Was very pleased with the BT-50 and how easily it handled Cunningham's Gap. Even passed a couple of trucks on the way up. Once on top of the range we cruised into Warwick. As we had come from the east and entered town from the north we had to drive through the middle of town to arrive at our van park (Kahler's Oasis Van Park), on the southside of Warwick. We were pleased with the big site that we were allocated, along the back fence line, with mountain views. An added bonus for Joan was the grey horse in the adjoining paddock that immediately came to the fence to make our acquaintance. Thursday afternoon was spent visiting the Information Centre, shopping at Aldi and general familiarisation of the Warwick township.
Friday morning we backtracked to Clintonvale before heading north to the Goomburra section of Main Range NP. The drive in was along a scenic winding road with gravel sections and creek crossings. The plan for today was to complete a number of small hikes taking in two lookouts and a waterfall. Unfortunately due to recent rain the Lookout road was closed so we had to be satisfied with lunch at the Kurrajong picnic area and a short walk around the creek circuit. We then headed back to Warwick via the little township of Alloa. On returning to town rain was threatening so elected to spend the afternoon at the Warwick library updating photos, blogs and apps courtesy of the library free wifi.
Saturday morning the rain had cleared so I took some time out to visit and photograph some of the grand sandstone buildings around town. These included St Mary's Catholic Church, St Mark's Anglican Church, the Post Office and the Town Hall. After lunch we took a run out to Lake Leslie (west of the town), which turns out to be a man made dam. The dam level was only at 14% so very low and not very appealing. The lake is named after Patrick Leslie, an early settler in the district. His wife, Kate was a Macarther, the family of Marino sheep fame. Sculptures and plaques give tribute and the history of the Leslie family in the Warwick district. Continuing this water theme we then ventured south of Warwick to Connolly Dam. Not sure about this place. It was a very small dam. Most significant things being the colourfully painted pumphouse and the ornate gates, visitor's have to open and pass through to gain entry. Another noteworthy point is only electric driven craft are permitted on the lake.
Sunday morning we packed-up camp to drive the 40 km to Stanthorpe. It is a nice run into Stanthorpe passing many orchards, some vineyards and roadside fruit and vegetable stalls on the approach to town. After manoeuvring through the Main Street of Stanthorpe and over a narrow bridge we located the Information Centre. Armed with the usual collection of maps and brochures we anticipated some busy days ahead of us, even if the forecast was rain. Our campsite for this stopover was Aloomba Lavender Farm, Liston, just over the border into NSW, about 20 km from Stanthorpe. Arriving at the gate of Aloomba we knew immediately it was going to be a great week and this location was a great find.