www.leichhardthighway.com

LH Brochure Layout Template.indd1 1 6/2/07 10:54:43 AM When travelling in Central take the time to discover The Gorges Way

Banana

Biloela Gladstone Moura To , Calliope Emerald and

Theodore Kroombit Tops To Tannum Sands, N.P. Cania Miriam Vale, Gorge N.P. Agnes Water and 1770 Isla Gorge N.P.

Leichhardt Hwy to and Miles

• Theodore Information Centre (07) 4993 1900 • Agnes Water Information Centre (07) 4902 1533 MORE • Gladstone Information Centre (07) 4972 9000 • The Rural Hinterland Information Centre (07) 4992 2400 >> • Miriam Vale Information Centre (07) 4974 5428 • Promotions Bureau (07) 4992 2405 INFO • Tannum Sands Information Centre 07 4973 8062 • Moura Information Centre (07) 4997 2084 Local, Murilla Shire Lorikeet

TOURING THE LEICHHARDT CONTENTS Set off on a modern day adventure as you ‘blaze a trail’ along the fully sealed Leichhardt . Together with the adjoining , the Leichhardt links ’s second 2. largest city, Melbourne, through Queensland’s border town, Goondiwindi and onto the 3. Tara charismatic heart of the , . 4. Miles Follow in the tracks of the intrepid explorer, , along this inland route named in his honour. The Leichhardt and Newell Highways combine to make the fastest 5. Taroom touring route from Melbourne to the Tropics. It takes you away from the hustle and bustle 7. Map and avoids the more hectic pace of travel associated with the coastal routes making it a perfect choice for your next trip. 8. Theodore & Banana This is a journey rich in discovery from the vast rolling pastures of the inland grazing districts 9. Mount Morgan to the astounding beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. Along the way you’ll encounter 10. spectacular gorges, peaceful lagoons, inland waterways ideal for casting a line, world acclaimed botanic gardens, historical treasures and unspoilt natural treats just waiting to be 11. Capricorn Coast discovered. Friendly locals in quaint country towns provide a warm welcome and useful tips 12. Travellers Info for where best to fish, explore, and relax. • Travel Planner Uncover the history of past generations in museums and historical collections that will truly amaze you and explore what was once the world’s largest and richest gold mine as you • Visitor Info Centres chart a course to Queensland’s topical coast. With a range of accommodation options • Advertisers Directory fitting every budget and so much to discover you’ll soon understand why this acclaimed historic route lives up to its reputation as one of excitement and discovery.

LUDWIG LEICHHARDT One of Australia’s most heroic explorers, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludwig Leichhardt, first arrived in Australia from his native in 1842. The talented naturalist had come to explore Australia’s interior and discover more of its flora. After spending time in the coastal regions between Sydney and he finally mounted his epic expedition to explore the region from Moreton Bay to in September 1844. The party of five men braved the arduous journey arriving at the small settlement in the 14 months later in December of 1845. In recognition of the great explorer the highway from Goondiwindi to Rockhampton was named the Leichhardt. Ludwig Leichhardt (Image courtesy of Queensland State Library, Image No.111753)

Goondiwindi Mt Morgan

www.leichhardthighway.com  GOONDIWINDI SHIRE WAGGAMBA SHIRE Goondiwindi

Yelarbon ~ ~ Bungunya ~ Talwood ~

Gunsynd Statue

Moree GOONDIWINDI Moonie Tara turnoff

< 123km > < 94km > < 45km >

Goondiwindi lies on the banks of the Macintyre River that marks the divide between NSW and Queensland. It is the first port of call on the way north, where the Newell Highway becomes the Leichhardt. As the gateway to the Western Downs, Goondiwindi sits at the heart of the region’s agriculture of cotton and wheat growing together with the beef and wool industries. It is also the home to the legendary racehorse , ‘the Goondiwindi Grey’. Spend a day enjoying this pretty border town, visit the sights and take a stroll along the riverwalk. In Apex Park visit the Gunsynd statue (one of the Top 12 Queensland Icons) and nearby at the Visitor Centre is the Gunsynd Memorial. They are close to the historic Border Bridge, which dates back to 1914. The Botanic Gardens and Natural Heritage Water Park are ideal locations for a picnic with plenty of van parking and facilities for travellers. In town visit the Fairway Studios gallery and explore the former border Customs House – now a museum. Local history is also recorded in the Callandoon Pioneers Cemetery. If time permits then explore the local district and a collection of appealing small towns including the former tobacco town of to the east and south to picturesque Macintyre Falls. To the west lie the towns of Toobeah, Bungunya and Talwood – famous for its picnic races. Further west still is Weengallon with its Aboriginal rock wells. lies to the south-west. From Goondiwindi head north to Moonie, the oil capital of inland Australia. It lies at the Framing & Art Gallery crossroads of the Leichhardt and Moonie Highways and is a popular rest spot for travellers. Fairway Studios exhibits outstanding It’s followed by the tiny settlement of The Gums. works by local & regional artists. HIGHLIGHTS • Statue of Gunsynd – the Goondiwindi Grey • Gunsynd and Rodeo Memorial (Visitor Centre) • Waggamba Shire: • Border Bridge • Yelarbon – former tobacco district (50kms) • Fairway Studios – art gallery and gift shop • Toobeah – famous for horse sports (50kms) Open Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm & Saturday 9am-1pm Opposite the Town Park, 8a Moffatt St, • Natural Heritage and Water Park • Bungunya – pretty village in wheat belt (70kms) Goondiwindi Q. 4390, Ph/Fax 07 46713101 • Botanic Gardens • Talwood – attractive country town (90kms) www.fairwaystudios.com.au • Callandoon Pioneer Cemetery • Weengallon – Aboriginal Rock Wells (135kms)

Country Comfort Goondiwindi If you’re crossing the / Queensland border at Goondiwindi, why not stay at Goondiwindi’s premium motel – the Country Roads Motor Inn. GOONDIWINDI RSL MEMORIAL CLUB Featuring licensed GOONDIWINDI’S COMMUNITY CLUB restaurant, mini-bar & Ideally located in the centre of Goondiwindi. Our motel facilities for the disabled • Bistro 7days Lunch & Dinner • Ample Off Street Parking provides all the traditional country comforts and facilities in traveller. Make us “your • Coaches Welcome • Conference Facilities • Functions 21 well appointed rooms. Catered For • Courtesy Bus Available • Jupiter’s Keno • Minibar • Austar TV • Air-Con • Swimming Pool home away from home”. • Poker Machines • Eftpos & ATM Facilities The Town House Restaurant & Cocktail Bar is open for Dinner: 11-13 Cunningham Hwy, Goondiwindi, Qld 4390 • Bingo – Wed & Sunday • Club Raffles – Wed, Fri & Sat Mon-Sat & Lunch: Tue-Fri. Room service at no extra charge. Ph: (07) 4671 3930 Fax: (07) 4671 3838 • Coldest Beer in town RESERVATIONS: 1300 650 464 Email: [email protected] 110 Marshall Street Goondiwindi QLD 4390

www.countryroadsmotorinn.com VISITORS WARMLY WELCOME t: 07 4671 1855 f: 07 4671 2918 23 ALBERT STREET (07) 4671 1269 [email protected]  www.leichhardthighway.com TARA SHIRE Tara

Moonie ~ The Gums ~ ~ Glenmorgan

Wheat field, Tara Shire Robyn Gordon Grevillea

Moonie Tara turnoff TARA Tara turnoff Miles

< 45km > < 28km > < 80km >

The tiny pioneer village of The Gums has an excellent Nature Reserve with free camping on the banks of a picturesque lagoon and a nine hole bush golf course. The reserve is home to a wide selection of native flora and attracts parrots and other birds while the resident kangaroos lie idly in the shade watching the golfers play a round on one of the best value courses - just $2.00 for a round. Tara Shire is home to vast wheat fields but it is also in the heart of some of Australia’s finest Merino country. Some 30kms east of The Gums and the Tara is the main town for the shire and the centre for the local sheep and cattle industries. Stroll through the main street and meet the locals. Try a pie at the Woolshed Bakery or enjoy a drink in the Commercial Hotel, noted for its original Hugh Sawrey paintings. Tara hosts the National Sheepdog Trials (Easter) and shearing competitions as well as Meandarra camel races. Explore the town’s heritage and see the gallery of internationally renowned artist Barbara Geisel (by appointment only) famous for her wool paintings. The Tara Historical Society Museum has local folk history displays including shearing memorabilia and projection equipment from the Blue Moon Picture Theatre. South of The Gums, Wattle Downs is a working Merino station offering farmstay experiences. West of the highway and well worth a visit is the internationally recognised Myall Park Botanic Garden on the outskirts of Glenmorgan. Birthplace of the Grevillea Robyn Gordon, the garden presents Queensland’s oldest collection of Australian semi-arid flora as well as a gallery and provides accommodation and camping. Meandarra, midway between Glenmorgan and The Gums, is popular for fishing and camping. The town has an extensive collection of wartime militaria and combat vehicles and its architectural heritage includes an early School of Arts. HIGHLIGHTS • Myall Park Botanic Gardens • Barbara Geisel Gallery • Wartime vehicles and & Gallery • Commercial Hotel’s Hugh militaria at Meandarra • The Gums Nature Reserve Sawrey paintings • End of the Line, Glenmorgan • Woolshed Bakery’s famous • Tara Lagoon and walkway • Wattle Downs Farmstay pies • Tara Pioneer Village Glenmorgan

COMMERCIAL HOTEL TARA TARA RURAL SUPPLIES & TARA REAL ESTATE Myall BOTANIC ParkGARDEN GLENMORGAN • One of Australia’s oldest collections of native plants Two Great Locations: • Home of the “Gordon” Grevilleas Perfect for New Owners Owen and Tracey welcome you • Gallery of Dorothy Gordon botanical paintings botanists, 46 Day St (07 4665 3366) and gift shop gardeners, bird to their historic pub est. 1912. Gaming room, • Gas Bottle Refills • Produce/Dog & Cat Food pool room, drive thru bottleshop, budget a/c • Accommodation - comfortable 1950’s style watchers, • Batteries & Camping Equipment • Plus much more! • Walks and trails with interpretive information photographers, accommodation, great meals, bars, beer garden artists and bush and hospitality plus. 15 Fry St (07 4669 4100) • Camping - powered and non-powered sites For all your Real Estate needs – • Follow the signs from Glenmorgan walkers 35 DAY STREET TARA. QLD 4421 why not look for an investment property while you’re here! Ph: 07 4665 3214 Fax: 07 4669 4067 Phone/Fax (07)4665 6705 Mobile: 0427 818 874 [email protected] www.myallparkbotanicgarden.org.au www.leichhardthighway.com  MURILLA SHIRE Miles

Condamine ~ Dulacca ~ Drillham

Dogwood Crossing @ Miles Miles Historical Village

Tara turnoff MILES Taroom

< 80km > < 124km >

Miles is the next major centre on the road north but along the way take in the sights around Condamine. Caliguel Lagoon lies 7km south of Condamine and offers an excellent site for an overnight stay. In the heart of cattle country, Condamine is home to the Condamine Rodeo and the ‘Condamine Bell’ – cow bells forged from sheet metal to help locate grazing bullocks. The Condamine River is a popular fishing spot with locals and visitors alike. On your journey to Miles, during late summer and autumn you’ll witness the rare pink water lilies in bloom across the tranquil waters of Chinaman’s Lagoon. Miles wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the outstanding Miles Historical Village and its recreated village street of heritage buildings. Authentically restored and stocked, it will take you back to the pioneer days of this vibrant bush community. Add to that a magnificent lapidary and shell collections, the impressive war museum, restored vehicles and numerous other artefacts, Fishing on the Condamine friendly staff, and the chance to meet local identities such as Condamine Jack. You’ll soon understand why they say this is a ‘world class facility’. MILES HISTORICAL VILLAGE Ludwig Leichhardt originally named Miles ‘Dogwood Crossing’. At the state of the art Dogwood Crossing @ Miles you can witness the heroic tales of local pioneers. This is Open daily native wildflower country and after spring rains, the surrounding bush erupts into a 8am to 5pm. Closed kaleidoscope of delicate blossoms. Grab a Self-Drive Tour brochure to explore the bush- Christmas Day. land at your leisure. Visitors West of Miles along the are the towns of Dulacca (Aboriginal for ‘emu Information Centre tracks’) and Drillham – both established as railway towns. • Historical village • Magnificent lapidary display • “Dogwood Crossing” HIGHLIGHTS - early street of shops • Artesian basin centre and other buildings • war museum • Caliguel Lagoon • Chinaman’s Lagoon • Dogwood Creek Walking • The finest private sea • Catering for groups • Condamine Bell • Miles Historical Village Tracks shell collection by arrangement • Condamine Pioneer Park • Historical Cemeteries • Dogwood Crossing @ Miles - • Gil Weir • Murilla Shire Self Drive Tours Cultural Centre Warrego Highway, Miles Ph/Fax (07) 4627 1492

 MILES OUTBACK MOTEL AAAT 

DOGWOOD CROSSING @ MILES THE BEST VALUE FOR MILES AROUND Open 7 days a week 27 Ground Floor Units • 22 newly refurbished, reverse cycle air-conditioned units On the corner of the Leichhardt and Warrego All with air conditioning • Fully licensed with Austar • Queen Beds Highways, Miles, Queensland. Covered car parking (10 with lock up garages) • Wireless broadband • All units are on ground floor Local Stories “A” Class Art Gallery Evening meals and Breakfasts to units • RSL/Memorial Club at rear gate Library IT Centre • Evening meals to units with charge back facility [email protected] • Ample secure parking for coaches, boats and trailers. Phone: (07) 4627 2455 www.milesoutbackmotel.com.au Email: [email protected] 97 Murilla St, Miles Ph: 07 4627 1322 Ph 07 4627 2100 Fax 07 4627 2172

 www.leichhardthighway.com TAROOM SHIRE Taroom

Leichhardt Country ~ Guluguba ~

The Ample Juandah parking Historical Site

Give your imagination free reign as you wander past the Admission interpretive signage by donation placed around this old settlement dating back to 1848. The original old store, with an internal room built of slabs is still standing. 92 Windeyer Rd, Wandoan Isla Gorge Open most days 10am to 4.00pm except Mondays Ph 07 4627 4191

Miles TAROOM Theodore Cattle Camp Motel < 124km > < 94km >

From Miles the highway tracks north into Leichhardt Country where the explorer literally left his mark ‘L.L. 1844’ on what is now an historic Coolibah tree in the main street of Taroom. Taroom and Wandoan are the two towns for the region but travellers from Miles will first pass through Guluguba, which lies at the bottom of the . Leichhardt was a diligent observer of all he encountered and his journals record the Aboriginal sites, fauna, flora and topography of the inland. In 1848, four years after Leichhardt traversed this region, the historic Juandah Station was first established and from it has grown the town of Wandoan. Stop at the Wandoan Visitor Centre for advice on the local heritage trails and see the pioneer settlement of the Juandah Historical Site. P OOL & R ESTAURANT Taroom is the main town for the region and lies on the banks of the Dawson River where Hosts: Dennis & Janice Leichhardt and his party camped. There is a monument to the explorer in the town and Ph: 07 4627 3412 Fax: 07 4628 6188 another to fellow botanist in his party, John Gilbert at Gilbert’s Lookout overlooking the Arrive a Guest, Leave a Friend township. The entrance to the town is marked by the ‘Steel Wings’ model windmill. 15km north of Taroom is Palm Tree Creek with its unique Livistona Palms, which contrast vividly with the eucalypt forest. Lake Murphy Conservation Park and Glebe Weir, both north TAROOM BOWLS CLUB of Taroom, offer further alternatives for anglers and campers. For those with a 4WD, the 120km road northwest to rewards with views of dramatic cliffs, Aboriginal stencil art, wildflowers in spring and impressive views across the Arcadia Valley. Camp beside a permanent waterhole flanked with wattles and listen for the King Parrots and Rainbow Lorikeets and see the Honeyeaters feasting on the flowers. sits alongside the Leichhardt Highway. A short drive takes you to the lookout and camping ground where sunsets can be spectacular. For those with an eager eye try spotting the shy Herbert’s rock-wallaby. Members, guests and visitors always welcome. Enjoy our friendly service. Spacious facilities. HIGHLIGHTS Evening meals at popular prices. Pokies. • Juandah Heritage Centre • Leichhardt Tree (Taroom) • Lake Murphy Conservation Park Green open all year round. • Heritage Trail • Steel Wings windmill • Expedition National Park A short stroll from Caravan Park and main street. • Waterloo Plains Environmental • Gilbert’s Lookout • Isla Gorge National Park Park • Glebe Weir • Palm Tree Creek 26 Martin Street Tel: 07 4627 3205

WANDOAN ACCOMMODATION PARK LEICHHARDT Hotel Motel COUNTRY CHARACTERS Country characters cover.qxd 23/02/2007 4:19 PM Page 1 • AIR-CONDITIONED UNITS Life away from the bright city lights. That is • PHONES & INTERNET where you find country characters and townsfolk anywhere in Australia. • DRIVE THROUGH SITES Freedom of wide open spaces • CLEAN AMENITIES for the children. Take a stroll • LAUNDRY FACILITIES through the pages and meet Phone: 07 4627 3137 • Fax: 07 4627 3397 them all. Books can be 4 ZUPPS ROAD [email protected] purchased from Taroom and WANDOAN • Ensuite Fully Air-conditioned Motel Units regional outlets or post Country • Superb Country Meals, Great Rump Steak $18.50 cheque or MO to: Characters QLD 4419 • Full Hotel Facilities Heather Corfield Heather Corfield • Pokies • Pub TAB • Keno TEL: 07 4627 4407 • Children’s Play Area MS53 Taroom Q 4420 • Bottleshop FAX: 07 4627 4177 DAWSON STREET TAROOM QLD 4420 Tel/Fax: 07 4627 4939 www.leichhardthighway.com  thenewell more than just a highway

www.newellhighway.org.au connecting roads maps information centres family parks events distances & times

001-007.indd 1 12/4/06 12:25:29 PM  BANANA SHIRE Theodore & Banana

Theodore ~ Banana ~ ~ Biloela ~ Baralaba

Dululu Kroombit Tops

Theodore BANANA Dululu Rockhampton

< 59km > < 81km > < 82km >

Theodore is the first stop in Banana Shire and at The Junction on the banks of the Dawson River you’ll find an ideal free camping and fishing locality or stay at The Theodore Hotel, one of only two Co-operative hotels in Australia. The Dawson Folk Museum records the history of the Dawson Valley with entry by appointment at the Theodore Visitor Centre. Fringed with weeping callistemons and towering palms, the Dawson has a reputation as one of Queensland’s premier inland fisheries. Catches include , yellow-belly, OUTBACK LIFESTYLE black bream, and sleepy cod. Keen anglers should also explore the Bass to Barra Trail Small and personal, genuine cattle farm. Horse and motorbike riding. Great home including Lake Callide, Lake Cania and Lake Awoonga – just a few of the nine impoundment cooking. Clean and comfortable accommodation. lakes that offer excellent freshwater fishing in the Central and Southern Queensland regions. “Myella” , Baralaba Banana, on the junction of the Leichhardt and Dawson Highways, is not home to Ph: 07 4998 1290 Fax: 07 4998 1104 Email: [email protected] www. myella.com plantations of the luscious fruit. Instead, the town and shire owe their name to a much- revered bullock, ‘Banana’. In the 1850s Moses Wafer’s now famous yellow bullock was known for mustering ‘scrubbers’ (unbranded wild cattle). On his death the station, town and then shire adopted the name ‘Banana’. A monument celebrates the noble beast. From Banana head east along the to the thriving town of Biloela B^hh^i (Aboriginal for ‘white cockatoo’). Visit the former Expo ’88 SILO exhibit, a pioneer village and the Callide Power Station. Further east lie the port city of Gladstone and the holiday VcY centres of Tannum Sands and the Discovery Coast’s Agnes Water and Town of 1770 – gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. lZZe# 20kms west of Banana and upstream of the Dawson is the booming coal town of Moura. The township of Moura and Baralaba are worth a visit and the river’s sweeping banks and large flat camping grounds make good stopovers and the chance to wet a line. Myella Farmstay is nearby and offers a genuine cattle farm experience with camping and accommodation. From Banana the Leichhardt Highway is flanked with cotton fields and the brilliant yellow and green of sunflowers. The tiny township ofDululu reflects the sunflower yellow in its Queenslander pub. Dululu provides travellers with camping facilities, picnic tables and BBQ’s.

HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS THEODORE • Dawson Folk Museum CO-OPERATIVE • Fishing the Dawson River ASSOCIATION LTD • Theodore Hotel Picturesque Hotel/Motel situated on the banks of • Lakes of the Bass to Barra Trail the Dawson River • Banana monument • Affordable, fully air conditioned • Moura mine • Motel/Hotel • Myella Farmstay • Plus new large self- • SILO exhibit contained cabins • On site Museum & • Ruth Maynard Pioneer Village Laundromat • Greycliffe Homestead • Conference room For your FREE Fishing pack Visit the only Co-operative • Callide Power Station 1300 761 721 hotel in Australia • Kroombit Tops call Tel 07 4993 1244 or visit centralqueensland.com.au Fax 07 4993 1108  www.leichhardthighway.com MOUNT MORGAN SHIRE Mount Morgan

Mount Morgan Mine Running The Cutter

Banana Dululu MOUNT MORGAN Rockhampton Mount Morgan Tourist < 81km > < 31km > < 38km > Information Centre Open from 9am to 4pm daily. The Leichhardt Highway winds its way from Dululu to Mount Morgan, set in the pretty Dee Ranges. Once the largest and richest single gold mine in the world, Mount Morgan, is one of Queensland’s historical gems and is located only 38km from Rockhampton. The hum of machinery and the bone-rattling days of blasting at the mine are long gone and in their place are a legacy of history and a spirited community. To discover Mount Morgan’s unique treasures visit the Mount Morgan Visitor Information Centre where you can get Located at the Historical Railway Complex, friendly advice to help plan your visit and arrange your stay at any of several the Mount Morgan Tourist Information Centre is your first stop in discovering the history of accommodation options. Australia’s single richest gold mine. Town A tour of the mine is a must and more than a history lesson on mining. Starting from the and mine tour bookings. 3D movie of the rack rail. Souvenirs, gifts, arts and crafts, Mount Morgan Historical Railway Complex, complete with its fully restored Hunslett Steam maps and information brochures. Locomotive, you’ll head into the mine complex dominated by the Big Stack. It’s the town’s T: 07 4938 2312 F: 07 4938 2299 E: [email protected] most distinctive landmark and towers 250 feet high, comprising 749,300 bricks. From Railway Complex, 1 Railway Parade MOUNT MORGAN QLD 4714 above the open cut mine you can look into the vast pit, now partly filled with water. Above the mine is a network of fireclay caverns – the largest man-made caverns in Australia, mined for the fireclay to manufacture bricks for use on the mine site. In the ceiling of the caves is something very special - jurassic dinosaur footprints. Explore the town and cross the suspension footbridge dedicated to Private Victor Jones – the first Australian soldier to die on foreign soil. The grand days of the mine are reflected in the town’s rich architectural heritage from palatial pubs to civic buildings. Visit the museum embracing indigenous heritage and the history of mining, transport and local folk history in an outstanding collection of early photographs. The town’s cemetery includes many historic graves and a rare Heung Lew Chinese prayer oven. The Linda Memorial remembers men killed in underground mining from 1894 to 1909. Each year on May Day weekend Mount Morgan celebrates the tradition of ‘Running the Cutter’ when young lads would run to the pub for the miners after their shifts and collect a billy can of ale and deliver it to them to enjoy in the lane behind the pub, now called Cutters Lane. Nowadays, contestants run relay between the four pubs as part of a festive day of celebrations.

HIGHLIGHTS www.tmctours.com.au • Former open cut gold mine Silver Wattle Tourist Park TMC AAAT  • Fireclay caverns & dinosaur prints TOURS Mount Morgan Guided Tours Daily • Historic Railway Station Self-contained cabin accommodation cooking facilities, air conditioning & • Hunslett Locomotive View and Discover linen included. Town - Historic Sites • Town and mine tour Mine - Heritage and Environmental Values Caves - Jurassic Palaeontology Importance • Suspension bridges Cabins: $40.00 Double per night • Museum Powered Sites: $15.00 per night • Air Conditioned Bus Travel • Quality Commentary • • Heritage architecture Eftpos & credit cards • Strategic Stop-offs for Maximum Viewing • • Mafeking Bell Email: [email protected] Phone 07 4938 1823 • Running the Cutter tradition  07 4938 1550 Mt Morgan Mob. 0409 815 033 [email protected]

www.leichhardthighway.com  ROCKHAMPTON CITY COUNCIL Rockhampton

Cattle droving Quay Street Heritage Precinct

Banana Dululu ROCKHAMPTON Yeppoon < 81km > < 82km > < 41km > Australia’s Beef Capital lies on the banks of the broad Fitzroy River. The city was built on the wealth from pastoral empires and gold mines. That wealth is reflected in the colonial buildings along Quay Street – one of Queensland’s finest heritage precincts – crowned by the sandstone and copper domed Customs House. Rockhampton also boasts many impressive old pubs such as the Heritage and the Great Western – famous for its rodeo ring. Rockhampton (Rocky to the locals) offers several interesting landmarks from The Spire marking the Tropic of Capricorn to the iconic bull statues on the city approaches. In the city visitors can explore the heritage trail, visit the Art Gallery and Archer Park Station’s rail history including the Purrey Steam Tram. The outstanding Botanical Gardens, established in 1872, Spectacular Limestone Caves 23km • Daily Guided Tours north of include magnificent banyan figs, a Japanese garden, aviary and koala park. On the northern • Caravan Park & Cabins Rockhampton side of the river are Kershaw Gardens that focus on native species. Nearby is the turn-off to Tel: 07 4934 2883 www.capricorncaves.com.au Mt Archer, the highest point in the area, with picnic grounds and lookout that provides vistas across Rocky to the Berserker Ranges. Also on the northern side of the city is Rockhampton’s Heritage Village of pioneer buildings and vintage vehicles. The Dreamtime Cultural Centre, located on Darambal land, showcases the art and history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities including the ancient rock art of the Carnarvon Gorge. Natural highlights include the spectacular Capricorn Caves’ magical limestone grottos including the magnificent Cathedral Cave and thunder eggs at Mt Hay. See the world of cattle at Gracemere Saleyards on market day – one of Rocky’s many real experiences. HIGHLIGHTS • Quay Street Heritage Precinct • Archer Park Railway historic rail • Dreamtime Cultural Centre – • Customs House with copper exhibit Aboriginal and Islander history dome roof • Heritage Village and culture • Botanical Gardens & Zoo • Capricorn Caves – magnificent • Great Western Hotel – classic established in 1872 limestone caves country pub with its own rodeo ring • Kershaw Gardens with model • Mt Hay thunder eggs • Mt Archer Lookout railway • Tropic of Capricorn Spire • Gracemere Saleyards

10 www.leichhardthighway.com LIVINGSTONE SHIRE Capricorn Coast

Yeppoon ~ Byfield ~ Rosslyn Bay ~ Great Keppel Island ~ Emu Park

Rydges Capricorn Resort Great Keppel Island Resort

Rockhampton YEPPOON Emu Park Rockhampton

< 41km > < 19km > < 45km >

The Leichhardt Highway reaches its natural conclusion at the tropical shores of the Capricorn Coast, which begins with the colourful seaside town of Yeppoon. It lies just 41kms from Rockhampton and is an ideal family holiday centre with plenty of shopping, dining and accommodation options. From the parkland and walkway that backs the beach you can look out to Great Keppel Island. To the south 13 endless sandy beaches divided by grassy headlands span along a scenic drive of 19 kilometres. North of Yeppoon is Rydges Capricorn Resort with two immaculate, championship 18 hole golf courses and 20kms of untouched beachfront as well as vast tracts of bush and wetland areas. The resort offers spacious 4 star resort rooms, a host of activities, tours and facilities and one of the largest freshwater pools in the Southern Hemisphere. Further north is , home to a wealth of bird-life in its wetlands and rainforest and the various pottery galleries tucked into the rainforest. Yeppoon South of Yeppoon is a string of peaceful seaside communities. A prominent rocky headland shelters the Marina at Rosslyn Bay. It’s a picturesque spot for lunch as well as being the embarkation point for Great Keppel Island. Great Keppel is a holiday paradise of 17 beaches, calm waters and fringing reefs and the Great Keppel Island Resort offers a range of accommodation and a host of sports and activities plus five pools to help you relax. Fishing is a popular pastime on the Capricorn Coast ranging from serious reef fishing at Swains Reef to recreational fishing along the beaches, estuaries and freshwater fishing spots. Take some time and cast a line. The Capricorn Coast continues to the peaceful seaside village of Emu Park with its Singing Ship monument to Capt. James Cook. On the circuit road back to Rockhampton stop off at Koorana Crocodile Farm and get close to the 3,000 resident crocs. HIGHLIGHTS • 13 endless beaches & scenic drive • Great Keppel Island • Rosslyn Bay & Keppel Marina • Yeppoon beach, shops & markets Resort, beaches and reef • Singing Ship monument at • Rydges Capricorn Resort’s two 18- • Byfield National Park Emu Park hole championship golf courses • Nob Creek Pottery • Koorana Crocodile Farm Rosslyn Bay

BEACHSIDE Bell Park BillCARAVAN Kingel PARK KEPPEL SANDS CARAVAN PARK YEPPOON CARAVAN PARK • EMU PARK A beachfront park in a tropical setting A clean, friendly park situated just a stone’s throw from Fisherman’s Beach Pleasantly situated in a natural setting with surrounded by magnificent sea views and a bay within walking distance to the tennis ample shade, grassy sites, sea views and only of islands. You are assured of plenty of fishing, courts and bowls club, pool, indoor metres from the water. Great for fishing & pineapples and tropical fruit and vegies in bowling and shops. crabbing with a choice of reef, estuary, rock season. Yeppoon boasts a multitude of sporting Emu Park is a quaint village with modern or deep sea catches. Walking distance to the and recreational facilities for your enjoyment. amenities, wonderful beaches and pub and shop at Keppel Sands. 40km east of Camping and powered caravan sites are seaviews. Fish, boat or surf and have a Rockhampton off the Emu Park Road. Camp available from where you can view the lights of great holiday. The park has three cabins, sites and powered van sites are available at Great Keppel Island. powered van sites and camp sites available. this very special place. Call (07) 4939 3738 Call (07) 4939 6202 Call (07) 4934 4899

www.leichhardthighway.com 11 Travellers Information

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Goondiwindi Moonie Tara* Miles Taroom Theodore Banana Mt Morgan# Rockhampton Yeppoon Goondiwindi 94 167 219 343 437 496 608 659 700 Moonie 94 73 125 249 343 402 514 565 606 Tara* 167 73 108 232 326 385 497 548 589 Miles 219 125 108 124 218 277 389 440 481 Taroom 343 249 232 124 94 153 265 316 357 Theodore 437 343 326 218 94 59 171 222 263 Banana 496 402 385 277 153 59 112 163 204 Mt Morgan# 608 514 497 389 265 171 112 38 B 79 B Rockhampton 659 565 548 440 316 222 163 38 B 41 Yeppoon 700 606 589 481 357 263 204 79 B 41 * Tara is 28kms east of Leichhardt Hwy # Mt Morgan is 31kms east of Dululu (Leichhardt Hwy) ‘B’ is via Burnett Hwy Mt Morgan - Rockhampton • Melbourne < 187k > Shepparton < 87k > Tocumal < 164k > Narrandera < 138k > West Wyalong < 105k > Forbes < 33k > Parkes Parkes < 119k > Dubbo < 68k > Gilgandra < 95k > Coonabarabran < 118k > Narrabri < 98k > Moree < 123k > Goondiwindi • • MELBOURNE < 1,335k > GOONDIWINDI < 659k > ROCKHAMPTON • Visitor Information Centres Advertisers Directory

• GOONDIWINDI • THEODORE ADVERTISER SHIRE PAGE Goondiwindi & Waggamba Theodore Tourism & Cultural Bass to Barra Trail Banana 8 Visitor Information Centre Centre Cnr Bowen & McLean Sts The Boulevard, Theodore Beachside Caravan Park Livingstone 11 T. 07 4671 2653 T. 07 4993 1900 Bell Park Caravan Park Livingstone 11 E. [email protected] E. theodorevic@ Bill Kingel Caravan Park Livingstone 11 gladstoneregion.org.au www.goondiwindi.org Capricorn Caves & Tourist Park Rockhampton 10 • MOUNT MORGAN • TARA Cattle Camp Motel Taroom 5 Tara Shire Council Mount Morgan Tourist Commercial Hotel Tara Tara 3 19 Fry St Tara QLD 4421 Information Centre T. 07 4665 3133 Historical Railway Complex, ‘Country Characters’ Taroom 5 www.tara.qld.gov.au Mt Morgan Country Comfort Goondiwindi Goondiwindi 2 T. 07 4938 2312 Goondiwindi • MILES E. [email protected] Country Roads Motor Inn 2 Miles Historical Village Murilla • ROCKHAMPTON Dogwood Crossing @ Miles 4 Warrego Highway, Miles The Spire Visitor Information Centre Drive Queensland Leichhardt Hwy 13 T. 07 4627 1492 Gladstone Rd, Rockhampton Fairway Studios Goondiwindi 2 • TAROOM T. 07 4927 2055 Taroom Visitor Information ‘The Gorges Way’ Banana E. [email protected] Inside Front Cover Centre www.capricorntourism.com.au 17 Kelman Street, Taroom Goondiwindi Memorial Club Goondiwindi 2 • CAPRICORN COAST T. 07 4628 6113 Gundy Star Tourist Park Goondiwindi 2 Capricorn Coast Info Centre Wandoan Tourist Information Scenic Highway, Yeppoon Great Keppel Island Resort Livingstone Back Cover & Juandah Historical Site T. 1800 675 785 Hotel Theodore Banana 8 Royds Street, Wandoan E. [email protected] Juandah Historical Site Taroom 5 T. 07 4627 5227 www.capricorncoast.com.au Leichhardt Hotel Motel Taroom 5

Published March 2007 Miles Historical Village Murilla 4 Published by The Leichhardt Highway Promotions Association Inc. Miles Outback Motel Murilla 4 Produced by Travel Media Services © 2007 Mt Morgan Tourist Information Centre Mt Morgan 9 Images supplied courtesy of Tourism Queensland, Travel Media Services, Mount Morgan News Mt Morgan 9 Tara Shire Council, Mount Morgan TIC and Capricorn Tourism. Editorial and images used in this guide are all protected by copyright and must not be reproduced in any Myall Park Botanical Gardens Tara 3 form, stored in electronic files or transmitted by email or internet without the written approval of the publisher and copyright owners. Myella Farmstay Banana 8 While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in this guide no responsibility can be accepted for errors, changes or omissions. The content and offers made within advertisements are Newell Highway NSW 6 not the responsibility of either the publishers or producers of this guide. All enquiries related to specific advertisements should be referred directly to the advertiser concerned. Rockhampton City Council Rockhampton 10 Rydges Capricorn Resort Livingstone Back Cover Silver Wattle Tourist Park Mt Morgan 9 Starline Motel Murilla 4 Tara Rural Supplies Tara 3 TMC Tours Mt Morgan 9 Taroom Bowls Club Taroom 5 For more information on other intriguing drive routes throughout Queensland True Blue Motor Inn Rockhampton 10 and New South Wales or to get your FREE copy of these other fantastic brochures visit www.driveqld.com.au Wandoan Accommodation Park Taroom 5 12 www.leichhardthighway.com

Can you imagine a place where an endless beach Resort Features: stretches further than the eye, dotted with the tracks - 22,000 acre beachfront sanctuary - Over 25 Free Activities of cantering horses and solitary walkers, watched - 2 World-Class Golf Courses over by spectacular subtropical islands to the east - 3 Restaurants & Bars and ancient volcanic ranges to the west? There’s no - Hosted Tours & Activities need to imagine. The place is Rydges Capricorn - Massage & Beauty Centre Resort. - Kids Fun & Childcare Facilities

Farnborough Rd, Yeppoon QLD 4703 BOOK NOW Ph: 61 7 4925 2525 Fx: 61 7 4925 2526 www.rydges.com/capricorn Email: [email protected] www.capricorngolf.com.au 1800 075 902