Bunyip Picnic

On Sunday 28th April 2024 the Caboonbah Undeminational Church is again hosting the return of the Bunyip Picnic. – 120 years since the first picnics hosted by Henry Plantagenet Somerset (HP), after whom the Somerset Dam and Somerset Region is named.

This year includes live music by Aria Cook , a Queensland conservatorium of music student and seasoned performer.

There is an interesting yarn associated with this picnic tradition.

To help fund the construction of this church for community use irrespective of faith, HP hosted picnics on the shores of the Brisbane and Stanley rivers – later dammed for flood mitigation and water supply for Brisbane…another story there!

One of the fundraising activities was “shooting of the bunyip” A bullock ‘s hide strapped to a log with a bull’s eye was rowed down the river and HP sold chances to shoot the bunyip. Under the hide was explosives. It certainly caused a sensation, shooters lining up and eventually the bunyip was blown to pieces. We thought about re-introducing this fundraiser but felt there would be a long line regulators and insurers not keen on the idea!

The Church is situated at Mt Beppo – a wonderful 2-hour drive from Brisbane either via Kilcoy from the north or Fernvale from the south. Both directions have wonderful roads. Note there is 1 km of gravel road to the church gate.

Jaguar and Rover attended the 2023 picnic, BBQ, poetry recital, music and comradery. There was also plenty for non-car enthusiasts with some enjoying a stroll through the historic graveyard. The Rover club said it was one of their best “roves” (their regular cub run) and will certainly be back for the 2024 picnic.

Starting at 11am the picnic will conclude by 2pm, however some may stay for the “churches working together” service from 2pm – 3pm. This is a local initiative which fits perfectly with the undenominational nature of this historic building.

Join us this year for a wonderful country drive with a relaxing picnic, music and story telling, including car chat for those with a motoring interest, at the destination. For more information, please feel free to contact John Somerset on t. 0417 618 899.

We have included a modist $20/car charge (+Eventbrite fee) to contribute towards music and maintenance of the historic building and grounds.