Positioned on the Burnett River, Gayndah is a charming rural town and the self-proclaimed “Orange Capital of Queensland”. Along with a historic war memorial, Gayndah is home to many heritage landmarks and a fascinating museum, as well as surrounding national parks and state forests.
Things to do in Gayndah
As you explore Gayndah, stop by the iconic Big Orange for a photograph, before driving up Archer’s Lookout for panoramic views over the township and distant countryside. Discover more about the town’s history at the Gayndah Museum, home to photographs depicting early-20th-century life, 18th-century grandfather clock, historic Leyland truck and the circa-1896 Ban Ban buggy. Don’t miss the fascinating lungfish, which can breathe both in and out of the water.
Cruise around town to spot a number of noteworthy landmarks, including the Gayndah Jockey Club Sculpture, which celebrates Queensland’s first official jockey club. The nearby Mellors Drapery Store is a Heritage-listed gem with a “flying fox” delivery contraption. Keep your eyes peeled for the Gayndah Town Clock, which has been designed in the shape of a citrus tree.
Looking for a relaxing day out? Chill out on the soft grass at the riverside Zonhoven Park or take on the challenging holes at the Gayndah Golf Course. Wander along Capper Street while ducking into Gayndah Bakery for sweet treats, Monterey Cafe for freshly-brewed coffee or Gayndah Delights Cuisine for authentic Indian fare.
Good Night Scrub National Park is about 1.5 hours’ drive from Gayndah and home to tall hoop pines that reveal butterflies and native birds. Alternatively, drive to Wongi National Park to discover tranquil waterholes fringed by paperbark trees that give the water a golden-brown hue.
Getting around Gayndah
Gayndah is about a three-hour drive from Sunshine Coast Airport, two hours from Hervey Bay and four hours from Brisbane. You can walk around the centre of town, but you’ll need a car to venture further afield.