2 hour trip ideas

Start your visit at the Gateway Visitor Information Centre, where you can explore a fascinating collection of photographs and historical items detailing the construction of the Burdekin Bridge from 1947 to 1957. While you're there, be sure to pick up a copy of the Burdekin Art Trail from one of our friendly volunteers. 

As you explore Home Hill, you’ll find a range of unique murals, sculptures, and installations that showcase the region’s cultural and historical heritage. Stroll along Eighth Avenue to see these vibrant artworks, including the popular ‘Burdekin Snow’ at the Home Hill Comfort Stop — perfect for photo opportunities.

Treat yourself to something sweet along the main street of Home Hill. Here are some of our favourites: a delicious coffee from Home Hill News & Coffee, a loaded prawn roll from The Prawn Stop, a sweet treat from the Home Hill Bakery or some Italian/Sicilian delights from Giovannas Cucina. 

If you're seeking a well-rounded experience, this tour is perfect for you. Begin on Queen Street, where you'll discover historical buildings like the Ayr Courthouse. Just to the right of the Burdekin Theatre, this heritage-listed site took six years to complete and still serves its original purpose. As you stroll down Queen Street, you'll find other historic landmarks like the Ayr Post Office and the Drysdale Clock Tower, which make up the Ayr Heritage Walk.

As you continue, you'll come across various artworks that form the Burdekin Art Trail. The Burdekin Theatre and Library complex feature some of these pieces, including the Living Lagoon in the Theatre forecourt and Mirka Mora's The Painting of Life in the Burdekin Library.

If you need a pick me up, treat yourself to something tasty at one of the local cafes and take a wander through the many local boutiques. You are sure to pick up a gorgeous gift for a friend or treat yourself to something special.

To wrap up your trip, make sure to visit the Ayr Nature Display. This beloved community exhibit, showcasing one man's extraordinary collection of Australian nature, has been a local treasure since 1966. We guarantee it's worth the visit!

We know the kids need to stretch their legs on those long road trips and we've got just the stop! Plantation Park is a perfect blend of culture and nature and with the Gudjuda Deck Cafe on location, you cana grab your coffee fix while you're there. 

Let the kids run free at the Plantation Nature Play, a state-of-the-art nature based play area fit with all-abilities swings, a fortress-themed lookout, and rock and rope climbs. 

Snap a photo with the impressive 60m carpet snake, Gubulla Munda, and learn about the Aboriginal totem. Then head over to the southern end of Plantation Park to Juru Walk, a 1km loop trail that showcases the cultural importance of Plantation Park with more than 30 species of plants in the bush tucker gardens. 

Before you leave Plantation Park, stop by the Burdekin Visitor Information Centre. Here, you can learn more about the region and gather maps and brochures for future travels across Queensland. While you're there, the kids can experience a virtual dive of one of the top 10 dives in the world, the S.S. Yongala Shipwreck - no need to get wet! Be sure to ask our friendly volunteers for more information.

Visit the Gateway Visitor Information Centre to explore an impressive collection of photographs and historical items related to the construction of the Burdekin Bridge. Before you walk across this mighty structure, take a moment to appreciate the incredible effort that went into building it. 

After chatting with our friendly volunteers, head to the Burdekin Diorama for a glimpse into the journey of the Burdekin's sugarcane industry through maps, photos and informational panels. Here you can find, a memorial to John Drysdale through informational panels as a tribute to the man who developed stability in the region. You will also find a Hand Cane Cutter carved from timber, paying tribute to the significant role the cane cutters played in the region and local community. This piece was created by artist Matty George using a chainsaw during the 2021 Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival. You can admire the level of detail from the Burdekin River carved to flow between the cutters feet to the cane trash darkening his legs.

To experience walking across the Burdekin Bridge, you will need to pull off the Bruce Highway on the Ayr side, find a park near the stairs and walk up to the bridge across from there. Taking a walk across the 'Silver Link' offers visitors completely unobstructed views of the mighty Burdekin River.