Australia Queensland

Australia Queensland

Pristine beaches, tropical islands, lush rainforests, vibrant cities and the authentic Australian outback, Queensland is the ultimate holiday destination. Known as Australia’s Sunshine State, Queensland offers an abundance of diverse experiences to create lasting memories.

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Pristine beaches, tropical islands, lush rainforests, vibrant cities and the authentic Australian outback, Queensland is the ultimate holiday destination. Known as Australia’s Sunshine State, Queensland offers an abundance of diverse experiences to create lasting memories.

Brisbane is the state’s capital city, a city full of energy, style, arts and culture. The Brisbane River snakes through the metropolis and is peppered with alfresco dining options. By night, the city comes alive with vibrant bars and live music venues to keep you entertained into the early hours of the morning.

Brisbane is also the perfect hub to explore the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, only an hour away by road. Both coastal regions offer stunning beaches, fabulous food and wine experiences and shopping that rivals many of the great shopping strips. Head further north to swim in the freshwater lakes of Fraser Island, the largest sand island in the world, and just one of Queensland’s five World Heritage listed areas.

Another is the Great Barrier Reef, stretching 2300km along the Queensland coast. Home to a myriad of sea creatures and hidden gems, the best way to explore the reef is to snorkel or scuba dive. There are literally hundreds of Queensland islands where you can relax and indulge in all that island life has to offer. Sail the Whitsunday Islands or take a seaplane to a remote getaway where you can truly escape.

Unwind at a rainforest retreat in Tropical North Queensland. The World Heritage listed Wet Tropics offer spectacular scenery, deep gorges, numerous waterfalls and mountain summits providing expansive rainforest views.

The Queensland Outback is nature of a different kind, one that delivers Australia’s final frontier. Desert sand dunes and lush fishing holes make an interesting combination the friendly locals are only too happy to show you. Travel back to the dinosaur era, listen carefully for the ghost in the home of Waltzing Matilda, or sit back and enjoy a cold beer in one of the iconic outback pubs.

Whether you're relaxing on sun-kissed beaches, trekking through ancient rainforest or snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, there's an experience waiting to become your treasured memory in Queensland.

Brisbane

Come to Brisbane and you'll discover a region that's not only filled with energy, you'll also find it's filled with endless things to do.

Sophisticated and progressive, dynamic and diverse, Brisbane delivers on all fronts. Visitors and locals alike delight in the very best in food, wine, arts, entertainment and major sporting events, all surrounded by a unique environment of relaxed sub-tropical flair. There's exciting shopping, a buzzing night time scene, and no end to the range of outdoor adventures on offer, such as sailing, surfing, hot-air ballooning and Four Wheel Drive excursions.

You'll also find this region to be a hotbed of creative free thinking, with local artists, musicians, writers, jewellers and fashion designers all making their name on the international stage.

At the same time, this is a place without pretension, a city with its feet planted firmly on the ground. And that's exactly what so many people love about Brisbane. From the sun and sand drenched islands in the east, to its cool and crisp mountain rainforests in the west - and all the attractions of a vibrant, modern city in between - Brisbane offers the best of both worlds.

Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is a holiday destination of wonderful contrasts - from the sophistication of Main Beach, the glamour of Surfers Paradise, action-packed theme parks and wildlife sanctuaries to championship golf courses, fabulous shopping and rainforest wonderlands right at the back door! It really is.

Sunshine Coast

Just north of Brisbane, Queensland’s Sunshine Coast offers a relaxed, yet sophisticated lifestyle. Encompassing the coastline from Caloundra to Rainbow Beach and the lush countryside of the hinterland, the beauty of this region will captivate you.

The beaches of the Sunshine Coast are varied with gentle waves to serious surf, while idyllic coastal towns are perfect for both romantic getaways and family holidays. If you prefer a cosy holiday nestled amongst the hills and beautiful Glasshouse Mountains, then wander through the hinterland where you can browse among local delicacies at markets and fresh food stalls.

So be prepared to tempt your tastebuds in Noosa, untie your purse-strings at Eumundi Markets and bring out your inner child at Australia Zoo. You’ll soon realise that one visit to the Sunshine Coast is simply not enough.

Fraser Coast South Burnett

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

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

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

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

Toowoomba & Golden West

In the heart of South East Queensland Country is Toowoomba, situated on the crest of the Great Dividing Range. An easy hour drive south of this area, and you are in Steele Rudd Country. Throughout the shires of Cambooya, Pittsworth and Millmerran explore the pioneer history and writings of Arthur Hoey Davis.

Southern Downs

North into the Eastern Downs you will explore galleries, nurseries, host farms, bed and breakfasts and museums. Drive the designated Tourist Drives through Crows Nest, Rosalie, Jondaryan, Dalby and the Bunya Mountains.

West of Toowoomba you can broaden your horizons in the Western Downs region. This expansive area covers the shires of Chinchilla, Murilla, Taroom, Tara, Waggamba, Balonne, Bendemere, Bungil, Wambo, Waroo, Millmerran and the towns of Roma and Goondiwindi. Your experiences here will be wide and varied from nature based activities like bushwalking and birdwatching to warm, hearty country cuisine and hospitality.

The Southern Downs region is truly where you can escape the pressures of everyday life and do as much or as little as you please. Sample delicious stone fruits straight from the grower. Tour wineries and taste award-winning wines. Explore the region's history and heritage. Take a bushwalk in spectacular national parks or share the romance of an open log fire. Try your hand at freshwater fishing or fossicking, or go sailing on the region's dams. In the Southern Downs you experience real country life and hospitality.

The region provides a natural alternative to the cities and beaches of the coastal area. The Southern Downs stretches from Cunningham's Gap in the east, north to Clifton, south to the border town of Wallangarra, and to Inglewood in the west. The region prides itself on its old-fashioned hospitality. The principal towns are Warwick, Stanthorpe, Killarney, Allora, Inglewood, Texas and Clifton.

Queensland's Southern Downs region has a diverse geography, from the rolling fertile hills of the Warwick Shire, the high altitude granite rock country of Stanthorpe Shire, to the wide open plains of the Inglewood and Clifton Shires.

Queensland's Southern Downs region is steeped in history; the area boasts some of Queensland's finest restored sandstone and timber buildings , including Abbey of the Roses, Talgai Homestead and Glengallan Homestead which is a Queensland Heritage Trails Network Project. A Heritage Trail booklet is available for a small fee from visitor information centres within the region, providing information on the historical buildings through out the area.

Queensland's Southern Downs region has a number of art galleries, historical museums, pottery and craft, antiques and collectibles stores for visitors to enjoy. Markets are held most weekends within the region, and allow visitors to purchases fresh produce and locally made craft items.

Tropical North

Tropical North Queensland is where life enhancing tropical moments await ... a place combining the natural wonders of the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef, Australia's Tropical Rainforests and accessible Outback. Cairns is a vibrant and liveable city with a unique, broad appeal for all visitors, with so many remarkable natural attractions and activities at its doorstep. Take advantage of your time in Cairns and cool off in the Esplanade’s saltwater lagoon or take a stroll through one of the many galleries or shopping boutiques. Scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef is essential and on must-do lists of divers from around the world. The reef can also be enjoyed from the sky in a scenic flight, as you plummet to the ground sky-diving or from the safety of a glass-bottomed boat. Sail between the islands of the region, select between exclusive or rustic accommodation, and have a once in a lifetime experience. Be sure to visit the northern beach communities of Palm Cove and Port Douglas for a relaxing retreat filled with spa treatments at luxurious resorts. Just a little further north you’ll enter into the Daintree National Park where you can experience the stunning Mossman Gorge and the beauty of Cape Tribulation. Further north still is the vast Cape York Peninsula, known as Australia’s last frontier. Then there’s the Outback and Gulf Savannah which covers the remote land to the west from the base of the Great Dividing Range to the Gulf of Carpentaria. Just inland from Cairns is Kuranda. This area encompasses rainforest to dry scrubland; it’s an area that is as diverse as it is enchanting. Take the Kuranda Skyrail gondola ride at the rainforest treetops or take a historic train ride on Kuranda Scenic Railway with beautiful views of the Barron Gorge.

Articles Exploring islands The coral waters are dotted with islands. Lush Green and Fitzroy Islands are a day trip from Cairns. Popular Dunk Island is only minutes from Mission Beach, and exclusive Bedarra, Hinchinbrook and Orpheus Islands lie dreamily nearby. Idyllic island escapes In the reef's tropical northern waters, lush Green and Fitzroy islands are a day's excursion from Cairns. Popular Dunk Island is only minutes from Mission Beach, just north of Cairns, and Bedarra, Hinchinbrook and Orpheus islands lie dreamily nearby. Southern delights The Great Green Way linking Cairns and Townsville is home to some dramatic national parks, some more challenging to explore than others. The twin peaks of Queensland's highest mounts Bartle Frere and Bellenden Ker survey a tropical coastal fringe where rivers meet mangroves. Lush rainforest thrives in the Tully Gorge National Park where rafters thrill on whitewater. On the edge of the Coral Sea, the Eubenangee Swamp National Park is home to a lowland rainforest-fringed swamp. Australia's most famous natural wonder, the Great Barrier Reef, will stun you with its magnificence. It's as big as the total combined area of the United Kingdom and Ireland, and contains more than 1,000 islands, from sandy cays to rainforest isles. The beauty of the waters and the prolific life it supports enraptures visitors. You can reach coral sites by air and water taxi to scuba dive or snorkel for intimate reef views. Or choose comfortable accommodation on some secluded reef island Townsville Townsville is a vibrant region that encompasses beautiful coastal towns, rainforests, rugged Outback and country terrain. Appreciate the beauty of the city and nearby Magnetic Island from Castle Hill, the rugged mountain that gives Townsville a unique rustic appeal. But the charm of this lovely region expands further from the city of Townsville…head in any direction and you’ll be rewarded. The Great Barrier Reef sprawls to the east, the Outback beckons to the west, islands and rainforest entice to the north while sugar cane and mango farming communities tempt in the south. The Townsville region’s national parks are home to rare butterflies and birds, kangaroos, platypus and ancient trees. Many of these also boast beautiful waterfalls and swimming holes…exquisite areas that are reminiscent of a bygone era. There is also a rich history in this region that has been shaped by Aboriginal tribes, miners, pastoralists and war. Remnants of these bygone times are still evident in the beautiful colonial architecture, historic pubs, museums and displays of old gold mining machinery and cottages. The opportunities for exploration in the Townsville Region invite you. Whitsunday In the heart of Queensland's Great Barrier Reef, lie the Whitsundays, 74 islands floating like jewels in the tropical warm waters of the Coral Sea. Discovering the Great Barrier Reef is one of life's must-dos and it's easily accessible from Queensland’s mainland coast at Airlie Beach or directly from the islands. It is a cosmopolitan and vibrant town filled with palm-fringed beaches, waterfront parks and alfresco dining restaurants. The best way to fully explore this lovely region is from the bow of a sailboat…cruise through the islands and drop anchor for a quick snorkel and fall asleep at night to the gentle rocking of the waves under a canopy of stars. Spend the day exploring the pure white silica sands of Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet from one of the world's most exquisite lookouts, or enjoy the views of the reef from the cockpit of a seaplane. Paddle a sea kayak gracefully through the water, follow bushwalking trails overlooking the Coral Sea or simply relax with a cocktail by the pool. You’ve got over 74 unique experiences at your fingertips. Articles A coral wonderland Coral gardens lace nearly every Whitsunday island, but it's also easy to take a boat to the Great Barrier Reef itself. Dive sites are dotted up and down the reef and qualified instructors will guide you through an encounter with tranquil marine life. Cruising reef waters Much of the Great Barrier Reef is ideal for cruising or sailing, with islands providing idyllic sheltered waters and safe havens. Overnight, week-long or extended trips are on offer for those who love the wind in their hair and the sun on their face. Discover tropical national parks The region is a bounty of national parks, and many invite trekking and camping. Three make a backdrop to Airlie Beach, and many of the Whitsunday islands are entirely national parks. Others contain protected green chunks surrounding idyllic resorts. Dive down to the coral The clear, warm waters of the Whitsundays invite divers from around the world. Great visibility, and abundant marine life await! Coral gardens lace nearly every Whitsunday island, and it's also easy to take a boat to the Great Barrier Reef itself. Dive sites are dotted up and down the reef and qualified instructors will guide you through an encounter with tranquil marine life. Day and extended dive trips are available to make the most of your coral adventure. Dive down to the coral The Great Barrier Reef is a scuba diver's paradise. Queensland's warm subtropical climate is perfect for year-round diving and the water is clearer than crystal. Introductory dives and lessons are readily available along the length of the reef. Get happily marooned The seven Whitsunday resort islands – offering lodgings from budget to luxury - promise care-free days and a rich diversity of fun: parasailing, swimming, fishing, bushwalking, diving and coral viewing. The seven Whitsunday resort islands - offering lodgings from budget to luxury - promise care-free days and a rich diversity of fun: parasailing, swimming, tanning, fishing, partying, bush-walking, diving, eating, sleeping, coral viewing...a true escape. There's no better place to sail than the Whitsundays, sheltered from the open ocean by the Great Barrier Reef and laden with frequent, secluded anchorages. Be your own skipper or charter a crew. There's no better place in the world to sail than the Whitsundays, sheltered from the open ocean by the Great Barrier Reef and laden with frequent, secluded anchorages. Be your own skipper or charter a crew for a superb way to explore these waters. The world's best beaches Recognised as one of the world's best beaches, Whitehaven Beach is found on Whitsunday Island. Perfect for swimming, its pure white silica sands slope to clear, warm blue water, mostly shallow and calm. White-sand best beaches The Whitsundays shelter the world's best beaches, particularly Whitsunday Island and its heavenly Whitehaven Beach. Ideal for swimming, its pure white sands slope to clear, warm, blue water, shallow and calm enough for snorkelling amid fishes and rays. Mackay The Mackay region boasts spectacular rainforests and national parks, secluded islands and beaches, pristine coral reefs, genuine country hospitality and historic townships. Relatively undiscovered, the Mackay Region offers a unique holiday experience that is an affordable and diverse escape from the crowds. Located midway between Brisbane and Cairns, the Mackay Region coastline stretches 200 kilometres north from St Lawrence to Laguna Whitsundays, and inland to the town of Clermont. The region’s rich and colourful past is economically founded upon sugar cane, mining, beef and agriculture. The Mackay Region is becoming increasingly popular as a holiday destination for travellers seeking an unspoiled, friendly contrast to more developed, built destinations along the coast. Holiday-makers ‘must-sees’ include: our palm fringed city centre, set beside the mighty blue Pioneer River, the Pioneer Valley, Finch Hatton Gorge and the famous Eungella National Park. Artspace Mackay – gallery and museum, our new Regional Botanic Gardens, the impressive Mackay Marina Village, spectacular scenery of Cape Hillsborough National Park, historic seaside townships such as Sarina and Midge Point, and outback communities such as Clermont and Nebo, superb golden beaches, the Great Barrier Reef and our local islands such as Brampton and Keswick. The region has a delightful tropical climate that is similar to that found in the Hawaiian Islands. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual as are the dress standards. Summers consist of warm, tropical weather without extreme temperatures and mild sunny winters. The average water temperature is a heavenly 22 degrees. Like all North Queensland beaches, those in the Mackay Region can attract marine stingers and box jellyfish from October to May. To avoid danger it is recommended that you swim at patrolled beaches and/or swimming enclosures, and follow any directions from lifesavers, with regards to current conditions. Articles Lounge with kangaroos Continue north past Mackay to reach the Hibiscus Coast, home of Cape Hillsborough National Park. More than a bushwalkers paradise among strands of picturesque rainforest, this is where you can hang out with kangaroos around the wide, sandy beach. Capricorn The Tropic of Capricorn is a unique address and the Capricorn Region is home to many unique places, experiences and people. There are a multitude of things that you'll never find anywhere else. The diversity of the region promises a varied and exciting holiday experience. For example, experience a true unspoilt paradise full of relaxation, adventure and discovery at the Capricorn Coast and the Keppel group of Islands. The Capricorn Coast is also home to award winning resorts, a host of visitor attractions and many undiscovered treasures. The Capricorn region then extends westwards, all the way to the Central Highlands where you'll discover Lake Maraboon, the Southern Hemisphere's second largest man made dam. Rivers and streams to fish in, Barramundi to catch in the Fitzroy River, wetlands and lagoons to explore. National Parks ranging from the deep green of the tropical rainforest, hidden fern gullies or the fascination of massive eucalypt forests with grove of 'bottle' trees, or better yet, enjoy the rich greens of golf courses in the Capricorn Region. There's many a 'treasure' in the Capricorn Region. Fossick for sapphires, gold and 'thunder-eggs'. Discover the limestone caves just twenty minutes north of Rockhampton, Aboriginal Rock Art at Carnarvon Gorge and Blackdown Tableland, watch baby crocodiles hatch from their eggs, witness the flight of the small bent wing bats, enjoy camp drafts, picnic races, or a taste of outback life on a farm stay. The real treasures of the Capricorn Region - the people, genuine country hospitality, and a friendly laid back lifestyle where there is always time to say 'G'day'. Plan to spend some time in the region, you'll find there's always something new to discover. Destination Gladstone Centre of the Southern Reef - The Gladstone Region is a unique area of Queensland - a region where opportunity awaits. This dynamic city basks in a sub-tropical climate with islands, waterways and beaches on the doorstep of the Great Barrier Reef. So many landscapes, variety and so much sunshine provide the visitor with endless opportunities. At the heart of the region, the city of Gladstone overlooks its natural deep water harbour. To the south lie the shires of Calliope and Miriam Vale with idyllic, secluded beaches and scenic National Parks. 1770 is the first place in Queensland that Captain James Cook stepped ashore. Boyne Island is renowned for its beautiful foreshore parks, while its sister city of Tannum Sands offers long sandy beaches for safe coastal recreation. The reef islands within the Gladstone Region are true coral cays, and day trips are on offer to Lady Musgrave Island and Fitzroy Lagoon where visitors can enjoy diving, snorkelling, fishing, reef walking or exploring the flora and fauna The region has several impressive National Parks which add camping and 4 wheel driving to the adventures you can experience in the area. The spectacular cliffs of the Kroombit Tops are cloaked in diverse flora and fauna. Mount Castletower National Park lies at the base of Lake Awoonga with its impressive, yet rugged terrain. Deepwater and Eurimbula National Parks provide the contrast of open eucalypt and paperback forests with lush rainforests and quiet beaches. Gladstone's Tondoon Botanic Gardens are one of Australia's few totally native botanic gardens. The display areas specialise in the plants of the surrounding and Tropical North Queensland regions. The Gladstone Entertainment Centre, forms the focal point of the city's cultural activities. The Gladstone Regional Art Gallery and Museum is a colonial Georgian structure which houses three exhibition areas.