Baz Luhrmann's Australia Filmed in Bowen

In December 2006, it was announced that Bowen was chosen as a filming location for a third of the production of Australia, directed by Baz Luhrmann and starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman, portraying the look of Darwin.

A film set was built and production of the iconic movie commenced in May 2007.

A number of the historic buildings in Bowen featured in the movie including The Grandview Hotel. Jen was excited to visit the hotel as this is where her heart throb, Hugh Jackman spilled sweat, blood and tears making the movie. Alas he was long gone...

In its lifetime, The Grandview Hotel was destroyed twice by fire and twice by cyclone which only adds to the charming resilience of this astonishing building. With a recent chic modern touch to the design whilst preserving the history of the building, the hotel continues to hold a commanding corner position on one of Bowen's Main Streets.

We take a trip though history and enjoy a beer and dinner at the hotel, soft shell crab for me and salt n pepper squid for Jen.Read more