A journey through South West Queensland’s agricultural heartland will introduce you to colourful characters, memorable scenery and incredible produce.
Why not start at the magnificent Carnarvon Range, north of Roma? Meryl and Craig Eddie from Boobook Eco-Tours lead a fascinating exploration of this secluded natural wonder – including an insight into beef production on a 71,000-acre working cattle station. Foodies will be happy to know that Boobook Tours are also fully catered: imagine a picnic setting surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs and ancient cycads.
For a further feast of landscape, hop on board The Westlander – Queensland Rail Travel’s service linking Roma in the Maranoa with Charleville, in the state’s south-west. The Westlander has been transporting people across Queensland since 1888. Sit back and relax as you cross the sunburned plains of the Outback – passing sprawling stations and country towns.
Cunnamulla lies 200 kilometres south of Charleville and is home to the Club Boutique Hotel. Check into this stylish accommodation and sample one or two of the craft beers at the bar – each named after a local character. Try the “Grandy Shandy” — named after the owner’s grandmother and based on the flavours of Lemon Myrtle.
Stay on in town to help celebrate the iconic Cunnamulla Fella Festival – a crowd-pleasing annual shindig celebrating bush skills – from rodeo riding and sheep shearing to wood chopping.
Horse, sheep and cattle are a common sight in these parts – but what about camels?
At Cunnamulla Camel Company in Eulo, Graham Finlayson has strayed from typical beef production and diversified into camel meat. You can even buy a Cunnamulla Camel burger in town! But have you ever tried camel gnocchi? Italian chef and actor, Mirko Grillini – a friend of the Finlaysons – is the culinary creative behind this Outback take on a delicious Italian tradition.
