Thallon
St George Region, Outback QLD
2023 Best Grey Nomad Friendly Town
Best Grey Nomad Experience in QLD
Which town is THE BEST Grey Nomad Friendly Town in Australia? Thallon in the St George Region.
Proving that size does not matter, the tiny town of Thallon, embodies the Outback Queensland spirit. Founded in 1911, it thrived as a railway hub until passenger services ceased. These days the town of just 250 residents has turned to tourism, boasting a town campground with a view of Queensland’s first silo art, a giant hairy-nosed wombat, heritage art trail, a great community-owned pub, a coffee shop, and a swag of annual and one-off events. What started as a slow trickle of mature-age visitors has become a steady flow and an economic lifeline thanks to residents who have embraced innovation and worked hard to showcase their town. Now they can revel in their success.
Location: 550 kilometres west of Brisbane, on the Moonie River, in the St George region
Welcomes guests: All year round
Facilities: Community-run campground for a small donation with toilets, showers, shady spots and a brilliant view of 'Grazing at the Waterhole' - a stunning mega mural by The Zookeeper and DRAPL that became Queensland's first silo art. The Francis Hotel is just a five-minute stroll from the campground, and boasts homemade delights and barista-made espresso coffee. Across the road you will find the Thallon Coffee Shop and General Store with an all-day menu.
Judges said: Thallon has a truly inspirational story to share of their determination to survive by coming together and implementing an amazing ‘left of centre’ approach to attracting visitors. We particularly love that existing facilities were transformed into an affordable and accessible RV ground and occasional special event space, both of which have a superb front and centre view of the stunning silo art that has helped make Thallon a must-visit destination.