Barcaldine is situated on the junction of the Capricorn and Landsborough Highways and is known as the Garden City of the West. Many visitors use Barcaldine as a base from which to explore central west Queensland. The extensive range of accommodation and shopping facilities make Barcaldine a relaxing place to stay, recover and explore. Barcaldine is the largest town in the Barcaldine Regional Council area, and it is proud of its interesting and famous history.
Barcaldine is home to the Tree of Knowledge, the reputed birthplace of the labour movement in Australia. The Tree – a ghost gum – grew outside the Railway Station for about 180 years until 2006 when sadly, it was poisoned by an unknown culprit. 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 structure is impressive during the day but when viewed at night is truly magnificent.
The name Barcaldine originates from the Oban region in Scotland. Donald Charles Cameron was one of the first settlers in the district and a direct descendant of the Campbells of Barcaldine Castle. He settled on a portion of land fronting the Alice River and immediately named his property “Barcaldine Downs”. The railway line came as far as Lagoon Creek in 1886 and the township of Barcaldine developed on land from the Barcaldine Downs run.
The Australian Workers Heritage Centre is a national project commemorating not just these events, which changed the course of the nation’s working history, but is a tribute to all Australian working men and women. Set in over five acres of landscaped gardens, it is also home to the Wanpa-rda Matilda Outback Education Centre, which is a unique residential facility for schools and community groups.
Barcaldine is also home to the old-world Radio Theatre, complete with its canvas seats, and the working windmill that pumps water into the sculpture designed and erected by the Youth of Barcaldine, which stands outside the information centre.
Barcaldine's charming facade, one that has earned it the tag of 'Garden City of the West', hides tumultuous tales of a controversial past.
Alpha Blackall Ilfracombe Jericho
LOCAL VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE VIEW TOWN ON GOOGLE MAPSThe Barcaldine Country Motor Inn is a quality air-conditioned motel situated on the corner of the Capricorn and Landsborough Highways.
MoreDunblane is a wool sheep grazing property located just off the Landsborough (Matilda) Highway 8km west of Barcaldine.
MoreLocated on Lara Station (a working cattle property), Lara Wetlands is a bush camping ground set around a tranquil wetland teaming with birdlife.
MoreShandonvale is a working outback station that offer guests luxury accommodation, regional cuisine and a hands on insight to life on the land.
MoreThis is a hosted stay through Hipcamp, below is the information provided by the Host regarding their offering. Just a simple easy accessible flat land site, in the beautiful town of Jericho. Ideal for Star Gazing. Half acre of land to enjoy. Only a short walk to Pub/Store, Swimming Pool, Public Toilets, and The smallest […]
MoreOasis Motor Inn Blackall invites you to experience new levels of comfort as Blackall’s newest four star motel.
MoreGoodberry Hills is a 40,000 acre working cattle property 37 kilometers north east of Longreach in Central Western Queensland.
MoreMitchell Grass Retreat brings a new accommodation experience to Longreach that captures the essence of the Outback.
MoreSaltbush Retreat’s rustic but beautiful accommodation reflects the unique textures and tones of Outback Queensland.
MoreAlbert Park Motor Inn is located a short walk away from Qantas Founders Museum and Airport and the Stockman’s Hall Of Fame.
MoreQueensland Helicopters is a family owned business that prides itself on customer service and safety.
MoreOutback Aussie Tours is a family-owned local operator with over 35 years of experience and unrivalled local Outback Queensland knowledge, passion and connections.
MoreThe Outback Rail Adventure is Outback Aussie Tours’ newest tourism experience reconnecting our visitors with the romance of rail.
MoreOutback Pioneers’ award-winning outback tours and experiences, based in Longreach, is all about holidays and experiences that bring the pioneer past to life.
MoreExplore Outback Queensland and beyond with Outback Aussie Tours, a multi-award winning touring company and Savannah Guides accredited operator.
MoreBased in Winton, Queensland, Elite Aviation Services offers helicopter and plane scenic flights and charters over the spectacular landscape around Winton and the Diamantina River.
MoreRed Dirt Tours is your Winton touring specialist and offers a number of tours to the spectacular natural and man-made attractions of the Winton region.
MoreFox Helicopters operate a selection of scenic flights to Porcupine Gorge and White Mountains National Park.
MoreTravel West operate Four Wheel Drive Motel Accommodated Tag Along Tours to Birdsville, Innamincka and the Corner Country.
MoreJoin the mysterious Grave Keeper as he unlocks the secrets of the outback.
MoreSee bilbies in their nocturnal house and learn how the breeding facilities are making a massive difference at saving them from extinction.
MoreDiscover stars, WWII secrets and bilbies for starters on Charleville’s ‘Magnificent 7’ day tour in Outback Queensland. Morning tea, lunch and transfers included.
MoreIt’s 15 years since the Kinnon family launched the original Thomson River sunset cruise in Longreach and, since then, it’s become the highlight of many people’s outback travels. This award-winning experience has all the ingredients to capture the outback spirit and inspire magical memories. The heritage boats are just the start, whether you are aboard […]
With tailored accessible accommodation and thrilling experiences, you can embark on an accessible Outback Queensland journey that promises excitement and great memories. The town of Winton is the home of Banjo Patterson’s ‘Waltzing Matilda’, Boulder opals, the quirky Winton Music Fence, and a fantastic array of events so there’s plenty to see and do. It’s […]
The Pride of the Murray has been salvaged; a Restoration Fund is in place to help bring her back to heritage condition.
Put Winton in your GPS for 19 – 23 September and get to know the Winton Outback Festival with this guide. Is there anything quirkier than a race that has someone sitting on a makeshift outhouse, AKA dunny, and being dragged around a 200m obstacle course? Australia thinks not. The Winton Outback Festival is Australia’s quirkiest event featuring 5 days of quintessential fun held during the September school […]
Barcaldine – 1,072km north-west from Brisbane Set within 2 hectares of tranquil landscaped gardens the Australian Workers Heritage Centre documents the ‘Story of the Workers’ paying tribute to (among others) the participants of the 1891 Great Shearers’ Strike which led to the formation of the Australian Labor Party in 1892. Subsequently, the Manifesto of the Queensland […]
Have you ever visited the teddy capital of Australia? If you haven’t, then you better pack the car and get tracking to the outback town of Tambo, where the famous Tambo Teddies have called home since 1993. In celebration of the 2023 Tambo Teddies 30th Anniversary, here are 30 reasons to love these cuddly little creatures. […]
Longreach – 1,179km north-west from Brisbane If you love history, then you’ll love Outback Pioneers’ award-winning experiences and holidays. Whether you choose a day tour, or an inclusive package stay, you can expect a warm welcome, entertaining stories and iconic encounters that capture the essence of Queensland’s outback pioneer spirit and lifestyle. And there’s so […]
Charleville – 742km west from Brisbane Step back through time to discover the wartime secrets of Charleville. In 1943, this small town was used as a secret WWII base for 3,500 United States military personnel and as you can imagine – there’s many fascinating stories to be told! Immersive and interactive exhibits show what life […]
Near Aramac and Barcaldine – 890km north-west from Brisbane Take a cultural tour to connect with the histories and stories of country on the land of the Iningai people. Set on almost 9,000 hectares, Turraburra features the Marra Wonga sandstone escarpment known as the ‘teaching wall of life’ that contains thousands of etchings, petroglyphs (rock […]
Winton – 1,355km west from Brisbane No-one in the world creates dinosaur experiences like Outback Queensland and the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum is among the world’s best paleo-themed adventures. Here you can browse the world’s largest Australian dinosaur fossil collection, learn where and how dinosaur bones are discovered and watch the Preparation Laboratory get […]
Longreach – 1,179km north-west from Brisbane Retrace their footsteps and celebrate the lives, work and achievements of Australia’s stockmen and women at the award-winning Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Outback Heritage Centre. Through its huge collection of heritage memorabilia and interactive displays the museum shares the fascinating stories of the many different people who lived […]
Near Winton, 1362km north-west from Brisbane Imagine being pampered in 21st-century style and comfort within an exquisite landscape known as Dinosaur Country and your dream will probably look very much like Rangelands Outback Camp! Located on a jump up (or mesa) on Rangelands Station, a working cattle property, this is ultra-luxe glamping at its best. […]
If a visit to Outback Queensland has been on your bucket-list for some time, let us give you a million reasons to visit in 2024: The Outback Queensland Masters is returning and tickets are on sale NOW! Whether you’re an amateur golfer, social player or a first-time swinger, grab your clubs and head west for […]
There’s no doubt that Australia has an obsession with big things; after all, Australia is a VERY BIG country and Outback Queensland has many BIG things to fill it!
22 NEW REASONS TO VISIT THE OUTBACK IN 2022 There’s even more to explore in Queensland’s backyard in 2022! If you’re the person who likes to try new things before anyone else has even heard of them, it’s time to add Outback Queensland to your travel list. Whether you come by road, rail or air, […]
Painted Honey Eater – Grantiella picta Meliphagidae The male medium-sized honeyeater would fit right in with a gaggle of Emperor Penguins, sporting a similar black and white suit and yellow trim. And real men do wear pink bills…… The duller, streak-less girls must get very excited at his arrival in mating season! As Mistletoe fruit […]
First time to Outback Queensland? Here’s a guide on how to make the most of your first time out west!
Known as one of the friendliest towns in Outback Queensland, Tambo is also the oldest town in the west. Small and sleepy, this little gem has a lot to offer travellers seeking an adventure along the Matilda Way. Make time in your itinerary to stop and explore Tambo, starting off with this list of fun […]
When thinking “outback” you could be forgiven for not imagining much else but vast stretches of ‘nothingness’, red dirt and sheep or cattle. We love to dispel all sorts of myths and misconceptions about the outback and the lack of birdlife is one of them! The great Queensland Outback is one of the most “alive” places […]
You may have already known that Big Red is the tallest sand dune in the Simpson Desert; or that the Mount Isa Rodeo is one of the biggest events in the Southern Hemisphere….but we bet you didn’t know a few of these experiences which would make a ripper addition to any #OutbackQueensland bucket list! […]
With kilometres upon kilometres of untamed wilderness, it’s no surprise that Outback Queensland is a wildlife oasis for animals big and small. Here’s your guide to the top six wildlife to spot.
Ever got the craving and travelled lengthy distances for that perfect rib-eye steak or an icy cold beverage? Since you’re not averse to spending a little time in the car for a reward of the gourmet (food) kind, take our friendly word for it that these outback watering holes are worth the slightly longer drive […]
If you’re thinking about a trip to Outback Queensland, this is your year. 2021 is set to be the year of Australian travel, and there’s no place better than the Queensland Outback. It has stunning and unique natural landscapes and holds our most diverse and unique history. From sacred indigenous sites to the spectacular sandstone […]
If there was any doubt that an Outback Queensland summer is smokin’ hot – a quick glance at a thermometer settles all bets. Here’s some tips to cool down.
Planning your next fishing trip? We can assure you Outback Queensland has some reel hot spots!
Cast your eyes over these top 5 fishing spots.
Outback Queensland is road trip country! Whether you’re a seasoned outback adventurer or a first-time traveller, check out these tips from Stay on Track Outback.
At first glance, Barcaldine, or Barcy (pronounced Bark-y) as she’s known to locals, has very little to do with a tree’s bark, beyond the famous Tree of Knowledge.
Save your dollars on accommodation with some of Outback Queensland’s best free camping.
Outback Queensland has a strong connection with Indigenous culture and heritage, and we invite you to share in the stories of Indigenous Australians through a tour or experience through Outback Queensland.
From yabbies, lizards and chickens, to horses, goats, pigs, sheep, and camels, there is an extensive calendar of unique Outback Queensland races waiting for you.
Choosing which road to take in an area that’s over twice the size of California (901,575km2 to be precise), can be a little overwhelming at the best of times. Throw in niche interests like dinosaurs, endurance events and pioneering history, and the decision of which of the nine drive routes you’re going to take becomes […]
If not seeing the neighbours, feeding farm animals and soaking up a good old serve of country hospitality sounds like the kind of holiday you’re in need of, grab your boots and don’t be afraid to get a little dirty, these six Outback Queensland station stays are just for you.
Whether you’re roughing it or relaxing in a retreat, we’ve got your sleeping arrangements sorted with these Outback Queensland accommodation options.
Nestled in the middle of the outback, there’s one town that’s known for its colour and culture. You’ll find Blackall sitting smack bang in the middle of the Matilda Way, providing a stay-a-while spot on your roadtrip. Stretch those legs and explore Blackall, starting off with this list of fun facts. 1. Blackall is home […]
Bride and Grooms from all over the country are tracking to Outback Queensland for an unforgettable wedding in an unforgettable location.
Waking up to birds, fresh air, an outback landscape, and a new place to explore – that’s what caravanning in Outback Queensland is all about. From red dirt to lush waterholes, the 827,767km2 outback world is your caravanning oyster. With a van on your tow bar you can park yourself just about anywhere out here […]
Drop what you’re doing, pull out a flanno and grab your boots – it’s time to head west, central mid-west and Shandonvale Station to be precise.
It might be called road trip country, but one might say you haven’t officially conquered Outback Queensland, until you’ve seen it from above. With its remote, vast landscapes, the outback presents a never-ending stream of epic birds-eye-views. In case you need more convincing, here’re seven reasons to take to the skies and discover the Outback […]
Ever dreamt of walking amongst the dinosaurs? Ever wondered about the legend behind Waltzing Matilda? Ever wanted to see a stampede? Fulfil your outback dreams with a visit to Winton in Outback Queensland’s central west. As one third of the Australian Dinosaur Trail, it’s a designated dino district, with more fossils around town than locals. […]
Outback Queensland is full of its own weird quirks. From out of the ordinary sporting races, acclaimed 5-star chain hotels 200km from the closest town, to bizarre natural phenomena like mirages and Min Min lights – it’s no surprise that Outback Queensland sports some unusual town names too. Here’s the stories behind the names and […]
It’s the Dinosaur Capital of the Australia, the birthplace of an iconic Australian airline, and where the legend of a jolly swagman waltzed into Australian history. Discover 11 things you didn’t know about Winton.
Get yourself to one of these spots for the picture perfect Outback Queensland sunset.
Whether it’s a visit from Royal family or a dessert for champions, Longreach is one Outback town full of surprises that are waiting to be uncovered.
Capture this list of classic Outback Queensland images to sprinkle your Instagram feed with.
Take on the ultimate Australian road trip with this guide to The Outback Way.
Scrap the beach and spend your school holidays in Outback Queensland. There’s plenty to see and do, and the kids might learn a thing or to!
For a town of 3000 people, Longreach punches well above its population-weight when it comes to things to see and do. Wearing the title ‘heart of the Outback’ there’s lots to love about Longreach with its stockmen, shearers, sunsets and big blue skies. Whether you’re here for a weekend or four week stay, these are […]
While Outback Queensland may be known for its pub counter meals, foodies can rejoice and tour their taste buds out west with these dishes.
Save time on your Outback Queensland holiday when you fly with Rex Airlines from Brisbane to Birdsville, Cairns to Burketown or Townsville to Longreach.
Here are 9 scenic lookouts guaranteed to help you fully discover Outback Queensland’s endless horizons and ancient landscapes.
Ask anyone about Barcaldine – and they’ll usually be able to tell you something about the tree. The famous tree is in fact, the Tree of Knowledge, which came into its prime in 1891 when it played a role in the Great Shearers Strike, which led to the birth of the Australian Labor Party.
If you listen to anyone born and raised in Barcaldine (also known as Barcy), they’ll tell you that no matter where you go in the world, you’ll always find someone with a connection to Barcaldine. Although sceptical at first, it turns out there is some truth to their theory, and a weekend at the Tree […]
What do ancient mesas, broken escarpments, red desert landscapes and refreshing waterholes all have in common? You’ll find them all in Outback Queensland.
Get off the bitumen and onto the unsealed tracks of Outback Queensland to really see, smell and hear the sounds of life in the bush.
Forget pulling up at a servo hot-box in a town you can’t even recall the name of. Half the point of going outback is to make a memorable stop and support one of many quintessential, family-owned Aussie pubs. Quench your thirst and belly inside their historic walls, lined in quirky Akubras and where you’re welcomed […]
Queensland isn’t just a haven for sun-seekers and beach lovers; it’s also home to some of the most remarkable dinosaur finds on the planet. From towering giants to ancient marine predators, the fossil-rich landscapes of Outback Queensland hold the key to unlocking the mysteries of prehistoric life. Let’s embark on an awe-inspiring journey through Queensland’s […]
With tailored accessible accommodation and thrilling experiences, you can embark on an accessible Outback Queensland journey that promises excitement and great memories. The town of Winton is the home of Banjo Patterson’s ‘Waltzing Matilda’, Boulder opals, the quirky Winton Music Fence, and a fantastic array of events so there’s plenty to see and do. It’s […]
Step into the heart of Outback Queensland and discover a world of accessible adventures, comfortable accommodation, and exciting experiences to create lasting memories of your visit. In the Southwest region, Eromanga is Australia’s farthest town from the ocean. It’s best known for the discovery of some of the world’s most significant (and largest) dinosaur fossils […]
Once upon a time, when dinosaurs roamed the land, Outback Queensland resembled a landscape of temperate forest unlike the dusty plains we see today. Fast forward 95 million years and scientists are slowly (and literally) piecing together the bones of Outback Queensland’s history. With a dinosaur trail at its heart, along with exciting discoveries found […]
Richmond – 1,252km north-west from Brisbane The Kronosaurus Korner Museum is another unmissable stop on Outback Queensland’s unique and exciting dinosaur trail. Located in an area that was once an inland sea, the museum is home to marine species, pterosaurs, birds, fish, crustaceans, cephalopods, gastropods, plants, bivalves and echinoderms all found in the Richmond area. […]
Winton – 1,355km west from Brisbane No-one in the world creates dinosaur experiences like Outback Queensland and the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum is among the world’s best paleo-themed adventures. Here you can browse the world’s largest Australian dinosaur fossil collection, learn where and how dinosaur bones are discovered and watch the Preparation Laboratory get […]
Near Winton, 1362km north-west from Brisbane Imagine being pampered in 21st-century style and comfort within an exquisite landscape known as Dinosaur Country and your dream will probably look very much like Rangelands Outback Camp! Located on a jump up (or mesa) on Rangelands Station, a working cattle property, this is ultra-luxe glamping at its best. […]
There’s no doubt that Australia has an obsession with big things; after all, Australia is a VERY BIG country and Outback Queensland has many BIG things to fill it!
Top Tips for Travelling with Kids in Outback Queensland Let us assure you we have never received a complaint from kids being bored on an Outback Queensland adventure – in fact, the opposite, they can’t wait to go back again. To help you have the best family adventure too, here’s our top tips – direct […]
22 NEW REASONS TO VISIT THE OUTBACK IN 2022 There’s even more to explore in Queensland’s backyard in 2022! If you’re the person who likes to try new things before anyone else has even heard of them, it’s time to add Outback Queensland to your travel list. Whether you come by road, rail or air, […]
GEM HUNTING – FAMILY FOSSICKING FUN IN OUTBACK QUEENSLAND Fossicking for gemstones is one of the most exciting activities for families to do in Outback Queensland. Not only will you experience iconic towns and amazing scenery along the way, you’ll have great fun looking for a gemstone souvenir to take home from your holidays. Speaking […]
Eromanga – 968km west from Brisbane Set in the vast Eromanga Basin, once an inland sea, this fascinating museum is an absolute must for dinosaur fans looking for a ‘hands on’ dino experience. The museum’s collection of mighty dinosaurs, megafauna and tiny microfauna marks millions of years of Queensland history, and includes ‘Cooper’, Australia’s largest […]
Let’s be honest; you don’t ever hear the kids screaming, “Muuum not another beach holiday, please!” But what if patting a dinosaur, learning to crack a stockwhip, or sitting in the cockpit of a 747 aircraft was on their radar? Hide the boogie boards, queue the playlist and stock up on snacks for a […]
If you’re thinking about a trip to Outback Queensland, this is your year. 2021 is set to be the year of Australian travel, and there’s no place better than the Queensland Outback. It has stunning and unique natural landscapes and holds our most diverse and unique history. From sacred indigenous sites to the spectacular sandstone […]
Travel along the Outback Queensland roads to the town of Aramac and you’d be hard pressed to believe that just north-east of the town is one of the world’s largest outdoor sculpture exhibitions. In fact, the Lake Dunn Sculpture Trail has historically been something of a locals’ secret, but anything this wonderful is hard to […]
Choosing which road to take in an area that’s over twice the size of California (901,575km2 to be precise), can be a little overwhelming at the best of times. Throw in niche interests like dinosaurs, endurance events and pioneering history, and the decision of which of the nine drive routes you’re going to take becomes […]
The Natural Sciences Loop has it all – wildlife, gems, dinosaurs, stars, natural remedies, and hectares upon hectares of natural beauty. It starts in Charleville, through Cunnamulla, Eulo, Thargomindah and onto Eromanga and Quilpie before sending you back to Charleville.
Ever dreamt of walking amongst the dinosaurs? Ever wondered about the legend behind Waltzing Matilda? Ever wanted to see a stampede? Fulfil your outback dreams with a visit to Winton in Outback Queensland’s central west. As one third of the Australian Dinosaur Trail, it’s a designated dino district, with more fossils around town than locals. […]
It’s the Dinosaur Capital of the Australia, the birthplace of an iconic Australian airline, and where the legend of a jolly swagman waltzed into Australian history. Discover 11 things you didn’t know about Winton.
For a town recognised for its pre-historic creatures, it’s surprising to find modern history at every turn in Hughenden.
Capture this list of classic Outback Queensland images to sprinkle your Instagram feed with.
Scrap the beach and spend your school holidays in Outback Queensland. There’s plenty to see and do, and the kids might learn a thing or to!
Here are 9 scenic lookouts guaranteed to help you fully discover Outback Queensland’s endless horizons and ancient landscapes.
The moment we’ve all been waiting for… the dinosaur dig! We made it to Richmond where I accidentally asked “who is ready for some dinosaur hunting?”. Don’t say that. The response was 3 slightly nervous 5 year olds looking up at me, with one asking “ummm, are they friendly dinosaurs Mama, will they eat us?”. “Sorry kids, it’s […]
We finally made it to Winton, the start of The Dinosaur Trail. I think the kids half expected to see dinosaurs roaming the streets, I’m not 100% sure that our kids fully understood what “The Dinosaur Trail” really meant. All I know is that Winton was the place that was responsible for my 5 year old […]
Where to stay in Longreach to be at the heart of the Outback Pioneering story If you really want to experience the story of Longreach, choose accommodation that puts you right in the heritage heart of town and brings the pioneer story to life. That’s exactly what you’ll find at The Staging Post, created by […]
Everything you need to know about Cloncurry,home of the 2021 Australian Survivor TV Series Everything you need to know about Cloncurry, home of the 2021 Australian Survivor TV Series It’s the little Outback Queensland town with a gutsy big past, but for most Australians, Cloncurry is about to go on record as the mightiest backdrop […]
If you’re thinking about a trip to Outback Queensland, this is your year. 2021 is set to be the year of Australian travel, and there’s no place better than the Queensland Outback. It has stunning and unique natural landscapes and holds our most diverse and unique history. From sacred indigenous sites to the spectacular sandstone […]
Travel along the Outback Queensland roads to the town of Aramac and you’d be hard pressed to believe that just north-east of the town is one of the world’s largest outdoor sculpture exhibitions. In fact, the Lake Dunn Sculpture Trail has historically been something of a locals’ secret, but anything this wonderful is hard to […]