The North Burnett is located approximately four hours drive north of Brisbane and one hour west of Bundaberg and encompasses six main townships - Biggenden, Eidsvold, Gayndah, Monto, Mount Perry and Mundubbera which service around twenty-five villages and farming catchments.The region covers an area of almost 20,000 square kilometres and has a population of around 10 600. The region takes its name from the Burnett River that flows through the district. The river was named after the surveyor "Burnett", who was one of the early explorers to visit the area and map part of that river in 1847. Settlement occurred in 1848 with the establishment of sheep stations which later gave way to cattle and eventually agriculture and horticulture.
The climate is sub-tropical and sub-humid with rainfall tending to be more concentrated in the months from October to March. Frosts occur throughtout the region, mainly in June to August. Average temperatures range from 5°C to 32°C, howerver temperatures as high as 40°C can be experienced over short periods during the summer months. Sub-zero temperatures also regularly occur during the winter, especially in the Monto district.
Are you looking for an area rich in history, agriculture, wineries, natural beauty and a welcoming country atmosphere? The South Burnett is the place for you and it is only two hours drive from the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane or Fraser Coast. The South Burnett is a scenic patchwork of fertile soils and vivid green crops, which produce a variety of fruits, nuts, vegetables, cheeses and other gourmet foods. It is also one of Australia's newest wine producing regions with many vineyards and olive groves complementing the traditional crops. To the south west lie the majestic Bunya Mountains. To find out more about South Burnett Business and Economic Development opportunities, click here. Or see their Fact Sheets about different aspects of the South Burnett community.
Varied and plentiful are the activities on offer in the South Burnett. From world-class freshwater fishing competitions held at the Bjelke Petersen and Boondooma Dams every year to forest walks in the breathtaking rainforest's of the Bunya Mountains National Park; gold fossicking, farm and produce tours, to museums, historic houses, art galleries and antique and craft shops. There is so much to see and do! So why not make the trip to visit the South Burnett soon. You won't be disappointed. For further tourism information visit "Discover the Magic, South Burnett Tourism".
Cherbourg is located off the Bunya Highway approximately 250 kilometres north-west of Brisbane. Cherbourg is an aboriginal community and has a permanent population of around 2,500 residents. Its main tribal groups are the Wakka Wakka people (who originally lived in the area between Dalby and Maidenwell) and the Culidypeople (who originally lived in the area between Roma and Quilpie). However, representatives of many other tribal groups from western Queensland, the Cape and Burdekin areas form part of the population too. Cherbourg is located close to Murgon but is an independent local government authority, separate from Murgon Shire.
Cherbourg always welcomes visitors and a venue worth seeing is the Ration Shed - built on a hill overlooking Lake Barambah - which sells a wide range of Aboriginal souvenirs, fine art and craftworks. The Centre also has very pretty landscaped gardens with picnic and bbq facilities, along with wonderful views over the Lake.



