Wide Bay Getaway, QLD – A Review
By Alison Huth
This is not your usual caravan park. It is a very special Glamping Bush Camp.
The word Glamping is important because it’s not your usual Bush Camp either.
Nickey and Steve have owned the land for around 25 years. About 5 years ago they
started turning it into their idea of a Bush Camp, which took them around 3.5 years to
do. Oh boy, did they do a totally amazing job. I could run out of adjectives trying to
describe the feel, atmosphere and pleasure of Getaway.
When we pulled up outside the little office, almost right away the vibe of the Getaway
hit, and I could feel myself relax. There is just something that makes you feel like you
are already on holiday and thoroughly enjoying the peace and quiet of Getaway!
They have amazing artworks all over the land. Kangaroos outnumber the rest but the
Emu is my favourite. It wasn’t easy to choose one, but I did – just! When you look at
them it’s hard to believe that the local artist was only 13 when he made them!
If you arrive at a busy time, Steve will lead you to your site because they are not
shown on the map nor are they marked on the ground. Why? Well, because at off
peak times you get to go around the park and find your own spot. There are power
heads and you choose which empty one you want plug into.
There are three ‘lakes’ in the park and one of them has Decks so you can set up on
a powered site with the deck as your outdoor area. These were ready when they
opened up and are very popular.
If you have a dog, you can get one of the fenced dog sites. This fence means your
dog can be left off lead all the time you are parked on the site. Off site is time for the
lead.
There’s also a family area with a playground and the camp kitchen. Four tiny houses
were being worked on when we were there, with a plan for three more.
A bush camp usually means a Long Drop, most definitely not here. There is a
fantastic amenities block, well built, very well maintained and clean. But one highlight
is at night when the lights shine through the external artwork wall. The other is taking
a daylight photo of your friend, partner or complete stranger through the horse in the
artwork wall.
If you want a quiet walk, there’s a creek about 1km down a dirt road. It’s an easy
walk and such a pleasant way to get some exercise.
Calling Wide Bay Getaway a unique place to stay is an understatement. We were
really sorry to leave because it is so beautiful, full of character and so easy to stay in.
Plus if you are there at the right times, Macca’s Pavillion is opened up and everyone
joins Nickey and Steve for a social couple of hours.
