Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Childers
POP 1410
Surrounded by lush green fields and rich red soil, Childers is a charming little town, its
main street lined with tall, shady trees and lattice-trimmed historical buildings. Backpack-
ers flock here for fruit-picking and farm work. Sadly, Childers is best known for the 15
backpackers who perished in a fire in the Palace Backpackers Hostel in June 2000.
Sights & Activities
There is a moving memorial for the deceased backpackers and some fantastic art at the
Childers Palace Memorial & Art Gallery.
(72 Churchill St;
9am-5pm Mon-Fri, to 3pm Sat & Sun)
The Old Pharmacy
(90 Churchill St; 9am-3.30pm Mon-Fri)
was an operational apothecary's shop
between 1894 to 1982, and also functioned as the town dentist, vet, optician and local
photographer.
The lovely, 100-year-old
Federal Hotel
has swingin' saloon doors, while a bronze statue of
two romping pig dogs sits outside the
Grand Hotel
.
On the last weekend in July, Childers' main street is swamped with street performers,
musicians, dancers, and food and craft stalls during its annual
Festival of Cultures
, which
draws over 50,000 people.
Sleeping & Eating
Sugarbowl Caravan Park
( 07-4126 1521;
www.sugarbowlchilders.com
; Bruce Hwy; powered site $29, cabin $90; )
A 10-minute
walk out of town is this clean and green spot favoured by many seasonal pickers. The
owners can help arrange work, and transport to job-sites. Rates are for two people; prices
drop for longer stays.
CARAVAN PARK
$
Mango Hill B&B
( 07-4126 1311;
www.mangohillcottages.com
;
8 Mango Hill Dr; s/d incl breakfast $100/130; )
For warm,
country hospitality, the cute cane-cutter cottages at Mango Hill B&B, 4km south of town,
are decorated with handmade wooden furniture, country decor and comfy beds that ooze
charm and romance. There's an organic winery on-site.
B&B
$$
