Towns of the Western Downs
Discover the Western Downs a region full of charm and adventure! From Dalby to Drillham, Wandoan to Westmar, and every welcoming town in between, you’ll uncover rich history, vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and authentic country hospitality. Whether you’re chasing heritage trails, outdoor escapes, or a taste of rural life, the Western Downs is the perfect destination to explore.
Discover what makes these Western Downs towns truly special! Feast your eyes on vibrant fields of sunflowers, grain, wheat, and cotton, and savour the region’s reputation for fresh local produce. Join in the fun at unique cultural events like camel racing and the famous melon festival. Explore historic villages, soak up breathtaking sunsets, and marvel at the Wild Dog Barrier Fence, the second-longest man-made structure on Earth.
Dalby & Surrounds
Dalby is a vibrant regional hub where country charm meets modern convenience. Brimming with cafés, culture, and natural beauty, this lively town has come a long way from its humble beginnings as a crossing on Myall Creek in 1841. Today, it stands as the gateway to the Western Downs, offering visitors a warm welcome and plenty to explore. Stroll through the heritage-listed Jimbour House and its magnificent gardens, uncover stories of the region’s rich history, and soak up the genuine hospitality that makes Dalby unforgettable. With its perfect blend of heritage, adventure, and relaxation, Dalby is a destination you’ll want to experience for yourself.
Jandowae & Surrounds
Jandowae is a welcoming rural town steeped in history and community spirit. Originally called “Jindowie,” meaning “waterhole” in the local Indigenous language, the name was changed to Jandowae when the railway line was extended in 1914 to avoid confusion with nearby Jondaryan. Today, Jandowae marks the starting point of the Wild Dog Barrier Fence and offers visitors a unique glimpse into life on the land. Surrounded by wide-open skies and rich agricultural landscapes, this charming town is a perfect stop for those seeking authentic country experiences and a taste of Western Downs heritage.
Miles & Surrounds
At the crossroads of the Warrego and Leichhardt Highways, Miles welcomes travelers with warm hospitality and a proud heritage. Renowned for the Miles Historical Village Museum, a collection of 30 original 19th‑ and 20th‑century buildings, the town transports you back through time. A vibrant arts scene and the biennial Back to the Bush Festival add charm and excitement, making Miles a perfect blend of history and festivity
Chinchilla & Surrounds
Chinchilla is famous for its juicy watermelons, hosting the biennial Melon Festival celebrating its position as one of Australia’s top watermelon producers. But beyond the festival fun lies a warm country town, inviting visitors to explore botanical gardens, fossick for petrified wood, and relax by the scenic Weir. Filled with welcoming locals and a charming small‑town atmosphere, Chinchilla is the perfect place to slow down and savour life.
Wandoan & Surrounds
Wandoan wears its history on its sleeve, offering outstanding bush camping, fishing and a proud heritage trail. Visitors can follow in the footsteps of early settlers on a self‑guided tour through historic spots like Juandah Head Station. Rich in stories of Ludwig Leichhardt’s expeditions and the soldier‑settler era, the town also offers tranquil bushland escapes where nature’s beauty and timeless history converge.
Tara & Surrounds
Tara’s corner of the Western Downs is full of surprises, from an internationally acclaimed botanic garden to the excitement of camel racing. The town proudly celebrates its multicultural heritage with the award-winning biennial Tara Festival of Culture and Camel Races—a vibrant event that draws visitors from far and wide. History lovers can step back in time at the local museum, where pioneering stories are preserved with care. Whether you’re here for culture, adventure, or a taste of country life, Tara offers an experience as unique as its community.
