These School holidays why don’t you pack up the car, camper and kids and get off the beaten track and explore the intriguing little town of Adavale, 96km North of Quilpie!
FRIDAY 3rd APRIL
On Friday morning (3rd April) take the ‘Red Road’ to Adavale from Quilpie, named due to the incredible Red soil country the road travels through and because obviously the creative director of road naming was out sick that day.
Plan to arrive in Adavale around 10am on Friday (3rd April). Head straight out to the Adavale Sport and Recreation grounds and get the hardest part of the weekend over and done with…..setting up camp.
You’ll notice a bit of action going on already in the grounds with the Stockman’s Challenge in full swing. No doubt by this time the kids are busting to check out the action (and we know your pretty keen too) so you better go take a peek!
When camp is all set up head to the Pub for a bite to eat and a cold beverage. This quirky little pub has so much character and charm that really, you could only find in an outback pub! Check out Australia’s largest bullock horns, the giant yellow beer can or even ask about the Adavale Surf Club if you don’t believe us!
The pubs other bonus is this fella right here. This is Koss, Adavale’s one and only publican. He is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to Adavale’s history and he is always happy to have a yarn. He has even been known to wear the tour guide hat at times. Make sure you ask him about the museums, Cemetery and the town’s historical walk (you’ll need this info for tomorrow).
After lunch head back over to the Sport & Rec grounds because by now the Campdraft should be kicking off. Watch the outback’s best riders and horses battle it out to win the Maiden Draft. But don’t stay too long….You’ll need to go and start getting in to costume soon…….
Yep tonight you’re heading to the Adavale town Hall for the ‘Back to Adavale Dinner Dance’ and this year’s theme is 50’s & 60’s. That’s right, think Rockabilly and Grease or Tie die and Disco – great prizes for best dressed up for grabs!
Door’s to the Hall open at 7pm and entry is $10 (includes dinner). Immerse yourself in the local Adavale culture and dance the night away with bar and DJ operating till late. While you’re at the Hall you can also take in a history lesson with the incredible photos displayed on the verandah.
SATURDAY 4th APRIL
Saturday morning you’re heading around town exploring Adavale’s history. Start by doing the historical walk and learning about the old buildings that stood where and their stories. Then make your way back to the town Hall (scene of last nights fabulous disco) and discover the history of the Adavale Police in the Police Hut Museum.
Finish the morning with a trip to the Blackwater Creek crossing, the mini museum and of course the Cemetery. That last one might seem a bit morbid but trust us…..graves dating back to the 1800’s and some incredible history await. (And make sure you keep an eye out for Adavale’s quirky public phone….)
Before you head back to the Sport & Rec. grounds we have something a little fancy in mind. Pop in to the Elegant Emu for a high tea – Adavale style! Cristina is a fabulous host and really knows how to put on an incredible spread! (be sure to book prior)
After you’ve stuffed yourself silly with scrumptious cakes head back to the Sport and Rec. grounds and check out the action from the Campdraft, stockman’s challenge and the Gymkhana. The canteen’s open all weekend so it’s a great place to grab some lunch.
In the afternoon slip into your wranglers and put on the RM’s because it’s rodeo time in the arena. The bush’s best cowboys will battle it out to ride the 8 seconds and thrill the crowd. Bar will be open till late and you can kick your heels up in the dust to DJ Johnny Mac.
SUNDAY 5th APRIL
Sunday morning pack up early and head over to the canteen for an easy and delicious breakfast. Then catch the last of the horse events before Adavale gets noisy with the Bikekhana kicking off around 8am. Watch as the cutest little dare devils put their pee-wee 50’s to the test in the barrel or flags and then smell the 2 stroke and feel the rumble as the open events start.
After the bikekhana and lunch we are heading north to Adavale’s hidden gem, Hell Hole Gorge National Park. Approx 80km from Adavale, Hell Hole Gorge is a literal oasis in the desert with its weathered gorges and unexpected waterholes. Set up camp and spend the afternoon admiring the name sake of the park, the Hell Hole Gorge waterhole.
Enjoy a star spangled evening under the stars listening to the wildlife and stillness of your surrounds.
MONDAY 6th APRIL
Brace yourself for one of the most incredible sunrises as the sun peeks above the horizon glistening off the calm waters of the gorge.
This incredible National Park is scenically attractive and provides opportunities for 4WDing, hiking, birdwatching, swimming, photography or if you brought it with you, kyaking! What more can one jam pack into a day!
Spend the day exploring the park and camp the night. We couldn’t think of a more beautiful setting for a campsite for your last night in the Adavale area. (Please note that Camping permits for National Parks are available at the Quilpie Visitor Information Centre).
TUESDAY 7th APRIL
And just like that Tuesday is here and you’ve spent 4 incredible days in Adavale. It’s time to pack up your camp and make your way back to Quilpie……or maybe not….stay a little longer!
Well there you have it. National Parks and natural wonders, incredible history, thrills and spills of the rodeo, wildlife and larrikins are just some of what’s waiting for you at Adavale. We can’t wait to see you in April!
For more information on the Quilpie Shire visit: www.visitquilpieshire.com
Photography: Aaron Kent & Stacey Scott
