By Olivia Schoenauer
Driving through green mountains under clear skies, it is clear why the Scenic Rim has become a booming tourism destination.
Once a hidden hinterland gem, the Scenic Rim has become one of south east Queensland’s must-visit destinations, and its rise shows no sign of slowing.
A new 64-page visitor guide for the region has been released, a collaborative project between Council brand, Visit Scenic Rim, and membership-based Local Tourism Organisation, Destination Scenic Rim.
The guide was launched at O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyard among local businesses and artisans who helped build the region’s cultural standing.
In 2025, the Scenic Rim region welcomed more than 787,000 day trippers and almost half a million overnight visitors, contributing more than $217 million to the local economy.
Interstate travel within Australia is on the rise, with Aussies largely citing the high cost of living and rising international travel expenses as the reason.
Tourists are looking to escape to destinations closer to home, seeking places that offer beautiful nature, adventure, food, wine, wellness and connection.
The Scenic Rim has emerged as a destination that offers something for travellers of all ages.
Scenic Rim Mayor Tom Sharp said the success of Scenic Rim tourism is driven by the hard-working people in the agricultural and hospitality industries across the region.
“It’s these collaborations that are taking this region forward,” he said at the guide launch.
The guide has been 18 months in the making and Council says it is the first official visitor guide for the region in eight years.
It features inspiration and practical information, showcasing the region’s many offerings across outdoor recreation, peaceful accommodation, local flavours and authentic country hospitality.
Included are multi-day itineraries designed to encourage travellers to explore more of the Scenic Rim, with the aim of encouraging longer stays and greater visitor spending.
Destination Scenic Rim Chairperson Mary-Clare Power said the guide was an important tool for tourism operators across the region.
“This guide has been developed to not only inspire visitors, but to actively support our tourism industry,” she said.
“It tells the story of our region in a way that encourages exploration, discovery and meaningful connection with our communities and businesses.”
The new guide will be available from May 20 at visitor information centres and key travel hubs across Queensland and nearby regions.
