Western Downs
The Western Downs region of Queensland is a picturesque area located in the heart of the Australian Outback, just 2.5 hours west of Brisbane. The Western Downs is a region of diverse economy, vibrant active communities and extensive infrastructure. Located in the heart of the resource rich Surat Basin, the Western Downs has a diversified energy portfolio with five pillars of energy generation: Coal, Gas, Ethanol, Wind and Solar cementing their reputation as the Energy Capital of Queensland.
The Western Downs is home to a rich agricultural heritage, with farming and grazing industries thriving in the area. Visitors can experience the best of this rich tradition by exploring local markets, sampling fresh produce and learning about the history of the region at museums.
Getting to Dalby
Getting to Dalby can be done a couple different ways; drive at your own leisure, use a coach service, catch a train or fly to Toowoomba then hire a car to drive to Dalby. If you choose to drive it is a short two and a half-hour drive west of Brisbane and is also easily accessed from the Sunshine Coast or Gold Coast. The Warrego Highway (A2) stretches 700km connecting its smaller towns while a network of open, sealed country roads offers easy access. The inland Leichhardt Highway (A5) is quite the journey from Melbourne to the Western Downs region and the Bunya Highway (State Route 49) links Dalby to Kingaroy, connecting Australia's country way.
Dalby is an RV friendly town, with dump points, portable water and casual parking areas for your convenience.
Dump point: Black Street (outside Pioneer Park)
Portable Water: Black Street (opposite dump point)
Casual Parking: (Dalby Visitor Information Centre)
Coach services depart daily from Brisbane, there is a couple company's taking this route frequently, Greyhound Australia and Murrays Coaches offering reasonable prices averaging around a 4 hour journey.
Book Greyhound Australia
Book Murrays Coaches
If you wish to travel by train your options are limited taking the Westlander by Queensland Rail, experiencing a scenic journey from Brisbane travelling through the Great Dividing Range in Toowoomba to the rich farmlands of Darling Downs. The Westlander only travels twice a week to Dalby on Tuesday's and Thursdays for a 6 hour trip, however might be an option for those planning to stay in Dalby longer than the symposium dates.
If you're planning to fly to Toowoomba and then drive to Dalby, your arrival point would be the Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport. It's a popular choice since the journey from Toowoomba to Dalby takes only about an hour. The airport has three airlines that offer flights to and from Dalby: Qantas, Regional Express (REX), and Bonza. When it comes to car rental options, the Wellcamp airport provides a wide range of choices, with five companies available: Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, Avis Australia, and Budget Australia. You can even pre-book your rental and collect the keys upon landing.
Weather
In August the weather can be described as mild and dry, with little rainfall and comfortable temperatures during the day with plenty of sunshine. The average high temperature during August is around 21°C, while the average low temperature is around 6°C. Be sure to pack warm clothing for the cooler evenings and early morning, as we will have activities outside during the afternoon/evening.
Things to do
For those seeking outdoor adventure, the Western Downs has plenty to offer. From hiking, camping and mountain biking in the Bunya Mountains to fishing and water sports on the region's many lakes and waterways. Other activities that may peak your interest is golf, museums, bird watching, tourist drives, visiting Jimbour House, walk Myall Creek and visit Lake Broadwater.
Eat and Drink
Dalby is home to a diverse range of eateries that cater to all tastes and preferences. From cafes to restaurants, there is something for everyone.
For those looking for a hearty breakfast or a quick bite to eat, Urban Paddock Cafe is a must-visit. Urban Paddock cafe is charming and cozy sport with rustic decor that compliments the natural beauty of the surrounding area. They offer a delicious range of homemade dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, as well as specialty coffee drinks and refreshing smoothies.
If you're in the mood for a classic pub meal, Dalby is not in short supply of restaurants. Take your pick from Dalby Leagues Club, Russell Tavern, Kobbers Motor Inn Restaurant, Windsor Hotel Bistro, The Australian Hotel Motel and the Criterion Hotel.
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