It’s an oldie but a goodie
FOR a small country town with a population of 3500, there’s a lot going on in Nanango. The town is in Queensland’s South Burnett region, two-and-a-half hours’ drive northwest of Brisbane and one-and-a-half hours’ drive north of Toowoomba.
One of Nanango’s claims to fame is it’s the fourth oldest town in the state. Today it is known for so much more.
Nanango is surrounded by vineyards, farmland and forests and is a beautiful spot for a day trip, weekend or longer.
Here are some ways you can enjoy Nanango:
Nanango Heritage Soundtrail
Launched in September, the Soundtrail is a free self-guided audio tour around the historic town centre, accessed via an app on your mobile phone or other compatible device.
Hear the story of the town as narrated by members of the community, including 93year-old former mayor Reg
McCallum. The narrators will guide you, highlighting special landmarks and sharing memories along the way.
Download the Soundtrails app or visit soundtrails.com.au/ nanango-heritage-soundtrail/
Ringsfield House
Rich with local history, Ringsfield House is a museum, coffee shop and event venue in the 1908 property of some of the first European settlers.
Surrounded by manicured gardens and serving up delicious coffee and cakes from Wednesday to Sunday, Ringsfield is a must visit in Nanango. 07 4163 3345 www.ringsfield.com.au
Nanango Country Market
Held on the first Saturday of every month 6am–noon, this is one of the largest markets in southern Queensland. It is set on 14ha and averages 380 stalls each month. You can browse handcrafts, produce, plants, hardware, clothing, smallgoods and knick-knacks.
There is a canteen and coffee shop and, with delectable treats that can be bought from stallholders, you will not go home hungry.
Nanango Showgrounds 0427 631 273
South Burnett Kart Hire
For a little more action, head to this South Burnett go kart track for heart-racing fun.
Starting from as little as $15 for a 10-minute ride, drivers can choose from single, double or kids’ karts to hang some laps around the exciting track.
If you prefer the sidelines, the track also hosts a number of competitions and events that are open to spectators.
13838 D’Aguilar Highway, Nanango, 07 4171 0040
Go fossicking
Just over 10km from town are the Seven Mile Diggings – a gold mining area from 1864 to 1900. At its peak the diggings had about 300 people, many of them Chinese.
While it wasn’t the richest gold mine, fossickers can still find alluvial gold there. To access the diggings, park at the entry and walk about 2km in.
Camping is available at the top of the track that leads to Yarraman Creek and you need a permit for camping and fossicking – from the South Burnett Energy and Information
Centre in Nanango (look around while there). After heavy rain the creek may be unsafe to cross. Get a brochure from Nanango Visitor Information Centre that will guide you through the diggings.
Old Esk North Rd, Nanango 07 4189 9446
For more on Nanango and other South Burnett activities, go to www.discoversouthburnett.com.au