Queensland Country

Queensland Country

Welcome to the official page for Queensland Country! Somewhere in Queensland Country, someone just like you is lost in the moment.

Queensland Country (previously Southern Queensland Country Tourism) region encompasses Toowoomba Region, Western Downs, Goondiwindi Region, Lockyer Valley, Somerset Region, Central Queensland Highlands and Southern Downs and Granite Belt. You see, it’s somewhere you and your family and friends can quickly forget about everything on the daily β€˜to-do’ list. Somewhere, you can all press the pause but

20/06/2024

This is livin' Barry!

Where each morning starts with a slow sip of coffee and a tranquil stroll along the waters edge. Life in the Western Downs region moves at its own relaxed pace.

Even in winter, it is a superb place to visit to experience those blue winter skies and cool starry nights.

Check out our guide to winter like this in the Western Downs, here. πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/3xrb8j4

πŸ“ Western Downs Region
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/experiencewesterndowns

20/06/2024

Once a Butter Factory, now a thriving community space!

The Grantham Butter Factory is testament to the Lockyer Valley's rich agricultural heritage. It served as a vital hub for local dairy farmers, processing milk and producing butter.

With a number of beautiful historical buildings throughout Queensland Country, you can hit the heritage trail to pay homage to the past, here. πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/4eml91J

πŸ“ Grantham Butter Factory, Lockyer Valley
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/lockyervalley

19/06/2024

The road may be long, but its worth it! πŸ›£οΈ

Minerva Hills National Park is located in Central Queensland Highlands and is the perfect mixture of rugged landscapes and stunning views.

There are a variety of walking tracks where you may encounter some of the native wildlife! It holds significant Indigenous significance with ancient rock art sites, providing a glimpse into the traditional owners of the land.

Explore Central Queensland Highlands Iconic National Parks, here. πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/3z0WAHz

πŸ“ Minerva Hills National Park, Central Queensland Highlands
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/michellepurkhart

18/06/2024

Yes, hikes DO look like this in Queensland Country. 🌈

The hike may be tough, but it's all worth it to see this beautiful view of The Pyramid at Girraween National Park.

The 3.6km trek (2 hours round trip) winds through bushland and expansive grassy plains, culminating in an exhilarating ascent up a rugged rock face.

Take a look out our guide to 5 trails to explore in Girraween National Park, here. πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/4bV2SXN

πŸ“ The Pyramid, Girraween National Park ⁠
πŸ“·οΈ

18/06/2024

πŸ“…πŸŒŸ What’s On in Queensland Country: 18 - 24 June 🎑✨️

Looking for a quirky country event, markets filled with local produce, or live music to attend this week? We’ve done the hard work for you and put together a list of everything happening throughout Queensland Country.

Events
πŸͺ΄ 20 - 22 Jun: Ag-Grow Emerald Field Days, Ag-Grow Emerald
🌭 21 Jun: Street Feast, Gatton Showgrounds
πŸ‡ 21 Jun: Kilcoy Races, Kilcoy Showgrounds
❄️ 22 Jun: Winter Solstice Festival, Summit Estate Wines, Thulimbah
🌻 22 & 23 Jun: Winter Sun Sunflower Open Weekend, Warraba Sunflowers, Cambooya
πŸ‚ 22 & 23 Jun: Weengallon Junior Campdraft & Rodeo, Weengallon Recreation Grounds

Live Music
πŸŽ™οΈ 21 Jun: Panik Button, Tatts Hotel Toowoomba
🎡 21 Jun: Clare Cowley, Withcott Hotel
πŸŽ™οΈ 22 Jun: Nash, Horse and Jockey Warwick
🎡 22 Jun: Reckless, Criterion Hotel Dalby
πŸŽ™οΈ 23 Jun: Tip, The Linville Hotel
🎡 23 Jun: Jerry Turner, Maraboon Tavern, Emerald

Markets
πŸ₯¦ 22 Jun: Ferrari Park Markets, Ferrari Park, Laidley
πŸ₯• 23 Jun: Fernvale Country Markets, Fernvale State School
πŸ‡ 23 Jun: Capella Community Markets, Capella Community Hall
πŸ… 23 Jun: Jandowae Lions Markets, Lions Park, Jandowae
🍐 23 Jun: Stanthorpe Showgrounds Markets, Stanthorpe Showgrounds
πŸ“ 23 Jun: Winter Solstice Market, Nightingale Craft, Crows Nest

And the list goes on! Head to our website for the full list πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/3Ujjcvg

πŸ“ Summit Estate Wines, Thulimbah

17/06/2024

Afternoon's like this is one for the memory bank! 🧑

πŸ“ Crows Nest, Toowoomba Region
πŸ“·οΈ

16/06/2024

As the sun goes down, The Empire Theatre in Toowoomba lights up!

For over a century, this stunning Art Deco building has been a beloved entertainment hub and is proudly heritage-listed.

At the heart of Toowoomba's thriving theatre scene, offering a diverse range of performances, from captivating dramas to lively musicals and world class concerts. It's the place for any theatre lover, and a prime spot to capture that perfect insta pic!

Looking for more to do in Toowoomba? Check out our guide to 8 things to do in Toowoomba here. πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/4bXAeFu

πŸ“ Empire Theatre, Toowoomba City, QLD
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/toowoombaregion
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The home of travel inspo in 🌾 The Queensland Country region encompasses the Toowoomba region, Western Downs, Lockyer Valley, Central Queensland Highlands, Goondiwindi region, Somerset region and Southern Downs and Granite Belt. We acknowledge and pay our respects to the Traditional Custodians of the land - the Giabal and Jarowair people. Share your adventures with us via or ⁠
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15/06/2024

TLC were mistaken when they said, "Don't go chasing waterfalls..."

Because one of the best is located at Blackdown Tableland National Park and its called Gudda Gumoo or Rainbow Falls. 🌈

If strapping on your hiking boots and heading off to the wilderness is your idea of a good time, Central Queensland Highlands delivers by the backpack full.

So chase those waterfalls and waterholes through Queensland Country with our guide here. πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/4aKzaDq

πŸ“ Gudda Gumoo (Rainbow Falls), Central Queensland Highlands
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/centralqueenslandhighlands via instagram.com/voyageuse__amoureuse

14/06/2024

Have you ever seen a more magnificent balcony? Glengallan Homestead is certainly a feast for the eyes!

This beautiful sandstone mansion, resorted in 2001 is located in Warwick and hosts a number of exciting events including workshops, markets and tours.

Warwick is peppered with sandstone structures and history galore. Stroll around the heritage streetscapes or visit one of the National Parks to uncover historic experiences worth a weekend of discovering.

Looking for a road trip to remember? Take a look at our guide to Historic Warwick, here. πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/4edp0xW

πŸ“ Glengallen Homestead, Southern Downs & Granite Belt
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/glengallan.homestead

13/06/2024

Have you set your sails for Crows Nest yet?

About 40 minutes from Toowoomba is where you will find Crows Nest, a beautiful town with character and charm!

The lovingly resorted Nolan's Block boasts a restaurant, bakery, homewares shop and a botanics store. Myrtille Bistro is incredibly popular (some would say it is très bon!) with French inspired cuisine. Will we see you there?

Our guide to moments like these are made with food, wine and conversation, will help you plan your visit to Queensland Country. πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/4aPDelN

πŸ“ Crows Nest, Toowoomba Region
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/nolans_block

13/06/2024

Thumbs up for the Goondiwindi region! πŸ‘οΈ

Here are our top tips to explore the region:
βœ”οΈ Visit the Yelarbon Silos
βœ”οΈ Stop in at Coolmunda Olives near Inglewood
βœ”οΈ Enjoy a cold brew at the Victoria Hotel
βœ”οΈ Take a look at art exhibitions in the Goondiwindi and Texas Art Galleries

Let us know your tops tips for visiting Gundy in the comments! And while you're at it, check out our guide to 10 things to do in Goondiwindi. πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/3KzjHeR

πŸ“ Goondwindi Region
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/murderedn80

12/06/2024

Waking up to this view = dreamy!

Jimbour House in the Western Downs is renowned for its captivating exteriors, but step inside and the views from its windows are just as incredible.

Built between 1875 and 1877, the current homestead is beautiful from any angle, with expansive gardens well worth exploring.

Loving the Western Downs? Hit this link to discover Country Cool on the Western Downs. πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/4aL9sPj

πŸ“ Jimbour House, Western Downs
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/matpanunzio via instagram.com/jimbourhouse

11/06/2024

Under these gorgeous pink skies sits the Lockyer Valley. πŸ’—πŸƒ

Just over an hour from Brisbane, the Lockyer is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

With mild winter temperatures, the area promises stunning scenery, breathtaking landscapes and farm-fresh produce.

Take a look at our guide to Embrace the Cool Change in the Lockyer Valley with Nature like this. πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/4b69PUR

πŸ“ Lockyer Valley, QLD
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/lockyervalley

11/06/2024

πŸ“…πŸŒŸ What’s On in Queensland Country: 11 - 17 June 🎑✨️

Looking for a quirky country event, markets filled with local produce, or live music to attend this week? We’ve done the hard work for you and put together a list of everything happening throughout Queensland Country.

Events
πŸ₯¬ 14 & 15 Jun: Lockyer Valley Growers Expo, Gatton Research Facility
πŸš‚ 15 Jun: DownsSteam Super Saturday, DownsSteam Tourist Railway & Museum, Drayton
πŸ‡ 15 Jun: Warwick Automotive Picnic Races, Warwick Turf Club Inc
🚘️ 15 Jun: Goondiwindi Show and Shine, Goondiwindi Natural Heritage & Water Park
πŸͺ΄ 15 Jun: Esk Garden Fair, Pipeliner Park
🌭 16 Jun: Street Feast, Dalby Showgrounds

Live Music
πŸŽ™οΈ 15 Jun: Kings of Cali, Tatts Hotel Toowoomba
🎡 15 Jun: Butch, Criterion Hotel Warwick
πŸŽ™οΈ 15 Jun: Wayne Handley, Commercial Hotel Chinchilla
🎡 15 Jun: Country Retro Radio, Maraboon Tavern Emerald
πŸŽ™οΈ 16 Jun: Victoria Q, Fernvale Hotel Motel
🎡 16 Jun: Cate Tempo, Porters Plainland Hotel

Markets
πŸ₯¬ 15 Jun: Laidley Friday Markets, Patrick St & Laidley Mall
πŸ₯¦ 15 Jun: Moore Hall Markets, Moore Soldiers Memorial Hall
πŸ₯• 16 Jun: Queens Park Market, Queens Park, Toowoomba
πŸ‡ 16 Jun: Killarney Country Markets, Canning Park
πŸ… 16 Jun: Gundy Markets, Town Park, Goondiwindi
🍐 16 Jun: Chinchilla Markets, Chinchilla Showgrounds
πŸ“ 16 Jun: Sapphire Markets, Roy Day Park, Sapphire Central

And the list goes on! Head to our website for the full list πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/3Ujjcvg

πŸ“ DownsSteam Tourism Railway & Museum

10/06/2024

Those views! 😍

The troubles of life melt away when you visit Ravensbourne in the Toowoomba Region.

The area is renowned for its rainforests, rolling hills and panoramic vistas that stretch out over the Lockyer Valley and towards the Great Dividing Range. Sounds like the perfect weekend getaway to us!

Looking for more reasons to visit? Take a look at our 10 reasons you need to put Ravensbourne on your to-travel list guide, here. πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/4bKDILu

πŸ“ Ravensbourne, Toowoomba Region
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/toowoombaregion

09/06/2024

A trail worth biking for! 🚡🏻

Following the decommissioned Brisbane valley railway line, you could enjoy country sunsets just like this.

It truly is a unique way to explore the natural beauty and heritage of the Somerset Region!

πŸ“ Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Somerset Region, QLD
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/scene_it_onthetrail via instagram.com/experiencesomerset

08/06/2024

Hands up if you're a bridge fan? πŸ™Œ Now this one is a beauty!

Macrossan Bridge in the Central Queensland Highlands, was built around 1899 and is also known as the Burdekin River Rail Bridge.

Discover more like this, and experience breathtaking landscapes and rich history come together.

Hit this link to uncover the history and heritage of the Central Queensland Highlands. πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/3yDy534

πŸ“ Macrossan Bridge, Central Queensland Highlands
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/robert_rixon

07/06/2024

Now, this is a hopping good spot for outdoor adventures and scenic views!

Wivenhoe Dam, located in the Somerset Region, serves as a top destination for recreation and relaxation with its vast expanse of water and surrounding parklands.

Just an hour from Brisbane, it's the perfect place to bounce into activities like fishing, boating, and picnicking.

Check out our guide to crisp weather experiences calling in Somerset, here. πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/3R8WGmu

πŸ“ Wivenhoe Dam, Somerset Region
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/shhimmyy

07/06/2024

Congratulations to the Queensland Country town of Toogoolawah, located in the Experience Somerset Region, who has received Bronze in the Top Tiny Town Tourism Award! πŸŽ‰

Announced today at the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) Top Tourism Awards, this accolade celebrates communities that excel in delivering outstanding visitor experiences.

We could not be prouder of Toogoolawah, as well as Wandoan (Western Downs Queensland Region) who was nominated in the same category and Kilcoy (Experience Somerset Region) who was nominated for the Top Small Tourism Town category.

Raise your glass and give a cheers for these incredible towns! 🍻

06/06/2024

Raise a glass to the Warra Hotel! 🍻 Have you visited?

Nestled in the heart of Warra, it is more than just a pub - it's a cornerstone of the community and is the ultimate destination for those seeking a taste of true Aussie pub culture.

From the moment you walk through the doors, you'll be treated to a hospitality experience that's as refreshing as an ice-cold brew on a scorching day.

Don't worry, we've got plenty more where that came from! Take a look at 7 of the best country pubs near Brisbane, here πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/4bGl2fB

πŸ“ Warra Hotel, Western Downs
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/experiencewesterndowns

06/06/2024

Queen's Park, where every palm tree is a reminder to take life one step at a time! 🌴

A lush oasis in the heart of the city, boasting vibrant gardens, tranquil pathways and plenty of space to relax and unwind.

And hey, with all those towering trees, you might just feel like you've stumbled into a tropical paradise.

πŸ“ Queens Park, Toowoomba Region
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/salty._gypsy

05/06/2024

All aboard for a journey through history and excitement at DownsSteam Tourist Railway & Museum! πŸš‚

Hold onto your hats because after 25 years, their steam locomotive is back on track.

So, get ready to experience the thrill of riding the rails once again as this steam train chugs its way through the picturesque Toowoomba region.

Grab your ticket for an unforgettable adventure and take a look at our guide to 48 hours in Toowoomba, here πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/3wTSpN5.

πŸ“ Toowoomba Region
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/downssteam

04/06/2024

Braeside Homestead looks gorgeous from every angle, but especially this birds-eye view!

Braeside is the ultimate playground for group getaways, family reunions and corporate gatherings.

Nestled in the breathtaking scenery of the Southern Downs & Granite Belt region, it provides a perfect blend of relaxation and rural charm.

Looking for more luxury stays? Take a look at our 7 best luxury getaways near Brisbane, here πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/3KqJXb2

πŸ“ Braeside Homestead, Southern Downs & Granite Belt
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/braesidehomestead

04/06/2024

πŸ“…πŸŒŸ What’s On in Queensland Country: 4 - 10 June 🎑✨️

Looking for a quirky country event, markets filled with local produce, or live music to attend this week? We’ve done the hard work for you and put together a list of everything happening throughout Queensland Country.

Events
🎑 4 & 5 Jun: Emerald Agricultural Show, Emerald Showgrounds
🚜 4 - 6 Jun: Elders FarmFest, Kingsthorpe Park, Toowoomba
πŸš‚ 8 Jun: Warwick to Stanthorpe Train Tour, departing Warwick Railway Station
🎣 7 - 9 Jun: Goondiwindi Classic Fishing Competition, Goondiwindi Boat Ramp
🌲 7 - 9 Jun: Jandowae Timbertown Festival, Jandowae Showgrounds
🎨 7 - 9 Jun: Arts in the Valley, Kensington Grove, Lockyer Valley

Live Music
πŸŽ™οΈ 7 Jun: Runes Duo, City Golf Club Toowoomba
🎡 7 Jun: Trey Hayes, Porters Plainland Hotel
πŸŽ™οΈ 8 Jun: Nash, Warwick Hotel
🎡 8 Jun: Glen Ivers, Commercial Hotel Chinchilla
πŸŽ™οΈ 9 Jun: Fitzy, The Linville Hotel
🎡 9 Jun: Jerry Turner, Maraboon Tavern

Markets
πŸ₯• 8 Jun: Ma Ma Creek Markets, Ma Ma Creek Community Centre
πŸ₯¬ 8 Jun: Granite Belt Farmers Market, Stanthorpe, Railway Precinct
πŸ‡ 8 Jun: St Luke's Markets, Dawson St, Miles
πŸ… 8 Jun: Esk Country Market, Pipeliner Park
πŸ“ 9 Jun: Sapphire Markets, Roy Day Park, Sapphire Central
πŸ₯¦ 9 Jun: The Makers Market, The Goods Shed, Toowoomba

And the list goes on! Head to our website for the full list πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/3Ujjcvg

πŸ“ Jandowae Timbertown Festival

03/06/2024

Oh hey! πŸ„ This inquisitive friend is wondering if you will be visiting the Goondiwindi region?

Boasting fertile farmland, meandering rivers, and picturesque countryside, it's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

But wait, there's more, enjoy country pubs, catch a movie and visit the country towns from Talwood to Texas.

Take a look at 10 things to do in Goondiwindi, here πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/4e5wZxk

πŸ“ Goondiwindi Region
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/the_farmers_friend

02/06/2024

For this sunset Sunday, we bring you the pink skies of the Lockyer Valley over the iconic Gatton Railway station. πŸ’—πŸ’œ

As the day winds down, the valley offers some of the most stunning sunsets you'll ever see.

No matter whether you're a keen photographer or simply a nature lover, the Lockyer is a must-visit destination in Queensland Country.

πŸ“ Lockyer Valley
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/lockyervalley

02/06/2024

This is how we play Keepy Uppy in Queensland Country! Queensland has set the world record for the biggest game of Keepy Uppy. So, we've been stretching, practicing and rallied our friends to join the fun.⁠
⁠
We spy with our little eye: Girraween National Park, Balancing Heart Vineyard, Sutton’s Farm, Granite Belt Christmas Farm, the Big Apple and Queen Mary Falls. Can you spot them all? Tell us in the comments below.⁠
⁠
Let's see how long we can keep the ball in the air!

01/06/2024

Don't forget to look up! πŸ‘€

If you're looking for some awe-inspiring sights, you've got to check out the Bunya Mountains, just over a 3 hour drive from Brisbane.

Home to some of Australia's tallest and most majestic trees, this destination is incredibly welcoming for families and adventurers alike.

And let us tell you, it's not just about the trees - the forest floor is decked out with ferns and mosses, adding to the whole enchanted vibe.

So, if you're up for a journey through nature's grandeur, there are plenty of National Parks in Queensland Country to explore! Check out our 8 must-do walks near Brisbane, here. πŸ‘‰οΈ https://bit.ly/3Vc9Z89

πŸ“ Bunya Mountains, Western Downs
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/_vivientrinh

31/05/2024

Can you guess the park? 🌳

That's right, it's Inglewood Memorial Park!

This park is a tribute to the brave souls who made the ultimate sacrifice in World War I, World War II and the Korean War.

Step into its tranquil embrace, where meticulously tended gardens and graceful, shaded arbors invite you to wander and reflect amidst nature's quiet beauty.

Looking for more walking activities within the region? Check out our guide to the Mother of all Nature Walks in the Goondiwindi Region here. πŸ‘‰οΈ
https://bit.ly/3wqJhiQ

πŸ“ Inglewood, Goondiwindi Region
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/vikkibyron

31/05/2024

Exciting news! Rosa Ballandean, set on the scenic grounds of Dear Vincent Winery, is now open and ready to delight your taste buds with a full menu of delectable pasta dishes! 🍝⁠
⁠
Come and indulge in culinary bliss Thursday to Sunday from 11am to 4pm. ⁠
⁠
Picture yourself savouring mouthwatering pasta paired with the exquisite wines from Dear Vincent while nestled between the serene grapevines of the Southern Downs & Granite Belt wine country. Pure bliss! ⁠

πŸ“ Ballandean, Southern Downs & Granite Belt
πŸ“·οΈ instagram.com/rosa.ballandean, instagram.com/dearvincents

Our Story

Somewhere in Southern Queensland Country, someone just like you is lost in the moment. You see, it’s somewhere you and your family and friends can quickly forget about everything on the daily β€˜to-do’ list.

Somewhere, you can all press the pause button and focus on more important things, like the spectacular natural wonders, the stories behind historic sandstone buildings, that cheeky shiraz from the winery up the road or just spending time with loved ones. It’s somewhere with a diverse range of places to stay, from charming B&Bs and tranquil mountain cottages to modern country retreats and traditional farmstays for the family.

Videos (show all)

This is how we play Keepy Uppy in Queensland Country! Queensland has set the world record for the biggest game of Keepy ...
Just like David, we are excited to hear that Kilcoy is in the running for the 2024 Top Small Tourism Town Award! πŸŽ‰Locate...
Toogoolawah - a true country experience. 🌾🀠 Share your love for the community by voting them Top Tiny Tourism Town Award...
A tiny town with a big heart? That's our Wandoan! πŸ’šLocated in the Western Downs region, this charming town is known for ...
Are you a keen outdoor enthusiast? Do you love taking photos of our gorgeous countryside? Then Mount Peel Bushland trail...
Tick this one off your bucket list: the Ballandean Pyramid. βœ…οΈA man-made stone pyramid standing roughly 15 metres tall a...
POV: It's Saturday, you're exhausted after slaving away at your desk job all week. You're dreaming of an escape, and boy...
Do adventure right in #centralqueenslandhighlands! Gudda Gumoo Gorge (Rainbow Falls) at Blackdown Tableland National Par...
Don't 'midst' an opportunity to head for the High Country this Easter weekend!This beautiful footage filmed of the foggy...
Situated on the banks of the Macintyre Brook, near Inglewood is a family-owned olive farm producing extra virgin olive o...
It's moments like this that make us truly appreciate our beautiful country and there is no better day than today to shar...
Sunset's that just fill the cup up ❀️⁠⁠Take the road less travel, explore your backyard and unearth the most wholesome c...

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