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Tucked away between Laidley and Gatton is a vibrant little town with much to offer. Situated six kilometres south of the Warrego Highway, Forest Hill has an unspoiled boutique feel, reflected in its quality gift shops and tastefully renovated buildings. Originally part of a large rural 'run', the area around Forest Hill was sub-divided into small farms in the 1880s. By the early 1900s Forest Hill was thriving and growing more produce than the older Gatton and Laidley settlements. Forest Hill was Australia's largest produce distribution centre in the early 1900s. Home to two beautiful large corner pubs, a quick trip to Forest Hill can easily convert half a day to exploring, shopping, eating and drinking a few cold beers. Make sure you call into the privately owned Forest Hill Post Office where you will find a treasure trove of gifts, artwork and a cafe and restaurant with an enviable local reputation. Located next door is Cafe Sorella, originally an old grocery store. Located a short drive from town is Stockton Rise Country Retreat, a three bedroom self contained house accommodation situated amongst fertile farmland. Moreover, Forest Hill is on the Cobb and Co Tourist route, so it is little wonder it has something for the history buffs. As an alternative to the hurly-burly of the highway, take the more leisurely and scenic route from Ipswich to Forest Hill via Rosewood and Laidley....

The fertile Lockyer Valley of South East Queensland is home to the rich farming region of Gatton, just 60 minutes from Brisbane. Known for its spectacular scenic backdrop of steep hills and the mountains of The Great Dividing Range, Gatton is a fast growing region that has maintained its natural beauty and charm. In November 2009, Gatton became home to the Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre, a purpose built facility which houses a Library, Art Gallery, Function and Conference rooms, Visitor Information Centre and the Queensland Transport Museum - all this with the beautiful backdrop of Lake Apex. Take a walk around the lake, visit the 'Lights on the Hill' Trucking memorial, and enjoy bird watching within the fauna sanctuary. Or, for an insight into the history of the town and the Gatton area try visiting the Gatton and District Historical Society Museum which is located beside Lake Apex. The museum is open the first Sunday of every month between 10 am- 3 pm. The University of Queensland Gatton Campus is only five minutes from the Central Business District and has a wealth of history including the old Foundation Building. You will also witness stunning bird life at the on-campus Lake Galletly. Visit one of the University's famous Walk Way Market events - sample fresh produce and browse locally made crafts. Take a walk down Railway Street and stop in at Jak & Mo Taste Co Cafe for a great coffee and choose from their menu with so many fresh delicious options you wont go hungry. Like Italian? Cottone's Cafe/ Restaurant/ Bar is the place for you, their friendly staff will make you feel welcome as you enjoy their delightful menu and atmosphere. If your a footy fan head on down to the local Rugby League club, Cahill Park home to the Gatton hawks. Cahill Park facilities include function room, bistro, bar, UBET and gaming room. Looking for a family friendly restaurant? Sage on Hickey has all your dining needs, from locally sourced produce and also outdoor fun being located at the Gatton bowls club,a night out to remember....

Many tears were shed on home soil as blood seeped in WWI trenches, Queensland's outpouring of grief most poignantly captured in a marble statue of a seated mother, weeping, at Gatton. While the foundation stone was laid in April 1922, it's not known when the marble memorial, which includes a mausoleum-type structure, was unveiled. It is known that it was designed and produced by Ipswich mason Frank Williams at a cost of more than £500 and that money was raised through public subscription. The weeping mother, slightly smaller than life-size, sits on a mound of rocks, her chin resting on her right hand, her left hand holding a scroll with the inscription 'Their names liveth for evermore'. Gatton's farming community lost 68 local men in WWI. The names of locals who died in subsequent conflicts, 23 in WWII and two in Vietnam, have been added. A light to illuminate the statue at night was added by the Gatton RSL and Women's Auxiliary, a WWI nurse flicking the switch on Armistice Day 1933. ...

A beautiful waterfront park which is home to over 150 different species of birds. Inclusive of playground equipment, barbecues, exercise equipment and toilet facilities. Lake Apex Park is also dog friendly and has a paved walking track the entire distance around the Lake. A perfect location for your next picnic....

Situated in between Gatton and Esk is the locality of Adare. Mostly farming lad, Adare is also home to beautiful Pohlmans Retail Nursery, just 10 minutes drive from Gatton, is open seven days a week with an extensive range of plants, a fantastic factory outlet and tours and packages, available for group bookings....

An ex-serviceman who fought with the Australian Light Horse in WWI is believed to be the sculptor of Forest Hill's war memorial in the Lockyer Valley. The 4.5 metre monument, a life-size soldier standing on a tall sandstone pedestal with classically carved colonnettes, was unveiled in 1921 by five mothers whose sons had died at war. Monument masons PJ Lowther and Sons of Brisbane were commissioned to create the £300 cenotaph for the Forest Hill Memorial League. It's believed the family firm's sculptor son Charles Lowther actually did the carving. The finely carved grey sandstone monument faces east, towards the rising sun. Inscribed on the stone are the names of 97 soldiers who served including 11 who did not return. It's located in a small park adjacent to a railway line. A plate with the names of WWII servicemen has been added. ...