Guide to Nanango Queensland Australia

Nanango is the southern gateway to the South Burnett, at the junction of the D’Aguilar and Burnett highways about two hours north-west of Brisbane. Founded in 1848, it is one of the oldest towns in Queensland. It has been a station outpost, a gold town, a dairy and timber centre and, since the 1980s, the home of one of the state’s largest power stations, and each of those chapters has left its mark.

Known For

• One of the largest country markets in Queensland
• Ringsfield House, a restored 1908 homestead
• Gold-rush history and a hands-on energy centre

The town of about 3,500 people sits in rolling country at 350 metres, with cool winters. Drayton Street, the main street, has old pubs, a butter factory building and a park where Aboriginal and pioneer history is told on a series of panels.

Things To Do in Nanango

Nanango Country Markets

On the first Saturday of each month the showgrounds fill with hundreds of stalls selling plants, produce, livestock, tools, crafts and food. The markets have run for decades and draw visitors from across south-east Queensland; arrive early.

Ringsfield House

This large timber house was designed by the noted architect Robin Dods and built in 1908. It later served as a maternity hospital and then a hostel before being restored by the local historical society. Rooms are furnished in period style, other heritage buildings have been moved into the grounds, and a tearoom serves morning tea and lunch.

South Burnett Energy Centre

Beside the visitor information centre, this interactive display explains how electricity is generated at the nearby Tarong power stations and the coal mine that feeds them, with hands-on exhibits that children enjoy.

Tipperary Flat and the goldfield

Tipperary Flat, a park on the southern edge of town, has a replica miner’s hut, a stamper battery and a shaft, recalling the rush that followed the discovery of gold nearby in the 1860s. Fossicking for gold is still permitted at the Seven Mile Diggings, a short drive away, with a licence.

Forest drives and Coomba Falls

East of town, forest roads lead through hoop pine plantations and native forest to lookouts and picnic spots. To the south-west, Maidenwell has the swimming hole at Coomba Falls, and the Bunya Mountains are about an hour away.

Where To Stay

Nanango has several motels, pub rooms, caravan parks and a showground with sites for travellers.

Farm stays, cabins and bed and breakfasts are found in the surrounding hills, and Kingaroy, 25 minutes north, has more choice.

Eat & Drink

The main street has bakeries, cafes and several historic hotels serving counter meals. Local olive oil, wine and smallgoods are sold at the visitor centre and the markets.

History

Nanango is in the country of the Wakka Wakka people. Nanango Station was taken up in 1842, and a small settlement with an inn grew at the station crossing from 1848. Gold was found at the Seven Mile in 1866, bringing a brief rush. The railway arrived in 1911, opening the district to dairy farmers and timber-getters, and the Tarong power station began operating in 1984.

Getting to Nanango

From Brisbane, drive through Kilcoy and Blackbutt on the D’Aguilar Highway, about 185 kilometres. The Burnett Highway leads north to Goomeri and Gayndah. Coaches run from Brisbane on some days.