ATTRACTIONS DAY TRIP

Boy has bustling Broadbeach come a long way baby. Once the little brother to big sister Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach or "Broadie" to locals, is all grown up, and how. You could start in the surf, with its beautiful beaches, framed by lazy parks home to weekend markets and weekday yoga classes. Or wander down the Broadbeach Mall, peppered with roving street artists and framed by alfresco dining whose tentacles seem to keep spreading in all directions. Yes, you've now met one of the Gold Coast's dining divas, with everything from gourmet delis, to bistros and brasseries. There's five-star feasts to be had along here too, and seemingly a new restaurant or bar every time you blink. Not that it's overdone. That's not Broadie's style. If you do want some razzle dazzle, head across the Gold Coast Highway to Jupiters Hotel and Casino, with its 24-hour casino, bars, lounges, restaurants and shows galore. You'll also find the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre here, home to top international and Australian recording artists and business conference. Let's not forget that other icon - Pacific Fair - one of Australia's largest retail centres with more than 300 stores, cinemas, and casual dining. And when the sun and fun finally sets on your day, choose from a wide range of accommodation options. All the top brand hotels in Asia/Pacific have taken up residence here, as have some super swanky apartments. Sure, Broadbeach has grown up, but it will always be Broadie to the locals....

The best holidays are the ones that leave you feeling energised and alive. Townsville North Queensland gives you that feeling with a collection of destinations and attractions to spark everyone's curiosity. The best place to begin your exploration is Townsville city. Beneath the protective presence of Castle Hill, Townsville City combines federation architecture with modern fine dining like no other Queensland city. Stroll down The Strand and look over the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef, or better understand its beauty with a visit to Reef HQ Aquarium. If it's nature you like, don't miss a walk through Northern Australia's largest colony of wild koalas on Magnetic Island. The remarkable Forts Walk is the best vantage point for wildlife, spectacular rocky coves and historic military sites. Your history lesson continues with a short drive to iconic Charters Towers. Feel the fervour of the gold rush with a trip to The Miner's Cottage where you might just strike it lucky when panning for gold. Or just wander the streets of this celebrated Australian town and sample billy tea and damper straight from the camp oven. A little further south is the Burdekin, the sugar capital of Australia. Sample the legendary Burdekin produce or try your hand at barramundi fishing in the Burdekin River estuaries! Or get even closer to marine life with a scuba dive on the SS Yongala shipwreck - one of the top 10 dive sites in the world. The last destinations to explore are the ancient and awe-inspiring rainforests of Townsville North Queensland. Swim in the crystal clear waterholes of Crystal Creek, stare with amazement at Wallaman Falls in the Hinchinbrook region - the largest single-drop waterfall in Australia - or play hide and seek in the world's oldest continually living rainforest in Paluma National Park. Townsville North Queensland rewards your curiosity. Wander, ramble, peer and unearth, and you'll leave with something more precious than gold: the feeling of being alive. ...

Noosaville is a lively centre for holiday accommodation, aquatic activities, bars and restaurants and is located around the sparkling waters of the Noosa River. A popular retreat for locals and repeat visitors, Noosaville is an ideal spot for families with safe swimming and a laid back, friendly atmosphere. It is also the entrance to the picturesque canal estate of Noosa Waters. Sample the diverse cuisine served at cafes and eateries along the riverfront. Gympie Terrace and Thomas Street are popular eat streets, with restaurants serving up tastes from around the world as well as contemporary Australian fare. Choose from relaxed, budget eateries and award winning restaurants or enjoy a seafood platter with stunning water views. Shopping is also well catered for in Noosaville with an excellent range of boutiques retailing everything from shoes and beachwear to surfboards and clothes for any occasion. A large range of water craft can be hired from locations along the Noosa River. The Noosa Ferry stops at numerous places in the Noosaville area on its journey between Hastings Street and Noosa Marina....

Travelling inland and south from Mackay, the small mining town of Middlemount has all the facilities of a well-maintained country town. These include a shopping centre, swimming pool, golf course, hotel, cafe, sports facilities, a community school and well maintained parks and gardens including family-friendly playgrounds. It is only a stones' throw to majestic Bundoora Dam, which is great for water skiing and swimming. It is nicknamed the "Giant Peanut" by some locals due to its peanut-shaped road layout. Middlemount is one and a half hours drive from Emerald, three hours from Rockhampton and three hours from Mackay....

The Capricorn Coast is exciting, diverse and breathtakingly beautiful. Visitors to the Coast enjoy golden days and balmy, moonlit evenings with the brilliant sunsets and scents of the tropics as well as the crispness of a temperate climate. The Coast is under the Tropic of Capricorn, for which it is named, and it sweeps along the Pacific Ocean at Central Queensland just a 30 minute drive from the Beef Capital of Australia, Rockhampton, and only 600 kilometres from the capital, Brisbane. You can still enjoy a beach to yourself at the Capricorn Coast with views of Great and North Keppel Islands and the many smaller islands, which act as stepping-stones to the wonders of the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Great Keppel Island is a popular island to visitors and is accessible by a 30-minute ferry ride. Ferry services operate daily out of Rosslyn Bay. Yeppoon is the Coast's major town, which has retained its village style appeal, yet offers a variety of wonderful restaurants, accommodation and shops. The beaches along the Capricorn Coast are touched by the legacy of Captain James Cook. Emu Park, the second largest town on the Capricorn Coast, has honoured Cook's exploration with a monument, the famous 'Singing Ship', a soaring white sculpture with Great Keppel Island as a back drop. Lammermoor, Kinka, Mullambin and Kemp beaches, Cooee Bay and the Causeway Lake, all line the Capricorn Coast offering many pleasures, wonderful accommodation and so much beauty you will never want to leave. North of Yeppoon you can discover the lush rainforest of Byfield and spectacular scenery of the surrounding parks and forests. The small village of Byfield is a haven for craft and nature lovers. The Capricorn Coast is easily accessible by road, rail, coach and air and is situated 38 kilometres north east of Rockhampton....

Follow the brown and white dugong signs along the Southern Moreton Bay Tourist Drive for a delightful day trip of discovery. This route covers 78 kilometres of the area's most appealing sights and allows you to explore them at your own pace. Roam through the scenic hinterland of Mt Cotton, the bayside peninsulas Victoria Point, Cleveland and Wellington Point, and the bayside villages of Manly and Wynnum. All have their own personalities and remarkable settings. The coastal villages of Southern Moreton Bay offer relaxed vibes and are a great place to wine, dine and unwind – especially if you like seafood! The dugong, one of Moreton Bay's most famous sea creatures, is the symbol used to identify the route. The drive is well marked in both directions throughout its entire length with the distinctive brown and white dugong signs (see image). These signs are unique to the Northern and Southern Moreton Bay Tourist Drives. From Wynnum Manly to the Redlands, this drive caters for lovers of history, natural attractions, arts and culture, fresh food and fine wine....

The inner-city suburb of South Brisbane is the place to be seen. Dive head first into Fish Lane, one of Brisbane's most historic laneways, and lap up a patchwork of cool bars, restaurants and street art. If you love food, but are unsure where to eat – head here an choose from experimental Gauge, Italian at Julius Pizzeria, Vietnamese at Hello Please and Chu the Phat for Asian fusion. Wash dinner down with a drink from the many hidden cocktail, wine and beer bars down the lane. Nearby is Brisbane's Cultural Centre with the Queensland Art Gallery, Gallery of Modern Art, Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Queensland Sciencentre and State Library of Queensland. You'll definitely see theatre-goers racing for an early table at Julius before a musical or play! The Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre can also be found at South Brisbane. This massive centre regularly hosts exhibitions, charity balls, gala dinners, events, seminars, comedy performances, and concerts by big name acts. Once full of warehouses, factories, and wharves, South Brisbane has transformed into a key slice of Brisbane's fabric. South Brisbane is a two-minute drive or ferry ride across the river from the Brisbane City Centre. Accommodation options include hotels, motels and self-contained apartments....

Just when you thought the Gold Coast couldn't get any more relaxed you arrive over the hill and into Tugun. This southern Gold Coast suburb is so laid-back that locals fondly call her Tugz (pronounced choog-s) while ancient Indigenous people referred to Tugun as a place of "breaking waves". Certainly, it boasts one of the biggest and some say best beaches on the Gold Coast and on a good day, you may bag a breaker or two, but the real charm of Tugun lays in its homey streets, café culture and fish and chip shops. That's not to say there aren't luxury oceanfront apartments - there's plenty of those - plus affordable holiday units. For this is the Gold Coast without the glitz or the vinegar. It's simply a salty suburb for strolling and sunbaking, hanging out at the surf club and mixing with the locals. Just don't be surprised if by the end of a stay here, you too, will be calling her Tugz....

Fitzroy Island is located near Cairns in Tropical North Queensland and is popular for daytrips due to its proximity to the coast. Fitzroy Island is a national park island with a small portion occupied by Fitzroy Island Resort. Fitzroy has a steep mountain and two main walking trails that lead to beautiful lookouts. Sheoak, Indian Beech, Native Nutmeg, Tamarinds and Turpentine as well as native orchids are just a few examples of the exotic flora you'll find on bushwalks through the island. Try the Secret Garden Walk for a short walk amongst the rainforest, or the Lighthouse and Summit Trail for a steep walk to the lighthouse for expansive views out to Little Fitzroy Island. Fitzroy is almost completely surrounded by coral reef, making it an excellent place for snorkelling. The most popular spot is Nudey Beach, which is only about one kilometre from the resort....

It would be hard to find a town on the Sunshine Coast that is more charming than Montville. Perched on the Blackall Range, this quaint village is home to art galleries, cosy coffee shops and boutique stores where you'll find everything from handmade beanies to one-off sculptures made by local artists. There are plenty of accommodation options around town including rainforest cabins, luxury resorts and cute hinterland cottages. First settled in 1887, Montville is located close to the Kondalilla National Park - a great place to go hiking, walking, have a picnic or cool down in a waterfall. Hikers can access the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk from Montville - a trail that stretches 58 kilometres and offers panoramic views of the coast and hinterland....

Boasting waterways with names such as Rumrunner Lake and Lake Wonderland, it's easy to see the appeal of Mermaid Waters, a canal community which sits at the elbow of Mermaid Beach. Australian surveyor John Oxley first came to the area in 1823 and gave it its name after the cutter ship Mermaid on which he travelled. Primarily a residential suburb, it's worth a wander here to check out the luxury homes situated along the canals and lakes. There's a wide range of Asian and European restaurants in this area, which offers easy access to nearby Mermaid Beach. The Mermaid Waters Hotel is a bit of an accommodation icon around these parts which is also home to a range of apartments, resorts and backpackers. In the Gold Coast fairytale, where Surfers Paradise would be cast as Cinderella, if there was to be a Little Mermaid, then Mermaid Waters would most certainly fit the bill....

Just 10 minutes’ drive from the hustle and bustle of Hastings Street, you’ll find yourself in tranquil, peaceful Noosa Valley. With its picture-postcard countryside and abundant wildlife, this area offers a refreshing contrast to the more developed parts of the Sunshine Coast. The breath-taking natural beauty of the area and crisp rainforest air attracts visitors from far and wide. The towns of Yandina and Eumundi are worth visiting, especially when the famous Eumundi Markets are in full swing. Pretty Yandina has good examples of early Queensland architecture and features a number of tourist attractions and superb fine dining options. Sprawling country retreats, wineries with rolling vineyards, spas, golf courses and bed-and-breakfasts dot the Noosa Valley landscape. There are a range of accommodation options including some luxury retreats set in immaculately landscaped gardens. Local restaurants are proud of their menus which showcase the richness and diversity of farm produce from the Noosa and Sunshine Coast hinterlands. Horse riding tours, day trips, bush walks and river cruises are great ways to explore the Valley and the surrounding National Parks. Take a drive or hike to the top of Mount Ninderry, Dunethin Rock or Point Glorious for magnificent views of the valley and surrounds....

Seisia is Australia's most northerly community and departure point for a range of marine based activities - day trips with fishing guides, tours to explore the Torres Strait Islands or a walk to the end of the jetty, the social epicentre of the community. You can also do it yourself - there's a boat ramp to launch small vessels while dinghies can be hired from nearby New Mapoon. There is a popular beachfront camping ground with a budget lodge and seaside self-contained cabins. Give yourself the time for a lazy conversation, an opportunity of sharing moments with the locals. Adjust to northern time, where the day is measured not by the clock but by the flow of people and nature. Supply vessels unload cargo at this port and vehicles and passengers are taken on board to cruise back to Cairns through the Great Barrier Reef islands. This one-way land, return-sea option offers a comprehensive insight into this part of the world or you could use the Peddells ferry to explore the wonders of Thursday Island. Seisia has a petrol station with vehicle and boat fuel supplies, hire cars, a taxi service, well-stocked supermarket, mechanical repair shops and an airstrip 17 kilometres to the south. Seisia is one of five communities of the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Shire Council: Bamaga, Injinoo, New Mapoon and Umagico. All communities in this area are only minutes apart. The Northern Peninsula Area 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 within a '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....

Kenilworth is a small town, with a population of less than 300, in the beautiful upper Mary Valley Country, behind the Blackall Range and only about one and a half hours drive north of Brisbane. The Mary River flows North from Maleny, through Conondale, Kenilworth, Gympie, Tiaro, Maryborough, and then into the sea opposite Fraser Island. The town retains its 1920s atmosphere and, for the visitor, has a surprising amount of interest with a very engaging historical museum and a good range of shops, two art galleries and a cheese, yoghurt and ice-cream factory. The Kenilworth State Forest, adjacent to the Town, provides excellent opportunities for horse riding, walking and fishing. The area has a wide variety of options for accommodation from basic camping to luxury retreats. A drive taking in Eumundi, Kenilworth and Maleny will provide a stunning variety of scenery, great opportunities for shopping and a wonderful choice of eateries. They are 50 minutes from the coast and one and a half hours from Brisbane by car....

Kawana Waters is home to one of the region’s premier sports and entertainment precincts that includes Stockland Park and the Lake Kawana Community Centre. Both host major events year round. The man-made waterway of Lake Kawana has become popular with a number of sports including kayaking, canoeing, outrigging, dragon boat racing and motorised boats. The foreshores of the lake have walking/bicycle tracks perfect for some light exercise or to watch a regatta. There is a marina at the northern end of Kawana on the main canal. Pick up a cruise that will weave past waterfront homes and into the Mooloolah River past the Mooloolaba Yacht Club and to the river mouth. Kawana Shoppingworld is one of the largest shopping malls in the region. Shop in air-conditioned comfort with over 100 retailers to satisfy all of your fashion, food and services requirements. Kawana has excellent fishing and surfing along one of the longest stretches of ocean coastline in the area. Point Cartwright marks the northern end of the beach and is part of a great walking track along the coastline. Just near Point Cartwright is LaBalsa Park, which runs along the edge of the Mooloolah River. It’s a popular place for a barbeque or picnic with plenty of room to move and spread out. Take the walk from the park to the end of the rock wall that marks the river entrance then follow the path that winds through the Point Cartwright Lighthouse Reserve....

Locals in nearby Brisbane know that Greater Springfield in Ipswich has much to offer, and visitors would do well to check out its numerous drawcards. Tee off on the ‘must play’ Greg Norman-designed golf course at Brookwater Golf and Country Club; have a picnic, rainforest walk and a dip in the Orion Lagoon at the huge parklands of Robelle Domain; or head to the various shopping precincts. The Greater Springfield area includes the Ipswich suburbs of Springfield Central, Springfield Lakes, Brookwater, Augustine Heights, Spring Mountain and Springfield. Greater Springfield is the only fully master-planned city in Australia other than Canberra. As well as having a growing reputation for exciting business, retail and leisure developments, it’s attracting many new residents each year. It is home to prestigious private schools, the University of Southern Queensland, and has precincts centred around health, wellness and information technology. You can stay centrally in the Quest Springfield Central or Springfield Lakes Hotel to explore the rapidly growing area over more than a day, and it’s just a 20-minute drive to Ipswich Central and about half an hour to the Brisbane Central Business District....

Monto lies 200 kilometres west of Bundaberg city and is home to a wide variety of both historic, cultural and artistic experiences in the North Burnett. First settled in 1924 as a result of goldfields of Cania and Monal the township's first buildings were built around 1926. Lister Street Parkland provides a perfect spot for a picnic or bought lunch, you can take a stroll and view the array of metal and sandstone sculptures by local and visiting artists to the region. Likewise, the Mulgildie Bunyip is a testament to the legend of the Bunyip hole and the historic goldfields and cemetery, Coominglah State Forest and Kalpowar State Forest are all wonderful bush getaways. ...

Enjoy beautiful views of the Coral Sea. Spend quiet days fishing for tailor, diving coral reefs or taking up the challenge of an 18-hole golf course at Coral Cove. At the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef, just 20 minutes from Bundaberg and a short drive from Bargara the Coral Cove community is friendly and relaxed. Enjoy a morning walk along the oceanfront or a quiet drink in the clubhouse....

Located in the northern part of the Isaac Regional Shire and approximately 200 kilometres south-west of Mackay is Moranbah. One of the youngest towns in Queensland, Moranbah was created for miners and their families with rich charm and emanating warmth. The town's refurbished town centre includes an interesting water feature and child's play area creating a relaxing atmosphere where you can enjoy a coffee break with friends while entertaining the kids. View the Musical Railway and Musical Table and Chairs - these objects are public art projects commissioned by the Queensland Arts Council in conjunction with the Queensland Music Festival. The objects are situated in the Town Square and are there to be used and enjoyed by visitors and general public. Also situated in Town Square Park, the Australia Remembers Mural is a tribute to all the brave men and women who served in WWII. The mural was a community program generously painted in 1995 by Moranbah State High School students. The Grosvenor Complex in the Town Square houses the library, Coalface Art Gallery and Tourist Visitor Information. For a taste of local arts and crafts, visit the Coalface Gallery to witness the local artistic talent emerging from the area. The town has a rich array of amenities including a major supermarket, restaurants and cafes, public swimming pool and plentiful sporting facilities. Follow the one kilometre Federation Walk at Moranbah's entrance to the town's infamous Big Red Rhino Bucket....

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....

Lush rainforests, ancient trees, spectacular views, extensive walking tracks, exceptional ecological importance and natural beauty make this World Heritage-listed park an outstanding place to visit. Mount Barney is one of Queensland's highest and most impressive peaks, and is part of the Scenic Rim and Mount Barney National Park. The Park encompasses the largest area of undisturbed natural vegetation remaining in South East Queensland. The mountain's sheer rugged peaks, caves, crevices and steep unforgiving landscape are best suited to experienced bushwalkers and rock climbers. At the base of the mountain, easier tracks can be found taking walkers to pristine rock pools and lush rainforest. The eastern face of the mountain is a sheer 300 metre cliff, presenting a meaty challenge for the country's best rock climbers. Abseilers also regularly test their mettle on nearby escarpments. The mountain is home to rare and important species including platypus, kingfishers, Coxen's Fig Parrot, robins, rock wallabies, kangaroos and many birds of prey. Vegetation is varied and includes eucalypt forest, River she-oaks, bottlebrushes, Golden Silky oaks, patches of rainforest and Antarctic Beech Forest. The mountains and valleys around Mount Barney are the traditional homes of the Mununjali, Githabul and Yugambeh people. The mountain is considered sacred to these people and before European settlement corroborees would be held around the bora ring at the bottom of nearby Mount Ernest. Accommodation options in the area range from friendly farm stays to cabins and limited camping. Mt Barney is approximately two hours by car south west from Brisbane via Beaudesert and Rathdowney....

Spring Hill is one of the oldest residential neighbourhoods in Brisbane, with many houses dating back to the nineteenth century. Along the streets, you will find quaint workers cottages and terrace houses, along with beautifully restored heritage-listed buildings. There are many fine award-winning eateries in the area, as well as cute coffee shops, historic pubs and colourful nightspots. Perched on the cusp of the Brisbane city centre, Spring Hill is within easy walking distance to the best of what Brisbane has to offer. To the west side are the beautiful Roma Street Parklands, where visitors can feed the ducks and take the boardwalk high above a forest canopy. To the south is the bustling city heart, and to the east is funky Fortitude Valley, a colourful hub of live music, hip nightspots, trendy cafes, art galleries and Brisbane's Chinatown. Overlooking the city centre, The Windmill in Wickham Park was built by convicts in 1827 and was one of Queensland's first stone buildings. Of equal historical significance are the Spring Hill Baths, built in 1886. Surrounded by a ring of quaint individual dressing rooms, the baths are still in operation today....

Need to get away from the big smoke? Take a day or seven to enjoy some peace and quiet at the perfect place – the quiet, small, town of Toorbul. Tucked in just north of Brisbane and within the Moreton Bay Region, this is one of the best places along the Pumicestone Passage for fishing enthusiasts. Enjoy the tranquil sounds of water lapping and migratory sea birds. You don’t need a boat to successfully fish here. Just throw a line out from a boat ramp, and you should have no problem getting a decent catch. If you’re not into fishing, Toorbul Beach is also the perfect spot to go kayaking from. Just load a canoe or kayak, and paddle Pumicestone Passage a beautiful part pf the Moreton Bay Marine Park. Stop for a moment just to appreciate the natural splendour situated all around you. When visiting with the family, watch the kids run onto the fresh and inviting beach as they play with beach balls, or start building some imaginative sandcastles. If somehow, after the wet and sandy fun, the kids still have more energy to burn, there’s lots of fun waiting at the playground opposite the Toorbul Store. If you’re just after a scenic spot to relax in, bring a picnic rug and unpack some fresh goodies, or grab some from the Toorbul Store, which has everything you’ll need. From takeaway meals and coffee, to a cold beer, bait, and ice, you’re well looked after. At the end of the day, when you see the sunset casting its orange glow over the Pumicestone Passage water, you’ll be yearning to stay. Please note it will be difficult making the decision to head back to urban life. If you know you wouldn’t be able to resist next time, make sure to get a booking at the local caravan park so you can explore even more of Toorbul Beach. Toorbul Beach should be on everyone’s list of getaway spots, or rather, at the top of the list. You won’t be disappointed after visiting this charming small town and its gorgeous beach....

Which Jurassic Island can only 40 people explore at any one time? Although the biggest island on the Great Barrier Reef, Hinchinbrook Island is completely uninhabited. To protect the Island's biodiversity and prevent damage to the environment just 40 people are permitted to stay at any one time. If you have a desire for adventure, Hinchinbrook Island is your ultimate playground. It offers spectacular hiking and camping along the famous 32 kilometre Thorsborne Trail, internationally rated one of the top 10 walks on the planet. You will discover rainforests of Milky Pine, Palm Figs, and vines, with more than 66 species of birds, 22 species of butterflies, 29 different mangroves and many varieties of fish and crustaceans. To start your hiking expeditions on Hinchinbrook Island take a short ferry ride or private charter from Lucinda or Cardwell. Another way to explore Hinchinbrook Island is by paddling along the outside coast in a kayak. Voted as one of the top 10 places to see by Kayak in Australia, the views are nothing short of spectacular and the long sandy beaches and extensive mangrove areas make Hinchinbrook Island an environmental haven for turtles, dugongs and many other marine creatures. Hinchinbrook Island is the perfect place to restore body, mind and spirit. This is the Island to choose if you want peace, beauty, tranquillity and a hint of adventure....

There are a lot of bush yarns and legends in this Outback country, but the people of Boulia reckon the pick of the bunch are the ones about the mysterious Queensland icon, the Min Min Light. Here is a yarn about the Light they would like to share with you. It was shortly after the Min Min Hotel was destroyed by fire around 1912, when a stockman had one of the first experiences with the Min Min Light: "About 10pm I was riding to Boulia and passed close to the Min Min graveyard. The night was somewhat cloudy. All of a sudden I saw a strange glow right in the middle of the cemetery. It got bigger until it was the size of a large watermelon. I couldn't believe my eyes as I watched it hovering over the graveyard. I broke into a cold sweat as it started coming toward me. It was too much for my nerves. I dug the spurs into my horse and headed for Boulia as fast as I could go. Every time I looked back the light seemed to be following me. It only disappeared out of Boulia". To preserve the history and myths surrounding the Min Min Light, the Boulia Shire Council created the Min Min Encounter Complex. You can be apart of the 45-minute show introducing you to characters like Gunna and Bluey who have seen the light! As Boulia was also apart of Australia's inland sea more than 100 million years ago, you will be amazed by the extensive marine fossil display and the array historical artefacts from early settlers, including machinery, saddlery and hospital instruments. This can all be discovered at the Boulia Stonehouse Museum. Not to mention that Yellowbelly and redclaw can be found at Parapituri Waterhole, the Police Barracks Waterhole and also in the Burke River. Boulia is also home to some great Outback Events including The Boulia Camel Races which are held annually on the third weekend of July. Attractions include fireworks, bands, magician, markets and of course the marvellous camels....

Just 45 kilometres south east of St George, Nindigully or "The Gully" as it's locally known, is pretty much four houses and a pub on a riverbank. But what a pub, what a view and what characters you'll find! Perched on the banks of the Moonie River, Nindigully Pub (established in 1864) views for the position of Queensland's oldest continuously licensed pub. Have you seen the film Paperback Hero? It was filmed here and the cafe's boomerangs remain perched in place. You'll have no trouble unwinding on the verandah of the pub as it hums with the chatter of travelers and locals alike, enjoying happy hour and live acoustic music. Pack your appetite as the challenge of the "road train" awaits - a whopper burger, big enough to feed you and 10 of your closest mates. Park the van or pitch a tent for a few days alongside the tree-lined Moonie River at the Nindigully Tourist and Visitor Area (free camping), located just below the Nindigully Pub. Toilets and showers are available here....

Some say this is the green behind the gold, which makes the Gold Coast so seductive, and it's easy to see why Tamborine Mountain is in tune with tourists. Let's start with the rainforest, in the third oldest National Park in the world, which celebrates the remnants of the former Mount Warning volcano. There are numerous walks and lookouts from which to enjoy Mother Nature at her most blindingly brilliant, including the mysteriously-named Witches Falls or charming Cedar Creek. There's 12 walking tracks in all and each one is no longer than around three kilometres, so if you like a stroll among the birds, bees, flowers and the trees, this is for you. For a change of pace, enjoy several wineries, a brewery and even a distillery up on the mountain, which is perfectly punctuated with award-winning restaurants, art galleries, sweeping coastal views and that delicious mix of old and new-world charm. Indulge in home-grown produce such as avocados, kiwifruits and macadamia nuts as well as award-winning cheeses and fabulous fudge, or dine in some seriously swish restaurants. Select from cosy cottages, decadent dwellings and a hotel or two, including the iconic St Bernard's Hotel, in which to stay the night. Explore the area by yourself, or join a tour which takes in a number of attractions such as Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk and the Glow Worm Caves. Romantics rush to the mountains to get married here and it's easy to see why. For this is Queensland's own Emerald City. That's right Dorothy, you are not in Kansas anymore. This is Oz....

The tiny inlet of Maaroom in Queensland's Fraser Coast region is nestled along the spectacular shoreline of the Great Sandy Strait - with stunning views across to the world's largest sand island, Fraser Island. This tranquil seaside hideaway, just twenty kilometres south of Maryborough along the Cooloola Coast Road, has a caravan park and an all-weather boat ramp with tidal access for fishing. Down at the water's edge is a pleasant spot to have a picnic with sheltered gazebo and playground. Maaroom is part of a collection of quaint fishing villages dotted along the water's edge of the Great Sandy Strait - the waterway between Fraser Island and the Fraser Coast Mainland. Let the pace wind back several notches by following the Great Sandy Strait Discovery Drive to these villages and surrounding national parks to discover coloured sands and sand blows, incredible birdlife, fishing and boating....

"Once a jolly swagman camped by a billabong..." You'll be forgiven for relentlessly whistling this famous tune while you're in Winton, as it's the very home of Banjo Patterson's 'Waltzing Matilda'. Reputedly inspired by an 1894 shearer's suicide at the nearby Combo Waterhole and first performed in Winton's North Gregory Hotel on 6th April 1895, you can learn all about Banjo and the adopted national anthem at the Waltzing Matilda Centre in Winton. First settled in 1875 and originally called 'Pelican Waterhole', Winton has plenty on offer to keep you busy for at least a day or two. The town is home to Boulder opals that you can view and buy in town and a day trip will take you to Queensland's oldest opal fields at Opalton. Also just out of Winton is Lark Quarry, where 93 million year-old dinosaur fossils will give you a glimpse into prehistoric times. The quirky Winton Music Fence, developed by percussionist and composer Graeme Leak, is free and a fantastic spot to let the kids explore their hidden musical talents. Arno's Wall, a wall surrounding a private residential property in town, is worth a look for its unique construction from all sorts of things including motorbikes, lawn mowers, crockery and historical items. Winton is in the heart of Matilda Country, a diverse region in which vast mitchell grass plains are broken by magnificently coloured gorges, ridges and mesas; what the locals call 'jump-ups'. Visitors to the region will be amazed by the vastness of the plains and the undulating nature of the landscape. There is a wide variety of animal and bird life in the area, generally best seen around dusk and dawn on minor roads and tracks....

Dulacca is quiet rural town on the Warrego Highway, 43 kilometres west of Miles. First came the railway (in 1879) and then came the town; originally spelt 'Doolackah', the name was derived from an Aboriginal name meaning 'emu tracks'. An interesting point to note about Dulacca is that it was the site of the first efforts to eradicate the invasive prickly pear cactus. The fight to eradicate the prickly pear was spurred on by the Government's reward of 40000 hectares of land to whoever could restore their land to its original state. It is estimated that the menacing plant covered more than 50 million acres of Queensland at its peak. The town's hotel, known as the Waterhole on the Hill, dates back to 1908 and a brief history of the town is displayed at Lions Park. Join the locals for a yarn and learn a little more about the towns interesting beginnings and history....

Nestled between the Bunya Mountains and fertile farmlands, Bell is a picturesque country township, rich in pastoral and agricultural heritage and home to cropping and livestock farming. Follow the signs to the Bell Bunya Community Centre. There you’ll find the Bell Visitor Information Centre, Bluebelles Art Gallery and a coffee shop, open daily from 10am to 3pm. Also worth a visit are Bell Heritage Parkland, Popey’s Shed, and the Biblical Garden and murals at Our Lady Help of Christians Catholic Church. Many other quaint townships are dotted throughout this region. Kaimkillenbun has the longest single place name in Queensland and is known simply as ‘The Bun’ by locals. Heading west on the Warrego Highway, Macalister is the site of a large grain handling depot and coal loading facility....

The Sapphire Gemfields is one of the world’s largest sapphire fields, and takes in the townships of Anakie, Rubyvale, Sapphire and Willows Gemfields. Rubyvale's sapphire mining dates back to 1891. If you love gemstones and jewellery then chances are you're going to love this town. Set in the heart of the Sapphire Gemfields. Made from 'billy boulders' and ironbark logs, the Rubyvale Hotel is a quirky place worth checking out. Take an underground mine tour where you'll be able to enjoy cooler temperatures as well as a lesson in sapphire mining. Explore the tunnels with your guide before trying your luck at one of several fossicking parks found near to the town. Thankfully at these parks the staff have already done the digging for you - so all that's left to do is grab a bucket and start sieving. Whether you get lucky or not, you should definitely treat yourself to a meal and a beer at the local pub before heading to your next destination. Each year in August the annual Gemfest Festival of Gems is held at Anakie in the Sapphire Gemfields....

'The Curry', as Cloncurry is affectionately known by locals, is most famous for being the birthplace of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS). Conceived and launched by the Reverend John Flynn in the 1920s, this flying medical service is just as integral to the people of the outback today as it ever was. At the John Flynn Place Museum and Art Gallery, learn about the founding of the RFDS and how Flynn harnessed the emerging technology of the pedal radio to pioneer outback communication. On the theme of aviation, visit the original Qantas hangar where the first passenger flew from Longreach to Cloncurry in 1922. Some say that Qantas was conceived in Winton, born in Cloncurry and grew up in Longreach, so all three towns played a massive part in the Australian icon's development. Cloncurry was named by explorer Robert O'Hara Burke and you can see his drink bottle at the Burke and Wills display in the Cloncurry Unearthed Museum at the Cloncurry/Mary Kathleen Memorial Park, where you can learn about the former Mary Kathleen uranium mine. Mining still plays a huge role in the town's economy with some of Australia's largest copper deposits in the region. The Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Information Centre and Museum can provide tourist information, fossickers licenses, maps and light refreshments. They also carry a wide range of souvenirs, gift ideas, postcards and Cloncurry t-shirts. If your visit coincides with the Cloncurry Stockman's Challenge and Campdraft, you'll be able to witness skillful displays of bush horsemanship in a tribute to the Australian horseman. Horses and their riders work together to overcome obstacles, move cattle and demonstrate their ability, training and presentation in a series of timed events....

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". ...

Take a short drive south from Gladstone to the picturesque coastal communities of Boyne Island and Tannum Sands and you will experience a relaxed coastal lifestyle centred on attractive beaches, riverside walkways, parklands and recreational activities. With a population of close to 12,000, these 'twin' communities are linked by a bridge across the beautiful Boyne River. Boyne Island - the island you can drive to - offers a quality mix of residential, business, shopping, industry and environment where foreshore parks overlook boats, outrigger crews and fishing on the calm river waters. The island is also home to Australia's largest Aluminium Smelter - the State's largest user of electricity. It employs 1,300 people to produce up to 558,000 tonnes of Aluminium per year. You are welcome to learn more about this fascinating facility at the Smelter Visitor Centre. With only a small variation in seasonal water temperatures, the waters of Tannum Sands and Boyne Island are perfect for year-round swimming. The area is a popular stopover for the winter 'migration' from the south! Boyne has more than 15 kilometres of walks known as The Turtle Way, winding beside the river through bushland, dunes and parks....

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....

Blacks Beach is located just 15 minutes' drive from the centre of Mackay. It's the longest of Mackay's northern beaches, and a great place to base yourself as you explore what this balmy North Queensland destination has to offer. Boasting six kilometres of sparkling sand and gentle waters, this palm-lined beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing and relaxing with a good book. The beach fishing here is fantastic with bream and whiting on the menu. Accommodation at Blacks Beach ranges from camping and caravan parks to self-contained, resort and motel style apartments. Plenty of accommodation is within easy walking distance to the beach. Popular with walkers, Blacks Beach is a pet-friendly beach, however it is not an off-leash area and therefore all pets must be kept on their lead and under control. Nearby amenities include a friendly tavern as well as a shopping centre which provides a number of dining options. A larger shopping centre is a five minute drive from Blacks Beach....

The Gums is a small settlement west of Tara in Southern Queensland Country's Western Downs region. The first postmistress named the Gums, after what the drovers called their meeting place nearby. You'll find the tiny settlement at the junction of the Leichhardt Highway and the Tara-Surat Road, 30 kilometres west of Tara. The town's quaint historic church and tiny bush school date back to early twentieth century. Named after a nearby spot drovers used to meet in bygone days, The Gums is a tranquil location, perfect for a 'smoko' stop in your travels or a great short-term campsite to pitch your tent or park the van. The Gums Nature Reserve offers opportunities to see native birds, flora and fauna in natural surrounds....

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....

Crisp winter air, knee-deep autumn leaves, clear summer days and a riot of colour in spring; nowhere else in Queensland will you experience all four seasons as distinctively as right here. Just 90 minutes from Brisbane, Toowoomba crowns the edge of the Great Dividing Range 700 metres above sea level, overlooking the Lockyer Valley. Known as Queensland’s Garden City... so pack a picnic and relax in one of our 150-plus parks and gardens. Join the locals and taste the colours of spring at their Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers! Enjoy their ten-day festival of nonstop fun and laughter, fireworks, parades, the coolest music and entertainment as well as the sensational wines and tantalising tastes of the region. From March to May mellow tints of red and gold mark the autumn showing. In the winter months, enjoy rugging up and winding down. Locally made wine and delicious food will tantalise the tastebuds and warm the soul. Toowoomba’s colonial history traces back to the early 1840s with the establishment of the first store on the Downs at “The Springs”, soon thereafter renamed Drayton. The National Trust-owned Royal Bull’s Head Inn dates from that period and you can still see it on Brisbane Street today. A drought in 1850 saw many re-settle a few kilometres to the northeast at what is now Toowoomba. After rapid expansion a new municipality was proclaimed in 1860, a township in 1892 and a city in 1904. Toowoomba and its surrounds are strongly linked by an interconnected history that you can discover is alive and well in interactive museums, historical attractions and in streetscapes dotted with stately architecture. Make your first stop on the history trail the Cobb+Co Museum. You’ll find an outstanding collection of horse-drawn vehicles and the story of the natural and cultural history of Toowoomba and the Darling Downs. You can trace Cobb+Co's role in the expansion of the Southern Queensland Country region, beginning as a small mail run in 1866 transporting mail and passengers to Brisbane and beyond....