When to go to Queensland
They don’t call it the Sunshine State for nothing; the vast majority of Queensland experiences an average of eight or nine hours of sunshine a day. With that in mind, there’s truly never a bad time to visit Queensland. To see the unique highlights and events that take place throughout the year, click on the months below.
Explore by month
Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast
Weather
Brisbane
21-30°C
The Whitsundays
25-31°C
Cairns
24-31°C
Avg. sunny days
15
Australia’s Summer
Queensland enjoys both sub-tropical and tropical climates. January is when it experiences its hottest temperatures with 30°C days consistent around the state. It’s also when locals typically enjoy their holidays. Sports fans will also love the cricket tests taking place around the country, including Brisbane.
Turtle hatchlings
In November female turtles make their way onto Southern Queensland’s beaches to lay their eggs. Come January these eggs begin to hatch, with baby turtles emerging from the sand to make a quick dash into the water to start their new life. Turtle hatchlings can be seen on the beach at night from January to March. Places you can witness the turtle hatchlings include Heron Island, Lady Elliot Island or at the Mon Repos Conservation Centre, near Bundaberg.
Bennett’s tree kangaroo
It’s common to see kangaroos in Queensland but spotting one in the trees is a little trickier. Inhabiting the rainforest canopy, Bennett’s tree kangaroos can grow to around 11 kg and leap 9m across from one tree to the next. While it’s possible to see them at any time of year, sightings are more common in the summer months when the kangaroos move down to the canopy floor. Keep an eye out for them in the Daintree Rainforest.
The beaches
Queensland’s beaches are at their most popular during the summer months when weather and surf conditions are ideal for swimming. If you’re into surfing, this is when places like the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast receive their best swells. Wherever you choose, be sure to apply plenty of sunscreen and always swim between the flags.
The Great Barrier Reef
Spend a full day snorkelling and/or diving the Outer Barrier Reef with a boat cruise from Cairns or Port Douglas. Discover over 30 species of whales and dolphins, 1,625 species of fish, 33 species of sharks and rays and 600 types of hard and soft coral.
Daintree Rainforest
Kayak, walk or gallop your way along Cape Tribulation beach – the seamline of two World Heritage-listed wonders; the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef – where you may not see another soul for days.
Exciting Events
From large festivals to small country fairs, Queensland has a continuously revolving events calendar. This means that no matter what time of year you visit there’s always something unique to experience. The below events are just some of the highlights we recommend for this month.
26 January, 2018
Australia Day
The national day of Australia is a country-wide public holiday and an ideal time to be in Queensland. Head along to an Australia Day celebration at famous pubs like the Regatta Hotel in Brisbane, The Birdsville Pub in Birdsville or the Cock and Bull in Cairns and get caught up in the Aussie spirit, or head to the beach with many of the locals.
13 January, 2018
The Jeep Magic Millions Race day, Gold Coast
Australia’s richest race day attracts an international audience, where horses race to secure a slice of the AU$4.7 million in prize money.
31 December – 7 January, 2018
The Brisbane International presented by Suncorp
Attention tennis fans! Don’t miss the Brisbane International in January, which is widely regarded as the warm-up to the Australian Open.
25 January, 2018
The Burleigh Pro, Gold Coast
Time your visit to Queensland to coincide with the Burleigh Pro and see the country’s best surfers in action. Located at one of Australia’s best surf spots, Burleigh Heads, the surfing competition takes place over three days and includes some of the world’s most talented male and female competitors.
Dreaming of Queensland
You’re in fantastic hands! As an Australian born company, many of our Experts have visited the Sunshine State and specialise in creating tailor-made Queensland holidays. From road trips along the coastline to delving deep into the Great Barrier Reef, we offer a great range of Queensland holiday ideas, all of which can be tailored to suit you.
View Queensland holidaysKuranda Skyrail, Tropical North Queensland
Weather
Brisbane
21-30°C
The Whitsundays
25-31°C
Cairns
24-31°C
Avg. sunny days
12
Australia’s Summer
As the last month of summer, this is also the hottest and wettest month in Tropical North Queensland with afternoon thunderstorms quite common. However this is also the ‘green’ season, with flourishing vegetation and the region’s waterfalls are at their fullest and most impressive.
Sunflowers
If you’re off on a road trip from Brisbane, be sure to take a drive on the famous Sunflower Route, located 30 minutes from Toowoomba. The colourful journey passes some spectacular sunflower fields, which are in bloom between January and March.
Turtle hatchlings
In November female turtles make their way onto Southern Queensland’s beaches to lay their eggs. Come January these eggs begin to hatch, with baby turtles emerging from the sand to make a quick dash into the water to start their new life. Turtle hatchlings can be seen on the beach at night from January to March. Places you can witness the turtle hatchlings include Heron Island, Lady Elliot Island or at the Mon Repos Conservation Centre, near Bundaberg.
Bennett’s tree kangaroo
It’s common to see kangaroos in Queensland but spotting one in the trees is a little trickier. Inhabiting the rainforest canopy, Bennett’s tree kangaroos can grow to around 11 kg and leap 9m across from one tree to the next. While it’s possible to see them at any time of year, sightings are more common in the summer months when the kangaroos move down to the canopy floor. Keep an eye out for them in the Daintree Rainforest.
The beaches
Queensland’s beaches are at their most popular during the summer months when weather and surf conditions are ideal for swimming. If you’re into surfing, this is when places like the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast receive their best swells. Wherever you choose, be sure to apply plenty of sunscreen and always swim between the flags.
The Great Barrier Reef
Take the plunge and learn to dive on the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns. Combine your course with an all-inclusive liveaboard trip to the outer reefs and experience what rush hour traffic is like on the largest reef in the world
Daintree Rainforest
Float over the rainforest and the Barron Falls on a cableway or take a scenic train ride that weaves through the rainforest to and from Kuranda.
Exciting Events
From large festivals to small country fairs, Queensland has a continuously revolving events calendar. This means that no matter what time of year you visit there’s always something unique to experience. The below events are just some of the highlights we recommend for this month.
14-17 February, 2019
The Chinchilla Melon Festival (next event Feb 2019)
The Chinchilla Melon Festival is a biennial country town event in Outback Queensland that combines hair-raising, thrill-inducing activities with, well, watermelons! Taking place across four days, at this unique Australian festival you can try your hand at melon skating, melon tossing and even melon bungee – to name a few.
Dreaming of Queensland
You’re in fantastic hands! As an Australian born company, many of our Experts have visited the Sunshine State and specialise in creating tailor-made Queensland holidays. From road trips along the coastline to delving deep into the Great Barrier Reef, we offer a great range of Queensland holiday ideas, all of which can be tailored to suit you.
View Queensland holidaysGranite Belt
Weather
Brisbane
19-29°C
The Whitsundays
24-29°C
Cairns
23-30°C
Avg. sunny days
15
Australia’s Autumn
March is the first month of autumn in Queensland, but don’t let that deceive you, the temperatures are still warm, especially in Tropical North Queensland where March still falls within the “green” season. In Southern Queensland, enjoy the beach vibe on the Gold and Sunshine Coasts, or 4WD along the sand highway on Fraser Island.
The Granite Belt
If you want to experience the colours and flavours of Autumn, we recommend visiting The Granite Belt in the Darling Downs. Not only is the region famous for its colourful foliage, but it also offers fantastic seasonal produce including apples, pears and wine, as well as beautiful scenery to explore. Highlights of the area include Stanthorpe, which is home to some fantastic microbreweries as well as the region’s famous granite boulders.
Sunflowers
If you’re off on a road trip from Brisbane, be sure to take a drive on the famous Sunflower Route, located 30 minutes from Toowoomba. The colourful journey passes some spectacular sunflower fields, which are in bloom between January and March.
The Great Barrier Reef
Spark your curiosity at Reef HQ, the world’s largest living coral aquarium and home to 150 species of reef fish, turtles, and live shark feeding. Located in Townsville, North Queensland.
Daintree Rainforest
Zip wire through the ancient beauty of the Daintree Rainforest and meet the local tree kangaroos or elusive cassowary.
Exciting Events
From large festivals to small country fairs, Queensland has a continuously revolving events calendar. This means that no matter what time of year you visit there’s always something unique to experience. The below events are just some of the highlights we recommend for this month.
21-25 March, 2018
World Science Festival, Brisbane
In its inaugural outing, this five-day homage to all things science will spoil with debates, interactive exhibits, workshops and artistic performances, covering myriad topics including Albert Einstein and global warming.
24-26 March, 2018
CMC Rocks, Queensland
Taking place across multiple venues, CMC Rocks boasts the impressive title of the ‘biggest international country and roots festival in the Southern Hemisphere’. Expect country vibes aplenty, reinforced by performing musicians from all over the planet.
Dreaming of Queensland
You’re in fantastic hands! As an Australian born company, many of our Experts have visited the Sunshine State and specialise in creating tailor-made Queensland holidays. From road trips along the coastline to delving deep into the Great Barrier Reef, we offer a great range of Queensland holiday ideas, all of which can be tailored to suit you.
View Queensland holidaysMission Beach, Tropical North Queensland
Weather
Brisbane
17-27°C
The Whitsundays
23-28°C
Cairns
22-30°C
Avg. sunny days
16
Australia’s Autumn
April is a great month to explore all of Queensland, with temperatures still hovering in the twenties. Easter usually falls during the month with many locals heading to the coastline and hinterland. Camping holidays are particularly popular during this time as there is less humidity.
Bilbies
An endangered species native to Australia’s outback, the bilby is a nocturnal marsupial that looks like a cross between a rabbit and a bandicoot. While it’s possible to see them all year round, your chances will increase from April to October. The country town of Charleville has a Bilby Centre and offers two experiences a day where you can see and learn all about the shy native animal.
The Granite Belt
If you want to experience the colours and flavours of the Autumn, we recommend visiting The Granite Belt in the Darling Downs. Not only is the region famous for its colourful foliage, but it also offers fantastic seasonal produce including apples, pears and wine, as well as beautiful scenery to explore. Highlights of the area include Stanthorpe, which is home to some fantastic microbreweries as well as the region’s famous granite boulders.
The Great Barrier Reef
Take a quintessential scenic flight over Heart Reef in the Whitsundays. A stunning composition of coral that has naturally formed into the shape of a heart, a famous place for declarations of love and proposals!
Daintree Rainforest
Swap the forest-floor view for new heights with Mamu Tropical Skywalk, whose steel structures elevate you to canopy level, giving a whole new perspective of this ancient wonder. An elevated walkway stands 15m out of the ground, allowing you to go eye-to-eye with lush tropical rainforest.
Exciting Events
From large festivals to small country fairs, Queensland has a continuously revolving events calendar. This means that no matter what time of year you visit there’s always something unique to experience. The below events are just some of the highlights we recommend for this month.
4–15 April, 2018
Gold Coast Commonwealth Games
From 4 to 15 April 2018, over 6,600 athletes and team officials from 70 nations and territories will converge on the Gold Coast for this 11 day sporting and cultural event. With beaches, World Heritage listed rainforests and thrilling theme parks mixed in with some of the greatest athletes on earth battling it out, the Gold Coast will be the place to be.
13-15 April, 2018
Julia Creek Dirt ’n’ Dust Festival
Looking for a taste of outback Queensland? You’ll find it at the Julia Creek Dirt ’n’ Dust Festival, taking place in the rural town of Julia Creek near Mount Isa. Now in its 22nd year, the three-day weekend festival showcases the very best in Outback hospitality.
Dreaming of Queensland
You’re in fantastic hands! As an Australian born company, many of our Experts have visited the Sunshine State and specialise in creating tailor-made Queensland holidays. From road trips along the coastline to delving deep into the Great Barrier Reef, we offer a great range of Queensland holiday ideas, all of which can be tailored to suit you.
View Queensland holidaysKoala, Magnetic Island, Townsville
Weather
Brisbane
13-24°C
The Whitsundays
21-26°C
Cairns
20-28°C
Avg. sunny days
21
Australia’s Autumn
May is the first month of the dry season in Tropical North Queensland, and is a great time to explore all around the state. In addition to the ideal climate, May offers plenty of wildlife watching opportunities as well as low-season travel rates.
Manta Rays
Manta Rays can be spotted year round in Queensland but the peak season for swimming with a school of these aquatic animals is between May and August. The Manta Rays that can be seen in Queensland are some of the largest in the world with a wing span of up to 7m. Some of the state’s best Manta Ray hotspots include Lady Elliot Island, Heron Island and Lady Musgrave Island.
Bilbies
An endangered species native to Australia’s outback, the bilby is a nocturnal marsupial that looks like a cross between a rabbit and a bandicoot. While it’s possible to see them all year round, your chances will increase from April to October. The country town of Charleville has a Bilby Centre and offers two experiences a day where you can see and learn all about the shy native animal.
The Granite Belt
If you want to experience the colours and flavours of the Autumn, we recommend visiting The Granite Belt in the Darling Downs. Not only is the region famous for its colourful foliage, but it also offers fantastic seasonal produce including apples, pears and wine, as well as beautiful scenery to explore. Highlights of the area include Stanthorpe, which is home to some fantastic microbreweries as well as the region’s famous granite boulders.
The Great Barrier Reef
Go on a walkabout underwater and keep your hair dry! With helmet diving available from Green Island (30 minutes from Cairns) and Moore Reef, it’s an amazing way to see coral and marine creatures up close.
Daintree Rainforest
Hike to the peak of one of the Glass House Mountains on the Sunshine Coast. There are trails for both beginners and more experienced climbers.
Exciting Events
From large festivals to small country fairs, Queensland has a continuously revolving events calendar. This means that no matter what time of year you visit there’s always something unique to experience. The below events are just some of the highlights we recommend for this month.
TBC May, 2018
Noosa Food and Wine festival
This foodie festival showcases new flavours alongside great Australian wines, artisan foods, culinary talent with some of Australia’s leading chefs and producers, and the finest Queensland produce, all taking place in one of Australia’s leading culinary destinations, Noosa.
TBC May, 2018
Brisbane Bike Week
Cyclists will love being in Brisbane during early May as the city celebrates its love of bike riding. During the week there are a number of organised bike rides that take place throughout the city, ranging in themes from chocolate to city laneways and a family fun ride.
24 May, 2018
Captain Cook 1770 Festival
The Captain Cook 1770 Festival commemorates Australia's roots, marking the date (24th May) when Cook and his crew first landed in Queensland. The celebrations at the SES Grounds in Agnes Water include a 20-minute firework display, street parades, historical re-enactments, market stalls, live music and period costume in abundance.
TBC May, 2018
Port Douglas Carnivale
Taking place for over 20 years, the Port Douglas Carnivale is a festive celebration of food, fun and family in beautiful Port Douglas. Be sure to check out the new (and somewhat unusual) inclusion to the festival repertoire: the National Esky Racing Championships.
Dreaming of Queensland
You’re in fantastic hands! As an Australian born company, many of our Experts have visited the Sunshine State and specialise in creating tailor-made Queensland holidays. From road trips along the coastline to delving deep into the Great Barrier Reef, we offer a great range of Queensland holiday ideas, all of which can be tailored to suit you.
View Queensland holidaysHook Island, Whitsundays
Weather
Brisbane
11-22°C
The Whitsundays
18-24°C
Cairns
18-26°C
Avg. sunny days
20
Australia’s Winter
June may technically be Australia’s winter, but the season is practically non-existent in Queensland as temperatures still reach up to the mid-twenties, while there’s also less rainfall and humidity. There are also plenty of activities such as local festivals and sporting events so you can really immerse yourself in the Queensland lifestyle.
The Great Barrier Reef
Sleep on the Great Barrier Reef with Reefsleep’s floating pontoon under a sky full of stars in the Whitsundays. Spend the day however you like; go on a snorkelling safari, sunbathe on the deck, take a helicopter flight over the Reef, but come 3pm when the day-trippers head home, only nine Reefsleep guests remain.
Daintree Rainforest
Venture out when the sun goes down to spot fireflies, glow worms and luminous mushrooms in Springbrook National Park on the Gold Coast.
Dwarf Minke Whale watching
The reef between Port Douglas and Lizard Island in Tropical North Queensland is the only place in the world where it’s possible to swim with dwarf minke whales. These acrobatic whales can grow up to eight metres long and weigh several tonnes but are known for their gentle nature and curiosity, often approaching snorkellers and divers at close distance and interacting with them for long periods of time.
Exciting Events
From large festivals to small country fairs, Queensland has a continuously revolving events calendar. This means that no matter what time of year you visit there’s always something unique to experience. The below events are just some of the highlights we recommend for this month.
6-10 June, 2018
Cooly Rocks On, Gold Coast
Coolangatta and Tweed Heads come alive with rock’n’roll fever. More than 50 Australian rock’n’roll and rockabilly bands will perform alongside international artists, and over 1,300 cars will line the streets for one of the biggest car displays ever staged in Australia.
TBC June, 2018
Mary Poppins Festival
The author of Mary Poppins, Pamela Travers, was born in Maryborough and the town celebrates its unique link to the iconic nanny with the world’s only Mary Poppins Festival – a week long explosion of colour, art, culture and “practically perfect” fun for everyone.
TBC June, 2018
Cape York Laura Aboriginal Dance Festival
Taking place in Cape York Peninsula, The Laura Aboriginal Dance Festival is a biennial gathering that highlights the many diverse communities, language, song, dance and stories. Witness the passing on of culture the generations, along with showcasing the strength, pride and uniqueness of Aboriginal people.
Dreaming of Queensland
You’re in fantastic hands! As an Australian born company, many of our Experts have visited the Sunshine State and specialise in creating tailor-made Queensland holidays. From road trips along the coastline to delving deep into the Great Barrier Reef, we offer a great range of Queensland holiday ideas, all of which can be tailored to suit you.
View Queensland holidaysUndara National Park, Tropical North Queensland
Weather
Brisbane
10-22°C
The Whitsundays
18-23°C
Cairns
17-26°C
Avg. sunny days
21
Australia’s Winter
July is famous for its beautiful blue sky weather. Conditions during this month are less humid, while rain is quite rare. As a result, July is a fantastic month to explore Tropical North Queensland as well as Southern Queensland’s countryside and hinterland.
Explore the Queensland Outback
With cooler temperatures, July is a great month for exploring the outback region of Queensland. From taking the iconic train to Longreach, visiting the Waltzing Matilda pub in Winton, or even fossicking for dinosaur fossils at the Australian Age of Dinosaurs, also near Winton.
Bushwalking
Winter in Queensland means less humidity, so it’s a fantastic time to get out and explore the countryside with a bush walk. Queensland is home to some incredible walking tracks including the Whitsunday Great Walk near Airlie Beach, and the Mount Tibrogargan walking circuit at the Glass House Mountains in the Sunshine Coast hinterland.
The Great Barrier Reef
Be your own captain and navigate the 74 islands of the Whitsundays on your very own yacht or settle in a little longer on crewed overnight sailing tours. It is the perfect way to see more of the islands and feel like you’ve got the place to yourself once the day-trippers have gone home.
Daintree Rainforest
Hit the famous waterfall circuit and swim in volcanic crater lakes, under waterfalls and down natural waterslides in the Atherton Tablelands, Cairns and Great Barrier Reef region.
Dwarf Minke Whale watching
The reef between Port Douglas and Lizard Island in Tropical North Queensland is the only place in the world where it’s possible to swim with dwarf minke whales. These acrobatic whales can grow up to eight metres long and weigh several tonnes but are known for their gentle nature and curiosity, often approaching snorkellers and divers at close distance and interacting with them for long periods of time.
Exciting Events
From large festivals to small country fairs, Queensland has a continuously revolving events calendar. This means that no matter what time of year you visit there’s always something unique to experience. The below events are just some of the highlights we recommend for this month.
7 July, 2018
Scenic Rim Winter Harvest Festival
Located west of the Gold Coast in Southern Queensland, this relaxed day out has a big focus on food, with plenty of local produce stalls, cooking demonstrations and food markets. Seize the chance to mingle with the local farmers and taste the best the region has to offer.
1-31 July, 2018
Brisbane Times Good Food Month
An absolute must for foodies, this event will showcase the very best of Brisbane’s burgeoning foodie scene. The month is choc-full of mouthwatering events including pop-up restaurants, limited edition menus, chef competitions and the locally beloved night noodle markets.
Dreaming of Queensland
You’re in fantastic hands! As an Australian born company, many of our Experts have visited the Sunshine State and specialise in creating tailor-made Queensland holidays. From road trips along the coastline to delving deep into the Great Barrier Reef, we offer a great range of Queensland holiday ideas, all of which can be tailored to suit you.
View Queensland holidaysPalm Cove, Tropical North Queensland
Weather
Brisbane
11-23°C
The Whitsundays
18-25°C
Cairns
17-27°C
Avg. sunny days
21
Australia’s Winter
The last month of Queensland’s so-called ‘winter,’ August still enjoys warm 20°C weather, with temperatures in Tropical North Queensland reaching up to 27°C, so it is a great time to explore the state and encounter the famous Australian wildlife.
Humpback Whale watching
In the winter months of June to August, humpback whales migrate from Antarctica to the warmer waters of Queensland to breed before travelling back in September and November. Hervey Bay on the Fraser Coast is one of the best places to see humpback whales in Australia. Unlike anywhere else in the world, the whales spend time in the sheltered bay before continuing along the coast, offering the ultimate opportunity to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures.
Bushwalking
Winter in Queensland means less humidity, so it’s a fantastic time to get out and explore the countryside with a bush walk. Queensland is home to some incredible walking tracks including the Whitsunday Great Walk near Airlie Beach, and the Mount Tibrogargan walking circuit at the Glass House Mountains in the Sunshine Coast hinterland.
The Great Barrier Reef
Make like a rock star and charter a private helicopter to see the Great Barrier Reef from above and touch down for a picnic on a sand cay.
Daintree Rainforest
Go on a walkabout with Indigenous guides, listen to dreamtime stories and learn the ways of a 40,000 year old culture.
Exciting Events
From large festivals to small country fairs, Queensland has a continuously revolving events calendar. This means that no matter what time of year you visit there’s always something unique to experience. The below events are just some of the highlights we recommend for this month.
11-20 August, 2017
The Royal Brisbane Show
Referred to locally as the Ekka, Brisbane’s royal show is the city’s largest cultural festival. Traditionally showcasing the local agricultural scene, the event features a range of unique stalls and entertainment including a wood chuck competition, farm animal displays, fashion parades and plenty of rides.
24-27 August, 2017
Gympie Music Muster
Held in the serene Amamoor State Forest, the Gympie Music Muster is one of the most popular music events in the country. Originally beginning in 1982 as a small country music festival, the event has grown to feature a diverse range of music performances from Australian artists covering country, folk and pop.
19-26 August, 2017
Audi Hamilton Island Race Week
A great time to visit the Whitsundays, the Audi Hamilton Island Race Week is Australia’s largest offshore sailing regatta and one of the world’s most famous yachting events. The race week is more than just yachts, with a range of other events showcasing celebrity chefs, wine tastings and golfing competitions.
Dreaming of Queensland
You’re in fantastic hands! As an Australian born company, many of our Experts have visited the Sunshine State and specialise in creating tailor-made Queensland holidays. From road trips along the coastline to delving deep into the Great Barrier Reef, we offer a great range of Queensland holiday ideas, all of which can be tailored to suit you.
View Queensland holidaysSouth Bank, Brisbane
Weather
Brisbane
13-25°C
The Whitsundays
20-26°C
Cairns
19-28°C
Avg. sunny days
20
Australia’s Spring
September marks the beginning of spring in Queensland, with days growing longer. This time in the state is best spent exploring the national parks and botanic gardens to see the colourful spring flowers in bloom.
Wildflowers
Queensland is home to a diverse array of landscapes including heath plains where, in September, you can see wildflowers bloom. One of the best places to see these wildflowers is at Girraween National Park in the Darling Downs where you can spy native bluebells and pea flowers. Another highlight is the sea coastal heath plains of Coolala near the Sunshine Coast which feature flowering herbs, orchids and lillies.
Dugongs
Related to manatees, dugongs can be spotted year round in Queensland but one of the best times to see them is between September and October when most dugong calves are born. For your best chances to spy them, head to the banks of Moreton and Amity Point in Moreton Bay near Brisbane or Upolo Reef on the Great Barrier Reef in Tropical North Queensland
Humpback Whale watching
In the winter months of June to August, humpback whales migrate from Antarctica to the warmer waters of Queensland to breed before travelling back in September and November. Hervey Bay on the Fraser Coast is one of the best places to see humpback whales in Australia. Unlike anywhere else in the world, the whales spend time in the sheltered bay before continuing along the coast, offering the ultimate opportunity to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures.
Bilbies
An endangered species native to Australia’s outback, the bilby is a nocturnal marsupial that looks like a cross between a rabbit and a bandicoot. While it’s possible to see them all year round, your chances will increase from April to October. The country town of Charleville has a Bilby Centre and offers two experiences a day where you can see and learn all about the shy native animal.
The Great Barrier Reef
Swim with resident manta rays and snap a turtle selfie in the waters surrounding Lady Elliot Island.
Daintree Rainforest
Pull out your hiking boots and trek along one of Queensland’s Great Walks! There’s a walk for every pace and fitness level, whether you just want a short easy stroll to a magnificent lookout or a more strenuous hike.
Exciting Events
From large festivals to small country fairs, Queensland has a continuously revolving events calendar. This means that no matter what time of year you visit there’s always something unique to experience. The below events are just some of the highlights we recommend for this month.
15-24 September, 2017
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers
Food, wine and all things gardens, the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers is one of Australia’s leading spring carnivals. The award-winning weeklong event sees the country town of Toowoomba come alive with gardens to explore, wine and food tours to indulge in, and even classic car and railway events to enjoy.
9-30 September, 2017
Brisbane Festival
September is an exciting time to be in Brisbane as the city hosts a range of exciting events covering music performances, theatre, comedy, talks, film screens, family, food and more. The festival ends with the River Fire event, which features a spectacular fireworks extravaganza.
1-2 September, 2017
Birdsville Races
Dubbed as the Melbourne Cup of the Outback, crowds of 6,000 racegoers converge on Birdsville each year to enjoy two days of quality outback racing and entertainment. The second race meet in the Simpson Desert Racing Carnival, the 13 race program features horses from all over Australia competing for the coveted Birdsville Cup.
Dreaming of Queensland
You’re in fantastic hands! As an Australian born company, many of our Experts have visited the Sunshine State and specialise in creating tailor-made Queensland holidays. From road trips along the coastline to delving deep into the Great Barrier Reef, we offer a great range of Queensland holiday ideas, all of which can be tailored to suit you.
View Queensland holidaysNoosa Everglades, Sunshine Coast
Weather
Brisbane
16-26°C
The Whitsundays
22-28°C
Cairns
21-30°C
Avg. sunny days
21
Australia’s Spring
Warm but not too hot, October offers ideal conditions for exploring much of Queensland. If you’re looking for heat, you’ll find it in Tropical North Queensland. Head for sunny sandy spots like Palm Cove, Port Douglas, or Mission Beach, where temperatures will reach around 30°C.
Mangoes
Queenslanders love their mangoes. The tropical fruit is a hallmark of the local diet and agriculture industry. While mangoes are available year round, the official mango season begins in October. To celebrate, the Brisbane Markets often auction the first mango tray of the season for charity – previous bids have exceeded AUD$20,000. For a taste of the best, we recommend visiting the town of Bowen in the Whitsunday region, which is home to the Big Mango and countless mango farms.
Jacaranda Trees
Though not native to Australia, Jacaranda trees are a beloved icon of Brisbane streets. In the month of October the leafy trees flower all over with lavender blossoms, covering Brisbane’s streets with purple petals. Some of the best places to see Jacaranda trees include the city’s Botanic Gardens, Kangaroo Point and New Farm Park.
Coral Spawning
Between October and December, the reef puts on a truly spectacular nocturnal display as hundreds of species of coral polyps simultaneously release tiny colourful egg and sperm bundles into the water. The mass spawning, which looks like underwater fireworks, occurs four to six days after the full moon at different times in different areas of the reef. The spawns form a thick pink slick that can be kilometres long. Take a night diving trip from Cairns to witness the phenomenon.
The Great Barrier Reef
Dive the SS Yongala wreck, which is consistently rated as one of the top 10 dive sites in the world. The ship attracts a much higher amount of sea life that other dive sites; here you will find eagle rays, turtles, giant Queensland gropers, schooling barracuda, sea snakes and much more living on board the SS Yongala.
Daintree Rainforest
Get a birds-eye view 30 metres above the Cedar Creek National Park on the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk in the Gold Coast Hinterland.
Exciting Events
From large festivals to small country fairs, Queensland has a continuously revolving events calendar. This means that no matter what time of year you visit there’s always something unique to experience. The below events are just some of the highlights we recommend for this month.
29 September – 2 October, 2017
Caloundra Music Festival
Bringing the Sunshine Coast to life with an eclectic mix of live art, performers and carnival entertainment, the four-day Caloundra Music Festival is all about celebrating the region’s diverse character. So if you really want to get under the skin of the Queensland lifestyle, here’s the place to do it.
6-8 October, 2017
Palm Cove Reef Feast
Reef Feast in Palm Cove is Tropical North Queensland’s premier community event and one of the Australia’s best food events. The events celebrates cuisine, fresh produce, live music, plus the relaxed culture and lifestyle of the magnificent tropics.
Dreaming of Queensland
You’re in fantastic hands! As an Australian born company, many of our Experts have visited the Sunshine State and specialise in creating tailor-made Queensland holidays. From road trips along the coastline to delving deep into the Great Barrier Reef, we offer a great range of Queensland holiday ideas, all of which can be tailored to suit you.
View Queensland holidaysGlass House Mountains
Weather
Brisbane
18-29°C
The Whitsundays
23-31°C
Cairns
22-31°C
Avg. sunny days
22
Australia’s Spring
November offers warm temperatures making it the perfect time to relax on one of Queensland’s many islands and beaches. There are lots of events happening in the Whitsundays too, making it a fantastic time to visit and be part of all the action.
Turtle Nesting
November marks the beginning of the season when female turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. There are many places to witness this incredible encounter such as Heron Island, Lady Elliot Island or at the Mon Repos Conservation Centre near Bundaberg. Here you can join a tour to watch loggerhead, green and flatback turtles come ashore, dig a hole with their flippers and lay their eggs at night.
Coral Spawning
Between October and December, the reef puts on a truly spectacular nocturnal display as hundreds of species of coral polyps simultaneously release tiny colourful egg and sperm bundles into the water. The mass spawning, which looks like underwater fireworks, occurs four to six days after the full moon at different times in different areas of the reef. The spawns form a thick pink slick that can be kilometres long. Take a night diving trip from Cairns to witness the phenomenon.
National Parks
As the last month of spring, November is a great time to visit Queensland’s national parks and make the most of warm (but not too warm) and dry conditions. Some of the best parks to visit in the month include Lamington National Park and Springbrook National Park.
The Great Barrier Reef
Camp on Lady Musgrave Island’s 3,000 acres of living reef with the seabirds and turtles as your only neighbours. This is truly unspoilt, authentic island living at its best and with a maximum of 40 people allowed to camp at any one time, you will have an uncrowded Barrier Reef adventure to boot.
Daintree Rainforest
Winding for 140km, the Daintree River is one of the longest rivers on Australia’s east coast providing diverse habitats for many species. Cruise along it to spot prehistoric crocodiles and colourful birds.
Exciting Events
From large festivals to small country fairs, Queensland has a continuously revolving events calendar. This means that no matter what time of year you visit there’s always something unique to experience. The below events are just some of the highlights we recommend for this month.
10-12 November, 2017
Airlie Beach Festival of Music
If soaking up some sunshine while listening to some of Australia’s best music acts sounds like bliss, then you’ll love the Airlie Beach Festival of Music. Taking place over three days, the event hosts a great array of performers at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, right on the shores of the Coral Sea.
12 November, 2017
Fujifilm Whitehaven Beach Ocean Swim
With undoubtedly Australia’s most beautiful beach as its location, the Fujifilm Whitehaven Beach Ocean Swim is ideal for those who love exercising in the great outdoors. The event is also suitable for the whole family, with three ocean swims covering 2km, 750m and 350m for junior swimmers aged 13 and under.
Dreaming of Queensland
You’re in fantastic hands! As an Australian born company, many of our Experts have visited the Sunshine State and specialise in creating tailor-made Queensland holidays. From road trips along the coastline to delving deep into the Great Barrier Reef, we offer a great range of Queensland holiday ideas, all of which can be tailored to suit you.
View Queensland holidaysWhitsundays, Tropical North Queensland
Weather
Brisbane
20-29°C
The Whitsundays
24-31°C
Cairns
23-31°C
Avg. sunny days
21
Australia’s Summer
December is one of the most exciting months to visit Queensland as it heralds the beginning of summer and the festive season. It may seem strange to celebrate Christmas in 30°C temperatures but Queensland makes the most of it with Christmas decorations adorning towns and Santas spotted everywhere – even on the beach!
The beaches
From surfing santas to Christmas lunch on the sand, Queensland’s beaches are at their most popular in December. Conditions during this time are often ideal for swimming. If you’re into surfing, this is when places like the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast receive their best swells. Wherever you choose, be sure to apply plenty of sunscreen and always swim between the flags.
New Year’s Eve celebrations
As the beginning of summer and Christmas festivities, December is choc-full of events throughout the state. The biggest event of the month would have to be New Year’s Eve, where locals tend to head to the coastline for parties and fireworks on the beach. Accommodation during this time is incredibly popular, so be sure to plan ahead.
Coral Spawning
Between October and December, the reef puts on a truly spectacular nocturnal display as hundreds of species of coral polyps simultaneously release tiny colourful egg and sperm bundles into the water. The mass spawning, which looks like underwater fireworks, occurs four to six days after the full moon at different times in different areas of the reef. The spawns form a thick pink slick that can be kilometres long. Take a night diving trip from Cairns to witness the phenomenon.
Bennett’s tree kangaroo
It’s common to see kangaroos in Queensland but spotting one in the trees is a little trickier. Inhabiting the rainforest canopy, Bennett’s tree kangaroos can grow to around 11 kg and leap 9m across from one tree to the next. While it’s possible to see them at any time of year, sightings are more common in the summer months when the kangaroos move down to the canopy floor. Keep an eye out for them in the Daintree Rainforest.
The Great Barrier Reef
Board a semi-submersible boat for a peek at Agincourt Reef without the snorkel and mask. With coral spines, bommies and living colour beneath your feet, you don’t even need to change into your swimwear.
Daintree Rainforest
Visit the history-soaked wilderness of Mossman Gorge and do a guided walk with a local Indigenous expert, or Stand Up Paddleboard down the Mossman River.
Exciting Events
From large festivals to small country fairs, Queensland has a continuously revolving events calendar. This means that no matter what time of year you visit there’s always something unique to experience. The below events are just some of the highlights we recommend for this month.
27 December – 1 January, 2017
Woodford Folk Festival
One of Australia’s most popular events, Woodford Folk Festival features more than 2000 performances covering music, dance, street theatre, comedy and more. Taking place at the end of December near the town of Woodford, the festivities culminate in a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration featuring performances from the headline acts.
30 November – 3 December, 2017
Australia PGA Championship
The Australia PGA Championship is the country’s oldest professional golfing tournament, where athletes navigate a gruelling series of bunkers and holes in a bid to clinch the title. Held on the Gold Coast, the event is incredibly popular with sporting fans so be sure to book your tickets in advance.
Dreaming of Queensland
You’re in fantastic hands! As an Australian born company, many of our Experts have visited the Sunshine State and specialise in creating tailor-made Queensland holidays. From road trips along the coastline to delving deep into the Great Barrier Reef, we offer a great range of Queensland holiday ideas, all of which can be tailored to suit you.
View Queensland holidays