Paroo Shire Visitor Guide

Visitor Guide

cunnamulla EULO • WYANDRA • YOWAH

P.S. Live like a local

WWW.CUNNAMULLATOURISM.COM.AU

Paroo Shire

Discover vibrant red sandhills and brilliant blue skies. Stay on a working property and boil the billy under starry night skies. Imagine adventure-filled days and must-see outback landscapes, Paroo Shire is a photographer’s dream destination.

welcome to the region Reclaim what’s real when you visit our beautiful region. Escape the run-of-the-mill tourist haunts and enjoy a genuine connection to local people and culture. Meet working graziers and learn about life on the land.

Join locals as they enjoy their favourite river activities. Immerse yourself in heritage stories and heroic tales.

Slow down. Unplug. Embrace the country lifestyle and live like a local.

P.S. Live like a local

6 CUNNAMULLA

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EULO

WYANDRA

YOWAH

contents 3 Getting Here 4 Calendar of Events 14 National Parks and Birdwatching

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16 Paroo Experiences 18 Heritage and History 19 Travel Directory

COVER IMAGE: ‘The Beach’, Wyandra

getting here Whatever your timeframe or budget, you have a number of options for travelling to Cunnamulla.

drive

fly

Cunnamulla lies at the crossroads of two great Australian drives, the Adventure Way and the Matilda Way. Most of the highways are now sealed, and unless conditions are wet, many places of interest can be reached by conventional vehicles.

REX (Regional Express Airlines) flies twice weekly between Brisbane and Cunnamulla. Known as the Cobb & Co Flight Route, you’ll stop in Toowoomba and St George in both directions.

rail

MATILDA WAY: CUNNAMULLA – KARUMBA This fully sealed 1812km highway stretches from the New South Wales border all the way to the Gulf of Carpentaria.

The historic Westlander train travels from Brisbane across the Great Dividing Range to Charleville twice weekly. This service connects with a rail coach service to Cunnamulla.

ADVENTURE WAY: BRISBANE – CUNNAMULLA – ADELAIDE Now fully sealed, the 2088km Adventure Way follows the wheel ruts of the old Cobb & Co route from Brisbane to Adelaide.

coach Bus Queensland runs three services per week between Toowoomba and Cunnamulla. These services set down in Moonie and St George.

BIRDSVILLE CHARLEVILLE TOOWOOMBA MOONIE

CUNNAMULLA

INNAMINCKA THARGOMINDAH

LYNDHURST

BRISBANE

ST GEORGE

BOURKE

LEIGH CREEK COBAR HAWKER

NYNGAN DUBBO

QUORN HILLSTON

BATHURST GRIFFITH

ADELAIDE

DARLINGTON POINT

SYDNEY

COLEAMBALLY Cunnamulla Fella Centre Jane Street, Cunnamulla Call 07 4655 8470

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calendar of events Feel the crowd’s excitement at Queensland’s richest Bull Ride and discover the true Aussie larrikin spirit at the Cunnamulla Fella Festival. Kick back and get country with Music in the Mulga, join a miner on an opal mine tour or mix it up with the fashions on the fields at a country race meet. Discover our jam-packed calendar of outback flavoured events.

jan

jun

Australia Day Celebrations

feb

Welcome to Cunnamulla

apr

ANZAC Day Services + Race Meet

Noorama Picnic Races

may

Eulo Music in the Mulga

Cunnamulla District Show

Eulo ICPA Ladies Day

jul

Yowah Opal Festival

aug

Cunnamulla Fella Festival

Cunnamulla & District Diggers Race Club Festival Races

Angel Flight Motorbike Ride

oct

Cunnamulla & District Diggers Race Club Cunnamulla Cup

Ladies Day Pink Races

sep NOV 4 www.cunnamullatourism.com.au

mar

dec

Golf Open Day

Eulo Polocrosse

Christmas Street Party

adventure outback with the perfect event drive itinerary Three big events in one fabulous road trip!

STARTS LAST WEEKEND IN AUGUST

DAY 1 – FRIDAY – CUNNAMULLA Welcome to Cunnamulla! Once you have settled into your accommodation, pull on your boots and head down to John Kerr Park to cheer on teams in the Cunnamulla Fella Challenge. Strap in for a night of thrills and spills as the Bulls and Broncs take centre stage at the Rodeo! Party into the night with live music.

DAY 2 – SATURDAY – CUNNAMULLA Join us for breakfast at Centenary Park and enjoy demonstrations of sheep shearing, wood chopping, timber slabbing and more. Tonight, witness the toughest sport on dirt – The PBR Bull Ride plus fireworks and more great live music.

DAY 3 – SUNDAY – CUNNAMULLA Today is all about you. Do as little or as much as you like. Kick back on the lawn with the Cunnamulla Fella and enjoy the food and refreshment stalls and an afternoon of live music.

Breathe in the clean country air and recharge for the next part of your adventure.

CUNNAMULLA FELLA FESTIVAL

DAY 4 – MONDAY – CUNNAMULLA TO QUILPIE (376KM) On arrival in Quilpie, head straight to your accommodation to check-in. Next stop, the Visitor Information Centre to hear all about the region has to offer from the local experts. Take a stroll along the tranquil Bulloo River Walk – don’t forget your camera! Pack some refreshments and take in the sunset at Baldy Top; an absolute must do!

DAY 5 – TUESDAY – QUILPIE Jump on the bus for the Guided Town Tour. Check out the museums and gallery at the Visitor Information Centre, or try your luck at the local opal fossicking area. If you don’t strike it rich, visit St Finbarr Opal Altar to see the only opal altar in the world. Save your energy though, because tonight is the Kangaranga Do Street Party and trust us, you’ll need it! With bath tub races, wool bale rolling and the signature “Get Your Rocks Off” competition, this is one event you don’t want to miss. Party the night away with loads of entertainment, food, drink and much, much more.

DAY 6 – WEDNESDAY – QUILPIE TO WINDORAH (246KM) Time to head to Windorah… Get ready for a night of yabbies, live music, auctions, food, drink and more fun than you can poke a crab pot at with the International Yabby Races. Don’t miss out on a Yabby Races form guide – these are highly sought after and will give you hours of entertainment even after the races are finished.

BIRDSVILLE RACES

WINDORAH YABBY RACES

DAY 7 – THURSDAY – WINDORAH TO BIRDSVILLE (389KM) It’s a big drive to Birdsville. You can prepare for the journey by filling up the car, purchasing a few snacks and topping up your water supplies before leaving Windorah. Keep your eyes open for the JC Hotel ruins and the Native Well, both good places for a quick stop to stretch the legs. There are also public toilets and picnic tables at the turnoff to Birdsville Road. Tonight is the Birdsville Races Cocktail Party, a fantastic opportunity to dress up and experience outback hospitality in style. Numbers are strictly limited so be sure to pre-purchase your tickets.

DAY 8 – FRIDAY – BIRDSVILLE Giddy up, it’s Race Day! Catch one of the many courtesy buses out to the race track for a day of racing and novelty Fashions on the Field. There will be plenty of bookies, refreshments and entertainment on the course. Then head back to town for a night of outback action including the Brophys Boxing Tent and the famous Birdsville Hotel with live music and plenty of new mates to meet.

DAY 9 – SATURDAY – BIRDSVILLE Birdsville Cup Day – Register for the Fashions on the Field from 11am, with multiple categories for the whole family to join in. If you feel like something extra special, book your track side marquee tickets to experience the Cup in ultimate comfort.

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cunnamulla Visit Cunnamulla where the handshakes are stronger and the smile lasts longer.

Immerse yourself in a true outback experience. Discover meaningful connections with people and places. Just ask the larger than life Cunnamulla Fella!

“It’s not 5 star, it’s a 1000 star” PETER KING TRIP ADVISOR REVIEW

THE REAL DEAL If experiencing the real deal is your thing, then Cunnamulla has the goods. Passionate local tour operators, local station stays and genuine outback experiences sure to tick the box. Fully immerse yourself in typical outback station life with a choice of working properties to visit. Get a taste of the outback life. See sheep shearing (in season) or cattle mustering, go on a water run or help with some of the daily station tasks. Visitors to Charlotte Plains sheep and cattle station are treated to a welcome soak in their 1890s station bore. Its inviting mineral-laden water comes straight from the Great Artesian Basin.

the secrets of this natural wonderland. Keep an eye out for the cheeky Cooper Creek turtle as you paddle the tranquil waters.

Keen ‘twitchers’ will love discovering the region’s native birds in their natural environment too. Cunnamulla has some of the best natural sandhills in Australia. Just seeing them is an eye-catching feast. Picture vibrant red sandhills contrasting with brilliant blue skies. It’s photo heaven! If ‘sight-doing’ is more your thing, then get ready to burn a few calories with some sand-boarding. Climb up to the top of the sandhill then feel the rush as you carve up the sand on the way down.

The township of Cunnamulla was created by Cobb & Co. on the third of September 1879, when the first coach drove through from Bourke. Today it is the only surviving south-west town along the original route.

Top things to do in Cunnamulla

This says a lot about the people of Cunnamulla. Tough, resilient, creative….down to earth folk who love their country. While wool growing and beef production are still the main industries, the new kids on the block are organic wheat, organic beef and lamb production.

NATURE’S BOUNTY The mighty Warrego River is on the edge of town. Kayaking, fishing, swimming...it’s the perfect place for a bush picnic.

Cunnamulla locals are sharing folk, so don’t be shy when asking for the best spot to throw in a line. Hire a kayak and discover

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• Relax around a traditional Gidgee coal campfire • Savour a camp oven themed dinner and billy tea • Experience life on the land with a real station stay • Kayak the tranquil waters of the Warrego River • Spot the Cooper Creek turtle and native birdlife • Sand-board down stunning natural sandhills • Stake out the perfect fishing hole • Journey back 100 million years in the Artesian Time Tunnel • Enjoy sunset drinks from the River Walk • Follow the looped walking track to the Bushlands • Uncover town stories on the Cunnamulla Heritage Trail

PICTURED CLOCKWISE: ARTESIAN TIME TUNNEL, CUNNAMULLA FELLA VISITOR CENTRE, CUNNAMULLA FELLA

Now I’m a scrubber runner and a breaker too I live on damper and wallaby stew I’ve got a big cattle dog with a staghound cross I never saw the scrubber we couldn’t toss ‘Coz I’m the fella from Cunnamulla Yes I’m the Cunnamulla Fella Oh he’s the Cunnamulla Fella Yes he’s the Cunnamulla Fella TAKEN FROM ‘CUNNAMULLA FELLA’ STAN COSTER

cunnamulla fella You’ll know you’ve arrived when you spot the Cunnamulla Fella. This larger-than-life statue is a tribute to the Aussie larrikin stockman. Slim Dusty has had a hand in making the Cunnamulla Fella famous when he put the lyrics of Stan Coster to song. More recently the song has been performed by Lee Kernaghan.

P.S. Live like a local

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eulo Visit the ‘kingdom’ of the infamous Eulo Queen and you’ll discover a very enterprising community. Dubbed the ‘Montville of the Outback’, Eulo is home to local producers, opal art and mud baths. Pick up a handcrafted whip, belt or handbag.

FIT FOR A QUEEN Imagine a lovely green oasis, set amongst the mulga. This is Eulo.

It’s little more than a one-pub, one-general store town and yet it has a distinct charm. Spend time exploring this delightful haven perched on the banks of the Paroo River...you’ll be glad you did.

Back in the 1880s when opal mining was at its peak, Eulo was a bustling township with three hotels. For a while it was home to one of the legends of the opal era, ‘The Eulo Queen’. Today the town centrepiece is the Eulo Queen Hotel, named after the thrice-married pub owner, storekeeper and opal trader, Isabel Gray. According to folklore, she was attempting to eject an unruly drinker, and roared: “I’m the Eulo Queen – now get out!”

Visit the Eulo Queen Hotel and sample their signature dish, the Eulo Queen Special Sausages. While there, you should take a moment to read some of the local versions of the Eulo Queen story posted on the walls.

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FOR THE GOURMETS Each winter, beekeepers travel to Eulo so their bees can feed on the Yapunyah tree, a Warrego variety of Eucalyptus found in the region. The outback honey they produce is often described as you would a fine wine... dark amber, tasting of caramel and spicy butterscotch with a hint of pepper. It’s no surprise that this gourmet honey has taken out blue ribbons at The Royal Easter Show in Sydney. You can purchase a selection of natural honey skin products from the Eulo Queen Arts and Opal Centre.

Treat yourself to a gourmet mud bath. At the Artesian Mud Baths, you can soak in antique baths, in a beautiful bush setting, under the stars. Bathe in milky grey artesian mud drawn fresh from ancient springs. Warmed by braziers on cold winter nights, you’ll be served wine and nibbles in these ultimate artesian mud baths.

This ancient mud is estimated to be 20,000 years old, rich in Silica, Magnesium, Potassium, Calcium, Iron and Zinc.

mud springs “the Montville of the outback”

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.

Discover the Artesian Mud Springs. This supergroup of mud mounds and open springs act as release valves for the Great Artesian Basin.

Top things to do in Eulo

• Indulge with an artesian mud bath • Find out why Eulo needed an air raid shelter • See opals and art at the Telegraph House Gallery • Pick up some handcrafted leather goods • Celebrate Music In The Mulga Country Music Festival • Discover the natural Artesian Mud Springs • See the World Champion Lizard Racetrack • Ask a local about the megafauna discoveries • Camp beside a secluded billabong along the Paroo River • Grab a coffee at the Eulo General Store

P.S. Live like a local

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wyandra Perfectly located halfway between Cunnamulla and Charleville, Wyandra is a must-see town. If you have an interest in architecture, there are some great old buildings to discover.

It may be small, but as the locals will attest, it’s a great little town to explore.

BRING YOUR TOGS Well you’re a long way from the ocean, but who says you can’t find a beach? Wyandra is about 100km north of Cunnamulla and boasts its very own beach. Popular with locals and visitors alike, ‘The Beach’ on the Warrego River was so named given its appealing sandy enclave. In days gone by, the whole community would gather there to celebrate Christmas Day with picnics, swimming and playing in the sand.

some great old buildings from the boom period. The original powerhouse was designed as a one man 24-hour operation with the superintendent living next door. It’s now a museum on the trail and is definitely worth a look. Finish your walk with a cool drink at the Gladstone Hotel and a burger at the Post Office Café.

Don’t miss the chance to watch a movie, under the stars, at the outdoor cinema.

ON THE LINE Like so many outback towns, Wyandra came into being as a railway settlement. Built along the Western Railway Line, the town was a major water stop for the steam engines heading through to Charleville.

DISCOVER KENNEDY’S CAMP In November 1847, Edmund B. Kennedy partially mapped the Warrego River from its head waters to a point about 30 miles south of Cunnamulla. Kennedy camped here on 12 November 1847 – the camp site has since been used by many drovers moving stock along the stock route.

WALK THE TOWN Your camera is a must as you stroll the Heritage Trail. You’ll see some interesting examples of outback architecture with

WATER WORTH BOTTLING Treat yourself to the natural health benefits of locally produced Alkaline Artesian Mineral Water. Life Energy Water is sourced and

“Old time drovers claimed ‘The sweetest Water in the West ‘” SALLY THE WATER LADY

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bottled in Wyandra. Even non-water drinkers will love the soft and sweet taste of this natural drop.

‘100% Australian from a Deep & Pure Ancient Source’.

POWER UP The Powerhouse and two national engines were moved here from Cunnamulla in 1955. Prior to that time there was no electricity supply. The Powerhouse was designed as a one man 24 hour operation with the superintendent living next door.

Top things to do in Wyandra

• Follow the Pioneer Pathway to Kennedy’s Camp 18 • Feel the sand between your toes & take a dip at ‘The Beach’ • Marvel at the outback architecture along the Heritage Trail • Quench your thirst with locally bottled Artesian water • Share an ale with mates at the Gladstone Hotel • Test your skills with a game of mini golf • Take a nostalgic journey at the Powerhouse Museum • Enjoy a movie under the stars at the outdoor cinema

PICTURED CLOCKWISE: POWERHOUSE MUSEUM, WARREGO RIVER CROSSING, SECLUDED SPOT ON THE WYANDRA ‘BEACH’

peace & tranquility Take time out to camp or picnic beside the Warrego River or enjoy a refreshing dip at the Wyandra ‘Beach’.

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yowah Meet the community where the opal is king and most of the residents are small-scale miners. Discover the story of Australia’s national gem, the opal. Fossick for opals and join a whole host of local activities while you are in town.

THAT’S NOT A ROCK Discover the story of Australia’s national gem in Yowah. Spend a few days exploring this ‘living gallery’ with its distinctive opal galleries dotted around the town. The main attraction for this area is the unique Yowah Nut. You guessed it, the opal is formed naturally like a nut and many visitors would disregard them as simply a rock. Experienced opal miners will often crack open thousands of nuts to find gem colour. These regularly sell for thousands of dollars. While in Yowah, you can try your hand at fossicking in an area adjacent to town.

ART AT SUNSET For a spectacular sunset, you simply must visit ‘The Bluff.’ The 150-metre rise is only a few kilometres from town and offers 180 degree views of the surrounding country. If you can draw your eyes away from the view you’ll notice piles of stones everywhere.

This ‘stone art’ has become a popular activity for visitors to the area, so make sure you add your own before you leave.

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THE LOCAL TOUCH Back in town you may fancy a round of golf? The local course offers an open-air clubhouse, sandy greens and fairways. Wind down with a luxurious soak in ancient artesian waters then meet the locals at the community fireside barbeque. If you are in town on a Sunday, then be sure to head to the Sunday Tailgaters Stall which starts around noon. Expect to be awed by the range of opals and locally produced craft on sale.

SPA ANYONE? Round off your day with a relaxing soak in a hot Artesian Bore Bath at the ‘Artesian Waters Caravan Park.’ Or, if you like a few more bubbles, then head to the Yowah Artesian Spa. There are two pools, the first warmer than the second. What’s not to love about a good bath at the end of the day? Invigorate your body and soul in these naturally heated mineral waters listening to the sounds of the Outback.

DUCKS AND DINNER Be sure to include the Thursday night Dinner and Duck Race in your itinerary. It’s held during tourist season at the Artesian Waters Caravan Park. You’ll enjoy a 3-course dinner and the chance to bet on the unique bore drain duck race. This event raises money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

YOWAH OPAL FESTIVAL This annual event is held on the third weekend in July. Over two days you can get your fill on all things opals, gemstones and crafts. There’s some great live music and entertainment as well as events to make the two days as fun-filled and memorable as possible.

Top things to do in Yowah

• Test your skills on the 9 hole golf course • Fossick for opals in the public fossicking area • Explore the ‘living gallery’ of wonderful opal displays • Drive to ‘The Bluff’ for sunset views and stone art creations • Place a bet on the bore drain duck race • Soak up the benefits of Artesian waters with a hot bore bath • Spot local birdlife on a locally guided tour

PICTURED CLOCKWISE: THE VIEW FROM THE BLUFF, YOWAH NUT, ENJOY A NIGHT AROUND THE FIRE WITH THE LOCALS, OPEN AIR BORE BATHS

“Loved our visit to the Yowah Nut Cafe. People are so friendly here.”

FRANCIS & BOB NSW

yowah nut An ironstone rock with opal matrix and hopefully a crystal centre. This unique opal can be mixed in with black or red ironstone, vitrified clay or silicated sandstone to form the most beautiful patterns and pictures.

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get natural We enjoy our natural attractions and experiences. Spend some time exploring nearby Currawinya National Park, discover century old mud springs and mineral rich mud baths.

Amble along the Warrego River Walk or explore the Cunnamulla Bushlands. You’ll love it!

currawinya national park

bowra wildlife sanctuary

Prepare to be awestruck by the lakes, rivers and wetlands of this stunning national park. This area is one of Australia’s most important waterbird habitats. It’s also home to our ‘Aussie’ easter bunny, the endangered Bilby. If you’re keen on history, then you should visit the old Caiwarro Homestead site at the northern end of the park.

Bowra Wildlife Sanctuary is internationally renowned as one of Australia’s most rewarding bird watching destinations. Purchased for conservation by the Australian Wildlife Conservancy (AWC), the area is now protected forever as part of Australia’s National Reserve System. This diverse habitat is rich in birdlife and is a stronghold for many threatened and declining bird species.

WHAT’S SPECIAL Lake Wyara and Lake Numalla are two large lakes separated by only a few kilometres of sand dunes. Lake Numalla is freshwater.

The slightly larger Lake Wyara is saline. The best time for capturing that perfect picture of arid zone wildlife is early mornings.

WHAT’S SPECIAL This 14000 hectare reserve is home to more than 200 bird species including the iconic Hall’s babbler, the chestnut-breasted quail, Bourke’s parrot, chirruping wedgebill and the black falcon.

BEST WALK For stunning views over the whole park, walk to a small outcrop of granite called The Granites. It’s located 10km north of Ten Mile Bore on the Boorara Road.

GETTING AROUND You are welcome to travel about the sanctuary on well-maintained dirt tracks seeking birds or other wildlife. During August and September you may see a stunning display of wildflowers.

CAMPING You can bush camp at Ourimperee waterhole behind the Woolshed (close to flushing toilets and a bush shower), or at several sites on the Paroo River near Caiwarro Homestead site.

CAMPING Camping is available in open areas adjacent to the buildings and around the lagoon. You have the choice of powered and unpowered sites.

GETTING THERE Drive approximately 170km south-west of Cunnamulla then turn towards Hungerford 4km west of Eulo. Travel by 4WD is recommended. Make sure you fuel up and take good supplies of food and water.

GETTING THERE The sanctuary is around 15km from Cunnamulla. Head west from town across the Warrego River and turn right at the sign to Bowra.

Drive 9km to the entrance gate and another 6km along a dirt track to the accommodation area.

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artesian mud springs

cunnamulla bushlands

Built up over centuries these Mud Springs were the original release valves for the Great Artesian Basin. As underground pressure grows, mud is forced up through fissures in the ground.

You’ll notice the mounds have soft jelly-like tops. These springs are centuries old and are a permanent water source in our semi arid landscape.

Discover our regional ecosystems when you visit the Cunnamulla Bushlands spanning a 6km site. Follow a 1km walking track through Mulga Lands, Sandhills, Gidgee Stands, Mitchell Grass Plains, Brigalow Country and Wetlands. This easy stroll meanders along a flowing waterway that ends at the Wetlands.

WHAT’S SPECIAL See native plant interpretive signage as you journey through the regional ecosystems. You’ll also spot plenty of birdlife around the waterways and Wetlands. The paths are wheelchair friendly.

WHAT’S SPECIAL This super-group of Great Artesian Basin (GAB) springs have a very high conservation value. They support specialised plants and animals only found in GAB springs.

TOP EXPERIENCE Arrange to visit around sunset for the best chance of viewing local wildlife. Bring some drinks and nibbles to enjoy as you watch Kangaroos coming to the waterhole to drink and perhaps see an Emu or two strolling by. These Bushlands offer you an ideal opportunity to experience multiple ecosystems in the one location.

TOP EXPERIENCE For your chance to soak in the mineral rich mud from these springs, head to the nearby Eulo Mud Baths. Thermally heated water is pumped straight from the Artesian basin to your clawfooted bath. Pat on the milky grey natural mud and let your skin relish the goodness from this mineral rich mud. Complete the experience with wine and nibbles platters.

GETTING THERE Drive around 1km from the Cunnamulla Fella Visitor Information Centre to reach the Bushlands. Pick up a map and information sheet before you go.

GETTING THERE Drive 8km out of Eulo on the road to Thargomindah where you’ll see a sign which reads ‘Mud Springs’.

Cunnamulla Bushlands 8

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NURSERY FACILITIES

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PICNIC SHELTER

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TRAIL FEATURES 1 mulga area

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gidgee area

3 brigalow area

6 mitchell grass plains

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jumpup area

8 ironbark, wilga & box flats 9

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dry land area wattle

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sandhill area

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paroo experiences 3 Day Cunnamulla & Eulo DAY 1 – IT’S ALL IN THE WATER Visit the Artesian Time Tunnel at the Cunnamulla Fella Centre for a real insight into the world’s largest underground river journey.

Just outside of town is the beautiful Warrego River. Follow the 2.5km River Walk at sunset to capture the last colours of the day from the viewing deck. Hire a kayak or take a guided kayak tour of this natural wonderland.

DAY 2 – KEEPING IT REAL Get a taste of the real outback with a visit to Charlotte Plains Station, a working sheep and cattle property. Apart from the abundant birdlife and wildlife, the big attraction is the 1890s station bore pond. Relax in this natural Artesian water and soak your cares away. Join a history tour of the station or participate in station activities.

DAY 3 – JUST A BIT OF GOURMET In Eulo you can treat yourself to a gourmet soak at the Artesian Mud Baths. Bathe in milky grey artesian mud drawn fresh from ancient springs. Indulge with wine and nibbles as you stretch out in the antique baths in a beautiful bush setting. Sample local honey products at the Eulo Belle Arts & Opal Centre. This gourmet honey has taken out Blue Ribbons at the Royal Easter Show in Sydney.

3 Day Cunnamulla & Wyandra DAY 1 – WHAT’S IN A STORY Find out about Australia’s first self-made millionaire and uncover the region’s heritage stories at the Cunnamulla Fella Museum.

Follow the Heritage (walking) Trail for a wonderful insight into the town’s unique character and historical buildings including hotels, saddlery, Tonkin House and churches. Discover the history of The Warrego Watchman, south-west Queensland’s independent newspaper established in 1884.

DAY 2 – ACTIVE EXPLORING Cunnamulla has some of the best natural sandhills in Australia. Just seeing them is an eye-catching feast. Picture vibrant red sandhills contrasting with brilliant blue skies. It’s photo heaven!

If ‘sight-doing’ is more your thing, then get ready to burn a few calories with some sand-boarding. Climb up to the top of the sandhill then feel the rush as you carve up the sand on the way down.

DAY 3 – SLOW DOWN AND RELAX In Wyandra, pack a picnic lunch and head to ‘The Beach’ on the Warrego River for a swim, spot of fishing or bushwalking. Enjoy a meal at The Post Office Café or the Gladstone Hotel. Relax under the stars watching a film in the unique outdoor cinema or take in a round of mini golf.

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CHARLEVILLE

3 DAY CUNNAMULLA & EULO 3 DAY CUNNAMULLA & WYANDRA 3 DAY EULO & YOWAH

WYANDRA

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YOWAH

CUNNAMULLA

THARGOMINDAH

CHARLOTTE PLAINS STATION

EULO

3 Day Eulo & Yowah DAY 1 - QUEEN OF OPALS Visit the Eulo Queen Hotel, named after the thrice-married pub owner and opal trader, Isabel Gray. Now the only surviving hotel of an original three when opal mining was at its peak. Call into the Eulo Belle Arts & Opal Centre for a chance to purchase locally sourced opals, Aboriginal art and gourmet local produce.

DAY 2 – NUT OR GEM? Discover the story of the opal in Yowah. Spend a few days exploring this ‘living gallery’ with its distinctive galleries dotted around the town. Find out more on the unique Yowah nut that’s not a nut. Experienced opal miners will crack open thousands of nuts to find gem colour which regularly sell for thousands of dollars. Try your hand at fossicking in an area adjacent to town.

DAY 3 – MEET THE LOCALS Play a round of golf at the Yowah golf course with its open-air clubhouse, sandy greens and fairways. Wind down with a luxurious soak in ancient Artesian waters at Yowah Bore Baths then meet the locals at the community fireside barbeque. Head to the Sunday Tailgaters Stall which starts around noon. Expect to be awed by the range of opals and locally produced craft on sale.

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uncover our stories Discover our colourful stories for yourself on the Paroo Pioneer Pathways around Cunnamulla, Eulo and Wyandra. These heritage trails, each with their own story to tell, retrace our towns’ histories and connect you with our local characters.

CUNNAMULLA HERITAGE TRAIL Discover the unique town character and the story behind many of the historical buildings and businesses including hotels, saddlery, Tonkin House, churches and The Warrego Watchman.

Walk the trail at your own pace or join a guided tour with a knowledgeable local. Ask at the Cunnamulla Fella Centre for a booklet and more details.

WYANDRA HERITAGE TRAIL During the late 1800s Wyandra had two butcher shops, a baker, a blacksmith, three stores, a bookmaker and two saw mills.

There were twenty-five slab huts along the riverbank which were occupied mainly by sawmill workers. The market gardens on the Warrego supplied fresh fruit and vegetables. Find out more when you follow the Wyandra Heritage Trail. Pick up a copy of the guide at the Visitor Information Centre in Cunnamulla or at local Wyandra businesses.

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EULO HERITAGE TRAIL The Eulo Heritage Trail gives you a great insight into the wild days of Eulo. A police station was established to contain the ‘riff raff’ coming across the border from New South Wales. This was a time when the Eulo Queen reigned supreme. There’s many an interesting story to be learned along the trail. Follow the self-guided trail or request a local guide. More information is available at the Visitor Information Centre in Cunnamulla and the businesses in Eulo.

Don’t forget to call in at the Cunnamulla Fella Visitor Centre and pick up your Heritage Trail Guide

travel directory Cunnamulla

EXPERIENCES

Wyandra

Bowra Wildlife Sanctuary

ACCOMMODATION Billabong Hotel Motel 5 Murray St, Cunnamulla | 07 4655 0800 www.billabongcunnamulla.com.au

Charlotte Plains Station 54km East of Cunnamulla | 07 4655 4923 www.charlotteplains.com.au

Club Boutique Hotel 15 Louise St, Cunnamulla | 07 4655 1679 www.clubboutiquehotel.com

Cooper Cottage Accommodation

887 Humeburn Rd, Cunnamulla 07 4655 1238 visitbowra@bordernet.com.au

ACCOMMODATION

Cunnamulla Bowls Club

21 Railway St, Wyandra | 07 4654 9582

40 John St, Cunnamulla | 07 4655 1177

Cunnamulla Fella Centre Jane St, Cunnamulla | 07 4655 8470 www.visitcunnamulla.com.au

Cunnamulla Fella Festival www.cunnamullafellafestival.com.au

Cunnamulla Golf Club Humeburn Rd, Cunnamulla | 07 4655 1375

The Gladstone Hotel Wyandra Post, General Store & Caravan Park 35 Railway St, Wyandra | 07 4654 9212

EXPERIENCES Wyandra Powerhouse Museum Macks St, Wyandra | 07 4654 0322

Yowah

Cunnamulla Race Club

14 Garden St, Cunnamulla 0437 833 654 | 0419 248 407

Racecourse, Cunnamulla

Noorama Picnic Races

ACCOMMODATION

Corella Motor Inn

Jobs Gate Rd, Cunnamulla | 07 4655 4046 www.nooramaracing.com.au

Artesian Waters Caravan Park

60 Emma St, Cunnamulla | 07 4655 1593

Cottage Accommodation 41 John St, Cunnamulla 07 4655 1649 | 0427 551 191 countrywear@bigpond.com

Eulo

Harlequin Drive, Yowah | 07 4655 7011

17 Emma St, Cunnamulla | 07 4655 0555 www.countrywaymotorinn.com.au 79 Emma St, Cunnamulla 07 4655 1640 | 0407 785 785 www.cunnamullacabins.com.au

Cunnamulla Hotel 24 Jane St, Cunnamulla | 07 4655 0082

Cunnamulla Tourist Park 91 Watson St, Cunnamulla | 07 4655 1421 www.cunnamullapark.com

Oxford Hotel Motel 13 Bowra St, Cunnamulla | 07 4655 1126 oxfordhotelcunnamulla@hotmail.com

T & J New (cottages) 0417 074 937 | 0428 153 797 timjenny@bigpond.com

Warrego Hotel Motel 9 Louise St, Cunnamulla | 07 4655 1737 www.warregohotel.com.au

Warrego Riverside Tourist Park 322 Weir Rd, Cunnamulla | 07 4655 0097 www.warregoriversidetouristpark.com.au

EXPERIENCES Rural Transaction Centre

Country Way Motor Inn

Cunnamulla Cabins

1 Blue Bonnet Blvd, Yowah | 07 4655 4953 www.yowahcaravanpark.com

Yowah Opal Hut ACCOMMODATION Alroy Camping Grounds Eulo – Toompine Rd, Eulo | 0427 992 889 www.facebook.com/AlroyStationEulo

87 Matrix Drive, Yowah | 0438 554 791

Yowah Opal Festival 0427 068 254 | yowahcommunity@gmail.com VISITOR SERVICES

Eulo Queen Hotel Leo St, Eulo | 07 4655 4867 www.euloqueenhotel.com.au

post office

LP gas

Wandilla Station Stay

pharmacy

dump point

restaurant

camping

ATM

public toilets

potable water

accommodation

4G network

3G network

1508 Pitherty Rd, Eulo | 07 4655 4065 www.wandillastation.com.au

EXPERIENCES Eulo Mud Baths Leo St, Eulo | 07 4655 4890 www.artesianmudbaths.com.au

Music in the Mulga 1508 Pitherty Rd, Eulo | 07 4655 4065 www.musicinthemulga.com.au

visitor information centre

P.S. Live like a local

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Visit t Time he Artes ian Tun Cunn nel a amul t the la F Cent e l l re an a d rec Visitor e free e-pos ive your tcard

T: 07 4655 8470 WWW.CUNNAMULLATOURISM.COM.AU CUNNAMULLA FELLA VISITOR CENTRE