Proserpine Itinerary
PROSPEROUS PROSERPINE PACKS A PUNCH!
Explore Proserpine in a day with this handy itinerary and really make the most of this pretty country town named after ‘Proserpinia’, the goddess of fertility.
Day
Photo Opp:Â Proserpine sits in a fertile basin dominated by swaying sugar cane fields and the sugar mill still looms over the town. Swing by the mill on your way into Proserpine for a great photo opportunity with the 62 metre high towers behind you, spewing out their steam as they process about 1.5 million tonnes of cane each year.
Breakfast: Stop at one of the enticing cafés along the main street of Proserpine, which is characterised by beautiful Art Deco and heritage buildings (Tip: look up!). Or grab a snack from one of the bakeries and enjoy the tranquillity of Pioneer Park at the end of the main street where the world is blotted out by the bird noises.
Therapy: It’s time to hit the shops and one of the great things about Proserpine is its range of quirky and eclectic shops selling all manner of things. Peruse the tiny back streets as well as Main Street for a colourful array of jewellery, clothing, shoes, handbags, babywear, homewares, garden items, and cookware, amongst other things.
Historical: Dating back to the 1870s, Proserpine is a history buff’s dream come true, and a visit to the Proserpine Historical Museum is a must. The museum houses fascinating displays about the town’s heritage – its people and industries over the years. As well as a thriving cane industry, Proserpine also experienced its very own ‘Gold Rush’!
Lunch: Wow what a morning! After all that, it’s time for some tucker. Why not take in a counter lunch with the locals at one of the many pubs lining the main street, all with their own distinct feel and character. Enjoy great food while you listen to the locals spin a yarn or two, and experience old fashioned country hospitality.
After lunch: Head to Lake Proserpine, 26kms inland from Proserpine (also known as Peter Faust Dam). Passing fields of cane and other crops you arrive at the massive dam, which was built in 1990 to provide the town’s water needs. It also offers excellent recreational fishing – it is considered one of Australia’s premier barramundi impoundments – and has shaded barbecue facilities. Whether it’s food or fishing you’re after, it’s a beautiful spot to spend the afternoon.
As you drive back:Â As you drive back towards Proserpine, savour the stunning views as the sun spreads its golden glow over the valley, and you understand why this little town is called Proserpine, after the goddess of fertility.