THINGS TO DO/SEE
Gympie is known as “the town that saved Queensland” when gold was discovered by James Nash in 1867, who originally named the town “Nashville”. There are so many things to see and do in and around our region. Here are a few of the popular ones and some of my favorites.
A Google search will provide you with even more information and there is also a local information office on the right-hand side
of the road as you enter Gympie. Here is an excellent website to have a look http://www.visitgympieregion.com.au
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MOTHAR MOUNTAIN ROCKPOOLS
Looking for a relaxing, sheltered place to while away some hours, you can't go past the Mothar Mountain Rock Pools. Located in the Woondum National Park, and only a 10 minute drive from Veterans Retreat, the Mothar Mountain Rock Pools day area provides the perfect family friendly location for a barbecue or picnic. Tables, wood fire barbecue, water and public amenities are all provided for your use on site. On a hot day immerse yourself into the pools to cool off.
Set amongst a mixture of tall Eucalypts and rainforest you can take the opportunity to relax and unwind to the sound of water gently flowing over ancient granite outcrops. Or if you are feeling more energetic, enjoy one of the nature walks. There is a short 500 metre (20 minute) forest walk or a rather more serious 3.5 kilometre (2 hour) walk to explore.
RAINBOW BEACH
Rainbow Beach holds some of the world’s natural wonders and boasts miles of white sandy coast lines. Home to the phenomenon of natural coloured sands, from which its name is derived, and the vast and impressive Carlo Sand Blow, Rainbow Beach is Australia’s hidden treasure.
Carlo Sand Blow is accessible via an easy 600-metre nature walk from Cooloola Drive, this sea of sand covers over fifteen hectares and overlooks the coastline from Double Island Point to Inskip Peninsula and the southern tip of Fraser Island. It is also a perfect spot to witness a sunrise or sunset.
Discover refreshing swimming holes at Seary’s Creek day rest area 8km south of Rainbow Beach. The 100 metre wheelchair accessible boardwalk passes through heath and low woodland.
Rainbow Beach is located approximately 84km and 1 hour drive from Veterans Retreat, it is by far my favourite beach and I visit it often both with my children and on my own, sometimes heading off for a late-night boogie board after doing the night time feed
COOLOOLA BERRIES
Open 7 days a week from 8am to 5pm. You can pick sweet, ripe, delicious strawberries fresh from the farm June to November and PYO Blueberries December to January. There is a cafe on site with Paella luncheon every Sunday 1-4pm and live music. It is located approximately 35 minutes from Veterans Retreat.
MARY VALLEY
RATTLER
Discover the rich history of the Mary Valley with the Mary Valley Rattler. Climb aboard for the journey through the peaceful and picturesque Mary Valley on the lovingly restored heritage train. Before your journey enjoy the ambience and the food at the refurbished Gympie Heritage Railway Station, located in Tozer Street, Gympie which is only an 18 minute drive from Veterans Retreat. Check out their website for train departure times and tours.
VICTORY HEIGHTS
TRAIL NETWORK
A local trail network for passive recreation (walking and mountain biking) has been developed by local not-for-profit community group Cooloola Trail Care Alliance (CTCA). The facility is located in Gympie between the historic Victory Hotel and Gympie North Railway Station and is accessed from Bath Terrace which is only a 20 minute drive from Veterans Retreat.
The trails weave through 60ha of mature eucalypt forest providing unique and accessible nature-based recreation options for locals and visitors. Currently 9km of signposted mountain biking trails have been constructed ranging in difficulty from beginner to experienced levels, including a purpose designed kids/challenge track that is suitable for smaller children and novice riders. There are also 12km of shared-use fire roads and multi-use trails that are suited for walkers and cyclists. So bring your bikes and get active.
MORE ADVENTURES
IN THE AREA
Gympie River to Rail Trail
Helltown Hotrods
Gold panning in Deep Creek
Gympie Gold Mining Museum
World heritage trails
Gympie Regional Art Gallery
Camelot Camel Dairies
Lake Alford Recreation Park
Chevallan Archery Park
