Queensland’s reputation often hinges on its surf beaches yet there’s an overlooked side that offers low-traffic streets and relaxed riverfront cafés without the permanent holiday crowds Our selection of the seven best places to retire in Queensland highlights towns that have flown under the radar yet offer enough infrastructure for modern living Whether you’ve had a taste of farm life and want more or you can’t resist a waterfront boardwalk these destinations align small-town comfort with natural wonder Maryborough is located on the Mary River in the Fraser Coast region The town was established in 1847 and served as a major immigration port The Maryborough heritage precinct on Wharf Street displays restored colonial structures linked to shipping and trade A statue dedicated to her Mary Poppins character stands near City Hall Maryborough Hospital on Walker Street provides regional healthcare services Visitors explore Brennan & Geraghty’s Store Museum on Lennox Street for preserved 19th-century merchandising Diners frequent Portside Café & Restaurant for lunch specials Coffee is served at Alowishus Delicious near Richmond Lane The Mary Poppins statue draws photography enthusiasts every morning The Maryborough City Hall tours highlight artwork and historic collections The Bond Store offers heritage displays connected to rum trading Maryborough’s weekly markets on Adelaide Street supply local produce and crafts Riverside living and established walking trails attract retirees seeking mild weather and minimal congestion located in the Wide Bay-Burnett region of Queensland is rich in gold mining history since its significant gold discovery in 1867 The Gympie Gold Mining and Historical Museum on Brisbane Road preserves this rich history The town is also close to the heritage-listed Mary Valley known for its dense forests and freshwaters Gympie Hospital on Henry Street serves the healthcare needs of the community The town center boasts attractions such as the historic Gympie Town Hall and the Lake Alford Recreation Area which offers golden opportunities for picnicking and bird-watching Culinary experiences are ample; Emilia's Cafe on Mary Street is popular for its robust coffee and homemade cakes The Gympie Regional Gallery on Nash Street exhibits works by regional artists and hosts regular workshops For those interested in outdoor activities the nearby Cooloola Recreational Area provides access to the Cooloola Great Walk Yeppoon is situated on the Capricorn Coast overlooking the Coral Sea and Great Keppel Island Its origins as a small seaside village have transitioned into a thriving coastal community while retaining a rich heritage linked to the Kanomi tribe and early European settlers The Capricorn Coast Historical Society at the Yeppoon Railway Station on James Street preserves artifacts from these periods The Capricorn Coast Hospital on Hoskyn Drive ensures comprehensive healthcare services Beaman Park offers landscaped gardens and sea views locals frequent Flour café on Normanby Street for specialty coffee and artisan pastries while The Waterline Restaurant on Keppel Bay Marina is noted for its seafood and marina views The Mill Gallery on Normanby Street hosts contemporary art exhibitions and workshops Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy Appleton Park for its barbecue facilities and proximity to the beach Regular markets at the Yeppoon Showgrounds feature local crafts and produce Bargara is located on the southern coast of Queensland Bargara houses basalt formations and rocky shores alongside sandy beaches The town has evolved from a simple sugar-growing area into a bustling coastal hub Bargara's growth is partly due to its appeal to retirees and holidaymakers alike The Friendly Society Private Hospital in nearby Bundaberg ensures access to medical services The Bargara Brewing Company on Tantitha Street provides local craft beer tastings Kacy's Restaurant on The Esplanade offers ocean views and fresh seafood Neilson Park is popular for its protected swimming area and nearby picnic facilities The Mon Repos Turtle Centre to the north offers unique wildlife experiences with seasonal turtle hatching tours Golf enthusiasts frequent the Bargara Golf Club on Miller Street for its well-maintained greens and clubhouse facilities The Bargara Market at the Bargara Beach Caravan Park presents local produce and crafts on Sundays known primarily for its significant role in Australia’s wool and grain industries featuring well-preserved sandstone buildings such as the Warwick Town Hall and St Warwick Hospital on Locke Street provides local healthcare services The Warwick Historical Society Museum on Dragon Street offers insights into the local heritage with its collection of artifacts and photographs Food enthusiasts visit the Belle Vue Cafe on Palmerin Street for its renowned scones and tea while the Cherry Tree Coffee and Dining on Fitzroy Street serves a robust menu featuring local produce Leslie Park in the town center is a favored spot for its serene gardens and war memorials Warwick also hosts the annual Warwick Rodeo attracting visitors with its title of one of the oldest rodeo competitions in Australia Kingaroy is renowned as the peanut capital of Australia located in the heart of the South Burnett Region of Queensland This town’s identity is closely tied to its peanut industry with the iconic Peanut Silos standing as a testament to its agricultural significance Kingaroy also played a pivotal role as the electoral base for Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen The Kingaroy Hospital on Markwell Street ensures local and surrounding communities have access to medical services Kingaroy offers a variety of attractions catering to its residents and visitors located at the town’s visitor information centre displays exhibits related to the region’s agricultural and political history Gourmets frequent the Explorers Restaurant at Burke & Wills Motor Inn on Kingaroy Street for its local cuisine Memorial Park provides well-maintained green spaces and is a popular venue for local events and ceremonies The Kingaroy Observatory near Geoff Ralph Drive offers stargazing sessions located at the confluence of the North and South Johnstone Rivers is a regional town in Far North Queensland Its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics of Queensland marks it as a significant ecological hotspot The town's architectural landscape is defined by its Art Deco buildings These structures contribute to Innisfail's unique character and historical narrative Innisfail Hospital on Alice Street provides essential healthcare services to the community preserves local artifacts and historical records Food lovers frequent Roscoe's Piazza on Edith Street for its renowned pizza The Innisfail Botanical Gardens provide a tranquil setting for leisurely walks amid native flora and fauna The Warrina Lakes Park also offers a scenic environment with a large pond and ample space for picnics and recreational activities the Innisfail Golf Club on Mourilyan Road offers a challenging course for golf enthusiasts these seven corners of Queensland each hold their own allure for retirees seeking budget-friendly lifestyles or the chance to meet locals who value community Queensland’s lesser-known towns continue to gain traction among retirees who prefer laid-back living combined with fulfilling recreational activities Potential newcomers find well-maintained hospitals scenic road trips to neighboring attractions Queensland’s hidden treasures never cease to surprise even lifelong residents everywhere photos and original descriptions © 2025 worldatlas.com THE LEADING SOURCE OF INFORMATION FOR THE LEISURE INDUSTRY Back to Latest News back Logan City Council has released a tender for the management and operation of four aquatic centres The tender seeks interest from experienced operators for an initial term of five years with two x five-year extension options The tender also allows for non-conforming offers where the industry can propose options that provide a better outcome for council This may include proposed changes such as: Click here for more information.  10th December 2024 - Lynxight innovative drowning prevention technology improves swimmer safety in Logan 8th December 2024 - Livingstone Shire Council awards tender for construction of Yeppoon Aquatic Centre 24th September 2024 - Upgrades underway on City of Logan’s Beenleigh Aquatic Centre 19th September 2024 - Funding approved and EOIs soon to be issued for new Logan indoor sports centre 30th April 2024 - Logan City Council moves to secure 2032 Olympics venue 13th April 2024 - City of Logan’s Beenleigh Pool to be upgraded to metric dimensions 8th April 2024 - Aqua English Swim project to benefit thousands of Logan’s culturally diverse young people 23rd January 2024 - Logan City Council fined $80,000 over electrocution of Eagleby Aquatic Centre lifeguard 7th December 2023 - Revitalised Eagleby Aquatic Centre reopens for Logan residents 27th April 2023 - City of Logan approves new splashpad at Logan North Aquatic Centre 3rd April 2023 - City of Logan ensures park facilities are functional, innovative, safe and family friendly 20th October 2022 - Olympic-sized Jodie Henry Pool opens in Logan 21st August 2022 - New floodlights at Logan’s Beenleigh BMX facility create brighter and safer environment 16th March 2019 - Indoor pool and splashpad opened at Beenleigh Aquatic Centre in Logan 5th September 2015 - Aqualogan Swim School named top AUSTSWIM Swim Centre 31st August 2012 - Aqualogan and Lawrie Lawrence partner to help prevent child drowning 4th May 2012 - Aqualogan program wins national awards we need reader support for our industry news gathering so ask that - if you don't already do so - you back us by subscribing to the printed Australasian Leisure Management magazine and/or our online news Click here to view our subscription options Click here to view our subscription options product and event updates delivered right to your inbox The Complete Guide to Leisure Industry Products & Services See more see more See the directory see all Get your business noticed in our targeted directory Viewed by 10,000 industry professionals per week Website by Picture suppliedThey say the best things in life are free From taking a plunge in an iconic infinity-edged pool Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast in Central Queensland (just a 7-hour drive from Brisbane) are jam-packed with free things to fill your days Holidaying across our Southern Great Barrier Reef destination doesn't require you to dig deep Yeppoon Lagoon. Picture suppliedLocated right on the beachfront, the 2500 square-metre resort-style Yeppoon Lagoon includes a shallow children's play area an informal lap swimming area and a swim-up infinity edge with stunning views over the Keppel Islands An elevated boardwalk at the top of Mount Archer. Picture suppliedWith an impressive height of 604 metres, Mount Archer National Park provides a dramatic backdrop to Rockhampton. Take a walk along Nurim Circuit a 500-metre flat boardwalk extending 25 metres off the side of the mountain and take your time taking in the views while checking out the interpretive signage of the local Darumbal culture The multi-award-winning Keppel Bay Marina welcomes visitors by land and sea. One of the largest marinas in Northern Queensland, this jewel-coloured oasis is a major tourist attraction on the Capricorn Coast. Wander the marina berths and see all the vessels before relaxing for a coffee and bite to eat at the award-winning The Waterline Restaurant One of Emu Park's most well-known icons, the Singing Ship commemorates the area's legacy of Captain James Cook's historical explorations Set on a cliff offering views of spectacular coastal vistas a gentle sea breeze produces a musical sound through fluted pipes that will be long remembered Taking pride of place on the Yeppoon Foreshore, the Keppel Kraken is a water play feature quite unlike any other With a mythical sea creature centrepiece and set against the spectacular backdrop of Keppel Bay Yeppoon's most colourful tourist attraction is the perfect place to soak up some sunshine on the beautiful Capricorn Coast Rockhampton Museum of Art. Picture suppliedLocated in Darumbal Country, in the heart of the Rockhampton Riverside Precinct, is the Rockhampton Museum of Art (RMOA) Its collection is regarded as one of the finest in regional Australia and is of national significance It is the only regional Gallery in Queensland to hold a representative collection of mid-twentieth century Australian art the works of the 'greats' of Australian modernist painters Through its collection holdings of historic paintings the museum interprets the history and heritage of Rockhampton The reflective memorial boardwalk and its gateway gallery entry are the focal point to 'The Centenary of ANZAC Memorial Walk' The walkway is intended as an emotional reflective experience and provides a timeline of WW1's many major battles of war The gateway and orientation gallery contains interpretive works telling the stories of how the war began the Lone Pine battle and many more of these extraordinary campaigns Walk along the Bluff Point track. Picture suppliedFollow the Bluff Point track and walk through vine forest and open grassland to one of the best lookouts in the area with uninterrupted views over the Keppel Bay Islands and Capricorn coastline Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and turtles in the water below Nestled within the Botanic Gardens and adjacent to the Murray Lagoon the neighbouring Rockhampton Zoo is home to over 50 species of native and exotic animals and is the perfect place for families to see these animals in their natural surroundings Be sure to check out Rockhampton's newest playground in the Botanic Garden grounds for loads of fun and take a walk through the picturesque Japanese Gardens Local band Busby Marou feature in artwork on the Queen Street Car Park in Yeppoon Visit the picturesque coastal towns of Yeppoon and Emu Park and you'll discover there's much more waiting for you than you ever could have expected This burgeoning coastal culture destination has a proud arts scene perfectly reflected in the vibrant street art dotted around the town and coastline Check out the Capricorn Coast Art Trail - a virtual reality experience that brings art to life Upper Stony Creek. Picture suppliedHidden in the Byfield State Forest, approximately 30min drive north of Yeppoon in Queensland you will find Upper Stony Creek Picnic Grounds and Camp area. This area has long been a secret local spot but is fast making its way to stardom on social media for its irresistible freshwater swimming holes Pack a barbecue lunch and enjoy the public picnic areas Visit the largest livestock saleyards in the Southern Hemisphere - CQLX Experience the dust and drama as thousands of cattle horses and other livestock are sold under the auctioneer's hammer It's a free experience that is sure to get the adrenaline pumping The Double Head walking track zigzags up through tangled dry vine thicket and tussock grassland to two lookouts See the striking fan-shaped cliff formation with hexagonal basalt columns at Fan Rock Lookout Continue onto the Rosslyn Bay Lookout for views over the scenic coastline and Keppel Bay Marina Get some air on the gnarly tracks winding through Rockhampton's First Turkey Mountain Bike Reserve Dubbed as one of the best MTB tracks in Australia this heart-racing landscape provides trails for riders of all abilities and fitness levels Just a short drive from Yeppoon's town centre is a scenic lookout at Cooee Bay which gives 360-degree views of the Capricorn Coast and Keppel Bay In October 1848 the 62-ton transport schooner Selina was found waterlogged and dismastered by Captain Roach of the cutter Will-o'-the-Wisp The lookout also features include a meandering 1.2 metres wide nature trail featuring sandstone steps to a viewing platform positioned immediately above spectacular rocky point drop-off Private Victor Stanley Jones Suspension Bridge. Picture suppliedNumber 7 Dam is the largest dam built on the Dee River in Mount Morgan It is also known as Big Dam and is the primary supply of water to the town of Mount Morgan The spot is perfect for strolling its banks or bringing a kayak or stand-up paddle board to get above the water Swing across the Private Victor Stanley Jones Suspension Bridge which gives those who cross a feel for the old mining days Fig Tree Galleries houses 68sqm of exhibition space and delivers a much-needed artist precinct for the coastal community Fig Tree Galleries makes art accessible to everyone inspiring engagement and brings a feeling of belonging to the Yeppoon community The gallery and workshop space is continuously active with exhibitions Rockhampton Riverside Precinct. Picture suppliedRockhampton's Riverside Precinct offers the best views of the Fitzroy River (Tunuba) and is an exemplary example of modern integrated urban design that sits alongside the city's strip of heritage-listed buildings Stroll along the heritage-soaked sandstone boulevard on Quay Street and across the lower bank boardwalk surrounded by lush plantings Take your kids to the precinct's playground and perch up with a coffee while watching (or joining) them play then cool off amongst Rod Laver Plaza's pop-up water jets A popular track for walker, joggers, cyclists and families, the Capricorn Coast Pineapple Rail Trail takes visitors through picturesque bushlands and urban landscape A recreational attraction and pedestrian/cycleway link the asphalt path stretches 4.5 kilometres from the Yeppoon town centre through bushland to the golf course and club estate The Taste Capricorn Coast website was launched in June 2021 and has been designed to help you discover the finest local produce the Capricorn Coast has to offer with number of businesses joining the trail continuing to grow Keep an eye out for the Taste Capricorn Coast logo and follow the flavour - paddock to plate Mount Etna Caves National ParkLimestone outcrops and dense, decorated caves are roosting sites for more than 80% of Australia's breeding population of little bent-wing bats. Mount Etna Caves National Park is also one of the few places in Australia that supports a colony of vulnerable ghost bats Explore the park on foot and have a barbecue picnic in the day-use area join a ranger-guided tour to Bat Cleft and experience the rush of thousands of tiny bats flashing past you (fees apply) It's worth braving an early morning wakeup call on Saturday and Sunday to absorb the local atmosphere at our range of artisan markets Visit the Capricorn Coast Visitor Information Centre for a full list of local markets Take part in an On Country experience with the Darumbal people Enjoy this tour from the comfort of your own home or come and experience it in person on Darumbal country Explore the iconic Fitzroy River (Tunuba) and learn about connection Download the self-guided tour app to hear stories from the Darumbal people Shell World Yeppoon. Picture suppliedShell World Yeppoon is a display of more than 20,000 shells which include marine The beautifully arranged displays are designed for the whole family to enjoy and include interesting documentation Preserved marine life is also on display as are many varieties of corals and samples of shell craft Shell World is located withing the Capricorn Coast Visitor Information Centre Shell World Yeppoon does ask for a gold coin donation on entry Kershaw Gardens has been described as Rockhampton's big back yard for all people to enjoy These magnificent gardens stretch one kilometre parallel to the Bruce Highway and provide an attractive Enjoy the spacious parklands with walking tracks play areas for the kids and spectacular photo opportunities including a magnificent waterfall Wyatt's Wonder Web in the heart of the playground includes five levels of play for kids and adults Discover even more things to do at no or low cost at www.visitcapricorn.com.au Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date We care about the protection of your data. Read our Privacy Policy Head to the Capricorn region for a family and budget-friendly holiday destination.  Queensland’s Capricorn region is an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy low-cost holiday experiences focusing on the outdoors Capricorn Enterprise CEO Mary Carroll encouraged visitors and locals to experience the many tours and attractions on offer across the region.  “From limestone cave adventures to discovering the Jurassic thrill of yesteryear the Tropic of Capricorn is a web of diversity opportunity and excitement,” Ms Carroll said.  Check out Capricorn Enterprise’s top 13 low or no-cost family-friendly experiences: The Yeppoon Lagoon is the jewel in the crown of the Yeppoon foreshore precinct The 2500sq.m resort-style pool is on the beachfront and its infinity edge provides stunning views over the Keppel Islands while away the hours at this free family favourite.  River Cruises CQ invites you to sit back and take in the sights of Rockhampton on their Sunset and City Lights Tours Keep an eye out for the local wildlife and enjoy a complimentary nibbles package.  The Capricorn Caves are unique above-ground caves in a limestone ridge Offering tours to suit all ages and abilities this experience will leave the family with lasting memories of a fantastic adventure.  With two ferry services leaving from Rosslyn Bay your trip to Great Keppel Island is made easy Jump onboard Freedom Fast Cats or Keppel Konnections to start your sun Explore the 17 white sandy beaches and find your piece of paradise before tucking into lunch at Great Keppel Island Hideaway Now is the perfect time to visit Koorana Crocodile Farm to see touch and taste these incredible prehistoric beasts you will get the amazing experience of seeing a baby take its first breath.  If you are after a lookout that will knock you out with its breathtaking beauty head to Mount Archer National Park in Rockhampton and discover the beauty of the “Beef Capital” Visit Wreck Point Lookout at Cooee Bay to witness 360-degree views of the Capricorn Coast.  Visit the Capricorn Coast’s latest tourism attraction and try your hand at Capricorn Dinosaur Mini Golf. With surprises across the 18 holes, round up the family for a bit of friendly putt-putt rivalry. Check out their Facebook page for a sneak peek.  With a state-of-the-art digital soundscape and life-like mannequins, a trip to Archer Park Rail Museum will take you back to the World War II era which incorporates parts that operated in Rockhampton between 1909 and 1939.  The region is packed full of national parks and with wide-open spaces high on the agenda you can find treasured landscapes dotted across the Capricorn Coast Rockhampton and Central Queensland Highlands that will make your day Check out Blackdown Tablelands National Park Capricorn Coast National Park which includes Bluff Point and Double Head hikes and lookouts or head out to Byfield National Park and be wowed by nature Rocky Bowl and Leisure is the perfect family entertainment centre plenty of smiles and laughter are assured.  Cooberrie Park Wildlife Sanctuary offers the chance to get up close and personal with various wildlife families are invited to spend the day roaming this spectacular setting.  The information in this article has been prepared for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal advice or specific advice to any particular person Any advice contained in the document is general advice not intended as legal advice or professional advice and does not take into account any person’s particular circumstances Before acting on anything based on this advice you should consider its appropriateness to you having regard to your objectives and needs Insurance products (excluding Travel Insurance) are issued by RACQ Insurance Limited ABN 50 009 704 152 (RACQ). Conditions, limits and exclusions apply. This is general advice only and may not be right for you. This information does not take your personal objectives, circumstances or needs into account. Read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and any applicable Supplementary PDS before making a purchase decision on this product You can also access our Target Market Determinations on this website Banking and loan products issued by Members Banking Group Limited ABN 83 087 651 054 AFSL/Australian credit licence 241195 trading as RACQ Bank. Terms, conditions, fees, charges and lending policies apply. This is general advice only and may not be right for you. This information does not take your personal objectives, circumstances or needs into account. Read the disclosure documents for your selected product or service including the Financial Services Guide and the Terms and Conditions and consider if appropriate for you before deciding any RACQ entity referred to on this page is not an authorised deposit-taking institution for the purposes of the Banking Act 1959 (Cth) That entity’s obligations do not represent deposits or other liabilities of RACQ Bank RACQ Bank does not guarantee or otherwise provide assurance in respect of the obligations of that entity RACQ Bank subscribes to the Customer Owned Banking Code of Practice which establishes higher standards than the law requires. The Code reflects modern consumer expectations and developments in approaches to issues such as consumer vulnerability, guarantors, and supporting customers through financial hardship. Please read our Customer Owned Banking Code of Practice page for more information RACQ acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land We pay our respects to Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today Neuron Mobility Livingstone Shire Council and leading e-scooter operator, Neuron Mobility have announced the city’s first e-scooter programme is due to start on Thursday The 12 month trial will see the gradual roll-out of up to 150 of Neuron’s distinctive orange e-scooters throughout the city Neuron’s operations in Rockhampton are already supported by 30 local jobs with a further 10 jobs to be added to facilitate Yeppoon operations which will be recruited locally.  said: “We are delighted to be launching this week in Yeppoon and look forward to partnering with the Council to deliver a safe and convenient service to help people move around the city E-scooters are really well suited to the area and they will be a great way for locals as well as tourists to travel in a safe convenient and environmentally-friendly way.”   it dictates our e-scooter design and also the way we operate them Our e-scooters are packed with a range of cutting-edge safety features and we know from experience in other cities that riders really appreciate this.” Yeppoon is the fifth city in Queensland to operate Neuron e-scooters Bundaberg and Rockhampton who are already benefiting from the company’s industry-leading e-scooters which have been purpose-built to a commercial grade Neuron e-scooters are set to be welcomed by local businesses following the recent launch of Neuron’s national report titled Shared Rides, Shared Wealth which outlines the positive impact Neuron’s rental e-scooter programs are having on the cities they operate in across Australia each Neuron e-scooter contributes $70,000 to local economies per year with riders spending an average of AUD $65 per trip.  To encourage safety and familiarise residents of Yeppoon with the riding rules Neuron will be hosting a ‘ScootSafe’ event on Saturday 12 November at Yeppoon Amphitheater from 10am where Safety Ambassadors will be assisting new riders with signing up on Neuron’s user-friendly app and educating riders on how to park and ride responsibly Participants who complete the ‘ScootSafe’ briefings will be rewarded with free e-scooter credits for future rides.  Neuron’s safety-first e-scooters have a full suite of measures to promote safe and responsible riding.   Riders can unlock and use the e-scooters through Neuron’s user-friendly app which can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play and set up in a matter of minutes Standard single trips will cost $1 to unlock the e-scooter and 45 cents per minute thereafter More frequent users have the option to purchase Neuron Passes allowing users to ride as many times as they want for up to 90 minutes per day for as little as $3.30 a day Important riding rules and safety tips for Queensland: Sign up for updates from Australian Rural & Regional News Manage your subscription We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info. CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) (Image: Screenshot by Corinne Reichert/ZDNet) The Australian government has announced the 52 projects around the nation that will be getting funding under the first round of its AU$50 million Smart Cities and Suburbs Program announced over a year ago A total of AU$28.5 million is being allocated across all areas of the country with every project being co-funded by local governments The government also pointed out that 40 percent of the projects are located in regional areas "Technology development is moving at a rapid pace in Australia and harnessing the power of these innovations will set up the future success of our cities," Assistant Minister for Cities and Digital Transformation Angus Taylor said "Promoting clever home-grown digital and data solutions that can be replicated in other locations will move Australia into a leadership position where we can take smart city technologies out to the world." The biggest winner under round one was the City of Darwin which scored a AU$5 million grant in addition to its own AU$5 million co-contribution for the Switching on Darwin project It was closely followed by Newcastle City Council in New South Wales which won AU$4,983,680 alongside its co-contribution of more than AU$10 million for Smart Move Newcastle: Intelligent Mobility Also winning big was Launceston City Council in Tasmania which was awarded AU$1.58 million alongside a AU$2,056,800 co-contribution for Launceston City 3D modelling Curtin University was given a AU$2,578,099 grant for its Resilient Energy and Water Systems project in Fremantle while the City of Perth was given AU$1,314,494 for Smart Cities Collaboration in Perth The biggest winner in Queensland was Cairns Regional Council which gained AU$827,894 for its Reducing Urban Impacts on the Great Barrier Reef project and Towong; and NOUS Technology got AU$400,000 for Smart Transport in Randwick additional beneficiaries of the grants included Moreton Bay Regional Council which was given AU$450,000 for Smart Parking in North Lakes which was given AU$731,170 for the Latrobe Valley Sensor Network; City of Greater Geelong was given AU$415,000 for Clever and Creative Geelong; Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology was given AU$400,000 for interactive city management in Melbourne; Moreland City Council got AU$396,900 for 3D City Planning of Moreland Council; and Melbourne City Council gained AU$350,000 for Smart Planning and Design Melbourne Six projects in South Australia gained funding: City of Port Adelaide Enfield was given AU$100,000 for Smart Active Transport Port Adelaide; Alexandrina Council won AU$100,000 for Connecting Communities throughout Goolwa and Mount Compass; and the City of Prospect was given AU$144,900 for its Connected Cities project in City of Prospect Light Regional Council was given AU$159,224 for Smart Tourist Town Kapunda; Mid Murray Council was awarded AU$195,426 for Smart Access to Community Services Mid Murray Region; and Corporation of the City of Unley was given AU$240,000 for Heywood Park Smart City Precinct Charles Darwin University scored a AU$251,410 grant for the Smart Ways to Reduce Waste project in Alice Springs The only project gaining funding in the Australian Capital Territory was Ecospectral which will be getting AU$100,000 for the Smart Precinct Woden project Round one of the program saw over 170 applications with a second funding round opening for applications in the first half of next year Vodafone gains market share at expense of Telstra and Optus: Kantar Vodafone has gained market share from Optus and Telstra and now accounts for 15.7 percent of the total Australian mobile market thanks to its larger data allowances Huawei announces smart city control centre Huawei's Intelligent Operation Centre uses big data and analyse information to be used in city planning and management Cisco introduces $1b smart city program and updates its smart city digital platform (TechRepublic) A new $1 billion program from Cisco is aimed at helping cities adopt smart city technology faster Cisco has also added features to its smart city platform 66 percent of US cities are investing in smart city technology (TechRepublic) A report from the National League of Cities shows that US cities are incubators for new technology, and a sharing economy is a major part of the plan for many municipalities. In the spirit of reconciliation, RACQ acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, water and community. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today. Mr Bertoli said he was looking forward to distributing the book to local schools. (ABC: Blythe Moore) Link copiedShareShare articleAs the seaside town of Yeppoon in central Queensland prepares to mark the first anniversary of Cyclone Marcia on Saturday, two locals are launching creative works they created in response to the disaster. Lincoln Bertoli, who works for Livingstone Shire Council, will visit schools around the region this week to distribute a children's book he wrote about the cyclone. I wanted to create something that would be a little bit of a keepsake for the kids that were involved in the cyclone because it was a pretty big thing for the area. The category-five system hit central Queensland on February 20 last year, leaving a trail of destruction in its path. Hundreds of homes and businesses across several townships were severely damaged, including at Yeppoon. Mr Bertoli's book, The Day Marcia Came to Town, is written from the perspective of a young boy named Lachlan, whose grandfather tells him the story of the cyclone. "I wanted to create something that would be a little bit of a keepsake for the kids that were involved in the cyclone because it was a pretty big thing for the area," he said. Mr Bertoli said he was looking forward to distributing the book to local schools, particularly as it would give him an opportunity to speak to children who were impacted in the disaster. "I'll be interested to sit down and chat to the kids and see how they remember the cyclone or the storm, particularly in places like Byfield and Farnborough where they were pretty badly hit," he said. "Just to see how they remembered it, and [how they] remembered all the community working together to help each other out. "When you get into the book that's one of the key themes at the back, [how] they all stick together and help each other." Ms Calvert said putting the exhibition together and revisiting community members had changed her outlook. (ABC News: Chrissy Arthur) Photographer Karin Calvert decided to revisit some of the people she met when she covered Cyclone Marcia for various media outlets last year. "The exhibition is essentially an acknowledgement of those people who represent larger groups — communities, individuals, all sorts of organisations, that were instrumental in aiding the recovery of the community after the cyclone," she said. The exhibition is called Twenty: Cyclone Marcia - Rescue, Resilience, Recovery. It received support through the Regional Arts Development Fund, a partnership between the State Government and the Livingstone Shire Council. "Everyone of the people here photographed were incredibly modest, generous with their time, humble, just so incredibly impressive, " she said. Some people will actually never recover from it, but the fact they they're resilient, and still battling it and still trying to get their businesses and their lives and livelihoods back on track. "There are people here who lost their whole livelihood, whole crops, houses and businesses, and revisiting them, and hearing them say: 'This happened, it was horrendous, I am still not over it, but the community really came to the forefront and this is the way I was helped, and I am now just getting on with it'. "Some people will actually never recover from it, but ... they're resilient, and still battling it and still trying to get their businesses and their lives and livelihoods back on track." Ms Calvert said putting the exhibition together and revisiting community members had changed her outlook. "One of the portrait sitters, John Martin, summed it up beautifully when he said that we all like to think that the world is a terrible place, that it is a bad place, but the goodness of people is inbuilt — it is genetic, and you can't deny that," she said. "Essentially people are good, and he [John Martin] was one of the people whose property — you couldn't even find his cabins after the cyclone hit. "So seeing that and hearing that, it does make you feel and readjust a bit, and also just appreciate how remarkable these people are." Ms Calvert said she hoped the exhibition would help to acknowledge the efforts of the entire community. "Hopefully, it will also be an opportunity for people to come together to see the photographs and read the stories," she said. "I think it is important a year later to have some ... opportunity to get closure." The exhibition Twenty is on display at the Yeppoon Town Hall and was officially opened on Tuesday night. To design with water is to manage its multiple The power of water has been explored and exploited in a refreshing wash of recent Queensland projects awarded by the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects Queensland is the wettest state in Australia, home to the vast majority of the wettest places in the country It is no surprise then that many of the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA) Queensland state awards entries feature water whether as part of enhanced or reconstructed natural ecosystems or as artful contributions to the fun history of Aussie beach and pool play Also understandable for the Sunshine State is a well-rehearsed mix of public and private incentives and investments with regard to water management initiatives Developers recognise the value of investment in improved environmental assets as well as marketable water features Awards of excellence given by the AILA to Arundel Wetlands and the Oxley Creek Transformation Master Plan recognise the complexity of large They also reward collaborative work that pays careful attention to how drainage corridors and their landscapes can provide multiple benefits The larger conservation area is important because of its connected diversity of habitat ranging from perched freshwater lakes and sedge swamps on the offshore sand islands seagrass beds and mangroves next to the bay’s islands and the mainland It adjoins Lake Coombabah’s wetlands and upstream tributaries including the Arundel wetlands The Arundel site was heavily degraded from abortive attempts by the original developer to build a golf course Cam Taylor of the City of Gold Coast explains that council recognised its potential for rehabilitation and purchased the land in 2011 “Illegal earthworks had altered the natural drainage destroyed habitat and displaced wildlife,” he recalls “but we had a unique opportunity to repair the site working with the new council were able to achieve two things that weren’t usually possible they offered the developer the chance to treat stormwater in the wetland beyond their development site “Usually a developer must retain and treat water within their estate as part of the infrastructure agreement and funding” says Taylor council suggested that they rehabilitate the adjacent degraded site for stormwater retention and treatment along with providing trails and similar facilities for the existing and coming surrounding communities “So they were able to increase their developable land,” explains Taylor “and money could be invested in well-designed recreational access.” “The usual infrastructure agreement for site-treatment of stormwater results in many small and fragmented water bodies for each development with minimal environmental corridor connections and buffer zones,” Taylor explains “This degraded site provided a rare opportunity to rejuvenate a much larger area of water and environmental wetland.” The local residents from nearby developments understood the environmental value of the site and were also keen to see it restored and protected They wanted an environmental asset for the future.” Asked about whether more birds were returning to the area Cam laughs “When I was out there during construction of the sediment ponds lifestyle and leisure destination by Lat27 Community ideas contributed to the the 20-year vision of the Oxley Creek Transformation Master Plan The Oxley Creek Transformation Master Plan is the first milestone in transforming the 20-kilometre Oxley Creek corridor The PIA judges particularly recognised the project for its excellent engagement and “economic delivery model as a blueprint for waterway regeneration to ensure viable outcomes” the Oxley Plan explored funding and economic viability as part of integrated project design that has resulted in a strong basis for future delivery the project makes the most of opportunities for a wide range of environmental and social benefits for the bigger corridor and the community including a major walking and cycling network nature-based adventure park and an ecological restoration plan are under increasing pressure,” says Damian Thompson “The rewards from nurturing waterway health and biodiversity are immeasurable and we’ve been working closely with community groups professional collaborators and land management agencies to this end.” Poor handling of prolonged drought in southern Australia has drawn attention to the vital need to appreciate and engage broadly on water management projects understanding how intimately water is connected with so many aspects of varied use and enjoyment of healthy landscapes The  AILA Queensland awards recognised numerous projects for dealing with complex issues of short-term needs and long-term investment impacts to deliver valued environmental outcomes The Logan River Accessibility & Connectivity Concept Plan is a comprehensive document outlining diverse ways to better access and appreciate the river and its waters Tract Consultants and Logan City Council received an award for Landscape Planning for the clarity and conviction of a long-term vision to guide works to 2067 The Logan River Accessibility & Connectivity Concept Plan is a a comprehensive document outlining outlining diverse ways to better access and appreciate the River waters The Yeppoon Foreshore and Town Centre Revitalisation is a reimagining of the Queensland coastal lagoon Muller Street residential subdivision by AS Design incorporates detention basins and swales in a 2ha revegetated spine to manage storm water Place Design Group has delivered the project as stage five of Livingstone Shire Council’s larger foreshore vision which has stunning Coral Sea views out to the Keppel Bay Islands Muller Street, Redland Bay is a 64-lot residential subdivision Its two-hectare central spine of rehabilitated woodland incorporates vegetated detention basins and swales to manage stormwater for environmental benefit But the winding pathways also provide enviable recreation opportunities for new residents and community arborist and ecologist to deliver a project that gives new impetus to more sensitive subdivision design The recent AILA Queensland awards have recognised new explorations of thoughtful ways to design with water that have multiple benefits Winning projects have negotiated with many stakeholders for long-term social and environmental benefits while demonstrating acute appreciation for economic constraints and novel funding opportunities Queensland presents us with some strong ideas for long-term future enjoyment of waterscapes We should feel encouraged to go and have some watery fun in the sun places and the people who make them delivered direct to your inbox Police have interviewed a man over a reportedly explicit video of him and MP Brittany Lauga which sparked sexual assault and drug-spiking allegations The grainy footage is alleged to show Ms Lauga being molested in the street late at night outside The Strand hotel in Yeppoon in central Queensland last month later said she was drugged without her knowledge and had been sexually assaulted in the incident She told one local that medical tests in hospital had found MDMA in her system Police are now investigating who she had contact with over the course of the evening No charges have so far been laid as the investigation into the incident continues Earlier that day on April 27, Lauga had been a guest at the Yeppoon Swans AFL club Ladies Day event, which kicked off at 2pm. A police statement said the alleged incident occurred after midnight that night, sometime in the early hours of Sunday morning. The MP is now laying low since the incident. In a statement last week, Lauga said she felt 'awful' and that the following days were a 'living nightmare'. 'You wake up and you have to remind yourself this is reality,' she said. 'I went to the police station and the hospital straight after it (the alleged assault) happened and they did a forensic rape kit.  'They've done drug tests, blood, urine, everything.' In the footage, taken by a bystander in the street close to Yeppoon's Main Beach, Ms Lauga is seen wearing the same distinctive orange dress she was pictured wearing at the earlier event. When the clip began circulating on social media, an acquaintance recognised her and told the MP a 'not pleasant' and 'quite explicit' video had been posted online. Queensland Police refused to make any comment about the progress of their investigation, but Daily Mail Australia has obtained messages from Ms Lauga to a local about the videoed incident. In them, the woman said she had seen Ms Lauga with the man on the night in question and the MP told her he wasn't her boyfriend. Later in the text conversation, Ms Lauga says: 'I don't know the guy. I went to hospital after that and tested positive for MDMA, but didn't take drugs. I was out of my mind.' Ms Lauga has since shut down her electoral office in central Yeppoon 'until further notice' . The former town planner, who will contest her seat in the upcoming Queensland state election on October 26, has had a tumultuous time during her nine years in Parliament. Incidents include her being accused, with her now ex-husband Wayne, of being present at a violent, drunken outburst at a pub, being investigated by the Crime and Corruption Commission. She also accused a man of unlawfully stalking her, but the case was tossed out of court and he was awarded legal costs. A Facebook page entitled 'Brittany Backflip - Fictional character' includes footage of Ms Lauga in Queensland Parliament saying sorry for misleading the state's Legislative Assembly.  In 2022, she apologised for the previous year having... 'made statements that the current Federal Coalition Government was planning to force every aged pensioner in Australia onto the cashless debit card.  'I wish to withdraw this statement and apologise if I unintentionally misled the House.' Ms Lauga was elected in January 2015 as part of Annastacia Palaszczuk's rise to power in a minority Labor Government. In her maiden speech to parliament, she credited her parents, Peter and teacher Sharon McKee, for 'working hard' and giving her and her musician brother Lewis 'a great start to life'.  In the same speech, the law and urban development graduate pledged development and a casino licence for 'one of the jewels in the crown' for the Capricornia Coast, the dilapidated resort of Great Keppel Island. When a motion by the Coalition opposition to allow a boutique gaming licence for GKI was defeated by her own government, she was accused of doing a backflip by conservative commentators. At the time, Wayne and Brittany Lauga were building their 'forever home' in Rockyview south-west of Yeppoon, which had won a Master Builders award, but had gone $273,000 over budget. Wayne Lauga worked for the company, Hutchinson's Builder who constructed the lavish house, but resigned in February 2016 amid the fraught deal. Eventually Hutchinson's would come to an agreement for the Laugas to pay back $250,000 interest free, but a local businessmen and friend of the couple had begun his own investigation into the deal. Petros Khalesirad and his partner knew the Laugas socially and his wife and Wayne Lauga had gone to school together, but Brittany alleged that between February and August 2016, Khalesirad stalked her causing her fear.  Local police charged Petros Khalesirad with unlawful stalking.  In September 2016, police were called to investigate Brittany Lauga and husband Wayne over an alleged ugly bar spat at the Keppel Sands Hotel south of Yeppoon. The couple was watching the football with a friend, Dave, when a fight allegedly broke out involving Dave and an elderly patron. The hotel publican said at the time that Wayne Lauga was 'rude and offensive', swearing and smashing a glass on the pool table after being asked to leave. In his statement to police, the publican said he was telephoned two days later by the couple whose behaviour he told them was 'pretty despicable' and 'disgusting around familied and kids'. The MP's office then phoned him, the publican stated, and warned him that releasing CCTV of the incident 'wasn't allowed ... according to some act', with him responding that it wasn't his footage to release. The publican later backed away somewhat from this statement, but banned Wayne Lauga and the man Dave from the premises for 12 months.  Days later, a tearful Brittany Lauga addressed a virtually empty Parliament late at night, sobbing: 'The claim in the paper that I was asked to leave a licensed venue and have been subsequently banned is simply just not true.' A Queensland newspaper subsequently denied it had ever said she was banned, only Wayne Lauga and Dave. In mid-2017, Khalesirad went before Magistrate Cameron Press on the unlawful stalking charge over a three-day hearing. In December 2017, the magistrate threw out the charge for lack of evidence, and three months later ordered Petros Khalesirad be paid $24,500 in costs. Magistrate Press said there was no evidence of serious mental, psychological or emotional harm. Meanwhile, Ms Lauga had been investigated by Queensland's Crime and Corruption Commission (CCC). The CCC looked into two corruption complaints against her, alleging she had given the media confidential contact-tracing information involving a Rockhampton nurse who tested positive for coronavirus. In 2020, the body announced it had assessed the allegations but decided not to proceed with an investigation. 'There is insufficient evidence that a criminal offence has been committed by the Member for Keppel,' the CCC said in a a statement. Brittany and Wayne Lauga, who have a seven-year-old daughter together, separated and both have since met new partners. In the often dirty world of state politics, Ms Lauga cried foul after the 2020 election which she won with a preference deal with the Greens party. She described it as an 'ugly' election campaign after One Nation put up campaign posters which blasted: 'Dear Brittany, you can't be trusted'. 'These signs are defamatory and, in the end, backfired,' Ms Lauga said after the election. 'The signs falsely claim that I can't be trusted.  'Well, the vote would tell you that the people of Keppel trust me.' But following former Premier Palaszczuk's shock resignation last December, Ms Lauga will likely need to campaign widely and effectively to safeguard her seat in what is predicted to be a tought fight for Labor to retain power in the state. Major terror attack 'was just HOURS away' before it was foiled by the special forces and police:... Victim of acid attack 'plotted by his ex-partner who teamed up with a gang' dies in hospital six... We are trapped in unsellable newbuild homes after a £52m dual carriageway was built on our... Horror as $4.5M influencer-laden yacht SINKS off Miami... after glam women made a rookie maritime... Pub is forced to pay family £75,000 after wrongly accusing them of 'dine and dash' over £150... How Meghan's biggest cheerleader brokered Harry's disastrous BBC interview - three months after... Woman dead and three others including a child injured after car ploughed into pedestrians: Man, 49,... 'It's a rather giant f*** you.' Royal insider's furious reaction to Meghan's Instagram salvo as... Woman who was missing for more than 60 years is found 'alive and well' decades after vanishing... American tourist suffers horrific fate while attempting to capture selfie at Rome's Colosseum The towns being ruined by day-tripper invasions. Selfie-loving tourists cause traffic hell and the... Revealed: The reason behind Fred & Rose West kids' bitter family rift as siblings have 'nothing to... How can I see the Red Arrows' iconic flypast? Map reveals when and where planes will be visible over... Hamas hostage, 23, 'raped by personal trainer influencer in her own home after being released' King, Queen, William and Kate honour selfless devotion of Britain's wartime heroes as they lead... Husband of British mother, 65, who was knifed to death in French village says her affair is a... Police interview man over video of female MP Brittany LaugaCommenting on this article has endedNewest{{#isModerationStatus}}{{moderationStatus}} 2 min readPublished 20 February 2015 9:10am ShareGet SBS News daily and direct to your InboxSign up now for the latest news from Australia and around the world direct to your inbox.Your email address *Morning (Mon–Fri) Karen Johnstone of Marmor had her house destroyed during Tropical Cyclone Marcia Link copiedShareShare articleSeveral small Queensland towns are struggling to cope in the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Marcia as the focus on the clean-up remains on the bigger centres of Yeppoon and Rockhampton The category five system tore through coastal Yeppoon then hit Rockhampton as a category three storm before moving south toward Biloela The small town of Biloela remains cut off in all directions with virtually no communications in or out after 200 homes were flooded on Friday night Banana Shire Mayor Ron Carige hit out at Telstra saying the local disaster centre could not reach state emergency authorities to provide updates Councillor Carige described the situation as "pathetic" and said Biloela was hit by similar communication problems in the 2013 flood He said Telstra had guaranteed it would never happen again He said he had received a text message from Deputy Premier Jackie Trad seeking a discussion about disaster relief arrangements but he had been unable to talk to her Byfield took a direct hit from Cyclone Marcia when it crossed the Queensland coast on Friday, but residents of the small town say they have been all but forgotten. A Telstra spokeswoman said they were doing all they could to restore phone and internet services Councillor Carige said the flooding in Biloela was the worst they had ever seen Cyclone Marcia was a category one system as it moved south from Rockhampton and passed east of Biloela Flooding in the town was largely a result of water being released from nearby Callide Dam where the flood gates opened automatically as the catchment reached 90 per cent of its capacity with the Dawson and Burnett highways cut in all directions Many nearby small communities and properties were isolated and the town had not received food supplies since Thursday Byfield took a direct hit from Cyclone Marcia when it crossed the Queensland coast on Friday but residents of the small town say they have been all but forgotten Karen Johnstone and her partner Robert Holness huddled in the laundry of their home while Marcia tore it apart around them the panels here just blew out and gusts of wind were blowing through the roof," Ms Johnstone said I wonder if I'll have a house left by the time we come out'." "You could see the neighbours' roofs flying across the paddock and the horses were running around the paddock and all I could think was 'We are going to have a horse decapitated or sliced in half'," she said They are concerned that while the focus of the clean-up is on Yeppoon and Rockhampton "It's like we're non-existent out here," she said Mr Holness described the situation as surreal but we're just cleaning up slowly," he said Ms Johnstone said the clean-up is taking an emotional Gesturing to belongings strew across her yard I actually just broke down and absolutely cried because some of my grandmother's stuff is here." Flooding in Gympie just before 6:00am on Sunday the flooded Mary River isolated residents in the town of Gympie The river peaked just before 11am at about 16.6 metres according to Dimitri Scordalides from Gympie Regional Council however the water level had since begun to drop He said flooding had closed the Bruce Highway and the town's major bridges There had also been a number of incidents where residents had ignored warning signs by trying to drive on flooded roads or bridges There are moderate flood warnings for Eyre Creek with minor flooding affecting rivers including the Noosa Restoring electricity and essential services is the focus of the clean-up effort in central Queensland up to 100,000 properties were blacked out across the networks run by Energex and Ergon Energy Queensland's Fire and Emergency Services said Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced disaster funding for affected residents in Rockhampton Livingstone and Banana shires this morning She said 1,500 homes had some kind of structural damage in central Queensland and about 100 had severe structural damage in Yeppoon and Rockhampton where people could not go back to their homes Recovery hubs would be open from 2:00pm in Yeppoon's town hall and Rockhampton's Walter Reid Centre to help those 100 families who lost their homes and offer emergency assistance payments There was also significant structural damage to the bridge that connected Biloela to Gladstone Chief health officer Dr Jeannette Young warned diseases and skin infections were a danger in contaminated floodwaters "The water that's come through with the cyclone is heavily contaminated with mud that has a lot of organisms in it," she said cover them with waterproof bandages and really have a good clean and make sure you disinfect any cuts." About 50,000 customers were still without power by Sunday morning and the SES received more than 6,000 calls for assistance Ergon said the damage to infrastructure in central Queensland meant many people could be blacked out for several weeks The category five cyclone battered the region after making landfall about 7:30am (AEST) near Shoalwater Bay, between St Lawrence and Yeppoon, on Friday. It was a category three system when it reached Rockhampton, about 40 kilometres inland from Yeppoon. Army reservists helping with the clean-up in Yeppoon on Sunday. (ABC News: Marlina Whop)