Some of Queensland’s most unique destinations you should know
With the perfect setting and ideal year-round climate, it’s no wonder that Queensland is one of the hottest travel destinations in the world. But there’s more to the destination than just great weather as Queensland is also home to some of the most unique experiences in the southern hemisphere, just like the few listed here.
Take a dive on the wild side
Learn to dive on the Great Barrier Reef, one of the seven natural wonders of the world and the only natural organism that can be seen from outer space. Base yourself in Cairns or Townsville for easy access to the warm tropical waters and rainbow coloured coral, sponges and fish. Between the months of June and August, join a few hundred travellers and swim with the dwarf Minke whale, also the only place in the world that lets you do this.
Get your heart racing
Scale to the top of Brisbane’s Story Bridge. Unlike other bridge climbs in the world, the Story Bridge Adventure Climb allows you to climb up and abseil down the bridge itself. Hard core adrenaline junkies should head to the only bungy site in Australia at the AJ Hackett in Cairns. See great views over the rainforest and out to the Great Barrier Reef for those brave enough to keep their eyes open on the way down.
Head out to the wacky West
Just when you thought you’d seen it all, the Outback throws you a curve ball. Check out the Boulia Camel Races with 3,000 other punters keen to party from around the world. Watch the Yabbies make a break for it at the Windorah Yabby Races the week before the famous Birdsville Races or head to Winton for the five day festival around the Dunny Races – yes, you read correctly!
Dig a Dino (saur) at the Australian Age of Dinosaurs
The Age of Dinosaurs is not just a museum, it’s a living heritage and it’s uncovering the secrets of the past. Located in Winton, this is the only place in the southern hemisphere where the public can get their hands on dinosaurs by volunteering to prepare dinosaurs (that’s drilling soil off the bones), or taking part in a dinosaur dig each August.
Man up on the Harry Redford Cattle Drive
Retrace the steps of the infamous cattle rustler Harry Redford aka ‘Captain Starlight’ in the 1800s on the annual 200 kilometre Harry Redford Cattle Drive (out of Aramac). Discover the secrets of horsemanship and driving knowledge passed on from generation to generation and enjoy the spectacular sunrise and sunset, including campfire yarns.
