Discover Lockyer Valley Regional

The Warrego Highway runs directly through Lockyer Valley. Regular bus services from Brisbane and surrounding areas are provided by TransLink, Murrays and Greyhound Australia. Check current timetables with the operators before travelling.

Historical collections in Gatton, Laidley and Murphys Creek

The Gatton & District Historical Society presents three static exhibitions on the region’s history in 18 preserved historic buildings across a 2.5-hectare site. Knowledgeable volunteers explain the exhibitions. The combination of buildings and exhibitions gives the visit a different focus from a single exhibition building. Confirm opening arrangements before your visit.

Laidley Pioneer Village and Museum illustrates the lives of the early pioneers through historic buildings, exhibitions, collection items and machinery. It was Queensland’s first established pioneer village and opened in 1972. On opening days and during special events, you can watch local blacksmiths and woodworkers at work; check current visitor arrangements for this.

At Murphys Creek, you can view artefacts at Jessies Cottage Local History Museum and learn more about Jessie, the Taylor family and the history of the town. Another nearby historical landmark is Neumann Haus, built in 1893 by German immigrant Hermann Neumann.

Art and scenery around Gatton

The public Lockyer Valley Art Gallery is located in the Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre at Lake Apex in Gatton. The Lockyer Valley Regional Council owns and operates the gallery. It supports local artists and hosts touring exhibitions featuring works by artists from Queensland and across Australia. Walking paths behind the gallery pass public art installations made of wood, iron and sandstone.

The Cultural Centre in Gatton has baby change facilities. Buses can drop off passengers directly at the entrance and drive through the site. If these facilities are important to your plans, you can confirm the details with the venue if needed.

The parklands at Lake Apex and Lake Freeman were established on natural wetlands that support a wide variety of plant and animal life. You can walk around Lake Apex Park and may see some of the 153 bird species recorded in the area. A parkrun takes place in the parklands every Saturday morning; check current event arrangements before taking part.

Trails, activities and recurring events

The Cobb & Co Tourist Drive follows the railway line and the original route of the stagecoach road used more than 150 years ago. You can explore the region’s history, monuments, historic sites and buildings on foot along four documented heritage trails. The self-guided Helidon Heritage Walk leads to an ornate town clock, illustrated museum huts and the historic post office.

On a tour of 9Dorf Farms, you can feed calves in the rearing area, collect eggs in the paddock and go fishing. This offers a different focus from the historical collections: here, visitors learn about life on a working farm.

Nearby, the Mulgowie Farmers’ Markets are held on the grounds of Mulgowie Hall on the first Saturday of each month. The Lights on the Hill Convoy takes place annually in September or October, bringing together drivers, their families and people working in the transport industry. It attracts more than 500 vehicles; convoys from Toowoomba and Brisbane meet at the Gatton Showgrounds. Check the dates if you would like to time your stay to coincide with one of these events.

Discover more destinations: Summerholm, Murphys Creek, North Burnett Regional, Gladstone Regional, Townsville City, Western Downs Regional, Sunshine Coast Regional, Scenic Rim Regional.

For the broader travel overview: Queensland.