When you head up to Stanage Bay or the country north of Yeppoon you enter a different time Zone, for much of the area you have to put your watch back about 40 years, and some spots you might have to go back 200 years.... a bit like some of the residents at Stanage.
Shoalwater Bay Military Training Area was purchased in the 1960's and since then the destructive predators (humans) have been removed.
I know Bowen is the best little country town on the coast, but not sure if its 40 years behind the times.