Cobbold Gorge Visual Story

Arrival at Cobbold Gorge Village

Cobbold Gorge is Queensland’s youngest gorge, set within an ancient landscape. Access is through guided tours only, with visitors able to self-drive to Cobbold Gorge Village.

After a scenic drive from Forsayth along a gravel road, the village appears as a green oasis in the outback. A large dam and a clear blue pool on the left contrast with the surrounding red and brown terrain. Gravel roads and concrete footpaths link the caravan and camping areas.

At the centre, the bistro and reception area form the hub of activity, where visitors can be seen relaxing outside their cabins or enjoying water activities in the pool and dam.

A large road sign stands on a dry, grassy area beside a paved road. The sign lists various destinations with distances in kilometres, including Long Gully Station and Forsayth Airstrip. The background features sparse trees and low hills. The sky is clear with a few clouds. Additional smaller signs are visible further down the road on the right.

A dirt path leads to a large rock with the words "Welcome to Cobbold Gorge" engraved on it, surrounded by smaller rocks. Trees and shrubs are scattered around, with a few flowering plants near the sign. To the right, a building is partially visible, and a white vehicle is parked nearby. The area is open with more trees in the background.

A gravel road leads into a rural area with trees and small buildings. On the left, there are traffic signs indicating a speed limit of 5 km/h and a "Give Way" sign. In the centre, a sign provides directions to reception, camping, rooms, ensuite sites, and day visitor parking. The right side features a rocky mound with scattered trees and a building partially visible behind it. The area is surrounded by greenery and a clear sky above.

A gravel path runs through the centre, flanked by grass and scattered rocks. On the left, there's a fenced area with a swimming pool, sun loungers, and umbrellas. Trees surround the pool area, providing shade. On the right, more trees and a grassy area with patches of bare earth. In the background, there are buildings partially obscured by trees, and a person walking along the path. The sky is mostly clear with some clouds.

Sounds

Birds chirping
Water splashing
Wind rustling
Distant chatter
Vehicles on gravel

Smells

Fresh grass
Eucalyptus
Fresh air
Barbecue
Damp earth

Feel

Warm sun
Cool breeze
Soft grass
Gravel underfoot
Refreshing water

Sight

Green lawns
Wayfinding signs
Red earth
Caravans
Trees swaying

Reception and Check In

The reception area has step-free pathways and ramps leading to manual outward-opening glass doors. The building combines wood and metal for a practical and welcoming design. Inside, the air-conditioned space includes souvenirs and a small grocery section.

The reception desk is positioned at the far end, beyond several retail shelves. An accessible bathroom is located at the rear left of the building for visitor convenience.

People can be seen browsing the shelves, speaking with staff, or sitting in the seating areas. The environment is calm and comfortable.

A single-storey building with a light-coloured exterior and a green-trimmed roof. The front features large windows and a central wooden door, flanked by chalkboards with writing. A wooden deck with picnic tables is supported by metal poles. A ramp leads up to the entrance, with a "Reception" sign at the base. Surrounding the building are green lawns and trees, with a tall antenna visible on the right. The ground is paved with concrete.

A single-storey building with a corrugated metal exterior and a sloped roof is on the left. It has a covered porch with railings and several windows. A concrete path leads up to the entrance, with potted plants near the doorway. On the right, a wide concrete driveway extends into the distance, bordered by trees and shrubs. The background features more trees and a grassy area, with a small structure visible further back.

A wooden deck with a sloped, corrugated metal roof on the left, featuring a wooden bench and a railing. A large window and a defibrillator are mounted on the wall. On the right, glass doors lead into a shop with tiled flooring, displaying shelves of hats and clothing. The interior is well-lit with fluorescent lights. In the background, there are large cacti and various plants visible through the window.

Wooden-framed glass doors lead into a shop with a corrugated metal ceiling and tiled floor. Inside, a display stand with various items is centred, surrounded by shelves and counters. Fluorescent lights line the ceiling. Outside, a wooden deck is visible, with a bench on the right. A black box labelled "After Hours Key Return" is mounted on the wall to the right of the door. Signs and notices are posted on the doors.

Sounds

Chatter of visitors
Rustling of bags
Footsteps on tiles
Door opening
Air conditioning hum

Smells

Fresh air
Scent of souvenirs
Mild cleaning products
Wooden aroma
Cool air

Feel

Cool air
Smooth tiles
Wooden textures
Open space
Comfortable atmosphere

Sight

Wooden floors
Glass doors
Retail shelves
Reception desk
Accessible bathroom

Bistro

The bistro is a lowset building with clear signage, featuring a central high bar for ordering and drinks. The architecture includes wooden floorboards and rustic wooden beams, creating a cosy atmosphere. The area overlooks a pool and dam, surrounded by established trees.

Visitors are likely to enjoy dining, socialising, and relaxing by the water. The atmosphere is calm and inviting, with the sounds of native birds and the smell of cooking foods enhancing the sensory experience.

A paved path runs along the left side, bordered by trees and grass. On the right, there's a small building with a corrugated metal roof. The building has an open area with a counter displaying ice cream advertisements. A tree with red flowers and some plants are in front of the building. The interior is partially visible, showing a wooden floor and some lighting.

A small building with a corrugated metal roof and wooden posts. In the centre, there is an ice cream freezer with colourful advertisements. Inside, a map and some framed pictures are visible on the walls. The entrance is open, leading to a wooden floor. On the left, there are flowering plants and a small bush. On the right, a wooden railing with more greenery in front. Trees are visible in the background. The ground is a mix of concrete and soil.

A rustic outdoor dining area with wooden flooring and a wooden ceiling supported by timber beams. On the right, there's a bar counter with menus and a chalkboard listing dessert options. In the middle, high stools with fur covers are placed around a table. On the left, several tables and chairs are arranged on a brick patio, with a stone wall separating the spaces. In the background, a large umbrella provides shade, and trees are visible beyond the patio.

A covered outdoor area with a wooden floor and ceiling supported by wooden beams. In the centre, there's a metal counter with a glass display case and a chalkboard menu. To the left, a stone pathway leads through a garden with various plants and trees. In the background, there are tables and chairs set up on a brick patio, surrounded by more trees and greenery. A blackboard with writing is visible on the right side.

Sounds

Native birds
Soft chatter
Clinking glasses
External weather conditions
Water splashing

Smells

Cooking foods
Fresh wood
Alcohol
Mild cleaning products
Nature's freshness

Feel

Calm
Gentle breeze
Relaxed atmosphere
Comfortable seating
Textured floor area

Sight

Wooden beams
Central bar
Pool view
Greenery
Outdoor seating

Pool

The pool area features a stunning infinity edge overlooking a picturesque dam, creating a seamless blend with the natural surroundings. The pool has a stepped entry, and includes a swim-up bar for relaxation.

The area is paved with stone tiles, and is surrounded by lush greenery. The atmosphere is calm and serene, ideal for unwinding. Visitors are likely to swim, lounge, and enjoy drinks at the bar.

A serene outdoor setting with an infinity pool on the right, reflecting the surrounding trees and sky. The pool is bordered by a tiled patio area with several black sun loungers on the left. In the background, there are trees and a grassy area, with a fence running along the perimeter. A small structure with a metallic finish is near the pool. The sky has a mix of clouds with hints of pink and orange.

An infinity pool with clear blue water is in the foreground, bordered by a stone deck. A metal handrail descends into the pool. In the background, there are lush green trees and a calm body of water reflecting the sky. To the right, a structure with a corrugated metal roof is partially visible. The scene is serene, with natural greenery surrounding the pool area.

A serene outdoor setting with two connected infinity pools. The foreground features a smaller pool with a tiled floor, bordered by stone. To the right, a larger pool extends towards a gazebo with a green roof, surrounded by a paved area. Lush greenery and trees fill the background, with a glimpse of a river or lake beyond the pools. A bird is captured mid-flight in the sky.

A serene infinity pool stretches across the foreground, reflecting the surrounding landscape. On the left and right, tall trees with slender trunks and green foliage line the pool's edge. In the background, more trees and dense greenery extend into the distance. The water's surface mirrors the trees and the sky, creating a tranquil scene. The pool tiles are visible beneath the clear water.

Sounds

Gentle water flow
Birdsong
Clinking of glasses
Leaves rustling
Muffled conversation

Smells

Fresh water
Earthy grass
Chlorine hint
Floral notes
Crisp air

Feel

Cool water
Exhilaration
Comfort of lounging
Gentle breeze
Tranquility

Sight

Infinity pool
Calm colours
Stepped entry
Serene setting
Stone tiles & greenery

Dam

This area includes a calm freshwater dam with a dedicated accessible kayak launch pontoon designed to support safe and independent access to the water. The pontoon is reached via a wheelchair-friendly gangway and sits on stable floats to minimise movement. A transfer seat with slide-out extensions and a low-friction launch cradle assists people using wheelchairs, seniors, and those with limited mobility to transfer into a kayak and enter the water with greater stability.

Life jackets are provided, and kayaking is a free activity for guests staying at Cobbold Gorge. The surrounding environment is peaceful, with shaded seating areas nearby for rest and observation.

A serene park setting with a circular arrangement of benches surrounding a cluster of large rocks in the centre. The ground is covered with grass and scattered leaves. In the background, a calm lake reflects the surrounding trees, which are tall and sparse with slender trunks. A small dock extends into the water. The sky is partly cloudy, and the area is surrounded by lush greenery.

Grassy area with scattered leaves in the foreground. On the left, there are several benches and a shaded area with a canopy, adjacent to a wooden deck. In the centre, tall trees with slender trunks and sparse foliage. On the right, a small dock extends into a calm body of water, with a blue kayak visible. The background features more trees and a few structures, possibly buildings, partially obscured by the foliage.

A narrow metal walkway extends from the foreground to a floating dock on a calm lake. The dock is surrounded by several kayaks and paddle boats. Tall trees with slender trunks and sparse foliage frame the scene on both sides. The water reflects the trees and sky, with patches of green lily pads scattered across the surface. The ground in the foreground is a mix of grass and bare earth, with some fallen leaves.

A tranquil lake scene with a black platform in the foreground, featuring a metal ladder and steps leading into the water. On the left, several blue kayaks are visible. The background is filled with trees lining the water's edge, and the surface of the lake reflects the sky and surrounding greenery.

Sounds

Birds chirping
Water lapping
Leaves rustling
Ducks quacking
Paddle splashes

Smells

Fresh water
Earthy grass
Faint wood/metal
Damp wood
Clean air

Feel

Cool breeze
Soft grass
Warm sun
Solid pontoon underfoot
Relaxed & serene

Sight

Lily pads
Blue kayaks
Green trees
Reflective water
Open sky

Accessible Cabins

The Ringers Rest accessible cabins are two combined cabins set in a standalone building with a step-free entrance from a gravel car park. The structure has corrugated metal walls and a large shared verandah with wooden decking.

Each cabin includes air conditioning, a spacious bathroom with grab bars, and facilities for making tea and coffee. The interior layout allows easier wheelchair movement within the space.

The area around the cabins is quiet and open, with visitors often seen relaxing on the verandah or resting indoors. The design focuses on accessibility and convenience, offering a comfortable space for rest and enjoyment.

A small building with a corrugated metal exterior and a wooden deck extends from the right to the centre. The deck has a railing and a shaded area with a table and chairs. On the left, there are green shrubs and trees, with a blue hose on the ground. The foreground has a gravel path leading to the deck. In the background, a few cars are parked on a gravel area, and more trees are visible. A large tree stands on the right.

A wooden deck extends forward, bordered by metal railings with wire cables. On the right, a corrugated metal building wall features an air conditioning unit and a small bench. The deck is covered by a flat roof. On the left, there are various green plants and trees in a garden area. The ground is covered with grass and some fallen leaves.

A wooden deck with a corrugated metal wall on the right, featuring a red bench and a fire extinguisher. A window and an open door reveal a room with a bed covered in striped bedding and an air conditioner above. On the left, another red bench is near the open end of the deck, which overlooks a grassy area with trees. The ceiling is smooth and light-coloured.

A wooden deck with a corrugated metal wall on the left, featuring a sliding glass door and a window. Inside, a bed with striped pillows is visible. Two red wooden benches are placed along the wall. The deck extends to the right, bordered by a railing. The ceiling is flat and light-coloured. In the background, there is a gravel area with parked cars and some greenery. A fire extinguisher is mounted on the wall.

Sounds

Birds chirping
Wheelchair movement
Footsteps on gravel
Air conditioning hum
Distant car sounds

Smells

Fresh air
Wooden scent
Clean linens
Brewed coffee
Nature's aroma

Feel

Cool breeze
Smooth wood
Soft bedding
Gentle warmth
Relaxing atmosphere

Sight

Wooden verandah
Metal cabin
Greenery around
Bathroom with grab bars
Cosy interior

Transfer to Cobbold Gorge

The transfer to Cobbold Gorge is by 4WD coach (if wheelchair user, self-drive if appropriate as deemed by staff), along a short 4WD-only track from the Village. On arrival, a large shed-like structure made of corrugated metal serves as the meeting point.

Inside, rows of seating are arranged for visitors to listen to guides share information about the area's history, heritage, and natural features. Accessible wheelchairs, including an off-road TrailRider, are available here, along with an accessible bathroom with grab bars. Pre bookings are required for TrailRider and the Sit Down Paddle board seat.

Two white tour buses with "Cobbold Gorge" written on the sides are parked on a dirt surface. The bus on the left has its door open, revealing yellow steps. Both buses have large windows and are facing each other. In the background, there are trees and several other vehicles partially visible. The sky is partly cloudy.

A white bus with a yellow stripe and the words "Cobbold Gorge" and "Visit Forsayth" on the side. The bus features an image of a crocodile above the text. The door is open, revealing yellow steps and a fire extinguisher inside. The bus is parked on a gravel surface, with another vehicle partially visible on the left. Trees are reflected in the bus windows and visible in the background.

Inside a bus, there are two rows of grey upholstered seats with seatbelts, leading to a raised platform at the back with additional seating. Overhead, there are storage compartments with yellow and black caution stripes. Large windows on both sides provide a view of the outside, showing a dirt road, greenery, and some parked vehicles. The ceiling is lined with panels, and the floor is covered with a dark, textured material.

Two buses with "Cobbold Gorge" branding are parked on a dirt area. The bus on the right has an open door, and both display images and text promoting tours and accommodation. Trees with green foliage are scattered around, and a small structure is visible in the background on the left. The ground is covered with gravel and dirt, and there are some scattered rocks. A few more trees and a small vehicle are partially visible on the right.

Sounds

Engine hum
Gravel crunch
Bird calls
Wind rustle
Guide talks

Smells

Fresh air
Earthy scent
Vehicle exhaust
Metallic hint
Distant flora

Feel

Warm breeze
Rough gravel
Metal coolness
Interaction with others
Comfortable seats

Sight

4WD coaches
Metal shed
Rowed seats
Nature views
Surrounding greenery

Paddle Boards and Boat Cruise

A metal boardwalk extends from the shed to Cobbold Creek, offering a mostly step-free route with some uneven sections. From the shed meeting point, walking sticks are available for use.

At the creek, a floating pathway allows visitors to cross the water and board small powered boats for a guided cruise through Cobbold Gorge.

An assistive stand-up paddleboard is also available for use. Fish can be seen in the clear water, along with birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. The area provides an engaging natural experience for all visitors.

A pathway leads from the foreground to a metal ramp in the middle, surrounded by dense greenery and trees. On the right, a large container holds several wooden sticks, positioned next to a building with a partially visible wall. The ground is covered with dry leaves and the path is made of a smooth, light brown material.

A metal walkway with railings curves through a wooded area. On the left, dense trees with green foliage partially obscure the view. On the right, more trees and dry grass cover the ground. The sun is visible through the trees, casting light and creating lens flares. The walkway is elevated, with a grated surface, and the surrounding area is natural and untamed.

A metal walkway with railings extends into the distance, surrounded by a natural landscape. On the left, dense green trees and shrubs are visible, while on the right, there are more sparse trees with some dry grass. The ground is a mix of brown and green, indicating a dry area. The walkway appears elevated, providing a clear path through the terrain.

A narrow metal walkway with railings extends over a calm, narrow river. On the left, the riverbank is lined with dense trees and shrubs, their branches extending over the water. On the right, the ground is covered with dry leaves and more trees, with a dirt path running alongside. In the background, the walkway leads to a small dock area with boats moored and a few chairs visible. The scene is surrounded by a natural, wooded environment.

Sounds

Birds chirping
Water flowing
Leaves rustling
Boat engines
Footsteps on metal

Smells

Fresh water
Earthy forest
Crisp air
Wooden sticks
Leafy greens

Feel

Changing floor surfaces
Excitement & fun
Metal underfoot
Gentle rocking
Smooth paddle

Sight

Green trees
Clear creek
Metal boardwalk
Floating path
Paddle boards

Accessing Cobbold Gorge Glass Bridge

Visitors are accompanied in small groups by trained Savannah Guides who provide interpretive commentary on the flora, fauna, European history and geology surrounding the Gorge. Regular breaks are included with time to rest and rehydrate.

The pathway leading to the Cobbold Gorge Glass Bridge is a natural trail with uneven ground, rocks, and exposed tree roots. Some sections are narrow between sandstone walls, while others include steps and ramped areas.

Metal bridges assist in crossing more difficult terrain, and ongoing upgrades aim to improve accessibility.

A dirt path winds through a dry, wooded area. On the left, sparse trees with thin trunks and small green leaves are scattered across the landscape. On the right, a large, rugged rock formation with an orange hue stands prominently. The ground is covered with dry grass and fallen branches. The sky is clear and blue, visible through the tree canopy.

A narrow metal bridge with perforated railings extends through a rocky, wooded area. The ground is covered with dry leaves and grass. On both sides, there are slender trees with sparse foliage. Large rock formations are visible in the background, with some greenery growing on them. The sky is clear and blue, visible through the tree branches.

A rocky overhang on the left with textured layers of stone. The ground is covered with dirt and scattered rocks. On the right, there are several slender trees with sparse foliage, and beyond them, a view of a green, forested landscape. Shadows of the trees stretch across the ground, and the scene is brightly lit.

A metal staircase leads up to a rocky ledge in a natural setting. The large rock formation is textured and rugged, with some vegetation growing on it. On the right, a person is visible standing on the rock. The ground is covered with dry leaves and twigs, and there are sparse bushes and trees around. The sky is clear and blue, visible through the branches.

Sounds

Guide talks
Bird calls
Footsteps on gravel
Wind through trees
Distant chatter

Smells

Earthy soil
Dry leaves
Fresh air
Eucalyptus
Sun-warmed rocks

Feel

Adventurous
Sweaty
Rough rocks
Uneven ground
Metal railings

Sight

Sandstone cliffs
Bushland
Metal bridges
Narrow paths
Open sky

Cobbold Gorge Glass Bridge

Emerging from rugged bushland onto the sandstone escarpment, the Cobbold Gorge Glass Bridge spans 10 metres across a deep gorge with tranquil water below. The transparent glass surface allows visitors to look directly down at the water.

Before crossing, guests place protective blue booties over their shoes, and assistance animals also wear protective covers on their paws (owner supplied). Sounds of echoing voices, tour guide directions, and reactions of excitement or nervous laughter fill the air.

A rugged landscape with a metal bridge spanning a deep gorge. The foreground features rocky terrain with layers of exposed stone. The bridge, with railings, crosses from left to right, connecting the rocky outcrops. In the background, sparse trees and shrubs are scattered across the rocky hills. The sky is mostly clear with some clouds.

A rocky landscape with a modern glass and metal bridge extending across a deep gorge. The foreground features rugged, uneven rock surfaces with sparse vegetation. In the background, dense green trees cover the tops of the rock formations, creating a natural canopy. The bridge connects two large rock formations, providing a pathway over the chasm.

A glass-bottomed bridge extends across a rocky landscape. The bridge has transparent panels and metal railings on both sides. The rocky terrain below is rugged, with patches of greenery and sparse trees. In the background, more rocks and trees are visible, creating a natural setting. The sky is clear and blue, providing a bright backdrop.

A glass-bottomed bridge extends over a deep gorge, with clear panels and metal railings on both sides. The bridge reflects the blue sky above. The surrounding landscape features rugged, rocky terrain with sparse vegetation and small trees scattered across the area. The gorge below is steep and shadowed, contrasting with the bright, open space above.

Sounds

Echoes in the gorge
Tour guide instructions
Excited chatter
Footsteps on glass
Wind rustling leaves

Smells

Fresh air
Earthy rock scent
Bushland aroma
Clean glass
Distant water

Feel

Smooth glass underfoot
Adrenaline rush
Exhilaration
Solid bridge structure
Mild nervousness

Sight

People taking photos
Glass bridge
Deep gorge
Rock formations
Bushland greenery

TrailRider Wheelchair

The TrailRider All-Terrain Wheelchair, designed by quadriplegic Vancouver Mayor Sam Sullivan, enables access to trails not suitable for standard wheelchairs. It has front and rear handles, allowing guides to manoeuvre it over uneven ground, steps, and small obstacles.

The seat and supports are adjustable, making it suitable for adults and children. From 2026, the TrailRider will be available for the 1.5 km circular trail that starts at the bottom of the gorge, climbs to the top, crosses the Cobbold Gorge Glass Bridge, and returns to the base for a silent boat cruise.

A support crew of two to four “Sherpas” is required to assist the rider throughout the trail and pre-bookings are required.

Under a metal roof, a recumbent tricycle and a wheelchair are on a concrete floor. To the right, a row of white chairs is lined up. In the background, a large rock with an informational sign stands near trees and foliage visible through the open sides of the structure. The walls are made of corrugated metal.

A covered outdoor area with a concrete floor. On the left, there is a specialised wheelchair with a large front wheel and handlebars, designed for off-road use. Next to it is a standard wheelchair. On the right, rows of white plastic chairs are arranged facing a wall with informational displays. The background features large windows revealing a view of trees and greenery. The ceiling is made of corrugated metal.

A serene outdoor scene with a wooden dock extending over a calm body of water on the left. The dock has metal railings and is surrounded by lush trees and greenery. On the right, a specialised wheelchair is positioned on a dirt path, next to a large tree with a textured trunk. The ground is covered with dry leaves and the area is shaded by the tree canopy. Steps lead down to the dock, and the water reflects the surrounding foliage.

A glass-bottomed bridge extends across a rocky landscape with sparse vegetation. On the left, a black recumbent bike is parked on the bridge. The bridge has transparent railings supported by metal posts. In the background, there are rocky outcrops and scattered trees under a clear blue sky. The floor of the bridge is made of metal grating, and the glass panels reflect the sky.

Sounds

Camera clicks
Distant chatter
Water flowing
Guide talks
Wind in trees

Smells

Fresh foliage
Earthy soil
Clean air
Wood scent
Water freshness

Feel

Excitement/nervousness
Tingling or butterflies
Smooth metal
Weightlessness
Freedom & awe

Sight

People taking photos
Glass bridge
TrailRider chair
Open pavilion
Rocky gorge

Two hands shaking Thankyou graphic

Thank You

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