"For train and tunnel enthusiasts there is no better place to visit than the Boolboonda Tunnel in Queensland. This amazing 630-foot long (192-meters) tunnel can either be walked, cycled, or driven through. The tunnel cuts through a granite hillside and is known as the longest manmade tunnel in Queensland.
Constructed between 1881-1884 by the O’Rourke & McSharry, the rough-hewn rock walls did not require lining or additional support due to the hard granite. The tunnel took two years to create and is located between the towns of Gin Gin and Mount Perry. It was constructed to serve the Mount Perry Copper Mine and officially opened in 1883.
Due to the closure of the mine and declining use of the rail, the line closed in 1960 and the rails were removed in 1961. The publicly accessible, single-lane, gravel road through the tunnel is open to vehicular traffic and is now used to access other local properties.
The Boolboonda Tunnel was listed on the Queensland Heritage Register in 1999. The tunnel is now home to a colony of protected Bent-wing bats. The unlined rock walls of the tunnel make for a uniquely interesting drive, a fun cycle, or a simple walk." - ATLAS_OBSCURA
A fantastic little piece of history.
Just a couple of k’s off the road.
There is a big enough area to turn a caravan if needed.
We walked thru and photographed the bent wing bats.
Then drove thru and back.
Bill D.
Google
Good bit of modern-day history.
Very interesting, and the micro bat colony is great for the kids to see. It's great they leave it open for all to see and walk or drive through.
Kelly S.
Google
Our June 2025 Boolboonda Tunnel visit
Photos attached.
Easy road in and out
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Susan M.
Google
What an adventure! As you drive into the tunnel you will see tiny bats flying back and forth
Amanda W.
Google
Cool little experience if you've got spare time to head out there
Theresa W.
Google
The information available at the tunnel was very informative. The tunnel is an impressive example of history in the area. We walked through while other's drove. The road is uneven in parts but your phone light is enough to help guide you.
Robin B.
Google
Watch out for the bats, don't look up. Short distance of the highway. Worth a stop in to see the the tunnel. We walked it.
Phil
Google
Only a short excursion off the Mt Perry - Gin Gin rd, well worth the visit. It's two way,with a give way sign on the return