A perfect blend of history, nature, and family fun, this itinerary will take you through heritage-rich sites, scenic landscapes, and relaxing riverside escapes.
Day 1: Friday
8:00 am – Hit the Road: Depart St George
- Buckle up and set off from St George to Surat, heading north along the Carnarvon Highway.
- Keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos hopping, emus strutting, and eagles soaring along the way.
9:30 am – Cobb & Co Changing Station
- On arrival in Surat, first head to the Cobb & Co Changing Station, which also serves as the town’s Visitor Information Centre.
- Check out the full-size replica Cobb & Co Coach – imagine the bumpy rides of the past!
- Get creative at the interactive virtual aquarium – design and colour your own fish before watching it come to life in the digital tank.
- Explore fascinating exhibits on Surat’s social history and imagine what life was like back then.
- Whether you’re a history buff or just love discovering new things, there’s something for everyone here.
10:30 am – Library and Local Insights
- Swing by the Surat Library, conveniently located next door to the Cobb & Co Changing Station.
- Chat with the friendly librarians to find out about the latest programs running in the library – board game mornings, Lego sessions, movie showings, and more could be on the cards.
- They’ll also point you to all the best spots in town you might not want to miss!
- Sign up for a tourist library membership and gain access to fishing rods and birdwatching kits – your adventure gear for the day!
11:30 am – Birdwatching and exploring
- With your birdwatching kit in hand, wander down to the beautiful Balonne River.
- Spot galahs, cockatoos, and magpies while enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature.
12:30 pm – Lunch and the Freedom Tree
- Either have your own packed lunch or stop by the Timber Crate Café for a delicious meal and a cold drink to fuel the rest of your day.
- Stroll down to the Surat Memorial Park and sit under the shade of the gum trees, enjoying the fresh air.
- Take a look at the Freedom Tree, a community memorial honouring Surat residents involved in war.
1:30 pm – Set up camp
- Arrive at Fisherman’s Park and set up your camp for tonight under the shade of the gum trees. Don’t forget to put a donation in the box – the only cost of camping at this beautiful spot.
- Time to put those fishing rods to use, and try to catch some golden perch, silver perch, or Murray cod.
5:30 pm – Dinner at the pub
- After a big day, head to the Surat New Royal Hotel for a hearty country pub meal.
- Dig into a juicy steak, crispy chicken schnitzel, or a classic pub special.
- Swap stories with the locals and learn about Surat’s fascinating past!
7:00 pm – Return to Camp and stargazing
- Head back to camp, but the night isn’t over…
- Once the stars come out, you’ll experience one of the clearest night skies without the lights of the city – perfect for stargazing or spotting some nocturnal animals along the river!
Balonne River
Day 2 – Saturday
7:00 am
- Lace up your runners and join the new Surat Memorial Park parkrun!
- Whether you run, jog, or walk, this 5km course winds along the picturesque Surat River Walk, a great way to start your day feeling fresh and energized.
8:00 am
- After your active morning, head to the local café, the Timber Crate, for one of their many breakfast options – like toasties, or even a breakfast pie!
- While you’re there, browse their shop section with homewares, gifts, jewellery, books, and more.
9:30 am
- The parents can grab a shady spot by the Balonne River while the kids cool off with a refreshing swim.
- Sit back, relax, and soak up the great outdoors.
11:00 am
- Time to gear up for a historic road trip…
- Gather some supplies for a picnic lunch, including snacks and water.
- Quick check: Make sure your maps are ready, and fuel levels are topped up before you set off on your journey.
11:30 am
- It’s time to hit the road and follow in the tracks of Australia’s last horse-drawn mail service along the Cobb & Co Way.
- Allow a few hours for this 76-kilometre journey from Surat to nearby Yuleba. The sites are clearly marked along the way, so you won’t miss out.
- Expect to see heritage sites, former changing stations, the Corduroys, and the Native Wells.
- Once you reach Yuleba, stop for a while at the Cobb & Co Park to stretch your legs. Either backtrack along the Cobb & Co Way, or head along the Warrego and Carnarvon highways back to Surat.
- If you’re driving back along the Yuleba-Surat road, spend some time at Beranga Creek to take in the giant water lilies from December to May each year.
3 pm
- Time to say goodbye to Surat and set off toward your next adventure!
- Crank up the road trip playlist and settle in for the journey ahead.
Replica Cobb & Co Coach at Cobb & Co Changing Station