Heading north out of Brisbane or Sunshine Coast take Exit 244 off the Bruce Highway (also Mary Valley Tourist Drive 42 exit) before turning left onto Kenilworth Skyring Creek Road. Follow the Mary Valley signs and enjoy the scenery as it changes from light forest to grazing pastures. Turn left and head towards Imbil, one of the main centres in the Mary Valley, nestled on the banks of the Yabba Creek and on the route to Borumba Dam.
Imbil is surrounded by one of the few remaining Hoop Forests in Australia and is a very popular playground for Horse Riding, Hiking, Cycling and Bike Riding. A Rail Trail links Imbil and Brooloo and is a leisurely walk or ride. Timberman’s walk through the centre of town under the Jacaranda Trees shares some of the timber history of the region.
Just 15 minutes away, through rich pastures and forests is Borumba Dam, the perfect spot for fishing, water skiing or a family picnic. There is also a camping ground below the dam if you feel like staying close to the water. Get your fishing licence here before you head up to Borumba if fishing is on your ‘to do’ list.
Returning to Imbil, you can travel north to Kandanga, just 10 minutes from Imbil and sample some local produce or have a country pub lunch. Soak up the history of the double Railway Bridges or pop down to the weir and Kandanga Canoe Trail entry point for a dip. There are lots of accommodation choices if you feel like staying the night, from RV Parks, cosy B&Bs to modern country cottages which can cater for groups, events or weddings.
Back on the road again, Amamoor is the next stop, the destination of the Mary Valley Rattler steam train on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Stop at the delightful town park at the Railway station and have a coffee and tasty nibbles at the local Coffee shops.
Take a detour east of Amamoor and you head towards Amamoor State Forest, the home of the Gympie Music Muster. Cedar Grove and Amama Park are beautiful and are well worth the drive. Swim in the cool watersat Cedar Grove, take a walk along Rainforest Walk or the longer Cedar Grove hiking trail. Take a picnic lunch or maybe even camp the night.
Heading back towards Amamoor, you can detour on the back road to Dagun where the beautifully restored railway station hosts the Mary Valley Rattler on its travels. If you are there on a Saturday you can visit the popular Dagun Growers Markets from 3pm to dusk at the station and take home a basket of fresh produce straight from the paddock to your plate.
To return south, you can travel through Gympie or through the Mary Valley link road which joins the Bruce Highway.
