The Cardwell Pioneer Tours are currently operating every Monday and Thursday morning from 10am at the Visitor Information and Heritage Centre located in Cardwell. The tour incorporates all the buildings in the historic precinct and takes visitors on a fascinating journey of the area’s colourful history as they move through each building. The tour begins at the old Bush Telegraph building which was the Telegraph and Post Office and explains how Cardwell was founded in 1864 as the first port in North Queensland. Over in the Courthouse visitors can gain an understanding of the old judicial system. Several interesting items are on display including the original straight-jackets used in Tully to restrain the more energetic offenders. The old lock-up building was still in use during the1980s at the Cardwell Police Station. The final building is the old Shire Hall which the community used for a multitude of purposes included balls and other formal social events. The tour concludes on the balcony of the Visitor Information Centre where visitors can enjoy a complementary Devonshire Tea while taking in one of the best views in North Queensland overlooking Hinchinbrook Island, Gould Island and the Family Islands
Event date: 5 December 2025
The Parkes Christmas Parade and Carnival is one of the town's most beloved festive traditions, bringing the community together to kick off the holiday season in style!
Expect a festive parade lighting up the town with floats, music, and festive cheer, local market stalls, live entertainment, food and fun.
It's a magical evening that captures the spirit of Parkes—warm, welcoming, and full of heart.
Stay tuned for more information regarding this event!
Event date: Saturday 12 September 2026.
Grazing Down the Lachlan will make a return to Forbes.
This multi-award winning foodie adventure is set alongside the picturesque Lachlan River and celebrates produce native to the Central West NSW region, prepared by local restaurateurs and caterers.
‘Grazers’ are free to wander along the designated corridor of the nine-mile reserve between six stations offering delicious food with a matched beverage.
What makes this dining experience truly unique is the underlying commitment to delivering a no-waste, environmentally responsible event.