VISIT SOUTHERN QUEENSLAND COUNTRY

The Queensland Travel Guide acknowledges the Ugarapul and Kitabul, Keinjan, Kambuwal, Jagera, Giabal and Jarowair people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which Southern Queensland Country is situated. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continued spiritual and cultural connections to Country.  Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land.

Southern Queensland Country is a sprawling region encompassing Kingaroy to the north, Stanthorpe to the south, the Lockyer Valley and Darling Downs to the east and as far west as Meandarra. An area that’s a world-apart from the nearby hustle and bustle of the state’s capital, Brisbane, it’s home to stunning landscapes rich in textures and tones. 

The region is home to a wealth of natural beauty, with everything from rugged mountain ranges, UNESCO listed rainforests to waterways, lakes, rivers, rock pools, waterfalls, national parks and more than 120 rural towns and villages.

Australia’s second-largest inland city, Toowoomba, is on the edge of the stunning great dividing range, just over an hour’s drive from Brisbane.  Queens Park and the Botanic Gardens are the perfect locations for stretching your legs after a long drive. These two large green reserves transform into a mass of floral colour in Spring, celebrated during the month long Carnival of Flowers (held in September). 

If you have a penchant for fragrant vineyards and boutique wineries, head to the Granite Belt Wine Country, where award winning wines are being produced in Australia’s highest wine region. A few of the Granite Belt’s high altitude wines are receiving international acclaim.

Beyond the grapes, you can experience truly delectable cuisine at the numerous local cafes and restaurants or sample delicious fresh produce from the many farm gates around Stanthorpe. And if you’re looking for some festive cheer, the Granite Belt Christmas Farm has Christmas carols on rotation all year round. Their Santa Shop is something to be seen.  

Southern Queensland Country may be one of Australia’s best kept secrets, but with such diverse choices in the vast region, there’s something for everyone. And the friendly locals will welcome you with open arms.

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  Best things to do in Stanthorpe
  Are you planning to visit Stanthorpe?  This article covers the best things to do in Stanthorpe, including the surrounding regions of the Granite Belt. The Queensland Travel Guide acknowledges the Kambuwal people, Malintji and Kuunkari people, the Traditional Custodians of Stanthorpe.  We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their