The Scenic Rim is a Local Government area to the east of the Gold Coast and is one of the most beautiful destinations in South East Queensland. The Scenic Rim region is a thriving rural paradise set in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range and surrounded by world heritage listed national parks. Home to a population of more than 37,780, the region covers 4248sq km and is located an hour south of Brisbane and an hour inland from the Gold Coast. Known for its breathtaking scenery, it is a popular tourist destination offering visitors plenty to see and do. From its myriad of wineries and art galleries to expansive bushwalking tracks, state of the art equine facilities, growing rural communities and friendly country charm, the Scenic Rim region is a must see destination. Its main towns are Beaudesert, Boonah, Rathdowney, Kooralbyn, Kalbar, Aratula, Canungra, Tamborine Mountain, Harrisville and Peak Crossing. The region's primary businesses are agricultural/horticultural production, the equine industry and tourism/ecotourism. The Scenic Rim region contains more than 30,000 hectares of parkland, including national parks and council controlled parks. The region also contains three dams: Lake Moogerah, Lake Maroon and Wyaralong Dam. Supported by a thriving economy, a farming industry and a vibrant arts community, the Scenic Rim has a strong community spirit and friendly locals. The Scenic Rim Region experiences sub-tropical climatic conditions typically with warm wet summers and mild dry winters. Temperatures range between daytime averages of mid 30C in summer, to low 20C in winter. The average annual rainfall is 916mm. The Scenic Rim region presents exciting opportunities for economic development across existing and emerging industry sectors. Economic development of our region is a priority for Council with strategies focusing on providing a wide range of programs designed to grow and develop business and the local economy.