Located in the heart of Queensland’s rugged Isaac region, the mining town of Moranbah is a gateway to life off the beaten track. This unique and rich region offers visitors a taste of real Australia, where spectacular volcanic landscapes meet Australia’s mining heritage and cultural significance. The absolute best way to appreciate the beauty and richness of this region is on four wheels, so you’ll want to pack up your Hertz rental car for an unforgettable road trip through the wild and untamed Queensland interior. Explore ancient volcanic landscapes that dominate the region, and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of this iconic inland region.
Discover Queensland’s Youngest Town
The town of Moranbah is a mining town with a heart of gold. Created for miners and their families in the 1970’s, the town is a fascinating example of a single purpose mining settlement that has transformed into a modern and thriving community, with friendly locals that are proud to call Moranbah home. Start your journey off in the centre - a compact yet vibrant destination that oozes that quintessentially Australian small town charm. Just 10 minutes from Moranbah Airport, the centre and town square park is home to a public art trail, miners memorial site, visitor centre and cultural centre - the perfect place to discover the history and culture of Moranbah and the wider region. For a taste of local art, visit Coalface Gallery to discover exhibitions from local and Indigenous artists. Craving a cuppa? Opposite the park and tucked away in a cosy laneway is Coffee on the Mall. Pop in for a fresh brew, great food and a chat with the locals before heading off to discover more of Moranbah.
If you consider yourself somewhat of a golf aficionado, treat yourself to a round at the Moranbah Golf Club. This stunning course is home to some of the best views in town, and the perfect way to spend an afternoon - you don’t need to be a pro to enjoy the scenery and leisurely pace of this well-rounded course. Even if you’re not up to par, you’ll find an excellent selection of food and beverages to enjoy at the clubhouse and on-site restaurant, Sapphires. Serving up Australian classics in a spacious and airy venue, this restaurant is a favourite amongst locals and visitors alike. Enjoy dinner and an ice-cold drink on the deck overlooking the green at sunset - an absolute must when you’re in town (just make sure to nominate a designated driver if you decide to drive after a few drinks!).
If you’re staying locally, you’ll want to make yourself at home at Oaks Suites Moranbah, right in the heart of town. Offering comfortable, well appointed and modern self-contained apartments, Oaks is your own luxury oasis in town - the perfect base for exploring the Isaac region.
Queensland’s Gold Country
The vast interior of Isaac region is dotted with charming rural communities, mining heritage and other-worldly landscapes that are out there waiting to be explored. While you’re here, take the time to connect with this unique region on a deeper level and explore it at your own pace in your Hertz rental car. A drive along the Peak Downs Highway will greet you with panoramic views of the region’s most prominent peaks, part of the world’s longest continental volcanic chain. Looming on the horizon, the Gemini Mountains are a sight to behold. This chain of mountains is a hidden gem of central Queensland, and well worth taking a detour off the highway to explore on foot. The Gemini Peaks section is the most accessible and most prominent, so a great one to add to your self-drive itinerary. If you want to make your time in the peaks district a truly special one, take to the skies with Bush Heli Services for an incredible scenic flight experience over some of Queensland’s most spectacular country.
For a glimpse into the history of gold mining in Queensland, head to the town of Clermont, just a one hour drive from Moranbah. Clermont is one of the most historic towns in Queensland, and the site of one of one of the state’s major gold rushes of the 19th century. Clermont’s mining heritage and its stories of riches continue to intrigue and inspire visitors. The town is located in one of Queensland’s richest active goldfields, so if you feel like striking it lucky on your visit, why not try your luck at modern day fossicking. Once you've picked up a fossicking licence, maps and kit (which can be found at Clermont Detectors), you’ll be ready to go for gold!
If you're looking to discover somewhere truly unique that will give you an insight into Australia's mining industry, a visit to Moranbah and the Isaac region will not disappoint. Set against a backdrop of stunning natural scenery and ancient volcanic landscapes, these destinations offer a fascinating look into mining in Australia - both past and present. Meander your way through the historical towns dotted along the way. This is an escape where you’ll be met with plenty of character and charm and one that should be on every travellers list when visiting Queensland.
