Outback travellers guide 2017 issuu

Outback Queensland Travellers' Guide 2017/18

Adavale | Alpha | Amby | Aramac | Augathella | Banana | Baralaba | Barcaldine | Bedourie | Betoota | Biloela Birdsville | Blackall | Boulia | Burke & Wills Junction | Burketown | Cameron Corner | Camooweal | Charleville Cheepie | Cloncurry | Cooladdi | Corfield | Cracow | Croydon | Cunnamulla | Dajarra | Duchess | Dululu Dunkeld | Emmet | Eromanga | Eulo | Eumamurrin | Forsayth | Georgetown | Goovigen | Gunpowder | Hughenden Hungerford | Ilfracombe | Injune | Innamincka | Isisford | Jackson | Jambin | Jericho | Julia Creek | Jundah Kajabbi | Karumba | Kynuna | Lawn Hill | Longreach | Malbon | Maxwelton | McKinlay | Middleton | Mitchell Morven | Mount Isa | Moura | Muckadilla | Mungallala | Muttaburra | Nappa Merrie Station | Nelia | Noccundra Normanton | Opalton | Prairie | Quamby | Quilpie | Richmond | Rolleston | Roma | Rubyvale | Sapphire Stamford | Stonehenge | Surat | Tambo | Taroom | Thangool | Thargomindah | Theodore | Toompine Torrens Creek | Urandangie | Wallumbilla | Windorah | Winton | Wowan | Wyandra | Yaraka | Yowah | Yuleba

WWW.OUTBACKQUEENSLAND.COM.AU

As seen on Queensland Weekender, the entertaining Australian Dunny Derby at the Outback Festival in Winton is Outback Queensland’s quirkiest event!

CONTENTS Map..............................................................................2 Great Queensland Drives............................. 4 Travellers’ Tips...................................................6 Getting There....................................................... 7 The Central Highlands.................................38 Gulf Savannah.....................................................46 National Parks...............................................102 Travel Directory............................................ 105 Accredited Visitor Information Centres...................................BC

BANANA SHIRE................................. 30 BARCALDINE REGION....................10 BARCOO SHIRE.................................... 14 BLACKALL-TAMBO REGION.....18 BOULIA SHIRE......................................22 BULLOO SHIRE....................................26 CLONCURRY SHIRE........................34 DIAMANTINA SHIRE...................... 40 FLINDERS SHIRE................................48 LONGREACH REGION....................52 MARANOA REGION.........................64 McKINLAY SHIRE............................. 68 MOUNT ISA CITY...............................72 MURWEH REGION.............................76 PAROO SHIRE.......................................82 QUILPIE SHIRE.................................... 86 RICHMOND SHIRE...........................90 WINTON SHIRE....................................94 Adavale.................................................................88 Alpha........................................................................ 12 Amby.......................................................................66 Aramac................................................................... 12 Augathella..........................................................78 Banana...................................................................32 Baralaba...............................................................32 Barcaldine............................................................ 12 Bedourie...............................................................42 Betoota..................................................................42 Biloela.....................................................................32 Birdsville...............................................................42

Blackall................................................................. 20 Boulia......................................................................24 Burke & Wills Junction...............................36 Cameron Corner.............................................28 Camooweal........................................................ 74 Charleville...........................................................78 Cheepie.................................................................88 Cloncurry.............................................................36 Cooladdi...............................................................78 Corfield..................................................................96 Cracow...................................................................32 Cunnamulla.......................................................84 Dajarra...................................................................36 Duchess................................................................36 Dululu.....................................................................32 Emmet....................................................................54 Eromanga............................................................88 Eulo...........................................................................84 Goovigen..............................................................32 Hughenden....................................................... 50 Hungerford.........................................................28 Ilfracombe...........................................................54 Injune......................................................................66 Innamincka........................................................28 Isisford...................................................................54 Jackson.................................................................66 Jambin....................................................................32 Jericho..................................................................... 12 Julia Creek...........................................................70 Jundah..................................................................... 16 Kajabbi..................................................................36 Kynuna..................................................................70

Mungallala..........................................................66 Muttaburra........................................................... 12 Nappa Merrie Station.................................28 Nelia.........................................................................70 Noccundra..........................................................28 Opalton.................................................................96 Prairie.................................................................... 50 Quamby................................................................36 Quilpie....................................................................88 Richmond............................................................92 Roma.......................................................................66 Stamford............................................................. 50 Stonehenge........................................................ 16 Surat........................................................................66 Tambo.................................................................... 20 Taroom...................................................................32 Thangool..............................................................32 Thargomindah.................................................28 Theodore..............................................................32 Toompine.............................................................88 Torrens Creek.................................................. 50 Urandangie........................................................24 Wallumbilla........................................................66 Windorah..............................................................16 Winton....................................................................96 Wowan...................................................................32 Wyandra...............................................................84 Yaraka....................................................................54 Yowah.....................................................................84 Yuleba....................................................................66

Longreach...........................................................54 Maxwelton..........................................................92 McKinlay..............................................................70 Middleton............................................................96 Mitchell..................................................................66 Morven..................................................................78 Mount Isa............................................................. 74 Moura.....................................................................32 Muckadilla..........................................................66

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GUIDE TO SYMBOLS Accredited Visitor Information Centre

Driver Reviver

No rubbish disposal

Savannah Guides

Accommodation

Dump point

Open fireplace

Self-guided tours

ATM

EFTPOS

Pharmacy

Shelter shed

Auto gas

Facilities for disabled

Phone

Showers

Barbeque – Fuel

Fishing

Picnic tables

Small food store

Bus QLD

Fuel

Post Office

Suitable for caravans

Camping

H iking trail

Police

Supermarket

Campfires prohibited

Internet available

Qantas/QantasLink

Toilets

Canoe

Library

Queensland Government Agent Program

naccredited Visitor Information U Centre / Tourist information

Car camping

Lookout

Queensland Rail

Walking tracks

Car hire

Meals

R ACQ

ater on tap W (treat before drinking)

Caravan park

Medical facilities

REX Airways

Wi-Fi available

Centrelink

National Park Office

Rural Transaction Centre

3G

Church

No camping

RV friendly

4WD access

QGAP

(Virgin and Vodaphone don’t work in the Outback)

Outback Queensland Tourism has compiled and produced this publication in the interests of fostering and developing tourism in Queensland. No part of this publication (advertising or editorial) may be reproduced without written permission of the Outback Queensland Tourism Association Inc. ©OQTA 2017.

No responsibility is accepted for information contained in advertisements or editorial. The inclusion or exclusion of any establishment does not indicate any recommendation or otherwise on the part of the Association which, in addition, does not hold itself responsible for any complaints relating to such establishments or businesses. However, we would welcome constructive comments from visitors to the region and these should be addressed to: General Manager, Outback Queensland Tourism Association, PO Box 506, Longreach QLD 4610 Some photographs courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland, Charlie Ferguson, Matt Harvey, Murray Waite & Associates, Paul Ewant, Peter Lik and Simon Grimmett.

Wildlife images courtesy of Angus Emmott.

outbackqueensland.com.au 1

Mornington Island

89

Karumba

South Wellesley Islands

Sweers Is.

Weipa

90

57

Gunpowder

200

No

o

.

n

River

Croydon

148

144°E

Mi t c h e ll

380

148

79

Blackbraes NP

246

146°E

Cooktown

Greenvale

52

108

68

83

83

88

176 737

210 297 386 947 456 543 632 1193

226 472 682 456 858 1419 394 640 850 246 1026 1587

200

Girringun NP

R.

G

134

re

Ayr

at

148°E

Townsville

Palm Island Balgal Beach

Ingham

220 304 501 620

326 410 607 726

433 517 714 833

179 286 392 493 612 696 893 1012

Winton

355

534

641

1211

158 337 444 550 651 770 854 1051 1170

341 520 627 733 834 953 1037 1234 1353

524 703 810 916 1017 1136 1220 1417 1536

716 895 1002 1108 1209 1328 1412 1609 1728

787 966 1073 1179 1280 1399 1483 1680 1799

Karumba Normanton 71 263 Burke & Wills Junction 192 446 375 Cloncurry 183 366 629 558 Kynuna 183

Boulia

Rockhampton Barcaldine 580 Longreach 107 687 Winton 179 286 866

B

18°S

ar

ri

er

150°E

0

Kilometres

© mapuccino 2016

N

200

Distances are shown in kilometres and follow the most direct major sealed route where possible.

To check road conditions call RACQ on 1300 130 595 or Queensland Government Traffic & Travel Information on 13 19 40

NT Border 15 Camooweal 213 Mount Isa 188 Cloncurry 119 307 322 257 445 460 Julia Creek 138 287 406 594 609 Richmond 149 261 399 518 706 721 Hughenden 112 89 201 350 488 607 795 Torrens Creek 810 247 359 Charters Towers 158 508 646 765 953 968 292 381 493 642 780 899 1087 1102 Townsville 134

119 203 400 519

Longreach Barcaldine 107 213 Blackall 106 207 314 Tambo 101

Pacific Ocean

Mission Beach

Innisfail Cardwell

in

tR .

Tully Herbe

16°S

Gordonvale

Cairns

Port Douglas

Ravenshoe

45

Atherton

Undara Volcanic NP

The Lynd Junction

225

89

89 650

Augathella 84 Charleville 281 Cunnamulla 197 316 400 Barringun 119

r

14°S

r ie

Mareeba Mount Garnet

Mount be Surprise rt Georgetown

Einasleigh R.

Chillagoe

ar

Daintree NP Mossman

Cape Melville NP

B

Lakeland River

Mitchell Brisbane 561

Charleville 87 Morven

Windorah Quilpie 246

Birdsville Betoota 168

TRAVEL PLANNER

QUEENSLAND

12°S

10°S

Rinyirru (Lakefield) NP

Yarraden

Coen

Archer River

Iron Range NP

Staaten River National Park

MitchellAlice Rivers NP

Normanton

71

Jardine River NP

Thursday Island

Oyala Thumotang NP

142°E

Smithbur ne R

G u l f o f Ca r p e n t a r i a

Outback Regions Gateways to the Outback

Non-Accredited Visitor Information Centre

Visitor Information Centre

Airport, Int’l Airport

Distances in kilometres Bitumen Roads Unsealed Roads Capricorn Highway Matilda Way Adventure Way Great Inland Way Overlander’s Way Savannah Way Warrego Highway Natural Sciences Loop QR Traveltrain Traveltrain coach connection Bus Queensland Route

LEGEND

Burketown Tiranna 93 77 18°S Domadgee 153 Boodjamulla 118 Gregory 192 (Lawn Hill) Downs Adel’s Grove 105 NP 90 87 r Lawn Hill Rive 58 129 Gorge Burke & Wills Riversleigh Waggabundi Junction ry

16°S

14°S

12°S

10°S

140°E

Ri ve r

Greg

Gi

Ri v e r

d R. Lyn

rdt

t r

ha Leich

a Gre

Reef

k Burd e

l

a rm

22°S

Urandangie

Alpurrurulam

24°S

112

rgi 115

Poeppel Corner

191

61

Betoota

Astrebla NP

48

58

53

30°S

Lake Eyre North

138°E

Marree

Lake Blanche

140°E

Merty Merty

Desert

46

85

a tin

110

R.

114

Winton

67

64

Bladensburg National 179 A2 Park

74

83

Corfield

144

Stamford

116

89

205

63

112

22

67

Aramac

Muttaburra

Forest Den NP

Moorrinya National Park

Torrens Creek

248

46

Prairie

Hughenden 43

Richmond

360

Lake Dunn

R.

Glenden

Clermont

A7

54

Cameron Corner

110

Dig Tree

167

40

109

Windorah

109

92

142°E

85 69

158

120

187

23

47

13

D

137

177

u

ar r 109

40

91

192

Baralaba

210

148°E

Brewarrina Walgett

Lightning Ridge

152°E

Yepoon

Moonie

97

150°E

Gympie 26°S Tewantin

Maryborough

Fraser Island

Ipswich Coolangatta

Gatton

28°S

BRISBANE

Nambour

Casino

152°E

154°E

Yamba

Ballina

Coffs Harbour 30°S

Glen Innes Grafton Inverell

Tenterfield

Lismore

Warwick Tweed Heads Murwillumbah Stanthorpe Byron Bay

Armidale

Narrabri

Moree

123

34

Toowoomba

Dalby

A2

127

Hervey Bay

Maroochydore Caloundra Caboolture Bongaree

Kingaroy Chinchilla

113

Tara

129

Miles

Wandoan

203

Childers Biggenden

Mundubbera Gayndah

Eidsvold

Gin Gin

Monto

Seventeen Seventy 24°S Agnes Waters Miriam Vale A1 Bundaberg

22°S

This map is indicative only.

Please obtain detailed road maps of the areas you plan to visit before you leave.

Biloela Banana

Theodore

Goodiwindi

Nindigully

195 180

141 Wallumbilla

Roma Yuleba

Surat

88

St George

113

210

NP Taroom

Injune

Dirranbandi 66 Hebel Mungindi

Bollon

R.

NP

Mungallala Mitchell 65 Morven 45 22Amby Tregole 44

A2 87

106

71

Morgan

f

20°S

Rockhampton Duaringa A4 Gladstone 196 Mount

Moura Salvator Carnarvon Rosa Kaka National Nuga Mundi Park A7 Nuga R. NP Mt Moffatt Expedition

Augathella

209

Rive r g n li a r 146°E

Bourke

SOUTH

217

Barringun

122

Yowah Cunnamulla

55

98

Toompine Wyandra

99

Cooladdi

84

119

Tambo

101

A2

Charleville

WALES 144°E

NEW

215

48

Cheepie

74

85

Adavale

247

12

Blackall

Lake 131 Eulo 68 Bindegolly NP 122 Currawinya 164 NP Hungerford

7

82

36

74

37

Quilpie

Eromanga

R.

52

94

Thargomindah

20

5

Tibooburra

191

161

Cr

Noccundra

180

51

50 NP

114

Emmet

47

Idalia Yaraka NP

52

Stonehenge 102

Jundah Welford

99

104

Sarina

Tieri Middlemount

281

Nebo

Dysart

Moranbah

Sutt er

Mackay

Airlie Beach Hamilton Island

Bowen

Proserpine Collinsville Lake A1 Dalrymple

Porcupine Balfe’s Creek Charters Gorge White 158 A6 Towers NP Mtns Homestead NP Pentland

Capella 52 125 Rubyvale Lark Opalton Ilfracombe Emerald Barcaldine 53 D Sapphire 76 Longreach 27 131 Quarry A4 .

80 87 i ce R CP l Jericho A r Blackwater Alpha 168 Lake Diamantia ive 168 151 Maraboon 67 Lochern R National NP Springsure Park Isisford 46 44

118

84

150

Maxwelton

A2

Combo Waterhole CP 164

115

50

Julia Creek Nelia 50R. 44

F lin de

Kynuna

76

80

Middleton

209

Haddon Corner Sturt Stony Desert

168

106

McKinlay

253

101

113

39

73

229

Strzelecki

12

Birdsville

164

119

Lake Machattie

Boulia

Bedourie

Munga-Thirri National Park

244

146

Dajarra

Duchess

149

134

Cloncurry A6

Quamby

C lo ncu

SOUTH Innamincka 28°S Kati AUSTRALIA Thanda -

26°S

A2

74

Mount Isa

Camooweal Caves NP

TERRITORY

R. rry 235

i am an

Kajabbi

e ek

70

Co ope r

oms on

Th

Wi lson

Ward River

Camooweal

roo R .

W

20°S

C

Pa

e go

Ri v er

o

R. Ne b ine

Ge

na

NORTHERn

R iver Bely and o

rs

l g oa Bi R . rrie

R ee

W nd a l

ay

Capri corn Way Emerald Mt Morgan M Springsure

Rubyvale Sapphire Alpha Anakie

Mackay Sarina

Whitsunday Islands

Clermont Capella Blackwater

Belyando Crossing

ay

Longreach

n tI

Barcaldine

Gre a

fic

Winton

Overlander ’s W ay Hughenden

Bowen Airlie Beach

Townsville

ci Pa

tW Coa s

Boulia

Cloncurry

Richmond

ChartersTowers

Greenvale

E

R

Mount Isa

Julia Creek

Burke and Wills Junction

Chillagoe

R

Camooweal

Lakeland

Cooktown

R

To Tennant Creek

Burketown

To Broome

Coen

Cape York Peninsula

Yeppoon

F

Great Keppel Island Gladstone

Rockhampton

E

Find your accredited Visitor Information Centre as you drive in Queensland

Warrego Way

Savannah Way

Pacific Coast Way

Overlander’s Way

Matilda Way

Leichhardt Way

Great Inland Way

Capricorn Way

Australia’s Country Way

Adventure Way

LEGEND

Great Queensland Drives

G Cairns Kuranda R E Mareeba A Atherton Karumba T Innot Hot Springs Innisfail Ravenshoe Mt Garnet Tully Normanton Croydon Mt Surprise Hinchinbrook Island Sav a nn ah Way Ingham Magnetic Island

Weipa

Bamaga

B A R IE

Port Augusta

Adelaide

Innamincka

Birdsville

eW

ay

i ld

Seymour

Shepparton

Willows Gemfields Carnarvon Gorge

Grffith

Ne

West Wyalong

Forbes

Yass

Coonabarabran

Mudgee

Hw

y

Sydney

Newcastle

Le Taree

Port Macquarie

Coffs Harbour

Grafton

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

Canberra

Mittagong

Bathurst

Scone

Tamworth

Ne

Stanthorpe

Gold Coast

Brisbane

Sunshine Coast

Gympie

Bundaberg Fraser Island Hervey Bay Maryborough

Tenterfield

Warwick

Toowoomba

Dalby

Kingaroy

Gayndah

Armidale

Gilgandra

Orange

Dubbo

A

Biloela

Mungindi Moree Glen Innes Narrabri

Coonamble W Gulargambone

Walgett

Dirranbandi Hebel Lightning Ridge

Moonie

Miles

Roma

Injune

Goondiwindi

St George

Rolleston Theodore

Surat

Wa rreg o Way

Nyngan

Narrandera Tocumwal

Sturt H w y

Cobar

Bourke

Barringun

Cunnamulla

Melbourne

Broken Hill

at

Charleville Quilpie

Barrier Hwy

Thargomindah

Adventu r

Windorah

Blackall

lH w el

E n gla nd

M

Kidman Way

wy gen

Inl a nd

ay d

w

st

Mi lH tchel ary P acific

ay aW Great Co a

Leic hardt Way h

y

i

w

l tra s u ntry Way Cou s a’

TRAVELLERS' TIPS Indigenous Australians have long held the view that the landscape is the core of all spirituality, the spirit of ‘country’. When travelling in Outback Queensland we ask you to please acknowledge and respect the values and beliefs of Indigenous Australians.

PLEASE BE MINDFUL WHEN TRAVELLING IN OUTBACK QUEENSLAND THAT IT IS DIFFERENT TO DRIVING ELSEWHERE – ROAD HAZARDS SUCH AS LIVESTOCK, LONG DISTANCES AND FLAT TERRAIN MAY TAKE A LITTLE GETTING USED TO. You should adhere to the road rules and speed limits as signed and common sense should dictate your actions. These Travellers’ Tips have been compiled to assist you in ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.

M obile phone coverage is available in most towns but with the Telstra network only. You may wish to use a satellite phone for extensive travel away from towns.

T ake care when passing and overtaking road trains and heavy vehicles, allow plenty of room and slow down to pull off the road if necessary.

B e patient of stock and wary of kangaroos and emus on the road.

Slow down, don’t swerve.

I f there’s been recent rain contact the local Information Centre, visit the Queensland Government Traffic and Travel Information Website www.131940.qld.gov.au or call 13 19 40 for current road conditions. ost roads run through private M property or national parks and fires should never be lit – use only designated fire places. elp us keep the Outback beautiful H for future visitors by properly disposing of your rubbish.

NSLAND?

PLANNING A TRIP TO OUTBACK QUEE trains S Share the road with road g kin r-ta T Take care when ove n daw or k dus A Avoid driving at ! gue fati of Y ‘Yawning’ a sign s O Obey road and safety sign rs ate N Never drive into floodw

T Take care when towing R Research and plan your trip trip A Allow extra time for your io rad F UH by te nica mu C Com life wild for eye ful tch wa a p K Kee its O Observe var ying speed lim n mo com are ds roa U Undulating ng goi are you ere wh e T Tell someon y enc erg em an for ed par B Be pre mix A ‘Alcohol and driving’ don’t s plie sup nt ficie suf ry Car C e K Kangaroos cause carnag 6 outbackqueensland.com.au

g a seatbelt, driver and drugs, fatigue, not wearin ‘Fatal Five' – speed, alcohol for road crashes in QLD. are the biggest risk factors distraction and inattention h a dead end. avoid finishing your trip wit Drive within your limits and ebook or visit us at k QLD and follow us on Fac Enjoy your journey in Outbac ld.gov.au ww w.stayontrackoutback.q Police Ser vice ssage from the Queensland Me ety Saf An Outback Road

GETTING THERE RAIL

SPIRIT OF THE OUTBACK

This fascinating journey between Brisbane and Longreach offers a unique insight into the history and culture of early Australia, with captivating onboard commentary. Soak in the social atmosphere as you enjoy hearty Australian fare in the Dining Car, or a relaxing drink in the Lounge Car. From the comfort of your seat or sleeper you’ll marvel at the changing landscape, as the train moves from the coast into the heart of the Outback. With its rugged mountains, wide open plains and historic towns, this scenic journey will linger in your memory.

Serviced by rail, air and bus routes – and a popular self-drive destination; the Outback is more accessible than ever before, so why not take the time this year to get off the beaten track, take the road less travelled and explore the Outback in Queensland.

Spirit of the Outback passes through the heritage towns of Blackwater, Emerald and Barcaldine before arriving in Longreach, home to the famous Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame. It departs Brisbane on Tuesday and Saturday, and Longreach on Monday and Thursday. *A connecting bus service from Longreach to Winton is available, enquire with Queensland Rail Travel. Refer to their website and www.outbackqueensland.com.au

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 outbackqueensland.com.au 7

THE WESTLANDER

Discover the pioneering spirit of Outback Queensland with a journey onboard The Westlander.

This 777km scenic journey from Brisbane travels across the Great Dividing Range and through the rich farmlands of the Darling Downs to Charleville, the largest town in south-west Queensland.

You’ll enjoy a comfortable journey in your choice of seat or sleeper, where you can sit back, unwind and watch the striking scenery pass you by. An array of Outback experiences await you at your destination, including stargazing at the Cosmos Centre, encountering the rare and endangered bilby, exploring the Royal Flying Doctor Service base and the opal fields of the south west.

Connect to a coach service to explore even more of the Outback with a visit to the nearby towns of Cunnamulla and Quilpie. The Westlander departs Brisbane on Tuesday and Thursday, and Charleville on Wednesday and Friday.

Q

Lotus Bird Lodge

Lawn Hill Adels Grove Mount Isa

NT

Cloncurry

LEGENDARY LONGREACH&WINTON QLD

Winton

Muttaburra Barcaldine

LONGREACH Bedourie

Cameron Corner

CAPE YORK & TORRES STRAIT

Townsville

Hughenden

Boulia

Birdsville SA Innamincka

N N E R 2016

OUR 2017 TOURS

CAIRNS

Undara Lava Tubes

Cobbold Gorge

WI

Cooktown

Mount Surprise

Karumba

TOUR & TRANSPORT OPERATOR

RDS AWA

Weipa

LAND TO ENS UR UE

ISM

Horn Island Cape York Bamaga

OUTBAC K

Thursday Island

OUTBACK OVERLANDER Rockhampton

BIRDSVILLE DESERT ESCAPE

Blackall Windorah

JOURNEY OF THE GULF SAVANNAH

Charleville

Roma

Dig Tree

BRISBANE

Thargomindah Tibooburra

St George Stanthorpe

NSW

CORNER COUNTRY EXPLORER

Ph: 1300 78 78 90

CENTRAL WEST DISCOVERY

www.outbackaussietours.com.au

Port Macquarie

Discover

Queensland SYDNEY

Wollongong

ADELAIDE

CANBERRA

V IC TO R IA

Bendigo Ballarat

MELBOURNE

Geelong

by Rail

Discover Outback Queensland aboard the Spirit of the Outback Brisbane to Longreach with two return services per week.

Brisbane to Longreach

$359* $117.50*

All-inclusive First Class Sleeper Economy Seat

per senior one-way

per senior one-way

The heart and soul of Queensland’s Outback

To book visit queenslandrailtravel.com.au, call 1300 783 553 or see your local travel agent. *Conditions apply. Prices are per person based on Australian Govt Senior, subject to availability. Other concession discounts are available for applicable card holders.

Seasonal surcharge period and blackouts may apply. Booking restrictions apply as per applicable fare rules. RailBus Coach Connections to Winton available.

Queensland Rail Travel reserves the right to make changes without notice, for full booking terms and conditions visit queenslandrailtravel.com.au

SOB_OQTA_1/2 page ad_183x133_1115.indd 1

8 outbackqueensland.com.au

6/11/2015 2:33 PM

THE INLANDER

Experience the heritage and natural treasures of North Queensland’s rugged yet beautiful inland, onboard The Inlander.

This historic journey from the tropical city of Townsville to the mining centre of Mount Isa takes you past Charters Towers and through the Great Dividing Range before delivering you into the heart of Australia. From here you can visit the Outback Isa complex, or one of North Queensland’s many natural wonders, such as Lawn Hill National Park. Upon arrival in Mount Isa the adventure continues with a range of attractions including prehistoric exhibits at the Riversleigh Fossil Centre and underground mine tours. The Inlander departs Townsville on Saturday and Wednesday and Mount Isa on Thursday and Sunday.

Allow Queensland Rail Travel to plan your next holiday or ultimate rail journey by calling 1800 627 655 or visit www.queenslandrailtravel.com.au

AIR

QANTAS AIRLINES

Qantas operates a daily service between Brisbane and Mount Isa, Brisbane and Longreach and Brisbane and Charleville.

For bookings and/or more information call 13 13 13 or visit www.qantas.com.au

REX AIRWAYS

‘Our Heart is in the Country’ – REX has its roots firmly in the bush and in country Australia. A regular sight in country New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia and now also servicing Queensland. With decades of experience in servicing the bush REX flies scheduled flights from Townsville to Mount Isa, Julia Creek, Richmond, Hughenden, Winton and Longreach, and out to Quilpie, Charleville, Birdsville and Bedourie.

For bookings and/or more information call 13 17 13 or visit www.rex.com.au

SELF-DRIVING Self-drive is an obvious choice for travel in Outback Queensland, giving you the flexibility and accessibility to see it all. Not settled on a route yet?

Perhaps try one of these: Matilda and Kidman Way (Jerilderie to Karumba) Overlander’s Way (Townsville to Tennant Creek) Reef to Outback (Bundaberg to Winton) Dig the Tropic (Yeppoon to Boulia) Adventure Way (Brisbane to Adelaide) Birdsville Track (Marree SA to Birdsville) Outback Highway (Winton to Laverton, WA) Australian Dinosaur Trail (Winton, Richmond and Hughenden) The Dowling Track (Bourke to Quilpie) The Natural Sciences Loop Warrego Way (Brisbane to Birdsville) Leichhardt Way (Goondiwindi to Rockhampton) Australia's Country Way (Sydney to Rockhampton) For more information on any of these drive routes visit www.outbackqueensland.com.au

For further information about visiting Outback Queensland

COACH

BUS QUEENSLAND

Travelling to the Outback by bus is easier and more comfortable than ever. Bus Queensland services run from Brisbane and Townsville to great destinations like Charleville, Cunnamulla, Mount Isa, Charters Towers and plenty of places in between.

For information on coach services and bookings visit www.busqld.com.au

P: 07 4650 1276 E: admin@outbackqld.com.au www.outbackqueensland.com.au #outbackqueensland instagram.com/outbackqueensland plus.google.com/+OutbackQueensland www.facebook.com/OutbackQueensland

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.com QantasLink flights operated by Eastern Australia Airlines Pty Ltd ABN 77 001 599 024 and Sunstate Airlines (Qld) Pty Ltd ABN 82 009 734 703 as QantasLink. Licence No. 407.

CMM20652QAN.

outbackqueensland.com.au 9

BARCALDINE REGION INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF ALPHA, JERICHO, BARCALDINE, ARAMAC & MUTTABURRA

SITUATED IN THE HEART OF CENTRAL WESTERN QUEENSLAND, OUR REGION OFFERS VISITORS A WARM, OUTBACK WELCOME AND EXPERIENCE.

This friendly country hospitality comes naturally to us as our five towns – Alpha, Jericho, Barcaldine, Aramac and Muttaburra – all retain and share those good, old fashioned, small town values and charm.

Since the late 1800s our main industries have been sheep and cattle production.

While we continue to produce high quality wool and beef, we’ve developed a thriving tourism industry to showcase the beauty and diversity of our region.

Our rich heritage, Indigenous culture, natural landscapes, variety of fauna and flora, lakes and rivers, arts attractions, events and festival ensure there is something for everyone.

Barcaldine

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There is so much to do and see and every one of us invites you to spend some time in the region we love and call home. Please feel free to stop and chat and most importantly – make yourself at home!

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Barcaldine Visitor Information Centre Oak Street, Barcaldine Call 07 4651 1724 F 07 4651 2243 E tourism@barc.qld.gov.au www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES

Muttaburra Information Centre Postal Agency 16 Sword Street, Muttaburra Call 07 4658 7147

Alpha Tourist Information Centre Rowley Roberts Tourist Information Centre 43-45 Shakespeare Street, Alpha Call 07 4985 1050 Jericho Tourist Information Centre Post Office, 8 Darwin Street, Jericho Call 07 4651 4129 Aramac Information Centre Barcaldine Regional Council 35 Gordon Street, Aramac Call 07 4652 9999

BARCALDINE REGION

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[ THINGS TO DO ] Tree of Knowledge Festival Celebrate the May Day tradition at the Tree of Knowledge Festival, Barcaldine and be a part of great country hospitality and entertainment including...

Show Circuit What can be better than attending a local show if you want to immerse yourself in country Queensland culture. Animal events and exhibitions, art, photography, cooking, produce competitions, stalls, sideshow and rides and much more. Not to be missed.

Racing Series Enjoy the very best of country racing at Alpha, Barcaldine, Aramac and Muttaburra. Place a bet with the local bookmakers or on the TAB. Participate in the fashions on the field, or just kick back with a drink and a great meal.

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May Day March – Goat Racing – Tree of Knowledge Cup Race Meeting – Town Party – Barcy Revfest.

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Artesian Country – Where every moment becomes a memory.

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Public Art The Barcaldine Region has a rich collection of public art that includes the Crystal Trumpeters in Jericho, the murals in Alpha, Globe Art Gallery in Barcaldine, the barbed wire sculpture trail in Aramac, and Muttaburra’s collection of competition winning and donated works depicting local history and the natural environment.

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EVENTS

Tree of Knowledge Festival Barcaldine 28 April – 1 May 2017 www.treeofknowledge.com.au Alpha Races Alpha 24 June 2017 Show Circuit Barcaldine 12-13 May 2017 Alpha 23-24 May 2017 Landsborough Flock Ewe Show Muttaburra 3 June 2017 Aramac Races Aramac 20 May 2017 Jericho Drive-In Theatre Jericho Once a month during winter

outbackqueensland.com.au 11

Moun Coolo

BARCALDINE REGION ALPHA & DISTRICT POPULATION 350

Alpha, the ‘Gateway to the West’, was named after an early property in the area which was taken up in 1863 and then became established as a service town for railway construction workers.

It is best known as the ‘Town of Murals’.

Our 28 murals beautifully illustrate the day to day life of people in the bush and the pioneering history of our district.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Walking Tracks If you enjoy walking there are a number of interesting walks in and around Alpha.

Jane Neville Rolf Art Gallery The Gallery showcases the works of local artists as well as internationally renowned artists.

Tivoli Theatre Museum Houses a collection of memorabilia from the early settlement days of Alpha.

The Fossilised Forest Sculpture The Alpha region is famous for its petrified wood.

JERICHO & DISTRICT POPULATION 100

The tranquil and charming township of Jericho is situated on the banks of the Jordan River, south of Lake Galilee. It was originally settled when the railway line reached the banks of the Jordan River in 1885.

Jericho is home to one of the smallest, still operating drive-in theatres in Australia. Once a month the theatre hosts a movie-double featuring the latest movies.

POINTS OF INTEREST

The Crystal Trumpeters This monument tells the story of the original Jericho and its biblical heritage.

Redbank Park A great place to bush walk, bird watch and fish.

Murals Located throughout the town, they depict the history, local wildlife and lifestyle of the pioneering era of the region.

Jericho Drive-In Smallest operating drivein theatre in the Southern Hemisphere.

The Trumpeter Barbed wire sculpture by a local artist.

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INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF ALPHA, JERICHO, BARCALDINE, ARAMAC & MUTTABURRA

ARAMAC & DISTRICT POPULATION 300

Aramac is one of the oldest towns in the central west and steeped in history.

The district was one of the biggest wool producers in Australia but it’s the history of the local cattle industry that made Aramac famous.

The infamous Harry Redford (Captain Starlight) was a drover and cattle duffer who stole cattle from the Aramac area and drove them to South Australia.

Among cattle he stole was the white bull from Bowen Downs which nearly proved to be his undoing.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Tramway Museum Contains memorabilia from the early years of settlement, the most famous piece is the restored ‘Aunt Emma’ RN28 rail motor.

The White Bull Statue of the white bull from Captain Starlight fame that stands proudly in the centre of town.

Harry Redford Interpretive Centre Contains information about the fascinating story of Harry and his cattle duffing exploits and photographs from the annual Harry Redford Cattle Drives.

Natural Attractions Lake Dunn, Healing Circle, Gray Rock and Horsetailer’s Gorge.

MUTTABURRA & DISTRICT POPULATION 100

Muttaburra, meaning ‘the meeting of the waters’ is situated near the junction of the Thomson, Landsborough Rivers and Cornish Creek where you can explore the natural environment and fishing spots along the system.

Muttaburra is situated not far from the geographical centre of Queensland and home to the Muttaburrasaurus Langdoni, the first most complete dinosaur discovered in 1963.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Dr Arratta Memorial Hospital Museum Displays medical history from the turn of the century.

Cassimatis Store and Cottage Showcases the contribution of the Cassimatis family, one of the many Greek families who first settled in the community.

Explore the Public Art Trail A series of winning and donated collections depicting our history and showcasing our natural environment.

BARCALDINE & DISTRICT POPULATION 1,500

Barcaldine is situated on the junction of the Capricorn and Landsborough Highways and is known as the Garden City of the West.

Barcaldine is home to the Tree of Knowledge, the reputed birthplace of the labour movement in Australia. The famous tree has been preserved and placed under an award winning timber structure that was constructed to protect the preserved tree and celebrate its importance in Australia’s history.

‘The Globe’ is a multifunctional building designed specifically for arts and tourism. The restored hotel contains a modern Visitor Information Centre, history room and art gallery.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Tree of Knowledge Memorial Barcaldine’s most famous and much loved attraction is located in Oak Street.

Australian Workers Heritage Centre A museum-styled complex located on two hectares of beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding a sparkling bore-fed billabong.

Barcaldine and District Historical Museum Houses an extensive collection of artefacts which epitomise the pioneering history of Barcaldine and surrounding districts.

Between the Bougainvilleas Heritage Trail An award winning heritage trail that showcases some of Barcaldine’s varied and colourful history.

Radio Picture Theatre Opened in 1926 and houses the original canvas seats and painted proscenium around the screen.

Natural Attractions Frazer Way Walking Path, Barcaldine Botanical Walk, Artesian Water.

Barcaldine Country Motor Inn 1 Box Street, Barcaldine P: 07 4651 1488 F: 07 4651 1847 E: countrymotorinn@bigpond.com

Barcaldine Country Motor Inn has the best position in town, friendly staff and large country homecooked meals.

20 air-conditioned ground oor units all with undercover car parking and fully concreted driveways. Within walking distance to local tourist attractions.

Discover Great Deals as

An Outback Mate!

Visit an Outback Visitor Information Centre for more information! www.outbackmates.com.au

A flock of brolgas (Grus rubicunda)

BARCALDINE REGIONAL COUNCIL

CALDINE

AL COUNCIL

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BARCOO SHIRE

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF JUNDAH, STONEHENGE & WINDORAH

LOCATED IN FAR WEST QUEENSLAND, IN THE HEART OF THE CHANNEL COUNTRY, BARCOO SHIRE IS ONE OF THE MORE REMOTE SHIRES WITH AN AREA OF 61,974 SQUARE KILOMETRES. The Barcoo Shire lays claim to the most exceptionally unique place in Australia and the world. It is the only place where two prominent and significant inland rivers, the Thomson and Barcoo meet to form a creek – the Cooper’s Creek.

Rich in history, the Barcoo Shire has an outback experience to offer everyone.

Along with unique rustic landscapes, distinctive flora and fauna, spectacular wildlife, freshwater fishing, golf, bird watching and stunning sunsets, the Barcoo is also home to Magee’s Shanty, famed to be the home of the well-known Australian Poem by AB ‘Banjo’ Paterson, A Bush Christening.

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The welcoming three outback towns of Windorah, Jundah and Stonehenge can all be easily accessed via sealed roads and are located within a leisurely drive to the major towns of Longreach or Quilpie.

Barcoo Shire is the gateway to Birdsville, Bedourie, Innamincka, Quilpie or Longreach and Winton to the north.

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Windorah Visitor Information Centre 7 Maryborough Street, Windorah Call 07 4656 3063 F 07 4656 3137 E windorahinfo@barcoo.qld.gov.au www.barcoo.qld.gov.au

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES

Jundah Visitor Information Centre 11 Dickson Street, Jundah Call 07 4658 6930 F 07 4658 6221 E jundahinfo@barcoo.qld.gov.au www.barcoo.qld.gov.au

Stonehenge Visitor Information Centre Stratford Street, Stonehenge Call 07 4658 5857 F 07 4658 5859 E stonehengeinfo@barcoo.qld.gov.au www.barcoo.qld.gov.au

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International Yabby Races Held the Wednesday evening before Birdsville Races in front of the Western Star Hotel in Windorah. A night of unique entertainment with live yabby races, auctions, food, drinks and live entertainment between races. A night to experience the most unique race meeting in the outback, it’s nothing like you will find anywhere else.

Bronco Branding and Gymkhana/Rodeo Held mid-August in Stonehenge, which

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Jundah Fishing Competition and the Great Yellowbelly Hunt, Cooper‘s Creek, Windorah Come and try your luck at the two fishing competitions held in Barcoo Shire annually. Great prizes up for grabs.

Needle Creek Horse & Motorbike Gymkhana An action packed weekend of motorbike and horse gymkhana events. Lots of excitement and plenty of entertainment for the whole family.

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is the home of Bronco branding. Come along and witness the skill shown in this iconic Australian sport. Catch the thrills and spills of the rodeo and watch the horsemen and women test their mounts against the clock and each other in the gymkhana.

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[ THINGS TO DO ] Barcoo Shire Race Meeting Held early October each year in Jundah.

Book makers on course, bar, food and lots of entertainment during the day and into the night. Fashions of the Field, Calcutta and raffles all provided with the Barcoo Shire’s famous outback hospitality.

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EVENTS

Bronco Branding and Gymkhana Stonehenge 19-20 August 2017 www.facebook.com/stonehengeqld International Yabby Races Windorah Wednesday 30 August 2017 www.facebook.com/windorah Needle Creek Horse & Motorbike Gymkhana Needle Creek Station – Jundah 23-24 September 2017 www.facebook.com/visitbarcoo Barcoo Shire Race Meeting Jundah October 2017 www.barcoo.qld.gov.au Fishing Competitions Jundah 14 April 2017 Windorah 1-2 July 2017 outbackqueensland.com.au 15

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BARCOO SHIRE

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF JUNDAH, STONEHENGE & WINDORAH

JUNDAH POPULATION 85

QGAP

Jundah, situated on the banks of the Thomson River, is the administration centre for the Barcoo Shire. Within walking distance the Thomson River provides a scenic fishing and recreational area with panoramic river views and drives. The tranquil lifestyle offers visitors a place to relax and experience true outback hospitality.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Welford National Park 45km southsouth east of Jundah. A national park since 1992, Welford covers 124,000 hectares of nature’s diverse landscapes.

Thomson River Discover and explore the Thomson at your leisure. There are a variety of recreational activities available including fishing, yabbying, kayaking, birdwatching or just simply relaxing.

The Native Well Located 32km north of Jundah, the Native Well was a valuable water source for Indigenous people.

Barcoo Shire Historical Museum A window into the early pioneering times of the district.

Site of Magee’s Shanty 90km east of Jundah, this is believed to be the site of the shanty immortalised in Banjo Paterson’s poem A Bush Christening not far from the ruins of the Cobb & Co Pub and the lonely grave of goldminer Richard Magoffin who perished in 1885.

Barcoo Shire Memorial Park A green oasis if you’re wishing to take a break.

Settler’s Nature Drive Takes you on a flora tour from Jundah along the Thomson River and back to Jundah with the different species of plants signposted.

Archer Bros Pioneer Pathway Take a leisurely walk around the outskirts of town along the path, stopping to read the relevant information on the welcome signs at the entrances to town.

STONEHENGE POPULATION 30

Stonehenge may not resemble its namesake in the United Kingdom, 16 outbackqueensland.com.au

nevertheless this Outback Queensland town is somewhat of a sentinel. It is the Defence Department’s site for the Over the Horizon radar initiative and, though a long way from the ocean, this system actually guards our coastline.

Stonehenge is ideally situated for the birdwatching enthusiast with the Thomson River just 1km from town.

Photograph the colourful profusion of galahs and cockatoos as well as brolgas, emus and wild budgies.

POINTS OF INTEREST

John Egan Pioneer Track An 8km four wheel drive track from town features unusual rock formations, natural springs and tranquillity.

Rock Holes Less than 4km from town is an unexpected series of magnificent rock holes shaded by ghostly white gum trees, the perfect place to cool off and enjoy the isolation.

Swanvale Lookout Situated half way between Stonehenge and Jundah. At the top of the ‘jump up’, a rest area offers scenic views and a great place to enjoy the sun setting into the western horizon.

Stone Address Book Put the name of your town among the many others emblazoned by travellers. 2km on the Longreach side of the sealed Stonehenge turnoff and on the northern side of the road, town names can be seen embossed in stone.

from the north and the Diamantina Developmental Road from the east and west. Its close proximity to the famous Cooper’s Creek makes it synonymous with fishing, camping and birdwatching, and the red sandhills to its west are breathtakingly beautiful especially when experienced at sunset.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Cooper’s Creek Camp under majestic river red gums lining the waterhole, throw a line in and sit back and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the bush, or a yarn around the campfire.

Red Sandhills Watch the sunset from the crest of a magnificent red sand dune while sipping a glass of your favourite wine, then take in the panorama of the starlit sky.

Whitula Gate Museum Wander through the restored 1900s slab hut which was built by the Rabbit Board as a boundary hut on Whitula Creek and moved to Windorah to provide the centrepiece of the museum.

12km Nature Drive Wind through a diverse range of landscapes between Windorah and Cooper’s Creek, with 45 plants identified and signposted along the way.

The J.C. Ruins Imagine what life was like in the township of Canterbury while you explore the ruins of the J.C. Hotel and cemetery, 80km west of Windorah.

Solar Farm On the edge of town five mirrored dishes 13.7m across provide daytime electricity to the town, a first for Queensland.

WINDORAH POPULATION 80

QGAP

Windorah is located on the junction of the Thomson Developmental Road

History and Information Walk Follow the booklet and map available at the Visitor Information Centre on a walk around town, learning about the town’s history and points of interest.

Cooper Cabins

Western Star Hotel/Motel

3.5 Star AAA Tourism, with onsite office.

■ Fully self-contained cabins with linen ■ Reverse cycle air-conditioning ■ Television ■ Bar and licensed dining room ■ BBQ area ■ Laundry

Best Outback Queensland Pub 2014. The Western Star Hotel/Motel is a unique family owned hotel in the heart of Queensland’s Channel Country.

We offer all the facilities and services of a modern hotel: ■ Bar & poolroom ■ Beer garden & outdoor sitting area ■ The Sandhill Grill restaurant ■ Budget accommodation ■ Self contained motel unit

11 Edward Street, Windorah P: 07 4656 3101 | F: 07 4656 3090 Your Hosts: Ross and Di Ward

Albert Street, Windorah P: 07 4656 3166 | F: 07 4656 3103 www.westernstarhotel.com.au

White-breasted Woodswallows (Artamus leucorynchus) outbackqueensland.com.au 17

BLACKALL-TAMBO REGION

BLACKALL AND TAMBO ARE LOCATED ON THE WELL-KNOWN BARCOO RIVER.

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF BLACKALL & TAMBO

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Major Mitchell found the natural open plains juxtaposed with forest country fascinating when he explored the area in 1846. Tambo is the oldest established town in the central west. Both towns offer a glimpse into the past with their well-preserved buildings and artefacts.

The famous ‘black stump’ is located in Blackall. This iconic stump was used for the placement of theodolites whilst surveying the area. So take the time to visit these towns and get to know the friendly local people.

At Ram Park Blackall, visitors will be able to wander through buildings steeped in local history and view items from a world long past. Ram Park is also home to the Blackall Visitor Information Centre and travellers will be able to find out not only local history, but what present day Blackall can also offer those who visit the town on the ‘banks of the Barcoo’. Also explore the unique sculpture art works dotted throughout the town.

Tambo offers tourists a number of walking trails – the Heritage Walk exploring the older historic buildings in town, the Coolibah Walk which is along the banks of the Barcoo River and takes in the Qantas crash site, as well as the walk around the banks of the Tambo Dam. Don’t forget to call in to the Grassland Art Gallery and check out their latest exhibition.

Both towns provide various accommodation styles as well as great pubs, cafes and coffee shops. So call in and say Hi.

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES

Blackall Visitor Information Centre 145a Shamrock Street, Blackall Call 07 4657 4637 F 07 4657 4913 E binfo@btrc.qld.gov.au www.blackalltambotourism.com.au Tambo Information Centre 9 Arthur Street, Tambo Call 07 4654 6408 F 07 4621 6660 E tourism@btrc.qld.gov.au www.blackalltambotourism.com.au

BLACKALL-TAMBO REGION

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Tambo’s Heritage Precinct Located on the eastern end of the town the precinct offers a step back in time.

The Post and Telegraph Museum built in 1876 offers an interactive DVD of Tambo’s history and displays. Don’t miss the Morse code telegraph system. This was one of the major repeater stations in linking North and South Australia. The Heritage

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Court House built in 1888, now houses the Information Centre and the town’s library.

The judge’s bench and the prisoner dock are still in place in the building.

Blackall Artesian Spa Enjoy the hot artesian waters and relax your cares away in the spa. The water is said to have therapeutic benefits.

The adjoining 50m pool is also heated for your winter swimming. The Aquatic Centre is set in tropical surrounds. Enjoy a snack at the Bird Bath Café.

Tambo Dam Once the water supply for Tambo but proved to be unreliable in the dry seasons.

It now provides a wonderful area for both locals and tourists to enjoy the park, barbecue areas and a track around the dam.

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[ THINGS TO DO ] Blackall Woolscour Step back to the age of steam. From May to August see the last remaining steam driven wool washing plant in operation.

This restored plant is an important part of the history of the region, especially when Australia rode on the sheep’s back.

Open daily and offering refreshments and during the season camp oven dinners.

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EVENTS

Blackall Heartland Festival 20-22 October 2017 Blackall Billy Cart Races 5 August 2017 Blackall Show 5 May 2017 Tambo Stock Show 29 April 2017 Tambo Campdraft 12-14 May 2017 Tambo Cup Races 3 June 2017

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BLACKALL-TAMBO REGION BLACKALL POPULATION 1,588

QGAP

Well renowned for its friendliness and welcoming, peaceful, relaxed atmosphere, Blackall is a great place to stop awhile and take in some trueblue Outback hospitality from friendly locals. Though a quiet town, you will be surprised at how much this small town can offer, with treasures that cover over a hundred years.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Blackall Woolscour The only steam driven wool-washing plant left fully intact in Australia. Hourly tours are available seven days a week all year round and for a more authentic feel, visit from May to August when it operates on steam. The Woolscour has one of the few remaining examples of a free flowing artesian bore.

Aquatic Centre Located on the edge of town is an oasis in the central-west with an artesian bubble-spa and 50m swimming pool. Here you can rest, relax and revive all year round as the water is heated in the winter months.

Jack Howe Memorial Statue Located outside the Universal Garden Centre.

Inside the centre is a gallery relating to Jack Howe and Blackall history.

The Black Stump Visit the site of the famous stump which was used to survey a meridional circuit and where the saying ‘Anything west of here is beyond the Black Stump’ originated.

Masonic Lodge Built in 1908 and restored to its original condition.

Fossilised Tree Stump Located in Shamrock Street this stump is over 1 000 000 years old.

Major Mitchell Clock Dedicated to the band of explorers who explored the region in 1846.

Australian Labor Federation Memorial Commemorates the first meeting of the first shearers’ union in December 1886.

Sculptures & Art Work Eagles Nest , Circle of Friends and Roly Poly by Richard Moffatt; Bottle Tree by Adriaan Vanderlugt; Lifespan by Fredrick White; 20 outbackqueensland.com.au

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF BLACKALL & TAMBO Wood, Water and Wool by Robert Bridgewater; Major Edgar Towner who was awarded the Victoria Cross and the Military Cross in WWI by sculptor William Eicholtz. Murals by local artist Bob Wilson – The Don, Pioneer Bore, Black Stump and others.

Ram Park View the big Ram which symbolises the importance of the wool industry, and buildings and machinery which exhibit Blackall and Yalleroi’s history. For more information on these and other attractions in Blackall call into the information centre located in the Railway Station.

Idalia National Park 112 kilometres from Blackall, this park has majestic red river gums, spring-fed waterholes, rocky escarpments and a variety of local flora and fauna.

TAMBO POPULATION 611

Tambo is the halfway point between Brisbane and Mount Isa. This small town delivers on warmth and charm and welcomes visitors with its friendliness. This town offers the visitor a chance to relax and refresh and take in the free attractions. There is accommodation to suit all budgets as well as some great food from local cafes and hotels.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Tambo Dam Once the water supply for the town it is located at the eastern entrance to the town and provides a welcome picnic area along with free barbecues. For the bird watchers there is a bird hide and for those looking for exercise there is a walking track and static gym equipment. Some water would be great after our long drought.

Wild and Woolly This whimsical wool truck was created by artist Christopher Trotter. Representative of a time when wool was king in the Outback and small body trucks piled high with bales of the natural fibre lumbered through town.

The Historical Courthouse Home to the Visitor Information Centre as well as the Library. Ask about a Tourist Card. Admire the quilt made by locals on the back wall. Internet computers available.

Tambo Heritage Post and Telegraph Buildings These buildings offer the visitor a glimpse into the past with their exhibitions and interactive displays. Homemade crafts for sale.

Free entry.

Tambo Teddies These heart stealing wool bears can be found at their home in the middle of town.

Tambo Rural Fire Brigade Visit Flo who is a 1921 Dennis Fire Engine. When she was superseded she fell into disrepair.

Members of the community came together to strip her down, rebuild her and present her dressed up.

Grassland Gallery A modern gallery which has several exhibitions throughout the year. A number of different styles are shown each year.

Free entry.

EE Parr Park Located in the centre of town this park provides shaded picnic areas and free barbecues. For the smaller traveller there is a fenced playground area.

The Heritage Walk Take in the town’s buildings where history is being preserved.

Coolibah Walk Stroll along the banks of the Barcoo River taking in the flora and fauna and the Qantas crash site.

Salvator Rosa National Park Head out on the Wilderness Way Drive and admire the twisted sandstone ranges, the unique flora and the natural springs.

Acacia Motor Inn – Blackall Cnr Short & Shamrock St, Blackall (centre of town) P: 07 4657 6022 F: 07 4657 6077 E: blackallacaciamotor@bigpond.com

4 star accommodation, in the centre of town!

■ 25 stylish air-conditioned units with queen beds, 4 family units ■ Undercover parking ■ Licensed bistro, room service ■ Guest laundry

Tambo Teddies

17 Arthur Street, Tambo P: 07 4654 6223 E: info@tamboteddies.com.au www.tamboteddies.com.au Tambo Teddies create innovative quality Australian made 100% natural woollen products. We produce cuddly soft teddy bears, echidnas, koalas and are the makers of the original flat teddy, the Bickie Bear. All handcrafted in the tiny Outback town of Tambo.

Get your Tambo Teddy and have a friend for life!

Blackall Caravan Park

53 Garden Street, Blackall P: 07 4657 4816 E: blackallpark@bigpond.com www.BlackallCaravanPark.com.au Self contained cabins/units/holiday house Large drive through grass/slab sites Camp oven roast dinners every evening (May - Aug) ■ Live entertainment (May - Aug) ■ Damper making demonstrations ■ Coffee Shop, free Wi-Fi, pets welcome ■ Walk to shops/pubs/artesian pool and spa ■ ■ ■

Discover Great Deals as

An Outback Mate!

Visit an Outback Visitor Information Centre for more information!

www.outbackmates.com.au

Common Wallaroo drinking at a waterhole (Macropus robustus) outbackqueensland.com.au 21

BOULIA SHIRE

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF BOULIA & URANDANGIE

BOULIA IS A REMOTE WESTERN QUEENSLAND TOWN SITUATED 240 KILOMETRES FROM THE NORTHERN TERRITORY BORDER. IT IS THE LAST QUEENSLAND TOWN ON THE OUTBACK HIGHWAY, AUSTRALIA’S LONGEST SHORTCUT FROM CAIRNS TO PERTH.

Boulia Shire with an overall population of 480 people is 61,000 square kilometres in area and has two towns with the main centre being Boulia.

The famous ill-fated explorers Burke and Wills passed through Boulia on their way to the gulf and gave their name to its main rivers.

Boulia

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Boulia is known as the Land of the Min Min Lights, the mysterious, eerie unexplained hovering lights that have mesmerised and enthralled people for centuries. It is home to the Boulia Camel Races, the longest camel race in Australia and Boulia’s major iconic event annually.

Boulia has a modern tourism and information centre which showcases a 45 minute animatronic and laser show which tells the story of the Min Min Lights in different stage sets.

Boulia has one of Australia’s best preserved skeletons of a Plesiosaur, an ocean dweller from the Cretaceous period 100 million years ago when Boulia was part of the Eromanga Sea. The Marine Reptile Fossil Display also houses an outstanding display of Ichthyosaur fossils, another ocean dweller from the same time period, along with many other authentic fossils.

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Min Min Encounter and Visitor Information Centre 25 Herbert Street, Boulia Call 07 4746 3386 F 07 4746 3387 E tourism@boulia.qld.gov.au www.boulia.qld.gov.au

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Boulia by a visit to the Heritage-listed stonehouse, made of stone and rubblefilled walls. The stonehouse is situated in green, shaded grounds with other buildings and museum memorabilia featuring Indigenous and pioneer artifacts from Boulia’s past.

Marine Reptile Fossil Display A look back 100 million years ago to when this area was part of an inland sea and prehistoric monsters of the deep roamed at will. Ichthyosaurs and Plesiosaurs have been excavated from the Boulia region and reconstructed on site. This fossil display has the most outstanding collection of its kind in the world.

Waddi Trees The Waddi tree (Acacia peuce) is found in only three locations in Australia – one of these is in Boulia. It is a very rare wood which because of its extreme hardness and density is very difficult to burn.

Fishing and Yabbying The Police Barracks Waterhole is a permanent hole with yellowbelly fish and red claw, an Australian freshwater crayfish.

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The Min Min Encounter A wonderful 45 minute show about the eerie lights that follow unaware travellers and stockmen in this area. The show is set in different tableaus with lifelike animatronics telling the stories and amazing special effects.

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EVENTS

Easter Races, Rodeo and Campdraft Held every Easter Boulia Camel Races Held on the third weekend of July annually Outback Drags Held every August QCWA Spring Fair August Diamonds and Dust Ball November

outbackqueensland.com.au 23

BOULIA SHIRE BOULIA POPULATION 440

There are a lot of bush yarns and legends in this Outback country, but the people of Boulia reckon the pick of the bunch are the ones about the mysterious Queensland icon, the Min Min Light. Here is a yarn about the light they would like to share with you: It was shortly after the Min Min Hotel was destroyed by fire around 1912, when a stockman had one of the first experiences with the Min Min Light: ‘About 10.00pm, I was riding to Boulia and passed close to the Min Min graveyard. The night was somewhat cloudy. All of a sudden I saw a strange glow right in the middle of the cemetery. It got bigger until it was the size of a large watermelon. I couldn’t believe my eyes as I watched it hovering over the graveyard. I broke into a cold sweat as it started coming toward me. It was too much for my nerves. I dug the spurs into my horse and headed for Boulia as fast as I could go. Every time I looked back the light seemed to be following me. It only disappeared out of Boulia.’ Then in rapid succession came two more reports to substantiate the stockman’s story. A woman and her husband reported seeing a mysterious light which intensified in brightness and moved away from them. They were strangers to the area and had never heard of the Min Min Light.

Their feeling was one of curiosity rather than fear. Another stationhand had seen the light rise out of the old hotel graveyard, bounce through the air for a considerable distance and then suddenly disappear. Many more sightings of the Min Min Light have followed since these initial few, starting the legend of the mysterious lights that has never been solved.

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF BOULIA & URANDANGIE

POINTS OF INTEREST

The Min Min Encounter Complex To preserve the history and myths surrounding the Min Min Light, the Boulia Shire Council created the Min Min Encounter Complex. Be part of a 45 minute show introducing you to characters like Gunna and Bluey who have seen the light. Join Trish McGreil and her husband Ian on the porch of their station house and hear their stories about the lights and the possible explanations. But remember this – you don’t go looking for the Min Min, the Min Min goes looking for you!

The Marine Reptile Fossil Display More than a hundred million years ago Boulia lay on the western edge of a vast inland sea while Hughenden and Richmond were close to the eastern shore. One hundred and ten million years ago this area was in an inland sea named the Eromanga Sea. Marine reptiles such as the long-necked Plesiosaur (looking very much like the Loch Ness monster), the Kronosaurus and the Ichthyosaur were to be found in this inland sea. The Marine Reptile Fossil Display has a wonderful collection of fossils that are world class.

The Stonehouse The stonehouse is a 135-year-old Heritage-listed cottage made from rock and filled with rubble inside the walls. In the grounds are located machinery and historical artifacts from 150 years ago.

Sports and Aquatic Centre A state-ofthe-art Sports and Aquatic Centre is right at your fingertips when you come to Boulia. The complex has a 25 metre pool, splash pool, a multi-purpose court, gymnasium, tennis courts and two squash courts.

Boulia’s 18-hole Sand Green Course While in the mood for combining exercise and socialising, don’t forget to pack your golf clubs or hire some to play on Boulia’s 18-hole sand green course and meet the locals in the clubhouse.

Police Barracks Waterhole Yellowbelly and redclaw can be found at the Police Barracks Waterhole and also in the Burke River.

Diamantina National Park Boulia is the gateway to the Diamantina National Park, home to abundant bird life including the rain bird, black-faced cuckoo, lorikeets, brolgas and plain turkey/bustards.

24 outbackqueensland.com.au

Boulia Camel Races Boulia is home to the iconic Boulia Camel Races, the richest professional camel races in Queensland and the longest camel race in Australia running a 1500m cup final, making it the Melbourne Cup of Camel racing. This event is held on the third weekend of July each year. Visitors flock to the Boulia race course to watch the ‘Ships of the Desert’ race (hopefully the right way) around the track. Use of all facilities is included in the entry fee.

Easter Outback-Style Each year the town celebrates Easter Outback-style with races, rodeo and a campdraft, guaranteed to be an action-packed weekend from cowboys on bucking bulls to jockeys pacing their steeds to the finish post!

URANDANGIE POPULATION 40 While you are in the area visit Urandangie, a unique town near the Northern Territory border and part of the Boulia Shire. The township was founded in 1885 with a humble general store.

Over the years the tiny town grew, and by the 1920s there were two stores, a hotel, dance hall, post office, police station and several private residences.

It was an important centre for travellers and drovers on the Georgina and other stock routes.

POINTS OF INTEREST

The Dangi Pub Offers hotel-style accommodation and meals (by arrangement only) and the camping grounds are free of charge. Good fishing and birdwatching spots can be found along the Georgina River.

DISCOVERBOULIA Discover Great Deals as

Land of the Min Min Light and 100 Million Year Old Marine Reptile Fossils

An Outback Mate!

Accommodation | Restaurants | Merchandise | Gifts | Tours & More!

Visit an Outback Visitor Information Centre for more information! www.outbackmates.com.au

For more information visit the Min Min Encounter Tourism and Information Centre

tourism@boulia.qld.gov.au

Camel (Camelus) outbackqueensland.com.au 25

BULLOO SHIRE

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF THARGOMINDAH, HUNGERFORD, NOCCUNDRA, CAMERON CORNER, NAPPA MERRIE STATION & INNAMINCKA

Bulloo

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THE BULLOO SHIRE IS LOCATED IN THE FAR SOUTH WEST CORNER OF OUTBACK QUEENSLAND.

It has a long and colourful history of explorers and pastoralists, from the ill-fated Burke and Wills Expedition through to current expeditions searching for oil and gas reserves. It covers vast distances, and offers landscapes of immense diversity and beauty; expansive river and lake systems; sites of historical significance; abundant bird and wildlife.

Each town in the region has its own mix of community, sport and recreation facilities with swimming, tennis, squash, freshwater fishing, bird watching, camping, golf, opal fossicking, and other popular activities on offer.

Thargomindah is situated on the Bulloo River, 1000 kilometres due west from Brisbane along the Adventure Way. It is the shire’s major town, and serves as the administration centre for the Bulloo Shire Council. Hungerford is located along the Dowling Track, and lies near the Paroo River on the QLD/NSW Border.

Currawinya National Park lies adjacent

to Hungerford, and is renowned as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention. The tiny town of Noccundra is situated adjacent to the Noccundra Waterhole on the Wilson River. Both the Waterhole and Hotel are a popular stop-over for visitors on their way to visit the iconic Dig Tree or Innamincka. Cameron Corner is where the States of Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia meet.

Although faced with the daily challenges of living in a remote and arid region of Outback Queensland, the shire’s communities and residents are nevertheless very resilient, resourceful, and hospitable.

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Thargomindah Visitor Information Centre Echidna Place 37 Dowling Street, Thargomindah Call 07 4621 8095 E tourism@bulloo.qld.gov.au www.thargotourism.com.au

BULLOO SHIRE

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QLD/NSW/SA Survey Post Located at Cameron Corner, it marks where the three States meet – standing here, you are truly in the Corner!

Historic Pubs Royal Mail Hotel, Hungerford: Established in 1873 and became a Staging Post for Cobb and Co coaches.

It is still the focal point of the town.

Noccundra Hotel: Constructed of sandstone and established in 1882, is famous for its cold beer and hospitality. Located on Nockatunga Station, it is all that remains of the town of Noccundra.

National Parks Lake Bindegolly National Park: A wildlife refuge featuring salt and freshwater wetlands; located 40km east of Thargomindah.

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Currawinya National Park: Was formerly a 154,870 hectare grazing property and was declared in 1991. Its natural features include lakes, rivers and wetlands, with two large lakes separated by sand dunes – Lake Numalla (freshwater) and Lake Wyara (saline). Other Park features include The Granites, Currawinya Woolshed, Ourimperee Waterhole, Old Caiwarro Homestead site, and Corni Paroo Waterhole.

Echidna Place Located on Dowling Street in Thargomindah, it is the hub of the community where visitors are welcome to mingle with locals. Echidna Place houses the Visitor Information Centre and Library, as well as a coffee shop.

Guided tours of the Old Thargomindah Hospital and Hydro Power Plant Display are conducted daily from March to October.

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Bulloo Shire is the third largest shire in Queensland (approximately 74,000 square kilometres).

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EVENTS

Channel Country Challenge April Cameron Corner Bike & Horse Gymkhana May Hungerford Field Day 2 June 2017 Noccundra Gymkhana June Noccundra Blue Ball 12 August 2017 Thargomindah Motorbike Gymkhana & Enduro 16-17 September 2017

outbackqueensland.com.au 27

BULLOO SHIRE

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF THARGOMINDAH, HUNGERFORD, NOCCUNDRA, CAMERON CORNER, NAPPA MERRIE STATION & INNAMINCKA

THARGOMINDAH POPULATION 203

POINTS OF INTEREST

POINTS OF INTEREST

Border Gate/Dingo Fence You have to open the gate to cross the border – last person in or out at night gets to put the cat out!

QLD/NSW/SA Survey Post New Survey Marker was installed in 1969 – original timber Survey Post is displayed at the National Parks and Wildlife Service Office in Tibooburra.

Royal Mail Hotel Established in 1873 and became a Staging Post for Cobb and Co coaches. It is still the focal point of the town.

QGAP

Thargomindah, situated on the Adventure Way, is the largest town in the region. Gazetted in 1874, after Vincent James Dowling settled ‘Thargomindah Station’ (1864), the town takes its name from an Aboriginal word meaning ‘cloud of dust’. Thargo is perfectly positioned for day tripping.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Old Thargomindah Hospital Built in 1888 of mud brick; boasts a resident ghost.

Leahy House Built after 1885 of mud brick; was once owned by Sir Sidney Kidman.

Hydro Power Plant Complex Stands on the site of the original bore, drilled in 1891.

Demonstrations held March to October.

Vincent Dowling And John Leahy Bronze Sculptures Created to pay homage to two intrepid district pioneers.

Conduit Art Work Represents the bores scattered throughout inland Australia.

ANZAC Centenary Painting Honours war service of shire residents, and commemorates ANZAC Centenary.

Cemeteries Reveal hardships suffered by early pioneers.

Bulloo River Walk Beautiful walk near the river.

Heritage Walk Meanders past the town’s heritage features.

Nature Walks Provide glimpses of native flora and fauna.

Lake Bindegolly National Park A wildlife refuge featuring salt and freshwater wetlands; located 40kms east of Thargomindah.

HUNGERFORD POPULATION 11

Hungerford, a tiny border town located near the Paroo River on the Queensland/ New South Wales border, features a large Border Gate that doubles as the Wild Dog/Dingo Barrier Fence. The town gets its name from Irish pioneer pastoralist Thomas Hungerford.

28 outbackqueensland.com.au

Paroo River Is a great fishing spot on the town’s perimeter.

Currawinya National Park Was formerly a 154,870 hectare grazing property and was declared in 1991. Its natural features include lakes, rivers and wetlands, with two large lakes separated by sand dunes – Lake Numalla (freshwater) and Lake Wyara (saline). Other Park features include The Granites, Currawinya Woolshed, Ourimperee Waterhole, Old Caiwarro Homestead site, and Corni Paroo Waterhole. The Park office is 4km north of the Ten-Mile Bore, or 20km north of Hungerford.

NOCCUNDRA POPULATION 4

Noccundra, with its iconic pub, unsealed airstrip, camp site on the banks of the Wilson River and great fishing hole, is a popular stopover for visitors driving to the ‘Dig Tree’, Innamincka, Cameron Corner and all points beyond.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Historic Noccundra Hotel Constructed of sandstone and established in 1882, is famous for its cold beer and hospitality.

Located on Nockatunga Station, it is all that remains of the town of Noccundra.

Monument To Hume Expedition Located in the grounds of the hotel.

Noccundra Water Hole On The Wilson River A great camping and fishing spot located across the road from the hotel.

Cameron Corner Store Operates 7 days a week; is licensed, and provides accommodation, camping, meals, telephone, fuel, and mechanical repairs.

Interpretive Centre Provides regional information.

Dingo/Wild Dog Barrier Fence Stretches from south-east Queensland to the Great Australian Bight.

THE ‘DIG TREE’ – NAPPA MERRIE STATION POPULATION 6

‘Nappa Merrie’ Station was settled by John Conrick in 1873, predominantly to graze sheep. The Burke and Wills ‘Dig Tree’ sits on the bank of Cooper Creek at ‘Nappa Merrie’. The site has an unsealed airstrip. A ranger is on site during peak tourist season.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Burke and Wills Dig Tree In August 1860, the Burke and Wills expedition left Melbourne to travel to the Gulf. In 1861 the base camp party carved three blazes on the ‘Dig Tree’ prior to Burke and Wills’ return from the Gulf.

Face Tree Burke’s face was carved on this tree by John Dick in 1898.

Dig Tree Monuments Tell the story of the Burke and Wills expedition.

Cooper Creek Burke and Wills died at Cooper Creek in 1861.

INNAMINCKA (SA) POPULATION 12

Old Cemetery A lonely spot on the outskirts of town pays testament to the hardships of early Outback life.

CAMERON CORNER POPULATION 4

Innamincka is nestled near Cooper Creek within Innamincka Regional Reserve, and lies just across the South Australian border. It is surrounded by the Strzelecki, Tirari and Sturt Stony Deserts.

Cameron Corner lies in Queensland at the intersection of the Queensland, New South Wales and South Australian borders, and boasts an unsealed airstrip.

It was originally surveyed by John Cameron in 1882 – 1883.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Innamincka Regional Reserve and Coongie Lakes National Park; Reserve Park HQ; Cooper Creek; Burke’s Monument; Will’s Memorial and King’s Marker.

AdarvteSnHteurree...

Thargomindah St

ever changing always amazing...

Hub of the Bulloo Shire - Thargomindah is located along the Adventure Way. 200 kilometres West of Cunnamulla, and 1000 kilometres West of Brisbane.

Rich in history and natural resources, the region includes the historical towns of Noccundra, Hungerford and Cameron Corner.

DiSCOver: • • • • • • • •

Thargomindah’s Hydro Power Plant Display Leahy House and the old Thargomindah Hospital Historic Hotels at Noccundra and Hungerford Burke and Wills Dig Tree and the Face Tree Cameron Corner - where the three States meet Lake Bindegolly and Currawinya National Parks Station Stays at Kilcowera and Epsilon Stations Great Fishing and Yabbying at Bulloo, Paroo and Wilson Rivers and Cooper Creek

CONTACT US: Thargomindah Visitor Information Centre Echidna Place, 37 Dowling Street, Thargomindah QLD 4492 Phone: (07) 4621 8095 Email: tourism@bulloo.qld.gov.au - Web: www.thargotourism.com.au

Explorers Caravan Park

88 Dowling Street, Thargomindah P: 1800 820 890 | F: 07 4655 3308 | E: explorerscaravanpark@bigpond.com Ensuite cabins and bunkhouse rooms (reverse cycle air conditioning) Large powered and unpowered van and campsites ■ Camp kitchen, free gas and electric BBQs ■ Amenities block, and laundry facilities ■ Wheelchair access ■ Handy to shops, hotel, restaurants, fuel, and river ■ Pets welcome ■ ■

outbackqueensland.com.au 29

BANANA SHIRE

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF BILOELA, BARALABA, DULULU & WOWAN, GOOVIGEN, JAMBIN & THANGOOL, BANANA & MOURA, TAROOM, THEODORE & CRACOW

OF THE GREAT MOMENTS IN YOUR JOURNEY, THE HIGHWAYS AND BYWAYS OF BANANA SHIRE WILL FILL YOUR DAYS WITH SOME OF THE MOST MEMORABLE. HERE, THE SIMPLE PLEASURES OF LIFE ARE EASILY FOUND. You’ll meet locals who’ll have you laughing with their cheeky humour and tell-it-how-it-is, no-nonsense approach.

And you’ll never be short of a willing word from a friendly stranger on the best places to snag a fish, boil a billy, grab a good feed or camp for the night.

Festivals, fishing comps, country races and campdrafts are just a few ways to have fantastic family fun.

Travel out of the townships and big adventures await. You’ll find yourself in the midst of an ancient world, where sandstone wonders stand like fortresses in the sun, lighting up the landscape below.

Banana

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Rivers and lakes funnel their way over mountain tops and across the plains, their banks shaded by palms that have grown here for a million years and more. Follow them and you’ll find peaceful places, far away and hidden from the beaten track.

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES

Biloela Visitor Information Centre Callide Street, Biloela Call 07 4992 2405 E marilyn@biloinfo.com Rural Hinterland Visitor Information Centre Exhibition Avenue, Biloela Call 07 4992 2400 E rhvic@bigpond.com www.ruralhinterlandvic.com.au

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES

Biloela Customer Service Centre 62 Valentine Plains Road, Biloela Call 07 4992 9500 E tourism@banana.qld.gov.au www.sandstonewonders.com

Theodore Visitor Information Centre 72 The Boulevard, Theodore Call 07 4993 1900 Taroom Visitor Information Centre 10 Yaldwyn Street, Taroom Call 07 4638 6113 E tdda-imc@bigpond.com Moura Administration, Tourism Visitor Information Centre 43 Gillespie Street, Moura Call 07 4992 9500

BANANA SHIRE

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[ THINGS TO DO ] National Parks Several ranges fall within easy distance of townships that skirt the Dawson and Leichhardt Highways, these include; Isla Gorge National Park, Lake Murphy Regional Park, Expedition National Park, Kroombit Tops National Park, Nathan Gorge Conservation Reserve and Mount Scoria Conservation Reserve. Each park bears its own remarkable features and landmarks. You’ll want to see them all!

History For the history buffs, there are numerous places to explore. Biloela houses the Queensland Heritage Park, Greycliffe Homestead and the Spirit of the Land Mural and museums can be found in almost every town, some of which include;

Wowan Museum, Theodore Dawson Folk Museum, Moura Museum and Baralaba Historical Village, just to name a few.

Camping, Touring & Fishing Touring the Banana Shire will take you to places of vast beauty and hidden wonderment. The more time you take, the more discoveries you’ll make. Camping grounds across the region put you right in the thick of our great outdoors and promise you fantastic travels, no matter where you go. Banana Shire has heaps of fantastic freshwater fishing. In fact, many believe it’s the best region for freshwater fishing anywhere in Australia. So, take your pick of the fishing adventures you’d like to do and go for it!

See www.sandstonewonders.com for locations.

EVENTS

Old Wheels in Motion Rally & Swap Meet 14-16 July 2017 www.cdmpc.com.au The Moura Muddy Water Family Fishing Classic 1-2 April 2017 Dawson River Rest Area, Moura.

Facebook: Moura Muddy Water Classic Family Fishing Competition Horse Races Thangool – 8 race meets each year www.thangoolraceclub.com.au Taroom – 3 race meets each year phmclennan@bigpond.com Campdrafts 7 Campdrafts annually throughout the region in Taroom, Dawes Hall, Moura, Baralaba, Theodore, Jambin and Camboon www.sandstonewonders.com outbackqueensland.com.au 31

BANANA SHIRE

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF BILOELA, BARALABA, DULULU & WOWAN, GOOVIGEN, JAMBIN & THANGOOL, BANANA & MOURA, TAROOM, THEODORE & CRACOW

BILOELA POPULATION 5885

QGAP

Biloela is a busy commercial and tourist hub, though it still retains that relaxed, country feeling. All roads lead from Biloela, reaching into the countryside and out across the region, taking you to all the places you want to see.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Queensland Heritage Park Take time to explore the many displays and restored buildings including a church and railway building at Queensland Heritage Park.

Accompanied by an accredited visitor information centre, café, souvenir and gift shop, take your time and soak up some history.

Callide Dam Well worth the drive, just 10 minutes’ drive from Biloela is Callide Dam. A great spot for a family day out with toilets, shelters and barbecues onsite; perfect for a picnic lunch, a swim or a spot of fishing.

BARALABA, DULULU & WOWAN POPULATION 851

GOOVIGEN, JAMBIN & THANGOOL POPULATION 1336

Goovigen is a small rural village in the region’s northern farming heartland.

Ten kilometres south-east you’ll find Jambin, a rural hub with a pub to service weary travellers.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Baralaba Historical Village The heritage houses are filled with memorabilia, offering visitors an insightful passage back in time. The village opens by appointment so you’ll need to book ahead. Ph: 07 4998 1163 or 07 4998 1351.

Wowan Museum Officially opened in October 2012, the Wowan Museum is packed to the rafters with thousands of items donated for display. Pride of place is the alphabet chart and old Wowan fire truck that lives out the front.

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TAROOM POPULATION 629

POINTS OF INTEREST

Lake Victoria A free bush campground perched on the banks of Lake Victoria.

Also a popular spot for local waterskiers and fishermen alike; or simply somewhere to sit and soak up some serenity.

Golden Park Retreat A real gem and must-see if in the area, Golden Park Retreat is a walk-through garden featuring some antique machinery, spectacular gardens and an open fire pit. Open to the public Saturday mornings for tea and damper. Text 0438 106 391 to confirm your attendance.

Mount Scoria Conservation Park The work of a small volcano, the mountain is actually a basalt plug and the angularshaped rocks the result of the cooling process. Not only odd in shape, the rocks are also unique for the sound they make when struck.

BANANA & MOURA POPULATION 2151 Located at the junction point of the Leichhardt and Burnett Highways, Dululu is the northernmost town of the Banana Shire, a launching pad to the region and the perfect place to stop, rest and make your touring plans.

is by donation and facilities include hot showers, barbecue, toilets, picnic lawns and a public boat ramp. A popular spot for families and those who enjoy a spot of fishing or water-skiing.

Visitors are always a little baffled by the town’s unusual name, particularly as there isn’t a single banana tree in sight.

A dun-coloured bullock named Banana is responsible for that.

POINTS OF INTEREST

150th Meridian Marker Located on the east side of town, two large hollowed rocks sit side by side. Look through the holes and line them up, and you’re standing in the direct path of the meridian. You can almost set your watch by the 150th Meridian marker; the intangible line that measures Eastern Standard Time.

Apex River Park Seven kilometres west along the Dawson Highway. Camping

The tell-tale sign that you’ve arrived in Taroom is the Steel Wings windmill at the northern entry to town being only one of two known windmills of its type still in working order.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Expedition National Park Divided into three sections, Robinson, Lonesome and Beilba, Expedition National Park splays out over more than 1000 km2, bristling with sharp white orange escarpments and deep floors of native forest that hark back 240 million years or more.

The Leichhardt Tree Ludwig Leichhardt took a liking to Taroom and while camped by the Dawson River, carved his initials and year date – LL 1844 – into the bark of a Coolabah tree. The initials long since gone, the tree still stands pride of place in the main street.

THEODORE & CRACOW POPULATION 633

From the early days, Theodore and Cracow have been stopping points for travellers and the same is true today.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Cracow Hotel Cracow is now most famous for its fair dinkum Aussie pub.

Decades of memorabilia garnish the walls and ceiling and according to the testimonies of many over the years, its very own friendly ghost.

Hewitt Park Hewitt Park surrounds the water tower and is a great spot for a picnic lunch or just somewhere to rest and let the kids have a play.

OVERLANDER’S WAY

T O W N S V I L L E

TENNANT CREEK

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TOWNSVILLE

FROM BOODJAMULLA (LAWN HILL) NATIONAL PARK

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Three Ways

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TRAVELLING THE OVERLANDER’S WAY WILL ALLOW YOU TO TAKE IN THE WONDERS OF THE VAST RUGGED CATTLE PLAINS, DRAMATIC BASALT LANDSCAPES, SPECTACULAR GORGES, PROLIFIC WILDLIFE AND TAKE YOU ON A JOURNEY THROUGH ARCHITECTURALLY RICH HISTORIC TOWNS WITHOUT EVEN HAVING TO LEAVE THE BITUMEN.

Homestead

FROM MUTTABURRA

eal Caves

This self-drive track served as an important line during World War II and stretches across 1550 kilometres taking you from the reef to the outback in a matter of days.

There is plenty to see and do for the adventurous enquiring soul, so pack your flippers and your hiking boots and get ready to experience an outback adventure of a lifetime.

Travelling the Overlander’s Way is easy, come by plane, train or coach, or get your free driving map and travel the Overlander’s Way at your own pace.

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facebook.com/overlandersway twitter.com/overlandersway plus.google.com/ 102098108706737910887/

Crystal

www.on-the-way.com.au TRAVEL TRAIN HOLIDAYS Holiday Packages 1300 131 722

www.railaustralia.com.au

GREYHOUND AUSTRALIA 1300 473 946

www.greyhound.com.au

BUS QUEENSLAND 1300 287 537

www.busqld.com.au

REX – REGIONAL EXPRESS AIRLINES 13 17 13

www.rex.com.au

Creek

QANTAS AIRWAYS 13 13 13

VIRGIN AIRWAYS 13 67 89

AIR NORTH 1800 627 474

www.qantas.com.au

www.virginaustralia.com

www.airnorth.com.au

CLONCURRY SHIRE

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF CLONCURRY, QUAMBY, DAJARRA, DUCHESS, KAJABBI & BURKE AND WILLS JUNCTION

Cloncurry

FEW PLACES CAN CLAIM TO BE AS INFLUENTIAL IN SHAPING AUSTRALIA AS CLONCURRY; BIRTHPLACE OF THE ROYAL FLYING DOCTOR SERVICE AND DESTINATION OF THE FIRST QANTAS FLIGHT. CLONCURRY IS A COMMUNITY THAT CELEBRATES OUTBACK LIFE – THE TRUE AUSTRALIAN WAY.

Visitors can experience the fascinating history in Cloncurry from transport, mining and agriculture. Walk through the Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Information Centre and Museum and be taken back in time to the founding days of Cloncurry and the rich mining history that has shaped the shire.

Take a visit to John Flynn Museum and Art Gallery and walk through the history of John Flynn and the Royal Flying Doctor Service. The museum records the role of Cloncurry within this great story, for it was here that John Flynn began the flying doctor service in 1928 and pioneered his dream of outback radio communication.

In 2017 celebrate Cloncurry turning 150 years since Ernest Henry discovered a

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rich deposit of copper and named it Great Australia Mine and Roger Sheaffe established the first pastoral run in the Cloncurry district – ‘Fort Constantine’.

15 – 22 September 2017 will be when the 150th celebrations hit a high note with a weeklong salute to this milestone.

Speak to the friendly staff at the Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Information Centre and Museum to learn more about what to see and do in Cloncurry; they will know just the place for you.

Cloncurry invites you to experience our warm hospitality for yourself.

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Information Centre and Museum Mary Kathleen Memorial Park McIlwraith Street, Cloncurry Call 07 4742 1361 E info@cloncurry.qld.gov.au www.cloncurry.qld.gov.au

CLONCURRY SHIRE

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Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park

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[ THINGS TO DO ] Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Information Centre and Museum Take a step back in time and explore the rich history of Cloncurry and surrounding district at the Cloncurry Unearthed Museum with historical collections, photographs, memorabilia, Indigenous artefacts and one of Australia’s most comprehensive gem and mineral collections.

John Flynn Place Museum and Art Gallery Explore the beginnings of the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the history of outback aviation, medicine and radio at John Flynn Place Museum and Art Gallery. See the incredible work of John Flynn, Fred McKay and Alfred Traegar.

Event Season Visit in July/August to experience action packed weekends full of extreme sports, entertainment and fun for the whole family at one of our many major community events.

Chinaman Creek Dam A lovely picturesque landscape to watch the changing colours of Mt Leviathan at sunset, stretch your legs wandering the water’s edge or try your hand at fishing.

Fossicking A variety of minerals or gemstones can be found in the surrounding area of Cloncurry. A fossicking licence and mud maps of where to go can be purchased from the Visitor Information Centre.

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Cloncurry – the ‘Friendly Heart of the Great North West’.

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EVENTS

Cloncurry & District Show Cloncurry Recreation Grounds 16-17 June 2017 www.cloncurryshow.com.au Rockhana Gem & Mineral Festival Mary Kathleen Park 30 June – 2 July 2017 Cloncurry Stockman’s Challenge & Campdraft Cloncurry Equestrian Centre 13-16 July 2017 www.currychallenge.com.au Quamby Rodeo Quamby 29 July 2017 www.facebook.com/ QuambyAllSportsAssociation Curry Merry Muster Festival Cloncurry Equestrian Centre 3-6 August 2017 www.currymerrymuster.com.au outbackqueensland.com.au 35

CLONCURRY SHIRE CLONCURRY POPULATION 3,500

Known as the ‘Friendly Heart of the Great North West’, Cloncurry sits on the junction of the Landsborough Highway (Matilda Highway) and Flinders/Barkly Highway (Overlander’s Way), nestled on the banks of the Cloncurry River. In 1861 Burke and Wills with King and Gray, were the first known Europeans to come into the area on their ill-fated expedition to the Gulf of Carpentaria. Burke named the river ‘Cloncurry’ for his cousin, Lady Elizabeth Cloncurry of County Galway in Ireland.

Then in 1867 Ernest Henry came this way searching for grazing land, instead he discovered copper and named his find the Great Australia Mine. The town was then surveyed in 1876 and named after the river.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Information Centre and Museum For all your information requirements, pick up a unique souvenir, purchase a fossicker’s licence or simply enjoy a coffee or cold drink on the veranda.

John Flynn Place Museum and Art Gallery Explore the beginnings of the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the history of outback aviation, medicine and radio.

Mary Kathleen Park, Flinders Highway Explore the shaded parklands and outdoor machinery display.

4WD Historical Adventure Take a 4WD historical adventure with the Ballara Mining Heritage Trail. Pick up a map and brochure from the Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Information Centre.

Heritage Walk Take the Heritage Walk and stroll through town.

Chinaman Creek Dam Relax at Chinaman Creek Dam with a BBQ or try your hand at fishing.

Cemeteries Reflect back to a bygone era, at the Afghan, Chinese and Pioneer Cemeteries.

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF CLONCURRY, QUAMBY, DAJARRA, DUCHESS, KAJABBI & BURKE AND WILLS JUNCTION a roadside stop between Cloncurry and Normanton. The old Quamby Pub still sits on site, originally built in the 1860s which served as a Customs House. On the last weekend of July each year, hundreds flock into Quamby for the annual Quamby Rodeo where you will witness the thrills and spills of the ‘greatest little bush rodeo in the North West’.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Quamby Rodeo Grounds Home of the Quamby Rodeo, see where hundreds flock to see the ‘greatest little bush rodeo in the North West’.

Rum Can Water Tower See an old water tower once used by the railway in the area.

DAJARRA POPULATION 150

It might be hard to believe looking at it now, but the sleepy little outback settlement of Dajarra was once the biggest cattle trucking centre in the world. Situated on the Diamantina Development Road between Boulia and Mount Isa, this area trucked more cattle than Texas, USA. Drovers would bring cattle from as far away as Western Australia to put them on the train at Dajarra. Back then, Dajarra was the end of the line for Queensland’s northern outback railway system and the closest railhead to the Northern Territory. But those days have gone, and the last train pulled out of Dajarra in 1988. See the old railway line and the camps. The ruins of the holding yards give you a good idea of the magnitude of the cattle trucking industry in Dajarra’s heyday.

Hundreds flock to Dajarra for the annual Dajarra Rodeo held in September where man vs beast.

Today, relive the glory days over a drink or two at the local Duchess Hotel, where the beer and stories flow. The old Duchess Mine and the Lime Quarry are reminders of its bustling past.

POINTS OF INTEREST

The Duchess Hotel Where the beer and old time history stories flow.

Lime Quarry See what remains of the Lime Quarry that was once in operation.

KAJABBI POPULATION 10 Kajabbi is a tiny, sleepy settlement in the Cloncurry Shire. It is located 118km north east of Mount Isa and 100km north west of Cloncurry. Whilst only a small settlement, Kajabbi stands in an area that is steeped in history. There was a time when Kajabbi was an important centre.

The nearby mines at Dobbyn and Mount Cuthbert attracted copper miners to the area and, as a railhead in the 1920s, it was a location where the cattle owners from the state’s far north west brought their herds for shipment to the coast.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Kalkadoon Hotel (temporarily closed) See the historic outback pub and the Kalkadoon and Kalkadunga tribes’ memorials.

BURKE AND WILLS JUNCTION POPULATION 8

POINTS OF INTEREST

Dajarra Hotel Typical outback Queensland pub in the heart of the bush. Enjoy a coldie and a yarn with the locals.

Post Office Museum Be sure to stop in and see the collection of memorabilia of Dajarra history.

Rock Quarry A short distance out of town is Rock Quarry, an old Aboriginal stone axe site.

QUAMBY POPULATION 0

DUCHESS POPULATION 2

Located approximately 60km from Cloncurry, Quamby was once a busy little railway town servicing the cattle and mining industries, however is now just

Duchess, a former mining town, is a hamlet on the railway line between Cloncurry and

36 outbackqueensland.com.au

Mount Isa. Alexander Kennedy, a pioneer pastoralist, discovered a rich copper ore body in 1897 and in collaboration with other regional pioneers began full scale production of the Duchess Mine. The settlement once had up to 2000 people living there, with a school, three hotels, fruit shop, Catholic church, cricket ground, tennis courts and race track and various residential houses.

Breaking the trip between Cloncurry and Normanton on the Matilda Highway is the Burke and Wills Roadhouse, named after the route taken by the ill-fated explorers. Situated at the Burke and Wills Junction it is also the turn-off for travellers heading to Gregory Downs, Adels Grove or Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park.

The roadhouse provides meals, cold drinks, snacks and a range of souvenirs. There is also budget accommodation and powered sites available for travellers. The area is a quieter place, but firing up twice a year for the Burke and Wills Campdraft in May and Burke and Wills Rodeo in November.

John Flynn Place Museum

Curry Merry Muster Festival

Chinaman Creek Dam

Cloncurry Races

Must see attractions in Cloncurry - Visit John Flynn Place Museum and Art Gallery and be taken through the work of John Flynn and the beginnings of the Royal Flying Doctor Service - Explore one of Australia’s biggest gem and mineral collections at the Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Information Centre and Museum - Explore the mining history at Mary Kathleen Mine - Ballara Mining Heritage Trail

- Fountain Springs a permanent waterhole

- Enjoy sunsets and the abundance of bird life at Chinaman Creek Dam

Mining

- Visit Cloncurry Airport and see the first QANTAS hangar still in use today

Cloncurry Unearthed

- Join Cloncurry from 15-22 September 2017 with events to celebrate Cloncurry turning 150 Years

- Be part of the action in Cloncurry with a variety of events throughout the year - Take a 4WD tour from Cloncurry to Dajarra

Cloncurry 150

Years 1867-2017

Cloncurry Airport Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Information Centre and Museum Mary Kathleen Park, Flinders Highway/McIlwraith Street

P: (07) 4742 1361 E: info@cloncurry.qld.gov.au

W: www.cloncurry.qld.gov.au Connect with ‘Cloncurry Shire Council’ on Facebook

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The wide open spaces of Central Qld

Emerald is quite a big town with all the amenities you need

Picking through the bucket of dirt hopin g to find a treasure!

Love mum (and dad) xx

www.centralhighlands.com.au

New Royal Hotel

Crn Keilambete & Goanna Flats Roads, Rubyvale P: 07 4985 4754 E: info@rubyvalehotel.com.au www.rubyvalehotel.com.au Judged Queensland’s Best Bush Pub 2014, 2015 and 2016, this true Aussie pub is located in the heart of the Gemfields.

Grab a cold beer or wine and enjoy a great meal, stay in the unique log cabins or top up your supplies at the Bottleshop.

Blue Gem Tourist Park

925 Anakie-Sapphire Road, Sapphire P: 07 4985 4162 E: kanya2@bigpond.com www.bluegemtouristpark.com.au Located in the heart of the Sapphire Gemfields.

■ Large Grassed Sites for Vans & Camping ■ Cabins ■ Great Take Away Food ■ Fossicking Park ■ Convenience Store ■ Fuel, Gas, Ice ■ Sapphire Jewellery ■ Pet Friendly ■ Fossicking Licences Excellent customer service every time.

Miners Heritage Walk-in Mine

Central Highlands Visitor Centres Emerald Visitor Information Centre 3 Clermont Street P: 07 4982 4142 E: emerald@chdc.com.au

Blackwater Blackwater International Coal Centre P: 07 4982 7755 E: manager@bicc.com.au

Springsure Federation Woolshed Information Centre P: 07 4984 1961

Duaringa Information Centre P: 07 4935 7077

Discover a hidden gem in our Sandstone Wilderness and Sapphire Gemfields. Here’s our top 5: 1. Enjoy a stroll through our Sandstone Wilderness National Parks 2. Fossick for a sapphire in the Sapphire Gemfields 3. Go fishing or red-clawing 4. Take a coal mine tour or visit a pioneer village 5. Wine, dine, go shopping or just relax round a pool Drop into a local Central Highlands Visitor Centre for your general information needs, community events, town services, tours, attractions and accommodation advice.

97 Heritage Road, Rubyvale P: 07 4985 4444 | E: admin@minersheritage.com.au www.minersheritage.com.au

Australia’s Largest Underground Sapphire Mine Tour Established 1984 ■ Designer Sapphire Jewellery ■ Guided Tours ■ Giftware, Crystals and Minerals ■ Award winning Showroom ■ Fossicking Park ■ Undercover Picnic Area Open 7 Days: April – September, 9am – 5pm; October – March, 9am – 3pm (minimum of 2 people per tour) ■ ■

“Your One Stop Introduction to the Sapphire Fields”

Carnarvon Gorge Camping and Accommodation P: 07 4984 8484 | E: info@takarakka.com.au www.takarakka.com.au (book online) Takarakka Bush Resort ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Spacious powered and unpowered sites Safari tents, cabins and studios ■ Open all year round Top rated facilities ■ Accessible to all vehicles Internet available ■ Via new bitumen road Recommended 4 – 6 night stay ■ Reconnect with nature Award winning tour guide

Accessible, Exceptional and Unforgettable.

Discover Great Deals as

An Outback Mate!

Visit an Outback Visitor Information Centre for more information!

Galah (Eolophus roseicapilla)

www.outbackmates.com.au outbackqueensland.com.au 39

DIAMANTINA SHIRE INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF BIRDSVILLE, BEDOURIE & BETOOTA

Diamantina

THE DIAMANTINA SHIRE IS TRUE FRONTIER COUNTRY. ITS PEOPLE, HERITAGE, STORIES, PLACES, LANDSCAPES AND WILDLIFE BLEND TOGETHER TO CREATE AN AUTHENTIC OLD-WORLD AUSTRALIAN DESTINATION. People come from across the globe to visit, and those who live as part of the local community are from culturally diverse backgrounds, bringing with them a unique array of experiences and energies. The Diamantina is a land of extremes; flood and drought, rare flora and fauna, national parks, channel country, the wide red desert, and magnificent horizon as far as the eye can see. Teeming with wildlife, the area is home to one of the world’s most fragile and unique desert ecosystems and home to the largest-known night parrot population in Queensland and to the endangered bilby.

Rich in natural, cultural and pastoral heritage, the Diamantina covers 95,000 square kilometres, yet is home to just 11 cattle stations and 300 residents. It

40 outbackqueensland.com.au

captures the very essence of Australia’s Outback, and is accessible to most vehicles, caravans and motor homes.

Experience a 4WD adventure of epic proportions on a Simpson Desert crossing, trek through the stunning Diamantina National Park and gaze in wonder at the Channel Country, a rich tapestry of vast gibber and grass plains stretching to the horizon.

For the best Diamantina experience, visit us between March and October.

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES

Wirrarri Visitor Information Centre 29 Burt Street, Birdsville Call 07 4656 3300 E: info@diamantina.qld.gov.au www.facebook.com/thediamantina Bedourie Outback Visitor Information Centre 17 Herbert Street, Bedourie Call 1300 794 257 E: visitors@diamantina.qld.gov.au www.thediamantina.com.au

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Betoota Races Held in an outback ghost town, the races happen on Saturday 26 August 2017, kicking off the Simpson Desert Racing Carnival.

Birdsville Races Attend one of the biggest events on the Australian racing calendar. Happening on the 1 & 2 September 2017.

Bedourie Races 9 September 2017. Don’t miss the final and ultimate event in the Simpson Desert Racing Carnival. Racegoers are invited to ‘Dress the Desert Pink’ in support of Breast Cancer Research.

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novelty events for the young and young at heart. It’s a great fun day out where the whole family can experience a wide range of outback events.

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Bedourie Camel and Pig Races & Camp Oven Cook-Off Saturday 8 July 2017. Watch as hundreds of people converge in town a couple of days after the Big Red Bash to watch dozens of camels race, with the races also incorporating a traditional camp oven cook-off, wood chopping and

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For a real Aussie outback adventure, head out into the vast and contrasting landscapes of the Diamantina Shire.

Here you’ll experience the outback at its full potential – set against an amazing backdrop of spectacular sand dunes, wide open plains, endless blue skies and under the breathtaking stars at night.

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Lake Yamma Yamma (Mackillop)

EVENTS

Betoota Gymkhana Betoota 1-2 April 2017 www.facebook.com/BetootaOutbackQld Birdsville Campdraft, Rodeo & Bronco Branding Birdsville 13-14 May 2017 www.facebook.com/BirdsvilleSocialClubInc Birdsville Horse and Motorbike Gymkhana Birdsville 24-25 June 2017 www.facebook.com/BirdsvilleSocialClubInc Bedourie Campdraft, Rodeo, Gymkhana & Bronco Branding Bedourie 30 June - 2 July 2017 www.thediamantina.com.au Bedourie Ute Muster Bedourie 9 September 2017 www.thediamantina.com.au outbackqueensland.com.au 41

DIAMANTINA SHIRE

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF BIRDSVILLE, BEDOURIE & BETOOTA

BIRDSVILLE POPULATION 115

QGAP

Your great Outback escape awaits. Explore what lies beyond the famous Birdsville Track and find the frontier town of Birdsville at the end. Deep in the heart of wild and isolated country, stunning Birdsville is situated between the eastern edge of the Simpson Desert, the vast gibber plains of Sturt Stony Desert to the south, and rich Channel Country to the north.

See what was once a notorious place through which cattle drovers moved their stock transformed into a thriving modern community where guests can enjoy a cold drink or back a winner at the worldrenowned Birdsville Races, respectively.

It’s a treat you won’t get to experience anywhere else.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Big Red Watch the sun set over Big Red, the tallest sand dune in the Simpson Desert.

Diamantina River Catch fresh fish for dinner.

Inland Mission Hospital Museum Explore the Australian Inland Mission Hospital Museum.

Birdsville Billabong Spend an unforgettable day with family and friends at the Birdsville Billabong – where birdlife, fish, yabbies and marsupials abound.

Local Artists Unleash your inner art fan and wander through the town of Birdsville, where a number of local artists working in different mediums offer their interpretations of our unique land, lifestyle and people of the Diamantina Shire.

BEDOURIE POPULATION 120

An Oasis in the desert. Bedourie, meaning ‘dust storm’, is a quaint little town with a population of 120 people. Perched on a sand dune and surrounded by Eyre Creek, it is the administrative centre of the huge 95,000 square kilometres of the Diamantina Shire – perfect for a one-of-akind getaway.

In the 1880s, Bedourie was a major watering and rest stop for drovers moving cattle from the Northern Territory and northwest Queensland to the customs collection point in Birdsville, 200 kilometres south.

For a small community, the town has excellent facilities including a hotel/motel, two caravan parks, a restaurant and tavern, general store, wireless internet, fuel services, police station and a medical clinic.

Everything you need is right here.

POINTS OF INTEREST

The Historic Mud Hut This stabilised earth house dates from the 1880s and is believed to be one of the first buildings constructed in Bedourie.

Art The new artistic representation of a dust storm that stands on Herbert Street.

This structure is in Wangkamardla Country and represents the dust storm and whirly winds, which were a way the spirits travelled.

The Vaughan Johnson Lookout Affectionately known as ‘the loo with a view’, it offers a great view of the Channel Country.

The Renowned Wetland of Cuttaburra Crossing One of the few permanent waterholes and is therefore a definite stopping point for birdwatchers.

Carcoory Ruins Carcoory Homestead Ruins are an example of the rich history of the Diamantina. Sidney Kidman bought the property in 1899.

The Diamantina National Park One of the most glorious sights in nature, the Diamantina National Park is a mustvisit destination and was named one

of Australia’s top 10 National Parks by the Worldwide Fund for Nature.

Bedourie Camp Oven Borne of necessity under a tree in Bedourie during the 1920s by a tin smith, the Bedourie Camp Oven was constructed for the drovers and cameleers and is well known today throughout Australia.

BETOOTA POPULATION 0 Come alive and ride in the great Australian Outback! Betoota stands on a vast gibber plain, 170 kilometres east of Birdsville. While Betoota is mainly a ghost town, it comes alive twice a year. The annual Horse and Motorbike Gymkhana are held on the first weekend of Queensland Easter school holidays and again during the last weekend in August when this tiny ghost town explodes with all the colour and excitement of the Betoota Races, kicking off the Simpson Desert Racing Carnival.

Betoota is 70 metres above sea level and has an annual rainfall of just 300 millimetres. In 1885, the Queensland Government set up a customs post here to collect tolls for stock as they travelled to South Australia. The toll station operated up until Federation in 1901.

Betoota was also once a Cobb & Co change station. In the 1880s, three hotels were established here, along with a police station, store and a post office. The last-standing hotel was a favourite spot for tourists until it closed in October 1997.

In fact, the publican, Simon Remienko, was the sole resident of Betoota for many years and was once stranded on the Birdsville Track for 18 weeks with his truckload of eight tonnes of beer. Now that’s a lot of beer.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Browns Creek A popular camping area near the Betoota Hotel.

Deon’s Lookout The perfect place for travellers to take a break and drink in the spectacular view.

The Dreamtime Serpent A work of art representing a series of pathways travelled through country to connect the river systems in the Channel Country of the Diamantina Shire.

The Serpent has been created using gravel and gibbers found throughout the shire.

Desert Edge Tours

Birdsville P: 0419 364 381 E: info@birdsvilledesertedgetours.com.au ■ ■ ■

4WD sunset tours to the top of Big Red Birdsville Billabong sunset tours Tailored tours for special interest, corporate and incentive groups ex Birdsville, Charleville, Quilpie and Windorah

■

Local stories on Birdsville town tours

■

Special packages, Quilpie or Innamincka

■

Airport transfers and porterage

■

Accredited local operator and vehicle

BIRDSVILLE RACES

Photo: Salty Dingo

September 1 & 2 2017

www.birdsvilleraces.com outbackqueensland.com.au 43

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P: 1300 794 257 E: info@diamantina.qld.gov.au www.thediamantina.com.au

Birdsville & Beyond PREMIUM SMALL GROUP PASSENGER TOURS AND TAG-ALONGS

ENQUIREEW NOW FORINLLE BIRDSV RS DAY TOU

If touring Australia’s vast desert interiors, isolated coastal regions or extensive national parks network interests you or maybe you’re looking for that little bit of reassurance when taking your own vehicle into these areas, then Adventure Australia Treks & Tours is what you need. Our tours and touring vehicles are the best in the business, and are specifically designed to provide comfort, safety and accessibility to remote areas off the beaten tourist track. Adventure Australia operates in a specialised small group format, providing guided passenger & tagalong tours for singles, couples, small groups and corporate clients. Our guides' experience in these areas & knowledge about the location through which we tour will leave you feeling informed, safe, comfortable & content. So skip the busy tourist buses and join us on an incredible adventure.

BURKE & WILLS EXPLORER TOUR

5 day Birdsville to Birdsville Fortnightly, April - July

BIRDSVILLE TRACK - LAKE EYRE EXPLORER TOUR 6 day Birdsville to Coober Pedy May - August

CENTRAL AUSTRALIA EXPLORER TOUR

8 day Coober Pedy to Alice Springs May - August

Get in touch with us today for complete itinerary, departure dates and all prices: Adventure Australia Treks & Tours address: Billabong Boulevard Birdsville Qld 4482

e: admin@aatt.com.au p: (07) 4723 0750 m: 0409 279 898

SIMPSON DESERT EXPLORER TOUR

7 day Alice Springs to Birdsville May - August

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Silver Top az

Bring this ad into the Georgetown TerrEstrial Centre to get your FREE Etheridge Tourism Kit

Agate

Blue Topaz

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Unea rth Etheridge Suggested Itineraries

Cobbo ld

1. Savannah Way  Undara Lava Tubes  Fossick for Gems at Mt Surprise  Newcastle Ranges  TerrEstrial Centre Georgetown  Cumberland Chimney

Gorge

2. Lava Tubes, Gems and Gorges Trail  Undara Lava Tubes  Fossick for Gems at Mt Surprise  O’Briens Creek  TerrEstrial Centre Georgetown  Flat Creek Station  Cobbold Gorge  Agate Creek Gemfields  4WD Gilberton Outback Retreat to The Lynd  Alternate route through Forsayth to Copperfield Gorge Einasleigh

Undara Lava Tubes

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3. Fossicking Trail  Gems at Mt Surprise  Topaz at O’Briens Creek  Ted Elliot Gem Collection TerrEstrial Centre  Gold at Flat Creek Station  Agate and Thunder Eggs at Agate Creek Gemfields  Gold at Gilberton Station  Agate Display at Goldfields Hotel Forsayth  Copperfield Gorge Einasleigh  Kidston Gold Mine and Dam

TerrEstrial Centre

4. Cairns to Gulf Savannah – 3 Day  Travel through Tablelands  Innot Hot Springs  Undara Lava Tubes  Fossick for Gems at Mt Surprise  TerrEstrial Centre o G w getorn  Cobbold Gorge



 

Forsayth Goldfields Hotel to viewthefamousAgateDisplay Cobbold Gorge Via Georgetown and Undara Lava Tubes

6. Hughenden to Georgetown – 3 Gorges Trail  Hughenden to Porcupine Gorge National Park 5. Townsville to Gulf  The Lynd Oasis Roadhouse Savannah – 3 Day  Einasleigh to Copperfield Gorge  Harvey’s Range Road through Thornton’s Gap  Agate Display at Goldfields Hotel Forsayth  The Lynd Oasis Roadhouse  Copperfield Gorge Einasleigh  Cobbold Gorge and Miniature Display  TerrEstrial Centre Georgetown at the Hotel Mineral Collection

Events: Easter@Einasleigh 13-16th April Outback Rock & Blues, Undara Experience 21-23rd April Georgetown Rodeo 24-25th June Oak Park Races 7-8th July Forsayth Turnout 5th August Forsayth Tusk & Toad and Horse Sports October Long Weekend Flat Creek Finch Count 30th September – 1st October Opera in the Outback, Undara Experience 5-7th October Einasleigh Horse Sports 9-10th December

Low Street, Georgetown QLD P: (07) 4062 1485 | E: terrestrialgeorgetown@bigpond.com www.terrestrialgeorgetown.com.au For more information on suggested itineraries visit: www.savannahway.com.au

Budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus)

outbackqueensland.com.au 47

FLINDERS SHIRE

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF HUGHENDEN, PRAIRIE, TORRENS CREEK & STAMFORD

Flinders

48 outbackqueensland.com.au

HUGHENDEN, THE MAIN CENTRE FOR THE FLINDERS SHIRE, BEGAN IN 1867 ON THE FLINDERS RIVER, QUEENSLAND’S LONGEST RIVER, FLOWING 1004 KILOMETRES INTO THE GULF.

Flinders Shire has over 41,000 square kilometres of diverse landscapes, with basalt caps and gorges to the north, desert country to the south-east and rolling black soil plains to the south and west. With four distinct bioregions within the region, the landscape is vast and ever changing, boasting four national parks.

Not to be missed is Porcupine Gorge National Park with its cool, clear, flowing creek, towering cliffs of vibrantly coloured sandstone and dense vegetation. Walking tracks take visitors to the base to enjoy a refreshing swim in one of the water holes, or wander through the serene gorge. To enjoy more of this hidden treasure, pull up a stump at the Pyramid campground.

Hughenden is also known for its dinosaur history dating back over 100 million years, most notably the Muttaburrasaurus and Hughenden Sauropod.

Call in to our smaller communities to hear their own tales of yesteryear, with Prairie Hotel and its ghostly prowler, and Torrens Creek almost getting blown away.

When you get to Hughenden, come in to the Flinders Discovery Centre and take your FIRST STEPS TO DISCOVERY AND WONDER.

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Hughenden Visitor Information Centre – Flinders Discovery Centre 37 Gray Street, Hughenden Call 07 4741 2970 E info@flinders.qld.gov.au www.visithughenden.com.au

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Porcupine Gorge National Park Spectacular gorge system with its cool, clear, flowing creek, towering cliffs of vibrantly coloured sandstone and dense vegetation. Intermittent water holes line the base, a perfect place for a cool swim.

Two lookouts and camping facilities at the Pyramid Lookout with walking tracks from camping area. Camp bookings are essential.

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Mount Walker Located 12km south of Hughenden, here you will be greeted with sensational 360° views of Hughenden and surrounds from six lookout points. Sunrise and sunset on Mount Walker is a must for any keen photographer.

Historic Coolabah Tree A glory to behold, this historic Coolabah tree was blazed by Frederick Walker and Sir William Landsborough whilst searching for Burke and Wills.

Hughenden Town & Cemetery Walking Tours Take in the ‘Points of Interest’ with a guided morning walk around the streets of Hughenden or join your guide on a walk through time as she highlights biographies of people buried in the Hughenden Cemetery.

EVENTS

Hughenden Races 13 May & 15 July 2017 E hjc@outlook.com.au Hughenden Agriculture Show 2-4 June 2017 www.hughendenshow.com.au Porcupine Gorge Challenge Hughenden 17 June 2017 www.porcupinegorgechallenge.com.au Stamford Races Stamford 1 July 2017 ‘Freestyle on Flinders’ Hughenden 25-26 August 2017 www.visithughenden.com.au outbackqueensland.com.au 49

FLINDERS SHIRE HUGHENDEN POPULATION 1,180

Hughenden has a lot to offer travellers, with four national parks, mountainous volcanic basalt country, sweeping black soil plains and rich fossil and dinosaur areas. Visit ‘Hughie’, the seven metre tall Muttaburrasaurus, and an impressive fossil collection at the Flinders Discovery Centre, which is also an accredited Information Centre.

While you are there, relive the glory days of sheep production and its subsequent demise in the ‘Shearing the Stragglers’ exhibit. A small admission fee applies.

Follow the windmill blades through the streets of Hughenden, exploring the history and art features of the town. Meet ‘Mutt’, a full-bodied Muttaburrasaurus replica, along the way. Ample bus and caravan parking is available while you enjoy the serenity of Robert Gray Memorial Park, on the banks of the Flinders River.

This is just one of four parks in town, each with wheelchair-accessible toilets and picnic facilities.

Just outside Hughenden, Mount Walker rises out of the flat black soil plains, providing great views across town and around the district. Further afield is spectacular Porcupine Gorge National Park, often referred to as Australia’s ‘Little Grand Canyon’. The first lookout gives you an indication of the depth and magnitude of the gorge and is a mustsee for all visitors. Camping grounds are located at the Pyramid Lookout; campers should take their own water and be fully self-sufficient. Camping permits are available at the Flinders Discovery Centre or by phoning 13 74 68 or online at www.qld.gov.au/camping. Please note that campsites must be booked prior to camping. After a great day at the Gorge make the sandy crossing on the Flinders River Byway and reward yourself with a cold drink at the Prairie Hotel. If time allows travel 54km south from Prairie to Kooroorinya Nature Reserve, camp the night and then make your way back through the Eromanga Sea Byway which traces the edge of the prehistoric inland sea (4WD only). The Basalt Byway is a scenic drive plotted through picturesque volcanic basalt countryside, boasting 50 outbackqueensland.com.au

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF HUGHENDEN, PRAIRIE, TORRENS CREEK & STAMFORD excellent lookouts and abundant flora and fauna.

Have an enjoyable walk through the diverse bioregions of the Flinders Shire at Eco-Walk on Flinders. These ecosystems have been replicated along the northern banks of the Flinders River with over 1.5km of walking tracks.

Along the pathway are species of flora and local artwork illustrating important events, and the myriad diversity of Flinders Shire.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Flinders Discovery Centre Hughie Mutt Street Sculptures 35’ Comet Windmill Porcupine Gorge National Park Cemetery Arts & Symbolism Self-Guided Tour Blackbraes National Park Basalt Byway Eromanga Sea Byway Flinders River Byway Eco-Walk on Flinders Mount Walker Lookouts Town & Cemetery Walking Tours

PRAIRIE POPULATION 50 Prairie is a town surrounded by beautiful rolling plains of Flinders grass. In the 1870s it was a main horse change centre for Cobb & Co. coaches. The Prairie Hotel is a must see with its unique atmosphere, collection of stockmen’s hats and other historical memorabilia.

Hear the story of the wandering ringer; this ghostly prowler comes from a story first told around the 1930s.

Relax by a natural billabong at Kooroorinya Nature Reserve, overflowing in the wet months creating a spectacular waterfall. The Reserve abounds with wildlife, both bird and animal. Fish for yellowbelly, black bream or red claw, or just go for a walk to see the rock formations carved out by the water.

POINTS OF INTEREST

The Prairie Hotel Kooroorinya Falls Nature Reserve 35’ Comet Windmill Flinders River Byway 4WD Tourist Drive (not a loop road)

TORRENS CREEK POPULATION 20 In 1942 Torrens Creek was utilised as an ammunition dump during World War II. Call in to hear the stories of how this little town was nearly blown away. The Exchange Hotel welcomes all travellers with cool drinks and great meals and you are invited to add your mark to the humorous graffiti gallery.

South of Torrens Creek is Moorrinya National Park. Moorrinya, meaning ‘ironbark’ in the local Aboriginal dialect, showcases a perfect example of the desert upland bioregion. Camp bookings are essential upon arrival.

White Mountains National Park is one of Queensland’s most botanically diverse parks, encompassing 14 regional ecosystems including two classed as endangered. A lookout on the Overlander’s Way gives an indication of the amazing colours and textures of the rock and wildflower displays during May to August. A bush camping area is available for self-sufficient and experienced bushwalkers only. Camp site accessible by 4WD or high clearance vehicles only.

Information and registration should be made by phoning 13 74 68, online at www.qld.gov.au/camping or at the Flinders Discovery Centre.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Moorrinya National Park White Mountains National Park The Exchange Hotel, Torrens Creek Burra Range Lookout on the Overlander’s Way

STAMFORD POPULATION 5 Once a busy railhead for local wool graziers and an overnight stop for Cobb & Co, the town of Stamford is now a quieter place, firing up once a year for the Stamford Races.

Hughenden Supermarket

Rest Easi Motel

All Your Grocery Needs ■ Fresh Fruit & Vegetables ■ EFTPOS ■ Frozen Food ■ Cold Drinks & Ice Cream ■ Ample Parking Friendly Country Service with Weekly Specials Competitive Supermarket Prices

Situated west of town on Richmond Hill Drive, the Rest Easi Motel has 11 clean, comfortable rooms.

■ All rooms have air conditioning, Foxtel and FREE wi-fi ■ Evening meals and breakfast are served to your unit

31 Moran Street, Hughenden P: 07 4741 1109

11 Richmond Hill Drive, Hughenden P: 07 4741 1633 E: info@resteasimotel.com.au

Opening Hours: March to October 9.00am – 5.00pm 7 days a week November to February 9.00am – 5.00pm Weekdays 9.00am – 1.00pm Sat & Sun

37 Gray Street, Hughenden QLD 4821 P: (07) 4741 2970 E: info@flinders.qld.gov.au www.visithughenden.com.au

CLOSED SOME PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

outbackqueensland.com.au 51

LONGREACH REGION INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF LONGREACH, ILFRACOMBE, ISISFORD, YARAKA & EMMET

Longreach

THE LONGREACH REGION IS LOCATED IN THE HEART OF OUTBACK QUEENSLAND AND IS THE IDEAL PLACE TO EXPLORE AND LEARN ON YOUR JOURNEY.

Longreach is the main community centre for the region, home to many historical stories and sites since the completion of the rail link in the late 1800s. Today, visitors can take a trip back in time to explore this historical town and follow the footsteps of the Australian Stockmen. The Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame calls Longreach its home, opened in 1988, and is 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 Queensland. To complete your visit why not try a ride on a stagecoach, take a dinner cruise along the Thomson River or visit a working station.

Ilfracombe is home to the magnificent Machinery Mile where a display of old rural machinery lines the road the entire length of the town. Visitors can bathe in the mineralised water from the Artesian Basin.

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Discover the ‘Outer Barcoo’ of Isisford which is home to the world class fossils of the oldest modern crocodile and bulldog fish. At Yaraka enjoy the sunrise or sunset views of spectacular Mount Slowcombe, go opal fossicking, take a guided tour of the area, and take a walk in time in what once was the thriving railway town of Emmet.

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Longreach Visitor Information Centre Qantas Park, Longreach Call 07 4658 4150 E: visitinf@longreach.qld.gov.au www.visitlongreach.com.au

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES

Ilfracombe Visitor Information Longreach Regional Council Office, Ilfracombe Branch, 20 Main Avenue, Ilfracombe Call 07 4652 5400 Isisford Visitor Information Longreach Regional Council Office, Isisford Branch, 20 St Mary Street, Isisford Call 07 4658 8913 E: visitinf@longreach.qld.gov.au www.visitlongreach.com.au

LONGREACH REGION

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Sunset Cruise Cruise along the Thomson River while watching the sunset then enjoy a meal and spectacular entertainment on the river banks.

Cobb & Co Stagecoach Experience Take a gallop through history on a Cobb & Co stagecoach ride followed by a marvellous performance at the Harry Redford Old Time Tent Show.

Station Tours Witness how the iconic wool industry works, have a big country meal in the rural land away

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from the town centre and learn more than you bargained for on a station tour today.

Outer Barcoo Interpretation Centre Come and see the oldest modern crocodile and the 100-million-year-old bulldog fish and the history iconic to the region in Isisford.

Longreach Powerhouse Museum and History Centre Visit the largest preserved rural generating facility in Australia dating back to 1921.

Displays in this building explain how electricity was generated, maintained and distributed throughout the region. Take a step back in time looking through Nogo Cottage and explore the region’s history.

Machinery Mile See the incredible display of life as it was – cars, machinery, equipment, tanks – a wide selection of memorabilia pertaining to the cattle, sheep and wool industries.

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Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Qantas Founders Museum Visit the world class attractions of the Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Qantas Founders Museum with their extraordinary links to the iconic Australian stockman and the founding of an international airline.

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EVENTS Longreach Show 20 May 2017

Isisford Sheep and Wool Show 27 May 2017 Southern Cross Television & Isisford Fishing Competition 28-30 July 2017 Yellowbelly Fishing Classic Longreach 25-27 August 2017 Picnic Races Longreach 18 March, 1 April, 6 & 27 May, 17 June, 22 July, 19 August 2017 Picnic Races Ilfracombe 8 July 2017 Picnic Races Isisford 21 October 2017 outbackqueensland.com.au 53

LONGREACH REGION LONGREACH POPULATION 4,238

Legendary and iconic attractions set amidst a wonderful natural landscape welcome you into this unique and friendly outback town.

Immerse yourself in history and heritage at the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Qantas Founders Museum.

Discover breathtaking outback sunsets by cruising the Thomson River or on top of Starlight’s Lookout. Take in the beautiful landscapes on a Cobb & Co stagecoach.

Refresh at the aquatic centre’s outdoor and heated indoor pools.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame Pays tribute to Australia’s pioneering legends and outlines our outback history. Includes artefacts, electronic displays, photographs and films.

Qantas Founders Museum Commemorates the founders of this great Australian company that became a leader in world aviation. Be guided through a passenger jet, take a wing walk or test your skills in the flight simulator.

Cruises & Outback Shows Step aboard one of three magnificent boats and spend an evening on the Thomson River complete with sunset, dinner and entertainment.

Cobb & Co. Tours Experience the pioneering history on a Cobb & Co coach as you gallop through the Longreach common paddocks.

Afterwards enjoy the Old Time Tent Show and browse through outback products.

Camden Park Station Tour Meet the Walker family on their property as you experience a working sheep and cattle station. Walk through the historical homestead gardens, shearing shed and cattle yards.

Longreach Visitor Information Centre For all your information on where to stay and visit.

Longreach Powerhouse Museum The largest preserved rural generating facility in Australia. Unearth local history with exhibits including the powerhouse generating equipment.

School of Distance Education Take a fascinating tour through one of the largest classrooms in the world.

Queensland Helicopters Offer a fantastic range of scenic flights in the region.

54 outbackqueensland.com.au

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF LONGREACH, ILFRACOMBE, ISISFORD, YARAKA & EMMET Longreach Arts and Crafts Centre This beautiful building houses a gallery of local artists’ work.

Nature Walks Botanic walkway is a 2.5km interpretive flora walk between the town centre and the Stockman’s Hall of Fame.

Iningai Nature Park includes sections of floodplains and waterholes.

Cemetery Tours Step back in time for a guided tour amidst the history of Longreach Cemetery.

ILFRACOMBE POPULATION 350

ISISFORD POPULATION 262

Isisford, on the banks of the Barcoo, was settled in the mid 1800s and the architecture reflects its humble beginnings. The town boasts an 18-hole golf course, swimming pool, tennis court, museum, post office, two hotels, fuel outlet, library and internet facilities. Camping is permitted at the Barcoo Weir and Oma Waterhole.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Learn the story of western Queensland, preserved within the streets of this special little outback town. Fondly known as ‘The Hub of the West’, Ilfracombe sits proudly and boasts a pub, golf course, swimming pool and Artesian spa.

POINTS OF INTEREST

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

Ilfracombe Machinery Mile and Heritage Museum 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.

Wellshot Centre Tells the story of Wellshot Station, one of Australia’s greatest sheep and wool producers. The iconic Wellshot Hotel stands in proud testament.

The Folk Museum Filled with glimpses of the past, the museum also showcases the role of women and children of the west.

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.

Romani Hall 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.

Memorial Park & Artesian Spa Bathe in the natural warm waters from the Artesian Basin in the Artesian Spa, swim in the pool, and relax in the shade of the memorial park.

The 12 Mile A short drive out of town offers a magnificent example of nineteenth century bush craftsmanship – thousands of naturally formed flagstones form a leak-proof reservoir.

The Outer Barcoo Interpretation Centre Has a theatrette, cafeteria, local arts and crafts displays, and a museum depicting the evolution of nature. Feature attractions are a replica of Isisfordia duncani, which lived around Isisford 98 million years ago and is the ancestor of all the world’s crocodilians, and a 100-million-year-old bulldog fish.

Oma Waterhole 16km south-west of Isisford and great for camping, fishing and water activities. Hot showers and toilet facilities are available and there is boat ramp access.

Yuranigh 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.

Whitman’s Park & Memorial Museum A sense of the history of Isisford can be gleaned from a visit to the town’s small museum. It is a photographic collection of memorabilia of the town and the surrounding region.

YARAKA POPULATION 20 Yaraka is an attractive community with gardens, general store, post office, fuel, a pub with accommodation and meals, swimming pool, tennis court and playground area. A sealed road takes you to the lookout at Mount Slowcombe offering views over the former Inland Sea and dramatic sunsets. Picnic and barbeque facilities make this the perfect place for a family outing or a romantic getaway.

EMMET POPULATION 2 Emmet was once a thriving railway siding with a population of 30 people. Today, with only two residents, the town has a picnic shelter and an interesting historical display in the railway station. Activities visitors can enjoy are off-road driving, camping and selfguided bushwalking.

n Top deck cruising n Licensed onboard bar n Table-service dining n Live entertainment

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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

Coopers on Cassowary

77 Cassowary Street, Longreach P: 0474 077 298 E: info@coopersoncassowary.com.au www.coopersoncassowary.com.au Relax in style in our very private 3 bedroom cottage.

■ Spacious self contained, A/C accommodation ■ Sleeps 5 / 1 queen, 1 twin, 1 single ■ Exclusively yours for your stay, all linen provided ■ Set in shady, fully fenced private garden with BBQ ■ Centrally located in town centre, 50m from the Botanic Walkway

Discover Great Deals as

An Outback Mate!

Noonbah Station

Tonkoro Road, via Longreach P: 07 4658 5953 E: noonbahstationtourism@gmail.com Noonbah Station offers secluded waterhole bush camping for self contained campers. We are a working cattle property 2 hours’ drive SW of Longreach, in the iconic channel country, and we would love to share our land with you. Fishing, pets and camp fires are permissible.

Relaxation and unwinding encouraged. $10 per vehicle per night.

For a deeper experience of the outback, we also offer half day natural history tours, with a hearty homestead smoko included. These tours can be tailored to your particular interests. See you soon!

Accommodation | Restaurants | Merchandise | Gifts | Tours & More!

Visit an Outback Visitor Information Centre for more information! www.outbackmates.com.au

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Camden Park Station

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

Convenient FREE WiFi

& Foxtel

Dine at Harry’s d) Restaurant (fully license

10% off on meals

d Bar

Jumbuck Motel

45 Ilfracombe Road, Longreach P: 07 4658 1799 E: reception@jumbuckmotel.com.au www.jumbuckmotel.com.au Friendly outback hospitality Clean, comfortable & affordable ■ Easy walk to major attractions ■ Local tour booking agent ■ Native wildlife at your door ■ Terrific restaurant, bar & room service ■ FREE recently upgraded Wi-Fi ■ Gardens, BBQ area, gazebo & pool ■ ■

Relax in the cosy Redfor

ed Modern air-condition ive, king rooms (Deluxe, Execut and Family rooms) and Full tour desk service itinerary planning a Pool, Sauna & BBQ Are osite Centrally located opp ion Longreach Railway Stat undercover parking 57 Room Motel On-Site Licensed Restaurant & Bar

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

120 Eagle Street, Longreach (Right in the middle of town) P: 07 4658 1715 | F: 07 4658 0045 $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 stamp per family per visit Not redeemable for cash Offer expires 31 December 2017 Open 7 Days

Abajaz Motor Inn

11 Wonga Street, Longreach P: 1800 081 288 or 07 4658 1288 F: 07 4658 3277 | E: info@abajazmotorinn.com.au www.abajazmotorinn.com.au

School of the Air, Longreach

Landsborough Highway, Longreach P: 07 4658 4232 | E: tours1@eq.edu.au | FB: facebook.com/LSODETOURS www.longreacsde.eq.edu.au (tourist information) ■

■

■

Experience how isolated children learn through the outback airways.

Guided tours 9:00am & 10:30am Monday–Friday (excl. public/ Christmas school holidays). Bookings necessary for groups of 20 or more.

See how you can contribute to isolated children’s education.

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.

■ 19 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/continental breakfasts ■ Chargeback from local restaurants ■ We are Pet Friendly, with prior notice ■ Cot, hairdryer, toaster, fax and photocopying available at office ■ Situated on the beautiful botanic pathway that runs between town (CBD), Qantas and the Stockman’s Hall of Fame ■ The Only Solar Green Motel in the Central West ■ Major Cards accepted. Limited Courtesy transfers available ■ Tariff starts at $120 ■ Ask about our summer specials when booking direct November through March

outbackqueensland.com.au 57

Experience the

LONGREACH REGION Heart of Outback Queensland

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

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

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

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

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.

SAVE

66!

$ This PREMIUM PASS with many extras includes:

ENTRY to the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame to explore five themed galleries of outback history and the Hugh Sawrey Art Gallery PLUS entry to the Outback Stockman’s Show for live entertainment showcasing great horsemanship and more.

TWO entertaining Outback Pioneers experiences – the Cobb & Co Stagecoach Experience for the only stagecoach gallop on an old mail route in Australia – AND the Starlight’s Cruise Experience, with stockman’s campfire dinner and bush poetry.

PER COUPLE

+ BONUS E

XTRAS!

ENTRY to the Qantas Founders Museum to learn about the history of Qantas Airways, from its early beginnings in Outback Queensland, AND entry to the fascinating Boeing 747 and 707 Jet Tour which takes you inside the aircraft for a nostalgic and insightful trip 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.

Outback Photo Competition Outback Queensland Travellers’ Guide 2018/19

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Head to www.outbackqueensland.com.au for more information!

Entries Close: 31/10/2017

TERMS & CONDITIONS: All photos submitted must be in .jpeg/.jpg format. The publisher reserves the right to reject photos that do not meet these requirements.

MARANOA REGION

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF ROMA, MUCKADILLA, HODGSON, INJUNE, BYMOUNT, EUMAMURRIN, SURAT, TEELBA, BEGONIA, WYCOMBE, YULEBA, JACKSON, NOONGA, WALLUMBILLA, MITCHELL, DUNKELD, AMBY & MUNGALLALA

Maranoa

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THE MARANOA IS LOCATED AT THE GATEWAY TO THE OUTBACK AND IS THE PERFECT PLACE TO BEGIN YOUR OUTBACK JOURNEY.

Roma is the main service centre for the region and is home to the site where natural gas was discovered for the first time in Australian history in 1900. Today, visitors can experience the fascinating history of the oil and gas industry at The Roma Big Rig. Each week the sale of up to 13,000 cattle takes place at Australia’s largest cattle selling centre – the Roma Saleyards.

FREE visitor tours are hosted on sale days, which are Tuesdays and Thursdays, weekly.

Australia is home to the world’s largest and deepest artesian basin, the Great Artesian Basin. Visitors can bathe in the ancient thermal, mineralised waters from the underground water source at the Great Artesian Spa in Mitchell. No visit to the Maranoa is complete without a journey along the route taken by the last Cobb & Co Coach Service in Australia in 1924, between Yuleba and Surat. Experience the history of an Australian icon with a visit to the Cobb & Co Changing Station

Museum in Surat. Then, be inspired by some of the world’s oldest and most unique Indigenous rock art in the world during a visit to Carnarvon National Park, from Injune.

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES

Injune Visitor Information Centre 32 Hutton Street, Injune Call 07 4626 0503 Roma Visitor Information Centre 2 Riggers Road, Roma Call 07 4622 8676

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES

Mitchell Visitor Information Centre Great Artesian Spa 2 Cambridge Street, Mitchell Call 07 4624 6923 Surat Visitor Information Centre Cobb & Co Changing Station, Surat 62 Burrowes Street Call 07 4626 5136 Wallumbilla Visitor Information Centre Calico Cottage Warrego Highway, Wallumbilla Call 07 4623 4244 E tourism@maranoa.qld.gov.au www.mymaranoa.org.au

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Cobb & Co Changing Station Museum, Surat Reconnect with the history of an Australian icon – The Cobb & Co Coach Service. See the magnificent 14 seat replica coach, the Surat on Balonne Art Gallery and an impressive 25,000L fresh water aquarium, located in the heart of Surat.

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[ THINGS TO DO ] The Roma Big Rig Oil & Gas Museum The original birthplace of the oil and gas industry in Australia, The Roma Big Rig exhibits a fascinating insight into the history of gas production in Australia.

Take a self-guided tour of the Oil Patch, experience the thrill of the Night Show, peruse the gift shop and enjoy a local treat at The Big Rig Café.

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Roma Saleyards Tours Every Tuesday and Thursday, visitors can experience the excitement of the sale of up to 13,000 cattle with a tour of Australia’s largest cattle selling centre!

The Great Artesian Spa, Mitchell Soak in the waters which come naturally from the Great Artesian Basin. With both warm and cool water baths, a café and gymnasium, a day at the spa in Mitchell will certainly leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Carnarvon National Park, Injune Home to the internationally renowned Carnarvon Gorge and Mt Moffatt, the magnificent sandstone cliffs and abundance of native flora and fauna simply MUST feature in your itinerary.

Carn ar

Inspiring natural landscapes, fascinating history and culture, unique attractions and experiences, and friendly locals.

Welcome to the Maranoa, the Gateway to the Outback.

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EVENTS

Roma Picnic Races and Black Tie Ball Roma 17-18 March 2017 www.romaraces.org.au Roma’s Easter in the Country Roma 13–17 April 2017 www.easterinthecountryroma.com.au Mitchell Camel & Pig Races Mitchell 26 August 2017 www.mymaranoa.org.au Roma Cup Roma 18 November 2017 www.romaraces.org.au

outbackqueensland.com.au 65

MARANOA REGION

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF ROMA, INJUNE, MITCHELL, SURAT, WALLUMBILLA, YULEBA, MUCKADILLA, AMBY, MUNGALLALA & JACKSON

ROMA & MUCKADILLA POPULATION 7,795

Characters of Injune Sculptures spotted throughout the township of Injune depict local characters who made a significant contribution to the town and their inspiring story.

WALLUMBILLA POPULATION 270

SURAT POPULATION 426

Located at the junction of the Warrego and Carnarvon Highways, Roma is home to a range of cafés, restaurants and specialty shops. Roma offers a touch of cosmopolitan lifestyle, without losing its relaxed country charm.

POINTS OF INTEREST

The Big Rig Oil & Gas Museum See ‘Things to do’ (on previous page).

Roma Saleyards Tours See ‘Things to do’ (on previous page).

The Windows of St Paul’s Anglican Church St Paul’s Anglican Church is home to a magnificent display of century old stained glass and leadlight windows.

Tours are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from April to October (inclusive) and are a wonderful insight into the history of the building.

The Avenue of Heroes This heritage-listed avenue of 140 bottle trees is a tribute to the fallen soldiers from the Roma District who lost their life in World War One. The Whistle Stop, Muckadilla Be sure to see the Leichhardt Monument, the Whistle Stop and the Native Gardens for a wonderful insight into the fascinating history and lifestyle of Muckadilla, to the west of Roma.

Located 40km east of Roma on the Warrego Highway, Wallumbilla is steeped in history, bound to keep you enthralled for hours.

QGAP

If you are looking to immerse yourself in a relaxed country lifestyle, then Surat is the place for you! Located 78km south of Roma you are sure to sense the inspiring community spirit during your stay in the beautiful outback town of Surat.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Cobb & Co Changing Station See ‘Things to do’ (on previous page).

Surat Riverside Parklands Take an afternoon stroll along the river and through the Surat Riverside Parklands to spot some of the local fauna and flora – enjoy a BBQ while you’re there! Camp on the bank of the river at Fisherman’s Park, just north of the CBD.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Carnarvon National Park See ‘Things to do’ (on previous page).

Lonesome National Park Experience the peace and tranquillity of the Arcadia Valley and the Dawson River from the Arcadia Valley Lookout, north of Injune.

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Wallumbilla Heritage Complex Stop in at the Calico Cottage Heritage Complex to experience the history of early settlement in the region and the lifestyle of many local residents.

Wallumbilla Railway Museum Learn about the tragic rail disaster that occurred at this site some 60 years ago.

MITCHELL, MUNGALLALA & AMBY POPULATION 955

YULEBA & JACKSON POPULATION 384 QGAP

Mitchell is located 87km west of Roma on the Warrego Highway. The people of Mitchell are proud to welcome you to their community to experience the wonderful lifestyle and cultural diversity of their vibrant town.

Located on the eastern border of the Maranoa region, 60km east of Roma, residents of Yuleba and Jackson are sure to welcome you into their charming communities.

Located 89km north of Roma, Injune is a quaint country town full of intriguing history, spectacular views and inspiring natural landscapes.

Calico Cottage Enjoy being welcomed into town with friendly, local smiles and good ‘old fashioned’ hospitality. Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea and take home some baked country treats and local crafts.

Aboriginal Interpretive Shelter Experience the history of local Indigenous families who lived in the area surrounding Surat.

INJUNE POPULATION 415

QGAP

POINTS OF INTEREST

POINTS OF INTEREST

Judd’s Lagoon Enjoy a picnic, spot the native flora and fauna and enjoy the spectacle of the waterlilies in bloom from December to May at Judd’s Lagoon.

Cobb & Co Way Relive Australia’s history with a day trip along the last route taken by an Australian icon to Surat.

Jackson Playshed This historic building was restored by locals and shares a great history of life on the land and the bygone years of the school yard for many local, rural students.

POINTS OF INTEREST

The Great Artesian Spa See ‘Things to do’ (on previous page).

Kenniff Brothers Experience the history of Australia’s last Bushrangers, the Kenniff Brothers. Be sure to visit the Kenniff Courthouse in Mitchell, Arrest Creek Monuments and Mount Moffatt section of Carnarvon National Park.

Meet the locals Relax with family and friends at ‘Spring Hill Country Craft Retreat’ in Amby, experience the history of an outback cattle station at ‘Bonus Downs Farmstay’ or see the spectacular scenery, native ecosystems and landforms on display at ‘Claravale Wilderness Experience’ from Mitchell.

Welcome to the Maranoa!

THE GATEWAY TO OUTBACK QUEENSLAND!

Here are our TOP 6 things to see and do...

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Carnarvon Gorge, Injune

The Great Artesian Spa, Mitchell

The Big Rig, Roma

Roma Saleyards Visitor Tours

Cobb & Co Changing Station Museum, Surat

Events and Festivals, Maranoa Region 1612028

1.

Call the Roma Visitor Information Centre on (07) 4622 8676, visit www.mymaranoa.org.au or email tourism@maranoa.qld.gov.au for more information and local tips!

Let us guide you to our favourite places – Download the ‘My Maranoa’ App FREE today!

Bonus Downs Farmstay

4566 Mitchell-Bollon Road, Mitchell P: 07 4623 1573 E: bonusdowns@bigpond.com www.bonusdownsfarmstay.com.au A genuine outback experience allowing guests to be part of living history. Accommodation ranges from cottage to caravans, RVs or camping and larger groups can BYO swags and camp out in a genuine Shearers Shed. Perfect for couples, families or groups. We cater for special events such as weddings, cultural evenings, workshops, meetings, travel famils, school excursions and fly-ins.

Injune Visitor Information Centre 32 Hutton Street, Injune P: 07 4626 0503 E: injunevic@maranoa.qld.gov.au www.visitinjune.com.au

Call in for a free cuppa and information on – ■ Injune & Surrounds ■ Carnarvon Gorge & Mt Moffatt ■ Lonesome, Beilba & Lake Nuga Nuga Great souvenirs, local crafts, free Wi-Fi and a smiling face!

Boobook Ecotours

15 Quintin Street, Roma P: 07 4622 2646 | E: info@boobook.biz www.boobooktours.com Day and extended tours available Guided by locally renowned ecologists and botanists ■ Exclusive private property access ■ Tours Include: – Discover Carnarvon Ranges – Wheat Wells & Wildlife – Wallaroo Wonders – Wildflower Wanders (seasonal) – Outback Workouts – Outback Hikes Other tour options available. Contact us to customise a tour to suit your needs. One hour flight Brisbane to Roma.

■ ■

Discover Great Deals as

An Outback Mate!

Visit an Outback Visitor Information Centre for more information! www.outbackmates.com.au Wedge-Tailed Eagle (Aquila audax) outbackqueensland.com.au 67

McKINLAY SHIRE

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF JULIA CREEK, McKINLAY, KYNUNA & NELIA

McKinlay

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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, the main service centre, is linked to Burke and Wills Junction by a fully sealed road thus earning the tagline ‘Gateway to the Gulf’. Julia Creek is home to the endangered Julia Creek dunnart.

We work really hard to raise the plight of our little mates by minimising their threats and educating the public. Make sure you stop by the Julia Creek Visitor Information Centre and meet a couple of cute but feisty fat-tailed dunnarts.

Nelia is a small outback town situated 50km east of Julia Creek. It is home to the world’s largest brolga sculptures, an art gallery and a range of accommodation options are available at Corella Creek Country Farm Stay. In the south of the shire are the towns of McKinlay and Kynuna. McKinlay boasts a visitor centre and library. McKinlay was made famous by the filming of ‘Crocodile Dundee’ and you can view a number of the original relics at the Walkabout Creek Hotel. It is believed that Banjo Paterson was inspired

to pen ‘Waltzing Matilda’ at Kynuna’s Combo Waterhole. It is said that the swagman and the squatter enjoyed their last drink at Kynuna’s Blue Heeler Hotel. Evidently, McKinlay Shire sits at the heart of Australian folklore. We hope you join us to connect with this rich tapestry of history or unearth our unbridled, natural beauty during your travels.

Julia Creek’s Free RV Friendly Site Julia Creek is proud to offer a free RV friendly site. Self-contained caravans and RVs (toilet and shower on board) can camp by the water’s edge of Julia Creek for 96 hours for FREE!

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Julia Creek Visitor Information Centre – ‘At the Creek’ 34 Burke Street, Julia Creek Call 07 4746 7690 E tourism@mckinlay.qld.gov.au Facebook.com/JuliaCreekVisitorInformationCentre www.atthecreek.com.au

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

McKinlay Tourist Centre and Library Middleton Street, McKinlay Call 07 4746 8848 E tourism@mckinlay.qld.gov.au

McKINLAY SHIRE

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Julia Creek Visitor Information Centre ‘At the Creek’ Make sure you stop by the Julia Creek Visitor Information Centre and meet a couple of cute but feisty fat-tailed dunnarts. While you’re here, have a chat with the friendly local staff who are dedicated to helping you experience all that Julia Creek, McKinlay Shire and Outback Queensland have to offer. ’At the Creek’ is a multi award winning Visitor Information Centre that has it all.

Paddock to Plate Long Table Lunches Julia Creek hosts Paddock to Plate Long Table Lunches featuring our hero local cuisine. Check availability at www.atthecreek.com.au.

EVENTS

Julia Creek and McKinlay Shire Tour Want to find out some funny local stories that you cannot find in brochures or online? Join us on our Julia Creek Tours and McKinlay Shire Tours. Check availability at www.atthecreek.com.au.

Julia Creek Campdraft 19-21 May 2017

Julia Creek Caravan Park Bush Dinners Every Monday night from April to September, the Julia Creek Caravan Park hosts Bush Dinners – a meal under the stars that you won’t forget. Whilst you’re tucking into your hearty meal, a local shares anecdotes about their daily lives in the outback. All are welcome to attend. Courtesy buses run from RV site.

Duncan McIntyre Museum and Julia Creek Opera House Keen to learn more about the area? Stop by the Duncan McIntyre Museum and the Julia Creek ‘Opera House’ (no singing involved – it was opened the same day as its Sydney namesake). Both are home to a range of displays and information highlighting the shire’s rich heritage.

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Julia Creek Dirt N Dust Festival 7-9 April 2017 www.dirtndust.com

McKinlay Races 22 July 2017 Saxby Round-Up 30 June – 2 July 2017 Julia Creek Turf Club Races 8 April, 25 June, 29 July, 23 September & 18 November Sedan Dip Races, Rodeo and Campdraft 18-20 August 2017 outbackqueensland.com.au 69

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McKINLAY SHIRE JULIA CREEK POPULATION 400

Located on the main street of Julia Creek, ‘At the Creek’ was the Outback Queensland Tourism Association’s and the Queensland Information Centre Association’s Visitor Centre of the Year in 2015. ‘Beneath the Creek’, the latest attraction at the centre, provides a hands-on interactive journey through many facets of life in the McKinlay Shire. Make sure you’re there for the daily dunnart feeding. The cute but feisty carnivorous marsupials can put on a show! This accredited attraction offers a great selection of travel information brochures, maps and an array of souvenirs that can only be found in Julia Creek. There is a free camping area along the water’s edge of Julia Creek. Suitable for selfsufficient RVs for a period of 96 hours, this is an ideal spot to indulge in some cheese and wine whilst enjoying the rich, golden hues of a famous Julia Creek sunset. Or why not jump on one of the cruiser bikes and head up town to sample some of the local produce. From April to September, be sure to attend the renowned Bush Dinners on Monday nights. Visitors can have a beautifully cooked meal and a chat with the locals and fellow tourists around a camp fire.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Duncan McIntyre Museum The Duncan McIntyre Museum houses relics synonymous with our past. On proud display is decommissioned machinery, fossils from the Eromanga Sea 110 million years ago and a display saluting Julia Creek’s prevalent wool heritage. Entry is free.

Julia Creek Historical Walk Obtain a map from the information centre and walk the 36 sign posted historical sites around Julia Creek to learn about the town’s colourful history.

Spirit of the Lighthorse Sculpture Standing proud at the Julia Creek RSL, Samson, the major sculpture was created by artist Sue Tilley from a range of vintage metal objects collected locally. Samson, together with the surrounding Light Horse Brigade silhouettes, form a prominent tribute to the spirit of the ANZACs. Water Tower At 30 metres tall, the wine glass shaped water tower is a landmark visible from up to 20km away. A blue light illuminates the water tower at night creating a truly unique photo opportunity.

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INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF JULIA CREEK, McKINLAY, KYNUNA & NELIA World War II Bunkers The remains of a Directional Finding Installation can be seen near the cattle sale yards, on the western side of town.

KYNUNA POPULATION 20

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. Entry is free.

Kynuna was first 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 country hotels. Kynuna is now home to just one, the famous Blue Heeler Hotel.

It is a recommended stop for all visitors.

Please be advised that the Kynuna/Julia Creek Road is now fully sealed.

McKINLAY POPULATION 20 McKinlay sprang up in the 1900s when the bore on the edge of the town was sunk to give a permanent water supply and became a service centre for the many surrounding stations. This little town, established more than 100 years ago, was once a staging post for Cobb & Co. coaches. It is best known for its pub, the Walkabout Creek Hotel which, together with the other buildings in town, featured in the movie ‘Crocodile Dundee’ which celebrated 30 years in 2016.

The McKinlay Tourist Centre and Library is Queensland’s smallest public library.

In Centenary Park a display features local cattle brands. Inside the adjacent museum, you will discover an original WWI Honour Roll and profiles of the heroics of our servicemen from this campaign. There is also a range of interesting local artefacts. April 2012 marked the 150th anniversary since John McKinlay discovered the area.

A statue of ‘Big John’ is located in Middleton Street, across from the park.

Out the front of the Crafty Old School House in Wylde Street is a sculpture of a Coolibah Tree locally handcrafted from vintage metal objects sourced from local cattle stations.

POINTS OF INTEREST

POINTS OF INTEREST

The Blue Heeler Hotel Built in 1889 as the Kynuna Hotel, it was one of three hotels trading for up to 700 people.

Today the hotel is the only building still on site that has any association with the first days of the song ‘Waltzing Matilda’. Banjo Paterson drank at the pub. Both squatter and swagman had their last drinks there.

Combo Waterhole The turnoff to the Combo Waterhole is on the Matilda (Landsborough) Highway 16km east of Kynuna and 153km north west of Winton. Access by conventional vehicles is possible except during wet weather.

A barbeque and picnic area is available at the car park ‘under the shade of a Coolibah Tree’. A 2.5km round trip takes you on a walk along cobbled paths to the waterhole, situated on the Diamantina River. Here you can enjoy a walk through the dry channels of the Diamantina to the famous waterhole, crossing historic stone pitched overshots built by Chinese labourers more than a century ago. The return walk takes 40 minutes. Camping is prohibited.

NELIA POPULATION 10

Walkabout Creek Hotel Coolibah Tree sculpture Centenary Park Library & Tourist Centre South32 Cannington Mine Located 87km south of McKinlay is 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 in 2008.

Nelia, located 52km east of Julia Creek, is a small town with a lot of character.

A range of accommodation options and outback experiences are available at the Corella Creek Country Farm Stay who also boast Wi-Fi, a small store, laundry and wildlife refuge. The Nelia Post Office celebrated its centenary in 2009 however is no longer operational.

While you’re there check out the art gallery and the world’s largest brolga sculptures.

Discover Great Deals as

An Outback Mate!

Julia Creek – 96hr RV Friendly Area

34 Burke Street, Julia Creek (‘At the Creek’ Visitor Information Centre) P: 07 4746 7690 | E: tourism@mckinlay.qld.gov.au www.atthecreek.com.au Suitable for self-contained RVs and Caravans (must have a toilet and shower on board), this FREE camping area adjacent to Julia Creek is an ideal spot to observe the wildlife or to wet the line. Cruiser bikes so you can pedal up town, water, picnic tables and bush camp cooks are all provided free of charge. On Monday nights from April to September, a courtesy bus will take you to the iconic Julia Creek Caravan Park Bush Dinners. Please obtain a permit from the Camp Hosts or Visitor Information Centre.

Accommodation | Restaurants | Merchandise | Gifts | Tours & More!

Visit an Outback Visitor Information Centre for more information! www.outbackmates.com.au ‘AT THE CREEK’ - Julia Creek

34 Burke Street, Julia Creek P: 07 4746 7690 | E: tourism@mckinlay.qld.gov.au www.atthecreek.com.au ■ ■ ■ ■

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2015 Outback Queensland Tourism Association’s Visitor Centre of the Year 2015 Queensland Visitor Information Centre Association’s Centre of the Year Brochures, maps, itineraries and travel bookings Interactive film, photographic and audio displays housed in historical fettler’s cottages featuring the region’s proud and honest history The new ‘Beneath the Creek’ experience lets you unearth Julia Creek’s geological and geographical features Free Wi-Fi Nocturnal viewing area of dunnarts + daily feeding shows



Julia Creek Caravan Park

Old Normanton Road, Julia Creek P: 07 4746 7108 | E: jccaravanpark@mckinlay.qld.gov.au www.jccaravanpark.com.au ■

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Award winning Bush Dinners Monday nights April–September New self-contained units Powered van sites Powered sites on grass for motor homes & camping Large grassed camping area Amenities blocks and laundry Well behaved pets welcome

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Camp kitchen–communal BBQ, TV, fridge & washing up facilities Waste dump point Nature walk to Julia Creek Walking distance to town centre, pool & indoor sports centre Free Wi-Fi Free cruiser bike hire Very friendly atmosphere

outbackqueensland.com.au 71

MOUNT ISA CITY

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF MOUNT ISA & CAMOOWEAL

Mount Isa

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AFFECTIONATELY KNOWN AS THE ‘OASIS OF THE OUTBACK’, MOUNT ISA IS A GLEAMING MIRAGE ON THE HORIZON FOR TRAVELLERS FROM ALL DIRECTIONS.

Nestled among the ochre-red Selwyn Ranges, on the banks of the Leichhardt River, Mount Isa is a bustling melting pot of culture and industry and also home to the world’s third largest rodeo. It’s grown from strength to strength over the years but the harsh picturesque landscape has barely changed, becoming one of the main draw-cards for visitors each year.

Mount Isa has ample places to fish, camp or relax and enjoy an outback sunset. The rugged terrain is a fourwheel-driver’s haven, and visitors can explore the region just as the pioneers of the region did many years ago.

Whether you find yourself in Mount Isa to work, play, live, or explore, there is an abundance of attractions and experiences to be had. The rugged beauty of the landscape and the outback sunsets are a photographer’s dream, the sporting opportunities are

plentiful, the nightlife and café scene is thriving, and mining experiences and fossil adventures are readily available.

Depending on the time of year, you may catch one of the best fishing competitions, or the biggest and most exciting Rodeo that Australia has to offer.

From cowboys to miners, urban living and country lifestyles; this city has it all, and has a lifestyle and holiday experience for everyone.

As a city, Mount Isa has grown from strength to strength over the years but the harsh picturesque landscape has barely changed, becoming one of Australia’s ‘must see’ destinations.

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Outback at Isa Visitor Information Centre 19 Marian Street, Mount Isa Call 07 4749 1555 E info@outbackatisa.com.au www.outbackatisa.com.au

MOUNT ISA CITY

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[ THINGS TO DO ] Outback at Isa A must see is the Outback at Isa complex, incorporating the award winning Riversleigh Fossil Centre, Hard Times Mine, Sir James Foots Building, Outback Park and Visitor Information Centre. The Hard Times Mine is a working replica mine designed and operated by actual miners where you can gain an insight into the industry integral to Mount Isa’s economy.

Riversleigh Fossil Centre Educates and interprets for visitors the fossils extracted from the nearby Riversleigh fossil fields. These finds have been depicted as dioramas and exhibited in an authentic setting to illustrate the unique discoveries in one of the world’s richest fossil fields.

Mount Isa Rotary Rodeo The Isa Rodeo is the biggest and richest rodeo in the Southern Hemisphere. Held every August, it’s where the romance of the Australian Outback meets the grit of a mining town, where city meets country, east meets west, man meets beast. So saddle up, shine the spurs and don your cowboy hat – you’re in for one heck of a ride!

Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic Three days of onshore and offshore fun in October, the Fishing Classic is held at picturesque Lake Moondarra, 15km north of Mount Isa. The annual Moondarra Classic offers a program brimming with entertainment for all tastes and raises funds for re-stocking local impoundments with native fish species.

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EVENTS

Mount Isa Rotary Rodeo Mount Isa 11-13 August 2017 P: 07 4743 2706 www.isarodeo.com.au MineX Mount Isa 16-18 May 2017 P: 07 4743 9881 www.minexqld.com Mount Isa Agricultural Show Mount Isa 23-24 June 2017 P: 07 4749 1935 www.mountisashow.com.au Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic Mount Isa 27-29 October 2017 www.lakemoondarrafishingclassic.com.au outbackqueensland.com.au 73

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MOUNT ISA CITY MOUNT ISA POPULATION 22,000

From humble origins 90 years ago, Mount Isa has grown into a progressive city in the centre of Queensland’s desert heart, one of many of Mount Isa’s unique qualities. Located in prime cattle country, the city has enjoyed longevity unheard of when it comes to typical mining communities. Having celebrated its 90th birthday in 2013, the Isa is still going strong, still growing and attracting visitors to experience a true icon in the outback of Australia. In fact, it is widely considered that only once you visit the Isa do you become a ‘real’ Aussie.

Situated in the heart of the Carpentaria Mineral Province, the city harnesses one of the world’s richest mineral resources and is set amongst the brilliance of the Selwyn ranges.

But Mount Isa is not just about mining.

It is a family friendly city, rich with community pride. Mount Isa is a land of opportunity with regard to career, education, and lifestyle. From the Lake Moondarra Barramundi Fishing Classic, to the annual Isa Fest, Mount Isa’s allgenres music festival, along with ample retail and shopping facilities, there is a wide variety of attractions that make visiting, living, and working in the city such an attraction.

Located 1,829km from Brisbane, and 883km inland from Townsville, the closest major city, Mount Isa is the administrative, commercial and industrial centre for Queensland’s north West. The city shares a boundary with the Northern Territory to the west and includes the township of Camooweal, located 188km to the north west. This makes Mount Isa the second largest city in Australia.

With a population of 22,000, Mount Isa is the major service centre of the region and well equipped to meet the needs of residents and tourists alike with all the services and amenities you would find in a modern city. Shaped as it is by its rich mineral bounty and mining heritage, the Isa is a city unlike any other.

With no shortage of wide open spaces, red soil desertscapes, distinctive wildlife and things to explore and experience, the Isa is a must-visit on every traveller’s 74 outbackqueensland.com.au

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF MOUNT ISA & CAMOOWEAL agenda. Whether you are visitor to our shores or a born and bred Australian, once you’ve been to Mount Isa you’ve experienced the true heart of our amazing nation.

A top ten producer of some of the world’s most in-demand minerals, the city also boasts a number of hallmark and unique annual events including one of the biggest on the outback calendar, the Mount Isa Rodeo. Largest and best of its type in the southern hemisphere, the Isa Rodeo is held over three days during which the city opens its arms to visitors from all corners of the globe.

With a packed program of rodeo events including bull riding and steer wrestling plus live entertainment, races and rides, the Isa Rodeo is a must-see event.

Mount Isa is a vibrant, multicultural place, which attracts people from all corners of the globe, who have made this beautiful outback city their home.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Outback at Isa At Outback at Isa, Mount Isa's major tourism facility, you will find the Mount Isa Visitor Information Centre (VIC), Hard Times Mine Underground Tour, Isa Experience and Outback Park, the Mount Isa Regional Art Gallery, Riversleigh Fossil Centre, Mount Isa Fish Hatchery Project and the Outback Cafe.

City Lookout Located on Hilary Street, the lookout is the perfect place to take photos of Mount Isa and the Mines. The lookout provides a great 360 degree view of the city and the best time for photos is just on dusk.

Underground Hospital – Heritage Site The Underground Hospital on Deighton Street is a must see attraction for all visitors to Mount Isa. Built in 1942 following the bombing of Darwin, the Underground Hospital is one of a kind.

School of the Air Tour Located in Abel Smith Parade, next to Spinifex Senior Campus, the Mount Isa School of Distance Education provides tours at 10.00am Monday to Friday during school terms. $2.50 per adult. No on air lessons on Fridays.

Family Fun Park Mount Isa’s largest play and water park is perfect for the kids.

Located on Church Street, entry is free, with toilets and free BBQ facilities. Open every day, except Wednesday, the park offers water play, climbing frames and flying foxes.

Hard Times Underground Mine Tour The 3 hour Underground Mine Tour

operates 7 days a week. Bookings are essential and can be made by calling Outback at Isa. All equipment is provided, including boots, however participants are asked to bring a pair of socks.

CAMOOWEAL POPULATION 300

Situated 191km from Mount Isa is the small and extremely hospitable country town of Camooweal. Known as the gateway to the Northern Territory and Queensland, the town is home to a rich history and rural lifestyle. The Barkly Highway which joins Mount Isa to Camooweal is considered the longest main street in the world, at 188km long.

The Camooweal district is honeycombed with rare sink holes and caves, dating back to the Cambrian Period, about 500 million years ago. Those visitors experienced in serious caving will discover a whole new world beneath the Camooweal region.

While in Camooweal make sure you visit the Barkly Tableland Heritage Centre, Camooweal Caves National Park and the Drovers Camp Information Centre.

POINTS OF INTEREST

The Drovers Camp – Heritage Site The Drovers Camp is situated 188km from Mount Isa on the Barkly Highway, 1km from Camooweal on the eastern outskirts. Here the droving era of Australia is being preserved for future generations.

Camooweal Caves National Park Located 15km south of Camooweal, The Indjalandji-Dhidhanu People welcome you to their traditional country and ask that you respect and enjoy their special place. Wide expanses of Mitchell grass plains and spinifex woodland are protected in this park on the Barkly Tableland, a peaceful place for travellers to rest and ideal for seasonal birdwatching.

ibis Styles Mt Isa

Cnr Camooweal Street & Rodeo Drive, Mt Isa P: 07 4743 3024 (reservations) E: h0575@accor.com The ibis Styles Mount Isa is located in the heart of Mount Isa and features 57 rooms, a pool with BBQ area, a restaurant and bar and free off street parking.

All bookings receive complimentary continental breakfast.

Adels Grove Situated on Lawn Hill Creek and only 10km from Lawn Hill Gorge with road and air access

Adels Grove is adjacent to spectacular Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park in North West Queensland. This tropical oasis provides a range of accommodation, meals on the open deck overlooking the pristine Lawn Hill Creek and activities including bush walking, bird watching, canoeing, cruise and guided tours.

Bookings are essential

Outback At Isa

19 Marian Street, Mount Isa P: 07 4749 1555 | E: info@outbackatisa.com.au www.experiencemountisa.com Get hands on with mining at the Hard Times Mine underground tour, explore Australia’s ancient past in the Riversleigh Fossil Centre, discover Mount Isa’s pioneering history in the Isa Experience, check out the native flora and fauna in the Outback Park and the native fish in the Mount Isa Fish Stocking Group display. All in one place, at Outback at Isa. While you’re here, why not have a coffee at our café, or grab a souvenir in the gift shop. Still want more? How about exploring the onsite art gallery or planning your trip in the award winning Visitor Information Centre.

07 4748 5502

info@adelsgrove.com.au adelsgrove.com.au

ISARODEO.COM.AU

Bell & Moir Toyota

Accommodation | Restaurants | Merchandise | Gifts | Tours & More!

Visit an Outback Visitor Information Centre for more information!

Discover Great Deals as

An Outback Mate!

www.outbackmates.com.au outbackqueensland.com.au 75

MURWEH REGION

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF CHARLEVILLE, MORVEN, AUGATHELLA & COOLADDI

CHARLEVILLE HOUSES A POPULATION OF APPROXIMATELY 3300 AND IS A PASTORAL AREA WITH A RICH HISTORY DATING BACK AS FAR AS 1847.

CHARLEVILLE HAS RISEN ABOVE AND PROSPERED MANY A DROUGHT AND FLOOD AND PLAYED A SIGNIFICANT PART IN AUSTRALIA’S EARLY PIONEER HISTORY. Did you know that it was in Charleville that Cobb and Co had their largest and longest running coach making factory and it was also Charleville that the famous rainmaking experiment, the Vortex Gun was carried out?

For an experience you will never forget – come, visit Charleville and experience the great Aussie Outback at its best.

Murweh

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There are so many activities and attractions to see and experience in the Murweh Shire. Charleville is known for sensational star gazing and beautiful bilbies, Historic House Museum and so

much more. You will need more than a few days to experience everything Charleville has to offer.

Morven, a quintessential Outback town is home to a marvellous miniature pioneer village and unique Kerosene Tin Hut while Augathella celebrates real Aussie Outback history and heritage with murals and is home to Australia’s Huckleberry Finn – Smiley!

We would love to welcome you to majestic Murweh Shire for a true blue Australian Outback experience. Come and visit ‘Murweh, where memories are made’. We’ll see you soon mate!

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Charleville Visitor Information Centre Milky Way, Charleville Call 07 4654 3057 E tourism@murweh.qld.gov.au www.murweh.qld.gov.au

MURWEH REGION

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[ THINGS TO DO ] Charleville Cosmos Centre & Observatory One great centre, many great astronomy experiences. View distant stars and planets through powerful telescopes. Learn how to read the night sky, view the sun through a telescope and hold a shooting star in your hand!

Top Secret WW2 Tour Find out what secret the Americans were hiding and be absorbed by the fascinating history. Your guide will unveil an incredible story of the time when the world was at war and Charleville was in the centre of it all.

The Top Secret WW2 Tour is available daily and can be booked through the Charleville Visitor Information Centre.

Meet the Endangered Bilby Meeting this delightful marsupial is a highlight for many visitors to Charleville.

Join the dedicated volunteers who will share their knowledge and passion for the preservation of the bilby to ensure their survival and if you’re in town mid September, get your 1930s gear ready for the ‘Fur Ball’ at the Charleville Bilby Festival.

Morven Historical Museum (Featuring Miniature Building Display and a Kerosene Tin Hut) We guarantee you will never see anything like this amazing collection.

Fifteen years in the making, the tiny buildings of the pioneer village will amaze you as will the Kerosene Hut.

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EVENTS

The ‘Halfway There’ Shindig Charleville 30 June 2017 www.facebook.com/ WhatsoninCharleville4470 Bilby Festival Charleville 8-10 September 2017 www.facebook.com/ WhatsoninCharleville4470 Smiley Festival Augathella 23-25 June 2017 www.facebook.com/ WhatsoninCharleville4470 Morven Races Morven 27 May & 9 September 2017 www.facebook.com/ WhatsoninCharleville4470 outbackqueensland.com.au 77

MURWEH REGION

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF CHARLEVILLE, MORVEN, AUGATHELLA & COOLADDI

CHARLEVILLE POPULATION 3,300

QGAP

through Wrought Iron Sculptures and Murals.

Thurlby Station Tour Angellala Bridge Explosion Site Warrego River Walk Donna Reynolds Studio of Arts Made in Murweh Shop

MORVEN POPULATION 250 QGAP

Have you ever looked 16,000 light years into space or seen the rings of Saturn? All this and more is on display 7 days a week at the Cosmos Centre and Observatory!

The Bilby Experience is a highlight for both locals and visitors alike. You’re guaranteed to see a bilby, learn what’s threatening their existence, what the Bilby Centre are doing to ensure their survival and how you can help ensure their ongoing happiness and prosperity.

Hear the fascinating story of Charleville Pioneer Harry ‘Poppa’ Corones who made Australian history several times throughout his life on the Heritage Hotel Corones ‘Stories & Scones’ Tour.

A visit to the Vortex Rainmaking Gun will uncover measures that were taken to break great droughts. Find out what secret the Americans were safeguarding here during the Second World War on the Top Secret WW2 Tour.Charleville, History at every turn!

You can find out how the weather is predicted from a balloon at the Weather Station Balloon Release. Visit the RFDS Visitor Centre or go behind the scenes on the RFDS Hangar Tour (why not do both).

Get a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the area on an Outback Air Services Flight and sit in on a lesson of the largest classroom in the world at the School of Distance Education. You can sit back and relax as you Check Out Charleville on a fully guided 2 hour Flood, Fire & History Town Bus Tour. The list of fabulous activities and attractions just goes on.

On June 30 we celebrate our ‘Half Way there Shindig’, stop over for a party on your way to the Big Red Bash.

‘Murweh, Where memories are made’.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Astronomy by day (Cosmos) Sun Viewing (Cosmos) Historic House Museum Rock Wallabies Audio Heritage Trail Outback Native Timber Walk 78 outbackqueensland.com.au

Morven may be small but don’t let that fool you, it is home to many amazingly unique hidden treasures. Stop in and stay a while.

Morven Historical Museum is not your typical museum. Home to numerous items of local memorabilia, features of the museum include a unique locally handcrafted collection of miniature buildings, each one an exact replica of an early Morven building. Also in the grounds step inside and check out the authentic hut made solely from flattened kerosene tins, constructed as cheap housing during the great depression of the 1930s!

Enjoy a break and picnic overlooking Sadler’s Waterhole at Hamburg Creek.

This picturesque setting was once a stopover for bullock teams and Cobb & Co. For nature with a twist, visit Tregole National Park. What is the twist you ask? This park features a forest of rare rainforest oriented Ooline trees; to see them thriving this far west is incredible.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Branding Board Rabbit Board Gate Morven Races Dick Baker Shed & Machinery Display Lone Pine Tree

AUGATHELLA POPULATION 430

QGAP

Augathella is famous for its history of bushrangers, bullockies and bullock teams. Stop in and take the time to have a look around.

As you travel down the main street, watch as the town’s history unfolds

While you’re still on the history trail, don’t just drive by Boadicea Art Gallery & Cinema, pop in. It is here you’ll discover more fascinating history through photographs, and screenings of the ‘Outback to Augathella’ documentary and the 1956 ‘Smiley’ film based on a well-known local identity. Should you plan to be in Augathella in late June, stay for the Smiley Festival and take you back to your youth?

The Meat Ant Park has some interesting features, but why name the park after a meat ant you may ask? It is named after the town’s highly competitive football team, the ‘Mighty Augathella Meat Ants’. Set in picturesque gardens, features include a gigantic Meat Ant sculpture, town history boards, the Q150 Celebrations Touring Shed and your one stop shop on all things Augathella, the Library and Visitor Information Centre.

If you’re in the area around Easter, in true Outback style, get dust between your toes at the annual Diggers Rodeo and Races. Hundreds flock to town for this prolific Easter event, why not come and join them?

POINTS OF INTEREST

Heritage Walks Keniff Tree Augathella Post Office Visitor Information Centre Augathella Cemetery Wrought Iron Sculptures Murals Home to Australia’s Huckleberry Finn – Smiley

COOLADDI POPULATION 4

On the way to Quilpie Opal Fields you will travel through the quaint little township of Cooladdi. With a population of 4, Cooladdi is one of Queensland’s smallest towns. Call in to the roadhouse and say G’day and have a yarn. Chances are you’ll meet just about everyone while you are there. There is great fishing and camping nearby at Quillberry Creek.

POINTS OF INTEREST Heritage Trail Fishing & Camping

• FREE WIFI Hotspot

THE ROCKS MOTEL AND ON THE ROCKS RESTAURANT

WHERE CITY STYLE MEETS COUNTRY HOSPITALITY For travellers who appreciate that little bit extra, our motel and restaurant have rightly earned their reputation as THE place to stay and dine when visiting Charleville.  No 1 TripAdvisor Motel and Restaurant in Charleville  20 modern and stylish rooms.. surrounded by landscaped gardens and a swimming pool  Located in the centre of town  Modern Australian Cuisine offered in a relaxed dining format  Studio rooms offer coffee machines and mini bar  Studio Garden View rooms have the additional convenience of microwave ovens and toasters  Self Catering Family rooms with a separate bedroom  Free Airport transfers  Free Wi-Fi  Reasonable Room Rates.. you’ll be surprised BOOK NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT

Charleville Bush Caravan Park & Cottage

OPPOSITE VISITOR INFO CENTRE

74 Wills Street, Charleville P: 07 4654 2888 E: bookings@rocksmotel.com.au www.rocksmotel.com.au

Lot 1 Frawley Street, Charleville P: 0428 545 200 | E: info@travelwest.com.au www.charlevillecaravanpark.com.au

Set on 62 acres, offering caravanners a relaxed and friendly bush setting just 2km from town. Sit and chat with fellow travellers around the campfire and enjoy happy hour ‘camp oven’ treats and Sunday night pizza night!

■ Non-Smokers Only & No Pets ■ Mobile, internet & TV ■ Birdwatchers love it here!

■ Check Out Charleville Town Tour ■ Fully self-contained cottage ■ 32 Powered drive thru sites ($30pn) ■ 4WD Motel Accommodated Tag Along Tour to Birdsville, Innamincka & the Corner Country – www.travelwest.com.au

Evening Star Tourist Park

818 Adavale Road, Charleville P: 07 4654 2430 | E: eveningstarvanpark@gmail.com www.eveningstar.com.au

Cobb & Co. Caravan Park

1 Ridgeway Street, Charleville P: 07 4654 1053 E: john@caravanparkscharleville.com.au

We invite you to come and relax in our beautiful and spacious rural surrounds.

Enjoy the magic of the Queensland outback with her brilliant night sky. Winner of the 2016 Mulga Awards for Natural Resource Management Tourism.

■ Huge drive through sites with easy access with lots of room to move ■ Clean, spacious amenities with disabled access and laundry facilities ■ Licensed bar, camp kitchen with free BBQ and washing up area ■ Station tours onto adjacent Thurlby Station – a world class grazing property ■ Pet friendly park and a birdwatcher’s paradise  Free Wi-Fi ■ New wash down bay for vehicle and caravan hygiene (fee applies) ■ Numerous bush walks, historic woolshed and machinery memorabilia to explore

Bilby (Macrotis)

Friendly & Welcoming – At Cobb & Co. Caravan Park you will enjoy a quiet, peaceful bushland setting.

■ Coffee shop ■ Plenty of shade ■ Powered & unpowered sites ■ Large / long vehicle drive-thru sites ■ 2 amenities blocks ■ Coin operated laundries ■ 2 dump points ■ Disabled facilities ■ Ensuited & air-conditioned self-contained cabins ■ Camp kitchens ■ Pets on application ■ Happy hour campfire John and the team look forward to having you stay.

outbackqueensland.com.au 79

BE AMAZED VISIT THE CHARLEVILLE COSMOS CENTRE & OBSERVATORY WHERE THE STARS SHINE

Astronomy by day

Meteorites displays

Sun viewing by day

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL    

07 4654 7771 enquiries@cosmoscentre.com 1 Milky Way, Charleville, Qld 4470 www.cosmoscentre.com

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PAROO SHIRE

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF CUNNAMULLA, EULO, YOWAH & WYANDRA

ARRIVE AS STRANGERS, LEAVE AS FRIENDS!

The four towns of the Paroo Shire may be small but what they lack in numbers they sure make up for in iconic outback hospitality and enthusiasm. The communities of Cunnamulla, Eulo, Yowah and Wyandra encourage you to embrace the country lifestyle and live like a local.

Relaxation, adventure, history and nature! There is something on offer for travellers of any age. Let us be the country cousins you never had, take our hand and jump on in as we show you all the hidden secrets of our region.

Paroo

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Experience life as a grazier on one of the magical station stays – breathtaking sunsets, night skies lit by a carpet of stars like nothing you will find in the city and an ever changing countryside. See why The Great Artesian Basin is one of Australia’s most precious resources and the lifeblood of the outback. The

combination of vibrant red sands and brilliant blue skies that feature in our region make it a photographer’s paradise.

Come along as we show you what to look for in the Yowah opal fields and maybe even find your fortune. Unwind in the famous Artesian Mud Baths or get the adrenalin racing as you ‘surf the sandhills’.

So don’t be shy, pull up a seat at the local watering hole and have a yarn to the characters of the bush. Everybody has a story to tell and we invite you to become a part of our next chapter.

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Cunnamulla Fella Centre 2 Jane Street, Cunnamulla Call 07 4655 8470 F 07 4655 1120 E cunnamullainfo@paroo.qld.gov.au www.paroo.info

PAROO SHIRE

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Artesian Time Tunnel The Artesian Time Tunnel in the Cunnamulla Fella Centre offers visitors an opportunity to gain an understanding of the Artesian Basin as well as view the stunning works of art housed in the centre’s gallery.

While you wander through the museum and gallery gain an insight into what shaped this unique area we call home.

Eulo Air Raid Shelter What could easily be mistaken as a very large rusty corrugated iron dog kennel to the unknowing eye is in fact a reminder of Australia’s war time history. Eulo lay on the direct flight path from Darwin to Melbourne and was also a communication link used to wire information between the major centres.

Yowah Bluff The Yowah bluff is a stunning 50 metre elevation point in an otherwise flat region. This allows for a breathtaking 180° view of the area. With in excess of 215 species of vertebrates recorded in the region this is a perfect vantage point to see how many you can spot.

Wyandra Powerhouse Museum The Powerhouse was moved to Wyandra in 1955. It has been transformed into a museum of a bygone era and runs tours on a daily basis from April to October hosted

by Grant Bradford who is a wealth of knowledge on the items displayed.

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[ THINGS TO DO ]

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Embrace the country lifestyle and live like a local.

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EVENTS

Music in the Mulga Eulo 18-21 May 2017 www.musicinthemulga.com.au Cunnamulla Fella Festival Cunnamulla 25-27 August 2017 www.cunnamullafellafestival.com.au Noorama Picnic Races Cunnamulla 8 April 2017 www.nooramaracing.com.au Yowah Opal Festival Yowah 14-17 July 2017 www.opalhut.com.au Wyandra Gymkhana Wyandra 28 October 2017

outbackqueensland.com.au 83

PAROO SHIRE CUNNAMULLA POPULATION 1,300

Situated on the banks of the Warrego River, Cunnamulla is an unexpected oasis. Boasting beautiful streetscapes and activities to entice any traveller, this picturesque country town offers something for everyone.

What is the significance of the Robbers Tree?

Why is the railway platform different to most in Queensland?

What is the War Memorial in the town centre?

Why is the Artesian Basin so important?

So many questions to be answered but also remember to stop and smell the roses!!!!!

POINTS OF INTEREST

Artesian Time Tunnel & Cultural Theatre Take a trip back in time and hear the story on the Great Artesian Basin which flows beneath 1/5th of Australia and is the lifeblood of the Outback.

Cunnamulla Bushlands The Cunnamulla bushlands, located on the eastern entrance to the town, showcases some of the area’s superb ecosystems as you leisurely stroll along the 1.6km trail.

Heritage Trail History abounds as you discover the town.

Bowra Sanctuary For those with a greater appetite for birdwatching, Bowra Wildlife Sanctuary is only a hop, skip and a jump from town, playing host to over 200 species of birds.

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF CUNNAMULLA, EULO, YOWAH & WYANDRA

EULO POPULATION 108

Home to the infamous ‘Eulo Queen’, Eulo is one of outback Queensland’s hidden treasures. With a rich history and an abundance of local product and produce as well as arts, crafts, opals and more, this small town is one not to miss.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Artesian Mud Baths Soak in the warm Artesian water impregnated with Artesian mud, then pat on your mud pack to let your skin soak in the goodness from this mineral rich product.

Diprotodon Eulo has one of the densest Mega Fauna fields in Australia. The Diprotodon statue welcomes you into Eulo and there are fossils on display in the store.

Artesian Mud Springs Visit the natural release valves for the Artesian Basin only 12km west of Eulo.

Paroo River Spend some time relaxing, fishing or birdwatching on the Paroo, the last remaining free flowing river in the northern part of the Murray-Darling Basin.

where you can get some tips from the locals before trying your luck fossicking for your own opals. With an all are welcome attitude, the residents of Yowah invite you to join in the many activities they have on offer.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Opal Fossicking After getting your fossicking licence try your hand at finding your fortune in Yowah’s designated fossicking area. Many of the locally found opals are displayed in the various opal galleries around the town.

Open Air Bore Baths After a long day’s travelling or fossicking, soak in the rejuvenating waters of the Artesian Basin.

The Bluff This wonder of nature lets you marvel at 180º views and scenic sunsets. This is definitely a land of beauty.

Nine Hole Golf Course If extreme sports are your thing then you have found the right place to have a hit of golf. Yowah’s nine hole golf course made up of sand greens and earth fairways is the perfect way to finish off your day while visiting this rare gem of a township.

WYANDRA POPULATION 116

YOWAH POPULATION 142

Take a short detour off the main road to visit the friendly opal town of Yowah

A great area to have a break half way between Cunnamulla and Charleville, Wyandra is a small township that welcomes tired travellers. Take some time to have a cool drink at the Gladstone Hotel and catch up with the locals.

POINTS OF INTEREST

The Beach You won’t find a more beautiful spot on the river to spend the day.

Powerhouse Museum The old Powerhouse used to supply electricity to the town and now it houses some great nostalgia for locals and travellers alike.

Post Office and Outdoor Cinema Grab a meal, have a game of Putt Putt or watch an old movie in the ‘one of a kind’ Outdoor Cinema.

Heritage Trail Follow the Heritage trail and discover some of the rich history of the area.

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Charlotte Plains Outback Magic Cunnamulla

Airstrip: Length 940m S28º 04’ E146º 11’ P: 07 4655 4923 | E: charlotteplains@gmail.com www.charlotteplains.com.au

Experience a real OUTBACK Station-stay, on 27,000 HECTARES (half the size of Singapore). Soak in nature’s hot mineral spa bath from deep below the earth’s surface. Wonder at the history, vastness, sheep, cattle, emus, roos, birdlife and sunrises. A variety of accommodation and camping is available. Don’t forget the property tours of the shearing shed, station cemetery and home of memorabilia. Photograph the spectacular wildflowers from approximately September.

Dine under a galaxy of stars by the open campfire. Free Wi-Fi at homestead. Dogs permitted.

Dream and enjoy real outback magic.

Cunnamulla, Eulo, Yowah & Wyandra Live like a local

 Find yourself in Cunnamulla, Eulo, Wyandra and the Opal town of Yowah  Experience the Artesian Time Tunnel which will take you back in time 100 million years  Visit the Cunnamulla Fella Centre, Art Gallery & Museum Heritage Exhibition  Explore natural and cultural heritage trails or book a guided tour

For your FREE travel pack...

Cunnamulla Fella Centre, Jane St, Cunnamulla QLD 4490 Phone: (07) 4655 8470 Fax: (07) 4655 1120 Email: cunnamullainfo@paroo.qld.gov.au Web: www.paroo.info

Paroo Shire - Experience the bigger things in life in our little western towns

Emu in the Paddock (Dromaius novaehollandiae) outbackqueensland.com.au 85

QUILPIE SHIRE

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF QUILPIE, EROMANGA, ADAVALE, TOOMPINE & CHEEPIE

Quilpie

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THE QUILPIE SHIRE IS LOCATED IN THE HEART OF SOUTH WEST QUEENSLAND AND IS THE GATEWAY TO THE CHANNEL COUNTRY. IT IS A FANTASTIC DESTINATION ON YOUR AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK TREK!

The Quilpie Shire is the fifth largest shire in Queensland and covers an area of 67,482 square kilometres. At the hub of the shire is the largest town and main business centre for the shire, Quilpie. Quilpie has all the necessities and many of the luxuries you might need while on your outback journey and is even an RV friendly town.

they are a must visit while you are in the Quilpie Shire.

With so much to see and do in this one region of the Outback why don’t you stay a day........and make memories for a lifetime.

Discover the incredible palaeontological history of the Eromanga area, fossick for the stunning boulder opal at Toompine’s local fossicking areas or explore the beauty of the national parks that Adavale is gateway to.

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Quilpie is a great place from where you can fossick for opals, visit the local museums and learn of the very proud history of the area or even use as a base for day trips around the remainder of the shire.

Quilpie Visitor Information Centre, Museum & Gallery 51 Brolga Street, Quilpie Call 07 4656 0540 E: tourism@quilpie.qld.gov.au www.visitquilpieshire.com

Eromanga, Adavale, Toompine and Cheepie are all perfectly located as day trip options from Quilpie and with the unique histories these towns all have,

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday 8am – 5pm Saturday – Sunday 9am – 2pm (March – October only)

QUILPIE SHIRE

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St Finbarr’s Church Don’t miss the stunning display of opal in our local church. Kindly donated back in the day.....the altar, lectern and font are a must see!!

Hell Hole Gorge National Park Recently re-opened, this park is a stunning display of nature at its finest!

Only 180km north of Quilpie it is a perfect destination for a day trip or a few nights’ camping. Be sure to pick up an information sheet and map at the Quilpie Visitor Information Centre before travelling.

Eromanga Natural History Museum The Eromanga Natural History Museum is a working museum displaying some of the tiniest grains of 95-million-year-old pollen spores to the mightiest dinosaur, ‘Cooper’, Australia’s largest dinosaur, which was discovered in the Eromanga area. The museum offers 4 guided tours per day, 7 days a week.

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[ THINGS TO DO ] Quilpie Visitor Information Centre, Museum & Gallery Your one stop shop for all things Quilpie Shire! The friendly local staff will ensure you get the most out of your stay in the Quilpie Shire and with the adjoining Museum, Gallery & Military History Museum this should be your first stop when arriving in town!

Plus, with free Wi-Fi access available you can keep in contact with your loved ones in air-conditioned comfort!

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Did you know that in 2017 Quilpie will be celebrating its Centenary? Join in the celebrations from 26th - 30th April.

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EVENTS

Eromanga Rodeo & Campdraft Easter Weekend Quilpie Centenary Celebrations April Adavale Rodeo & Gymkhana April Quilpie Cup May Outback Fringe Festival July Kangaranga Do Street Party August Quilpie Show & Rodeo September

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QUILPIE SHIRE

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF QUILPIE, EROMANGA, ADAVALE, TOOMPINE & CHEEPIE

QUILPIE POPULATION 654

Make your first stop the Quilpie Visitor Information Centre, Museum & Gallery where the friendly staff will ensure you get the most out of your visit to the shire. Visit the onsite museum and gallery then head next door to the Quilpie Shire Military History Museum.

Admire the murals and sculptures in the main street. Eagle Gallery and 27 Gallery Coffee are visual delights displaying artwork by gifted local artists and unique handcrafted jewellery and sculptures.

Quilpie is home to the exquisite boulder opal. Visit the opal shops where you can purchase souvenirs, jewellery and display pieces made from this beautiful gem. Try your luck at the free opal fossicking area and visit St Finbarr’s Church and admire the stunning opal altar, lectern and font.

Check out the literal ‘End of the Railway Line’, the old Powerhouse Museum and the Mini Museum at the airport, dedicated to the old woolscour and the unexpected landing of Amy Johnson or take a stroll along the Bulloo River Walk.

Annual events include Quilpie Diggers Race Day, Outback Fringe Festival, Kangaranga Do Street Party, Quilpie & District Show & Rodeo and Pride of the West Festival. Visit the Quilpie Shire website at www.visitquilpieshire.com for dates of all shire events.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Quilpie Visitor Information Centre With visitor information, museum, gallery and Military History Museum, ensure this is your first stop upon arrival.

Baldy Top Lookout A short walk to the top will reward you with an amazing view of beautiful ‘Outback Queensland’.

EROMANGA POPULATION 45 Eromanga is famous on several counts, firstly for being the furthest town from the sea and secondly for the oil production in the area and thirdly for the significant palaeontological discoveries of Australia’s largest dinosaurs on a property near Eromanga. Several 88 outbackqueensland.com.au

dinosaurs have been unearthed and the area is being heralded by scientists as the most exciting and prolific dinosaur site in Australia. The bones and other exciting discoveries are displayed in the Eromanga Natural History Museum.

Visit the Eromanga Living History Centre which incorporates a museum and object theatre and learn the history of the surrounding area. View a self-operated film in the Theatre Room. Some of the many topics covered are oil exploration, early pastoral pioneers, opal mining and much more. The centre is unmanned, so collect the key from the Eromanga Royal Hotel which is an original building dating from 1885 and was once a Cobb & Co Staging Post.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Eromanga Living History Centre Learn of the history of the area at this local museum and enjoy the self-operated film in the Theatre Room.

Eromanga Natural History Museum Where once the dinosaurs roamed… these finds are simply amazing and on display for your viewing pleasure.

TOOMPINE POPULATION 2 Toompine, known as ‘The Pub without a Town’, was once a thriving community serviced by Cobb & Co with regular coach schedules. All that remains today from the early pioneering days is the Toompine Hotel (circa 1893).

The local ‘Cemery’ is just a kilometre down the road; ask for directions and the story behind the name. Obtain a fossicking

licence and try your luck at finding a beautiful opal at nearby Duck Creek and Sheep Station Creek Opal Mines.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Toompine Pub Learn of the history of this Cobb & Co. Staging Post.

Fossick For Opal At the designated fossicking areas of Duck Creek and Sheep Station Creek.

ADAVALE POPULATION 25 Once a thriving town and business centre, changing the planned railway from Adavale to what is now Quilpie, was the beginning of the end for this pioneering town’s prosperity.

Graves dating from the early 1800s are a testament to the harsh lifestyle and daily struggle of the early settlers. And with national parks in the area it’s a great place for a visit.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Police Hut Museum Visit the museum which is actually the old Adavale jail cell.

National Parks Hell Hole Gorge, Mariala and Idalia.

CHEEPIE POPULATION 1 This tiny town was first surveyed in 1914 and at its peak Cheepie was a thriving community with several established businesses. All that remains is the old Railway Siding Building and a private residence.

Racing in the Red Corner

Quilpie Diggers Race Club P: 0428 561 461 | FB: Facebook.com/quilpiediggers www.quilpiediggers.com The Centenary of Quilpie Cup: 6 May 2017 Celebrate Quilpie’s 100th Birthday with the opening of the new Bulloo Park Complex, meet celebrity guests, enjoy President’s Shout, live bands and Fashions on the Field!

Pride of the West Festival: 22 & 23 September 2017 Station horses gallop for the title Pride of the West with Fashions on the Field, bookies, Sky Channel, live bands, Two Handed Cutting.

Discover Great Deals as

An Outback Mate!

Visit an Outback Visitor Information Centre for more information!

www.outbackmates.com.au

Eastern Grey Kangaroo (Macropus giganteus)

THE SECRET IS OUT THE NATURAL SCIENCES LOOP includes Birds, Fossils, Mega Fauna, Lakes, Rivers, Outback Stars, Artesian Water, Opals, Fossicking, Outback Plants, Geology, Wildlife and more!

THERE IS A CORNER IN QUEENSLAND JUST WAITING FOR YOU TO DISCOVER!

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR A MAP, CONTACT THE OUTBACK VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES: Thargomindah Ph 07 4621 8095 tourism@bulloo.qld.gov.au

Quilpie Ph 07 4656 0540 tourism@quilpie.qld.gov.au

Cunnamulla Ph 07 4655 8470 cunnamullainfo@paroo.qld.gov.au

Charleville Ph 07 4654 3057 tourism@murweh.qld.gov.au

outbackqueensland.com.au 89

RICHMOND SHIRE INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF RICHMOND & MAXWELTON

Richmond

RICHMOND IS SITUATED HALF WAY BETWEEN TOWNSVILLE AND MOUNT ISA ON THE FLINDERS HIGHWAY.

Its main industries include agriculture, tourism and some mining. The town is most famous for its fossils and world renowned museum Kronosaurus Korner.

With a population of 1,000 in the shire which covers 26,000 square kilometres, the town of Richmond is the central service centre. The town itself features a man-made lake known as Lake Fred Tritton, named after the late Fred Tritton and former Mayor. The lake offers a range of recreational activities from skiing, fishing and swimming. In the early morning and late afternoon the walkers around the lake set quite a pace. It is also an outstanding place for a BBQ or picnic, try some of the snags from the local butcher, the Sausage King (apparently the chili sausages have quite a bite and the locals will be happy to share their colloquial name for them).

Richmond welcomes all travellers.

Accommodation can be found in one of the three motels, two pubs or the caravan park. Free RV camping with

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dumpsite is also available. Meals can be found at Moonrock Cafe, Treats For Your Table, local pubs and motel. Two grocery shops, mechanic, fuel stops, banks and medical services are also available.

One last thing to keep an eye out for – Moonrocks! They are a unique feature of the landscape and are used as everything from garden features, door stops, to projectiles in the World Championship Moonrock Throwing Competition at the biennial Fossil Fest.

Queensland’s Outback is famous for its characters, culture, history and ancient landscapes. It is a place where visitors feel the genuine Aussie embrace of a vast network of welcoming communities – Richmond is one of these and proud of it.

We hope you stop and spend some time with us, you will unearth more than fossils.

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Kronosaurus Korner 91-93 Goldring Street, Richmond Call 07 4741 3429 E enquiries@kronosauruskorner.com.au www.kronosauruskorner.com.au

RICHMOND SHIRE

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[ THINGS TO DO ] Kronosaurus Korner Australia’s premier marine fossil museum, featuring more than 1000 registered fossils from Richmond, Outback Queensland. The fossils on display provide fascinating insight into the creatures that survived in the ancient Eromanga Sea which covered Richmond over 100 million years ago.

Kronosaurus Korner is proud to exhibit many significant specimens, including ‘Penny’ the polycotylid – one of the most complete vertebrate fossils in the world, ‘Wandah’ – Australia’s largest fossil fish, ‘Minmi’ – a small plant-eating dinosaur affectionately known as ‘the armoured car of the Cretaceous’ and ‘Marlin’s Beastie’ – the limb bones of a

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completely new, long-necked sauropod dinosaur. The museum also displays the largest known collection of fossils belonging to its namesake, Kronosaurus – a 10-metre-long predatory pliosaur, which was equipped with enormous crocodile-like jaws. Kronosaurus Korner also features audio guides, a theatrette and a world-class preparation laboratory, where visitors can watch the careful removal of fossils from their rocky surroundings. From April to September, fossil hunting enthusiasts can accompany Kronosaurus Korner’s resident palaeontologist on ‘Digging at Dusk’ fieldtrips to Richmond’s famous fossil hunting sites.

EVENTS

Maxi Races 1 April 2017 www.facebook.com/MaxiRaces Richmond Field Days 9-10 June 2017 www.richmondracecourse.com.au Richmond Field Days Races 10 June 2017 www.richmondracecourse.com.au Richmond Campdraft 1-3 September 2017 www.facebook.com/richmondcampdraft Richmond Fishing Classic 30 September – 1 October 2017

outbackqueensland.com.au 91

RICHMOND SHIRE RICHMOND POPULATION 850

If fishing for barramundi and fossil hunting for signs of long since extinct creatures of the Great Inland Sea are on your list of things to see and do while travelling through Queensland’s Outback, a couple of days ‘digging’ Richmond is a must on your itinerary. Nowhere else in the Outback offers this package of experiences.

As you travel across the black soil plains of the Overlander’s Way (Townsville to Mount Isa and through to Tennant Creek) you’ll find Richmond smack bang in the middle coming from either direction. In recent years Richmond has become the centre of attention as an area rich in marine fossils dating back around 100 million years, when Outback Queensland was submerged 40 metres under an inland sea. Pretty astonishing to consider as you enter town now.

We hope you stop and spend some time with us, you will uncover more than fossils!

POINTS OF INTEREST

Lake Fred Tritton Allows visitors and locals the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of water sports such as swimming, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing and fishing. The lake boasts sandy beaches, shaded playground, water park, paved walking track and free BBQ facilities, making it fun the whole family can enjoy.

The Bush Tucker Garden Situated on the banks of Lake Fred Tritton, was created as a joint project involving the Richmond Shire Council, CDEP (Community Development Employment Program) and the local community. All plants are native to the region and are labelled with their traditional purposes helping promote the Indigenous culture. The garden’s waterfall represents the birthplace of Richmond’s water flowing from the basalt country to the white gravel.

Cambridge Downs Heritage Display Centre A replica of the original Cambridge Downs Homestead built in the late 1880s. A visit to the centre will help you better understand the trials and tribulations of our early pioneers.

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INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF RICHMOND & MAXWELTON The Historical Walk Takes you on a journey through Richmond’s colourful history. Keep an eye out for the signs lining Goldring Street, or pop into Kronosaurus Korner to obtain a map.

Moonrocks They are a unique feature of the landscape and are used as everything from garden features, door stops, to projectiles in the World Champion Moonrock Throwing Competition at the 2018 Outback Fossil Fest to be held between May 4-6, 2018.

Fossil Hunting Sites A short 12km drive from town on a sealed road. By turning over a few rocks, you may uncover a 100-million-year-old fossilised fish, squid, shark tooth, bivalve or marine reptile. But it doesn’t stop there.

Kronosaurus Korner offers multiple palaeontological digs annually. This also provides you the opportunity to extend your knowledge of our prehistoric giants in preparation workshops within Kronosaurus Korner’s fully equipped laboratory.

Hampstead Springs Tours A unique bush experience. Nestled in the foothills of the rugged Gregory Range, ‘Hampstead Springs’ has an unrivalled mixture of spectacular scenery, unusual geological formations, colourful history and clever innovation – all served up with a good dollop of home cooking and bush hospitality.

MAXWELTON POPULATION 8

Maxwelton is a small railway siding, 50 kilometres west of Richmond. Once a busy stop for Cobb & Co stagecoach and the bullock teams carting wool, Maxwelton is now much quieter coming to life once a year for the Maxi Races.

HAMPSTEAD TOURS Tours operate May-October

Hampstead Tours is an exciting new tour operating out of Richmond NW Queensland.

RICHMOND

Lakeview Caravan Park Caravan Park | Cabins | Camping sites

Local graziers, Ross & Linda Mickan, invite visitors to spend a day with them visiting their property, listening to tales of the country, the vegetation, the joys & hardships of a life spent on the land.

Revive your tastebuds with Linda’s traditional wood-stove cooking – smoko with billy tea & coffee in the escarpments of the Gregory Range then a hearty lunch at the homestead.

Ross’ stories portray a love & passion for the land, an appreciation of its rugged beauty, a deep knowledge of the country ... and a bushman’s wry sense of humour!

This is a very personal tour – honest, authentic & entertaining.

Hampstead Springs | (07) 4741 7353 hampstead@skymesh.com.au

The park with a million dollar view

Self-contained cabins + villas | Budget rooms 40 powered sites | 13 grassed & 27 hard surfaced drive through sites 3 large unpowered grassed areas for tents and camper trailers Free Wi-Fi | Disabled + baby facilities | Clean amenities Camp kitchen | Free electric BBQ | Laundry | Pets conditional Flinders Highway, Richmond QLD P: (07) 4741 3772 F: (07) 4741 3774 E: rscp@tpg.com.au www.richmondlakeviewcaravanpark.com.au

Visiting Australia’s premier marine fossil museum, Kronosaurus Korner is an unforgettable, prehistoric adventure, where you see some of the most awe-inspiring marine creatures such as ‘Penny’ the Richmond plesiosaur – Australia’s best vertebrate fossil.

OPEN 7 DAYS INCLUDING PUBLIC HOLIDAYS Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day and Good Friday

Find us on Facebook Badge

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Like us on

For the latest on Richmond, including the Richmond Outback Fossil Fest visit

www.kronosauruskorner.com.au 1300 KRONOK | enquiries@kronosauruskorner.com.au

outbackqueensland.com.au 93

WINTON SHIRE

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF WINTON, CORFIELD, MIDDLETON & OPALTON

Winton

WINTON IS A SMALL TOWN WITH A VERY LARGE STORY TO TELL.

Winton is located in Central Western Queensland on the Landsborough Highway, 179 kilometres north-west of Longreach and 459 kilometres east of Mount Isa. Winton is approximately 1500 kilometres from Brisbane. Home to diverse landscapes, with rolling Mitchell Grass Downs suddenly interrupted by mesa formations, stark red earth, spinifex country, channel country and undulating plains as far as the eye can see.

Embark on a prehistoric journey, 110 kilometres south-west of Winton to Lark Quarry, following in the footsteps of those who roamed this Earth millions of years ago. Where, over 3000 dinosaur tracks mark the site of the only known dinosaur stampede on the planet.

Just 24 kilometres south-east of Winton is home to The Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum, the most productive fossil preparation facility in the Southern

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Hemisphere with the world’s largest collection of dinosaur fossils.

Winton is known as the home of Waltzing Matilda, written by Banjo Paterson. Legend has it that the first public performance of Waltzing Matilda occurred at Winton’s North Gregory Hotel on 6 April 1895.

Winton is the birthplace of QANTAS, registered as a company in Winton on 16 November, 1920. This was followed by the first board meeting at the Winton Club in 1921.

Winton is home to the annual Outback Writers Festival, Vision Splendid Film Festival, Opal Festival and biennial Outback Festival.

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

Winton Visitor Information Centre 50 Elderslie Street, Winton Call 1300 665 115 E: vic@winton.qld.gov.au www.experiencewinton.com.au

WINTON SHIRE

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WINTON – Queensland’s Tidiest Town for 2016, a special part of Australia.

The Outback Writers Festival Takes place at the Winton Club 20-22 June 2017. One of the festival’s aims is to tell the stories of the Outback as an iconic Australian cultural art form.

Learn how to write and publish your stories at the Festival workshops.

The Vision Splendid Outback Film Festival Takes place in Winton Friday 23 June to Saturday 1 July 2017. Winton has earned the reputation as ’Hollywood in the Outback‘ with several major film productions including Nick Cave’s Proposition, Ivan Sen’s Mystery Road and Goldstone being filmed here.

The Film Festival is a celebration of Australian film making, old and new.

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Opal Festival On in Winton 7-8 July 2017. Much of Queensland‘s boulder opal is found near Opalton in the Winton Shire. This is a great opportunity to learn about opal, buy direct from the dealers and maybe do some fossicking at the same time.

The Outback Festival This is a fun-filled week for all the family. The festival began in 1972 to lift the spirits of the town following a devastating drought. In 1973 the festival became a biennial event and is held in odd years. The festival will be held this year on 19-23 September 2017.

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EVENTS

Waltzing Matilda Day 6 April 2017 www.experiencewinton.com.au Opening of Dinosaur Canyon (Easter) 14-17 April 2017 Australian Age of Dinosaurs Annual Dig 23 May – 12 June 2017 www.australianageofdinosaurs.com Winton Show 9-10 June 2017 www.experiencewinton.com.au Winton Motor Sport Association Eighth Mile Drag Racing 11 June 2017 www.experiencewinton.com.au

outbackqueensland.com.au 95

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WINTON SHIRE WINTON POPULATION 950

INCORPORATING THE COMMUNITIES OF WINTON, CORFIELD, MIDDLETON & OPALTON of the river gum for a spectacular natural adventure.

CORFIELD POPULATION 10 Land was taken up in the Winton District in 1866. The town was originally located approximately 1km west of its current location, and known as Pelican Waterhole.

This settlement was flooded out in 1876, and a man named Robert Allen shifted to the present site of Winton, out of reach of the floodwaters. Robert Allen was the Postmaster at the time, and local legend has it that, finding the name Pelican Waterhole too cumbersome to write on postage stamps, he changed the settlement’s name to Winton, after the suburb of Bournemouth, England, where he was born.

Winton was officially gazetted as a town on July 5, 1879. Elections were held on January 1, 1887. The first meeting of the Winton Divisional Board was held January 12, 1887. The Board became Winton Shire Council in January 1902. The existing local government area remained unaffected by the 2008 Council Amalgamations.

Winton has played host to a number of important events including the birth of Qantas and Waltzing Matilda.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Dinosaur Stampede at Lark Quarry Conservation Park Situated 110km south-west of Winton. A tale of hunter and hunted of the world’s only recorded evidence of a dinosaur stampede. On-site guided tours only. April to September: Tour Times: 9.30am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm. October to March: Tour Times: 9.30am, 11am and 2pm.

Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum See a real dinosaur laboratory in action and meet our prehistoric giants, including ‘Banjo’ – Australia’s most significant and complete carnivorous dinosaur.

The Waltzing Matilda Centre The only museum in the world dedicated to a song.

Self-guided tours allow you to experience this multi-award-winning attraction at your own pace.

Bladensburg National Park Located just 7km from town and offers stunning examples of the landscapes of Winton Shire, from sweeping Mitchell grass downs to breathtaking gorges and jump-ups.

Visit Scrammy Gorge or travel the route 96 outbackqueensland.com.au

Corfield is a small town with a pub, camping ground and a post office and a lot of character, and is located 80km north of Winton. The population swells to more than 1000 in August when the popular Corfield Races are held (yes, it’s a pun on the better known Caulfield Races!). The popular horse race is an annual event when punters from near and far come to experience the REAL Corfield races. This event is a fashion magnet for the women of this part of Queensland.

In the early days of Cobb & Co. coaches a small community sprang up at the changing station located about 1km east of the present town of Corfield. This old town was referred to as Manuka because it was located on Manuka Station.

The present town of Corfield was founded when the railway line from Winton to Hughenden was built in the late 1800s, linking Winton with Townsville.

The first train from Hughenden to Winton arrived on May 23, 1899. The Corfield population peaked at around 40. The town infrastructure consisted of five railway houses plus the stationmaster’s house, a post office, two petrol depots, a hotel, a school and teacher’s house, a goods shed and the railway building.

The railway line between Winton and Hughenden ceased operation during the late 1990s.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Annual Corfield Races; Camping

MIDDLETON POPULATION 3 Explorers came to the area around Middleton in 1862, when John McKinlay passed through the area in search of the lost expedition of Burke and Wills.

They were the first white men to enter the Winton district. They passed by the present site of Middleton township and continued on towards the Gulf.

The memorial cairn in front of the old hall lists the men who were part of the exploration party.

The Middleton Hotel was built during the Cobb & Co. era, and was a changing station, where tired horses were replaced with fresh horses, on the route between Winton and Boulia. It formed one of the ‘Nine Pillars of Cobb & Co’. These pillars represent the nine oldest and original changing stations for the coaches of the Winton to Boulia Route, which was 240 miles (384km), and took four days each way. It was called Mail Service 216, and ran between 1895 and 1915.

The Middleton Hotel, campground and the disused hall are all that survives of the settlement. The Middleton Hotel now has the distinction of being one of the most isolated pubs in Queensland. Friendly western hospitality can be found there.

Stop in for a coldie and a yarn on the way to Boulia, or as a day trip from Winton.

Cabin accommodation is available and a free campground at the ‘Hilton Hotel’ across the road.

POINTS OF INTEREST

The Middleton Hotel; Middleton Hilton; Cawnpore Lookout

OPALTON POPULATION 25 Opalton is situated 123km from Winton.

It is one of the largest opal fields in Queensland and is known for the quality of opal mined. In 1888 the first opal was discovered by George Cragg, a stockman from Warrnambool Station and the first mine was worked in 1894. At one time, Opalton was a bustling township with more than 600 men working the opal field, around the turn of the 20th century. The population has dwindled to approximately 25 today. In 1899, the largest piece of pipe opal ever recorded was discovered at Opalton – it was over 10 feet (3m) long and rumoured to be as thick as a man’s leg!

The majority of the journey is on an unsealed road. No food, drinks or fuel are available in Opalton. Please ensure you are fully stocked prior to your departure from Winton.

There is camping available at the Opalton Bush Park – showers and toilets are provided, as well as a sheltered BBQ area.

Cost is $2 per night.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Opal fossicking; Camping

www.australiasdinosaurtrail.com

Australia’s Dinosaur Trail in Queensland’s Outback is an exciting adventure, where you can follow in the footsteps of the prehistoric creatures that once roamed this ancient land. The trail links the towns of Richmond, Hughenden and Winton where some of the world’s most amazing fossils are still being found. A journey along the Dinosaur Trail offers visitors a range of unique experiences not available anywhere else in the world, let alone Australia! It provides visitors with a rare opportunity to see world-class fossils, Australia’s bestpreserved dinosaur skeleton, and to try uncovering their own fossils.

HUGHENDEN Flinders Discovery Centre Hughenden P (07) 4741 2970 | E info@flinders.qld.gov.au www.visithughenden.com.au

RICHMOND “The Fossil Capital of Australia” Kronosaurus Korner P (07) 4741 3429 E enquiries@kronosauruskorner.com.au www.kronosauruskorner.com.au

WINTON Winton Visitor Information Centre Waltzing Matilda Centre P 1300 665 115 | E vic@matildacentre.com.au www.experiencewinton.com.au

I’m an Outback Mate

Explore Australia's prehistoric past...

AUSTRALIAN AGE OF

DINOSAURS From April 2017 the Museum will launch its newest attraction DINOSAUR CANYON. The tour will include a return trip on the Noble Express shuttle, outdoor exhibits featuring life-sized bronze dinosaurs, the Cretaceous Garden and memories to last a life-time!

info@aaod.com.au

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07 4657 0078

I - Lot 1

Dinosaur Drive Winton

Accommodation | Restaurants | Merchandise | Gifts | Tours & More!

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Winton’s Vision Splendid Outback Film Festival

E: enquiries@visionsplendidfilmfest.com For tickets and program visit, like and share us at www.visionsplendidfilmfest.com www.facebook.com/visionsplendid 23 June – 1 July, 2017 | Winton, Outback Queensland ■

30 Films

■

3,000 Scenes

■

3 Zillion Stars

Experience an incredible program of Outback inspired films, under the stars in Winton’s main street in the historic open-air Royal Theatre.

Opening party, conversations, yarns, tours and short-film competition.

The must-see Australian film festival of 2017! Celebrating women in film.

SPAR

Tattersall’s Hotel & Van Park

Tattersall’s Hotel | 78 Elderslie Street, Winton Tattersall’s Van Park | Werna Street, Winton (opp. Tattersall’s Hotel) P: 07 4657 1309 | F: 07 4657 1722 Tattersall’s Hotel, on Elderslie, is Winton’s oldest standing publichouse – an ongoing testimony of the pioneer era, pastoral, mining and tourism industries of the region. Quality service to its varied clientele flows at Tattersall’s, boasting a colourful public-bar, alfresco dining, extensive menu and wine list, bottle shop, pokies, keno, ATM, hotel accommodation and Van Park adjacent to Hotel.

Tattersall’s Van Park is walking distance to attractions, banks, post office, pool, hotels, cafes, bakery, bottle shop, counter meals. All sites are powered – guest laundry and hot water. Site bookings can be made at Tattersall’s Hotel.

Cnr Vindex & Manuka Streets, Winton A part our community.

Our award-winning P: 07 4657of1254 F: 07 4657 1202 family-owned supermarket has been offering the E: sparwinton@gillespiemotordealers.com.au

Winton community groceries since 1984.

A part of our community.quality Our award-winning family-owned supermarket offering the Fresh fruit and veg has been BBQ chickens Winton community quality service Phone since 1984.

ATM recharge

■ Phone Bait Fresh recharge Icefruit and veg ■ Bait ATM cnr Vindex & Manuka Streets, Winton QLD 4735 ■ Ice ■ Open 7 days – ■ BBQ P: (07) 4657 1254 F: (07) 1202 easy4657 access chickens ■ ■

E: winton@5staronline.net

Splendid Fairy Wren (Malurus splendens) 98 outbackqueensland.com.au

Winton’s Diamantina Truck Museum Situated on the Winton to Hughenden Road P: 0429 806 140 Open daily – 8am to 5pm E: heritagetruckswinton@hotmail.com.au www.wintontruckmuseum.com

Take a nostalgic trip into Transport History ■ Historic Trucks, Vehicles & Machinery ■ Toots’ Truck – Australian legendary female truckie ■ 1890 Ruston Stationary Steam Engine ■ Story Board Exhibition, Photographic collection, Merchandise & Transport memorabilia ■ 2017 Truckies Reunion 23rd & 24th September

Red Dirt Tours

P: 07 4657 1466 (Winton Info Centre) E: vicki@reddirttours.com.au www.reddirttours.com.au

19–23 SEPTEM

Take a break from driving – sit back, relax and let me take the dirt roads for you! Discover more about Winton’s history and natural heritage with Red Dirt Tours, Winton’s locally owned and operated touring specialist.

Tours from Winton include: ■ ■ ■

¾ Day Dinosaur Stampede Carisbrooke Station Diamantina River and Old Cork

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Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum Rangelands rifts Bladensburg National Park

Winton Outback Motel 95 Elderslie Street, Winton P: 07 4657 1422 E: info@wintonoutbackmotel.com www.wintonoutbackmotel.com

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NATIONAL PARKS Did You Know?

Bush poet Banjo Paterson visited this region and penned Australia’s unofficial anthem ‘Waltzing Matilda’.

The waterholes of Combo Waterhole Regional Park, near Winton, are thought to have been his inspiration….

EXPLORE THE OUTBACK Venture into Outback Queensland where you will experience the true diversity and beauty of our natural landscapes. Explore hidden gorges, ancient Aboriginal rock art, peaceful waterholes, wildlife-rich wetlands, desert sand dunes and the incredible sand dune country.

In the north west you’ll find Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park and the World Heritage-listed Riversleigh. Here you will encounter vestiges of ancient life – outstanding fossils dating back 25 million years, and remnants of this land’s ancient culture – the rock art and stone engravings of the Waanyi Aboriginal people.

West of Birdsville you will discover the sun-drenched sands of Munga-Thirri (Simpson Desert) National Park. Explore Poeppel Corner where three states meet, and gidgee trees and saltbush pepper the wide red plains. Enjoy the abundant wildlife at Lake Bindegolly and Currawinya national parks south west of Cunnamulla, a noted haven for birdlife. On the eastern edge of our magnificent region, the spectacular Carnarvon National Park awaits exploration.

CAMPING FEES AND PERMITS Before camping in a Queensland national park, you must obtain a camping permit and pay your camping fees to secure your booking. There’s high demand for some camping areas during peak periods, such as public holidays and school holidays.

We recommend booking well in advance or camping in an off-peak time to avoid the crowds.

Book online at www.qld.gov.au/camping or book over-the-counter (booking offices are listed on our website).

CONNECT WITH QUEENSLAND NATIONAL PARKS

102 outbackqueensland.com.au

Visit queenslandnationalparks.com.au for detailed information

Like us at facebook.com/qldnationalparks

Follow us on Instagram @QldParks #QldParks to share with us

1. HEAR THE STORIES WHERE THEY HAPPENED

Currawinya National Park is part of Queensland’s rich heritage. Thousands of years of Aboriginal history, teeming wildlife and Australia’s 19th and 20th century pastoral heritage make this park well worth a visit. The saltwater Lake Wyara, freshwater Lake Numulla or the Paroo River are home to abundant birdlife, and the beautiful surroundings make this a popular camping spot. Learn about the endangered bilby being given a ‘second chance’.

Location and getting there 170km SW of Cunnamulla. Access from Cunnamulla is via Eulo and the Hungerford Road.

4. FOLLOW IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF DINOSAURS

Feel the thrill of standing where dinosaurs once roamed at Lark Quarry Conservation Park. The significance of this ancient site was only realised in the 1960s when a grazier discovered what he thought were bird tracks. Scientists and palaeontologists have since uncovered a 200m2 site, now called Trackways, and protected inside a shelter, where some 3300 footprints have, until recently, been known as the world’s only record of a dinosaur ‘stampede’ – a herd of small dinosaurs being chased by a large theropod, about 95 million years ago!

Findings from a recent study suggest the tracks may have been left by swimming and wading, not running dinosaurs, crossing a river. What do you think?

Location and getting there 110km SW of Winton. Access from Winton is via the Winton-Jundah Road.

2. GET OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

3. TAKE THE PHOTO OF THE YEAR

Go bush at Munga-Thirri (Simpson Desert) National Park. Only accessible by 4WD and only in the dry season, the Simpson Desert offers the ultimate journey for self-sufficient adventurers with experience of ‘big dune country’.

Drive past dramatically-sculptured red sand dunes, gibber pebble plains and claypans. Camp under starlit skies and experience the exhilarating isolation of this iconic national park.

Keep your camera ready at Janet’s Leap lookout, where panoramic views of a kaleidoscope of nature’s colours inspire photographers from around the globe.

In Diamantina National Park, arid lands of sand dunes, grass plains and weathered sandstone ranges merge with the many braided channels of the Diamantina River. Along the 4WD tracks through the park, surprises await experienced visitors — from pioneer settler relics to abundant waterholes, internationally-recognised wetlands full of magnificent birdlife, and majestic desert views.

Location and getting there 79km W of Birdsville. Access from Birdsville is via the old Birdsville track, private property and desert tracks such as the QAA line.

5. A PYRAMID RACE There’s a pyramid in the middle of Queensland’s Outback? In Porcupine Gorge National Park, Porcupine Creek has excavated a deep chasm through layers of sandstone spanning hundreds of millions of years, to create an incredibly scenic gorge , with a ‘pyramid’ shaped monolith rising dramatically from the gorge floor. The annual Porcupine Gorge Challenge, one of the more challenging races to take place in a national park, is held every June. If such a race is not for you, enjoy the Pyramid track at a more sedate pace, exploring the sculpted sandstone pools of Porcupine Creek, as it meanders through this impressive ‘little grand canyon’.

Location and getting there 60km N of Hughenden. Access from Hughenden is via the Kennedy Developmental Road.

Location and getting there 306km SW of Winton. Access is via an unsealed track following the Diamantina River, off the Kennedy Developmental Road from Winton.

6. CATCH YOUR BREATH This park will take your breath away.

Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park is one of Queensland’s most scenic destinations, with exhilarating walking tracks and peaceful camping spots in the outback oasis of Lawn Hill Gorge. Explore the spectacular gorge carved into this ancient landscape, the orange sandstone cliffs towering above stunning emerald green waters, providing a cool respite from the heat of the day. At Riversleigh World Heritage Site, this timeless landscape reveals fossils of unimaginable age, allowing us to glimpse into the past.

Location and getting there 246km NW of Mount Isa. Access from Mount Isa is via the Barkly Hwy and Camooweal-Gregory Downs Road, via Riversleigh.

TOP SHORT WALKS Duwadarri Lookout

Pyramid Track

Distance: 600m return (30 mins walking time)

Distance: 2.4km return (1.5 hrs walking time)

For a short walk with maximum impact, you can’t beat the short but steep hike to Duwadarri Lookout in Lawn Hill Gorge, Boodjamulla National Park. This walk will reward you with sensational views out over the gorge.

Warracoota Ruins Walk Distance: 400m return (45 mins walking time)

Take a short walk within Diamantina National Park and explore several loose stoned walled structures thought to have been built by early pioneers.

In Porcupine Gorge National Park a gradually descending walking track leads to the bottom of the gorge and the base of the Pyramid. A moderate level of fitness is required to make the return trip back up the track.

Bladensburg Homestead Walk

Distance: 1km return (45 mins walking time)

Explore the restored homestead and its original complex, consisting of staff quarters, meat house and store at this historical outback station in Bladensburg National Park. outbackqueensland.com.au 103

Cross Country to Outback MOUNT ISA

National Parks and Local Artisans

To Brisbane CARNARVON GORGE

Cloncurry

QUEENSLAND

WINTON Barcaldine LONGREACH Blackall Tambo QUEENSLAND SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Miles

CHARLEVILLE

ROMA

Dalby Jondaryan BRISBANE

Roma Miles BUNYA MOUNTAINS NP Maidenwell Chinchilla Esk Dalby BRISBANE RAVENSBOURNE NP

MITCHELL BONUS DOWNS

ST GEORGE

Inglewood

TOOWOOMBA BALLANDEAN

Warwick

GIRRAWEEN NP

NEW SOUTH WALES

NEW SOUTH WALES

Gourmet Country and Outback Stories

Adventure Way Discovery QUEENSLAND

QUEENSLAND Mitchell

ROMA

Miles

BONUS DOWNS

CHARLEVILLE

Chinchilla Esk BRISBANE

KILLARNEY

Goondiwindi STANTHORPE

ROMA

Mitchell

TOOWOOMBA ST GEORGE Nindigully

Warwick STANTHORPE GIRRAWEEN NP

ST GEORGE CUNNAMULLA

BUNYA MOUNTAINS NP Kingaroy Jimbour Blackbutt Bell Dalby Woodford Jondaryan BRISBANE Nobby TOOWOOMBA Allora Warwick

NEW SOUTH WALES

NEW SOUTH WALES

For more information head to www.outbackqueensland.com.au

TRAVEL DIRECTORY RACQ Rating

TV

Conference Facilities

Room Service

Free Wi-Fi

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Accommodation ARAMAC

Aramac Caravan Park Booker Street P 07 4652 9999 E ever@barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au

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The Lake via Aramac P 07 4651 0565

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BARCALDINE

Barcaldine Country Motor Inn 1 Box Street P 07 4651 1488 E countrymotorinn@bigpond.com www.barcaldinecountrymotorinn.com.au

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Barcaldine Showgrounds Cnr Pine & Wilga Streets P 07 4651 5600 E admin_office@barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au

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Lara Wetlands Lara Station P 07 4651 1619 E m.j.lara@bigpond.com www.larastation.com.au

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BIRDSVILLE

Birdsville Caravan Park Florence Street P 07 4656 3214 E info@birdsvillecaravanpark.com www.birdsvillecaravanpark.com

Birdsville Hotel/Motel Adelaide Street P 07 4656 3244 E birdsville@theoutback.com.au www.theoutback.com.au

BLACKALL

Barcoo Hotel & Caravan Park 95 Shamrock Street P 07 4657 4197 E barcoohotel1@iinet.net.au Blackall Caravan Park 53 Garden Street P 07 4657 4816 E blackallpark@bigpond.com www.blackallcaravanpark.com.au

BOULIA

Australian Hotel 21 Herbert Street P 07 4746 3144 E adminbouliahotel@bigpond.com

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Boulia Caravan Park Winton Road P 07 4746 3320 E lorenbarry@bigpond.com Desert Sands Motel 50 Herbert Street P 07 4746 3000 E desertsandsmotel@bigpond.com www.desertsandsmotel.com.au

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BURKETOWN

Savannah Lodge Cnr Beames & Bowen Street P 07 4745 5177 E savair@bigpond.com www.savannah-lodge.com

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CHARLEVILLE

Bailey Bar Caravan Park 196 King Street P 07 4654 1744 E baileybar@bigpond.com www.charlevillebaileybar.com.au

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Charleville Bush Caravan Park & Cottage Lot 1 Frawley Street P 0428 545 200 E info@travelwest.com.au www.charlevillecaravanpark.com.au

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Cobb & Co. Caravan Park 1 Ridgeway Street P 07 4654 1053 E john@caravanparkscharleville.com.au www.caravanparkscharleville.com.au

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Evening Star Tourist Park Thurlby Station, 818 Adavale Road P 07 4654 2430 E info@eveningstar.com.au www.eveningstar.com.au

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Hotel Corones 33 Wills Street P 07 4654 1022 E info@hotelcorones.net.au www.hotelcorones.net.au

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Mulga Country Motor Inn Lot 118 Sturt Street P 07 4654 3255 E mulgacountry@bigpond.com www.mulgacountry.com.au

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Laundry

Austar

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Aussie Outback Oasis BIG4 Holiday Park 76 Dr George Ellis Drive P 07 4787 8722 E info@aussieoutbackoasis.com.au

BBQ Facilities

CHARTERS TOWERS

Restaurant

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Unpowered Sites

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Holiday Station

The Rocks Motel 74 Wills Street P 07 4654 2888 E bookings@rocksmotel.com.au www.rocksmotel.com.au

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Charters Towers Tourist Park (Top Park) 37 Mount Leyshon Road P 07 4787 7944 E info@charterstowerstouristpark.com.au www.charterstowerstouristpark.com.au

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Dalrymple Van Tourist Park 24 Lynd Highway P 07 4787 1121 E stay@dalrymplevanpark.com.au www.dalrymplevanpark.com.au

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CLONCURRY

Cloncurry Caravan Park Oasis 56-74 McIlwraith Street P 07 4742 1313 E ccpoasis@bigpond.net.au www.cloncurrycaravanparkoasis.com The Gidgee Inn McIlwraith and Railway Street P 07 4742 1599 E info@gidgeeinn.com.au www.gidgeeinn.com.au

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CUNNAMULLA

Charlotte Plains Outback Magic P 07 4655 4923 E charlotteplains@gmail.com www.charlotteplains.com.au Country Way Motor Inn 17 Emma Street P 07 4655 0555 E countryway@bigpond.com www.countrywaymotorinn.com.au

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Cunnamulla Tourist Park 65 Watson Street P 07 4655 1421 E cunnamullapark@yahoo.com www.cunnamullapark.com

Emerald Maraboon Motor Inn 5 Esmond Street P 07 4982 0777 www.emeraldmotel.com.au

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Warrego Riverside Tourist Park 322 Weir Road P 07 4655 0097 E warregoriversidepark@hotmail.com www.warregoriversidetouristpark.com.au

EMERALD

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FORSAYTH

Cobbold Gorge Agate Creek Road P 1800 669 922 E enquiries@cobboldgorge.com.au www.cobboldgorge.com.au

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HUGHENDEN

Allen Terry Caravan Park 2 Resolution Street P 07 4741 1190 E admin@hughendenvanpark.com.au www.hughendenvanpark.com.au Rest Easi Motel 11 Richmond Hill P 07 4741 1633 E info@resteasimotel.com.au

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Royal Hotel Motel 21 Moran Street P 07 4741 1183 E royal183@bigpond.net.au

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ILFRACOMBE

Wellshot Hotel 20 Main Avenue P 07 4658 2106 www.wellshothotel.com.au

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JERICHO

Jericho Showgrounds Showgrounds round via Capricorn Highway P 07 4651 5600 E admin_office@barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au Redbank Park Banks of Jordon River east of Jericho P 07 4651 5600 E admin_office@barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au

JULIA CREEK

Julia Creek Caravan Park P 07 4746 7108 E jccaravanpark@mckinlay.qld.gov.au www.jccaravanpark.com.au

106 outbackqueensland.com.au

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RACQ Rating

TV

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Room Service

Free Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi

Cooking Facilities

Ensuite

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Pets Allowed Conditional

Airstrip

Laundry

Austar

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Pool

BBQ Facilities

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Disabled Access

Unpowered Sites

Powered Sites

Holiday Station

Julia Creek Hotel 33 Goldring Street P 07 4746 7727

Guesthouse/B&B

Cabins

Hotel/Motel

Accommodation

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JUNDAH

Jundah Caravan Park 4-6 Dickson Street P 07 4658 6930 E jundahinfo@barcoo.qld.gov.au www.barcoo.qld.gov.au

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KARUMBA

End of the Road Motel 26 Palmer Street P 07 4745 9799 E info@endoftheroadmotel.com.au www.endoftheroadmotel.com.au

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LAWN HILL

Adels Grove Camping Park P 07 4748 5502 E reservations@adelsgrove.com.au www.adelsgrove.com.au

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LONGREACH

Abajaz Motor Inn 11 Wonga Street P 1800 081 288 E info@abajazmotorinn.com.au www.abajazmotorinn.com.au

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Albert Park Motor Inn Cnr Ilfracombe and Stork Road P 07 4658 2411 E albertpark@westnet.com.au www.longreachaccommodation.com

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Jumbuck Motel 45 Ilfracombe Road P 07 4658 1799 E reception@jumbuckmotel.com.au www.jumbuckmotel.com.au

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Kinnon & Co Outback Lodges 63-65 Ilfracombe Road P 07 4658 3811 E info@kinnonandco.com.au www.kinnonandco.com.au

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Longreach Motor Inn 84 Galah Street P 07 4658 2322 E lmi@outbacklongreach.com.au www.outbacklongreach.com.au

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Longreach Tourist Park 12 Thrush Road P 07 4658 1781 E info@longreachtouristpark.com.au www.longreachtouristpark.com.au

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Noonbah Station Bush Camping ‘Noonbah’ via Longreach P 07 4658 5953 E noonbahstationtourism@gmail.com

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MITCHELL

Bonus Downs 4566 Bollon Road P 07 4623 1573 E bonusdowns@bigpond.com www.bonusdownsfarmstay.com.au

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Spring Hill Country Craft Retreat Spring Hill, via Amby P 07 4623 1601 E gandgburey@bigpond.com

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MOUNT ISA

Discovery Parks Mount Isa 185 Little West Street P 07 4743 4676 E mtisa@discoveryparks.com.au

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ibis Styles Mount Isa Cnr Camooweal Street & Rodeo Drive P 07 4743 3024 E h0575-re@accor.com www.ibisstyles.com

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Leichhardt Accommodation 3/5 Camooweal Street P 07 4743 3323 E admin@leichhardtaccommodation.com www.leichhardtaccommodation.com

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Mount Isa City Motel 1A Isa Street P 0467 536 511 E info@mtisacitymotel.com.au

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Spinifex Motel and Serviced Apartments 79-83 Marion Street P 07 4749 2944 E admin@spinifexmotel.com.au www.spinifexmotel.com.au

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MUTTABURRA

Muttaburra Caravan Park Bridge Street P 07 4651 5600 E admin_office@barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au

NOCCUNDRA

Noccundra Hotel Wilson Street, Nockatunga P 07 46 554 317 E info@noccundrahotel.com.au www.outbackbeds.com.au/noccundra-hotel.html

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outbackqueensland.com.au 107

Stonehenge Caravan Park 10 Stratford Street P 07 4658 5857 E stonehengeinfo@barcoo.qld.gov.au www.barcoo.qld.gov.au

THARGOMINDAH

Explorers Caravan Park 88 Dowling Street P 1800 820 890 E explorerscaravanpark@bigpond.com www.thargotourism.com.au

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Kilcowera Station The Dowling Track P 07 4655 4960 E gtsherwin@bigpond.com www.kilcowera.com.au

WINDORAH

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Matilda Country Tourist Park 43 Chirnside Street P 1300 001 383 E matildacountrytouristpark@gmail.com www.matildacountrytouristpark.com.au

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Matilda Motel 20 Oondooroo Street P 07 4657 1433 E matildamotel@hotmail.com.au www.matildamotel.com.au

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North Gregory Hotel 67 Elderslie Street P 07 4657 0647 E info@northgregoryhotel.com www.northgregoryhotel.com

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Winton Ouback Motel 95 Elderslie Street P 07 4657 1422 E info@wintonoutbackmotel.com

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YARAKA

Yaraka Hotel 12 Jarley Street P 07 4657 5526 E yarakaone@bigpond.com

108 outbackqueensland.com.au

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Cottage on Cork 94 Cork Street P 0409 916 634 E cottageoncork@outlook.com www.cottageoncork.com.au

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Windorah Caravan Park 1 Albert Street P 07 4656 3063 E windorahinfo@barcoo.qld.gov.au www.barcoo.qld.gov.au Banjo's Overnight and Holiday Units 78 Manuka Street P 07 4657 1213 E banjosunits@hotmail.com

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Cooper Cabins 11 Edward Street P 07 4656 3101 F 07 4656 3090

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STONEHENGE

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Blue Gem Tourist Park 925 Anakie-Sapphire Road P 07 4985 4162 E kanya2@bigpond.com www.bluegemtouristpark.com.au

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SAPPHIRE

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Roma Explorers Inn 44778 Warrego Highway P 07 4620 1400 E admin@romaexplorersinn.com.au www.romaexplorersinn.com.au

Laundry

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WINTON

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Western Star Hotel/Motel 15 Albert Street P 07 4656 3166 E westernstarhotel@harboursat.com.au www.westernstarhotel.com.au

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Roma Central Motel 17-19 Bowen Street P 07 4622 8746 E stay@romacentral.com.au www.romacentralmotel.com.au

Thargomindah Oasis Motel 65 Dowling Street P 07 4655 3155 E oasis@thargomindah-oasis.com.au www.thargomindah-oasis.com.au

Austar

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Kings Motor Inn 77 Quintin Street P 07 4622 2566 E kingsmotorinn@bigpond.com www.kingsmotorinn.com.au

Pool

ROMA

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Federal Palace Hotel 64 Goldring Street P 07 4741 3463 E lillymanearthmoving@bigpond.com

Restaurant

Ammonite Inn 88 Goldring Street P 07 4741 3932 E amonit33@bigpond.net.au

Disabled Access

RICHMOND

Unpowered Sites

Quilpie Heritage Inn 34 -36 Brolga Street P 07 4656 1472 E info@quilpieheritageinn.com www.quilpieheritageinn.com

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Channel Country Tourist Park and Spas 21 Chipu Street P 07 4656 2087 E channelpark@bigpond.com www.channelpark.com.au

Holiday Station

QUILPIE

Guesthouse/B&B

Cabins

Hotel/Motel

Accommodation

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3.5

3

3.5

Attractions

Street Address

Phone

Email

Website

BARCALDINE

94 Ash Street

07 4651 1579

barcy@australianworkersheritagecentre.com.au

www.australianworkersheritagecentre.com.au

Wanpa-rda Matilda Centre

Willow & Ash Street

07 4651 2530

the.principal@wanpardaeec.eq.edu.au

wanpardaeec.eq.edu.au

Barcy Base Camp

103 Borge Street

07 4651 1228

BIRDSVILLE

Adelaide Street

07 4656 3300

events@birdsvilleraces.com

www.birdsvilleraces.com

Big Red Bash

Simpson Desert

02 9949 8754

greg@borntorun.com.au

www.bigredbash.com.au

Big Red Run

Simpson Desert

02 9949 8754

greg@borntorun.com.au

www.bigredrun.com.au

BLACKALL

Blackall Heartland Festival

Cnr Rose & Hawthorne Street

0409 283 057

blackallheartlandfestival@gmail.com

www.blackallheartlandfestival.com.au

Historical Woolscour

Evora Road

07 4657 6042

blackallwoolscour1@bigpond.com

www.blackallwoolscour.jimdo.com

BOULIA

Pituri Street

07 4746 3386

tourism@boulia.qld.gov.au

www.boulia.qld.gov.au

Min Min Encounter

Herbert Street

07 4746 3386

tourism@boulia.qld.gov.au

www.boulia.qld.gov.au

CAMOOWEAL

Lot 15 Barkly Highway

07 4748 2022 0427 127 864

info@droverscamp.com.au

www.droverscamp.com.au

CHARLEVILLE

Milky Way

07 4654 7771

enquiries@cosmoscentre.com

www.cosmoscentre.com

Royal Flying Doctor Service Visitor Centre

John Flynn Way

07 4654 1233

rfds_cvl@rfdsqld.com.au

www.flyingdoctor.org.au

Historic House Museum

87 Alfred Street

07 4654 3349

historichousemuseum@bigpond.com

www.charlevillehistorichouse.com.au

0477 516 344

enquiry@charterstowershistoricaltours.com.au

www.charterstowershistoricaltours.com.au

Hensley Drive

0409 891 177

stockmanschallenge@hotmail.com

www.currychallenge.com.au

Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Information Centre and Museum

48 McIlwraith Street

07 4742 1361

info@cloncurry.qld.gov.au

www.cloncurry.qld.gov.au

John Flynn Place Museum & Art Gallery

Cnr King & Daintree Streets

07 4742 2778

johnflynnplace@cloncurry.qld.gov.au

www.cloncurry.qld.gov.au

EROMANGA

1 Dinosaur Drive

07 4656 3084

robyn.mackenzie@enhm.com.au

www.enhm.com.au

EULO

Palm Grove, 24 Leo Street

07 4655 4890

datefarm1@bigpond.com

www.artesianmudbaths.com.au

FORSAYTH

Agate Creek Road

07 4062 5470

enquiries@cobboldgorge.com.au

www.cobboldgorge.com.au

Goldfields Hotel & Finnigan's Rest

Cnr First and Fourth Street

07 4062 5374

finnigansrest@gmail.com.au

www.visitforsayth.com.au

HUGHENDEN

37 Gray Street

07 4741 2970

info@flinders.qld.gov.au

www.visithughenden.com.au

JULIA CREEK

34 Burke Street

07 4746 7690

tourism@mckinlay.qld.gov.au

www.atthecreek.com.au

Dirt & Dust Festival

34 Burke Street

07 4723 8564

admin@dirtndust.com

www.dirtndust.com

Landsborough Highway

07 4658 2166

museum@stockmanshalloffame.com.au

www.stockmanshalloffame.com.au

Camden Park Station Outback Aussie Tours

Camden Park

07 4658 3000

camdenparklongreach@gmail.com

www.camdenparkstation.com.au

Drovers Sunset Cruise & Smithy’s Dinner & Show

Longreach Railway Station

07 4658 3000

info@oat.net.au

www.outbackaussietours.com.au

Kinnon and Co Outback Pioneers

115a Eagle Street

07 4658 1776

info@kinnonandco.com.au

www.kinnonandco.com.au

Longreach School of Distance Education

Landsborough Highway

07 4658 4232

tours1@eq.edu.au

www.longreacsde.eq.edu.au

Qantas Founders Museum

Sir Hudson Fysh Drive

07 4658 3737

info@qfom.com.au

www.qfom.com.au

McKINLAY

Cnr Kirby and Wylde Street

07 4746 8424

walkaboutcreekhotel@bigpond.com

07 4623 2659

abbieglass@activ8.net.au

The Australian Workers Heritage Centre

Birdsville Races

Boulia Camel Races

The Drovers Camp Cosmos Centre & Observatory

CHARTERS TOWERS

Charters Towers Historical Tours

CLONCURRY

Cloncurry Stockmans Challenge & Campdraft

Eromanga Natural History Museum Artesian Mud Baths Cobbold Gorge Tours

Flinders Discovery Centre At the Creek

LONGREACH

Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Outback Heritage Centre

Walkabout Creek Hotel

MITCHELL

Mitchell Camel & Pig Races

MORVEN

Albert Street

07 4654 8131

morvenhistoricalmuseum@hotmail.com

MOUNT ISA

19 Marian Street

07 4743 2706

admin@isarodeo.com.au

www.isarodeo.com.au

secretary@mifsg.com.au

www.lakemoondarrafishingclassic.com.au

info@outbackatisa.com.au

www.outbackatisa.com.au

Morven Historical Society Mount Isa Mines Rotary Rodeo Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic Outback at Isa

19 Marian Street

07 4749 1555

outbackqueensland.com.au 109

Attractions MUTTABURRA

Dr Arratta Memorial Museum Cassimatis Shop & Cottage Museum

Street Address

Phone

Email

Website

Neville Bullen Drive & Bruford Street

07 4658 7147

kgrazco@bigpond.com

www.muttaburra.com

0408 784 738

sophie@quilpiediggers.com

www.quilpiediggers.com

QUILPIE

Quilpie Diggers Race Club Sunrise Opal Mines

25 Brolga Street

0407 133 250

sunriseopals@hotmail.com

www.sunriseopals.com

RICHMOND

91-93 Goldring Street

07 4741 3429

enquiries@kronosauruskorner.com.au

www.kronosauruskorner.com.au

ROMA

0459 521 196

info@easterinthecountryroma.com.au

www.easterinthecountry.com.au

Roma Races | Roma Turf Club

0409 898 623

info@romaturfclub.com

www.romaraces.org.au

Kronosaurus Korner Easter in the Country

TAMBO

17 Arthur Street

07 4654 6223

info@tamboteddies.com.au

www.tamboteddies.com.au

THARGOMINDAH

Bulloo Development Road

07 4621 8095

tourism@bulloo.qld.gov.au

www.thargotourism.com.au

Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum of Natural History

Lot 1 Dinosaur Drive

07 4657 0078

info@aaod.com.au

www.australianageofdinosaurs.com

Corfield & Fitzmaurice

Elderslie Street

07 4657 1486

Dinosaur Stampede, Lark Quarry Conservation Park

Jundah Road via Winton

07 4657 1466

vic@winton.qld.gov.au

www.dinosaurtrackways.com.au

Outback Festival

60 Oondooroo Street

07 4657 1558 / 0429 806 140

outbackfestival@bigpond.com

www.outbackfestival.com.au

Waltzing Matilda Centre (under reconstruction)

50 Elderslie Street

07 4657 1466

waltzing@matildacentre.com.au

www.matildacentre.com.au

07 4741 7185

blacket64@skymesh.com.au heritagetruckswinton@hotmail.com.au

Tambo Teddies Thargomindah's Hydro Power Plant

WINTON

Winton Camel Races Winton’s Diamantina Heritage Truck and Machinery Museum

Lot 2 Hughenden Road

0429 806 140

WINTON-HUGHENDEN-RICHMOND

Winton, Hughenden, Richmond

1800 247 966

WINTON-LAVERTON

Australia’s Longest Shortcut

0418 785 285

Australia's Dinosaur Trail The Outback Way

Services

Street Address

ALBION

Caravan Parks Association of QLD

www.experiencewinton.com.au

www.australiasdinosaurtrail.com info@outbackway.org.au

Email

Website

07 3366 1700

info@caravanqld.com.au

www.caravanqld.com.au

37 Shakespeare Street

07 4985 1302

grubsville@bigpond.com

AMBY

Springhill Amby

07 4623 1601

gandgburey@bigpond.com

07 3366 1700

chp@bigpond.com barcaldine.pharmacy@nunet.com.au

Springhill Country Craft

ASHGROVE

Campbell Higginson Town Planning

BARCALDINE

91 Oak Street

07 4651 1121

Coolamon Coffee

151 Oak Street

07 4651 1228

George Bourne & Associates

67 Elm Street

07 4651 2177

Barcaldine Pharmacy

www.outbackway.org.au

Phone

ALPHA

Spar Express

www.wintontruckmuseum.com

Louise Gronold Imagery

www.barcaldinepharmacy.com.au

www.engineertheoutback.com.au curious@louisegronoldimagery.com.au

www.louisegronoldimagery.com.au

Ridgee Didge Cafe

151 Oak Street

07 4651 1931

cheryl@trackersqld.com

Yeast2West Bakery Barcaldine

169 Oak Street

07 4651 2999

barcaldine@yeast2west.com.au

BEDOURIE

Herbert Street

07 4746 1291

admin@simpsondesertoasis.com.au

www.simpsondesertoasis.com.au

BILOELA

44 Dawson Highway

07 4992 1788

cqautoglass@bigpond.com

www.cqautoglass.com.au

BIRDSVILLE

Billabong Boulevard

07 4656 4697

birdsvillebakery@bigpond.com

www.birdsvillebakery.com

BLACKALL

Blackall Cultural Association

Cnr Rose & Hawthone Streets

07 4657 4392

blackallcultural@bigpond.com

www.blackallcultural.org.au

CAIRNS

22 Moore Street

07 4055 6122

sales@trav.com.au

www.trav.com.au

Simpson Desert Oasis CQ Autoglass & Air Conditioning Birdsville Bakery

Parker Travel Collection Savannah Guide Ltd

07 4658 1715

Savannah Way Ltd

info@savannah-guides.com.au

www.savannah-guides.com.au

info@savannahway.com.au

www.savannahway.com.au www.charlevilleracing.com

CHARLEVILLE

Partridge Street

0417 746 554

carriewyatt@tpg.com.au

Charleville Hardware

76 Edward Street

07 4654 1399

admin@charlevillehardware.com

Stay On Track Outback

59 Alfred Street

07 4650 5500

Central Warrego Race Club

110 outbackqueensland.com.au

www.stayontrackoutback.qld.gov.au

Services

Street Address

Phone

Email

CHARTERS TOWERS

32 Deane Street

07 4787 3330

dealzondeane@bigpond.com

Towers Gas and Camping

168 Gill Street

07 4787 1622

info@towersgasandcamping.com.au

CUNNAMULLA

28-32 Jane Street

07 4655 2691

kathy@ashleysportsnall.com

www.ashleysportsnall.com.au

07 4658 1799

spell@linklogic.com.au

www.linklogic.com.au

enquiries@chdc.com.au

www.chdc.com.au

Dealz on Deane

Ashley Sports n All

EAGLE FARM Link Logic

EMERALD

31 Ruby Street

07 4982 4386

HUGHENDEN

31 Moran Street

07 4741 1109

JULIA CREEK

83 Burke Street

07 4746 7178

kikaiptyltd@bigpond.com

07 4746 7140

admin@marwill.com.au

Central Highlands Development Corporation Hughenden 5 Star Supermarket Julia Creek Roadhouse Marwill Pty Ltd

Website

www.marwill.com.au

KARUMBA

26 Palmer Street

0448 776 393

admin@savannahwaygreentrail.com.au

LONGREACH

96A Eagle Street

07 4658 3229

locamp@tpg.com.au

Merino Bakery

120 Eagle Street

07 4658 1715

RAPAD

Eagle Street

07 4652 5600

rapad@rapad.com.au

Shell Longreach Service Centre

Cnr Wonga Street & Ilfracombe Road

07 4658 1706

kinsey@bigpond.net.au

Smith Bros Mitre 10

114 Eagle Street

07 4658 1200

orders@smithbroshardware.com.au

Yeast2West Bakery Longreach

101 Eagle Street

07 4658 3004

longreach@yeast2west.com.au

MOUNT ISA

Cnr Grace & Simpson Streets

07 4743 2365

buffs1@bigpond.com

www.buffs.com.au

Carpentaria Newspapers Pty Ltd

112 Camooweal Street

07 4743 3355

admin@starnews.com.au

www.northweststar.com.au

Commerce North West

22 West Street

07 4743 9881

admin@commercenorthwest.com.au

www.commercenorthwest.com.au

Isa Styles

Shop 6, 99 Camooweal Street

07 4749 1119

isa.styles@bigpond.com

www.isastyles.com.au

Mount Isa Auto Air/Aussie Wheel Arch Tanks

13 Clarke Street

07 4743 7482

mountisaautoair@gmail.com

www.mtisaautoair.com.au

Mount Isa Fish Stocking Group

Mount Isa

0416 053 933

secretary@mifsg.com.au

www.mifsg.com.au

MUTTABURRA

Bruford Street

07 4658 7476

mutshop@bigpond.com

NEWMARKET

51 Gaunt Street

0434 352 954

anita@actourism.com.au

www.actourism.com.au

NORMANTON

29-33 Haig Street

07 4745 2200

council@carpentaria.qld.gov.au

www.carpentaria.qld.gov.au

Savannah Way Green Trail Longreach Outdoors Centre

Buffs Club

Muttaburra Shop & Fuel

Anita Clark Tourism Services Carpentaria Shire Council

RACQ

13 19 05

www.smithbroshardware.com.au

www.racq.com.au

ROMA

15 Quintin Street

07 4622 2646

TAMBO

15 Arthur Street

07 4654 6137

Tambo Foodworks

32 Arthur Street

07 4654 6288

tambofoodworks@bigpond.com

THARGOMINDAH

130 Stafford Street

07 4655 3037

admin@agovires.com.au

www.agovires.com

Turnouts Mechanical

41 Stafford Street

0427 167 215

turnoutsmechanical@bigpond.com

www.turnoutsmechanical.com

07 4656 3063

sarahu@barcoo.qld.gov.au

BooBook Ecological Consultants Fanny Mae's Cafe

Ago Vires

WINDORAH

Windorah Development Board

info@boobook.biz

www.boobook.biz

WINTON

76A Elderslie Street

07 4657 1242

balamarabakery@bigpond.com

Searles Outback Store

72 Elderslie Street

07 4657 1450

searlesmenswear@hotmail.com

Spar Winton

37 Vindex Street

07 4657 1254

sparwinton@gillespiemotordealers.com.au

www.spar.com.au

michael@interactivink.com.au

www.interactivink.com.au

Balamara Bakery

Winton Business & Tourism Association

07 4657 1296

Winton Pharmacy

73 Elderslie Street

07 4657 1340

WOOLLOONGABBA

38-40 Fisher Street

07 3334 8000

Interactivink

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Forsayth Cobbold Gorge Tours Agate Creek Road P 07 4062 5470 E enquiries@cobboldgorge.com.au www.cobboldgorge.com.au

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Lawn Hill Adels Grove Camp Ground Lot 3 Lawn Hill Gregory Road P 07 4748 5502 E reservations@adelsgrove.com.au www.adelsgrove.com.au

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Longreach Kinnon and Co 115a Eagle Street P 07 4658 1776 E info@kinnonandco.com.au

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Outback Aussie Tours Longreach Railway Station P 07 4658 3000 E info@oat.net.au www.outbackaussietours.com.au

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Maryborough Down Under Tours Cnr Tooley & Normanby Streets P 07 4123 1733 E admin@downundercoachtours.com.au www.downundercoachtours.com.au

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Mount Isa Nautilus Aviation Mount Isa Airport P 07 4034 9000 E sales@nautilusaviation.com.au www.nautilusaviation.com.au

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Springwood Fun Over Fifty P 07 3423 3455 www.funoverfifty.com.au

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Trinity Beach Tagalong Tours of Australia P 07 4057 4096 E paul@tagalongtours.com.au www.tagalongtours.com.au

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Townsville Adventure Australia Treks & Tours 63 Bamboo Crescent, Mount Louisa P 0409 279 898 E martin@aatt.com.au www.aatt.com.au Camel Co P 0438 094 335 E ask.us@camelco.com.au www.camelco.com.au

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Roma Boobook EcoTours 15 Quintin Street P 07 4622 2646 E info@boobook.biz www.boobooktours.com

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Richmond Hampstead Tours Hampstead Springs P 07 4741 3429 E hampstead@skymesh.com.au

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Winton Red Dirt Tours P 0409 045 174 E vicki@reddirttours.com.au www.reddirttours.com.au

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Yaraka Yaraka Hotel 12 Jarley Street P 07 4657 5526 E yarakaone@bigpond.com www.yaraka.com.au

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WWII Convoy Tour Milky Way P 07 4654 7771 E obguides@bigpond.com www.murweh.qld.gov.au

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Travel West Tours Lot 1 Frawley Street P 0428 545 954 E info@travelwest.com.au www.travelwest.com.au

Half Day Tour

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Charleville Cosmos Centre Milky Way P 07 4654 7771 E enquiries@cosmoscentre.com www.cosmoscentre.com

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Burketown Savannah Lodge Cnr Beames & Bowen Steets P 07 4745 5177 E savair@bigpond.com www.savannah-lodge.com Cairns Tagalong Tours of Australia PO Box 724 P 07 4057 4096 E paul@tagalongtours.com.au www.tagalongtours.com.au

Non Smoking

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Hotel/Motel

Barcaldine Yambangku Stratford 93 Acacia Street P 0488 955 935 E stratford01@bigpond.com

Disabled Facilities

Coach/Coaster

Extended

Tour Operators

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Transport Operators

Phone

Website

Avis

136 333

www.avis.com.au

Bus Queensland

1300 287 537

www.busqld.com.au

Greyhound

1300 473 946

www.greyhound.com.au

Nautilus Aviation

07 4034 9000

www.nautilusaviation.com.au

Qantas

13 13 13

www.qantas.com.au

QantasLink

13 13 13

www.qantas.com.au

Queensland Rail Travel

1800 627 655

www.queenslandrailtravel.com.au

Rex Regional Express

13 17 13

www.rex.com.au

Skytrans

1300 759 872

www.skytrans.com.au

Stonestreets Coaches

07 4687 5555

www.stonestreets.com.au

Scheduled Service

Charter

Hire

Rail

Air

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Visitor Information Centres

Street Address

Phone

Email

Website

ALPHA

Rowley Roberts Tourist Information Centre

Shakespeare Street

07 4985 1050

alpha007@bigpond.com

www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au

ARAMAC

Aramac Branch Office

Gordon Street

07 4652 9999

emaramac@barc.qld.gov.au

www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au

BARCALDINE

Barcaldine Visitor Information Centre

Oak Street

07 4651 1724

tourism@barc.qld.gov.au

www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au

BEDOURIE

Bedourie Outback Visitor Information Centre

13 Herbert Street

1300 794 257

visitors@diamantina.qld.gov.au

www.thediamantina.com.au

BILOELA

Biloela Visitor Information Centre

Callide Street

07 4992 2405

marilyn@biloinfo.com

Rural Hinterland Visitor Information Centre

Exhibition Avenue

07 4992 2400

rhvic@bigpond.com

www.ruralhinterlandvic.com.au

Wirrarri Visitor Information Centre

29 Burt Street

07 4656 3300

info@diamantina.qld.gov.au

www.thediamantina.com.au

BLACKALL

Blackall Visitor Information Centre

145a Shamrock Street

07 4657 4637

binfo@btrc.qld.gov.au

www.blackalltambotourism.com.au

BOULIA

Min Min Encounter and Visitor Information Centre

Herbert Street

07 4746 3386

tourism@boulia.qld.gov.au

www.boulia.qld.gov.au

CHARLEVILLE

Charleville Visitor Information Centre

Milky Way

07 4654 7771

enquiries@cosmoscentre.com

www.murweh.qld.gov.au

CLONCURRY

Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Information Centre & Museum

McIlwraith Street

07 4742 1361

info@cloncurry.qld.gov.au

www.cloncurry.qld.gov.au

CUNNAMULLA

Cunnamulla Fella Centre

2 Jane Street

07 4655 8470

cunnamullainfo@paroo.qld.gov.au

www.paroo.info

HUGHENDEN

Flinders Discovery Centre

37 Gray Street

07 4741 2970

info@flinders.qld.gov.au

www.visithughenden.com.au

INJUNE

Injune Visitor Information Centre

32 Hutton Street

07 4626 0503

tourism@maranoa.qld.gov.au

www.visitmaranoa.com.au

JERICHO

Jericho Post Office

Darwin Street

07 4651 4129

donnaw@barc.qld.gov.au

www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au

JULIA CREEK

At the Creek

34 Burke Street

07 4746 7690

tourism@mckinlay.qld.gov.au

www.atthecreek.com.au

JUNDAH

Jundah Information Centre

11 Dickson Street

07 4658 6930

jundahinfo@barcoo.qld.gov.au

www.barcoo.qld.gov.au

KARUMBA

Karumba Visitor Information Centre & Library

Walker Street

07 4747 7522

kbalib@carpentaria.qld.gov.au

www.carpentaria.qld.gov.au

LONGREACH

Longreach Visitor Information Centre

Qantas Park, 97 Eagle Street

07 4658 4150

visitinf@longreach.qld.gov.au

www.visitlongreach.com.au

McKINLAY

McKinlay Tourist Centre and Library

Middleton Street

07 4746 8848

tourism@mckinlay.qld.gov.au

MITCHELL

Great Artesian Spa

2 Cambridge Street

07 4624 6923

mitchellvic@maranoa.qld.gov.au

www.mymaranoa.org.au

MOUNT ISA

Outback at Isa

19 Marian Street

07 4749 1555

info@outbackatisa.com.au

www.outbackatisa.com.au

MUTTABURRA

Muttaburra Post Office

Sword Street

07 4658 7147

riverview2001@bigpond.com

www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au

NORMANTON

Normanton Visitor Information Centre & Library

Cnr Landsborough Hwy & Caroline Street

07 4787 8444

tourism@carpentaria.qld.gov.au

www.carpentaria.qld.gov.au

QUILPIE

Quilpie Visitor Information Centre

51 Brolga Street

07 4656 0540

tourism@quilpie.qld.gov.au

www.visitquilpieshire.com

RICHMOND

Kronosaurus Korner

91-93 Goldring Street

07 4741 3429

enquiries@kronosauruskorner.com.au

www.kronosauruskorner.com.au

ROMA

The Roma Big Rig and Visitor Information Centre

2 Riggers Road

07 4622 8676

tourism@maranoa.qld.gov.au

www.visitmaranoa.com.au

STONEHENGE

Stonehenge Community Centre

Stratford Street

07 4658 5857

stonehengeinfo@barcoo.qld.gov.au

www.barcoo.qld.gov.au

SURAT

Cobb & Co Changing Station

62 Burrowes Street

07 4626 5136

suratvic@maranoa.qld.gov.au

www.mymaranoa.org.au

BIRDSVILLE

TAMBO

Tambo Visitor Information Centre

9 Arthur Street

07 4654 6408

tourism@btrc.qld.gov.au

www.blackalltambotourism.com.au

THARGOMINDAH

Thargomindah Visitor Information Centre

37 Dowling Street

07 4621 8095

tourism@bulloo.qld.gov.au

www.thargotourism.com.au

WALLUMBILLA

Calico Cottage

Warrego Highway

07 4623 4244

wallumbillavic@maranoa.qld.gov.au

www.mymaranoa.org.au

WINDORAH

Windorah Visitor Information Centre

Maryborough Street

07 4656 3063

windorahinfo@barcoo.qld.gov.au

www.barcoo.qld.gov.au

WINTON

Winton Visitor Information Centre

50 Elderslie Street

1300 665 115

vic@winton.qld.gov.au

www.experiencewinton.com.au

outbackqueensland.com.au 113

ACCREDITED VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES This sign denotes genuine, quality visitor information centres. These centres have achieved specified industry standards and are recognised within their region as genuine, quality information providers.

BARCALDINE

CLONCURRY

BEDOURIE

CUNNAMULLA

Barcaldine Visitor Information Centre 149 Oak Street, Barcaldine P (07) 4651 1724 F (07) 4651 2243 tourism@barc.qld.gov.au www.barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au

Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Information Centre and Museum McIlwraith Street, Cloncurry P (07) 4742 1361 F (07) 4742 0144 info@cloncurry.qld.gov.au www.cloncurry.qld.gov.au

Bedourie Outback Visitor Information Centre 17 Herbert Street, Bedourie P 1300 794 257 F (07) 4746 1272 visitors@diamantina.qld.gov.au www.thediamantina.com.au

Cunnamulla Fella Centre 2 Jane Street, Cunnamulla P (07) 4655 8470 F (07) 4655 1120 cunnamullainfo@paroo.qld.gov.au www.paroo.info

BILOELA

Hughenden Visitor Information Centre – Flinders Discovery Centre 37 Gray Street, Hughenden P (07) 4741 2970 F (07) 4741 1029 info@flinders.qld.gov.au www.visithughenden.com.au

Biloela Visitor Information Centre Callide Street, Biloela P (07) 4992 2405 marilyn@biloinfo.com Rural Hinterland Visitor Information Centre Exhibition Avenue, Biloela P (07) 4992 2400 rhvic@bigpond.com www.ruralhinterlandvic.com.au

BIRDSVILLE

Wirrarri Visitor Information Centre 29 Burt Street, Birdsville P (07) 4656 3300 F (07) 4656 3302 info@diamantina.qld.gov.au www.thediamantina.com.au

BOULIA

HUGHENDEN

INJUNE

Injune Visitor Information Centre 32 Hutton Street, Injune P (07) 4626 0503 tourism@maranoa.qld.gov.au www.mymaranoa.org.au

JULIA CREEK

Julia Creek Visitor Information Centre – ‘At the Creek’ 34 Burke Street, Julia Creek P (07) 4746 7690 F (07) 4746 7005 tourism@mckinlay.qld.gov.au www.atthecreek.com.au

Min Min Encounter and Visitor Information Centre 25 Herbert Street, Boulia P (07) 4746 3386 F (07) 4746 3387 tourism@boulia.qld.gov.au www.boulia.qld.gov.au

LONGREACH

CHARLEVILLE

MOUNT ISA

Charleville Visitor Information Centre Milky Way, Charleville P (07) 4654 3057 F (07) 4654 7772 tourism@murweh.qld.gov.au www.murweh.qld.gov.au

Longreach Visitor Information Centre Qantas Park, 97 Eagle Street, Longreach P (07) 4658 4150 F (07) 4658 4116 visitinf@longreach.qld.gov.au www.visitlongreach.com.au Outback at Isa Visitor Information Centre 19 Marian Street, Mount Isa P (07) 4749 1555 F (07) 4743 6296 info@outbackatisa.com.au www.outbackatisa.com.au

QUILPIE

Quilpie Visitor Information Centre, Museum & Gallery 51 Brolga Street, Quilpie P (07) 4656 0540 F (07) 4656 1441 tourism@quilpie.qld.gov.au www.visitquilpieshire.com

RICHMOND

Richmond Visitor Information Centre, Kronosaurus Korner 91-93 Goldring Street, Richmond P (07) 4741 3429 enquiries@kronosauruskorner.com.au www.kronosauruskorner.com.au

ROMA

Roma Visitor Information Centre 2 Riggers Road, Roma P (07) 4622 8676 F (07) 4624 6990 tourism@maranoa.qld.gov.au www.mymaranoa.org.au

THARGOMINDAH

Thargomindah Visitor Information Centre 37 Dowling Street, Thargomindah P (07) 4621 8095 F (07) 4655 3131 tourism@bulloo.qld.gov.au www.thargotourism.com.au

WINDORAH

Windorah Visitor Information Centre 7 Maryborough Street, Windorah P (07) 4656 3063 F (07) 4656 3137 windorahinfo@barcoo.qld.gov.au www.barcoo.qld.gov.au

WINTON

Winton Visitor Information Centre 50 Elderslie Street, Winton P 1300 665 115 F (07) 4657 1886 vic@winton.qld.gov.au www.experiencewinton.com.au

For more information please contact: Outback Queensland Tourism Association Inc P: 1800 247 966 E: admin@outbackqld.com.au www.outbackqueensland.com.au