The South Kolan region is in the Wide Bay–Burnett region, north of the state capital Brisbane and south west of the regional city of Bundaberg. The Burnett River flows through the locality. The neighbourhood of Birthamba is located in the north-eastern area of South Kolan ; it takes its name from the former Birthamba railway station on the now closed Mount Perry railway line. Birthamba is an Aboriginal word meaning camp. The former neighbourhood of Kalbar is located in the eastern area of South Kolan. Kalbar Road still bears the name. It is located in the bend of the Burnett River opposite South Bingera / Branyan.. The neighbourhood of Koolboo is located in the north-western area of South Kolan ; it takes its name from the former Kooboo railway station on the now closed Mount Perryrailway line. Koolboo is named after a local Aboriginal clan leader.
History
The name Kolan is believed to be a Kabi language word kalang meaning good. Kolan South State School opened on 29 July 1878. Kalbar Plantation was owned by Dr May of Bundaberg; a sugar mill was erected there in 1883. Kalbar Provisional School opened on 26 February 1896. On 1 January 1909 it became Kalbar State School. It closed on 15 June 1962. St. Mary's Anglican Church was dedicated on 11 March 1979 by Archbishop Felix Arnott. It closed during 1994. At the, South Kolan had a population of 1,164. Many properties damaged by the 2011 and 2013 floods, which saw extensive repairs and adjustments made to the approaches of the Cedars Road Bridge Crossing. In the, South Kolan had a population of 1,061 people.
Industry
Industry in the district consists of cattle farming, sugar cane production and milling, and commercial fruit and vegetable production. The township, although small, has a convenience store, Kolan South State Primary School, a Police Station and The South Kolan Pub which also has accommodation facilities. South Kolan is also frequented by many residents of surrounding rural areas such as Pine Creek and Gin Gin.
Tourism
South Kolan is home to the Mystery Craters. Discovered in 1971, the origin of the 35 oddly shaped craters has been the subject of controversy.
Education
Kolan South State School is a government primary school for boys and girls at 2297 Gin Gin Road. In 2017, the school had an enrolment of 124 students with 7 teachers and 7 non-teaching staff.
Culture
Entertainment in South Kolan is centered on local school events and social events at the South Kolan Pub, which hosts live music on a weekly basis with acts performed by local artists. Each afternoon patrons are treated to a live comedic show by local resident Ross Griffiths. Karen Griffiths is also an esteemed singer who specializes in harmonizing and frequently performs at the venue.
Sport
The South Kolan football club affectionately known as the "sharkies" hosts home games in football season while still remaining a family atmosphere as well as being open most weekends for socialising and a good time while having a cold beverage.
Events
Each year the South Kolan Pub hosts its 'Australia Day Warm Beer and Cold Pie Contest'. The prestigious winning title was awarded to local legend Thomas Griffiths in 2014.
Climate
South Kolan has a subtropical climate with wet, hot summers and mild winters.
