How to Get Around and About When Discovering Central Queensland

Tipped to be among Australia's most popular regions, tourists from across the world holiday in Central Queensland's vacation hubs every year. Regardless of the duration of the getaway, knowing how to get around the Central Queensland Highlands will prove useful to any visitor who wishes to explore the area without hassle. From public transport options to more high-end means of travel, here are some tips on how to get from Point A to Point B during a vacation in Queensland's Central Highlands.

1. Secure a Convenient Base

Those who wish to make the most of their time in Central Queensland Highlands would greatly benefit from a well-situated hotel in the area. Whether it's the Oaks Middlemount Suites or any one of the other Middlemount service apartments, it is important to consider the venue's location and its proximity to the region's most popular attractions and activity hubs. A central location will not only allow visitors to see more of Central Queensland but also save time when travelling to various locations across the landscape. This is especially pertinent for those who are heading to the highlands to attend business meetings or other short-stay purposes.

2. Domestic Flights

While flying into Central Queensland is one of the best ways to reach holiday hubs the likes of Middlemount, Mackay and others, those with the means to do so can also hire private charters to move around the region with ease. While it is not the most affordable means of travel, there are several private charter companies that offer not only scenic flights around Central Queensland but also offer transfers to various districts within this vast expanse. Travellers who intend to use local carriers for transfers around the state should remember to make early reservations as private planes and charters are difficult to secure last minute or on a whim.

3. Taking the Train

Perhaps the most famous railway tour conducted across this area is the "Spirit of the Outback" route, which takes locals and visitors all the way from Brisbane to Rockhampton and then onwards to Longreach two times a week. The railway network is thus also connected to Mackay and other tourist destinations in Central Queensland so those who prefer to take the scenic route can hop on a train when they feel the need to travel from one coal-mining town to another. Those who wish to know the times and rates of train trips around the region should consult the official website of the Queensland railway network at queenslandrail.com.au for more information.

4. Rental Cars

The Central Queensland Highlands is served by a truly complex and extensive network of highways including sealed highways as well as minor and major roads. This means that rental cars are an efficient and comfortable way to get around for those who have an international driving license and travel insurance to secure a vehicle from a local rental company. There are two major highways running through the Central Queensland Highlands and they include the Capricorn Highway, which travels from east to west and the Gregory Highway, which travels from north to south. Taxi cabs are also easy to hire in most town centres all across this region although rental cars are the more affordable of the two where rates are concerned.

5. Water-Bound Travel

This area is also home to several coastal ports, which makes travelling around holiday cities the likes of Gladstone and Mackay a true joy for those who love boat transfers. Coastal harbours are located at Abbot Point, Mackay and Hay Point so travellers can hop on a speedboat or a ferry in any of these ports to explore the Queensland Highlands.