Just like the unique Australian bird that is Quilpie’s namesake, there’s a sense of authenticity and downright ‘realness’ when you roll into town. It’s overflowing with Aussie heritage, a vibrant local art scene and outdoor activities.
RICH IN COLOUR
The sun in Queensland’s far south west beckons like a drop of burning gold for curious road-trippers. If you’re looking for colour, you’ll find it in the opal town of Quilpie, specifically the Boulder Opal. Unique to Queensland the formation of this beautiful gemstone dates back one hundred million years ago, at the end of the Jurassic (dinosaurs) period. While in town, try your hand at fossicking, and see the fascinating opal altar at St Finbarrs Church. Quilpie also has an impressively colourful pioneering history. Listen for early settler names such as Tully, Durack and Costello. At the Quilpie Local History Museum, discover the link between the Durack family and what some say is the best saga of pastoral Australia ever published – Kings in Grass Castles. “Cattle Kings ye call us, then we are Kings in Grass Castles that may be blown away upon a puff of wind.” – Patsy Durack 1878
BIRTH OF A RAILWAY TOWN
100 odd years ago in April 1917 the Great Western Railway Line came to Quilpie and changed the course of history. The youngest settlement in the Quilpie shire became the biggest and main business centre. Prior to the rail line, Quilpie was no more than just a few humpies and Adavale was considered the main centre. Grand plans to extend the service further west were abandoned due to wartime restrictions making Quilpie the official ‘end of the line’. Locals tell the story of ‘The Flying Flea’, so named because it was the fastest rail time in Queensland connecting Charleville with Quilpie. Find out more at the Quilpie Rail Museum and take a selfie at the End of the Line!
ARTIST IN RESIDENCE Photo: Aaron Kent
What better way to celebrate the incredible colours and stories of the Outback than through artistic expression? Outback Queensland’s arid landscape has been the inspiration for local artist Lyn Barnes since she began painting over eighteen years ago. Her signature style with its vivid interpretation of intense blue skies and rugged red earth, features in private and corporate collections worldwide. Discover Quilpie’s flourishing art scene with visits to the Lyn Barnes Gallery, the Quilpie Shire Gallery plus a whole host of outdoor sculptures and murals. Round off your art trail with a freshly brewed coffee and tasty delight at town coffee shops which regularly showcase local artists’ work.
ROCKING THE SUNSETS
Picture yourself perched atop a rugged rocky summit with nibbles and drinks ready to toast the glorious outback sunset. Located around 7.4km from downtown Quilpie, it’s an easy 10 minute climb to the crest of Baldy Top Lookout. Feeling energetic? Consider following the scrambling trail to explore loads of ancient caves and crevices. Also rocking the sunsets is nearby Lake Houdraman aka ‘The Lake’. Home to masses of Aussie birdlife, this privately owned lake is popular for birdwatchers and serenity seekers alike. Hot Tip: You can purchase pre-packed nibbles platters from the Quilpie Brick Hotel.
www.visitquilpieshire.com
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