This is not your usual caravan park. It is a very special glamping bush camp. The word ‘glamping’ is important because Wide Bay Getaway is not your usual bush camp, either. Nickey and Steve have owned the land for about 25 years, and about five years ago they started turning it into their idea of a bush camp, which took them around 3.5 years. Oh boy, did they do an 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 Wide Bay 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!
WIDE BAY GETAWAY TOUR
Wide Bay Getaway has 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 during 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.
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, a lead will be required.
There’s also a family area with a playground and 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, but 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.
– Alison Huth
