Travel: Possum Park, Qld

Possum Park is located on the Leichhardt Highway just north of Miles, on the inland route from Goondiwindi, NSW, to Rockhampton, Qld. David and Julie Hinds purchased the 360 acres in 1985 for a cattle property and to construct a caravan park and accommodation units. What makes this place special is that it contains World War II explosive store bunkers, many of which have been converted into accommodation units, a souvenir shop, dining room, games room, etc.

During WWII, this farm, located 20km north of Miles, was part of the "Brisbane Line", created to stop the possible Japanese invasion of Australia. Possum Park was home to RAAF Kowguran Sub Depot No. 3 Central Reserve Explosive Store. There were 20 underground concrete bunkers and 25 other buildings. The unit comprised 60 airmen and officers. At times there were 2500 tonnes of bombs and ammunition stored here. In 1957 it was disbanded.

As you drive the 1.5 kilometres through open bushland to the office, look to your right to see the tranquil but small lake. This is a one-way road, with an exit on the other side of the park. Further on it is quite a novelty to see a TV antenna poking up from the ground, along with ventilation pipes. Around the front may be a carport and barbecue, while the bunker itself has been very tastefully turned into a self-contained motel-type unit, large games room or souvenir shop.

The Hinds have purchased old 1940s railway carriages and these have also been transformed into accommodation. Others have been turned into caretakers' accommodation and a TV room.

The caravan park and camping area sits on top of the hill. Every site is drive-through and has power and water.

At present there are only around 30 sites, but David has plans for more. Amenities are ensuite-style, although there are separate toilets. Facilities for disabled people are available, as well as rustic outdoor barbecues, a large fireplace, undercover eating area, laundry facilities and, most unusual, an indoor wet weather sleeping shed for campers, who also have a large grassy area provided.

David and Julie have dug a lake, complete with island, which they have filled with murray cod and silver perch fingerlings, while yet another smaller lake has been filled with yellowbelly. Guests may catch these and the yabbies, when they are large enough.

The whole area is set in eucalypt bushland and is very quiet and peaceful; consequently this park is more suited to people who enjoy nature and a serene background. Julie is a renowned horsewoman, and may take you over to see her steeds if you are interested, and David can take you for a ride in his WWII army jeep. You can drive around to view the bunkers, or walk as we did, filling in a few hours. Whatever you do, I'm sure there is something to appeal to you in Possum Park.

Possum Park fast facts
Possum Park is located 350km north-west of Brisbane and 20km north of Miles on the Leichhardt Highway.
Possum Park is rated as three-star.
Ph: (07) 4627 1651.
No pets, please.
Possum Park is not open for casual sightseeing.

www.possumpark.com.au