Dalby
From humble beginnings in 1841 as a crossing for Myall Creek (a tributary of the Condamine River), Dalby is a vibrant regional centre with cafes and natural wonders abound. Stop by the nearby towns of Bell – nestled in the foothills of the Bunya Mountains, Kaimkillenbun – affectionately known as “The Bun”, Jimbour – with its magnificent country homestead, and Warra’s iconic Queenslander architecture.
Experience Dalby
The thriving regional hub of Dalby is the gateway to the Western Downs, with its manicured gardens and bustling main street. Take your time to sample the area’s rich heritage and country hospitality, from the raw beauty of Lake Broadwater Conservation Park to local livestock shows and the town’s rich history at Dalby Pioneer Park Museum.
Enjoy our Heritage trail – click here for the link or call into Dalby Visitor Information Centre and get your copy
History & Heritage
History & Heritage
Walk down memory lane at the Dalby Pioneer Park Museum, housing the largest working tractor and agricultural machinery displays in Queensland. An original letter written from Ned Kelly’s jail cell to his mother asking her to visit him is a standout piece of history in the museum.
Learn More about History & HeritageSelf Drives
Self Drives
Stroll down Dalby’s main drag, Cunningham Street for a quaint country CBD full of art deco architecture and character thanks to its early European history. Packed with shops and eateries, there’s enough to fill your day (and stomach). Then, follow the self-guided Heritage Trail for a glimpse of Dalby’s early European history and marvel at the enormous collection of working tractors and agricultural machinery at Pioneer Park Museum.
Learn More about Self DrivesFor the Kids
For the Kids
Experience Western Downs and enjoy family time. We’ve got you covered from a selfie at The Big Melon to a festival of Big Skies and all things in between. Try your hand at fossicking or pitch a tent, drop a line and roast a marshmallow.
Learn More about For the KidsBookable Tours
Bookable Tours
Find and book sightseeing tours, attractions, things to do and fun activities across the Western Downs. A bookable tour offers a unique way to meet a local, make fascinating friends with fellow travellers all whilst taking the pressure of you making the plans. Let us inspire you to explore Western Downs further.
Learn More about Bookable ToursArts & Culture
Arts & Culture
Discover treasures at the Dalby Country Antique Shop and see why it’s a local favourite. You’ll find the quaint storefront in North Street, the perfect base to live out your Antiques Roadshow dreams. Chat to Ross, the friendly owner if you’re looking for a particular item and get a glimpse of the history of some antiques that have come through his shop door. The Bell Biblical Gardens in the nearby town of Bell is something to behold, filled with plants and trees mentioned in the bible, and adorned with art made from recycled materials.
Learn More about Arts & CultureDalby Surrounds
Bell
The beautiful little town of Bell is nestled in the foothills of the Bunya Mountains, less than an hour’s drive away.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Our Catholic Church features exquisite murals by local artist Megg Cullen depicting the story of salvation.
Bell Biblical Gardens, depicting the 14 stations of the cross and many of the plants mentioned in the Bible, as well as inside of the church, exquisite murals by local artist and driving force behind the Bell Biblical Gardens, Megg Cullen.
Experience Bell and visit the Bell Bunya Community Centre, home to Bell’s visitor information centre, art gallery and library. Be sure to try the homemade scones and local jam.
Kaimkillenbun
Recognised as the town with the longest single name in Queensland and affectionately known by locals as “The Bun”, Kaimkillenbun is a local Aboriginal word for the rim of the moon coming over the horizon.
Home to the Moo and Brew festival, naturally the team should run a beef and beer festival on the 2nd Saturday in November every year! Further information can be found here https://www.thebunhotel.com.au/
The Bun Tourist Park has recently received a makeover, stop and enjoy, bookings at the Pub or call 4663 4108. And they are pet friendly.
A great place to stop on your way to the Bunya Mountains. “The Bun” is one of our 11 one town pubs.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Built in 1911, the Bun Pub has a poignant reminder of WWII with an original wall panel signed by local soldiers before they left for the war.
Jimbour
Home to a tiny Queensland school, a classic Clayton Shuttleworth tractor and an iconic heritage-listed homestead, Jimbour is a tiny town around 15 minutes north-west of Dalby.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Discover Jimbour Station, the great pastoral run that prompted the formation of the Jimbour township. While the heritage Jimbour House, one of Australia’s grandest colonial mansions, is a private residence, the owners graciously welcome guests to explore their gardens.
One of Queensland’s premier music events, Big Skies at Jimbour, is held every year on the spectacular grounds of Jimbour Plains. Big skies showcases some of Australia’s music greats, a unique annual experience set in the Western Downs.
Warra
Explorer Ludwig Leichhardt camped on the Cooranga Creek at Warra on 4 October 1844.
When first settled, Warra was previously known as Warra Warra and in 1868 the Western railway line reached Dalby. Seven years later the government approved its extension to the northwest, the name was changed to Warra. This announcement probably prompted Richard Best to settle at Warra in 1875, and he later opened the first hotel, post office and store. The railway was opened two years later.
The beautifully maintained park named after Richard Best, is a testament to the town’s proud railway heritage and a pleasant rest stop.
This historic pub, opened in 1879, offers cold beers and warm welcomes. Pop in and say gidday to Leah and Denis. Meals are available Wednesday to Sunday. The Whistle Stop Coffee shop is open from 7am each morning. If you like you can camp behind the pub.
HIGHLIGHTS:
The history of the railway through the region is told here at the Warra Station. You can also explore Haystack School building in the park.
Lytton Street is another highlight – where you’ll find Ludwig Leichhardt’s campsite, when they passed through in October 1844.
Warra Weir is a bird watchers paradise, with many species of grass birds located here. Anglers can enjoy fishing from the banks of the Condamine River, where you might just catch lunch.
Mingle with the locals at our annual Warra Race Day held on the last Saturday of August, when our population almost triples.
Find out more in our Experience Warra complete brochure.
Stay in Dalby
Camping & Caravaning
Camping & Caravaning
Spend time in nature as you camp or caravan Dalby. Spend your days, strolling the town’s walking trails and soak in the atmosphere, go bird spotting or drop a line to reel in the catch of the day.
Learn More about Camping & CaravaningFarm Stays & Retreat
Farm Stays & Retreat
The Western Downs offers a variety of welcoming boutique & rural retreats that provide an authentic experience of life on the land.
Learn More about Farm Stays & RetreatHotels & Motels
Hotels & Motels
The Western Downs has no shortage of room nights across its hotels and motels if camping isn’t your style. From boutique accommodation to villas, you’ll find somewhere to rest your weary bones after a day of exploring.
Learn More about Hotels & Motels