Simple Pleasures - Banana Shire Council
Transcription
Simple Pleasures - Banana Shire Council
Simple Pleasures Banana Shire Main Photo Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland Banana | Baralaba | Biloela | Cracow | Dululu | Goovigen | Jambin Moura | Taroom | Thangool | Theodore | Wowan www.banana.qld.gov.au Welcome to the Banana Shire! What a wonderful region we have – magnificent and diverse, and difficult to showcase in these few pages. So stay awhile and explore. Perhaps you’ve picked up this guide from one of our friendly visitor information centre volunteers; great folk with such a wealth of information about this area and all there is to see and do. Scattered throughout the Banana Shire are twelve country towns. They’re all different, but what is constant is the warm welcome you’ll receive alongside good oldfashioned country hospitality. Our community is justifiably proud of their towns and their businesses, which is why they’re flourishing. Travelling around you’ll notice and come to appreciate how well the urban areas reside comfortably with the surrounding natural environment. Contents The natural landscape of this area is truly stunning and changes with the seasons. Part of the Sandstone Wilderness belt, it’s ancient, aweinspiring and rich in culture. Pioneer pastoralists forged the way followed closely by the resource prospectors – all have put their stamp on the region and shaped its history. Like most of rural Queensland we celebrate our traditions – a lot! And you’re welcome to join in. There’s fishing competitions, campdrafting, race days, town festivals, local shows, rodeos and so much more. Check out the events calendar in this guide and be sure to keep an eye on our website for updates. National Parks ........................ 2 Biloela ...................................... 4 wowan & dululu ...................... 8 BARALABA .................................. 9 Goovigen & Jambin ................. 10 thangool ................................ 11 Moura ..................................... 12 theodore & cracow .............. 14 banana ................................... 15 taroom ................................... 16 fishing & boating ................... 18 Drive Routes + MAP ............... 20 Banana shire Annual Events calendar ................... 25 Map .......................................... 26 Banana Shire Business directory ............................... 28 The Banana Shire is a terrific place to live, work and play. Enjoy your stay, gather some stories and be sure to spread the word. Cr Ron Carige Mayor Some of the images featuring in this publication are courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland. BANANA SHIRE TRAVEL GUIDE NATIONAL PARKS Isla Gorge National Park The surprise package national park, Isla Gorge, pronounced ‘eye-la’, looks like an unremarkable scrub plain until you drive in and the gorge appears in spectacular fashion. Truly a ‘wow’ moment, which becomes even more superb at dawn and sunset when the sandstone escarpments that rise 150 metres from the grassy plain below catch the sun’s coloured hues. Many rock overhangs are adorned with engravings and ochre stencils; everlasting evidence of the Iman Aboriginal people’s ancient occupation and understanding of the area. Kroombit Tops National Park 1945 and wasn’t discovered until 1994. The 30-minute interpretive walking trail at the site is a moving experience. Get lost! In the nicest possible way of course, amid the wilderness of Kroombit Tops National Park. At Annie Creek is the mighty sandstone wall – a perfect place to picnic before arriving at The Lookout, which, as the name suggests, is the place for stunning views of the Boyne Valley and beyond. It’s wild and remote with rugged gorges, dense forest, mighty sandstone cliffs and breathtaking views – once you reach the peak. And that’s the fun bit – as this is an off-roader’s delight with four-wheel-drive tracks throughout for drivers of all abilities. Deep within the park lies a memorial to Beautiful Betsy, a WWII B-24D Liberator Bomber aircraft that went missing in Those preferring footprints to tyre tracks have a choice of four walking tracks, including a challenging full day hike along the eastern escarpment through beautiful, open blackbutt forest with frequent glimpses of the valley far below. There is a short walking track along the escarpment from the picnic area, but only experienced, well-equipped bushwalkers should tackle the tracks that descend into the valley. Isla Gorge National Park Getting there: 56 km north of Taroom and 36 km south of Theodore via the Leichhardt Highway. Access: Entry accessible by all-wheel-drive. Suitable for caravans. Camping: One camping area. Camping permits and fees required. Things to do: Bushwalking, birdwatching, photography, wildlife spotting. id you know? – The wedgeD tailed eagle can squeeze and elongate its eyeball so that it acts like a telephoto lens. Expedition National Park Getting there: 90 km northwest of Taroom via the Fitzroy Development Road. Kroombit Tops National Park Getting there: 40 km from Biloela and 85 km from Calliope. Camping: Three bush campsites. Campers must be self-sufficient. Camping permits and fees required. Things to do: Bushwalking, birdwatching, off-road driving, visit WWII bomber crash site. id you know? – A number of D personal effects were found with the wreck of Beautiful Betsy including 38 coins, 4 gold rings and a dental bridge. SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE Isla Gorge is a haven for wildlife. Wedgetailed eagles and peregrine falcons soar on thermals created above the gorges, while wallabies and kangaroos graze the sparse plains. Wildflowers peek through stone crevices and honeyeaters take advantage of their nectar. Kroombit Tops is a place to stop awhile and enjoy the serenity. Four-wheeldrive only bush camping is available at The Wall and The Razorback, while the Griffiths Creek site is suitable for allwheel-drive vehicles. Access: Entry accessible by all-wheel-drive, all other tracks for high-clearance 4WD only. Access dry weather only. Not suitable for caravans. 2 Remnants of an old hand-paved road at the western end of the park near Flagstaff Hill, which was built in 1864 to transport wool from the Roma district to Rockhampton, are a reminder of the tough pioneers that forged their livelihood in the district. Expedition National Park It feels like you’re the first one to discover this remote and seemingly untouched wilderness area – much the same as the ill-fated explorer, Ludwig Leichhardt, who trekked through here in 1844. In the east section, Robinson Gorge, lined with cabbage palms, bottle brush and wattle, winds 14 kilometres between sheer sandstone cliffs rising more than 100 metres in places. There’s walking tracks to the gorge lookout, Shepherd’s Peak or a natural lookout over the Cattle Dip – a fabulous permanent waterhole. Expedition National Park is another spectacular stop in the Sandstone Wilderness region for people who prefer no people. It’s quite possible that you’ll have more than 100,000 hectares all to yourself, even on weekends. On the western side of the park, the Lonesome and Beilba sections lie on the border of the more well-known Carnarvon Range. Here the vegetation changes to brigalow and softwood scrubs, dotted with wildflowers in late winter and spring. Access: Only by 4WD and not suitable for caravans. Camping: Three designated bush campsites and various bush camping locations throughout. Campers must be self-sufficient. Camping permits and fees required. Things to do: Bushwalking, birdwatching, off-road driving, photography, wildlife spotting. Did you know? – The first inhabitants of this area were the Iman Aboriginal people who used rock stencilling for communication. Detailed information for these national parks, including maps and camp booking information can be found at www.nprsr.qld.gov.au or telephone 13 74 68. SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE 3 BILOELA BILOELA, PRONOUNCED ‘BILL-O-WEEL-A’ IS THE COMMERCIAL CENTRE OF THE CALLIDE VALLEY AND BRIMMING WITH THINGS TO SEE AND DO. Coal, Power and Water Out on the Callide Mine Road is the Callide Lookout – it’s partly gravel and not suitable for caravans. The country surrounding Biloela is perfect for growing beef cattle. Generally high-meat yielding cross-bred Brahman and Droughtmaster cattle do well in the sub-tropical environment and are sold through yards at Biloela and Moura. Here’s the place to view the industrial heart of the valley where steam rises from the stacks of the Callide Power Station, driven by the coal extracted from the open cut Callide Mine that produces more than eight million tonnes of subbituminous thermal coal per annum. Alongside is the Callide Dam, constructed in 1965 to supply water to the power station. It holds 136,300 megalitres covering an area of 1240 hectares. Apart from being useful in an industrial sense, it’s the place to go for some excellent fishing and water sports. Cropping and Cattle THE GANGULU PEOPLE, TRADITIONAL OWNERS OF THE DAWSON AND CALLIDE VALLEYS, NAMED BILOELA FOR THE WHITE COCKATOO – WHAT WE KNOW AS THE SULPHUR-CRESTED COCKATOO – THE WITTY LARRIKIN OF THE AUSSIE BIRD WORLD AND THE LIKELY CULPRIT OF YOUR EARLY MORNING WAKE-UP CALL. Queensland Heritage Park Complex Make your first stop the Queensland Heritage Park Complex in Exhibition Avenue. Have a chat to the friendly volunteers at the Rural Hinterland Visitor Information Centre here and grab a few brochures to peruse over a cuppa and home-made treat in the café. Once fortified you’ll be ready to immerse yourself in the area’s history with a wander around the displays. For a few dollars, be treated to a comprehensive collection of memorabilia housed in a historic church and railway building. Alongside is a shed with a fascinating range of vintage machinery enthusiastically restored by the Callide Dawson Machinery Preservation Club. If you’re here in July, enjoy the annual Old Wheels in Motion motor rally held on site. Belonging to the complex is a 48-hour stop-over with amenities, dump point and drinking water top-up, barbeques, picnic tables and a lovely shady lake. The complex is open daily from 9.00 am – 4.00 pm. Greycliffe Homestead The visitor information centre folk will make an appointment for you to visit the Greycliffe Homestead on Lawrence Street, and it’s well worth a look. The homestead was built in the 1870s with timber slabs cut with adze and a pitsaw. The rafters were crafted from round bush timber and it features a shingle roof. It was owned by the Nott family for 100 years and was moved into town in 1976 to 4 SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE be preserved by the National Trust of Queensland and enjoyed by everyone. A knowledgeable guide gives a fascinating account of pioneer living as you walk through the house and outbuildings restored with furnishings and utensils of the period. Take a walk around Lace up the walking shoes, fill a bottle of water and head off for an hour along the cultural heritage trail. The visitor information centre has the brochure with a guide to each section. Both start at Melton Park and take in the town’s old architecture and points of interest telling stories along the way about the area and its heritage. In fact, there’s no less than 20 kilometres of walking and bike trails around Biloela – no excuse not to discover what the town has to offer at a more leisurely pace. Maps of the trails are available at the visitor information centre. The Spirit of the Land Mural is a community project painted on one of the huge water tanks on State Farm Road. As you walk around it there are a number of storyboards that depict the progression of settlement of the district from prehistoric times to 1928. Certainly a colourful and unique way to absorb a history lesson. After all that walking it’ll be time for a cup of ‘real’ coffee in one of the town’s inviting coffee shops or a cold ale at one of the local pubs. Perhaps, if it’s too hot for a walk, a refreshing swim at the Olympic-size pool might be welcome. Just what is that shrubby-looking stuff growing in rows in paddocks surrounding town? It’s Leucaena, sometimes known as a legume tree. Originating in Mexico and Central and South America, it has been used for centuries as animal fodder, human vegetable, green manure, fuel wood, shade and charcoal. When combined with pasture, Leucaena is recognised as one of the most productive and sustainable tropical free-grazing forage systems for cattle. During March to June every year, the valley resonates with the sound of cotton picking. Both dryland and irrigated cotton varieties are planted in late spring and harvested six months later. The dry cotton ‘bolls’, which are actually the fruit of the bush, are taken off the plant with mechanical harvesters and rolled into giant round bales that are trucked to the local cotton gin at Moura. Harvesting is a great subject for a photo or two and take a moment to pick up a bit of the fluffy white stuff from the side of the road to feel what eventually turns into your pair of jeans! Griffith Oxley Clinic Quality Health Care For Everyone • • • • • Mixed Billing We take New Patients 4 GPs available (Choice of Male & Female GPs) Centrally located with easy access to Car Park & Onsite Pathology We do Q-Fever Vaccines, Travel Vaccines, Health Assessments, Pre Employment Medicals, Drug & Alcohol Screenings, Skin Checks, Implanon Insertion & Removal Open 7 days Mon – Fri 8:30am to 5pm | Sat 9am to 12pm | Sun 9am to 11am Ph: 4992 2166 | Fax: 4992 2765 | 45 Grevillea Street Biloela Qld 4715 Buy 3 Just Country Workshirts for $100 Mens & Ladies Horseshoe Ropers $129.90 Mens & Ladies Ariat Ropers $169.90 Kids Ariat Ropers $95.00 Mens Wrangler Jeans – 2 for $95.00 COME IN & GRAB A BARGAIN www.roundyard.com.au Your Local Firearms, Ammunition and Camping Store We are the local area camping store. The stock range includes: swags, stretchers, camp furniture, tents, tarps, lights, binoculars, gazebos, knives, sharpeners and a range of rust solutions and fishing tackle. Also major stockists of firearms and ammunition, rifle scopes, targets, archery and accessories. We also cut a wide range of keys. DAVE’S DISPOSALS (07) 4992 3801 50 Callide St, Biloela Q 4715 SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE 5 BILOELA Whether you are passing through or staying a while, Discovery Parks – Biloela is your best choice for comfort, quality and ‘home away from home’. Our pet-friendly park is nestled amongst plentiful crop fields, close to the main street of the town and nearby sports grounds. 75 Dawson Highway BILOELA QLD 4715 The Silo Motor Inn is an accredited four star motel located at the north end of town and directly opposite ‘The Silo’. We offer various sized rooms accommodating up to a maximum of five guests. Our accommodation offers something for everyone, from camp and powered sites, to selfcontained cabins and rooms for corporate clients. For something a little more luxurious, enjoy our 3 star superior cabin, with queen and sofa bed, kitchenette, TV and en-suite bathroom. Gateway to Fun For off-road enthusiasts, Biloela is the northern access to Kroombit Tops National Park for high-clearance, self-contained vehicles only. Take the Valentine Plains Road to the Razorback Track. Just a few kilometres south, near Thangool, is the unusual Mount Scoria Regional Park. The once volcanic mountain features unusual and impressive columnar basalt pillars, made from cooling lava. five INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT Biloela 6 Being the only mountain of this type in the Southern Hemisphere it’s culturally and spiritually significant. Some say it makes magical musical sounds when the wind blows through the rock. There’s a walking track around the base and a picnic area. Silo Motor Inn 75 Dawson Highway BILOELA QLD 4715 Phone: Fax: Email: Web: Facilities include: - Barbecue - Licensed restaurant - Room Service meals - Guest laundry - Car parking (covered) - Internet access - Foxtel - Swimming pool 07 4992 5555 07 4992 3555 silomotorinn@people.net.au www.silomotorinn.com Want the thrill of a big barra catch? Then head to Lake Callide (Callide Dam), just a short drive from Biloela. The dam is stocked with golden perch (yellowbelly), barramundi and saratoga and a catch is assured from boat or bank. There’s no camping here, but you’ll find picnic facilities, a boat ramp, toilets, drinking water and a playground. The Callide Power Station houses the Callide Oxyfuel Project, a $245 million world-leading carbon capture technology, low emissions project, which is an international joint venture by the Australian and Japanese governments. Melton Park in Biloela has a fun maze providing endless amusement for young children. While Lions Park has an awesome playground, barbeque facilities, bike paths for the kids, a flying fox and a basketball hoop. Biloela War Memorial in ANZAC Park is in the form of a whale boat used by troops to land at Gallipoli. Hedges form the outline of the frame of the boat, the flagpoles depict the upright oars and the transom is represented by a gate with two bronze rising suns. The Biloela markets are held on the 3rd Saturday of each month at Barimis Park in Callide Street between 8.00 am and 2.00 pm. The Art Gallery is on Valentine Plains Road. Entry is free. Open 9.30 am to 4.00 pm Monday to Friday. SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE Discovery Parks Biloela 1-31 Valentine Plains Rd Biloela QLD 4715 T: (07) 4992 2618 E: Biloela@discoveryparks.com.au Each room includes: - iPad/iPhone/iPod dock - Microwave oven - Refrigerator - Tea & coffee making facilities - Rain head showers - Split system air/con SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE 7 WOWAN & DULULU BARALABA LITTLE TOWNS WITH ODD NAMES, BIG HEARTS AND ARMS WIDE OPEN TO TRAVELLERS. THIS IS WHERE YOU’LL FIND RIVERSIDE FISHING, FREE CAMPING, FRIENDLY LOCALS AND A TALE OR TWO. five INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT BARALABA Wowan Dululu This rural oasis sits on the banks of Pocket Creek amid ancient gums. Dululu is a highway junction town on the gorgeous Dee River. The local community provide a camp area behind the tennis courts with power, toilets and hot showers for a small charge. Wander down to the highway river crossing for a spot of fishing or a cool dip before enjoying a refreshing ale at the other ‘watering hole’, the Dululu Hotel, which also offers accommodation. Wowan, named after the Aboriginal word for ‘scrub turkey’, was originally a dairy area and housed a butter factory in the 1920s, which is now a museum. The rural surrounds remain rich in diverse produce that include hay, grain, beef and timber. The small and friendly Wowan Caravan Park is behind the butter factory and has a great bush kitchen or have a meal at the local hotel or roadhouse. For something different, the local gliding club is open on weekends. Spots of interest include Gulliver’s Waterhole, two kilometres south, where in 1860, Native Trooper Gulliver was shot escaping capture after being accused of murdering Fanny Briggs, and the resting place of settler Archibald McNab, a kilometre north-east, who supposedly died of complications from a spear wound also in the same year. five INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT wowan & dululu The Dululu Hotel was destroyed by fire in 1934 and rebuilt the following year. A local Brahman bull fetched $300,000 at auction in 2006 and set an Australian record. Dululu is the local Aboriginal word for ‘soft’. THE ICONIC MT RAMSAY IS A DISTANT BEACON GUIDING TRAVELERS TO THE FRIENDLY COUNTRY TOWN OF BARALABA. Heartfelt History Nestled on the banks of the Dawson River, Baralaba is perfect for visitors wanting an authentic rural Queensland experience with a touch of pioneer spirit. Where else but Power Street would be a fitting home for the old Dawson Valley Colliery? A heritage listed site with a step-back-in-time feel of buildings and equipment in various stages of 40-plus years of decay and dereliction. A stroll down Stopford Street is a pleasant introduction to the life and times of Baralaba, but the real treasure is to be found at the Baralaba Historical Village where locals Colin and Tinny Major lovingly care for a collection of buildings from the district, preserved for all time. Nomads will be delighted with the free camp at the Neville Hewitt Weir where there’s a boat ramp to launch the tinnie, amenities, barbeques and picnic shelters, and it’s pooch-friendly. To experience life on a Central Queensland property, venture out to Myella Farmstay. Ride a horse or a motorbike, milk a cow, feed the animals, commune with native wildlife, or just relax and enjoy rural life in a comfy room or your own campsite. Major’s store has provided continuous service to the locals for 71 years, while Baralaba Hotel has offered a bed and meals for more than 80 years. he Landcare Centre has local T information, internet access, and artwork by the Baralaba Art Group. here’s an impressive T collection of old photos from the Baralaba Historical Group to view at the Landcare Centre. On the western bank of the river at Neville Hewitt Weir is a challenging, but enjoyable, 9-hole golf course. Cattle and crops sustain the local economy, while the open cut mine continues Baralaba’s claim to the longest coal mining history in the Banana Shire. Wowan began its life as a camp for railway workers building the line from Mount Morgan to Theodore. The Dawson Valley Dairy Cooperative began in 1916 and ran until 1969. It had more than 600 suppliers in the 1930s. 8 SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE 9 GOOVIGEN & JAMBIN THANGOOL Close to the highway town of Thangool is an impressive-looking mountain rising out of the flat agricultural landscape. Mount Scoria dominates the surrounding landscape. The local Gangulu people named it ‘dangama mungar’, which means ‘thunder mountain’ – perfect considering Mount Scoria was once the site of an active volcano. The mountain features unusual and impressive columns created by the slowcooling lava. It’s a culturally significant place, the story of which can be found on the storyboards that line the walking track around the mountain’s base. Back in Thangool enjoy a beverage at the local hotel and check out the racing calendar for events at the local racecourse. FRIENDLY FOLK, HEARTY COUNTRY-STYLE PUB MEALS AND THE BEST FREE CAMPING FOR MILES. Camp at the local Goovigen showgrounds with power, hot showers, toilets and barbeques nestled under large shady trees. A $5.00 donation is requested – small price, big reward! The old School of Arts building is a time capsule on stumps where the walls are lined stories of intrepid pioneers. Soak up the rural Queensland atmosphere at the friendly Jambin Hotel, only 29 kilometres north of Biloela on the Burnett Highway. wholesome, delicious and reasonably priced! ‘One of the highlights of our trip’ and ‘Great food, good conversation and friendly staff’; just a couple of comments from travellers who’ve parked up behind the pub for an overnight stay. It’s a free site with access to power, toilets and showers, and it’s pet-friendly. There’s no obligation to dine at the hotel, but the word’s out that the pub grub is Further north just off the Burnett Highway (Dooney’s Road) at Smoky Creek is Lake Victoria. A free camp on the edge of a lake full of birdlife and wildlife. It’s remote with no facilities and is not recommended after heavy rain – just right for some peace and quiet. five INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT Goovigen & Jambin Jambin is believed to be the Aboriginal word for ‘echidna’. Kids will enjoy a leg stretch at the recently refurbished Thangool park where there’s new playground equipment, toilets, picnic facilities and some information about the local area. five INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT thangool Columnar Basalt like that on Mount Scoria is found on Mars. ount Scoria was named for M scoriaceaous basalt, but very little is found there. he eastern and southern slopes T of Mount Scoria contain unusual semi-evergreen vine thicket. hangool was settled in the 1850s by T the Archer brothers on advice from explorer Ludwig Leichhardt. It’s possible to catch a decent feed of yellowbelly at Lake Victoria. 10 ilbirnie Homestead on the Argoon-Kilburnie Road near K Jambin is listed on the Qld Heritage Register and has been in the Campbell family for four generations. he Goovigen Hotel Motel provides helpful tourist information T and meals. campdraft is held at Jambin Recreation Reserve in A September each year. Jambin also hosts working dog trials every June. Thangool’s airport has regular commercial flights to and from Brisbane. SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE 11 MOURA COAL, CATTLE, COTTON AND CROPS IN A BIG WIDE COUNTRY. THAT’S HOW THE LOCALS DESCRIBE THEIR TOWN OF MOURA IN THE HEART OF THE RESOURCE RICH DAWSON VALLEY. 192,000 tonnes. Wheat and sorghum are the primary grains grown in the district. five During harvest season, the birds flock around in impressive numbers and head to the Dawson River to drink. Eight kilometres from Moura is a free camp on the river at Apex Park with toilets and showers, barbeque facilities and a boat ramp. ACCORDING TO GANGULU CULTURE, THE RAINBOW SERPENT (MOONDYA GUTTA) FORMED THE RIVERS AND STREAMS AS HE WRIGGLED ACROSS THE LAND; THE DEEP WATERHOLES WERE HIS SPECIAL RESTING PLACES AND MOURA IS RIGHT AMONGST THEM. It’s no secret that coal mining has played a major role in the town’s development since 1961 and it’s still in much evidence today on the approach to town from every direction and proliferation of ‘high vis’ and purpose-built utes around the place. As a tribute to the area’s three tragic mining disasters that claimed the lives of 36 miners, a bronze statue of a miner stands guard over the Dawson Highway at the western end of town. For those fascinated with the spectacle of large-scale open cut coal mining operations, including the world’s largest working drag line, a special viewing platform has been established about ten kilometres south on the Gibihi Road to Theodore. Moura was a thriving place many years before coal mining came to town and where better to find out more than the local information centre and museum. Special themed rooms filled with photographs and other memorabilia give the visitor a true feel of how the area grew and changed from an 85,000 12 SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE hectare pastoral run into the naturally rich and diverse region of today. A feature of the museum is a collection of Japanese items that were gifts from the Mitsui Mining Company. If you really want to know where you stand, then travel three kilometres east of Moura on the Dawson Highway to the 150th Meridian Marker that shows the position of the invisible line (150°E) on which Australian (Eastern Standard) time is based. At the time of the equinox, a day is exactly 12 hours long anywhere on the meridian line. ‘Holey rocks’, like the ones at the Moura Meridian Marker, can be found all around Moura and are a product of the mine’s blasting process. Standing sentinel over the town are six enormous grain silos with storage sheds, which, when built, were the second largest grain storage facility in Queensland with a capacity to store It’s home to the annual Moura Muddy Water Classic family fishing competition every April run by the Moura Apex Fish Stocking Group Inc. to raise funds for restocking the river with barramundi and yellowbelly fingerlings. INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT MOura he Moura grain storage facility T is the 2nd largest in Queensland. The largest is in Gladstone, South Australia at 600,000 tonnes. Another fabulous event is the Coal and Country Festival held in August for more than 40 years. This is the genuine article in terms of rural shin-digs with loads of fun from Aussie bull rides, to flower shows, boxing tent, pig racing and the prestigious Queensland Coal Shovelling Titles and Roof Bolting competitions. here are 3 mining memorials; the T Kianga memorial hall, Miners Statue in Bicentenary Park and a garden memorial just off 3 Chain Road. The vibrant Moura community promote their town as somewhere to ‘breathe fresh country air, experience the real Australia, and get closer to nature’, and it’s hard to disagree. ther festivals held at Apex Park O include the Dawson River Festival and the Camp Oven Cook Off. Queensland Nitrate operates a facility near Moura that produces 210,000 tonnes per year of explosive grade ammonium nitrate for the mining industry. No-one is really sure how Moura got its name. Belief is it is named after Moura in Portugal where first selector Charles Marshall served in the Peninsular Wars. Photo 1Lorem Ipsum Lorem Ipsum Lorem Ipsum Photo 2 Lorem Ipsum Lorem Ipsum Lorem Ipsum Photo 3 Lorem Ipsum Lorem Ipsum Lorem Ipsum Photo 4 Lorem Ipsum Lorem Ipsum Lorem Ipsum SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE 13 THEODORE & CRACOW Theodore Cracow Take a stroll down the avenue – or actually The Boulevard – Theodore’s impressive main street; browse the speciality stores; have a coffee; perhaps a sweet treat. Perhaps the locals wouldn’t mind their town being described as a bit kooky and spooky. This historic gold mining town fairly resonates with days gone by. The famous architect Walter Burleigh-Griffin designed this town; can you tell? Look for his signature circular design in the local park. Aussie legend Fred Brophy owns the pub and you can catch his boxing troupe here from time to time. The quirky hotel, complete with ghost stories, offers accommodation, evening meals and lunch all week. Camping is available opposite the pub. Hotel Theodore is also famous as Queensland’s only community co-operatively owned hotel. It offers motel and cabin style accommodation, delicious meals and the usual range of beverages. Riverside, Junction Park is the perfect spot for a pit-stop, free overnight camping, or to launch the tinnie for a spot of barra fishing. There’s three restored historic buildings, plenty of relics, living and built, and a mining heritage centre offering three powered campsites with toilet and shower facilities, plus an overflow camping area if you’re self-contained. Not sure where to go? Pop into the pub, they’ll be sure to set you straight. BANANA BANANA, THE TOWN AT THE JUNCTION OF THE DAWSON AND LEICHHARDT HIGHWAYS, WAS NAMED AFTER A BULLOCK – NOT A YELLOW FRUIT IN SIGHT. five INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT BANANA Established in 1860, Banana is the geographical and historical heart of the shire. In the 1880s, local drovers used a brawny dun-coloured bullock, with the unfortunate name of ‘Banana’, as a decoy to coax wild cattle into yards. When the bullock died he was taken to a nearby gully, which was named ‘Banana’s Gully’. A settlement grew up that took the name of the gully and became the site of the original shire headquarters in 1862. A historic marker, from which all the distances in the shire were derived, is still located in the main street near the caravan park. HOLMES E N T E R P R I S E S five INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT Theodore & Cracow Council HQ was moved to Biloela in 1946 and, while it’s no longer the beating heart of the region, this town with a quirky name and a character to match serves a busy travelling community from the roadhouse and the central hotel, motel and caravan park. I n the Canoona gold rush, gold was found in Banana Gully and a town of 2000 people sprang up. he town of Banana is one of the T oldest in Central Queensland. I n 1865, the first bank, The Queensland Government Savings Bank, was established in Banana. anana’s historic cemetery is worth a B visit with some of the many pioneers’ graves dating back to 1870. Theodore’s Dawson Folk Museum began its life as a power and pumping station. helicopter sculpture marks Theodore’s A total evacuation in the 2010 flood event. racow ‘beach’ on the Dawson River has C an abundance of rare Livistona Palms, a free campsite and is a great fishing spot. 62 The Boulevard, THEODORE Qld 4719 PH: 07 49931 133 holmes.ent@bigpond.com Facebook/Holmes Enterprises 14 SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE lagstaff Hill on the north-western tip of F Isla Gorge National Park has a section of remnant hand-paved road built in 1863 by just 16 men. Cracow Aboriginal stockman Johnny Nipps stumbled on a gold nugget in 1913 while looking for a missing horse along Boughyard Creek. The Hotel Theodore is the only community owned Hotel in Queensland and offers a range of accommodation including: Self Contained Cabins overlooking the mighty Dawson River, Refurbished Motel Rooms, New Ensuited Single Person’s Quarters and Refurbished Hotel Rooms Functions are well catered for with 150 seat Convention Room and smaller, intimate Bistro, spacious Lounge Bar and popular Sportsman’s Bar. Delicious counter meals are available for lunch and dinner. Managers Trish Cotterell and John Clifton look forward to welcoming you to Theodore and the Historic Hotel Theodore. The Boulevard, Theodore Q 4719 E: reservations@hoteltheodore.com.au W: www.hoteltheodore.com.au T: 07 4993 1244 SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE 15 TAROOM Another 20 kilometres north on the Glenhaughton Road is Lake Murphy Conservation Park – where peace prevails. It’s a gravel road that can be a bit rough, but take it slow because the destination is worth the bumps. Grassy level campsites, toilets, barbeques, fireplaces, a walking track and amazing birdlife, particularly when the lake is full, make this a special destination. Camping permits and fees apply, visit www.nprsr.qld.gov.au EXPLORER, LUDWIG LEICHHARDT, LITERALLY STAMPED HIS MARK ON THIS QUIET, PICTURESQUE PASTORAL TOWN ON THE BANKS OF THE DAWSON RIVER. The Leichhardt Tree in the main street did have ‘LL 44’ carved into it, but the bark has grown over the carving and a plaque now takes its place. It remains a monument to Australian history and Leichhardt’s remarkable achievement. For a bit more Leichhardt memorabilia, Yaldwyn Street is the home of Ludwig Leichhardt Park with three bronze memorial plaques detailing the intrepid explorer’s life and his disappearance in 1848. The park is also a genuine native botanical garden with lovely examples of Indigenous trees and shrubs. The Dawson River winds past Taroom providing a lovely spot for a stroll, a picnic or a spot of birdwatching. 16 SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE barracks. Chain Lagoons has stands of the rare Livistona cycad palms that are well worth a look as they’re such a contrast to the surrounding scrub and grasslands. Stay a night at this tranquil free camp and enjoy an open fire and a bit of bird spotting if there’s some water in the lagoons. five INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT Taroom On the western edge of town is a rare windmill built by the Steel Wings Company in Sydney between 1895 and 1910. It remained in service at Kinnoul Station pumping water from Kinnoul Creek to the homestead and garden for 50 years until its stand burnt and collapsed. The ever-helpful visitor information centre folk are happy to arrange for travellers to visit the local museum, which is a well-stocked historical folk museum with a blacksmith’s shop and a boat house. On the road again, 15 kilometres north of Taroom the Leichhardt Highway crosses Palm Tree Creek that was once the site of the native police They are three Steel Wings windmills in existence: one in Taroom; one in Jerilderie and another one at Dalwallinu Western Australia. aroom racecourse is one of only four courses T in Queensland that runs in an anti-clockwise direction. It’s also one of the oldest, dating back to 1871. Two meetings are held here annually, during September and the Christmas period. he Leichhardt Tree is a coolabah, the same T as the jolly swagman camped under in Banjo Paterson’s Waltzing Matilda. ake a walk up Gilbert’s Lookout for a T panoramic view of the town, the river and the surrounding country. I sla Gorge, just 55 km north of Taroom, offers bush camping, walking tracks, rainwater and toilets plus a spectacular lookout with panoramic views of the gorge. SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE 17 FISHING & BOATING Moura Weir - Moura Theodore Weir - Theodore Access - Boat ramp, no restrictions. Access - Boat ramp provided. Facilities - Toilets, coin hot water, fish cleaning table. Facilities - BBQs, toilets, picnic tables. Camping - Free (donation) at Apex Park just upstream. Camping - Junction Park in Theodore. Species - Barramundi, saratoga, golden perch, catfish, sleepy cod and spangled perch. Species - Saratoga, golden perch, silver perch, catfish, sleepy cod, spangled perch. Neville Hewitt Weir - Baralaba Home of the Baralaba Saratoga Fishing Classic in September each year. Access - Boat ramp, no restrictions. Facilities - Toilets, showers, drinking water, picnic tables, fire places, BBQs, dump point. Lake Callide DAWSON RIVER FISHING Got the tinnie on board? Want the thrill of a big barra catch? Then head to Lake Callide (Callide Dam), just a short drive from Biloela. The Dawson River is one of the main tributaries of the mighty Fitzroy River system of Queensland. As it winds eastwards from its head north of Injune, the Dawson crosses the Leichhardt Highway at Taroom and again at Theodore and passes through the towns of Moura and Baralaba. There’s no such thing as a bad day’s fishing here where anglers will be rewarded with a feast of golden perch (yellowbelly), barramundi and saratoga. The great eating freshwater crayfish, red-claw, is abundant and it’s well worth placing (tagged) traps for a decent catch. Fishing from the bank is pretty good too. Fish species stocked are saratoga, barramundi, yellowbelly and silver perch and there’s breeding populations of eel tailed catfish, sleepy cod, spangled perch and alligator gar. Facilities include concrete boat ramps, toilets, drinking water, picnic tables and playground. A Stocked Impoundment Permit is required to fish in this dam. Visit www.smartservice.qld.gov.au or telephone 13 74 68 or enquire at the local bait and tackle shop. 18 SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE Glebe Weir - 30 km from Taroom on Theodore Road Orange Creek Weir/ Cracow Beach - Cracow Access - Bank access and boat ramp. Access - Small bank access area. Roof topper boats can be carried to the water on the top side of the weir. Facilities - Toilets, drinking water and picnic tables. Facilities - None. Camping - Caravan and camping sites. Bush camping at Wide Waterhole. Camping - Bush camping permitted on higher ground only. Rules - No fishing 100 m upstream and 200 m downstream of weir. Rules - No fishing 150 m downstream. Species - Saratoga, golden perch, silver perch, catfish, sleepy cod, spangled perch. Species - Saratoga, golden perch, silver perch, catfish, sleepy cod, spangled perch. Camping - Free caravan and camp sites with bush camping along the river. Species - Barramundi, saratoga, golden perch, spangled perch, catfish, and sleepy cod. Fishing tips n Catch saratoga with casting lures from baby bullies to poppers of white, silver, yellow or light blue. n Yellowbelly or golden perch can be caught on baits by bobbing with a yabby, using a lure or a spinnerbait. n Sleepy cod are pretty docile and can be caught by dangling bait near them. Great eating fish. n Work lures during the day or under moonlight. n Fish shallow areas during dawn, dusk and night. n Work deep waters during the day. Live baits work well. Collect mussels from lake’s edge, dig worms, set bait traps for shrimp and red claw, fish baits under a float or off the bottom for saratoga and barramundi or off the bottom for sleepy cod. Recreational fishing rules and regulations in Queensland Visit www.daf.qld.gov.au or pick up a copy of the Queensland Recreational Boating and Fishing Guide from bait and tackle shops or download the Qld Fishing App from Google Play or the App Store. For freshwater boating rules in Queensland visit www.msq.qld.gov.au or telephone 13 23 80. SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE 19 DRIVE ROUTES Biloela – Lake Callide Loop 58 km (allow 3.5 - 5 hours) Biloela - Exhibition Avenue - Queensland Heritage Park Complex n Historical buildings and displays, vintage machinery, café and visitor information. nRight onto Exhibition Avenue – left onto Dawson Highway – left onto State Farm Road. Four Pubs Loop Biloela – Jambin – Dululu – Wowan – Goovigen – Biloela 163 km loop (allow 2.5 hours plus) From Biloela head north on the Burnett Highway. Jambin J ambin Hotel – The settlement of Jambin, Aboriginal for ‘echidna’, was originally set up as a supply depot for the railways. Continue north on the Burnett Highway. n Jambin Cemetery nDon River crossing nCentral Queensland Gliding Club – open weekends. wwwcqgliding.org.au n Dixalea-Doreen Road – monument to early cotton growing pioneers. Continue onto Dululu. Dululu Dululu Hotel – Check out the Dee River at the crossing. nFarm gate citrus to be bought when in season. 20 SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE Travel south-west along the Leichhardt Highway for 10 km. Wowan Wowan Commercial Hotel – Take a drive around the village and appreciate some of the well-maintained old weatherboard buildings or drop into the Wowan Museum and gain the history first-hand from a local. Head south along the Leichhardt Highway and take the Rannes-Goovigen Road on the left. Follow this road through attractive rural landscapes for 19 km. Goovigen Goovigen Royal Hotel Motel – Visit the historic renovated ironclad School of Arts building and an old church. n pirit of the Land Mural – A 100 m long artwork wrapped around S one of the town’s water reservoirs tells the story of women from two different cultures connecting to celebrate the historical timelines of the district from pre-historic times up until 1928. n ack down State Farm Road – left onto the Dawson Highway – right B onto Biloela-Callide Road. n n n Turn left onto Ian McCauley Way immediately after crossing a grid. n n Continue to drive back down the mountain to Biloela-Callide Road. n ld Rainbow Hotel site – Marked by two boulders a plaque explains O the history of the Old Rainbow Hotel and surrounds. n n Head back along Coal Road (towards Biloela) for approximately 18 km. n Callide Dam – Picnic area, barbeques, boating, fishing, swimming. Callide Mine Lookout n the return trip, stop at the lookout on the left to view the Callide O Dam and Power Station. urn left onto Coal Road – pull-up just past the Zangaris Road turnT off (on your right). urn left at the green ‘Callide Dam’ sign, cross the Callide Creek and T turn left onto Lake Callide Drive. Gorges Way 75 km loop (allow 1.5 - 3 hrs) nFrom Biloela travel north-east 34km towards Gladstone on the Dawson Highway. nTurn right onto Coal Road. nEnjoy spectacular panoramic views of Rainbow Range through to Kroombit Tops National Park and Callide Power Station. n24 km along Coal Road, turn right onto Ian McCauley Road (not suitable for caravans) for great views of the Callide Coalfields. n Return to Coal Road, cross the grid onto Biloela-Callide Road. nPower station viewing area is located at the entrance to Callide B (on your right). nLake Callide Recreation Area (turnoff on your left across Callide Creek) – famous for big barramundi. n From Biloela-Callide Road turn left onto Dawson Highway – Biloela. Take the road right next to the Goovigen Hotel south for 10 km to Jambin and then back onto the Burnett Highway to Biloela. SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE 21 DRIVE ROUTES Historic Flagstaff Loop 150 km loop (allow 3 - 4 hours) Dry weather only road. Not suitable for caravans due to loose road surface and steep gradient near Flagstaff Section of Isla Gorge National Park. Start in Theodore n D rive south along the Leichhardt Highway 36 km to the sign-posted Isla George Lookout. nIsla Gorge – Spectacular lookout and bush camping area. nContinue south on Leichhardt Highway to Flagstaff Road. nTravel through picturesque grazing, state forest and national park country, with great panoramic views. nHuntington Station (15 km along on your left) and a grid. Continue for 24 km to a large bottle tree on the left. Continue straight ahead at the track intersection. nDon’t take the left turn to Flagstaff Station. nAnother 9 km on, just before a grid is entry to the Northern Historic Flagged Road section of Isla Gorge National Park. Banana Loop 75km (approx 2 hrs) Start in Banana at ‘Banana’ the bullock statue after which the town was named. Leichhardt Highway left onto Dawson Highway nDawson Mine – Australia’s first export coal mine. nDawson Highway – Three Chain Road – Queensland Ammonium Nitrate Plant supplies ammonium nitrate prill for blasting to the mines in the Bowen Basin. nDawson Highway – 150° meridian site – 150° of longitude from which Eastern Standard Time is measured. Moura n Left onto Gillespie Street – Information Centre and Museum – open office hours with some mining history. nGillespie Street – Herzog Street – Theodore Moura Road – Grain Silos 22 SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE and large sheds – the 2nd largest grain storage capacity in Queensland. Dawson Highway nMiner’s Statue in the Bi-Centennial Park – memorial to the No.4 underground mine disaster in 1986. nApex River Park – on the Dawson River. A free camp with boat ramp, amenities and home of the annual Muddy Water Fishing Competition in April, Camp Oven Cook Off in July and Dawson River Festival in October. Dawson Highway – Saxelby’s Road – River Road nTake the track 1.7 km to a large parking area. Moura Aerodrome nGibihi Road – Dawson Mine Viewing Platform for a close up look at an opencut mine. nThe conveyor system is about 43 km long and carries coal from Dawson South to the Wash Plant and loading site. Leichhardt Highway nMount Wiseman – named after William Wiseman, early Land Commissioner, credited with naming Rockhampton in 1858. n W alk down the hillside approximately 300 m to where the ‘flagged’ road begins. nBack to the park entry road, turn left, proceed over the grid and travel down the winding gorge track. Take care as this road has a loose surface. n 9 km to a ‘T’ junction. Turn left onto Glenbar Road. nTurn right Glenmoral-Roundstone Road and travel east 13 km through Glenmoral Gorge and farming country to reach the Leichhardt Highway. n Turn left and head north 10 km to Theodore. nTake the Dawson Highway back to Banana. nSite of the original ‘Moura Run’, although nothing remains today. SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE 23 BARALABA Banana shire Annual Events calendar January March New Years Races (Taroom) Rotary Ute, Car & Bike show (Biloela) April Taroom’s Golden Horseshoe Campdraft Moura Muddy Water Classic May June Biloela Agricultural Show Taroom Annual Fishing Competition Taroom Agricultural Show Theodore’s Annual Trail Ride Theodore Agricultural Show Fred Brophy’s Boxing Tent (Cracow) Baralaba Agricultural Show Working dog trails at Jambin July august Old Wheels in Motion (Biloela) Moura Coal and Country Festival Taroom Professional Rodeo Wowan Agricultural Show Taroom Polocrosse Carnival CQ Rock & Gem Show (Biloela) Moura Bronze Boots Campdraft Camp Oven Cook off (Moura) SEPTEMBER Dawson River Festival (Moura, Taroom & Baralaba) october Baralaba Silver Cup Campdraft Brigalow Arts Festival (Biloela) The Great Baralaba Saratoga Classic Fishing Competition Leichhardt Festival and ‘Back to Taroom’ week (Taroom) Theodore Spindles & Spurs Campdraft Taroom Cup Races Jambin Champagne Campdraft Taroom Spring Campdraft Thangool Cup november Lake Callide Family Fishing Classic (Biloela) Dawson River Festival (Theodore) December Biloela Christmas Festival Hooked on Theodore Saratoga Classic 24 SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE Candlelight Carols by the River (Taroom) Baralaba Ambulance Christmas Carnival SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE 25 BARALABA 26 SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE BARALABA SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE 27 Banana Shire Business directory Banana Shire Council Offices State Emergency Services Hospitals doctors Visitor Information Centres bowls clubs Golf Clubs Road Conditions Town Websites Dump Points RV Friendly Towns 28 SIMPLE PLEASURES|BANANA SHIRE Banana Shire Business directory Accommodation Biloela (07) 4992 9500 Moura (07) 4992 9500 Taroom (07) 4992 9500 Ambulance/ Fire/ Police 000 SES 132 500 Baralaba Hospital (07) 4998 2800 Biloela Hospital (07) 4992 7000 Moura Hospital (07) 4997 2900 Theodore Hospital (07) 4990 3000 Taroom Hospital (07) 4628 9900 Private Clinic Baralaba (07) 4998 1233 Oxley Clinic Biloela (07) 4992 2166 Biloela Medical Centre Biloela (07) 4995 6200 Moura Dawson Medical Practice Moura Taroom Medical Banana Caravan Park (07) 4995 7888 Banana Banana Hotel Motel (07) 4995 7888 Banana Baralaba Caravan Park (07) 4998 1103 Baralaba Baralaba Hotel (07) 4998 1102 Baralaba Country Caravan Park (07) 4998 1103 Baralaba Myella Farmstay (07) 4998 1290 Baralaba Biloela Hotel Motel (07) 4992 1514 Biloela Apollo Motel (07) 4992 1122 Biloela Biloela Caravan & Tourist Park (07) 4992 1211 Biloela Biloela Countryman Motel (07) 4992 1488 Biloela Biloela Palms Motor Inn (07) 4992 1552 Biloela (07) 4997 3033 Biloela Silo Motor Inn (07) 4992 5555 Biloela Taroom (07) 4628 9942 Boomerang Caravan Park (07) 4992 1815 Biloela Theodore Medical Centre Theodore (07) 4993 1371 Callide Motor Inn (07) 4992 5080 Biloela Biloela Visitor Information Centre (07) 4992 2405 Commercial Hotel (07) 4992 1603 Biloela (07) 4992 2405 Discovery Parks Biloela (07) 4992 2618 Biloela Rural Hinterland Visitor Information Centre (07) 4992 2400 Settlers Motor Inn (07) 4992 2933 Biloela Theodore Visitor Information Centre (07) 4993 1900 Sun Valley Motel (07) 4992 1281 Biloela Taroom Visitor Information Centre (07) 4628 6113 Biloela Centre Motel (07) 4992 2622 Biloela Raintree Motel (07) 4992 4099 Biloela Moura Visitor Information Centre Baralaba (07) 4998 1349 Cracow Hotel (07) 4993 7118 Cracow Biloela (07) 4992 1689 Dululu Hotel (07) 4937 1288 Dululu Moura (07) 4997 1155 Goovigen Royal Hotel Motel (07) 4996 5308 Goovigen Taroom (07) 4627 3205 Jambin Hotel Motel (07) 4996 5101 Jambin Theodore (07) 4993 1365 Coal ‘n’ Cattle Hotel Motel (07) 4997 1324 Moura Wowan (07) 4937 1277 Moura Caravan Park (07) 4997 1432 Moura Baralaba (07) 4998 1244 Moura Motel & Restaurant (07) 4997 1588 Moura Biloela (07) 4992 1860 Cattle Camp Motel (07) 4627 3412 Taroom Moura (07) 4997 1550 Country Rest Cabins (07) 4627 3378 Taroom Taroom (07) 4627 3332 Theodore (07) 4993 1868 Leichhardt Hotel Motel (07) 4627 3137 Taroom Wowan (07) 4937 1233 Taroom Caravan Park 0447 037 201 Taroom On Kariboe (07) 4995 8269 Thangool Qld Government 131940 Red Steer Hotel Motel (07) 4995 8207 Thangool Biloela www.biloela.com Thangool Hotel Motel (07) 4995 8206 Thangool Moura www.moura.net.au Theodore Hotel Motel (07) 4993 1244 Theodore Theodore www.mytheodore.com Commercial Hotel Wowan (07) 4937 1377 Wowan Baralaba Showgrounds Wooroonah Rd Baralaba Wowan Caravan Park (07) 4937 1542 Wowan Dululu Rest Stop Bryant St Dululu Moura Bindaree Rd Bindaree Rd Moura Rural Hinterland Visitor Information Centre Exhibition Ave Biloela Taroom - Near Council Depot 4 Wolsey St Taroom Baralaba Taroom Theodore Disclaimer - Banana Shire Council *Does not accept all and/or any liability and responsibility for any loss or damages arising directly or indirectly from the use of the information provided. *Does not guarentee the accuracy, currency or completeness of the information provided, and accordingly Banana Shire plans and/ or information are intended to be indicative only. 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