Maranoa Region

National Parks

Whether you're looking for adventure or interested in more leisurely recreational pursuits, the natural places of the Maranoa offer some of the most spectacular landscapes in which to rejuvenate and reinvigorate yourself.

The Maranoa has an accessible network of National Parks and State Forests including the internationally renowned Carnarvon National Park, each with their own unique ecosystems and very diverse geological land formations.

Fishing & 4WD

For those anglers that are up for the challenge of fishing inland waterways, the Maranoa offers a quality recreational freshwater fishing experience. Our numerous clean river systems and local waterholes are regularly stocked with a range of native fish.

Freshwater fish species which can be found in our river systems and waterholes include yellow belly, silver perch, cod, and dew fish. Our waterholes provide the ideal habitat for shrimp which can be used as live bait to catch the “big one”.

Who could resist the chance to relive or create the childhood experience and thrill of catching and eating fresh yabbies? The best fishing spots are strictly guarded secrets that can be pried from the locals over a yarn at that other favourite ‘watering hole’ in town or alternatively enquire at any of our visitor information centres throughout the region.

Family Holiday

A holiday in the Maranoa provides you with an opportunity to take time out and spend some quality time together as a family. With such diversity, natural beauty and wide open spaces, there is a whole host of new experiences to share that will delight both children and parents.There is no congested traffic or problems parking at our natural theme parks for visitor attractions.

Many of the attractions have no queues and some are free and won’t require you to constantly have your hand in your pocket – even our accommodation options and meals are affordable.

The Maranoa offers experiential learning which is enjoyable for the whole family. Learning is fun in our outdoor classrooms and the whole family will have a shared and fun learning experience – something at that is not possible from a TV or a computer screen.

Retrace the footsteps of famous Australian explorers Burke and Wills, Major Mitchell and Leichardt. The Maranoa is filled with places where you can explore Australia’s great stories which celebrate the land, the people and events that shaped our nation. For a really authentic country experience be sure to include a farmstay on your itinerary. Children and parents can participate in daily station life and learn about food and fibre production or simply relax and soak up the clean air and tranquility of the landscape.

Getaway & Relax

The Maranoa offers a rural retreat for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of busy modern day living. Experience the relaxed village style atmosphere of the smaller communities of the Maranoa or if your preference is for a larger country town experience why not take a break and rejuvenate in Roma.

Being in western Queensland doesn’t mean that we’ve forgotten life’s necessities – fantastic food, great coffee, wineries, inspiring public art precincts and galleries. Put your feet up at any of our accommodation options where you’ll be known by your name and not your room number. Rejuvenate tired muscles with a soak in the thermal mineralized waters of the Great Artesian Spa, relaxing for the body and therapeutic for the soul. For the ultimate in relaxation, book a massage or beauty treatment from any of the region’s qualified beauty therapists.

Wander our village style main streets and discover the treasures on offer in our local specialty shops. Explore our unique landscapes and reconnect with nature with a picnic or leisurely stroll through our natural areas, parks and walk ways. We value our relaxed lifestyle and invite you to experience the Maranoa way of life for yourself.

A Sense of Creativity

Located 32km north of Mackay, the Brampton Island National Park’s rocky headlands are dotted with hoop pines, open grasslands, woodlands, sheltered bays and long sandy beaches making these islands some of the most scenic off the Queensland coast.

This park protects Brampton and Carlisle Islands with access by private boat. You may also access Brampton Island via commercial operators departing from Mackay Marina.

Bush camping is available on Carlisle Island - permits required and fees apply. Resort accommodation is available on Brampton Island.