STAYING at the Evening Star Tourist Park gives you an amazing chance to meet the people of the land and even experience a little of their lives. Just 8km from Charleville on the Adavale Road, the Evening Star Tourist Park is part of Thurlby Station, which is a working cattle property owned and operated by Justin and Peta Debney and their children. Justin’s great great grandfather selected Thurlby in 1892, which makes his children the sixth generation to live at Thurlby. The four-star-rated park features 33 powered sites and a big camping ground out the back. If you haven’t brought your own accommodation, there is a fully self-contained cabin at the Evening Star. A bush kitchen makes meals a snap (there are barbecues, fridge, microwave, kettle and cooking utensils). Pets are welcome and there is a dump point. At night, warm yourself by the large open campfire and watch the stars come out. You’ll soon see why they called the park the Evening Star. Wander through the old shearing shed, go bushwalking or book one of the station tours, offered on Tuesday and Thursday from 10.00am to 12.30pm. You see whatever station activity is happening, learn about grazing, water and the way of life from the comfort of the air-conditioned 18-seater bus. The tour finishes with a light lunch, tea and coffee back at the bush kitchen. Sunset tours are held on Wednesdays. Sup on finger food and wine as you enjoy the 360-degree view from a hilltop on the property. Wildlife is usually spotted on the return trip. Minimum numbers apply to all tours.

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