Anglers from across the state are immersed in the soft golden light of a misty early morning sunrise along Tara Lagoon, where fishing at first light creates ripples along the glassy Undulla Creek.
Tara Lagoon has become a sanctuary for those who seek solace in the slow, unhurried rhythms of the currents and a place to camp with your pets in the Western Downs.
Katie Gould, the dedicated caretaker of the Tara Lagoon, was inspired to take on the role by her sister, who owns and runs her own rural campsite.
"It was so inspiring to see my sister own and run Lara Station, a rural campsite in Barcaldine and so I have been wanting to take on something that would allow me to work both indoors and outdoors," Katie said.
With a childhood spend on a cattle station, mastering resilience and self-sufficiency, followed by years as a bookkeeper, contract manager, and head of the Council's customer service centre, Katie brings a rare blend of practical knowledge, organisational expertise and deep-rooted connection to the land.
She started the role as caretaker on 1 July 2024, the start of a financial year, turning the page on a fresh chapter for the Tara Lagoon, balancing the books and enriching the experience for families.
"In July the site office was delivered and set up, so we now have a single place for guests to come and find us," she said.
Many have made the journey to Tara Lagoon with the Tara Festival of Culture and Tara Camel Races in August bringing holidaymakers in droves.
"These major events were such an eye opener, reaching 100 per cent occupancy rate and providing information regarding alternate sites," Katie said.
Katie has embraced Tara Lagoon's pet friendly atmosphere, appreciating the joy of seeing families explore the natural beauty of the area alongside their pet companions.
"We have had all sorts of pets stay in the past few months.
"Dogs, cats, guinea pigs, parrots, fish, lizards; I'm sure that I've missed some," she said.
Tara Lagoon is a haven for families, where kayaks glide across the calm waters, children race along the concrete
bike path and pets wander, all beneath the shade of towering gums and the endless blue sky.
"Tara Lagoon is just so peaceful. When our guests ask what is there to do here in town, I suggest that this is the place that you come for a bit of a detox, take a walk around the lagoon, watch the sunset, find a shady tree with a patch of lawn and read a book," she said.
Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Andrew Smith said Katie's dedication as the caretaker of Tara Lagoon is a perfect example that it's the people that make a place truly special.
"Her passion, experience and commitment to the community bring new life to this cherished destination," Mayor Smith said.
