Calliope
The varied natural attractions of Calliope surround the city of Gladstone. From the pure lustre of the Kroombit Ranges in the west to the expanses of golden sand and brilliant, blue ocean in the east, the Calliope area provides an assortment of holiday destinations.
Home to over 15,000 residents, Calliope takes in the coastal twin towns of Boyne Island and Tannum Sands; the small highway town of Benaraby; major fishing drawcard Lake Awoonga as well as Calliope, Mt Larcom and the Boyne Valley.
BOYNE ISLAND AND TANNUM SANDS
The seaside communities of Boyne Island and Tannum Sands are the major population base of the shire. Relaxed coastal lifestyle centred on the outdoors and maritime pursuits is the flavour of the area.
The award winning foreshore of Millennium Esplanade at Tannum Sands Beach is found just nine kilometres off the Bruce Highway. Its golden sands make it the perfect spot for a leisurely beach holiday.
The innovative and eco-friendly design of Millennium Esplanade makes it an ideal place for picnics, barbeques and of course swimming. The waters are patrolled by lifesavers during Spring and Summer, providing a safe way to cool off. With only a small variation in water temperature during the year, you can take a dip virtually all year round.
Just south of Millennium Esplanade is Wild Cattle Island, an untouched national park separated by Wild Cattle Creek. Visitors can access the island by boat across the creek. A boat ramp is located adjacent to the creek. It is a great destination for a day trip or obtain a permit and camp the night.
Boyne Island is surrounded by the Boyne River, a popular fishing and skiing location. The calm estuarine river winds its way through the township along Turtle Way, 15 kilometres of river front walking tracks. From Turtle Way head to Canoe Point and take a walk along the cliff top boardwalk and enjoy the magnificent sights. Investigate the botanic walk behind the sand dunes.
The foreshore parklands along the Boyne River are the perfect vantage point to observe boats, outrigging crews and water skiers which epitomises the coastal community’s love for the outdoors.
Bray Park has plenty of facilities for adults and kids alike. A well equipped skate park is available for trill seekers. An area is provided to launch your boat and take to the ocean or river for some serious fishing. Alternatively, throughout the shire there are a number of boat ramps and spots where you are sure to bag a few fish.
Those looking for an activity away from the water will not be disappointed. The area’s sporting facilities include a 14-hole golf course, which will be further developed into an 18-hole championship course with associated hotel/resort facility in the near future; indoor sports centre with rock climbing walls; lawn bowls green and rugby league, soccer, touch football and netball grounds.
The fishing enthusiast will no doubt want to time their trip to the district around the June long weekend to enjoy the area’s most popular fishing event, the Boyne-Tannum Hook-up. Situated on the banks of the Boyne River, this event is emerging as one of the most popular fishing competitions on the calendar, jam-packed with entertainment, giveaways and competitions.
Boyne Island and Tannum Sands are well serviced. The area is complemented by three shopping centres which include major chain outlets and speciality stores.
The local cafes, pubs, sports clubs and casual restaurants will soothe any hunger pains. From snacks to substantial meals, the eateries in Boyne Island and Tannum Sands won’t disappoint.
The area boasts a wide range of accommodation options. From beachfront or riverside hotels and caravan parks, to fully self-contained apartments and motels, lodgings are available to suit all tastes and budgets.
For further enquiries, the Tannum Sands Information Centre is located on Ocean Street.
BENARABY AND LAKE AWOONGA
Located on the Bruce Highway and near the Boyne River, the small town of Benaraby is a favourite stop for travellers. Home to just over 600 residents, this charming country town is well known for its fishing and is the gateway to the city of Gladstone.
Stop and stretch your legs at the Boyne River rest area or grab a bite to eat at the road house on the highway.
Before venturing on to the city of Gladstone, be sure to visit Lake Awoonga. Found just 30 minutes from Gladstone, Lake Awoonga’s world-class Barramundi hatchery has become very popular in recent years. A jewel of the Bass to Barra Trail, a visit to this lake is a must for any fishing enthusiast.
Since 1996 in excess of two million barramundi fingerlings have been released into Lake Awoonga. Barramundi over 15 kilograms are regularly caught. Recently, lucky anglers snared two of the whopping creatures weighing over 30 kilograms each.
Lake Awoonga is open for fishing all year round, with a limit only applying in the closed season from December to January. Fish from your own boat or hire one from the caravan park or utilise the expertise of local fishing tour operators. Ensure that you follow the usual Maritime Safety regulations when accessing the water.
Along with fishing, many activities can be enjoyed on or around Lake Awoonga. The calm waters of the lake are an ideal place to swim, sail, canoe or ski. The lake is surrounded by stunning, naturally sculpted landscapes teeming with a wondrous array of plants, animals and birds; making it a great place for bushwalking, bird watching and photography.
This notable, picture-perfect spot has excellent facilities including a café, picnic shelters, barbeques, toilets, playground and landscaped walking trails.
Lake Awoonga is great for a day trip; however, accommodation is available at the caravan park or on a houseboat.
Just north of Benaraby is the fascinating and inspiring artist’s colony, Cedar Galleries.
Built totally by hand, these galleries are a tribute to those who created them. Walk through the village and take in the masterpieces that have been created by local and visiting artists.
Watch in awe as crafts people delicately produce intricate pieces of furniture or sculpture and artists express themselves on canvas. Relax in the peaceful bush surrounds and enjoy a coffee and light snack or sample locally produced Waratah Vineyard wine at the cellar door.
CALLIOPE, BOYNE VALLEY AND MT LARCOM
Relive the history of the region in the former gold rush township of Calliope, located just west of the crossroads on the Bruce Highway.
With a population of 1,700, this fast growing community has a shopping village, country club, bowls club, genuine country pubs and a golf course.
Between 1853 and 1879, the townships of Calliope and Many Peaks became lively settlements when gold was discovered in the district. These communities grew even further when gold was commercially mined in the region during the early 1900s.
While the gold rush has passed, there are a few reminders of bygone times, like an old gold press at the Calliope Town Library.
The Australian ideals of mateship, larrikinism and tenacity against adversity were forged in the country. The Calliope Shire is dotted with a myriad of places where you can regain an appreciation of what life was like in the Australian bush.
Step back in time and relive the early days of the region at Calliope River Historical Village, located a few minutes north of Calliope on the Bruce Highway. Home to an array of buildings from around the region that have been relocated and restored to their former glory; the village is a splendid location to take a break when travelling north or south along the Bruce Highway.
Tour buildings like the Barmundoo and Rosevale Homesteads and view various historical displays. The tools and machinery in the Woolshed highlight how back-breaking working on the land must have been. Visit the fully restored Clyde Hotel or relive the school years at Machine Creek School. The village is open seven days a week for tours, drinks and snacks. However, it really comes alive on selected Sundays for the country markets.
Located 70 kilometres south west of Gladstone is the Boyne Valley. Consisting of four small communities: Nagoorin, Ubobo, Builyan and Many Peaks, these towns havewithstood the test of time. The scenic valley was put on the map by gold and copper in the late 1800s, but is now more known for its timber and agricultural industries. It is also the catchment area for the region’s water source, Lake Awoonga. The area is home to many interesting heritage sites which pay homage to the hard work and determination of its early settlers. Their descendants will happily tell you a yarn over a cool drink at one of the general stores or pubs. The Boyne Valley Historical Society Cottage, located in the heart of Ubobo, caters for tourists who want to leave the usual sightseer trail and enjoy some authentic country hospitality and historically significant locations. When driving through the Valley, why not stop and unwind at picnic spots at Futter Creek or camp beside Lake Awoonga at Boynedale Bush Camp.
Make sure you time your visit to the Boyne Valley to coincide with one of its major events. The Ubobo Mountain Challenge held on the May Day weekend each year is ideal for those wanting to test their physical and mental toughness against nature. The steep 5.2 kilometre climb up Mount Roberts tests the might of competitors resilient enough to tackle the rugged track. Or for a tussle between man and machine, the Nagoorin Trail Ride in late July is the perfect opportunity for motocross enthusiasts to rip into the rugged ranges. For something a little more subdued, enjoy the country atmosphere at the Boyne Valley Spring Festival in September.
The Boyne Valley is also home to the Gladstone Region’s newest outback experience, Glassford Creek Farmstay. Surrounded by other properties, national parks and forests, patrons often say they feel as though they are far away from civilization, while being just under an hour from Gladstone. Visitors will get a taste of true Australian bush life as the farm stay is situated on the working cattle station of ‘Boxvale’. Catering for a small number of guests, Glassford Creek has the ability to offer personalised bush experiences to visitors’ tastes. All guests ere encouraged to take an active role in running the family-owned property, but those not interested in ‘hard yakka’ can relax with a leisurely bushwalk or sunset horse ride.
Found about 30 minutes drive from the Gladstone CBD is Mt Larcom, Gladstone’s most prominent natural landmark. A challenging trek up to the peak is rewarded with an uninterrupted 360-degree view of the Gladstone area. Rural lands and the harbour can be easily recognised from the summit. On a clear day you will see reef islands to the east and Rockhampton to the north. As the mountain is volcanic in origin, the walk takes you through an array of environments, from light eucalypt forests to grass trees. The small township of Mt Larcom has a population of 350. The town is terrific for a short break during your travels with a picnic area, pub and several takeaway and supply stores to keep you going. Keep an eye out for the home made pies, pasties and sausage rolls.
To find out more about Calliope Shire, visit the council website www.gladstonerc.qld.gov.au..
|
