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. Kynuna and Julia Creek are connected by a fully sealed road. Julia Creek earned the tagline ‘Gateway to the Gulf’ with the sealing of the road north to Normanton in the 1960s. 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.
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: n Ensure you have a good map and plan ahead, including calculating travel times and distances between stops. n Be 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 200kms apart.
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