OUTBACK QUEENSLAND Experience
and the murweh shire charleville
Uncover our secrets, see the stars and marvel at our incredible landscapes, abundant with native flora and fauna. Here you’ll be able to revel in the very essence of the Outback as you meet the legends and larrikans that call our region home, and discover a history so incredible, it’s beyond your wildest dreams.
We invite you to join us in our towns, each filled with colourful characters and treasures from history to nature. Plus, there is great fishing for those that like to throw in a line. Slow down, re-energise as you enjoy your time discovering our wonderful slice of Outback Queensland.
inside this guide
03 How to get here / 04 Charleville / 05 Augathella / 06 Morven / 07 Cooladdi / 08 Bilbies
09 Unlock the Universe / 10 History / 13 Arts + Culture / 14 Parks and Gardens / 18 Gone Fishin’ 18 Charleville Town Map / 24 Charleville Botanic Reserve / 26 Southern Outback Loop
28 Directory / 30 Travel Itinerary / 31 Free Must Visits / 32 Events Cover Photo
Meg Forbes is a psychologist working at Charleville and Western Areas Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Ltd (CWAATSICH) on beautiful Bidjara Country. Meg fell in love with all forms of nature photography when she was 8 years old, and loves the light and colours of Outback Queensland. This photograph was taken at 4am during a solar storm on 11 October 2024 that produced such unusually strong aurora that they could be seen dancing across the sky despite the latitude of this region.
CHARLEVILLE VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Located at the Charleville Railway Station in King St, Charleville | 07 4656 8359 I info@murweh.qld.gov.au I experiencecharleville.com.au
Your outback adventure starts with us
Quilberry Creek (83km)
Cooladdi
AUGATHELLA
Rock Pool (11km)
ROMA (267km)
QUILPIE (209km)
CUNNAMULLA (199km) TO LONGREACH (515km)
There’s a lot to love about this outback town, and even more to see and do! Jump right into outback life with a visit to the School of Distance Education - the largest classroom in the world. Meander through the Royal Flying Doctor Visitor Centre and learn about how important these heroes of the sky are to the residents of rural and remote Australia. Enjoy a cuppa and some freshly baked date loaf on your Outback Date Farm visit, take a tour of the historic Hotel Corones or pull up a stool at what was once the longest bar in the Southern Hemisphere.
Fancy a rain dance? Remnants from a rain-making experiment in 1902, the Steiger Vortex Guns stand tall and proud in the award-winning Graham Andrews Parklands. Pay a visit to Historic House to check out an original rail ambulance, vintage red bus, and life-size Cobb & Coach replica. Did you know that Charleville was once home to Cobb & Co’s largest and longest running coach making factory?
A visit to Charleville is not complete without exploring the wonders of the outback sky at the Cosmos Centre or
Charleville Heart of the Mulga Lands
A chandelier of stars, 3500 secrets, the iconic bilby and a history so rich, it will blow your mind - you’ve made it to Charleville, the hub of South West Queensland.
trying out your skills as a bombardier and enlisting at the WWII Secret Base. Keep the dream alive and do your part to Save the Bilby when you visit the Charleville Bilby Experience.
But it’s not just the sights that will have you coming back for more, our community is our biggest asset. Genuine and authentic, with a whole lot of heart –see for yourself why so many people ‘just passing through’ fall in love with this little outback town and decide to call it home.
CHARLEVILLE VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE
Charleville Railway Station King Street, Charleville P (07) 4656 8359 E info@murweh.qld.gov.au www.experiencecharleville. com.auHeritage Trail Guide.
Augathella Meat Ant Country
Affectionately known as ‘Meat Ant Country’, this little town with a big heart has everything from serene fishing spots to non-stop action at their annual Easter Weekend.
Packed in pioneer history, Augathella was home and stomping ground to notorious bushrangers, the Kenniff Brothers, and owes its very existence to the bullock teams that camped along the Warrego all those years ago.
Pop into Boadicea Gallery & Cinema to view an exhibition of heritage photographs and watch the 1956 movie ‘Smiley’ (based upon a local identity), take a photo with the giant Meat Ant or wander around town and look at the wonderfully rustic wrought iron sculptures and murals that line the main street.
If you’re looking for a dose of fair dinkum outback hospitality, Augathella is the place to be!
Morven Home of the Ooline trees
Featuring vintage machinery, a branding board, the rabbit proof gate, and a tin hut built from flattened kerosene tins in the Great Depression, you’ll feel as if you’ve taken a step back in time as you wander down the main street of Morven.
Stop in at the pub for a yarn and discover the story of how a bunch of locals pulled together to rebuild the local watering hole, or take a drive out to Tregole National Park, home of the Ooline trees.
If you’re chasing a spot to sit back and relax, there’s none better than Sadleir’s Waterhole, once a stop over for Cobb & Co Coaches and bullock teams.
Don’t forget to pop into the Morven Visitor Information Centre to find out the best places to snag a fish, boil the billy, or set up camp.
MORVEN INFORMATION CENTRE
Warrego Highway, Morven www.experiencecharleville.com.au
Cooladdi Australia ’s smallest town
Cooladdi (meaning black duck) was once a thriving railway town with a population of 270 that supported a butcher, school, police station, post office and boarding house.
Cooladdi, the little town that once was, is a genuine outback relic. Featuring ‘The Foxtrap’, the single grave of a little girl and a train station platform awaiting trains that will never come, its ‘town’ status is a little on the generous side.
In days gone by, Cooladdi (meaning black duck) was a bustling railway town with a population of 270 that supported a butcher, school, police station, post office and boarding house. As you wander over to the old townsite, you’ll see the huge bottle trees where the school once stood, a cairn in memory of Dorothy and Wilfred Brooks OAM, and an old country hall proudly guarded by ‘Slim’s Hut’. Just down the road, Quilberry Creek is the perfect spot to set up camp, throw in a line and try your luck catching some yabbies.
The star of Cooladdi today? The famous Cooladdi Foxtrap - an all-in-one store, pub, and post office. This popular attraction is the perfect spot to stop for cold one. Try the Cooladdi King Burger, let the locals regale you with stories that will have you chuckling for days, and don’t forget to ask about how The Foxtrap got its name.
bilbies
Charleville is home to the largest bilby breeding program in Queensland and where you can see these endangered little marsupials digging their way back from the brink of extinction.
Charleville is home to the largest bilby breeding program in Queensland and where you can see these endangered little marsupials digging their way back from extinction.
Bilbies are believed to have inhabited Australia for over 15 million years and were once found across 70% of Australia’s landmass.
At the Charleville Bilby Experience, you will unearth more about why bilbies are so important to the Australian landscape, how the breeding program is working and watch their antics in our specially designed nocturnal house.
To book call 07 4656 8359 or visit www.experiencecharleville.com.au
Did you know bilbies can sleep on their heads?
Unlock the Universe
CHARLEVILLE COSMOS CENTRE
Milky Way Drive (off Qantas Drive) Charleville 07 4656 8377 FACILITIES
EVENING STAR GAZING
Evening Star Caravan Park 8 km west of Charleville 07 4654 2430
COSMOS CENTRE
Unlock the universe through unique experiences where the expanse of the cosmos meets the wild and natural beauty of Outback Queensland.
Through a combination of education and storytelling, the Charleville Cosmos Centre is dedicated to igniting curiosity, deepening understanding, and creating memories that reach beyond the stars. Defy logic while viewing the Sun directly through specialised telescopes, immerse yourself in Queensland’s largest planetarium, look into the past at celestial objects thousands of light years away and hear timeless stories that have shaped cultures around the globe.
ASTRONOMY BY DAY
Step inside our interactive exhibit where you can see and hold real meteorites, walk through the Cosmos Shuttle, and defend the universe on our original arcade games. Discover what it takes to be an astronaut and test your knowledge of the universe.
SUN VIEWING
See an up-close view of the Sun and get the chance to take photos of solar flares and sunspots. Enjoy this rare opportunity to look through one of the largest hydrogen-alpha telescopes in the world available to the public.
OUTBACK STARGAZING (BIG SKY OBSERVATORY)
Explore the Milky Way Galaxy and beyond as you watch the cosmos come to life. Using a powerful 14” telescope, your guide will transport you thousands of light-years into space where you will see nebulas, clusters, stars and planets in a way that isn’t visible to the naked eye.
ASTRODOME – OUR PLANETARIUM
Experience the beauty and majesty of the cosmos from inside Queensland’s largest planetarium. Join us for immersive 360° full-dome films during the day and virtual tours of the night sky on cloudy nights, led by our expert
guides. View the night sky in exceptional detail and see objects that even our telescopes cannot see.
PREMIUM STARGAZING (SMALL AND PERSONAL)
Small group sessions are available with our Premium Stargazing tour, providing an unparalleled astronomical experience featuring the massive 30” dobsonian telescope – Queensland’s largest. Engage with experienced guides for over an hour as they reveal distant objects within and beyond our Milky Way Galaxy.
*Available on moonless nights or by special request.
Photo Credit: TheJamesAdams
history
Charleville ’s secret base
During World War II, the USAAF (United States Army Air Force) arrived in Charleville and modified the airport into a crucial, strategic but secretive base. It is said, locals were sworn to secrecy as 3,500 American Airmen and ground crew made Charleville their home from 1942 till 1946.
SECRET WWII BASE AND TAG-A-LONG TOUR
Enlist now to discover Charleville’s biggest secret through either our stateof-the-art interactive exhibit or join our tag-a-long tour to take a step back in time and discover what 3,500 USAAF were doing in Charleville during WWII.
BASE
Experience for yourself what life was like for the United States Army Air Force personnel stationed in Charleville. The base is a self-guided display, including sea voyages, Top Secret information, classified missions, wartime romances and much more.
TOUR
Fall in line as our guide leads your group through an induction of the original base. Discover how the United States American Air Force constructed and managed a top-secret base in Charleville during WWII. On your journey, you will explore 6 unique sites and get up close and personal with one of the most classified pieces of military equipment from WWII.
*Own vehicle required
*Caravans and trailers must be unhitched (parking provided)
Facilities:
GRAVE KEEPER
Join the mysterious Grave Keeper as he unlocks the secrets of the outback. Who were the men and women who helped build Charleville? Meet entrepreneurial Greek immigrant Harry Corones, whose visionary dreams resulted in the grand Corones Hotel. And Dr Lou Ariotti, world renowned for his innovative solutions to medical conditions and traumatic injuries. Hear stories from the late 1800s to the present, of life changing hardships leading to untimely deaths, and inspiring accounts of bravery. Gain an understanding into the soul of Charleville from… the Grave Keeper!
HOTEL CORONES TOUR
Towns of western Queensland have unique and amazing histories that can’t just be read about, they need to be experienced. Join a History & Stories tour of Hotel Corones to discover the incredible story of local entrepreneur and pioneer Harry ‘Poppa’ Corones who made local and Australian history. Enjoy stories of his comical antics and tales of the rich and famous who’ve stayed at the hotel (including royalty), plus gain exclusive access to top floor areas and more!
To book call 0409 860 114 or 07 4656 8359
OUTBACK DATE FARM
Enjoy a delicious date loaf morning tea while admiring rows of magnificent palm trees. Be inspired by farmer, Mark Hampel, who turned a long-term dream into reality when he established the plantation in 2014. Check out the Outback Oasis wetlands and discover how reclaimed water is used in an innovative irrigation system.
Tours run from April to October, with fresh dates and date products available onsite for sampling and purchase.
Heritage Trails
Let one of our heritage trails take you on a journey through wide streets, heritage buildings, monuments and the stories of our pioneers.
CHARLEVILLE HERITAGE WALKING TRAIL
Take a stroll through the streets of downtown Charleville, explore the historical sites and discover the stories of the pioneers who built the Murweh Shire.
CHARLEVILLE HERITAGE DRIVING TRAIL
Explore Charleville’s rich history with this self-guided driving tour. This trail weaves its way around the area, highlighting the historical buildings and sites that played a significant part in Charleville’s pioneering history.
Top Tip
Drop into the Charleville Visitor Information Centre to pick up your Heritage Trail Guide.
BIRDWATCHING
The Murweh Shire offers a unique opportunity to observe some of Australia’s most iconic birds in their natural habitat.
From rare endemic species to migratory birds, majestic wedge-tailed eagles and skies full of pink galahs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re an experienced birder or just getting started, there’s plenty of opportunities for you to observe and enjoy these feathered friends. So grab your binoculars, experience Charleville and discover our incredible avian life.
BOADICEA GALLERY AND CINEMA
Immerse yourself in the colourful history of Augathella at the Boadicea Gallery and Cinema. This cultural hub hosts art exhibitions and displays a permanent photographic exhibition of over 150 heritage photos.
The cinema provides regular screenings of the 1956 Australian classic film ‘Smiley’, based on local identity ‘Didy Creevy’ and full of outback humour, plus a short documentary featuring characters of the time.
AUGATHELLA EXPERIENCE
Take a step back in time and immerse yourself in Augathella’s story as you wander through this newly constructed museum.
Nestled in the heart of Augathella, the Augathella Experience immerses visitors in rich history and captivating tales. From interactive touch screen displays to engaging stories, this unique attraction offers a journey through time that will delight both young and old.
CHARLEVILLE SCHOOL OF DISTANCE EDUCATION TOUR
Imagine going to school in a 420,000sq km classroom and you only get to see your classmates face to face a handful of times each year.
This tour will show you firsthand how education is delivered to our rural and remote students throughout Western Queensland by observing an on-air lesson in progress.
Tours are conducted Monday – Friday at 9.30am during the school term and all proceeds go directly back to our students.
GRAHAM ANDREWS PARKLANDS
Whether it’s a quick stopover or a day out, Graham Andrews Parklands is always a great place to stop, relax and stretch the legs.
Within this award-winning peaceful pretty park there is plenty to see and do.
Stroll the pathways and read about 18 different species of Outback Trees along the native Outback Timber Walk, feed the ducks, see the rustic sculptures, pause for a moment up high on the Big Red Chair then view the Steiger Vortex Rainmaking Guns, which were fired under a suitably cloudy sky in the hope of breaking the drought in 1902.
Try your hand at Disc Golf (discs available for hire at the Charleville Visitor Information Centre).
Dawn and dusk are a great time to see and hear the variety of birds that
visit or call the parkland home. Along with the ducks, the list of birds is growing and some you are likely to see include galahs, red rump parrots, a variety of finches and wrens along with sulphur-crested cockatoos.
There’s an adventure playground and many amenities including two filtered refrigerated watering stations. Plenty of parking for caravans and camper trailers.
KING EDWARD PARK
Established early 20th century, close to the local pool, skate park, tennis courts and has fitness equipment
Gone fishin’
Imagine… a star-studded sky, a drink in your hand, a river bank and the sound of your day’s catch sizzling away over the campfire. Sound perfect?
In our neck of the woods, we don’t keep our favourite fishing holes a secret – you’ll find a map with all the best places to throw in a line at the Visitor Information Centre. And the best part? You don’t need a licence to fish in our rivers – just grab some bait, your tackle and go. All we ask is that you leave the river as you found it, taking all rubbish with you and destroy any carp that you find.
FISHING TIPS
For live bait, only use yabbies, shrimps, worms and bobbys. The use of fish and crustaceans out of their natural environment is prohibited. When measuring your catch, it is from the tip of the snout to the end of the tail.
TAGGED FISH
What does it mean if you catch a tagged fish? The Charleville Fishing and Restocking Group is involved in many programs conducted using tags to give scientists a better understanding of fish movement, growth or number decline. If you catch a tagged fish call 1800 077 001 (toll free) or return the tag to the Tagging Coordinator, PO Box 9793, Frenchville QLD 4707. Keep in mind the date and place of capture, the fork and/ or total length and details if the fish was kept or released. If the tag has ’Keep Frame’ on it, please freeze the fish and contact the coordinator on 1800 077 001 or your local QBFP office.
Charleville Fishing and Restocking Club Inc
charlevillefishing1991@gmail.com
NATIVE FISH
Golden Perch (Yellowbelly)
Size limit: 30cm
Possession limit: 10
Murray Cod
Minimum size: 60cm
Possession limit: 2
Closed Season: 1 August to 31 October
Eel-Tailed Catfish
Size limit: 35cm
Possession limit: 5
Spangled Perch (Bobby)
No size limit
Possession limit: 20
Silver Perch (Black Bream)
No take species in the Warrego and Paroo Rivers.
Blue Claw Yabby
No size limit
Possession limit: 100 from their natural range. Females carrying eggs must be released safely back into the water.
NOXIOUS FISH
European Carp
All noxious fish if caught must be killed immediately and not returned to the water. You cannot keep, hatch, rear, sell, consign or place them in any container. Why? Noxious fish compete with native species and gradually reduce their habitat and affect numbers.
KEY TO MAP SYMBOLS
Charleville Bush Caravan Camp
Set on 40 acres of bushland with an abundance of wildlife, kangaroos, lizards, frogs, and birds of over 40 species. This park offers a tranquil place to pull up in our drive through sites – all powered, water and sullage. A dump point is also offered.
Park your caravan, pitch a tent or even toss a swag amongst the natural backdrop that this bush camp has to offer. In the cooler months, a communal firepit will warm the heart and along with some good old fashioned campfire cooking, we also offer woodfired ovens and BBQ to use. Take a stroll around the park in our pet friendly surroundings and check out our ‘old stuff’ museum. Drive away with fond memories of our peaceful bush camp.
P 0428 545 200 cvillevanpark@outlook.com 150 Frawley Street, Charleville charlevillecaravanpark.com.au
Charleville Bowls Club
A friendly, relaxed atmosphere enjoyed by both visitors and locals!
Cold Drinks | Pokies | Pool Table | Fenced Playground
Undercover Area | Friday Night Raffles & Promotions
Bowling Highlights:
» Barefoot Bowls & Sausage Sizzle – Thursdays 6:30pm (Summer)
» Barefoot Bowls – Saturdays 3pm (Winter)
» Sunday Club Bowls – 9am (Summer) | 1pm (Winter)
Bowl & Bistro – Bistro-style dining Thursday to Saturday from 6pm
Clubhouse Hours: Thurs 4pm–9pm | Fri/Sat 4pm–12am | Sun 9am–2pm
Come and enjoy great company, good food, and a fun game of bowls!
P 07 4654 1520
Epacris Street, Charleville c_ville.bowls.club@bigpond.com.au
BAILEY BAR CARAVAN PARK
— (07) 4654 1744 —
Beautifully maintained and immaculately clean, many of our rooms have undergone recent renovation and are designed for the traveller who wants to enjoy a real outback experience with genuine customer service. Bailey Bar is a member of G’day Parks network.
ACCOMMODATION FOR EVERY BUDGET
ENSUITE FACILITIES AND FULLY SELF CONTAINED COOKING
PET FRIENDLY (con rm in advance)
SHORT WALK TO THE TOWN CENTRE, VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE, THE BILBY EXPERIENCE, SHOPS AND RESTAURANTS
CAMP OVEN DINNERS IN WINTER (Friday/Sunday nights @ 6pm)
FIRE SPIT ROASTER DINNERS IN WINTER (Tuesday nights@ 6pm)
Check-in 12 pm for sites/2pm for cabins
Check-out 10am for all guests
COBB & CO CARAVAN PARK
Located in the heart of Charleville, our park offers a tranquil escape and a touch of rustic charm. Whether you're here to explore Charleville’s natural beauty, soak in the area’s history, or simply relax, we're here to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.
We have two camp kitchens, two amenity blocks and two dump points on site. During the winter season, come join us for a campfire every evening at the firepit, where guests exchange stories of their travels.
At Cobb & Co Caravan Park we are pet friendly and even have an off-leash area for your dogs to stretch their legs, have a play and make new friends. Join us at the new entertainment shed, where there will be trivia nights, games, a lovely area to just relax and meet other guests, or sit and enjoy the damper on offer in the evenings. Check out the office, with gifts and souvenirs on sale, or the lovely cafe area where you can enjoy a coffee and pancakes.
We have a courtesy shuttle available in the evenings to drop you off to tours or to a restaurant and arrange a time and we will pick you up when you are ready to come back to the Park.
There are very few buildings in Charleville that can boast a history as long and colourful as the Charleville Historic House Museum.
Dating back to 1887, the building was purpose-built as the town’s first Queensland National Bank before it went on to become a private residence, then a boarding house.
In 1973 the Charleville & District Historical Society purchased it to establish the museum it is today.
Filled to the brim with treasures of yesteryear, some dating back to the early 1800s, you’ll be surprised at what you will discover –it’s well worth your time.
Many of the original features of the bank still remain, including marble fireplaces and the vault. The displays are enhanced with an array of past times machinery in the grounds, including a life-size replica of a Cobb & Co coach and an original Rail ambulance and steam engine. 87 Alfred St,
Mon–Sat 9:00am to 3:00pm Sun 10:00am to 2:00pm
PRICES: ADULTS $10.00
CHILDREN (primary school age) $1.00
FAMILY (2 adults, 2 children) $20.00
Wheelchair accessible
Prices and times may change without notice
Welcome to the Mulga Country Motor Inn, where comfort meets charm in the heart of the Mulga Lands.
Whether you're here for a peaceful getaway or an adventurous stopover, our cozy, well-equipped rooms offer the perfect blend of relaxation and convenience. With a warm and friendly team ready to make your stay unforgettable, Mulga Country Motor Inn is the ideal place to rest, recharge, and embrace the beauty of the mulga lands.
07 4654 3255 info@mulgacountrymotorinn.com.au Lot 118 Sturt St, Charleville, QLD 4470
mulgacountrymotorinn.com.au
Proudly providing aeromedical transfers, primary health care clinics, telehealth, dental and mental health services to the Charleville region.
Explore the rich history of the Flying Doctor at the FREE RFDS Visitor Centre.
Opening hours
Monday-Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm
Weekends and public holidays 10:00am to 4:30pm
(Closed weekends and public holidays October to March)
John Flynn Way, Charleville QLD 4470
84 Alfred Street, Charleville P: 07 4654 3991
Mon – Fri 5am to 3pm Sat – Sun 6am to 12 noon
COFFEE
FRESH BREAD
CAKES
SANDWICHES
PASTRIES
DOUGHNUTS
Established and opened in 2020 the Morven Hotel and Motel serves as a central community hub for the township. Locals and travellers alike come together daily and enjoy the facilities and services offered within the two businesses. Open 363 days a year for lunch and dinner served daily, cold drinks, beer, ice-creams and merchandise. Single and double rooms available for short- and long-term stays, all rooms have A/Cs, TVs, showers and toilets. Drop in and visit next time you are travelling through Morven.
80 ALBERT ST, MORVEN P: 07 4654 8058
Step back in time where everyday early outback life is on display.
The small but delightful Morven Historical Museum contains some fascinating memorabilia, plus a collection of Aboriginal grinding stones, stone axe heads, spears, coolamons and boomerangs. Inspect the ‘tin hut’; made of flattened kerosene tins, a testament to outback ingenuity. Built as housing during the great depression of the 1930s, these huts were common homes for pensioners. With only a few remaining today, Morven is fortunate to have one on display.
The Vietnam Nurses Memorial, designed to commemorate the Australians who nursed in Vietnam, houses a permanent photographic exhibition featuring the work of the RAAF, RAANC and Civilian Surgical Team nurses who were deployed to Vietnam between 1964 and 1972.
morvenmuseum@bigpond.com
53 Albert Street, Morven
FB: Morven Historical Museum
INFO@MORVENHOTELMOTEL.COM.AU
Our campground is set on over 60 acres, which is mainly open downs and native scrub country in Morven, SW Qld. We offer powered and unpowered sites, and our guests enjoy exploring our wellness walks and bird watching by the dam. There are several lawned communal areas, as well as a bar and pizza area, and fire pits that are scattered around the camping grounds. We run a multifaceted business enterprise which are all operated from Gidgee’s Bush Camp. These include the manufacturing of pvc bags under the Gidgee Smith Bags label, complete with a shopfront full of great gift ideas in case you need a little retail therapy or a coffee. We create and sell metal and tin sculpture, which is also on display in the shopfront and check-in area.
P 0407 620 360 gidgeesmith@bigpond.com Lot 37, Old Charleville Road, Morven gidgeesbushcamp.com.au
Gidgee’s Bush Camp & Farm Stay
Morven Historical Museum
MADE IN MURWEH
Located in Alfred Street, this wonderful shop showcases the talents of locals, stocking handcrafted products made from the people who reside inside the Murweh Shire. Pop in and say g’day to the talented volunteers and you never know, you may find that perfect memento.
MULGA LANDS ART GALLERY
Located across from Historic House in Charleville’s main street, the Mulga Lands Art Gallery is a bright contemporary art space with curated exhibitions changing regularly. Entry is via the Charleville Library.
OPEN: Monday – Friday 9am to 4pm; Saturday 9am to 12pm. Entry is free.
Guy & Maree welcome you to their family-owned motel/cabins, located in the heart of town, opposite the Railway/Visitor Centre. Within walking distance of the RSL, Main Street and IGA, with a shuttle service available. Rooms are clean and equipped with modern comforts. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, air-con, BBQ area, laundry (small fee), day trips and more. Friendly staff ensure a memorable stay.
M 0447 195 014 | 73 Wills Street, Charleville bookings@warregomotel.com.au | warregomotel.com.au
THE SHED @ THE FARAWAY TREE
Timeless treasures and classic adventures –come and visit a place of enchantment.
The Shed can be found through The Faraway Tree Charleville – this beautiful, 109-year-old workshop is now open to visitors, housing a display of vintage sewing machines, local stories and nostalgic memorabilia.
The building itself is full of charm, having been built by the Fraser Family in 1914, and now operated by its new owner as a handmade boutique, sewing space and children’s store. Take your time to browse the displays, learn about some characters and enjoy the history.
Entry is free; however you are welcome to ring up a donation in the antique register on your way out.
Open April – September during shop hours, for more information please visit thefarawaytree.com.au.
108 Alfred Street Charleville 0428 104 024 Michelle farawaytreecharleville@gmail.com
Warrego Motel Charleville
CHARLEVILLE BOTANIC RESERVE
In the semi-arid Mulga Lands, an easy 15km drive south of Charleville, the Charleville Botanical Reserve showcases the region’s vegetation.
Venture from spinifex heath and mulga forest, through a gidgee swamp, and over a sand ridge to the mixed floodplain with poplar box before travelling alongside the cypress pine communities fringing the Warrego River.
THINGS TO DO:
Picnicking (picnic tables are located throughout the reserve)
Birdwatching
1.9km Spinifex Walk
20 and 30km 4WD and AWD self-guided drive
ACCESS:
2WD to 1.5km track, after that 4WD for the remainder of the 28.5km self-guided drive
Reserve may be closed after rain
Please ask at the Charleville Visitor Information Centre, situated in the Charleville Railway Station, for directions and road conditions.
Camping is not permitted, and pets are only allowed on a leash. Remember to keep to the marked tracks and take your rubbish home. Mobile phone reception is not available in the reserve. Please take drinking water and a hat.
TREGOLE NATIONAL PARK
Home to the rare Ooline tree, this pretty park straddles the boundary between two of the state’s natural regions, the Brigalow Belt and the Mulga Lands.
A 2.5km return interpretative walk weaves through stands of Ooline and mulga. Beautiful black orchids (rarely seen this far west) grow abundantly on tree trunks attracting many insects and butterflies when in bloom.
THINGS TO DO:
Picnicking – have lunch at one of the picnic sites or cook on the free gas barbecue or relax with your hamper under a shady tree.
Wildlife Spotting – spot brown or white treecreepers busily prising insects from underneath bark. See weebills, warblers, five different species of thornbills amongst many other birds. Caper white butterflies flit between the wild orange bush and you may see a sand goanna looking for its next meal.
Walk the Tregole circuit – 2.5km (allow 45 minutes) Class 4 track
LOCATION:
11km south-west of Morven
WARREGO RIVER WALK
Wander along the picturesque Warrego River Walk in Charleville, an easy 1.4km walk each way.
The Warrego River is the northernmost tributary of the Darling River and one of the few rivers where silver perch breed naturally.
Warrego means ‘river of sand’ in the Aboriginal language and the walk was designed by the local indigenous Bidjara people. The pathway known as ‘Wadyanana’ means ‘I’ll be walking around somewhere else when he comes’.
Did you know?
The Warrego is one of the few rivers where silver perch breed naturally.
It is an easy 1.4 km one-way walk starting from Wills Street to Gowrie Crossing.
S outhern Outback
Sample the best of the South West on this 10 day itinerary featuring a selection of must-dos at each stop. Why not stay a little longer and discover even more? For further details on this itinerary, events and much more to explore in Queensland’s Southern Outback check out: southwestqueensland.com.au
DAY
(approx 504km | 5hr 20min)
• Suggested break stops: Toowoomba and Chinchilla.
• Roma: The Big Rig tours and Night Show Sunset Experience.
Overnight Roma
DAY 2:
(approx
•
DAY
Roma: Roma Saleyards and Val Harms Interactive • Mitchell: Kenniff Courthouse, Artesian Spa and Arrest
Charleville: Cosmos tours.
• Charleville: WWII Bilby Experience tour.
TO CHARLEVILLE 52min)
Saleyards tour (8:30am Tuesdays) Interactive Centre. Courthouse, Mitchell Great Arrest Creek Monument.
Cosmos Centre Big Sky Observatory
WWII Top Secret Base tour, and tour.
DAY 4: CHARLEVILLE TO QUILPIE
(approx 211km | 2hr 50min)
• Cooladdi: The Fox Trap - a pub, post office, restaurant and motel all-in-one.
• Quilpie: Visitor Information Centre, Museum & Gallery, Quilpeta Night Show, free opal fossicking and Baldy Top hike and sunset views.
Overnight in Quilpie
DAY 5: QUILPIE TO EROMANGA
(approx 106km | 1hr 16min)
• Eromanga: Eromanga Natural History Museum and Living History Centre
Overnight Eromanga
DAY 6: EROMANGA TO THARGOMINDAH
(approx 280km | 3hr 6min)
• Noccundra: Noccundra Hotel, river canoeing and fishing.
• Thargomindah: Hydro Power Plant, Old Hospital, Old Jail and Leahy House.
Overnight Thargomindah
DAY 7: THARGOMINDAH TO EULO (approx 129km | 1hr 22min)
• Thargomindah: Bulloo River Walk, Pelican Point Picnic Area.
Option 1 - Kilcowera Station and Currawinya National Park via Thargomindah-Hungerford Road (4WD recommended) to rejoin Adventure Way in Eulo.
Option 2 – Lake Bindegolly National Park via Adventure Way.
• Eulo: Artesian Mud Baths, Eulo Queen pub.
Overnight Eulo
DAY 8: EULO TO CUNNAMULLA (approx 69km | 45min)
• Eulo: Opals and Craft Shopping, Kenny the Diprotodon.
• Cunnamulla: Artesian Time Tunnel, Cunnamulla Hot Springs, Cunnamulla All Aboard, Visitor Information Centre, Art Gallery and Museum.
Overnight Cunnamulla
DAY 9: CUNNAMULLA TO ST GEORGE (approx 293km | 3hr 14min)
• Cunnamulla: Charlotte Plains station.
• Bollon: Heritage Centre.
• St George: Riversands Wines, Unique Egg (emu egg carving), Sandytown River Cruises.
Overnight St George
DAY 10: ST GEORGE TO BRISBANE (approx 551km | 5hr 59min)
• Nindigully: Nindigully Pub.
• Suggested break stops: Goondiwindi and Toowoomba.
Directory
CHARLEVILLE
ACCOMMODATION
HOTELS, MOTELS & LUXURY CABINS
Cattle Camp Motel
149 Alfred St 07 4654 3473
Charleville Motel
148 King St 07 4654 1566
Corones Heritage Hotel
33 Wills St 07 4654 1022
Cosmos Country Motor Inn
27 Sturt St 07 4654 2499
Mulga Country Motor Inn
Sturt St
07 4654 3255
The Rocks Motel
74 Wills St 07 4654 2888
Waltzing Matilda Motor Inn
Alfred St
07 4654 1720
Warrego Motel/ Luxury Units Wills St
07 4654 1299
HOLIDAY HOMES
Charleville Bush Cottage
Lot 1 Frawley St 0428 545 200
Charlevilla Holiday House
12 Hood St 0402 208 647
The Cobb & Co Managers
Cottage 61 Watson St 0427 774 147
CARAVAN & CAMPING
Bailey Bar Caravan Park
196 King St 07 4654 1744
Charleville Bush Caravan Park
Lot 1 Frawley St 0428 545 200
Charleville CMCA
RV Bush Park
77 Adavale Rd P 02 4978 8788
Cobb & Co Caravan Park
1 Ridgeway St 07 4654 1053 or 0412 700 609
Evening Star Tourist Park
818 Adavale Rd
07 4654 2430
Red Lizard Camp Ground
Lot 3 Mitchell Highway 0428 928 867 or 0417 047 076
DINE IN & TAKEAWAY
Charleville Asian Restaurant
98 Galatea St 07 4654 2205
Blue Gum Café
76 Alfred St 07 4654 1104
Bowl ‘n’ Bistro -
Charleville Bowls Club
Epacris St 07 4654 1520
Café in the Mulga Qantas Drive 0428 709 557
Cattle Camp Hotel
149 Alfred St 07 4654 3473
Charlotte’s Nest
77 Galatea St 07 4654 3969
Heinemann’s Bakery
84 Alfred St 07 4654 3991
Hotel Corones
33 Wills St 07 4654 1022
On the Rocks Restaurant
74 Wills St 0431 445 440
Parkside Store
20 Watson St 07 4654 1546
Pie Face - United Fuel
79 Wills St 07 3036 2891
United Charleville Sturt St 07 4602 6701
RSL Memorial Club
Cnr Watson & River St 07 4654 1449
The Lucky Elephant
85 Alfred St 0422 203 489
The Milk Bar
66 Alfred St 0419 752 666
Rusty Lane
47 Wills St 0456 447 306
Warrego Yacht Club GalateaSt 0429 880 552
FOOD STORES
IGA Supa 22 Sturt St 07 4654 1627
Schouten Store & Produce
188 Alfred St 07 4654 1164
Parkside Store
20 Watson St 07 4654 1546
BUTCHERS
Dunnes Meats
68 Wills St 07 4654 1096
Western Butchering Co 19 Wills St 07 4654 1718
BANKS
Commonwealth Bank 61 Alfred St 07 4654 1455
NAB
21 Wills St 13 22 65
POST OFFICE
Charleville Post Office 63 Alfred St 13 13 18
SHOPPING
Aussie Helpers 18 Wills St 1300 665 232
Charleville Newsagency 67 Alfred St 07 4654 1124
Charleville Betta Home Living 29 Wills St 07 4654 1366
Charlotte’s Nest
77 Galatea St 07 4654 3969
Sandalwood & Sage 74 Alfred St 07 4654 1919
EW Wilkinson & Co 65 Alfred St 07 4654 1108
Golders Charleville 71 Alfred St 07 4654 3952
JCH Computers
23 – 25 Wills St 07 4654 7139
Charleville Fishing Hunting & Camping Store
78 Alfred St 07 4654 1777
KC’s Hidden Treasures
24 Wills St 07 4654 2616
Lifeline
104 Alfred St 07 4688 3712
Made in Murweh
82 Alfred St 0427 542 524 or 0428 541 780
Pets and Plants
Charleville 40 Alfred St 07 4654 3293
Price’s Plus 60 Alfred St 7 4654 2300
R&P Embroidery 14 Wills St 0427 545 242
Rachel’s Clothing Rack
39 Wills St 0409 860 114
Schouten Store & Produce
188 Alfred St 07 4654 1164
The Bush Store Wills Street 0427 334 908
The Faraway Tree
108 Alfred St 0428 104 024
Vinnies
63 Edward St 07 465 4 3340
HAIR AND BEAUTY
Beau’s Hair and Beauty
44 Wills St 07 4654 2107
Blended
4-6 Wills St 07 4547 2632
Town Talk Hairstylists
64 Alfred St 07 4654 2122
TYRES, MECHANICAL & HARDWARE
Charleville Refrigeration & Electrical
Lot 117 Sturt St 07 4654 3645
Charleville Tyre Service
Cnr Wills & Parry St 07 4654 1359
Elders
111/119 Alfred St 07 4656 9900
Gordon Panel Beaters
Lot 5 Coolabah St 07 4654 7777
Home Hardware
76 Edward St 07 4654 1399
Jones Smash Repairs Sturt St 07 4654 3909
JP Motorcycles
112 Parry St 07 4654 1940
Mulga Tools & Spare Parts
70 Galatea St 07 4654 1270
Nutrien Ag Solutions
139 Mitchell Highway 07 4654 1711
Outback Spares
127 Alfred St 07 4654 2355
Perriman’s Auto Electrical 0448 384 420
Price Rite Tyre Power 133 King St 07 4654 2261
Raddo’s Mechanical and Contracting
10 West Street 0438 983 076
Robert Eckel Repairs
88 Edward St 07 4654 1358
South West Ford & Nissan
50-56 Alfred St 07 4654 1477
Tas Mini Motors
103-105 Alfred St 07 4654 1732
Tower Hardware
114 Parry St 07 4654 1140
Warrego Motor 45 Carter St 0448 067 177
FUEL SUPPLIES
United Fuel
79 Wills St 07 3036 2891
United Charleville
Roadhouse 44 Sturt St 07 4502 6701
MEDICAL & PHARMACY
Charleville Base Hospital
72 King St 07 4621 2200
Charleville Dental Clinic
72 King St 07 4650 5154
Charleville Dental Surgery
69 Edward St 07 4654 3335
Charleville Medical Centre
67 Edward St 07 4621 2100
Charleville Pharmacy
20 Wills St 07 4654 1672
CWAATISCH
94 Edward St 07 4654 3277
EMERGENCY SERVICES
Charleville
Ambulance Station
55 Edward St 07 4654 1970
Charleville Fire and Rescue Station
95 Galatea St 07 4654 1453
Charleville Police Station
59 Alfred St 07 4650 5500
Charleville SES Headquarters
Alfred St 132 500
VETERINARY SERVICES
Charleville Vet Surgery
Pretty Pines
32057 Mitchell Hwy 07 4654 2605
AUGATHELLA
ACCOMMODATION
Augathella Motel & Caravan Park
Matilda Hwy 07 4654 5255
Augathella Palms Motel & Ellangowan Hotel
84 Main St 0411 545 194
Augathella Camping Grounds Main St I $10 per night
DINE IN & TAKEAWAY
Augathella Motel & Caravan Park
Cnr Landsborough Hwy & Main St 07 4644 5341
Catfish Collections Main Street 0474 058 362
Smiley’s Café & Restaurant (Inside Ellangowan Hotel)
84 Main St 0411 545 194
FOOD STORES
Frazers Butchery
64 Main St 0446 545 101
Friendly Grocer
37 Main St 07 4654 5230
POST OFFICE
Augathella Post Office 10 Main St 07 4654 5247
MEDICAL & PHARMACY
Augathella Doctor’s Surgery 6 Cavanagh St 07 4654 5125
Augathella Pharmacy 98 Main St 07 4654 5469
Augathella Hospital Cavanagh St 07 4656 7100
GENERAL SERVICES
Warrego Repairs 15-21 Main St 07 4654 5110
Transaction Centre (QGAP and BoQ)
98 Main St 07 4654 5007
COOLADDI
Phone coverage
Telstra only within township
Cooladdi Fox Trap
Quilpie Rd P 07 4654 9590
Foxtrap2@activ8.net.au
MORVEN
ACCOMMODATION
Gidgee’s Bush Camp Lot 37 Old Charleville Rd 07 4654 8380 or 0407 620 360
Morven Recreational Grounds End of Bollon Rd I Donation
Pick-A-Box Motel
74 Albert St 07 4654 8448
DINE IN & TAKEAWAY
Morven HotelSadleir’s Waterhole Warrego Hwy 07 4654 8058
Morven Roadhouse Warrego Hwy 07 4654 8384
Morven News & Friendly Grocer
68 Albert St 07 4654 8231
Kill for a Cuppa (Gidgee’s Bush Camp)
1.5km off Warrego Hwy 07 4654 8380
FOOD STORES
Morven News & Friendly Grocer
68 Albert St 07 4654 8384
POST OFFICE
Morven Post Office
66 Albert St 07 4654 8147
GENERAL SERVICES
Morven Community Clinic Warrego Highway 07 4654 8288
Morven Historical Museum
53 Albert St 07 4654 8131
Morven Library Warrego Hwy (old railway building) 07 4654 8300
Morven Police Station
27 Eurella St 07 4656 8111
Morven Rural 61 Albert St 0477 002 598
DESTINATION:
ARRIVAL:
travel itinerary
DURATION:
DEPARTURE:
ACCOMMODATION:
PLEASE ARRIVE TO EACH TOUR 15 PRIOR TO START TIME
free must visits
Graham Andrews Park Augathella Morven
Airfield Museum
Moreton Bay Ash
Weather Balloon
Skate Park
EVENTS 2025
All events held in Charleville unless otherwise mentioned.
JANUARY
Australia Day AwardsCharleville Swimming Pool
Morven Austalia Day Tennis Club
Augathella Australia Day
RPA Motorbike MiniKhana
Bowls Club Australia Day
Cattle Camp Australia Day
Warrego Yatch Club Austalia Day
FEBRUARY
Chiggy's Skateboarding Workshop
APS Conference
Mental Health First Refresher Course
Adrian Vowles Cup
Warrego Yatch Club
Local Business Mingle
MARCH
Charleville Race Day
Clean Up Australia Day
Welcome to Charleville
Charleville Triathlon
Funny Mummies Cabaret
APRIL
Smith Family Cod Classic
Augathella Diggers
Easter Rodeo & Fireworks
Augathella Billy Cart Races
Augathella Easter Monday Races
Bulls, Broncs and Barrels, Augathella
Warrego Equestrian Mane Event
MAY
May Day Bowls Carnival
Charleville Flood Commemoration
QMF - Outback Sounds
Show: George's Marvelous Medicine
Charleville Quick Shears
Charleville Show
Charleville Show Races
JUNE
Outback Golf Masters
JULY
Ken Noir - a musical comedy murder mystery, Charleville
Big Red Sunset Concert, Birdsville
AUGUST
Camp Oven Classic, Charleville
Charleville Performing Arts Festival
Senior's Week, Murweh
SEPTEMBER
National Bilby Day
Charleville's Creative Lane
Charleville Carp Busters
U11s Carnival - Mulga Cup
Show: Every Brilliant Thing
OCTOBER
Mental Health Week
NOVEMBER
Augathella Hospital Auxiliary Fete
Melbourne / Charleville Cup Races
Show: Cinderella Spindarella
Queensland Symphony Orchestra
MARKET DAYS
Every 4th Sunday at Town Hall Park, Charleville