Longreach Visitor Guide 2017

Explore

the heart of outback queensland

V ISI TOR GU IDE 2017

LONG REACH

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ILFRACOMBE

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ISISFORD

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visitlongreach . com . au

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DROVER'S SUNSET CRUISE

N N E R 2016

LONGREACH LEGENDS ATTRACTION PASS Save on the top experiences n Stockman's Hall of Fame n Qantas Founders Museum n Drover's Sunset Cruise n Sheep and Cattle Station Tours

Visit our office at the Historic Longreach Railway Station or book online at outbackaussietours.com.au

Call 1300 78 78 90

Major Events 2017 What better way to experience the real outback lifestyle than at an Outback event where all of the exciting elements and people come together.

There’s always something going on in the Longreach Region from rodeos to festivals, fishing competitions to country race meetings.

Longreach Show – 20 May Isisford Sheep & Wool Show – 27 May Southern Cross Television & Isisford Fishing Competition – 28-30 July Yellowbelly Fishing Classic, Longreach – 25-27 August

PICNIC RACES Longreach: 18 March, 1 April, 6 & 27 May, 17 June, 22 July, 19 August Ilfracombe: 8 July | Isisford: 21 October

Longreach Triathlon & Colour Dash 7-8 October

Starlight’s Stampede Parade Longreach, October

For full details of these and other events visit www.visitlongreach.com.au or on the community notice board at the Visitor Information Centre.

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Rex Airlines flies twice weekly from Townsville to Longreach via Winton.

Phone: 13 17 13

From Rockhampton – 700km along the Capricorn Highway.

Greyhound operates twice weekly Rockhampton to Longreach.

Phone: 1300 473 946

QantasLink has daily return flights from Brisbane to Longreach.

Phone: 13 13 13

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Spirit of the Outback travels twice weekly return Brisbane to Longreach via Rockhampton.

Phone: 13 22 32 2

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From Brisbane – 1200km via Roma and Charleville along the Warrego and Matilda Highway.

From Mt Isa – 700km along the Matilda Highway.

From Townsville – 700km along the Flinders Highway via Hughenden and Winton.

All roads listed are fully sealed.

Bus Queensland has a daily service from Brisbane to Darwin via Mt Isa. Phone: 1300 287 537

Visit Longreach Visitor Information Centre for more details. www.visitlongreach.com.au

morethanjustamuseum The Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame Discover Australia’s rich pioneering history, marvel at the skills of our Stockman at the Outback Stockman’s Show, lose yourself in the Hugh Sawrey Art Gallery, where artists bring stories of the bush to life and shop until you drop in our ‘Outback Traders’, carrying a unique range of Australian books, quality stockman’s clothing and outback giftware.

P: (07) 4658 2166 | E: museum@stockmanshalloffame.com.au

www.stockmanshalloffame.com.au

Free Wifi

Talk to a local at the Longreach Region Visitor Information Centre Qantas Park Eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730 T: (07) 4658 4150

www.visitlongreach.com.au

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Public Holidays 9am to 12pm Summer Hours to April 2017: Mon-Fri 9am to 3pm

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Open: Mon-Fri 9am to 4:45pm Sat and Sun 9am to 3pm

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N N E R 2015

Longreach is the Heart of Outback Queensland and is famous for its characters, cultural heritage, ancient landscapes and welcoming communities.

Best known for its iconic heritage attractions which breathe life into our pioneering stories and outback legends, there is much more to discover in the historic towns of Longreach, Ilfracombe, Isisford and Yaraka if you have the time and sense of adventure.

Slow down and notice the constantly changing colours of the outback landscape as you move from sunrise to sunset. Experience the sense of freedom and adventure as you fourwheel drive through scenic back roads and national park nature drives.

Meander along the Barcoo River and discover the peace and tranquillity of our natural landscapes or join the locals at their favourite fishing spot on the Thomson River. Discover the rich shearing heritage along the Merino Wool Trail through the landscapes and townships that shaped this Central West region.

Known as the heartland of Queensland’s Outback, Longreach’s cultural heritage is peopled with bush legends and outback heroes. You’ll discover nostalgic and heritage stories at the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, Qantas Founders Museum and Longreach Powerhouse.

Spend time exploring the historic towns of Longreach, Ilfracombe, Isisford and Yaraka linked by rivers, plains, billabongs and historic stock routes.

Get a sense of yesteryear as you discover cultural links and heritage stories. Call in and say G’day at the local pub, have a chat with the locals and celebrate our shared heritage.

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Longreach is a strong and vigorous community that celebrates the conservation of its heritage through shared stories, iconic cultural attractions and community events in the outback townships of Longreach, Ilfracombe, Isisford and Yaraka with a combined population of approximately 4300 residents.

Home to the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, opened in 1988, a tribute to the pioneering stockmen and women of Australia.

The Qantas Founders Museum explains the outback story of the founding of an international airline, with displays that expand on what life was like in 1920s to present day Queensland.

The Powerhouse Museum tells of the story of Longreach. Visit Kinnon & Co with their Cobb & Co coach rides and tours. River cruising is another memorable activity in Longreach, watching the sun set across the water is one of the ‘must do’ experiences. A number of cruises operate, which follow the cruising experience with dinner and entertainment.

Longreach can be perfect for self touring around town or it can be used as the setting off point for adventures into the wide blue yonder. If you prefer the ease of being ‘on tour’, Outback Aussie Tours offers some grand experiences around town plus the excitement of outback touring to more rugged, isolated regions. A tour of Camden 6

Park gives you the chance to see a working sheep and cattle station and wander through the lovely homestead gardens.

If you are into nature appreciation Iningai Nature Park, the Longreach Botanic Walkway or the Thomson River are for you. Further afield, see the birdlife at Lily Lagoon or the views from Starlight’s Lookout. Please check with the Visitor Information Centre for road conditions before travelling.

Go back to school – just for an hour. Take a guided tour at the Longreach School of Distance Education and see how education works when the students live too far away to walk through the school gates each day.

The cemetery tour offers a step back in time with some of the fascinating history of some of the people who have lived and died in the Longreach Region.

If you’d like even more of a bird’s eye view of the surroundings, take a scenic tour over town with Queensland Helicopters. Fly over the Channel country and Lake Eyre with Air Central West. Take a few days and discover the Longreach Region.

Even the Visitor Information Centre in Longreach can provide self-drive maps of the region taking in the other towns within the region, including Ilfracombe, Isisford, Emmet and Yaraka.

Longreach Regio n – Heart of Outback Queensland

ON THE BACK OF LEGENDS WHERE HERITAGE WAS BORN

DAY 1 AUSTRALIAN STOCKMAN’S HALL OF FAME n Legends & Pioneers Tribute n Live Stockman’s Show n Cattleman’s Bar and Grill n Dr Bruce Yeates Memorial Cottage & Gardens QANTAS FOUNDERS MUSEUM n Experience the Qantas story n 707/747 Jet Tour & Wing Walk n Museum & Original Hangar n Flight Simulators THOMSON RIVER CRUISE n Cruise along the Thomson River while the sun is setting n Enjoy a meal on the banks of the Thomson with entertainment DAY 2 COBB & CO. STAGECOACH EXPERIENCE n Starlight’s Cruise Experience n Sheep and Cattle Station Tour CAPTAIN STARLIGHT’S LOOKOUT Great Australian Legend Follow the drover’s stock route n Lily Lagoon n Starlight’s Lookout (no facilities) n Flood plains and wildlife n 110km return from Longreach n Half or full day (4WD recommended) n Please check road conditions prior to travel

DAY 3 STATION TOUR (half day or evening) n Explore an Outback Station and let the family guide you on a tour HARRY REDFORD OLD TIME TENT SHOW n Tribute to Captain Starlight n Poetic stories & Aussie Humour DOWNTOWN n Lunch and/or coffee at your choice of great cafés ARTS AND CRAFTS CENTRE n Heritage listed building n Local crafts and activities DAY 4 LONGREACH SCHOOL OF DISTANCE EDUCATION n Guided tour n Experience an on-air lesson n Largest classroom in the world POWERHOUSE MUSEUM n Local social history n Nogo Boundary Riders Cottage n Historical generating complex LONGREACH ARTS AND CRAFT n Historic ambulance building n Local arts and crafts n Craft workshops

DAY 5 EXPLORE THE OUTER REGION ILFRACOMBE Historic hub & Wellshot story n Pioneer stories n Machinery & Heritage Centre n Wellshot Information Centre n Artesian Spa Pool n Marine Dinosaur evidence ISISFORD Unforgettable scenery, science and folklore n Oma waterhole & Explorer Mitchell’s cairn n Outer Barcoo Interpretative Centre n 100 MYO crocodile discoveries n 450km circuit from Longreach n Min 1-2 nights Isisford YARAKA AND EMMET n Yaraka’s Scenic Mount Slowcombe n Emmet and the Idalia National Park n Min 1-2 nights Yaraka CHOOSE YOUR SPECIAL INTERESTS: n Lochern National Park n Old Arrilalah & Pioneer Graves n Botanical walkway, Iningai Park and River Walk n Cemetery Tour n Pamela’s Dolls n Helicopter scenic flight 7

Where to sta y With caravan parks, camping facilities, motels, hotels and a range of cabins, villas and lodges, Longreach has accommodation for every taste and budget. It is a good idea to book ahead, particularly for large groups and those travelling in the ‘busy season’ between April and October.

LONGREACH Abajaz Motor Inn 07 4658 1288 Free call: 1800 081 288 Albert Park Motor Inn 07 4658 2411 Jumbuck Motel 07 4658 1799 Longreach Motel 07 4658 1996 Longreach Motor Inn 07 4658 2322 Longreach Apex Park (Thomson Riverside Park) 07 4658 4150 Commercial Hotel/Motel 07 4658 1677

Lyceum Hotel 07 4658 1036 Longreach Tourist Park 07 4658 1781 Longreach Caravan Park 07 4658 1770 Coopers on Cassowary 0474 077 298 Gibbard’s Guest House 0422 234 133 Pat’s Place 07 4947 1676 Kinnon & Co. Outback Lodges 07 4658 1776 Longreach Outback Adventures 07 4658 1677

Longreach Motor Inn 84 Galah Street Longreach (07) 4658 2322 info@longreachmotorinn.com.au www.longreachmotorinn.com.au  Convenient location opposite railway station  57 Room Motel  On-Site Licensed Restaurant & Bar  Pool, Sauna & BBQ Area 8

ILFRACOMBE Ilfracombe Caravan Park 07 4658 1510 Wellshot Hotel 07 4658 2106 ISISFORD Clancy’s Overflow Hotel 07 4658 8210 Golden West Hotel 07 4658 8380 Barcoo River Weir 07 4658 8900 YARAKA Yaraka Hotel & Yaraka Caravan Park 07 4657 5526

CAMDEN PARK STATION

JUMBUCK MOTEL

Meet Outback Dan and be transferred to the property that hosted the Queen as you experience the history of a sheep and cattle station very close to Longreach.

Walk through the historical homestead and have scones and a cuppa at the newly famous Outback Yacht Club on Tues, Thurs, Sun. Bookings Essential at Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame.

• Friendly outback hospitality • Clean, comfortable &

P: 0407 139 640 E: camdenparkstation@gmail.com www.camdenparkstation.com.au www.outbackheritage.com.au

affordable

• Walk to major attractions • Local tour booking agent • Native wildlife at your door • Terrific restaurant, bar & room service

• Gardens, BBQ area,

gazebo & pool; FREE recently upgraded Wi-Fi

45 Ilfracombe Road, Longreach QLD 4730 P: (07) 4658 1799 E: reception@jumbuckmotel.com.au www.jumbuckmotel.com.au

ABAJAZ Rodd and Liane invite you to stay at the Abajaz.

We pride ourselves in our personalised service to ensure your Longreach experience is the best.

• 18 Ground floor rooms, undercover parking, Foxtel, reverse cycle air-conditioning, microwave, fridge, tea/coffee making facilities • Free Wireless Internet direct to all rooms, swimming pool, BBQ, guest laundry • Cooked or Continental Breakfasts available every day, and Dinners each night with prior notice • Cot, hairdryer, toaster, fax and photocopying – ask at office • Situated on the beautiful botanic pathway that runs between town (CBD), Qantas and the Stockman’s Hall of Fame • Chargeback from local restaurants • The Only Solar Green Motel in the Central West • TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Winner 2013, Certificate of Excellence Winner 2014, 2015, 2016 • Major Cards accepted. Limited Courtesy transfers available. Tariff starting from $120.

• Call us Direct and mention this ad for Special/Promotional Rates

11 Wonga Street, Longreach QLD 4730 P: 1800 081 288 E: info@abajazmotorinn.com.au www.abajazmotorinn.com.au 10

Live the outback pioneering story and be inspired by life on the land with the Kinnon family’s award-winning experiences.

Ride the Cobb & Co Cruise the Thomson Explore Nogo Station Discover Winton Stay in heritage style … and much more.

SHARE OUR WORLD. SHARE OUR PIONEERING SPIRIT. VISIT OUTBACKPIONEERS.COM.AU OR PHONE 07 4658 1776

Things to d o Discover world class attractions, meet the friendly locals and marvel at the everchanging landscape of the natural beauty and native wildlife. Longreach is not just a town but a way of life, we invite you to share in an unforgettable outback experience.

AUSTRALIAN STOCKMAN’S HALL OF FAME P: 07 4658 2166 Pays tribute to Australia’s stockmen and women, pioneering legends, and the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Art Gallery, artefacts, electronic displays, photographs and films.

QANTAS FOUNDERS MUSEUM P: 07 4658 3737 Commemorates the history of Qantas Airways which began in Outback Queensland.

Includes museum exhibits, aircraft tours and flight simulators.

LONGREACH POWERHOUSE MUSEUM P: 07 4658 4150 Largest preserved rural generating facility in Australia. Social history exhibits, generating equipment and boundary rider’s cottage.

SCHOOL OF DISTANCE EDUCATION P: 07 4658 4232 Take a guided tour through one of the largest classrooms in the world.

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LONGREACH ARTS & CRAFTS CENTRE This heritage listed building houses a gallery of local artists’ work.

KINNON & CO P: 07 4658 1776 Hats, horses and history. Visit the Station Store and step back in time.

OUTBACK AUSSIE TOURS P: 1300 78 78 90 Guided tours around the region.

QUEENSLAND HELICOPTERS P: 0417 624 422 A fantastic range of scenic flights in the region.

LONGREACH RAILWAY STATION Railway Museum and final stop for the ‘Spirit of the Outback’ train service.

PAMELA’S DOLLS AND SYD’S OUTBACK COLLECTORS CORNER P: 07 4658 1958 Friendly locals share their unique collections.

STAR CINEMA Showing the latest movies Thursday through to Sunday.

LONGREACH CEMETERY Take a self guided tour through Longreach cemetery and immerse yourself in the historical atmosphere of the region.

Please call into the Longreach Visitor Information Centre for a self guided tour map or to book the historical tours that are available on selected days.

P: 07 4658 4150 www.historytoursaustralia.com.au

STAR CINEMA LONGREACH Our cinema features the following: • Modern cinema with new releases weekly • Digital projection with Dolby Digital Sound • Stadium seating with comfortable seats • Candy bar • Airconditioning 117 Eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730 (Next to NAB Bank) Cinema Programme Line: (07) 4658 1357 Management CTC after hours: 0427 581 776

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

P: (07) 4658 3737 E: info@qfom.com.au Sir Hudson Fysh Drive, Longreach

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QUEENSLAND HELICOPTERS Scenic helicopter flights over Longreach and the mighty Thomson River.

Fantastic photos! Book a 10 minute, 20 minute or sunset flight from $75 per person (minimum 2 passengers).

P: 0417 624 422 (Tim & Sandy) E: qldheli@bigpond.com www.queenslandhelicopters.com.au

SCHOOL OF THE AIR, LONGREACH • Experience how isolated

children learn through the outback airways • Guided tours 9:00am & 10:30am Mon-Fri (excl. public/Christmas school holidays). Bookings necessary for groups of 20 or more • See how you can contribute to isolated children’s education Landsborough Highway, Longreach QLD 4730 P: (07) 4658 4232 E: tours1@eq.edu.au www.longreacsde.eq.edu.au (tourist information)

111 Ibis St, Longreach Admission FREE | Regular Exhibitions (Up green stairs at the side or use new lift chair on back stairs)

SALE OF: Art, craft, pottery, jewellery, patchwork, leather and much more.

Email: longreachartsandculture@gmail.com Facebook: Longreach Arts and Crafts Centre

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Regular Art and Craft making days. Check out our facebook page and local information for days and time.

Includes: pottery, wool spinning, fibre art, patchwork, painting and drawing, silver smithing and leather work.

GALLERY OPEN: 2-5pm daily Easter to October Open some mornings – check local information

The best value way to

LIVE THE OUTBACK HERITAGE STORY in LONGREACH

There is so much outback heritage and history to enjoy in Longreach but top of your list must be the award-winning experiences of ‘The Big 3’ – Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, Outback Pioneers and Qantas Founders Museum. That’s why we’ve packaged them into one pass at a special price for extra value.

This PREMIUM PASS with many extras includes:

SAVE

66!

$

PER COUPLE

+ BONUS EX

TRAS!

ENTRY to the Australian TWO entertaining Outback ENTRY to the Qantas Founders Stockman’s Hall of Fame Pioneers experiences – Museum to learn about the history to explore five themed galleries the Cobb & Co Stagecoach of Qantas Airways, from its early of outback history and the Experience for the only beginnings in Outback Queensland, Hugh Sawrey Art Gallery stagecoach gallop on an old mail AND entry to the fascinating PLUS entry to the Outback route in Australia – AND the Boeing 747 and 707 Jet Tour Stockman’s Show for live Starlight’s Cruise Experience, which takes you inside the aircraft entertainment showcasing great with stockman’s campfire dinner for a nostalgic and insightful trip horsemanship and more. and bush poetry. down memory lane.

You will SAVE AROUND 10% PLUS get an extra day’s entry to both Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Qantas Founders Museum. You can put your savings towards some of the other great options – perhaps the evening dinner and show at Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, the ‘Wing Walk’ or flight simulator at Qantas Founders Museum, or a Nogo Station Experience or Winton Discovery Experience with Outback Pioneers.

ADULT $286 | CONC $266 | CHILD (6–14) $190 | FAMILY (2+2) $857

Tickets AVAILABLE ONLINE at www.thebig3.com.au or at selected outback agents.

Nature and recreatio n

If you enjoy bushwalks and the chance to spot local flora and fauna, head to the edge of town to the Iningai Nature Reserve. The area was named after the Iningai, the traditional owners who lived along the Thomson River prior to European Settlement.

Take a drive through landscapes coloured with soft browns and deep reds to Lochern National Park. Follow the 4WD Lochern habitat drive through gidgee, bloodwood and mulga woodlands that opens out to Mitchell grass plains in their soft golden splendour. Set up camp under an endless starry sky at Broadwater Waterhole and spot local birdlife flying overhead or nesting in the coolibahs.

LONGREACH

Thomson River – Wet a line, take a dip or relax on a cruise.

STARLIGHT’S LOOKOUT

Made famous by Australia’s most well known cattle-duffer, ‘Harry Readford’, the spectacular outback landscape stretches out before you.

Call Longreach Region Visitor Information Centre for road conditions on 07 4658 4150.

LILLY LAGOON

A peaceful habitat for birds and native wildlife. Home to the beautiful Nymphea lilies, that are unique to Longreach.

LONGREACH BOTANIC WALKWAY A 2.5km interpretive native flora walk between the town centre and the Stockman’s Hall of Fame.

ININGAI NATURE PARK

Located on the Longreach Town common, this park includes walking paths and sections of floodplains and waterholes along a creek.

LOCHERN NATIONAL PARK

About 150km south-west of Longreach, Lochern National Park has 20km of Thomson River frontage. The many lagoons and waterholes provide refuge for birds and other wildlife.

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SKATE PARK Located on Bustard Street, undercover and surrounded by lawn.

ROTARY PARK Located on the Landsborough Highway, between Shell Service Station and Longreach Motor Inn. It has a covered BBQ area, and a picnic shelter.

EDKINS PARK (ANZAC MEMORIAL PARK) Located on the Landsborough Highway across from the railway station, the park has a covered BBQ facility with a children’s playground and toilets. Edkins Park also has the site of The Cenotaph and the ANZAC service is held here each year.

LIONESS PARK Located on the corner of Sparrow and Cassowary Streets, Lioness Park has a BBQ, children’s playground area and toilets. This park is entirely fenced (sorry, no dogs allowed).

AQUATIC CENTRE 50 metre pool, 25 metre heated pool and children’s play area.

LONGREACH THOMSON RIVER WALKWAY AND BICYCLE TRACK A 3km walkway/bicycle track situated along the side of the highway, taking you on a short journey from town, out to the Thomson River.

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Where to eat Fine wining and dining, a hearty pub meal, takeaway, or coffee and cake, there are plenty of choices to tempt you in the Longreach Region. You can also stock up at the butchers, grocery stores and bakery, and make use of the local barbeque facilities.

Dinner with Entertainment AUSTRALIAN STOCKMAN’S HALL OF FAME – OUTBACK STOCKMAN’S DINNER AND SHOW P: 07 4658 2166

Lachie Cossor, a third generation stockman, will entertain you followed by a spit roast dinner with full bar facilities at the Cattlemen’s Bar and Grill.

Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday nights – 25th April to 25th October 2017.

DROVER’S SUNSET CRUISE P: 1300 78 78 90

Cruise along the Thomson river with 360 degree views from the Top Deck, then be entertained at Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Live Show on the banks of the Thomson River.

STARLIGHT’S CRUISE EXPERIENCE P: 07 4658 1776

Relax on a sunset river cruise, followed by a Stockman’s camp fire dinner and watch the Starlight’s Spectacular Show.

MERINO BAKERY $2 MERINO MONEY Present this advertisement to be stamped at the Merino Bakery and receive your gift of $2 off any purchase.

• Minimum sale amount $5.00 • One voucher per family per visit • Not redeemable for cash • Not to be used with ANY other offer 120 Eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730 Open 7 days; Right in the middle of town P: (07) 4658 1715 F: (07) 4658 0045

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LONGREACH RSL MEMORIAL SERVICES CLUB Longreach RSL is an award winning venue. The club has won Small RSL/Services Club in Queensland for the last 3 years. The club offers to its members, guests and visitors a place where you can relax and enjoy the excellent friendly service. There is a great display of war photos and memorabilia in the foyer of the club. The Diggers Bistro is open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner and the menu has a wide variety of delicious food for everyone. The facilities at the Club include UBET/Sky Racing/Fox Sports/Keno & Keno Racing/ATM & Eftpos/Free Wi-Fi/Gaming and a well-stocked Bottleshop. Entertainment and promotions are held regularly. Cool Place! Great Staff! Excellent Food!

34 Duck Street, Longreach QLD 4730 P: (07) 4658 1092 F: (07) 4658 0811 E: longrsla@longrsla.com

YEAST2WEST BAKERY LONGREACH 2014 Grand Champion Bakery in Qld .. come in and try our huge range of: • Daily fresh bread • Pies and pastries • Soft drinks and milk shakes • Coffee, tea, salad rolls and sandwiches • Cakes for special occasions • Free Wi-Fi

101 Eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730 P: (07) 4658 3004

JUMBUCK MOTEL OUTBACK RESTAURANT • NEW Outback Lamb signature menu

• Great steaks & chef specials

• Cold beers & wine selection

• Open 7 nights most weeks

ORLANDO ORCHARDS Orlando Orchards Longreach specialises in top quality fruit and vegetables at competitive prices, with weekly specials.

Self serve fresh juice available in store.

41 Duck Street, Longreach QLD 4730 P: (07) 4658 2002 E: orlandoorchards@bigpond.com

HARRY’S RESTAURANT What our guests say.

• Best Steak I’ve ever had • I’ve never had a better meal • That’s real Barramundi • I love pork but that was the best pork belly ever

(Apr-Oct)

• Everyone welcome –

book your table now!

45 Ilfracombe Road, Longreach QLD 4730 P: (07) 4658 1799 (bookings) E: reception@jumbuckmotel.com.au www.jumbuckmotel.com.au

84 Galah Street, Longreach QLD 4730 P: (07) 4658 2322 E: info@longreachmotorinn.com.au www.longreachmotorinn.com.au 19

JOHNLEE MOTORS

• Polaris & Can-am sales

and service • 4WD & car servicing and repairs, spare parts and batteries • Flywheel & Head & Manifold Grinding • Engine rebuilding • Suppliers of spare parts and suspension • Great customer service ... the ‘local’ way 34 Swan Street, Longreach QLD 4730 P: (07) 4658 1423 F: (07) 4658 2647 E: johnlee33@bigpond.com

SLADE SMASH REPAIRS • Smash Repair Work (40 yrs in business)

All Insurance Companies+Private

• Tilt Tray Towing 24 hrs • RACQ Contracted Service Provider • RACQ Agent for 20 yrs + Maps • RACQ Batteries • Windscreens + Chip Repairs • Hood Linings • Fibreglass Repairs 174 Eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730 P: (07) 4658 1609 M: 0428 458 149 F: (07) 4658 3849 E: admin@sladesmashrepairs.com.au www.sladesmashrepairs.com.au

PALMERS BP

• Full Driveway Service and Mechanical Repairs

• Spare Parts and

Windscreens • Maxxis Tyres and Batteries • Castrol Oils and Lubricants • New Bicycle Sales and Repairs • Car Wash and Dog Wash

9 Wonga Street, Longreach QLD 4730 P/F: (07) 4658 1136 M: 0417 752 337 (John and Sue Palmer) E: palmbp@bigpond.net.au 20

LONGREACH MOTORS • Mechanical • Alignments • Suspension • Steering • Repairs • Exhaust • Brakes • Kelly, Cooper, Toyo, Goodyear, Century

33 Swan Street, Longreach QLD 4730 P: (07) 4658 1700 F: (07) 4658 1857 E: longreachmotors@bigpond.com

SMITH BROS. MITRE 10 LONGREACH Smith Bros. Mitre 10 Longreach is a local family owned hardware store that stocks a wide range of hardware, building and homeware supplies, LPG refills and caravan supplies, as well as great customer service.

114 Eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730 P: (07) 4658 1195 F: (07) 4658 2298 E: orders@smithbroshardware.com.au www.smithbroshardware.com.au

LONGREACH ACCESSORIES PLUS • Pet Supplies and

Engraved Pet ID Tags

• Mobile Phone and iPod Accessories

• Bikes/Scooters and Accessories

• Car Accessories and Parts • Lightforce Distributor • Visit our Facebook Page – search for ‘Longreach Accessories Plus’

106a Eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730 P/F: (07) 4658 1607 Melanie Palmer E: sales@lchaccplus.com

SPINIFEX COLLECTIONS Come and browse our unusual gifts, home wares and Australian and locally crafted items, including natural fibres, leather, ceramic, silver and pewter.

Sue also has a sewing machine on the premises for minor repairs and alterations.

118 Eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730 P: (07) 4658 3636 M: 0428 589 170 E: sue@spinifexcollections.com.au www.spinifexcollections.com.au

LONGREACH OUTDOORS CENTRE • Camping Gear & Tables • Fishing Gear & Bait • Pool & Toilet Chemicals • Camp Ovens/Cooking Equipment

• Swags, Tents & Tarps • Car Fridges, Ice Boxes & much more

1/136 Eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730 P: (07) 4658 3229 M: 0428 573 008 E: locamp@tpg.com.au

RUBEGG 4 HAIR You deserve great hair!

At Rubegg 4 Hair our friendly and experienced staff will deliver a professional service to suit your personal hairdressing needs.

• Specialising in L’Oréal Professional Products and Services • Selected beauty treatments available

113 Eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730 P: (07) 4658 1918

THURECHT BROS SADDLERY Established in 1927 by the Thurecht Brothers, Thurecht Bros Saddlery is one of the few remaining working saddleries in Queensland today. Call in and see Phil, Jayne and Georgia and their great range of outback styled gifts, horse supplies and belts made to order.

130B Eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730 P: (07) 4658 1011 M: 0407 111 324 F: (07) 4658 0030 E: hog.hunter@bigpond.com

LO N G R E ACH 1 0 6B EAG LE STR E ET, LO N G R EAC H, Q U E E N S LAN D T: 07 4 65 8 14 00

RMWILLIAMS.COM

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Bamaga (NPA) Cairns Mornington Island (Gununa) Normanton Mount Isa Doomadgee Burketown Townsville Hughenden Richmond Julia Creek Winton Longreach Boulia Bedourie Birdsville Windorah Quilpie

Charleville

Thargomindah

Cunnamulla

St G e o rg e B r i s b a n e We l l c a m p ( To owo o m b a)

Australia’s Regional Airline Connecting Outback Queensland

rex.com.au 13 17 13 22

SCENIC FLIGHTS AND TOURS TRUE OUTBACK EXPERIENCE – AIR CENTRAL WEST AT LONGREACH OFFERS SOME OF THE MOST SPECTACULAR PLACES TO VISIT. Air Central West has a reputation as the leader in small group charter flights as well as flights to spectacular destinations such as Lake Eyre and the Channel Country.

Local Area Scenic Flights are available to Lark Quarry Dinosaur Tracks, Muttaburra, Winton, Windorah, Innamincka, Burke & Wills Dig Tree and Birdsville.

P: (07) 4658 9187 or 0427 589 253 E: info@aircentralwest.com.au

www.aircentralwest.com.au 23

Service Directory FUEL STATIONS

Caltex Energy 07 4658 1963 Landsborough Highway Caltex Roadhouse 07 4658 1086 33 Ilfracombe Road Palmers BP 07 4658 1136 9 Wonga Street Puma Energy 72 Kite Street, 24hr Diesel Shell Service Station 07 4658 1706 1 Wonga Street

NEWSAGENTS

Barkers Newsagency 07 4658 1008 112a Eagle Street Longreach Leader Office 07 4658 3855 124 Magpie Lane Myers Newsagency 07 4658 1324 113 Eagle Street

LONGREACH CHURCHES

ACC – Reach Christian College 07 4658 3910 Lot 52 Teal Street Anglican – St Andrews 07 4658 2116 144 Emu Street Baptist Church 07 4658 3865 Cnr. Quail Street & Bower Road Catholic Church – St Brigid’s Longreach 07 4658 3283 103 Emu Street

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FOOD STORES

Cornett’s IGA 07 4658 1260 Corner Eagle & Swan Street Open: Mon–Fri 8am to 8pm Sat 8am to 5pm Foodworks 07 4658 1397 141 Ibis Street Open: Mon–Sun 8am to 6pm Pub. Holidays: 8am to 12midday

Suncorp 07 4658 2333 117 Eagle Street The Commonwealth Bank 07 4658 1533 122A Eagle Street Westpac 132 032 121 Eagle Street

HEALTH SERVICES

Orlando Orchards Longreach 07 4658 2002 Corner of Duck & Crane Street Open: 7 days/week 7.30am to 6pm

Guardian Pharmacy 07 4658 2445 109 Eagle Street Open: Mon–Sat

Savages Butchery 07 4658 1032 118 Eagle Street

Longreach Family Medical Practice 07 4658 3866 Level 1 Eagle Arcade 109 Eagle Street

HAIR DRESSERS

Gabby’s Hair Salon Longreach Hospital 07 4658 1451 118A Eagle Street (within arcade) 07 4658 4700 Corner Plover & Jabiru Street Rubegg 4 Hair Longreach Private Dental 07 4658 1918 07 4658 1283 113 Eagle Street (within arcade) 130 Eagle Street Studio Exclusive Hair & Beauty RFDS 07 4658 2492 07 4658 5800 4/108 Eagle Street 138 B-C Eagle Street

OTHER

Laundromat 91 Galah Street Open: 24 Hours Longreach Library 07 4658 0735 106 Eagle Street Longreach Outdoors Centre 07 4658 3229 1/136 Eagle Street

Salvation Army Rural Chaplaincy Base 07 4658 0467 149 Eagle Street

BANKS

Uniting Church 07 4658 1164 107 Galah Street

Rabobank Australia Ltd. 07 4658 2800 31 Duck Street

Primary Care – Bulk Billing Longreach Specialist Clinic 07 4658 3866 Ground Level Eagle Arcade 109 Eagle Street Royal Flying Doctor Service 07 4652 5800 139 Eagle Street

Speirs Pharmacy NAB (National Australia Bank) 07 4658 1004 112B Eagle Street 13 22 65 Open: Mon–Sat 119 Eagle Street Western Wellness 07 4658 3535 103 Eagle Street

Great Queensland Drives

Bamaga

Cape York Peninsula Weipa

LEGEND Adventure Way Australia’s Country Way

Coen

Capricorn Way Great Inland Way Leichhardt Way Cooktown

G

Lakeland

Ingham

C

N

Belyando Crossing

I

LA

ND

Clermont Rubyvale Sapphire Alpha Anakie

LD

Rockhampton

Great Keppel Island Gladstone

Mt Morgan Springsure Biloela A

Rolleston

U

A

HW Y

Cobar

BARRIER HWY

Coonamble

WAY

Narrabri Armidale

A

Coonabarabran

Dubbo

Scone

Forbes

LL

H

WE

Tocumwal Shepparton

Seymour

Y

Coffs Harbour Port Macquarie

NE

Taree

Newcastle

Bathurst

Y

Griffith Narrandera

Adelaide

EW

LE

Orange West Wyalong R T HW Y

Grafton

GE

Mudgee

N

Tamworth

W

STU

Glen Innes

Gilgandra

Nyngan

KI DM AN

Port Augusta

Tenterfield

Moree

Y

Gulargambone

Broken Hill

Gold Coast Stanthorpe

W

Walgett

Sunshine Coast Brisbane

Warwick

Mungindi

T I NL A N D W GRE A

Lightning Ridge

H E LL

Bourke

Gympie

Toowoomba

Goondiwindi

Dirranbandi Hebel M IT C

Barringun

Dalby

EN

Thargomindah

Moonie

St George

Cunnamulla

Kingaroy

Bundaberg Fraser Island Hervey Bay Maryborough

U N TRY W AY

Y

CO

WA

S

U RE

A’

A DV EN T

Innamincka

Miles Surat

Gayndah

WAY

Quilpie

T H HARD

Roma

LI

LE I C

Injune

W A RRE G O WAY

Charleville

RA

AY

Theodore

Windorah Birdsville

ST

W

Carnarvon Gorge

H

Blackall

AT I

Willows Gemfields

AS T

M

O R N WAY

Yeppoon

I C CO

C A PR IC

Capella Emerald Blackwater

G L AN D

Barcaldine

P AC I F

Longreach

AY

Boulia

W

Winton

Mackay Sarina

AY AS T W CO

Duchess

Airlie Beach

A RY

W

Find your accredited Visitor Information Centre as you drive in Queensland

F E E

S

FI

OV E R L A N D E R ’

CI

Richmond

PA

Cloncurry

AY

T GRE A

Mount Isa

Bowen

Charters Towers

Hughenden

R

Whitsunday Islands

R

Julia Creek

IE

Townsville

To Tennant Creek Camooweal

Queensland Rail

R

Magnetic Island

Greenvale

Burke and Wills Junction

R

Hinchinbrook Island

N N A H W AY

Warrego Way Bus Queensland

ND

VA

Savannah Way

B A

Atherton Innisfail Ravenshoe Tully

Innot Hot Springs Mt Garnet

Normanton Croydon Mt Surprise SA

Burketown

Pacific Coast Way

T

Karumba

E

Cairns

Kuranda Mareeba

Overlander’s Way

A

Chillagoe To Broome

Matilda Way

R

Sydney

Mittagong Yass

Canberra

This map is for promotional use only. For gazetted road names and accurate detail, please refer to a quality touring map. This map only contains strategic touring routes and does not include any regional routes or local drives. For more information on these routes and driving holidays in Queensland please visit queensland.com/drive

Melbourne

25 25

Ilfracombe If you’re travelling on the Matilda Highway between Barcaldine and Longreach, stop and explore the charms of Ilfracombe, located 27km out of Longreach. Soak up the atmosphere of the ’good old days’ as you wander through and enjoy the unique aspects of this friendly little town.

Stretching from one end of town to the other is the Great Machinery Mile which includes Oakhampton Cottage, the Folk Museum, Romani Hall, and the Jackson Collections. An endless array of machinery, equipment, farm implements, vehicles and wagons from yesteryear form a graphic timeline of pastoral development. Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the many shaded tables dotted throughout.

The Wellshot Hotel is an exceptional and historic typical outback pub, standing exactly as it was established over 120 years ago, and well worth a wander through. There is a wealth of rural memorabilia from the surrounding district adorning the walls, interesting wool-press bars and a remarkable collection of hats on the ceiling.

Wellshot Station is featured prominently in the pioneering of outback Queensland and the Wellshot Centre is a keeping place for its story. The Centre traces the history and development of this station from early settlement, to how Wellshot was formed, to how people lived and worked there and how the town of Ilfracombe grew around it.

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History Ilfracombe is located in the heart of Queensland, Australia, between Longreach and Barcaldine. The Ilfracombe district was explored by the New South Wales SurveyorGeneral, Thomas Mitchell in 1846, by Edmund Kennedy in 1847 and by William Landsborough in 1862.

In 1872, Alexander Buchanan acquired one million acres of land in this district which became Wellshot Station. To this day, visitors can still see the flagstones that were cleverly placed to not only catch water, but to reduce erosion. The railway arrived in 1891, and this outback town was renamed ‘Ilfracombe’ after a little seaside village in England.

In 1893, modern technology made it possible to sink a bore one kilometre deep underground. Precious water flowed across the country and made it possible for the land to carry more sheep than ever before.

Because of this, Wellshot Station remained the largest sheep station in Australia.

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It is unlikely that any other Australian town could show off such a brilliant display of historical machinery, like Ilfracombe does.

Not only that, but it’s all on public show, with antique machinery and farm equipment lining the road through town.

It is a remarkable and attractive landscape, with seasonal variation and great productivity.

Sheep are nourished by the grasses, allowing the wool production to continue.

Points of Interest 1.

Oakhampton – Is a cottage which was once part of the ‘Lyndon’ estate. It is considered typical of a station hand’s married quarters and was common enough on rural stations until after World War II. 2. Ilfracombe Machinery and Heritage Museum – Otherwise known as The Great Machinery Mile, hosts a range of equipment from standing engines to earthmoving machinery. The display is a graphic timeline of the evolution of the pastoral and transport industries.

3. 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.

4. The Wellshot Hotel – Is an exceptional and historic typical outback pub, standing exactly as it was erected over 120 years ago.

5. Memorial Park & Artesian Spa – Open every day, the swimming pool, artesian spa, children’s playground and barbeque facilities are set in welcoming surrounds.

OPENING TIMES: 7 days a week 3.30pm to 6.30pm (including public holidays)

Adult: $2.60 Child: $1.00 6. Wellshot Centre – Tells the story of Wellshot Station, one of Australia’s

greatest sheep and wool producers. The iconic and welcoming Wellshot Hotel stands in proud testament to the good times and the hard times.

7. Hilton’s Bottle Display – These are probably the most unusual or unthinkable collections you will find anywhere. Bottles, buttons, scissors, stones, toothpaste, camp ovens, rabbit traps and a stack of other rarities fill the shed, yard and fence line.

8. The Jackson Collections – The lifetime collections of brothers Hilton and Ike Jackson is a spectacular display of 30,000 bottles and a collection of memorabilia gathered from the World Wars.

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

Contact the Longreach Region Visitor Information Centre.

10. Ilfracombe Council Office – One of the council offices that offer information in the Longreach Region, our vision aims to unite our region by recognising our past, valuing what we have now and also focusing on the future.

11. The 12 Mile – Is a short drive out of town and offers an example of nineteenth century bush craftsmanship, thousands of naturally formed flagstones form a leakproof reservoir.

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Accommodation

Places to eat

ILFRACOMBE CARAVAN PARK

ILFRACOMBE GENERAL STORE & CAFÉ

Main Avenue, Ilfracombe Phone: 07 4658 1510 Fax: 07 4658 0634 Email: hitson2@bigpond.com Reception 7 Days: 8.30am – 7pm

WELLSHOT HOTEL

Main Avenue, Ilfracombe Phone: 07 4658 2106 Open: Daily

30-32 Main Avenue, Ilfracombe Phone: 07 4658 2265 Open: 7 Days Monday – Friday: 7am – Close Saturday: 5pm – Close Sunday: Closed

KATH’S KOUNTRY KITCHEN Main Avenue, Ilfracombe Ilfracombe Caravan Park Phone: 07 4658 1510 Open: 7 Days Dinner: 6pm – 8pm

WELLSHOT HOTEL

Main Avenue, Ilfracombe Phone: 07 4658 2106 Lunch: 12pm – 2pm Dinner: 6pm – 8.30pm Sunday: Breakfast from 8am Licensed Hours: Daily 10am – 12 midnight

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Annua l Events ILFRACOMBE PICNIC RACES

Join the community of Ilfracombe in their annual Picnic Races! There are Fashions on the Field for Ladies, Gents, Boys and Girls.

Come on down and enjoy outback racing featuring the Willowie Cup! Meet old friends and make new ones! Jumping castle for the kids is also available. So enjoy a glass of wine, watch the outback events live and have a great time.

2nd weekend in July annually.

Racecourse Road, Ilfracombe

ILFRACOMBE GOLF CLUB TOURNAMENT

Wellshot Centre, Ilfracombe • Story of the mighty ‘Wellshot Station’ • 20 minute film ‘A Rush for Grass’ The Wellshot Centre is the keeping place for the story of Wellshot Station, one of Australia’s largest early sheep & wool producers. In its heyday 400,000 sheep were shorn on Wellshot every year.

This is a great Australian story of times when we rode on the sheep’s back, and of the places and the people that made it possible.

Open 7 days a week | Manned 9am - Midday P: 07 4658 2233

The Ilfracombe Golf Club hosts a tournament every year! The Ilfracombe Open in September, so come on down to the Ilfracombe Golf Club and join in the fun or show off your talents in this year’s tournament! The club is open each Saturday for you to hone your skills or have a relaxing hit around the “green”. For enquiries please call Duncan on 0428 582 175.

Racecourse Road, Ilfracombe Ilfracombe Golf Club Club Phone: 07 4658 1168

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Loca l Transport TANKS CABS

P: 07 4658 3600 COST $70 (from Longreach to Ilfracombe one way)

LONGREACH TAXI P: 07 4658 0900

AVIS CAR RENTALS

P: 07 4658 1000 Longreach Airport, Terminal Building

BUDGET CAR RENTALS

P: 07 4650 1001 Longreach Airport, Terminal Building

SELF-DRIVE

Take the short 27km drive to Ilfracombe for yourself

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Explomreet & Yaraka

Isisford , Em

TAKE A JOURNEY THROUGH THE TOWNSHIPS AND THEIR ATTRACTIONS Isisford    

Discover Isisford’s Outer Barcoo Interpretation Centre Learn about what dinosaurs inhabited the region Take a dip in the Barcoo River Explore Whitman’s Museum

Emmet  Meet Emmet’s only 2 locals  Go through the old Emmet Store Museum  See the Historic Railway

Yaraka  View Mount Slowcombe  Go Opal Fossicking  Visit the old Yaraka Hotel

Isisford If you’ve never read the great Australian poetry classic, A Bush Christening, there has never been a better time than when you’re travelling through the region that inspired Andrew Barton Paterson to pen his irreverently funny verse. The Outer Barcoo is still a place where the churches are few and the population is sparse, and the land is as diverse and ancient as time.

Towns of the Outer Barcoo are Isisford, Emmet and Yaraka. Isisford is the largest town of the Outer Barcoo and is situated about 117km from Longreach.

Isisford was settled in the mid-1800s and its architecture reflects the lifestyle of its beginnings. Visit the Outer Barcoo Interpretation Centre, which features a world-

34

class fossil exhibit, local arts and crafts, all sorts of relics and a theatrette which features a film on the Isisford area since settlement.

Meet the Isisfordia Duncani, the oldest modern crocodile and have a snack at the Barcoo Dreaming café while you’re there!

Isisford also houses fascinating little museums to discover – the old bakery, Café Arcadia and Whitman’s Memorial Museum.

Attractions in the region include Major Mitchell historical sites like Yuranigh’s Pond, about 6km from town. Mitchell camped here and the waterhole was named after his Aboriginal friend.

The town also has an 18-hole golf course, pool, tennis court, bowling green and park with playground. Camping is available at the

Mudd y Old Barco o Barcoo Weir and Oma Waterhole (nominal fee per night). Powered sites are available at the hotel.

A popular annual event is the Isisford Fishing Competition, which is held the last weekend of July. But you can go fishing any time in search of the popular yellowbelly (golden perch).

Other services available are a post office, police station, two hotels, fuel outlet, primary health centre, QGAP office, ambulance, primary school, library and internet facilities.

BARCOO WEIR

This is a good spot to relax and wet a line for a few hours. There is also a lovely walking track to follow along the river. Showers and toilets available.

OMA WATERHOLE

Oma is a popular spot along the Barcoo River only 17 km south-west on the Isisford-Yaraka River Road. It is the widest part of this unique river system and has great fishing for the local yellowbelly. Showers and toilets available.

Isisford Accommodation Clancy’s Overflow Hotel P: 07 4658 8210

Golden West Hotel P: 07 4658 8380

Barcoo River Weir P: 07 4658 8900

Oma Waterhole P: 07 4658 8900

Where to Eat Clancy’s Overflow Hotel P: 07 4658 8210

Golden West Hotel P: 07 4658 8380

Barcoo Dreaming Café P: 07 4658 8411

Camping at both Oma and the Weir Per night/per vehicle: $3 A week: $15 Powered sites are only available from the Golden West Hotel.

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Things to see and do THE OUTER BARCOO INTERPRETATION CENTRE This museum features the Isisfordia Duncani, which is a unique crocodile fossil and not to be missed. The Outer Barcoo Interpretive Centre has a museum depicting the evolution of nature from 100 million years ago to the present. The feature attraction is a life sized replica model of a crocodile ancestor that lived around 98 million years ago. The centre also has a restaurant, craft and art displays and a 60 seat theatre.

Admission: Adult: $5 Concession: $2.50 Child: $2.50 Family: $12 Opening Times: April – October 8am – 5pm Mon - Fri 9am – 3pm Sat & Sun November – March 9am – 3pm Mon - Fri 9am – 3pm Sat & Sun Closed over Christmas/New Year period

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WHITMAN’S MUSEUM

A sense of the history of Isisford can be gleaned from a visit to the town’s small museum which is located behind the Shire Hall in the main street.

The museum is a photographic collection of memorabilia of the town and the surrounding region and as such is a record of the way this town, which was once a substantial settlement, has slowly declined.

YURANIGH’S POND

Thomas Mitchell’s party is recorded to have passed through the area in September of 1846. He names this wonderful scenery after his Aboriginal headman.

Emmet Emmet, approximately half way between Isisford and Yaraka, was once a fully functional town with an operating railway station and a large number of residential housing. Situated on the railway line running from Blackall to Yaraka, it was the main depot for neighbouring properties to pick up their supplies, stores and mail. Now the residents are down to two people. Stop and look through the historical display at the old store and railway station. There is also a picnic area for you to use to take a break.

Emmet Store Museum

Idalia National Park

Come down and visit the two local residents for a wander through the old railway siding.

Emmet is only 50km from Yaraka and is the western gateway to the spectacular Idalia National Park, where dry mulga scrub and rocky escarpments are home to the yellow footed rock wallaby. Come and enjoy the historical delights of this ‘one-horse’ town.

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Yaraka The small township of Yaraka is nestled between Mesa Hills with the backdrop being the Yang Yang Ranges. The Yaraka area was once part of the giant Milo sheep station located on the southern side of the Yang Yang Ranges. Yaraka was one of their huge paddocks where vast numbers of Merino sheep grazed and produced much sought after low micron wool.

Yaraka Hotel – Come on down to the hotel and enjoy a cold beverage with the locals, discover the views Yaraka can offer, take a tour to Mount Slowcombe or fossick for opals in this spectacular area.

Mount Slowcombe – The gem that Yaraka can offer is Mount Slowcombe, with a tar sealed road winding its way to the top making it easily accessible even for cars. This is an ideal place to enjoy the stunning outback sunset or the glorious colours of a sunrise. Electric BBQ and covered seating and toilet facilities available.

Magee’s Shanty – This is a historic site of the shanty immortalised in Banjo Paterson’s Poem A Bush Christening. Ruins of the Cobb & Co pub and goldmining history lay here.

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Off the beaten track and with a population of 25 people, Yaraka is nevertheless a hidden gem that is worth seeking.

Longreach is 220km and little more than two hours away by car on a mostly sealed road, but seems a lifetime away. Yaraka can also be accessed from Blackall (165km; only 7km is unsealed) and Jundah (144km; 40km sealed but the rest is a good gravel road).

It is easy to imagine that this land looked much the same in earlier times. Indeed, this is a place where memories of the past are strong – Cobb & Co is still remembered as if it were yesterday and if someone decides to recite some poetry it’s likely that Banjo Paterson verses will come tripping off the lips.

It is the home of dramatic landscape and glorious sunsets.

The Yaraka Hotel is the town’s central meeting place. Custodians of this warm and welcoming social hub are the Gimbletts, who manage to keep the hotel up with current expectations of guests and visitors while honouring its bush pub personality.

Meals are served seven days and the accommodation, while fairly simple, is comfortable and air conditioned. Outside, a big artificially grassed garden area has cushioned seating to tempt you to relax at night for a little stargazing.

You mightn’t think much would be happening this far from the madding crowd, but it’s surprising just how much they manage to fit into their days in Yaraka. For the bravehearted, there’s a pool (it can be pretty chilly!), golf amongst the gibber rocks for those who love a challenge (a small quantity of clubs and balls can be supplied for this lighthearted exercise) and you can even play croquet and bocce, just without the grass.

The hotel’s 14-seater bus makes the trip to the top of Yaraka’s famous Mount Slowcombe every evening to take in the sunset. This is definitely one of the great photos to include in your holiday album and the only cost for getting on the bus is a donation to the RFDS. Hotel manager Nick Gimblett also takes people in an all-terrain vehicle on a threehour trip to the hills to fossick for opal. At other times you can catch a tour to Welford, the site of Magee’s shanty from The Bush Christening, Boomerang Waterhole and some important historic sites. For anyone who wants to do some off-road driving or motorbike riding but would like a guide, Nick does tagalong tours.

Birdwatchers can expect some rewarding sightings, while photographic opportunities abound. Cyclists and runners like to take on Mount Slowcombe for hill-climbing time trials.

39 39

Outbac k Travelling Tips DRIVING TIPS

In Central Western Queensland and remote areas, it is common to come across single lane bitumen roads. When coming across 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 edges 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.

Care 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.

BACKUPS

On major highways, fuel stops are rarely more than 200km 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, plenty of water 40 40

and spares such as tyres, radiator hoses and fanbelts, together with a good tool kit. Ensure your spare tyre is at the correct pressure.

If you’re travelling in a remote area, it is wise to have a UHF or satellite phone on board in case of an emergency, as mobile coverage is only available up to 20km outside of towns.

External car aerials can increase mobile coverage dramatically.

MOBILE COVERAGE Longreach, Mount Isa, Charleville, Bedourie and Birdsville have coverage from only Telstra. Outside of these towns only 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. Public phones are recommended for extended travel in this area.

WILDLIFE AND STOCK If you see stock or wild animals near the road, slow down; do not 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 makes seeing them more difficult.

Longreach Region Visitor Information Centre QANTAS Park, Eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730 P: (07) 4658 4150 E: visitinf@longreach.qld.gov.au www.visitlongreach.com.au

Your Link to the Queensland Outback.

Flights from Brisbane to Barcaldine, Blackall, Charleville, Longreach, and Roma are operated in partnership with the Queensland State Government.

Qantas Airways Limited ABN 16 009 661 901