The Fraser Coast region, which is a three-hour drive north of Brisbane, offers an extraordinary array of experiences to holidaymakers. Maryborough, Hervey Bay and Fraser Island are very different destinations but all have their charms.
The town of Maryborough is rich in colonial heritage and that is celebrated at the Bond Store. Take it in on one of the Tipples and Tales tours. They are held each Saturday and cost $30.
Other local attractions include the Maryborough markets which are held every Thursday morning. There are over 120 stalls with everything from fresh farm produce, toys, clothes and much more.
Travelling to heritage-listed Fraser Island is easy from the coastal community of Hervey Bay. It’s just a forty-minute journey on the ferry and guests are delivered to the doorstep of Kingfisher Bay Resort.
Once on the sand island, there’s the option to take a personalised tour with rangers or to enjoy a group ‘Beauty Spots Tour’. The resort can also drop hikers off with a packed lunch so they can explore the many walking trails on the island at their own pace. There’s also the option to be accompanied by a guide.
Hervey Bay is recognized as the whale watching capital of the world and its whale watching season lasts from July to late October. To celebrate the comings and goings of the whales, the locals have created the Hervey Bay Ocean Festival. It’s on each August and runs over two weekends. Events include the “Paddle out for the Whales”, The Hervey Bay Seafood Festival and a street parade and concert.
When in Hervey Bay, a great place for families to base themselves at the Beach Motel. It has a range of accommodation options, from spa suites to four bedroom apartments. One of its strongest selling points is that it’s just metres from Shelly Beach and close to plenty of restaurants and shops.
Tipples and Tales
ourfrasercoast.com.au/tipples-and-tales
KingFisher Bay Resort
4655 Fraser Island
4194 9300
kingfisherbay.com
Hervey Bay Ocean Festival
herveybayoceanfestival.com.au
Visit Fraser Coast
visitfrasercoast.com
The Beach Motel Hervey Bay
475 Charlton Esplanade, Torquay
4125 1544
thebeachmotel.com.au
