St Lawrence

St Lawrence is situated approximately 155km south of Mackay, 177km north of Rockhampton and 6km east of the Bruce Highway. Major attractions include the St Lawrence Wetlands, freshwater fish habitats and abundant bird life. The township was originally built to service the Customs Office for the Port of St Lawrence.
One historical building still remaining from this time is the Council Office. The remains of the port and abattoir constructed using convict labour are also accessible. The Court House and Police Station was built in 1879 and has been repainted in its original colour scheme.
The Centenary Pavilion located at the sports ground (next to the tennis courts) was constructed to celebrate the Shire's Centenary in 1979 with the collection of past machinery and relics. The Pavilion is open 24 hours a day for viewing.
The Recreation Grounds on the outskirts of town provide year-round camping facilities and amenities for travellers and is available for hire for functions.
Camping at St Lawrence
Overnight camping at St Lawrence is charged at $13.25 per night for a maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights.
Please be advised it is recommended travellers fill their vans prior to arrival at St Lawrence, as currently there is no potable water available for filling caravans.
St Lawrence does have water available for drinking, showering and cooking.
Payment can be made via the following options:
- By calling Council on 1300 ISAACS (47 22 27) during business hours
- Over the counter at Council offices during business hours
Things to see and do
- The Anglican Church: built in 1898 and holding monthly services with all denominations welcome.
- St Lawrence Cemetery: the cemetery has many graves dating back to the mid 1800's. A grave register is held at the Council Office and Library.
- Railway building: recently restored and housing the St Lawrence library. Internet access is available from this Centre for use by the local community and visitors.
St Lawrence Wetlands
The St Lawrence Wetlands are key perennial wetlands within the St Lawrence Creek system. This forms part of the greater Broadsound Wetlands – listed in the Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia. The Wetlands' depth varies, being at its highest between January – April and lowest between September – November.
The St Lawrence Wetlands have interpretive signs located along a walking track. For your personal safety and the safety of the Wetlands, please consider the following for your visit:
- wear enclosed footwear, long pants and a hat
- leave boundary gates closed
- do not approach stock or enter neighbouring properties
- please take all rubbish home with you
- remember the St Lawrence Wetlands is a snake habitat! Please take care while exploring.
Freshwater fish habitat
Most of Queensland's freshwater fish need to move (or migrate) between rivers, floodplains or the sea to breed and grow. Along the St Lawrence Northern Road you will find two ‘Fishway' structures on the side of the causeway. ‘Fishways' are structures allowing fish to move past barriers allowing natural fish movements to occur.
Abundant bird life
St Lawrence Wetlands support nationally threatened water birds, as well as shorebirds and is home to a variety of birds. Over 55 waterbird species have been recorded in the area, with 92 bird species recorded in total.