By Racheal Hundt, Celebrating Life Business Solutions
If you travel three hours west of Rainbow Beach, winding through the quiet townships of Kilkivan (and no, it’s not pronounced with a New Zealand accent), Hivesville, Proston and Okeden, you’ll eventually turn off toward South Burnett’s largest water source, Boondooma Dam.
The journey itself feels like part of the destination, with sunlit meadows rolling by and grass fields dotted with grazing livestock. Trees line sections of the road with faded pink ribbons appearing to be remnants of wedding celebrations. These roads will pass you by rustic homes dusted with dirt, surrounded by cottage flowers and grassy gardens. It’s here that you begin to feel the calm of country life settling in.
As the sealed roads give way to dirt, the scenery shifts. Fields of dry golden grass stretch wide for kangaroos to lift their heads at the sound of your approaching cars. Soon enough, the welcome sign to Boondooma Dam marks your arrival at a relaxed escape. Driving through the expansive grounds, you will find a mix of cosy cabins, caravans, tents and swags set along the banks of the dam.
Days at Boondooma Dam are effortlessly full. As morning breaks, the ignition of tinnies, speedboats and jet skis signals the start of a sunny day on the water. Cast a line and try your luck fishing, drop a few yabby pots, or drift along the shoreline on a stand-up paddleboard or kayak. It’s not uncommon to find yourself pulled into a leisurely game of water cricket, swimming with neighbouring campers and strangers, becoming familiar faces and friends.
For those wanting to explore beyond the water’s edge, there are walking tracks weaving around the dam, leading you through dry, rugged terrain, scattered with cactus, dry foliage and wild animals. Each path offers a different vantage point, giving you a fresh perspective of the activity unfolding at the dam below.
Afternoons slow to a gentle pace as the day begins to wind down, transforming the sky into a canvas of glowing colours. Tranquil campfires glow day and night while a blanket of stars stretches across the night sky, setting the perfect view for sinking into a camp chair and unwinding.
The grounds host a small convenience store where you can stock up on supplies or grab refreshing ice cream. There’s a communal TV to ensure no sporting events are missed, and it is perfectly placed within view of the largest playground for the kids.
Whether you’re chasing a quiet weekend away, a fishing trip or simply a chance to slow down, Boondooma Dam offers a place for you to put down your tools and relax.
