Fraser Coast South Burnett Region Guides Attractions Events in Queensland

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: Sticky Beaks Cafe for homemade jams and preserves made from local produce. Check out the purpose-built Swiss-designed wood-fired pizza oven.

What's at 'Bor-pull'? No such place, the locals will tell you jokingly. Had you pronounced Bauple as 'bopple', then there would be a better response. It's a small town off the main highway to Maryborough.

Although in reality, there is not a lot to see or do. Apart from an excellent rock collection, located right alongside the highway and that attracts a few people each day, so too does the Thai-style group of buildings which can't be missed. The latter is called Windsong and it features a series of 'arty' type retail outlets including a tea and coffee shop.

There should be a mention, though, of the local aquaculture enterprise. This small community was the site for the country's first inland prawn farm. Now there are no less than nine council-approved red claw farms.

Craggy blue mountain ranges are a backdrop for Biggenden, known as 'the Rose of the Burnett'. Along with agricultural pursuits - beef, grain crops, dairying, piggeries, peanuts, citrus and timber - the area is rich in minerals. Located 100 kilometres inland, Biggenden offers a true country feeling just an hour's drive from the coast. The small township is surrounded by open pastures offering the view of wide, open panoramas of the surrounding ranges.

Cattle sales are held every second Monday which are a great attraction for visitors. This district also contains two of Queensland's relatively undeveloped National Parks - Mount Walsh and Coalstoun Lakes National Parks - and large tracks of forest at Mount Woowoonga. Mount Walsh National Park offers short walks to the peaks base, with more strenuous walks to the bare granite summit for experienced bushwalkers. Multi day hikes over rugged terrain offer a true wilderness experience. Coongara Rock also provides excellent mountaineering and views, best accessed via a Four Wheel Drive vehicle. Often dry, the mountain comes to life after local rains, with waterfalls and rockpools a feature. Chowey Bridge nearby is an interesting historical feature, being only one for three concrete span bridges of its type.

The township features a pub hotel and caravan park, with host farm, bed and breakfast and National Park camping available nearby. Coalstoun Lakes is an even smaller township and features twin volcanic cinder cone craters lined with dense vine forest. The lakes are usually dry and only appear after a very wet summer season. This National Park, Queensland's smallest, is best enjoyed by birdwatchers.

Blackbutt is an attractive small town surrounded by native forests, Situated on the D'Aguilar Highway, at the southern entrance to the South Burnett. 'Blackbutt' is the common name for the Eucalyptus Piluralis tree, native to the area. Often referred to as the 'Timber town', Blackbutt has a strong association with the timber industry dating back to the mid-1800a when European settlers first arrived here.

In town you will find businesses to cater for your meal and coffee breaks, provisions, fuel and service needs and some beautiful hosted accommodation. Enjoy your own private, fully self-contained cottage or a secluded hosted retreat set in luxurious private gardens. Blackbutt and surrounds has a multitude of experiences waiting for you, from excellent home-cooked cuisine, to camp oven dinners, leisurely activities and local area attractions. Blackbutt has also become a renowned artistic precinct.

Opposite the township of Benarkin, located in Benarkin State Forest is Emu Creek State Forest Park. This is a perfect camping spot for a couple of nights or for enjoying a picnic alongside the creek. Walk or drive through native forests and pine plantations - as you wander the countryside, listen for the distinct call of the Bellbird. At nearby Taromeo you will find Jessie's Well, a historic watering spot, and Taromeo Station, where many original buildings and a stone walled cemetery classified by the National Trust are available to visit by appointment.

Boonooroo is located along the banks of the Great Sandy Strait, a quiet waterway running between Fraser Island and the mainland. The villages of Boonooroo and Tuan are now close to one and have maintained their 'old fishing village' character. Boonooroo itself has a range of general services and facilities for the visitor and is a wonderful place to while away a week of fishing and relaxation!

This is a wallum swamp area, home to a unique collection of Australian flora and fauna including tea trees, Kangaroos, eucalypts, galahs, bottle brush, magpies, wildflowers, bramminy kites and sea eagles. One of Australia's main RAMSAR sites, the area offers migrating birds a safe resting and feeding ground. It is also the second largest protection area in Queensland for the Dugong. Soon to be classified as a Marine Park, the Great Sandy Strait is an important place for both conservation and recreation.

Located approximately 30 minutes outside of Hervey Bay, this seaside village is a destination in its own right for many visitors. Burrum Heads experiences a major influx in visitors each year as they return to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of this area. Explore rivers and creeks by boat or canoe or take advantage of the clear warm water and great fishing! There is a wealth of rental house accommodation available through the local real estates as well as caravan parks and camping sites on the beachfront.

Near Murgon, is the Cherbourg Aboriginal community, the oldest and largest government settlement in Queensland. Here you can buy intricately carved emu eggs and other crafts, visit the sculpted gardens and look out over the countryside to Lake Barambah.

The settlement began in 1904, originally at Durundur, but moved, and even the dead were disinterred from the site and reburied at the new reserve, called Barambah. The reserve originally had ties with Deebing Creek mission, and W.E. Roth, then the Chief Protector of Aborigines, was 'looking forward to the day when one or other of the religious bodies will supervise this settlement'.

It remained a government settlement and in 1931 the name was changed, apparently because of postal confusion, to Cherbourg. Over the years people from some 40 different groups, including the local Waka Waka people, were sent to Cherbourg. Cherbourg developed its own strong culture and is now Aboriginal-controlled under a Deed of Grant in Trust.

Cherbourg business enterprises include a dairy, piggery, cattle operations, a cultural centre and an emu farm. Artists from the Cherbourg Cultural Centre exhibited their work in the Indigenous People's Pavilion at Expo 88 in Brisbane, Queensland.

Childers is the southern most township of Central Queensland and only a short three and a half hour car journey from Brisbane. This historical town is positioned on a ridge with magnificent views overlooking thousands of hectares of vivid green sugarcane and avocado farms. Visitors can step back in history as they visit the town's many historical buildings - some dating back to Queensland's early pioneering days. As the centre of the thriving Isis Shire, Childers offers a relaxed and welcoming country atmosphere.

Nearby Woodgate Beach and National Park offers an unspoilt coastal playground for visitors seeking peace and quiet.

With the magnificent 75 Mile Beach as its main road, Eurong, on World-Heritage listed Fraser Island is an idyllic destination for four wheel drive enthusiasts, nature lovers, beach bums and adventure seekers of all kinds.

From beautiful Eurong you can explore all this unique, pristine sand island has to offer. Up the beach you’ll find towering cliffs of coloured sands, the Maheno shipwreck, crystal-clear Eli Creek, rock pools and the imposing craggy monolith of Indian Head. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the island and ocean brimming with manta rays, turtles, dolphins, dugongs and colourful fish.

Beach fishing on Fraser Island is superb so be sure to pack your bait, line and tackle.
The community of Eurong, while small, has a good range of amenities and facilities including a bakery, and a well-stocked grocery store with ice, camping and fishing supplies.

There is accommodation to suit all budgets from self-contained apartments to backpacker beds and camping on the beach.

Access to Fraser Island is via vehicle barge from River Heads at Hervey Bay, or Inskip Point, one and a half hour’s drive north of Noosa. Fraser Island is only suitable for four wheel drive vehicles, which are also available for hire on the island.

The Fraser Coast South Burnett region is rich in diversity and natural beauty. Discover the beauty of World Heritage Listed Fraser Island, the largest sand island in the world and the only place on the planet where rainforest grows from sand. Australia's whale watching capital from July to November, Hervey Bay also offers 20 kilometres of sweeping golden beaches and a beautiful, safe aquatic playground. Rich in history and culture, Maryborough is one of Queensland's oldest and largest provincial cities. Maryborough was a major immigration port into Australia and the city retains many reminders of this period.

Dotted along the mainland of the Great Sandy Strait lie the seaside townships of Rainbow Beach, Tin Can Bay, Tinnanbar, Poona, Tuan, Boonooroo and Maaroom. Providing a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, the Great Sandy Strait offers holidaymakers a great place to 'take time out'.

Inland from Maryborough is the South Burnett region, an area rich in history, agriculture, wineries and welcoming country towns. The town of Kingaroy is arguably the most well-known of the South Burnett towns, which include Kilkivan, Goomeri, Murgon, Cherbourg, Wondai, Nanango, Yarraman and Blackbutt. The majestic Bunya Mountains are also located nearby and provide a lush backdrop for the South Burnett Valley.

The Fraser Coast South Burnett enjoys and warm mild climate year round. Casual, lightweight clothing is generally recommended. Something a little warmer may be needed for winter evenings on the coast and the winter months do become a little chilly in the inland areas and up on the Bunya Mountains. Comfortable shoes, a hat and sunscreen lotion are essential for all outdoor activities, especially fishing, swimming and bush walking.

Just off the coast from Queensland's Hervey Bay, is World Heritage Listed Fraser Island - the largest sand island in the world and the only place on the planet where rainforest grows on sand! Over 120 kilometres long and over 30 kilometres across at its widest point, the Island has developed over 800,000 years and is a unique natural environment.

Named 'K'gari' (meaning paradise) Fraser Island was home to the Butchulla people who lived on the island for over 5,500 years. Their heritage is evident in archaeological sites, midden heaps, ceremonial bora rings, and stone implements. European history credits Fraser's discovery to Captain James Cook. The island was named after Eliza Fraser in remembrance of her dramatic shipwreck.

Fraser Island boasts a wealth of natural attractions: pristine fresh water lakes such as McKenzie, Boomanjin, Allom and the spectacular Lake Wabby; crystal clear creeks – Eli Creek being the most well-known; Champagne Pools – wonderful swimming rock-pools; the amazing coloured sand formations known as The Cathedrals and the Central Station camping area and ranger station. On the eastern beach, near Happy Valley you will discover Fraser Island’s own shipwreck - The Maheno. For full details on each of these popular attractions of Fraser Island search under “natural attractions” on this website.

Fraser Island is home to several species of birds and its warm waters attract dugong, dolphins and turtles. The magnificent humpback whales, with their young, pass on the western side of the island between August and November.

You can visit Fraser Island either by taking a cruise across the Great Sandy Strait and joining a guided 4WD tour, or as a foot-passenger to the western side, or by self-driving (for Four Wheel Drive vehicles only). Access requires crossing by either catamaran, barge, helicopter or charter aircraft.

This tiny town is a country delight, with cheese speciality shops and an Emporium to tempt the visitor. Whether you fancy fine china, delicate jewellery or ornate furniture, a wide array awaits your inspection.

Whilst in town, sample both the beautiful crafts and the tasty homemade pies! Browse through the delightful Emporium, with good quality goods that cover every possible need for life in the country. Venture a little outside town to visit the historic Booubyjan Homestead and try the tasty home-grown olives and pressed oils nearby. The annual Pumpkin Festival, held in May, is popular with locals and visitors alike for it's fun family antics, including pumpkin races down the main street! Be sure to book your accommodation at the motel well in advance as this event is growing every year!

Hivesville is the unknown town located just a few kilometres to the east of Proston, with Wondai and Murgon being the nearby towns.

So what's the attraction at Hivesville? Not a lot really, excepting the pub has recently been refurbished and is a real treat. The ceilings are of pressed metal and most who visit will agree that whilst the exterior of brick remains as is, it's the interior that claims attention. Quite magnificent. Across the road is a cafe which may rouse some interest, if only to get a photo. It's called The Road Kill Cafe.

Nestled in the hinterland of Hervey Bay is the lovely historical village of Howard. Serviced twice daily by the 'Tilt Train,' Howard is an easy 15 minute drive to Maryborough, 25 minutes to Hervey Bay and 20 minutes to the beaches of Toogoom and Burrum Heads.

Howard has several buildings of historical significance including a beautifully restored Queenslander offering guided tours and Devonshire Teas. Howard’s small museum tells of the coal mining and farming history of the area and includes war memorabilia. Country markets are held in Steley Street on the first Saturday of every month and there are a couple of great swimming and fishing spots to enjoy on the nearby Burrum River.

Kilkivan is the north-eastern entrance to the South Burnett and is home to a progressive tourism community with a host of experiences to share with their visitors. Attractions within this area boast an emphasis on diversity! Tempt your tastebuds with local olives and redclaw crayfish. Tantalise your senses with the aroma and healing properties of Lavender direct from the farm. Allow yourself to glimpse life as it used to be, by wandering the town's historical museum in the main street.

Queensland's first gold discovery was at Kilkivan in 1852 and subsequent findings escalated into a gold rush in 1868. Small pockets of gold are still found to this day and visitors to the area can put down 'gold panning' as one of the many reasons to stop and play a while in this delightful town. Brochures describing short walks and drives to places of interest are available. Check out Mudlo Gap Conservation Park, north of Kilkivan especially if you have an interest in bird watching.

Have a cold drink at the hotel and meet some of the locals. As well as lovely accommodation, the local B&B offers sumptuous meals and the opportunity to take some of the goodies with you in a South Burnett gift hamper available for purchase.

Annually, the town hosts 'The Kilkivan Great Horse Ride', an exciting event which has been known to attract over 1000 riders to its trek along parts of the Bicentennial National Trail.

Named after the aboriginal word for 'red ant' and renowned for its towering peanut silos, Kingaroy is home to several quality wineries located both in town and scattered throughout the surrounding countryside. From shiraz to chardonnay, the range is wide and quality is high. This rich agricultural area is producing a host of gourmet delights, including olives and cheeses, to complement the wines and more traditional crops such as peanuts!

Take a farm tour and find out more about the agricultural side of life, from growing, to harvesting to tasting! The South Burnett is a myriad of contrasting colours - rich red earth patch-worked with vivid green crops.

At the Mount Wooroolin Nature Refuge bird watchers may be rewarded with sightings of Regent Bower Birds, Black Breasted Quail or the Eastern Shrike-tit. Water birds can be studied from bird hides Gordonbrook Dam. Groups and families will find plenty to do with an abundance of free or low cost tours and activities on offer.

The town is constantly progressing and expanding but remains proud of its long and rich history. One of the region's earliest homesteads is open to the public by appointment and is immaculately maintained for a true experience of yesteryear. The Heritage Museum also depicts the pastoral and agricultural history of Kingaroy.

Kingaroy caters for special interest shoppers with plenty of arts, crafts and antiques in and around the town. Much of the local craft and produce can be seen at the Visitor information centre, including the distinctive ochre Kingaroy mud - dyed shirts.

Kingaroy has a range of accommodation to offer its visitors. You can choose from modern motels, well-appointed cabins and excellent caravan park & villa accommodation. Or try a hosted accommodation option, staying in one of the lovely bed & breakfasts, homestead retreats or farm-stays.

The little village of Kumbia is just outside Kingaroy with the Bunya Mountains still perhaps a good hour away, but it does have some claim on your time. It's certainly in the picturesque category with its stone fruit plantations and its heritage signposts. The Heritage Museum is worth a visit, particularly for its excellent photographic display. It's open only on Sunday afternoons.

Lady Elliot Island is the most southerly island within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. It lies 85 kilometres north-east of Bundaberg and is a coral cay which is actually part of the reef.

Formed over a 3000 year period, you can learn all about the marine wonderland that is Lady Elliot Island on a guided reef walk or through the informative display at the reef education centre. Bird watchers also flock here to observe 57 species of birds. More than 50,000 birds nest here during summer. Sea turtles including the endangered Loggerhead Turtle also nest on Lady Elliot during the summer months from late afternoon through until early morning from November to January. Baby turtles called hatchlings can be seen scampering to the ocean from January until April usually under the cover of darkness.

There are 19 dive sites including Lighthouse Bommie, Coral Gardens, Moiri and Shark Pool with excellent visibility ranging from 15 to 40 metres. Explore the shipwreck in the waters off the island where Manta Rays - the island's icon - are regularly seen. A fully equipped dive centre on the island caters for all interests and abilities, offering resort dives for the beginner through to advanced dives for the qualified. Dive courses are also offered.

The resort, located on the beachfront offers a low-key eco friendly atmosphere, which allows you to escape the usual pressures of every day life. The resort caters for just 100 guests and allows you to get back to nature away from the crowds and hectic pace of major tourist areas.

Lady Musgrave Island is the only coral island on the Great Barrier Reef with a navigable lagoon - over eight kilometres in circumference. Accessible by boat from either Bundaberg or the Town of 1770, the island is a true coral cay and reef walkers will discover jewel-bright starfish, sea urchins, clams and corals exposed at low tide.

Scuba divers may come face to face with a manta rays or moray eels, and snorkellers will discover giant rainbow coloured fish or coral trout. Swimming and snorkelling inside the lagoon offers calm, crystal clear water - like swimming in a giant aquarium!

In summer, turtles come ashore to lay their eggs and thousands of seabirds nest in rookeries on the uninhabited island. The island is a national park and there are no shops or facilities ashore. However, camping wilderness style is permitted for up to 40 people at a time. Campers must take their own fresh water and food and all supplies for the ultimate in getaways. Lady Musgrave Island is a national park and as such there are no shops or facilities ashore. Lady Musgrave Island has a pontoon visited by the vessel departing Bundaberg, from which you can snorkel, take a glass-bottomed boat ride over the reef, or view coral in a semi-submersible vessel. The tour from the Town of 1770 offers snorkelling, glass bottom boat rides, fishing and island walks with more time spent at the reef and less travelling time.

Maaroom is a small friendly, fishing village on the waterfront with views to Fraser Island. Down at the water's edge, a pleasant spot to have a picnic with a sheltered gazebo and children's playground, is a great place to unwind. There is an all weather boat ramp with tidal access for fishing; a general store and caravan park.

Maidenwell, gateway to the Bunya Mountains, is home to Queensland’s largest privately owned public astronomical observatory. A small pretty town set in hills 30 kilometres south west of Nanango on the road to Toowoomba, Maidenwell was originally a portion of the immense Tarong holding. One of the first selectors to take up land from Tarong Station was John King in 1881 but it was not until 1912 that he acquired the block of land on which Maidenwell stands.

Timber from the Bunya Mountains and its foothills was a major industry in early days of closer settlement when the railway line was extended to Tarong early in the 20th century.

Located just a few kilometres from the heart of Maidenwell, picturesque Coomba Falls provides the ideal setting for a picnic and a day of swimming and relaxing.

Maryborough was settled in 1847 and is one of Queensland's oldest provincial cities. Located three hours from Brisbane, Maryborough was a major immigration port into Australia and a visit to the Wharf Street Precinct retains many reminders of this period. Once the lifeblood of the town, the Mary River is still a haven for pleasure craft, a source of excellent freshwater fishing and a beautiful back drop for a lovely city.

Today, Maryborough is widely recognised for the abundant examples of colonial and Queenslander architecture, majestic public buildings and beautiful gardens. Much of the city's character has been preserved in these classic buildings, mostly built of local timber in a range of sizes and designs. Take a peek into the good old days at Brennan and Geraghty's Store, a time-capsule corner store, preserved by the National Trust. Or discover the fascinating port history of Maryborough at the Bond Store Museum and Customs House in the Wharf Street precinct.

Maryborough's industrial base was established over one hundred years ago and although diversified today, still retains the original base industries of engineering, sugar and timber. Olds Engine House displays a collection of famous models by Australia's foremost model engineer, William Olds. The engineering works and foundry, which are still operating, have a reputation for variety and quality and are fascinating for all visitors.

A visit to Maryborough often provides the inspiration to trace a family history, and the Maryborough Family Heritage Institute helps visitors research their ancestry. It is also there to help source the history of buildings, war veterans or railway constructions, or to help organise family or immigrant ship reunions.

Visitors to Maryborough can choose accommodation to suit their tastes and budgets, including self-contained units, cosy bed and breakfasts, quality motels, caravan and camping parks.

Nanango is one of Queensland's oldest towns and is proud of its unique heritage and colourful past, beautifully captured within the historic Ringsfield House. Although Nanango is the home of the Tarong Power Station and Coal Mine the town has retained the tranquil and beautiful setting of a country town with all businesses offering genuine country hospitality

Fossickers for gold still come to the Seven-Mile Diggings, an area that is also popular with Four Wheel Drive enthusiasts. Fossicking and recreational permits can be obtained from the Information Centre.

Tradition still lives on in the vibrant racing industry in Nanango with regular race meeting in a rural setting. In the shire the variety of bird life is unsurpassed. At the southern entrance to Nanango is Tipperary Flat - featuring pioneering displays and interpretive signs and walks. Take in the mural walk and chainsaw sculptures, which continue the pioneer theme.

Further to the west lies Maidenwell, gateway to the Bunya Mountains, where Coomba Falls is worth a visit and the walking trails a challenge.

Nanango is part of the South Burnett food and wine trail and is not only an area where culture and history meet but one that has an enviable lifestyle.

Distance from Brisbane (State Capital): 200 kilometres north.

Nikenbah, at Hervey Bay, is best known for its very good markets which are scheduled on the first and third Sundays of each month. Items for sale at these popular markets include arts and crafts, fresh produce, trash and treasure, cakes and jams and much more. Come early to score a bargain. You could even pick up man's best friend whilst shopping, as the market stands are set up near an animal refuge.

The first attempt to create a central business district for Hervey Bay was at Pialba. It is the original part of the city and business enterprises were established, but no wit shares commerce with the Boat Harbour Drive business sector.

It's also home of the local university campus. There's a library and an art gallery too. Check out the original post office and also the railway station, both of which have been retained, although the former no longer hosts rolling stock. Freedom Park houses the region's war memorial.

You may have noticed that Hervey Bay has strong connections with caravan enthusiasts, and this is clearly evidenced by the number of caravan parks strategically located along Hervey Bay's beachfront. Pialba is just one of them. Just out from the caravan park is one of a number of coral reefs in the region. This one features some really vibrant coloured coral.

South Sea Islanders originally settled the area which is now known as Point Vernon in Hervey Bay. They were known as Kanakas and were 'blackbirded' (captured and sent to Queensland to work the sugar cane plantations). The Polsen Cemetery and a monument are reminders today of the tragic role they played in Queensland history. That sets the scene historically. Today there are more pleasant reminders, such as the turtle hatchery, fishing at Gatakers Bay (also home of a delightful restaurant set right on the coast, in a plant nursery).

Just off the shoreline is a coral reef, popular with those who fancy a spot of snorkelling. An osprey family offers thanks to the local council for the construction of a tower for nestings.

It is here where the 13 kilometres walking/cycling/wheelchair waterfront track starts, ending up at the southern beach community of Urangan.

The local council has constructed a walkway and converted a former railway line into The Links Corridor. This is slightly inland, and is a sealed walking/wheelchair/cycling track, part of a 10 year development plan. This is an ideal spot for a picnic, one of many in the seaside city, with free barbies at selected spots along the coastal walkway.

Nestled along the Great Sandy Strait, between Boonooroo and Tinnanbar, and adjacent to Fraser Island, the hideaway township of Poona has retained it's charm and relaxed lifestyle making Poona popular with holiday-makers who enjoy the quiet life, quiet water and good fishing.

In the heart of this small community is a passion for relaxation and fishing, only minutes away from Fraser Island by boat. Poona offers a great place for children to play and swim safely, with dolphins playing just off the beach and dugong that might be heard at night chomping as they feed. Poona is also blessed with abundant birdlife to tempt birdwatchers.

Access to Poona is via the Cooloola Coast Road, from either Maryborough or Gympie.

Just north of Wondai, take a left turn off the highway and head towards Proston. Noted for it's pretty scenery Proston is situated in a major dubosia growing area and is the gateway to Lake Boondooma Camping and Recreational Area.

The dam is popular for its freshwater fishing - the results of a committed stocking program. Lakeside camping, caravan park, bunkhouse and good quality cabin accommodation are available. There are also excellent facilities for day-visitors, including a kiosk.

This is heavenly sub-tropical, coastal country - about 107 kilometres north of Noosa - where the fishing, boating, surfing, prawning and crabbing are all sublime. Rainbow Beach, is a major entry point to the 41,000 hectare Cooloola National Park, which offers one of the great four-wheel drive excursions in Queensland. The park itself is wild and beautiful... you can even sometimes see brumbies galloping along the vast sandy expanses of Cooloola Beach.

A short drive north from Rainbow is Inskip Point where there’s a ferry to take you and your car across to Fraser Island. Rainbow was originally recorded as Black Beach by the miners who extracted valuable mineral sands from the beach. According to the Kaby Dreaming, Yiningie, the spirit of the gods, often took the form of a rainbow. Yiningie was killed in a fight when he crashed into the cliffs and his spirit coloured the sands.

Located 15 minutes from Hervey Bay, River Heads is a major departure point for vehicles to Fraser Island and has magnificent views of Fraser Island, the Great Sandy Strait and the Mary River estuary. The boat ramp is suitable for launching a large range of craft and there is ample car & trailer parking available. Rock fishing at the point will give you a good opportunity to land yourself an impressive catch as well as giving you the chance to admire the dolphins, turtles and dugongs which frequently pass by.

Between Pialba and Torquay is the site of the original Hervey Bay holiday centre. In those early days, anyone looking for a bayside holiday headed towards Scarness. This was where the term 'the caravan capital of Australia' came about. That term no longer applies, even though the Bay does still offer pretty good holiday park facilities and right beside the beach too. Facilities include top picnic areas with barbecues.

Scarness is home to the Maryborough Sailing Club, and the lads and lasses from Maryborough take to the water en masse particularly between September and April. There is also boat access. Not to mention wheelchair access too. Wheelchair access includes floating wheelchairs.

One of the first museums in the district was set up in this community. They call it the History Museum, although aren't most museums history orientated?
Culture with a capital 'C' is also experienced in these parts. There's almost constant use of the Z Pack Theatre, when local amateur thespians hit the boards.

Tiaro Shire has an abundance of natural tourist attractions just waiting to be explored ...

In the northern section of the shire, the landscape is dominated by Mt. Bauple National Park, home of the original Macadamia.

Tiaro Shire has a diverse range of natural and social environments with a rich array of flora and fauna. Platypus abound in secluded creeks and rare protected species, such as lungfish and the huge Mary River cod, are found in larger waterways. On the coast, nestles the tiny, unspoiled beach of Tinnanbar, in the south, spanning the Mary River, lies historic Dickabram Bridge.

Agricultural products of the shire include sugar cane, citrus and tropical fruits, market garden crops, nuts and forestry plantations. Other primary industries consist of beef, dairy, emu, ostrich and crayfish farms. Hand crafted items by local artists may be found at selective outlets.

Secluded in the midst of picturesque Tin Can Inlet, experience a tranquil getaway to this area known for its eco-tourism surroundings. Tin Can Bay is a perfect place to unwind and relax. Originally known by the aborigines as Tuncanbar, this peaceful bayside town is well known for its recreational fishing and boating pleasures. Its major industry is fishing with prawning fleets based in Schnapper Creek.

Distance from Brisbane (State Capital): 210 Kilometres.

Toogoom is a tiny seaside community 15 minutes from Hervey Bay, on the beautiful Fraser Coast. It is the perfect spot to indulge in a week of relaxing by the water. This picturesque area boasts un-spoilt beaches, great fishing, wildlife and bird watching. Visit the nearby teagardens or waterfront restaurant.

Located a pleasant 25 minute drive from Hervey Bay, Torbanlea is one of the small historic towns found on the road to Bundaberg. The Burrum Mining museum has 11 buildings housing 4400 items of memorabilia, providing an insight into the history of the area, when coalmining was the industry driving the local economy.

The stretch of road which hugs the Torquay coastline has quite an array of restaurants. Whilst there are plenty of restaurants throughout the Hervey Bay area, it is Torquay which has the greatest proliferation.

Torquay has one of the best beaches in the bay city. It's also home of the Hervey Bay Sailing Club, and between September and April, the boys and girls are out with their playthings catching every wisp of a breeze. What a picture!

If anyone suggests you go visit Bill Frazer Park, and if you have any younger members of the family with you, follow their advice. It is a park created especially for kids. Along the beachfront at Torquay there are plenty of barbecues, picnic spots and also boat access.

The village of Tuan is close to Boonooroo and has maintained its 'old fishing village' character. Tuan is a relaxing holiday destination for people who love boating and fishing in the adjacent creeks and the Great Sandy Strait.

Enjoy the wildflower display in late winter and spring, or go birdwatching in the nearby Great Sandy Conservation Park, including the Tuan State Forest, along Tinnanbar Road.

Sure, Hervey Bay is renowned for its great long stretches of beaches, 40 kilometres in fact. There's boat access points, picnic and barbecue areas, and of course easy access to Fraser Island. Urangan features all of these attributes, plus some surprises.

There is a wonderful marina, at the eastern end of the Bay. This is the departure point for whale watching tours and ferries to Fraser Island as well as a very long pier, measuring just under a kilometre. It is ideal for a brisk pre-breakfast walk.

Slightly inland, just up from Kondari Resort, is one of the 10 best botanic gardens in the State. This is the Great Sandy Region Botanic Garden. It features a landscaped garden area, plus a relatively raw (natural) walking area along with an orchid house. The latter opens at 10.00am.

At the end of the Esplanade, south of the marina, are the remains of an Aboriginal fish trap. It isn't in pristine condition, but its 'bones' can still be identified.

The Urangan markets are popular. These are held on the sencond, fourth (and if five weekends) fifth Sunday of each month. Historically, it was in this area where Matthew Flinders proved that Fraser Island was just that, an island, separated from the mainland by a bay. There is a memorial to Flinders.

Centrally situated in the vibrant South Burnett, Wondai is located between the towns of Murgon and Kingaroy. As you enter this picturesque rural town you will note several attractions clustered around its attractive round-a-bout precinct. These include dingo sculptures, an art gallery, antique shop and a heritage museum just around the corner.

Stop into the unique timber museum, developed as a Centenary of Federation Project, and take in the excellent display of local woods and timber history, as well as the wonderfully detailed, life-size diorama. A fully accredited Visitor Information Centre is also located in this building. Pop next door into the newly opened Woodcrafter's Workshop and watch local woodworkers demonstrate their skills.

Having worked up an appetite, stop into the craft cottage/tea gardens or one of the historic hotels for a bite of lunch. At Wondai you can stay in a comfortable bed and breakfast while enjoying the luxury facilities onsite or motel accommodation is available in town.

Woodgate beach offers a stunning curve of white sand over 16 kilometres long, backed by a continuous sweep of shady she-oaks. The township offers a quiet and picturesque place to relax, unwind and enjoy a natural experience. The calm ocean waters are protected from strong swells by Fraser Island, and the shallow seas here are home to dugongs and turtles.

The town is stretched behind the esplanade and is an eclectic mix of traditional 'Queenslander' style homes, 1950's beach shacks, modern homes and some more palatial designs. Kiosks, a restaurant, hotel and accommodation are located here. To the north lies Theodolite Creek - a breathtaking expanse of white silica sand perfect for swimming and fishing and to the south, Walkers Point - a small fishing village near the mouth of the Burrum River.

Surrounding Woodgate on all landward sides is the Burrum Coast National Park - Woodgate and Kinkuna sections, preserving a rapidly disappearing snapshot of what much of the Southern Queensland coast once resembled. Low forests of heath, eucalypt, native cypress and banksias are sprinkled with still tea-tree stained lagoons and luxuriant cabbage tree palm groves. Boardwalks and walking trails lead from Woodgate through the park and for the more adventurous, Four Wheel Drive trails lead to national park camping grounds and secluded beachside picnic areas. The wildlife from the national park makes regular appearances in town - kangaroos frequent the bowling green and emus make an odd sight as they wander along quiet streets. Rainbow lorikeets frolic amongst the trees and from July to November - the waterspouts of migrating whales are often seen offshore.

The area is popular with families, birdwatchers, nature lovers, Four Wheel Drivers and those looking for a taste of old fashioned beach holidays, without the bright lights, high-rise and cafe strips.

Yarraman is a Hoop Pine timber town surrounded by rolling hills, rich farmlands and forests. Close to the Bunya Mountains and Palms National Park, Yarraman offers a quiet, leisurely country town atmosphere, with good facilities and easy access to the rest of the South Burnett region.

After morning tea at the café, why not get into the history of the area with a visit to the heritage centre. With displays relating to forestry, education, art, agriculture, technology, war history and rail there is something here to interest everyone!

As a base to explore the region, or for an overnight stay, the caravan park, cabins and other accommodation are available.

Yarraman offers the visitor the opportunity get out and about and close to nature. With 'mud maps' available at outlets throughout the town, take some time to try out some of the walks. If four wheel driving, trail bike riding or horse riding is more your style, then there are a number of suitable roads and tracks around the area. The Old Coach Road, which is a section of the National Trail and the Seven Mile Gold Diggings area are quite popular for these pursuits.

Bird Watching is also a popular activity here with bird watchers from all over Australia congregating, hopeful of catching a glimpse of a rare Black-breasted Button Quail that is known to frequent only a small section of forest country between Yarraman and the Tarong Community Park. Plenty of other wildlife makes its home in Yarraman district. If you look carefully you may come across a Brush Turkey, Goanna, Wallaby, Bilby or even a shy Platypus.