St George: A Dam Good Ride
Returning to St George felt familiar rather than nostalgic. This was our second visit, and instead of treating it like a rediscovery, we used the time to do a little more of what we’d missed the first time around.
St George sits comfortably on the banks of the Balonne River and works well as a base rather than a quick stop. It’s easy to get around, well set up for travellers, and has enough nearby to fill a couple of days without too much effort.
Apart from stopping off as we headed north again, one of the main reasons we stayed was to get out for a ride to E.J. Beardmore Dam, just a short distance from town. The roads out were quiet, sealed, and ideal for a relaxed motorbike run. No traffic stress, no rush, just open country and time to enjoy the ride.
The dam itself is straightforward but well worth the effort. It’s a wide, open expanse of water with room to stop, stretch your legs, and take in the scale of the landscape. We parked up, wandered a little, and spent time watching the birdlife that’s clearly made the area home. It’s an easy place to visit, with no need for a plan beyond turning up.
Back in town, we spent time walking through the centre of St George, calling into local cafes and shops. It’s the kind of place where things are practical rather than polished, and the welcome feels genuine. People have time for a chat, and there’s no sense of being hurried along.
St George works because it doesn’t overcomplicate itself. It’s a solid regional town with good access to water, plenty of space to move, and just enough nearby to make it worth staying longer than planned.
We share places like this quietly through our Travel Dispatch. If that’s your pace, you can join us here:
St George
St George is a regional town in south-western Queensland, set along the Balonne River. It serves as an agricultural and service centre for the surrounding district and is well equipped for travellers passing through or staying a few nights.
The town has a practical layout, good amenities, and easy access to nearby waterways and open country, making it a comfortable base rather than just a fuel stop.
How to Get There
St George is located on the Balonne Highway, around 515 kilometres west of Brisbane. Roads into town are sealed and well maintained, with easy access for motorhomes, caravans, and motorcycles.
What to See / Tours / Activities
What we did:
Rode out to E.J. Beardmore Dam on quiet sealed roads.
Spent time walking around the dam and watching birdlife.
Wandered through town, visiting cafes and local shops.
Other highlights nearby:
River walks along the Balonne River.
Fishing and boating opportunities (seasonal).
Local parks and picnic areas.
When to Visit
Autumn and spring offer the most comfortable conditions for riding and exploring. Summer temperatures can be extreme, while winter days are generally mild with cool nights.
Final Thoughts
St George doesn’t rely on standout attractions. It works because everything is easy. Easy to reach, easy to get around, and easy to enjoy without overplanning.
What’s Nearby
St George connects easily to other south-west Queensland towns via sealed highways. Roads lead west toward Bollon and Cunnamulla, north toward Surat and Roma, and east back toward regional centres, such as Dalby, Toowoomba, Goondiwindi, making it a practical junction for inland travel.
Fast Facts
Location: St George, Queensland
Distance: Approx. 515 km west of Brisbane
Traditional Owners: Mandandanji people
Access: Sealed highways
Facilities: Fuel, groceries, cafes, accommodation
Walking Track: River walks and town paths
Best Time to Visit: Autumn and spring
Dog Friendly: Yes (on lead in town)
Things That Could Kill You (Probably Won’t)
A semi-serious guide to surviving Australia. Mostly common sense, occasionally luck.
Heat: Summer temperatures can be intense. Plan rides early or late in the day.
Wildlife: Kangaroos are common on roads around dawn and dusk.
Complacency: Quiet roads can encourage relaxed riding. Stay alert.
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