Queensland, we’re good to go! If you dream of losing yourself among picturesque views surrounded by gentle rolling hills, sipping local wines made with love and treating yourself to unmissable animal encounters, then look no further than the beautiful hinterland town of Childers, just over three hours’ drive from Brisbane.

DAY 1

All creatures great and small

Begin your holiday with a morning of getting up close and personal to the unique Childers locals at Snakes Downunder Reptile Park & Zoo. Whether you’re handfeeding friendly kangaroos, cuddling curious koalas, watching the afternoon feeding of impressive saltwater crocodiles, or holding one of the scaly snakes, there’s something for everyone.

Try: Spend time with one of the zoo’s cheekiest animals and book a private meerkat encounter.

Let’s do lunch

After a morning of making memories, you’ll sure to be searching for that perfect lunchtime treat. Take the short drive into the Childers center and stop in at Insane Caffeine. This quirky café is a popular spot for locals with meals that will have you writing home about. Think rich spiced pumpkin soup, crispy buttermilk chicken burgers, and mouthwatering malt caramel cheesecake.

Try: Sit outside to admire the breathtaking mural painted by Insane Caffeine family member, Ella.

Check-in

Right in the heart of town, you’ll find the Childers Oasis Motel. Close to shops and cafes, it’s the perfect spot to base your hinterland stay. They even have their own Espresso Bar, great for that morning pick-me-up.

You’re the wine that I want

Spend the afternoon driving through the stunning scenery of Childers to taste test the wines this town is known for. Perched at the very top of an impressive hill, you’ll spot Vintner’s Secret Vineyard, a working winery with a six-acre vineyard. Producing only the finest wines, take time sampling whatever your heart desires at the cellar door. After leaving the lush surrounds of Vintner’s, head to Hill of Promise Winery just a short drive away. Producing all their exquisite wines on the property, Hill of Promise provides the perfect grape-to-glass experience. You won’t have any trouble finding your new favourite go-to wine at this family-owned winery.

Try: Bring a picnic basket and take a moment to enjoy the wineries’ beautiful hinterland views and expansive grounds.

Good food, great company

After your day touring this beautiful part of the world, take a quick drive to Apple Tree Creek to dine in at the delicious Mollydookers. Thanks to the owners’ Canadian roots, everything at this popular café and bar from their extensive menu to the quirky décor and the ice hockey playing on the TVs has been inspired by Canada.

Try: Be transported to another country without leaving the region and taste traditional Canadian Poutine with real cheese curd.

*Pre-booking for dining in is required. Keep an eye on Mollydookers' Facebook for updates and opening hours. 

DAY 2

But first, coffee

Put a spin on your morning coffee and take a leisurely stroll along the heritage laced main street of Childers. Resembling days long gone, the beautifully coloured mason buildings are a true sight to behold. Along the way, be sure to keep a look out for the original Post Office. Built over a century ago now, this is the oldest building in the whole town.

Soon enough you’ll be met with a Childers icon, The Paragon Theatre. Luckily for you, inside this magnificent, heritage-listed theatre is an Espresso Bar and the perfect way to start your second day exploring the town. If you feel like something a little sweeter, why not try one of the ever-so-popular Mammino Gourmet Ice Creams. We recommend the ‘Marvelous Macadamia’ featuring the nuts our region is known for.

Try: Take a seat at the Espresso Bar and take in the history of this unique building over a delicious morning tea.

History of the ages

There’s no need to grab the car this morning, continue your morning walk to the Military and Memorabilia Museum. With thousands upon thousands of military pieces on display from countries all over the world, this museum is one for the books.

Try: Look out for the wall of photographs of the men and women who have heroically served the country, you can even bring your own photograph to add to the collection.

(Credit: Bundaberg Photographer Paul Beutel)

Satisfy your taste buds

Good news folks, it’s time for lunch! Along the main street, you’ll find a wealth of cafes serving up delicious food using the fresh, local produce that is grown in this rich agricultural area.

Try: If you feel like sitting amongst the great outdoors, pick up some takeaway from one of the cafes and grab a picnic table at Millennium Park in the centre of the main street. There’s even a playground for the little ones to run off some steam.

Medicinal Marvels

Now that your belly is full and taste buds happy, wander over to the fascinating Old Pharmacy. One of the largest collections of early pharmaceutical history in all of Australia, you’ll have the chance to inspect mysterious potions and discover rare specimens from over 100 years ago.

Try: Recently celebrating the building’s 125th year anniversary, be sure to take in the old-worldly architecture of this stunning mason building.

Colour your world

The Childers Art Space is a hub for all things cultural and creative in the town. From travelling exhibitions from throughout the country to shows featuring the works of talented locals, visiting the free gallery is a must-do. You can even find one of the best views of all of Childers from the gallery’s private balcony.

Try: Learn the stories of the backpackers who tragically lost their lives due to arson in the very building the gallery is housed at the Palace Backpacker Memorial, attached to the gallery.

*The Childers Art Space will be re-opening on Friday, 28 August 2020. Keep an eye on their Facebook for updates.


Home is where the food is

End your perfect day in the most perfect way by enjoying dinner at one of the local hotels. Serving up delicious, hearty meals, we can guarantee you won’t go back to your accommodation hungry after tonight’s meal.

Try: All the local hotels are in walking distance from your accommodation at the Childers Oasis Motel so there’s no need to jump in the car tonight.

Safe travels!

All good things eventually come to an end. After your two nights among the rolling hills of the Childers landscape, it’s time to head home. Never fear though, the Childers locals can’t wait to welcome you again soon.