07 4189 9446 E: nanangovic@southburnett.qld.gov.au www.southburnett.com.au Wondai Visitor Information Centre South Burnett Timber Industry Museum, 80 Haly St, Wondai Ph: 07 4189 9251 E: wondaivic@southburnett.qld.gov.au www.southburnett.com.au Bunya Mountains Getaway MS 501, Dalby Ph: 07 4668 3126 E: enquiries@bunyamountaingetaway.com www.bunyamountains.com Goomeri Information Centre Goomeri Lions Park, Moore St, Goomeri Ph: 07 4168 4488 www.southburnett.com.au

Southern Downs and Granite Belt Stanthorpe Visitor Information Centre 28 Leslie Parade, Stanthorpe Ph: 07 4661 3122 E: info@granitebeltwinecountry.com.au www.granitebeltwinecountry.com.au Warwick Visitor Information Centre 49 Albion St, Warwick Ph: 07 4661 3122 E: visit@warwickevents.com www.warwickevents.com

Western Country Balonne Shire Visitor Information Centre 112-114 St George Terrace, St George Ph: 07 4620 8877 E: vic@balonne.qld.gov.au www.balonne.qld.gov.au Chinchilla Visitor Information Centre Warrego Hwy, Chinchilla Ph: 07 4679 4491 E: chinchilla.vic@wdrc.qld.gov.au www.chinchilla.org.au Dalby Visitor Information Centre Thomas Jack Park, Warrego Hwy, Dalby Ph: 07 4679 4461 E: dalby.vic@wdrc.qld.gov.au www.wdrc.qld.gov.au

South Burnett

Kilkivan Historical Museum 12 Bligh St, Kilkivan Ph: 07 5484 1612 www.southburnett.com.au

Goondiwindi Regional Visitor Information Centre Cnr Bowen and McLean Sts, Goondiwindi Ph: 07 4671 2653 E: vic@goondiwindi.qld.au www.goondiwindirc.qld.gov.au

Blackbutt Visitor Information Centre Les Muller Park, Hart St, Blackbutt Ph: 07 4163 0633 E: blackbuttvic@southburnett.qld.gov.au www.southburnett.com.au

Yarraman Heritage Centre 26-28 Miller St, Yarraman Ph: 07 4163 8111 E: heritagecentre@bigpond.com www.yarraman.net

Inglewood Visitor Information Centre 18 Elizabeth St, Inglewood Ph: 07 4652 0208 E: inglewoodvic@grc.qld.gov.au www.goondiwindirc.qld.gov.au

Pittsworth Information Centre 50 Short St, Pittsworth Ph: 07 4693 2510 E: pittsworthinfo@toowoombarc.qld.gov.au www.toowoombarc.com.au

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Chinchilla Visitor Information Centre

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

St George Visitor Information Centre

Injune Visitor Information Centre 32 Hutton St, Injune Ph: 07 4626 0503 E: injunevic@maranoa.qld.gov.au www.visitmaranoa.com.au Miles Visitor Information Centre Miles Historical Village Museum, 141 Murilla St, Miles Ph: 07 4627 1492 E: mileshistoricalsoc@bigpond.com www.mhv.org.au Roma Visitor Information Centre 2 Riggers Rd, Roma Ph: 07 4622 8676 E: info@wheninroma.com.au www.wheninroma.com.au Bell Tourist Information Centre Bell Bunya Community Centre, 71 Maxwell St, Bell Ph: 07 4663 1087 E: bellbunyacommunitycentre@gmail.com Bollon Heritage & Craft Centre Main St, Bollon Ph: 07 4625 6108

Calico Cottage Warrego Hwy, Wallumbilla Ph: 07 4623 4244

Mungindi Visitor Information Moree Plains Council Office, 153 St George St, Mungindi Ph: 02 6753 2389

Dirranbandi Rural Transaction Centre 35-37 Railway St, Dirranbandi Ph: 07 4625 8411

Surat Visitor Information Centre Cobb & Co Changing Station, 62 Burrowes St, Surat Ph: 07 4626 5136

Hebel General Store & Caravan Park William St, Hebel Ph: 07 4625 0920 Jandowae Community and Cultural Centre Cnr George & High St, Jandowae Ph: 07 4679 4480 E: jandowae.ccc@wdrc.qld.gov.au Mitchell Visitor Information Centre Great Artesian Spa Complex, 2 Cambridge St, Mitchell Ph: 07 4624 6923 Moonie Rural Transaction Centre Cnr Moonie Hwy & Leichhardt Way, Moonie Ph: 07 4665 0189 E: moonie.rtc@wdrc.qld.gov.au

Joanne Bray Co-ordinator, Toowoomba Visitor Information Centre “I love to connect with nature and take time to ‘smell the roses’ – literally. My favourite morning walk is through the State Rose Garden in Toowoomba’s historic Newtown Park; where thousands of scented blooms greet me at daybreak on spring and summer days. Crunchy autumn leaves and crisp mountain air satisfy my senses in the cooler months.”

Tara Customer Service Centre 19 Fry St, Tara Ph: 07 4679 4104 E: info@wdrc.qld.gov.au Texas News High St, Texas Ph: 07 4653 1499 E: info@texasqld4385.com.au Wandoan Visitor Information Centre O’Sullivan Park, Zupp Rd, Wandoan Ph: 07 4627 5227 E: info@wdrc.qld.gov.au

This symbol recognises Accredited Visitor Information Centres. These centres have achieved accreditation by meeting specified industry standards and are recognised as genuine, quality information providers.

Find accredited Southern Queensland Country Visitor Information Centres and get local holiday tips by downloading the Queensland Info Centre Finder application.

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Travel Directory Toowoomba & surrounds

HOMEWOOD COTTAGES

★★★★

CROWS NEST MOTEL

Twelve 4 star newly renovated suites, two self-contained family apartments, gazebo and BBQ area, peaceful parkland setting close to town, scenic drive 40km north of Toowoomba, close to National Parks, lakes and Bunya Mountains.

PACKAGE DEALS AVAILABLE Accommodation, evening meals & breakfast – bookings essential.

0459 686 239 www.homewoodcottages.com.au

07 4630 9636 www.ecoridgehideaway.com.au

07 4698 1399 www.crowsnestmotel.com.au

11 Cawdor Road, Highfields QLD 4352

712 Rockmount Road, Preston via Toowoomba

TOOWOOMBA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

HAMPTON VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

1800 33 11 55 www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

1800 009 066 www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

86 James St (Warrego Hwy), Toowoomba QLD 4350

8623 New England Highway, Hampton QLD 4352

Be welcomed by our staff, to connect with the authentic country hospitality of Toowoomba and the Darling Downs. As passionate locals we share first-hand tips on enjoying a taste of life in our region; and supply maps, books, local food and artisan products, souvenirs and refreshments. Open daily 9am – 5pm.

Car, coach and caravan parking.

DARLING DOWNS ZOO Home of the WHITE LIONS

Open 6 days – closed Tuesdays.

Southern Queensland Country’s only zoo has a wide range of animals from around the world. There are picnic tables, a kiosk and plenty of souvenirs. EFTPOS is available.

Free parking for cars, caravans and coaches.

You’ve got to see it to believe it!

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ecoRIDGE HIDEAWAY

Only 15 minutes’ drive to Toowoomba.

“Terrific place for a break away from (Brisbane) city life. Elegant and well appointed chalets with superb picture perfect views” Travellers’ review TripAdvisor. The setting: Perched on a mountain ridge. Spa. Wood heater. Bushwalking. Close to winery. Your experience: Let yourself be entertained and soothed by Nature!

An exquisite 1 hectare arboretum of beautiful autumn trees and labyrinth garden surrounds this picturesque setting. Homewood Cottages has two self contained 1 and 2 bedroom themed cottages. Romantic, relaxing weekends with the option for longer stays.

Only 2km from local cafes, arts and craft precinct.

Rejuvenate, Contemplate, Escape.

7547 New England Highway, Crows Nest QLD 4355

Take a short drive north from Toowoomba and discover the natural beauty and unique attractions of the high country of the Darling Downs in the Highfields, Hampton, Ravensbourne and Crows Nest region.

Call us or drop in and speak to a friendly local. Open daily 9am-5pm. Car, coach and caravan parking.

RAVENSBOURNE FOREST CHALETS Relax and revitalise in the clear mountain air and for those romantic winter evenings, curl up and enjoy the warmth and romance of the log fire or double spa.

Only 90 minutes from Brisbane, this getaway offers the ultimate romantic experience with privacy and tranquillity. Ravensbourne Forest Chalets are in private rainforest on 40 acres of forestland.

07 4696 4107 www.darlingdownszoo.com.au

07 4697 8185 or 0428 763 901 www.ravensbourneforestchalets.com.au

Gatton-Clifton Road, Pilton QLD 4361

84 Palmtree Road, Palmtree QLD 4352

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

BEST WESTERN APPLEGUM INN

This charming Toowoomba Motel is located in leafy, picturesque Margaret Street opposite the entrance to the Toowoomba Grammar School and is only one kilometre from the CBD. There is no highway noise and the motel is close to several specialist medical centres and St. Vincent’s Hospital. The Empire Theatre, Cobb & Co Museum, Queen’s Park and sporting stadiums are all close by.

The motel offers clean and comfortable ground floor units, undercover parking, Foxtel channels and a salt water swimming pool.

The licensed restaurant offers breakfast daily and evening meals Monday to Friday.

This friendly, family operated motel is the perfect choice when attending the city’s annual carnivals, festivals, shows, sporting and cultural events.

07 4632 2088 or 1800 659 142 E: reception@appleguminn.com.au www.appleguminn.com.au 41 Margaret Street, Toowoomba QLD 4350

Travel Directory Toowoomba & surrounds

HIGHFIELDS PIONEER VILLAGE

Just 15 mins north of Toowoomba and covers an area of 20 acres with over 50 buildings of historic interest, pleasant surroundings and picnic facilities.

Visit the Animal Nursery, see Vintage Cars and Trucks, enjoy delicious Billy Tea and Damper. No matter how old you are, there is something for everyone at the Highfields Pioneer Village!

Travel Directory South Burnett

COBB+CO MUSEUM

It’s all about what you can do at Cobb+Co Museum You can interact with our exhibitions, create in our hands on workshops, taste our hand made delights, try our daily “Have a Go” session and discover in our children’s areas.

Full details of all our exhibitions, hands on workshops and school holiday programs are available online.

07 4696 6309 www.highfieldspioneervillage.com.au

07 4659 4900 www.cobbandco.qm.qld.gov.au

73 Wirraglen Road, Highfields QLD 4352

27 Lindsay Street, Toowoomba QLD 4350

WIIKIRRI RETREAT

Transport and Main Roads

Heritage Centre Take a journey through time with the only road building museum in Australia. Connect with history and discover how Queensland’s roads have been built.

PITTSWORTH PIONEER VILLAGE

Visitors will experience a memorable journey through yesteryear exploring the early development of Pittsworth and its surrounds.

Take a stroll through the remarkable collection of original buildings, antique equipment and artefacts and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of our gardens.

Don’t miss: The ‘Lady Fletcher Lace collection’ The ‘Arthur Postle room featuring the Crimson Flash’ The RSL exhibition The historic machinery display Opening hours: Thursdays and Fridays: 10am – 1pm Sundays 10am – 2pm or other times by appointment.

Located opposite Toowoomba’s airport terminal, the Transport and Main Roads Heritage Centre offers the perfect opportunity to reflect and celebrate the journey of those who have helped shape Queensland.

Pioneer Way, Pittsworth QLD 4356

07 4170 0395 E: julie_terry@wiikirriretreat.com.au www.wiikirriretreat.com.au 15 Bowman Road, Blackbutt QLD 4306

Book now and ask for a guided tour through the museum.

Times: Monday – Friday, 10am – 4pm (by appointment) Weekends, group bookings (by appointment) Address: Mutze Street, Toowoomba Qld 4350 Phone: 07 4633 2506 Email: heritage.centre@tmr.qld.gov.au www.tmr.qld.gov.au/heritagecentre

0408 887 334 E: info@toowoombaRC.qld.gov.au www.toowoombaRC.qld.gov.au

★★★★

The name Wiikirri is an Australian Aboriginal word meaning to sit, to stay and to live.

Julie and Terry invite you to come, stay and sit awhile in the serenity and luxury that is Wiikirri.

Stay to......

EXPLORE ...Walk, cycle or horse ride the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, right at our doorstep.

RELAX & REJUVENATE ...Read a good book, pamper yourself with a massage.

SLEEP... Comfort and luxury awaits.

EAT...Enjoy generous breakfast hampers.

Book a gourmet dinner served to you under the stars, by the creek or in your accommodation.

CELEBRATE ...Enjoy an anniversary weekend. Celebrate your wedding.

RE-CONNECT... With those you love.

ROCK-AL-ROY BED & BREAKFAST

Owners Max & Lyn Lehmann built their home in 1997 and have operated Rock-Al-Roy B&B since April 2002. We are a modern Queenslander style home on the outskirts of Kingaroy with verandahs that offer panoramic views over the town and surrounding countryside. We offer traditional bed and breakfast accommodation and also dinner at night if required. Great alternative to motel/cabin style accommodation.

07 4162 3061 www.rockalroybedbreakfast.com.au 15 Kearney Street, Kingaroy QLD 4610

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Travel Directory South Burnett

TASTE SOUTH BURNETT

Situated in a tranquil laneway, our new premises is located in the heart of Kingaroy.

We act as a cellar door for a large selection of local boutique wines and liqueurs, and a retail outlet for the finest gourmet deli foods that this fertile region has to offer. And watch as we make our fresh creamy fudge on-site.

We are a must see on your next South Burnett adventure!

Sassy, luxe, designer retreats

HILLVIEW COTTAGES

Delicious, boutique, wine country retreats.

Perched above the panoramic Booie Valley, these king-sized retreats brim with character.

Cool breezes & wood-fired warmth plus an eclectic blend of art & playful vintage make for a love experience. With fresh, farm-to-fork produce & your choice of relaxed or adventurous activities, you have the perfect, hip getaway.

Country Cottages with Character Slow down, breathe deep and enjoy the serenity of the Booie Range, Kingaroy.

1 & 2 bedroom FSC cottages Large private decks with BBQs Air-conditioning Double spa baths Wood fires Couples, Groups and Families Welcome.

07 4162 8222 or 0435 522 661 E: enquiries@tastesouthburnett.com.au

07 4163 6688 www.deshons.com.au

07 4162 1727 www.hillviewcottages.com.au

4/36 Alford Street, Kingaroy QLD 4610

164 Haydens Road, Kingaroy QLD 4610

297 Birt Road, Kingaroy QLD 4610

BETHANY COTTAGES & TOURS John and Karyn Bjelke-Petersen welcome you

DISCOVER CRANE WINES

KINGAROY OBSERVATORY

Discover Crane Wines, the first winery in the South Burnett and the friendliest, where you can swap yarns with the wine maker, or relax with friends in the new all weather “Garden Room”. Feel right at home while feasting on a Crane’s Gourmet Platter, loving the spectacular views, and tasting Crane’s own hand crafted wines.

View the Cosmos in large, powerful telescopes. Day and Night shows suitable for 5 years and above. Wheelchair friendly.

Audio/Visual presentation prior to night viewing. Day shows including viewing the Sun on a big projection screen in our Star Theatre.

to their peaceful cottages. They are set on the highest hill in the district, overlooking local farms and the Bunya Mountains. The views will amaze you, day and night.

One, two, three bedroom and spa cottages available Light breakfast included in tariff Barbeques at each cottage All feature air-conditioning and fireplaces Pet friendly – just ask us!

Abundant wildlife and birds – perfect for photographers Tours of Bethany are available each Wed and Sat at 2pm (bookings for tours are requested to assist with catering) Tour includes a commentary, afternoon tea (pumpkin scones of course!) and memorabilia on display

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DESHONS RETREAT

Looking for a great place to visit today?

Can’t leave? Then stay on for a night or two in the charming homestead B&B. Discover Crane Wines and the beauty and natural ambience of this unique property.

OPEN 7 DAYS 10:00 am til 4:00 pm

(formally Maidenwell Observatory) “...our business is looking up”

Comfortable seating for up to 45 persons on the Observation Deck Full time astronomer to advise and assist Day and Night shows can be customised to suit Plenty of accommodation and eateries in town Bookings essential School, community groups and tour bookings a specialty

07 4162 7046 or 0427 143 117 E: info@bethany.net.au www.bethany.net.au

07 4162 7647 E: info@cranewines.com.au www.cranewines.com.au

07 4164 6194 E: mao123@bigpond.com www.maidenwellobservatory.com

218 Peterson Drive, Kingaroy QLD 4610

162 Haydens Road, Booie Kingaroy QLD 4610

Lot 3, Geoff Raph Drive, Kingaroy Airport

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Travel Directory South Burnett

TAABINGA HOMESTEAD

History is alive at Taabinga Homestead, occupied since 1846. Accommodation is offered in comfortable sunny cottages set amongst the Homestead’s gardens and outbuildings. Enjoy the ambiance of the Homestead or explore the many local attractions of the South Burnett, including the Bunya Mountains National Park.

Travel Directory Southern Downs & Granite Belt

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT VISITING SOUTHERN QUEENSLAND COUNTRY

CAMBANOORA CO

Take a tour with a local!

Get the inside information on Killarney district with trips exploring life in the bush – now and in the “olden days”. Explore the best local spots – the stunning Cambanoora Gorge, the ancient rainforest or the sparkling waterfalls. Our guided walking or drive tours, accompanied by storytelling, laughter and wonder, start from just $25pp.

Ph: 1800 688 949 southernqueenslandcountry.com.au www.facebook.com/ southernqueenslandcountry www.twitter.com/sqcountry

07 4164 5531 or 0429 645 531 www.taabingahomestead.com

07 4664 1655 www.cambanoora.com.au

7 Old Taabinga Road, Haly Creek QLD 4610

Willow Street, Killarney QLD 4373

SPICERS PEAK LODGE

GIRRAWEEN ENVIRONMENTAL LODGE

R ON THE DOWNS RURAL RETREAT ★★★★

Imagine a place where you feel totally isolated from the outside world and at one with nature in all its beauty. Girraween Environmental Lodge has ten 4-star architectural designed self-contained luxury Chalets set on four hundred acres of natural bushland surrounded by picturesque Girraween National Park.

Girraween Region – best wildflower display on Australia’s east coast Abundant bird and wildlife, with bushwalks starting from your Chalet past open fields of grazing kangaroos Tranquil bushlands, extraordinary rock formations and crystal clear rock pools No interruption from the outside world, with no mobile, TV or internet reception

Peaceful Luxury Country Experience ♥ Tree-House Hide-away ♥ Intimate Early Settler’s Cottage (both with spas) ♥ Grand Federation Homestead – spacious themed private Suites (two with spas) ♥ Romantic, Rewarding, Relaxing ♥ Award Winning Hospitality Tourism ♥ Celebration, Honeymoon, Escape, Hero Destination ♥ All with breath-taking views in beautiful, historic Swanfels Valley. Ideal base to explore Nature, Heritage, all-things Country or simply Relax – quality time unwinding ♥ Couples, Singles, Groups = one or more night’s stay welcome ♥ Scrumptious Full Breakfasts incl.

Other delicious Country meals available ♥ Re-ignite that something special!

Queensland’s leading luxury lodge Offering a unique blend of luxurious accommodation, fine dining and spectacular setting, Spicers Peak Lodge is an intimate destination for those who want a peaceful, relaxed escape with all the perks.

Overlooking the Great Dividing Range and Main Range National Park, this secluded, mountain-top retreat is the highest non-alpine lodge. It’s relaxation, beauty, service, cuisine and luxury – all elevated to new standards.

With only ten luxurious Suites and two Private Lodges, Spicers Peak Lodge serves as an intimate and relaxing accommodation experience in one of South East Queensland’s most beautiful wilderness areas.

Spicers Peak Lodge is one of the Luxury Lodges of Australia, in the same company as such other esteemed properties as Qualia, Southern Ocean Lodge and Wolgan Valley.

Find Yourself! In a Truly Amazing Place

HOW MANY “R’S” WILL YOU ENJOY???

1300 478 179 E: peaklodge@spicersretreats.com www.spicersretreats.com

07 4684 5138 E: info@girraweenlodge.com.au www.girraweenlodge.com.au

07 4664 8587 or 0413 936 056 E: info@r-onthedowns.com www.r-onthedowns.com

Off South Branch Road, Maryvale QLD 4370

Pyramids Road, Wyberba QLD 4382

295 Swanfels Road, Yangan QLD 4371

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

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Travel Directory Southern Downs & Granite Belt

ABBEY OF THE ROSES Country Manor Guesthouse

Escape to the country for a romantic interlude or with up to 22 friends, at this 1891 B&B on 2 acres. Murder Mystery, Christmas in July, Sunday Events, Weddings and special occasions for up to 120. High Teas most Sundays and B&B dinners if prebooked.

Visit our webpage or Facebook for information.

61 7 4661 9777 www.abbeyoftheroses.com 8 Locke Street, Warwick QLD 4370

SCENIC RIM TRAIL

This brand new 4 Day Walk by Spicers Retreats explores the Scenic Rim region of South East Queensland; a stunning collection of mountains, ridges, escarpments, forests and ancient volcanic plateaus set in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range and surrounded by World Heritage-listed national parks.

Return transfers from Brisbane, all meals, beverages, alcohol, snacks and accommodation are included. Hiking gear such as daypacks, hydration equipment and bottles are also provided.

GOOMBURRA FOREST RETREAT A secluded haven in the forest

This picturesque 130 acre property borders Main Range National Park – Goomburra Section. Fully appointed, 4 star, eco-accredited, self-contained cottages in the beautiful upper Goomburra Valley. For the more adventurous traveller visit our caravan park with full amenities on level grassed sites, some with creek frontage. We offer a tranquil environment without “roughing it”.

Packages from $1,899.00 per person.

Luxury couples accommodation

Exclusively for couples who want to indulge in a sublime, self-contained accommodation retreat. Catering to a maximum of three couples, Alure is home to the world’s most romantic and luxurious self-contained tent accommodation and two private, luxury split level villas.

For the ultimate in romantic getaways, envelop yourself in the unique combination of luxury and nature – take in the magnificent views from the comfort of the sumptuous lounge, unwind in front of a crackling fire or end the day stargazing under the Milky Way in your private outdoor heated spa – it’s a perfect getaway.

Private heated outdoor spas Romance/honeymoon packages Peaceful and private – 5 minutes to Stanthorpe

07 4666 6058 www.goomburraforestretreat.com.au

13 77 42 or 0488 127 595 www.scenicrimtrail.com www.spicersretreats.com/canopy

07 4681 4476 info@alurestanthorpe.com.au www.alurestanthorpe.com.au

268/271 Forestry Reserve Rd, Goomburra QLD 4362

1095 South Branch Road, Tregony QLD 4370

280 Mt Tully Road, Stanthorpe QLD 4380

McNEVIN’S WARWICK MOTEL AND GUNYAH RESTAURANT

PITSTOP LODGE B&B

QUEEN MARY FALLS CARAVAN PARK ★★★

Beautifully appointed facilities, with a range of rooms including spacious, luxury spa suites and huge family rooms. Enjoy our fully licensed Gunyah Restaurant and cocktail lounge, with our friendly staff looking after your every need.

Catering for special celebrations and corporate events is our speciality.

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Your luggage will be transported to your destination each day, leaving you free to explore the trail with only your daily essentials.

ALURE BOUTIQUE VILLAS

★★★

Self-contained Queenslander, can accommodate up to 12 guests in 3 queen bedrooms and 6 dorm-style single beds with 2 bathrooms. Ideal for groups, couples or singles. All linen supplied. Undercover parking. Walking distance to CBD. Free WiFi. Also: Self-contained cottage – double room with ensuite, lounge and kitchenette.

07 4661 5588 www.mcnevins.com.au

07 4661 9393 or 0417 620 648 www.pitstoplodge.com.au

Cnr New England H’way & Glen Rd, Warwick QLD 4370

53 Canning Street, Warwick QLD 4370

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Bush setting / campfires / lots of wildlife (daily bird feeding) Powered and unpowered lawn sites Self contained bush cabins Homestyle café and gift shop open 7 days Mon-Fri 9.00-4.00 and Sat & Sun 8.30-4.30 Packages available Camp kitchen/ Pet friendly (cond. apply) laundry facilities

07 4664 7151 www.queenmaryfallscaravanpark.com.au 676 Spring Creek Road, The Falls Killarney QLD 4373

Travel Directory Dalby, Goondiwindi, Miles, Roma, St George & surrounds

Travel Directory Southern Downs & Granite Belt

31 THE ROCKS

BALLANDEAN ESTATE WINES

STARLINE MOTOR INN

The best value for Miles around

Studio, One and Two bedroom, s/c units each with unique aspect and privacy. 2km from town centre. Stylish, modern design ideal for couples and families. Wood fireplace, reversecycle air-conditioner, TV/DVD/stereo. Breakfast basket included. 10 acre property with valley views and rock outcrops. Close to all Granite Belt attractions. Packages available.

Enjoy our wines in our comfortable and friendly cellar door. Taste the flavours that truly reflect our unique region and be surprised by our “Strangebird” range of alternative varieties. Wander the gourmet food gallery and view the iconic 145-year-old wine barrels. If wine is your passion, then Ballandean Estate is an experience you should know by now.

07 4681 2726 www.31therocks.com

07 4684 1226 www.ballandeanestate.com

07 4627 1322 www.starlinemotorinn.com

31 Brunckhorst Avenue, Stanthorpe QLD 4380

354 Sundown Road, Ballandean QLD 4382

97–99 Murilla Street, Miles QLD 4415

VINEYARD COTTAGES

BONAWAYS

PELICAN REST TOURIST PARK

07 4684 1270 www.vineyardcottages.com.au

07 4681 4660 www.bonaways.com.au

07 4625 3398 www.pelicanrest.com.au

28126 New England Hwy, Ballandean Stanthorpe Q 4382

33 Wallangarra Road, Stanthorpe QLD 4380

Villas With Style

Accommodation - Restaurant - Cafe 7 Private cottages nestle in the established gardens of Vineyard Cottages in the small village of Ballandean, 15km south of Stanthorpe.

Perfectly positioned for visiting the area’s wineries (over 50), Girraween and Sundown National Parks. Vineyard Cottages is one of the few retreats on the Granite Belt to boast its own licensed restaurant and cafe.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT VISITING SOUTHERN QUEENSLAND COUNTRY Ph: 1800 688 949 southernqueenslandcountry.com.au www.facebook.com/ southernqueenslandcountry www.twitter.com/sqcountry

Top tourist park Free WiFi Quiet and spacious atmosphere 23m long drive-through grass sites Camp kitchen and BBQs Modern amenities Self contained ensuite cabins

Fully self contained holiday home Within walking distance of CBD, restaurants and parks Large private block set in from road 6 bedrooms Highly suited for families and groups

TARA FESTIVAL OF CULTURE & CAMEL RACES

22 newly refurbished reverse cycle AC units Fully licensed with Foxtel, RSL/Memorial Club at rear gate Secure, ample parking – coaches, boats & Evening meals to units trailers Queen beds, generous free WiFi, all units on ground floor Large private saltwater pool

12022 Carnarvon Highway, St George QLD 4487

NINDIGULLY PUB

For a great weekend of family fun, be sure to attend the Tara Festival of Culture & Camel Races on the first weekend of August 2015 & 2017.

Come along and share the unique and wonderful elements of diverse cultures, with non-stop entertainment and professional camel racing.

An affordable weekend for everyone!

Established in 1864, on the Moonie River front, this iconic Queensland Outback style pub offers ample free riverside camping, fishing, hot showers and WCs at the pub. Caravans & RVs welcome. Restaurant open 7 days with resident chefs, we are home of Australia’s biggest 10 Burgers (5-25 kilos). RFDS Pig Races (last Saturday of November annually).

E: tarafuturesgroup@ymail.com www.tarafestivalncamels.org.au

07 4625 9637 or 0428 744 292 www.nindigully.com

Tara Showgrounds, Tara QLD 4421

Sternes Street, Nindigully QLD 4497

www.southernqueenslandcountry.com.au

111

Index Toowoomba and surrounds Cabarlah ............................................................................................39 Cambooya........................................................................................32 Clifton.....................................................................................................32 Cooyar...................................................................................................43 Crows Nest .....................................................................................38 Goombungee ..............................................................................38 Hampton...........................................................................................39 Highfields ........................................................................................39 Jondaryan..........................................................................................37 Kingsthorpe ..................................................................................38 Maclagan...........................................................................................43 Millmerran .......................................................................................35 Oakey ....................................................................................................37 Pittsworth ..........................................................................................34 Quinalow ...........................................................................................43 Ravensbourne ..............................................................................41 Toowoomba ..................................................................................28

South Burnett Bjelke-Petersen Dam (Lake Barambah).....................................................................54

112

The Bunya Mountains .......................................................48

Jackson .................................................................................................91

Wondai ................................................................................................52

Mitchell and surrounds ....................................................92

Yarraman ..........................................................................................48

Southern Downs and Granite Belt Allora .....................................................................................................62 Amiens.................................................................................................67 Ballandean.......................................................................................67

Muckadilla.......................................................................................89 Mungallala ......................................................................................92 Roma......................................................................................................88 Surat and surrounds............................................................93

Dalveen...............................................................................................66

Wallumbilla.......................................................................................91

Glen Aplin..........................................................................................67

Yuleba.....................................................................................................91

Killarney .............................................................................................62

Dalby and surrounds

Leyburn...............................................................................................63 Severnlea...........................................................................................67 Stanthorpe......................................................................................63 The Summit ....................................................................................67 Thulimbah .......................................................................................66

Bell............................................................................................................98 Brigalow ..........................................................................................100 Chinchilla and surrounds...............................................99 Condamine..................................................................................100

Warwick .............................................................................................59

Dalby......................................................................................................97

Wyberba .............................................................................................67

Drillham...........................................................................................100

Yangan ................................................................................................63

Dulacca............................................................................................100

Goondiwindi and surrounds Goondiwindi..................................................................................72 Inglewood ........................................................................................75 Texas.......................................................................................................77

Flinton..................................................................................................101 Glenmorgan .................................................................................101 Hannaford......................................................................................101

St George and surrounds

Jandowae and surrounds ..............................................98

Blackbutt...........................................................................................48

Bollon....................................................................................................85

Jimbour................................................................................................98

Booie Range..................................................................................48

Dirranbandi....................................................................................84

Kogan ................................................................................................100

Goomeri..............................................................................................54

Hebel .....................................................................................................84

Meandarra......................................................................................101

Kilkivan ...............................................................................................54

Mungindi...........................................................................................84

Kingaroy .............................................................................................47

Nindigully .........................................................................................83

Lake Boondooma ..................................................................52

St George..........................................................................................82

Maidenwell .....................................................................................48

Thallon.................................................................................................84

Moffatdale ......................................................................................53

Roma and surrounds

The Gums ........................................................................................101

Murgon ...............................................................................................53

Amby.....................................................................................................92

Wandoan and surrounds............................................100

Nanango ...........................................................................................48

Injune and surrounds ...........................................................91

Westmar ...........................................................................................101

2015/16 Southern Queensland Country Visitors’ Guide

Miles and surrounds ........................................................100 Moonie ...............................................................................................101 Tara and surrounds............................................................100

there’s more to explore…

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SCENIC RIM

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