The Bundaberg 4WD Club headed to Laidley, or more precisely, the President of our sister club The Ipswich 4WD clubs’ property, about 85 kilometres west of Brisbane.
The property near Laidley was surrounded by farmlands and foothills of the Great Dividing Range and proved to be a perfect base to get out and about, exploring what the area had to offer.
The town retains a nostalgic feel manifested by heritage shop fronts and antique style lamp posts, further displayed at the Laidley Pioneer Village where ancient artefacts tell the story of the region’s rich historical ties.
High on our members must do list was a visit to the Black Duck Valley four wheel drive park, which has recently reopened after closing in late 2012.
The property is sprawled across hills and gullies that are scattered with 4×4 tracks that cater for all.
There are flushing toilets, two long drop toilets, hot & cold showers, massive communal open air shelter with stage and power, open campgrounds with allocated fire pits, private shelters, & kiosk/sign in office.
The park offers a family friendly atmosphere where all are welcome to enjoy and adventure.
Scenic trips also featured over the Easter weekend.
A visit to the Ravensbourne National Park and a stop at the Gus Beutel Lookout, offered panoramic views towards Brisbane, the Lockyer Valley and across the Scenic Rim.
A visit to Cunningham’s Crest Lookout provided panoramic views across the Laidley Plains.
From here, English botanist and explorer Allan Cunningham surveyed the land he discovered and named Laidley Plains in 1829.
The lookout features murals, poetry, sculptures, and mosaics celebrating the European and Aboriginal history of the site.
We thank the members of the Ipswich 4WD Club for showing us around their patch and look forward to our next catchup.
To find out more on the Bundaberg Four Wheel Drive Club and activities we have on, contact us via email, info@bunadberg4wdclub.com on the net or catch us on Facebook or Instagram.
Brad Praed
Bundaberg 4WD Club Inc.
