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Boyne Valley Historical Cottage

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Boyne Valley Historical Society

The Boyne Valley Historical Society Cottage was opened in 1988 and was formed by a group of enthusiastic volunteers with a desire to preserve the vast history of the Boyne Valley, which dates back to the 1870s, when gold and copper mining put the Valley on the map, followed by the settlers who pioneered industries such as cattle grazing, farm produce, dairying and a thriving timber and saw-milling industry, which still exists today. Tourists who want to leave the usual tourist trail and enjoy some genuine country hospitality and historically significant sites should make sure they put the Boyne Valley on their itinerary. With the exception of Many Peaks, the four small towns of the Boyne Valley, Nagoorin, Ubobo, Builyan and Many Peaks, are dotted along the Boyne River. The scenic drive along the newly sealed road from Calliope, or across the Blackman's Gap Road (some dirt) from Miriam Vale, takes less than an hour. The cottage houses a large display of photographs and memorabilia which convey a sense of bygone days. Special theme days allow them to vary the displays and feature items from the collections of long-term residents and interested parties.

Ubobo QLD

0.3 km away

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Big Crab

Landmarks and Buildings

Big Crab

The Big Crab is one of Queensland's classic roadside attractions and a much-loved stop for travellers exploring the Bruce Highway. Sitting two metres high on top of the service station in Miriam Vale, the giant red crab has been greeting visitors since 1979, when the owner created it to draw attention to his crab sandwiches. It has been turning heads (and clawing attention) ever since. Australia has a fondness for big things, and the Big Crab has earned its place among them. Travellers often pull in for a photo, a break from the highway and a taste of local seafood. The crab has become a symbol of Miriam Vale and a quirky reminder of the region's connection to fishing and coastal life. Miriam Vale sits south of Gladstone and the highway runs directly through town, making the Big Crab an easy and worthwhile stop. The service station and diner below it offer a simple, friendly place to refuel, stretch your legs and experience one of the country's most recognisable roadside icons. Grab a big crab sticker or a wobbly crab fridge magnet to gift to your loved-ones or add to your travel keep sakes! For visitors who enjoy collecting evidence of vistiing Australia's big things or seeking out memorable photo moments, the Big Crab remains a favourite.

Miriam Vale QLD

26 km away

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Riverston Bay Recreation Area - Lake Awoonga

Natural Attractions

Lake Awoonga

Located just 30 kilometres from Gladstone in Central Queensland, Lake Awoonga is one of the region's premier outdoor recreation destinations. Lake Awoonga offers freshwater fishing, boating, swimming, camping, walking trails and wildlife experiences in a picturesque natural setting. Surrounded by native bushland and overlooking Castle Tower National Park, Lake Awoonga provides visitors with a range of opportunities to relax, explore and connect with nature. Scenic recreation areas at Riverston Bay, Coomal Bay, and Ironbark Gully feature a range of picnic facilities, electric and wood-fired barbecues, playgrounds, shelters and even a boat ramp just to the north of Ironbark Gully Recreation Area. Recognised as one of Queensland's leading freshwater fishing destinations, Lake Awoonga is renowned for its Barramundi. Lucky anglers can also encounter a variety of other native fish species. The lake is stocked with fish produced at the nearby Aquaculture Gladstone fish hatchery. Lake Awoonga and the surrounding environment is home to an abundance of native wildlife, including Whiptail Wallabies, Yellow-bellied Gliders, Grey-headed Flying Foxes and a diverse range of birdlife, making the area a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. With several lookouts with panoramic views of Awoonga Dam wall and the lake, there's plenty of stunning vantage points for visitors to enjoy. For more information about recreation facilities and visitor experiences at Lake Awoonga, visit the website.

Benaraby QLD

37 km away

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Aquaculture Gladstone

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Aquaculture Gladstone

Based at Lookout One at Lake Awoonga, Aquaculture Gladstone is a multi-species fish hatchery offering a unique visitor attraction whilst also supporting recreational fishing across Central Queensland. Open to the public, the facility offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the production of Barramundi, Mangrove Jack and Sea Mullet which are produced at the hatchery. Explore the interpretive display which includes live native and pest species along with the centre piece broodstock display housing the rare Golden and White Barramundi. Also learn about other native Lake Awoonga features including Whiptail Wallabies, Yellow-bellied Gliders and Grey-headed Flying Foxes. For those seeking a more in-depth experience, guided tours can be booked to provide an insight into hatchery operations, fish production techniques and the important work undertaken to support Lake Awoonga's renowned freshwater fishery. Don't miss the daily fish feeding presentation. Opening and feeding times may vary so please check their Instagram for the most up-to-date information.

Benaraby QLD

38 km away

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Investigate the Tunnels on the Dawes Range
Image credit: Vicki Mackay

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail

Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail is managed by a NFP incorporated association aiming to develop and maintain a rail trail along the disused rail corridor from Taragoola (near Gladstone, Central Queensland), through the Boyne Valley, on to Monto, Eidsvold, Mundubbera and south through Gayndah. The corridor is an inland link between Gladstone and Gayndah, which has great potential to attract tourists in numbers. When fully developed it will be 270 km long, at present there is about 90 kms open in three sections. In the south, the Burnett Bridges section has been developed from Reid's Creek to the Mundubbera Ski Area, with several bridges, magnificent river views, citrus orchards and birdlife. The trail from Monto - Mulgildie (11 km) is currently being resurfaced and will be opened early 2026. Further north on the other major developed section from Barrimoon to Littlemore is currently open (approximately 39km) and includes the Dawes Range tunnels. The first 600 metres from the Barrimoon Siding to the first tunnel has all abilities access including toilets at Barrimoon. There are six tunnels and great views across the valley to Kroombit Tops. Camping is available at Mt Debateable, Barrimoon, Golembil and Builyan (bookings through Hipcamps or the box on site). Several sets of horse yards will be installed by middle of 2026 at Golembil and Littlemore.

Bancroft QLD

43 km away

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Cania Gorge National Park
Image credit: TEQ

Natural Attractions

Cania Gorge National Park

Cania Gorge National Park preserves a valuable remnant of the Brigalow Belt country. Along with plant communities including brigalow forest, eucalypt woodland, cypress pine woodland, dry rainforest and grassland, you'll discover the sandstone landscapes of cliffs and fern-covered pools, where you might just spot a grazing rock wallaby, sunbathing rainbow skink, a hunting lace monitor, or hear the call of the dollarbirds. The park is home to more than 90 species of bird. Brush-tailed rock wallabies and common bent-wing bats are also seen. First Nations people have lived in Cania Gorge for at least 19,000 years. Freehand art on the sandstone walls is a reminder of their special way of life. Eight bushwalks can lead you on adventures to monolithic overhangs, dry gullies, past cliffs into dark crevices where orchids bloom, to lush fern covered pools and past towering eucalypts and other native fauna. This is an ancient place where water is still eroding and moulding the ever-changing landscape, where rock wallabies, peregrine falcons and wedge-tailed eagles have all called their home for thousands of years. Enjoy a truly amazing nature experience in Cania Gorge, part of Queensland's Sandstone Wilderness.

Monto QLD

47 km away

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Millennium Esplanade and Tannum Sands Beach
Image credit: GAPDL

Parks and Gardens

Millennium Esplanade and Tannum Sands Beach

For over 50 years, the esplanade beach areas of Tannum Sands has served as the principal destination for passive and active beachside pursuits for the Gladstone Region. Located just 20 kilometres south of Gladstone on the Central Queensland coast, this coastal foreshore area provides individual pavillions which provide intimacy and cool, weather proof refuges which make the most of the ocean views. Kids will enjoy the amazing playground and flying fox, grassed areas for playing footy and pathways to enjoy riding scooters and bikes. The adults haven't been forgotten either, with free gas barbecue facilities. There are also a number of beach showers and toilet blocks for public use - all within a few steps of Tannum Sands main beach. If you are feeling energetic take a walk up the stairway to Peter's Park where you will be greeted with a spectacular view of the Esplanade and Beach. Lifeguards patrol the beach from September to May each year. The Tannum Sands Surf Lifesaving Club, located along Millennium Esplanade, is open to the public on weekends for meals and snacks.

Tannum Sands QLD

50 km away

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Tannum Central Shopping Centre

Shopping and Markets

Tannum Central Shopping Centre

Only a short drive from the regional city of Gladstone are the picturesque, coastal communities of Boyne Island and Tannum Sands. Serving these communities is Tannum Central Shopping Centre located an easy distance from the river and tourist park. The recently refurbished Coles store provides the ultimate in freshness and convenience alongside a mix of specialty stores. Customers can grab a bite to eat, enjoy some retail therapy or take advantage of the services from Surf Dive N Ski, Tannum Nails and Spa, Commonwealth Bank, Industry Hair United, Australia Post, Liquor Stax, Healthcare Pharmacy and plus more stores opening soon. At Tannum Central, customers have easy access and undercover parking making it the ideal retail destination.

Tannum Sands QLD

51 km away

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Lilley's Beach

Natural Attractions

Lilley's Beach

Lilley's Beach is a hidden gem along the Gladstone coastline, offering a peaceful and rustic escape for those seeking adventure and natural beauty. Accessible only by 4WD, this unspoilt stretch of beach lies between the Boyne River mouth and the northern tip of Bangalee, providing an ideal setting for beachfront camping, fishing, and exploring. Popular with locals and travellers alike, Lilley's Beach offers a genuine off-grid experience. There are no powered sites or facilities, so visitors need to be fully self-sufficient. What it lacks in amenities, it makes up for in serenity-campers fall asleep to the sound of waves and wake up to golden sunrises over the ocean. The area is a favourite for beach fishing, crabbing in nearby tidal creeks, and spotting marine life along the shoreline. Permits are required for both vehicle access and camping, helping to protect the coastal environment and manage visitation sustainably. Visitors are encouraged to follow 'Leave No Trace' principles to maintain the pristine condition of the beach for future enjoyment. Whether you're casting a line, relaxing by a campfire, or enjoying a long walk along the shoreline, Lilley's Beach provides a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature. It's a perfect spot for those who love adventure, solitude, and the raw beauty of Queensland's coast.

Boyne Island QLD

51 km away

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Calliope River Historical Village
Image credit: GAPDL

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Calliope River Historical Village

Step back in time at the Calliope River Historical Village, where more than 20 beautifully preserved heritage buildings bring Central Queensland's pioneering past to life. Wander through fascinating museum collections, enjoy a traditional Devonshire tea, browse the renowned country markets, or join a guided tour to discover the stories of the Port Curtis region. With school programs, weddings, events and volunteer-led experiences, the village offers something for history lovers, families and curious travellers alike.

River Ranch QLD

51 km away

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Lake Cania

Natural Attractions

Lake Cania

Lake Cania is located just north of Cania Gorge National Park and is a favourite spot for camping, boating, fishing and outdoor adventures. Set on Three Moon Creek, a tributary of the Burnett River, the lake holds an impressive 88,500 megalitres of water and is formed by an earth and rockfill dam rising more than 44 metres high. Whether you're casting a line, launching a boat or settling in for a picnic, there's plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Facilities include a boat ramp, picnic areas, public amenities, a kiosk, and camping and caravan parks nearby. Keen anglers are well catered for, with Lake Cania renowned for its saratoga fishing. Other species found in the lake include bass, golden perch, silver perch, eel-tailed catfish, spangled perch, eel and snub-nosed garfish. Bring the boat, pack the fishing gear and settle in. This is the kind of place where a quick stop can easily turn into a full day on the water.

Monto QLD

52 km away

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Canoe Point Beach and Parklands

Parks and Gardens

Canoe Point Beach and Parklands

Canoe Point Beach and Parklands are popular recreational areas in Tannum Sands, adjacent to the Tannum Sands Main Beach. The area shows off Gladstone's unique natural environment with walking and bike trails, beachside boardwalks, bushland reserves and windswept dunes. Offering shelter huts, wood-fired barbecues, playground equipment and opened grassed areas, the Parklands are a tranquil environment for the community to enjoy. A short walk from the parklands is the Canoe Point Beach where kids and dogs can run free and enjoy the sunshine, sand and surf. Alcohol is not permitted within the Parklands.

Tannum Sands QLD

52 km away

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Rodds Peninsula Eastern Beach
Image credit: Queensland Government

National Parks and Reserves

Eurimbula National Park

Discover Eurimbula National Park's unique blend of landscapes—mangrove-fringed estuaries, freshwater paperbark swamps, lowland eucalypt woodlands, and tall rainforest with towering hoop pines. The park is a paradise for bushwalkers, boaties and anglers. Stroll along wide, sandy island beaches with rugged boulders and delicate rock pools or wander through colourful wildflowers in spring, looking for red-tailed black-cockatoos and brolgas in the woodlands. The 360 metre walking track to Ganoonga Noonga lookout offers spectacular views over the coastal lowlands. At high tide, explore Eurimbula Creek by boat or canoe. Paddle along tranquil coastal waterways and creeks on the Eurimbula sea trail, where cormorants and white-bellied sea-eagles are often spotted along the shore. Spend a night on your own island paradise, choosing from one of five serene beach camps. Cast a line from the nearby beaches or creeks to catch your own dinner, then recline beneath the starry sky and enjoy true peace and quiet. Camping permits are required and fees apply.

Round Hill QLD

54 km away

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Atalanta, 1990, Gil Jamieson (1934-1992) from Gil Jamieson collection Monto Museum of Art
Image credit: Matthew & Alicia Jamieson

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Monto Museum of Art

The Monto Museum of Art (MMOA) works in the realm of establish a place-based art movement. It is a independent community run arts space in regional Central Queensland which holds a collection of 3,000 works by Monto-born, and nationally significant artist Gil Jamieson. A major work held in the MMOA is Gil Jamieson 21 meter Jay Creek panorama painted on location west of Alice Springs in 1973. The MMOA two galleries displays storytelling art works boldly defining the Australian landscape, depicting bush mysticism, rural life, industry and history. Situated inland from coastal Queensland along the Great Australian Way tourism corridor, the town of Monto is a favoured stop for visitors. By integrating storytelling with the arts, they create a unique visitor experience, drive social change and create opportunities for both arts and business. Their long-term goal of establishing a high-quality arts and tourism model will enhance inland tourism and benefit the community.

Monto QLD

55 km away

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Couple walking along the bushland boardwalk
Image credit: Traveller's Rest 1770

Natural Attractions

Bushland Boardwalk - Day Pass - Agnes Water, Queensland

Book your daypass now! Step into a living story at the Bushland Boardwalk in Agnes Water / 1770, Queensland where every footstep brings you closer to the heartbeat of the bush. This 386-metre, all-access boardwalk winds through a stunning pocket of native forest alive with colour, sound, and movement. But listen closely—it's not just birds singing here. Native bees hum with purpose through the wildflowers, pollinating bush blossoms with quiet determination. From the tiniest blue-banded bee to the gentle stingless varieties, these local legends are the unsung heroes of the forest. Watch them flit between grevilleas, hover near honey-myrtles, and dance in sunbeams as if to welcome you to their world. Birdlife is also abundant—rainbow bee-eaters, fairy-wrens, and honeyeaters are just a few of the characters in this natural play. Join a BushTracks Eco Tour and experience forest bathing like never before. Feel the bark, smell the earth, and lose yourself in the stories told by trees, insects, and the breeze. Accessible, immersive, and unforgettable—this is not just a walk, it's a wild encounter.

Agnes Water QLD

56 km away

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Gladstone Tondoon Botanic Gardens

Parks and Gardens

Gladstone Tondoon Botanic Gardens

Escape into nature at the Gladstone Tondoon Botanic Gardens, an 83-hectare oasis showcasing an impressive collection of native plants from the Port Curtis Region and Tropical North Queensland. Officially opened in 1988, the gardens offer a peaceful setting for relaxation, recreation and discovery, making them a favourite destination for both locals and visitors. Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, explore the tranquil Japanese Tea Garden, and follow the network of walking trails that wind through diverse plant collections and the natural slopes of Mount Biondello. At the heart of the gardens, Lake Tondoon - Gladstone's original water supply until 1945 - now provides an important habitat for a variety of freshwater birds and local wildlife. The gardens are the perfect place to enjoy a picnic, with free electric barbecues, picnic shelters, tables, accessible amenities and a children's playground all available on site. Free guided tours are offered weekly, providing visitors with a fascinating insight into the gardens' unique plant collections, history and conservation values. Throughout the year, the Gladstone Tondoon Botanic Gardens also host a range of community events, including the much-loved Ecofest, one of Australia's largest environmental awareness festivals held each June. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in nature, enjoy a family day out, or simply relax in a beautiful setting, the Gladstone Tondoon Botanic Gardens is a must-visit attraction in the Gladstone Region.

Gladstone QLD

57 km away

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Town of 1770 Golf Course & Driving Range

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Town of 1770 Golf Course & Driving Range

Experience the serenity of the Town of 1770 Golf Course. Set on 68 acres and surrounded by natural bushland and wildlife it offers a unique relaxed atmosphere close to the magnificent coastline of Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy. 9 Hole – Par 34 Fully irrigated fairways Greens built to PGA standard Golf Australia Affilliated Open 7 days Licensed premises Hire clubs, buggies & carts available Light snacks available Large groups welcome

Round Hill QLD

58 km away

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Gladstone Golf Club

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Gladstone Golf Club

The Gladstone Golf Club is your one stop shop for golf. Providing all services including lessons and lesson packages, expert club fitting utilising the latest in computer technology, club repairs, junior school term and school holiday clinics and a fully stocked retail shop. The Gladstone Golf Club offer a full range of club repairs including re-gripping and re-shafting. The fully stocked retail shop has everything you need; clubs, bags, shoes, hats, gloves, balls, tees, towels, clothing, accessories and nick knacks. Open seven days a week for all your golfing needs.

Kin Kora QLD

59 km away

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Monto three moon silos at night with the milky way
Image credit: Monto Magic Tourism Action Group

Landmarks and Buildings

Three Moon Silos

This wonderful silo depicts Joel Fergie’s and Travis Vinson’s version of the legend of the naming of the Three Moon. It depicts an aboriginal elder sharing dreamtime stories and of times gone by with his granddaughter. It tells the story of the legends of the naming of Three Moon. Which includes a swagman, Aboriginal stockman or a Chinese station cook, that were boiling their billy on the banks of the creek and noticed three moon's – one in the sky, one reflecting on the creek and one reflecting in his billy. There is another story also of how the name came about, involving aboriginals that were given the job of washing the sheep at a local property along the river bank around 1887. The way it was communicated to the aboriginals who wanted to come back to work was to return to the same location on the riverbend when three moon's had passed away, this location from then on was called Three Moon.

Three Moon QLD

60 km away

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Round Hill Lookout

Natural Attractions

Round Hill Lookout

Overlooking Gladstone, Tannum Sands and the Hinterland, Round Hill Lookout offers stunning 360 degree views especially at sunset. This is a popular viewing platform for Gladstone's Industry, City Centre and the Islands of the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Round Hill Lookout is just a quick 10 minute drive from the City Centre. Easy parking available at the lookout.

West Gladstone QLD

60 km away

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Dual Plunge Pool

Spas and Retreats

Little Oasis Sauna and Cold Plunge

At Little Oasis Sauna and Cold Plunge, they offer private, self-led contrast therapy sessions. You will have private access to a four-person, ultra-low EMF (low electromagnetic field) infrared sauna, 700 litre 2-person plunge pool and our natural fed chemical free outdoor shower to use at your leisure. They can offer you session structures based on your specific health goals during your visit with them. Whether you're looking for a break in the day to relax in the warmth of the sauna while shedding away toxins from the week or immersing yourself in a cold plunge to jump start your day, they have a combination of what you'll need to leave feeling: Relaxed. Refreshed. Refocused. The sessions provide a personalised approach to enhance your well-being.

Agnes Water QLD

61 km away

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Auckland Point Lookout
Image credit: GAPDL

Natural Attractions

Auckland Point Lookout

While gazing over the beautiful panoramic view of Gladstone Harbour's entrance, let your eyes wander onto the Auckland Point Wharves. Newly renovated, its the perfect place for you to admire the beautiful Gladstone Harbour. Currently the Lookout is only accessible via the stairs accessible by East Shores near the Water Play Park. With four wharves in total, Auckland Point is a part of the indispensable series of wharves that make up the Gladstone Ports Corporation. The Port of Gladstone handles a variety of cargoes associated with the Gladstone Region. The major export commodity is coal and accounts for approximately 70 per cent of total port export trade.

South Gladstone QLD

62 km away

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Gladstone Bowls Club

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Gladstone Bowls Club

Looking for a place to unwind, have fun, and enjoy a game of bowls? Gladstone Bowls Club is the heart of social and competitive lawn bowls in Gladstone! Whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner wanting to give it a try, the club offers a welcoming atmosphere, great facilities, and a strong community spirit. Join in for regular social bowls, competitive events, and club gatherings. Plus, enjoy the clubhouse amenities and friendly hospitality.

Gladstone Central QLD

62 km away

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Splash Zone at the Gladstone Aquatic Centre!
Image credit: Gladstone Regional Council

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Gladstone Aquatic Centre

The Gladstone Aquatic Centre is a public swimming facility located in the heart of the Gladstone City. Relax and enjoy the tropical surrounds and expansive grassed picnic areas for play and sunsmart shaded areas to escape the sun. There is an onsite kiosk for snacks, drinks and the obligatory ice-pole on a hot summer's day. The Aquatic Centre has a 50 metre outdoor pool and 25 metre indoor heated pool plus the newly opened 'Splash Zone' water park which will keep the kids entertained for hours. Gladstone Aquatic Centre also offers learn to swim programs.

Gladstone QLD

62 km away

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