First explored by Europeans as early as 1828 by Captain Logan and opened for settlement in 1842, Rathdowney was linked to cattle, timber and dairying industries.
This rural community doesn’t forget the past – with the annual Rathdowney Heritage Day offering displays of past bush skills such as wood carving, cross-saw cutting and blacksmithing. Watch the procession of horse-drawn vehicles with townfolk in historic costume.
Horsemanship is also strong with a rodeo and fishing events. Cast a line in Flanagan and Bigriggen Reserves as good fishing locations.
Rathdowney is the gateway to Mt Barney National Park, a rugged area with Antarctic beech trees, banksias and native apple trees. Mt Barney rises 1360m with other nearby peaks of Mt Lindesay 1191m and Mt Maroon 965m. Farmstays, camping, bed and breakfasts and cabins are just some choices.
Sometimes the past is not forgotten. Visit historic hinterland towns to understand Australia better.
Location: South West.
Orientation: 102km to Brisbane, 80km to Beenleigh, 102km to Nerang, 109km to Surfers Paradise.
