Bedourie

ABOUT Bedourie

Bedourie is a historic town in Channel Country, with a rich past and a bright future. Meaning ‘dust storm’ in the local indigenous language, Bedourie was originally inhabited by the Wangkamahdla people. In more recent times, white settlers realised the potential of the district for cattle production, and profitable stations were established. The highlight of Bedourie is definitely the Thermal Artesian Spa & Pool, get your key at the Information Centre for a small fee.

Now, Bedourie is the administrative centre of the huge 95,000 square kilometre Diamantina Shire, and perfect for a one-of-a-kind outback Queensland adventure to the far west. Perched on a sand dune and surrounded by Eyre Creek, it is a beautiful town and worth a stay.

Bedourie was a major watering and rest stop in the 1880s for drovers moving cattle from the Northern Territory and northwest Queensland to the customs collection point in Birdsville, 200 kilometres to the south. Amongst others, Sir Sidney Kidman was one of the early station owners in the district. He even owned The Royal Hotel at one point, and you can still get a drink in this quaint pub if you travel to Bedourie today!

Bedourie is also the birthplace of the world-famous Bedourie Camp Oven! Borne out of necessity under a tree during the 1920s by a tin smith, the Bedourie Camp Oven was constructed for the drovers and cameleers who were having problems with their outback cookware. The cast iron ovens they carried were cracking and breaking under the harsh conditions of the outback. The Bedourie camp oven is available for purchase at the Bedourie Outback Visitor Centre all year round including over-the-phone purchases and postage available.