ATTRACTIONS DAY TRIP

Visit Fraser Island to be dwarfed by ancient rainforests growing out of only sand and to explore the freshwater lakes and spectacular sand formations on one of the most incredible islands on earth. World Heritage-listed Fraser Island has the absolute best that one island can offer - cool towering rainforests to walk through; more than 100 freshwater lakes to swim in including the iconic Lake McKenzie, huge sand blows to climb, and an amazing 120 kilometre beach highway, complete with the shipwreck of the Maheno and cliffs of stunning coloured sands. Lying off the coast of Hervey Bay and just south of the last of the Great Barrier Reef's coral cays, Fraser is the world's largest sand island and stretches for 123 kilometres. Unforgettable island eco-adventures include cruises to discover the untouched beauty of the remote western side and guided or self-drive tours. Though surrounded by untamed wilderness and rugged terrain, Fraser Island boasts luxurious, relaxing and natural accommodation experiences. Fraser Island also offers some of the best beach fishing experiences in the world and provides options for young novice anglers and seasoned fishing professionals. Whatever adventure you are looking for, Fraser Island has you covered....

Not to be confused with Tamborine Mountain upon which it is perched, North Tamborine is a suburb in its own right and plays to its own tune. It's easy to see why the rolling green hills, just 30 minutes from the Gold Coast, attracted early settlers who grew maize and grazed dairy cattle here. In 1889 the first guesthouse was opened and a tourist road up the mountain in 1924 etched North Tamborine firmly into the Australian psyche. While a section of the Tamborine National Park known as The Knoll protects forests in these parts, North Tamborine is much more than that. There's a mountain distillery, vineyards, winery, cheese factory and even an Irish bar here. Adventurous types will adore the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk, the Mount Tamborine Adventure Park and Glow Worm Caves. Visitors are spoilt for choice with a huge range of high-quality guesthouses and bed and breakfasts where roaring fires and bubbling spas are the order of the day. Perhaps Bob Dylan was onto something when he sung about those jingle jangle mornings, Mr Tambourine Man....

Landsborough, gateway to the Blackall Range, is one of the historic townships of the Sunshine Coast. From 1868, it grew behind the wheels of Cobb and Co. coaches as they followed the tree line blazed by Tom Petrie to Gympie gold, discovered by James Nash in 1867. The historic town bears the name of one of Australia's most successful explorers, William Landsborough. The social history of the Caloundra region can also be traced at the Landsborough Museum and businesses like the Landsborough Hotel offer an authentic slice of the town’s history. Close to Landsborough is Ewen Maddock Dam with walking trails and picnic spots to enjoy. There is also a swimming spot for a dip in the dam. Families will especially love the award winning Pioneer Park in Landsborough built especially to cater for active kids and those with special needs....

The beautiful seaside village of Scarborough is a vibrant, lively precinct where something is always happening. At the northern end of the Redcliffe Peninsula, the Scarborough Boat Harbour is always a hive of activity. Many tour operators launch from here, as well as the vehicular ferries that service Moreton Island. Nearby Newport Marina is also home to a number of cruises, scuba charter and fishing experience tour operators. Fresh seafood is synonymous with Scarborough; many visitors make the trek to enjoy a gourmet feast or a more casual outdoor meal of fish and chips. Scarborough was dubbed home to 'Australia's Friendliest Beach' in 2004 in the Keep Australia Beautiful Clean Beach Challenge. The beach area and its surrounding esplanades and parks are enjoyed by family groups picnicking and playing, swimmers, water sports enthusiasts, walkers, cyclists and even parachuters who often use the beach as a landing zone. Children will especially love the themed playgrounds of Pirate Place and Railway Place at Scarborough Beach Park with its amazing play equipment and large cottonwood climbing trees. Railway Place has been specially designed so that all young people, including children with disabilities, can explore and enjoy. Jamieson Park's with its northern views to Deception Bay and the Glass House Mountains also has facilities perfect for family outings enabling more people to enjoy a day at this delightful spot. Scarborough is about an hour's drive from the centre of Brisbane....

Situated 151 kilometres from Longreach on the Thomson Development Road, Stonehenge heartily welcomes all visitors. When asked what they most enjoy about Stonehenge, people say the warm welcome and peace and quiet. Chat with the local residents to discover some of the history or follow directions to the John Egan Pioneer Track to see some fantastic landscapes and views. Situated close to the Thomson River just out of flood reach Stonehenge is the ideal spot to relax for a few days. To sign the visitors book Stonehenge style, you write your name in stone directly beside the main road not far from town. This tradition started years ago by the then mailman - the rest is history! Take some time to read through the many names and places. Please remember if leaving your mark not to remove stones already in use. XXXX Hill is a scenic vantage point with breathtaking 360 degree views of the Thomson River flood plains and surrounding Johnstone Ranges. Less than six kilometres from Stonehenge and completely unexpected is a series of magnificent rock holes framed with ghostly white gum trees. Travel along the John Egan Pioneer Track and discover magnificent landscapes sculptured by nature into the most amazing rock formations over millions of years. A little further towards Jundah, you crest the jump-up and Swanvale Lookout - a fantastic spot to boil the billy with picnic tables & fire places. Join the locals at the Stonehenge Hotel for lunch and a cold drink, stop over and take your time to explore this magic landscape....

Surrounded by picturesque farmlands and low rolling hills, Kingaroy is the central town for the diverse and beautiful region. Well serviced by numerous large retail chains, and many services that you would expect to find in larger towns, Kingaroy offers a variety of accommodation from modern motels, cabins and caravan parks to cosy Bed and Breakfasts, self-contained retreats, vineyard cottages and farm stays. From here you can explore one of Australia’s most exciting new boutique wine regions. With a low-humidity climate similar to the acclaimed Hunter Valley, Kingaroy and wider region is ideal suited for grape cultivation. The first vines were planted in 1995 and now you can visit and taste wine at four cellar doors nearby (plus another five in the Moffatdale region, near Murgon). You can taste and learn about a variety of wines direct from the wine makers at wineries ranging from some of the State’s largest to small boutique vineyards. Verdelho is the region’s signature varietal, along with all the usual favourites, and exciting alternative varieties, such as sangiovese and viognier. Renowned for peanuts (you can’t miss the towering silos in the town centre), the region’s rich soils and lush pastures also yield produce ranging from dragon fruit, ginger, stone fruit and avocados to tasty capers, pumpkins, beef and Barkers Creek Pork. There’s a growing gourmet food scene with chefs featuring local produce on menus at many of the award winning restaurants and cafés around town. Visit the Kingaroy Visitor Information Centre in the town’s Arts and Heritage Precinct to chat to locals who can help you plan your itinerary. The adjoining Kingaroy Regional Art Gallery is a cultural hub offering diverse monthly exhibitions by local and visiting artists. The precinct is home to Kingaroy Heritage Museum and a collection of historic buildings....

Beerwah is a thriving small country town and home to Australia Zoo. Located just an hour drive north of Brisbane and a short drive from the Sunshine Coast, Beerwah is the perfect location to explore the Sunshine Coast hinterland. The Glass House Mountains, 16 ancient volcanic crags that emerge from the plains, are also just a few minutes away. Mt Beerwah is the name given to one of the eroded volcanic plugs. There are several walking tracks and some lookouts in the Glass House Mountains that offer breathtaking views of the region, so be sure to take some time to explore this area. Call into the new Visitor Information Centre at the town of Glass House Mountains on the Steve Irwin Way to pick up a local map and directions....

Flagstone Creek, named after the rocky outcrop of sandstone in the creek bed. Flagstone creek is located between Grantham and Middle Ridge via Iredale. Call in for a great coffee, cakes, Devonshire teas, gourmet burgers and lunch time grills at The Barn and Scotty's Garage. With wood fires in winter, cool trees in summer, The Barn is a truly unique venue for functions, wedding, parties and social gatherings. The Barn is open: Friday from 10am to 2pm, Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 4pm and other times by appointment. Group bookings can be arranged for 20 or more people for dinner. Four years in the making, this museum of automotive memorabilia from the 50's and 60's showcases a lost era of vintage cars, motorbikes, jukeboxes and all things 'retro'. Just when you think you've seen it all Scotty slides back the rear door to reveal a replica 1950's diner with dance floor, pinball machines and more memorabilia, including an original dodgem car from Luna Park. Up flagstone creek way in Lilydale, you'll find 9Dorf Farms, a 4th generation family-owned farm giving visitors a taste of life on a diversified working property. The Neuendorf family have been farming in the fertile Lockyer Valley since 1918 originally dairying and then moving on to lucerne/fodder and horticulture. On the first Sunday of every month they provide a hands-on tour where you can feed the poddy calves in the nursery, collect eggs out in the paddock an even catch a fish the easy way when you tour the fish shed at feeding times ( a 30 tonne aquaculture re circulation system was built in 2011 on their Lilydale property growing Australian native fish- Barramundi, Murray Cod and Jade Perch). 9Dorf also farm ethically raised eggs and chicken in special travelling chicken caravans. Their farm gate is open 7 days a week for purchasing farm fresh fish, chicken and eggs however if travelling a distance to call first to ensure they have what you require....

Tolga is within approximately eight kilometres from Atherton, travelling through the rainforest canopied Kennedy Highway. Tolga presents a quaint little town with good examples of early Queensland architecture. A centre strip in the main street features a towering fig tree and heritage and timber display consisting of seven carved poles, much like totem poles. These showcase in creative carving, aspects of the Atherton Tableland's rich heritage including Aboriginal culture, animals plants and threats to the rainforest habitat. With its range of accommodation from caravan parks, motels to five star retreat, and displays of art work by local people it is an interesting little township. Close by is Rocky Creek Memorial Park, which is dedicated to the thousands of soldiers who were stationed in this area during World War Two. With its many plaques on display, it is a popular stop-over for many....

As the heart of the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics rainforest, Cairns pulses with energy. More than 600 tours a day make the most of the year-round outdoor lifestyle while world-class sporting events and festivals embrace the cosmopolitan city's vibrant tropical culture. Energised by nature, Cairns is the place to soak up the tropical lifestyle. Discover an exciting city that takes pride in its cultural heritage and where time seems to last a little longer. Swim at the Esplanade lagoon, sample local produce at a farmer's market, enjoy free entertainment, shop for a summer wardrobe or cruise around the marina. Take a tip from the locals for a cool dip at a secluded freshwater swimming hole, jump on a bike for a sightseeing tour along the city's network of cycle paths, marvel at tropical plants in the Botanic Gardens, browse the galleries or catch an act in a unique rainforest venue. After dark choose a lively bar for drinks, taste local seafood at an award-winning restaurant, party on a dance floor, discover treasures at the markets or watch a local cultural show. Choose from a wide range of accommodation including five-star international hotels, luxurious resorts, waterfront apartments, family-friendly motels and fun backpacker hostels. The compact city is easy to get around and has the reef, rainforest and outback on its doorstep. With the Cairns International and Domestic airports only 10 minutes from the Central Business District, Cairns is the ideal entry point for a Tropical North Queensland adventure. Travel from the city's Reef Fleet Terminal to the Great Barrier Reef and its islands, raft the white water rapids in the rainforest, step back in time with a train ride to Kuranda or treat your tastebuds to one of the many food and wine trails on the Atherton Tablelands. Whether you want to flirt with adventure or be enchanted by exotic experiences, Cairns has it all. ...

Midge Point is the northernmost part of the Mackay district, approximately 100 kilometres, or just over an hour's drive from Mackay. This peaceful coastal village is located on the picturesque Hibiscus Coast. Midge Point is an ideal place to bushwalk, go fishing and crabbing and relax in a tranquil area by the beach. It is home to various accommodations and caravan parks as well as a selection of eateries. Stay in semi tropical rainforest, enjoy direct beach access for hours of fishing, walks and fossicking....

Cordalba is home to a fantastic Bed and Breakfast just off the highway which offers fresh sea perch fishing opportunities and local produce from their seasonal stall as well as a great range of accommodation. If you aren't the fishing type, then there is a fantastic, historic pub and locals reckon you should check out the Mango Tree Church on Hodges Road. Cordalba is surrounded by the Cordalba State Forest which is characterised by it's rugged hills of open eucalypt woodland, this park is an adventurer's retreat. You can spotlight for possums and gliders at night and go mountain biking or birdwatching during the day. There are mountain biking trails which are frequented that can be accessed by taking the turn-off to Cordalba via Claytons Road and then turn left onto Promisedland Road. The turn-off to Promisedland mountain bike trail network is approximately three kilometres along this road. Cordalba is a town in central Queensland, Australia that was founded in 1896....

Situated in a delightful valley with spectacular Mount Zamia and Virgin Rock overlooking the town, Springsure is located 66 kilometres south of Emerald on the Gregory Highway section of the Great Inland Way. If you hadn't already guessed, the town was given its name thanks to the springs located in the creek and gullies at the time of settlement. There are a number of historical sites in this town including the Staircase Range Cutting, built by Chinese immigrants in 1905 to pay tribute to the many early wagon teams that stopped in Springsure overnight on their way from Rockhampton to the Gulf and Barcoo country. Just south of the town you'll find Old Rainworth Fort, built in 1862 as a way of defending settlers against aboriginal attack. To learn more about the history of the town, head to Cairdbeign Homestead and School where relics from the past are on display for visitors. There's also the chance to go fossicking for opalised wood and labradorite in the fields around Springsure....

Innisfail is a prosperous, colourful town, situated on the North and South Johnstone Rivers, and is surrounded by rich green landscape. Lush sugar plantations flow from the dense rainforest coastline to the thick jungles of the Palmerston National Park to the west. Sugar has been grown here since the early 1880's. Tea, bananas, pawpaws and other exotic tropical fruits are also grown. Aquaculture also plays an important part in the area's economy ranging from prawn, barramundi and fresh crayfish to crocodile farming. There's also a variety of cultural festivals, held annually. Innisfail is about 90 kilometres south of Cairns....

Think Carrara, think colour, for this suburb is home to the Gold Coast's most popular markets which have been operating for 30 years and have become a tourist destination in their own right. Boasting more than 500 stalls, the Carrara Markets offer everything imaginable from farm fresh produce and meat to fashion, toys, jewellery and homewares. The popular Family Fun Lane has face painting, pony rides, a merry-go-ground and balloon-wielding clowns, Luke's Reptile Kingdom features three interactive shows every hour, and there's even two King Tutt's Putt Putt 18-hole mini golf courses. For those who take their golf a little more seriously, Carrara is home to three large golf courses with challenging greens, great views and stylish clubhouses. Sporting and event enthusiasts will also appreciate Metricon Stadium, homeground of the Gold Coast Football Club or Suns as they are more affectionately known. Perhaps this vast expanse is why local Aborigines named this area "long flat". ...

Kajabbi is a tiny, sleepy settlement in north west Queensland. It is located 118 kilometres north east of Mount Isa and 100 kilometres north west of Cloncurry. Whilst only a small settlement, Kajabbi stands in an area that is steeped in history. The warrior Kalkadoon tribe, after whom the local hotel is named, had their last battle against mounted troops on the slopes of nearby Battle Mountain. Whilst the Kalkadoon Hotel at Kajabbi has been closed for the last few years, there are a couple of fishing spots in the area. Mining relics, including smelter stacks, are still to be found at the sites of the former Dobbyn and Mount Cuthbert copper mines. There was a time when Kajabbi was an important centre. The nearby mines at Dobbyn and Mount Cuthbert attracted copper miners to the area and, as a railhead in the 1920s, it was a location where the cattle owners from the state's far north west brought their herds for shipment to the coast. There is wildlife aplenty in this part of the Outback - kangaroos, dingoes, freshwater crocodiles and many bird species....

As you roll into Longreach the unmistakable red and white livery of a Qantas jumbo jet dominates the skyline from kilometres away. Inside the dedicated museum, you’ll uncover many a story linked to the founding of Australia’s national airline. Across the road, you’ll spot the shimmering curved roof of another Australian icon. Just like Hugh Sawrey’s famed artwork A Vision Splendid, the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame pays tribute to the Aussie Stockman. The five themed galleries also celebrate the stories of Indigenous Australians, Pastoralists and Explorers. Feel the surge of adrenaline as you’re transported full-tilt in a restored Cobb & Co stagecoach along the original Longreach-Windorah mail route. Follow the winding curve of the Thomson River or capture the golden glow of a perfect outback sunset from the air with Queensland Helicopters. Snap on a harness and step out on the wing of a Jumbo Jet at Qantas Founders Museum – guaranteed to get the heart pumping! Heighten your sunset experience with a river cruise and authentic outback entertainment. Choose to glide the waterway in old world style aboard a paddle wheeler before a traditional campfire dinner and old-time sound & light picture show. Or, relax on the top deck of a fully licensed catamaran as it cruises to Sunset Bend. Top if off with a two-course camp oven dinner and live entertainment on the river stage. But why should you choose? Experience the best of both worlds and do both! For a real slice of Aussie history visit our multi-generation cattle and sheep properties. Join the Strathmore Station Smoko Tour to learn about their award-winning water run on a tour of the station and tuck into some of Maree’s home-baked delights for morning teaVisit with the Walker family on a sunset tour of Camden Park Station, see the historic shearing shed before joining Outback Dan for sunset drinks. Visit Nogo Station for an intimate insight into station life by the Kinnon family. The tour includes sheep shearing, morning tea and a station safari in an open-top double-decker....

High on the Great Dividing Range and overlooking the Lockyer Valley, Preston is a locality that makes for great explorations, whether by four wheel drive, trail bike or on foot through the bushland. Preston Peak Wines is the perfect location to appreciate fine wine and soak in the spectacular scenery. The gorgeous Preston Village Chapel which has been carefully restored is just perfect for weddings!...

Just three minutes to the west of the tourist hot spot of Airlie Beach you’ll find its quieter, less known, but just as beautiful cousin Cannonvale. A perfect place to base the family, Cannonvale is conveniently located close to all the sights and sounds the Whitsundays has to offer. Cannonvale’s beautiful sheltered beach is perfect for splashing about with the kids away from the big crowds. There are children’s play areas, public barbecues and picnic spots along the water and at the end of the beach you’ll find a curious molten rock formation begging to be explored, with rock pools to be combed over at low tide. As the main residential centre in the area, the town has good shopping facilities as well as cafes, banks and the area's main post office. Launch your trailer boat at the boat ramp at the Volunteer Marine Rescue Club on Altmann Avenue. From Cannonvale you can easily get to Abel Point Marina or Shute Harbour to jump on board a cruise to the spellbinding Whitsundays archipelago and Great Barrier Reef. Follow the boardwalk around the waterfront from Cannonvale right into the heart of Airlie Beach for a leisurely afternoon stroll or to get a bit of exercise....

The Gladstone Region - Australia's best kept holiday secret - begins approximately 450 kilometres north of Brisbane. It's the gateway to the majestic Southern Great Barrier, fantastic fishing hotspots, amazing country adventures and pure national parks. Whatever you are after, you'll find it here. The region's hub is the city of Gladstone. Full of surprising and interesting experiences, this energetic regional city known for being the 'engine room of Queensland' is also the access points for Southern Great Barrier Reef icons, Heron and Wilson Islands. Surrounding Gladstone are townships of Mount Larcom, Calliope, Benaraby, Boyne Island and Tannum Sands. This part of the region is home to one of Australia's premier freshwater fishing locations, Awoonga Dam. To the south, the natural surrounds of the Discovery Coast will beckon you to discover the burgeoning township Miriam Vale, the white secluded beaches of Agnes Water and the township of Seventeen Seventy will entice, as will the breathtaking reef adventures at Lady Musgrave Island and Fitzroy Reef Lagoon....

Weipa is a mining town built by Comalco to house its employees and their families, government workers and support people for its Bauxite and Kaolin operations. Weipa has the largest Bauxite deposit in the world. Fishing enthusiasts flock to Weipa because of its terrific coastal location and abundant marine life. Distance from Brisbane (State Capital): 2611 kilometres. Amenities consist of hospital, dentist, private medical centre and pharmacy, supermarket (not open on Sundays), post office, newsagency, specialty shops, bakery, butcher, cafe and Four Wheel Drive and fishing tackle supply stores. There is also a Centrelink office located at the shopping centre. The town's two service stations (open daily) also have a selection of fresh fruit and vegetables, ice and grocery items. The nearby community of Napranum has a small supermarket which is open daily. A boat and car wash facility, along with several mechanical workshops and a hardware store are located at Evans Landing. The Western Cape Cultural Centre is also located at Evans Landing which provides local cultural and tourist information as well as exhibiting local artwork. The Western Cape Cultural Centre is open 10am to 2pm Tuesday to Friday and entry is free. Light refreshments and a great view of the harbour are offered. Accommodation options in Weipa include a camping ground with self-contained cabins and a dedicated fishing lodge, a resort hotel, a motel, and budget (donga-style) accommodation. Fishing in the Western Cape is great! Fishing can be shore-based at Gonbung Beach, Evans Landing, Kerr Point, Red Beach and Wallaby Island or on the banks of the creeks and rivers. With a boat. the Mission, Hey and Embley River estuaries and Port Musgrave (Mapoon) provide opportunities. Boat ramps are located at Rocky Point and Evans Landing in Weipa, Napranum, Cullen Point. Cloughs Landing and Mapoon. Fish species to entice anglers are: Mackeral, Queenfish, Trevally, Mangrove Jack, Bream, Grunter, Tuskers, Jewfish and Estuary Cod. In deeper waters chasing Marlin and Sailfish is becoming popular. Boats and houseboats are for hire and fishing tours/extended fishing charters are available - enquire at Weipa Tackle World....

The quiet hamlet of Helidon lies in the picturesque Lockyer Valley, approximately one hour west of Brisbane and just 15 minutes east of Toowoomba. Sandstone from this area has been used in many of Queensland's beautiful historic buildings. Helidon is also the business hub for explosive manufacturing companies situated on the outskirts of town. For many years Helidon has been famous for its natural mineral springs, prized for their great healing and therapeutic properties. The local Aborigines bathed in the spring water to ward off illness and after European settlement, the springs attracted the frail from far and wide. Arthritis, rheumatism, muscular aches, pains, stress, and a host of other ailments are said to be relieved by soaking in the warm, mineral-rich water. The city of Toowoomba is just 15 minutes drive up the range and offers a host of things to see and do. Not far from Helidon you'll also find wineries, historic homesteads, national parks and a host of scenic drives. Accommodation in the Helidon area ranges from basic cabins, bed-and-breakfasts, hotels and motels. The German Bake and Wurst House located on Postman's Ridge road is set in a beautiful country setting. The charming cafe serves homemade goods based on family recipes and German heritage. Expect to find dishes like Rostbratel, Soljanka and delicious Berliners. Bread and cakes made the old-fashioned way, with organic flour and less sugar....

Australia's Gold Coast is renowned for its patrolled beaches, vibrant Cavill Avenue and skyscraper skyline viewed from 77 floors above. The modern foreshore is bustling throughout the day with walkers, cyclists and skateboarders taking advantage of this beachfront boulevard vista overlooking the surf and sand. Like the Surfers Paradise of yesteryear, beachside shopping, dining, bars and clubs continually offer the complete holiday experience all in one compact destination package. Carve time out for shopping and cafe-hopping along Cavill Avenue with a stroll along the Main Beach promenade. Be seen dining at an award winning restaurant and alfresco bar and later at the beachfront night markets. Treat your loved one in a self-contained luxury apartment with views of the coast and hinterland or spoil the kids at a family fun resort. Don't forget to pack your dancing shoes with the hottest nightclubs, pubs and bars all within a two-kilometre radius....

Hope Vale Aboriginal community lies 40 kilometres north of Cooktown. Originally established as a Moravian Lutheran Mission on the east coast near Cape Bedford, the community was later moved to its present location. Go on a tour with a highly-acclaimed Aboriginal guide who can show you rock art sites and other locations on the Deed of Grant in Trust land. What's to see - the arts and craft centre is worth a visit and a private beach house accesses a coloured sands beach. You'll need a Council permit to camp and make arrangements in advance with the beach house. Useful stores include a couple of general outlets, hardware, a butcher and petrol station - but you will need to pay cash here. Hope Vale is easily accessed from Cooktown on a good dirt road off the Battle Camp Road between Cooktown and Laura. Hope Vale has an Alcohol Management Plan (AMP). AMPs aim to reduce alcohol-related violence. AMPs vary from community to community. They include alcohol restrictions, home brew bans and dry place declarations which operate within a defined boundary, known as a 'restricted area'. These strategies set the quantity and type of alcohol you may possess in the restricted area. Penalties apply for possessing or attempting to bring illegal alcohol into a restricted area. To find out more about AMPs for each community, visit the Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Multicultural Affairs web site....

Gordonvale, historically a sugar town, is today a quintessential Australian country town. It has courteous storekeepers, well-preserved streetscapes, historic buildings and a great sense of community. Near Gordonvale stands Walshs Pyramid at 922 metres in height. Each year the township hosts The Great Pyramid Race, an epic 12km race to the top and back. The record stands at 1:15:34 set in 2007 by Neil Labinsky. From Gordonvale there is access to the Atherton Tablelands via the Gillies Highway, while south the Great Green Way extends south to Mission Beach. Gordonvale is about 30 minutes drive south of Cairns....

The Bundaberg Region offers so many options to learn about the local flora and fauna. This journey takes in the Moore Park Beach water birds, feed the birdlife at the Botanic Gardens, head to Baldwin Swamp to meander the tracks that wind through the forest taking you down close to the lakes. Lastly, make your way to Mon Repos beach - if you are visiting during summer no visit is complete with a turtle encounter at the Mon Repos Conservation Park....

Spring Bluff is a beautiful valley tucked in the ranges north of Toowoomba and best known for its picturesque railway station. Spring Bluff Railway Station is a heritage listed site located on the main railway line between Ipswich and Toowoomba. Its significance stems from 150 years of railway history and the attraction of its beautiful landscaped gardens. The importance of the station was recognised with the formation of the Spring Bluff Railway Station Trust to preserve and maintain the grounds and station. Visit with a picnic or dine at the cafe with your friends and family. It's worth visiting Spring Bluff any time of year, just for the interesting drive down the range off the New England Highway through to Murphy's Creek. The road meanders through lush bushland, following the path of the creek....

A stunning riverfront spot nestled on the banks of the Kolan River, Miara is a popular weekend destination for locals and visitors alike. Just 45 kilometres north of Bundaberg's city centre, Miara is a popular fishing spot with secluded beaches, bush and parklands, and a family friendly fishing village atmosphere. The park is ideal for the angler seeking a tranquil and relaxed holiday getaway, with plenty to keep the rest of the family entertained including a playground, kiosk and barbecue hut. ...

Chermside is unofficially recognised as the mini central business district of Brisbane's northern suburbs. The suburb is home to one of the largest shopping centres in the country - Westfield Chermside, providing shopaholics with plenty of retail therapy. It was the first shopping mall to be built in Australia and is as popular now as it was when it first opened to great fanfare back in 1957. The shopping centre contains hundreds of speciality stores as well as major national department chains. The latest Hollywood blockbuster can be caught at the huge cinema complex, and for lunch you will be spoilt for choice by a dizzying array of food outlets, restaurants and cafes. Outside of the shopping centre, busy Gympie Road also offers a great range of shops and stores to explore. Chermside locals enjoy a large network of parklands along beautiful Downfall Creek. A system of bikeways and footpaths connect various areas and allow visitors to enjoy the pleasant surroundings at leisure. Picnic and barbecue facilities are provided along with a pool, children's playground and historic war memorials. Chermside is just 10 minutes drive north of the Brisbane city centre with excellent public transport available. Accommodation options include hotels, motels and motor-inns....

Barcaldine is situated on the junction of the Capricorn and Landsborough Highways and known as the Garden City of the West. Many visitors use Barcaldine as a base from which to explore central west Queensland. The extensive range of accommodation and shopping facilities make Barcaldine a relaxing place to stay, recover and explore. Barcaldine is the largest town in the Barcaldine Regional Council area and it is proud of its interesting and famous history. Barcaldine is home to the Tree of Knowledge, the reputed birth place of the labour movement in Australia. The Tree - a ghost gum - grew outside the Railway Station for about 180 years until 2006 when sadly, it was poisoned by an unknown culprit. The famous tree has been preserved and placed under an award winning timber structure that was constructed to protect the preserved tree and celebrate its importance in Australia’s history. The structure is impressive during the day but when viewed at night is truly magnificent. The name Barcaldine originates from the Oban region in Scotland. Donald Charles Cameron was one of the first settlers in the district and a direct descendant of the Campbell's of Barcaldine Castle. He settled on a portion of land fronting the Alice River and immediately named his property “Barcaldine Downs”. The railway line came as far as Lagoon Creek in 1886 and the township of Barcaldine developed on land from the Barcaldine Downs run. The Australian Workers Heritage Centre is a national project commemorating not just these events, which changed the course of the nation's working history, but is a tribute to all Australian working men and women. Set in over five acres of landscaped gardens, it is also home to the Wanpa-rda Matilda Outback Education Centre, which is a unique residential facility for schools and community groups. Barcaldine is also home to the old world Radio Theatre, complete with its canvas seats, and the working windmill that pumps water into the sculpture designed and erected by the Youth of Barcaldine, which stands outside the information centre....

St Lawrence, south of Mackay, is one of the oldest towns on the coast of Queensland. Major attractions include the St Lawrence Wetlands, freshwater fish habitats and abundant bird life. The township was originally built to service the Customs Office for the Port of St Lawrence. Interesting sites include the recently refurbished meatworks site and the Centenary Pavilion. There is one General Store, a hotel, post office, bowls club, golf course, swimming pool, library/internet access centre and an arts and craft shop. Campers and caravans can enjoy the recreation reserve. There are great fishing and crabbing spots close by. Take a four wheel drive and travel the countryside along the Bicentennial National Trail, starting from the coastal town of St Lawrence. Visit the historical buildings and sites around St Lawrence, enjoy a spot of fishing or play a game of bowls with the locals on Sunday....

No island in Moreton Bay says 'fun' more than Moreton. Located in the northern part of the bay, you only need to take a short boat trip from Scarborough or Manly to discover the island's long list of bragging rights. As one of the world's largest sand islands, adrenaline seekers flock to Moreton for the unique experience of sand tobogganing down the world's tallest stabilised sand dune, Mt Tempest. Guided tours are available along with all the equipment you'll need for a headfirst, high-speed trip down the dune. Tangalooma Island Resort also offers quad-biking tours around the island - their fleet of bikes is one of the largest in the country. With mysterious shipwrecks and colourful coral reefs, the famous Tangalooma Wrecks provide some of the best diving and snorkelling on the east coast of Australia. The island's idyllic waters are primed for all manner of aquatic pursuits including swimming and surfing, which also happen to be world class on Moreton Island. Moreton is almost entirely National Park, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers. Tangalooma Island Resort is renowned as one of only a handful of places on the planet where you can hand feed dolphins in the wild. Towards the northern end of the island, the freshwater Blue Lagoon is home to a host of birdlife and wildflowers during spring. The area is perfect for bird watching and bushwalking, with several walking tracks established on the island. And let's not forget the oldest lighthouse in Queensland, which was first lit on February 14, 1857 and is still standing strong at Cape Moreton. All this is packed onto an island paradise located right on Brisbane's doorstep....

Lakeland is an agricultural region south-west of Cooktown on the inland route, and at the junction of the Mulligan Highway and Peninsula Development Road. It was established in the late 1800s to service the needs of those attracted by the gold rush in the Palmer River Goldfields to the south, and included a large cattle station called Butcher's Hill which still exists today over a fraction of the area. These days, Horticulture covers much of the area, taking advantage of the very fertile volcanic soils. Many crops have been trialled in the past, and today you can find watermelons, pineapples, teak, pongamia (for biodiesel), sorghum, paw paws and others. Bananas are the main crop, and in recent years their production has been expanded because Lakeland is just out of reach of the cyclones that sometimes devastate the coastal growing regions. There are now some very large companies investing in the area, and you can see bananas lining the road north along the Peninsular Development Road and to Cooktown. As you leave Lakeland for Cooktown, you'll notice a large composting operation on the right, belonging to local producers 'Swiss Farms'. They are pioneers in adopting management practices on their properties that are reducing their reliance on artificial fertilisers, and their products are distributed Australia wide....

Characterised by the 14 kilometre long stretch of beach front Moore Park Beach is a popular holiday seaside town as well as strong community of locals, located 21 kilometres north of Bundaberg city. There is a wide range of accommodation available from beach huts, villas, motel or holiday park for camping and caravans. An absolute beachfront location surrounded by parklands. Moore Park boasts almost 20 kilometres of golden sandy beach. The very northern end of the beach is used for four-wheel driving, the southern end is a popular bathing area with seasonal patrols by the Moore Park Surf Lifesaving Club. The beach is also a nesting site for sea turtles including loggerhead sea turtles in summer months. ...

Located only a 10 minute drive from the Cairns Central Business District, the coastal village of Machans Beach is a quiet locals beach, perfect for avoiding crowds. There is a unique community culture amongst the residents of Machans Beach, with many local events and activities taking place all through the year including dance nights, sporting events, annual parties and community projects. The eclectic and relaxed feel within this small community is what really sets it apart from other townships around Cairns. While there are no large hotels or resorts, there are small privately-owned apartments and holiday houses available for both short and long term rental. Over the years Machans Beach has been subject to substantial erosion, but with the help of a rock wall and the gradual return of lost sand, there is plenty of beach to enjoy and lush grassy field perfect for sports, picnics or spending time with friends and family....

Apple Tree Creek is a convenient stop on the way to either Bundaberg or Gin Gin, just outside of Childers. A family-friendly picnic ground with great facilities is on the left as you enter Apple Tree Creek from the south. Almost diagonally opposite is the Flying High Flora and Fauna Bird Habitat, on the corner of the Bruce Highway and Old Creek Road. It's the creation of John Woodall, an ex-farmer with a penchant for birds, who has created the largest walk-through free flight aviary in the country. Other highlights include The Pip Stop for homemade jams and preserves made from local produce. Check out the purpose-built Swiss-designed wood-fired pizza oven....

Known for its boutique retail choices, relaxed café culture, and smorgasbord of eateries, Cleveland (Nandeebie/Indillie) features coastal and harbourside dining on Redlands Coast. Foodies flock to Cleveland for anything from brunch to fine dining, while the beautiful foreshores, parks, playgrounds and regular markets are ideal for relaxed, fun days and nights by the ocean. Enjoy a picnic, throw in a fishing line, and visit the historic lighthouse at Cleveland Point; have a drink or meal served up with panoramic coastal views at Queensland’s oldest licensed hotel; explore a stunning ecosystem of wetlands wildlife, and see where Governor Gipps once visited to assess the village’s suitability as the capital of Queensland. As the gateway to the majestic North Stradbroke Island, Cleveland also takes centre stage in the arts with an award-winning museum, impressive art galleries and an outstanding regional performing arts centre. The beautiful Raby Bay Foreshore Park, with sandy beaches, a dog off-leash beach, playground and sprawling grassed areas is perfect for coastal picnics and outdoor catch-ups with friends and family. Raby Bay itself is a popular spot for aquatic sports, including stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, boating, sailing and fishing....

Only 350 kilometres north-west of Toowoomba, Roma Outback Queensland is home to the southern hemisphere's largest sale yards. Visitors can get a feel for the outback by perching on a fence or taking a coveted possie on the viewing platform to watch the action at Roma Saleyards. Be sure to time your visit for a Tuesday or Thursday and you can witness the sale of up to 12,000 head of cattle in a single day. To get a real feel for the town itself, take a walk along the heritage-listed Heroes' Avenue, which is planted with more than 100 bottle trees. Each tree is a memorial to a local soldier who lost their life in WW1. For a dose of history, head to the Mount Abundance Homestead, built in 1860, which is the site of the region's first settlement. The homestead has important links to early explorers Sir Thomas Mitchell and Ludwig Leichhardt. Don't miss the Big Rig Oil and Gas Interpretative Centre and Night Show for an interactive insight into the hardships and heroic stories of oil drilling and exploration. Visit the 'Oil Patch' to get up close to impressive rigs and one of the first diesel powered rigs ever used in Australia. There's a varied calendar of events from Picnic Races, the Roma Cup and Easter in the Country to the multicultural Santos Food and Fire Festival and all the fun of the Roma Show....

If you stand along the marina and use a little imagination, you can almost picture the famous Gold Coast white-shoe brigade who put Sanctuary Cove on the map during those crazy, hazy 1980s. While that kind of excess has long departed, the style synonymous with Sanctuary Cove remains in this exclusive master-planned community. This AUD2 billion sanctuary for the rich and famous was built in 1986 and offers a resort lifestyle with two championship golf courses, a marina, a swanky retail precinct with boutiques and restaurants and the five-star InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort. An impressive 300-plus berth Marina sits at the centre like the top of a wedding cake, and is considered a world-class facility with its capacity for super yachts. But you don't need the big bucks to enjoy a visit here with everything from houseboats, to party pontoons and luxury sailing boats on hire here. Cruise up the river and see how the other half lives as you sail past waterfront mansions. And if you're lucky you may even spot a pair of white shoes, or two....