Melbourne to Hervey Bay road trip: Distance, time & best stops

Melbourne to Hervey Bay road trip: Moonie to Dalby

However, Moonie is where the quickest route from Melbourne to Hervey Bay departs the Leichhardt Highway. Head along the Moonie Highway through Waar Waar State Forest and Kumbarilla State Forest until you arrive in Dalby.

The best things to do in Dalby include visiting Jimbour House and Pioneer Park Museum.

Options for an overnight stay in Dalby include the pool-equipped Dalby Manor Motor Inn and the budget-friendly Dalby Tourist Park.

Attractions between Melbourne and Hervey Bay: Bell and Bunya Mountains National Park

From Dalby, head north-east along the Bunya Highway towards Bell. There are a couple of places to get something to eat here, but the quirkiest attraction is the Biblical Garden at the Our Lady Help of Christians Catholic Church.

Bell can be used as a base for exploring Bunya Mountains National Park. There are three campgrounds and several walking trails here. The challenging 9.6km return walk from Westcott to Cherry Plain is arguably the best bet on the western side of the park.

Otherwise, the route crosses the Boyne River and heads into Kumbia, which has the practically obligatory small town pub and golf course combo.

Click through to the next section: Kingaroy to Goomeri.