Planning first leg of journey-Hervey Bay to Emerald to Charters Towers

Heck, not a large spread but dependant upon route, HBay to maybe Blackdown tablelands then onto Emerald & perhaps extend out to sapphire / ruby vale (?) before heading into Charlie's Trousers. Alternatively, perhaps head to Carnarvon Gorge near Rolleston / Springsure. Then onto Charlie's.

Please keep in mind that Emerald mean maximum for December and January is over 34 degrees and Charter Towers similar. Look after yourselves, your kiddies and the oldies (I am in that category haha). You may end up jumping from Aircond car to aircond motel without seeing much. I was in Emerald last Saturday and it was 38 then, same yesterday in Clermont.

Forgot to add - parts of Carnarvon Gorge are closed that time of year - worth checking any planned destination to avoid disappointment

Paul,

Be aware that Emerald often has, like all the time, a shortage of motel accomodation. If you wanted to stay there it might be better to check out the 'van parks and book a couple of cabins.Springsure seems a bit short on beds too......all to do with the mining in the area. Blackdown Tableland looks good, might even be a bit cooler up there too. If you wanted to drive a bit while at Emerald, you could travel west to Sapphire, Rubyvale or even out to Bogantungan, where they have, I think, a small museum.

A pleasant drive is up through Gayndah, Monto and Biloela, then across to Rolleston, Springsure then North to Emerald. Much better scenery than up the Bruce and west of Rocky. Quieter road as well! We travelled Biggenden - H'Bay last year to get from Burnett H'way to Hervey Bay.



Last time we were along the Emerald - C'Towers road, much of it was single lane bitumen, so would advise you to get right off the black stuff and stop, if you meet any road trains.

Plenty of places to stay in the 'Towers, and think there'd be plenty to see, with all the mining history in the town. Lot of old buildings in the CBD that are worth a look.

With only 6 of you, I'd question why you need the trailers? These "belongings" you are loading into the trailers must later in the trip? None of my business I know. :-)

Enjoy you trip,

Bob