Business Directory

Local Business Directory

How to use our local Chitchat Newspaper Business Directory:

Simply click on the regional headings below to zoom to a desired location.

If you wish to browse for a specific business then type the name of the business into the search bar below.

Burnett Heads is a coastal township in the Bundaberg Region of Queensland, Australia, situated where the Burnett River meets the Coral Sea. Located about 20 minutes northeast of Bundaberg, it offers a relaxed seaside lifestyle while remaining close to a major regional centre. The town is known for its marina, beaches, and easy access to the Southern Great Barrier Reef.

Historically, Burnett Heads developed as a maritime and agricultural community. Its position at the river’s mouth made it an important point for shipping and sugar exports in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The nearby Burnett Heads Lighthouse—first erected in 1873 and later relocated and restored—remains a notable symbol of the region’s nautical heritage. The area also played a role in supporting Bundaberg’s growing sugar and farming industries.

Today, Burnett Heads is appreciated for its peaceful coastal charm, wide open spaces, and community-focused atmosphere. The town offers waterfront walkways, fishing spots, and proximity to Mon Repos Conservation Park, famous for its marine turtle nesting. With a blend of natural beauty, friendly locals, and ongoing development around the Port of Bundaberg and marina, Burnett Heads provides a laid-back yet connected lifestyle that appeals to families, retirees, and sea-lovers alike.

Burrum Heads is a peaceful coastal village in the Fraser Coast Region of Queensland, located just across the river from Woodgate, where the Burrum River meets the Coral Sea. Positioned about 30 minutes northwest of Hervey Bay, it offers a quiet shoreline setting surrounded by river estuaries, mangroves, and broad sandy beaches. Its location makes it ideal for boating, fishing, and relaxed seaside living.

Historically, Burrum Heads grew from a small fishing and timber community. The wider Burrum district was one of the early coal-mining areas in Queensland during the late 19th century, and the river served as an important transport route for local industries. Over time, the town shifted from resource-based activity to becoming a recreational and holiday destination, valued for its natural environment and tranquil pace.

What makes Burrum Heads appealing today is its strong sense of community, unspoiled landscapes, and slower lifestyle. The river and ocean converge to create exceptional opportunities for fishing, crabbing, kayaking, and wildlife watching—dolphins and turtles are common sightings. Visitors enjoy waterfront parks, calm swimming areas, and access to nearby Fraser Coast attractions without the crowds. For residents, the town offers a friendly, laid-back atmosphere, affordable coastal living, and a deep connection to nature, making it an inviting place to both live and visit.

Childers is a picturesque rural town in the Bundaberg Region of Queensland, set atop the Isis Plateau with sweeping views of rich red volcanic soil. Located about 45 minutes southwest of Bundaberg, it is known for its beautifully preserved heritage streetscape, lined with historic buildings, pubs, and cafés that reflect its late-1800s beginnings.

Historically, Childers developed as a major sugar-growing district. The fertile red earth supported extensive cane farming, which led to the establishment of the Isis Mill in 1897—an important landmark that still operates today. The cane trains running through the region remain an iconic part of the landscape, symbolising the town’s strong agricultural heritage. Childers’ history also includes vibrant local media, being the original home of the Chitchat Newspaper, established in 1999 and cherished for its community-focused storytelling.

Childers is rich in culture and hosts the popular annual Childers Festival, which transforms the main street into a bustling celebration of food, art, music, and multicultural heritage. This festival draws thousands of visitors each year and highlights the town’s warm community spirit.

With its historic charm, productive farmlands, wineries, and welcoming atmosphere, Childers offers a blend of heritage, culture, and country hospitality that makes it a rewarding place to live or visit.

Dallarnil is a small rural community in the North Burnett Region of Queensland, situated about 25 minutes north of Childers along the Isis Highway. Surrounded by rolling farmland, cattle country, and pockets of natural bushland, it offers a peaceful country lifestyle that attracts those seeking space, quiet, and strong community values.

Historically, Dallarnil developed as an agricultural settlement in the early 1900s, with farming—particularly cattle grazing and cropping—forming the backbone of the district. The town once supported a school, community hall, local sports clubs, and small rural businesses that served the surrounding farming families. Many heritage elements remain, including old homesteads and community sites that reflect the region’s pioneering past.

Dallarnil is appealing to both residents and visitors for its simplicity and authenticity. Life here moves at a relaxed pace, with scenic drives, rural vistas, and opportunities for birdwatching and outdoor recreation. Its close-knit community hosts local events and gatherings that maintain a strong sense of belonging. For those looking to live away from urban hustle, Dallarnil offers affordable land, quiet roads, and the charm of true country living—while still being within an easy drive of Childers, Biggenden, and regional services.

Gayndah, located on the Burnett River in Queensland’s North Burnett Region, is one of the state’s oldest inland towns, officially established in the 1850s. Its history is closely tied to early pastoral settlement, with vast sheep and cattle stations shaping the region’s identity. Gayndah also became famous for citrus; by the early 20th century it had developed into one of Australia’s key orange-growing districts, a tradition still celebrated through the biennial Orange Festival.

Today, Gayndah is a desirable place to live or visit for those seeking a quiet, friendly rural community surrounded by natural beauty. The town offers a relaxed lifestyle, a strong sense of belonging, and proximity to outdoor attractions such as the Burnett River, nearby national parks, and prime fishing and camping areas. Visitors often enjoy the heritage buildings, local museums, and seasonal citrus farm tours.

Interesting facts include that Gayndah is home to “Big Orange,” an iconic roadside attraction, and that it once contested with Maryborough to become Queensland’s capital. The area also supports diverse wildlife, including colonies of fruit bats that occasionally take up residence along the riverbanks. With a blend of history, agriculture, and small-town charm, Gayndah remains a distinctive regional destination.

Gin Gin, a rural Queensland township located about 50 kilometres west of Bundaberg, has a history rooted in pastoral settlement and transport routes. The area was originally inhabited by the Gureng Gureng people before European settlers established large cattle runs in the mid-1800s. Gin Gin later grew as a key stop along the road linking Brisbane to northern Queensland, earning it the reputation of a classic “highway town” that supported travellers, drovers, and early industry.

Today, Gin Gin is desirable for both residents and visitors who appreciate a relaxed rural lifestyle surrounded by rolling hills, farms, and bushland. The community is known for being friendly and welcoming, with essential services, parks, and a strong country-town atmosphere. Its proximity to Bundaberg makes it ideal for those seeking quieter living without losing access to coastal amenities. For visitors, Gin Gin offers charming cafés, local markets, and access to waterways perfect for fishing and camping. You may also wish to visit the nearby mystery craters on the way to Bundaberg.

An interesting feature of Gin Gin is its fame as a “UFO hotspot,” with numerous local sightings contributing to its quirky roadside attractions. The town also hosts regular country markets that draw travellers from the Bruce Highway. With its blend of history, nature, and rural charm, Gin Gin is a memorable stop in Queensland’s heartland.

Hervey Bay, on Queensland’s Fraser Coast, has grown from a small coastal village into one of the state’s most loved holiday destinations. European settlement began in the mid-1800s, with early industry focused on timber, sugar, and fishing. Over time, improved transport links and the region’s natural beauty transformed Hervey Bay into a thriving tourism hub, especially from the late 20th century onward.

Today, Hervey Bay is desirable for its calm, sheltered waters, long beaches, and relaxed seaside atmosphere. The 14-kilometre esplanade is lined with cafés, restaurants, parks, and cycling paths, making it ideal for families and visitors who enjoy the outdoors. The climate is warm year-round, and the area offers a wide range of accommodation, from holiday units to resorts.

One of Hervey Bay’s biggest drawcards is whale watching. Each winter, humpback whales pause in the bay’s protected waters, creating one of the world’s best locations for close-up encounters. Other popular sights include the historic Urangan Pier, Reef World Aquarium, the Botanic Gardens, and convenient day trips to K’gari (Fraser Island) for 4WD adventures, freshwater lakes, and rainforest walks.

Fun facts: Hervey Bay is often called the “Whale Watching Capital of the World,” and the bay’s unusually calm waters make it a favourite spot for sailing, paddle-boarding, and boating.

Howard, a small rural town in Queensland’s Fraser Coast region, is known for its peaceful country lifestyle, historic charm, and strong community spirit. Established in the late 1800s, Howard grew around the booming coal industry, which once supported several local mines. Many heritage buildings from this era remain, including classic Queenslanders and historic shopfronts that give the town a unique character.

Today, Howard is desirable for those seeking a quiet, friendly place to live while still being within easy reach of Hervey Bay and Burrum Heads. The town offers essential services, relaxed living, and a welcoming atmosphere. Visitors enjoy browsing the monthly Howard Country Markets, exploring historic sites, and taking scenic drives through the surrounding countryside.

One of the region’s standout attractions is Bamboo Land, located just a short drive from Howard near Torbanlea. This award-winning nursery and botanic garden features extensive displays of bamboo, gingers, and tropical plants, along with tranquil walking paths and picnic areas—making it a popular stop for gardeners and tourists alike.

Howard also celebrates its mining heritage through the Howard Coal Festival, a community event featuring market stalls, food, entertainment, and displays honouring the town’s coal-mining past. With history, nature, and local culture, Howard offers a distinctly charming Fraser Coast experience.

Moore Park Beach, located just 20 minutes north of Bundaberg, is a relaxed coastal community known for its long, golden shoreline and peaceful atmosphere. Originally a quiet holiday spot, the area gradually developed into a small residential and tourist destination, appreciated for its natural beauty and friendly, laid-back lifestyle. Its close proximity to Bundaberg makes it ideal for those who want coastal living with easy access to city conveniences, shopping, schools, and medical services.

One of the most appealing features of Moore Park Beach is its impressive 16-kilometre stretch of uncrowded beach—perfect for walking, swimming, fishing, and beachcombing. The shoreline is also home to nesting sea turtles during the summer months, adding to the area’s natural appeal. A particularly delightful experience for both locals and visitors is the regular sight of dolphins swimming close to the beach, often gliding through the shallows in the early morning or late afternoon.

Moore Park Beach offers parks, playgrounds, a local bowls club, and a friendly community vibe. It is also close to the Burnett River and various nature reserves, making it ideal for birdwatching and outdoor activities. With its pristine coastline, wildlife encounters, and convenient access to Bundaberg, Moore Park Beach is a scenic and relaxing destination for holidays or coastal living.

Toogoom, a peaceful coastal village just 15 minutes from Hervey Bay, is known for its relaxed lifestyle, calm waters, and natural beauty. Nestled along the shores of Beelbi Creek and the Great Sandy Strait, it offers excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. The community is small and friendly, with beachfront cafés providing stunning sunset views. Toogoom’s quiet beaches are ideal for leisurely walks and family picnics. Its close proximity to Hervey Bay allows residents and visitors to enjoy a serene environment without sacrificing access to shops and services. With its tranquil charm and waterfront appeal, Toogoom is a hidden gem on the Fraser Coast.

Torbanlea, located between Maryborough and Hervey Bay, is a small Queensland town with a rich mining history and a welcoming rural atmosphere. Established in the late 1800s, it grew around the Torbanlea coal mines, which played a key role in the region’s early development. Today, Torbanlea is valued for its peaceful lifestyle, affordable living, and convenient access to larger centres. The town offers a friendly community, local sports facilities, and easy connections to nearby beaches and attractions. It’s also home to the popular Bamboo Land nursery and gardens, located just minutes away. With history, greenery, and country charm, Torbanlea is a pleasant Fraser Coast stop.

Woodgate Beach, about 40 minutes south of Bundaberg, is a serene coastal destination known for its sweeping white-sand shoreline and peaceful, unhurried atmosphere. Its 16-kilometre beach offers calm waters ideal for swimming, fishing, and long, relaxing walks. The town has a friendly, village-like feel that attracts families, holidaymakers, and anyone seeking a slower pace by the sea.

Instead of a boardwalk, Woodgate features the Banksia Track Trail Head, a beautiful nature trail that winds through coastal forest and wildflower-filled bushland. It’s a popular spot for birdwatching, photography, and gentle hikes, offering a perfect blend of beach and bush scenery.

To the north, Theodolite Creek is one of Woodgate’s most loved natural attractions. With clear, shallow water and shifting sandbars, it’s ideal for kayaking, paddle-boarding, swimming, or simply relaxing on the banks during low tide.

Woodgate has an excellent range of holiday rentals, from beachfront houses to cosy cottages, making it easy for visitors to stay close to the water and enjoy extended breaks. The town also provides 4-wheel drive beach access, giving adventurous travellers the opportunity to explore more remote areas of the coastline and nearby national parks.

With its natural beauty, quiet charm, and outdoor appeal, Woodgate Beach remains one of Queensland’s most relaxing seaside escapes.