Boonah, South East Country Queensland, Queensland

Boonah is a picturesque town just an hour away from Brisbane, in Queensland. The place-name was said to be the Anglicized form of the Aboriginal word ‘buna,’ which is said to mean bloodwood tree. The town largely depends on agriculture.

For residents of metropolitan cities, Boonah provides a much needed respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Life in this town is simple and idyllic, features much sought after by those wishing for a time to relax and commune with nature without having to travel far. A short drive from Brisbane brings visitors right in the middle of mountains and national parks, making this town known as the Heart of the Scenic Rim.

And because of the large number of local and foreign tourists visiting Boonah, commercials establishments offering varied types of accommodations and tourist-oriented services are constructed. One notable establishment would be the Commercial Hotel that is more than a hundred years old, and the Lavender Hill Farm that rents out cottages and emphasizes on relaxed country lifestyle. A little farther away, but still worth mentioning, would be the Sensual Suggestions, a self-described ‘lover’s retreat’ in Killarney.

So what are the famous destinations that await visitors in and around Boonah?

One notable tourist attraction is the Coochin Coochin, a family destination that is recognized as the oldest surviving homesteads in the whole of Queensland. Among the more famous personalities that visited Coochin Coochin for a relaxing cup of tea would be Edward, the Prince of Wales and the Queen Mother.

Other interesting activities to do while in Boonah would be to visit its own golf club in Bruckner Hill Road, stroll through the beautiful Barton Rose Farm, have a look at the artifacts displayed at the Templin Historical Village in Fassifern Street, take a tour at Mt. Frazer Olives in Frazerview, and, if you’re lucky, see the Passion play at Moogerah on Easter.

Nature-inspired activities would include a trip to Lake Maroon, an ideal place for swimming, fishing, water skiing, and paddle boating. Some visitors also try hiking on the Lower Portals, the track that leads to Mt. Barney Creek, and end this short trip with a camp out on the banks of the creek. The more vigorous and dedicated individuals can also go bushwalking to reach the peak of Mt. Barney. However, only experienced mountain climbers are recommended to try this activity, as there are no marked trails and some of the passageways are quite steep and slippery. An easier path to follow would be the Mt. Greville Track, where trekkers get to pass through forests and low heath to reach the peak.

Boonah is strategically located close to several national parks, the Main Range National Park, the Mt. French National Park, the Moogerah Peaks National Park, and the Mt. Greville National Park. Aside from walking, popular activities include bird watching, wildlife viewing, and rock climbing.

Come September, the whole town comes alive with the Carnivale, a huge community event that usher in the SPAR Arts Festival. Parades, pageants, exhibitions, and music performances are organized and held.