Now we know we sound a little biased when we say this but Quilpie Shire truly is an Instagramers playground. There are so many great photo opportunities around every corner out this way and to help you with your 2021 photography trip we just know you are planning, we’ve made a list of the top 10 things we think you just have to snap while you are here!
1. 360 degree views at Baldy Top Lookout
Now there are so many amazing photos from different aspects that can be taken at Baldy Top Lookout such as from the base, in one of the caves, at sunset or dusk but one of the best has to be the panoramic views from the top.
2. Sunset by Hell Hole Gorge
Photo: Aaron Kent
Yet another spectacular place in Quilpie Shire that has an abundance of photo opportunities, but one of the best would have to be a sunset by the parks name sake waterhole, Hell Hole Gorge. Watch as the Sun disappears below the horizon and be rewarded with an incredible multi coloured sky.
3. Waterlilies at the Lake
The tranquil oasis that is Lake Houdraman, 6km from Quilpie is a photographers dream for many reasons such as the abundance of birdlife that call the area home or the incredible sunset and sunrise views as the sun glistens off the water. However if you are lucky enough to come when the waterlilies are in bloom it really is a site to see.
Seasonally beautiful white waterlilies will fill the shallows of the lake under the shade of the River Red gums that line the bank. Definitely a Kodak moment.
4. A red dirt road
Photo: Aaron Kent
There is something about the contrast of the red soil out here against the blue of the sky that just doesn’t seem real. Even after being away for long periods I still find it fascinating seeing the colours against each other as I finally hit the red dirt.
5. At a unique event
Photo: Anne-Maree Lloyd
We are spoilt with choice for events in the Quilpie Shire (well usually…..COVID-19 dependant this year unfortunately) meaning there are so many incredible opportunities to capture the perfect Insta image of your time here.
From sporting events like the races, rodeos and other horse sports to the Show, motorbike gymkhanas and the far more eclectic Kangaranga Do with its signature bath Tub Derby there is an event worth capturing in 2021 right through the Quilpie Shire.
6. All the colours of the rainbow
You may not know this but the Quilpie Shire is home to the beautiful Boulder Opal.
A literal rainbow of colours is waiting to be photographed at Quilpie’s St. Finbarr’s Church where you will find the local opal displayed in the most unique way possible; an Opal Altar, Font and Lectern.
7. The Brolga’s dance
Quilpie Shire is home to an incredible array of birdlife giving avid birdwatchers so many opportunities to snap some incredible photos. But if you are lucky enough to see the Brolga’s mid dance then that is truly a site to see and a once in a lifetime photo opp!
8. The beauty of the wildflowers
Now these ones may be a little harder to find due to obviously the lack of rain we have had in recent years but hopefully we are on an upturn in the rain department and we get to see the beautiful wildflowers for the next few years.
There really is nothing more incredible than seeing these wildflowers popping up at the moment after the incredibly dry years we have seen.
9. The illusive yellow-footed rock wallaby
Photo: Aaron Kent
Emu, Kangaroo, Wallaby, Goanna….the list could go on forever we are just that spoilt for wildlife out here but a definite photo moment that would be one to brag about would be one like this. A photo of the illusive Yellow Footed Rock Wallaby.
Make a trip to Quilpie Shire’s Mariala National Park and you might just spot one of these little fellas. The Rocky ridges of the park are a favoured habitat for them but they tend to be a little camera shy so make sure you are quick!
10. The bluest sky you’ll ever find
Photo: Jody Tully
The bluest skies you will ever see will hands down be in the Quilpie Shire. If you don’t believe us well you will just have to come and see it for yourself in 2021.