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TOP TIPS FOR A VISIT

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THE BEST DRIVING HOLIDAYS

13as voted by you

SPECTACULAR SCENIC DRIVES

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Perfectly Seasoned

ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRYFOR A CHANGE.If you’re looking for a real change of pace, take a drive in Southern Queensland Country. From the Bunya Mountains to Girraween National Park, change is in the air.

Book your perfectly seasoned getaway at

somewherecountry.com.au

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PG 4 13 SPECTACULAR SCENIC DRIVES With more than 2500km of coast from Coolangatta to Cape York, and a diverse interior, there’s plenty to see on a scenic drive in Queensland.

PG 7 GREAT ESCAPE There’s nothing like a weekend getaway with your besties to relax and unwind – and you’d be amazed how much of Queensland’s beautiful and scenic coast you can see!

PG 8 TASTE OF ADVENTURE Combining special scenery with food and drink, three travellers head off to experience a culinary journey.

PG 12 BEST 4WD DRIVES Queensland’s spectacular red sand dunes and beautiful beaches offer countless places for 4WD enthusiasts to get off-road and discover more of the state’s delights and hidden gems.

PG 14 PARK LIFE Natural attractions abound in Queensland, with everything from rainforests to waterfalls to red desert on offer. Find out some of the highlights that are definitely worth the drive!

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Perfectly Seasoned

ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRYFOR A CHANGE.If you’re looking for a real change of pace, take a drive in Southern Queensland Country. From the Bunya Mountains to Girraween National Park, change is in the air.

Book your perfectly seasoned getaway at

somewherecountry.com.au


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Townsvill e

Rockhamp ton

Brisbane

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Great Inland Way

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WELCOMEBy PAUL GOVER, chief reporter, Carsguide

The joy of driving is alive and well in Queensland.Sunshine means fun, especially when you’re in

a convertible car, but the motoring choices are as diverse as the Queensland countryside.

So it can be a weekend sprint down a twisty country back road, a boulevard cruise through one of the many restaurant districts, or an off-road adventure into the outback or over one of the many sandy islands.

And the open road is always calling for a road trip under the wide-open blue skies.

Matching the right car to the right spot is part of the enjoyment, which could mean a Toyota LandCruiser for the red-dirt region or a run to the Top End, the latest Mustang Convertible on the Gold and Sunshine Coasts, or something as basic as a Toyota Camry - with the world’s best airconditioning - for a long-haul run across to Mount Isa.

But any family car, from a Hyundai i30 to a Mazda CX-5, can do the job when the journey is more important than the destination. And there is always something new and surprising, from a vast outback vista to a warm Queensland welcome, when you hit the road.

INSIDE

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PG 17 TIME TO SET UP CAMP From Birdsville to Fraser Island, media personality and former AFL player Peter “Spida” Everett shares his five favourite places to go for a great camping experience in the Sunshine State.

PG 18 OUTBACK STATE OF MIND The most iconic part of Australia, with so much to do and discover. Whether it’s fossicking for opals, stargazing, or simply having a yarn with the locals in a country pub, find out more of what’s on offer.

PG 20 BEST DRIVES VOTED BY YOU! We asked you to describe your most memorable Queensland drive holiday.

PG 22 EVENTS Festivals, concerts, culinary events and cultural celebrations – find out more and start marking your diary!

Cover image: Moreton Island photographed by Paul Boyce of Get Lost Guides.

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The teamEditor Brian CrispSub-editor Stephen NadinDesigner Barbara la GrangeNavigate magazine has been produced by News Corp Studios for Tourism and Events Queensland.

Queensland has a spectacular coastline plus a diverse interior from tropical rainforest to red sand desert… and road trips provide a great opportunity to explore the state. BY ANGELA SAURINE

1 THE EPIC CAPE YORK DRIVE NN 1050KM, SEVEN DAYS

This drive covers more than 1000km, travelling from Cairns to the tip of Australia. Drive along dusty red Tropical North Queensland roads, stop at country pubs, go fishing, swim in beautiful waterfalls, and see ancient Indigenous rock art along the way. Once you arrive in Cape York you can take a ferry to Thursday and Horn Islands, two of the 274 islands of the Torres Strait, to discover their fascinating culture and history.

2 SPRING CREEK MOUNTAIN ROAD

NN 20KM, ONE DAYPass trickling creeks, eucalyptus trees and cute rusty cottages as you amble along Spring Creek Mountain Rd at Killarney, around 150km south west of Brisbane via Boonah. Stop for lunch at the charming Spring Creek Mountain Cafe and Cottages, a lovely weatherboard eatery with a corrugated iron roof. Try one of Bev’s famous steak and Shiraz pies.

3 COAL HERITAGE DISCOVERY TRAIL

NN 65KM, ONE DAYDiscover Queensland’s heritage on this drive from Maryborough to Hervey Bay via the coal mining towns of Torbanlea and Howard, with their charming historic pubs and buildings. Stop along the way for a picnic among the paperbark trees at Wongi Waterholes and don’t miss Devonshire tea at Brooklyn House, which was built in Howard in 1890. There are also fantastic swimming, fishing and camping spots on the nearby Burrum River.

4 THE GREAT TROPICAL DRIVENN 500KM, 12 DAYS

Take your time to explore this impressive loop from Cairns to Townsville and back, passing UNESCO World Heritage-listed rainforests, magical beaches and the golden outback. The route passes through Port Douglas, Mareeba, Ravenshoe, Undara Volcanic National Park and Charters Towers to Townsville, before returning via Ingham, Cardwell, Mission Beach and Innisfail. You can do a day trip to the stunning Magnetic, Dunk or Hinchinbrook Islands en route.

5 CAPRICORN WAY NN 2000KM, NINE DAYS

Meet Australian Outback characters and spot native wildlife on this drive, which follows the Capricorn Way west from Rockhampton, the beef capital of Australia, through the Sapphire Gemfields region including Emerald; the town of Barcaldine to the iconic Outback Queensland hub of Longreach. Return to the coast and Rockhampton via the magnificent Carnarvon Gorge National Park.

6 AIRLIE BEACH TO CEDAR CREEK FALLS

NN 30KM, ONE DAYIf time is short, the drive from Airlie Beach to Cedar Creek Falls is a great day out. Pass cane fields on the way to the secluded natural freshwater waterhole in the Whitsundays hinterland, where you can swim in crystal clear rock pools among butterflies, birds and turtles.

7 GOLD COAST SCENIC DRIVENN 35KM, HALF DAY

It may be short, but the drive along the

coast from Coolangatta to Southport packs plenty of punch when it comes to views. The route starts on the Pacific Highway and travels north via Currumbin, turning right into Bermuda Street towards Burleigh Heads. It then passes through Varsity Lakes and on to the golden sands of the Gold Coast’s famous beaches – Mermaid, Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise and Main Beach. For more fun, head 18km north-west of the Gold Coast where you will find Australia’s home of theme parks.

8 BLACKALL RANGE DRIVENN 44KM, ONE DAY

Beginning at Landsborough, this scenic drive is a great way to discover the Sunshine Coast hinterland, passing through the quaint towns of Maleny, Witta, Reeseville, Montville, Flaxton, Kondalilla, Mapleton and Cooloolabin. Along the way you can stop to visit art galleries, hike through rainforests and buy organic fruit and vegetables at roadside stalls, before the journey rises through the Blackall Mountain Range, which reaches 561m at its highest point, to soak up the view.

04 LIFESTYLE SUNDAY MARCH 6 2016 COURIERMAIL.COM.AU

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Ivory Palms Resort NoosaIvory Palms Resort offers accommodation and premium facilities spread over 7.5 acres of tropical gardens and ponds. A perfect holiday for families, groups and couples who are looking for a peaceful few days away. Just 90 minutes from Brisbane, 20 minutes from Sunshine Coast Airport, to Beautiful Noosa River and 5 minutes’ drive to Hastings Street and Noosa Beach.

73 Hilton Terrace, Noosaville, Sunshine Coast

P 07 5473 1700

E [email protected]

W ivorypalmsresort.com.au

SCEN

ICCaptain Cook Highway, Tropical North Queensland

13 SPECTACULAR SCENIC DRIVES

9 BORDER RANGE LOOP DRIVENN 529KM, THREE DAYS

This circuit begins and ends in the Queensland capital, via Ipswich and across the Great Dividing Range to Warwick before heading to Mt Tamborine. Highlights include Queen Mary Falls near Killarney, which can be reached on a 2km circuit walk, seeing the view from Carr’s Lookout and meeting artists in the villages of Mt Tamborine. On the way back take a drive to O’Reillys Plateau in Lamington National Park, and look for platypus at Canungra Valley Vineyards.

10 BUNDABERG COAST AND COUNTRY

NN 205KM, TWO DAYSStart your journey on Mt Perry Road in North Bundaberg, stopping at Mystery Craters to see the unique geological formation, before popping into Gin Gin Visitor Information Centre for maps and advice. Head to Lake Monduran, visit Cania Gorge National Park before driving south passing sugar cane fields

en route to Cordalba. Visit the heritage town of Childers and spot kangaroos or try a spot of fishing on Woodgate Beach, 57km from your starting point, before exploring surrounding national parks.

11CAPRICORN COAST DRIVENN 60KM, ONE DAY

Begin your journey on the coast at Emu Park, 45km north-east of Australia’s beef capital, Rockhampton, before heading to the Capricorn Coast’s biggest town Yeppoon and on to Byfield National Park to enjoy its sand dunes, ancient cycads and rugged mountains. The drive passes Lammermoor, Kinka, Mulambin and Kemp beaches, Cooee Bay and the Causeway Lake, and Rossyln Bay, from where you can take a short ferry ride to Great Keppel Island.

12 GLADSTONE TO BILOELA VIA MONTO

NN 260KM, TWO DAYSThis drive takes you from the coastal city of Gladstone south-west to Monto and back up to Biloela, further inland.

From there you can visit Mt Scoria Conservation Park, known for its unusual basalt formations, get a taste of life in Outback Queensland in Kroombit Tops National Park and visit the historic Greycliffe Homestead. The drive also takes you to the former gold mining towns of Calliope, Builyan and Many Peaks; The Boyne Valley and Kalpower State Forest.

13 MACKAY SCENIC DRIVE NN 12KM, ONE DAY

Stroll through exotic plants at Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens before heading to Bluewater Lagoon, overlooking the Pioneer River. Visit Harbour Beach for a spot of fishing, a picnic lunch or a barbecue, then make your way to Marina Village to admire the luxury yachts and sailing boats and see Pine Islet Lighthouse, one of the only working kerosene lighthouses in the world. Finish at Lamberts Beach at Slade Point. The lookout has views out to the Cumberland Islands and is a great location for whale watching in winter. Q

Surfers Paradise, Gold CoastNN CHECK ROAD CONDITIONSIt’s a good idea to check road conditions, roadworks and if there are any closures on your route before you set off. The RACQ and Department of Transport and Main Roads have endeavoured to make information easily accessible. You can check online at racq.com.au or call 131 940.

NN Go to queensland.com for more information


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DenisonBoutique Hotel, RockhamptonFrom $145

Affordable luxury accommodation in a 130 year old heritage listed building surrounded by hedged rose gardens. Includes: • Hot buffet breakfast • Work desk • Wi-Fi and Foxtel in rooms • Mini bar • Two person spa bath • King size bed fit for royalty

Denison Boutique Hotel

$10 OFF YOUR STAYSimply quote: 2016 Drive Magazine

Contact us on 07 4923 7378 or [email protected]

denisonboutiquehotel.com.au

“Old World Charm”

HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE DRIVE NN BASIC SAFETY CHECKS Before embarking on any road trip, it’s important to do some simple safety checks. Make sure all your exterior lights are working and check the windscreen wipers and washers are working properly and the wiper blades are in good condition.

NN CHECK YOUR TYRESEnsure your tyres are in good condition, and the inflation pressure is correct. If your car is packed full of luggage or you will be driving at speed for long distances, the pressure should be increased. Also check your spare, as tyres deteriorate as they get older, even if they haven’t been used.

NN PACKINGWhen packing your car it’s important to put big, heavy items at the bottom towards the middle of the boot to help distribute the weight evenly, and pack anything you will need in an easy to access spot near a door. Make sure there are no loose items that could become a projectile if you have an accident. Once the car is packed check you can see out of the rear vision mirrors.

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BRISBANE TO NOOSAHead north on the Bruce Highway before turning onto Steve Irwin Way just past Caboolture. This is where the adventure begins. It is a beautiful drive through the Sunshine Coast hinterland watched over by the spectacular Glass House Mountains.

Point your bonnet towards Landsborough and you’ll pass by the Irwins’ Australia Zoo, which is well worth a visit even for just an hour or two. From there take the Landsborough-Maleny Road and climb the Blackall Range, atop which you can have a coffee break at either Maleny or Montville, both quaint villages renowned for their arts and crafts, antiques, food and panoramic views to the ocean. After taking in the fresh mountain air, it’s time to head down to sea level to one of Australia’s most famous beachside playgrounds, Noosa. Here you can browse the shops on Hastings Street for some designer clothes then head to the beach for a quick swim before lunch in one of this holiday hub’s many fine restaurants.

Perhaps there’s time to visit one of the local spas.

Overnight in one of the many accommodation offerings in town, where coastal views impress.

NOOSA TO FRASER COASTLeave via Eumundi to visit the town’s famous markets. Open rain, hail or shine every Wednesday and Saturday, The Original Eumundi Markets is a shopper’s paradise packed with fresh local produce, jewellery by local designers and original artworks. The markets ethos is “we make it, bake it, grow it, sew it”. When you’re all shopped out, sit back and have your palm read. Spend the night at Hervey Bay only a couple of hours drive north of Eumundi.

HERVEY BAYHervey Bay is the gateway to the World Heritage-listed Fraser Island and a favourite holiday destination in its own right. Hire a bike and ride along the Esplanade before settling into a lazy afternoon of eating, drinking and relaxation. Between July and October each year, humpback whales

come into the waters near Hervey Bay to nurse their young. Take a whale-watching tour as this is one of the best places to see the magnificent humpback whales frolic on their east coast migrations.

BUNDABERG An hour and a half’s drive north of Hervey Bay is Bundaberg. Drive through the sugar cane fields and breathe in the smell of the tropics, then visit the famous rum distillery. If you’ve got time, go to Mon Repos Regional Park and you could see turtles hatching between January and March with the laying season between November and January.

OTHER OPTIONSOf course that is just one stretch of this amazing Pacific Coast Way. Along the whole wondrous route from the Gold Coast to Cairns are historic towns, incredible beaches, stunning rainforests and much more.

Take the time and enjoy the whole stretch of coastline exploring all the different holiday gems along the way. Q

GREAT ESCAPE

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AWAY

NN Go to queensland.com/drive for more information

Cue the spotify playlist ladies, and get ready to hit the road with your

girlfriends. 2016 is all about putting rubber on the road - and with 1700km

of bitumen between Brisbane and Cairns - Queensland has a lot of coastline for

exploring. If you’ve only got a few days, make tracks from Brisbane to Bundaberg - good food, spa treatments and animal

encounters guaranteed. BY HANNAH MCDONALD

Noosa Heads, Sunshine Coast

Magnetic Island, Townsville Tropical North Queensland

PACIFIC COAST WAYTotal distance 1794km

Brisbane to Bundaberg

363km

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Ipswich is a rich mix of authentic history, welcoming people, natural landscapes, and memorable experiences.

Explore some of the region’s 7000 heritage places, 6000 hectares of natural reserves and 500 parks.

For those up for a physical challenge or fast thrill, get behind the wheel of a race-prepared V8 or cruise above it all with a hot air balloon or helicopter flight.

For inspiration, information and directions to hundreds of things to see and do, places to eat and memorable events, jump online and check out our new 2016 Discover Ipswich Guide.

DiscoverIpswich.com.au

discoveripswich #discoveripswich

4 Hearts Brewing Pumpyard Bar and BreweryWe have built the first Brewery in Ipswich since 1903. Set within a heritage listed

on site, wine, cider and spirits. Our food is focused on house made fresh local menu items. If you only have time to visit one Ipswich restaurant this is it!

88 Limestone St, Ipswich Qld 4305T: (07) 3282 9076E: [email protected]: 4heartsbrewing.com

Floating Images Hot Air Balloon FlightsBrisbane’s closest Hot Air Balloon company, simply drive 30 mins west of the Brisbane CBD. Experience the adventure of ballooning. One Hour Flight over Ipswich & Scenic Rim region, Restaurant Breakfast and Flight Certificate. Call or Book online for Flights, Gift Vouchers and Accommodation packages.

88 Limestone St, Ipswich Qld 4305T: (07) 3294 8770E: [email protected]: floatingimages.com.au

Ipswich Art Gallery

a diverse range of exhibitions along with the works of local artists, quality visual art and craft displays, collections of heritage artefacts and an exciting program of art workshops. Open 7 days (10am to 5pm).

d’Arcy Doyle Place (Nicholas St), Ipswich Qld 4305T: (07) 3810 7222E: [email protected]: ipswichartgallery.qld.gov.au

Ipswich Nature CentreLocated in Queens Park, the Ipswich Nature

at an amazing array of animals including wombats, wallabies, emus, snakes and bilbies.

Open 9.30am to 4pm (Tuesday to Sunday and public holidays - closed Mondays). Open 7 days a week during school holidays. Free entry.

Queens Park, Goleby Ave, Ipswich Qld 4305T: (07) 3810 6666E: [email protected]: discoveripswich.com.au/nature-centre

Combining special scenery with food and drink, three travellers head off to investigate a culinary journey. BY RORY GIBSON

JACK AND MICHELLE ON A MOTORBIKE: PORT DOUGLAS AND DAINTREE FOOD TRAILL ike all visitors to Tropical North

Queensland, Jack and Michelle were entranced by the glory of the Great Barrier Reef and the wonders of the World Heritage-listed rainforests.

What they hadn’t realised before they got there was that there is much more to the region than its natural beauty. It is also a foodie paradise.

Like backpackers all over the world, Jack and Michelle, who are from Leeds in the UK, love trying new food experiences and local delicacies when they travel, so they decided to take advantage of the balmy tropical weather and embark on a food trail in and around Port Douglas.

MOUTH WATERING They had already had a taste of things to come when they strolled through the Sunday markets at Rex Smeal Park on Wharf Street. The local produce had their mouths watering, but making their own crushed sugar cane juice to drink was a highlight. They followed that with a visit Mocka’s Pies and Bakehouse in Grant Street to try its legendary crocodile laksa pie.

But that was just the entree. The next day the intrepid couple hired a pair of motorbikes in Port Douglas and set off to find more gourmet delights.

LUNCH About 35km west of Port Douglas they hit gold ... aqua-gold. Barramundi Gardens, a family-run commercial aquaculture farm, is on the Rex Highway at Julatten. Fuelled up on

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A s a stock and station agent, Michael gets around. Based in Toowoomba,

he covers a lot of territory around the Darling Downs and the Granite Belt.

Michael knows the farmers and sees what they produce on a regular basis.

He’s proud of the region he lives in, and likes to show it off, so when friends come to visit he fires up his 4WD and takes them on a 147km-long culinary journey.

He doesn’t need his vehicle’s off-road capabilities for the journey - that’s for work, when he’s visiting farms – but in this agricultural heartland, it somehow seems fitting.

MORNING BREAK It’s not long before the first stop – about half an hour down the New England Highway to the town of Nobby.

“There’s not much in Nobby,” grins Michael, “Except a very special pub!”

Rudd’s Pub, in fact. It’s where author Arthur Hoey Davis — known in the literary world as Steele Rudd — sat while writing his very Australian Dad and Dave stories.

Passing rolling green hills and cattle paddocks, Michael drives towards Cambooya, which is home to another historic inn, the Bull and Barley.

LUNCH Still resisting the temptation to imbibe, they keep going until they get to Allora, about 60km south of Toowoomba. Allora is home to one of Michael’s favourite cafes, the Frog and Swallow, which sells home-made jams, pastes and marmalades made with fruit and vegetables sourced from the Darling Downs.

Michael then turns his 4WD towards Thulimbah and the Stanthorpe Cheese operation. Here a pure-bred Jersey herd produces milk used to make farm house cheeses such as crumbly Stanthorope Pepper, the creamy Soft Blue Monkey, and Jersey Cow Feta. Along the way he stops at roadside stalls to buy olives, apples, berries and grapes.

AFTERNOON WINE TIME At up to 1200m above sea level, the Granite Belt wine region centred around Stanthorpe has 45 cellar doors to visit. Michael takes his friends to boutique wineries Ballandean Estate

and Golden Grove Estate which are located in the picturesque town of Ballandean. Both wineries produce a unique range of alternative varieties as well as award-winning favourites.

The Granite Belt is famous for producing apples, grapes and stone fruit, and Michael always encourages

his friends to meet some of the growers and producers on

an orchard or paddock tour, or book a cooking class. There are several options including Sri Lankan cooking classes at Vivienne’s Cottage

at Stanthorpe, where cookbook author Vivienne

Abeywardena, who was raised on a tea plantation in Sri Lanka,

produces homemade Sri Lankan curry spices using her grandmother’s recipes, as well as chutneys and jams.

If he doesn’t have to get back to Toowoomba in a hurry, Michael likes to finish the day tasting award-winning apple cider, ales and lagers from Granite Belt Brewery, five minutes from Stanthorpe on Glenlyon Drive, with its Happy Valley Retreat just one of the many accommodation options available in the area.

MICHAEL IN A 4WD: THE SOUTHERN FOOD TRAIL

Rudd’s Pub, Nobby

Stanthorpe Cheese, Thulimbah

Golden Grove Estate, Ballandean

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Ipswich is a rich mix of authentic history, welcoming people, natural landscapes, and memorable experiences.

Explore some of the region’s 7000 heritage places, 6000 hectares of natural reserves and 500 parks.

For those up for a physical challenge or fast thrill, get behind the wheel of a race-prepared V8 or cruise above it all with a hot air balloon or helicopter flight.

For inspiration, information and directions to hundreds of things to see and do, places to eat and memorable events, jump online and check out our new 2016 Discover Ipswich Guide.

DiscoverIpswich.com.au

discoveripswich #discoveripswich

4 Hearts Brewing Pumpyard Bar and BreweryWe have built the first Brewery in Ipswich since 1903. Set within a heritage listed

on site, wine, cider and spirits. Our food is focused on house made fresh local menu items. If you only have time to visit one Ipswich restaurant this is it!

88 Limestone St, Ipswich Qld 4305T: (07) 3282 9076E: [email protected]: 4heartsbrewing.com

Floating Images Hot Air Balloon FlightsBrisbane’s closest Hot Air Balloon company, simply drive 30 mins west of the Brisbane CBD. Experience the adventure of ballooning. One Hour Flight over Ipswich & Scenic Rim region, Restaurant Breakfast and Flight Certificate. Call or Book online for Flights, Gift Vouchers and Accommodation packages.

88 Limestone St, Ipswich Qld 4305T: (07) 3294 8770E: [email protected]: floatingimages.com.au

Ipswich Art Gallery

a diverse range of exhibitions along with the works of local artists, quality visual art and craft displays, collections of heritage artefacts and an exciting program of art workshops. Open 7 days (10am to 5pm).

d’Arcy Doyle Place (Nicholas St), Ipswich Qld 4305T: (07) 3810 7222E: [email protected]: ipswichartgallery.qld.gov.au

Ipswich Nature CentreLocated in Queens Park, the Ipswich Nature

at an amazing array of animals including wombats, wallabies, emus, snakes and bilbies.

Open 9.30am to 4pm (Tuesday to Sunday and public holidays - closed Mondays). Open 7 days a week during school holidays. Free entry.

Queens Park, Goleby Ave, Ipswich Qld 4305T: (07) 3810 6666E: [email protected]: discoveripswich.com.au/nature-centre

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At just over 4 hours drive or 1 hour flight from Brisbane, the Southern Great Barrier Reef is the official start of the Great Barrier Reef. Beginning at Bundaberg, continuing through Gladstone and on to Rockhampton and Yeppoon, this destination is a paradise of pristine islands, abundant wildlife, coastal beach towns and natural wilderness.

Southern Great

Barrier ReefTouring Guide

southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au

Freecall 1800 676 701southerngreatbarrierreef.com.au

Order your free Touring Guide and start planning the

ultimate family roadtrip...

Bargara

Image: Granite Belt Wine and Tourism

tasty barramundi spring rolls made with fish farmed on the property, they then tracked north to Cooya Beach, to join the Kubirri Warra brothers from Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat Tours.

“We learnt about Indigenous culture and went hunting for bush tucker, including spearing mud crabs and fish and scouring for mussels and periwinkles,” Michelle said.

“Then we went back to their home and cooked it all up for lunch, complete with damper and tea!”

SUNSET DRINKS Later that afternoon they rode to Thala Beach Nature Reserve, just south of Port Douglas, for a sunset drink among the treetops in the Masked Plover Cocktail Bar at Osprey’s Restaurant, admiring the views from Double Island to Cape Tribulation.

It was so lovely they stayed for dinner, tucking into a seasonal menu with an emphasis on local produce created by head chef Luukas Trautner, which included grilled king prawns, baked reef fish and pan-seared yellowfin tuna.

NORTHERN EXPOSURE After spending the night back at their Port Douglas base Jack and Michelle jumped on the motorbike and headed 22km north, intent on finding Sweet Farm Tours on

Miallo Bamboo Creek Road, Miallo. There they were guided through the working cocoa and sugar cane farm by one of the farm workers before a taste-test of locally-made chocolate.

AUTHENTIC LUNCH With their appetites well and truly whetted, it was off to the Daintree for lunch at the Daintree Teahouse Restaurant. You can’t get a more authentic Australian dining experience than downing a kangaroo steak. The couple were very impressed when given an impromptu lesson on the

exotic fruits that could be found in the nearby rainforest fruits by

their waiter.Feeling at peace with

the world Jack and his girlfriend fired up their motorbikes and headed north to the Daintree Ice

Cream Company on Cape Tribulation Road where

flavours change daily.Next stop was

the Daintree Tea Company Cubbagudta Plantation on the same road to pick up some tea from the honesty box at its roadside stall.

The following evening, and to celebrate their last night in Tropical North Queensland, they enjoyed a romantic candlelit dining experience in the rainforest at Flames of the Forest in Barrier Street, Port Douglas, indulging in a six-course tasting menu.

Port Douglas, Tropical North Queensland

Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat Tours


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Four other Queensland food trails worth considering: Atherton Tablelands,Sunshine Coast Food Trail, South Burnett Food and Wine Trail, Gold Coast Hinterland

Atherton Tablelands, Tropical North Queensland

When Grace arrived in Airlie Beach to start her job as a hospitality manager,

she couldn’t believe her luck. Not only had she scored her dream

job, she found herself living in a place that suited her outdoor lifestyle.

On her days off Grace loves nothing better than jumping in her sporty convertible and hitting the road, top down, sunnies on and hair trailing in the warm breeze.

Tourists flock to the Whitsundays for its island playgrounds, but locals like Grace know there’s much more to see and do in the region.

Airlie Beach is surrounded by lush agricultural land, producing sugar cane, mangoes and coffee. The town itself offers a range of foodie options, and Grace can choose from fish and chips on the beach to wine bars and five-star restaurants. Her favourite haunts include Mangrove Jacks Café and Bar for wood-fired pizza, the Whitsundays Sailing Club to dine on fresh coral trout and salt and pepper calamari on the waterfront balcony, or Denman Cellars Beer Café overlooking the marina, which offers a wide selection of Australian and imported beers served with tapas dishes.

AMERICAN FLAVOURS Little Vegas Burger and Bar is known for having the best burgers in the Whitsundays, with names like Route 66, Fear and Loathing and Rodeo Drive, as well as American street food such as braised pork ribs, fried chicken drumsticks and fish tacos. Hollywood star Russell Crowe visited in December and tweeted about what a great eatery it was. “Loved the experience at the coolest restaurant in Airlie Beach. I taste franchise!!” he wrote.

“I like to get out of the town whenever I can,” says Grace, who recommends hitting the Bruce Highway and heading to the Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation near Proserpine, 25km inland.

“Take a tour through the fields. It’s amazing,” she says. The plantation lies in a fertile valley alongside the Proserpine River and is home to 140,000 Arabica coffee trees and a roasting shed.

If she’s feeling peckish in Proserpine, Grace pops into the West End Cash Store in Faust Street for one of their famous burgers.

SEAFOOD SPECIALS From there she suggests you drive north about 70km to Bowen, where a stream of fishing boats brings in fresh stocks of seafood daily. Try Arabon Seafoods on Boat Harbour

Airlie Beach

GRACE IN A CONVERTIBLE: THE WHITSUNDAYS FOOD TRAIL

Drive for a feast of tiger prawns, banana prawns, bugs, scallops, oysters, mussels and more.

Bowen is home to another movie star - Grandview Hotel, which

doubled as the Territory Hotel in Darwin in Baz Luhrmann’s

epic movie Australia, starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman.

Many of the cast and crew ate at the hotel

during the seven weeks of filming in 2007 and

Kidman’s husband — country music singer Keith Urban —

played a concert there to celebrate the end of filming.

Bowen is also famous for its mangoes, so before leaving Grace suggests you visit The Big Mango next to the Bowen Visitor Information Centre on the Bruce Highway for a refreshing mango sorbet. Q

Denman Cellars Beer Cafe, Airlie Beach

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BEST 4WD DRIVES

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FRASER ISLAND AND AUSTRALIA’S GREAT BEACH DRIVEWith a 120km beach highway, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Fraser Island is a 4WD lover’s dream. Barges run daily from River Heads, 20 minutes south of Hervey Bay, to Wanggoolba Creek and Kingfisher Bay Resort, and from Inskip Point, north of Rainbow Beach, to Hook Point in the island’s south. Once there, you will be able to marvel at the pretty coloured sands, fish for whiting, tailor and jewfish off 75 Mile Beach. Also explore the rusty Maheno shipwreck, which was washed ashore by a cyclone in 1935, Central Station Rainforest growing directly from the sand or Indian Head for panoramic views. If you’re only going for a day, it’s best to time your visit for a mid-morning high tide to make the most of it. Dingoes live on Fraser Island. Remember that they are wild animals so beware and avoid feeding or patting them. Vehicle permits must be purchased before you arrive. See nprsr.qld.gov.au for more information.

To make the most of the Great Beach Drive allow five days to explore. Begin south of Fraser Island at Noosa North Shore and head north on the Beach Highway to Rainbow Beach spotting abundant wildlife including whales, dolphins, birds of prey, kangaroos and monitor lizards. On

day two, explore Rainbow Beach. Try paragliding, hang gliding, skydiving, fishing, horse riding or walking. Go diving at Wolf Rock or surf Double Island Point with its longest right hand break. After exploring Fraser Island on day three, overnight at Hervey Bay where its safe sheltered waters make for an aquatic paradise perfect for year-round swimming. Maryborough, the birthplace of the famous novelist

and creator of Mary Poppins, PL Travers, awaits on day five, and the Magical Mary Trail.

Continue the journey south to Tin Can Bay where visitors can hand feed the rare Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, before completing the loop back at Noosa.

THE OUTBACKThe allure of driving across the red sandy dunes of the Simpson Desert is strong for many 4WD enthusiasts. Standing at 30 metres in height, the awesome sand dune, Big Red, provides a challenge for any 4WD enthusiast, who should ensure they are well-equipped to handle the environment. The first of 1113 dunes in the Simpson Desert, the spectacular sunsets from the top of Big Red are an experience not to be missed. Bring a bottle of champagne and enjoy the sunset. Outback routes can be well connected as towns are only a couple of hours apart.

CONDAMINE GORGE “14 RIVER CROSSING” TRACK

With 14 crossings back and forth across the Condamine River, the appropriately named “14 River Crossings” track in Southern Queensland Country is only accessible for 4WD vehicles. Begin the journey in Boonah

and head along Rathdowny Road

before turning right at Carney’s Creek Road towards Killarney, where you turn left into Condamine Gorge. Once there it is easy to follow the route along the river without getting lost. There are waterholes along the way where you can swim, which the children will love. In normal conditions the crossings are quite shallow, but during wet weather the level can rise quickly. It’s advisable to check conditions at Warwick Visitor Information Centre before embarking on the journey and be sure to take suitable recovery gear. There are no shops once you get to the track, so stock up on any supplies you might need in one of the towns on the way.

BRISBANE ISLANDS It can be a very bumpy ride on narrow, rutted sandy tracks through the bush, but four-wheel driving on Moreton Island feels like a real adventure. You can drive all the way around the island along the beach in your 4WD, except in a few areas where there are bypass tracks around Tangalooma Resort, Cowan Cowan township, campgrounds and barge landing areas. The beaches are actually designated roads subject to the same rules as others in Queensland.

North Stradbroke Island is the second largest sand island in the world. With three main villages; Dunwich, Amity Point and Point Lookout, it offers a wide range of experiences including some of the best land-based

For the growing number of 4WD owners, Queensland’s spectacular red sand dunes and seemingly endless beach highways offer many opportunities to get off road in their own backyard BY ANGELA SAURINE

ELECTRONIC GPS UNITS ARE GREAT, EASY TO USE BUT ALWAYS CARRY BACK-UP MAPS AND KNOW HOW TO USE THEM

75 Mile Beach, Fraser Island

Cape York

For those who don’t own a 4WD and want to experience off road adventures, either hire a vehicle or join a 4WD tour

BEST 4WD DRIVES

whale watching in Australia. Also on Brisbane’s doorstep, Straddie is perfect for day trips, short stays or week-long getaways. There are kilometres of golden beaches, freshwater lakes and ocean waters teeming with marine life including dolphins, manta rays, turtles and humpback whales. In addition to 4WD tours and for those who like a bit of adventure and fun, sandboarding, surfing lessons, diving, snorkelling, golf and a vast spectrum of aquatic activities await.

Bribie Island is the northern-most of the islands in Moreton Bay. It’s the only Queensland island connected to the mainland by bridge. Attractions include extensive national parks, some with camping facilities, a choice of surf beaches or calmer protected beaches, and some of the best fishing to be found. Pumicestone Passage, formed by the channel which runs between Bribie Island and the Caboolture coastline, is a protected marine park and safe haven for dugongs, turtles, dolphins, and a diverse birdlife and extensive network of mangrove swamps.

CAIRNS TO COOKTOWN Driving up the coast with the world-famous Great Barrier Reef on one side and a tropical rainforest on the other is a magical and unique experience. You need to have a 4WD for the coastal route from Cairns to Cooktown via Cape Tribulation, the Daintree Rainforest and the Bloomfield Track. After departing Cairns stop in at Mossman Gorge, the

1Always carry more food

and water than days planned for.

2 Carry a full recovery

kit and know how to use the equipment. In addition, a traction aide like Maxtrax with a simple long-handled shovel will go a long way to recovering a vehicle.

3 Let someone know where you are going, and when you expect

to arrive at designated locations/waypoints.

4Sunscreen, mozzie repellent, personal toiletries etc – simple

but really important – and uncomfortable if you leave them at home.

5Carry a basic tool kit for your vehicle.

6 Carry a medical kit and PLB (personal locator beacon) with

you if you are heading to remote locations.

7Tyre pressures – key to getting through a lot of off-road tracks

safely and comfortably. With a loaded vehicle, drop your pressure to around 28-30psi on dirt roads, on rocky terrain you can drop to about 20-22psi, in sand and really boggy situations you can go as low as 12psi. Your tyres will take it – you just don’t do extreme sharp turning manoeuvres. Your 4WD will also drive on 15psi on tarmac comfortably up to 60km/h without damage. Sometimes 4-6psi difference can mean staying stuck or driving out of the situation.

traditional home of the Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal people, and take a cultural tour and visit the art gallery. From there it is a 25km drive along the Mossman Daintree Road to the Daintree River vehicle ferry, which operates continuous transfers across the river. Visit the historic Daintree Village and peruse its galleries and restaurants. The second day, from Cape Tribulation to Cooktown, is on an unsealed road only suitable for 4WDs. Follow the Bloomfield Track to just south of the Bloomfield River. Stop for lunch at the old Australian pub Lion’s Den Hotel. You will pass by Wujal Wujal Aboriginal community, Cedar Bay National Park, Black Mountain National Park and Keating’s Lagoon before arriving in Cooktown, where you can spend the night before returning via the Mulligan Highway.

GOLD COAST HINTERLAND Known as “the green behind the gold”, the Gold Coast hinterland is a beautiful place to explore just by a regular vehicle.

Condamine River crossing Reader photoentry by: Atalie Cutajar

4WD SAFETY TIPS

Start your journey on the Gold Coast Highway and head north past Main Beach before turning left onto the Pacific Highway towards Tamborine Mountain National Park — a 28sq km plateau where you can take a walk through the rainforest and try to spot koalas and other native animals and see glow worm caves. Mt Tamborine has several wineries you can visit for tastings.

With a 4WD, there’s an opportunity to bounce onto the unmade road that enters Lamington National Park and climb steeply uphill with the early morning sunlight piercing the forest canopy ahead. Without leaving first or second gear, you can cover a good distance. At this speed life slows from a blur passing the window, to one you can hear and smell, one you feel part of, even from the confines of the vehicle. Turn off the engine and jump out, the silence of the forest comes alive; wind moves branches high above, a rustle in the undergrowth, the unmistakable ping of a Bell Miner bird. Q


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Enjoying the Cooktown scenery

Moran Falls, Lamington National Park, Gold Coast hinterland

D’AGUILAR NATIONAL PARKBRISBANE Residents of the state’s capital are blessed with this beautiful wilderness right on the city’s doorstep, a perfect antidote to urban stress. It is made up of two sections — what were once known as Brisbane Forest Park and the Mt Mee State Forest. There are plenty of choices of walks to suit casual walkers, right through to experienced hikers. Those who find more fun on four wheels will be happy to know that vehicles including trail bikes are permitted on most forest drives. Horse-riding and mountain bikes are also

allowed, and rangers conduct guided walks from the Walkabout Creek Visitor Centre at 60 Mt Nebo Rd, The Gap.

LAMINGTON NATIONAL PARK GOLD COAST Part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia’s World Heritage Area, the most extensive subtropical rainforest in the world, Lamington is renowned for its beautiful waterfalls, enchanting forests and more than 160km of walking trails, including the 21.4km Border track, built in the late 1930s. Dramatic lookouts afford views over the Gold Coast, South East Queensland and northern New

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PARK LIFEQueensland is tailor-made for people who love getting away from it all. With great weather and a huge variety of natural attractions, exploring the Sunshine State rewards those with an adventurous spirit. And whether you like exploring national and regional parks on foot, by car or 4WD, you don’t have to look far for a piece of paradise. BY RORY GIBSON


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KROOMBIT TOPS NATIONAL PARK GLADSTONE There’s plenty to see in this hinterland jewel that lies about 80km west of Gladstone. There are some great 4WD tracks that will lead you to high sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, inspiring landscapes and stunning gorges.

GIRRINGUN NATIONAL PARK TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND The stars of this show are the park’s amazing waterfalls. Blencoe Falls, Wallaman Falls and the Herbert River Falls are a trinity of splendour unequalled in Australia. Wallaman Falls is the highest single-drop waterfall in the country, while the point

D’Aguilar National Park, Brisbane

South Wales, and it is one of the few places in the world where you will find the ancient Antarctic beech tree.

FRASER ISLAND, GREAT SANDY NATIONAL PARKFRASER COAST The biggest sand island in the world is one of Queensland’s most popular destinations, particularly with the off-road driving crowd. There’s a lot of sand and you must be in a 4WD vehicle if you want to see the many sights this World Heritage Area has to offer. The island features rainforests, beaches wide and long, freshwater lakes and huge sand dunes.

MON REPOS REGIONAL PARK BUNDABERG NORTH BURNETT This world-famous area is notable for an amazing spectacle of nature - sea turtles nesting and hatching on its beaches each summer. It is one of the most accessible places on the planet to see loggerhead turtles and their remarkable breeding behaviour. Mother turtles return to their birthplace to lay their eggs in the sand at night, and the hatchlings begin their intrepid journey back to the sea some 60 days later. Nesting is November to January with hatching occurring January to March. The park is also blessed with a scenic coastline with plenty of walking and cycling tracks.

at which the waters of Blencoe Creek tumble off the escarpment into the Herbert River gorge below is a majestic sight. Equally splendid are the Herbert River Falls, on the edge of the park at Princess Hills about 270km north of Townsville.

CARNARVON NATIONAL PARK CAPRICORN This is a must-visit destination for one compelling reason – the Carnarvon Gorge. The park is situated in Queensland’s sandstone belt, about 520km southwest of Rockhampton, and features towering multi-hued cliffs, caves and overhangs,

and clear streams. It is also an area rich in Aboriginal heritage and harbours some spectacular rock art. There are many highlights, but don’t miss Cathedral Cave. This huge overhang sheltered Aboriginal people for thousands of years, and the imagery painted on its walls is a window back to those ancient times.

LARK QUARRY REGIONAL PARK OUTBACK QUEENSLAND Follow in the footsteps of dinosaurs at Lark Quarry Regional Park, 110km southwest of Winton, where scientists and palaeontologists have uncovered

some 3300 footprints made by dinosaurs about 95 million years ago.

DAINTREE NATIONAL PARKTROPICAL NORTH QUEENSLAND Daintree National Park is comprised of two sections - Mossman Gorge and Cape Tribulation. The crystal-clear waters of the Mossman River cascade over granite boulders in Mossman Gorge while Cape Tribulation features rainforest-clad mountains that sweep down to long, sandy beaches. When people think of rainforest in Queensland, they often think of the Daintree. Its location just a couple of hours drive north of Cairns

Mon Repos Regional Park, Bundaberg North Burnett


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open 7 DaysAt the Eastern entrance of Miles - at the heart of the Surat Basin

For more information please visit:

www.mhv.org.au

141 MURILLA STREETMILES Q.4415

Step back in time through the streets of yesteryear

and r

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a fr

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*1

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___________________

makes it a favourite for locals and visitors alike, who marvel at the diversity of plant and animal life in a largely pristine environment.

EUNGELLA NATIONAL PARKMACKAY This is one of the best places to see a platypus in the wild in Australia. The shy little monotremes thrive in the streams that cascade through the lush tropical vegetation. Eungella, about 80km west of Mackay, gets its name from an Aboriginal word meaning land of the clouds, and indeed the park is often shrouded in them, offering respite from the Queensland heat.

Wallman Falls, Girringun National Park, Townsville, North Queensland

GIRRAWEEN NATIONAL PARK SOUTHERN QUEENSLAND COUNTRY In the heart of Queensland’s wine country near Stanthorpe sits Girraween’s imposing granite outcrops. It’s a place filled with stone giants and fantastic shapes molded by weather and time. Huge granite boulders tower above open forests. Highlights are a hike to Granite Arch or climbing The Pyramid for great views over the park.

EX-HMAS BRISBANE REGIONAL PARK SUNSHINE COAST This is one for certified scuba divers, although snorkelling is an option. The former Royal Australian Navy warship HMAS Brisbane was sunk 9km out to sea off Mooloolaba a decade ago and as the site has matured it has turned into one of Australia’s great dive locations. Over time the wreck has attracted a myriad of marine life to what would otherwise

be a barren sandy seascape. The great thing about this park is that non-divers can stay onshore and discover why the Sunshine Coast region is one of Queensland’s favourite playgrounds.

WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK THE WHITSUNDAYS Park the car at the Port of Airlie near Airlie Beach and catch one of the daily cruises that visit the islands. The Whitsundays are acknowledged as one of the world’s best destinations for sailing, diving and snorkelling, and are part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. Stunning natural landscapes of coast and 74 island wonders are dotted with secluded beaches and friendly towns. For an experience off the beaten track try the Whitsunday Ngaro Sea Trail, a unique blend of seaways and picturesque walks across Whitsunday, South Molle and Hook islands. Q

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South Molle Island, The Whitsundays

NN Go to queensland.com/nationalparks for more information

queensland.com 17

TIME TO SET UP CAMPOver the past eight years, since retiring from the AFL, Peter “Spida” Everitt, the host of The Great Australian Doorstep television and radio shows, has been on and off the road, travelling Australia. His big love is the Sunshine State – Queensland!

Lake McKenzie, Fraser Island

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great communal amenities as well as the most stunning beach view. It is beachfront, which makes this spot popular with fisherman and families alike. You can also have your vehicle parked really close to your tent which is always handy!

3 TIN CAN BAY – THE JEWEL OF THE COOLOOLA COAST

Nestled just off the Bruce Highway, Tin Can Bay is an easy 50km drive from Gympie and situated on the Cooloola Coast. The beautiful harbour is dotted with an array of yachts, fishing boats and houseboats and is home to wild dolphins who come into the shallows each and every day for feeding. Tin Can Bay offers sensational fishing, great watersports and an awesome doorway to explore not only the ocean but also the stunning bush area that adorns the town. We chose to stay at the local caravan park, where rates are great, the service is second to none and every amenity is right at your finger tips.

4 SPRINGBROOK NATIONAL PARK – GOLD COAST

While it is known for theme parks and surfing, the Gold Coast also has one of the most remarkable hinterland areas in Australia. Springbrook National Park


Settlement Campground is nestled high in the mountains, giving you sensational views of the entire Gold Coast area. Here you can pitch your tent in the designated sites or park your caravan or motorhome, park your car right next door and enjoy the free barbecque area. It is an easy way to enjoy some of Queensland most untouched natural bushland and is linked by a short walking track to the top of Purling Brook Falls.

5 WIVENHOE DAM AND LAKE SOMERSET

Lake Wivenhoe and Lake Somerset are located just west of Brisbane. Take your boat and water sports gear as most sites are located on the waterfront and even come with your own fire pit barbecue. The sites are large and spacious and you can choose from powered or unpowered. All amenities are right at your back door and access is very easy. Wake up to the sounds of the kookaburras, spot the koalas in the trees and see the kangaroos eating their way through the day. Lake Somerset is perfect for water skiing, wakeboarding and jetskiing while Lake Wivenhoe is best for kayaking, canoeing, sailing and swimming. Q

A family holiday doesn’t need to hurt the hip pocket, if you know where to go. Like millions of other Australians you can

travel on a budget and still enjoy a laid back holiday that has something for everyone. Camping your way to some of Queensland’s best destinations is the most rewarding, most memorable and easiest way to travel.

Queensland serves a smorgasboard of ocean front and rural offerings. If it’s an ocean-front spot, then obviously as long as the ocean waves are rolling in and there is sand under your feet, you have everything you need. If it is somewhere in Outback Queensland, the scenery, views and remarkable locals will provide a great setting. And if it is glamping you are after, as long as the only job you need to do is carry your bags in, then you are onto a winner!

HERE’S 5 OF MY FAVOURITES.

1 BIRDSVILLE – THE RACE THAT STOPS THE OUTBACK

Visiting Birdsville for its world famous Race Week (September 2 and 3, 2016), is a must for everyone who enjoys camping, you won’t be alone, almost all of the some 10,000 visitors who make the road trip to Birdsville will set

up camp or caravan for the two day festival. The world is your camping oyster and you can set up tent next to the Diamantina River. Or if you have your own plane you can even camp at the airport! Full bathroom amenities are supplied at multiple areas all over town. Or if you don’t have your own gear, hire a fully equipped setup.

2 FRASER ISLAND – THE ORIGINAL SANDCASTLE

This World Heritage-listed island lies just a 45-minute boat ride from Hervey Bay and a 3 hours 30 minutes drive north of Brisbane.

Fraser Island has over 100 freshwater lakes. Some are blue in stark contrast to their white sandy shores, others are tannin stained and reedy while most are surrounded by forest. Then of course there is the endless miles of ocean or harbour beachfront that surrounds the entire island. This magical sand island full of majestic Australian wilderness is ready for you to explore and with 28 standard camping areas to choose from on Fraser Island, you will experience the entirety of what Fraser has to offer during your stay.

Waddy Point on Fraser Island is by far the best spot to camp. It has

18 queensland.com

I’ve lost count of the times people have asked me why I like to travel Outback Queensland. I tell them

it’s one of my favourite destinations, and all they can say is ‘Why, what’s there?’

They might ask ‘Where is it?’’, too, but they never do. Some assume it’s west of Toowoomba; others believe it is Toowoomba. I remember a property just outside of Rockhampton that offered backpackers an Outback camping experience. I guess if you’re from Munich and you can camp under stars and light a bonfire, you must be where the brochure says you are.

Which is probably close to the mark if you take the Outback for a state of mind rather than a geographical location. For the record,

the Outback is all of inland Queensland west of a line which runs roughly north from Hebel on the NSW border to around the latitude of Townsville and then west past Burke and Wills Junction to the Northern Territory near Lawn Hill Gorge.

You used to be able to say you’d reached the real Outback from Brisbane when you hit the Matilda Way at Charleville, about 740km away. In recent years, though, Outback Queensland has bulged east in the south and north to include the former ‘Gateway’ towns of Roma, Mitchell and Injune.

The sunsets and night skies, quirky events and people is the stuff of memories – the heritage and spirit of our nation – that’s Outback Queensland. It’s where you will find what it

means to be Australian. Getting there is easy if you have a vehicle. Deciding where and when to go is the issue. The cooler months this year should be ideal after good summer rains.

Towns are only a couple of hours apart so you can be standing on the edge of the desert one day, the next day exploring an inland river system, or chatting to the locals at any old pub. There’s so much to see and do, you’ll be organising your next trip even before you get home from the first. Get to know this place, and it will get under your skin. Go on, get out there.

You will walk where dinosaurs roamed and see their bones; you will look at the sun directly through a telescope; you will dig for opals

Venture beyond the iconic attractions. BY JOHN WRIGHTOUTB

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SMustering cattle is part of

Outback life for some people

Big Red

Mount Isa

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OUTBACK STATE OF MIND

HERE’S A TASTE OF SOME OF THE BEST EXPERIENCES YOU CAN HAVE IN OUTBACK QUEENSLANDIN NO PARTICULAR ORDER

SOUTHWEST » Charleville. The Cosmos

Centre and Observatory. A brilliant night sky and the coolest view of the sun you’ll ever have.

» Cunnamulla. Camping at Wandilla Station. The circuit through Eulo (mud baths), Yowah (opals), Toompine (a town in a pub), Quilpie (more opals) and Charleville.

» Birdsville. The races, September 2 and 3 2016. Fred Brophy’s boxing tent. Big Red at sunset.

» Yaraka. No more than a town with a pub and a stunning landscape that is as old as time.

CENTRAL-WEST » Longreach. Stockman’s Hall

of Fame. A tour through your heritage and identity. The Facts and Fibs tour out of the Albert Park Motor Inn. Sunset cruises on the Thomson.

» Winton. Al fresco dinners and yarns at the Tattersalls Hotel. Friday nights at the Winton Club. Characters.

NORTHWEST. » The Dinosaur Trail.

(Hughenden, Richmond and Winton). Museums. Fossil hunting. Working as a volunteer at Winton’s wonderful Australian Age of Dinosaurs.

» Mount Isa. The rodeo, August 12-14 2016, of course. Big. Lots of Akubras. Unforgettable.

MORE... » Fishing. Anywhere you find

a river, and there are lots of them. Mud-baked yellow belly can’t be beaten. Use yabbies.

and fossils; you will see one of the world’s biggest rodeos; you will see landscapes so ancient they will stir your soul; you will find all the warmth and good nature and humour that strangers can throw at you; and you will come back with memories, mostly of people, that will not leave you.

There is much to see beyond the iconic attractions. You will find many of them on or near the Matilda Way, but the byways and backblocks are just as rewarding. Q

NN Go to outbackqueensland.com.au for more information

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outbackqueensland.com.au

If ever there was a year for taking the rougher road, for seeking out sunsets never seen and hunting down horizons never reached. That year is here. 2016. Fuel up the car, connect the caravan, make up the motorhome. It’s time to book that tour, go to that event, live adventurously. Lose yourself in the moment out here, and you might just find yourself. Live Australia’s story, your way, in Outback Queensland.

Find the time you never thought you had

For more information about these experiences and more holiday deals visit

Visit the Diamantina Shire and enjoy the beauty of the Simpson Desert, a champagne sunset on Big Red, a yarn with the local characters at the iconic Birdsville Hotel and a kayak or stand up paddle board on the billabong.

Stay two nights at Birdsville Caravan Park in 2016 and you can enjoy a complimentary night down the road at Bedourie Caravan Park.

www.thediamantina.com.au

Do the Diamantina

Stay and play in Quilpie Shire!

Stay at Channel Country Tourist Parks or Quilpie Heritage Inn and immerse yourself in the full Quilpie experience. Meet local property owners on the Outback Mail Run, learn about the largest dinosaur found in Australia at Eromanga Natural History Museum and enjoy local outback art at Eagle gallery. Quilpie has something for everyone!

www.visitquilpieshire.com

Take a Trip to Quilpie

Roma and surrounds is the perfect place to begin your outback story! Experience the history of Australia’s Oil and Gas industry at Roma’s Big Rig, relax and rejuvenate at The Great Artesian Spa in Mitchell, explore the history of Cobb & Co from Surat, orreconnect with nature at Carnarvon National Park from Injune.

Join the locals at Roma’s Easter in the Country, The Roma Picnic Races & Black Tie Ball (March) or the Mitchell Camel & Pig Races in August.

www.mymaranoa.org.au

Explore the Maranoa Region

Are you seeking an outback Queensland adventure that lets you experience the raw, natural beauty of this country? Break away from the comfort of suburbia and allow Adventure Australia Treks & Toursshow you what it means to be Australian.

Simpson Desert to Birdsville Adventure Tours - May and September 2016Cape York Fishing & 4WDing- June, July, August, September 2016Or, create your own Australian story with a fully customised adventure!

www.aatt.com.au

Choose Adventure

Mount Isa is a must-see destination!

An oasis in the outback, with plenty to see and do throughout the region.

Experience Mount Isa on a two day package that will have you exploring an underground mine and hospital, enjoying a sunset picnic at Lake Moondarra and learning about the history and culture of this outback City. Make the time, book now!

www.experiencemountisa.com.au

Make Time for Mount Isa

Whether you’re off to an event in Maranoa or making time to see Mount Isa, Bus Queensland connects outback destinations with affordable travel options, comfort and convenience. Sit back and soak up the ever changing landscapes, quaint towns and spectacular sunsets from a Bus Queensland coach.

Book a Bus Queensland outback event package today!

www.busqld.com.au

Get There in Comfort


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BEST DRIVES VOTED BY YOU! LEONIE REED The Scenic Rim is only one hour south of Brisbane but offers some of the most stunning scenery we could have wished for. Great big mountain ranges and green farmland as far as the eye could see. Soon enough the kids were pointing out all the different animals and we couldn’t help but wonder why we hadn’t visited sooner.

We stayed for a few nights at Lillydale Farmstay, a darling farm that gave the kids a little taste of country life. They made great friends with all the animals during the feeding rounds each morning and this little wallaby followed us about. He seemed to pose for this picture as if he’d done it before showing off his lovely white striped cheek.

Each day of our holiday we’d take a drive in a different direction and visit local attractions and country towns along the way. There was plenty to do and see and we all learned something about country life. Each town had its own unique style but all offered great country food and hospitality. As a family of five it was the easiest and most relaxing holiday we’ve ever had, we can’t wait to go back!

WAYNE HEWITT Muttaburra picnic race day. The locals work the food stalls and bar and have a giant raffle to raise much needed funds to put back into the community. Muttaburra which is about 70km north of Longreach. We came across this wonderful little country town when on a 4x4 and camper trailer road trip last year. Muttaburra is a one pub one shop one school country town, very friendly with a self-contained van park the council leave the amenities block open 24/7-hot shower and toilet. What was meant to be a one night stay ended up being four nights.

Scenic Rim, Brisbane

Muttaburra Races, Outback Queensland

We asked you to describe your most memorable Queensland drive holiday so, thanks to everyone who entered. All 10 winners received an RACQ $1500 voucher and here’s a sample of the winning entries.


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BELINDA SYMONS A sunset drive to the top of Castle Hill, Townsville after a full day of exploration. With messy hair and wet swimmers my girls were captivated by that amazing feeling one gets from being high above it all. Taking in the stunning 360 degree views they declared themselves Queens of the Castle and, forgetting their tired legs, ran eagerly ahead to explore every path and vantage point. Apart from the great views nothing of note happened, yet the joy on my children’s faces, makes me imagine it might be the beginning of a lifelong love of travel and discovery.

AMANDA IDE Our girls’ road trip encapsulated the best of what Queensland has to offer - gorgeous coastal beaches, native dance and culture, lush rainforests and of course Australia’s iconic sunburnt plains. From Cairns we drove north via Port Douglas and headed inland for four hours to the quaint town of Laura. Our destination was the Laura Aboriginal Dance Festival, held biennially.

This was truly a celebration of Aboriginal dance and culture in Cape York. The colours, music and energy were hypnotising. In between dances we were amazed by the breathtaking rock art and nearby bush walks. Heading back to Cairns, we stopped at the Atherton Tablelands. Where the scenery abruptly changed from dry, red dirt to lush, green rain forests.

KATE MILLER This photo was taken just outside Barra country in Burketown. There are so many properties with this wonderful backdrop. And every single sunset is amazing! You never have to edit the colours in your photos!

CRESSIDA WARD As a family in mid 2015 we travelled to Cairns and hired a car to drive north to Cape Tribulation. It was the most beautiful drive along the coastline - it is true, the rainforest meets the sea. It’s so magical up there. Stepping out on the beach at Cape Trib is breathtaking. We also drove up to Kuranda and to the Atherton Tablelands. I will never get sick of that part of the world. It’s stunning.

Burketown, Outback Queensland

Cape Tribulation, Tropical North Queensland

Laura, Tropical North Queensland

Castle Hill, Townsville North Queensland

We asked you to describe your most memorable Queensland drive holiday so, thanks to everyone who entered. All 10 winners received an RACQ $1500 voucher and here’s a sample of the winning entries.

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SEE AUSTRALIA’S BEST LIVE EVENTS IN AUSTRALIA’S BEST DESTINATIONS

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Magnetic Island Adventurethon

19-20 Mar

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World Cup23-24 Apr

BRISBANEThe Planting

Woodford29 Apr - 1 May

OUTBACK QUEENSLANDRoma’s Easter in the Country

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SUNSHINE COASTNoosa Festival

of Surfing5-12 Mar

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Julia Creek Dirt n Dust Festival

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Carnivale20-22 May

JUNFRASER COASTRelish Fraser

Coast Food and Wine Festival

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Triathlon Festival14-15 May

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Broadbeach Music Festival

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GOLD COASTCooly Rocks on

50s and 60s Nostalgia Festival

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THE WHITSUNDAYSGreat Whitehaven

Beach Run26 Jun

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Festival of Arts9-17 Jul

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Rockhampton River Festival

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Childers Festival29-31 Jul

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Queensland Garden Expo

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Cairns Indigenous Arts Festival

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QUEENSLANDAustralian Festival of Chamber Music

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The This is Queensland app has been designed to help make your Queensland holiday as amazing as it can be. The app can help visitors find nearby Visitor Information Centres, tourist attractions, Wi-Fi hotspots and uncover local secrets shared by Queensland holiday experts. To download, search for This is Queensland in the app store on your smart phone

When holidaying in Queensland keep an eye out for the i sign. Accredited Visitor Information Centres are in 120 locations around Queensland.

They really know Queensland and can give great advice on where to stay, what to do and what’s on, plus can help with booking accommodation and activities. So drop in for maps, brochures, info – or just to have a chat.For centre contact details visit queensland.com/vics

See the full event calendar at queensland.com/events

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Navigate Queensland drive holidays NewsCorpStudios

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