queensland's outback travellers guide - 2011

Q u e e n s l a n d ’ s

Your FREE town to town guide to travelling Queensland's Outback

outbackt r a v e l l e r s ’ G u i d e 2 0 11

Adavale Alpha Aramac Augathella Barcaldine Bedourie Betoota Blackall Boulia Birdsville Cameron Corner Camooweal Charleville Cheepie Cloncurry Cooladdi Corfield Cunnamulla Dajarra Duchess Emmet Eromanga Eulo Hughenden Hungerford Ilfracombe Isisford Jericho Julia Creek Jundah Kajabbi Kynuna Longreach McKinlay Middleton Mount Isa Morven Muttaburra Nelia Noccundra Opalton Prairie Quamby Quilpie Richmond Stamford Stonehenge Tambo Thargomindah Toompine Torrens Creek Urandangi Windorah Winton Wyandra Yaraka Yowah Adavale Alpha Aramac Augathella Barcaldine Bedourie Betoota Blackall Boulia Birdsville Cameron Corner Camooweal Charleville Cheepie Cloncurry Cooladdi Corfield Cunnamulla Dajarra Duchess Emmet Eromanga Eulo Hughenden Hungerford Ilfracombe Isisford Jericho Julia Creek Jundah Kajabbi Kynuna Longreach McKinlay Middleton Mount Isa Morven Muttaburra Nelia Noccundra Opalton Prairie Quamby Quilpie Richmond Stamford Stonehenge Tambo Thargomindah Toompine Torrens Creek Urandangi Windorah Winton Wyandra Yaraka Yowah Adavale Alpha Aramac Augathella Barcaldine Bedourie Betoota Blackall Boulia Birdsville Cameron Corner Camooweal Charleville Cheepie Cloncurry Cooladdi Corfield Cunnamulla Dajarra Duchess Emmet Eromanga Eulo Hughenden Hungerford Ilfracombe Isisford Jericho Julia Creek Jundah Kajabbi Kynuna Longreach McKinlay Middleton Mount Isa Morven Muttaburra Nelia Noccundra Opalton Prairie Quamby Quilpie Richmond Stamford Stonehenge Tambo Thargomindah Toompine Torrens Creek Urandangi Windorah Winton Wyandra Yaraka Yowah Adavale Alpha Aramac Augathella Barcaldine Bedourie Betoota Blackall Boulia Birdsville Cameron Corner Camooweal Charleville Cheepie Cloncurry Cooladdi Corfield Cunnamulla Dajarra Duchess Emmet Eromanga Eulo Hughenden Hungerford Ilfracombe Isisford Jericho Julia Creek Jundah Kajabbi Kynuna Longreach McKinlay Middleton Mount Isa Morven Muttaburra Nelia Noccundra Opalton Prairie Quamby Quilpie Richmond Stamford Stonehenge Tambo Thargomindah Toompine Torrens Creek Urandangi Windorah Winton Wyandra Yaraka Yowah Adavale Alpha Aramac Augathella Barcaldine Bedourie Betoota Blackall Boulia Birdsville Cameron Corner Camooweal Charleville Cheepie Cloncurry Cooladdi Corfield Cunnamulla Dajarra Duchess Emmet Eromanga Eulo Hughenden Hungerford Ilfracombe Isisford Jericho Julia Creek Jundah Kajabbi Kynuna Longreach McKinlay Middleton Mount Isa Morven Muttaburra Nelia Noccundra Opalton Prairie Quamby Quilpie Richmond Stamford Stonehenge Tambo Thargomindah Toompine Torrens Creek Urandangi Windorah Winton Wyandra Yaraka Yowah Adavale Alpha Aramac Augathella Barcaldine Bedourie Betoota Blackall Boulia Birdsville Cameron Corner Camooweal Charleville Cheepie Cloncurry Cooladdi Corfield Cunnamulla Dajarra Duchess Emmet Eromanga

www.adventureoutback.com.au

2 Queensland’s Outback Travellers’ Guide 2011NNR2309

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3visit www.adventureoutback.com.au or call 1800 247 966

Travellers’ Tips .................................................05Getting There .................................................06Calendar of Events 2011 ..........................09Outback Experiences ................................10National Parks ................................................12Travel Directory .............................................68Map ......................................................................74Visitor Information Centres ...................BC

SOUTH WEST ...............................................14Adavale ..............................................................19Augathella ........................................................16Cameron Corner ...........................................22Charleville .........................................................16Cheepie .............................................................19Cooladdi ............................................................16Cunnamulla .....................................................24Eromanga .........................................................19Eulo .......................................................................24Hungerford ......................................................22Morven ...............................................................16Noccundra .......................................................22Quilpie ................................................................19Thargomindah ...............................................22Toompine .........................................................19Wyandra ............................................................24Yowah .................................................................24

Far West .....................................................26Bedourie ............................................................28Betoota ...............................................................28Boulia...................................................................31Birdsville.............................................................28Jundah ................................................................33Stonehenge ....................................................33Urandangie ......................................................31Windorah ..........................................................33

central West ..........................34Aramac ...............................................................39 Alpha ...................................................................41Barcaldine .........................................................39Blackall ................................................................37Corfield...............................................................50Emmet ................................................................49Ilfracombe ........................................................49Isisford .................................................................49 Jericho ................................................................39Longreach ........................................................43Middleton .........................................................50 Muttaburra .......................................................41Opalton ..............................................................50Tambo .................................................................36Winton ................................................................50Yaraka ..................................................................49

nortH West .............................54Burke and Wills Junction .........................60Camooweal .....................................................56Cloncurry ..........................................................60Dajarra ................................................................60Duchess .............................................................60Hughenden .....................................................66Julia Creek ........................................................62Kajabbi................................................................60Kynuna ...............................................................62McKinlay ............................................................62Mount Isa ..........................................................56Nelia .....................................................................62Prairie ...................................................................66Quamby .............................................................60Richmond .........................................................64Stamford ............................................................66Torrens Creek ..................................................66

Outback Queensland Tourism has compiled and produced this publication in the interests of fostering and developing tourism in Queensland. No part of this publication (advertising or editorial) may be reproduced without written permission of the Outback Queensland Tourism Association Inc. © OQTA 2010.

No responsibility is accepted for information contained in advertisements or editorial. The inclusion or exclusion of any establishment does not indicate any recommendation or otherwise on the part of the Association which, in addition, does not hold itself responsible for any complaints relating to such establishments or businesses. However, we would welcome constructive comments from visitors to the region and these should be addressed to: The Executive Tourism Manager, Outback Queensland Tourism Association, PO Box 506, Longreach Qld 4730. Some photographs courtesy of Tourism Queensland and Peter Lik. PEFC/21-31-80

Accredited Visitor Information Centre

Accommodation

ATM

Auto gas

Barbeque - Fuel

Camping

Campfires prohibited

Canoe

Car camping

Car hire

Caravan park

Driver Reviver

Dumping facilities for motorhomes

EFTPOS

Facilities for disabled

Fishing

Fuel

Greyhound Australia

Hiking trail

Lookout

Meals

Medical facilities

National Park office

No camping

No rubbish disposal

Open fireplace

Optus 3G

Pharmacy

Phone

Picnic tables

Post Office

Qantas/QantasLink

Queensland Rail

RACQ

REX Airways

Rural Transaction Centre

Savannah Guides

Self-guided tours

Shelter shed

Showers

Skytrans

Suitable for caravans

Supermarket

Toilets

Tourist information

Walking tracks

Water on tap (treat before drinking)

3G

4WD access

KEy TO SyM

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CON

TENTS

4 Queensland’s Outback Travellers’ Guide 2011

Queensland’s Outback is known for its wide open spaces, friendly faces and wonderful Outback hospitality but there is much more

to discover in Queensland’s Outback.

E x p l o r E Q u E E n s l a n d ' s o u t b a c k

From the rich ribbons of the Channel Country floodplains to the rolling Mitchell grass downs and ancient Spinifex deserts – the landscapes of Queensland’s Outback offer an incredible variety of experiences. There are also hidden pockets of almost tropical rainforest such as those found at Carnarvon Gorge, Porcupine Gorge, and Boodjamulla National Park (Lawn Hill) and rugged escarpments from which to gaze.

Rivers and waterways thread the landscape. Natural lakes and man-made dams offer tranquility and beauty. All this plus an amazing variety of vegetation and our wonderful native fauna combine to make the natural attractions of Queensland’s Outback second to none.

Learn of the old time characters – the early explorers, drovers and ringers, the men and women who lived and worked in such isolation, the pioneers such as McGinness, Baird, Fysh and McMaster, the Reverend John Flynn, Ernest Henry, John Campbell Miles. Learn of the railways, Cobb & Co.,

the arrival of road trains and the expansion of air travel. Discover an ancient culture long established in this land, learn of Australia’s Indigenous history and discover rock art thousands of years old.

Get up close and personal with Australia’s prehistoric past – travel Australia’s Dinosaur Trail and imagine these monsters of old roaming freely. Join an archaeological dig site and unearth your very own fossil remains, or go in search of other treasures. Fossick for opal and gemstones – rubies, sapphires and semi-precious stones can be unearthed at any number of designated sites.

Free your inner artist and browse the numerous small galleries of Queensland’s Outback showcasing local and regional works. Wander world class museums celebrating Queensland’s songs, its people and legends, cultures past and present, as well as science and natural history. Discover a wealth of information and a quiet cool

escape on the warmest of days.

Accommodation options range from station stays and camping to grand old pub rooms from yesteryear and modern three and four star hotels/motels – options for everyone and every budget. Enjoy the hospitality of Queensland’s Outback in comfort and style!

Queensland’s Outback is a wonderful self-drive destination, allowing you to get off the beaten track, to stop and take pleasure in all that the Outback has to offer.

Alternatively, there are tour operators, rail, air and bus services in Queensland’s Outback – combine any or all with a rent-a-car and you have all the makings for a fantastic Outback experience. So dust off your boots, don your best hat and make 2011 the year you venture into Queensland’s amazing Outback!

lawn Hill Gorge, boodjamulla national park

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t r a v E l l E r s ’ t i p s

Although the region is more accessible than ever, when driving the roads of Queensland’s Outback care must be taken. The phrase ‘big country’ comes to mind: thousands of kilometres of road stretch across the region, commonsense should dictate your actions and you should be prepared for every situation. The Travellers’ Tips below have been

compiled to assist you in ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.

Pre-triP PlanninGA little bit of preparation goes a long way in the Outback – ensure you have a good map and plan ahead. It’s wise to calculate travel times and distances between stops; even prepare alternative routes, especially when travelling during the Australian summer (Nov – Apr) when rain and storms can impede travel plans.

be PrePared On major highways fuel stops are rarely more than 200 kilometres apart so it should not be necessary to carry spare fuel. However, where you do see “no fuel” signs, it means exactly that. Ensure your vehicle is mechanically sound and carry a first aid kit, ample water and spares such as tyres, radiator hoses and fanbelts, together with a good tool-kit. Ensure your spare tyre is at the correct pressure.

Personal MedicationsBefore setting out ensure you have adequate supplies of all personal medications. While medical facilities are available in most towns, it is not always possible to obtain prescriptions for some medications.

road conditions Contact the local Visitor Information Centre in the town you are visiting or call the RACQ on 1300 130 595 for current road conditions. Alternatively, visit the Queensland Government Traffic & Travel Information website www.131940.qld.gov.au or call 13 19 40.

WeatHer conditions Outback summers are hot but much less humid than on the coast and more bearable. Most facilities and transport are air-conditioned. Storms and heavy rains can occur during summer with minor flooding sometimes causing towns to become cut off for a few days, but this is all part of the adventure of the Outback. The most temperate weather occurs between the beginning of April and the end of October. A broad-brimmed hat and sunscreen are recommended for all seasons.

Mobile PHone coveraGeLongreach, Mount Isa, Charleville and Birdsville have coverage from Telstra and Optus Networks. Outside of these towns only the Telstra Next G network is available, usually within a 20km radius of towns. There is limited mobile phone coverage in the far South West corner of the region, west of Quilpie to Bedourie. Public phones are available in all towns, and satellite phones are recommended for extended travel in this area.

Heavy veHicles / road trainsCare should be taken when passing and overtaking road trains and heavy vehicles, including caravans. Ensure you have a clear line of sight, allow plenty of room and be prepared for vehicles to move a little from side to side as you overtake. If a road train is approaching to overtake you, move as far to the left as possible and stop if necessary to allow it to overtake safely.

sinGle lane drivinGWhen meeting road trains and heavy vehicles on single lane roads, slow right down and move off the road to the left. If it is safe to do so move off the road entirely and stop to avoid any obstacles on the verge. In wet conditions verges tend to be soft and/or slippery, so you should always keep your right wheels on the bitumen and keep moving slowly to avoid getting bogged.

aniMals If you see stock or wild animals near the road, slow down; don’t swerve or your vehicle may roll. Be patient with stock and wary of kangaroos and emus. It pays to be vigilant when driving in the Outback, especially either side of sunrise or sunset when kangaroos tend to be at their most active and the light more difficult.

station ProPerties Many roads are gated and cross station properties. The rule of the Outback is to leave gates in the same way that you find them, ie. if the gate is closed when you get to it, close it again after you drive through or, if the gate is open when you arrive, leave it open.

reMote areas Always check road and weather conditions before travelling into remote areas. Advise the police or some other responsible person of your intended itinerary and report back on your arrival. Two-way radios or satellite phones are recommended as normal mobile phones do not work in remote areas. Spare fuel should be carried outside the passenger compartment and always gauge your requirements, overladen vehicles invariably get into trouble. If you break down, stay with the vehicle until help arrives.

MiniMal iMPactDepending on how you drive, you can be a welcome visitor or someone who causes careless damage to roads and wildlife. Follow these tips for low impact driving: – stay on existing roads and tracks.– give way to animals. Parks and forests are

for their protection.– if you get stuck, try not to use trees for

winching. If you have no choice, use tree protectors.

– wash your vehicle thoroughly before and after trips to prevent the spread of weeds.

Water crossinGsWater crossings should not be attempted if you are uncertain of your vehicle’s capabilities. Walk through the crossing first to test the depth and current and try to detect any underwater obstacles by using your feet or a stick. Engage 4x4 low and drive through in second or third gear, keeping the momentum up.

Fires Most roads run through private property or national parks and open fires should never be lit. Use only designated fireplaces.

litter Help us keep the Outback clean for future visitors by properly disposing of your rubbish.

inForMation centresAlways use accredited Visitor Information Centres to obtain local and regional information.


rail Spirit of the Outback

This fascinating journey between Brisbane and Longreach offers a unique insight into the history and culture of early Australia, with the captivating onboard commentary. Soak in the social atmosphere as you enjoy hearty Australian fare in the Dining Car, or a relaxing drink in the Lounge Car. From the comfort of your seat or sleeper you’ll wonder at the ever changing landscape, as the train moves from the coast into the heart of the Outback. With its rugged mountains, wide open plains and historic towns this scenic journey will linger in your memory.

On its journey west, Spirit of the Outback passes through the heritage towns of Blackwater, Emerald and Barcaldine before arriving in Longreach, home to the famous Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame. Spirit of the Outback departs Brisbane on Tuesday and Saturday, and Longreach on Monday and Thursday.*A connecting coach service from Longreach to Winton is available, enquire with Traveltrain Holidays.

The WestlanderDiscover the pioneering spirit of Queensland’s Outback with a journey onboard The Westlander. This 777km scenic journey from Brisbane travels across the Great Dividing Range and through the rich farmlands of the Darling Downs to Charleville, the largest town in south-west Queensland. You’ll enjoy a comfortable journey in your choice of seat or sleeper where you can sit back, unwind and watch the striking scenery pass by. A range of meals and light refreshments including hot and cold takeaway snacks, drinks and confectionery are available from the Club Car, providing a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

An array of Outback experiences await you, including stargazing at the Cosmos Centre, the Royal Flying Doctor Service base and the opal fields of the south-west. Connect to a coach service to explore even more of the Outback with a visit to the nearby towns of Cunnamulla and Quilpie. The Westlander departs Brisbane on Tuesday and Thursday, and Charleville on Wednesday and Friday.

The InlanderExperience the heritage and natural treasures of north Queensland’s rugged yet beautiful inland, onboard The Inlander. This historic journey from the tropical city of Townsville to the mining centre of Mount Isa takes you past Charters Towers and through the Great Dividing Range before delivering you into the heart of Australia. From here you can visit the Outback @ Isa complex, or one of north Queensland’s many natural wonders, such as Lawn Hill National Park. Enjoy a range of meals and light refreshments including hot and cold takeaway snacks, drinks and confectionery available from the Buffet Car, in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Upon arrival in Mount Isa the adventure continues with a range of attractions including prehistoric exhibits at the Riversleigh Fossil Centre and underground mine tours. The Inlander departs Townsville on Sunday and Thursday, and Mount Isa on Monday and Friday.

Allow Traveltrain Holidays to plan your next holiday or ultimate rail journey by calling 1800 627 655 or visit www.queenslandrail.com.au

airQantas Airlines

Qantas operates a daily service between Brisbane and Mount Isa.

For bookings and/or more information call 13 13 13 or visit www.qantas.com.au

QantasLinkQantasLink operates around 2,000 flights each week to 54 ^ metropolitan and regional destinations across Australia.

When flying with QantasLink you can enjoy a range of benefits available to Qantas passengers that include:

n Convenient intrastate, interstate and international Qantas connections

n Access to the Qantas worldwide reservations system

n Affiliation with the oneworld™ alliancen Qantas Frequent Flyer points*n Access to Qantas Club lounges*n Online checkin via qantas.comn E-ticket availability from most ports to all

domestic and selected international portsn Through baggage check for Qantas

domestic and international connections* Subject to membership terms and conditions. ^ Includes seasonal services and codeshare services operated by other airlines.

QantasLink’s commitment to Queensland’s Outback is highlighted by its active promotion of tourism and support for a wide range of organisations and events including:

n Outback Queensland Tourism Awardsn Qantas Founders Outback Museum in

Longreachn Spirit of Australia Regional Ambassador

clinicsn Bilby Festival, Charlevillen Ag-Grow Field Daysn Winton Outback Festival

QantasLink is also a major sponsor of schools, cultural and community events, festivals, conferences and sporting organisations.

For bookings and/or more information call 13 13 13 or visit www.qantas.com.au

SkytransSkytrans provides scheduled service flights to Cairns, Lockhart River, Aurukun, Coen, Northern Peninsula Area (Bamaga), Pormpuraaw (Edward River), Kowanyama, Normanton, Gununa (Mornington Island), Burketown, Doomadgee, Mount Isa, Boulia,

Bedourie, Birdsville, Windorah, Quilpie, Charleville, Brisbane, Toowoomba, St George, Cunnamulla and Thargomindah.

Skytrans pride themselves on providing professional aviation services to some of the most remote parts of Australia.

For bookings and/or more information call 1300 759 872 or visit www.skytrans.com.au

Rex Airways‘Our Heart is in the Country’ – Rex has its roots firmly in the bush and country Australia. We are a regular sight in country New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia and now also servicing Queensland.

With decades of experience in servicing the bush Rex operates scheduled flights from Townsville to Mount Isa, Julia Creek, Richmond, and Hughenden and Townsville to Winton and Longreach.

For bookings and/or more information call 13 17 13 or visit www.rex.com.au

coacHGreyhound Australia

Greyhound Australia is Australia’s only national bus service, providing comfortable, hassle-free, and affordable coach services to people of all ages and to all corners of Australia. Greyhound Australia travels to over 1100 destinations daily, ensuring that passengers can get off the beaten track and truly experience the beauty our country has to offer.

Greyhound services allow you to take in the best Australia has to offer, and the wide variety of ticketing options allow you to travel at your own pace, hopping on and off as many times as your ticket allows.

To really see Australia, travel Greyhound Australia.

For bookings and/or more information call 1300 473 946 or visit www.greyhound.com.au

selF-drivinGSelf-drive touring gives you the

flexibility and accessibility to see all that Queensland’s Outback has to offer. Not settled on a route yet? Perhaps try one of these:

n Matilda and Kidman Highways (Jerilderie to Karumba)

n Overlander’s Way (Townsville to Tennant Creek)

n Reef to Outback (Bundaberg to Winton)n Dig the Tropic (Yeppoon to Boulia)n Adventure Way (Brisbane to Adelaide)n Outback Highway (Winton to Laverton, WA)n Australian Dinosaurs Trail (Winton,

Richmond and Hughenden)n The Dowling Track ( Bourke to Quilpie)

For more information on any of these highways please call 1800 247 966.

G E t t i n G t H E r E


‘spirit of the outback’, longreach


c a l E n d a r o f E v E n t s 2 0 1 1

aPril Event Town Phone

15 – 17 Julia Creek Dirt n Dust Festival Julia Creek (07) 4746 7690

16 Tambo Stock Show Tambo (07) 4654 6579

22 – 24 Boulia Easter Races & Campdraft Boulia (07) 4746 3004 or (07) 4746 1211

22 – 24 Eromanga Easter Rodeo, Eromanga (07) 4656 4751 Campdraft & Gymkhana

22 – 25 Easter in the Outback Longreach (07) 4658 4150

25 Augathella Diggers Race Meeting & Rodeo Augathella (07) 4654 7771

29 – 2 Tree of Knowledge Festival Barcaldine 0427 512 247

May Event Town Phone

5 – 9 Music in the Mulga Cunnamulla (07) 4655 4833

7 Quilpie Diggers Race Club Races Quilpie (07) 4656 1188

7 – 28 Harry Redford Cattle Drive Aramac (07) 4651 5603

13 – 14 Longreach Show Longreach 0437 581 782

13 – 15 Julia Creek Campdraft Julia Creek (07) 4746 8892

14 Sport Star Awards Richmond (07) 4741 3277

14 Newmarket Races Charleville 0417 746 554

17– 18 Alpha Show Alpha 0429 853 418

20 Isisford Sheep & Wool Show Isisford (07) 4658 5312

27 – 19 Blackall Heartland Festival Blackall (07) 4657 4129

June Event Town Phone

3 Hungerford Field Day Hungerford (07) 4655 4828

3-5 Hughenden Show Hughenden 0428 911 306

4 Landsborough Flock Ewe Show Muttaburra (07) 4658 7194

4 Tambo Races Tambo (07) 4654 6106

4 Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame ‘Pink Ride’ Longreach 0407 718 643

11 – 13 Noccundra Gymkhana Noccundra (07) 4655 4315

17 – 18 Richmond Field Days Richmond 0427 413 360

18 – 19 Porcupine Gorge Challenge & Mount Walker Hughenden (07) 4741 2970 Fun Run

July Event Town Phone

1 – 3 Rockhana (Gem & Mineral Festival) Cloncurry (07) 4742 1361

8 – 9 Opal Expo Winton (07) 4657 1565

14 – 17 Stockman’s Challenge & Campdraft Cloncurry 0409 422 811

15 – 17 Yowah Opal Festival Yowah (07) 4655 4153

16 – 17 Boulia Camel Races Boulia (07) 4746 3408

23 Winton Camel Races Winton (07) 4741 7185

30 – 31 Southern Cross Television & Isisford Isisford (07) 4658 8914 Fishing Competition

auG Event Town Phone

5 – 7 Curry Merry Muster Festival Cloncurry 0417 604 460

6 Corfield Races & Golf Competition Corfield (07) 4657 3946

12 – 14 Xstrata Mount Isa Rotary Rodeo Mount Isa (07) 4743 2706

19 – 21 Sedan Dip Campdraft, Rodeo & Races Sedan Dip (07) 4746 7690 (100km north of Julia Creek)

20 – 21 Bronco Branding, Gymkhana & Rodeo Stonehenge (07) 4658 5857

26 – 28 Longreach Yellowbelly Classic Longreach (07) 4658 2225

26 – 28 Queensland Endurance Riders Assoc. Jericho (07) 4651 4237 State Championships

26 – 28 Drovers Camp Festival Camooweal (07) 4748 2022

27 Betoota Races Betoota 1300 794 257

31 International Yabby Races Windorah (07) 4656 3063

(TBC) Boulia Rodeo & Gymkhana Boulia (07) 4746 3599

sePt Event Town Phone

2 – 3 Birdsville Races Birdsville 1300 794 257

3 Annual Flower Show Blackall (07) 4657 4637

3 PBR Bull Ride Hughenden 0427 411 788

10 Morven Races Morven (07) 4654 7771

10 – 11 Bedourie Races & Outback Ute and Bedourie 1300 794 257 Wagon Muster

11 Quilpie & District Show & Rodeo Quilpie (07) 4656 1885

13 – 14 Westech Field Days Barcaldine 0427 115 681

20 – 24 Outback Festival Winton (07) 4657 1558

30 – 2 Jundah Annual Races & Octoberfest Jundah (07) 4658 6930

oct Event Town Phone

1 Hungerford Sports Day Hungerford (07) 4655 4828

8 Springtime Festival Blackall (07) 4650 7700

22 October Moon Jazz Festival Richmond (07) 4741 8676

28 – 30 Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic Mount Isa 0431 745 083

nov Event Town Phone

1 Charleville Cup Festival Charleville (07) 4654 7771

11 – 12 Cunnamulla Fella Festival Cunnamulla (07) 4655 8470

dec Event Town Phone

24 Christmas Eve in the Park Tambo (07) 4621 6600

24 Christmas Mardi Gras Blackall (07) 4621 6600

*For more information on Outback events visit www.adventureoutback.com.au or contact the Outback Queensland Tourism Association on 1800 247 966.

Julia creek dirt n dust festival

birdsville races


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tHe PeoPle and PlacesQueensland’s Outback has a rich history, shaped first by the Indigenous peoples of this land who arrived on the Australian continent some 50,000 years ago. Much later explorers such as Leichhardt, Mitchell, Landsborough, and Burke & Wills followed to open up the inland. Then came the early settlers, taking up great tracts of land and establishing the fledging pastoral industry which still today underpins the Queensland economy. Sheep and cattle numbers grew, resources boomed – first gold, then zinc, copper, aluminium and other minerals.

The onset of coach, rail, and flight opened up the vast inland where the people of the Outback had developed a resilience, humour and strength of character unique to this day.

Innovation was born of necessity; the School of the Air, Qantas Airlines and the Royal Flying Doctor Service shrank

the vast distances and made life a little easier for those on the land. Today there are world class museums celebrating the achievements of these early entrepreneurs and settlers, remembering the early pastoralists, drovers, stockmen and women who shaped the Outback and changed a nation. Explore them yourself in Queensland’s Outback!

station staysLife on the land is a dream for many and the opportunity to live and join in the unique day to day activities of life on the land can leave a lasting impression. A Station Stay offers not just a roof over your head but also the chance to immerse yourself in rural life, watch sheep being shorn, participate in a muster, help draft stock, ride the boundary fence, swim in a dam, throw in a yabbie pot... the activities are endless, and all the while you’re surrounded by the amazing landscapes of rural Australia.

Station Stays offer many accommodation options, from the homestead to shearers’ quarters, guest houses to cabins, powered and unpowered caravan sites to camping areas.

Station Stays offer a new perspective to Outback travel, rare glimpses of a life off the beaten track, unseen from the

highways, and they are a great opportunity to make life long friends. Give it a go, experience for yourself life on an Outback station.

outback eventsOutback events, brimming with colour and life, are unique and often quirky. They’ve developed a character all of their own, partly from necessity, partly from the famous Outback larrikin wit.

The world renowned Birdsville Races, the incredible Julia Creek Dirt n Dust Triathlon, the fun and revelry of the Cunnamulla Fella Festival, the great charity and humour of the Angel Flight Outback Trail Blazer, Cloncurry’s Merry Muster, the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame Pink Ride, Winton’s Outback Festival, Mount Isa’s Rotary Rodeo, Camel Races, Camooweal Drovers Festival, Jundah’s Outback Oktoberfest, Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic, and Nardoo Station’s Music in the Mulga – these are just a few of the many events on offer in Queensland’s Outback.

Local races, rodeos, wine tastings and jazz nights, markets, arts and crafts: you will be amazed at the variety and scope of Outback events, each offering a glimpse into community life and a taste of Outback spirit!

Qantas founders Museum, 747 Wing Walk

Outback Experiences are a unique and fun way to meet the local characters and enjoy outback hospitality, a great addition to any holiday plans.


Four WHeel drivinGQueensland’s Outback offers fantastic opportunities to get off the beaten track and travel some forgotten areas of this remarkable part of Australia. Some less-travelled roads are sealed, but many others are perfect for the four wheel drive enthusiast. These roads meander through spectacular Outback scenery and hidden bush towns where there are plenty of colourful characters to meet.

Take the ‘road less travelled’ by getting off the highways and following alternative routes between towns. Or partake in an epic adventure along the renowned Birdsville Track or Plenty Highway.

Follow plotted 4X4 tracks deep into remote Outback national parks to find some of the state’s hidden gems. Or take a quick circuit track near town to see more of the local area. This is just a taste of the 4X4 fun you can have in Queensland’s Outback, so what are you waiting for?

FisHinGThe rough, dry and rugged landscapes of Queensland’s Outback are familiar to travellers, but people are often surprised to hear of the abundant waterways and

great fishing opportunities that are on offer.

In Queensland’s Outback anglers and fishermen will find diverse fishing habitats such as peaceful coolibah-lined billabongs and shallow lakes, as well as permanent waterholes and seasonal creeks. Then there are the rivers of the Lake Eyre Basin Catchment including the Barcoo, Thomson, Diamantina and Georgina Rivers and the famous Cooper Creek.

The waterways of the Outback are home to a variety of wildlife and waterbirds, and of course, there are plenty of fish! yellowbelly is the likeliest catch, but there’s also sooty grunter, welch grunter, sleepy cod, Murray cod, barramundi (in the north), catfish and redclaw.

Be sure to check www.deedi.qld.gov.au for all the current fishing rules and regulations in Queensland – be aware that these vary from state to state.

dinosaurs and FossilsMuch of Queensland’s Outback was once part of the ‘Great Inland Sea’. The climate and conditions were ripe for fossil formation so now the region from Mount Isa to Eromanga is a rich source of marine and dinosaur fossils.

Visit Hughenden, Richmond and Winton on Australia’s Dinosaur Trail. Discover the prehistoric creatures that once roamed the land. Visit

one or all of the fascinating museums housing displays of fossils and reconstructed dinosaur skeletons.

n Kronosaurus Korner in Richmond features predominantly marine fossils.

n Mount Isa’s Riversleigh Fossil Centre interprets the amazing megafauna finds at the World Heritage-listed Riversleigh Fossil Fields, many previously unknown.

n The Flinders Discovery Centre in Hughenden houses an international fossil collection plus interpretive displays of the region’s geological history.

n At Lark Quarry Dinosaur Trackways you can visit the site of the world’s best-preserved dinosaur stampede, or explore the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Centre, Winton – maybe even participate in a dinosaur dig!

n Visit Isisford’s Outer Barcoo Interpretive Centre.

n View the collections at Boulia’s Stonehouse Museum, Winton’s Corfield and Fitzmaurice Centre, even take a photo with the Muttaburrasaurus replica in Muttaburra.

Visit australiasdinosaurtrail.com for more information on Australia’s Dinosaur Trail.

outback PubsMany city venues try to recreate the quirky character of an Outback pub, but the only way to truly experience the real thing is to head west into Queensland’s Outback!

Stuffed with memorabilia, the history of the local pub often goes hand in hand with that of the town itself – the rise and fall, fires and floods, tall stories, colourful yarns and iconic characters.

Outback pubs serve as meeting places for townsfolk and station workers – great spots to meet the local characters and immerse yourself in community life. Whether you drop in for a hearty meal and a cold drink or stay a few nights in an historic hotel, an Outback pub is sure to be a travel highlight.

oPal and GeM FossickinGThere are a number of opal fossicking sites throughout Queensland’s Outback, particularly Opalton, Quilpie and yowah. If your luck is in, you might find

some boulder opal or one of the famous yowah Nuts. you can use hand tools, picks, shovels and sieves to help you dig or try a walk round specking for colour on top of the ground – the locals call this ‘emu bopping’.

Other gemstones can be found in the North West of Queensland’s Outback. Cloncurry has a number of general permission fossicking areas where you can find amethystine quartz, amethyst, alluvial gold or maltese crosses. At Chudleigh Park, north of Hughenden, peridots can be found and feldspar ‘moonstone’ can be found at Moonstone Hill.

Although many miners allow tourists to prospect or ‘speck’ over their dumps, you should remember that unauthorised entry onto anyone else’s mining claim or lease is trespassing and permits are required on many sites. Always gain permission before entering an area held under mining tenure.

Permit information can be obtained from the local Visitor Information Centre or visit the Department of Mines and Energy website www.dme.qld.gov.au/mines/fossicking.cfm

birdWatcHinGQueensland’s Outback supports an array of birdlife. Bustards and emus wander the plains, wedge-tailed eagles soar on thermals while around the billabongs corellas and galahs keep up a constant cacophony in the trees, fairy-wrens dart through the undergrowth, and flocks of luminescent green and gold budgerigars descend for a quick drink and to escape the heat. This is indeed a bird lover’s paradise!

The diversity and variety of the Outback’s avifauna waxes and wanes considerably with the seasons, and the occasional oddity or early arrival has a habit of turning up when you least expect it. The onset of summer floods for instance can attract huge numbers of waterbirds such as pelicans, cormorants, herons and various waders to move inland and breed.

Arm yourself with a good birding guide book, strap on some binoculars and head off in the early morning or late afternoon when the birds are most active. Need help getting started? Visit www.birdsaustralia.com.au or ring the local Visitor Information Centre.


carnarvon GorGe, carnarvon GorGe national Park

Spectacular sandstone gorges line the boulder strewn Carnarvon Creek. Lush, winding side gorges contain sparkling creeks and waterfalls. Lookouts offer sweeping views. Aboriginal rock art adorns the wall of the sandstone overhangs. Camping permitted only during Queensland school holidays, except Christmas.

Mount MoFFat, carnarvon national Park

Mount Moffat features undulating open woodland with sandstone outcrops and ridges rising to the basalt-topped Great Dividing Range. The park has Aboriginal art sites and a

fascinating history. Rough access road. High clearance vehicle recommended.

treGole national Park

This park straddles the boundary between two of the state’s natural regions, the brigalow belt and the mulga lands. It protects a small stand of Ooline (Cadellia Pentastylis), an attractive dry rainforest tree dating back to the Ice Ages.

curraWinya national Park

Currawinya protects mulga vegetation, Aboriginal sites and 19th century pastoral relics. Lakes and waterholes along the Paroo River are very important inland waterbird habitats. Bilbies have been released into the park as part of a major rehabilitation project. RAMSAR conservation site.

lake bindeGolly national Park

A string of salt and freshwater wetlands form an important wildlife refuge in the arid zone. The park is home to more than 195 species of birds, 80 other kinds of animals and 300 species of plants. Vehicles are not allowed in the park.

WelFord national Park

Majestic river red gums and coolibahs line waterholes along the braided Barcoo River channel winding through dissected ranges framed with mulga and gidgee scrub. Scenic drives through the park lead to Queensland’s most easterly desert sand dunes. Visitors need to be well equipped, self sufficient and experienced in remote area travel.

siMPson desert national Park

The Simpson Desert has more than 1,100 sand dunes and offers one of Queensland’s most challenging 4x4 experiences. This park also protects spinifex grasslands and desert wildlife. The Simpson Desert is closed from 1st December to 15th March each year due to extreme summer temperatures. Visitors need to be well equipped, self sufficient and experienced in remote area travel.

ka ka Mundi, carnarvon national Park

This is a true wilderness area with brigalow and softwood scrub on slopes rising to sandstone escarpments. This undeveloped section of the park has no facilities and visitors must be self sufficient.

salvator rosa, carnarvon national Park

At the western edge of Central Queensland’s sandstone belt, Salvator Rosa contains deeply eroded and spectacular rock formations, such as Spyglass Peak and the Sentinel. Crystal clear springs flow seasonally into peaceful Louisa Creek and the Nogoa River.

idalia national Park

This is a large park in the Bulloo River headwaters, with popular box and silver-leaved ironbark open woodlands. Dry mulga scrub and rocky escarpments are home to the yellow footed rock wallaby. 4x4 vehicles essential. Visitors must be well prepared and be self sufficient.

n a t i o n a l p a r k s

Venture into Queensland’s Outback and experience the diversity and beauty of the landscapes up close by visiting one of the many national parks within region. There are more than 20 to choose from – explore breathtaking gorges, ancient Aboriginal rock art, peaceful waterholes, wetlands, desert sand dunes, braided channel country and Mitchell grass plains.

Head north-west to World Heritage-listed Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park and Riversleigh, where the vestiges of ancient life and the Dreamtime are perfectly preserved in the rock wall paintings of the Waanyi people and the fossilised remains of Oligo-Miocene giants. The tranquil waters of the Lawn Hill Gorge are a marked contrast to the rugged terrain that straddles its banks. Spend the days canoeing, exploring, fossicking and wildlife watching.

While in the far west visit the sun-drenched sands of the Simpson Desert leading to Poeppel Corner where three state borders meet and gidgee trees and saltbush pepper the wide red plains.

Above average rainfall in 2010 means many regions will see their landscapes transformed. The once parched land offers up unrivalled beauty as dormant species of flora emerge, after an absence of years, and a diversity of animals forage freely in the now lush landscapes.

lawn Hill national park


locHern national Park

Brolgas, pelicans, pink cockatoos and other birds flock here to waterholes along the Thomson River. Diverse vegetation in the park includes Mitchell grass plains, open gidgee scrub, mulga scrub and bloodwood woodlands. Visitors need to be self sufficient and experienced in remote area travel.

Forest den national Park

Mitchell grass plains and gidgee woodlands are protected in this remote park in the Torrens Creek catchment. Semi permanent waterholes provide a refuge for wildlife. This park has no facilities and visitors need to be experienced in remote area travel and self sufficient.

bladensburG national Park

Flat-topped mesas, plateaus and residual sandstone ranges are a scenic backdrop to Bladensburg National Park’s vast grassland plains and river flats. The park is home to a wonderful variety of wildlife and a number of historical sites. Visitors need to be experienced in remote area travel and self sufficient.

lark Quarry conservation Park

Lark Quarry is the world’s only known site of a dinosaur stampede. With over 3,300 fossilised footprints it’s an impressive sight to behold. Entry to the Trackways is by guided tour only. While there explore the ‘jump up’ country by taking the short Spinifex Walk to a lookout over the surrounding countryside.

diaMantina national Park

Vast open plains are broken only by the occasional coolibah-lined channels of meandering rivers and creeks. The park sweeps across highly weathered sandstone ranges, down to the floodplains of the Diamantina River, then across Mitchell grass plains to sandy dunes. Follow the self-guided driving circuit. A 4x4 vehicle is essential. You must be self sufficient, well prepared and bring plenty of extra fuel. Check road conditions with local police or shire offices before you leave for the park.

coMbo WaterHole conservation Park

This string of semi-permanent coolibah-lined lagoons on the Diamantina River is believed to be the area that inspired Banjo Paterson to write “Waltzing Matilda”. The park is a wildlife refuge, especially in dry times.

caMooWeal caves national Park

Wide expanses of Mitchell grass plains and spinifex woodland are protected in this park on the Barkly Tableland, a peaceful stopover for travellers and ideal for seasonal birdwatching. The caves are not accessible to visitors.

boodJaMulla (laWn Hill) national Park

The towering sandstone cliffs lining Lawn Hill Gorge, the emerald green waters of Lawn Hill Creek and lush vegetation make Boodjamulla a visual splendour. The Waanyi Aboriginal

you will need to obtain a camping permit before camping in national

parks. Fees apply. Book your permits on line at www.qld.gov.au/camping. Alternatively, call the Smart Service call centre on 13 13 04 or

visit a park information centre. Self registration on site is available at a limited number of parks.

Detailed information on Queensland’s national parks and forests is available on the DERM website www.derm.qld.gov.au

A colourful, introductory guide to more than 160 parks and forests in Queensland is now available free of charge from park information centres and accredited Visitor Information Centres across Queensland.

A visitor guide to Central West Queensland’s national parks has more detailed park and safety information about the parks around Longreach. Contact QPWS Longreach on (07) 4650 1990 to obtain your copy. Information is also available via the DERM Hotline 1300 130 372.

salvator rosa section, carnarvon Gorge national park

lark Quarry conservation park

people have strong cultural ties with the park. The World Heritage Area of the Riversleigh Fossil Mammal Site located in the south-eastern section of the park is one of the most significant fossil mammal deposits in the world.

blackbreas national Park

Take a day trip and drive through savannah woodlands or go birdwatching at Emu Swamp. This park has no facilities.

PorcuPine GorGe national Park

With its cool, clear, flowing creek, towering cliffs of vibrantly coloured sandstone and comparatively dense vegetation, Porcupine Gorge National Park provides a striking contrast to the sparsely wooded, dry, flat plains which surround it. This impressive canyon reveals strata of sedimentary rocks spanning hundreds of millions of years of geological history.

WHite Mountains national Park

This rugged and remote wilderness park is characterised by white sandstone formations and a complex gorge system. Wildflowers display in the heaths late winter/early spring. Visitors need to be experienced in remote area travel and self sufficient.

Moorrinya national Park

This remote park features flat plains criss-crossed by watercourses. The variety of vegetation includes Mitchell grasslands and open eucalypt, acacia and melaleuca woodlands.

Camping Fees & Permits

For more information

s o u t H W E s tExtensive rainfall in 2010 has resulted in a most magical transformation of the

landscape in the South West of Queensland, bringing to life the landscapes and filling once dry lakes and creek beds. There’s no better time to see the South West.

Visit the Tregole, Lake Bindegolly or Currawinya National Parks, stretch your legs along a picturesque river walk or explore one of several nature

reserves. Vast and unspoiled, the South West is the home of the Natural Sciences and the epitome of the ‘natural’ Outback.

Campsites & Fishing

Pitch camp lakeside

alongside the Wilson River

at Noccundra.

Charleville• Charleville is home to the endangered Bilby, a nocturnal marsupial and member of the

bandicoot family. It’s the only surviving representative of the sub-family Thylacomyinae.

Thargomindah• Thargomindah was the first town in Australia, and the third in the world, to produce hydro-electric

power for street lighting, through the harnessing of bore water from the Great Artesian Basin.

Eromanga• Eromanga is considered to be the town furthest from the ocean in Australia.

Cunnamulla• The word Cunnamulla means either “big waterhole” or “long stretch of water” in the Kunja

Aboriginal language. The Kunja Aboriginal peoples were the traditional owners of these lands.

Interesting Facts


cosmos centre, charleville

visit www.adventureoutback.com.au or call 1800 247 966 15


Charleville visitor information Centre

Qantas Drive, CharlevilleP: (07) 4654 7771F: (07) 4654 7772

E: [email protected] www.murweh.qld.gov.au

cHarleville Population 3300

You won’t want to miss Charleville where unique and interesting experiences can be found at every turn…

You will be amazed at the beauty of the Outback stars when you look through the powerful telescopes in the Cosmos Observatory. Learn about ancient stargazers, new dwarf planets and hold a real ‘shooting star’ in your hand at Astronomy by Day. Meet the endangered Bilby and volunteers who will relate to you the struggle to ensure the survival of this iconic little Australian.

If it’s history you’re interested in, join a Convoy Tour of the ruins of the WW II Top Secret USA Base, enjoy the ‘Stories & Scones’ tour at historic Hotel Corones. Step back in time when you pass through the doors of Historic House Museum, where fascinating stories of the Outback are revealed through the memorabilia. Local voices and sound effects bring our history and characters alive as you walk or drive the streets of Charleville with an audio CD.

How do you break a drought? Visit the famous Vortex Rainmaking Guns, an experiment to break the great drought in 1902. DID THEY WORK? Well, that would be telling... all is revealed on the story boards surrounding the giant ‘guns’.

Visiting from the city? Hear of the experiences of life in the bush first hand on a tour of Thurlby Station, place a bet on a thoroughbred of a different kind at the weekly Bailey Bar Yabby Races, or fly above the wide brown land with Outback Air Services. With more than twenty experiences, one day will not be enough, plan to stay longer, you will be pleased that you did.

Points of Interest n Cosmos Observatoryn Astronomy by Dayn Bilby Experiencen Thurlby Station Tour n Camp oven dinnersn Audio heritage trails n Historic House Museum –

“Stories and Scones” tourn yabby races n Convoy Tour WW II USA Sites

n Weather balloon release n Scenic flight over Charleville & Extended

Outback Flightsn Steiger Vortex Rainmaking Guns n Graham Andrews Parklandn Outback Native Timber Walkn School of Distance Education n Royal Flying Doctor Visitor Centren Fishing n 4x4 trailsn Aboriginal artwork display

Morven Population 250

If you want to soak up the ambience of a small Outback town, then Morven is the place to stop. The town is not one of those little places you just drive through, there is something special you should see. One of Australia’s hidden treasures is on display at Morven Museum. Fifteen years in the making is a collection of hand-crafted miniature buildings replicating the original settlement along with an original Kerosene Tin Hut.

Enjoy a break and picnic overlooking Sadliers Waterhole at Hamburg Creek, once a stopover for bullock teams and Cobb & Co. Discover the history of the drovers and stockmen on the 4x4 Stock Route Trail, or ask for the Heritage Trail map to discover Morven’s history, Rabbit Board gate and the branding board.

Looking for something unique? Visit Tregole National Park, home to rare Ooline trees (the tree has rainforest origins and it is unusual to see them in this arid area). Meet the locals and have some fun at the annual Morven Picnic Races in September.

Points of Interest n Morven Historical Museumn Kerosene Hut n Branding boardn Rabbit Board gaten Miniature building displayn Tregole National Park n Sadliers Waterholen Heritage walksn 4x4 Stock Route Trailn Picnic races

star gazing, cosmos centre

bilbies, charleville

Morven miniature building display

auGatHella Population 580

Augathella is famous for its colourful history of bushrangers, bullockies and bullock teams who camped along the Warrego River. Enjoy Augathella’s fascinating story and local characters in the 20-minute “Outback to Augathella” documentary.

The town’s history is linked with large merino sheep stations. In their heyday sheep holdings ran more than 200,000 sheep and employed 60 to 70 shearers. The wool history is preserved through a series of murals lining the main street and historical manuscripts are available to read.

Remember the “Smiley” movies? The story “Smiley” originated in Augathella. One of the murals celebrates this unique outback “kid”.

Enjoy a fair dinkum Outback experience over Easter, when hundreds of people head west for the Annual Augathella Diggers Rodeo & Races. Get dust between your toes and enjoy the fun of an Outback race meeting.

Points of Interest n “Outback to Augathella” documentaryn Wrought iron sculpture n Muralsn River walkn Kennif Treen Heritage walk n 4x4 Stock Route Driven Diggers Rodeo & Picnic Races

cooladdi Population 4

On your way to the Quilpie opal fields stop a while at Cooladdi, one of Australia’s smallest towns. Call into the Fox Trap for local information, great fishing spots and a little bit of railway history.

Want to keep the kids entertained? Head to Cooladdi during the September school holidays, when several hundred people gather for the annual Gymkhana, it’s a great Outback event with plenty of action.

Points of Interest n Fishing at Quilberry Creek n Annual gymkhanan Heritage trail n History display


HAVE YOU EVER?

For your FREE Information Kit Phone: 07 4654 7771 Email: [email protected]

• Heldafallingstarinyourhand?• TastedCockysdelight?• MetaBilby?• Caughtayellowbelly?• SeenthecratersontheMoon?• Enjoyedacampovendinnerunderthestars?• Helpedkeep‘TheDoctor’Flying?• Satinaclassroomthatcovers1millionhectares?• Placedabetonayabby?• Toastedbyacampfire?• EnjoyedacountryRaceMeeting?• Discoveredwhatmakesaridtreessurvive?• Hadayarnwithafamilythatissixgenerationsonthesameland?• Discoveredaperfectlybuiltminiaturepioneertown?• Wonderedhowrainmakinggunswork?(Dothey).• ListenedtoanautoHarp?• Bracedthebaratanoutbackpub?• FindoutthestorybehindtheSMILEYmovies?• FoundoutwhothefirstGreekImmigrantwastoholdahotellicence?• StoodattheplacewhereQANTASfirsttooktotheair?

YOU CAN WHEN YOU VISITCharleville, Augathella, Morven & Cooladdi

CHARLEVILLE – AUGATHELLA – MORVEN – COOLADDI

BE AMAZED…Visit our observatory!

The Cosmos Centre & ObservatoryCharleville OUTBACK QUEENSLAND

Phone 07 4654 7771 Email: [email protected]


cattle in brolga street, Quilpie

lake Houdraman, Quilpie

QuilPie Population 654

A stay in Quilpie can be as busy or as relaxing as you choose. Picnic at beautiful Lake Houdraman, catch a yellowbelly or some yabbies in the river or swim a few lazy laps of the pool. Sit back and enjoy the unique flora and fauna throughout the surrounding countryside.

Those ready for action can spend the day fossicking for opals, climb and explore Baldy Top Lookout or go four wheel driving through the endless landscape that is Australia’s Outback.

Listen for famous names such as Tully, Durack and Costello, who were among the first settlers. Hear about the struggles during the flood and drought and the hardship of isolation from the people who experienced it, on the interactive CD at the Quilpie Museum and Visitors Centre. Access the internet at the library in air-conditioned comfort.

Outback Art in Quilpie has taken off faster than the talented artists can keep up with. Admire the murals and sculptures in the main street. The Quilpie Gallery at the Visitor Information Centre has a new exhibition every month and showcases local talent as well as artists from all over the country. The newly opened Eagle Gallery is a visual delight exhibiting the paintings of our gifted local artists, unique handmade jewellery and intricate sculptures. Stop and admire the mural and cattle silhouettes along Brolga Street.

Quilpie is home to “The Jewel of the Outback”, the exquisite boulder opal. Throughout the town, you can purchase souvenirs, jewellery and display pieces made from this beautiful gem. Try your luck at the free opal fossicking area and visit St Finbarr’s Church and admire the stunning opal altar, lectern and font.

Visit the literal “End of the Railway Line”, the old Powerhouse Museum and the Mini Museum at the airport, dedicated to the old woolscour and the unexpected landing of Amy Johnson.

Take a stroll along the Bulloo River Walk on the shady banks of the river. Interpretative signs are positioned along the way to inform you about the variety of trees and plants. The waterways of Quilpie Shire are ideal for birdwatching and fishing.

Annual events include Quilpie Diggers Race Day, Quilpie Street Party, Quilpie & District Show & Rodeo and “Pride of the West” Station Challenge Race Day.

Visit the Quilpie Shire website at www.quilpie.qld.gov.au for dates of all events.

eroManGa Population 80

Eromanga is famous on several counts, firstly for being the furthest town from the ocean in Australia and secondly for producing 1.5 million barrels of oil per year. The latest and most exciting claim to fame is the significant paleontological discoveries of Australia’s largest dinosaurs on a property near Eromanga. Several dinosaurs have been unearthed and the area is being heralded by scientists as the most exciting and prolific dinosaur site in Australia. The bones and other exciting discoveries will be displayed in the Eromanga Natural History Museum which is proposed to be built in the near future.

The Old Royal Hotel, built in 1885, is one of the original buildings and was once a Cobb & Co. staging post. The rustic Outdoor Machinery Museum is complemented by an indoor Living History Centre incorporating an Object Theatre and Internet Café. Adjoining the museum is a park with picnic tables, covered playground and a stunning Mining Memorial, inlaid with opal.

All are welcome to the community BBQ every Saturday night. Annual events include the Easter Eromanga Rodeo, Campdraft and Gymkhana.

Quilpie visitor information Centre51 Brolga Street, Quilpie

P: (07) 4656 0540F: (07) 4656 1441

E: [email protected] www.quilpie.qld.gov.au

tooMPine Population 2

“The Pub without a Town”. Toompine is situated along the Dowling Track, named after legendary explorer and pastoralist Vincent Dowling. Cobb & Co. once serviced this town with its regular coach schedules. All that remains today from the early pioneering days is the Toompine Hotel (circa 1893). Toompine is a great place to have a beer or two and a yarn with the locals. Great meals are available day and night.

The local “Cemery” is just a kilometre down the road; ask for directions and the story behind the name. Fossick for opal at Duck Creek and Sheep Station Creek Opal Mines. Fossicking licences are required and can be obtained from the Mining Register, Quilpie Shire Council Visitor Information Centre and at the Toompine Hotel. The animal menagerie is sure to keep the whole family busy. Toompine offers excellent fishing, yabbying, birdwatching and camping spots on the Bulloo River, not far from the pub.

Annual events include the Easter Sunday Clay Target Shoot, Toompine Quick Shears Championships.

adavale Population 25

Once a thriving town and business centre, changing the planned railway from Adavale to what is now Quilpie, was the beginning of the end for this pioneering town’s prosperity. Graves dating from the early 1800’s are a testament to the harsh lifestyle and daily struggle of the early settlers.

A Mini Museum in the old butcher house displays local relics from over a century ago. Find great spots along the river for fishing, yabbying, birdwatching and camping.

Annual events include the Campdraft, Bull Bonanza and Gymkhana.

cHeePie Population 2This tiny town was first surveyed in 1914 and at its peak Cheepie had a police station, blacksmith, railway station, tent boarding houses, butcher shop and two organic vegetable gardens.

Quilpie boulder opal Jewellery


thargomindah visitor information Centre

Cnr McGregor & Eccles Street, Thargomindah

P: (07) 4655 3399F: (07) 4655 3374

E: [email protected] www.thargotourism.com.au

tHarGoMindaH Population 230

Thargomindah is situated along the Adventure Way, 1,000 kilometres west of Brisbane. The road is sealed to Thargomindah, with only a 45 kilometre stretch remaining to be sealed to the historic Burke & Wills “Dig Tree” on Cooper Creek at Nappa Merrie Station. It is the ideal touring route to or from South Australia via the famous Strzelecki Track and the Flinders Ranges.

Gazetted in 1874, shortly after Vincent James Dowling settled “Thargomindah Station” (1864), the town takes its name from an Aboriginal word meaning “cloud of dust”’. Today, Thargomindah is a modern country town providing the facilities and services expected by visitors, including:

n Caravan park and camping ground, with cabins, a bunkhouse, and camp kitchen

n Motel and licensed restaurantn Hotel/Motel accommodationn Take-away meals (roadhouse and hotel)n Service station, providing fuel, RACQ servicen Toyota dealershipn A general store selling hardwaren Swimming pool, and a Community Centre

including gym, squash court and tennis courts

n Outpatients Centre – RFDSn Police Station, and QGAP officen Post Office and gift shop – SkyTrans Agentn Airport with a 1,460 metre sealed runway,

PAL, refuelling facilities (JETA 1 and AVGAS) with free transport to town.

Thargomindah is perfectly positioned for day tripping. You can visit the iconic Burke & Wills “Dig Tree” at Cooper Creek, or spend a day at the historic Noccundra Hotel on the Wilson River and enjoy a meal, a drink, and a yarn with the locals. Visit Cameron Corner, Hungerford or one of the nearby national parks – enjoy the walking trails, nature activities, and birdwatching.

Points of Interestn Burke & Wills “Dig Tree” on Cooper Creekn Hydro Power Plant Display – free tours n Hydro Walk and CONDUIT Art Workn Historic Thargomindah Hospitaln Leahy House, Old Printery, Post Office n Lake Bindegolly National Park and

walking trails

Points of Interestn Noccundra Hotel n Hume Memorialn Old cemeteryn Noccundra Waterholen Wilson River – camping, fishing

and birdwatching

caMeron corner Population 4

Cameron Corner is where the states of Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia meet. The Corner Store is in Queensland, and receives its supplies from New South Wales, and telephone services from South Australia. The area was originally surveyed by John Cameron in 1882-1883. A new Survey Marker was installed in 1969. The Interpretive Centre contains information on the world’s longest fence – the Wild Dog/Dingo Barrier Fence. Licensed accommodation, camping, fuel, meals, telephone services, and souvenirs are available at “The Corner”, together with friendly local service. Cameron Corner also boasts an unsealed airstrip for visitors who prefer to fly in.

Points of Interestn Cameron Corner Post – seasonal

wildflowers

n Bulloo River Walking Trail, and Heritage Trail

n Bulloo River – fish for yellowbelly/yabbiesn Stay on a cattle station

HunGerFord Population 10

Hungerford is located near the Paroo River on the Queensland/New South Wales border, and still has a Border Gate which doubles as the Wild Dog/Dingo Barrier Fence. The town gets its name from Irish pioneer pastoralist Thomas Hungerford who settled the area. The Royal Mail Hotel is still in operation today, and is the focal point of the town. It was established in 1873, and from 1875 was a staging post for Cobb and Co. coaches. Accommodation is available at the hotel, and the town also has a caravan park and a sealed airstrip. Hungerford holds an Annual Sports Day in October, which features a horse and motorbike gymkhana, and a bull ride. The Biennial Field Day is scheduled for 3 June 2011.

Points of Interestn Historic Royal Mail Hoteln Paroo River – fish for yellowbelly or yabbiesn Currawinya National Park – home to

abundant birdlife n Wild Dog/Dingo Barrier Fence

noccundra Population 4

The historic Noccundra Hotel is still in operation today, and is famous for its hospitality, cold beer, food, and friendly locals. It was established in 1882, and is all that remains of the town of Noccundra. The hotel is a popular rest stop or overnight stay for visitors driving to the “Dig Tree”, Innamincka, Thargomindah, Cameron Corner, and all points in between.

Free camping is available adjacent to the Noccundra Waterhole on the Wilson River – just opposite the hotel. A monument to the ill-fated Hume expedition is located in the hotel grounds. Hume died of thirst just west of the present town, while searching for survivors of the lost Leichhardt expedition. Noccundra Hotel has an unsealed airstrip directly behind it, and many visitors fly in, park their planes out the front of the pub, and enjoy a drink and a meal, then fly out again. Noccundra holds a campdraft, rodeo, horse and motorbike gymkhana, and bull ride every year – date TBA. The Noccundra Waterhole is a great fishing spot, and an ideal camping area.

bore drain, thargomindah

noccundra Hotel

leahy House, thargomindah


sunset, lake bindegolly


Cunnamulla fella Centre 2 Jane Street, Cunnamulla

P: (07) 4655 8470F: (07) 4655 1120

E: [email protected] www.paroo.qld.gov.au

cunnaMulla Population 1300

Cunnamulla is located at the crossroads of the Matilda Highway and Adventure Way. This is a place where bullock teams once passed through, shearers spilled from bar windows and yarns spread like bushfires around the district that the catch was really ‘this big’. Cunnamulla grew on the banks of the Warrego River. Prior to European occupation, since the Dreamtime, this land has been home to the Kunja Aboriginal tribe. Today it is also shared by members of the Kooma, Mardigan, Budjiti, Kullilli and neighbouring tribes.

From claypan flats and mulga-lined horizons this country has seen its share of drought, fire and floods and has played home to a number of pioneering pastoralists including James ‘Hungry’ Tyson. Tyson staked his claim and once owned and operated one of the largest pastoral holdings which housed the largest shearing shed in the southern hemisphere, boasting 101 stands. Where remains lie of this era, the yarns have been spun of Tyson’s drive and determination which crowned him Australia’s first self-made millionaire.

Slim Dusty often wandered the streets of Cunnamulla and famously put to song the words of “The Cunnamulla Fella” written by Stan Coster, which has been immortalised forever in a larger than life statue located in the main street.

The history of the town can be found at the local Museum, part of the Cunnamulla Fella Centre. Travel back in time 100 million years in the Artesian Time Tunnel and learn how life was sustained with the discovery of artesian water. The modern Art Gallery will tempt you with local and touring exhibitions to admire and purchase.

Take time to smell the roses while you explore the streets and local merchants reminiscent of a bygone era in this little western town. Drive to the Allan Tannock Weir for a quiet moment and relax on the Warrego River. Throw in a line or sign up for a kayaking tour of the river, which can be booked in town.

Explore the sand hills or take the Warrego River Walk and capture the setting sun on camera. Grab a hearty meal at one of our local pubs and meet some of the characters that call Cunnamulla and the Paroo home.

Meet the locals at one of our many events including the annual Noorama Picnic Races 9th April; Music in the Mulga Country Music Festival at Nardoo from 15th-19th May; Cunnamulla Agricultural Show on 21st May; or the annual Cunnamulla Fella Festival 11th-12th November 2011.

Points of Interestn Cunnamulla Fella Centre, incorporating the

Artesian Time Tunnel, Museum and Cultural Theatre, Art Gallery and Statue

n Cunnamulla Heritage Trailn Warrego River Walkn Allan Tannock Weir n The Robber’s Treen Bowra Sanctuary for birdwatchers, just

16km from town n Station Stays including Nardoo, Aldville

and Charlotte Plainsn Warrego River recreational activities

including fishing, kayaking and cruise

eulo Population 108

Eulo, a short 65km drive west of Cunnamulla, is home of the infamous Eulo Queen. Call into the pub of the same name and learn of her love affair with opals. Take advantage of the 4WD tracks along the Billabong or Nature Trail or visit Currawinya National Park. Pamper yourself and take a luxurious mud bath at the Palm Grove Date Farm and purchase local produce including honey, figs and date wine. Grab a coffee at the Eulo General Store, and visit Paroo Patch and the Bilby Burrow Art Gallery for a local souvenir.

Points of Interestn Paroo Rivern Palm Grove Date Farm and therapeutic

mud bathsn Air raid sheltern Artesian Mud Springs

(13km west of Eulo)n Billabong and Granite Nature

Trail Drivesn Currawinya National Park

yoWaH Population 142

Relax a while in Yowah. Fossick for your own beautiful matrix colour or the unique Yowah Nut Opal. Marvel at the 180° views and scenic sunsets at “The Bluff’. Take a birdwatching tour or test your skills on the 9-hole golf course with sand greens and earth fairways. Stroll the streets and meet the owners of unique opal and craft galleries, where you may purchase opal and have your favorite piece set. Grab a coffee at the RTC Cafe, experience an open air bore bath or share stories around the campfire at a community barbeque.

Points of Interestn Opal fossicking arean The Bluffn Opal, art and craft shopsn Birdwatchingn Community fireside barbeques

Wyandra Population 116

This small township evolved as a railway settlement halfway between Cunnamulla and Charleville. It is growing in popularity for increasing numbers of Vietnam Veterans returning to the WWI memorial site for the annual Anzac Day Memorial March. Throw a line in at the favourite fishing hole known as ‘The Beach’ or find yourself at Kennedy’s Camp 18. Visit the Gladstone Hotel or grab a bite at the Post Office Café which also offers an outdoor cinema experience.

Points of Interestn Relaxing and fishing at The Beachn Kennedy’s Camp 18 historical siten Post Office Café and outdoor cinema

artesian time tunnel, cunnamulla

Wyandra post office café

the cunnamulla fella


club Hotel, cunnamulla

AdventureWayBRISBANE TO ADELAIDEwwwwwwwwwww .. dd ee ttuurreewwaa .. oo .. uu

Paroo Shire - Experience the bigger things in life in our little western towns

n FindyourselfinCunnamulla,Eulo,WyandraandtheOpaltownofYowahn ExperiencetheArtesianTimeTunnelwhichwilltakeyoubackintime100millionyearsn VisittheCunnamullaFellaCentre,ArtGallery&MuseumHeritageExhibitionn Explorenaturalandculturalheritagetrailsorbookaguidedtourn Enquireaboutuniquecampingexperiences

Cunnamulla Crossroads

For your FREE travel pack...Cunnamulla Fella Centre,JaneSt,CunnamullaQLD4490Phone:(07) 4655 8470 Fax:(07) 4655 1120Email:[email protected]:www.paroo.info

Airstrip: Lat South 27 48.91 Long East 145 52.46 P: (07) 4655 4833 F: (07) 4655 4835 www.nardoo.com.au

NArdoo StAtioN CuNNAmuLLA P: (07) 4655 4833

Experience life on a working sheep & cattle property. right on the matilda Highway.■ double & twin share a/c rooms ■ Powered and unpowered sites ■ Camp kitchen ■ Licensed premises ■ Artesian spas ■ Property tours & much more...

P: (07) 4655 4923 F: (07) 4655 4114E: [email protected] www.charlotteplains.com.auAirstrip: Length 940m S28o 04’ E146o 11’

CHARLOTTE PLAINS OUTBACK MAGIC CUNNAMULLA

ExPERIENCE A REAL OUTBACK FARM-STAy, ON 27,000 HECTARES. (half the size of Singapore). Soak in nature’s hot mineral spa bath from deep below the earth’s surface. Wonder at the history, vastness, sheep, cattle, emus, roos, birdlife and sunrises. A variety of accommodation and camping is available. Don’t forget the property tours of the shearing shed, station cemetery and home of memorabilia. Photograph the spectacular wildflowers from approx. September. Dine under a galaxy of stars by the open campfire. Dream, and enjoy real outback magic.

f a r W E s tThe Far West is one of the most spectacular regions through which you will pass,

and, following what has been one of the wettest years on record, it will be a sight to behold in 2011. Rolling red sand dunes reach into the clear blue skies extending

west across the region and into the Simpson Desert. The Diamantina and Georgina Rivers course through the land, channelling seasonal floodwaters

towards the incredible Lake Eyre Basin. This is one of the most isolated and challenging environments you will encounter.

Campsites & Fishing

Cast a line from the bank

of the Cooper Creek near

Windorah or try the Burke

River near Boulia.

Birdsville• Home to one of Australia’s rarest plants, the Waddi Tree (Acacia puece), found in only three

isolated regions in Australia.

Windorah• Queensland’s first 150 kilowatt solar farm can be found at Windorah in Queensland’s south-west.

Stonehenge• Just before town you’ll come across the Stonehenge address book written in stone across an

open plain..

Jundah• 90km east of Jundah is the site of the shanty immortalised in Banjo Paterson’s poem

‘A Bush Christening’:

“On the outer Barcoo where the churches are few,

And men of religion are scanty,

On a road never cross’d ‘cept by folk that are lost,

One Michael Magee had a shanty.”

Interesting Facts

Queensland’s Outback Travellers’ Guide 201126

big red, simpson desert national park


betoota Population 0

Ghost Town Alive!The Betoota Hotel stands in solitude amidst a vast gibber plain. Now deserted, Betoota was once a busy hotel serving the pastoralists and drovers moving their mobs of cattle through customs and onto the markets of South Australia. Twice a year the town bounces back to life for the Betoota Gymkhana in June and the Betoota Racing Carnival on the last Saturday in August.

Wirrarri visitor information Centre

Billabong Boulevard, BirdsvilleP: 1300 794 257

F: (07) 4656 3302E: [email protected] www.diamantina.qld.gov.au

birdsville Population 120

Australia’s “Must Visit” TownAlways noted for its wild country and isolation, Birdsville offers today’s traveller a modern community with a sporting complex, gymnasium, two galleries, a bakery, air services, a motel, hotel, caravan park and cabins, coffee shops and restaurants, a general store, post office, medical clinic, fuel and auto services and a police station.

Points of Interest Attractions in and around Birdsville include the Simpson Desert; Big Red – the tallest of the sand dunes of the Simpson; Poeppel Corner; Birdsville Hotel; Australian Inland Mission Hospital; Pelican Point; Diamantina Crossing; Jardine’s Waterhole (fishing); Burke & Wills campsite and tree. A walking track along the billabong is accessible from the caravan park and the Wirrarri Visitor Centre. A visit to the Birdsville Working Museum is a must.

n The Bilby Way – The 187 kilometre journey between Birdsville and Bedourie is a magnificent experience. See the Waddi trees, a unique and ancient example of desert flora. Travel through the area known as Moonie’s Grave. A patrolman on the dingo fence, Moonie left on one of his recreational sprees at the Birdsville Hotel in 1895 with two cases of whiskey on his packhorse. Six weeks later his body was found about 50 metres from the track surrounded by bottles.

n Visit Carcoory Ruins, one of the first properties purchased by Kidman in 1899 and now listed by the National Trust. A detour takes you past Lake Machattie. When full, it is the largest pelican breeding area in Australia. Cuttaburra Crossing is an amazing wetland with bird hides to view the prolific birdlife. Glengyle Station, another Kidman Station, is situated on Eyre Creek.

n Toko Channel is a major kangaroo feeding area. Take a detour to Griffiths Tank Corner which is the approximate crossing point of the Burke & Wills expedition (140° E). Kings Creek Crossing was a favourite overnight stop for Afghan cameleers. An Afghan who died in this area is buried near the campsite, his grave facing Mecca. Full trip notes available from the Bedourie and Birdsville Visitor Information Centres.

n Simpson Desert Racing Carnival – “The dust never settles.” Betoota Races are held the last Saturday of August, and the famous Birdsville Races held the first Friday and Saturday of September, followed by the Bedourie Racing Carnival on the second Saturday of September.

bedourie Population 142

Oasis in the DesertBedourie is the administration centre of the Diamantina Shire. Covering 94,690 square kilometres, it is the second largest shire in Queensland and is twice the size of Denmark.

Excellent town facilities include motels, a hotel with meals, cabins, caravan parks, a restaurant and tavern, a general store, post office, fuel and auto services, a police station and medical clinic.

Points of Interestn Bedourie Hotel – Formerly the

“Royal”, this hotel was built in the 1880s of mud bricks and, except for the roof, the building has been largely untouched and has traded continuously ever since.

n Other attractions in town include the magnificent hot artesian spa and pool; the heritage-listed Mud Hut; community hall and indoor sport centre; cemetery and Outback golf course.

n Attractions near Bedourie include Cuttaburra Crossing, a renowned wetland with prolific birdlife; Carcoory Ruins listed by the National Trust; Lake Machattie and Diamantina National Park. Bedourie Camel Races on 9th July 2011.

diaMantina discoveryThe Diamantina region is rich in natural wonders, cultural heritage and pastoral history, so however you travel, you will soon appreciate the hardships that confronted the early pioneers and settlers. The Diamantina covers more than 94,690 square kilometres, yet is home to only 11 stations and 300 residents. The desert and the channel country combined with the teeming flora and fauna, make up one of the world’s most fragile and unique desert ecosystems.

Two of Australia’s most-loved national parks are situated in the Diamantina, namely Simpson Desert National Park and Diamantina National Park – with the latter recently named one of Australia’s top ten national parks by the World Wide Fund for Nature.

The Diamantina has three of the oldest hotels in outback Queensland – the iconic Birdsville Hotel, the Betoota Hotel (now closed) and the Bedourie (Royal) Hotel.

For the best weather, visit between March and October.

original stockyards, near bedourie

cuttaburra crossing, birdsville

birdsville races


Birdsville - BedOUrie - BiG red ANd BeYONd…

Visit Our Remote OutbackOver 120,000 did last year!

www.diamantina.qld.gov.au

Call now for a copy of the ‘Visitors Guide’, ‘Remote Desert Travel’ and ‘Bird Watchers Guide’.

Diamantina Visitor Centres, Bedourie and Birdsville

1300 794 257

FAmOUs icONsCarcoory Ruins

Iconic LandscapesDrive the Birdsville Track

Drive to the Edge… Big RedHot Therapeutic Artesian Spa

Magnificent Cuttaburra Crossing

explOre Diamantina National Park

named in the ‘top ten’ National Parks in Australia

Simpson Desert National Park

The prisTiNe eNvirONmeNT

Wildlife, the wildflower splendour, rivers, sand dunes, fishing, billabongs, waterholes

and scenery

excelleNT FAciliTies

Historic Bedourie and Birdsville hotels, cafés, restaurants, coffee

shops, art galleries, motels, cabins, caravan parks, fuel & auto services, magnificent &

pristine bush camping.

BedOUrie cAmel rAces, 09 JUlY 2011

BeTOOTA rAces, 27 AUGUsT 2011

Birdsville rAces, 02 & 03 sepTemBer 2011

BedOUrie rAces / OUTBAck UTe & WAGON mUsTer, 10 & 11 sepTemBer 2011

ABUNdANce OF WildliFe


creatures of yesteryear

boulia Population 300

There are a lot of bush yarns and legends in this Outback country, but the people of Boulia reckon the pick of the bunch are the ones about the mysterious Queensland icon, the Min Min Light. Here is a yarn about the Light they would like to share with you:

It was shortly after the Min Min Hotel was destroyed by fire around 1912, when a stockman had one of the first experiences with the Min Min Light:

“About 10:00pm, I was riding to Boulia and passed close to the Min Min graveyard. The night was somewhat cloudy. All of a sudden I saw a strange glow right in the middle of the cemetery. It got bigger until it was the size of a large watermelon. I couldn’t believe my eyes as I watched it hovering over the graveyard. I broke into a cold sweat as it started coming toward me. It was too much for my nerves. I dug the spurs into my horse and headed for Boulia as fast as I could go. Every time I looked back the light seemed to be following me. It only disappeared out of Boulia.”

Then in rapid succession came two more reports to substantiate the stockman’s story. A woman and her husband reported seeing a mysterious light which intensified in brightness and moved away from them. They were strangers to the area and had never heard of the Min Min Light. Their feeling was one of curiosity rather than fear. Another stationhand had seen the light rise out of the old hotel graveyard, bounce through the air for a considerable distance and then suddenly disappear. Many more sightings of the Min Min Light have followed since these initial few, starting the legend of the mysterious lights that has never been solved.

Points of Interest n To preserve the history and myths

surrounding the Min Min Light, the Boulia Shire Council created the Min Min Encounter Complex. Be part of a 45-minute show introducing you to characters like Gunna and Bluey who have seen the light. Join Trish McGreil and her husband Ian on the porch of their station house and hear their stories about the lights and the possible explanations. But remember this – you don’t go looking for the Min Min, the Min Min goes looking for you!

n More than a hundred million years ago Boulia lay on the western edge of a vast inland sea while Hughenden and Richmond were close to the eastern shore. This was home to the giant land-based Titanosaur, the armoured Minmi and the long-necked Plesiosaur, the latter creature looking very much like the Loch Ness monster. Go and see Dinosaur Dick at the Stonehouse Museum and he’ll show you the most complete Plesiosaur fossil yet found in Australia.

n The museum also boasts an array of historical artifacts from early settlers, including machinery, saddlery and hospital instruments.

n A state of the art Sports and Aquatic Centre is right at your fingertips when you come to Boulia. The $4 million complex has a 25 metre pool, splash pool, a multi-purpose court, gymnasium, tennis courts and two squash courts.

n While in the mood for combining exercise and socialising, don’t forget to pack your golf clubs or hire some to play on Boulia’s 18-hole sand green course and meet the locals in the clubhouse.

n Yellowbelly and redclaw can be found at Parapituri Waterhole, the Police Barracks Waterhole and also in the Burke River.

n Boulia is the gateway to the Diamantina National Park, home to abundant birdlife including the rain bird, black-faced cuckoo, lorikeets, brolgas and plain turkey/bustards.

n Each year the town celebrates Easter Outback-style with races and a campdraft, guaranteed to be an action-packed weekend from cowboys on bucking bulls to jockeys pacing their steeds to the finish post! Come and celebrate thirteen years of camel racing in Boulia at the Boulia Camel Races. This event is held religiously on the third weekend of July each year. Everyone flocks to the rodeo grounds to watch the “Ships of the Desert” race (hopefully the right way) around the track. Free camping and use of all facilities is included in the entry fee.

urandanGie Population 40

While you are in the area visit Urandangie, a unique town near the Northern Territory border. The township was founded in 1885 with a humble general store. Over the years the tiny town grew, and by the 1920s there were two stores, a hotel, dance hall, post office, police station and several private residences. It was an important centre for travellers and drovers on the Georgina and other stock routes.

The Dangi Pub offers hotel-style accommodation and meals (by arrangement only) and the camping grounds are free of charge. Good fishing and birdwatching spots can be found along the Georgina River.

Points of Interest n The Dangi Pub

Have you seen the light?

camels off and racing

min min enCounter 25 Herbert Street, Boulia

P: (07) 4746 3386F: (07) 4746 3387

E: [email protected] www.boulia.qld.gov.au

33visit www.adventureoutback.com.au or call 1800 247 966solar power, Windorah

WindoraH Population 80

Windorah is an Aboriginal word meaning “big fish” and there are still big yellowbelly cruising the depths of Cooper’s Creek near Windorah. The term Channel Country refers to the intricate network of braided channels and waterholes that spread up to 80km across the landscape during flooding, producing what is said to be the best cattle fattening pasture in the world. For most of the time the water is confined to deep, permanent waterholes, perfect spots for camping, fishing and relaxation.

Points of Interest n Cooper’s Creek – Camp under majestic

river red gums lining the waterhole, throw a line in and sit back and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the bush, or a yarn around the campfire.

n Red Sandhills – Watch the sunset from the crest of a magnificent red sand dune while sipping a glass of your favourite wine, then take in the panorama of the starlit sky.

n Whitula Gate Museum – Wander through the restored 1900’s slab hut which was built by the Rabbit Board as a boundary hut on Whitula Creek, west of town.

n 12km Nature Drive – Wind through a diverse range of landscapes between Windorah and Cooper’s Creek, with 45 plants identified and signposted along the way.

n The J.C. Ruins – Imagine what life was like in the township of Canterbury while you explore the ruins of the J.C. Hotel and cemetery, 80km west of Windorah.

n Information Centre – Drop in for a Driver Reviver cuppa, browse the literature and displays, and pick up all the brochures and maps you’ll need for your travels. Keep in touch while you’re away with the email / internet service.

n Solar Farm – On the edge of town five sun mirrored dishes 13.7m across provide daytime electricity to the town, a first for Queensland.

n Windorah Caravan Park – A central gathering point for the travelling community.

JundaH Population 90

Jundah, situated on the banks of the Thomson River, is the administration centre for the Barcoo Shire. Within walking distance the Thomson River provides a scenic fishing and recreational area with panoramic river views and drives. The tranquil lifestyle offers visitors a place to relax and experience true Outback hospitality.

Points of Interest n Welford National Park – 45km south-south

east of Jundah. A national park since 1992, Welford covers 124,000 hectares of nature’s diverse landscapes.

n Thomson River – Discover and explore the Thomson at your leisure, there are a variety of recreational activities available including fishing, yabbying, kayaking, birdwatching or just simply relaxing.

n The Native Well – Located 32km north of Jundah, the Native Well was a valuable water source for Indigenous people.

n Historical Museum – A window into the early pioneering times of the district.

n Site of Magee’s Shanty – 90km east of Jundah, this is believed to be the site of the shanty immortalised in Banjo Paterson’s poem “A Bush Christening”, not far from the ruins of the Cobb & Co. Pub and the lonely grave of goldminer Richard Magoffin who perished in 1885.

thomson river, Jundahpale sandhill and ghost gums

n Barcoo Shire Memorial Park – A green oasis if you’re wishing to take a break.

n Settler’s Nature Drive – Takes you on a flora tour from Jundah along the Thomson River and back to Jundah with the different species of plants signposted.

n Archer Bros Pioneer Pathway – Take a leisurely walk around the outskirts of town along the path stopping to read the relevant information on the welcome signs at the entrances to town.

stoneHenGe Population 25

Stonehenge may not resemble its namesake in the United Kingdom, nevertheless this Outback Queensland town is somewhat of a sentinel. It is the Defence Department’s site for the Over the Horizon radar initiative and, though a long way from the ocean, this system actually guards our coastline. Stonehenge is ideally situated for birdwatching enthusiasts with the Thomson River just 1km from town. Photograph the colourful profusion of galahs and cockatoos as well as brolgas, emus and wild budgies.

Points of Interest n John Egan Pioneer Track – An 8km four-

wheel-drive track from town features unusual rock formations, natural springs and tranquillity.

n Rock Holes – Less than 4km from town is an unexpected series of magnificent rockholes shaded by ghostly white gum trees, the perfect place to cool off and enjoy the isolation.

n Swanvale Lookout – Situated half way between Stonehenge and Jundah. At the top of the “jump up”, a rest area offers scenic views and a great place to enjoy the sun setting into the western horizon.

n Stone Address Book – Put the name of your town among the many others emblazoned by travellers. Travel along the Jundah to Stonehenge Road and you’ll find it just after the Stonehenge turnoff. It is visible from the road.

n Community Centre and Library – Browse the Stonehenge public library or ask for assistance with information in relation to attractions and events in the area. Open 8:30am – 12:30pm Mon – Fri Ph: 07 4658 5857 or email [email protected].

Windorah visitor information Centre 8 Maryborough Street, Windorah

P: (07) 4656 3063F: (07) 4656 3137

E: [email protected] www.barcoo.qld.gov.au

c E n t r a l W E s tThe Central West region is at Queensland’s geographical heart and a great deal

of history can be explored here. Learn of a rich fossil history, pioneering outback spirits, legends of the bush, and characters of old. The natural attractions

are plentiful too, with striking landscapes and diverse scenery, but most impressive are the world class museums showcasing local history and,

on a grander scale, European settlement, the pastoral industry, great Australian innovations, song and the human spirit. Experience the

cultural and natural heritage which has shaped the nation.

Campsites & Fishing

Lake Dunn, north east of

Aramac, and the Thomson

River at Longreach

are great spots to

throw in a line.

Winton• The Lark Quarry Dinosaur Trackways displays the world’s only recorded evidence of a

dinosaur stampede.

Blackall• Blackall is home to the Blackall Woolscour, an historic wool washing plant which operated on

steam from 1908 to 1978 and the only complete operation of its kind left in Australia.

Alpha• The streets in Alpha bear illustrious names such as Tennyson, Byron, Dryden and Shakespeare,

they are all named after poets. The streets in Longreach are all named after birds.

Isisford• Isisford is home to a replica of Isisfordia duncani, a fossil remnant discovered by a local

grazier. It belongs to the evolutionary ancestor of all modern day crocodilians.

Interesting Facts


australian stockman’s Hall of fame, longreach

leGends oF tHe outbackDistance: Approx. 800km

Duration: 6 days (depending on the route taken)

Original railway towns, events of national importance, museums and good old fashioned outback hospitality makes this a drive worth doing!

Day OneTake the overnight train ‘Spirit of the Outback’ to Longreach – you can arrange to take your own car with you, arrange a hire car for when you arrive or even tee up a package with one of the local tour companies. Stay overnight and enjoy all that Longreach has to offer – world-class museums, Iningai Nature Reserve, perhaps a visit to the Kinnon & Co Station Store or an evening cruise along the Thomson River.

Day TwoPlan an early start and head north to Winton, approximately a 2-hour drive from Longreach. Visit the Australian Age of Dinosaurs at the ‘jump-up’ just before you reach town, then head to the Waltzing Matilda Centre in Winton. Visit Arno’s Wall, the Diamantina Heritage Truck and Machinery Museum, visit Winton’s Royal Open Air Theatre and test your musical talents on the world’s first permanent Musical Fence. Spend the night in Winton and soak up the atmosphere in one of their unique Outback pubs. If you have another day to spare, be sure to head out to the Lark Quarry Dinosaur Trackways or explore Bladensburg National Park.

Day ThreeAnother early start, head back through Longreach and continue on to Ilfracombe; visit the 100 year old Langenbaker House and the Wellshot Centre. Explore the town before continuing on to Barcaldine, ‘Garden City of the West’. Spend the afternoon exploring the Australian Workers Heritage Centre and visit the Lloyd Jones Weir, a popular fishing and camping spot. Stand beneath the Tree of Knowledge Memorial and learn about the history and the story behind the 1891 Shearers’ Strike.

Day FourBlackall today – home of the legendary Black Stump and a town with a flair for the arts. View the murals and sculptures about town. Visit the Historical Blackall Woolscour and the memorial for Jackie Howe, the legendary Australian shearer who, in 1892, sheared 321 sheep in 7 hours and 40 minutes; a record to this day. Enjoy a dip at the Blackall Aquatic Centre & Artesian Spa before continuing your journey less than hour down to Tambo.

Tambo is the home to the famous ‘Tambo Teddies’. Take the Coolibah Walk along the banks of the Barcoo or visit the Grassland@Tambo Art Gallery.

Day FiveStart your trip back to Longreach. Take your time along the Matilda Highway or if you’re feeling a little adventurous strike west from Blackall through to Isisford, home to the Outer Barcoo Interpretation Centre and a million year old crocodile. On the way perhaps take a detour and visit the Idalia National Park, exploring Emmett and yaraka for a more scenic route back to Longreach.

Once arrived in Longreach spend some time seeing the other attractions in and around town. Take the ‘Wing Walk’ at Qantas Founders Museum, catch the Stockman’s Show at the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame or take a drive out to Starlight’s Lookout where you can relax and watch the amazing sunsets the Outback is famous for.

BARRINGUN

WYANDRA

HUNGERFORD

CUNNAMULLA

EULO

QUILPIE

JERICHO

EROMANGA

BETOOTA

WINDORAH

BIRDSVILLE

PoeppelCorner

HaddonCorner

BEDOURIE

THARGOMINDAH YOWAH

NOCCUNDRAINNAMINCKA

DIG TREE

MERTY MERTY

ISISFORD

STONEHENGE

BOULIA

ALPHA

ILFRACOMBE

MUTTABURRA

ARAMAC

OPALTON

MIDDLETON

KYNUNA

McKINLAY

DOOMADGEE

TIRRANNA

BURKETOWN

LAWN HILL GORGEADELS GROVE

RIVERSLEIGH

WAGGABUNDI

GUNPOWDER

DUCHESS

DAJARRA

GREGORYDOWNS

SOUTH WELLESLEYISLANDS

SWEERSISLAND

MORNINGTONISLAND

HUGHENDEN

JULIACREEK

NELIAPRAIRIE

MAXWELTON

TORRENS CREEK

CLERMONT

CAPELLA

SPRINGSURE

EMERALD BLACKWATERROCKHAMPTON

BILOELA

BANANA

MORANBAH

MACKAY

PROSERPINE

BOWENBALFE’SCREEK

HOMESTEADPENTLAND

CHARTERSTOWERS

BURKE & WILLSJUNCTION

QUAMBY

KAJABBI

CROYDON

CAIRNS

TOWNSVILLE

INGHAM

CARDWELL

TULLY

INNISFAIL

GORDONVALE

MAREEBA

ATHERTON

RAVENSHOE

GEORGETOWN

URANDANGIE

LYNDHURST

MARREE

MOSSMANPORT DOUGLAS

COOKTOWN

YARRADEN

LAKELAND

COEN

ARCHER RIVER

WEIPA

MOUNTSURPRISE

MOUNT GARNET

CHILLAGOE

CAMERONCORNER

CHARLEVILLE

AUGATHELLA

MORVENMITCHELL

MUNGALLALA AMBYROMA

INJUNE

ROLLESTON

MILES

TAROOM

THEODORE

GAYNDAHMUNDUBBERA

EIDSWOLD

MONTO

CHINCHILLA

DALBY

ST GEORGEBOLLON

MOONIE

SURAT

TEXAS

ARMIDALE

GLEN INNESINVERELL

DORRIGO

URUNGA

COFFSHARBOUR

GRAFTON

BALLINALISMORE

TENTERFIELD

INGLEWOOD

WARWICK

MILMERRAN

PITTSWORTH

TWEEDHEADS

OAKEYTOOWOOMBA

IPSWICH

BRISBANE

NAMBOUR

GYMPIE

KINGAROY

CHILDERSGIN GIN

BUNDABERG

MIRIAM VALE

GLADSTONE

MARYBOROUGH

BLACKALL

TAMBO

BARCALDINELONGREACH

WINTON

CLONCURRYMOUNT

ISA

EMMETYARAKA

RICHMOND

KARUMBA

NORMANTON

THE LYND JUNCTIONGREENVALE

BOURKE

CORFIELD

STAMFORD

JUNDAH

ADAVALE

CHEEPIE

COOLADDI

TOOMPINE

WANAARING

BREWARRINA

WALGETT

MOREE

GOONDIWINDI

MUNGINDI

NARRABRI

TIBOOBURRA

CAMOOWEAL

NINDIGULLY

DIRRANBANDI

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LAKE DALRYMPLE

LAKEMARABOON

LAKEMACHATTIE

LAKEDUNN

CURRAWINYANATIONAL

PARK

LAKE BINDEGOLLYNATIONAL PARK

TREGOLENATIONAL

PARK

WELFORDNATIONAL

PARK

LOCHERNNATIONAL

PARK

DIAMANTINANATIONAL

PARK

SIMPSON DESERTNATIONAL PARK

LARK QUARRY

CONSERVATIONPARK

BLADENSBURGNATIONAL

PARK

IDALIANATIONAL

PARK

CARNARVONGORGE

NATIONALPARK

SALVATORROSA

NATIONALPARK

KA KAMUNDI

NATIONALPARK

MT MOFFATTNATIONAL PARK

MOORRINYANATIONAL

PARK

FORESTDEN

NATIONALPARK

UNDARAVOLCANICNATIONAL

PARK

BLACKBRAESNATIONAL

PARK

PORCUPINEGORGE

NATIONALPARK

WHITE MOUNTAINS

NATIONALPARK

COMBOWATERHOLE

CONSERVATIONPARK

CAMOOWEAL CAVESNATIONAL PARK

BOODJAMULLA(LAWN HILL)

NATIONAL PARK

Q U E E N S L A N D

Q U E E N S L A N D

N O R T H E R NT E R R I T O R Y

NO

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S O U T HA U S T R A L I A

7684

71

192

140

23526

9044

74

119

149

112

115

60

110

229

146

73

118

164

125

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11485

113

101

191

244 53

58 131

168

4644

67

50

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94

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114

209

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204102

51

99

92

109

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40168

164

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253

6148

39

209

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112 150

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64

67

83

205

63

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67100

87 53168

76196

248

106

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74

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116

89

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179

106

101

112104

151

101

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84 91109

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106

99

122

84

127

141

65

91

192

71

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52

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360

281

134

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108

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148 148

89

225

380

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246

158

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50134

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180

195

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217

180

46

93

158

98

119

137

471km toTennant

Creek

120

120

67

S C A LE0 25 50 75 100

LEGENDDistances in Kilometres

Bitumen Roads

Unsealed Roads

Capricorn Highway

Matilda Highway

Adventure Way

Great Inland Way

Kidman Way

Overlander’s Way

Savannah Way

Warrego Highway

QR Traveltrain

Traveltrain CoachConnection

North West Region

Central West Region

Far West Region

South West Region

71

To check road conditions call RACQ on 1300 130 595 or Queensland Government Tra�c & Travel Information on 13 19 40.

All distances shown are in kilometres

BRISBANE561 650737947119314191587

MITCHELL 891763866328581026

MORVEN87297543769937

CHARLEVILLE210456682850

QUILPIE246472640

WINDORAH226394

BETOOTA168

BIRDSVILLE

TOWNSVILLE13429238149364278089910871102

CHARTERS TOWERS158247359508646765953968

TORRENS CREEK89201350488607795810

HUGHENDEN112261399518706721

RICHMOND149287406594609

JULIA CREEK138257445460

CLONCURRY119307322

MOUNT ISA188203

CAMOOWEAL15

NT BORDER

BARRINGUN119 316400519620726833101211701353153617281799

CUNNAMULLA19728140050160771489310511234141716091680

CHARLEVILLE842033044105176968541037122014121483

AUGATHELLA119220326433612770953113613281399

TAMBO101207314493651834101712091280

BLACKALL10621339255073391611081179

BARCALDINE10728644462781010021073

LONGREACH179337520703895966

WINTON158341524716787

KYNUNA183366558629

CLONCURRY183375446

BURKE & WILLS JUNCTION192263

NORMANTON71

KARUMBA

ROCKHAMPTON5806878661211

BARCALDINE107286641

LONGREACH179534

WINTON355

BOULIA

TRAVEL PLANNER

This map is indicative only. Please obtain detailed road maps

of the areas you plan to visit before you leave.

Prefer someone else to do the driving?

Join a tour group – check out our list of

operators in the Travel Directory.

* All distances are approximate. All itineraries supplied are suggestive only in nature and it is recommended all travellers should conduct their own enquiries at the local accredited Visitor Information Centre, prior to departure.



tamBo visitor information Centre –

grasslands @ tamBo Arthur Street, Tambo

P: (07) 4621 6600F: (07) 4621 6660

E: [email protected] www.btrc.qld.gov.au

taMbo Population 593

Plan your stay in Tambo as a time to kick back, relax and take a couple of days off from travelling. Enjoy the slower pace and the warmth and charm only found in small communities. The self-guided tours offered ensure that you can set the pace and be in charge. Tambo has a wonderful mix of historical and new buildings which have been thoughtfully designed and built to blend into the town. Located on the banks of the Barcoo River, Tambo is very proud of being the oldest town in the Central West and offers a range of historical and natural attractions for your enjoyment.

Tambo is half way between Brisbane and Mt Isa, and, with its recently beautified main street, is the perfect stop over en route.

Call into the Visitor Information Centre located in the Grasslands@Tambo building and have a chat to the friendly staff that will help you plan your self-guided tours. Also a list of self-drive day tours is available at the Information Centre. While you are there be sure to have a look at the latest art exhibition on display.

Grasslands@Tambo is located in the main street opposite the Carranagarra Hotel and E.E. Parr Park. The park offers the traveller a great place to stop for that morning or afternoon tea break with picnic tables strategically placed in shady areas. For a longer break there are free barbeques. For the younger traveller there is a playground to run off that excess energy.

The Heritage Walk will take you back in history and lead you to some of the oldest buildings in Tambo. The heritage precinct includes the Post and Telegraph Museum which is housed in the original Post Office built in 1876 and the Mulhern House which has been lovingly restored. It also offers a brief glimpse into life of yesteryear through the displays put on show by the Heritage Group.

The Coolibah Walk meanders along the banks of the Barcoo River, featuring billabongs and waterholes where the native animals drink. Early morning and late afternoon is the best

creatures come to life under the talented hands of their creator Mary Sutherland.

For those who are more adventurous, head out to Salvator Rosa National Park on the Wilderness Way. A four-wheel-drive is necessary within the park. Spring-fed Nogoa River and Louisa Creek wind their way through a picturesque broad valley beneath craggy sandstone outcrops. At the western edge of central Queensland’s sandstone belt, Salvator Rosa contains deeply eroded and spectacular rock formations, such as Spyglass Peak and the Sentinel, which dominate the skyline. This park has few facilities so take plenty of food and ensure you have enough fuel and water.

You can enjoy a more relaxing time in town and have a cappuccino or latte at either hotel or try something a little stronger. Have a yarn to the locals but watch out for a tall tale or two or enjoy the sunshine with your morning tea on the wide verandah at Fanny Mae’s. Caltex offers snacks and full meals. You can grab something to take away and relax and snack at the dam. So enjoy your time in Tambo. Relax and refresh and savour the ambience of this warm and friendly town.

time to travel this track as the animals are at their busiest during these times. Stand still and listen to the variety of bird calls and look out for kangaroos heading out or coming home from a night of foraging. There has been evidence of quolls in the area as well as kangaroo rats. So keep a look out and see what animals you can find.

Tambo Dam, at the eastern edge of town, was once the town’s water supply. It was built by horse drawn scoops. Over the years it has been enlarged and provides a recreational area for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a picnic or a barbeque. A family of domesticated ducks has taken up residence and there is a wide range of native water birds also using the area for nesting and living. The gardens enhance the water habitat and make a wonderful backdrop for the dam.

Tambo Teddies, located in the main street, is a must-see while you are exploring Tambo. The teddies are locally made from sheepskin and filled with wool. Each bear is numbered and has a district grazing property included in his or her name. They come in a range of different styles from the “bikkie” bear for the very littlies to the fully dressed stockman with his whip and swag. So call in and watch these beautiful

the barcoo river, near tambo

tambo dam, tambo

Grasslands art Gallery, tambo


BlaCKall visitor information Centre

108A Shamrock Street, BlackallP: (07) 4657 4637F: (07) 4657 4913

E: [email protected] www.btrc.qld.gov.au

blackall Population 1500

Located on the Matilda Highway, Blackall is an oasis on the banks of the Barcoo River with welcoming gardens, green median strips and a peaceful relaxed atmosphere to greet travellers as they arrive.

The area was explored in 1846 by Major Thomas Mitchell and the pastoral occupation began in 1862. In 1868 the present day site of Blackall was surveyed and the town was named after Sir Samuel Blackall, the second Governor of Queensland.

In 1885 Blackall was the first town to start drilling an artesian bore, now known as the Pioneer Bore, and is also the home of the Black Stump which was used for surveying purposes. Anything west of this point is said to be “beyond the black stump”.

Blade shearer Jack Howe put Blackall on the map in 1892 when he set a world record by shearing 321 sheep in 7 hours and 40 minutes at a local station. This feat has never been surpassed.

Notable residents of Blackall include Jack Howe, Major E. Towner, VC and MC recipient in WW1, and Roy Dunne who set a world record for jumping a goat over 3’6” (107cm). A photo of Roy, on his goat Nugget, is set on his headstone at the Blackall cemetery.

Points of Interestn Facing each other in Shamrock Street,

Blackall’s main street, is a large fossilised tree stump and the Major Mitchell Clock. The tree stump was found on a local property and is a conifer, related to the hoop pines of today. The clock is named after Major Mitchell as are the Mitchell grasses which grow in the region.

n Nearby on the corner of Shamrock and Short Streets is the Australian Labor Federation Memorial, commemorating the

first meeting of the first shearers’ union

back in December 1886. This group was later to become the Australian Labor Party.

n Located on the edge of this tranquil town is Blackall’s own oasis, the Aquatic Centre, home to an artesian spa and 50m swimming pool. It is here that you can rest, relax and revive all year round as the water is heated in the cooler winter months.

n The Blackall Woolscour, a historic wool washing plant which operated on steam from 1908 to 1978, is the only complete operation of its kind left in Australia. The woolscour is open seven days a week all year round and steam operates the site from May through to August, while it operates on electricity the rest of the year. Visitors to the Blackall Woolscour can also witness audio visual displays, including a fifteen minute video entitled “The Golden Age of Wool”. The woolscour has one of the few remaining examples of a free flowing artesian bore.

n The Masonic Lodge, which was built in 1908, is another interesting part of Blackall’s early history and has been restored to its original condition.

n Visit the famous Black Stump, which is situated in Thistle Street where a giant mural, painted by local artist Bob Wilson, outlines the stump’s history.

n Another of Bob’s murals can be seen at the Pioneer Bore, along with a replica of the drilling rig. It is located at the corner of Aqua and Garden Streets.

n The Jack Howe Memorial Statue is located outside the Universal Garden Centre, whose facade is a replica of Jack Howe’s original Universal Hotel. Located inside is a gallery, with a historic display, relating to Jack Howe and the local town history.

n Located at the Memorial Park is a statue dedicated to Major Edgar Towner who was awarded the Victoria Cross for “most conspicuous bravery, initiative and

devotion to duty” on 1st September 1918 at Mont St Quentin. He was also a recipient of the Military Cross.

n Blackall is located on the banks of the Barcoo River and one of the local legends states that anyone who crosses the river 10 times is here to stay. Follow the dirt road along the river and look out for the numerous birds and wildlife which can be found in the area.

n The 2007 Heartland Festival saw the founding of sculptures in Blackall. Come and see the unique works of Richard Moffat’s “The Eagles Nest”, the “Circle of Friends” and the “Roly Poly” (2007), the native timber representing “Wool, Water and Wood” created by Robert Bridgewater (2008), the “Life Span” by Fredrick White (2010) as part of the Conduit Project with Thargomindah, and the “Cutting Out” which is an equestrian masterpiece by Jennie Scott (2010). Call into the Visitor Information Centre for further details.

n While browsing in the Visitor Information Centre, look out for the Blackall Quilt, which features buildings and landmarks of Blackall, made by Blackall’s 60 & Better Group in 2008. Also in the centre is a restored sulky which was purchased in 1949 for £15 and take note of the hardwood timbers from the local regions which line the counter. Lists of self-drive day tours are available at the Visitor Information Centre.

the historical Woolscour, blackall

Jackie Howe Memorial, blackall

roly poly by richard Moffat


australian Workers Heritage centre, barcaldine

Landsborough Highway, Blackall QLD 4472 P: (07) 4657 6022 F: (07) 4657 6077E: [email protected] www.blackallsacaciamotorinn.com.au

AcAciA Motor inn – BLAckALL P: (07) 4657 6022

4 stAr AccoMMoDAtion, in tHE cEntrE oF town!■ 25 stylish air-conditioned units with queen beds, 4 family units ■ Undercover parking ■ Licensed bistro, room service ■ Pool & artesian spa ■ Guest laundry

53 Garden Street, Blackall QLD 4472 P: (07) 4657 4816 M: 0400 564 331 E: [email protected]

BLackaLL caravan Park P: (07) 4657 4816

Blackall caravan Park encompasses all that outback australia has to offer, old-style charm and established trees. Enjoy a delicious true blue camp oven meal, choose from superior ensuite cabins, self contained units or drive through grass sites. Walk to shops and hot artesian spa centre.

1 Box Street, Barcaldine QLD 4725 P: (07) 4651 1488 F: (07) 4651 1847 E: [email protected]

BarcaLDinE country Motor inn P: (07) 4651 1488

Barcaldine country Motor inn has the best position in town, friendly staff and large country homecooked meals.20 air-conditioned ground floor units all with undercover car parking and fully concreted driveways. Within walking distance to local tourist attractions.

‘Outback Mates’ is a local ambassador program undertaken in the Barcaldine Regional Council

communities of Alpha, Jericho, Aramac, Muttaburra and Barcaldine.

The program is aimed at making our visitors feel welcome. Local ambassadors will assist with general information, local insights and probably tell a few tall stories as well.

‘Outback Mates’ are local identities – council workers, business people or retired townsfolk. It is a voluntary position sanctioned by their employer. They work closely with the Visitor Information Centre to greatly enhance the visitor’s experience in the region. They are easily identified by their ‘Outback Mates’ uniform, hat badges and flags flown on their vehicles.

So when visiting our region, make sure you stop and say g’day to our friendly Outback Mates!

72 Box Street, Barcaldine QLD 4725P: (07) 4651 2311 F: (07) 4651 2314 E: [email protected]

IronBark Inn MotEL P: (07) 4651 2311

BarcaLDInE - MEEt thE Man FroM thE IronBark ■ 30 rooms – air-conditioned, tV, in-house movies ■Pool ■ Laundromat ■ Bar ■ the 3L’s licensed family steakhouse: Liars, Larrikins & Legends welcome ■ Fisherman’s rest & Fisherman’s Wall of Fame ■ owner operated – 17 years experience in tourism ■ as seen on The Great Outdoors and Queensland Weekender ■ home away from home – enjoy our bush hospitality.


BarCaldine tourist information Centre

Oak Street, BarcaldineP: (07) 4651 1724F: (07) 4651 2243

E: [email protected] www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au

JericHo Population 100

With a name like Jericho, it’s not surprising that this little Australian town is filled with residents who know the Biblical story of the Battle of Jericho. The affinity of the little town with its namesake doesn’t stop there. Queensland’s little Jericho is built on the Jordon Creek, south of Lake Galilee.

The latter-day Jericho’s history dates back to 1885 and owes its beginnings to the railway. Pine Hill was the original settlement, but there was little water there, so the township split and some people went to Jericho and others went to Alpha. Pine Hill still has some graves dating back to the1800s, although few headstones remain.

Jericho is a picturesque town with its most famous feature being the “Crystal Trumpeters”, constructed in memory of the Biblical story where the Israelites marched around the walls of Jericho for six days and blew their trumpets on the seventh day, watching as the city walls collapsed.

The town has one of Australia’s smallest drive-in theatres, which holds 36 cars plus walk-ins. Redbank Park, located on the banks of the Jordon Creek just east of Jericho, has become a popular tourist attraction. The park includes a barbeque area, amenities block and also a playground area. Jericho is located on the Capricorn Highway 86km east of Barcaldine and has a population of approximately 100.

araMac Population 340

Described as “an oasis in the dry of the Central West”, Aramac continues to thrive, which has much to do with the holding of the town’s annual Harry Redford Cattle Drive. In the main street of Aramac stands the White Bull replica which tells the story of the most historically significant cattle stealing case ever recorded in Australia.

Henry “Harry” Redford (better known as Captain Starlight) commenced his daring cattle duffing feat on a property called Bowen Downs. As part of the recognition of this feat, you are able to browse through the Harry Redford Interpretive Centre in the main street of Aramac.

If droving is something you’ve always wanted to do, then Aramac is the destination for you, where you can actively participate in “The Harry Redford Cattle Drive”, run annually through May. Take part in the associated events while you are on the cattle drive, such as the Aramac Races, various live entertainment opportunities, the Harry Redford Rodeo, enter the camp cookout competition or visit one of the

This award-winning structure was officially opened in 2009 and comprises 4913 timber members. The scale of the structure and the form created by the hanging timbers is based directly on the extent of the tree’s canopy from the period around the 1890’s.

n Barcaldine and District Historical Museum – A country museum which houses collections of memorabilia from Barcaldine’s past. Mini train rides are held on the last Sunday of the month. Open 7am to 5pm daily.

n Barcaldine is home of the Grey Nomad project which provides travellers with an opportunity to stay longer and become a part of the community through volunteering.

n Artesian Country Tours – Tom Lockie, a local living legend, conducts tours to historical Aramac and Gracevale.

n Between the Bougainvillea Heritage Trail – An award-winning heritage trail that encompasses the historical sites of Barcaldine.

The following items are included in the town’s Heritage Trail: Masonic Lodge, the Back Creek Windmill and St Peter’s Anglican Church. Pick up a copy of “Between the Bougainvilleas” Heritage Trail booklet from the Information Centre for $2 each.

n Lloyd Jones Weir – A popular fishing, camping and water spot 14km from Barcaldine.

n Murals – Barcaldine has several murals which have been painted by a diverse range of artists. The most famous is in Oak Street, painted by the late D’Arcy Doyle.

camp sites to join their nightly, hearty camp oven droving meals.

While in town visit the Aramac Tramway Museum and step back in time with relics like Aunt Emma, the long-serving railmotor. Discover the fascinating country surrounding the township. Drive through the desert country and discover Lake Dunn and enjoy fishing, water sports (sailing, water skiing), birdwatching, tennis, cabins, camping and very little traffic.

Make a stop at the Gray Rock Reserve and Horsetailers Gorge where Cobb & Co. stopped and spelled their horses, or join in the Artesian Country Tours to see Gracevale Caves and Mailman’s Gorge with the region’s most recognised historian, Tom Lockie. Learn the story about etched images of strange six-toed human footprints and the Central West’s own Rainbow Serpent imprinted on the sandstone walls. Just take the time to listen beyond the deafening silence to hear the sounds of the bush. Discover Aramac!

barcaldine Population 1335

Barcaldine is situated at the crossroads of the Landsborough and Capricorn Highways. It is a town filled with history and colour, often referred to as the Garden City of the West because of its beautiful gardens and wide tree-lined streets. With a population of just under 1350, Barcaldine is a wonderful place to spend a few days.

Points of Interestn Australian Workers Heritage Centre – Is

a unique attraction which celebrates the achievements of the working men and women of Australia. It also features displays on the Shearers’ Strike of 1891. Opening hours 9am to 5pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 5pm Sunday. Ph: 4651 2422

n Tree of Knowledge – Is the historical site of the 1891 Shearers’ Strike. Sadly, the tree was poisoned in 2006 and a traffic-stopping memorial now stands on the site. The trunk and some branches were preserved and form the heart of this unique memorial.

barcaldine reGional council reGionA vibrant, progressive region is probably the best way in which to describe the Barcaldine Regional Council region.

Covering an area of 53,677 square kilometres, the area combines mountain ranges, Mitchell grass plains, desert landscapes with natural lakes, rivers and creeks. The Barcaldine Regional Council area offers contrast and diversity in its landscapes and its five communities of Alpha, Aramac, Barcaldine, Jericho and Muttaburra.

the tree of knowledge Memorial, barcaldine


Unwrap your

adventure today!

BARCALDINEREGIONAL COUNCIL

Unwrap your

Amazing, award winning events…

in the Barcaldine Regional Council areaAlpha, Aramac, Barcaldine, Jericho, Muttaburra

...all waiting to be unwrapped!

adventureStunning landscapes, lakes and rivers

Great Outback Pubs

Unique murals and attractions…

www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au

Call...Alpha 07 4985 1166 Aramac 07 4652 9999 Barcaldine 07 4651 5600


alPHa Population 400

The township of Alpha has a population of approximately 400 and is located 168km west of Emerald and 139km east of Barcaldine. The main industry in the area is beef cattle.

Alpha is known as the ‘Town of Murals’ and displays a number that have been painted on private and public buildings depicting the area’s history. These murals have been painted by local and ex-local artists and add to the atmosphere of the town. Alpha boasts many other attractions such as the following:

The Rowley Roberts Tourist Information Centre, Native Flower Plot, Jane Neville-Rolfe Art Gallery displaying excellent pieces of artwork from local artists and also travelling art shows, and the ‘Jump Ups’ which is a natural attraction featuring the different layers of coloured volcanic soil. Alpha possesses most facilities found in larger centres, yet still retains an enticingly peaceful lifestyle.

Named after poets, the Alpha streets bear such illustrious names as Tennyson, Byron, Dryden and Shakespeare. This region is known as Mitchell country, named after Sir Thomas Mitchell who went through the area in 1846. Alpha was born when the original railway settlement, Pine Hill, was found to have insufficient water. The town is situated at Alpha Creek which actually does a horseshoe bend and runs underneath the town. Because of this, quite a few bores can be found in the town.

Muttaburra Population 100

Travel a further 87 kilometres from Aramac north-west to Muttaburra where the Landsborough and Thomson Rivers meet and experience the sensation of where the sky stretches undisturbed from one horizon to the other – spectacular by day, glowing with stars by night. Muttaburra is the closest town to the geographic centre of Queensland and justly boasts of being the heart of Queensland.

Explore the natural environments and fishing spots along the Thomson or Landsborough rivers. If you are a keen angler you will be attracted to the headwaters of the Thomson River, the Muttaburra Pump Hole and the local camping spot at Broadwater where you will be among some of the Thomson’s biggest

yellowbelly and black bream.

roWleY roBerts tourist information Centre Shakespeare Street, Alpha

P: (07) 4985 1050E: [email protected]

www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au

After a long day exploring, bushwalking, water skiing or fishing, you must treat yourself to refreshments and some of the best bush tucker, hospitality and atmosphere in the west at the local businesses operating in the township.

Upon driving into this community, you can see one of the region’s greatest discoveries – the full life-size replica of the Muttaburrasaurus Langdoni. First discovered in 1963 by a local grazier, the area has become renowned for fossils and who knows, you may be the next to discover a fossilised dinosaur skeleton!

Discover the Heritage Trail, showcasing heritage buildings and the cemetery dating back to 1885. Two very special attractions are found in Muttaburra, history that has been preserved from a more recent era – Dr Arratta Memorial Medical Museum, displaying medical history from the turn of the century, and Cassimatis Store, a display recognising the contribution of the Cassimatis family, one of many Greek families who took up the challenge to live in the Outback. The Cassimatis Store, originally opened in 1914, was reopened after a full renovation in 2001.

Muttaburra has several annual events including the annual Race Meeting and the Landsborough Flock Ewe Show. These events provide a great opportunity to experience true Outback hospitality.

best friends in the bush, barcaldine

the Harry redford cattle drive, aramac

alpha show, alpha

the crystal trumpeters, Jericho

Muttauburrasaurus langdoni, Muttaburra


LONGREACHIsisford, Ilfracombe, Yaraka & Emmet

make the

outbackconnection Join us to experience

the magic of the outback, accessible by air, rail, coach or road. The Longreach region will have you coming back for more...

Longreach Visitor Information CentreQantas Park, Eagle Street, LongreachP: 07 4658 4150 F: 07 4658 4177E: [email protected]: www.longreach.qld.gov.au

• Experience the culture and heritage

• Discover the National Parks• Meet the colourful locals• Dine in our award-

winning restaurants• Visit the art galleries• Relive the past and

explore our history

Visit...• Qantas Founders Museum• Stockman’s Hall of Fame• Cobb & Co• Powerhouse Museum• Mount Slowcombe – Yaraka• Machinery Mile – Ilfracombe• River Cruises on the Thomson

... and so much more

Longreach • • Ilfracombe

• Isisford• Emmet

• Yaraka


lonGreacH Population 3124

Soak up the history and heritage that surrounds the legendary township of Longreach, home of the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, Qantas Founders Museum, Powerhouse Museum and a wealth of entertainment and friendly hospitality!

Marvel at the unique flora and fauna and the diversity of landscapes in good seasons and bad. Longreach is not just a town but a way of life to the local people who invite you to share their amazing natural attractions.

Take a sunset river cruise on the Thomson River, step aboard a Cobb & Co. Coach and experience life in the early days, sing songs round a campfire, listen to bush poetry and ultimately experience the many flavours of the Outback.

Points of Interestn Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame –

This tribute to Australia’s Outback heroes includes a wide variety of traditional artefacts, electronic displays, photographs, films and stories of bush life. The Hall of Fame pays tribute to Australia’s pioneering legends and outlines our Outback history. Spend a few hours or all day and return with a re-entry pass to see more such as “Women of the West”.

n The Cattleman’s Bar & Grill provides an impressive dining experience, located next to the RM Williams cottage and Bruce yeates memorial gardens. The commercial kitchen and licensed bar supports the cottage and is an ideal venue for weddings and functions.

n Qantas Founders Museum – This world class attraction commemorates the founders of this great Australian company that grew to become internationally recognised as a leader in world aviation. It tells you about the pioneering history of Qantas and the remarkable impact the airline had on life in the Outback.

A state-of-the-art hangar building houses the displays and also incorporates the original Qantas hangar from 1922. A guided tour through the very first Boeing 747 passenger jet owned by Qantas includes the story of how the jet was found in Britain and the restoration that followed. Situated close by is Australia’s first international jetliner, a Boeing 707.

n School of Distance Education – Visit one of the largest classrooms in the world at the Longreach School of Distance Education. Tours: 9am and 10:30am weekdays between February and November, excluding public holidays. Tours include a walk though the school with an explanation of the process of the delivery, as well as observing a lesson.

n Australian Agricultural College Corporation – Experience a taste of life on the land by taking a guided tour. Observe students at work, see live animals and discover the scope of things on offer at Queensland’s largest and longest established practical agricultural and vocational training facility. Tours: 10:30am Monday to Friday, April to October (excluding public holidays).

n Guided Tours & Outback Shows – Step aboard the “Thomson Belle” paddle-wheeler cruise and spend an evening on the Thomson River complete with a three-course or camp oven dinner with entertainment; or enjoy an intimate candlelit dinner aboard the “MV Longreach Explorer” whilst soaking up a blazing Outback sunset. Enjoy traditional bush poetry and a song around the campfire at Longreach’s caravan parks and soak up the hospitality that makes the region so famous.

n Queensland Helicopters – offer a fantastic 10 minute scenic flight over Longreach and the Thomson River.

n Longreach Powerhouse Museum – Discover one of Longreach’s best kept secrets. Unearth the local history with exhibits that include the powerhouse generating equipment, displays of social and commercial history, agricultural and road building machinery and the 1921 swimming baths. Open daily: 2pm to 5pm from April to October.

longreaCh visitor information Centre

97 Eagle Street, Longreachp: (07) 4658 4150f: (07) 4658 4177

e: [email protected] www.longreach.qld.gov.au

n Cobb & Co. Tours – Step aboard a Cobb & Co. coach and experience life in the old days. Visit the Longreach Travel Centre in Eagle Street for departure times and bookings. Browse through the range of unique outback product at The Station Store and enjoy a classic Australian movie or perhaps dine at the Changing Station Café.

n Nature Walks – The Longreach Botanic walkway is a 2.5km interpretive native plant walk between the town centre and the Stockman’s Hall of Fame

n Iningai Nature Park – is located on the Longreach Town common and includes sections of floodplains and waterholes along Gin Creek. There are several walks of varying distances.

starlights lookout, near longreach

lilly lagoon, near longreach

Mv Explorer on the thomson river


Opening Hours:The Museum is open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm (except Christmas Day).

Special opening hours are available to groups and charters by prior arrangement.

Tours operate daily and bookings are essential. Combination tour packages are also available.

Phone: (07) 4658 3737 Fax: (07) 4658 0707 Email: [email protected]: Longreach Airport, Sir Hudson Fysh Drive, Longreach QLD 4730 www.qfom.com.au

Winner Major Tourist Attraction

2010

The Qantas Founders Museum, Longreach, is a modern world class facility built around the heritage-listed original 1922 Qantas hangar, combining historical artifacts and multimedia displays for all ages to enjoy. Qantas began in outback Queensland in 1921 and the museum is dedicated to the evolving story of Australia’s leading

airline. New exhibits are added regularly to the already amazing collection. It is an Australia-wide community and volunteer project and is

entirely funded by public support and sponsorship.

The museum provides the visitor a unique insight into the trials and tribulations of starting an airline out in the west and overcoming the problems of long distance travel. It also tells of the places they serviced and the aircraft they flew.

Tour the Boeing 707 “City of Canberra”, the first Qantas jet aircraft registered in Australia. This aircraft changed global travel as we know it. A magnificent ex-Qantas 747 Jumbo jet, “City of Bunbury” is available for tours and also offered is the spectacular Wing Walk tour. This small tour explores the 474’s computer bay, flight system and a unique chance to sit in the pilot’s seat. Without a doubt the highlight of the tour is being able to walk on the wing of a 747 – the only place in the world this is available.

A replica Avro 504K, positioned in the centre of the museum, commemorates the first aircraft ever used by Qantas. A replica DH50, “Iris”, has just recently arrived into the facility. This plane was the first aircraft used by the company that became the Royal Flying Doctor Service. There is a replica DH61, built in 1930 by Qantas and used on the Darwin sector of the London mail service. An original Qantas DC3 sits on the lawn at the museum looking as good as she did when operated by Qantas Empire Airways. Enjoy the McGinness café as well as the Founders gift store where you can purchase souvenirs, clothing, jewellery, books and Qantas memorabilia.

Educational resources are available on request

◆ Qantas Museum Exhibition

◆ Original 1922 Qantas Hangar

◆ 707 Restoration tour ◆ Secrets of the 747 tour

◆ Wing Walk & 747 tour ◆ McGinness’ Restaurant

◆ Founders Gift Store ◆ Exhibitions

◆ New exhibits coming

Historically, Longreach is known for its role with

QANTAS. The Queensland and Northern Territory

Aerial Service was founded at Winton on 10th February, 1921 but was soon moved to Longreach where a hangar

and the country’s first purpose-built landing field

were constructed.

DQFM17042 - CaravanningAustralia.indd 1 3/02/11 12:25 PM


Qantas founders Museum, longreach

Bookings are essential. For best value, ask Kinnon and Co. about our combination Tour packages.

History and Heritage

Uniquely Outback

Cobb & Co Tours

45-minute Stagecoach trips depart daily Monday to Friday, April 1 to October 27.

Gallop along an outback dirt track in a fully-laden Cobb and Co Stage Coach on our multi-award-winning experience. Retrace the steps and enjoy the unique history of Cobb and Co.

Thomson River Cruises

Paddlewheeler and Riverboat Cruises

4 hour tour including transfers. Cruises depart Monday to Saturday, April 1 to October 27

More than just a River Cruise. Watch the sun set while cruising on the historic Thomson Belle Paddlewheeler. Afterwards, on the banks, enjoy a drover’s dinner and entertainment around a campfire.

Clancy’s on the Thomson

A “Million Star” Overnight Experience

Overnight tours Monday and Thursday, April to October

Enjoy a memorable night out at a tranquil nook of the Thomson River after a sunset cruise, drovers dinner and entertainment. Sleep in deluxe swags under a carpet of stars. It doesn’t get better than this!

Starlights Spectacular

The Legends Tribute

Shows noon till 1pm, Monday to Friday, at The Station Store, April to October.

Themed on an old time Australian tent show, with live animal acts, stockmen and stockhorse comedy acts. A mix of poetic story and Australian humour to create live theatre, Outback style!

The Station Store

Hats, Horses, History & Hospitality

Open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and Saturdays from 9am to Noon.

One of Longreach’s best attractions. Browse unique outback products, including exclusive leathergoods and souvenirs, reminisce with old time photography. Taste traditional country fare at the Changing Station Cafe, open Monday to Friday.

Kinnon & Co. Booking Office115a Eagle Street, Longreach Q 4730

P. 07 4658 1776E. [email protected]

Longreach

84 Galah Street, Longreach QLD 4730 P: (07) 4658 2322E: [email protected] www.outbacklongreach.com.au

LonGrEach Motor inn P: (07) 4658 2322

■ 57 room motel: deluxe, executive & family rooms

■ Licensed restaurant & bar open to the public■ Pool, sauna, BBQs■ opposite railway station

4 Day Birdsville Desert Escape (Ex Longreach)

Park your van for 3 nights and join an Outback journey of a lifetime. Optional Lake Eyre Flight Ex Birdsville.

Departure Longreach 19 May, 2 June, 21 July, 4 August, 22 September, 6 October 2011

From $1399 twin share.

Phone: 1300 78 78 90 Email: [email protected] www.outbackaussietours.com.au Licensed travel agents (1683) for Queensland Rail, Greyhound and Qantas. Based at Longreach Railway Station, Outback Queensland

Outback aussiE tOurs®

Half and full day tours from $79 Sunset or Morning Tea Station Tours, the Drovers Dinner, and Winton’s Dinosaur Matilda Tour.

Ex LOngrEach

Established 24 years

P: (07) 4658 2322 E: [email protected] www.outbacklongreach.com.au

MV LongrEach ExPLorEr P: (07) 4658 2322

■ Wildlife and White Linen Sunset Dinner cruise■ 2 ½ hour cruise along the Thomson river■ Local commentary & bird spotting ■ Mouthwatering 3 course meal■ operating all year round ■ Free transfers ■ BYo drinksPhone for bookings & enquiries 7 days a week. Don’t forget you can get your tickets from all motels, cabins and caravan parks in Longreach. ask today!


longreach railway station“Llewellyn”, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 9187 F: (07) 4658 9253 E: [email protected] www.aircentralwest.com.au

Air CEntrAL wEst P: (07) 4658 9187

LOCAL, LAKE EYRE AND CHANNEL COUNTRY SCENIC FLIGHTS 1 & 2 day Lake Eyre and Channel Country tours including: ■ Longreach / Thomson / Diamantina / Georgina Rivers ■ Birdsville / Lake Eyre / William Creek ■ Cooper Creek / Innamincka / Burke & Wills Dig Tree / Lake Yamma ■ Windorah / Barcoo River / Longreach. ■ Lark Quarry Dinosaur tracks.single and twin engine / ex Longreach airport. window seat per passenger, GPs mapping and intercom.

105 Eagle Street, Longreach QLD P: (07) 4658 0170 [email protected]

OUTBACK GALLERY LOnGREACh P: (07) 4658 0170

STUnninG imAGES Of ThE OUTBACK■ Gallery and Studio■ Commercial Photographers■ Portrait and Wedding Photography■ Graphic Design and marketing


Windmill, australian stockman’s Hall of fame

30–32 Main Avenue, Ilfracombe QLD 4727P: (07) 4658 2265

ILfrAcoMbe GenerAL Store & cAfe P: (07) 4658 2265

Our speciality sunday buffet breakfastDelight yourself with our selection of homemade cakes and fine coffee. ‘Warm to the charm of old that greets the new’.Your hosts: tim & Judi Johnson

127-129 Eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 1996 F: (07) 4658 3035 E: [email protected] www.longreachmotel.net.au

LongrEach MotEL P: (07) 4658 1996

WELcoME to LongrEach MotEL, your hoStS arE SiStErS, annEttE & coraLEE. you will enjoy country style hospitality and we will be more than happy to go the extra mile to ensure your stay is a memorable one.the Longreach Motel is the most conveniently located motel in Longreach, within 300 metres of all banks, post office, supermarkets, cinema, restaurants and shops.courtesy transfers are available upon request.

Sir James Walker Drive, Longreach QLD 4730 (east of the Hall of Fame)P: (07) 4658 4232 E: [email protected] www.longreacsde.eq.edu.au

ScHooL oF tHE air, LongrEacH P: (07) 4658 4232

WinnEr oF tHE 2010 oQta toUriSt attraction aWarDVisit one of the largest classrooms in the world, see a School of the air lesson in progress and find out how education is delivered ‘in the bush’.gUiDED toUrS 9.00am and 10.30am, Monday to Friday (excluding Public and christmas School Holidays). adults $8.00, children $4.00 (nB. Bookings are necessary for groups of 20 or more. Prices are subject to change)Providing Excellence in Education for Isolated Families

11 Wonga Street, Longreach QLD 4730 P: (07) 4658 1288 F: (07) 4658 3277 E: [email protected] www.abajazmotorinn.com.au

AbAjAz Motor Inn P: (07) 4658 1288

18 ground floor rooms, undercover parking, Austar, reverse cycle air-con, microwave, fridge, tea/coffee facilities. Free wireless internet. Cooked/continental breakfasts. Swimming pool, bbQ, guest laundry. Cot, hairdryer, toaster, fax and photocopying available at office. Situated on walking track between town, Qantas and Hall of Fame. Chargeback from local restaurants. the only solar green motel in the central west. Major cards accepted. transfers available. tariff: single $105, double $115, twin $120, extra guests $10.

15 Main Avenue, Ilfracombe QLD 4727P: (07) 4658 2106 E: [email protected] www.wellshothotel.com.au

ThE WELLshoT hoTEL P: (07) 4658 2106

A most historical and unique pub, 120 years old and well worth exploring. Intriguing collection of currency and local memorabilia. Meals 7 nights a week, air-con accommodation. Where people from all walks of life come together on equal terms!


ilFracoMbe Population 269

Indulge yourself in nostalgia as you absorb the colourful story of the development of western Queensland which is immortalised within the streets of this special little Outback town. Fondly known as “The Hub of the West”, Ilfracombe sits proudly on the Matilda (Landsborough/Capricorn) Highway.

Points of Interestn The renowned Ilfracombe Machinery and

Heritage Museum, otherwise known as The Great Machinery Mile, is home to a range of equipment from standing engines to earthmoving machinery – some rare, some almost forgotten – the display is a graphic timeline of the evolution of the pastoral and transport industries.

n The Folk Museum – Filled to the rafters with rare glimpses of a bygone era and part of the historical trail, the museum also showcases the role of women and children of the west. Nearby Oakhampton Cottage is a superb example of early Australian architecture and is representative of many early station homes.

n Hilton’s Corner – Enter this veritable Aladdin’s Cave of treasures! Literally thousands of unbelievable collections displayed in the shed, around the yard and along the fence. You’ll be amazed!

n The Jackson Collections represents the lifetime collections of brothers Hilton and Ike Jackson. There is a spectacular display of 30,000 bottles, each one telling its own story, and reputed to be the largest and best in Australia. Then there is a stirring collection of memorabilia gathered from the World Wars including; firearms, flags and uniforms.

n The iconic Wellshot Hotel stands in proud testament to the good times, the hard times, and the exceptional character of the Ilfracombe people.

n Langenbaker House – Heritage-listed and steeped in history, Langenbaker House is over 100 years old and remains in its original condition.

n Romani Hall is a thought-provoking tribute to the young men of the district who answered “the call to arms”, and is dedicated to Australia’s Light Horsemen.

n Wellshot Centre – This interpretive tells the story of Wellshot Station, one of Australia’s greatest sheep and wool producers.

n Ilfracombe General Store & Café – Refuel and grab a bite to eat in air-conditioned comfort, browse for gifts or call in for the famous Sunday buffet breakfast.

n Memorial Park – Open every day, the swimming pool, artesian spa, children’s playground and barbeque facilities are set in welcoming surrounds. It’s somewhere the

ilfraComBe Wellshot Centre 9 McMaster Drive, Ilfracombe

P: (07) 4658 3551F: (07) 4658 2598

E: [email protected] www.longreach.qld.gov.au

whole family can cool off, unwind and enjoy a relaxing afternoon.

n The 12 Mile offers a magnificent example of nineteenth century bush craftsmanship – thousands of naturally formed flagstones, graded and meticulously placed together to form a leak-proof reservoir. This stone-pitched overshot is thought to have been constructed by Chinese labour in the 1890’s when the 12 Mile Dam was constructed. Essentially a watering stop and Cobb & Co. change station, the Twelve Mile was also the site of the Royal Mail Hotel which operated between 1893 and around 1916. In the vicinity are shaded picnic tables, plenty of parking/camping grounds. A self-guided map is available at the Wellshot Centre in Ilfracombe. Please . . . take only photos . . . and leave only footprints.

isisFord Population 132

Isisford, found on the banks of the Barcoo, was settled in the mid 1800s and the architecture reflects its humble beginnings. The town boasts an 18-hole golf course, swimming pool, tennis court, park with covered playground, a small but fascinating museum, post office, police station, two hotels, fuel outlet, primary health centre, QGAP office, ambulance, primary school, library and internet facilities. Camping is permitted at the Barcoo Weir and Oma Waterhole for a minimal fee of $2 per night.

The annual fishing competition is held on the last weekend of July, attracting competitors from all over Australia.

Points of Interestn The Outer Barcoo Interpretation Centre

consists of a 60 seat theatrette, cafeteria, local arts and crafts displays, and a museum depicting the evolution of nature. The feature attraction is a life-sized replica of Isisfordia duncani, which lived around Isisford 98 million years ago, and is the evolutionary ancestor of all the worlds’ crocodilians. There are displays of local fauna, flora, and fossils, as well as displays of the Great Artesian Basin and general history.

n Oma Waterhole, 16km south west of Isisford on the Isisford Yaraka River Road, is great for camping, fishing and water activities. Hot showers and toilet facilities are available and there is boat ramp access.

n yuranigh Pond is situated approximately 6km from town. Major Mitchell once camped here and the waterhole was named after his Aboriginal friend. Today there is a plaque and shelter in their honour.

n Whitman’s Park & Memorial Museum is situated at the back of the Isisford Park. Also, be sure to visit the Isisford Bakery and Café Arcadia, just don’t expect to get a fresh loaf of bread!

outer barcoo interpretation centre, isisford

n The historical Isis Downs Woolshed is currently closed to the public, information booklets are for sale at the Isisford Branch office. There is also a display of history of the shearing shed at the Isisford Interpretation Centre.

yaraka Population 20

Yaraka is an attractive community with gardens, a general store, post office, fuel, police station, a pub with accommodation and meals, a swimming pool, tennis court and playground area. Public amenities and a caravan park are available behind the Community Hall.

A sealed road takes you to the lookout at Mount Slowcombe. Picnic and barbeque facilities make this the perfect place for a family outing or a romantic getaway with panoramic views and glorious skies.

eMMet Population 2

Emmet was once a thriving railway siding with a population of 30. Today with only two residents, the town has a picnic shelter and an interesting historical display in the revamped railway station.

Points of Interestn Emmet Railway historical displayn Picnic area

oakhampton cottage, ilfracombe


Winton visitor information Centre

50 Elderslie Street, WintonP: 1300 665 115

F: (07) 4657 1886E: [email protected]

www.experiencewinton.com.au

Winton Population 900

Rich in culture and heritage, Winton is the ideal base to discover Queensland’s Outback. In the heart of Matilda Country, Winton lays claim to Australia’s unofficial national anthem, “Waltzing Matilda” and our national carrier, Qantas Airlines.

Winton is also home to some of the most concentrated dinosaur fossil sites in Australia, and today boasts a number of award-winning attractions including Lark Quarry Dinosaur Trackways, the site of the world’s only recorded evidence of a dinosaur stampede; the Australian Age of Dinosaurs fossil preparation facility, which conducts annual digs and undertakes continual fossil preparation on site; and The Corfield and Fitzmaurice Building which houses displays from the Australian Age of Dinosaurs fossil collection.

Fast-forward millions of years, and Winton’s more recent history can be discovered at the Waltzing Matilda Centre, incorporating the Qantilda Museum and Outback Regional Gallery. Experience the Royal Open Air Theatre, one of the few operating open air theatres remaining and take a trip into transport

history at Winton’s Diamantina Heritage Truck and Machinery Museum.

Visit the world’s first permanent Musical Fence, where everybody can play a tune, and Arno’s Wall, an architectural marvel over 10 metres long and two metres high, in which everything can be found – including the kitchen sink! Or discover Winton’s scenic drive routes and experience Bladensburg National Park, Opalton, Diamantina National Park, Cawnpore Lookout, the Lilleyvale Hills and Old Cork Station – or choose your own adventure!

Get involved in the local atmosphere during one of Winton’s many events, including the Diamantina Campdraft, Matilda Highway Races, Winton’s Auto Spectacular, the Opal Expo, Winton Camel Races, the Diamantina Rodeo, and the Outback Festival to name just a few.

Points of Interestn Bladensburg National Park is located

just 7km from town and offers stunning examples of the landscapes of Winton Shire, from sweeping Mitchell grass downs to breath-taking gorges and jump-ups. Visit Scrammy Gorge or travel the route of the River Gums for a spectacular natural adventure.

n The Waltzing Matilda Centre is the only museum in the world dedicated to a song. Self-guided tours allow you to experience this multi-award-winning attraction at your own pace. Pull up a stump by the water’s edge in the Billabong Theatrette, learn the truth, myth and romance behind Australia’s national song in the interactive Home of the Legends room and explore the fascinating timeline of Winton’s history in the Qantilda Museum. Make sure you visit the Outback Regional Gallery and pick up a gift in the Station Store or just relax in the Coolibah Café. For your convenience the accredited Visitor Information Centre and Westpac in-store are also located inside the Centre.

n Lark Quarry Dinosaur Trackways is situated 110km south-west of Winton. Discover the story behind the world’s only recorded evidence of a dinosaur stampede with a visit to the award-winning complex. A guided tour is a must at the Trackways, with a number of daily tours running throughout the year. Complete your Trackways experience with the self-guided interpretive Spinifex Walk, be amazed by the spectacular scenery and learn more about how the landscape was formed. What are you waiting for – make tracks to Lark Quarry!

oPalton Population 25

Opal was first discovered here by George Cragg in 1888 and the first mine was worked in 1894. By the end of the decade there was a bustling township of 600 and Opalton became known for the enormous quantity and quality of its opal. Notably, in 1899 the largest piece of opal ever recorded was mined from here, a pipe opal more than three metres long. Now home to a much smaller community, visitors are able to meet some of the locals every Thursday on mail day at the Opalton Outpost. Try your luck in the public fossicking area.

Points of Interestn Opal fossicking, camping

Middleton Population 3

Middleton made history in 1862 when the first white men, McKinlay and his search party for Burke and Wills, entered the area. Middleton later became the site of the Middleton Hotel in 1876, and was a Cobb & Co. staging post. The small town that grew up around the hotel has since disappeared, leaving the pub with the distinction of being one of the most isolated hotels in Queensland. You can still stop off for a drink at the Middleton Hotel, and with a spectacular scenic drive to Middleton and Cawnpore Lookout, you won’t be disappointed.

Points of Interestn The Middleton Hotel, Cawnpore Lookout

corField Population 10

Situated on the Winton to Hughenden road, Corfield can be identified only by the small cluster of buildings on the rolling Mitchell grass downs. Once a busy railway siding, it is now known for the annual “Corfield Cup” race meeting, when the population explodes with visitors from near and far. Contact the Visitor Information Centre for the date and dig out your best hat, for a real Outback races experience!

Points of Interestn Annual Corfield Races

pelican Waterhole, Winton

Waltzing Matilda centre, Winton

australian age of dinosaurs, near Winton


carisbrooke station, Winton

n o r t H W E s tQueensland’s North West is your gateway to the Gulf region and while spectacular

fishing and incredible sunsets may await you on the coast, take your time and enjoy the attractions enroute! With a rich mining and pastoral industry, you will

learn much about Queensland’s two largest primary industries, from their early beginnings to the contemporary issues of the present day. The North

West also hosts a number of spectacular national parks showcasing the incredible diversity of Australian landscapes and is home to some

stunningly rich fossil sites.

Campsites & Fishing

The fishing is great at

Lake Moondarra north of

Mount Isa or maybe picnic

at Chinaman Creek Dam,

Cloncurry.

Julia Creek• Home of the Julia Creek Dunnart, a small marsupial, found only in the Mitchell grass downs of

North West Queensland. The Julia Creek Dunnart (Sminthopsis douglasi) is small, nocturnal and

insect-eating and was thought to be extinct until 1992.

Hughenden• Home to the spectacular Porcupine Gorge National Park – Australia’s own ‘Little Grand Canyon’.

McKinlay• Walkabout Creek Hotel in McKinlay features in the iconic Australian movie “Crocodile Dundee”,

starring Paul Hogan.

Richmond• Richmond has an established bush tucker garden which showcases the native plants

of the area and identifies the indigenous culinary and medicinal uses.

Interesting Facts


lawn Hill (boodjamulla) national park

ancient discoveriesDistance: Approx. 950km

Duration: 5 days

Across an ancient inland sea, explore Queensland’s mining history, find fossils and mineral wealth, all the while passing through the changing landscapes from desert to sea.

Day OneThis is a west-east or east–west adventure (depending on your fancy) along the Overlander’s Way. Suggested start in Mount Isa, capital of the Outback and home to the Xstrata Mount Isa Rotary Rodeo.

Begin at the award-winning Outback at Isa Visitor Information Centre, take a Hard Times Mine Tour down into the depths of one of Queensland’s largest mining operations and explore the Outback Park. Visit the Riversleigh Fossil Centre, showcasing finds from one of Australia’s richest fossil deposits – huge carnivorous kangaroos and emus, mega wombats and marsupial lions are just some of the ancient creatures found and on display.

Day TwoTravel east via the ruins of Mary Kathleen, an old abandoned mining town. Stop in Cloncurry, affectionately known as ‘The Curry’, and founded way back in 1867 with the discovery of copper and gold. Visit the John Flynn Place Museum which celebrates the life and accomplishments of the visionary John Flynn who pioneered today’s Royal Flying Doctor Service. As the sun begins to set, head to Chinaman Creek Dam just 3km out of town to enjoy the cooling breeze off the water and a swim as you watch the sun’s last rays go down.

Day ThreeTravel to Richmond via Julia Creek, famous for its annual Dirt n Dust Festival and home to the award-winning At the Creek Visitor Information Centre. Visit the Kronosaurus Korner Museum and Visitor Information Centre. Learn about the ancient inland sea and view the Richmond pliosaur skeleton believed to be the best preserved dinosaur skeleton in Australia. Visit the Bush Tucker Garden and Lake Fred Tritton.

Day FourFrom Richmond travel to Hughenden. Visit the Flinders Discovery Centre and get some photos with Hughie the dinosaur, lunch in town, before driving north on the Kennedy Development Road to Porcupine Gorge National Park. A canyon of vibrant sandstone the gorge has clear, cool rock holes and a flowing creek, and the vegetation is atypical of the surrounding landscape – almost lush, a hidden oasis and wonderful camp spot. Set up camp and enjoy a night under the stars.

Day FiveLeaving Hughenden today you’re homeward bound. Call into Charters Towers, the old gold mining town and one of the most beautiful of outback towns, full of graceful old buildings, many built during the booming gold years from 1872 to 1899. Don’t miss the Post Office, former Municipal Library and the Australia Bank of Commerce Building. Visit the World Theatre Gallery and climb to the top of the Towers Hill Lookout for an impressive view over the town before continuing along the Flinders Highway to Townsville.

BARRINGUN

WYANDRA

HUNGERFORD

CUNNAMULLA

EULO

QUILPIE

JERICHO

EROMANGA

BETOOTA

WINDORAH

BIRDSVILLE

PoeppelCorner

HaddonCorner

BEDOURIE

THARGOMINDAH YOWAH

NOCCUNDRAINNAMINCKA

DIG TREE

MERTY MERTY

ISISFORD

STONEHENGE

BOULIA

ALPHA

ILFRACOMBE

MUTTABURRA

ARAMAC

OPALTON

MIDDLETON

KYNUNA

McKINLAY

DOOMADGEE

TIRRANNA

BURKETOWN

LAWN HILL GORGEADELS GROVE

RIVERSLEIGH

WAGGABUNDI

GUNPOWDER

DUCHESS

DAJARRA

GREGORYDOWNS

SOUTH WELLESLEYISLANDS

SWEERSISLAND

MORNINGTONISLAND

HUGHENDEN

JULIACREEK

NELIAPRAIRIE

MAXWELTON

TORRENS CREEK

CLERMONT

CAPELLA

SPRINGSURE

EMERALD BLACKWATERROCKHAMPTON

BILOELA

BANANA

MORANBAH

MACKAY

PROSERPINE

BOWENBALFE’SCREEK

HOMESTEADPENTLAND

CHARTERSTOWERS

BURKE & WILLSJUNCTION

QUAMBY

KAJABBI

CROYDON

CAIRNS

TOWNSVILLE

INGHAM

CARDWELL

TULLY

INNISFAIL

GORDONVALE

MAREEBA

ATHERTON

RAVENSHOE

GEORGETOWN

URANDANGIE

LYNDHURST

MARREE

MOSSMANPORT DOUGLAS

COOKTOWN

YARRADEN

LAKELAND

COEN

ARCHER RIVER

WEIPA

MOUNTSURPRISE

MOUNT GARNET

CHILLAGOE

CAMERONCORNER

CHARLEVILLE

AUGATHELLA

MORVENMITCHELL

MUNGALLALA AMBYROMA

INJUNE

ROLLESTON

MILES

TAROOM

THEODORE

GAYNDAHMUNDUBBERA

EIDSWOLD

MONTO

CHINCHILLA

DALBY

ST GEORGEBOLLON

MOONIE

SURAT

TEXAS

ARMIDALE

GLEN INNESINVERELL

DORRIGO

URUNGA

COFFSHARBOUR

GRAFTON

BALLINALISMORE

TENTERFIELD

INGLEWOOD

WARWICK

MILMERRAN

PITTSWORTH

TWEEDHEADS

OAKEYTOOWOOMBA

IPSWICH

BRISBANE

NAMBOUR

GYMPIE

KINGAROY

CHILDERSGIN GIN

BUNDABERG

MIRIAM VALE

GLADSTONE

MARYBOROUGH

BLACKALL

TAMBO

BARCALDINELONGREACH

WINTON

CLONCURRYMOUNT

ISA

EMMETYARAKA

RICHMOND

KARUMBA

NORMANTON

THE LYND JUNCTIONGREENVALE

BOURKE

CORFIELD

STAMFORD

JUNDAH

ADAVALE

CHEEPIE

COOLADDI

TOOMPINE

WANAARING

BREWARRINA

WALGETT

MOREE

GOONDIWINDI

MUNGINDI

NARRABRI

TIBOOBURRA

CAMOOWEAL

NINDIGULLY

DIRRANBANDI

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LAKE DALRYMPLE

LAKEMARABOON

LAKEMACHATTIE

LAKEDUNN

CURRAWINYANATIONAL

PARK

LAKE BINDEGOLLYNATIONAL PARK

TREGOLENATIONAL

PARK

WELFORDNATIONAL

PARK

LOCHERNNATIONAL

PARK

DIAMANTINANATIONAL

PARK

SIMPSON DESERTNATIONAL PARK

LARK QUARRY

CONSERVATIONPARK

BLADENSBURGNATIONAL

PARK

IDALIANATIONAL

PARK

CARNARVONGORGE

NATIONALPARK

SALVATORROSA

NATIONALPARK

KA KAMUNDI

NATIONALPARK

MT MOFFATTNATIONAL PARK

MOORRINYANATIONAL

PARK

FORESTDEN

NATIONALPARK

UNDARAVOLCANICNATIONAL

PARK

BLACKBRAESNATIONAL

PARK

PORCUPINEGORGE

NATIONALPARK

WHITE MOUNTAINS

NATIONALPARK

COMBOWATERHOLE

CONSERVATIONPARK

CAMOOWEAL CAVESNATIONAL PARK

BOODJAMULLA(LAWN HILL)

NATIONAL PARK

Q U E E N S L A N D

Q U E E N S L A N D

N O R T H E R NT E R R I T O R Y

NO

RT

HE

RN

T

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RI

TO

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N E WS O U T HW A L E S

S O U T HA U S T R A L I A

7684

71

192

140

23526

9044

74

119

149

112

115

60

110

229

146

73

118

164

125

110

11485

113

101

191

244 53

58 131

168

4644

67

50

52

94

52

47

89

114

209

12

42

121

204102

51

99

92

109

109

40168

164

22

12

253

6148

39

209

99

112 150

144

64

67

83

205

63

22

67100

87 53168

76196

248

106

43

74

27

116

89

80

179

106

101

112104

151

101

119

84 91109

40

106

99

122

84

127

141

65

91

192

71

67

52

54

360

281

134

200

108

68

148 148

89

225

380

79

246

158

46

43112

49

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50134

70

90

57

129

90

105

15377

118

93

87

58

45

8388

52

108

83

210210

209

22

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4487

88

48

74

187

85

37

69

161

191

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20120 82

7

74

36

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2523

13

164

131

122

68177 113

88

66

123

203

180

195

113

97

129

217

180

46

93

158

98

119

137

471km toTennant

Creek

120

120

67

S C A LE0 25 50 75 100

LEGENDDistances in Kilometres

Bitumen Roads

Unsealed Roads

Capricorn Highway

Matilda Highway

Adventure Way

Great Inland Way

Kidman Way

Overlander’s Way

Savannah Way

Warrego Highway

QR Traveltrain

Traveltrain CoachConnection

North West Region

Central West Region

Far West Region

South West Region

71

To check road conditions call RACQ on 1300 130 595 or Queensland Government Tra�c & Travel Information on 13 19 40.

All distances shown are in kilometres

BRISBANE561 650737947119314191587

MITCHELL 891763866328581026

MORVEN87297543769937

CHARLEVILLE210456682850

QUILPIE246472640

WINDORAH226394

BETOOTA168

BIRDSVILLE

TOWNSVILLE13429238149364278089910871102

CHARTERS TOWERS158247359508646765953968

TORRENS CREEK89201350488607795810

HUGHENDEN112261399518706721

RICHMOND149287406594609

JULIA CREEK138257445460

CLONCURRY119307322

MOUNT ISA188203

CAMOOWEAL15

NT BORDER

BARRINGUN119 316400519620726833101211701353153617281799

CUNNAMULLA19728140050160771489310511234141716091680

CHARLEVILLE842033044105176968541037122014121483

AUGATHELLA119220326433612770953113613281399

TAMBO101207314493651834101712091280

BLACKALL10621339255073391611081179

BARCALDINE10728644462781010021073

LONGREACH179337520703895966

WINTON158341524716787

KYNUNA183366558629

CLONCURRY183375446

BURKE & WILLS JUNCTION192263

NORMANTON71

KARUMBA

ROCKHAMPTON5806878661211

BARCALDINE107286641

LONGREACH179534

WINTON355

BOULIA

TRAVEL PLANNER

This map is indicative only. Please obtain detailed road maps

of the areas you plan to visit before you leave.

Prefer someone else to do the driving?

Join a tour group – check out our list of

operators in the Travel Directory.

* All distances are approximate. All itineraries supplied are suggestive only in nature and it is recommended all travellers should conduct their own enquiries at the local accredited Visitor Information Centre, prior to departure.



outBaCK at isa 19 Marian Street, Mount Isa

P: (07) 4749 1555F: (07) 4743 6296

E: [email protected] www.outbackatisa.com.au

Mount isa Population 24000

A thriving inland city set among the dramatic landscapes of the Selwyn Ranges. Mount Isa offers travellers a variety of tourism experiences, including The Buffs Club, Mount Isa Underground Hospital & Museum, Adel’s Grove, AAOK Moondarra Accommodation Village and Outback at Isa.

caMooWeal Population 300

Head west from Mount Isa along the Overlander’s Way and you’ve arrived on the world’s longest main street, measuring a staggering 188km, stretching from Mount Isa to Camooweal. This is your last stop before the Northern Territory border.

The Camooweal district is honeycombed with rare sink holes and caves dating back to the Cambrian Period, perhaps 500 million years ago. Those visitors experienced in serious caving will discover a whole new world beneath the Camooweal region.

the buffs club, Mount isa

royal flying doctor service visitor centre, Mount isa isa rodeo - barrel race

bush road, camooweal

lake Moondarra


lake Moondarra at sunset

signpost at Mount isa lookout

FULLY CATERED CAMPING PACKAGES

Situated on Lawn Hill Creek and only 10kmfrom Lawn Hill Gorge with road and air access

› Lawn Hill and Riversleigh Interpretive Tours

› Kiosk with souvenirs, cold drinks, ice and basic food supplies

› Fuel – diesel and ULP› Bar and restaurant

PHoNE 07 4748 5502www.adelsgrove.com.au

YoUR CHoICE oF:

› Camping and caravan sites

› BBQ and water to each site

› Modern toilet block with hot shower

› Rooms and pre-erected tents with bedding

› Breakfast, lunch and dinner catered

› Packages tailored to suit individuals, groups and tours

oR

Joan Street, Mount Isa QLD 4825 (situated in Mt Isa Base Hospital grounds)P: (07) 4749 0281 M: 0407 514 918

Mt ISa UnDergroUnD HoSPItaL MUSeUM

In 1942 Darwin was bombed by the Japanese army. a casualty of the bombing was the Darwin Hospital. the community of Mount Isa was fearful that their town (and hospital) would be the next target. a decision was made to build an Underground Hospital with help from Mount Isa Mines and volunteers. In 1994 a Mount Isa Community group decided to restore and show-case this unique hospital. this group have since received a prestigious award from the national trust of Queensland for ‘heritage restoration’. open from 1st april to 30 September – 10.00am-2.00pm. other times by appointment. entry Fees: $12, $10 (concession), $4 (school age children).

The Buffs Club

Can’t get enough of The Buffs Club

Corner Grace & Simpson Streets, Mount Isa Phone: (07) 4743 2365Fax: (07) 4743 7773 Email: [email protected] Web: www.buffs.com.au

Best Club North Qld 2009

n Boomerang Coffee Shopn Gaming Loungen Kids Club and play arean Courtesy Busn Function Room

n Bluetongue Sports Barn The Frog & Toad Bar & Grilln On the Deck Diningn Thirsty Camel Bottle Shopn Weekly Members Draw

Visit The Buffs Club and enjoy what we have to offer...


MtIsaTourism.indd 1-2 23/12/10 3:36 PM


ClonCurrY information Centre

McIlwraith Street, CloncurryP: (07) 4742 1361F: (07) 4742 1361

E: [email protected] www.cloncurry.qld.gov.au

cloncurry Population 3500

Cloncurry is a hub of the Outback, sitting on the junction of the Matilda Highway and Overlander’s Way (Flinders Highway) and nestled on the banks of the Cloncurry River. The ‘Curry’, (as it is affectionately known by locals), is approximately120km east of Mt Isa and 400km south of the Gulf of Carpentaria. Few places in Australia can claim to be as influential in shaping Australia’s identity as Cloncurry. Birthplace of the Royal Flying Doctor Service and destination of the first Qantas flight, it is a town that celebrates Outback life the true Australian way.

Founded by Ernest Henry in 1867 with the discovery of copper, Cloncurry’s core industries include grazing, transport services, copper and gold mining.

Spend a couple of days in the ‘Curry’ and don’t miss out on seeing some of the area’s most popular attractions. Located off the main street in Cloncurry on the east side of town is the Mary Kathleen Memorial Park Complex with ample parking, a covered BBQ area and a children’s playground set in a shaded and landscaped parkland. Stretch your legs and go for a five minute walk up to the lookout, past the unique water feature and take in the stunning panoramic view of Cloncurry and the surrounding rugged landscape. Then stroll around the outdoor mining and farm equipment displays.

Browse the Cloncurry Visitor Information Centre and gift shop within the park complex before going through to the museum which houses memorabilia on the now deserted town of Mary Kathleen, including local history and photographs. See the comprehensive gem and mineral collection and the museum’s prize possession – Burke’s water bottle, along with other interesting historical items from a bygone era.

Points of Interest n John Flynn Place Museum & Art Gallery

celebrates the visionary bush clergyman, John Flynn, and the innovations in flight and communications pioneered at Cloncurry through to the creation of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. The service was launched in Cloncurry in 1928. The museum pays homage to this crucial part of Outback

life. Wander the museum and enjoy stories, photographs and memorabilia. View the artworks on display in the Fred McKay Art Gallery.

n Cloncurry has enjoyed a multicultural past. Pay a visit to the historic cemeteries dating back to the 1880s, and learn about early Afghan migrants at the cemetery on Sir Hudson Fysh Drive, and the Chinese cemetery on the western outskirts of town.

n Chinaman Creek Dam is a lovely area to watch the changing colours of Mt Leviathan at sunset or stretch your legs wandering the water’s edge, or enjoy a picnic.

n Cloncurry Lookout, on the drive to Chinaman Creek Dam, provides another fantastic panoramic view of the township and the Cloncurry River.

n Burke and Wills passed through the area in 1861 on their expedition from Melbourne to the Gulf; a memorial is located 43km west of Cloncurry on the banks of the Corella River. Heading further west you will come across Clem Walton Park. The park boasts camping sites and amenities on the banks of a lagoon.

QuaMby Population 6

“Quamby” means “resting place’” so it is only fitting to stop for a drink at the old Albert Hotel, now known as the Quamby Pub. Originally the Customs house in the 1860s, it is all that remains of a once prosperous gold mining and cattle fattening district. The town comes alive in July hosting its annual rodeo.

Points of Interest n Quamby Pubn Rum Can Water Tower

daJarra Population 150

Believe it or not, Dajarra was once the largest cattle trucking depot in the world, processing thousands of head of cattle from as far away as Western Australia. Then came the road trains, and soon the railway was just a memory. Today, Dajarra is an Outback town with a rich Aboriginal heritage.

Points of Interest n Post Office Museum

ducHess Population 3

In earlier days Duchess was an important railway and mining town. Today, relive the glory days over a drink or two at the local Duchess Hotel, where the beer and stories flow. The old Duchess mine and lime quarry are reminders of its bustling past.

Points of Interest n The Duchess Hoteln Duchess Minen Old lime quarry

kaJabbi Population 5

Kajabbi commemorates the warrior Kalkadoon tribe which fought its last battle against mounted police on the slopes of Battle Mountain.

Points of Interest n Kalkadoon and Kalkadunga tribes’

memorials stand opposite the old Kalkadoon Hotel.

n Dobbyn/Mount Cuthbert – the former copper mine with smelter stacks that are still standing.

burke & Wills Junction Population 6

Breaking the trip between Cloncurry and Normanton on the Matilda Highway is the Burke and Wills Roadhouse, so named because it is located on the route taken by the ill-fated explorers. Situated at The Threeways, it is also the turn-off for travellers heading to Gregory Downs, Adel’s Grove or Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park.

curry Merry Muster festival, cloncurry

outdoor Machinery display, cloncurrychinaman creek dam, cloncurry


Mary kathleen Memorial park complex, cloncurry

australia’s best butt competition, Julia creek


at the CreeK visitor information Centre

34 Burke Street, Julia CreekP: (07) 4746 7690F: (07) 4746 7005

E: [email protected] www.atthecreek.com.au

Julia creek Population 500

Don’t miss the multi award-winning Visitor Information Centre ‘At the Creek’ with its unique audio and visual displays depicting the life and times of Julia Creek and McKinlay Shire residents. The stories are represented by the themes of water, country and people – a must-see attraction when visiting Julia Creek. An accredited Visitor Information Centre, ‘At the Creek’ provides a range of travel brochures and maps covering the north west of Queensland’s Outback.

The annual Dirt n Dust Festival will be held in Julia Creek from 15th to 17th April 2011. This award-winning event includes one of Australia’s major triathlon events as well as the Artesian Express Horse Race (the richest horse race in the north west), PBR Bullride, Australia’s Best Butt competition, live concerts and the famous novelty events. Visit www.dirtndust.com.au.

Points of Interest n The Julia Creek Water Tower, 30 metres

high and wineglass-shaped, can be seen from up to 20 kilometres away, with blue-coloured feature lighting creating a visual effect at night time.

n Duncan McIntyre Museum is located in Burke Street, and the Julia Creek Opera House (Julia Street) display an interesting collection of local and regional memorabilia and photographs.

n While visiting Julia Creek why not visit the Proa Redclaw Farm, located 75km south east of Julia Creek. The 12 ponds use artesian water, some containing up to 16,000 redclaw. Free self-drive tours including afternoon tea are available. Bookings are essential and can be made ‘At the Creek.’ Tours operate Monday – Friday, departing the information centre at 1.00pm.

n Punchbowl Water Hole is on the Flinders River approximately 45km north east of Julia Creek (unsealed road). This is an excellent place for swimming, fishing, birdwatching and picnicking.

n Sedan Dip is 100km north of Julia Creek (bitumen road). Fishing, swimming and birdwatching can be enjoyed at the Dip so take along a line and yabby trap. Sedan Dip

is noted for its one weekend in late August when a campdraft, rodeo and race meeting are held.

n Historical Walk – Obtain a map ‘At the Creek’ and stroll around the 38 sites, learning about their interesting and colourful history. Make sure you take a look at the centenary celebrations mosaic artwork on the wall of the library.

n World War II Bunker – The remains of a directional finding installation can be seen at the western edge of Julia Creek, near the cattle sale yards.

kynuna Population 20

Once a town with three bustling country pubs boosted by a staging post of Cobb & Co., Kynuna is now home to just one, the famous Blue Heeler Hotel. It is a recommended stop for all visitors.

Points of Interest n The Blue Heeler Hotel, built in 1889 as

the Kynuna Hotel, was one of three hotels trading for up to 700 people. Today the hotel is the only building still on site that has any association with the first days of the song “Waltzing Matilda”. Banjo Paterson drank at the pub. Both squatter and swagman had their last drinks there.

n The turnoff to the Combo Waterhole is on the Matilda (Landsborough) Highway 16km east of Kynuna and 153km north west of Winton. Access by conventional vehicles is possible except during wet weather. A barbeque and picnic area is available at the car park “under the shade of a coolibah tree”. A 2.5km round trip takes you on a walk along cobbled paths to the waterhole, situated on the Diamantina River. Here you can enjoy a walk through the dry channels of the Diamantina to the famous waterhole, crossing historic stone pitched overshots built by Chinese labourers more than a century ago. The return walk takes 40 minutes. Camping is prohibited.

Mckinlay Population 30

This little town, established more than 100 years ago, was once a staging post for Cobb & Co. coaches. It is best known for its pub, the Walkabout Creek Hotel which, together with the other buildings in town, featured in the movie “Crocodile Dundee”. While in McKinlay visit Queensland’s smallest public library, open every Thursday. Further north of McKinlay is Maronan Station where you can fossick for gemstones, particularly garnets. Public access is via the Matilda (Landsborough) Highway.

Points of Interest n Walkabout Creek Hotel

n McKinlay Library

n BHP Billiton Cannington Mine, located 87km south of McKinlay, is the world’s largest and lowest-cost single mine producer of both silver and lead. Opened in 1997, Cannington was the supplier of silver for the Olympic Games medals in Sydney in 2000 and again for the Beijing Olympics in 2008.

nelia Population 10Nelia, located 40km east of Julia Creek, was once a very busy town, however today only one family lives here. The post office celebrated 100 years in 2009, however it is no longer operational. Keep an eye out in 2011 for an exciting new tourist attraction.

at the creek visitor information, Julia creek

Julia creek Water tower

saxby roundup, north of Julia creek


TENNANTCREEK

Three Ways

BarklyHomestead

CamoowealCloncurry

McKinlayKynuna

Winton

Julia Creek

TO BOULIA

TO MUTTABURRATO LONGREACH

Prairie

HughendenRichmond Torrens Creek

PentlandCharters Towers

MingelaHomestead

MOUNT ISA

TOWNSVILLE

Matilda Highway

TENNANTCREEK

Three Ways

BarklyHomestead

CamoowealCloncurry

McKinlayKynuna

Winton

Julia Creek

TO BOULIA

TO MUTTABURRATO LONGREACH

TO NORMANTON

TO BOODJAMULLA(LAWN HILL)

NATIONAL PARKTO CROYDON

TO CAIRNS

TO CLERMONT

TO PORCUPINE GORGE

Prairie

HughendenRichmond Torrens Creek

PentlandCharters Towers

MingelaHomestead

Balfe’s CreekBalfe’s CreekMOUNT ISA

TOWNSVILLE

Matilda HighwayQLD

/ N

T B

orde

r

Overlander’sTownsville to Tennant Creek

Way

For more than 100 years our pioneers have been discovering the Overlander’s Way. Now you can follow in their footsteps on a 1,550km driving adventure across the breadth of Queensland and into the Northern Territory, linking the wonders of the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef to the rugged Aussie Outback.

From the vast rugged cattle plains to dramatic basalt landscapes, spectacular gorges and prolific wildlife, the Overlander’s Way promises a journey rich with discovery, unspoilt natural beauty and friendly local characters.

Travelling the Overlander’s Way is easy. Come by plane, train or coach, or get your free driving map and travel the Overlander’s Way at your own pace.

At the Creek Visitor Information Centre, Julia Creek

Porcupine Gorge, HughendenKronosaurus Korner, Richmond

Family Fun Park, Mount Isa

For your FREE Overlander’s Way map and brochure call 1800 247 966 or visit www.overlandersway.info

Traveltrain HolidaysRail only bookings: 132 232

Holiday packages: 1800 627 655

www.traveltrain.com.au

Greyhound Australia1300 473 946

www.greyhound.com.au

Sky Trans1300 759 872

www.skytrans.com.au

REX (Regional Express Airlines)

13 17 13www.rex.com.au

Qantas Airways13 13 13

www.qantas.com

Air North1800 627 474

www.airnorth.com.au

Curry Merry Muster Festival, Cloncurry

Heritage Buildings, Charters Towers

Castle Hill and Breakwater Marina, Townsville

North West OQTA.indd 1 16/12/10 12:57 PM


ricHMond Population 800

Situated on the Overlander’s Way, halfway between Townsville and Mt Isa, Richmond sits perched on the bank of Queensland’s longest river, the Flinders, and is known for its recreational Lake Fred Tritton and bougainvillea-lined streets, shady parks and gardens.

Richmond is home to the award-winning attraction Kronosaurus Korner, where you will find the only museum in Australia primarily dedicated to displaying marine reptiles. The centre is home to some 400 exhibits dating back to the Cretaceous period, 98-114 million years ago, when Richmond was part of the inland sea. Don’t miss the themed theatrette, which provides a unique introduction to life during the Cretaceous period. And kids will love the Krono Kids Club so why not join from as little as $15 per year, per child and take the experience home with you? Krono’s Kids Club is online at www.kronosauruskorner.com.au or ask at the Tourist Information Desk.

The Centre is open seven days from 8.30am to 4.00pm (Closed Christmas, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day and Good Friday). The Kronosaurus Korner landscaping features a life-size 12.2 metre replica of Kronosaurus Queenslandicus, discovered by American Scientists near Richmond in the 1930s. If you find that you are infected with “fossil fever” after visiting Kronosaurus Korner, call at reception for a map to guide you through the region’s designated fossicking sites. Finds may include shark teeth, fish bones, belemnites, ammonites and various shells. Bring them back to the centre where the staff or consultant curator will be happy to identify your finds.

Once you have completed your visit to Kronosaurus Korner, enjoy a coffee in the Moonrock Café and sample the delights of the local bakery. Buy a souvenir to remind you of your visit and have a chat to the friendly staff at the accredited Visitor Information Centre.

Lake Fred Tritton is conveniently located at the edge of town. With a 1.2 kilometre circumference and a maximum depth of 8 metres, Lake Fred Tritton allows visitors and locals the opportunity to enjoy a wide

range of water sports. Swimming, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing, skiing and fishing are popular activities at the lake which boasts sandy beaches, shaded playground facilities and a water park. A paved walking track and gardens make it a fun way for the entire family to get fit and spend quality time together.

The boat ramp, free barbeque facilities and great amenities of Lake Fred Tritton have created a hub for the community’s social gatherings. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish including barramundi, gulf grunter, sleepy cod, spangled perch and yellow fin. It also has freshwater prawns and redclaw crayfish.

Situated on the banks of award- winning Lake Fred Tritton, the Bush Tucker Gardens is a joint project involving the Richmond Shire Council as well as the local indigenous and non-indigenous community and the dedication of the Community Development Employment Program workers. All plants are native to the region and are labelled with their traditional purposes, helping to promote the educational aspects of indigenous culture. The garden’s waterfall represents the birthplace of Richmond’s water flowing from the basalt country to the white gravel. Gidgee stones and moonrocks, extracted from local properties complete the gardens.

Richmond’s Lakeview Caravan Park is a clean, friendly Outback park offering water views, drive-through sites, free barbeque, disabled facilities, dump point and amenities. Self-contained ensuite cabins as well as twin share air-conditioned bunk houses are available. Camp at the caravan park or check out the range of motel accommodation offered in Richmond.

Don’t forget Richmond is an RV and CMCA friendly town – please register with reception at Kronosaurus Korner.

If stepping back in time is more your scene, then take a heritage walk down the main street which has viewing signs depicting yesteryear. The Cambridge Downs Heritage Display Centre, located along the Heritage Trail in Goldring Street, is a replica of the homestead built on Cambridge Downs Station. Constructed in 1860 from local flagstone, it is a fine example of the architectural resourcefulness of western pioneers. The display centre houses various artefacts of historical and cultural siginifiance and contains historical interpretative panels on Cambridge Downs, the Wanamarra people and the Woolgar Goldfield. Pay your respects to the pioneers that shaped this country at the Pioneer Cemetery and relax at Jack Brown Lions Park.

Whatever your interests, you will enjoy your time spent in Richmond, experiencing everything the area has to offer. You may be lucky enough to be in town for one of the four country race meetings held at the Richmond Racecourse or check out the Richmond Shire Council Calendar of Events via the web www.richmond.qld.gov.au or become a “friend” on facebook, search for Richmond What’s On and visit us for one of the many exciting activities that take place during the year.

Kronosaurus Korner91-93 Goldring Street, RichmondP: 1300 KRONOK (1300 576 665)

F: (07) 4741 3802E: [email protected]

www.kronosauruskorner.com.au

pliosaur skeleton, richmond

lakeview caravan park, richmond

cambridge Homestead, richmond


kronosaurus korner, richmond

Overlander’s Way (Flinders Highway), richmondP: 1300 KRONOK (1300 576 665) F: (07) 4741 3802e: [email protected]

www.kronosauruskorner.com.au

Fossil Capital of AustraliaKronosaurus Korner

Information Centre & Fossil Display

We are discovering new fossils every day – Check them out or find your own!

Kronosaurus Korner is home to Australia’s best preserved dinosaur skeleton Minmi and one of the

world’s best Pliosaur skeletons.

n Souvenirs n Tour bookings n Café for meals and refreshments n Guided tours n Handheld audio guides available n Themed theatrette n Free fossicking sites

n Walking distance from Caravan Park, Motels & Hotels

Register for one of the organised fossil expeditions

OpeN 7 Days 8.30am to 4.00pm except Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day and Good Friday

Krono Kids Corner The Kids Corner is a special area in the fossil centre where children can

entertain themselves while parents tour the exhibits uninterrupted.

88 Goldring Street, Richmond QLD 4822P: (07) 4741 3932 E: [email protected]

AmmonitE inn P: (07) 4741 3932

the Ammonite inn makes for the perfect stop on the overlander’s Way (townsville – tennant Creek). Facilities include a licensed restaurant ‘Rivers’, conference facilities and a swimming pool, spacious undercover parking and all rooms are air-conditioned. A first class service and an enjoyable stay.

1800 247 966For your FREE brochure please call

www.australiasdinosaurtrail.com

Dino Pass Purchase your pass from:

Kronosaurus Korner, Richmond

Flinders Discovery Centre, Hughenden

Lark Quarry Dinosaur Trackways, Winton

Waltzing Matilda Centre, Winton


flinders disCoverY Centre

37 Gray Street, HughendenP: (07) 4741 2970F: (07) 4741 1029

E: [email protected] www.flinders.qld.gov.au

HuGHenden Population 1900

Hughenden has a lot to offer travellers, with four national parks, gemfields, mountainous volcanic basalt country, sweeping black soil plains and rich fossil and dinosaur areas.

Visit “Hughie”, the seven metre-tall Muttaburrasaurus, and an impressive fossil collection at the Flinders Discovery Centre, which is also an accredited Information Centre. While you are there, relive the glory days of sheep production and its subsequent demise in the “Shearing the Straggler” exhibit. A small admission fee applies.

Follow the windmill blades through the streets of Hughenden, exploring the history and art features of the town. Meet “Mutt”, a full-bodied Muttaburrasaurus replica along the way. Ample bus and caravan parking is available while you enjoy the serenity of Robert Gray Memorial Park, on the banks of the Flinders River. This is just one of four parks in town, each with wheelchair-accessible toilets and picnic facilities.

Just outside Hughenden, Mount Walker rises out of the flat black soil plains, providing great views across town and around the district. Further afield is spectacular Porcupine Gorge National Park, often referred to as Australia’s “Little Grand Canyon”. The first lookout gives you an indication of the depth and magnitude of the gorge and is a must-see for all visitors. Camping grounds are located at the Pyramid Lookout; campers should take their own water and be fully self-sufficient. Camping permits are available by phoning 13 13 04 or online at www.qld.gov.au/camping, some self registration is also available.

The Basalt Byway is a scenic drive plotted through picturesque volcanic basalt countryside, boasting excellent lookouts and abundant flora and fauna. For four-wheel-driving enthusiasts, the Eromanga Sea Byway traces the edge of the prehistoric inland sea. Make the sandy crossing on the Flinders River Byway and reward yourself with a cold drink at the Prairie Pub.

Enjoy a walk along the diverse bio-regions of the Flinders Shire at Eco Walk on Flinders. These ecosystems

have been replicated along the northern banks of the Flinders River with over 1.5km of walking tracks. Along the pathway are species of flora and local artworks illustrating important events, and the myriad diversity of Flinders Shire.

Points of Interest n Flinders Discovery Centren Hughien Muttn Street sculptures n 35’ Comet windmilln Porcupine Gorge National Parkn Cemetery Arts & Symbolism

self-guided tourn Blackbraes National Parkn Basalt Bywayn Eromanga Sea Bywayn Flinders River Bywayn Eco-Walk on Flindersn Mount Walker lookouts

Prairie Population 35

Prairie is a town surrounded by beautiful rolling plains of Flinders grass. In the 1870s it was a main horse change centre for Cobb & Co. coaches. The Prairie Hotel is a must-see with its unique atmosphere, collection of stockman’s hats and other historical memorabilia. Hear the story of the wandering ringer; this ghostly prowler comes from a story first told around the 1930’s.

Points of Interest n The Prairie Hoteln Kooroorinya Falls Nature Reserven 35’ Comet windmilln Flinders River Byway 4WD Tourist Drive

(not a loop road)

torrens creek Population 20

In 1942 Torrens Creek was utilised as an ammunition dump during World War II. Call in to hear the stories of how this little town was nearly blown away. The Exchange Hotel welcomes all travellers with cool drinks and great meals and you are invited to add your mark to the humorous graffiti gallery.

South of Torrens Creek is Moorrinya National Park. Moorrinya, meaning “ironbark” in the local Aboriginal dialect, showcases a perfect example of the desert upland bioregion. Bush camping is available by contacting the ranger on (07) 4741 7374.

White Mountains National Park offers short walking tracks for those wishing to explore this magic spot a little further. A lookout on the Overlander’s Way gives an indication of the amazing colours and textures of the rock and wildflower displays during May to August. A bush camping area is available for self-sufficient and experienced bushwalkers only.

Information and registration should be made with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Officers: Hughenden Office, phone: (07) 4741 1113 or Charters Towers Office, phone: (07) 4787 3388.

Points of Interest n Moorrinya National Parkn White Mountains National Parkn The Exchange Hotel, Torrens Creekn Burra Range Lookout on the

Overlander’s Way

staMFord Population 5

Once a busy railhead for local wool graziers, the town of Stamford is now a quieter place, firing up once a year in July for the Stamford Races. Stop in and have a cuppa at the Stamford Roadhouse. You will enjoy the refreshing break and chat.

Points of Interest n Stamford Roadhouse

Mt Walker sunset, Hughenden

Mutt - the Muttaburrasaurus, Hughenden

pyramid, porcupine Gorge national park


carPentariaOutback by the Sea – The azure blue waters of the Gulf of Carpentaria have long been a destination for recreational fishermen and are a birdwatcher’s paradise. Carpentaria Shire marks the end of the Matilda Highway which traverses Queensland’s length from Barringun on the New South Wales border to the port town of Karumba.

While Normanton is the region’s main administrative centre, Karumba relies on its fishing and prawning industries, complemented by tourism through the winter months.

cHarters toWersCharters Towers was established in the early 1870s upon the discovery of gold. In its heyday the city had a population of some 30,000 and its own stock exchange – it was Queensland’s largest city outside of Brisbane.

Today Charters Towers is a regional centre for mining, beef and education, and retains an old world charm – the opulent architecture of its golden heritage a real drawcard for the town.

flinders discovery centre, Hughenden

on the road

Walker St, Karumba 4891Phone: (07) 4745 9582 Fax: (07) 4745 9145

Email: [email protected] Web: www.carpentaria.qld.gov.au

cnr Landsborough & Caroline Sts, Normanton QLD 4890

Phone: (07) 4745 1065 Fax: (07) 4745 1072

Covering an area the size of Tasmania, the Charters Towers region offers travellers a unique snapshot of country life as it was in the gold rush days of the 1870’s right through the war years and into the new century, where we now enjoy a legacy rich in heritage and character.

Situated just 90 minutes south west of Townsville, Charters Towers, once known as “The World”, is a bustling rural centre that celebrates its grand history through wonderfully preserved heritage buildings, pubs, museums and streetscapes. And not a traffic light in sight!

Ask at the Visitor Information Centre about the “ghosts of gold” Heritage Trail, the One Square Mile and the Venus Gold Battery – each of them a “must see.” You can also visit The Miner’s Cottage, the Historic Ambulance Centre, see the Texas Longhorns - and much more.

Charters Towers Visitor Information CentrePhone: (07) 4761 5533Email: [email protected]: www.charterstowers.qld.gov.au

Charters Towers

37 Gray Street, Hughenden QLD 4821P: (07) 4741 2970 F: (07) 4741 1029 E: [email protected] www.flinders.qld.gov.au

FLinDErS DiScovEry cEntrE P: (07) 4741 2970

FLinDErS DiScovEry cEntrE, HuGHEnDEn■ Fossil and Gem Display■ Life-sized Muttaburrasaurus Dinosaur■ Porcupine Gorge Light and Sound Show■ Shearing the Stragglers ■ Bioregion Display■ Local and regional tourist information ■ Souvenir Shop■ Local Mapsopen 7 Days 9.00am - 5.00pmclosed christmas and new year’s DayDec, Jan and Feb – Sat and Sun 9.00am to 1.00pm


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ArAmAc the Lake via Aramac P (07) 4651 0565

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BArcAldine Barcaldine country motor inn 1 Box St P (07) 4651 1488 E [email protected]

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ironbark inn 72 Box St P (07) 4651 2311 E [email protected] • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Union Hotel motel Cnr Oak & Maple Sts P (07) 4651 2269 E [email protected] • • • • • • • •

BedourieRoyal Hotel Bedourie Herbert St P (07) 4746 1201 E [email protected] www.bedouriehotel.com

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Birdsville Birdsville caravan Park 1 Florence St P (07) 4656 3214 E [email protected] www.birdsvillecaravanpark.com

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Birdsville Hotel Adelaide St P (07) 4656 3244 E [email protected] www.theoutback.com.au • • • • • • • • • • •

BlAckAll Acacia motor inn 110 Shamrock St P (07) 4657 6022 E [email protected] www.blackallacaciamotorinn.com.au

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Barcoo Hotel 95 Shamrock St P (07) 4657 4197 • • • • • • • • •

Blackall caravan Park 53 Garden St P (07) 4657 4816 E [email protected] • • • • • • • • • • • • •

coolibah motel 36 Shamrock St P (07) 4657 4380 E [email protected] www.coolibahmotel.com.au 3 • • • • • • • • • • •

BouliA Boulia Australian Hotel 21 Herbert St P (07) 4746 3144 E [email protected]

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Boulia caravan Park 1 Winton Rd P (07) 4746 3320 E [email protected] • • • • • • • • • • • •

Boulia desert Sands motel 50 Herbert St P (07) 4746 3000 E [email protected] • • • • • • • •

chArleville Bailey Bar caravan Park 196 King St P (07) 4654 1744 E [email protected] www.charlevillebaileybar.com.au

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charleville Bush cottage & caravan Park Lot 1 Frawley St, Quilpie Rd P 1800 654 541 E [email protected] www.travelwest.com.au • • • • • • • • • • •

charleville Waltzing matilda motor inn 125 Alfred St P (07) 4654 1720 E [email protected] 3.5 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

cobb & co caravan Park 1 Ridgeway St P (07) 4654 1053 3 • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Evening Star tourist Park 818 Adavale Rd P (07) 4654 2430 E [email protected] www.eveningstar.com.au 4 • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

mulga country motor inn Lot 118 Sturt St P (07) 4654 3255 E [email protected] 4 • • • • • • • • • • • •

chArters towers dalrymple tourist Van Park 24 Dalrymple Rd P (07) 4787 1121 E [email protected] www.dalrymplevanpark.com.au

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cloncurry cloncurry caravan Park oasis 56-74 McIlwraith St P (07) 4742 1313 E [email protected] www.cloncurrycaravanparkoasis.com

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Gidgee inn motel 1 Matilda Hwy P (07) 4742 1599 E [email protected] wwww.gidgeeinn.com.au 4 • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

cunnAmullA “Aldville Station” via Wyandra P (07) 4655 4814 E [email protected]

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charlotte Plains 1993 Charlotte Plains Rd P (07) 4655 4923 E [email protected] www.charlotteplains.com.au • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

nardoo Station ”Nardoo Station” P (07) 4655 4833 E [email protected] www.nardoo.com.au • • • • • • • • • • • • •

emerAld discovery Holiday Parks - Lake marraboon Selma Rd P (07) 4987 4950 E [email protected] www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au

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hughenden Hughenden Allen terry caravan Park 2 Resolution St P (07) 4741 1190 E [email protected] www.hughenden.com

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Rest Easi motel 11 Flinders Hwy P (07) 4741 1633 E [email protected] www.hughenden.com • • • • • • • • • • • • •

*by prior arrangement

t r a v E l d i r E c t o r y


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the Royal Hotel Resort 21 Moran St P (07) 4741 1183 E [email protected] www.hughenden.com 3.5 • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

ilfrAcomBe Wellshot Hotel 15 Main Ave P (07) 4658 2106 E [email protected] www.wellshothotel.com.au

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innAminckA innamincka Hotel South Terrace P (08) 8675 9901 E [email protected] www.theoutback.com.au

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JuliA creek Julia creek caravan Park Old Normanton Rd P (07) 4746 7108 www.mckinlay.qld.gov.au

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JundAhJundah Hotel 10-12 Dickson St P (07) 4658 6166 [email protected] www.jundahdownunder.com.au

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kArumBA Sweers island Resort Pty Ltd Sweers Island P (07) 4748 5544 E [email protected] www.sweers.com.au

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lAwn hill (BoodJAmullA nAtionAl PArk)Adels Grove campground Lot 3 Lawn Hill Gregory Rd P (07) 4748 5502 E [email protected] www.adelsgrove.com.au

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longreAch Abajaz motor inn 11 Wonga St P (07) 4658 1288 E [email protected] www.abajazmotorinn.com.au

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Albert Park motor inn Cnr Ilfracombe & Stork Rd P (07) 4658 2411 E [email protected] www.albertpark-longreach.com.au 3.5 • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Aussie Betta cabins 63 Ilfracombe Rd P (07) 4658 3811 E [email protected] www.aussiebettacabins.com.au 3.5 • • • • • • • • • • •

discovery Holiday Parks - Longreach 12 Thrush Rd P 1800 356 099 E [email protected] www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au 3.5 • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Jumbuck motel Sir Hudson Fysh Drive P (07) 4658 1799 E [email protected] www.jumbuckmotel.com.au • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Longreach motel 127-129 Eagle St P (07) 4658 1996 E [email protected] www.longreachmotel.net.au 3.5 • • • • • • • •

Longreach motor inn 84 Galah St P (07) 4658 2322 E [email protected] www.outbacklongreach.com.au • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

mitchell Berkeley Lodge motor inn 20-30 Cambridge St P (07) 4623 1666 E [email protected] www.berkeleylodge.webls.net

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Bonus downs Farmstay Bollon Rd P (07) 4623 1573 E [email protected] www.bonusdowns.webls.net • • • • • • • • •

mount isA AAoK moondarra Accommodation Village 2 Moondarra Drive P (07) 4743 9780 E [email protected] www.aaok.com.au

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All Seasons Verona Hotel Cnr Rodeo Drive & Camooweal St P (07) 4743 3024 E [email protected] www.allseasons.com.au 3.5 • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

outback motel 45-47 West St P (07) 4743 2311 E [email protected] www.outbackmotel.com.au 3.5 • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Quality inn Burke & Wills Cnr Grace & Camooweal Sts P (07) 4743 8000 E [email protected] www.burkeandwillsmotel.com.au

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PrAirie Prairie Hotel motel Flinders Hwy P (07) 4741 5121 E [email protected]

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QuilPie channel country tourist Park 21 Chipu St P (07) 4656 2087 E [email protected] www.channelpark.com.au

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richmond Ammonite inn 88 Goldring St P (07) 4741 3932 E [email protected]

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tAmBo tambo mill motel & caravan Park 34-40 Arthur St P (07) 4621 7000 E [email protected] www.tambomillmotel.com

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thArgomindAh Epsilon Station “Epsilon Station” P (07) 4655 4324 E [email protected]

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Explorers caravan Park 88 Dowling Street P 1800 820 890 E [email protected] • • • • • • • • • • •

Kilcowera Station ”Kilcowera Station” P (07) 4655 4960 E [email protected] www.kilcowera.com.au • • • • • • • • • •

windorAh cooper cabins 11 Edward St P (07) 4656 3101

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Western Star Hotel 15 Albert St P (07) 4656 3166 E [email protected] 3.5 • • • • • • • •


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winton Banjo’s overnight & Holiday Units 78 Manuka St P (07) 4657 1213 E [email protected]

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Boulder opal motor inn 16 Elderslie St P (07) 4657 1211 E [email protected] www.boulderopalmotorinn.com.au 3 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

carisbrooke Station ”Carisbrooke Station” P (07) 4657 0084 E [email protected] www.carisbrooketours.com.au • • • • • • • • • •

matilda country tourist Park 43 Chirnside St P (07) 4657 1607 E [email protected] www.matildacountrytouristpark.com 3.5 • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

matilda motel 20 Oondooroo St P (07) 4657 1433 E [email protected] • • • • • • • • • •

tattersalls Hotel 78 Elderslie St P (07) 4657 1309 • • • • •

Windermere Station “Windermere Station” P (07) 4657 0359 E [email protected] www.windermerestation.com.au • • • • •

Winton Hotel 43 Werna St P (07) 4657 1519 E [email protected] • • • • •

Winton outback motel 95 Elderslie St P (07) 4657 1422 E [email protected] www.wintonoutbackmotel.com • • • • • • • • • •

AttRActionS AddRESS PHonE FA x EmAiL WEBSitE

BArcAldine The Australian Workers Heritage Centre 94 Ash Street (07) 4651 1579 (07) 4651 1570 [email protected] www.australianworkersheritagecentre.com.auWanpa-rda Matilda Outback Education Centre Cnr Ash & Willow Streets (07) 4651 2530 (07) 4651 2531 [email protected] www.wanpardaeec.eq.edu.auBedourie Artesian Spa & Swimming Pool Complex Nappa Street 1300 794 257 (07) 4746 1272 [email protected] www.diamantina.qld.gov.auCommunity Hall & Indoor Sports Centre Herbert Street 1300 794 257 (07) 4746 1272 [email protected] www.diamantina.qld.gov.auOutback Golf Course Diamantina Developmental Road 1300 794 257 (07) 4746 1272 [email protected] www.diamantina.qld.gov.auBirdsville Birdsville Hotel Adelaide Street (07) 4656 3244 (07) 4656 3262 [email protected] www.theoutback.com.auWirrarri Visitor Information Centre Billabong Boulevard (07) 4656 3300 (07) 4656 3302 [email protected] www.diamantina.qld.gov.auBirdsville - Bedourie The Bilby Way Eyre Developmental Road 1300 794 257 (07) 4746 1272 [email protected] www.diamantina.qld.gov.auBlAckAll Blackall Historical Woolscour Evora Road (07) 4657 6042 (07) 4657 6042 [email protected] www.blackallwoolscour.jimdo.com BouliA Min Min Encounter 25 Herbert Street (07) 4746 3386 (07) 4746 3387 [email protected] www.boulia.qld.gov.auStonehouse Museum 57 Pituri Street (07) 4746 3386 (07) 4746 3387 [email protected] www.boulia.qld.gov.auBourke - QuilPie The Dowling Track Bourke - Quilpie (07)4655 3399 (07) 4655 3374 [email protected] www.thargotourism.com.auBrisBAne - AdelAide The Adventure Way Brisbane - Adelaide (07) 4655 3399 (07) 4655 3374 [email protected] www.thargotourism.com.auchArleville Charleville Bilby Experience 1 Qantas Drive (07) 4654 7771 (07) 4654 7772 [email protected] www.savethebilbyfund.comCosmos Centre & Observatory 1 Qantas Drive (07) 4654 7771 (07) 4654 7772 [email protected] www.cosmoscentre.comcloncurry Cloncurry Mary Kathleen Park Museum McIlwraith Street (07) 4742 1361 (07) 4742 1361 [email protected] www.cloncurry.qld.gov.auCurry Merry Muster Festival 30 Ramsay Street 0428 350 158 [email protected] www.currymerrymuster.com.auJohn Flynn Place Museum & Art Gallery Cnr Daintree & King Streets (07) 4742 2778 (07) 4742 1989 [email protected] www.cloncurry.qld.gov.auhughenden Flinders Discovery Centre 37 Gray Street (07) 4741 2970 (07) 4741 1029 [email protected] www.flinders.qld.gov.auilfrAcomBe Wellshot Hotel 15 Main Avenue (07) 4658 2106 [email protected] www.wellshothotel.com.auinnAminckA Innamincka Hotel South Terrace (08) 8675 9901 (08) 8675 9961 [email protected] www.theoutback.com.auJuliA creek At the Creek Visitor Information Centre 34 Burke Street (07) 4746 7690 (07) 4746 7005 [email protected] www.atthecreek.com.auDirt & Dust Festival Burke Street (07) 4751 6607 (07) 4751 6607 [email protected] www.dirtndust.comlongreAch AACC Longreach Pastoral Campus Landsborough Highway (07) 4658 4699 (07) 4658 1956 [email protected] www.agriculturalcollege.qld.edu.auAustralian Stockman's Hall of Fame and Outback Heritage Centre Landsborough Highway (07) 4658 2166 (07) 4658 2495 [email protected] www.stockmanshalloffame.com.auKinnon & Co - Changing Station Cafe 126 Eagle Street (07) 4658 2006 (07) 4658 2006 [email protected] www.kinnonandco.com.auKinnon & Co - Starlight's Spectacular 126 Eagle Street (07) 4658 1776 (07) 4658 1794 [email protected] www.kinnonandco.com.auKinnon & Co - The Station Store 126 Eagle Street (07) 4658 2006 (07) 4658 2006 [email protected] www.kinnonandco.com.auLongreach River Cruises 84 Galah Street (07) 4658 2322 (07) 4658 1828 [email protected] www.outbacklongreach.com.auLongreach School of The Air Sir James Walker Drive (07) 4658 4232 (07) 4658 4200 [email protected] www.longreacsde.eq.edu.au

*by prior arrangement


AttRActionS AddRESS PHonE FA x EmAiL WEBSitE

Outback Gallery 105 Eagle Street (07) 4658 0170 [email protected] www.outbackpics.com.auQantas Founders Museum Sir Hudson Fysh Drive (07) 4658 3737 (07) 4658 0707 [email protected] www.qfom.com.aumorven Morven Historical Museum Albert Street (07) 4654 8131 (07) 4654 8343 www.murweh.qld.gov.aumount isA Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic PO Box 2280 0431 745 083 (07) 4749 5001 [email protected] www.mountisafish.org.auMount Isa Irish Association 1 Nineteenth Avenue (07) 4743 2577 (07) 4743 0310 [email protected] www.theirishclub.com.auMount Isa Rotary Rodeo Inc 19 Marian Street (07) 4743 2706 (07) 4743 8435 [email protected] www.isarodeo.com.auMount Isa Underground Hospital & Museum Joan Street (07) 4749 0281 [email protected] At Isa 19 Marian Street (07) 4749 1555 (07) 4743 6296 [email protected] www.outbackatisa.com.aumuttABurrA Dr Arratta Memorial Museum Assoc. Bruford Street (07) 4658 5610 (07) 4658 5686 [email protected] www.muttaburra.comrichmond Kronosaurus Korner 91-93 Goldring Street 1300 KRONOK (07) 4741 3802 [email protected] www.kronosauruskorner.com.aurockhAmPton Beef Australia 134-136 William Street (07) 4922 2989 (07) 4921 3787 [email protected] www.beefaustralia.com.autAmBo Tambo Teddies 17 Arthur Street (07) 4654 6223 (07) 4654 6223 [email protected] www.tamboteddies.com.authArgomindAh Leahy House Cnr Dowling & Gilmore Streets (07) 4655 3399 (07) 4655 3374 [email protected] www.thargotourism.com.auThargomindah Herald Printers Sams Street (07) 4655 3399 (07) 4655 3374 [email protected] www.thargotourism.com.auThargomindah Hydro Power Plant Display Adventure Way (07) 4655 3399 (07) 4655 3374 [email protected] www.thargotourism.com.auwinton Australian Age of Dinosaurs “The Jump Up” Road (07) 4657 0078 (07) 4657 0045 [email protected] www.australianageofdinosaurs.comCorfield & Fitzmaurice Elderslie Street (07) 4657 1486 (07) 4657 1486 www.experiencewinton.com.auLark Quarry Dinosaur Trackways and Conservation Park Jundah Road 1300 665 115 (07) 4657 1886 [email protected] www.dinosaurtrackways.com.auOutback Festival 60 Oondooroo Street (07) 4657 1558 (07) 4657 1558 [email protected] www.outbackfestival.orgWaltzing Matilda Centre 50 Elderslie Street (07) 4657 1466 (07) 4657 1886 [email protected] www.matildacentre.com.auWinton Camel Races Inc PO Box 417 (07) 4741 7185 [email protected] www.experiencewinton.com.auWinton Opal Company 80 Elderslie Street (07) 4657 0747 [email protected]'s Diamantina Heritage Truck & Machinery Museum Lot 2 Hughenden Road 0429 806 140 07 4657 1558 [email protected] www.experiencewinton.com.auWookatook Gift & Gem 73 Elderslie Street (07) 4657 1296 (07) 4657 1541 [email protected] - lAverton The Outback Way Winton - Laverton (07) 4661 7393 [email protected] www.outbackway.org.au

visitor information centres AddRESS PHonE FA x EmAiL WEBSitE

ALPHA Rowley Roberts Tourist Information Centre Shakespeare Street (07) 4985 1050 [email protected] www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.auARAMAC Aramac Post Office Gordon Street (07) 4651 3147 www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.auBARCALDINE Barcaldine Tourist Information Centre Oak Street (07) 4651 1724 (07) 4651 2243 [email protected] www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.auBEDOURIE Bedourie Outback Visitor Centre 506 Herbert Street 1300 794 257 (07) 4746 1272 [email protected] www.diamantina.qld.gov.auBIRDSvILLE Wirrarri Visitor Information Centre Billabong Boulevard 1300 794 257 (07) 4656 3302 [email protected] www.diamantina.qld.gov.auBLACkALL Blackall Visitor Information Centre 108a Shamrock Street (07) 4657 4637 (07) 4657 4913 [email protected] www.btrc.qld.gov.auBOULIA Min Min Encounter 25 Herbert Street (07) 4746 3386 (07) 4746 3387 [email protected] www.boulia.qld.gov.auCHARLEvILLE Charleville Visitor Information Centre Qantas Drive (07) 4654 7771 (07) 4654 7772 [email protected] www.murweh.qld.gov.auCHARTERS TOWERS Charters Towers Visitor Information Centre 74 Mosman Street (07) 4761 5533 (07) 4761 5536 [email protected] www.charterstowers.qld.gov.auCLONCURRY Cloncurry Information Centre McIlwraith Street (07) 4742 1361 (07) 4742 1361 [email protected] www.cloncurry.qld.gov.auCUNNAMULLA Cunnamulla Fella Centre 2 Jane Street (07) 4655 8470 (07) 4655 1120 [email protected] www.paroo.qld.gov.auHUGHENDEN Flinders Discovery Centre 37 Gray Street (07) 4741 2970 (07) 4741 1029 [email protected] www.flinders.qld.gov.auILFRACOMBE Wellshot Centre 9 McMaster Drive (07) 4658 3551 (07) 4658 2598 [email protected] www.longreach.qld.gov.auISISFORD Isisford Branch Office 20 Mary Street (07) 4658 8900 (07) 4658 8950 [email protected] www.isisford.qld.gov.auJERICHO Jericho Tourism Assocation Darwin Street (07) 4651 4232 www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.auJULIA CREEk At the Creek 34 Burke Street (07) 4746 7690 (07) 4746 7005 [email protected] www.atthecreek.com.auJUNDAH Jundah Visitor Information Centre 11 Dickson Street (07) 4658 6930 (07) 4658 6221 [email protected] www.barcoo.qld.gov.aukARUMBA Karumba Visitor Information Centre and Library Walker Street (07) 4745 9582 (07) 4745 9145 [email protected] www.carpentaria.qld.gov.auLONGREACH Longreach Visitor Information Centre Qantas Park, 97 Eagle Street (07) 4658 4150 (07) 4658 4177 [email protected] www.longreach.qld.gov.auMT ISA Outback At Isa 19 Marian Street (07) 4749 1555 (07) 4743 6296 [email protected] www.outbackatisa.com.auMUTTABURRA Muttaburra Post Office Sword Street (07) 4658 7147 www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.auNORMANTON Normanton Visitor Information Centre and Library Cnr Landsborough Hwy & Caroline St (07) 4745 1065 (07) 4745 1072 [email protected] www.carpentaria.qld.gov.auQUILPIE Quilpie Visitor Information Centre 51 Brolga Street (07) 4656 0540 (07) 4656 1441 [email protected] www.quilpie.qld.gov.auRICHMOND Kronosaurus Korner 91-93 Goldring Street 1300 KRONOK (07) 4741 3802 [email protected] www.kronosauruskorner.com.auTAMBO Tambo Visitor Information Centre - Grasslands@Tambo 30 Arthur Street (07) 4621 6600 (07) 4621 6660 [email protected] www.btrc.qld.gov.auTHARGOMINDAH Thargomindah Visitor Information Centre Cnr McGregor & Eccles Streets (07) 4655 3399 (07) 4655 3374 [email protected] www.thargotourism.com.auWINDORAH Windorah Visitor Information Centre 8 Maryborough Street (07) 4656 3063 (07) 4656 3137 [email protected] www.barcoo.qld.gov.auWINTON Winton Visitor Information Centre 50 Elderslie Street 1300 665 115 (07) 4657 1886 [email protected] www.experiencewinton.com.au


services AddRESS PHonE FA x EmAiL WEBSitE

AlPhA Alpha Home, Health & Beauty 39 Shakespeare Street (07) 4985 1800 (07) 4985 1800 [email protected] www.alphaqueensland.com.auBean West Cafe Capricorn Highway (07) 4985 1365 (07) 4985 1383 [email protected] www.alphaqueensland.com.au

The Alpha Gateway Capricorn Highway (07) 4985 1233 (07) 4985 1383 [email protected] www.alphaqueensland.com.auBArcAldine Barcaldine Pharmacy 91 Oak Street (07) 4651 1121 (07) 4651 1887 [email protected] www.barcaldinepharmacy.com.auBarcaldine Tourist Information Centre Oak Street (07) 4651 1724 (07) 46512 243 [email protected] www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au

George Bourne & Associates 67 Elm Street (07) 4651 2177 (07) 4651 1587 [email protected] www.engineeringtheoutback.com.au

Birdsville Birdsville Bakery Billabong Boulevard (07) 4656 4697 (07) 4656 4625Birdsville Fuel Service & Post Office Adelaide Street (07) 4656 3236 (07) 4656 3263 [email protected] Campbell Higginson Town Planning PO Box 692 (07) 3366 1700 (07) 3366 1688 [email protected] Pty Ltd - Wot's on in Queensland 3 Aberfoyle Street 0438 052 022 (07) 3378 2275 [email protected] Parker Travel Collection 22 Moore Street (07) 4055 6122 (07) 4055 6188 [email protected] www.trav.com.aucAmooweAl Drover's Camp Assoc. Inc. Lot 15, Barkly Highway (07) 4748 2022 (07) 4748 2044 [email protected] www.droverscamp.com.auchArleville Central Warrego Race Club Partridge Street 0417 746 554 [email protected] www.charlevilleracing.comgold coAst Cotadel Pty Ltd PO Box 3135 (07) 5575 6028 [email protected] Hughenden Supermarket 31 Moran Street (07) 4741 1109 (07) 4741 1767 [email protected] www.hughenden.comThe Great Northern Telecentre Inc 32 Stansfield Street (07) 4741 1915 (07) 4741 1659 [email protected] www.hughenden.comilfrAcomBe Ilfracombe General Store & Cafe 30-32 Main Avenue (07) 4658 2265 (07) 4658 2265 [email protected] creek Stephen Malone Photography 43 Burke Street 0427 467 183 [email protected] www.smalone.com.aulongreAch BP Longreach 9 Wonga Street (07) 4658 1136 (07) 4658 1136 [email protected]'s Bar and Grill Landsborough Highway (07) 4658 1168 (07) 4658 2495 [email protected] www.stockmanshalloffame.com.auCentral West Travel Longreach Airport, Landsborough Hwy (07) 4658 1155 (07) 4658 3084 [email protected]'s Campertrailers Longreach 27 Thrush Road 0438 739 199 [email protected] www.longreach.campertrailer.com.auKinnon & Co - Booking Office 115A Eagle Street (07) 4658 1776 (07) 4658 1794 [email protected] www.kinnonandco.com.auKinnon & Co - Changing Station Cafe 126 Eagle Street (07) 4658 2006 (07) 4658 2006 [email protected] www.kinnonandco.com.auKinnon & Co - The Station Store 126 Eagle Street (07) 4658 2006 (07) 4658 2006 [email protected] www.kinnonandco.com.auKinnon & Co - Vintage Bike Hire 115A Eagle Street (07) 4658 1776 (07) 4658 1794 [email protected] www.kinnonandco.com.auMcGinness’ Restaurant (Qantas Founders) Sir Hudson Fysh Drive (07) 4658 3737 (07) 4658 0707 [email protected] www.qfom.com.auMyers Newsagency 113 Eagle Street (07) 4658 1324 (07) 4658 0386Remote Area Planning and Development Board 100 Galah Street (07) 4652 5600 (07) 4652 5699 [email protected] www.rapad.com.auVast Arts Inc 33 Swan Street 0427 582 890 (07) 4658 1857 [email protected] www.vastarts.netmount isA Aussie Bake (QLD) Pty Ltd 28-30 Traders Way (07) 4743 5957 (07) 4743 0074 [email protected] Newspapers Pty Ltd 112 Camooweal Street (07) 4743 3355 (07) 4749 1190 [email protected] www.northweststar.com.auMount Isa Chamber of Commerce 22 West Street (07) 4743 9881 (07) 4743 7266 [email protected] www.mountisachamber.com.auMount Isa Tourism Association 19 Marian Street (07) 4749 1555 (07) 4743 6296 [email protected] www.outbackatisa.com.auThe Buffs Club Cnr Grace & Simpson Streets (07) 4743 2365 (07) 4743 7773 [email protected] www.buffs.com.auoPAlton Queensland Boulder Opal Association Inc Opalton/Winton (07) 4657 1565 [email protected] www.qboa.com.autAmBo Tambo Foodworks 32 Arthur Street (07) 4654 6288 (07) 4654 6119 [email protected] Track Promotions Group Dowling Street (07) 4655 3399 (07) 4655 3374 [email protected] www.thargotourism.com.auwinton Balamara Bakery 76A Elderslie Street (07) 4657 1242 (07) 4657 1763 [email protected]

BP Roadhouse 35 Chirnside Street (07) 4657 0199 (07) 4657 1725 [email protected] www.reliancepetroleum.com.au

O'Regan & Partners Chartered Accountants Cnr Elderslie & Oondooroo Streets (07) 4657 1300 (07) 4657 1300 [email protected] www.oreganpartners.comOrlando Orchards 15 Oondooroo Street (07) 4657 1398 (07) 4657 1398Searles Outback Store 72 Elderslie Street (07) 4657 1450 (07) 4657 1122Shoprite Discount Store Cnr Manuka & Dagworth Streets (07) 4657 1244 (07) 4657 1763 [email protected] Winton Cnr Vindex & Manuka Streets (07) 4657 1254 (07) 4657 1202 [email protected] Tyres Winton 40 Chirnside Street (07) 46570700 (07) 4657 0711 [email protected] Business & Tourism Association Inc (07) 4657 1296Winton Hardware 77 Elderslie Street (07) 4657 1401 (07) 4657 0220 [email protected] Pharmacy 73 Elderslie Street (07) 4657 1340 (07) 4657 1841


toUR oPERAtoRS Exte

nded

Day T

our

Half D

ay or

Less

Coac

h / Co

aste

r

Four

Whe

el Dr

ive

Aircr

aft

Non-

smok

ing

Tag A

long

Cam

ping

Hote

l / M

otel

Mea

ls

Disa

bled F

acilit

ies

Child

ren W

elcom

e

Alco

hol F

ree

BirdsvilleSkinny dingo tours c/- 21 Chipu Street, Quilpie P (07) 4656 2087 E [email protected] www.outbackparks.com.au

• • • • • • •

BurketownSavannah Aviation Cnr Beams & Bowen Streets P (07) 4745 5177 E [email protected] www.savannah-aviation.com

•

cAirnsoz tours Safaris Lot 1, Captain Cook Highway P 1800 079 006 E [email protected] www.oztours.com.au

• • • • • • • • •

chArlevilleoutback Airtours 1 Qantas Drive P (07) 4654 3033 E [email protected] www.outbackairtours.com

• • • •

travel West Lot 1 Frawley Street P (07) 4654 3155 or 1800 654 541 E [email protected] www.travelwest.com.au • • • • • •

kArumBASweers island Resort Pty Ltd Sweers Island P (07) 4748 5544 E [email protected] www.sweers.com.au

• • •

lAwn hillAdels Grove campground Lot 3, Lawn Hill Gregory Road P (07) 4748 5502 E [email protected] www.adelsgrove.com.au

• • • • • • •

longreAchAir central West Pty Ltd ”Llewellyn” P (07) 4658 9187 E [email protected] www.aircentralwest.com.au

• • • • • • • •

Kinnon & co – clancy’s on the thomson 115a Eagle Street P (07) 4658 1776 E [email protected] www.kinnonandco.com.au • • • • • •

Kinnon & co – cobb & co tours 115a Eagle Street P (07) 4658 1776 E [email protected] www.kinnonandco.com.au • • • •

Kinnon & co – thomson River cruises 115a Eagle Street P (07) 4658 1776 E [email protected] www.kinnonandco.com.au • • • •

Longreach day tours 30 Stork Road P 0458 580 728 E [email protected] www.longreachdaytours.com.au • • • • • • •

outback Aussie tours Longreach Railway Station P (07) 4658 3000 E [email protected] www.outbackaussietours.com.au • • • •

Queensland Helicopters C/- Longreach Airport P 0417 624 422 E [email protected] www.queenslandhelicopters.com.au •

mAryBoroughdown Under tours Cnr Tooley & Normanby Streets P (07) 4123 1733 E [email protected] www.downundercoachtours.com.au

• •

mitchellclaravale tours “The Cottage”, Claravale P (07) 4623 2721 E [email protected] www.claravale.webls.net

• • •

mount isARugged Aussie Adventures Breakaway Drive P (07) 4743 2756 E [email protected] www.ruggedaussieadventures.com

• • •

QuilPieSkinny dingo tours c/- 21 Chipu Street, Quilpie P (07) 4656 2087 E [email protected] www.outbackparks.com.au

• • • • • • •

vAriousSavannah Guides 212 McLeod Street P 0408 772 513 E [email protected] www.savannah-guides.com.au

• • • • • • • • • •

wintoncarisbrooke Station “Carisbrooke Station” P (07) 4657 0084 E [email protected] www.carisbrooketours.com.au

• • • • • • • • • •

tRAnSPoRt oPERAtoRS PHonE WEBSitE ScHEdULEd SERVicE cHARtER HiRE RAiL AiR coAcH cAR 4Wd

Greyhound 1300 473 946 www.greyhound.com.au • • •Qantas 13 13 13 www.qantas.com.au • •QantasLink 13 13 13 www.qantas.com.au • •Queensland Rail 1800 627 655 www.queenslandrail.com.au • •Rex Regional Express 13 17 13 www.rex.com.au • •Skytrans 1300 759 872 www.skytrans.com.au • • •

v i s i t o r i n f o r M a t i o n c E n t r E s

For more information or for your Free copy of Queenland's outback travellers' Guide please contact: outback Queensland tourism association inc

P: 1800 247 966 F: (07) 4658 2834 e: [email protected]

this sign denotes genuine, quality visitor information centres. these centres have achieved specified industry standards and are recognised within their region as genuine, quality information providers.

barcaldineBarcaldine Tourist Information CentreOak Street, BarcaldineP (07) 4651 1724 F (07) 4651 2243infocentre@barcaldinerc.qld.gov.auwww.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au

bedourieBedourie Outback Visitor Centre506 Herbert Street, BedourieP 1300 794 257 F (07) 4746 [email protected]

birdsvilleWirrarri Visitor information CentreBillabong Boulevard, BirdsvilleP 1300 794 257 F (07) 4656 [email protected]

blackall Blackall Visitor Information Centre108A Shamrock Street, BlackallP (07) 4657 4637 F (07) 4657 [email protected] www.btrc.qld.gov.au

bouliaMin Min Encounter 25 Herbert Street, BouliaP (07) 4746 3386 F (07) 4746 [email protected]

cHarlevilleCharleville Visitor Information CentreQantas Drive, CharlevilleP (07) 4654 7771 F (07) 4654 [email protected]

cunnaMullaCunnamulla Fella Centre2 Jane Street, CunnamullaP (07) 4655 8470 F (07) 4655 [email protected]

HuGHenden Flinders Discovery Centre37 Gray Street, HughendenP (07) 4741 2970 F (07) 4741 [email protected]

Julia creekAt the Creek34 Burke Street, Julia CreekP (07) 4746 7690 F (07) 4746 [email protected]

lonGreacHLongreach Visitor Information CentreQantas Park, 97 Eagle Street, LongreachP (07) 4658 4150 F (07) 4658 [email protected]

Mount isaOutback at Isa19 Marian Street, Mount IsaP (07) 4749 1555 F (07) 4743 [email protected]

QuilPieQuilpie Visitor Information Centre Museum & Gallery51 Brolga Street, QuilpieP (07) 4656 0540 F (07) 4656 [email protected]

ricHMondKronosaurus Korner91-93 Goldring Street, RichmondP 1300 KRONOK F (07) 4741 3802enquiries@kronosauruskorner.com.auwww.kronosauruskorner.com.au

WindoraHWindorah Visitor Information Centre8 Maryborough Street, WindorahP (07) 4656 3063 F (07) 4656 [email protected]

WintonWinton Visitor Information Centre50 Elderslie Street, WintonP 1300 665 115 F (07) 4657 [email protected]

queensland's outback travellers guide - 2011

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