Outback Top 10's
Choose your own Outback adventure
Where To Go
North West
Things can get wild in Queensland’s rugged North West. Visit the thriving mining town of Mount Isa, saddle up for the Mount Isa Rodeo, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, and drop in at the historic Underground Hospital built during WWII.
Canoe through vivid red gorges in the Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park and search for ancient fossils in the limestone outcrops of Riversleigh World Heritage Area. Head to Hughenden to see 'Hughie', the seven-metre Muttaburrasaurus and an impressive fossil collection.
And, don’t leave without visiting the Porcupine Gorge National Park.
Far West
Queensland’s Far West is the place for adventurers. Explore the rugged Simpson Desert by 4WD, see the Big Red sand dune glow at sunset and watch thousands of migratory birds flock to the wetlands of the Diamantina National Park.
If you’re looking for outback entertainment, catch a famous Australian band at the Big Red Bash or back a winner at the Birdsville Races.
South West
The closest section of Outback Queensland to Brisbane, the South West is home to colourful characters, wedge-tailed eagles and boulder opals.
Bathe in mineral-rich mud at the Eulo Mud Baths, meet a tiny endangered marsupial at the Charleville Bilby Experience Centre and peer into the heavens at the Charleville Cosmos Centre.
East
Banana Shire has many natural attractions including gorges, rivers and National Parks such as the Glebe Weir and Expedition National Park. Visit Lake Murphy, Kroombit Tops and Mt. Scoria Conservation Parks, or relax at Isla and Cania Gorges.
The Dawson River and Callide Dam provide many opportunities for fishing and water sports. The Shire can also provide many adventures for the 4WD enthusiast.
Central West
The Central West is the heart of Outback Queensland, a place built by pioneers and stockmen. Visit Longreach, the birthplace of an Australian icon at the Qantas Founders Museum and learn about the region’s fascinating history at the Stockman’s Hall of Fame. Learn about Waltzing Matilda in Winton where the song was original performed.
Longreach Airport is on the edge of town, with flights arriving from Brisbane and Townsville. You can also catch the Spirit of the Outback train from Rockhampton.
What To Do In The Outback
Meanwhile in #OutbackQueensland
It's Better in Blackall! This is their 12 metre high Blackall sign to welcome everyone to town and is filled with photos from the locals in Blackall. The photos represent what the town means to them and were chosen from #betterinblackall Great photo by @nigaltheduck #outbackqueensland #visitblackalltambo #blackallsign #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
Did you hear? @queenslandrailtravel has 2 for 1 Outback Rail Fares! Head west on the Spirit of the Outback, Inlander or Westlander for a fun-filled adventure with plenty of destinations to visit and attractions to explore. Until March next year Queensland Rail Travel are inviting you to hop onboard with a friend to Outback Queensland - two people for the price of one. 2 for 1 Outback Rail Fares are available for travel now until 31 March 2022. Book your Outback Rail adventure today via https://bit.ly/3mLDRr3 Great photo by @littlegreybox_phoebe #outbackqueensland #queenslandrailtravel #spiritoftheoutback #westlander #inlander #thisisqueensland #seeauatralia
Who doesn’t love an outback bakery? We’ve sampled one in almost every town, but our favourite (and judging by the line up of awards on the counter, everyone’s else too) - is St George Bakery. Grab your goodies and head down to the banks of the Balonne River where pretty parklands have lots of perfect picnic spots. What’s your favourite sweet thing? Mines a vanilla slice, Tiah’s is apple slice and Baylee loves a peach blossom. Words and photos by @alittleatlarge #outbackqueensland #explorestgeorge #balonneriver #dayslikethis #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
Lazy afternoons by the water, the perfect way to end the day. Freedom Park is a camp ($6 per night) close to Muttaburra. You will need to be self sufficient as there are no facilities. Beautiful photo by @exploring_australia #outbackqueensland #muttaburra #discoverbarcaldine #campinglife #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
When you visit Mitchell stop and see an artist’s impression of the capture of one of the Kenniff Brothers, and the monument commemorating members of the police force who fought the bushrangers throughout Australia. The sculpture was designed by Peter Baulch and the Statues represent the capture of Patrick Kenniff, lying on the ground with two police constables standing guard over him.The image facing to the south is that of the Aboriginal Tracker. Fantastic photo by @carolc.photography #outbackqueensland #arrestcreek #sculptureart #mitchell #astrophotography #romarevealed #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
@moblehomestead your country home. The Rutledge family bought country in the Quilpie district in 1914 and it has remained their home for five generations. A shared interest in great seasonal food and good company has been their inspiration to open the doors and create the Moble Homestead experience. Join them on the creek and enjoy the unique charm of this bush home and its surrounds. While they may be closed for the 2021 tourist season now is the perfect time to start planning your 2022 Outback Queensland getaway. Join their mailing list to be the first to know about accommodation availability, workshops and masterclasses they have planned for 2022. Go to https://www.moblehomestead.com.au/contact-us/ #outbackqueensland #moblehomestead #homestead #visitquilpie #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
Gems of Outback Queensland! Lake Fred Tritton is perfect for swimming, skiing, canoeing and the fantastic playground’s and water park will keep the kids entertained for hours. Whether you are walking the dog, or taking the kids out for a ride on their bikes or scooters, the walking path is perfect place for a stroll. For the fishing enthusiasts, the Lake is stocked with 18 species of fish, so it’s a great spot to cast a line from the jetty or launch your tinnie from the boat ramp. Pack a picnic or even a ‘snag’ to sizzle on the free barbecues and enjoy a picturesque outback sunset. Great photo by @mattandanniesadventure #outbackqueensland #youlldigrichmond #lakeadventures #overlandersway #drivenorthqueensland #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
You know you're in Tambo when you see these signs! @tamboteddies is one of the many places to visit when you explore Tambo. Tambo Teddies create innovative quality Australian made 100% natural woollen products. The perfect gift for someone this Christmas. Get your Tambo Teddy and you'll have a friend for life! Type in your browser https://www.tamboteddies.com.au/ for all the cuddly choices. #outbackqueensland #totallytambo #tamboteddies #teddybears #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
This is how to end your day in Outback Queensland! Find your place along the Gregory River with plenty of free camping sites. Then sit back, relax and enjoy. Great photo by @venturingaustralia #outbackqueensland #gregoryriver #freecamping #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
Ease your tired travelling muscles in the 22-person therapeutic spa with crystal-clear water immersing you from Bedourie’s Artesian Bore. Drilled back in 1905, visitors have been relieving their aches and pains in the warm 35 to 40 degree water for years. Up the ante by swimming laps in the 25-metre swimming pool (pictured) or simply take a dip to cool off. The Bedourie Artesian Spa and Aquatic Centre is open daily from 5.30am to 7.30pm in the summer months and 7.00am to 7.00pm during winter. It is accessible by paying a $20 fully refundable deposit for the key from the Bedourie Outback Visitor Centre 8.30am to 5.00pm weekdays and 10.00am to 2.00pm weekends. Photo by Andrew McFarlane #outbackqueensland #bedourie #artesianspa #aqauticcentre #thediamantina #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
Camooweal Billabong is the perfect place to stop and relax after a long journey. Watch the sunset, the prolific bird life or sit back with a cold one around a camp fire. It’s a huge free camp located in Camooweal located about 190kms west of Mount Isa. There are no facilities so you’ll need to be self sufficient. Beautiful photo by @svenimages #outbackqueensland #camooweal #discovermountisa #billabong #waterlilies #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
Harry Redford, cattle thief and local Aramac hero was captured because he included in his stolen herd a famous white bull from the area. Aramac pays tribute to his escapade with ten little white adorabulls around town. They can be found in front of ten prominent locations. Each one has a name that reflects their location. Have you found all ten? Here's three to get you started. #outbackqueensland #aramac #whitebulls #adorabulls #harryredford #discoverbarcaldine #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
One for the early birds! Along the Castle Creek walk in Theodore you'll find a bird hide. Offering visitors the opportunity to get a bird's eye view of various species of wetland and woodland birds along with parrots, cockatoos and rosellas. Drop by and see the wonderful volunteers at the Theodore Information Centre located at the Theodore Home & Garden Cafe to find out more. Theodore is located on the Dawson River 105 kilometres south west of Biloela. #outbackqueensland #theodore #birdhide #twitcher #sandstonewonders #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
You know you’re in Thallon when see the @graincorp Painted Silos. They are a landmark for the town and feature the spectacular ‘Watering Hole’ mural painted by @_thezookeeper and @drapl in 2017. The mural covers four 30 metre high silos using about 500 litres of paint 500 spray paint cans. Beautiful photo by @sweephorizon #outbackqueensland #thallonpaintedsilos #siloart #siloarttrail #explorestgeorge #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia @graincorp is a fully operational and working silo. There is ample parking and a designated viewing area as well. Please do not enter the Grain Corp site to view the mural.
It's not every day you see waterfalls in Winton! We're certainly happy to see a recent rainstorm come through Winton and dumped 9mm in about 20 minutes over the @australianageofdinosaurs It was enough to create a waterfall off the jump up right outside the March of the Titanosaurs building. Amazing photo by @stevenlippis #outbackqueensland #AAOD #dinosaurs #experienewinton #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
'I'm not a morning person, but at @charlotteplains there's nothing better than sitting in a 42 degree bath and watching the sunrise.' That's @jackiedujardin story behind her 3rd place photo she submitted for our photo competition. Thank you to everyone who entered, to our sponsor @cameraproau for our 1st place voucher and to our partner @ppaq.official Professional Photographers' Association of Queensland for deciding the winners. #outbackqueensland #ppaq_official #cameraproau #travellersguide #charlotteplains #visitcunnamulla #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
A couple of days ago we announced the winner of the voucher donated by sponsor @cameraproau for our photo competition for the 2022 Outback Queensland Travellers Guide. Congratulations to Paddy M for 2nd place taken at the @bouliacamelraces The next races are 15-17 July 2022. Thank you to everyone who entered and to our partner @ppaq.official Professional Photographers' Association of Queensland. Stay tuned to see 3rd place. #outbackqueensland #ppaq_official #cameraproau #travellersguide #bouliacamelraces #visitboulia #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
In September we held a photo competition to find an image to be featured on our 2022 Outback Queensland Travellers Guide. The cover image is still to be determined but we have a winner for the $500 voucher donated by our sponsor @cameraproau Congratulations to @trevor.j.duncan for taking this photo of The Pyramid at Porcupine Gorge in Hughenden. Thank you to everyone who entered and to our partner @ppaq.official Professional Photographers' Association of Queensland. #outbackqueensland #ppaq_official #cameraproau #travellersguide #visithughenden #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
They shall grow not old as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them. LEST WE FORGET Beautiful photo by @angewinkler at Julia Creek RSL Memorial #outbackqueensland #juliacreek #remembranceday #wewillrememberthem #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
Three News Years - Three Time Zones! Ever wanted to celebrate New Years 3 times in 1 night? Come to Cameron Corner for a night of fun. Party is based at the Cameron Corner Store but will move to the Corner Post at 10.30pm for the first New Years at 11.00pm (NSW), then 11.30pm (SA) then again at 12.00am (QLD). Bring swags, camps, water and plenty of energy to participate in the fun games that is "New Year at the Corner" Recovery Breakfast is available the following morning. Great photo by @76_r0ck #outbackqueensland #explorebulloo #newyearseve #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
We breed them big in Outback Queensland! Even though this big red kangaroo is alone, more often than not they are in a mob. Driving safely and watching out for them especially early morning and late afternoon/dusk is a must all through the Outback. Great photo by @jennifer_dickinson_photography in Jundah. #outbackqueensland #visitbarcoo #jundah #redkangaroo #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
Take a rail adventure to Outback Queensland with a 2 for 1 Outback Rail Fares now on sale. Head west on the Spirit of the Outback, Inlander or Westlander for a fun-filled adventure with plenty of destinations to visit and attractions to explore. Until March next year @queenslandrailtravel are inviting you to climb aboard with a friend - two people for the price of one. 2 for 1 Outback Rail Fares are available for travel now until 31 March 2022. Book your 2 for 1 Outback Rail adventure today! https://bit.ly/3mLDRr3 #outbackqueensland #queenslandrailtravel #railtravel #spiritoftheoutback #westlander #inlander #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
Rangelands Outback Camp is an Outback luxury tented camp in dinosaur country, Winton. The 8 unique tent camp exudes “It’s very own Outback Experience like no other” ensuring that guests are introduced to the sights and sounds of this spectacular environment in relative style, remoteness, and exclusivity. Even though they are closed now for the summer season, they will be opening again in April 2022 for their first full winter season. Bookings are open and we think you'll need to plan you next Outback Queensland holiday now to avoid missing out on these luxury glamping tents. Go to https://rangelandscamp.com/ for more information. #outbackqueensland #rangelandsoutbackcamp #glamping #luxurystay #experiencewinton #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
Dress up in your finest for this years @romaturfclub @royalonninetynine Roma Cup. On Saturday 20th November, Bassett Park will be abuzz with activity of racing, Fashions on the Field, food and live entertainment. Join all the fun in front of the Grandstand, Trackside Party or Cup Start Marquee and don’t forget the dance floor to the tune of @route33music who are returning to help rock into the night. Limited tickets are available this year, don't miss out purchase yours today. Go to https://www.romaturfclub.com.au/2021-roma-cup/ #outbackqueensland #romaturfclub #royalon99romacup #romacup #raceday #romarevealed #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
This historic Coolabah Tree is situated past the causeway on the right as you head to the Hughenden Showgrounds. It is of immense historical importance as it is linked to two relief expeditions searching for the Burke and Wills Expedition. Both expeditions blazed the tree on the banks of what is now Station Creek. In 1861 Fredrick Walker led a team from Rockhampton to the Gulf searching in vain for the missing explorers. The following year Landsborough’s search party passed through from the Gulf. These relief expeditions led people to become aware of the fertility and wealth of the plains adjacent to the Flinders River. Truly this tree should be preserved as a memorial to the brave explorers of this land. Two plaques have been erected near the tree as a tribute to them. Great photo by @adnicphotographicserv #outbackqueensland #visithughenden #coolabahtree #burkeandwillsexpedition #thisisqueensland
Imagine a time when you could look into the eyes of dinosaurs! Outback Queensland has many places to explore and learn all about what once roamed our region. Just down the road from these great sculptures you’ll find @eromanganhmuseum Eromanga dinosaurs are some of the world’s largest dinosaurs. The largest dinosaur on display in the museum is nicknamed Cooper, a Titanosaur thought to have lived in the Cretaceous period. Great photo by @aquarius.traveller #outbackqueensland #eromanga #dinosaurs #visitquilpieshire #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
Last Great Cattle Drive with @stockmanshalloffame 33 years ago the last mob of cattle to walk from the Northern Territory to Queensland was guided by boss drover Pic Willetts. The 2000 kilometre droving trip with a difference was to serve two purposes. To celebrate the Territory's heritage as part of the nations bicentennial and to raise money for the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame in Longreach which opened in the same year. Boss of Newcastle Waters station Ken Warriner says 1500 head of cattle were donated by various large and small Territory pastoral companies. "Trevor Schmidt was the CEO of the Australian Agricultural Company, he agreed to donate 100 head, as did we, Vesteys and NAPCO agreed to donate 100 head of cattle as well as Grant Heslip. Lots of other people also put in 10, 20 head of cattle." The cattle were assembled at Newcastle Waters Station where 5000 people turned up for a party to see them off on their trip. It took Pic Willetts and his team four months to walk the cattle across the Barkly Tablelands, down the Georgina River and across the Diamantina near Winton to reach Longreach. The cattle were yarded at the Cramsie saleyards and the steers sold in the old currency of pounds, shillings and pence. It's believed to be the last sale ever to do so. Under the direction of his dad, Alpha cattleman John Comiskey purchased the first pen of steers to great applause. "We bought 16 bullocks, there was a big clap and a cheer when they were knocked down to us. "We paid around 100 pounds each for those bullocks." It's believed over 300 000 dollars was raised to support the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame in Longreach. #outbackqueensland #lastgreatcattledrive #cattledrive #stockmanshalloffame #experiencelongreach #thisisqueensland
If like us, you imagined life on a cattle station to be all about dust and bulls, you might get the same surprise we did checking in to @wallaroooutbackretreat in the Carnarvon Ranges. Set within Wallaroo Station’s 72,000 acres of working cattle farm on spectacular sandstone country, the retreat is nestled in a eucalyptus canopied corner where luxury glamping tents (some with divine ensuite’s) nestle around a central communal lodge. It’s a RM Williams’esque dream space with bush trinkets sharing stories of days gone by, help yourself books and board games and a fully equipped chefs kitchen where guests are encouraged to get creative whipping up meals with BYO supplies. Or you can just kick back and relax (like we did) by throwing a few snags on the BBQ followed by raucous marshmallow toasting sessions led by a chorus of happy camping kids. Close enough to Carnarvon National Park to make this your base for the gorge, or the perfect place to relax and recalibrate afterwards. Get in quick if you are thinking about a stay next year though. These glamping tents are new and word is already getting out this true bush beauty that is so very easy to sink deeply into. Three days wasn’t enough! On the road with #outbackqueensland @britzcampervans (and plenty of parking for caravans and campers too!). Words and images by @alittleatlarge #britzcampervans #wallaroooutbackretreat #workingcattlestation #romarevealed #thisisqueensland
You can’t miss the Boulia Sports and Aquatic Centre with this spectacular wall art by @_brightsiders You’ll have to visit to see the whole wall but it tells the story of the first recorded sighting of the mysterious Min Min Lights. Great photo by @ourlifeontop #outbackqueensland #boulia #minminlights #wallart #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
Jabirus dancing under the milky way! This is one of many sculptures (over 40) you will find along the @lakedunnsculpturetrail The Trail starts in Aramac (about 70km north of Barcaldine) covering a distance of approximately 200km over sealed and unsealed roads. The sculptures are created by local artist Milynda Rogers aka @scrapmetalsheila from discarded and recycled metal, depicting mostly animals and many displaying a touch of outback humour. Great photo by @carolc.photography #outbackqueensland #lakedunnsculpturetrail #metalart #milkyway #discoverbarcaldine #thisisqueensland #seeaustralia
