RV Friendlies & Events

Baralaba is situated on the Dawson River in Central Queensland and is located 160 kilometres south-west of Rockhampton and 667 kilometres north-west of Brisbane. It was once an important coal mining area, but is now a thriving beef/stud cattle, grain and irrigated crop farming district. Baralaba is an Aboriginal word meaning ‘Land of the Blue Mountain’. Mt Ramsay, the large ‘blue mountain’ dominates the skyline around the town. Located 14 kilometres south-east of town, it is a popular hiking spot, with spectacular views of the surrounding districts from the top. There are a number of annual events held in the town, such as the Agricultural Show in May, an annual Art Exhibition and the Baralaba Saratoga Classic Fishing Competition in October. The town is also host to many sporting tournaments. There are water sports on the river, a golf course, tennis courts, a bowling green and a farm stay, where horse riding is available. Visitors are encouraged to join in the activities and can find out what’s happening from notices in shop windows or by asking the locals.Those visiting Baralaba can find short-term parking at Neville Hewitt Weir, and can park for up to 48 hours. Potable water is available here, and a dump point is located on Wooroonah Rd.Everything you need for your stay is available in town, including groceries, a drink or meals at the pub, mechanical repairs and fuel. There is also a newsagency, post office and ATM’s. So, when visiting the Dawson River, be sure to make Baralaba your base.Tourist/Visitor Centre       Landcare & Community Centre, cnr Stopford St & Ashfield St, Baralaba QLDOnly open Wednesdayswww.sandstonewonders.com Casual Parking       Stopford StShort Term Parking           Neville Hewitt Weir, (7days); Baralaba Showgrounds, Wooroonah Rd, 07 4998 1581 $10pvpn poweredDump Point  Wooroonah Rd (near showgrounds)Potable Water          Neville Hewitt WeirHospital        Baralaba Multipurpose Health Service, Stopford St, Ph: 07 4998 2800Doctors Surgery     1 Stopford St, Ph: 07 4998 1233Pharmacy     Moura Pharmacy, Marshall St, Ph: 07 4997 1476, delivers to town twice weekly, (50km); Baralaba hospital has a dispensary for urgent suppliesSupermarket            29 Stopford St, Ph: 07 4998 1351

Charlton, known as 'The Friendly River Town', is situated on the banks of the Avoca River, at the junction of the Calder and Borung Highways. This small attractive rural town of tree lined streets was established for pastoral purposes, not gold mining like many other towns in the region. Charlton is full of historical buildings from days gone by and is definitely worth exploring. The Tourist Information Centre is housed in another historic building, 'The Traveller's Rest'. Drop in and pick up all the brochures needed to enjoy your stay in Charlton. Former Prime Minister, John Curtin spent a short period of his youth in Charlton, and the Traveller's Rest has a display dedicated to him. The enormous grain silos denote the main local industry, although Charlton is also a large beef producer. The wool and sheep industry also contribute to the local economy. Like many rural towns, it is feeling the effects of the drought, so any input into the economy will be welcomed.Those wishing to visit Charlton can find short-term parking at Travellers Rest Area, off the Calder Hwy. Here, visitors will have access to a dump point and potable water. Charlton is rich in history and a wonderful place to base yourself when exploring the region. The Charlton Golden Grain Museum is located in the former mechanics' institute, circa 1882. The Museum contains collections of items relating to the local history and is open by appointment, (phone 03 5491 1755). Located opposite the Museum, St Andrew's Presbyterian Church, circa 1871, is the epitome of churches from that era. A prominent historical landmark is the former hotel 'Vale of Avoca', which was built on the site of an early bark hut inn in 1879 and now operates as a Bed and Breakfast. The nearby Wooroonook Lakes provide facilities for water sports and provides an ideal spot for a picnic. East of Charlton is Wychetella Forest containing many native animals including the rare Mallee Fowl. The town of Charlton holds many events throughout the year including the Art Show and Charlton Agricultural Show and Rodeo held every October. In December, the Mardi Gras is a great way to celebrate the Christmas Season.Tourist/Visitor Centre       Shire Offices, 1 High St, Charlton VICPh: 1300 520 520www.buloke.vic.gov.auEast Charlton Hotel Ph: 03 5491 1613Casual Parking       Travellers Rest Area, off the Calder HwyShort & Long Term Parking            Travellers Rest Area, pwr $25.00 pvpn, pick up keys from the East Charlton Hotel, Ph: 03 5491 1613 for shwrs; Gordon Caravan Park, off the Calder HwyDump Point  Travellers Rest AreaPotable Water          Travellers Rest Area; Gordon Park Caravan ParkHospital        19 Grandview St, Wycheproof, Ph: 03 5478 0700, (20min)Doctors Surgery     94 High St, Ph: 03 5477 6865Pharmacy     23 High St, Ph: 03 5491 1521Supermarket            28 High St, Ph: 03 5491 1909

Situated on the fringe of the Hunter Valley's wine country, between Kurri Kurri and Cessnock, RV travellers can find a perfect place to park at the Abermain Bowling and Recreation Club.Self-contained vehicles can park on-site (entry is through the members’ car park), where the grassy area at the rear of the car park has room for up to seven vehicles. Awnings cannot be opened, but pets on a lead are permitted. Parking is provided for up to 72 hours free of charge.The friendly club has all the regular facilities including a bistro, which is open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday through to Sunday. With six beers on tap, a TAB lounge, KENO, pool table and dart boards, it's the perfect place to escape for a refreshing drink in your down time. The club opens at 10am daily, seven days a week.Address: Cnr Armidale St & Goulburn St, AbermainCost: Nil chargeParking: Entry through member's car park, grassy area at rear of car park, 72hrs, awnings not to be opened, room for 7 vehicles up to 7m, pets on leadOpening Hours: 10am to 11pm