visit central queensland

The Ultimate holiday guide to Central Queensland

• Getting there
• Destinations

With outback plains to the west, numerous national parks and brightly coloured reef islands, Central Queensland is a diverse series of landscapes with plenty of hidden gems in between.

Start at Gladstone for an unforgettable weekend away on a Southern Great Barrier Reef resort island, hop onto a ferry at Yeppoon for a family camping trip on the white sandy beaches of Great Keppel Island, or be exclusive and book out the pristine Pumpkin Island.

You don’t have to take to the sea to disconnect. The coastal towns of 1770 and Agnes Waters have secluded beaches and tranquil bushwalking trails aplenty, and you can lose yourself for an afternoon gazing upon priceless Australian art at Rockhampton .

Venture inland to Carnarvon Gorge , and be dwarfed by soaring cliffs of sandstone and ancient Aboriginal engravings. Click your heels and head west to find yourself in the Emerald City: the gateway to the Queensland gemfields and the yawning outback.

Best places to visit in Central Queensland

Yeppoon, the magical seaside town you have to see now

As the gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef, Yeppoon is a burgeoning destination in its own right, offering except...

This coastal area is often overshadowed by the nearby Great Barrier Reef or the Fraser Coast to its south, but we think being off the main tourist circuit adds to its already significant charms. Snorkel with rays at Heron Island , have a Castaway experience on Lady Musgrave Island and head to the sleepy towns of Agnes Water and 1770 for fishing and surfing.

Northeast of Rockhampton, Yeppoon is your gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Depart from the Capricorn Coast town to make your way to the tropical Great Keppel Island , with its 17 beaches to pick between for your sunbathing times. Nearby, the private eco-retreat of Pumpkin Island is available to privately book out for you and your closest friends.

• Rockhampton

A riverside country town with a rich cultural scene, Rockhampton is a cattle capital with a colonial-era past. Don’t miss a trip to the famous Rockhampton Art Gallery (reopening 2022 as the Rockhampton Museum of Art), which houses works from Australian artists like Sidney Nolan and Arthur Boyd, and take a picnic to the 130-year old Rockhampton Botanic Gardens.

Carnarvon Gorge

With enormous sandstone cliffs, thousands of examples of Aboriginal rock art and a landscape that is over 200 million years old, Carnarvon National Park is an epic outback oasis worth strapping your rucksack on for.

This Central Highlands small town is known not for green precious stones, but its nearby sapphire gemfields. Emerald is located on the banks of the Nogoa River and will be one of the last stops on your way out to outback Queensland.

Top things to do in Central Queensland

Beaches & islands.

Head out from the coast on a diving day trip on the Southern Great Barrier Reef, or snorkel for multiple days from Great Keppel, Heron, or Pumpkin Island. Out here, other natural wonders to add to that island to-do list include the sea caves of the Keppel Bay Islands , and hiking the islands’ picturesque walking trails.

For gorgeous natural swimming holes, head to Byfield National Park near Yeppoon. Picnic and swim in the clear, turquoise waters of Stoney Creek , pitch a tent at Waterpark Creek , camp out at Five Rocks Beach (accessible by 4WD only), check out parabolic sand dunes and 4WD over Nine Mile Beach .

Attractions & activities

Try your hand at unearthing an expensive souvenir, and go on a local gem tour at the Sapphire Gemfields . At the Mount Hay Gemstone Tourist Park , look for gorgeously patterned thundereggs while fossicking at an extinct ancient volcano.

Make a snap(py) decision and book yourself onto a tour of the Koorana Crocodile Farm . Educational and thrilling for kids and adults alike, at this commercial crocodile organisation you’ll be able to get up close (but not too up close) to the shining smiles of some of the farm’s 3000 toothy residents.

National parks & caves

Take a tour of the ancient limestone Capricorn Caves . It is an accessible entry by a tour to the stunning Cathedral Cave, giving you a chance to experience the incredible cave acoustics. Go caving in Mount Etna Caves National Park , keeping one eye out for rare bent-wing and ghost bats.

Whether you’re after a quick stretch of the legs or awe-inspiring multi-day hikes, Carnarvon National Park has it all. Take the 87km Carnarvon Gorge Great Walk or break it down, with smaller treks that go via sites like the majestic Amphitheatre, Moss Garden and Art Gallery.

Rise to new heights at the sandstone plateaus of Blackdown Tableland National Park , where the art of the Ghungalu people can be seen on the rock faces of their traditional lands. Take the Gudda Gumoo Lookout and Gorge walk to admire the sparkling Rainbow Falls.

Accommodation in Central Queensland

Classy to camping: A Rockhampton accommodation guide

Discover the heritage heart of Central Queensland with a stay in sunny Rockhampton Rockhampton is a regional city burst...

Camping & caravan parks

On the largest of the Keppel Islands, the Great Keppel Island Holiday Village has options ranging from camping and glamping sites to cottages and cabins. Set sail to one of the other islands of the group for a secluded, back-to-basics stay. (Just make sure you apply for a permit first.) Book ahead for the low-cost Lady Musgrave Island campground .

On the mainland, there are rudimentary – but beautiful – low-cost camping sites at Byfield National Park , the Capricorn Coast National Park and Munall camping area at Blackdown Tableland National Park . For creature comforts, the NRMA Capricorn Yeppoon Holiday Park has facilities like cabins and caravan sites.

At the Capricorn Caves , there are onsite cabins, powered and unpowered caravan sites, as well as showers, barbecues and communal campfires.

Spend the night in the self-contained cabins at Takarakka Bush Resort and Caravan Park , just five minutes from Carnarvon Gorge. Near Emerald, Lake Maraboon Holiday Village has cabins and tent sites, as well as serving up a mean red claw crayfish pizza.

Hotels & motels

Chic and affordable, the beachfront Yeppoon Surfside isn’t your average motel. The boutique rooms and private pool area are Instagram fodder, and the beach is a hop, skip and a jump away.

Book in for a private island escape on Pumpkin Island . The eco-friendly stay has self-contained units for 34 guests, as well as communal eating areas, and a hut where you can borrow seafaring equipment for free.

The subtropical, adults-only Wilson Island Resort is an eco-resort with just nine glamping tents to book. It’s all-inclusive, with meals, drinks and snacks provided. So grab a picnic hamper and get exploring!

Places to eat in Central Queensland

When it comes to eating on the Southern Great Barrier Reef islands, unless you are staying at a resort where meals can be bought, you need to be self-sufficient and bring food and fresh water. Stock up well before you arrive.

On the coast, start the day off with riverside dining on the deck at Boathouse Rockhampton . Overlooking the Fitzroy River, Boathouse has an extensive breakfast menu, as well as locally-inspired lunch and dinner choices like barramundi tacos. At Agnes Waters, sit among the stunning tropical gardens of the 1770 Getaway Cafe as you sip peacefully on your morning espresso and tuck into an Acai Bowl.

In this part of the world, seafood is ubiquitous. At Yeppoon, the Waterfront Seafood Bar & Grill is a local favourite, dishing up diverse delicacies like crab arancini, poke bowls, mud crab and seafood linguine. Go straight to the source when you pick out lunch at the Gladstone Fish Markets. Get a cooked-to-order serving of grilled mackerel, or order up some banana prawns to barbecue back at camp.

If you’re after a boisterous good time, look no further than the iconic Great Western Hotel at Rockhampton for some bullish entertainment – literally. Order a bucket of prawns before settling in for a night of watching a rodeo at this cowboy-themed pub.

Getting to Central Queensland

Arrive here by plane, with flights coming into Rockhampton from Brisbane , Sydney and Melbourne . From there you’ll want to rent a car to embark on your Capricorn Way road trip.

If you feel like road-tripping with your own set of wheels, it’s a seven-hour drive from Brisbane or an eight-hour drive from Townsville . On arrival, it is three hours west to Emerald.

Autumn to spring is the best time to visit both inland and the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Not only do temperatures rest around that pitch-perfect mid-twenties point, but you also avoid the heat of summer and stinger season.

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Explore more of Queensland

• Moreton Island
• Fraser Coast
• Great Barrier Reef
• Outback Queensland
• Sunshine Coast
• The Whitsundays
• Airlie Beach
• Hamilton Island
• Hayman Island
• Tropical North QLD
• Daintree Rainforest
• Port Douglas

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Central Queensland

• 2 Other destinations
• 3 Understand
• 5 Get around
• 10 Stay safe

Central Queensland is the coastal area north of Brisbane in Queensland , Australia .

Cities [ edit ]

Listed north to south

• -19.28 146.79 1 Townsville - unofficial capital of North Queensland with about 160,000 people (including Thuringowa )
• -19.575 147.405 2 Ayr
• -20.016 148.23 3 Bowen
• -20.1 146.266667 4 Charters Towers - this town on the frontier between coast and country has a colourful history in gold mining and agriculture.
• -20.2675 148.716 5 Airlie Beach
• -20.4016 148.5815 6 Proserpine
• -21.141 149.186 7 Mackay - the 'sugar capital' is full of Australian history and boasts a beautiful tropical botanic gardens.
• -23.13 150.73 8 Yeppoon
• -23.375 150.5117 9 Rockhampton - the commercial centre of the region, promoting itself as the "beef capital of Australia"
• -23.848889 151.2625 10 Gladstone - this port town allows visitors to experience hundreds of years of industrial history through museums and tours.
• -24.16 151.886 11 Town of 1770 (Seventeen Seventy) - this town on the frontier between coast and country has a colourful history in gold mining and agriculture. The nearby resort of Agnes Water contains the most northerly surfing beach on Australia's east coast.
• -24.85 152.35 12 Bundaberg – sugarcane, rum and ginger beer
• -24.99 151.955 13 Gin Gin – the longest unsupported tunnel in the Southern Hemisphere
• -25.237 152.278 14 Childers – many historic colonial buildings
• -25.28 152.87 15 Hervey Bay – whale and dolphin watching and the gateway to K'gari
• -25.5375 152.701 16 Maryborough
• -25.9 153.083 17 Rainbow Beach – picturesque coastal town hosting some of Queensland's best activities
• -26.08 152.23 18 Kilkivan
• -26.52 151.81 19 Kingaroy - Australia's "Peanut Capital"

Other destinations [ edit ]

• -18.94 146.167 1 Paluma - southern rainforest town near Townsville
• -19.133333 146.833333 2 Magnetic Island
• -20.31 149.06 3 Whitsunday Islands - 74 perfect islands off the coast of tourist haven Airlie Beach , with white-sand beaches and clear turquoise water all around
• -20.861389 148.664444 4 Eungella National Park
• -23.442 151.915 5 Heron Island - in the Southern Reef Islands
• -24.116667 152.716667 6 Lady Elliot Island - a coral cay with a diversity of bird and marine life, and resort facilities, in the Southern Reef Islands
• -25.08 153.35 7 K'gari - the world's largest sand island
• -24.91 148.03 8 Carnarvon National Park
• -26.080825 153.05779 9 Cooloola Recreation Area, Great Sandy National Park – contains one of only two everglades systems in the world

Understand [ edit ]

Central Queensland is sometimes known as Capricornia and a divided region centred around the east coast of the Tropic of Capricornia. It is full of protected areas, vast tracts of bush, coastal landscapes, remote communities and the most part very hard to get to. The city of Rockhampton makes a good base to explore due to a lot of tourist infrastructure.

Because of its mining industry, Central Queensland is also one of the world-leading exports of black coal.

Get in [ edit ]

Central Queensland is served with flights from most major centres in Australia through its coastal airports. Cairns and Gold Coast airports also serve some international destinations.

Highway 1 enters Central Queensland from Brisbane to the south and continues north to Cairns .

Get around [ edit ]

A drive from top to bottom of this region will take 13 hours from Townsville to Rainbow Beach. There isn't much of a passenger train network, and without a car you be reliant on buses and planes.

See [ edit ]

• Whales, at Hervey Bay , the local centre for watching these majestic creatures.
• The 'singing ship' memorial to Captain James Cook at Yeppoon .

Do [ edit ]

• Fossick for gems near the appropriately-named towns of  Emerald , Rubyvale and Sapphire.
• Explore the trails of the pristine Carnarvon National Park .
• Take a railway tour at the former gold-mining town of Mount Morgan .
• Prospect for gold at the Prophet Gold Mine in Kilkivan .

Eat [ edit ]

• Amazing pies at Joccheim's Bakery in Bowen , in the footsteps of Australia actors Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman.

Drink [ edit ]

• Bundaberg rum in Bundaberg.
• Whatever the locals are drinking at the pub in Gin Gin , 45 minutes out of Bundaberg.

Stay safe [ edit ]

• Watch out for snakes when venturing into Central Queensland's pristine nature.

Go next [ edit ]

To the North:

To the South:

• The cities of Sunshine Coast , Brisbane and Gold Coast
• Amazing views and ancient bunya pines at Bunya Mountains National Park .

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Central Queensland Coast

Travel guide.

• Things to Do
• Best Hotels
• Getting There
• Visitor Information
• Getting Around

Things to Do in Central Queensland Coast

Taking its name from the Tropic of Capricorn, which cuts through it, this stretch of the Queensland coast is the southernmost part of the Great Barrier Reef. It is here that you will find the most spectacular of the Great Barrier Reef islands, Heron Island, off the coast from Gladstone. Heron ’ s reefs are a source of enchantment for divers and snorkelers; its waters boast 21 dive sites. In summer, large turtles lumber ashore to nest on its beaches, and in winter humpback whales cruise by.

To the south of Gladstone, off the small town of Bundaberg, is another tiny coral cay, Lady Elliot Island, a nesting site for tens of thousands of seabirds and home to a first-rate fringing reef. Two little-known attractions in Bundaberg are its good shore scuba diving and a loggerhead turtle rookery that is a major drawcard in summer.

Gladstone: Gateway to Heron Island

Gladstone: 550 km (341 miles) N of Brisbane; 1,162 km (720 miles) S of Cairns

The industrial port town of Gladstone is the departure point for beautiful Heron Island. Gladstone is on the coast 21km (13 miles) off the Bruce Highway. Most flights to Gladstone arrive in time to connect with the ferry to Heron Island, but if you need to stay overnight a couple of good, centrally located options are Mercure Gladstone (   tel. 07/4979 8200; www.accorhotels.com.au) and Rydges Gladstone (   tel. 07/4970 0000; www.rydges.com).

Heron Island

72 km (45 miles) NE of Gladstone

Heron Island is often referred to as “ the jewel of the Reef. ” And rightly so. The difference between Heron and other islands is that once there, you are right on the Reef. Step off the beach and you enter magnificent fields of coral that seem to stretch for miles. And the myriad life forms that abound here are accessible to everyone through diving, snorkeling, or reef walks at low tide.

There has been a resort on Heron since 1932, and in 1943 the island became a national park. It is a haven for wildlife and people, and an experience of a lifetime is almost guaranteed at any time of year, particularly if you love turtles — Heron is a haven for giant green and loggerhead turtles. Resort guests gather on the beach from late November to February to watch the female turtles lay eggs, and from February to mid-April to see the hatched babies scuttle down the sand to the water. Every night during the season, volunteer guides from the island ’ s University of Queensland research station tag and measure the turtles before they return to the water. Only one in 5,000 hatchlings will live to return in about 50 years to lay its own eggs. Humpback whales also pass through from June through September.

Three days on Heron will give you plenty of time. The island is so small that you can walk around it at a leisurely pace in about half an hour. One of the first things to do is to take advantage of the organized activities that operate several times a day and are designed so guests can plan their own days. Snorkeling and reef walking are major occupations for visitors — if they ’ re not diving, that is. The island is home to 21 of the world ’ s most stunning dive sites.

Guided walks provide another way to explore the island. Walks include a visit to the island ’ s research station. As for the reef walk, just borrow a pair of sand shoes, a balance pole, and a viewing bucket, and head off with a guide at low tide. The walk can take up to 90 minutes.

Heron is also home to colonies of mutton birds; be warned, they can be particularly noisy during their breeding and mating season, from November to January. They also create a fairly . . . shall I say … distinctive smell (you get used to it, but some people find it highly offensive). That ’ s nature for you.

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7 Central Queensland Experiences that rival the world’s most popular tourist destinations

Written By: Alyssah Anderson

Driven by a passion for the region, Alyssah is a Rockhampton local who works as a marketing and communications officer, sharing her storytelling skills to enhance the profile of our exciting destination. When not writing about the wonderful discoveries you will find when you Visit Capricorn, you will find Alyssah out and about exploring every opportunity to experience the best our region has to offer.

Graced with numerous homegrown alternatives to some of the most famous attractions across the globe, the Central Highlands, Keppel Islands and everything in between is waiting for domestic travellers to discover. And there has never been a better time to explore your own backyard.

Our awe-inspiring cave systems, pristine and untouched coral reefs, and up close and personal wildlife interactions make our destination one of the greatest tourist spots on earth.

Sharing our latitude with Rio de Janeiro to the East and Mauritius to the West, we celebrate sub-tropical days all year round, making Central Queensland and the Southern Great Barrier Reef a place where foreign tourists swarm to, travelling thousands of kilometres and paying thousands for the privilege of experiencing our backyard. Yet, we are fortunate to have the ability to do it at our own leisure. So why not start today!

Whether you are looking for cultural tourism or adventure, travelling for food or relaxation, we invite you to come and experience our local offerings and discover the jewels of our region.

Instead of Thailand’s Phraya Nakon Cave, try the Capricorn Caves

The Phraya Nakon Cave may feature an amazing temple inside a hidden cave, but our very own ancient above ground Capricorn Caves offer more than 1.5 kilometres of mysterious passages to explore. Honeycombing a limestone ridge, this labyrinth of large caverns features an abundance of natural decoration including amazing fig tree roots. Look closely and you might see the insectivorous bats in fast flight throughout the dark hollows. Step foot inside the Cathedral Cave and listen to the near perfect acoustics.

Instead of Las Vegas’ Grand Canyon, try Carnarvon Gorge

The Grand Canyon is one of the world’s natural wonders, drawing oohs and ahhs from visitors all around the world. For a similar experience, take a trip to Carnarvon Gorge and discover towering sandstone cliffs, vibrantly coloured side gorges, diverse flora and fauna and Aboriginal rock art. A wealth of cultural and natural heritage lies within this special place, located in the semi-arid heart of Central Queensland. Base yourself at Takarakka Bush Resort or Sandstone Park and take a tour with Australian Nature Guides .

Instead of La Chiva in Puerto Rico, try Great Keppel or Pumpkin Island

Known for long walks, crystal clear snorkelling and breathtaking scenery, Puerto Rico’s La Chiva or ‘Blue Beach’ could be Keppel Bay’s sister. You don’t need to travel over 17,000 kilometres to the Caribbean Sea to experience a magical island paradise. Our very own Great Keppel and Pumpkin Islands are just a 30-minute ferry ride from the mainland, boasting blissful opportunities to relax, unwind and reconnect with nature. Social distancing isn’t a new trend on our local islands. With 17 beaches along Great Keppel Island, seclusion awaits! Stay longer at Great Keppel Island Hideaway or Great Keppel Island Holiday Village .

Instead of diving in the Solomon Islands, visit the pristine Southern Great Barrier Reef

Any opportunity to experience the world’s coral reefs is a bucket list must-do, but there is no need to travel abroad to witness pristine reef, adrenaline-fueled marine animal encounters and some of the most impressive snorkelling and diving in the world. There is nothing on earth quite like the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Diving through spectacular coral formations while dodging inquisitive sea turtles, reef sharks, dugong, manta ray and a wide variety of colourful fish is something that everyone should do. Get in touch with Keppel Dive to find out more.

Instead of the UK’s Cotswold Wildlife Park, try Cooberrie Park Wildlife Sanctuary

Ok, so Europe’s wildlife parks might have giraffe, rhino and zebra, but can you cuddle a koala or handfeed a kangaroo? Our own animal encounter specialists at Cooberrie Park Wildlife Sanctuary ensure you get the experience of a lifetime, just 28 minutes from Rockhampton and 15 minutes from Yeppoon. Come and spend the day with their friendly residents among the 25-acre natural bushland.

Instead of the Shotover River Jet Boat in New Zealand, try The Keppel Explorer

There is no doubt that the Shotover definitely oozes adrenaline and exhilarating adventure, but the only way to experience an epic ride of discovery through Keppel Bay is onboard the Keppel Explorer . Taking you to places where no other tourists can go, the number one rated, VIP experience will have you island hopping around the Keppels, discovering secret beaches, sea caves, surf and delving into the upmost seclusion.

Instead of Mount Everest, try Mount Archer

Maybe not the slightest bit comparable, but worth a shot! The Himalayas are a force of their own, but we are still proud of our 604-metre beauty. Named in honour of the Archer brothers who explored the Fitzroy area in 1853, the national park is part of the Darumbal Aboriginal people’s traditional country. The new Nurim Circuit Sky Walk is a must for your Rockhampton bucket list. Extending 25 metres off the side of Mount Archer, the 500-metre flat boardwalk offers spectacular views of the city and the mighty Fitzroy River. Home to a variety of woodland birds, including the powerful owl and black cockatoo, along with unadorned rock-wallabies, Mount Archer National Park is laced with walking tracks, picnic spots and magnificent sunsets. And sub-tropical temperatures nothing at all like the highest mountain on earth.

If you are seeking island adventures, reef discoveries and natural landscapes, everything you need is right here on your doorstep. We know that we will travel abroad again in the future, but in the meantime, there are plenty of options to fulfil your passions and marvel in the Southern Great Barrier Reef.

Click here and start planning your next adventure.

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Central Queensland Highlands Visitor Guide 2021-22

Central Queensland Highlands

past and present

hold the stories about the rivers and

the traditions, the cultures and

of Australia’s First Nation Peoples.

your own adventure

iconic National Parks

wild Saratoga

memory of CQH tourism champion, Peter Brown, 1953 – 2021.

IMAGE: Underground mine tour, Rubyvale, Jesse Lindemann.

COVER IMAGE: Salvator Rosa, Carnarvon National Park, Opal Heart Media.

CREDITS: Jesse Lindemann, Opal Heart Media, Nathan White Images, Alberto Sudo, Australian Nature Guides, James Laws Photography, Our Gypsy Life, @the.wildlings, Little Grey Box, @cgtrippin, Highland Homewares, Tourism & Events Queensland.

This publication is produced by Central Highlands Development Corporation.

effort has been made to ensure information

accurate and correct, however the Corporation

be held responsible for any errors, changes or omissions.

there are some destinations whose attractions all sit on the surface, are easy to see, predictable and overpopulated, and then there are others that sit more quietly, sparking your curiosity and nudging you quietly to explore more.

The Central Queensland Highlands is one of them, with its diverse landscape that encourages you to dig a little deeper with each and every kilometre you put on your odometer.

Located in Central Queensland at the crossroads of the Capricorn Highway and the Great Inland Way, these two arterials connect travellers to 60,000km2 of the equally arid and verdant Central Queensland Highlands.

No matter which direction you’re travelling from, or where you’re heading to next, within the Central Queensland Highlands you’ll find a tableland that’s set for adventure.

While the region might be diverse in landscape, the region is starkly similar in its shared values; it’s grounded, honest and authentic.

The true value of the destination can be found all over the terra firma of the Central Queensland Highlands – whether you’re interested in geological creations, cascading cliffs, indigenous history or the agricultural industry.

While most choose to define their adventure by the trifecta of natural attractions –Carnarvon Gorge, Blackdown Tableland National Park and the Sapphire Gemfields – to stay only on these beaten paths means you miss what more there is to explore.

In between, small country towns define the visitor experience, with friendly locals who reflect what Outback hospitality is all about. Quaint communities, historical museums and railway stations are only a marked signpost away.

No matter when you visit, every day is a new discovery, whether it’s a new indigenous rock art site, a precious sapphire stone or a new mine.

There’s always something to discover. There’s always something to uncover.

And just when you think that’s everything there is to see and do in the Central Queensland Highlands, you’ll find there’s more to explore.

Leave the city in the rear-view mirror and take to the open roads of the Central queensland highlands on a self-drive adventure.

Get down to earth

Day one: anakie & sapphire.

Start your morning at the Anakie Crossroads with a locally roasted coffee served next to the towering Sapphire Reflections artwork. Continue into town to see the bottle tree engraved by soldiers on their way to war.

Spend the afternoon in Sapphire searching for gems at a fossicking park, before taking a walk with the wallabies at the Sapphire Gemfields Wetland Reserve.

day two: Sapphire & rubyvale

Now you have the fossicking basics down pat, take it a step further and spend the morning on a tag along tour out in the ‘fields. Reward your hard work with an icy-cold schooner of Fossicker’s Ale at the Rubyvale pub.

Leave enough time in the day to take an underground mine tour, venturing 16 metres under the surface to see how the pioneer

miners extracted sapphires.

day three: rubyvale

No matter your budget, it’s free to spend the morning admiring the beautiful jewellery in local gem shops and galleries. Stop for coffee and treat yourself with a slice of authentic Austrian strudel.

Take a drive around the mining claims and see some of the unusual short-term dwellings. Make a stop at Policeman’s Knob to spot rock wallabies and watch the sun set.

day four: willows Gemfields

You’re ready to step out on your own. Hire the equipment, buy a licence and spend the day fossicking at the

Explore more

Four-wheel-driving, dirt biking and mountain biking are a great way to explore the Sapphire Gemfields. The area has an abundant network of dirt roads and tracks to discover.

Explore iconic national parks

day one: nuga nuga np

Travelling north from Injune, stop for morning tea at the scenic Lonesome Lookout, Expedition NP (55km).

Continue to Nuga Nuga NP (75km), allowing plenty of time to set yourself up for a remote bush camping experience. Spend the rest of the day enjoying the tranquillity of the lake by canoe or walking around the shoreline.

day two: Carnarvon Gorge

Drive an hour and a half (125km) to reach the Carnarvon Gorge section of Carnarvon NP. After a picnic lunch in the visitor area, follow the walking trail to Boolimba Bluff for spectacular views of the distant ranges. On return take a refreshing swim in the nearby rock pool.

day three: Carnarvon Gorge

Rise with the birds and take an early morning walk along the Nature Trail. See if you can spot platypus swimming in

Carnarvon Creek.

Book a full day walking tour and let an expert guide you to iconic attractions and exclusive untracked spots. You can also join a night safari to search for the gorge’s nocturnal beasties.

day four: minerva hills np

Drive two hours north to Minerva Hills NP (185km), stopping at Fred's Gorge to enjoy a picnic with views. After lunch explore the many walks and lookouts which survey surrounding farming country, Virgin Rock and Springsure.

day five: blackdown tableland np

Travel two and a half hours (215km) to Blackdown Tableland NP. Stop at Yaddamen Dhina Lookout for sweeping views of the surrounding ranges. Then brave the 240-stair descent deep into Gudda Gumoo Gorge before cooling off in the spring-fed rock pool below.

Visit other wonders in Carnarvon NP including the Salvator Rosa and Ka Ka Mundi sections.

uncover history and heritage

Day one: rolleston & springsure.

Start your morning exploring Rolleston by foot on the Heritage Walk. Finish your tour at Beasley Park and enjoy a hot cuppa from the Rolleston Coffee Cart.

Continue to Springsure (70km) and visit the Yumba Burin (Keeping Place) to learn about the region’s indigenous history. Rainworth Fort and the Wills Memorial site also offer insight into early settlement conflicts.

day two: Emerald

On your way to Emerald (70km) make a detour to Lake Maraboon. Constructed in 1971, the dam enabled the development of today’s irrigated agriculture and mining industries.

See Emerald’s history laid out as colourful mosaics on the Centenary of Federation Pathway, and tour some of the town’s original buildings at the Pioneer Cottage Complex. While in town snap a picture of the 1900s National Trust-listed railway station.

day three: Capella

Spend the day at Capella (55km) starting at the Pioneer Village which houses items from the region’s agricultural and pastoral history. Wander along the main street to see the historic bakehouse oven and Australian Light Horse monument. Spend the night freedom camping at the historic Lilyvale Waterhole.

day four: blackwater & duaringa

Head east to Blackwater (130km) and learn about the history of coal mining at the International Coal Centre. The nearby Lions Park has one of the largest displays of flags in the world.

Finish the journey in Duaringa (85km), visiting the Mackenzie Park precinct and following the Historical Trail.

Don’t miss the self-guided Comet Tales and Walking Trails tour.

for more drive itineraries, grab a copy of the cqh touring map

there's a thrill searching for a sapphire which has been waiting under the surface for millions of years for a visitor just like you to find.

Sapphire Gemfields

Whether you’re a seasoned fossicker taking out a claim for the next 30 years or you’ve arrived on the Sapphire Gemfields for a day of sifting through the rubble, very few places in the world so generously allow you to become a precious stone miner. Come empty handed, leave with precious memories (and if you’re lucky, a precious stone).

Gemshops and Galleries

There’s no better place to purchase an Australianmined and cut sapphire or quality sapphire jewellery. Gem cutters are available to facet your very own find and jewellers will set them into a piece of jewellery that could become a treasured family heirloom.

Try your hand at finding a fortune, with five areas designated for recreational and tourist fossicking across the Sapphire Gemfields. A fossicking licence is required and can be purchased online or by phoning MyMines (07) 3199 8133. Hand tools and mining equipment are available for sale or hire.

fossicking parks

Fossicking parks enable people of all ages and fitness levels to join the fun of finding a sapphire. With the digging work already done, visitors can buy a bag of wash and start searching straight away. Friendly staff are on hand to provide advice and guidance on how to sieve

and sort sapphires. tag along fossicking tours

Take a tag along fossicking tour to dig, sieve, wash and inspect your very own diggings under guidance from an experienced miner. All equipment is supplied.

walk-in mine tour

Step into another world on a walk-in mine tour where the underground temperature sits at a cool 25 degrees Celsius. Tours take visitors through the network of tunnels, providing insight into the process of underground sapphire mining. Marvel at the tiny tunnels called tummy tunnels used by the pioneer miners.

sapphire gemfields

Wetland reserve.

Get in touch with nature as you walk through 14 hectares of pristine bushland and seasonal wetlands. The reserve has 3.6 kilometres of walking and cycling tracks, a restored historic fossickers home, board walk, viewing

Explore more sapphire gemfields treasure trail

The sapphire gemfields.

Treasure Trail takes visitors on a historic journey, stopping at five interpretive panels and 30 place markers. Using audio posts, the trail tells the stories of the characters, capers and boom or bust nature of the local gem industry.

Begin the trail at Sapphire Reflections, a 12-metre-tall artwork, adorned with sparkling glass panels, located at the Anakie Crossroads.

policeman's knob

Policeman's Knob offers great views over the surrounding landscape and is a perfect spot to take in the sunset. Keep an eye out for rock wallabies who find the rock structure an ideal home.

miners common museum, arts & cultural centre

The Centre is nestled on 20 hectares of walking trails and houses relics from the Sapphire Gemfields’ colourful history. Check for opening times.

miners common

Be ready to give way to cattle, horses and camels when driving around Sapphire and Rubyvale. Known as the heart and soul of the Gemfields, the Miners Common gives residents the right to graze a few head of livestock in all unfenced areas.

four-wheel-drive

Four-wheel-drive or ride your trail bike on the network of dirt roads

that crisscross the area. Spend a day exploring the Tomahawk Creek fossicking area with its 2,500 hectares of bush tracks.

geo-caching

Go on a modern day treasure hunt, using a map and GPS to find 19 'gems' hidden across the Sapphire Gemfields.

There’s nothing like spending the night under a star-filled sky. Camping is allowed in most of the designated fossicking areas and permits can be purchased online.

The bush surrounds of the Sapphire Gemfields make it a wildlife oasis. Spot brolgas dancing at the wetlands, kangaroos grazing by the road and camels roaming the Miners Common.

bush architecture

Take a drive to see the unusual dwellings of the Sapphire Gemfields. Permanent buildings are not permitted on mining claims causing residents to come up with creative shortterm alternatives.

Like the pioneers before them, many residents use unique and recycled materials such as billy boulders, bush timber, corrugated iron and even glass bottles.

Local Characters

Friendly locals, affectionately called Gemmies, are happy to chat and share fossicking tips and historical tales. Many of the residents today were once tourists who came to visit and never left.

Discover the oldest town on the Sapphire Gemfields, Anakie, which is rich in both history and gems.

History buffs will enjoy the quaint railway station built in 1884 as part of the rail push into western Queensland. Be sure to look behind the station for the 130-year-old bottle tree, engraved with the initials of soldiers who were on their way to war.

Anakie has a cabin and caravan park.

Sapphire lives up to its name with a host of gem cutters, jewellers and fossicking parks located here. Other gems include the RSL, thrift shop, cafés, general store, service station and a range of accommodation providers.

If you love a photo opportunity, then the Big Ring, Big Spanner, and Big Pick, Shovel and Sieve can all be found in and around Sapphire.

Rubyvale has a lot to offer travellers, from attractions including gem cutters, jewellers, fossicking parks and mine tours, to traveller conveniences including a pub, cafés, general store, service station and accommodation providers.

For something a little wacky, visit the nearby Thong Tree (feel free to add your own broken plugger) or get a photo of the Tellembuggerem road sign.

willows gemfields

For those looking to experience the quiet bush life, you won’t regret a stop at the Willows Gemfields. Located half an hour west of Anakie, the area is a popular spot for fossicking as very little machinery and no corporate mining has been permitted in the past.

Willows Gemfields has a fossicking park, caravan park, general store and service station.

designated Fossicking areas

40km from Anakie | 500mm to 2m deep | greens & yellows

20km from Anakie | rarely exceeds 500mm | greens, blue-greens & yellows

middle ridge

3km from Rubyvale | 400mm to 6m deep | blues, corundum

2km from Sapphire | rarely exceeds 500mm | greens, yellows & blues

graves hill

3km from Sapphire | 300mm to 3m deep | greens, yellows & blues

tomahawk creek

45km from Rubyvale | 300mm to 1m deep | blues

In addition to the designated fossicking areas there are several areas of designated fossicking land which also allow commercial mining tenure: Sapphire, Scrub Lead, Rubyvale, Divide and Reward. These areas generally encompass deeper wash, however there are areas of ground suitable for hand excavation.

To purchase a fossicking licence and / or camping permit, call MyMines (07) 3199 8133 or visit qld.gov.au/recreation/activities/areas-facilities/fossicking

New owners Darrell & Victoria welcome you to their Tripadvisor 2021 Travellers’ Choice Award Winning Park

experience.

not many places can lay claim to having an oasis in the outback but the Central queensland highlands has four of them tucked within its borders.

Carnarvon Gorge

Immerse yourself in wilderness and embrace Mother Nature as you wind through the deep and dramatic gorge system, carved out by wind and rain over millions of years of geologic activity. As you marvel at the geological wonder, you start to wonder – why stay for just one night and tackle just one of the trails, when there’s so much more to explore.

Take a hike to explore the natural beauty of this rugged wilderness. A minimum of three days is recommended to walk the tracks, explore the side gorges and visit indigenous cultural sites.

Take a refreshing dip in the Rock Pool, carved from the bed of Carnarvon Creek by the turbulent waters of past floods.

Rock Art on sandstone overhangs are a fragile reminder of Aboriginal people’s long and continuing connection with the gorge. These ochre stencils, rock engravings and freehand paintings are some of the finest indigenous rock imagery in Australia.

Opportunities for bird watching are plentiful with more than 170 bird species

that inhabit or visit the park. A night walk with a torch can reveal gliders, possums and bush stonecurlews. Catch a glimpse of platypus, possums and other creek life on an early morning stroll along the one-kilometre Nature Trail.

picnic areas

At the entrance to Carnarvon Gorge, a large, grassy picnic area is set amongst towering eucalypts and cabbage palms. Wheelchair accessible toilets and tables and gas barbecues are available.

guided tours and talks

Enhance your Carnarvon Gorge adventure with a guided tour by one of the commercial operators.

Full day and night tours are available.

scenic flight

Treat yourself to a scenic helicopter flight and take in the magnificent views of Moolayember Gorge.

Explore more remote walking

Pack your hiking gear and take on the remote sections of the Carnarvon Great Walk. You’ll need six to seven days, good preparation and high-level bush walking experience to complete this amazing journey.

rewan memorial

On your way into Carnarvon Gorge, visit the Rewan Memorial, erected to honour the lives of the fourteen Australian and five United States military personnel who were killed in an air crash during World War II.

visitor centre

The unstaffed visitor centre is open 8am to 4pm, seven days a week.

Essentials access

Carnarvon Gorge is located between Injune and Rolleston. The 45 kilometre access road is fully sealed and classed an all-vehicle road. No fuel is available after leaving Injune or Rolleston.

accommodation

It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance as it can book out quickly during peak times.

Privately run accommodation is available just outside the park all year round.

Camping in the Carnarvon Gorge visitor area is available during the Easter, June-July and September-October Queensland school holidays. The Big

Bend camping area, reached by a 19.4 kilometre return walk, is open all year.

Camping permits are essential and bookings should be made online with Queensland National Parks or through the Central Queensland Highlands (CQH) Visitor Information Centre.

Alternative accommodation is available at Rolleston (100km), Lake Nuga Nuga (125km, self-sufficient) and Springsure (170km).

mobile reception

Mobile reception is limited in Carnarvon Gorge. The visitor centre offers free Wi-Fi and a public pay phone is available.

Carnarvon national park

If you enjoy Carnarvon Gorge, why not visit some other wonders in Carnarvon National Park.

salvator rosa via Springsure

Dip your toes into the spring-fed waters of Nogoa River, winding its way through a broad, picturesque valley beneath craggy sandstone outcrops. 4WD is required.

ka ka mundi via Springsure

Drive through the undulating sandstone country and discover stately bottle trees emerging from silver brigalow forest. Camp by the springs and watch the abundant birdlife. 4WD is recommended.

mount moffatt via Injune

This is a remote park of wild and diverse landscapes. Enjoy spectacular views from the Consuelo Tableland, the highest plateau in Queensland.

carnarvon gorge map

Holiday Parks

places to explore

nature trail 1.5km return, 1hr

Grab your camera and get up close to the local wildlife along the banks of Carnarvon Creek. You may spy an elusive platypus.

mickey creek gorge

3km return from mickey creek car park, 1.5hr

Wander along Mickey Creek and into narrow side gorges where the walking track becomes a rock-hopping adventure.

rock pool 400m return from rock pool car park, 20min

Linger in the shade of fig and casuarina trees, watching for fish and turtles or take a refreshing dip on a hot day.

boolimba bluff 6.4km return, 2-3hr

Scale the steep slopes and be rewarded with views out towards distant ranges from Boolimba Bluff, towering 200 metres above Carnarvon Creek.

moss garden 7km return, 2-3hr

Water drips constantly from the sandstone walls of the Moss Garden, supporting a lush carpet of mosses, ferns and liverworts.

amphitheatre 8.6km return, 3-4hr

Hidden inside the walls of the gorge is a 60-metre-deep chamber, gouged from the rock by running water.

ward's canyon

9.2km return, 3-4hr

Be enticed into cool and inviting Ward’s Canyon, where a small pocket of the world’s largest fern flourishes.

art Gallery 10.8km return, 3-4hr

More than two thousand engravings, ochre stencils and freehand paintings adorn the 62-metre-long sandstone walls of this significant indigenous site.

Cathedral Cave 18.2km return, 5-6hr

This massive, wind-eroded overhang sheltered Aboriginal people for thousands of years.

boowinda Gorge 18.4km return, 5-6hr

Rock-hop through the boulder strewn side-gorge. The first kilometre is the most spectacular with its sculpted walls of moss covered sandstone.

big bend 19.4km return, 7-8hr

Visit a spectacular section of Carnarvon Creek nestled beneath looming sandstone walls.

carnarvon gorge night safari tour

local wildlife experts, Michelle and Simon,

breeze holiday parks -

Carnarvon National Park on 100 acres

Tour as they hunt for the Gorge’s incredible gliders. Watching these wild animals glide from tree to tree up to 100 metres is one of Australia’s premiere wildlife

and one you’ll never forget. Along the way, you might also spot owls, platypus, echidna and fluorescent

Holiday Parks - Carnarvon Gorge. It’s the

destination to disconnect from the hustle of

reconnect with nature. Just a five-minute

from where your Carnarvon Gorge walks begin,

nuga nuga national park

So good they named it twice, Nuga Nuga National Park is somewhat remote, but those who go in search won’t be disappointed. Find refuge beside the stunning lake, nestled between the mountains of Arcadia Valley. 4WD recommended, essential following rain.

first peoples

The Karingbal peoples believe that Lake Nuga Nuga was created by a pair of Mundagurri (Rainbow Serpents) that now reside under the two dominating peaks at the northern shoreline of the lake.

bush camping

Camp beneath the stars on the banks of Lake Nuga Nuga. You will need to be selfsufficient as no facilities are provided. Camping permit is required.

bird watching

Scratch that twitch! The lake provides a valuable habitat for more than 150 different species of birds.

photography

The lake is a photographer’s dream, with dead ghost gums standing proud out of the water which changes colour as the sun sets.

water sports

Explore the serenity of the lake by kayak or canoe, taking in the spectacular display of waterlilies which flower at times during the year.

bush walking

There are no formal walking tracks in the park, so take a topographic map and GPS to explore the lake’s perimeter and nearby Mount Warrinilla.

Explore more expedition national park

The Lonesome section of the park can be accessed from Arcadia Valley. Stop at the lookout to take in the sweeping views. Camping is available (permit required).

arcadia valley

Nestled between the Expedition and Carnarvon Ranges, Arcadia Valley lives up to the Greek origins of its name, Ideal Paradise. For a unique experience, stay on a working cattle property in a glamping tent.

Located on the Dawson Highway, Bauhinia typifies the best in country hospitality. Wet your line in Zamia Creek, 10 kilometres south along the Dawson Highway.

BEAZLEY PARK Located in the heart of Rolleston, Beazley Park features the historic Purbrook Hut and post office buildings, Rolleston Coffee Cart (April to September), an outdoor cinema, playground and picnic facilities.

HERITAGE WALK Stretch your legs and discover the stories behind some of Rolleston’s buildings on the Heritage Walk. If you’re looking for more, visit the local library to see the wall mural depicting the town’s history.

FISHING Anglers can try their luck at the local fishing hole along the Comet River.

NATIONAL PARKS Rolleston is the perfect spot to base yourself and explore nearby national parks.

blackdown tableland national park

Mother Nature has proven again that she’s the best landscape gardener. Rising abruptly above the surrounding plains, Blackdown Tableland National Park boasts a cool oasis of deep gorges, spectacular lookouts, scenic waterfalls and unusual plants.

Walking tracks will take you to the park’s heritage sites, creeks and waterfalls. Lookouts are provided to take in stunning views and capture that spectacular photograph.

Blackdown Tableland is the traditional home of the Ghungalu people. Rock faces display Ghungalu artwork –vivid reminders of the strong cultural connection here.

Cool off in the springfed rock pool below Gudda Gumoo Gorge (Rainbow Falls).

four-wheel-driving

Follow the Loop Road, past magnificent sandstone outcrops, alive with basket ferns and king orchids, then stop at Mitha Boongulla Lookout for views of the surrounding plains.

Get your heart pumping with mountain biking and abseiling opportunities.

The best way to see Blackdown’s birdlife is to wake with them at Munall

camping area. By day, look carefully on sandstone ledges for basking skinks, geckos and goannas. By night, take a torchlight stroll to glimpse gliders, owls and insectivorous bats taking to the air.

Picnic tables, gas barbecues and toilets are provided for day visitors at Yaddamen Dhina Lookout.

Blackdown Tableland National Park is located between Dingo and Bluff. The six-kilometre sealed road up the tableland is steep and winding so is unsuitable for motorhomes or towing heavy trailers and caravans.

Relax in Munall camping area’s cool and quiet bush surrounds. Book a camp site in advance online with Queensland National Parks or the CQH Visitor Information Centre. Caravan park and motel accommodation is available in Dingo, Bluff, Blackwater and Duaringa. Privately run accommodation is available all year round at the park turn-off.

explore more

Bluff (55km), Dingo (50km), Blackwater (75km) and Duaringa (90km) are convenient access points to stay, leave the van behind and explore Blackdown Tableland National Park.

Make tracks to Bluff, a major railway interchange station for large coal trains, some up to two kilometres long and 10,800 tonnes heavy.

DINGO STATUE A life-sized bronze statue of a dingo sits in the main street as tribute to the town’s name.

PROGRESS PARK Let the kids stretch their legs on the playground and shady surrounds of Progress Park.

BINGEGANG WEIR is a popular fishing and camping destination for its wild Saratoga and secluded bush surrounds.

DUARINGA HISTORICAL AND TOURISM CENTRE has local arts and crafts for sale and plenty of information to offer on the history and attractions of the town. Open from Easter to October.

HISTORICAL TRAIL takes visitors on a walking tour of 20 historical buildings and landmarks. Interpretive signage provides insight on the town’s rich history.

MACKENZIE PARK is home to the unique Budgeroo or Duaringa stringy bark tree, which was used by the Aboriginal community to make rope, baskets and building materials.

The park has a camping area with electric barbecues, charging tree and hot showers for a donation.

MACKENZIE RIVER CROSSING is known to the locals as Duaringa Beach due to the large sandy banks on the southern side of the river. Huge paperbark trees overhang the river, creating a great shady spot for a day trip, where you can swim, fish, kayak and watch the birdlife.

minerva hills national park

It’s hard to imagine that the area was once covered by blazing volcanoes and devastating lava flows, however the remnants of it can be seen in the dramatic landscape of rocky peaks and plateaus that form Minerva Hills National Park.

Enjoy panoramic views over the surrounding farming country, Virgin Rock and Springsure, from four easy-toaccess lookouts.

Relax over a picnic at Fred's Gorge. Enjoy the breeze and admire the views down the

gorge from mountain top to plain.

mountain biking

Spend the day exploring the park by bike on the network of shared roads and ancillary tracks.

Spot grazing kangaroos, wallaroos and wallabies, and maybe a snoozing koala.

you won't need a local library to find the history and heritage of the central queensland highlands. in fact, this region very much wears its history on its sleeve.

indigenous history

Connect with the Central Queensland Highlands region through the eyes of our First Nation People. Spend a day or two exploring the rich cultural heritage sites, traditional artefacts and colourful artworks, which bring to life the ancient ways.

Cultural heritage sites

Start your journey exploring cultural heritage sites at Carnarvon and Blackdown Tableland National Parks.

Carnarvon National Park is a sacred landscape of intense spiritual significance to the Aboriginal people. They believe that a great number of mythological and spiritual beings resided in certain areas or were metamorphosed as particular features of the landscape. Visit art sites, including the Art Gallery and Cathedral Cave, which provide examples of stencil and engraving techniques that are considered to be the most sophisticated of their kind in the world.

Blackdown Tableland National Park has many culturally significant places and associated objects that tell the story of how the land was used, the histories and the relationship between traditional owners and the environment. Vivid reminders of their

special culture include thousands of years of rock art. Follow the Goon Goon Dhina trail which leads to a Ghungalu art site.

yumba burin

Yumba Burin (Keeping Place), Springsure, aims to raise awareness of the Kairi and Bidjara people's history and to build a better understanding of indigenous culture. The display includes repatriated burial caskets, stone artefacts, scar trees and an art mural. Visit by appointment only, check with the local Visitor Information Centre.

wallaroo station

Located in the Carnarvon Ranges is Wallaroo Station, a 72,000 acre cattle property. Located on the station is Rainbow Cave, a sandstone overhang covered in Aboriginal art. Handprints dipped in ochre, stencil work and paintings of animals adorn the rock faces. Stay overnight at the station or book a tour.

european history

Turn back the clock and discover stories of the past with every small town you visit. Let locals be your guide and take you on a journey of Central Queensland Highlands discovery.

FEDERATION WOOLSHED Photos and antiques line the walls of this historical building which also acts as the information centre. It is open from Easter to October. Also located in the park are historical homesteads, windmill, wagon and cattle yard display.

HERITAGE WALK Starting at the Federation Woolshed, the walk takes visitors on a journey through the main street, detailing the rich history of its heritage buildings.

VIRGIN ROCK Lions Park is the best vantage point to see Virgin Rock, a niche in the eastern side of Mount Zamia, which has a weathered likeness to the Virgin Mary holding her child. The spectacular cliffs are floodlit at night.

YUMBA BURIN (KEEPING PLACE) Situated at the cemetery is an indigenous crypt in which burial caskets and artefacts are stored. Contact the local Visitor Information Centre for opening times.

RAINWORTH FORT COMPLEX includes an original fort building that was built to store food and resist attack. It also includes the relocated Cairdbeign homestead, a school building from the 1800s with a fascinating collection of period pieces and historical artefacts.

WILLS MASSACRE SITE A memorial headstone can be viewed at the site of the 1861 frontier conflict on Cullin La Ringo Road.

STAIRCASE RANGE Named after a sandstone escarpment that has naturally formed in the shape of a staircase. See the Old Wagon Road that was cut into the sandstone by pick and crowbar.

HOSPITAL MUSEUM Built in 1868, the original, heritage-listed Springsure Hospital has been furnished to reflect the yesteryear and houses a collection of medical equipment, photos and records. Contact the the local Visitor Information Centre for access.

NATIONAL PARKS Base yourself in Springsure to explore nearby Minerva Hills and Carnarvon National Parks.

federation woolshed information centre

outback tyres

Outback Tyres is a small family owned business in Springsure. We offer fuel and driveway service, tyres – new and repairs, batteries, wheel alignments, mechanical and suspension. Our mobile service van can come to you, it is equipped to fit and balance tyres on site (bookings required).

P 07 4984 1051 E [email protected] 92 Eclipse Street Springsure Q 4722 outbacktyresspringsure.com.au

CAPELLA PIONEER VILLAGE Explore the Central Queensland Highlands’ agricultural and pastoral history at the Capella Pioneer Village. More than 5,000 items, spread out over 17 buildings, are waiting for you to discover. The village features the 1869 Peak Downs Homestead, Australia’s largest restored drop-plank (no nails) homestead. Check opening times from Easter to October.

AUSTRALIAN LIGHT HORSE MONUMENT

According to local lore, the first time Australian troops wore the now famous emu feathers in their slouch hats was at Peak Downs Station. The locally constructed monument in the Capella Parklands is a striking dedication to the Australian armed forces and the emu plume origins.

POLE MURALS 30 murals depicting Capella’s history are painted on light poles and walls along Peak Downs Street.

CAPELLA PARKLANDS Follow the path that winds from the Pioneer Village, past picnic locations and boab trees, to the historic railway station.

CAPELLA CREEK NATURE WALK AREA Amble along Capella Creek to view more than 120 woodland bird species that call the area home. Examples of the area’s rocks are found in the geo-park near the bridge.

BAKEHOUSE AND OVEN Take a peek at the 95-year-old wood fired oven on display in the main street. It is an important and rare relic with quite the story to tell.

AQUATIC CENTRE Relax at Capella’s ‘beach’, which features five solar-heated pools, gym, squash courts, barbecues, waterslide and café.

CAPELLA CULTURAL CENTRE Catch some great live performances or a latest release movie at the Capella Cultural Centre.

capella pioneer

capella van

Capricorn Coast

& Great Keppel Island

explore more lilyvale waterhole

Lilyvale Waterhole was once a thriving town on the Cobb and Co route until the railway bypassed it. Now only a few remnants of broken ceramics can be seen. A shelter was built on the original location of the Lilyvale Hotel as part of Australia’s 1988 bicentennial celebrations.

In addition to its historical interest, Lilyvale Waterhole is a great out of the way spot to camp.

bogantungan

On 26 February 1960, Bogantungan became the site of one of Queensland's worst train disasters. The Midlander passenger train, heading east to Rockhampton, passed over the flooded Medway Creek, just west of the town. The bridge collapsed when the train was partly over, and a number of carriages dropped into the water. Sadly, four passengers and three crew were killed, and 43 people were injured.

Call into the historical railway station which has interpretive panels and memorabilia about the crash.

DIG TREE View the Coolibah tree trunk that Ludwig Leichhardt marked during his second exploration of the region in 1847. The engraving indicated to those who followed that Leichhardt had buried a powder canister under the tree containing letters and journals.

The tree was felled in the 1950s due to fears it would be lost to fire. After time in Brisbane and the Miles museum, it is now housed in a purpose-built display in Comet.

RAILWAY STATION Located at Whistle Stop Park, the old Comet Railway Station houses a display of local memorabilia, including old photographs and bridge plans.

COMET TALES AND WALKING TRAILS

Take a self-guided walk around the township, stopping at 16 historical sites. The trail brings local stories to life with story boards, images and videos (through your smartphone).

FISHING Drop a line in the Comet Weir, Comet River under the railway bridge, or Mackenzie River at Riley’s Crossing.

mining history

If you like your experiences big and bold, you’re in luck as the Central Queensland Highlands is located in the Bowen Basin, Australia’s largest coal reserve.

BLACKWATER INTERNATIONAL COAL CENTRE (BICC) is home to the Australian Coal Mining Museum, Japanese Gardens, Eliza’s Cottage store, coffee shop, cinema and visitor information centre.

AUSTRALIAN COAL MINING MUSEUM offers a collection of exciting and educational exhibits, media displays and simulators that delve into the past, present and future of mining.

JAPANESE GARDENS were built as a symbol of the relationship between Blackwater and sister city Fujisawa, Japan. The gardens provide a great spot to sit, relax and take in the serenity.

COAL FACE MEMORIAL Titled “At the Coal Face”, the memorial commemorates miners

killed in accidents at Blackwater coal mines.

MINE TOURING Take a drive along Ardurad Road towards Rolleston to view the Blackwater Coal Mine. The mine is one of the largest in the region, employing over 800 people and producing 14 million tonnes of coal per annum. While the mine is not accessible to the public, large machinery and mine operations are visible from the main road.

BLACKWATER LIONS PARK has one of the largest displays of flags in the world. The 37 flags represent the nationalities that worked side-by-side to establish the district’s coal industry. The park also has a restored locomotive engine and the 1877 railway station.

AQUATIC CENTRE Unwind with a soothing swim at the aquatic centre, including a 50-metre pool, 25-metre heated pool and

pine trees grown from seeds taken from the Gallipoli Peninsular in Turkey are the highlight of the town's war memorial in Arthur Street.

children’s splash pad. explore more central highlands mining trail

Blackwater international coal centre.

The iconic Blackwater International Coal Centre incorporates over 20 separate exhibits exploring the past, present and future of the Australian coal industry, modern training and conference facilities, 100 seat digital cinema, Visitor Information Centre, Coal Café and Japanese Gardens.

Follow the Mining Trail, a 180-kilometre drive route through the Bowen Basin. Interpretive signage located along the route explores the stories behind the people that work in the industry. Signs are located at Capella, Lilyvale Waterhole, Emerald, Blackwater and Bluff.

Tieri is a vibrant mining community supporting Oaky Creek coal mine. Streets in the town centre are named after cattle stations that originally

native only to the fitzroy basin, there is nowhere else in the world that can offer the prospect of catching a wild southern saratoga.

bedford weir

Join the hunt for a wild Saratoga at Bedford Weir, a short 20-minute drive north of Blackwater.

The weir is stocked with Saratoga, Barramundi and Yellowbelly, or throw in a pot to catch some Red Claw, a freshwater crayfish.

The calm and flat waters of Mackenzie River provide ideal conditions for boating and skiing.

Electric barbecues and a playground are set in shaded areas by the river, making it an ideal picnic spot.

If the fish are biting, stay a few days and make use of the camping facilities including hot showers and toilets.

The peace and tranquillity of Bedford Weir encourages a wide range of wildlife. Keep a look out for wallabies, potoroos, echidnas, bandicoots and the large pride of peacocks.

wild saratoga

For those wanting a truly unique freshwater fishing experience, the Saratoga is a highly intelligent and aggressive sportsfish, also known as the Emperor of fish.

The Saratoga are built for surface feeding, so look for them just beneath the surface. Try using surface lures, poppers and fizzers, and focus around structure, shade and deep banks. If you see one don’t rush as you will only get one or two casts. Stealth is key as the Saraotoga is easily spooked.

explore more bingegang weir

Venture off the beaten track to Bingegang Weir, north of Dingo, on the mighty Mackenzie River. The spot is popular for its wild Saratoga and secluded bush surrounds. You can easily spend a day without meeting another person. Just you and the fish.

nogoa river

Nogoa River offers weir

fishing at the Selma and Town weirs, downstream from Fairbairn Dam. Our pick is the bottom (Town) weir, which offers easy access and tree-lined banks.

Take to the grass-lined banks and shady trees of the local rivers to enjoy a relaxing freshwater fishing experience. Popular spots include the Dawson, Mackenzie (Riley’s Crossing), Comet and Nogoa Rivers.

It is a heart pounding experience to see one beneath the water, cast near it, and then have it smash your lure, launching out of the water. Be warned, their bony jaw and acrobatic antics can make them difficult to land.

It may take patience and persistence, but your first Saratoga strike will be etched into your mind forever.

FISHING TOUR Let an expert guide your hunt, with access to exclusive fishing spots.

Lake maraboon

When it comes to size, Lake Maraboon sure packs a punch. When full, the lake is three times the size of Sydney Harbour, covering 15,000 hectares.

fairbairn dam

While the water is called Lake Maraboon, meaning ‘where the black duck fly’, the wall and spillway is called Fairbairn Dam.

Lake Maraboon is the only water body in the Central Queensland area that was once actively stocked with Murray Cod, not to mention is currently stocked with Barramundi, Yellowbelly and Silver Perch, all primed to give unforgettable fishing experiences. A fishing permit is required and can be obtained from the Emerald Post Office or online.

Red Claw is abundant and best caught in opera house traps. When it comes to bait, every fisher has their own theory, but generally fruit, partially cooked vegetables or pet food are most popular.

Boating is a great way to explore and enjoy the lake. Both adrenalin-inducing sports, such as water skiing, wake boarding, tubing and jet skiing, as well as slower paced activities, such as kayaking and canoeing, are popular.

Pick a shady tree and enjoy a picnic with water views. The lake is known for its stunning sunsets, so time your visit to watch the sun go down over the water. Tables and electric barbecues are available.

Enjoy stunning views of the lake, spillway and surrounding area from three lookouts.

Camping is not permitted around the lake, however camping and cabin facilities are available at the privately run accommodation provider nearby.

lake maraboon holiday village

Water lovers rejoice – this park

● Fishing & Redclawing

Boating & Kayaking

Powered & unpowered

● Villas, Cabins

Modern Amenities

Camp Kitchens

Serving as the hub to all the attraction spokes of the Central queensland highlands is Emerald.

Egerton Street, Emerald

With towns named Rubyvale and Sapphire, you wouldn’t be the first to think precious stones are what gave this central business district its moniker, but it was the green fields after heavy rain that earnt its title – something you too can see after summer downpours.

cqh visitor information centre

Commence your tour of the region at the visitor centre. The building is an attraction itself as the walls are made from 300 bales of barley straw covered in lime and earthen renders.

self-guided tours

Self-guided tour options can be obtained from the Visitor Information Centre.

van gogh sunflower painting

Once famous as a major sunflower producer, Emerald is now home to one of the world’s largest reproductions of a Vincent van Gogh Sunflower painting. The superstructure is 25 metres high with 13.6 tonnes of steel involved in its construction.

centenary of federation mosaic pathway

The Centenary of Federation Mosaic Pathway leads you through 100 years in 100 metres of Emerald’s colourful history. The footpath features intricately tiled designs that trace history from the beginning of time to visions of the future.

pioneer cottage complex

The Pioneer Cottage Complex echoes the rich history of the Emerald region. It showcases a small historical village, including the town’s lead-lined lockup, St Marks Presbyterian Church and a communications museum.

cbd artworks

Take a short stroll along Egerton Street and view the town’s magnificent public art. Come back at night to see the CBD sparkle with thousands of fairy lights.

emerald botanic gardens

The Emerald Botanic Gardens is located on the banks of the Nogoa River. The 42 hectares of gardens has six kilometres of walking tracks that lead to picnic areas, playgrounds, mazes, sculptures and specialised plant communities.

railway station

Built in 1900, the National Trust-listed railway station, with its wrought iron lacework and pillared portico, provides visitors with great photo opportunities.

emerald art gallery

The Emerald Art Gallery showcases exhibitions from local, state and national artists and is located at the Council office.

Base yourself in Emerald and tick off these tried and tested things to do with kids on your next family getaway.

1. Sapphire Gemfields

Children will enjoy the thrill of searching for a gem at one of the fossicking parks or venturing 16 metres underground on a mine tour.

2. national parks | free

Take the family to nearby Blackdown Tableland National Park and spend the day bush walking, swimming in the rock pool and spotting local wildlife.

3. lake maraboon

Hire a boat or canoe and take to the waters of Lake Maraboon. Throw in a pot and see if you can catch some Red Claw crayfish for dinner.

4. skate park | free

Have kids who love to skate? The skate park caters to all skill levels with half and quarter bowls and two large quarter pipes.

5. bmx park | free

Bring the bikes and let the kids enjoy the jumps, bumps and turns of the BMX track.

6. aquatic centre

Go for a dip at the aquatic centre which features three waterslides, 50-metre pool, heated 25-metre pool and a children’s splash pad area.

7. botanic gardens | free

Spend the morning walking or biking through the gardens. Stop for a picnic by the river, before tiring out the kids on the monorail, flying fox and mouse wheel.

Pick from a range of latest release movies and then get to the real decision, popcorn or choc top ice cream?

9. science centre

Discover the wonders of science at the Outback Exploratorium’s STEAM lab, including a discovery space, workshop and retail outlet.

court action

little gem yoga - kelly corbishley

the inner bean hub

fairbairn bakery

Award winning Bakery Café, old school bakery

aircon, sit down and drive thru. Must try!

pies in Central Queensland as voted!

E [email protected]

Clermont St Emerald Q 4720 P 07 4982 1103

Hospital Rd Emerald Q 4720 P 07 4982 1485

Fairbairn Bakery Emerald

retail therapy

If you’re looking to purchase a unique gift, stock up on supplies or need running repairs, Emerald has you covered.

Get your retail therapy in the local boutiques and national chain stores located across our three shopping centres and central business district.

Emerald also has a wide range of services, including medical, banking and automotive, to meet your needs.

Call into the CQH Visitor Information Centre for souvenirs and handicrafts.

Local tastes

CAFÉS leave you spoilt for choice, offering freshly roasted coffee, gourmet burgers, home baked favourites and healthy options. Many cafés also offer takeaway and picnic options for your travels.

PUBS With five pubs and two sporting clubs in Emerald there is always somewhere to grab a relaxed counter meal and beer after a day exploring.

Pack your yoga mat and add a little bit of me-time to your travel plans.

RESTAURANTS

There’s no better place than the Central Queensland Highlands, one of Australia’s leading beef producers, to enjoy a succulent steak. Try one cooked at your table on a heated stone.

Each restaurant has their signature dish, would you prefer crispy crocodile spring rolls, sticky lamb rack or smokehouse pork ribs? Perhaps you’d like an espresso martini with a side of tapas.

Emerald offers a range of yoga, pilates, tai chi and meditation classes. Book in for a massage, reiki or bowen therapy, or be pampered at one of the beauty therapists.

If your version of wellness is hitting the gym, Emerald has seven, boasting a range of equipment and classes. The Botanic Gardens is the perfect spot for cycling or walking and plays host to the weekly Park Run. Other facilities include an Olympic size swimming pool, squash and tennis courts and golf course.

not everyone with wanderlust has a trust fund. boost your travel savings with seasonal work in the central queensland highlands.

Earn while you travel

Gen Z’s looking for a rural adventure, or grey nomads on the trip of their lifetime, can take advantage of seasonal work in the Central Queensland Highlands to combine travel with paid gigs.

Let’s talk dollars. Casual agriculture employees can earn more money than people working in either retail or hospitality because they, on average, receive a similar or better hourly wage, and have the opportunity to work more hours over the working week.

In addition to boosting your bank account, seasonal work can help you build new skills, make lasting social connections and provide a true rural Australia experience.

If that’s not enough, you’ll be helping farmers get their produce to market to feed the nation.

All skill levels, with or without qualifications, ages and backgrounds are welcome. Agriculture has a job for everyone! Some roles such as fruit picking require strength and stamina, however there are also roles such as packing and quality control that are indoors and not as physically demanding.

horticulture

COMMODITIES: mandarins, grapes, lemons, limes and macadamias

OPPORTUNITIES: picking, packing, quality control, tree maintenance, supervisors, machinery operators

EARN: Fruit picking is normally paid on a piece rate, therefore long hours can see you earning $800-$1,000 per week. Take a relaxed approach and you will earn around $400-$600.

COMMODITIES: cotton, grains, pulses, cattle

OPPORTUNITIES: farm/station hand, tractor drivers, irrigation assistants, governess

EARN: Wages start at $700 per week and are dependent on experience levels and additional benefits such as accommodation.

other opportunities

Other seasonal work opportunities exist in the tourism and hospitality sectors.

Permanent, full time roles are also available in agriculture, horticulture and agribusiness.

Accommodation may be supplied on farm as part of the job package. Alternatively, local caravan and cabin parks offer budgetfriendly, short-term accommodation. mobile coverage

You’ll find mobile coverage in all towns across the Central Queensland Highlands. There is generally some level of reception on farms however it may be limited.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE MAY BE AVAILABLE FOR ELIGIBLE PEOPLE WHO RELOCATE TO UNDERTAKE WORK IN AGRICULTURE. CHECK THE QUEENSLAND AND AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT WEBSITES FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

z Check the Working Holidays section on CENTRALQUEENSLANDHIGHLANDS.COM.AU

z Look for advertisements on local social media job boards

z Contact the CQH Visitor Information Centre

Jordan Spargo, 21 FARMHAND, BENDEE FARMING, GINDIE

START I was backpacking in Canada when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. I came straight home, quarantined and started looking for jobs online. I found this job on Seek, did a zoom interview and started work a few weeks later.

JOB My job involves operating tractors, mustering cattle, daily maintenance on machinery and infrastructure and everything in between. I also help run the spot spraying robots which is pretty cool.

BEST/WORST The best thing about my job is the variety. No day is ever the same. Sometimes it doesn't go to plan, so it keeps you on your toes. I don’t think there is anything bad about my job but for some people it might be the long days.

FREE TIME I’m an outdoors type of person so I like camping and hiking at Carnarvon Gorge and Blackdown Tableland National Park.

I catch up with friends for dinner and drinks, movies or shopping in Emerald.

ACCOMMODATION My job came with farm accommodation which includes our own room and bathroom, and shared common areas.

MOBILE COVERAGE We get coverage across the whole farm. Some places are patchy but overall it’s pretty good.

TIP Just give it a go. There’s so many different jobs and the people are great.

looking for a tree change?

central highlands easter sunflower festival, easter, emerald Cars, trucks, bikes and even people are swathed in bright yellow sunflowers during the festival’s street parade. Family fun is on the agenda with three days of events including an art exhibition, horse races and rodeo.

central highlands agricultural show circuit, may/june Come for the dagwood dogs, stay for the wood chopping, ring events, sideshow alley, live entertainment and fireworks.

capella country music festival, may Get your Akubra and check shirt sorted for the Capella Country Music Festival. In addition to a great line up of country music artists, the four days includes a talent search, bush poets’ breakfast and bush cooking.

gemfields rocks, last weekend may, sapphire gemfields

Calling all classic car and rock’n’roll enthusiasts for a weekend of live music,

car shows, food stalls and markets.

ag-grow, june, emerald Kick some tyres at Ag-Grow, a major agricultural field day featuring over 300 exhibitors, bull and horse sale and working cattle dog challenge.

gemfields festival, second week august, sapphire gemfields

Celebrate everything gems! The extravaganza held across the fields includes markets, workshops, exhibitions, live music and much more.

world dingo trap throwing competition, august, dingo

Could you throw a dingo trap 48 metres? Watch punters try at the world championships, held in conjunction with a country race day.

capella pioneer village heritage day, september

Take a step back in time at the heritage festival including a tractor parade, blacksmithing, sheep shearing, tractor

emerald lions markets

First Sunday of each month Mega Markets in December twilight on egerton night markets

Second Saturday of Winter, Spring, Summer and Autumn

capella community markets

Fourth Sunday of select months

rubyvale markets

Every Saturday, Easter to October sapphire markets

Every Sunday, Easter to October springsure markets in the park

Second Sunday of each month christmas in july markets Capella

ess christmas craft fair Emerald, November

Enjoy the unique energy and character of family events including the Springsure Billy Kart Dash (January), Blackwater May Day Fun Day and Nogoa November.

Country races are a fabulous day out and a highlight of the region’s social calendar. Meetings are held monthly, however don’t miss these signature events: Springsure St Patricks Race Day (March) and the Emerald 100 (October).

If sports are more your style, cheer on one of the local sporting teams or get behind the cowboys and cowgirls at a rodeo or campdraft.

If you’d prefer to participate than spectate, sign up for these unique, cross country events: Springsure Mountain Challenge (May) and UpDown Blackdown (August), or the quirky Colour Run (September).

Pack your appetite and make your way to one of the region’s foodie events, including the Eat Street Markets, Beer & BBQ Festival (August) and Oktoberfest.

Check out our full events calendar at whatson.centralqueenslandhighlands.com.au

holiday directory

blackwater international coal centre

Capricorn Highway Blackwater Q 4717

P 07 4982 7755 E [email protected] bicc.com.au

capella pioneer village

1 Pioneer Street Capella Q 4723

P 0427 638 866 E [email protected] capella.com.au/capella-pioneer-village

capella van park

13 Langton Street Capella Q 4723

P 07 4984 9615 E [email protected] capellavanpark.com.au

trailer & van repairs

11596 Gregory Highway Capella Q 4723

P 0409 613 999 E [email protected] trailerandvanrepairs.com.au

big4 breeze holiday parks - carnarvon gorge

Carnarvon Gorge Q 4702

P 07 4984 4535 E [email protected] breezeholidayparks.com.au

carnarvon gorge ecotours

PO Box 48 Injune Q 4454

P 0408 741 292 | 0411 060 928 carnarvongorgeecotours.com

carnarvon gorge wilderness lodge

4043 O’Briens Road Carnarvon Gorge Q 4702

P 07 4984 4503 E [email protected] wildernesslodge.com.au

heli-central

P 1800 435 426 E [email protected] 1800helicopter.com.au

sandstone park

P 1800 87 4444 E [email protected] sandstonepark.com.au

32 Peacey Road Emerald Q 4720

P 07 4982 4333

FB: Court Action

Crossan Legal Solicitors

14 Borilla Street Emerald Q 4720

P 07 4982 1633 E [email protected]

emerald cabin and caravan village

64 Opal Street Emerald Q 4720

P 07 49 821 300 E [email protected] emeraldcabinandcaravanvillage.com.au

emerald central hotel

13 Opal Street Emerald Q 4720

P 07 4982 3388 E [email protected] emeraldcentralhotel.com.au

emerald central palms motel

19 Esmond Street Emerald Q 4720

P 07 4982 3600 E [email protected] emeraldcentralpalms.com

emerald tourist park

43 Roberts Street Emerald Q 4720

P 07 4982 1589 E [email protected] facebook.com/emeraldtouristpark

117 Clermont St Emerald Q 4720 P 07 4982 1103 41-43 Hospital Rd Emerald Q 4720 P 07 4982 1485

FB: Fairbairn Bakery Emerald

lachlan millar mp | member for gregory

93 Clermont Street Emerald Q 4720

P 07 4913 1000 E [email protected] lachlanmillarmp.com

Fairbairn Dam Access & Selma Rd Emerald Q 4720

P 07 4982 3677 E [email protected] lmhv.com.au

PO Box 191 Rubyvale Q 4702

P 0429 473 314 E [email protected] li legemyoga.com.au

maraboon vet surgery & pet resort

SURGERY 61 Hospital Rd Emerald Q 4720

P 07 4987 6800 E [email protected]

RESORT Lot 2 Keeping St Emerald Q 4720

P 07 4987 7748 E [email protected]

the inner bean hub licensed café

The Hub, Corner Opal Street Emerald Q 4720

P 0458 550 092 E [email protected] innerbeanhub.com.au

rolleston caravan park

Cnr Comet & Meteor Streets Rolleston Q 4702

P 07 4984 3145 E [email protected] rollestoncaravanpark.weebly.com

blue gem tourist park

925 Anakie-Sapphire Road Sapphire Q 4702

P 07 4985 4162 E [email protected] bluegemtouristpark.com.au

gem air village caravan park

2 Village Road Willows Gemfields Q 4702

P 07 4985 5124 E [email protected] gemairvillage.com

gemfields rocks / gemfields festival

P 0448 681 888 gemfieldsrocks.com.au

miners heritage walk-in mine

97 Heritage Road Rubyvale Q 4702

P 07 4985 4444 E [email protected] minersheritage.com.au

new royal hotel

Cnr Keilambete & Goanna Flats Rds Rubyvale Q 4702

P 07 4985 4754 E [email protected] rubyvalehotel.com.au

pat's gems tourist fossicking park

1056 Rubyvale Road Sapphire Q 4702

P/F 07 4985 4544 E [email protected] facebook.com/patsgemstouristfossickingpark

rubyvale caravan park

16 Main Street Rubyvale Q 4702

P 07 4985 4118 E [email protected] rubyvalecaravanpark.com.au

rubyvale gem gallery

Main Street Rubyvale Q 4702

P 07 49 854 388 E [email protected] rubyvalegemgallery.com

Sapphire Caravan and Cabin park

57 Sunrise Rd Sapphire Q 4702

P 07 4985 4291 E [email protected] sapphirecaravanpark.com.au

Sapphire Showcase

1052 Rubyvale Road Sapphire Q 4702

P 0407 881 551 E [email protected] coolamonsapphires.com

ka ka mundi tours facebook.com/kakamunditours

jr & ge nixon - bp fuels & gulf western lubes

73 East Street Springsure Q 4722

P 07 4984 1267 E [email protected]

92 Eclipse Street Springsure Q 4722

P 07 4984 1051 E [email protected] outbacktyresspringsure.com.au

springsure mountain meats

38 Eclipse Street Springsure Q 4722

P 07 4984 1130 E [email protected] facebook.com/SpringsureMountainMeats

Camping & Caravanning

Camping and caravanning in the Central Queensland

Highlands is a great way to dig a little deeper and experience a closer connection to the landscape. Wake up with the birds, bush surrounds and a new place to explore.

caravan parks

There are more than 20 budget-friendly caravan parks located throughout the region, offering powered and unpowered sites and a range of cabin options.

national parks

Blackdown tableland national park munall campground.

The access road is not suitable for towing heavy trailers or caravans. Privately run accommodation is available all year round at the park turn-off.

NUGA NUGA NATIONAL PARK NUGA NUGA REMOTE BUSH CAMP

EXPEDITION NATIONAL PARK LONESOME CAMPING AREA

Carnarvon national park carnarvon gorge visitor area.

Available during select school holidays. BIG BEND CAMPING AREA

Open all year round and accessed by a 19.4km walk.

Privately run cabin and caravan parks are available all year round.

Bush camping is available in the Salvator Rosa, Ka Ka Mundi and Mount Moffatt sections.

FOR NATIONAL PARK MAPS, CAMPING PERMITS, PARK ALERTS AND FURTHER INFORMATION, VISIT QLD.GOV.AU/NATIONALPARKS OR CONTACT THE CQH VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE.

Lions Park, Springsure

Designated fossicking areas.

Create the perfect duo by combining gem hunting and camping at one of the fossicking areas across the Sapphire Gemfields. Fossicking licences and camping permits are required, see page 17.

Self-Sufficient Camping BEDFORD WEIR, BLACKWATER

Lilyvale waterhole, capella.

Quiet country towns are ideal for RV parking. In Emerald, parking is available at Central Highlands Marketplace.

dump points & potable water z Blackwater, Turpentine Road z Capella, Bridgeman Park z Carnarvon Gorge, accommodation providers (bring your own water) z Duaringa, Mackenzie Park z Emerald, Showgrounds z Rolleston, Beasley Park z Sapphire, Flagon Alley z Springsure, Rich Park PETS

LIONS PARK, SPRINGSURE

Mackenzie park, duaringa, staircase range, springsure.

Bring your fur-baby on holiday with you and stay at one of the many pet friendly caravan parks. Off leash dog parks are available in Emerald and Blackwater or let your pooch get their paws wet at Lake Maraboon and Bedford Weir. Make use of the dog kennels located in Emerald, Blackwater and Carnarvon Gorge to care for your pet while you explore the national parks.

Getting here & around road

The Central Queensland Highlands is intersected by the Capricorn Highway (Capricorn Way) that runs east – west and the Gregory Highway (Great Inland Way) that runs south – north.

For current road conditions, contact the Visitor Information Centre in the town you are visiting, or check the Queensland Government Traffic and Travel Information website.

The Spirit of the Outback operates twice-weekly services along the coast from Brisbane to Rockhampton and then west through Blackwater and Emerald to Longreach.

Daily coach services are available from Rockhampton with Greyhound Australia and Mackay with Mackay Transit Coaches.

Emerald Airport offers daily services from Brisbane with QantasLink and Virgin Australia, and weekly flights from the Sunshine Coast with Alliance Airlines.

Hertz, Budget, Avis, Thrifty and Sixt have branches at Emerald Airport.

131 008 operate taxi services in Emerald and Blackwater. Ride-share platform, J-Lo Rides, is available in Emerald.

tour services

Contact the nearest Visitor Information Centre for local tour recommendations.

Articles inside

Getting here & around

Uncover history & heritage

Explore iconic National Parks

Captain your own adventure

The best free nature walks in and around central Queensland

• X (formerly Twitter)

It's a region mostly known for coal, cattle and cotton, but central Queensland is also home to some of nature's best bushwalks.

From the magnificent sandstone cliffs of Carnarvon Gorge to Yeppoon's scenic coastal peaks, avid hiker Michael Pugh says there's something for everyone.

"I've always had a love of hiking," he says.

"It's a family-friendly, pet-friendly, community-friendly outdoor experience.

"Get outside and experience the wonder right on our back doorstep."

Michael founded Central Queensland Hike and Explore after seeing the benefits of running a similar social bushwalking group in North Queensland.

"There's a lot of members of our community that want to share in that outdoor experience but just haven't had someone that can go out and show them these beautiful places," he says.

"Since 2019, we've taken more than 5,000 community members across northern and central Queensland on free, social, fun and supportive outdoor walking and hiking adventures."

Good for a climb: Peak Range

Michael's top recommendation is Mount MacArthur, near Clermont and Dysart. 

"Standing atop the rim of that volcanic dome formation there has been one of my favourite, if not my favourite hiking memory from central Queensland," he says.

This peak is on private property, so hikers must be granted permission to climb — but Wolfang Peak, Lord's Table Mountain and the Gemini Peaks, are accessible to the public.

"You don't necessarily have to climb the peaks," Michael says.

"On our last trip to Wolfang Peak, the koalas had moved in.

"There's some beautiful bushwalking options where you can actually walk along fire trails and gazetted national parks trails around those peaks and experience those wonders for yourself."

For a walk and swim: Blackdown Tableland

A 180-kilometre trip along the Capricorn Highway, heading west from Rockhampton, will take you to the edge of the sandstone belt.

Blackdown Tableland National Park, on Ghungalu country, features eucalypt forests, refreshing swimming holes, a range of walks and an accessible viewing platform.

"It's becoming quite popular with visitors and tourists from all over the state," Michael says.

The 4km Gudda Gumoo gorge track takes you to the base of a stunning waterfall (beware of the devious pea gravel).

Popular with families: Carnarvon Gorge

Hikers are spoilt for choice at Carnarvon National Park with public access to many spectacular and culturally significant sites.

It's a common school holiday spot for families, but also offers challenging multi-day adventures for seasoned bushwalkers.

There are also camping spots which are often booked months in advance.

"There's some absolutely pristine and stunning country down there," Michael says.

He also recommends the Minerva Hills, near Springsure, which features several picnic areas and scenic lookouts.

For a walk and climb: Capricorn Coast

One of Yeppoon's most popular walks is the 2.3km Bluff Point Circuit — think panoramic coastline views and turtle spotting.

Nearby Double Head, also known as Fan Rock and Roslyn Bay lookouts, provides stunning views of the Keppel Islands, Byfield Ranges and other volcanic plugs.

Baga, a distinct peak beside Rockhampton-Yeppoon Road, is ideal for those seeking a mix of walking and climbing.

The lush rainforests and white sandy beaches of the Byfield National Park and State Forest, north of Yeppoon, cannot be overlooked.

For stunning views: Rockhampton area

Rockhampton staple, Mount Archer, overlooks the beef city and winding Fitzroy River.

There's an accessible 500-metre circuit featuring two lookouts at the top (via a car park), while those chasing a challenge can hike about five hours one way on the Zamia Walk.

Known primarily for its Limestone outcrops and unique bat cleft, the 2.4km Mount Etna trail offers great views of the historic Pilkington Quarry and limestone ridge.

The public trail is near The Caves township, north of Rockhampton. 

For cooler months: Gladstone and Agnes Water area

Adventure-seekers will love Mount Larcom, the summit is 632m above sea level and generally takes about five hours to complete.

Start early and climb in the cooler months — and be sure to check the weather conditions because the top can be covered in clouds.

Drive along Springs Road, south of Agnes Water, and you'll find a little gravel car park hiding a gorgeous 400m Paperbark Forest Boardwalk.

It's great for all fitness levels, suitable for most ages and lovely photo spot.

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Gemini mountains: exploring central queensland’s twin peaks.

Saphira Bloom-Quinn

Featured explorer.

Saphira is a biology graduate with a love for wildflowers, coastlines, and mountains. Solo multi-day hikes are her favourite, but she loves all kinds of outdoor pursuits, including climbing and rogaining. She particularly enjoys experiencing the wilderness through the lens of eco-philosophy and eco-literature.

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On Saphira’s recent road trip around Queensland, she learned about the mystically named Gemini Mountains between Mackay and Emerald. These twin peaks form part of Peak Range National Park and are a worthwhile addition to your road trip itinerary!

We acknowledge that this adventure is located on the traditional Country of the Wangan and Jagalingou peoples who have occupied and cared for the lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded

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Quick overview.

The Gemini Mountains are ruggedly beautiful twin peaks 200km south-west of Mackay in the Isaac Region of Central Queensland . They’re located in the Gemini Section of Peak Range National Park on the lands of the Wangan and Jagalingou people.

About the Gemini Mountains

The Gemini Mountains are an underrated highlight of Central Queensland, consisting of Mount Pollux (555 metres) and Mount Castor (545 metres). These charming twin peaks jut out of the surrounding open eucalypt woodland.

The colonial names for the peaks come from Greek and Roman mythology, after the twin half-brothers Pollux and Castor. Together, they were known as the Gemini (which is Latin for ‘twins’).

The Gemini Mountains make up one of four sections of the disjunct Peak Range National Park. If you summit, you’ll get stunning views of the surroundings, including Wolfang Peak, Lords Table Mountain, and Eastern Peak (which make up the rest of Peak Range National Park).

Whether you summit or not, the Gemini Mountains are the perfect rugged hike for your next Central Queensland adventure.

Read more: Road Tripping the Central Queensland Highlands

History of the Gemini Mountains

Geologists have determined that the Gemini Mountains were formed from volcanic activity of the Peak Range Volcano between 32 and 29 million years ago.

What you see today are volcanic plugs made of rhyolite (a type of rock formed from magma). The Gemini Mountains were first sighted by Europeans on 18 January 1845 as part of the Leichhardt Expedition.

Aboriginal Significance of the Gemini Mountains

The Gemini Mountains fall within the region claimed by the Wangan and Jagalingou people. Wangan and Jagalingou stories describe how the nearby Wolfang Peak was created from a rainbow serpent (Mundunjudra) falling from the sky.

Further information about the spiritual and cultural significance of the Gemini Mountains is not currently publicly available but, as always, we should tread lightly, reverently, and respectfully when adventuring, including in the Gemini Mountains.

Today, some members of the Wangan and Jagalingou people are leading a fierce campaign against destructive mining in the region which you can read more about on their website or their Instagram .

How to Get to the Gemini Mountains

You can get to the Gemini Mountains by car from Mackay by heading 200km south-west along State Route 70.

To get to the Gemini Mountains from Emerald, head north-west along the A7 to Clermont, then turn off a little after Clermont onto State Route 70.

The Gemini Mountains are right on State Route 70 – just pull in at the Peak Range National Park sign and park in the designated area.

Read more: Remember to leave no trace

Where to Stay Near the Gemini Mountains

There are free places to camp near the Gemini Mountains at the rest stops at Clermont BP Roadhouse (13km south of Moranbah) or the Isaac River Rest Area.

You can also camp at the Clermont Caravan Park , but the best place to camp is Theresa Creek Dam . Here you can go fishing and do a variety of water sports, including canoeing.

There’s a range of hotels and motels near the Gemini Mountains at nearby Moranbah or Clermont. The best places to stay near the Gemini Mountains are:

• Oaks Moranbah Suites
• Moranbah Motor Inn
• Black Nugget Hotel Motel
• Western Heritage Motor Inn
• Clermont Country Motor Inn
• Grand Hotel Motel
• Smart Stayzzz Inns
• Peppercorn Motel
• Leo Hotel Motel
• Clermont Hotel Motel

Nearby Accommodation

Where to eat near the gemini mountains.

A lot of the hotels and motels have dining options in-house or nearby, which offer the best places to eat near the Gemini Mountains.

However, make sure to also check out these places which form part of The Great Isaac Pub and Pie Crawl!

• Moranbah Workers Club
• Moranbah Bakery
• Town Square Pies & Takeaway
• Commercial Hotel Clermont
• Bluemac Bakehouse Clermont

Best Things to do at the Gemini Mountains

• Hike around the foothills on the vehicle access tracks
• Enjoy the views from the top of the peaks
• Explore the caves at Mount Pollux
• Keep an eye out for the vulnerable Southern Squatter pigeon (it has striking black and white face markings)
• Hold a cooee contest !
• Have a picnic nearby at Lords Table Mountain, on Huntley Road (check road condition in advance)
• Hike to the saddle of Lords Table Mountain
• Visit nearby Wolfang Peak
• Go gold fossicking in Clermont

Essential Gear for the Gemini Mountains

• Footwear suitable for mud
• PLB or phone with reception
• Good hat and sun protection
• Plenty of water
• First aid kit (you’re in a remote area!)

Skill Level

Beginner – Advanced

The walk to the mountains along the vehicle access track is beginner, but it’s certainly an advanced climbing to the summit due to the loose rock and off-track nature.

Distance / Duration / Elevation Gain

Walk to the base of both mountains: 10km / 4 hours To summit both mountains: 13.5km / 5 hours / 360 metres

What it’s Like to Hike the Gemini Mountains

You can walk around Peak Range National Park via the vehicle access tracks (no vehicle access to the public, pedestrian access only) to get different vantage points of the Gemini Mountains.

From the car park, it’s a 4km walk one-way to the foothills of Mount Pollux, and another 1km to the foothills of Mount Castor (so a sunrise hike is totally viable!). Round-trip, if you visit both peaks it’s about 10km return. If you choose to summit them, you’re looking at 13.5km and 360 metres combined elevation change.

On the climb to the summits there are no defined summit tracks and the rock is quite loose. So if you want to summit the peaks, seek further advice from Queensland Parks and Wildlife . There’s no specific webpage on the Peak Range National Park, so it’s best to give parks a call on (07) 4983 1211.

Personally, our experience hiking the Gemini Mountains was quite the adventure!  We car camped the night before at a nearby rest area, enjoying an absolute stunner of a sunset and views of the twin peaks.

The next morning we headed off early. It was a bit of a boring walk-in along the vehicle access track – dead straight for a couple of kilometres and super muddy (the kind of mud that seems to layer indefinitely onto your boots until you’re walking on mud-stilts).

Then we left the vehicle access track and started heading off-track towards Mount Pollux for our summit attempt.

We quickly realised our pace was going to be much slower than we’d expected due to the Golden Orb spiders. They had set-up house between every single set of trees (shame on us for trying to hike it in summer!).

Avoiding the sheer number of webs was impossible, so we were left to dance around, limbo, and duck under them the whole way to Mount Pollux.

Eventually, we reached the base of Mount Pollux and started making headway up the peak. But we found the rock quality was quite poor. There was a lot of loose rock and vegetation. It didn’t feel exposed or unsafe though, just unexpected.

Near the summit, we came across a curled-up snake warming itself in the sun, directly on our route. It was proving difficult to find a route to avoid her.

After a muddy morning, hours spent dodging spiders, loose rock, a crushingly slow pace, and now a snake, we decided to accept that the universe didn’t want us summiting that day.

So, we found a little spot for lunch, enjoyed the stunning vistas of the surrounding region, and then headed back to the car. Despite all the setbacks, it was a nice little adventure, and the views were worth the visit. We plan to return!

Tips For Hiking the Gemini Mountains

• Beware of loose rocks on the peaks
• The walk in can be very muddy
• Cars can get bogged at the car park after wet weather
• There are no tracks up the peaks themselves
• Hiking in Peak Range National Park should be done in the winter, not just because of the extreme heat in summer, but because of the Golden Orb spiders (as we found out the hard way!)
• There are no facilities in the park and hikers must be fully self-sufficient

Gemini Mountains FAQs

Where are the gemini mountains located.

You’ll find the Gemini Mountains in the Isaac Region of Central Queensland in there own section of Peak Range National Park between Emerald and Mackay.

How do you get to the Gemini Mountains?

From Brisbane , the Gemini Mountains are am 11 hour drive. From Mackay, they’re a 2 hour and 40 minute drive away.

Do I need to book my visit to the Gemini Mountains?

Nope! You can just show up.

When is the best time of year to visit the Gemini Mountains?

It’s best to avoid hiking the Gemini Mountains in summer due to the extreme heat and high number of spiders around. Winter and autumn are the best months to explore.

How many days should I spend at the Gemini Mountains?

You can visit in the Gemini Mountains in a single day.

Are the Gemini Mountains good for beginners?

The walk to the base of the mountains is good for beginners, however to climb to the summit will require an advanced level of bushwalking skills.

Can you swim at the Gemini Mountains?

Nope! Nowhere to swim around here

Do you need a 4WD to get to the Gemini Mountains?

Nope! You can drive right up to the car park in a 2WD and then you’ll need to venture on foot from there.

Are the Gemini Mountains open?

At the time of writing, the Gemini Mountains are open

Are the Gemini Mountains free?

Yes, the Gemini Mountains are free to visit

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Queensland

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Sep 13, 2021 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Queensland, "the Sunshine State," is Australia's most popular vacation destination. Golden beaches, idyllic tropical islands, fantastic surf breaks, World Heritage-listed rainforests, rivers, reefs, and waterfalls are just some of the state's natural jewels.

All Queensland's sun-soaked settings offer exhilarating outdoor adventures. The dazzling Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef offer superb diving and snorkeling. K'Gari ( Fraser Island) is a favorite four-wheel-driving adventure, and the wilderness areas along the Queensland coast are excellent for hiking, biking, boating, and fishing.

For a change of pace, Queensland's capital, Brisbane , delivers big-city attractions with a small-town feel. South of Brisbane lies the glitzy Gold Coast with its hedonism and high rises. Traveling north along the coast from the capital, you can explore a string of holiday resorts, from sleepy beach towns and rainforest villages, to picturesque Port Douglas, and the tropical tourist-magnet of Cairns. Learn more about the best places to visit in this sunny state with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Queensland.

1. Dive or Snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef

2. take a safari through daintree national park and cape tribulation, 3. go four-wheel-driving on k'gari (fraser island), 4. island hop at the whitsundays, 5. stroll along four mile beach in port douglas, 6. visit cairns, 7. bask on the beaches of noosa heads and the sunshine coast, 8. soar over the rainforest to kuranda, 9. live it up on the gold coast, 10. get a culture fix in brisbane, 11. hop aboard a whale watching cruise in hervey bay, 12. enjoy the views in maleny & montville, 13. bird-watch at lamington national park, 14. tour townsville and magnetic island, 15. feed a kangaroo at australia zoo, 16. explore the cape york peninsula & the torres strait islands, map of tourist attractions & things to do in queensland.

It's difficult to overstate the beauty and ecological importance of this World Heritage-listed natural wonder. This is the planet's largest living structure , and it's so vast, you can see it from space.

Much of the reef lies within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park , which extends off the northern coast of Queensland, from Mackay to the northeastern corner of Australia. The park itself is about half the size of Texas and protects more than 3,000 coral reefs, 600 continental islands, 300 coral cays, and a patchwork of mangrove islands.

Diving or snorkeling the reef is one of Australia's must-do outdoor adventures . The astounding diversity of marine life lures visitors from around the world. More than 1,600 species of tropical fish inhabit the reef, as well as sharks, dugongs, dolphins, turtles, giant clams, and kaleidoscopic soft and hard corals. Underwater viewing stations and glass-bottom boats also offer a window into this underwater wonderland.

Other popular things to do during a visit to the Great Barrier Reef include scenic flights, island-hopping cruises, and sailing trips.

On the mainland, Cairns, Port Douglas, and Airlie Beach are the top gateway towns for tours. Alternatively, you can stay at one of the resort islands within the marine park. The Whitsunday Islands offer popular attractions and accommodation options and make a great base to explore the reef.

Remote Lizard Island , the park's most northerly island, is famous for its exclusive resort , and Lady Elliot Island , the reef's southernmost coral cay, is home to a popular eco-resort .

A Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, Daintree National Park is the planet's oldest surviving rainforest . That alone should be reason enough to visit, but it also harbors one of the world's highest concentrations of threatened and endangered species.

Located in Far North Queensland, the two main sections of the park include the crystal-clear waters and lush forests of Mossman Gorge , as well as Cape Tribulation , where tropical rainforest fringes the reef-splotched shores of the Coral Sea.

The ecosystems here are incredibly diverse. More than 18,000 plant species, as well as a fascinating array of animals live within the park, including the flightless southern cassowaries (ostrich-sized birds), crocodiles, Boyd's rainforest dragons, brightly hued azure kingfishers, spotted cuscuses, and musky rat-kangaroos.

The best way to explore this area is on a guided safari. Many companies offer tours on amphibious vehicles and include rainforest hikes and tropical fruit tastings. However, you can also take a self-drive tour.

Other popular things to do include ziplining through the rainforest, horseback riding, swimming at Mossman Gorge, looking for cassowaries along the Jindalba Boardwalk , and hiking the many other rainforest trails.

Just south of the park, the resort town of Port Douglas is a popular base for arranging rainforest wilderness safaris. This area is one of the best places to visit in Queensland in winter, during the dry season.

On the beautiful Fraser Coast, about a 3.5-hour drive from Brisbane, World Heritage-listed K'Gari (Fraser Island) is the largest sand island in the world . Four-wheel drive adventures here explore wide windswept beaches, crystal-clear lakes and streams, dingoes, dense forests, sacred Aboriginal sites, and multi-hued rock formations.

Seventy-Five Mile Beach is the island's main thoroughfare and provides access to some of K'Gari's top attractions . These include the rusted hull of the Maheno shipwreck , the bubbling rock pools of Champagne Pools , Eli Creek , and the colored sandstone cliffs of The Pinnacles .

Tiger sharks, dolphins, and whales swim in the wind-whipped waters, and the island's fauna includes Australia's purest strain of dingo and more than 300 species of birds.

Top things to do inland include swimming in the aquamarine Lake McKenzie ; exploring the rainforest trails of Central Station; and visiting Lake Wabby , backed by a towering sandblow.

The most popular access point for tours to Fraser Island is Hervey Bay, the whale watching capital of Australia. From here, you can hop aboard a car or passenger ferry to K'Gari or book a Fraser Island Day Tour .

Off the coast of central Queensland, the Whitsunday group encompasses 74 stunning islands strung along the Great Barrier Reef . The Whitsundays are continental islands, the summits of a coastal range emerging from the sea. All but five of them have been declared national parks, and about eight are home to popular resorts.

Popular things to do in the Whitsundays include diving and snorkeling tours, sailing trips, basking on the dazzling tropical beaches, and relaxing at the island resorts.

The most famous resorts include luxurious Hayman Island ; tiny Daydream Island Resort ; well-developed Hamilton Island , the largest of the island resorts; and Palm Bay Resort on beautiful Long Island, with access to 13 kilometers of walking tracks.

On uninhabited Whitsunday Island, Whitehaven Beach, with its powdery white sands and turquoise water, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia .

Airlie Beach is the main launching points for island excursions.

Dotted with palms and mango trees, the once-sleepy village of Port Douglas is now a charming holiday resort. It's the closest mainland town to the Great Barrier Reef , making it a popular base for reef trips, as well as wilderness safaris in Daintree National Park . This picturesque town lies about an hour's drive north of Cairns, along a scenic coastal road, which winds between beaches and rainforest-cloaked hills.

Skirting the beautiful blond sweep of Four Mile Beach , Port Douglas has a relaxed tropical vibe, with cute cafés, shops, and art galleries. From the Flagstaff Hill Lookout enjoy breathtaking views of the palm-fringed beach merging with the turquoise Coral Sea.

Top things to do in Port Douglas include getting up close to Aussie animals at the Wildlife Habitat , shopping at the farmers markets, and soaking up the downtown scene on Macrossan Street. Other adventures on offer include safaris in all-terrain vehicles to Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation , fishing trips, northbound expeditions through the rugged landscape of the Cape York Peninsula , and boat trips to Cooktown and the Great Barrier Reef.

Thanks to the year-round toasty weather in the tropics, Port Douglas is one of the best places to visit in Queensland in winter. This is the prime tourist season, when the weather is typically sunny and dry.

In a superb location, between the Great Barrier Reef and the dark hills of the Atherton Tableland, Cairns is one of the most popular tourist towns in Far North Queensland. It makes a great base to explore the best of Queensland.

Cairns is a friendly, laid-back town, with palm-fringed streets, large parks, and colorful gardens. Beautiful beaches radiate out along the coast from Trinity Bay and Palm Cove to Port Douglas. Feel like a stroll? The five-kilometer-long Cairns Esplanade runs along the bay, with a saltwater swimming lagoon and free water-themed playground for young children.

Cairns is an excellent base for day trips. It's one of the most popular launching points for excursions to the Great Barrier Reef , as well as tropical islands such as Green Island and Fitzroy Island .

The Atherton Tableland to the southwest is another popular day trip destination, where you can explore rainforest reserves, waterfalls, and the charming attractions in the mountain village of Kuranda. The Kuranda Scenic Railway or the Skyrail cableway offers spectacular views over the surrounding countryside and the World Heritage-listed rainforests of Barron Gorge National Park .

Other top things to do in Cairns include visiting the Flecker Botanic Gardens, with more than 100 species of palms, and learning about the region's history at Cairns Museum. Cairns is also one of Australia's best fishing destinations .

Wondering where to stay in Cairns? You'll find accommodation to suit all budgets, from buzzy backpacker digs to flashy resorts.

Stretching from Caloundra to Noosa Heads, the Sunshine Coast is one of the most popular places to visit in South East Queensland. Known for its beautiful beaches, it's also a popular holiday spot for Aussies, only about two hours north of the Gold Coast high-rises but seemingly a world away. Beaches are among the top attractions on the Sunshine Coast , from peaceful, cliff-fringed bays to famous surf breaks.

Noosa Heads is one of the most popular resort areas. Its postcard-perfect slice of sand and sea, Main Beach, is one of Noosa's top attractions , and it's also home to a famous surf break.

For more beautiful beaches and fantastic surfing, Coolum is another great place to visit on the Sunshine Coast. The Point Arkwright Trail here connects a series of secluded cliff-fringed bays, where you can escape the crowds and take a cool dip on a hot summer's day.

And more beaches await at Caloundra , from popular Kings Beach, with its oceanfront pool, to Moffat's point break and the perfect paddling waters of Paradise Beach.

Maroochydore is the region's bustling commercial center and the location of the Sunshine Coast airport.

A trip to Kuranda, a charming rainforest village on the Atherton Tableland, is as much about the journey as the destination. From just outside of Cairns, you can take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and fly over World Heritage-listed rainforests and the beautiful Barron River and Gorge .

Alternatively, the Kuranda Scenic Railway chugs through the rainforest, past rugged peaks and waterfalls. The journey ends in the little station at Kuranda, about 25 kilometers northwest of Cairns, which is almost hidden by tropical plants and palms.

Exploring Kuranda's highlights starts with a stroll around the village. Artsy shops, galleries, and the colorful Kuranda markets sell souvenirs and local crafts, and you can soak up a slice of nature at several animal sanctuaries. The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Birdworld, Kuranda Koala Gardens, and Rainforestation Nature Park are favorite things to do in Queensland for families.

Walks can be arranged on request from Kuranda to the wildly romantic Barron Gorge National Park . At Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park by the Caravonic Lakes, you can learn about Aboriginal culture and enjoy frequent native dance performances.

Travelers wishing to take the scenic self-drive route to Kuranda will also enjoy the journey.

The Gold Coast is one of Australia's best-known holiday regions. During the last few decades, a building boom transformed the coast into a kind of tropical Las Vegas, with skyscrapers and shopping malls stretching from Southport in the north to Coolangatta in the south.

Packed with tourist attractions and high-rise hotels, Surfers Paradise - "Surfers" for short - is a tourist magnet, legendary for its alliterative assets: sun, surf, and sand. But it's easy to escape the crowds in the surrounding wilderness areas or on the outlying beaches.

Despite Surfers Paradise's reputation for hedonism, you'll find plenty of Queensland attractions for families in the region. South of Surfers Paradise, kids love Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary , and Movie World , where old film sets have been recreated by Warner Bros. To the north, in Southport, you can see your favorite marine creatures at Sea World .

Not surprisingly, swimming, sunbathing, and surfing are popular things to do on Queensland's Gold Coast , and nature lovers will find plenty of attractions to explore. Excellent networks of roads lead to scenic lookouts in the hinterland, where many wilderness areas are within easy reach, including popular Lamington National Park .

To visit the Gold Coast, you can fly into Coolangatta airport, near the Queensland-New South Wales border.

Brisbane, Australia's third largest city and the capital of Queensland, offers a more relaxed pace than the larger capitals in the country's southeast. It makes a great base to explore Queensland. The city straddles the Brisbane River and is bounded on the east by the sea and on the west by the Great Dividing Range.

Visitors love the city's sunny climate and its luxuriant parks and gardens. Top things to do in Brisbane include strolling around the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha, with more than 2,000 species of plants, and visiting Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary , one of the few places where you can touch and feed koalas.

Family-friendly South Bank Parklands features riverside walking and biking trails, lush gardens, shops, and restaurants.

River cruises are also popular. One of Brisbane's best known tourist attractions is the Kookaburra Queen , an old paddle steamer, which cruises down the Brisbane River, and the River Life Adventure Centre offers adrenalin-fueled water sports on the river.

Other things to see and do include shopping at the Queen Street Mall , climbing the Story Bridge , exploring the exhibits at the kid-friendly Queensland Museum , browsing the inspirational art exhibits at QAGOMA , and enjoying beautiful city views from Mt Coot-tha Lookout .

Brisbane is also a great jumping-off point for a range of rewarding day trips that showcase the best of Queensland, from island getaways and wildlife-rich national parks to the famous Australia Zoo and family-friendly theme parks.

Ever wanted to swim with a humpback whale or come eye-to-eye with one of these gentle giants? This bucket-list adventure is one of the top things to do in Hervey Bay , the whale watching capital of Australia .

In 2019, Hervey Bay became the first place in the world to earn a World Cetacean Alliance designation as a Whale Heritage Site .

What makes it so special? K'Gari (Fraser Island) shelters the shallow waters off Hervey Bay, providing a sanctuary for these magnificent marine mammals. Here, they take a break from their long migration to rest, socialize, and teach their calves, and lucky visitors can enjoy up-close exhilarating encounters with them. Some cruises even offer you the chance to swim with the whales , one of the unique things to do in Queensland.

Wondering about the best time to visit Hervey Bay for whale watching? Late July through early November are the prime months. And if you're not visiting during whale season, you'll find plenty of other nature experiences in Hervey Bay, from eco-cruises , sunset cruises, and fishing charters to Indigenous cultural tours and spending time on the peaceful beaches.

Craving some tranquility in the country? Head to the Sunshine Coast hinterland villages of Maleny & Montville. Both these charming villages sit high in the Blackall Ranges with breathtaking views of the Glasshouse Mountains, a cluster of volcanic plugs rising out of the coastal plain.

Maleny is dairy country. That means rolling green hills, cows, and, best of all, cheese! You can sample some while you're here, as well as other artisan products, like the sweet cocoa treats at Maleny Chocolate Factory.

Montville also offers inspirational views of the lush valleys and the Glasshouse Mountains. Art galleries, craft cottages, boutiques, and gift shops peek out from veils of blossoms on the main street. Along with Maleny, it's one of the best country towns to visit in Queensland, and it's the perfect place to linger and enjoy Devonshire tea.

Nature is also never far away. Look for pademelons on the rainforest trails at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve , enjoy a picnic at Barron Pocket Dam , spot platypus on the Obi Obi Boardwalk right near downtown Maleny, or hike to Kondalilla Falls .

About a two-hour drive south of Brisbane, Lamington National Park is a World Heritage Area and one of the state's most popular national parks. Located on the Lamington Plateau of the McPherson Range , amid the remnants of an ancient volcano, the park contains spectacular scenery, with steep gorges, more than 500 waterfalls, tropical and subtropical rainforests, and beech forests in the higher elevations.

Nature buffs will be in heaven here. More than 190 species of birds live in the park, including bowerbirds and colorful flocks of parrots. Red-necked pademelons, a small kangaroo-like marsupial, frolic at the rainforest fringes, and the shy platypus swims in the park's river rock pools.

Lamington National Park is also a haven for hikers with more than 150 kilometers of walking trails.

Official site: http://www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/lamington/

Townsville is the largest tropical town in Australia. It's an excellent base for excursions and tours, particularly to beautiful Magnetic Island and the Great Barrier Reef, but it also offers plenty of tourist attractions of its own.

The town lies on Cleveland Bay at the foot of Castle Hill , a 300-meter-high granite crag. Walking tracks lead to its peak, with panoramic views over the town and sea. But perhaps the best place to start exploring the city is the Strand . Strolling along this scenic waterfront promenade, you can take a dip at one of the swimming areas, soak up some of the region's history at Jezzine Barracks , enjoy a picnic in a park, or dine at a nearby café.

Apart from the picturesque waterfront, Townsville owes much of its charm to its many parks and private gardens filled with luxuriant tropical flowers. While you're here, be sure to take a stroll through the Queen's Gardens, Townsville's oldest botanical garden, and Townsville Palmetum, with the world's largest collection of palms.

Families will find plenty of kid-friendly attractions. Pack a picnic and head to Riverway , with its pretty riverfront parkland, walking and biking trails, art exhibits, and free swimming pools, and if you're interested in the local aquatic life, Reef HQ Great Barrier Reef Aquarium features an underwater tunnel where you can view the coral reef and marine life up close.

Other popular things to do in Townsville include visiting the Museum of Tropical Queensland and diving the SS Yongala wreck.

Made famous by the late Steve Irwin, the charismatic croc-loving Aussie conservationist, Australia Zoo is one of Queensland's best loved family attractions. An easy day trip from Brisbane , the zoo has a strong focus on education and conservation. As well as Aussie favorites like kangaroos, koalas, emus, dingoes, - and crocs - you can also see exotic animal species, including Sumatran tigers, rhinos, meerkats, zebras, giraffes, cheetahs, and elephants.

Crocoseum performances are a great way to learn more about some of the fascinating creatures that call the zoo home, including birds of prey, snakes, and the venue's namesake crocodiles. You can also ride a camel, feed a kangaroo or red panda, and cuddle a koala. The zoo is spread out over 110 acres, so make sure you wear your walking shoes.

Official site: http://www.australiazoo.com.au/

Remote, rugged, and rich in Aboriginal history, the Cape York Peninsula & Torres Strait Islands are some of the most the unique places to visit in Queensland.

Looking for adventure? You'll find it on the legendary "trip to the tip" of Cape York Peninsula, one of Australia's epic road-trips. You can also reach some of the top Cape York destinations on a day trip from Cairns, including the historic settlement of Cooktown and the wildlife-rich wetlands of Lakefield National Park .

But to hit the northernmost tip of Australia, excellent planning and an off-road vehicle are essential. River crossings are part of the adventure, and in the far north, wet season deluges wash out the rudimentary roads, so travel must be tackled during the dry season, from May to October.

Along the way, you'll see jungly rain forests, wild mangrove-fringed beaches, sprawling savannah, croc-filled rivers, ancient rock art, and fascinating Aboriginal communities. North of Weipa, it's usually necessary to camp, and satellite phones are highly recommended.

If you're not up for the planning and logistics of a self-drive tour of this wild, relatively unspoiled region, you can always take an organized tour or fly directly into one of the 274 Torres Strait Islands north of Cape York's tip. Thursday Island is the main administrative center and a great place to learn about the culture of the Torres Strait islanders. Horn Island reveals a fascinating military history. Private Roko Island offers a unique glamping experience, and you can tour a pearl farm here and on Friday Island .

Fishing charters off Weipa are another popular way to explore this untamed coast.

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