Southern Downs Region Guides Attractions Events in Queensland

Aloomba Lavender on the Mount Lindesay Road (three to four kilometres north of Liston) is part of a 4,000 acre cattle property set in picturesque rolling hills. The 12,000 established lavender plants form a pretty pattern whether in flower or not (great opportunity for photographs).

The well stocked gift shop and the tranquil bed and breakfast rooms are very popular. Bus groups and casual visitors are received in a friendly, family atmosphere for tea and coffee. Harvesting begins in mid November. Open every day except Christmas and bookings welcome. An informative talk can be given to larger groups on request if time permits.

A three hour drive from Brisbane and the Gold Coast with several routes from which to choose, makes Aloomba Lavender an excellent destination.

The Australian Rodeo Heritage Centre is a place to follow history and relive the glory of the Australian Professional Rodeo Association's greatest champions and rodeo history.

The land of Australia grows cowboys. It is a natural process, like the wind, rain and the rising of the sun in the morning. Aussies have strong roots that grow deep into the sunburnt country. This great landscape of Australia has created generations of men and women who spend their lives working with horses and cattle.

Rodeo is the ultimate celebration of the western lifestyle. It is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. A good saddle bronc ride is over in just eight seconds, a bad one is over even sooner.

For the rodeo enthusiast the Rodeo Heritage Centre has interactive and static displays, live rodeo demonstrations for corporate events, theatrette, cowboy bar, function rooms and western gift shop.

Aventine Wines’ vineyards are situated on shallow weathered granite soils at Ballandean, in the heart of Queensland’s’ premier wine region, the Granite Belt. The vineyards are high altitude (approximately 1000 metres above sea level), north facing hillsides, and maximising exposure to the sun's warmth similar to Ancient Roman vineyards.

The vines are hand pruned, and the grapes are hand picked. The wines are crafted by hand and heart using traditional wine making involving minimal interference, and are an expression of the place where they are grown.

Apart from traditional wine styles, they also produce special non commercial styles and blends. Come and experience wines which are distinctly different.

Bald Rock National Park is located 45 minutes south of Stanthorpe on the Mount Lindesay Highway. Bald Rock is the main feature of the National Park. This dome is 750 metres long and 500 metres wide. It rises 200 metres above the surrounding bushland, and is the largest exposed granite type rock in Australia.

There are canyons and stone arches on the three hour return walk to the summit, which offers panoramic views. Other walks (four kilometres to 14 kilometres return) take in the surrounding granite country. The track to the foot of Bald Rock is wheelchair accessible with assistance.

Boonoo Boonoo National Park is a few minutes further south of Bald Rock National Park. In summer, this is the ideal place to be, as the main feature of this National Park is the Boonoo Boonoo River and its waterfalls. Picnic and bush camping facilities are available at both parks.

Ballandean Estate Wines is without a doubt an Icon in the Queensland Wine Industry. Acclaimed for their hospitality by the Tourism Industry, Ballandean Estate is a member of the Queensland Tourism Hall of Fame. Since opening their cellar door in 1970, almost 700 wine medals have been won. The management of this family business, headed by Queenslands' Godfather of the wine industry, Angelo Puglisi, have an unsurpassable passion for the industry. They are committed to consistently producing high quality award winning wines and continuing to build a solid brand. All wines are Estate grown and produced, a clear advantage in guaranteed quality.

The 90 acres of vineyard, nestled among the granite boulders, produce a wide range of grape varieties which in their final bottled product are unique to the Australian and export markets in flavour. Ballandean Estate Wines are open daily and light lunches are also available.

Ask about 'The Opera in the Vineyard' and 'Jazz in the Vineyard', two of the biggest annual events held at Ballandean Estate Wines.

The Banca Ridge Winery and Cellar Door is part of Queensland's first wine tourism training college. Located at the Queensland College of Wine Tourism in the centre of Queensland's premier wine district, the cellar door bistro is open to the public and provides a commercial education and training context for students of the college. The cellar door features the award winning Banca Ridge wines made by the students in the teaching winery. Visitors can browse in the interpretive gallery which tells the story of the Queensland wine industry. Banca Ridge is also an excellent venue for conferences, seminars and functions.

Castle Glen Liqueurs and Castle Glen Vineyard - World Class Liqueurs, Fortified Wines - Port, Red Wine, White Wine, Sparkling Wine, Specialty Beer, Vinegars, Jams and Relishes!
Established in 1990, Castle Glen Products are 100 per cent manufactured and produced on the Granite Belt. They have become one of the largest liqueur manufacturers in the World. Castle Glen Liqueurs are manufactured using Traditional English Methods. Raw natural ingredients fermented and Non-Distilled then bottled in high quality Italian glass. 100 per cent natural and chemical free.

Their 'Creme Liqueurs' are a World First, with no dairy, no fat and no eggs, perfect for allergy suffers. They don't need refrigeration, store them straight on the bar. Castle Glen Vineyard's Red Wine, White Wine and Sparkling Wine are 100 per cent All Natural and 100 per cent Chemical Free, Preservative Free and Sulphur Free Wine with only naturally occurring sulphites. Their Sparkling Wines are handmade and bottle fermented. All their wines are rich and lively both in taste and appearance. They are a delight to the last drop!

Come and visit their unique Cellar Door, a Modern-Day Castle at Amiens Road, The Summit, 10 minutes north of Stanthorpe.

At an average elevation of 900 metres above sea level, Girraween National Park is situated on the northern extremity of the New England Tablelands. Girraween National Park's granite habitat is unique in Queensland.

The Castle Rock track features breathtaking panoramic views. The walk varies from gentle to moderate gradients until a steep climb over exposed granite rocks to the summit. Black cypress, stringybarks and orange gums grow in woodlands on rocky ridges. Yellow box and brown gums provide shade and good birdwatching.

For those with more time there is an option to extend this walk to include The Sphinx and Turtle Rock Track, an additional 7.4 kilometres (4 hours return). This extension leads from Castle Rock along a ridge top and is easy walking. The Sphinx is a granite pinnacle bearing a large balancing tor, whereas Turtle Rock is a large granite monolith resembling a turtle's back.

The Clifton Historical Museum is a worthy tribute to the district's pioneering past. Housed in the old butter factory, you can take a step back in time and visit a 1930s dining room, a pioneer bedroom, an early hospital ward, kitchen and children's room.

The Heritage room allows access to original records of local businesses and schools. Read the memoirs of long-time residents, browse through the photographic collection, or look for your forebears on the database.

An extensive range of early agricultural tools and machinery will evoke memories of yesteryear.

Old movie memorabilia, communication, history, musical pieces; there's something for everyone, discover it for yourself.

The trek '14 River Crossings' appropriately named after the 14 river crossings located across this track. This is a good track for the novice four wheel driver who is keen to try creek crossings.

This track can be started at either end, from Boonah or past Queen Mary Falls at Killarney.

To commence the track from Boonah, start opposite the Police Station, travel out from Boonah along Rathdowny Road and turn right at Carney's Creek Road. Travel out approximately 12 kilometres to cross Teviot Brook floodway and then turn right to The Head. The low road is Condamine Gorge. This track is only accessible when the weather is dry, take the high road when river is flowing.

From Killarney, turn left into Condamine Gorge just after the abattoir.

During normal conditions the crossings of the Condamine River are relatively shallow. However, during wet weather the river will rise rapidly making it impassable.

It is advisable to check track conditions with the Warwick Information Centre during or after heavy rain.

Crystal Ridge Lavenders is only three kilometres from Stanthorpe, the heart of Queensland's premier wine country. It is part of a 160 acre prime lamb raising property. The lavender farm, gift shop, commercial lavender crop, display gardens and farm animal display are set on six and half acres. There are many different varieties of lavender, rosemary and roses are also featured. The lavender crop is harvested over December and January.

The gift shop is filled with beautifully perfumed lavender bodycare products, soaps, sachets, heatpacks, crafts, teddies, fairies, tea towels and china. Lavender chocolates, lollies, tea, honey and biscuits are also available. Take the time to relax on the patio, enjoy the view, talk to the animals (alpaca, donkeys, miniature horses, Shetland pony, goats, lambs, ducks and chooks), or chat with your hosts, Don and Trish Gaske, about all things lavender. Bring your own picnic and enjoy the surroundings. Bus groups welcome and an informative talk on lavender can be given.

The Darling Downs Hotel is more commonly known as the Sandy Creek Pub which is situated on Sandy Creek Road at the start of the Sprint Route through to Leyburn. This historical hotel is the perfect place to stop, relax and unwind on the wide verandahs or in the rustic beer garden.

Enjoy one of the fabulous and mouth watering meals that the Sandy Creek Pub is renowned for, play a game of pool or try your luck on one of the gaming machines. Publicans Gary and Liz are more than welcome to have a chat over a cool drink, so don't drive by, stop in and say hello.

The Darling Downs Zoo is situated in a beautiful rural setting on the eastern Downs - midway between Toowoomba and Warwick - just over two hour’s drive from the Brisbane Central Business District.

This new zoo is being developed in a garden format centred on the geographical areas of Australia, South-east Asia, Africa and South America.

Already the zoo features the only pride of African Lions in south-east Queensland, baboons, monkeys, marmosets, tropical birds, kangaroos and white wallabies, camel, deer, crocodiles and alligator, boa constrictors, the world's most venomous snakes, pythons and much, much more.

The zoo is open to the public from 9.00 a.m. every Saturday and Sunday as well as every Queensland state school holiday and state public holiday except Christmas Day. However, groups can visit the zoo by prior appointment any day of the week.

Picnic facilities are available, there is a kiosk and gift shop with EFTPOS and free parking for all vehicles including coaches and caravans and the entire zoo is wheelchair friendly.

Visit a bushranger hideout! 'Thunderbolt' who roamed the New England Tableland, had one of his hideouts near Pozieres. Donnelly's Castle, as it is now called, is a rock formation that you can walk between, around and over. There are great views from the lookout and picnic facilities. Donnelly's Castle is located in the Stanthorpe area.

Felsberg Winery and 'Bell Tower' Café is a magnificent granite and red cedar building with commanding views of the Glen Aplin valley area in the Granite Belt of QLD. Enjoy the view while dining in the ‘Bell Tower Café or tasting our extensive range of hand crafted wines in our Cellar Door. Felsberg offers a truly unique experience to visitors to the Granite Belt region and should not be missed.

Open 7 days 9.30am – 4.30pm and dinner on Saturdays. Bonis omnia bona!

Huge granite boulders tower above open forests in the spectacular and popular Girraween National Park outside Stanthorpe. The wildflowers in spring are absolutely incredible! From the Castle Rock and Bald Rock Creek campgrounds, explore up to 30 kilometres of tracks. Climb The Pyramid for great views of Balancing Rock.

Watch for blue wrens and rare turquoise parrots. Listen to superb lyrebirds as they imitate the calls of other birds. Look for bearded dragons and jacky lizards on the granite rocks, soaking up the sun. Go spotlighting at night to see ringtail possums high in the eucalypt trees. If you are lucky, you may see a wombat. From July, flower-lovers can admire the golden wattle and purple bush peas.

After more than 70 years of decline and dereliction, Glengallan emerges from the ruins of the 1867 sandstone mansion as a unique heritage experience. Walk through time and re-live the Glengallan story from squattocracy to farmer settlement. An innovative interpretation allows Glengallan to evolve with time as old photographs and documents shed more light on life in what was once described as “the finest house in the colony”.

Many facets provide food for thought and further study. Glengallan is ideal for family reunions, workshops, seminars, markets and rallies; available for wedding and professional photography.

The Glengallan heritage centre coffee shop is open for morning and afternoon teas and light lunches.

Glengallan Homestead also hosts a seasonal farmers market on the first Sunday of Summer, Autumn, Winter and Spring.

Glenlyon Dam is ideal for wildlife viewing and many water sports including skiing, sailing and fishing. Fish species in the dam include Golden Perch, Murray Cod, Silver Perch, Jew and Spangled Perch.

Camping sites, cabins and caravans are available at the Glenlyon Dam Tourist Park located at the waters edge. Facilities include a kiosk that sells bait, a boat ramp, a picnic area with tables and wood barbecues (wood available), drinking water, public phone, tennis court, playground toilets, showers and boat hire. Fishing permits are available on site.

Glenlyon Dam is situated approximately 40 kilometres south east of Texas and 90 kilometres west of Stanthorpe along the road to Texas.

Experience award winning wines from the Granite Belt in Queensland's premier wine region. A family owned winery located at Ballandean, Golden Grove Estate is producing a large range of quality wines.

Book early for the following great events:
Sicilian Vintage Lunch, come and enjoy a fun filled afternoon of wine tasting, grape stomping and most of all the traditional Sicilian food. The Country Hoe down, part of the Primavera promotion on the Granite Belt. A country night with a twist, wine rustic rood and live music. There is also the Sicilian Lunch the Theatre Restaurant and Mediterranean Night.

The cafe offers tea, coffee, light meals and caters for any special function.

The first Shiraz grapes were planted in the 1970s, followed by a full planting programme of other classic wine grapes. The decomposed granite and traprock (Dutch for 'Steps') soil, and cool summer climate contribute to the fruit's slow ripening process and the full development of soft delicate flavours.

Goomburra, Main Range National Park is a World Heritage area allowing superb views over Laidley Valley, the rugged border ranges to the south, and Mount Castle in the north. The dry open forest contains New England blackbutt and manna gums. There are two camping areas, both open grassy areas suited to families. Starting from the camp, select one of three walking tracks, ranging from an easy 1.2 kilometre circuit suitable for wheelchairs with assistance, to a six kilometre track showcasing waterfalls and freshwater habitats.

Watch for echidnas and koalas. See satin bowerbirds and variegated fairy-wrens, or listen to the calls of shy yellow-tailed black-cockatoos. A short four-wheel-drive away, two more tracks lead to scenic lookouts, both within an hour’s walk. There are also three longer walking tracks in this area, including the Winder track featuring an old forestry snigging trail and winder.

At Harrington Glen Estate, enjoy the stunning views over the vineyard and the Glen Aplin region.

Eight acres of Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot, Verdelho, White Muscat and Viognier grapes are carefully nurtured to produce award winning wines such as a five star Cabernet and a four and a half star Shiraz ratings awarded by Winestate, and gold, silver and bronze medals. The 2007 Cabernet was awarded a trophy for the Best Queensland Red at the Australian Small Winemakers' Show, a gold medal, and a further gold and the Queensland Wine Awards.

Set in 68 acres of cleared land and rocky bushland, the cellar door, gallery and winery are built on a massive rock outcrop that is surrounded by native plants, which have been specially selected to attract birds and conserve water. On many days, kangaroos and wallabies are seen grazing or bounding across the property.

A 75 foot Melbourne train has been recycled and set up on a hill on the property for accommodation.

The property entrance road is bordered on each side by poplar trees that change colour with the seasons.

Lucas Estate offers tasting for sales of wine and local produce, including Mount Stirling's Olives. They produce premium wines in their on site, state of the art winery and virtually all of their wines have been awarded medals, many of them Gold. Lucas Estate make a variety of red, white and rose wine and are part of the "Strangebird" trail (alternate varieties).

The cellar door is air conditioned (wood fire in winter) and there is an expansive, covered deck where you can relax over lunch, which is available everyday and is home made from local, gourmet produce.

The property is designated "Land for Wildlife" and you are likely to see Whiptail Wallabies or, if you are very lucky, Koalas (92 sightings as of July 2008).

Live music is played every second Sunday afternoon with the larger Granite Belt Blues event on New Years Day and Rock 'n' Roll in the Vineyard on the last Sunday in May.

The cellar door houses a collection of artwork by resident artist (and winemaker) Louise Samuel plus other talented local artists.

Main Range National Park, following an arc of rugged peaks and ridges, is the crucial western link in south-east Queensland’s remarkable Scenic Rim. Crossed by the Cunningham Highway, this park in a World Heritage area offers an impressive waterfall, challenging hikes and easy rainforest walks with wonderful views. For terrific views and experiences: at Cunningham’s Gap picnic area, try the Rainforest circuit or stroll to Fassifern Valley lookout (both short walks); zigzag up Mount Cordeaux (lyrebirds and scarlet-flowered giant spear lilies) or Mount Mitchell (sheer cliff face). Enjoy a picnic at Queen Mary Falls, which plunge an impressive 40 metres. From Spicer’s Gap camping area, walk the bullock-dray trail and camp near pioneer graves. (Take your own fuel stove.) Experienced walkers can hike for several days along the Scenic Rim.

No visit to Girraween National Park is complete without trekking across the rocky slabs to Mount Norman, the highest point in the park.

Heading towards Castle Rock from Pyramids Road, continue through woodland, forest and heath before crossing a creek near the base of the mountain. The climb is steady though steep in parts. Enjoy superb views on the way including the Eye of the Needle on Mount Norman's northern face.

The final approach to the summit is steep and only skilled and equipped rock-climbers should attempt the absolute summit.

Mountview wines Glen Aplin is a newly family owned Granite Belt Winery - Their magnificent vineyard, originally established in 1992, has been producing fine wines at affordable prices for over 12 years. Their signature "red barn" cellar door hosts wine tasting of all their award winning table wines and ports. Guests can relax in front of a log fire on the traditionally cold Stanthorpe days while browsing their extensive wine list including Chardonnay, Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc Semillon, Sparkling Shiraz, Cerise and Chocolate Port to name a few. They welcome and cater for all ages and also serve light meals including cheese platters to complete your wine tasting experience.

Pringle Cottage Museum is a collection of buildings which features furniture and household items representing more than 130 years of family life in the Warwick district.

Most notable is the sandstone cottage with was built circa 1870 which is listed by the National Trust.

Collections of photographs, historical and personal items, farming equipment, vehicles and machinery are displayed in several buildings relocated on the site.

The Warwick and District Historical Society is also happy to provide your coach group with a guided history tour of Warwick, one of the local historians can hop on your bus and highlight the historical points of interest.

An indulgence not to missed, Pure Heaven's Natural Skincare Factory and Cafe are surrounded by a picturesque lavender farm. Enjoy sampling the freshly made organic body cremes, nourishing body butters, delicious soap cake slices and much more! The extensive range of handmade natural products will delight the senses and you’ll be sure to discover something delightful for all tastes. Sit back and relax while enjoying espresso coffee or a herbal tea from the cafe, with a delicious selection of sweets and savories on the menu.

Pyramids Road Wines is one of the unique wineries on the Granite Belt. Nestled in the foothills of Girraween National Park, the vineyard and winery produce truly hand made wines.

Experience this hands on production process of picking, crushing and pressing during the vintage months from March to May.

Take a tour anytime of the year and talk with the winemaker about the winemaking process or view the winery from the viewing area in the cellar door.

Tantalize your taste buds with varieties like Verdelho, Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet, Mourvedre and Muscat. Curl up in front of the fireplace in the winter months with a glass of Pyramids Road wine.

Quart Pot Creek runs through the town of Stanthorpe. It has been landscaped by the local Council, and now boasts concrete walking paths linking one end of town to the Red Bridge. Take time to walk alongside Quart Pot Creek and admire the surrounds of Stanthorpe. Feed the ducks, swim, or just relax under the shade of a tree.

There is also a great park on Quart Pot Creek, Kidspace, which is near the visitor information centre and is a good spot to have a quiet break and offers a Brass Monkey themed playground for families.

The Riverside freezing works and rabbit factory aims to illustrate the very important era in Texas' history once restored.

During the 1930s the Rabbit Works employed 30 men and exported three tons of rabbit meat a week to England. The industry was credited with saving Texas during the recession of the 1930s.

Situated 38 kilometres south of Toowoomba, in the heart of Dad and Dave country, is Award Winning Rudds Pub, a historic, relaxing hotel in the small village of Nobby. Step back in time and view a wonderful collection of memorabilia and photographs of a bygone era that makes this hotel a unique outback pub. Sit in the same room that author Steele Rudd, (Arthur Hoey Davis) of Dad 'n' Dave fame penned some of his famous books, and share a meal with the resident ghosts. You may even catch a sheep dog demonstration, or listen to a yarn from the resident Bush Poet.

Rudds Pub was established in 1893 and has all the charm of that era with memorabilia and photographs around the walls. Bus tours, motorhome/caravan, car, bike and social clubs are their speciality with a barn that will seat 100 plus people for functions. Your visit to Rudds Pub will be a truly unique outback experience and one you will remember for a long time. You can even stay a while in the unique accommodation rooms decorated to suit the bygone era.

Visit the memorial of Sister Kenny, Clifton's local hero! Sister Kenny received world recognition for her revolutionary treatment of polio victims in the early to mid twentieth century.

This memorial chronicles her life and gives an account of the battles she had with the medical establishment of the day.

She is buried in the peaceful Nobby cemetery, overlooking the wide, rolling hills.

The Southern Downs Steam Railway is a Mainline Tourist Heritage Railway, and rail museum based in Warwick. Established in 1995, SDSR has restored a Heritage C17 Steam Locomotive to operation condition for use on these trains.

The Warwick Railway Precinct is situated on the corner of Hamilton Street and Fitzroy Street where the old Warwick Locomotive Depot used to be, which closed in 1970. This site was chosen due to the fact that the original train 'turntable' was still in place there.

A not for profit organisation, most of the restoration work has been completed by work for the dole participants. They have restored and re-built the locomotive sheds, workshops, water tower, repairs to the turntable, relaying of railway lines and erecting fencing. Now that the work is mostly completed, volunteers have put up their hands to continue the restoration of the old railway carriages.

Also situated at this site is an extensive collection of railway memorabilia for the train buffs.

Come and see the district's heritage on display at the Stanthorpe Heritage Museum, located on High Street at the north end of Stanthorpe.

The Museum comprises of several historical buildings full of unique collectables from the mining, grazing, transport, fruit, medical industries as well as school education and general lifestyles through the years.

This collection has won many awards and the local Historical Society prides itself on the collection, restoration and display of the items at the Museum. Not to be missed are the 'Make do exhibits', the sheer ingenuity of the bush.

Stanthorpe and surrounds has evolved in many industries and this collection of items is surprisingly large given the population. The suggested time to allow for visiting the Museum is three to four hours and for those true historical enthusiasts time is limitless.

Come and meet the friendly and informative staff and volunteers for a step back in time.

The Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery displays quality exhibitions of both national and local importance, as well as fostering a strong program of regional artist exhibitions and displays that are relevant to the history and character of the Granite Belt region.

The gallery's 40 day exhibition program also include those specially curated from the Shire's wide-ranging permanent collection of traditional and contemporary paintings, works on paper, ceramics, sculpture and fibre artworks. This strong collection of noted artist's works, are sourced from acquisitions made during the biennial Stanthorpe Arts Festival. The next festival held in February 2010, will mark its 36th year, with acquisitions and prize money amounting to AUD20,000.

Quality national touring exhibitions encompass displays varying from contemporary jewellery, ceramics, and noted Australian artists' displays, to talented youth artists' works.

The art gallery also encourages the presentation of established artist exhibitions from outside the region or state.

Storm King Dam rests in a picturesque rural setting with many water birds (including pelicans) and is an ideal spot for picnics, water sport and fishing. Fish species include golden perch, murray cod, silver perch, jew and river black fish.

Facilities include: toilets, picnic tables, wood barbecues, drinking water, jetty, boat ramp, swimming area and playground. Please note that camping is not permitted however there is a recreational/youth camp available for large group bookings. No boating restrictions apply, however a permit is required for powerboats (at no cost).

Storm King Dam is situated 10 kilometres southeast of Stanthorpe on the road to Eukey.

Nestled amongst the stone fruit and apple orchards in the Granite Belt are the boutique vineyards of Summit Estate. It is the story vision, dreams and a lot of hard work by a group of people, passionate about Queensland wine.

Bill Ryan, Tim Galligan and Martin Millard, all keen wine enthusiasts, purchased the 20-acre property at Thulimbah just north of Stanthorpe in 1997. They chose Queensland's oldest, cool climate wine region to pursue their vision of not only producing premium wines, but also sharing the wine lifestyle experience with winery visitors. The winery's goal is to grow and produce some of Queensland's finest red wines.

High, remote and rough, Sundown National Park (south west of Stanthorpe) entices both self-sufficient campers and experienced bushwalkers to explore its rugged ridges and gorges. Camp at one of five camping areas (three accessible by four-wheel-drive only) or hike in to a secluded bush camp. From Broadwater campground, enjoy the short graded walk to Permanent Waterhole. More experienced walkers can explore the Severn River or the upper reaches of Ooline Creek. Look for river red gums, king orchids, ducks and herons, or try your luck throwing a lure in one of many waterholes (line fishing allowed). From the park's north-eastern boundary, experienced walkers can enjoy a two-day circuit taking in Mount Lofty and Red Rock Gorge, while four wheel drives can continue to Burrows Waterhole camping area.

Sutton's Juice Factory and Cidery offers the visitor the opportunity to experience the thrill of picking their own tree ripened apples and eating them as fresh as they can possibly be. Sutton's produce a unique range of gourmet apple juices, with varieties such as Royal Gala, Jonathon, Granny Smith, Mutsu, Sundowner and Pink Lady. Always in demand are the apple juice mixes such as Apple and Ginger, Apple and Orange and Apple and Beetroot Juice. Apple
cider is also available, sweet and dry or sparkling and still. Pure apple syrup is the latest product to be introduced. It has an intense flavour suitable for both sweet and savoury dishes.

Sutton's also specialise in producing a range of preservative free real fruit liqueurs with that full flavour of the fruit enjoyed by fruit lovers everywhere. Sutton's apple cider vinegar is naturally fermented and aged on the farm itself. Sutton's distillery is the only one on the Granite Belt. They manufacture grappa, apple brandy & plum brandy as well as the spirit used in their real fruit liqueurs. The latest addition to this attraction is the Shed Cafe focusing on
apple products and fresh & regional produce.

"A Total Berry Experience". Set in the heart of the Granite Belt, 15 kilometres south of Stanthorpe, The Bramble Patch occupies picturesque property tucked away high in the hills above Glen Aplin. The berries are seasonal (November to March) but you may savour the flavour at any time with the selection of award winning gourmet preserves made from berries and other fruits and vegetables. The range has extended to over 50 products including jams, sauces, vinegars, chutney's, fruit pastes and jellies. Everything is handcrafted on the premises and available for tasting. They also offer fortified berry wines.

The Bramble Patch has something for everyone, particularly the famous berry ice-creams, frozen yoghurt and other desserts including waffles and sundaes, which have people coming back for more. Enjoy any of these with an espresso coffee in the newly renovated indoor area or in the beautiful gardens. Large groups and buses welcome. Catering available upon request. A unique concept not to be missed.

The Granite Belt Maze is nestled in the heart of the famous wine and fruit growing country situated eight kilometres north of Stanthorpe. The maze was planted late last century and is located over 900 metres above sea level - making it one of Australia's highest mazes. Get lost in the mazes, then take a wander around the gardens and frog ponds. It is suitable for all ages, with a hedged maze, a timber maze, giant chess board, nine hole mini golf course, and a variety of puzzles to stimulate the mind.

Craig and Sandra Williams look forward to your visit.

Cross creeks, weave through eucalypt forests, past rocky outcrops and wetlands to the exposed rock face of Girraween National Park, where the track starts to climb up a series of stone steps to the base of The Pyramid. This is a good place to rest and enjoy the view of the surrounding bush before starting the steep climb up the bare rock face.

As the climb up the massive boulder is quite steep and demanding, only people with a reasonable level of fitness should tackle this popular walk. Painted markers on the rock show you the way. Your reward is a magnificent view over Second Pyramid, Castle Rock, the park campgrounds, former orchards and adjoining Bald Rock National Park.

Tobin Wines boutique winery is situated at Ballandean, in the heart of Queensland's beautiful Granite Belt. The vineyard contains some of the oldest Shiraz and Semillon wines in Queensland and these along with the vineyard's intense crop and canopy management practices has helped Tobin Wines produce premium fruit for premium wines.

Tobin Wines are carefully handcrafted full flavoured premium reds and whites, which are all made from grapes grown on Tobin Wines own vineyard, varieties include Shiraz, Cabernet, Tempranillo, Semillon, Sauvignon blanc, Verdhello and Chardonnay.

The Granite Belt now produces a host of award winning wines, and is fast becoming an area of great importance in the Australian Wine Industry. On your trip to the Granite Belt call in to the cellar door or join the cellar direct wine club for a unique wine experience.

Vincenzo's at the Big Apple are Stanthorpe's finest tourist facilities located on the New England Highway, Thulimbah approximately 12 kilometres north of Stanthorpe. Locally owned and run, Vincenzo's showcases the regions prime produce and liqueurs and offers a friendly atmosphere for you to relax and unwind.

Experience the taste of some of their finest coffees and chocolates, enjoy one of their specially made gelati or sample some of the local liqueurs and wines. There is also a range of gourmet Italian foods and classic Italian dishes available so take the time to enjoy a fresh home style meal (just like mamma used to make).

A visit to Vincenzo's has something for everyone and is pleasant, relaxing and satisfying. Group bookings and daytime functions are also available. Keep an eye out for the big apple just north of Stanthorpe.

The Warwick Art Gallery is at the forefront of cultural activities in the Southern Downs Regional Shire. Especially committed to community activities, the Gallery aims to identify, promote and celebrate the community's artistic and cultural identity and support community-based festivals, exchanges and events.

In addition, the Gallery program brings to Warwick travelling exhibitions set to inspire and educate. The Gallery has two unique spaces, the traditional main gallery and the foyer space with outstanding visitor exposure and a garden view.

Visit the events section of this website for details on current exhibitions and events.

The Warwick RSL Services and Citizens Memorial Club Incorporated has something for everyone. The club is open seven days a week from 10.00 a.m. and is air conditioned for patron's comfort. Patrons can try their luck with two Keno Terminals, Poker Machines, Promotions and Raffles. There is also TAB onsite, Sky Channel, TVN and Foxsports.

Patrons can enjoy free live entertainment every Friday night and the best value meals for miles, including the "all you can eat buffet", every Friday and Saturday night from only AUD12.50. If you are in town for a visit, pop in and discover Warwick's premier club. Information is for members, guests and bona fide visitors.

Warwick's Gardens Galore Cafe is set amongst the tranquility of water fountains with the fresh aroma of nursery plants, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind over fine coffee, or choose a meal from the scrumptious menu. It is also adjacent to the Warwick Motor Inn, making it the perfect choice for dining for guests of the Motel.

Warwick's Gardens Galore Cafe has an enormous range of giftware, plants and seedlings, trees and shrubs, water features, garden ornaments, pots of all shapes and sizes, fertilizer and mulch. The Cafe also specialises in parties, a very popular venue for Christmas parties and the Melbourne Cup.