Explore Chinchilla and the Local Area
One of the largest events in Western Queensland is the Chinchilla Melon Festival, which takes place every two years in February.
Chinchilla is known as the Melon Capital of Australia producing 25% of the nation’s watermelons, rockmelons, and honey dews.
But Chinchilla is so much more than that. Additionally, the Acacia Motel is ideally situated to allow you to fully enjoy this breathtaking area.
Chinchilla Tourist information Centre
They say if you want to know, ‘the best place for this or that?” then ask a local.
Vanessa and her team at the Chinchilla Tourist Information centre located on the Warrego Highway right next to the famous Big Watermelon, are your goto for everything local in the Chinchilla district.
The tourist information centre is the best place to buy some great souvenirs. The centre also a fantastic selection of locally made delicious, pickled relishes, jams and conserves to take home.
For exploring the region, maps, guides and other essential information is on hand.
Plus, don’t forget if you are staying for fossicking, you can purchase your fossicking license here.
The tourist information centre is a casual 8 – 10 minute walk or 2 minute drive from the Acacia motel.
IMAGE: Vanessa ready to welcome you at the Chinchilla Tourist Information Centre.
Petrified Wood Fossicking at Chinchilla QLD
A very popular pastime is fossicking, and the Chinchilla region will not let you down.
Only a few hundred meters from the Acacia motel is the Tourist and Visitor Information Center, where you may buy a fossicking license.
Additionally, we recommend a visit to the Chinchilla Museum before you head out. The museum showcases a fantastic exhibit of Chinchilla Red petrified wood. Museum staff can also provide information about the best places to fossick.
Fishing and Water Skiing at Chinchilla QLD
The Chinchilla Weir: A popular spot for water sports, camping and the fishermen as part of the great Condamine River.
Less than 10 minutes from the Acacia Motel, the Chinchilla weir is worth the evening trip to enjoy the starry sight above.
And during the day for the fishing enthusiasts, cast a line for (almost) a sure thing fresh water golden perch and jewfish at the Chinchilla Weir.
If you enjoy water skiing, the Chinchilla weir provides a fun-filled day for the entire family. The Weir provides ideal smooth water skiing conditions for both novices and experts. If you’re staying at the Acacia Motel, we have plenty of street frontage parking for your car and boat trailer so you can make the most of your visit.
Find out more about the incredible Camping, fishing and water skiing on the Western Downs Chinchilla Weir info page
IMAGE: Camping, Fishing, boating and waterskiing all popular at the Chinchilla Weir.
IMAGE: Chinchilla Show is the annual goto for delicious Pluto Pups!
Chinchilla Show QLD
Whether you’re young, old or somewhere in between, The Chinchilla Show is a blast. Take a spin on the new thrill rides at side show alley. Head inside the pavillion to check out the prize-winning poultry, flowers and local photographer displays. However, the must-see attraction is the rodeo. During the evening side show alley comes to life with glimmering lights, carnival sounds and dazzling fireworks.
Book your room at the Acacia Motel – MORE THAN A BED ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
For dates and more information on everything happening at the Chinchilla Show grounds, visit the Chinchilla Show Society website
IMAGE: See the displays and award winners from prize poultry, photography, art and more in the Pavillion.
IMAGES ABOVE: Whether you’re at the show for the rodeo, the rides or stalls, the Chinchilla Annual Show is full of atmosphere and smiles.
The new Chinchilla Cinema and Cultural Centre
The new Chinchilla Cinema and Cultural Centre is admired by all who visit. With its serene natural surroundings and state-of-the-art facilities.
The entry is lushly landscaped soothing the senses; one feels a calm wash over as vibrant greenery and clever industrial design come together in harmony.
Beyond the verdant exterior awaits an interior experience equally stylish and inclusive.
The spacious modern foyer welcomes all seeking respite with comfortable seating and delicious roasted coffee.
The new cinema offers comfortable modern seating, ease of access, a great candy bar and easy parking. Ticket prices are extremely affordable for the whole family.
Situated at the heart of town on Main Street, a brief two minutes from the Acacia Motel, we recommend taking in a movie while you are staying in Chinchilla.
For movie currently playing, or upcoming movies, ticket prices and more visit the Western Downs Chinchilla Cinema website
The Big Watermelon – Chinchilla Queensland
A quick 1-minute drive from the Acacia Motel, or a really easy 8-minute walk.
Day or night, the Big Watermelon is the perfect backdrop for some amazing selfies.
Here’s a tip from a local. If you are standing and facing the watermelon, to your left is a metal pole set back towards the footpath. For those who have no idea what the purpose is. You can stand your phone on the pole, set the timer and take a selfie or group shot without anyone missing from the shot.
Nighttime, the Big Melon is vibrant and well-lit for fantastic photo opportunities like the one below with Sara and Hayden getting some serious airtime. Way to go guys!!!
For more information and some great facts about the Big Watermelon, head to Queensland.com Big Watermelon information page
IMAGE: Hayden and Sara doing some serious airtime at the Big Watermelon Chinchilla
Botanic Garden Parklands – Chinchilla Queensland
The Botanic Garden Parklands is a must-see while visiting Chinchilla, whether you have children or not. It offers something for everyone and is only a 6–8 minute walk from the Acacia Motel.
Enjoy the wild natives, flower garden beds, ponds, and rock beds in this exquisitely manicured area. It’s free to enter.
If you’re visiting friends or traveling in a group, the Botanic Garden Parklands is a great place to kick a ball, play afternoon cricket, have a few sangas in bread, and enjoy some outdoor fun.
It also has a number of great, clean, well-maintained BBQ spots with outdoor seating.
For those with children, it is the place to let the kids release their energy. Underneath heavy-duty shade cloth, the kids can enjoy the industrial themed climbing playground, and Watermelon themed waterpark, for a full day of fun.
The parkland is also home to many festivals held locally including Naidoc and the annual Chinchilla Christmas Carols.
In 2020, the Chinchilla Botanic Garden parkland trumped all other parks in every State and Territory and was crowned Australia’s Best Park.
