Julia Creek & McKinlay Shire Visitor's Guide - 2021

Julia Creek & McKINLAY SHIRE

Gateway to the Gulf

FREE VISITOR’S GUIDE

JULIA CREEK VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE atthecreek.com.au (07) 4746 7690 tourism@mckinlay.qld.gov.au facebook.com/JuliaCreek VisitorInformationCentre @juliacreekqld | #juliacreek

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Julia Creek

VISITOR’S GUIDE

CONTENTS Welcome To McKinlay Shire 4 Getting Here 5 Julia Creek 6 Julia Creek Dunnart 8 GAB, Fishing & Bird watching 9 Julia Creek Accommodation 10 Julia Creek Town Map 12 Major Events 14 McKinlay Shire Map 16 McKinlay 18 Nelia 19 Kynuna 20 Combo Waterhole Conservation Park 21 Service & Community Directory 22 Queensland Map 28

mckinlay.qld.gov.au

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Welcome TO MCKINLAY SHIRE

Welcome to the McKinlay Shire, heart of the Queensland Outback and Gateway to the Gulf of Carpentaria.

McKinlay Shire comprises four towns in Julia Creek, Nelia, McKinlay and Kynuna. Julia Creek and Nelia are located on the Flinders Highway (Overlander’s Way). McKinlay and Kynuna are positioned on the Landsborough Highway (Matilda Way). These towns are all connected by a fully sealed network of roads. Julia Creek earned the tagline ‘Gateway to the Gulf’ with the sealing of the road north to Normanton in the 1960s.

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VISITOR’S GUIDE

If you’re travelling up Queensland’s interior, Kynuna > Julia Creek > Burke & Wills Junction is the fastest, fully sealed route to the Gulf. McKinlay Shire has a population of around 1100 people and covers an area of 40,728 square kilometres.

We hope you join us at one of our many events or unearth our unbridled, natural beauty during your travels.

Getting Here AIR Regional Express Airlines (REX) is the only commercial air service available in McKinlay Shire.

REX offers regular flight services every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from the Julia Creek Airport to Townsville and Mount Isa. For schedules and fares call 13 17 13 or visit rex.com.au

ROAD Julia Creek and Nelia are situated on the Flinders Highway (Overlander’s Way) between Townsville and Mount Isa. This is a sealed, double lane highway accessible to all vehicles during the dry season.

Kynuna and McKinlay are situated on the Landsborough Highway (Matilda Way) between Longreach and Cloncurry. This is a sealed, double lane highway accessible to all vehicles during the dry season.

The Julia Creek to Kynuna Road (115kms) is now a fully sealed road.

The Julia Creek to McKinlay Road (80kms) is a one lane, recently fully sealed road.

The Julia Creek to Burke & Wills Roadhouse (235kms) is a one lane, sealed road with passing opportunities.

BUS Bus Queensland stop in Julia Creek, McKinlay and Kynuna. Arrival and departure times vary and are subject to change. Check out busqld.com.au for schedules and fares.

RAIL Queensland Rail offers one rail service (The Inlander) twice weekly in Julia Creek between Townsville and Mount Isa. Visit queenslandrail.com.au for more information.

ROAD SAFETY Although most of McKinlay Shire is easily accessible, when driving our roads please take care. It is essential to carefully plan your trip and remember that good preparation and common sense are the keys to a successful journey in Outback Queensland. Some tips to remember: • E nsure you have a good map and plan ahead, including calculating travel times and distances between stops.

• B e aware of the next available facilities and services including fuel, water, medical and food supplies. Towns and fuel stops in McKinlay Shire are no more than 250kms apart.

• T ake frequent rest breaks and change drivers regularly.

• A lways carry spares including tyres, water, extra food and a comprehensive first aid kit.

• I f you encounter gates, they should always be left as they were found. Open gates should be left open and closed gates should be closed after passing through them.

• A void driving after dark. Slow down and keep a look out especially at dawn and dusk as cattle, kangaroos and other wildlife often congregate alongside the road.

• Obey road closure signs.

• D rive slowly on unsealed roads and take extra care – loose surfaces are unpredictable.

• T ake care when overtaking road trains (some can be 50m long), heavy vehicles and caravans, and only do so when you can clearly see at least 1km of the road ahead. Be prepared for road trains to move a little from side to side as you overtake. Be aware that dust and stones can be flicked up, potentially damaging your vehicle and obstructing your vision.

• If a road train is approaching to overtake you, move over as far as possible to the left and stop if necessary to allow it to overtake.

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Julia Creek

WINNER

AT THE CREEK

JULIA CREEK VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Located on the main street of Julia Creek, ‘At the Creek’ is an accredited Visitor Information Centre offering unparalleled local information, a great selection of travel brochures and a unique array of souvenirs that can only be found in Julia Creek.

Staffed by friendly locals, ‘At the Creek’ engages in many audio and visual displays housed in historic railway fettler cottages that focus on the themes of water, country and people. ‘Beneath the Creek’, the latest attraction at the centre, provides a hands-on interactive journey through many facets of life in the McKinlay Shire. Watch out for the wildlife! Visitors are able to view the dunnarts being fed daily and immerse themselves in a

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VISITOR’S GUIDE

VISITOR INFORMATION SERVICES

virtual reality mustering experience. ‘At the Creek’ is located on the corner of Burke and Julia Streets and has free Wi-Fi. OPENING HOURS Please check our website and socials for seasonal opening hours.

34 Burke St, Julia Creek QLD 4823 P (07) 4746 7690 F (07) 4746 7005 E tourism@mckinlay.qld.gov.au atthecreek.com.au facebook.com JuliaCreekVisitorInformationCentre @juliacreekqld #juliacreek

Things to do IN JULIA CREEK (POPULATION 500) BUSH DINNERS In wintertime, be sure to attend the renowned Julia Creek Caravan Park Bush Dinners on Monday nights. Visitors can have a beautifully cooked meal and a chat with the locals and fellow tourists around a campfire. Please check our social media and atthecreek.com.au for dates.

BIRD WATCHING ON THE NATURE TRAIL In the afternoon, a stroll along the nature trail usually rewards you with the sights and sounds of wonderful birdlife and other wildlife. Bird lists can be obtained from the Visitor Information Centre. The circuit takes approximately 45 minutes to complete.

JULIA CREEK HISTORICAL WALK Walk the historical sites to discover and explore Julia Creek’s proud and honest history. Obtain a map and brochure from the Visitor Information Centre.

WATER TOWER At 30 metres tall, the wine glass shaped water tower is a landmark visible from up to 20kms away. Constructed in 1971, it has a 100,000 gallon capacity. Coloured lights illuminate the Water Tower at night creating a truly unique photo opportunity. Located on Burke Street.

ARTESIAN BATH HOUSES Take a refreshing dip in one of our Artesian Bath Houses located within the Julia Creek Caravan Park. All visitors welcome to schedule a booking, however fees apply. To book call 07 4746 7108.

FREE CRUISER BIKES If you are staying at the Julia Creek Caravan Park or RV Site, jump on a Cruiser Bike and head up town to sample some of the local produce or take in our local sights. Best of all, they are free to use!

DUNCAN MCINTYRE MUSEUM The Duncan McIntyre Museum, on Burke Street, is home to relics synonymous with the McKinlay Shire’s past. On proud display is a Willy’s Jeep Truck, machinery, fossils from the Eromanga Sea, displays saluting the Shire’s prevalent wool heritage and countless other relics. Entry is free.

Open 9am – 5pm daily.

WORLD WAR II BUNKERS The remains of a Directional Finding Installation are located near the cattle sale yards on the western side of town. This installation was one of a series which spread across Queensland and the Northern Territory. Their purpose was to assist pilots who may have travelled off course. The directional beams assisted pilots to get back on course.

OPERA HOUSE Located in Julia Street, tucked in behind the Civic Centre, the Opera House is home to a historical photo gallery of the last 100 years in and around Julia Creek. The Opera House, opened on the same day as the Sydney Opera House, is open from Monday to Friday 9am – 4.30pm.

SPIRIT OF THE LIGHT HORSE SCULPTURE Standing proud at the Julia Creek RSL, Samson was created by artist, Sue Tilley, from a range of vintage metal objects collected locally. Together with the surrounding Light Horse Brigade silhouettes, they form a prominent tribute to the spirit of the ANZACs. JULIA CREEK SWIMMING POOL Located across the road from the Julia Creek Caravan Park, the pool is open year round. It includes a 25m lap pool, 2 water slides and splash pad. Check out the notice board for seasonal opening hours. mckinlay.qld.gov.au

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Julia Creek Dunnart (SMINTHOPSIS DOUGLASI)

This tiny bright-eyed creature is an insect-eating marsupial, only found in the Mitchell grass downs of North West Queensland.

With a body length of 100–120mm and a tail length of 90–100mm, the Julia Creek dunnart can be distinguished from rats and mice by its size. Unlike rodents, dunnarts have pointy noses, large rounded ears and dog-like teeth.

RECOGNISED AS A SPECIES The dunnart was first documented in 1931 but not recognised as a species until 1979 after examination of four museum specimens revealed them to be a distinct species. A live animal was not seen until 1992 when, with the aid of information provided by locals, seven animals were trapped and another was brought in from a property after being saved from a domestic cat. The species is currently listed as near endangered under the IUCN Red List of Threatened Fauna (2008) because of its restricted distribution and the lack of knowledge of its ecology and threatening processes.

The downs country of North West Queensland is typically flat or gently undulating grassland dominated by Mitchell grass (Astrebla spp.) tussocks, with grasses such as Flinders grass (Iseilema sp.) and forbs growing between the tussocks after rain. An aspect of the Julia Creek dunnart’s habitat that may be essential to its survival in this harsh environment is black soil,

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VISITOR’S GUIDE

where cracks up to 70cms deep develop as the dry season progresses. Julia Creek dunnarts shelter in these cracks to escape the extreme daytime temperatures then emerge at night to hunt insects and small reptiles.

Breeding occurs between October and February, during which time females may produce two litters of young if environmental conditions are favourable. Like other marsupials, they have a pouch and give birth to young at a very early stage of pregnancy, at which time the young are permanently attached to the nipple. The pouch contains eight nipples in a circular arrangement allowing each female to carry eight young at a time.

Reproduction is timed to coincide with the wet season so that the young are weaned when there is an abundance of insects to feed on and ample vegetation to provide shelter from predators.

LIVE DUNNART DISPLAY The Julia Creek Visitor Information Centre currently displays fat-tailed dunnarts (Sminthopsis crassicaudata). Fat-tailed dunnarts, as their name suggests, are distinguished by their carrot-shaped tail where they store excess fat for times of food shortage.

The feisty fat-tailed dunnarts are rotated between two off-display enclosures and one display enclosure.

GAB fishing &bird watching Sydney Harbour 130,000 times. The water supply in McKinlay Shire comes from the Great Artesian Basin. Come and view the 'Gift of the GAB' movie in the auditorium ‘At the Creek’.

GREAT ARTESIAN BASIN The Great Artesian Basin (GAB) is one of the largest artesian groundwater basins in the world.

It extends 2,400kms from Cape York in the north to Dubbo in the south. At its widest it is 1,800kms from the Darling Downs to west of Coober Pedy.

With an area of over 1.7 million square kilometres the Basin underlies approximately one-fifth of the Australian continent. The GAB stores a huge volume of water that is estimated to be 64,900 million megalitres. It is enough water to fill

FISHING North West Queensland has a great variety of fishing sites including rivers, lakes and creeks.

The most common fish caught in this region are barramundi, sleepy cod, catfish and redclaw yabbies. McKinlay Shire has several waterholes to try your luck at including Punchbowl Waterhole (45kms from Julia Creek), Sedan Dip (100kms from Julia Creek), Julia Creek (in town), Combo Waterhole (near Kynuna) and Eastern Creek (22kms from Julia Creek). Throw in a line and spend some time exploring this unique region.

BIRD WATCHING McKinlay Shire has a variety of birdlife throughout the year in various places. The best times to visit are directly after the wet season (from January to June), but an abundance of birds can be found well into the dry season, particularly drier climate species. A guide to bird watching in McKinlay Shire and a bird list are available from ‘At the Creek’.

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Julia Creek ACCOMMODATION

GANNONS HOTEL MOTEL • 9 air-conditioned rooms • Meals 7 days 36 Burke Street, Julia Creek QLD 4823 P (07) 4746 7103 E gannonshotel@bigpond.com JULIA CREEK VILLAS • 20 air-conditioned self-contained units • Weekly rates available • TV, Austar, BBQ area, swimming pool in complex, laundry facilities • Homely atmosphere, off-street parking 2 Burke Street, Julia Creek QLD 4823 P (07) 4746 7468 F (07) 4746 7328

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JULIA CREEK MOTEL • 19 comfortable air-conditioned rooms • Undercover parking • Room service and breakfast available • Free Internet access available • Kitchenette and swimming pool • Evening meals and packed lunches • Free Wi-Fi for guests 98 Burke Street, Julia Creek QLD 4823 P (07) 4746 7305 F (07) 4746 7124 juliacreekmotel.com JULIA CREEK HOTEL/TOP PUB • 11 air-conditioned rooms • Meals available 6 days per week, EFTPOS Cnr Goldring & Julia Streets, Julia Creek QLD 4823 P (07) 4746 7727 F (07) 4746 7773

JULIA CREEK CARAVAN PARK • Self-contained cabins (sleeps 4 & 6) – air-conditioned, bathroom, kitchen, dining table, lounge, VAST TV • 4 dongas – 2 singles in each, air conditioning, fridge, kettle, VAST TV • 20 powered van sites • 15 powered sites on grass for motorhomes or camping • Large grassed camping area • Camp kitchen – communal BBQ, TV, fridge and wash-up facilities

• Brand new amenities • Waste dump point available for all travellers • Public swimming pool and sports centre across the road • Well behaved pets are welcome • Free Wi-Fi for guests • Bookings are essential (May to September) • Artesian bath houses (fees apply) Old Normanton Road, Julia Creek QLD 4823 P (07) 4746 7108 jccaravanpark.com.au

NEWLY CONSTRUCTED PRIVATE BATH HOUSES – AN UNEXPECTED OUTBACK SURPRISE Nice and roomy, two in each bath house, seating, pebble floor mats, authentic outback clothes hooks and great view. Throw in some bath salts or bubble bath, sip on some chilled wine, snack on nibbles and enjoy the company of partner/friend or just on your own and enjoy the view.

RV FRIENDLY TOWN Julia Creek is an RV Friendly town and has a designated free camping area alongside Julia Creek for self-contained RVs and caravans (toilet and shower on board). This area is located 1.3kms on the eastern side of town. With picnic tables provided, this is a great area to relax with some cheese and wine, to watch the beautiful Julia Creek sunsets.

Please obtain a free permit from the Camp Hosts on site during April – September or the Visitor Information Centre October – March.

Permits are valid for 96 hours.

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Town Map

Cemetery

Refuse Facility

TOWN OUTSKIRTS

LEGEN

Place of

Public T Mt Isa

Fuel Sto Bank

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WWII

Livestock Centre

Water

Richmond Airport

McIntyre Park

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Refuse Facility

Cemetery TAL D

OR A

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Dump Point

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Bike Park 10

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Swimming Indoor Pool & Sports Tennis Water Park Centre Courts

Truck Parking

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Fire Station

JULIA STREET

CSA Building Depot

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Peter Post Dawes Office W Park B P

Duncan McIntyre Museum BURKE STREET

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Kev Bannah Oval

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Civic Centre

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STATE SCHOOL

Julia Creek RSL

H P Top Pub 8

GOLDRING STREET JULIA CREEK - KYNUNA ROAD

MATHEWS STREET

COYNE STREET

Cloncurry: 134km Livestock Centre / WWII Bunker: 5km Airport: 5km

QUARRELL STREET

BYRNE STREET

ALLISON STREET

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DRI V

Skate Park

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COYNE S

Anglican Church

FLINDERS State Gov. Precinct Police Station GOLDR

Railway Station

Fully sealed road to Kynuna: 115km

McIntyre Park

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Caravan Park

SUN

E COY N

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CR

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Artesian Bath Houses

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SHAW STREET

S TR E E

LI A

VE

O Dog Park AD

HICKMAN STREET

Telecommunications Tower

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BE R

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VISITOR’S GUIDE

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f Interest

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Caravan Park

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Toilets

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Motel

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Hotel

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Public Phone

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Nature Trail

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PUNCHBOWL ROAD

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Ambulance

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Catholic Church

HOSPITAL LANE

RV Friendly Camping Area

STREET

CHURCH LANE

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CHURCH LANE

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Medical Centre HOSPITAL

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W Richmond: 144km

11 Driver Reviver

W Lions Park T

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RING STREET

Julia Creek is an RV Friendly town and has a free camping area alongside the water’s edge of Julia Creek. This area is suitable for self-sufficient RVs and caravans and is located 1.3kms on the eastern side of town. Picnic tables and bins are provided. Please obtain a free permit from the Camp Hosts on site during April – September or the Visitor Information Centre October – March. Permits are valid for 96 hours.

Water Tower.....................(E11) The 30 metre wine glass-shaped water tower has the capacity to hold 454,000 litres of water and stands above the fourth bore that was sunk in Julia Creek. A light show create an impressive visual effect at night.

Take a walk around the Nature Trail and view the wonderful birdlife.

Start at the corner of Shaw and Julia Streets and follow the signs behind the tennis courts.

Library............................ (H11) Come in and swap a book for free at the local book exchange. Internet access available.

Opera House....................(J10)

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Julia Creek RSL .............. (K12)

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Relive the history of Julia Creek through a large collection of photographs. Free entry.

Duncan McIntyre Museum

..........................................(J11) The Duncan McIntyre Museum is home to countless relics synonymous with the McKinlay Shire’s past. Machinery, fossils from the Eromanga Sea and a display saluting the Shire’s prevalent wool heritage and much more on display.

Entry is free.

The Julia Creek RSL branch showcases the Spirit of the Lighthorse Sculpture and a display saluting McKinlay Shire’s servicemen and women. ather Bill Busuttin F Community Centre ........(M10) Air-conditioned small conference facility with kitchen and community centre. Julia Creek CHSP and Community Nurse base.

RV Friendly Camping Area ........................................... (O9)

Nature Trail...........(Start at L6)

S HIGHWAY

M

At the Creek.....................(J11) Stop ‘At the Creek’ and say hello as you enter our friendly town. We have an up-to-date range of information brochures and maps covering the local and regional areas. Gain an insight into the way we live in McKinlay Shire. Don’t forget to take a look at the dunnarts, which are fed daily. Free Wi-Fi.

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Bike Park ...........................(L7) Children can learn road safety skills on their push bikes.

Smart Hub ...................... (H12) Computers, wifi, printing, meeting rooms. Membership obtained via McKinlay Shire Council.

Caravan Park Julia Creek Caravan Park............ (J7) Motel Julia Creek Motel.......................(C11) Julia Creek Villas....................... (M12) Gannons....................................... (I11) Hotel Julia Creek Hotel (Top Pub)..................................... (J12) Gannons....................................... (I11) Others Places of Interest Ambulance................................. (M10) Cemetery...........................(see inset) Churches: Anglican – St Barnabas........ (L10) Catholic................................. (M11) Civic Centre.................................(J11) Driver Reviver Stop....................(N11) Fire Station.................................(G12) Hospital.......................................(N11) Information Centre.....................(J11) Library (H11) McIntyre Park.............................(D16) Medical Centre...........................(N10) Police Station............................. (L12) Post Office................................... (I11) Railway Station.......................... (J13) RV Friendly Camping Area (free).....................(O9) Skate Park..................................... (J8) State Government Precinct & Court House............. (L11) Swimming Pool & Water Park........ (J8) Tennis Courts / Indoor Sports Centre / Gym....................(K8) Truck Parking.............................(C11)

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Major Events JANUARY – AUSTRALIA DAY CELEBRATIONS A P R I L – J U L I A C R EEK DI RT N DU S T F E S T I VA L & ARTESIAN EXPRESS RACES MAY – JULIA CREEK CAMPDRAFT JUNE – MCKINLAY RACES JUNE – SAXBY ROUND-UP (RODEO, CAMPDRAFT & GYMKHANA) JULY – JULIA CREEK TURF CLUB RACES AUGUST – SEDAN DIP SPORTS & REC WEEKEND (RACES, RODEO, CAMPDRAFT & GYMKHANA) SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER – TOWN VS COUNTRY RUGBY LEAGUE MATCH + NETBALL MATCHES SEPTEMBER – JULIA CREEK TURF CLUB RACES NOVEMBER – JULIA CREEK TURF CLUB RACES

Details are subject to change. Please check our website www.atthecreek.com.au for all the up-to-date information

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VISITOR’S GUIDE

JULIA CREEK DIRT N DUST FESTIVAL The largest event of the year is the multi-award winning Julia Creek Dirt n Dust Festival which offers three days of triathlon, horse races, professional bull ride, Australia’s best butt competition, live concerts and novelty events. The event attracts 3,000 people. dirtndust.com

SEDAN DIP From bush races to campdrafting to rodeo to gymkhana, Sedan Dip is a weekend in August that has it all. 100kms north of Julia Creek on the sealed Burke and Wills road, Sedan Dip offers food and bar facilities, free camping and entertainment. sedandip.com.au

JULIA CREEK CAMPDRAFT Every May, horsemen from far and wide gather at the Julia Creek Campdraft to put their skills to the test in a riveting display of horsemanship.

Catering, bar and entertainment.

JULIA CREEK TURF CLUB RACES Julia Creek Turf Club has four race meetings a year including the Artesian Express which is run in conjunction with the Julia Creek Dirt n Dust Festival. The Julia Creek Turf Club is located at McIntyre Park approximately 1km south of the Julia Creek town centre on the Kynuna Road.

McKINLAY RACES Experience the true colour of country racing at the McKinlay Races. Big prize money, Fashions on the Field, free camping, hot showers, entertainment, lucky gate prize, bar and catering facilities.

SAXBY ROUND-UP Approximately 200kms north of Julia Creek at Martin’s Waterhole, the Saxby Round-Up is an iconic bush event featuring campdrafting, rodeo, gymkhana and novelty events. Entertainment, bar, food and free camping. No power.

TOWN VS COUNTRY RUGBY LEAGUE MATCH The Town VS County Rugby League Match is an annual rugby league showdown held in Julia Creek. The fiercely fought battle attracts large crowds and has even featured celebrity run-on appearances from big names such as Petero Civoniceva. Bar, catering and entertainment.

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McKinlay Shire Map

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JULIA CREEK

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McKinlay MCKINLAY (POPULATION 20) The McKinlay district was first discovered by Scottish born explorer, John McKinlay in 1861 during his travel from Adelaide to the Gulf of Carpentaria. McKinlay was established in 1888 as a staging post for the Cobb and Co. coaches and a gathering point for the graziers from surrounding properties. The bore on the edge of town was sunk in the 1900s to give a permanent water supply. McKinlay was the service centre for many of the surrounding stations. The McKinlay Shire Council offices were originally located in McKinlay until 1930, when they were moved to Julia Creek, which was serviced by the Great Northern Railway. Travel from Julia Creek to McKinlay is 100kms and via a predominantly unsealed road.

QUEENSLAND’S SMALLEST PUBLIC LIBRARY & TOURIST CENTRE Located in Middleton Street, McKinlay, Queensland’s smallest public library is open seasonally. The library houses a broad range of fiction and non-fiction books. There is also a selection of travel information on offer from a friendly McKinlay local. Behind the library is the Centenary Museum, featuring photos and relics plus WWI Honour Roll and Soldier Profiles.

CANNINGTON MINE Located 87kms south of McKinlay is Cannington mine site – the world’s largest and lowest cost single mine producer of both silver and lead.

Opened in 1997, Cannington was the supplier of silver for the Olympic Games medals in Sydney in 2000 and again for the Beijing Olympics, 2008.

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CENTENARY PARK Pull up for a break at Centenary Park and view the new historical story boards which feature the history of McKinlay. April 2012 marked 150 years since explorer John McKinlay discovered the area. A statue of ‘Big John’ was erected to commemorate the event and can be seen in Middleton Street, across from the Park.

WALKABOUT CREEK HOTEL P (07) 4746 8424 F (07) 4746 8768 Landsborough Highway, McKinlay QLD 4823 Originally known as the Federal Hotel, the pub was built in 1900 and licensed in 1901. The Walkabout Creek Hotel is now famous for being recognised as the pub in the Paul Hogan movie ‘Crocodile Dundee’. The pub, together with other buildings in the town, were featured in this iconic Australian film. The pub is now home to Mick’s truck and other film memorabilia.

• Air-conditioned hotel rooms • Powered and unpowered camping sites

Nelia

NELIA (POPULATION 2) Located on the Overlander’s Way, the travel route between Townsville and the Northern Territory, sits a small outback town called Nelia. Approximately 50kms to the east of Julia Creek, Nelia boasts an active CWA committee. The world’s largest brolga sculptures crafted by artist, Sue Tilley, create a truly unique photo opportunity. The Gallery @ Nelia showcases local art and craft and visiting exhibitions.

The Nelia Post Office celebrated its centenary in 2009 however it is no longer operational.

CORELLA CREEK COUNTRY FARM STAY P (07) 4746 7555 Guesthouse and Nelia Camping Ground – season is from May – September.

• Air-conditioned rooms • Wi-Fi • Guesthouse kiosk • Wildlife refuge • Book exchange • Laundry • A range of unique outback experiences

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Kynuna

KYNUNA (POPULATION 20) Kynuna is located on the Landsborough Highway 165kms north west of Winton and 75kms south east of McKinlay. Kynuna is connected to Julia Creek via a fully sealed road. Kynuna is in the heart of Waltzing Matilda Country. Kynuna was established on the Diamantina River and was gazetted as a town in 1894.

Within a few years, Kynuna had a substantial population (up to 700) and once had three bustling hotels.

KYNUNA ROADHOUSE CARAVAN PARK P (07) 4746 8683 Landsborough Highway, Kynuna QLD 4823 • Drive through caravan sites unpowered and powered • Large grassed camping area • Air-conditioned dongas • Shower and restroom facilities

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BLUE HEELER HOTEL P (07) 4746 8650 Landsborough Highway, Kynuna QLD 4823 Built in 1889 as the Kynuna Hotel, the Blue Heeler Hotel is the only hotel in Kynuna and is the only remaining building with an association with ‘Waltzing Matilda’. It is said that both the swagman and squatter had their last drinks at the hotel.

Banjo Paterson also drank at the hotel. Come in for a cold beer and immerse yourself in the history.

• Air-conditioned motel rooms and dongas • Powered and unpowered camping sites • Wi-Fi internet

COMBO WATERHOLE CONSERVATION PARK 16kms east of Kynuna – A visit to Kynuna is not complete without a trip to Combo Waterhole, believed to have inspired Banjo Paterson to pen Waltzing Matilda.

It also features overshot dams built by Chinese labourers in 1883 which are technical masterpieces. Walk the 2.5km return circuit to the waterhole along the Diamantina River and have a picnic ‘under the shade of a Coolibah tree’.

• From Kynuna, travel toward Winton on the Landsborough Hwy/A2 for 16.2kms • Turn right into Combo Waterhole where signed • Drive 6.1kms • Turn right 1.5kms • ARRIVE: Combo Waterhole • PLEASE NOTE: No Camping

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Service & Community DIRECTORY EMERGENCY SERVICES EMERGENCY – Ambulance, Fire, Police.................................................................................................................000 Julia Creek Ambulance – Hospital Lane...................................................................................................4746 7101 Julia Creek Fire Station – Burke Street......................................................................................................4746 7917 Julia Creek Police – Mathews Street..........................................................................................................4744 1622 Kynuna Police................................................................................................................................................4746 8777 McKinlay Police..............................................................................................................................................4746 8420 McKinlay Shire Council.................................................................................................................................4746 7166 Ergon Electricity................................................................................................................................................ 13 10 46 State Emergency Service........................................................................................................... 132 500 / 4746 7206 ACCOMMODATION Julia Creek Caravan Park.............................................................................................................................4746 7108 Julia Creek RV Friendly Site.........................................................................................................................4746 7690 Julia Creek Motel...........................................................................................................................................4646 7305 Julia Creek Hotel (Tob Pub)........................................................................................................................4746 7727 Julia Creek Villas............................................................................................................................................4746 7468 Gannons Hotel...............................................................................................................................................4746 7103 Blue Heeler Hotel, Kynuna..........................................................................................................................4746 8650 Kynuna Road House.....................................................................................................................................4746 8683 Walkabout Creek Hotel, McKinlay..............................................................................................................4746 8424 Corella Creek Country Farm Stay, Nelia....................................................................................................4746 7555 SERVICE STATION & MECHANICAL REPAIRS Julia Creek Roadhouse – Burke Street......................................................................................................4746 7178 Crawford & Co – Burke Street......................................................................................................................4746 7011 Felsie’s Mobile Workshop – Byrne Street..................................................................................................4746 7271 Marwill (Tyres & Electrical) – Burke Street................................................................................................4746 7140 RACQ (Breakdown service)............................................................................................................................. 13 11 11 Kynuna Roadhouse.......................................................................................................................................4746 8683 Robbie’s Tyres.......................................................................................................................................... 0427 792 162 GROCERY SHOPS, TAKEAWAY FOOD & COFFEE Corrina’s Café & Bakery – Burke Street......................................................................................................4746 7674 Godier’s Café and Marketplace – Burke Street........................................................................................4746 7201 Julia Creek Foodmart – Burke Street........................................................................................................4746 7193 MEALS & TAKEAWAY FOOD Julia Creek Roadhouse – Burke Street......................................................................................................4746 7178 Julia Creek Hotel (Top Pub) – Goldring Street.........................................................................................4746 7727 Kynuna Roadhouse – Kynuna.....................................................................................................................4746 8683 Blue Heeler Hotel – Kynuna........................................................................................................................4746 8650 Gannons Hotel Motel....................................................................................................................................4746 7103

2 2 Julia Creek

VISITOR’S GUIDE

BANKING SERVICES Australia Post – Julia Creek – Burke Street...............................................................................................4746 7147 MEDICAL SERVICES Julia Creek Hospital – Burke Street...........................................................................................................4746 4000 Julia Creek Medical Centre (located at Julia Creek Hospital)...............................................................4746 7159 McKinlay Bush Nursing Clinic – Wylde Street, McKinlay........................................................................4746 8505 PHONE COVERAGE Julia Creek, McKinlay, Kynuna .............................................................................Telstra Next G network + Optus Nelia......................................................................................................................................Limited Telstra Coverage CHURCHES Anglican – Mathews Street..........................................................................................................................4746 7258 Catholic Presbytery – Burke Street............................................................................................................4746 7164 OTHER SHOPS & SERVICES Australia Post – Julia Creek – Burke Street...............................................................................................4746 7147 Booth Rural – Burke Street..........................................................................................................................4746 7666 Cooleebah Gifts – Burke Street ..................................................................................................................4746 7176 Crawford Painting Contractors – Burke Street.........................................................................................4746 7468 Crawford Plumbing & Gas Fitting......................................................................................................... 0428 587 845 Elders – Burke Street.....................................................................................................................................4746 7188 Gravel & Grace – Burke Street.....................................................................................................................4746 7228 Julia Creek Butchers – Burke Street .......................................................................................... Ph/Fax: 4746 7301 Julia Creek Hardware – Burke Street.........................................................................................................4746 7282 Julia Creek Early Learning Centre – Shaw Street....................................................................................4746 7279 Julia Creek Library – Burke Street..............................................................................................................4746 7930 Julia Creek News – Burke Street.................................................................................................................4746 7322 Julia Creek Pharmacy – Burke Street........................................................................................................4746 7073 Julia Creek State School – Burke Street....................................................................................................4746 4444 Lonsdale Building Contractors – Goldring Street...................................................................................4746 7467 Marwill Pty Ltd (Electrician) – Burke Street..............................................................................................4746 7140 McKinlay Library and Tourist Centre – Middleton Street.......................................................................4746 8848 QCWA Hostel – Julia Creek – Burke Street................................................................................................4746 7258 QCWA Hostel – McKinlay..............................................................................................................................4746 8695 QCWA Hostel – Nelia.....................................................................................................................................4746 8614 Queensland Government Agency – Burke Street....................................................................................4746 7162 SNG Constructions.................................................................................................................................. 0427 596 765 DUMP POINTS Julia Creek.............................................................................................................. Hickman Street | McIntyre Park McKinlay........................................................................................................................................................ Truck Stop LAUNDROMAT Julia Creek....................................................................................... Cnr Burke & Julia Street/Australia Post Office SHOWERS Julia Creek.............................................................................................................................. Julia Creek Roadhouse mckinlay.qld.gov.au 2 3

STEPHEN MALONE PHOTOGRAPHY

JULIA CREEK FRIENDLY GROCER

P: 07 4746 7201 F: 07 4746 7316

smalone.com.au

AKA Godier’s Coffee Bar 43 BURKE STREET

Come in and enjoy our country hospitality.

We have all your Grocery and Convenience supplies.

Fresh Milk, Bread, Fruit – Veg, Music and DVDs for sale.

REAL COFFEE – FRESH JUICE, REAL HAM AND CHICKEN ON OUR SANDWICHES

JULIA CREEK VILLAS

2 4 Julia Creek

VISITOR’S GUIDE

For those of you keen on our environment, come in and chat with one of Western Queensland’s recognised Naturalists and Photographers, Stephen Malone. His photography is displayed in our shop.

JULIA CREEK NEWS

Julia Creek

33 Burke Street, Julia Creek QLD 4823 Corrinascafeandbakery@gmail.com

Phone: 0747467674 Café, Bakery & Catering Great Northern Barista Made Coffee Country Style and Modern Cuisine Cakes and Desserts Locally Owned and Operated Indoor and Alfresco Dining Friendly and Relaxed Atmosphere Clean Modern Facilities Family Friendly

Takeaway and Delivery Dog Friendly Grassed Area Local Park Playground Access Local History and Artwork Private Functions Event Catering Coffee Loyalty Cards Gift Vouchers Open from 5am Most Days

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram Corrina’s Café & Bakery corrinascafeandbakery mckinlay.qld.gov.au

C O O L E E B A H G I F T S @ JULIA CREEK

GANNONS HOTEL MOTEL

JULIA CREEK NEWS

THE MONGREL SHOP

2 6 Julia Creek

VISITOR’S GUIDE

KYNUNA ROADHOUSE

CORELLA CREEK C OUNTRY FARM STAY

JULIA CR EEK HAR DWAR E

JULIA CREEK NEWS

mckinlay.qld.gov.au 2 7

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