The title 'hidden gems' has been made out of scrapbook letters.

Your guide to a perfect weekend in Ipswich

A rural landscape at sunset with a field of tall, dry grass in the foreground. The sky features soft pink and orange clouds against a blue background.

Image: Camille Brandon

Image: Camille Brandon

Our incredible community of UQ alumni live all around the world, and they’re always willing to open their doors and share local knowledge.

For this edition of Hidden Gems, we’re taking you somewhere a little closer to home, to coincide with our UQ Regional Roadshow’s visit to Ipswich. Contact asked staff member, current student and alum Camille Brandon (Bachelor of Arts / Bachelor of Journalism ’20) – a self-identified ‘semi local’ – for an insider’s guide to the City of Ipswich, a town she feels is chronically underrated.

Headshot of Camille Brandon, a woman with shoulder length brown hair and brown eyes. The background includes trees with purple flowers and green foliage.

Camille Brandon

Brisbane often overshadows Ipswich but I’m here to passionately encourage those living in the capital to take a trip out west if you’re ever looking for a new weekend adventure.

I moved to Ipswich for my first graduate job as a cadet journalist at a newly established regional newspaper. The community welcomed me with open arms – it’s full of rich culture and history that left me feeling a strong sense of belonging.

I’ve since moved away but still see myself as a ‘semi-local’ – I’m constantly back in Ipswich and keep up to date on all the best places to visit, eat and explore. Here are my top tips for making the most out of a visit to this special town and its stunning surrounding regions.

Our incredible community of UQ alumni live all around the world, and they’re always willing to open their doors and share local knowledge.

For this edition of Hidden Gems, we’re taking you somewhere a little closer to home, to coincide with our UQ Regional Roadshow’s visit to Ipswich. Contact asked staff member, current student and alum Camille Brandon (Bachelor of Arts / Bachelor of Journalism ’20) – a self-identified ‘semi local’ – for an insider’s guide to the City of Ipswich, a town she feels is chronically underrated.

Headshot of Camille Brandon, a woman with shoulder length brown hair and brown eyes. The background includes trees with purple flowers and green foliage.

Camille Brandon

Brisbane often overshadows Ipswich but I’m here to passionately encourage those living in the capital to take a trip out west if you’re ever looking for a new weekend adventure.

I moved to Ipswich for my first graduate job as a cadet journalist at a newly established regional newspaper. The community welcomed me with open arms – it’s full of rich culture and history that left me feeling a strong sense of belonging.

I’ve since moved away but still see myself as a ‘semi-local’ – I’m constantly back in Ipswich and keep up to date on all the best places to visit, eat and explore. Here are my top tips for making the most out of a visit to this special town and its stunning surrounding regions.

The heading 'taste' has been made out of scrapbook letters.

No Ipswich to-do list would be complete without begging you to go to one of mine and many other locals’ favourite cafes in the centre of town, Rafter and Rose. Not only is it full to the brim with plants but also sells some of the best cheesecake you can get your hands (and mouth) on. Another place of note is the Elderflower Café which is conveniently right next door to the North Tivoli Nursery… can you see the plant theme emerging here?

The best-kept secret is the Murgh Makhan Palak special house curry from Memories of India. It’s like butter chicken but better, if you can believe it! If you’d like to drive slightly further, Homage at Spicers Hidden Vale is a firm local favourite. Fun fact: In 2017, Spicers Hidden Vale and The Turner Family Foundation opened the Hidden Vale Research Station which was built in partnership with UQ.

Also, a couple of times a year the Scenic Rim Farm Gate Trail brings together farmers, growers, producers, winemakers, brewers, distillers and flavour-makers to showcase all the region has to offer. A lot of the locations are close to Ipswich and well worth a day trip.

A polaroid image of a variety of potted plants arranged on a rustic wooden shelf against a black wall. The plants vary in type and size, including large green-leafed plants and smaller succulents. 'Rafter and Rose' is written on the polaroid.
A polaroid showing the entrance of a café named 'Elderflower Café' featuring a wooden pergola adorned with hanging and climbing plants. Potted plants and greenery surround the entrance. A wooden sign displays the café's name. 'Elderflower Cafe' is written on the polaroid.
A polaroid showing a plate of food featuring a toasted bread base topped with greens, pulled meat, a poached egg, hollandaise sauce, and microgreens. Three onion rings are placed on the side. The background shows an outdoor setting with plants and garden elements. 'Elderflower Cafe' is written on the polaroid.
The heading 'tip' has been made out of scrapbook letters.

Ipswich is the gateway to so many amazing businesses, fun festivals and wholesome activities.

As a proud UQ alum, it brings me so much joy to find alumni-owned businesses to support so it’d be remiss of me not to include a couple here!

Firstly, Summerland Camels in Harrisville is owned by UQ alum and camel dairy farmer Paul Martin (Associate Diploma in Applied Science '90). The farm often has markets, school holiday fun and more (including camel milk vodka and sorbet!).

Secondly, the leading country music festival in Australia, CMC Rocks QLD, which comes to Ipswich each year, has a UQ connection. UQ alum Andrew Stone (Bachelor of Physiotherapy ’06) is the co-founder and CEO of Chugg Music, which manages bands and artists such as Lime Cordiale, Sheppard, Casey Barnes and Lane Pittman. Chugg Entertainment, the operating entertainment business, has co-promoted CMC Rocks since its inception in 2008 and Casey Barnes will be performing at the 2026 festival. 

Other places I highly recommend for wholesome weekend plans are the Scenic Rim and Farm Shop and Café (owned by UQ alum Genevieve Windley) and Elderflower Farm, both located on the same property. It’s especially nice to visit in Spring when the sun is out, the bees are bumbling and the flowers are in full bloom.

A polaroid of a camel standing in a grassy field with another camel in the background. The sky is partly cloudy with blue and pink hues, suggesting sunrise or sunset. Trees and distant mountains are visible in the background. 'Summerland Camels' is written on the polaroid.
Polaroid of a large tree with thick branches and green foliage extending across the frame. Beneath the tree is a house with a white porch and roof, surrounded by greenery and smaller structures. The sky is clear and blue, suggesting a sunny day. 'Scenic Rim Farm Shop and Cafe' is written on the polaroid.
Polaroid of Camille standing in a garden filled with colourful flowers, holding a bouquet. The background includes trees, greenery, and a partly cloudy blue sky. 'Elderflower Farm' is written on the polaroid.
The heading 'trek' has been made out of scrapbook letters.

In a rather unassuming spot at the centre of town is the Ipswich Nature Centre in the historical Queens Park, home to over 42 species and around 200 animals in care – dingoes, bilbies, wallabies, water dragons and a whole petting zoo. The centre is free to visit.

There are actually many animal-based experiences you can do in and around Ipswich. Another 2 places you could visit are The Llama Farm and the EWE Nique Hobby Farm – where, in my time as a journalist, I once reported on a sheep race – true story!

If you're a fan of adventure, the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail –suitable for walking, cycling and horse riding – can be accessed from Lowood and Fernvale, both charming country towns just a short scenic drive from Ipswich.

Two polaroids: one of two people with sheep in a fenced farm area; building and trees in the background and one of colourful mosaic artwork with a plaque below, surrounded by greenery and flowers. The sheep polaroid is titled 'Sheep racing' and the mosaic is 'The story of Lowood'.
The heading 'treasure' has been made out of scrapbook letters.

As a UQ alum, there’s something nostalgic about jacarandas for me. That’s why I love Imbibis Craft Distillery, because they have a special jacaranda gin that my mum absolutely loved as her Christmas gift!

Something I miss a lot about Ipswich is the many incredible sunsets you can witness. I've included one of my favourites from when I used to walk around my estate on crisp Winter afternoons.

The last tip I’ll leave you with is this: if you really want to treat yourself, book a staycation at Twigley Farm. You have the option of a beautiful farm stay or luxe glamping and I’m sure you won’t regret it.

This article only scratches the surface of what you can do, see and eat in and around Ipswich. I highly recommend you venture out west on your next day trip and find more places through Discover Ipswich!

A polaroid of colourful sunset sky with tree silhouettes at the bottom. 'Sunsets in Ipswich' is written on the polaroid.

Got some local tips to share with us, or need tips for your next destination? Tell us where we should go next.

Where should we visit next?
The heading 'taste' has been made out of scrapbook letters.

No Ipswich to-do list would be complete without begging you to go to one of mine and many other locals’ favourite cafes in the centre of town, Rafter and Rose.

A polaroid image of a variety of potted plants arranged on a rustic wooden shelf against a black wall. The plants vary in type and size, including large green-leafed plants and smaller succulents. 'Rafter and Rose' is written on the polaroid.

Not only is it full to the brim with plants but also sells some of the best cheesecake you can get your hands (and mouth) on.

Another place of note is the Elderflower Café which is conveniently right next door to the North Tivoli Nursery… can you see the plant theme emerging here?

A polaroid showing the entrance of a café named 'Elderflower Café' featuring a wooden pergola adorned with hanging and climbing plants. Potted plants and greenery surround the entrance. A wooden sign displays the café's name. 'Elderflower Cafe' is written on the polaroid.
A polaroid showing a plate of food featuring a toasted bread base topped with greens, pulled meat, a poached egg, hollandaise sauce, and microgreens. Three onion rings are placed on the side. The background shows an outdoor setting with plants and garden elements. 'Elderflower Cafe' is written on the polaroid.

The best-kept secret is the Murgh Makhan Palak special house curry from Memories of India. It’s like butter chicken but better, if you can believe it! If you’d like to drive slightly further, Homage at Spicers Hidden Vale is a firm local favourite. Fun fact: In 2017, Spicers Hidden Vale and The Turner Family Foundation opened the Hidden Vale Research Station which was built in partnership with UQ.

Also, a couple of times a year the Scenic Rim Farm Gate Trail brings together farmers, growers, producers, winemakers, brewers, distillers and flavour-makers to showcase all the region has to offer. A lot of the locations are close to Ipswich and well worth a day trip.

The heading 'tip' has been made out of scrapbook letters.

Ipswich is the gateway to so many amazing businesses, fun festivals and wholesome activities.

As a proud UQ alum, it brings me so much joy to find alumni-owned businesses to support so it’d be remiss of me not to include a couple here!

Firstly, Summerland Camels in Harrisville is owned by UQ alum and camel dairy farmer Paul Martin (Associate Diploma in Applied Science '90). The farm often has markets, school holiday fun and more (including camel milk vodka and sorbet!).

Secondly, the leading country music festival in Australia, CMC Rocks QLD, which comes to Ipswich each year, has a UQ connection. UQ alum Andrew Stone (Bachelor of Physiotherapy ’06) is the co-founder and CEO of Chugg Music, which manages bands and artists such as Lime Cordiale, Sheppard, Casey Barnes and Lane Pittman. Chugg Entertainment, the operating entertainment business, has co-promoted CMC Rocks since its inception in 2008 and Casey Barnes will be performing at the 2026 festival. 

Polaroid of a large tree with thick branches and green foliage extending across the frame. Beneath the tree is a house with a white porch and roof, surrounded by greenery and smaller structures. The sky is clear and blue, suggesting a sunny day. 'Scenic Rim Farm Shop and Cafe' is written on the polaroid.

Other places I highly recommend for wholesome weekend plans are the Scenic Rim and Farm Shop and Café (owned by UQ alum Genevieve Windley) and Elderflower Farm, both located on the same property. It’s especially nice to visit in Spring when the sun is out, the bees are bumbling and the flowers are in full bloom.

The heading 'trek' has been made out of scrapbook letters.

In a rather unassuming spot at the centre of town is the Ipswich Nature Centre in the historical Queens Park, home to over 42 species and around 200 animals in care – dingoes, bilbies, wallabies, water dragons and a whole petting zoo. The centre is free to visit.

There are actually many animal-based experiences you can do in and around Ipswich. Another 2 places you could visit are The Llama Farm and the EWE Nique Hobby Farm – where, in my time as a journalist, I once reported on a sheep race – true story!

Two polaroids: one of two people with sheep in a fenced farm area; building and trees in the background and one of colourful mosaic artwork with a plaque below, surrounded by greenery and flowers. The sheep polaroid is titled 'Sheep racing' and the mosaic is 'The story of Lowood'.

If you're a fan of adventure, the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail –suitable for walking, cycling and horse riding – can be accessed from Lowood and Fernvale, both charming country towns just a short scenic drive from Ipswich.

The heading 'treasure' has been made out of scrapbook letters.

As a UQ alum, there’s something nostalgic about jacarandas for me. That’s why I love Imbibis Craft Distillery, because they have a special jacaranda gin that my mum absolutely loved as her Christmas gift!

Something I miss a lot about Ipswich is the many incredible sunsets you can witness. I've included one of my favourites from when I used to walk around my estate on crisp Winter afternoons.

A polaroid of colourful sunset sky with tree silhouettes at the bottom. 'Sunsets in Ipswich' is written on the polaroid.

The last tip I’ll leave you with is this: if you really want to treat yourself, book a staycation at Twigley Farm. You have the option of a beautiful farm stay or luxe glamping and I’m sure you won’t regret it.

This article only scratches the surface of what you can do, see and eat in and around Ipswich. I highly recommend you venture out west on your next day trip and find more places to visit through Discover Ipswich!

Got some local tips to share with us, or need tips for your next destination? Tell us where we should go next.

Where should we visit next?

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