History
About Bestbrook
Nestled on the western edge of Cunningham’s Gap in Queensland’s Southern Darling Downs, Bestbrook is where ancient landscapes, pioneering history and generations of rural life come together. Here, you’ll discover Indigenous heritage, early European settlement and the story of a working farm that grew into one of Queensland’s best-loved farmstay destinations.
Ancient Pathways & Indigenous Heritage
Long before European explorers arrived, the valley between Mount Mitchell and Mount Cordeaux, now known as Cunningham’s Gap, was an important travel route for Aboriginal people moving between the Darling Downs and the Fassifern Valley.
According to a Dreamtime story of the Yuggera Ugarapul People, kangaroos were once gathered and fenced within the Fassifern Valley. This prevented other clans from hunting them.. An old woman released the animals, and as they bounded west across the mountains, they carved the opening now known as Cunningham’s Gap.
The fertile plains south of the Gap were the traditional Country of the Githabal people. The Githabal people carefully managed the land using cultural burning, often called fire-stick farming. This encouraged native grasses and plants to regenerate while creating healthy habitats for kangaroos, wallabies and other wildlife.
Exploration & Early Settlement
In 1827, British botanist Allan Cunningham became the first European to reach the crest of the Main Range. A few days later, he named the fertile plains to the west the Darling Downs. The route he identified through the range later became the gateway for squatters and their flocks during the 1840s.
Bestbrook is located within the locality of Tregony, with Maryvale as its nearest township. Maryvale takes its name from Maryvale Station, a pastoral property established in the early 1840s and purchased by Arnold Weinholt in 1848. In the late 1800s, the estate was subdivided into farming blocks, leading to the establishment of the township.
On 3 July 1909, the Queensland Government declared Cunningham’s Gap a national park, protecting more than 3,100 acres on the western side of the range. Rangers and volunteers gradually developed walking tracks throughout the 1930s and 1950s, allowing visitors to experience this remarkable landscape.
The Growth of Maryvale
Maryvale grew steadily throughout the early 20th century.
- 1911 – The first church was established.
- 30 September 1911 – The Maryvale railway line opened as a branch from the Southern Railway.
- April 1913 – Maryvale State School opened.
- March 1914 – Maryvale Post Office opened (remaining in operation until 1981).
- September 1924 – Construction began on St Alban’s Anglican Church, built on the site of the original Maryvale homestead.
The railway was originally intended to become part of a direct Brisbane-to-Sydney route. However, the section between Mount Edwards and Maryvale was never completed, and the branch line eventually closed on 1 November 1960.
Between 1925 and 1927, volunteers constructed the first road through Cunningham’s Gap—exactly 100 years after Allan Cunningham’s discovery of the pass. The steep, rugged route proved challenging and was even temporarily closed shortly after opening. The modern sealed highway through the Gap was completed in November 1949.
Bestbrook: From Farm to Farmstay
A Working Farm
Bestbrook operated as a traditional farming property until the early 1980s. The original farmhouse stood near today’s Cunningham Highway, east of the current Coach House.
Historic aerial photographs from 1965, displayed in Reception, show the original farmhouse, dairy, sheds and c
ultivated paddocks nestled at the foot of the mountain.
Creating the Farmstay Experience
During the 1980s, a Brisbane-based group purchased Bestbrook with a vision to create a unique rural tourism destination. Nine self-contained cabins were built along Gap Creek, laying the foundations for the farmstay experience enjoyed by guests today.
The Coach House officially opened on 1 December 1989, launched by Sir Frank Moore, then Chairman of the Queensland Tourism and Travel Corporation and the Australian Tourism Industry Association. The opening marked an important milestone for both Bestbrook and the Maryvale community.
Bestbrook expanded again in 1995 with the addition of the Village Bunkhouse, providing accommodation for school camps, groups and international students, expanding Bestbrook’s role as one of Queensland’s leading farmstay destinations.
A New Chapter
However after changing ownership in 2001, Bestbrook entered a quieter period before being purchased by its current owners, Ray Vincent and Elise Wilson.
With a strong commitment to rural hospitality, community and authentic country experiences, the Vincent family revitalised the property and rebuilt a loyal customer base. Today, Bestbrook’s success reflects not only their vision but also the dedication of a passionate team who take pride in welcoming every guest.
The Wagon Wheel Discovery
A Remarkable Piece of Bestbrook History
One of Bestbrook’s most fascinating discoveries emerged during the severe drought of 1991.
While working near the old settlers’ track beside Gap Creek, Trail Boss Malcolm LeLay noticed what appeared to be an old fence post protruding from the creek bed. Careful excavation revealed something far more significant—a complete wagon wheel, remarkably preserved beneath layers of gravel.
Experts from the Cobb & Co Museum in Toowoomba identified it as likely belonging to an imported American wagon dating from the 1860s, based on its distinctive features:
- Steam-bent wooden rims
- Riveted hickory spokes
- A rare wooden axle
Hidden beneath the creek for more than 130 years, the wagon wheel is now proudly displayed in the Coach House foyer, offering visitors a genuine connection to the pioneers who once travelled this historic route.
Bestbrook Today
Horse riding was a much-loved part of the Bestbrook experience for many years. However, rising operating costs and ongoing staffing shortages led to the difficult decision to retire the horse trail rides.
As Bestbrook continues under the stewardship of the Vincent family, the focus remains on creating memorable country experiences while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the property for future generations.
Explore the Local History
Warwick Historical Society & Pringle Cottage
Warwick is home to some of Queensland’s finest heritage sandstone buildings. A visit to the Warwick Visitor In
formation Centre or the Warwick Historical Society Museum provides an excellent introduction to more than 130 years of regional history.
The museum’s centrepiece is Pringle Cottage, a beautifully restored sandstone home built around 1870 and listed by the National Trust. The museum complex also features relocated heritage buildings displaying photographs, household items, farming equipment, machinery and historic vehicles that tell the story of the Southern Downs.
Visit Historic Maryvale
Only 5 km west of Bestbrook, the village of Maryvale offers visitors a glimpse into Queensland’s rural past.
Turn left onto Maryvale Road and travel approximately 2 km to discover this charming country village, including its historic hotel, which has welcomed travellers for more than a century.
Discover Warwick’s Heritage Trails
Extend your visit by exploring
Plan Your Visit
History is only one part of the Bestbrook experience. During your stay, you can enjoy hands-on farm activities, scenic walks, country hospitality and the relaxed pace of rural life that has made Bestbrook a favourite destination for generations of families.
Whether you’re exploring Cunningham’s Gap, discovering local heritage or simply unwinding beside Gap Creek, we hope you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of this remarkable corner of the Southern Downs.
