Here at Weekender, we say we have the best job in the world. We get to explore our beautiful state, almost every single day. While it’s exciting for us to visit somewhere new, there are a few spots that have us returning over, and over again. Bowen is one of those places. This tropical gem sits at the top of the Whitsundays. It has beautiful beaches, bright blue water and good old fashioned country hospitality.
When you think of Bowen, you probably picture the ocean. You’ll be seeing plenty of it during your stay, but one of the more spectacular places to soak up the sea air, is Bowen Golf Club. That’s exactly why we kicked off our trip here. This nine-hole course is just 15 metres from the water. No matter whether you win or lose, at this spot, you’re guaranteed to have a good day. When you’re done, head to the clubhouse for lunch. The team there will make you feel right at home.
After an active start to your trip, head to Bowen Cinemas. The halls of the cinema are covered with signed posters of the movie stars who’ve paid this place a visit. Not many people can say Hugh Jackman watched a movie at their cinema!
Lastly, make sure you check out what events are on while you’re in Bowen. We headed to the Bowen Show. There’s endless entertainment here. Foodies can wander through the pavilion, while daredevils can hop on one of the rides. Either way, you won’t regret stopping in.
Wind down at Queens Beach Tourist Village. It was awarded best large caravan park at last year’s grey nomad awards. Families can retreat here in a caravan or cabin, and while the adults are chilling out, the kids can be kept entertained at the pool area.
Australia has a real fascination with big things. Bowen is no exception. This town is known for its big mango. The 10-metre-tall attraction has become a landmark of the north, with visitors coming form far and wide to have a look. So, when we planned our trip, we had to put it in the itinerary.
Right next door to the giant fruit, you’ll find the Bowen Visitor Information Centre. The team inside will help you book tours or give you any tips while in town. In here you’ll also find souvenirs and locally made mango sorbet.
The mangos used in the icy treat are all grown right here. That’s why we stopped in at a local mango farm. Chatting to the farmers in the area, really helps you understand the community a little better. While you’re here, we suggest you purchase some of the local produce from the roadside stalls. It’s not only some of the freshest produce you’ll ever eat, but you’re also supporting the farmers in the area at the same time.
We travelled from Brisbane to Bowen and since we travelled all that way, we thought we should explore some of the surrounding towns. Collinsville is just 45 minutes west of Bowen, but in that short time, you’ll feel like you’re being transported from a tropical paradise to the outback.
Learn about the town’s mining history at the Coalface Experience. It’s a dedicated museum where you’ll listen to the tales of struggle and mateship that shaped this community. If you’ve got good weather, why not take firsthand look at the Number One Mine Site. This real retired mine really makes you feel like you’re stepping back in time. We decided to get our history lesson at the Historical Display Centre. We learned about the old sporting teams, the old hospital, and of course, the pit ponies.
Fuel up at Collinsville Bakehouse. They say the cream buns are famous here. After our own taste test, we can confirm, they’re worth the visit.
We decided to bring our treats to Collinsville’s pit pony experience. This monument sits in the heart of town, commemorating all the pit ponies who worked closely with the miners. One thing that resonates here, is that these animals were considered part of the community. It is clear locals loved the horses and will always be an important part of the town’s history.
What does Bowen have in common with Mexico? Both climates are perfect for growing agave. The leaves on these plants are spiky, leathery, and if you know what you’re doing, they’re also very yummy.
At Australia’s only agave spirit farm, these plants are fermented and distilled into an award-winning spirit, called Act of Treason. If that name piques your interest, you’re not alone. When we asked distiller Dean about the thinking behind the name, he said it’s a “cheeky kind of homage to, you know, we can’t call it tequila.” Much like Champagne, you can’t call a spirit ‘tequila’ unless it’s from a specific region in Mexico. Thus, you get the name, and a spirit that is unique to the Whitsundays.
We personally considered it an act of treason not to try it ourselves. After a small sip, we new a bottle of this stuff, would make a perfect souvenir.
When you’re looking at your own trip to Bowen, visit the Tourism Bowen website. You’ll find heaps of information about the area, and plenty of ideas about what to see and do.
