You might have heard Ipswich has a few old houses worth a look. Well, it’s true. And the visual feast of so many heritage beauties in one location will likely exceed any expectations you might arrive here with.This is a city that had surged to great heights by the late 1800s and into the turn of the century on the back of booming industries such as coal and rail and wool. Entire streets of elaborately detailed and incredibly grand mansions rose up as the town reached further into the hilly surrounds and dales.Those houses today – included in the city’s 7000-plus heritage listed sites – showcase another era while also bringing great character to Ipswich as a city.

Somehow a view gives dining another dimension. Not only is it relaxing, but it’s a great way to show off the area to visitors.Here are some places to remember, whether you want to overlook water, nature or views.Brookwater Golf and Country ClubEvery golfer is heading for the nineteenth hole. It’s a natural progression. And why not, when the clubhouse has a view as beautiful as this one! With views over the eighteenth hole of this Greg Norman-designed course and natural bush land beyond, Brookwater Golf Club’s dining room enjoys a tranquillity that only a view of green can bring.

Sometimes it might seem a little daunting to go out searching for things to do with kids, particularly when visiting a new area. But we’ve generally found that regardless of whether there are big name entertainment options around, with a bit or research there’s lots of fun to be found! And that’s exactly what we see whenever we visit the city of Ipswich, just west of Brisbane. It’s a small city filled to the brim not only with history, but also with heaps of fun things for the kids! Here are some of our faves for the little guys:Haigslea Ewe Nique hobby farmThis "Ewe Nique" little hobby farm is the perfect way to introduce your little guys to rural life. Ewe Nique Hobby Farm is a small little farm that is home to sheep, goats, alpacas and chickens – all lovingly looked after and all very friendly to their visitors! In order to not stress the animals, Ewe Nique only cater for a small number of visitors per day, which is great not just for the animals, but also for the visitors because you can be assured of having plenty of one-on-one time with the animals, to pat and feed, or simply just relax in this lovely quiet setting. While you are there you can grab a drink and light snack (the coffees and scones are superb!).Grandchester Model Steam RailwayGrandchester is a tiny little town about half an hours' drive from Ipswich which was in its day an important rail stop. As a reminder of the importance of the town's rail heritage, Grandchester Model Steam Railway runs on the first Sunday of every month and we have to say that it is heaps of fun! There are actual little steam trains burning coal and faithful replicas of Queensland Rail diesel locos that pull specially built wagons carring around 6 - 8 people per wagon. There's a canteen on site for food and refreshments or bring a picnic as there's heaps of lawn and shade.

While Japan has cherry blossoms and the Netherlands have tulips, Ipswich has Jacaranda trees and there is no time more pretty than Spring in Ipswich, when the Jacaranda trees bloom and the landscape is dotted with splashes of purple.Native to South America, Jacaranda mimosifolia or as we commonly call them, Jacarandas, have made their home in Ipswich and each year put on a spectacular display from October through to November.During Spring parks, schools, backyards and footpaths bloom with purple but why not plan a visit to one of these locations for a truly magical display.

There’s lots to love about camping.  The freedom, fresh air, the faint smell of last night’s campfire, warm marshmallows, the outdoors, wildlife, stars and the chance to sit down and actually talk with your friends and family … the list is endless.Do you know what’s not to love about camping?  Setting up the tent. I can almost see you nodding in agreement. Arriving at your campsite to a tent that’s already set up sounds like bliss, right?Well, it is! 

With 12,000 acres of terrain, over 100km of trails and a whole heap of downhill fun to be had, Hidden Vale Adventure Park is the perfect place to run, explore, hike! Or, if you’re so inclined, throw yourself downhill on a mountain bike. “I guess the main attraction is being out in the open, fresh air and with your mates” Hayden Books, the park manager tells us. He’s spent the last 11 years perfecting the trails that cater to all levels of rider.