Art enthusiasts can experience stories of Somerset and a farm that’s anything but calm as part of two new exhibitions at The Condensery. ‘Colourful Chaos II’ is full of vibrant 2D colour pieces featuring animals and the occasional human. Each piece is inspired by Sandi Harrold’s country upbringing. Get carried away in the colourful chaos […]
The Somerset Bendigo Bank Art Awards returns to Somerset this Saturday, 27 and Sunday, 28 July. Showcasing entries from South-East Queensland and New South Wales, this exhibition provides a visual feast at Somerset Civic Centre in Esk. Mediums include 3D/sculptures, textiles, painting, works on paper, photography and more. EXHIBITION TIMES Saturday, 27 July | […]
Looking for a great day out with family and friends? The Esk Cultural Festival is a free event on Saturday, 27 July at Pipeliner Park, Highland Street, Esk. The festival celebrates the diverse histories, foods and cultures of Somerset and its neighbouring regions. Come along and enjoy a day full of cultural activities showcasing international […]
Bring the family and celebrate with us at the Somerset Rail Trail Fun Run or Ride festival from 9am to 12pm this Sunday, 14 July. There will be free activities galore including jumping castles, rock climbing wall, slide, baby animal farm, live music, DJ and more. All welcome! Food and drinks available for purchase. […]
Come and enjoy some of Queensland’s finest regional racing at Esk this Saturday, 13 July. Treat your family to an action-packed day of racing, fashions on the field with cash prizes and more. Gates open | 10.30am First race | 12.45am Fashions on the field | from 1pm Last race | 4.15pm Food and drinks […]
Just because the weather is getting cooler doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy the beautiful outdoors in Somerset. If you’re a keen cyclist, warm up your legs and keep active by joining the BVRT 100 Challenge Bike Ride in June, on the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail. BVRT 100 CHALLENGE BIKE RIDE This Brisbane Valley […]
Enjoy all the family fun of a rural show. Treat the children to rides, activities, games, stalls and more. Oh, and did we mention the laidback country atmosphere? LOWOOD SHOW Held on Friday, 14 and Saturday, 15 June. Features horse, cattle and pavilion displays. Saturday features fireworks, demolition derby, children’s entertainment, facepainting, live music […]
Enjoy a day out in the winter sunshine at the Esk Garden and Lifestyle Fair on Saturday, 15 June from 8am to 3pm. This family friendly event will cater for people of all ages, with more than 100 stalls featuring plants, gardening products, hand crafted bush furniture and more. Free lectures by Claire Bickle, […]
Warm up this winter with a drop of wine at one of Somerset’s boutique country wineries. Set among the rolling pastures and native landscape of the stunning Somerset countryside, our wineries are sure to surprise. WINYA WINES Visitors to Winya Wines can drop into the cellar door and choose from a selection of eight […]
Treat your family to an action-packed day of racing, fashions on the field, raffles, prizes and more at the Kilcoy races on Saturday, 15 June from 10am. Enjoy the spectacle of harness and gallop races held throughout the day, and delight in the mini trots featuring children aged from six to 15 years of […]
With Mother’s Day fast approaching on Sunday, 12 May 2019, it’s time to start planning something special to let mum know just how wonderful she is! Here are a few ideas to get you started… FOR MUMS WHO LOVE MARKETS AND MUNCHIES Take mum for a stroll through the Fernvale Country Markets this Mother’s Day […]
If you’re looking for a special gift, why not drop into one of our country markets and choose from a range of handmade treasures and treats. SATURDAY, 4 MAY 2019 Esk Markets 7am – 12pm, Pipeliner Park, Esk Linville Hall Markets 7am – 12pm, Linville Hall, Linville SUNDAY, 5 MAY 2019 Fernvale Country Markets […]
We can’t wait to celebrate the arts, of all kinds, at the inaugural Somerset Art Beat Festival. Held at the Somerset Regional Art Gallery – The Condensery in Toogoolawah on Saturday, 1 June 2019 the free festival will be a family friendly event celebrating all things creative. The festival will offer a range of art […]
The 2019 Somerset Rail Trail Fun Run or Ride will be held on Sunday, 14 July 2019. This event is back for its seventeenth year and will, for the third consecutive year, include a 24km bike ride in addition to the popular 8km and 3km run/walk events all held on Australia’s longest recreational rail trail. […]
Winter is coming and we all know there’s nothing better than relaxing in front of a warm fireplace to beat the chill. So be sure to book your next cosy winter stay in Somerset. THE HOLLOW LOG COUNTRY RETREAT AND KOALA SANCTUARY Perfect for families or small groups, The Hollow Log Country Retreat and Koala […]
Did you know Facebook has more than 2.23 billion monthly users and every minute there are 510,000 comments, 293,000 shares and 136,000 photos uploaded? Instagram has more than 500 million daily users, with more than 95 million images uploaded each day. Are you missing out on potential visitors because you are not utilising social media […]
The Best of Queensland Experiences results have been released for 2019 to all tourism operators who are registered on the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW). Don’t worry if you haven’t met the criteria yet, this program is a long-term strategy from Tourism and Events Queensland with audits undertaken annually, meaning you still have the opportunity […]
Have you taken advantage of the free Digital Ready programs being rolled out as part of the Tourism Industry Business Capability Development programs? The Digital Ready Program develops understanding and skills across digital markets, media and digital channels. By the end of this program, business owners will increase their business opportunities by understanding and implementing […]
Somerset Regional Council will showcase our region as a popular tourist destination through the Experience Somerset brand at three of Queensland’s top tourism trade shows in 2019. These shows expose our region’s destinations to more than 70,000 visitors with specific interest in caravanning, camping, RV touring as well as complementary businesses such as accommodation, wineries, […]
We sat down with Jim and Naomi McKenzie, owners of the Blacktop Motorcycle Works in Esk to chat about living and working in Somerset. DESCRIBE BLACKTOP MOTORCYCLE WORKS We are a family owned and run business and we work hard and believe in producing quality products. To put it simply, we restore and repair pre-1980’s […]
Somerset will host the 2019 Reel Wivenhoe Classic at Captain Logan Campground, Lake Wivenhoe from Saturday, 17 August 2019 to Sunday, 18 August 2019. The event is open to competitors and day visitors and is perfect for families with free family fun festival including jumping castles, slides, rock climbing wall, live music, fireworks, kayak and […]
It’s that time of year again, when Lowood comes alive with creative flair and cultural experiences. All are welcome to join in on all the fun at the Lowood Art Cultural Festival on Saturday, 27 April 2019. Get the chance to immerse yourself among the cultural performances available on the day including unique fire dancing, […]
Lace up your boots, grab your camping chairs and get your mates together and travel to the Toogoolawah Showground on Saturday, 13 April 2019 for the 24th annual Toogoolawah Charity Rodeo. Starting at 11am with some of Australia’s best cowboys and cowgirls this rodeo is going to be an event you do not want to […]
Treat the kids to a host of outdoor adventure activities in Somerset during the school holidays. HORSE RIDING ADVENTURE – NASH HORSE TREKKING Nash Horse Trekking can tailor packages to suit families with children from as young as three years. Children can brush, feed and interact with their horse as they ride the Brisbane Valley […]
Lace up your boots, grab your camera or binoculars and head outside for some wildlife spotting in Somerset. Somerset is a wildlife watcher’s paradise with regular glimpses of koalas snoozing in the trees and kangaroos grazing in grasslands. Make sure to keep an eye out for elusive echidnas meandering along our trails or the shy […]
Get back to basics with a camping trip to remember this Easter school holidays. Somerset boasts caravanning and camping spaces galore to suit families of all shapes and sizes. NRMA LAKE SOMERSET HOLIDAY PARK NRMA Lake Somerset Holiday Park offers the perfect family getaway with family friendly facilities including a large playground, basketball court, sporting […]
The inaugural Reel Somerset Classic is a family friendly, non-professional fishing competition held at Somerset Park Campground, Esk Kilcoy Road, Somerset Dam, from Friday, 29 March 2019 to Sunday, 31 March 2019. Come along for a great weekend at Lake Somerset, spend the day fishing and relax with live music each evening. Food will be […]
The Colours of Somerset Arts and Culture Festival is on Saturday, 16 March 2019 from 10am to 3pm, giving you the opportunity to indulge and enliven the senses. Feel like you need to add some flavour, unique experiences or perhaps a bit of colour to your life? At this art and cultural festival, you will […]
Attention all country, blues and rock music lovers! Camp and Jam – Country, Blues and Rock Festival is on Friday, 15 March 2019 to Sunday, 17 March 2019 at Esk Showground. With headlining acts like Sista Burley, Caravan and Vix and the Slick Chix it is a weekend not to miss. Come for the day […]
The Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) has announced dates for its FREE Digital Ready Programs being rolled out as part of the Tourism Industry Business Capability Development Programs. The Digital Ready program aims to develop understanding and skills across digital markets, media and digital channels. By the end of this program, business owners will have […]
What is a tourism operator? Somerset Regional Council applies the Australia Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW) definition. A tourism operator is a business that provides a leisure tourism experience within the Somerset local government area across the following categories: Accommodation Attractions Food and drink Tours Accredited visitor information centres Hire businesses Events General businesses are considered […]
Somerset Regional Council has launched its new look Somerset tourism guide. It’s packed full of handy information on our dams, the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, unique experiences, history, art, culture, wedding tourism and more. Complete with stunning images of the region, predominately taken by an international travel photographer, this guide is a traveller’s essential handbook […]
Pick up a copy of the new Somerset visitor guide to experience a real country adventure. The Somerset Visitor Guide, hit the shelves in February and is now available at our visitor information centres in Esk, Fernvale, Kilcoy and Toogoolawah. Flip pages to discover information about Australia’s longest recreational rail trail – the Brisbane Valley […]
For Dan Owbridge, owner of the One Tree Canoe Company, trees are more than bark and leaves. Trees are a symbol of everything that he holds dear; his tree change to Somerset, his family tree and his ‘One Tree’ philosophy. DESCRIBE ONE TREE CANOE COMPANY To put it simply, One Tree Canoe Company create classic […]
Have you made a new year’s resolution to be fit and healthy? The Fernvale to Lowood section of the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail is a great place to kick start your fitness, keeping you on track to achieve your health goals. This section of the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail is 8km and is suitable for […]
Enjoy an event for the whole family at the Fernvale Junction Feast and Trade Village on Saturday, 2 March 2019. This event is held at the Fernvale Showground, Banks Creek Road from 4pm to 9pm. Held quarterly to coincide with the changing seasons, you have a great opportunity to enjoy delicious food, live entertainment, children’s […]
What do you remember about your first holiday? The smell of sausages sizzling on the barbie? Gripping the slippery scales of the first fish you ever caught? Unzipping the tent and seeing a sunrise over the lake for the first time? Relive these unforgettable moments by taking a trip down memory lane with Experience Somerset, […]
The Exchange Hotel Kilcoy doesn’t just have the X-factor, it’s got the S-factor. We sat down with Jim Davies to find out about what it’s like to own an authentic Aussie pub and chat about the three S’s; steak, staff and service. DESCRIBE THE EXCHANGE HOTEL KILCOY The Exchange Hotel has been part of […]
This November marks the 100-year anniversary of the signing of the Armistice, which brought an end to World War One. To mark the occasion, the Somerset Regional Art Gallery – The Condensery will display a historical exhibition, An End to Conflict. This important exhibition presented by the Toogoolawah and District History Group includes a series […]
With Christmas fast approaching why not join in on the cheer and travel to the Kilcoy Yowie Country Markets to find that perfect Christmas gift. You are sure to find a unique handmade gift. The markets are held at Yowie Park, Kilcoy every second and last Saturday of the month from 7.30am to 12.30pm. The […]
Take a step back into yesteryear – Coronation Hall was originally a picture theatre used by builders and their families during the construction of the dam wall at Somerset Dam. Opened in 1936, Jubilee Hall was the place to be in Somerset Dam and it still is today especially for couples tying-the-knot. The hall was […]
Jensens Swamp Environmental Reserve is located seven minutes drive west of Lowood in Somerset. The reserve covers 20 hectares of bushland and has bush walking tracks suitable for young children through to adults. FACILITIES Features sensory garden with wheelchair walk, bush walking tracks, picnic tables (some with shelters), quiet sitting areas, toilets, beautiful bushland and […]
The Queensland Government has introduced the new industry-focussed Business Capability Program which will give all tourism operators the chance to access training and upskilling opportunities designed to help you improve your business operations, take advantage of new commercial opportunities and deliver quality visitor experiences. One of these free programs, Digital Ready aims to develop an […]
The Best of Queensland Experiences program aims to bring the Queensland story to life and wow our visitors with engaging, memorable and quality experiences. Each tourism operator who has a live ATDW listing will be assessed against the program criteria. Visitors ultimately decide what represents an exceptional experience therefore the most important criteria relies on […]
There is so much to think of when you’re running your own business, it can be easy to miss things that you routinely do during busy periods let alone keeping on top of your marketing and promotional plans. So why not make it easier on yourself and join up with other local operators in your […]
For some people buying a motel is a retirement plan. It can be an opportunity for couples to have a tree change and leave their white or blue collar worlds behind, but not for Lisa Dorman. For Lisa, buying the Esk Wivenhoe Motor Inn was not just a business venture, but a solo business adventure. […]
Have you booked your advertising yet? Don’t miss your opportunity to be part of the official Experience Somerset Visitor Guide 2019-2020. 2 YEARS PRINT AND DIGITAL ADVERTISING PACKAGES START AT $550* For only $22.92 per month* you receive 2 year business page listing on experiencesomerset.com.au Print advertising space in the official Experience Somerset Visitor […]
Do you like to start your weekend off in an active way? Why not join the Cormorant Bay parkrun held every Saturday. The Cormorant Bay parkrun is held every Saturday at Cormorant Bay Recreational Reserve, Lake Wivenhoe. The event starts at 7am and is a free 5km timed run in scenic Somerset. Nobody is too […]
Just in case you needed another reason to experience Somerset’s Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Somerset Regional Council won an engineering excellence award for the newest section of the trail on Thursday, 11 October 2018. This award recognises Council’s achievements and its collaboration with various stakeholders including all tiers of government to complete the project, which […]
Wander along the Lowood to Coominya section of the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail and you will see the heritage listed Lockyer Creek Railway Bridge (Clarendon). The bridge was added to the Queensland Heritage register in 1992. Henry Charles Stanley designed the bridge which was built between 1885 and 1886 and is considered significant due to […]
Did you know that Somerset has its very own art gallery trail? Yes, that’s right, Somerset offers galleries north and south of Somerset housing traditional oil paintings, creative fabric, crafts, sculptures, photography and modern impressionist pieces by Somerset artists. With various pieces on display throughout the region, you are guaranteed to find something that will […]
We sat down with Bruce Potter, new proprietor of the Kilcoy Gardens Motor Inn to chat about accommodation, country living and the beauty of Kilcoy. DESCRIBE THE KILCOY GARDENS MOTOR INN The Kilcoy Gardens Motor Inn is a country highway motel conveniently located in the beautiful township of Kilcoy. WHAT MAKES YOU’RE THE KILCOY […]
You might have heard about the two amazing lakes in Somerset… Yes, we’re talking about Lake Wivenhoe and Lake Somerset. Both lakes provide fantastic locations for camping and spending a day out on the water. But have you heard how fantastic the fishing is? Did you know an Australia Bass, weighing 4.455 kilograms, measuring 59cm […]
We sat down with David and Josie Sheehan of Out There Cycling to chat about cycling, Somerset and the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail. DESCRIBE OUT THERE CYCLING? Out There Cycling is the perfect service for those wanting to adventure along the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail. Our service is a one stop shop for cyclists and […]
Experience a piece of history at the heritage listed Yimbun Railway Tunnel along the newest section of the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail near the town of Harlin. The Yimbun tunnel was constructed in 1910 along the Brisbane Valley branch rail line, Queensland’s second branch line. This branch line was fundamental in the development of settlements […]
Are you on the hunt for a cosy beanie? Trying to find a jar of that homemade relish similar to what Nanna used to make? Or some unique craft goodies, after all Christmas is just around the corner. Look no further, Folk Art Cooperative might just be the one stop shop you’ve been looking for. […]
Enjoy a glamourous night out at the second annual Mayoral Gala Charity Ball this October. Join us for a magical evening of delicious food, engaging live entertainment, charity auctions and much more at the 2018 Mayoral Gala Charity Ball. The ball will be held on Saturday, 6 October 2018 at the Somerset Civic Centre, 35 […]
If you’re a keen photographer, be sure to check out Shiels Lookout. Head out early to Shiels Lookout and capture the early morning sunrise with breathtaking, uninterrupted views over Lake Somerset, Hazeldean and Kilcoy. After your photo session, pop into one of the neighbouring villages of Esk, or Kilcoy for a hearty breakfast at one […]
Come along and enjoy a spectacular gala evening at the Somerset Civic Centre on Saturday, 6 October 2018. The Mayoral Gala Charity Ball evening raises money to support charities that assist people suffering from disability, homelessness, mental illness, trauma, abuse or neglect in the Somerset Region. The evening consists of a delicious three course meal […]
We sat down with Bill and Lyn Rose, owners of the Old Fernvale Bakery, to discuss earning a crust, having a lot on your plate and the long hard road to making dough. Driving down the Brisbane Valley Highway, it’s hard to imagine Fernvale without the Old Fernvale Bakery. It would be like a France […]
Do you want to maximise your business’s exposure without all the effort? The Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW) does all the hard work for you, all you need to do is provide your information via an easy to use online form and ATDW will do the rest. Your content will be displayed on a number […]
Planning an event in 2019? Council can help you advertise your event for free through a range of channels, including the Experience Somerset website, Council event calendars, electronic signs, Wot’s on in Queensland event and market guide and the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse. To advertise an event successfully make sure that you include the following […]
Looking for ways to enhance your marketing? Community is the key! Have you reviewed your marketing budget for the next financial year and are now on the lookout for some cost-effective ways to enhance your marketing presence in the region? Why not look at getting involved and contributing to your local community? Sponsorship, donations and […]
Yes, it has been two years already! Time to get your business listed in the official Experience Somerset Visitor Guide and website. DID YOU KNOW? Somerset Regional Council: – is the official tourism organisation for Somerset – produces the official Experience Somerset Visitor Guide – produces the official experiencesomerset.com.au website – has five visitor information […]
Jody Davis, co-owner of The Girls Coffee Bar in Fernvale, spills the coffee beans about making quality coffee and serving it with a smile. Nestled in amongst the shops along the Brisbane Valley Highway in Fernvale, Queensland you’ll find The Girls Coffee Bar. Outside, a couple of gents and their pet dogs are seated in […]
Esk is a beautiful country town known for its friendly atmosphere, backdrop of Glen Rock and abundance of cafes. But, there’s more! Esk is home to the heart and soul of the Somerset Art Society group with their displays on show at the Glen Rock Art Gallery. In 2009 a group of Somerset artists formed […]
Before becoming Australia’s longest recreational rail trail, the Brisbane Valley railway line was built to access timber resources from the Brisbane Valley. It was an extension to the Brisbane and Toowoomba railway line. The first section of the railway line opened in 1884 connecting Wulkuraka (previously known as Brisbane Valley Junction) to Fernvale and Lowood. […]
Are you a keen angler? Looking for a great opportunity to spend a weekend away fishing with family and friends? Register for the Reel Wivenhoe Classic family friendly fishing competition held at Captain Logan Campgrounds at Logan Inlet, Lake Wivenhoe on Saturday, 18 and Sunday, 19 August 2018. With $20,000 in prizes to be won […]
Looking for place to launch your boat or go kayaking on calm waters? Hamon Cove is the ideal location for you. Located along the Brisbane Valley Highway in Somerset only 12 minutes south of Esk, Hamon Cove is great place to spend a relaxed day by the water. FACILITIES Hamon Cove, Lake Wivenhoe features toilets, […]
The Toogoolawah History Museum is home to a unique collection of historical memorabilia from Toogoolawah and surrounding areas. Housed in the old railway station, this museum is full of artefacts and information about the past. The museum’s historian even offers a local family search for those history buffs who are interested in tracking down their […]
Join in on the fun of the annual Somerset Rail Trail Fun Run and get to experience a section of what is soon to be Australia’s longest recreational rail trail. The event, now in its sixteenth year is held along the iconic Brisbane Valley Rail Trail between Lowood and Fernvale and this year, for those […]
Soak up the sunshine at Logan Inlet day use area this winter. This location is the perfect place for the whole family as far as location goes. You can pack a picnic, enjoy some fishing, a swim, or camp at one of the adjacent camp grounds for a longer stay. HOW TO GET THERE […]
If you’re looking for a fantastic place to spend the school holidays, whether it’s a day trip or longer stay, Somerset is the perfect destination. We know it’s a bit chilly, but as the sun rises each day the weather is perfect for getting the family outdoors and into nature. KIDS ACTIVITIES Check out […]
The Somerset Regional Art Gallery – The Condensery has recently welcomed new exhibition Sitting Quietly by Elizabeth Poole to its gallery walls. This beautiful display, capturing the artist’s joy and appreciation of the Brisbane Valley’s natural environment, features various 2D and 3D artwork pieces made from organic and industrial objects. In this exhibit you are […]
AUSTRALIAN TOURISM DATA WAREHOUSE Have you registered for an ATDW account yet? ATDW is Australia’s largest tourism network which is jointly owned and managed by all Australian state and territory government tourism bodies. As Somerset Regional Council is part of the Brisbane regional tourism organisation, tourism operators within the region could have an annual listing […]
Whether you run a start-up or established business, recording visitor statistics is vital to keeping your business on track. WHY? You can gain a better understanding of your customer base: How did they find out about you? Where do they come from? Why do they keep coming back? When do they visit? VISITOR STATISTICS […]
Council promoted the Somerset region at the 50th Anniversary of the Queensland Caravan, Camping and Touring Supershow at the Brisbane Showgrounds in the first week of June. This was an excellent opportunity to promote Somerset and our tourism attractions. More than 43,000 people visited the show and over 3100 Somerset promotional bags and visitor guides […]
We sat down with Coolana Olives owner and industry professional, Ian Roy, to chat about olives. Ian has a lot on his plate, and we don’t just mean olives. The business of olives has been a balancing act for Coolana Olives owners Ian and Dot Roy of Minden in Somerset,Queensland. There’s farming, processing, flavouring, packaging, […]
It’s no secret that social media platforms have allowed small businesses to harness some great promotional tools however if you’re looking for the next step in communicating with your customers, email marketing might just be what you’re looking for. Email marketing allows businesses to keep customers up to date on a regular basis with digital […]
Come in and see the Experience Somerset team at the Brisbane RNA Showgrounds, on now until Monday, 11 June 2018. It’s a caravanning, camping and touring paradise! There are some amazing deals on offer and fantastic information on the great places you can visit in our beautiful country including Somerset, Queensland. Plus, visit our stand […]
If you’ve been looking for that perfect place that combines art and warm country hospitality, the Supper Room Art Gallery at Moore is the place for you. You will find this hidden gem housed in the historic Moore Soldiers Memorial Hall. This beautiful space is owned and supported by The Moore Soldiers Memorial Hall Association. […]
We sat down with Jimna Base Camp owners, Robyn and Ross of Jimna Queensland, to chat about their walk on the wild side. They say the city can be a jungle. Workers running from meeting to meeting, like monkeys swinging from trees, deadlines creeping up, like cheetahs stalking their prey and bosses roaring like lions. […]
You may recall in the February edition we told you how Somerset Dam came about through the perseverance of Henry Plantegenet Somerset, here is a little bit more to the story. Three cyclones hit South East Queensland in February 1893 saturating the Brisbane and Stanley river catchments. The first cyclone delivered 914mm of rain over […]
Green thumbs unite for the Esk Garden and Lifestyle Fair this June. Thousands of people are expected to arrive at Pipeliner Park, Esk on Saturday, 16 June 2018 to enjoy everything garden related. Come along and wander through the garden stalls, enjoy the abundance of food offerings that will at the fair or enjoy a […]
For a fun-filled family day out, head to Watts Bridge Memorial Airfield on the weekend of 26 to 27 May for the Red Thunder Air Show. The air show has something for everybody including vintage military aircraft, modern aircraft shows, skydiving displays, joy flights, military vehicles, hot rod cars, live music, food and beverages. […]
The Somerset community is a resilient one and that camaraderie is integrated into an artistic display in Fernvale’s CBD known as the Fernvale Murals. The murals were created post 2011 floods. Through difficult times, the Fernvale community and Somerset Regional Council banded together to create something incredible. The Fernvale Murals, a touching ode to Fernvale’s […]
Nestled beneath magnificent Glen Rock, Esk is a scenic country town with a range of cafes, shops and historic sites to explore. The township was established in 1872 and originally known as Gallanani, which is thought to be the Aboriginal name for the Eastern swamp hen. In 1886 the second section of the Brisbane Valley […]
We sat down with Ian and Dot Roy, owners of Coolana Olives at Minden in Somerset, Queensland to chat about life, love and olives. Nestled in the peaceful hills of Minden range in Queensland, you’ll find Coolana Olives. Since 1985, Ian and Dot have toiled to pave a way for their unique Australian made gourmet […]
Located next to Kilcoy Visitor Information Centre, Yowie Park provides a tranquil lagoon, scenic parklands to explore and Kilcoy’s Yowie statue. FACILITIES Yowie Park features toilets, barbecue, picnic tables, playground, parking, large open spaces, grassed areas, shady trees and a lagoon abundant with birdlife. KILCOY’S YOWIE AND IT’S SIGNIFICANCE A Yowie is a […]
If you’re looking for a beautiful spot to relax, explore nature and spend the day with family, Cormorant Bay, Lake Wivenhoe is for you. This immaculately maintained recreation reserve is located in Somerset only five minutes drive north of Fernvale above the Lake Wivenhoe wall. FACILITIES Cormorant Bay, Lake Wivenhoe features barbecues, under cover […]
Step back in time to experience the pioneering history of Coominya. A VILLAGE RICH IN HISTORY The charming village of Coominya centres on the old railway station, originally known as Bellevue station when established in 1886. In 1905 the station’s name changed to Coominya to avoid confusion with the nearby Bellevue pastoral station. Today Coominya […]
Looking for the perfect place to reignite your creative senses? Travelling through Kilcoy? Then you should put the Kilcoy Courthouse Art Gallery on your “must visit” list. Nestled in the picturesque Yowie Park, Kilcoy and alongside the Historical Society, Craft Cottage and Kilcoy Visitor Information Centre – lies the hidden gem, the beautifully refurbished Kilcoy […]
If you’re keen to have a real country experience then a visit to Somerset in April is in order. There will be three rodeos on three consecutive weekends kickstarting with Toogoolawah on Saturday, 14 April 2018. TOOGOOLAWAH CHARITY RODEO – SATURDAY, 14 APRIL 2018 The rodeo circuit is always popular with thousands of people […]
In October 2017, Council passed on information about Tourism and Events Queensland’s Best of Queensland Experiences program and the first round of results are finally in. Three Somerset tourism operators passed the consumer driven program. Congratulations to Ramblers Skydiving, Esk Caravan Park and Lake Somerset Holiday Park! Don’t worry if you didn’t make the first […]
A professional website is a must for any business in this day and age, but social media is another important marketing tool for tourism operators and one that we should all be using in some form or another. TOURISM TRIBE DESCRIBES THREE KEY ELEMENTS TO SOCIAL MEDIA SUCCESS Selecting the right social media channel Having […]
Have you registered for an ATDW account yet? ATDW is Australia’s largest tourism network which is jointly owned and managed by all Australian state and territory government tourism bodies. As Somerset Regional Council is part of the Brisbane regional tourism organisation, tourism operators within the region could have an annual listing to promote your business […]
In 2014 Somerset Regional Council engaged The Stafford Group to develop the Somerset Region Destination Management Plan. WHY? Council identified the potential of Somerset as a highly attractive tourism destination particularly given its ideal location in the heart of south east Queensland. Through research, visitor statistics and identifying key focus areas for tourism growth, the […]
How this bar manager has established the Brisbane Valley Tavern in Fernvale as a home away from home for families. When you think of the word pub, family friendly probably isn’t the first word that springs to mind. However, that’s not the case at the Brisbane Valley Tavern in Fernvale. We sat down with Sam […]
Would you like to showcase your business to a huge audience in one location, at no cost? Then register your interest to join Council’s Experience Somerset tourism stand at the Queensland Caravan, Camping and Touring Supershow. This is a great opportunity for you to promote your business, speak directly with potential visitors/customers and get to […]
Did you know Council can assist in the advertising of your events in Somerset? Somerset Regional Council’s tourism department take free bookings for the electronic message boards at Kilcoy, Toogoolawah, Esk, Lowood and Fernvale, and also are able to add your event onto the Experience Somerset website and printable events calendar that gets distributed throughout […]
If your business isn’t on TripAdvisor, now is the time. TripAdvisor is the world’s largest travel community website, you’ll be able to connect with customers and travellers not just in Somerset and all over Queensland and Australia but even the world. TRIPADVISOR IS THE PLACE TRAVELLERS LOOK FOR RECOMMENDATIONS TO EAT, SLEEP, SEE AND […]
One of the very few undenominational churches left in Queensland is nestled in beautiful Somerset. Founded in 1905, the Caboonbah Undenominational Church located on Cressbrook Caboonbah Road at Mount Beppo is a must see. The church is located just 12km from Toogoolawah so can easily be included into a scenic drive of the region or […]
Easter is a busy time in Somerset with plenty of people flocking to this scenic part of the world to enjoy the abundance of water sports on offer at the lakes or to just enjoy the serenity. If you’re hoping to secure a spot at one of the popular camp sites in Somerset, don’t delay […]
The Open Door Gallery at Lowood, is more than just a space for all things creative. It’s a place created by a group of passionate Lowood Lions Club volunteers who want nothing more than to bring creativity, art and fun experiences to Somerset visitors and residents. It has taken nine years for the building to […]
Discovering the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail just got easier, with mountain bike hire now available from Esk Caravan Park. We recommend booking in advance as numbers are limited: Esk Caravan Park 26 Hassall Street, Esk (07) 5424 1466 Esk Caravan Park website Keen to get started on a Brisbane Valley Rail Trail adventure and don’t […]
The sprinkling of rose petals, the lift of a veil, that glorious first kiss. This is the stuff that dreams are made of, and dreams are certainly coming true in Somerset. With rolling green hills, stunning lakes and a picture perfect landscape, it’s no wonder that couples are flocking to Somerset to say I do. […]
If you have been planning a trip to Kilcoy, March is the month to do it as the 2018 Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton Relay is heading to the Somerset town on Tuesday, 27 March 2018 and we are celebrating! The Queen’s Baton started its journey on Monday, 13 March 2017 at Buckingham Palace. Over 388 […]
What better way to advertise your business than for free? There are so many ways to advertise your business however some options are expensive. For small businesses, cost is a huge factor. . If you’re looking for a cheap (sometimes free opportunity) and effective way to put your business on the map the following advertising […]
Timbarra T House owner operator Camilla Brown chats with us about how she has intersected her passions for art and tea-making within her business. HOW DO YOU MAKE A CUP OF TEA? First take a tea cup, drop in a tea bag, pour in hot water, add a splash of milk, spoon in some sugar […]
Want to run a business in the Somerset Regional Council area? Keep on reading. Why? We want to help you. DID YOU KNOW 80% OF START-UP BUSINESSES FAIL TO MAKE IT PAST THEIR FIRST YEAR OF OPERATION? Why? Lack of preparation and planning. Running your own business can be tough at times, but with the […]
Trade show season is fast approaching and Somerset Regional Council’s tourism team are busy preparing to attend and promote Somerset and its attractions at three events this year. OPPORTUNITIES EXIST FOR SOMERSET TOURISM OPERATORS TO WORK ALONGSIDE COUNCIL AT THESE EVENTS: South Queensland Caravan, Camping and Boating Expo at the Nambour Showgrounds from Friday, […]
Did you know that Experience Somerset is on social media? Make sure to check out our Facebook and Instagram pages and encourage your guests to use #experiencesomerset and #somersetqld so that we can share their Somerset adventures. A smart phone is a tourism operator’s best friend, it has all the technology you need to have […]
Today’s travellers are heading online to research, book and review their travel experiences. As tourism operators it’s essential to keep your content and images interesting and up to date. This is not just a passing fad, where we can bury our heads in the sand and hope it blows over, we have to move with […]
We catch up with Bill and Lyn Rose, owner operators of the Old Fernvale Bakery in Fernvale, Queensland to talk pastries, pies and the past. Sydney has the Opera House. New York City has the Statue of Liberty. Likewise, Fernvale has the Old Fernvale Bakery, and it wouldn’t be the same without it. Home to […]
Located five minutes drive north of Fernvale, the Spillway Common provides unique views from Spillway Lookout below the dam wall of Lake Wivenhoe and access to Atkinson’s Crossing, a true fishing, kayaking and canoe lovers paradise. FACILITIES Spillway Common, Lake Wivenhoe features a viewing platform, toilets, barbecue, under cover picnic tables, parking, large open spaces, […]
We sat down with Camilla Brown, over a cuppa of course, to find out about the Timbarra T House in Esk, Queensland. I’ve never been to a tea house before so didn’t quite know what to expect. I have however, visited a coffee shop or two in my time and anticipated a similar routine: Open […]
EXPERIENCE ART AND CULTURE IN SOMERSET Nash Gallery and Cafe, located in the main street of Esk in the historic Lars Anderson house, is a combination of everything owners Gavin Nash and Sandee Boyd enjoy most. They thrive off creating hand thrown crystalline pottery and flavoursome food infused with fresh herbs and local produce. As […]
Construction of the dam started in 1935 but had to be suspended in 1942 due to World War II. The dam was finally completed in 1959 and holds a 904,000-megalitre reservoir of water at full capacity. The site for the dam was first recommended by Henry Plantagenet Somerset after the 1893 Brisbane Floods. Henry Somerset […]
Step back in time and experience an old style country movie theatre experience in the heart of Toogoolawah. The iconic movie theatre has been playing films since the 1920s in Alexandra Hall in Toogoolawah. Now known affectionately as the Toogoolawah Pictures, you can be rest assured a visit will result in more than you bargained […]
Nestled amongst the foothills of the Great Dividing Range, surrounded by the beautiful Somerset country side, you’ll find the Old Church Gallery Moore. Originally built in the early 20th century, the church has been transformed by gallery owners David Mackenzie and Deborah Johnston-Booker, into a beautiful contemporary art space, retaining the buildings character and providing […]
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ESK | 07 5424 2923 |
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FERNVALE | 07 5427 0200 |
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KILCOY | 07 5422 0440 |
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TOOGOOLAWAH | 07 5423 1036 |