Julia Creek & M c KINLAY SHIRE
Gateway to the Gulf
cloncurry
Burke & Wills Roadhouse
Kynuna
mckinlay
cannington mine
Julia Creek
Flinders Hwy
LandsboroughHwy
Welcome
TO M c KINLAY SHIRE
Welcome to the McKinlay Shire, heart of the Queensland Outback and Gateway to the Gulf of Carpentaria.
McKinlay Shire comprises of four towns, 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.
If you’re travelling up Queensland’s interior, Kynuna > Julia Creek > Burke & Wills Junction is the fastest, fully sealed route to the Gulf – we call it ‘The Barra Express’. McKinlay Shire has a population of around 1,100 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 Burke & Wills Roadhouse (235kms) is a one lane, sealed road with passing opportunities. We call the Kynuna > Julia Creek > Burke & Wills route ‘The Barra Express’.
The Julia Creek to McKinlay Road (80kms) is a one lane, recently fully sealed road.
BUS
Greyhound Australia stop in Julia Creek, McKinlay and Kynuna. Arrival and departure times vary and are subject to change. Check out greyhound.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 queenslandrailtravel.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:
• Ensure you have a good map and plan ahead, including calculating travel times and distances between stops.
• Be aware of the next available facilities and services including fuel, water, medical and food supplies.
• Take frequent rest breaks and change drivers regularly.
• Always carry spares including tyres, water, extra food and a comprehensive first aid kit.
• If 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.
• Avoid 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.
• Drive slowly on unsealed roads and take extra care – loose surfaces are unpredictable.
• Take 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.
• Check the Queensland Traffic website before commencing a journey: qldtraffic.com.au
Julia Creek
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 famous Julia Creek Dunnarts being fed daily (10am & 2pm Monday – Friday, and 10am on weekends
during peak season – April to September) or immerse themselves in a 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 4280 E tourism@mckinlay.qld.gov.au atthecreek.com.au
facebook.com/ JuliaCreekVisitorInformationCentre
@juliacreekqld #juliacreek
Things to do
IN JULIA CREEK (POPULATION 500)
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.
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.
BURKE
STREET DISCOVERIES
While exploring our main street, take time to discover and relax in Peter Dawes Park, a welcoming green space in the heart of town. The park features public amenities, expansive lawn areas, a playground and undercover cooking facilities, making it ideal for families and travellers alike. Within the park, a red bench serves as a powerful reminder to raise awareness of domestic violence and inspire change. Nearby stands a Rotary Club Peace Pole, part of a worldwide initiative inscribed with the message “May Peace Prevail on Earth” in multiple languages. After dark, illuminated trees line the street, their fairy lights creating a striking silhouette beneath the outback night sky.
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.
JULIA CREEK ART TRAIL
We have an ever-expanding number of public art spaces to enjoy. Grab a map from the visitor centre or caravan park to experience a unique collection of murals, sculptures and installations
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 BUNKER
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.
Julia Creek Dunnart
(SMINTHOPSIS DOUGLASI)
This tiny, bright-eyed creature is a carnivorous marsupial called the Julia Creek dunnart, found in the Mitchell grass downs of north-west Queensland.
With a head and body length of 110 – 135 mm and a tail length of 103 – 130 mm, Julia Creek dunnarts can be distinguished from rats and mice by their appearance. Unlike rodents, dunnarts have pointy noses, large, rounded ears and a mouth full of sharp, dog-like teeth.
RECOGNISED AS A SPECIES
The Julia Creek dunnart was first documented in 1931, but not recognised as a new species until 1979, after examination of three museum specimens revealed them to be distinct. A live animal was not seen until 1992 when, with the aid of information provided by locals, 7 animals were trapped and another was brought in from a property after being saved from a domestic cat. The species is currently listed as Vulnerable under the federal EPBC Act (1999) because of its restricted distribution and threats including fluctuating population size and predation by feral domestic cats and foxes.
HABITAT
The downs country of north-west Queensland is typically flat or gently undulating grasslands dominated by Mitchell grass ( Astrebla spp.) tussocks, with Flinders grass ( Iseilema spp.) and forbs growing between the tussocks after rain. As the dry season progresses, the clay-rich black
soils form cracks up to one metre deep. Julia Creek dunnarts shelter in these cracks to escape the extreme daytime temperatures, then emerge at night to hunt. Their diet includes invertebrates (like grasshoppers, centipedes and spiders) and small reptiles.
BREEDING
Breeding occurs between mid-August and February, when females may produce 2 litters of young if environmental conditions are favourable. Females give birth to tiny, underdeveloped young, which crawl up and attach to one of eight nipples in a ‘pouch’ that is a simple fold of skin on the abdomen. Reproduction is timed to coincide with the wet season, so the young are weaned when invertebrate food is abundant and there is ample vegetation to provide shelter from predators.
LIVE DUNNART DISPLAY
The Julia Creek Visitor Information Centre currently displays fat-tailed dunnarts (Sminthopsis crassicaudata). A relative of the Julia Creek dunnart, fat-tailed dunnarts, as their name suggests, have carrot-shaped tails where they store excess fat for times of food shortage. This is useful in parts of Australia with unpredictable droughts and flooding rains, and many arid-dwelling carnivorous marsupials have fat tails.
GAB fishing & bird watching
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
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’.
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’.
Julia Creek
DROVERS DOG HOTEL
• 12 air-conditioned rooms
• Meals 7 days: dining room or takeaway
• Drive through bottle shop
• Tab, Keno, Pokies
36 Burke Street, Julia Creek
P (07) 4746 7103
E reception@droversdoghotel.com.au droversdoghotel.com.au
JULIA CREEK MOTEL
• 19 comfortable air-conditioned rooms
• Kitchenette and swimming pool
• Free Wi-Fi for guests
• Optional off-street parking available for cars and trucks’
98 Burke Street, Julia Creek
P (07) 4746 7305
E booking@juliacreekmotel.com juliacreekmotel.com
TRADIES WAY
• 18 air-conditioned single dongas with fridge, TV + ensuite
• Double rooms + Managers room also available
• Office area available
• Communal kitchen, BBQ area
• Plenty of extra parking for cars and trucks
• Special rates for long term and working crews
Reception: 41 Burke Street, Julia Creek
Accommodation:
Lot 1 Fairway Drive, Julia Creek
P (07) 4746 7140
E admin@marwill.com.au marwill.com.au
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
• Wheelchair accessible PWD Cabin catering for specialised needs equipped with ramp, large bathroom and appropriate amenities
• Nearly 50 spacious powered sites for all rigs - mixture of grass sites, slab sites and gravel sites
• 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, mini golf course and sports centre across the road
• Well behaved pets are welcome
• Free Wi-Fi for guests
• Bookings are essential
• Home of the famous Bush Dinners
• Artesian bath houses (fees apply)
Old Normanton Road, Julia Creek QLD 4823
P (07) 4746 7108
E jccaravanpark@mckinlay.qld.gov.au jccaravanpark.com.au
ARTESIAN BATH HOUSES – AN UNEXPECTED OUTBACK SURPRISE
With views out to the undulating downs country yet with privacy afforded by the rainwater tank and boundary rider hut design, the Julia Creek Caravan Park Artesian Bath Houses are fast becoming a highly regarded Outback Australia bucket list experience. Guests are encouraged to bring a cheese platter and their favourite beverage to truly indulge.
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.
2021 Silver
TOWN OUTSKIRTS
TALDORAROAD
Kynuna: 115km (fully
Kynuna (fully sealed)
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.
RV Friendly Camping Area O9
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 creates an impressive visual effect at night.
Library
H11
Come in and swap a book for free at the local book exchange. Internet access available.
Opera House J10
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.
Julia Creek RSL ................. K12
The Julia Creek RSL branch showcases the Spirit of the Lighthorse Sculpture and a display saluting McKinlay Shire’s servicemen and women.
Father Bill Busuttin Community Centre ...........M10
Air-conditioned small conference facility with kitchen and community centre. Julia Creek CHSP and Community Nurse base.
Bike Park L7
Children can learn road safety skills on their push bikes.
Mini Golf Course K7
Fun for the the whole family with a free 9-hole mini golf course situated adjacent to the Caravan Park.
Smart Hub H12
Computers, Wi-Fi, printing, meeting rooms. Membership obtained via McKinlay Shire Council.
Julia Creek Community Events Precinct
Home of the famous Dirt n Dust Festival each April, a truly unique Outback Queensland bucket-list event.
Public Art Spaces
Light display (at night) at Water Tower E11
Metal sculpture
Major Events
APRIL/MAY
Julia Creek Dirt and Dust Festival & Artesian Express Races
JUNE
McKinlay Races, Saxby Round Up
JULY
Julia Creek Turf Club Races
Julia Creek Campdraft
AUGUST
Sedan Dip Races, Rodeo, Campdraft & Gymkhana
AUGUST / SEPTEMBER
Julia Creek Turf Club Races
OCTOBER
Town vs Country
Rugby League – Netball – Gala Ball ‘The Big Weekend’
NOVEMBER
Julia Creek Turf Club Beach Races
Details are subject to change. Please check our website www.atthecreek.com.au for all the up-to-date information
Julia Creek Turf Club Races
Saxby Rodeo
Julia Creek Dirt and Dust Festival
Town vs Country, Rugby League
Julia Creek & McKinlay Shire' s Iconic Events
In Julia Creek, the calendar doesn’t just mark the passing of time, it tells the story of the outback. A story of dust and determination, of community and celebration, and of traditions that have been carried through generations. Here, events aren’t just something you attend, they’re a way of life.
Throughout the year, this remarkable region comes alive with experiences that capture the true spirit of the bush. From the high-energy spectacle of the Julia Creek Dirt n Dust Festival to the timeless skill on display at campdrafts and rodeos, we guarantee there’s something here for everyone. Whether you’re an adventurer, a sports lover, or simply looking to soak up authentic country life.
At the centre of it all, is the bucket-list DIRT N DUST FESTIVAL, a two-day celebration that draws visitors from across the country. It’s where fitness meets fun, where the mud flies during the revamped adventure run races, and where the energy carries long into the night with live music and rodeo action. Couple this with a day trackside at the ARTESIAN EXPRESS RACEDAY hosted by the Julia Creek Turf Club, and you’ve got yourself one hell of a weekend! Last but certainly not least, in true Julia Creek fashion, it’s also home to the famously cheeky “Australia’s Best Butt” competition, because out here, we don’t take ourselves too seriously.
But beyond the festival lights, the region’s deep pastoral roots shine through in events like the JULIA CREEK CAMPDRAFT. Running for more than 60 years, it’s a powerful display of horsemanship, where cowboys and cowgirls work in perfect harmony with their horses to guide cattle with skill and precision. It’s not just competition, it’s a living tradition.
“Australia’s Best Butt” competition
That same spirit can be found right across across our vast Shire. THE SAXBY ROUND-UP, held on a remote cattle station 200km north of Julia Creek, is as authentic as it gets. For over 70 years, this ultimate bush gathering has brought together campdrafting, rodeo and gymkhana in a setting where the journey is just as memorable as the destination. Likewise, the SEDAN DIP RACES, RODEO AND CAMPDRAFT, just 100km north along the Wills Developmental Road offers a weekend packed with action and history, proudly maintaining traditions that date back more than 80 years. The event has evolved from amateur horse races, to Bush Sprints, but the skill of all competitors over the weekend is a sight to behold.
Horse racing enthusiasts are equally spoiled for choice. THE JULIA CREEK TURF CLUB celebrates 110 years of bush racing in 2026, hosting four race meetings annually. Among them is the muchanticipated ARTESIAN EXPRESS RACEDAY, part of the Dirt n Dust Festival, known for its impressive
prizemoney and lively atmosphere. Later in the year, the unique BEACH RACES in November provide a fitting finale to the racing calendar where boardshorts and Hawaiian shirts are preferred over suits and gowns.
A short trip away, the MCKINLAY RACES add even more charm to the region’s event lineup. With a history spanning over 130 years, this June event blends country racing with relaxed hospitality, offering a perfect day out for families, friends, and visitors alike. While McKinlay may be famous for the Walkabout Creek Hotel, its race day is an experience all its own.
At the heart of it all is community. Nowhere is that more evident than in the annual TOWN VS COUNTRY RUGBY LEAGUE MATCH. For over a decade, this friendly rivalry has brought locals together on the rugby league field and netball court, creating an atmosphere that’s as much about connection as it is competition.
Together, these events paint a vivid picture of life in Julia Creek and the McKinlay Shire, rugged yet welcoming, steeped in tradition yet full of energy. They are moments where visitors become part of the story, where strangers become mates, and where the outback reveals its true character.
So when you’re planning your next adventure, don’t just pass through, plan to arrive when the region is in full swing. Because in Julia Creek, the best way to experience the outback… is to join in.
Julia Creek Dirt and Dust Festival
Artesian Express Raceday
Sedan Dip Campdraft
McKinlay Shire Map
A6
A2
A2
A2
JULIA CREEK
McKinlay
M c KINLAY (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.
QANTAS HERITAGE MONUMENT
Unveiled in 2025, the installation of a QANTAS Heritage Monument at McKinlay Centenary Park honours the legacy of aviation pioneers Hudson Fysh, Paul McGinness, and Fergus McMaster. This project has been developed in close collaboration with descendants of the QANTAS co-founders, including Fergus Fysh and Phil McMaster. It also pays tribute to the late Duncan Fysh, a long-time McKinlay resident and passionate custodian of QANTAS history, whose dedication helped preserve this remarkable story for future generations. The monument commemorates the first QANTAS passenger flight on November 3, 1922, with McKinlay as a key stop on that historic journey.
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.
WALKABOUT CREEK HOTEL
‘Under new ownership’ P (07) 4746 8424
E admin@walkaboutcreekhotel.com.au 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
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.
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 branch of the Queensland Country Women’s Association. 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
Cottage guesthouse and camp ground –open from April – September
• Air-conditioned rooms
• Wi-Fi
• Cafe/kiosk 10am -2pm
• Wildlife refuge
• Small Art Gallery & Sculpture
• Artesian Baths
• Dinner Service
• Leashed pets welcome
• Book exchange
• Laundry
• A range of unique outback experiences
Kynuna
BLUE HEELER HOTEL
P (07) 4746 8650
E blueheelerhotel@outlook.com
Landsborough Highway, Kynuna
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 & dongas
• Powered & unpowered camping sites
• Wi-Fi internet
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
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’.
Snap your picture under the recently installed historical archway – a great way to commemorate your trip to a part of Aussie history!
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
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 4280
Julia Creek Motel 4646 7305
Drovers Dog Hotel
Burke Street .................................................. 4746 7103
Tradies Way 4746 7140
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 (includes Towing Service) 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
Julia Creek Tyre Centre 0499 107 296
Crocker Rural
(Metal Fabrication & Repairs)
Allison Street ........................................... 0429 088 299
GROCERY
SHOPS, TAKEAWAY FOOD & COFFEE
Corella Creek Country Farm Stay
Nelia 4746 7555
Corrina’s Café & Bakery
Burke Street 4746 7674
Godier’s Café & Marketplace
Burke Street 4746 7201
Julia Creek Foodmart
Burke Street 4746 7193
MEALS & TAKEAWAY FOOD
Julia Creek Roadhouse
Burke Street 4746 7178
Kynuna Roadhouse
Kynuna 4746 8683
Blue Heeler Hotel
Kynuna 4746 8650
Drovers Dog Hotel
Burke Street 4746 7103
Walkabout Creek Hotel
McKinlay 4746 8424
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 4080
McKinlay Bush Nursing Clinic
Wylde Street, McKinlay 4746 8505
PHONE COVERAGE
Julia Creek, McKinlay, Kynuna
Telstra Next G network + Optus
Nelia
Telstra Next G network, Optus + free satellite WiFi
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
Crawford Painting Contractors
Burke Street 4746 7468
Elders Real Estate
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 Library
Burke Street 4746 7930
Julia Creek News
Burke Street .............................................. 4746 7322
Julia Creek Pharmacy
Burke Street 4746 7073
Lonsdale Building Contractors
Goldring Street ......................................... 4746 7467
Marwill Pty Ltd (Electrician)
Burke Street 4746 7140
Queensland Government Agency
Burke Street 4746 7162
SNG Constructions ............................ 0427 596 765
Searle Plumbing 0438 470 422
DUMP POINTS
Julia Creek Hickman Street | McIntyre Park
McKinlay Truck Stop
LAUNDROMAT
Julia Creek
Cnr Burke & Julia Street/Australia Post Office
Julia Creek Caravan Park (guests only)
Cnr Julia Street & Old Normanton Road
SHOWERS
Julia Creek Julia Creek Roadhouse
Nelia ...................... Corella Creek Country Farm Stay
MARKETS
Julia Creek Markets ....................... Peter Dawes Park
Every second Saturday, May - August
ARTESIAN BATHS
Julia Creek Julia Creek Caravan Park
Artesian Bathhouses
Nelia ...................... Corella Creek Country Farm Stay
Baths in the Paddock
JC PHARMACY EXCELLENCE
FELSIE’S MOBILE WORKSHOP
