2011/2012 Longreach Region Visitors Guide

longreachR E G I O N V I S I T O R S G U I D E2011–2012

Longreach • I l f racombe • Is is ford • Yaraka

Longreach Guide 2011.indd 1 7/02/11 11:07 AM

Longreach Visitor Information CentreQantas Park, Eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 4150 F: (07) 4658 4177E: [email protected]

Get the best value; discover our best kept secrets; enjoy all attractions, entertaining characters and unforgettable hospitality.

Visitors recommend a week or more in our region. Fly, Rail, Drive, Hire a car or take a tour package. All offer treasured encounters that you will tell your friends about for years.

LongreachGATEWAY TO THE OUTBACK

LONGREACH

Winton

Barcaldine

Morella

Muttaburra

Aramac

Opalton

Stonehenge

Jundah

Windorah

Yaraka

Emmet

Isisford

BLADENSBURG NP

LARK QUARRYCONSERVATION PARK

LOCHERN NP

WELFORD NP

IDALIA NP

Ilfracombe

Blackall

TO ROCKHAMPTON

TO MT ISA TO TOWNSVILLE TO TOWNSVILLE

Longreach

Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Stockman’s Show

Qantas Founders Museum, 747/707 and Wing Walk tours

School of the Air Guided Tours

Kinnon & Co. Cobb & Co Tours, Paddlewheeler & Riverboat Cruises,

Clancy’s on the Thomson Overnight Tour,

Starlight’s Spectacular Live Show, The Station Store

Outback Aussie Tours, 4 night Longreach packages, Station & Winton day

tours, 14 day Gulf & Corner Country journeys of a lifetime

Great dining experiences and night time entertainment

Self contained accommodation through to pubs and motels

Caravan and holiday parks

Most major banks, medical, auto services, hire vehicles and shopping available.

Emmet

Historic railway siding

Access to Idalia National Park

Yaraka

Mount Slowcombe

scenic drive and lookout

Store and fuel

Pub, camping and caravan

accommodation

IsisfordOuter Barcoo Interpretative Centre

Barcoo River campgroundLocal visitor information

Pub, camping and caravan accommodation

Ilfracombe

Historic Wellshot Hotel

and Centre

Machinery Mile and

Langenbaker House


accommodation

TO BIRDSVILLE

TO BRISBANE

Longreach Guide 2011.indd 2 7/02/11 3:41 PM

Longreach Region Visitors Guide 2010 – 2011 1

Longreach Visitor Information CentreQantas Park, Eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 4150 F: (07) 4658 4177E: [email protected]

Get the best value; discover our best kept secrets; enjoy all attractions, entertaining characters and unforgettable hospitality.

Visitors recommend a week or more in our region. Fly, Rail, Drive, Hire a car or take a tour package. All offer treasured encounters that you will tell your friends about for years.

LongreachGATEWAY TO THE OUTBACK

LONGREACH

Winton

Barcaldine

Morella

Muttaburra

Aramac

Opalton

Stonehenge

Jundah

Windorah

Yaraka

Emmet

Isisford

BLADENSBURG NP

LARK QUARRYCONSERVATION PARK

LOCHERN NP

WELFORD NP

IDALIA NP

Ilfracombe

Blackall

TO ROCKHAMPTON

TO MT ISA TO TOWNSVILLE TO TOWNSVILLE

Longreach

Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Stockman’s Show

Qantas Founders Museum, 747/707 and Wing Walk tours

School of the Air Guided Tours

Kinnon & Co. Cobb & Co Tours, Paddlewheeler & Riverboat Cruises,

Clancy’s on the Thomson Overnight Tour,

Starlight’s Spectacular Live Show, The Station Store

Outback Aussie Tours, 4 night Longreach packages, Station & Winton day

tours, 14 day Gulf & Corner Country journeys of a lifetime

Great dining experiences and night time entertainment

Self contained accommodation through to pubs and motels

Caravan and holiday parks

Most major banks, medical, auto services, hire vehicles and shopping available.

Emmet

Historic railway siding

Access to Idalia National Park

Yaraka

Mount Slowcombe

scenic drive and lookout

Store and fuel


accommodation

IsisfordOuter Barcoo Interpretative Centre

Barcoo River campgroundLocal visitor information

Pub, camping and caravan accommodation

Ilfracombe

Historic Wellshot Hotel

and Centre

Machinery Mile and

Langenbaker House


accommodation

TO BIRDSVILLE

TO BRISBANE


YARAKAJUNDAH

164km

122km

66km

155km 90km

2 getting around

air:QantasLink has daily return flights from Brisbane to Longreach. Phone 13 13 13.

rex airlines flies twice weekly from townsville to Longreach via Winton. Phone 13 17 13.

raiL:Spirit of the outback fully themed rail journey travels twice weekly return Brisbane to Longreach via rockhampton. Phone 13 22 32.

road:Brisbane is approximately 1200km via roma and Charleville along the Warrego and Matilda Highway.

rockhampton is approximately 700km along the Capricorn Highway.

Mount isa is approximately 700km along the Matilda Highway.

townsville is approximately 750km along the Flinders Highway via Hughenden and Winton.

Melbourne and Sydney are easily accessible along the Kidman Way through Western nSW.

All roads listed are fully sealed.

CoaCH:greyhound Coaches have a daily service from Brisbane to darwin via Mount isa. Phone 13 14 99.

Paradise Coaches operate twice weekly rockhampton to Longreach. Phone 07 4933 1127.

GettinG Around

BRISBANE

ROCKHAMPTON

CAIRNS

LONGREACH


GETTING AROUND 3

ThE SpIRIT Of ThE OUTbAckA classic way of getting to Longreach is on Queensland Rail’s Spirit of the Outback. check your luggage in brisbane and relax – no train changes until arrival at Longreach. Make use of the sitting compartments with leg room only dreamt about in aircraft travel. Or take a sleeper and travel in luxury. Wake to see the golden plains of the Outback rolling past, the cattle, the sheep, the kangaroos and emus. breakfast in style in the dining carriage or grab a takeaway from the café bar. Refreshed, step from the train onto the platform of the magnificent original Longreach railway station to be met by staff from your accommodation house, a tour operator or flag down a taxi.

There are many options once you reach Longreach including fully managed experiential tour packages or just come and do your own thing. A little word of advice: accommodation and tour bookings are pretty thick on the ground so it is best to book ahead… well and truly ahead if possible.

REGIONAL EXPRESS (REX) p: 13 17 13

p: 13 17 13 www.rex.com.au

Regional Express (Rex) is Australia’s largest independent regional airline operating a fl eet of more than 40 Saab 340 aircraft on some 1,300 weekly fl ights to 35 destinations throughout New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and Queensland. book your 4 weekly fl ights to and from Longreach and Townsville.

OUTbAck AUSSIE TOURSJourney on Queensland Rail’s Spirit of the Outback or take a flight to Longreach.

As our guests on tour enjoy the camaraderie, feel like a local in no time and relish the comfort and style that characterises Outback Aussie Tours.

from on-tour traditions of homemade Anzacs biscuits, bottomless lolly tins, fruit baskets and sunset happy hours, we pride ourselves on offering you the very best value as you encounter exclusive experiences. The legends of the Outback are brought alive by our guides through their storytelling and interpretation. Engage and share the stories of unforgettable characters, families on sheep and cattle stations, exclusive dining experiences, private bush tracks and stunning country.

We can’t wait to welcome you aboard. Our number one priority on tour is your safety and entertainment. Sit back, relax and be spoilt by our team’s attention to detail. We offer a quality, fun holiday experience as your multi award-winning Outback specialists. We invite you to enjoy our journeys of a lifetime.

QANTASLINkQantasLink is proud to support Longreach and the central West with daily services to and from brisbane. QantasLink can connect you to over 50 destinations throughout Australia, and many more through the Qantas network and we look forward to continuing to support the central West region well into the future.

Licensed travel agents (1683) for Queensland Rail, Greyhound and Qantas. Based at Longreach Railway Station, Outback Queensland

ESCORTED ACCOMMODATED TOURS 5 day – Spirit of the Outback Adventure 5 day – Legendary Longreach & Winton 6 day – Carisbrooke Station Stay 9 day – Longreach Birdsville Outback Track 14 day – Corner Country Expedition 14 day – Gulf SavannahDiscovery

Phone: 1300 78 78 90 Email: [email protected]

OUTBACK AUSSIE TOURS®

EX BRISBANE

AND LONGREACH

Established 24 years

Longreach Guide 2011_.indd 3 7/02/11 4:00 PM

4 Longreach

So why Longreach?Longreach is the portal to everything the outback has to offer. as a setting-off point, a destination or as a base, Longreach has accommodation to suit every budget, it has the outback icons of the australian Stockman’s hall of Fame and outback heritage centre and the QanTaS Founders Museum, plus genuine outback experiences at sunset on the Thomson river with bush poetry and living heritage. Swagger into genuine outback stores to equip yourself for your adventure or experience the ways things were by galloping through the bush in a genuine cobb & co. stagecoach.

Tours leave Longreach for ‘further out’, for the desert experience for an immersion in prehistory and to walk in the steps of dinosaurs. and what a year to do it!

a LiTTLe backgroundimmediately prior to the coming of the europeans to the Longreach region, this was the land of the iningai, one of many indigenous groups stretching down the inland river systems towards South australia.

nomadic, highly ritualistic and spiritual, they lived with the seasons, surviving through boom and bust. unfortunately history has been harsh on the iningai and for reasons such as diseases, violence and forced transmigration, there is little trace of individuals or cultural practices.

Take a moment to walk quietly along the Thomson river. Let the silence soak in. This loss of the indigenous culture in many

ways is stronger than theme-park style experiences. This feeling of silent sadness is real and you might, just might, feel the old people still walking the riverbanks.

Longreach started life as a modern town only a little over 120 years ago with the coming of rail to the west. Previously the huge property, bowen downs, ran from the Thomson river north. it was taken up by the explorer Landsborough and outback legend, explorer and overlander nat (bluey) buchanan. The name Longreach derives from the ‘long reach’ or waterhole of the Thomson river used by drovers as a place to rest their cattle and horse plants before heading ‘further out’.

Longreach’s abundant grasslands made many rich in the days of the ‘golden fleece’ when australia rode on the sheep’s back. There was a dark time in the history of the region concerning the exploitation of shearers whose labour was integral to the successful running of a sheep property. The shearers’ strikes of the 1890s not only led to better conditions and wages for shearers, they also saw the start of the australian union movement and the Labor Party. The strikes and accompanying violence also led to an antipathy between shearers and producers, the traces of which can still be noticed today.

The wealth of the area rose to a peak in the 1950s when wool made a ‘pound per pound’. The Longreach of a half-century ago was very different to today. The landholders drove gleaming Mercedes benz cars or top-of-the-line australian/american makes, the Longreach club was members only, men only and very exclusive both in admittance and dress standards.

wander around Longreach today and tick off some of the older buildings that remain. The corner building that now houses a video store was built by pastoral house winchcombe and

LongreachSlow down, Stay longer,

So much to See


Longreach 5

Outback travel tipsWhen travelling in the Outback make sure you have plenty of fuel, water and food.

ALWAYS check road and weather conditions before leaving.

Always observe local road condition signs.

Watch out for livestock and wildlife on the roads, particularly around dawn and dusk.

If a road is accessible only by 4WD – use only a 4WD.

Don’t forget to bring a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent.

Advise friends and family of your destination.

Obtain good road maps and plan your route.

Don’t forget to take regular breaks to prevent fatigue.

DRIVE SAFELY AND ENJOY YOUR STAY IN THE CENTRAL WEST

carson; there’s Longreach Motors which was one of the biggest employers in town; and there’s the national Bank. These buildings give a hint of a Longreach since departed. There were splendidly huge hotels, however many have been burned but the old photographs still tell the story.

goats were kept in large numbers on the town common and provided the original milk supply. During drier times of year it was not unusual to see a goat perched on the bonnet of a car, browsing trees in the main street. and there was no snobbery here, the egalitarian goats used that old clapped out ute or the newest Mercedes – all the same to a hungry goat.

Longreach’s main thoroughfare, eagle Street, was lined with hotels by the 1950s and was frequented by hardworking shearers and shed teams as well as stock workers. Fights were common and Longreach attracted a large police presence to ‘keep the peace’.

Today Longreach is very different. The goats are gone, many of the old pubs are gone, and the shearing teams are largely gone with the collapse of the wool industry. This one-time wool

producing heartland today rides the broad back of beef cattle although many wool producers still exist.

The old social hierarchies are largely broken down today. The Longreach club is now a modern building constructed on the site where the starchy old club’s timber building sat at the height of the squattocracy. everyone’s welcome today and it is frequented by the younger generation as a place for a cold drink and a decent meal.

Longreach is a service town to the outback with many government departments: education, Primary Industries, health and so forth. The employees attracted to these various agencies bring a youthful modernity to the region and celebrate living in a special place with the younger generations of landholders who are today embracing environmental responsibility in their management strategies. Yes, Longreach in 2011 is a very different place to the one of yore.

and this excitement of a new wave in an ancient landscape awaits you, the visitor.


6 Longreach

T H O M S O N R I V E R

PLOVER ST

PLOVER ST

GULL ST

TEAL ST

HERON ST

ROSELLA ST

WONGA ST

QUAIL ST QUAIL ST

QUARRION ST

RAVEN RD RAVEN RDRAVEN RD

WOMPOO RD WOMPOO RDWOMPOO RDWOMPOO RD

SWAN ST

COO

T ST

ROBIN RD

MINER RDSTILT ST

GREBE ST

BROLGA ST

SNIPE ST

DUCK ST

SWAN ST

SWAN ST

PELICAN ST

PELICAN ST

OWL ST

OWL ST

BUSTARD ST

BUSTARD ST

BUSTARD ST

DO

VE S

T

LARK

ST

LARK

ST

STO

RK R

D

THRU

SH R

D

BOW

ER R

D

ILFRACOMBE RD ILFRACOMBE RD

RACECOURSE

SHOWGROUNDS

LONGREACHAIRPORT

CEMETERY

POLOCROSSEFIELD LIONESS

PARK

BLUEBIRD C

T

MUTTA

BURRA RD

MUTTA

BURRA RD

EAGLE

ST N

ORTH

KITE ST

KITE ST

FINCH LN

SPOONBILL

ST

THO

MSO

N

DEV

ELO

PMEN

TAL

RD

WREN

ST

WREN

ST

CANARY LN

CANARY LN

KINGFIS

HER ST

KINGFIS

HER ST

CORELLA

LN

IBIS

ST

COCKATOO LN

EMU ST

EMU ST

CROW LN

CROW LN

MAGPIE

LN

MAGPIE

LN

GALAH ST

GALAH ST

PARROT L

N

PARROT L

N

CRANE ST

CRANE ST

CRANE ST

PIGEO

N LN

PIGEO

N LN

CASSOW

ARY ST

CASSOW

ARY ST

HAWK LN

HAWK LN

FALC

ON ST

FALC

ON ST

CROW LN

EMU ST

SPARROW

ST

MAGPI

E LN N

ORTH

GALAH ST

NORTH

PARROT L

N NORTH

PIGEO

N LN N

ORTH

CASSOW

ARY ST

CRANE ST

CRANE ST

SUNBIRD ST

SWALLOW ST

SPARROW STSPARROW LN

GULL ST

SWALLOW ST

CURRAWONG ST

SANDPIPER ST

MUTTA

BURRA RD

JABI

RU R

DJA

BIRU

RD

PLOVER ST

KOO K ABURRA CT

TE RN ST

LANDSBORO

UGH HIGHWAY

LANDSBOROUGH HIGHWAY


LANDSBOROUGH HIGHWAY SIR HUDSON FYSH DRIVE LANDSBOROUGH HIGHWAY LANDSBOROUGH HIGHWAY LANDSBOROUGH HIGHWAY

EAGLE

ST

CENTRELINK

TO MUTTABURRA

TO MUTTABURRA

TO JUNDAHWINDORAH

GIN CREEK

GIN CREEK

CURL

EW R

D

TO ILFRACOMBEBARCALDINE

IBIS

ST

TO WINTON

APEX PARK

HONEYEATER CT

FINCH LN

OLD BRIDGE

2

3

4

5

61

8

9

10

12

13

11

14

21

22

2426 25

27

2829

30

32

31

33

15

23

7

34

17

1819

16

20

1. australian Stockman’s hall of Fame & outback Stockman’s Show

2. Longreach Powerhouse Museum

3. Longreach School of Distance education

4. Qantas Founders Museum

5. australian agricultural college Walking Tour

6 Kinnon & co. The Station Store

9. Kinnon & co. Booking office

Pamela’s Dolls & Syd’s outback collectors corner

helicopter Flights

Longreach arts & crafts centre

railway Museum

Banjo’s outback Theatre

MV Longreach explorer Booking office

rusty Frame & Friends

outback aussie Tours Bookings office

Places of Interest1

2

3

4

5

6

78

9

10

11

12

13

15

14

Iningai Nature Reserve There are three nature walks - one is the coolibah Loop which is 3.7km long and is an easy 1 and a half hour walk.

The Cemetery ask about the self-guided brochure produced by the Longreach archival & historical group.

Longreach Historical Precinct Walk experience a nostalgic and modern day walk along the historical precinct of eagle Street.

Linear Botanical Gardens Walk This walk features a diverse range of plants, mostly native, which makes for a beautiful early morning or late evening walk.

Thomson River Flood Plain Walk from Town to the old Bridge. This four and a half kilometre one way track features a diverse range of plants and animals, best viewed in the early morning or late evening.

walks

18

19

20

17

16


Longreach 7

T H O M S O N R I V E R

PLOVER ST

PLOVER ST

GULL ST

TEAL ST

HERON ST

ROSELLA ST

WONGA ST

QUAIL ST QUAIL ST

QUARRION ST

RAVEN RD RAVEN RDRAVEN RD

WOMPOO RD WOMPOO RDWOMPOO RDWOMPOO RD

SWAN ST

COO

T ST

ROBIN RD

MINER RDSTILT ST

GREBE ST

BROLGA ST

SNIPE ST

DUCK ST

SWAN ST

SWAN ST

PELICAN ST

PELICAN ST

OWL ST

OWL ST

BUSTARD ST

BUSTARD ST

BUSTARD ST

DO

VE S

T

LARK

ST

LARK

ST

STO

RK R

D

THRU

SH R

D

BOW

ER R

D

ILFRACOMBE RD ILFRACOMBE RD

RACECOURSE

SHOWGROUNDS

LONGREACHAIRPORT

CEMETERY

POLOCROSSEFIELD LIONESS

PARK

BLUEBIRD C

T

MUTTA

BURRA RD

MUTTA

BURRA RD

EAGLE

ST N

ORTH

KITE ST

KITE ST

FINCH LN

SPOONBILL

ST

THO

MSO

N

DEV

ELO

PMEN

TAL

RD

WREN

ST

WREN

ST

CANARY LN

CANARY LN

KINGFIS

HER ST

KINGFIS

HER ST

CORELLA

LN

IBIS

ST

COCKATOO LN

EMU ST

EMU ST

CROW LN

CROW LN

MAGPIE

LN

MAGPIE

LN

GALAH ST

GALAH ST

PARROT L

N

PARROT L

N

CRANE ST

CRANE ST

CRANE ST

PIGEO

N LN

PIGEO

N LN

CASSOW

ARY ST

CASSOW

ARY ST

HAWK LN

HAWK LN

FALC

ON ST

FALC

ON ST

CROW LN

EMU ST

SPARROW

ST

MAGPI

E LN N

ORTH

GALAH ST

NORTH

PARROT L

N NORTH

PIGEO

N LN N

ORTH

CASSOW

ARY ST

CRANE ST

CRANE ST

SUNBIRD ST

SWALLOW ST

SPARROW STSPARROW LN

GULL ST

SWALLOW ST

CURRAWONG ST

SANDPIPER ST

MUTTA

BURRA RD

JABI

RU R

DJA

BIRU

RD

PLOVER ST

KOO K ABURRA CT

TE RN ST

LANDSBORO

UGH HIGHWAY



LANDSBOROUGH HIGHWAY SIR HUDSON FYSH DRIVE LANDSBOROUGH HIGHWAY LANDSBOROUGH HIGHWAY LANDSBOROUGH HIGHWAY

EAGLE

ST

CENTRELINK

TO MUTTABURRA

TO MUTTABURRA

TO JUNDAHWINDORAH

GIN CREEK

GIN CREEK

CURL

EW R

D

TO ILFRACOMBEBARCALDINE

IBIS

ST

TO WINTON

APEX PARK

HONEYEATER CT

FINCH LN

OLD BRIDGE

2

3

4

5

61

8

9

10

12

13

11

14

21

22

2426 25

27

2829

30

32

31

33

15

23

7

34

17

1819

16

20

ambulance

Boat ramp

clubs: rSL club Longreach club Bowls club

Doctors Surgery

hospital

Mobile home Waste Dump Point

other Places of InterestPolice Station

Post office

racQ

Visitor Information centre

QPWS - Queeensland Parks & Wildlife Services

Supermarkets Foodworks

Iga

Discovery holiday Parks

Longreach caravan Park

abajaz Motor Inn

albert Park Motor Inn

aussie Betta cabins

Jumbuck Motel

Longreach Motel

Town Map Disclaimer: The information contained in this map is indicative only. Please enquire at Visitor Information Centres for further details.

2324252627

28293031323334

accommodatIon

2221 Longreach Motor Inn

commercial hotel/Motel

Lyceum hotel

Welcome home hotel

Longreach Lodge

old Time cottage

Longreach outback adventure


8 Longreach

Longreach Visitor information centrethe Visitor information centre, run by the Longreach regional council, is housed in a replica of the first Qantas office in Qantas Park, near the big roundabout at the entrance to the main street, eagle street.

this is where you can immerse yourself in information and brochures and words of wisdom from the friendly staff to ensure you have the best possible Longreach experience. here, like a prospector of old, you can pan through the instructions for looking for your own little gold nugget. You can get details of all the tours and attractions of Longreach, ilfracombe, isisford and Yaraka – now all part of the greater Longreach regional council.

the centre stocks local craft and souvenirs. Up-to-date road condition reports and information about surrounding areas are also available here.

oK, so now the front of your car is cluttered with brochures and directions and suggestions on what to do with your time and where to stay. already you are realising that perhaps you haven’t allowed enough time to see what the Longreach region has to offer.

it’s time to make your choices on how to best taste the outback experience. head to the Kinnon & co. booking office – these guys are a one-stop-shop for best value tour, attraction and package bookings!

Kinnon & co. Want an authentic outback experience? Drop into Kinnon & co. for all the details of australian history and heritage. Kinnon & co. booking office, located on eagle street a minute’s walk from the supermarket, is the place for regional and local tours, experiences and packages specialising in some of Longreach’s premier experiences such as the Kinnon & co. tours.

this is where you book for your cobb & co. stagecoach tour, a trip down the thomson river on the “thomson Belle” paddlewheeler, a unique overnight bush adventure sleeping under the stars on the banks of the thomson river or Longreach’s latest live entertainment, starlight spectacular. Yes, they have expert advice on just about everything outback.

ask for the easy directions to the station store – retail therapy as you’ve never seen it, wonderful traditionally-made leatherware and a treasure trove of historic nostalgia. Be photographed in period costume or sit back in the air-conditioned theatre and experience bush life of an earlier time.

and right out the back of the station store is the changing station café for billy tea, good (real) coffee, cake, damper and much more.

now you have your attractions pass, it’s time to see the icons – the tourism destinations that Longreach is famous for.

PoWerhoUse mUseUmQuietly nestled in the back streets of Longreach is one of the town’s best-kept secrets – the Powerhouse museum. this was once the energy heart of Longreach before electricity came through long distance transmission lines. in the museum, you walk through giant engines and generators, the way it was.

the power station is heritage-listed and contains the largest preserved rural generating facility in australia. You can see how electricity was generated before the age of computers when it depended on the knowledge and skills of the engineers who walked among these iron monoliths.

an adjunct to the museum is the social history Building with yet another unique window of life into regional Queensland during previous generations.

Join Kinnon & Co. as they regale you of times-gone-by with Australian History and Heritage. Located on Eagle Street,

Kinnon & Co. Booking Office is the place for regional and local tours and packages, specialising in Longreach’s

premier experiences, the award winning Cobb & Co tours and Thomson River Cruises.

FinalistBookings are essential. For best value, ask Kinnon and Co. about our combination Tour packages.

Kinnon & Co. Booking Office115a Eagle Street, Longreach Q 4730

P. 07 4658 1776E. [email protected]

www.kinnonandco.com.au

Longreach

Paddlewheeler and Riverboat Cruises

4 hour tour including transfers. Cruises depart Monday to Saturday, April 1 to October 27

Uniquely OutbackGallop along an outback dirt track in a fully-laden Cobb and Co Stage Coach on our multi-award-winning experience. Retrace the steps and enjoy the unique history of Cobb and Co.

45-minute Stage Coach trips depart daily Monday to Friday, April 1 to October 27.

More than just a River Cruise. Watch the sun set while cruising on the historic Thomson Belle Paddlewheeler. Afterwards, on the banks, enjoy a drover’s dinner and entertainment around a campfire.

Thomson River Cruises Cobb & Co.

A “Million Star” Overnight Experience

Overnight tours Monday and Thursday, April to October

Enjoy a memorable night out at a tranquil nook of the Thomson River after a sunset cruise, drovers dinner and entertainment. Sleep in deluxe swags under a canopy of stars. It doesn’t get better than this!

The Legends Tribute

Shows noon till 1pm, Monday to Friday, at The Station Store, April to October.

Themed on an old time Australian tent show, with live animal acts, stockmen and stockhorse comedy acts. A mix of poetic story and Australian humour to create live theatre, Outback style!

Hats, Horses, History & Hospitality

Store: open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and Saturdays from 9am to Noon.

One of Longreach’s best attractions. Browse unique outback products, including exclusive leathergoods and souvenirs, reminisce with old time photography. Taste traditional country fare at the Changing Station Cafe, open Monday to Friday.

History & HeritageHistory & Heritage

Clancy’s on the Thomson The Station StoreClancy’s on the Thomson Starlight’s SpectacularStarlight’s Spectacular The Station Store

Places to vis it


Longreach 9

Join Kinnon & Co. as they regale you of times-gone-by with Australian History and Heritage. Located on Eagle Street,

Kinnon & Co. Booking Office is the place for regional and local tours and packages, specialising in Longreach’s

premier experiences, the award winning Cobb & Co tours and Thomson River Cruises.

FinalistBookings are essential. For best value, ask Kinnon and Co. about our combination Tour packages.

Kinnon & Co. Booking Office115a Eagle Street, Longreach Q 4730

P. 07 4658 1776E. [email protected]

www.kinnonandco.com.au

Longreach

Paddlewheeler and Riverboat Cruises

4 hour tour including transfers. Cruises depart Monday to Saturday, April 1 to October 27

Uniquely OutbackGallop along an outback dirt track in a fully-laden Cobb and Co Stage Coach on our multi-award-winning experience. Retrace the steps and enjoy the unique history of Cobb and Co.

45-minute Stage Coach trips depart daily Monday to Friday, April 1 to October 27.

More than just a River Cruise. Watch the sun set while cruising on the historic Thomson Belle Paddlewheeler. Afterwards, on the banks, enjoy a drover’s dinner and entertainment around a campfire.

Thomson River Cruises Cobb & Co.

A “Million Star” Overnight Experience

Overnight tours Monday and Thursday, April to October

Enjoy a memorable night out at a tranquil nook of the Thomson River after a sunset cruise, drovers dinner and entertainment. Sleep in deluxe swags under a canopy of stars. It doesn’t get better than this!

The Legends Tribute

Shows noon till 1pm, Monday to Friday, at The Station Store, April to October.

Themed on an old time Australian tent show, with live animal acts, stockmen and stockhorse comedy acts. A mix of poetic story and Australian humour to create live theatre, Outback style!

Hats, Horses, History & Hospitality

Store: open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and Saturdays from 9am to Noon.

One of Longreach’s best attractions. Browse unique outback products, including exclusive leathergoods and souvenirs, reminisce with old time photography. Taste traditional country fare at the Changing Station Cafe, open Monday to Friday.

History & HeritageHistory & Heritage

Clancy’s on the Thomson The Station StoreClancy’s on the Thomson Starlight’s SpectacularStarlight’s Spectacular The Station Store


10 Longreach

QanTaS FounderS MuSeuMThe outback is nothing if not huge, sparse and lowly populated. our forefathers faced the challenges of somehow tying a community together where distance is the tyrant, where people lived hundreds and thousands of miles apart. Largely these challenges were the driving force that saw australia’s national airline – QanTaS - formed in the outback, in Longreach and Winton.

Queensland and northern Territory aerial Service was inaugurated in Winton in 1921 and the base was shifted to Longreach where australia’s first purpose-built airstrip and the first QanTaS hangar were built.

and today, even as QantasLink turbo props are landing only metres away, you can walk through the heritage-listed original hangar – history and modern day don’t get much closer than this.

driving into Longreach from the eastern side you are not going to miss the QanTaS museum. The great red tail of a decommissioned Boeing 747 – a jumbo jet – dominates the landscape. Tucked below it is australia’s first international jetliner, a Boeing 707.

Tours of the QanTaS jetliners are scheduled at different times each day. Many of the secrets of these great aircraft are revealed on the tours, it is possible to sit in the cockpit and if you are up for a bit of excitement, strap on a safety harness and take a wing walk. These tours are often in demand, so again book ahead.

In the main museum and galleries, follow the history of QanTaS through modern interactive displays. Theatres tell the history of QanTaS and the region. Mcginness’ restaurant in the museum will salve the needs of the inner-explorer in you with a wide selection of meals, drinks and coffee. and here you will find a great choice of souvenirs, clothing, jewellery, books and QanTaS memorabilia.

rM WILLIaMS‘rM’ Williams was instrumental in getting the australian Stockman’s hall of Fame and outback heritage centre built some decades ago. rM made his fame and fortune making the genuinely australian ‘laughing side’ riding boots. Stockmen

and women from all over australia looked forward to the year’s Williams catalogue with the latest in boot styles and men’s and women’s clothing. all the shopping in those days was done by mail order unless you were lucky enough to be taking a holiday in adelaide and went to what was probably the most famous address in australia for stockmen – 5 Percy Street, Prospect. This address was on the finger strap of every boot made by rM Williams.

Things sure have changed: these days the Williams tradition is being carried on through boutique outlets across the nation. What started out as work wear now meets the needs of high fashion.

The rM Williams outlet sells a full range of western wear including the gear that made the name – boots.

So you’re going ‘local’, you’ve got your cowboy hat and boots… well, maybe now it’s time to go a little aquatic. The fact that Longreach exists along with many other outback towns is reliant on one thing and that is the great inland river systems that flow towards Lake eyre. get up close and personal by cruising the Thomson on one of the riverboats for a genuine outback experience as the sun sets blood-gold into the river.

Visit R.M.Williams in the centre of town

106 Eagle Street, LongreachT: 07 4658 1400

www.rmwilliams.com.au ~Handcrafted Australian footwear~ ~Unique accessories & gifts~

Opening Hours:The Museum is open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm (except Christmas Day).

Special opening hours are available to groups and charters by prior arrangement.

Tours operate daily and bookings are essential. Combination tour packages are also available.

Phone: (07) 4658 3737 Fax: (07) 4658 0707 Email: [email protected]: Longreach Airport, Sir Hudson Fysh Drive, Longreach QLD 4730 www.qfom.com.au

Winner Major Tourist Attraction

2010

The Qantas Founders Museum, Longreach, is a modern world class facility built around the heritage-listed original 1922 Qantas hangar, combining historical artifacts and multimedia displays for all ages to enjoy. Qantas began in outback Queensland in 1921 and the museum is dedicated to the evolving story of Australia’s leading

airline. New exhibits are added regularly to the already amazing collection. It is an Australia-wide community and volunteer project and is

entirely funded by public support and sponsorship.

The museum provides the visitor a unique insight into the trials and tribulations of starting an airline out in the west and overcoming the problems of long distance travel. It also tells of the places they serviced and the aircraft they flew.

Tour the Boeing 707 “City of Canberra”, the first Qantas jet aircraft registered in Australia. This aircraft changed global travel as we know it. A magnificent ex-Qantas 747 Jumbo jet, “City of Bunbury” is available for tours and also offered is the spectacular Wing Walk tour. This small tour explores the 474’s computer bay, flight system and a unique chance to sit in the pilot’s seat. Without a doubt the highlight of the tour is being able to walk on the wing of a 747 – the only place in the world this is available.

A replica Avro 504K, positioned in the centre of the museum, commemorates the first aircraft ever used by Qantas. A replica DH50, “Iris”, has just recently arrived into the facility. This plane was the first aircraft used by the company that became the Royal Flying Doctor Service. There is a replica DH61, built in 1930 by Qantas and used on the Darwin sector of the London mail service. An original Qantas DC3 sits on the lawn at the museum looking as good as she did when operated by Qantas Empire Airways. Enjoy the McGinness café as well as the Founders gift store where you can purchase souvenirs, clothing, jewellery, books and Qantas memorabilia.

Educational resources are available on request

◆ Qantas Museum Exhibition

◆ Original 1922 Qantas Hangar

◆ 707 Restoration tour ◆ Secrets of the 747 tour

◆ Wing Walk & 747 tour ◆ McGinness’ Restaurant

◆ Founders Gift Store ◆ Exhibitions

◆ New exhibits coming

Historically, Longreach is known for its role with

QANTAS. The Queensland and Northern Territory

Aerial Service was founded at Winton on 10th February, 1921 but was soon moved to Longreach where a hangar

and the country’s first purpose-built landing field

were constructed.

DQFM17042 - CaravanningAustralia.indd 1 3/02/11 12:24 PM

Places to vis it


Opening Hours:The Museum is open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm (except Christmas Day).

Special opening hours are available to groups and charters by prior arrangement.

Tours operate daily and bookings are essential. Combination tour packages are also available.

Phone: (07) 4658 3737 Fax: (07) 4658 0707 Email: [email protected]: Longreach Airport, Sir Hudson Fysh Drive, Longreach QLD 4730 www.qfom.com.au

Winner Major Tourist Attraction

2010

The Qantas Founders Museum, Longreach, is a modern world class facility built around the heritage-listed original 1922 Qantas hangar, combining historical artifacts and multimedia displays for all ages to enjoy. Qantas began in outback Queensland in 1921 and the museum is dedicated to the evolving story of Australia’s leading

airline. New exhibits are added regularly to the already amazing collection. It is an Australia-wide community and volunteer project and is

entirely funded by public support and sponsorship.

The museum provides the visitor a unique insight into the trials and tribulations of starting an airline out in the west and overcoming the problems of long distance travel. It also tells of the places they serviced and the aircraft they flew.

Tour the Boeing 707 “City of Canberra”, the first Qantas jet aircraft registered in Australia. This aircraft changed global travel as we know it. A magnificent ex-Qantas 747 Jumbo jet, “City of Bunbury” is available for tours and also offered is the spectacular Wing Walk tour. This small tour explores the 474’s computer bay, flight system and a unique chance to sit in the pilot’s seat. Without a doubt the highlight of the tour is being able to walk on the wing of a 747 – the only place in the world this is available.

A replica Avro 504K, positioned in the centre of the museum, commemorates the first aircraft ever used by Qantas. A replica DH50, “Iris”, has just recently arrived into the facility. This plane was the first aircraft used by the company that became the Royal Flying Doctor Service. There is a replica DH61, built in 1930 by Qantas and used on the Darwin sector of the London mail service. An original Qantas DC3 sits on the lawn at the museum looking as good as she did when operated by Qantas Empire Airways. Enjoy the McGinness café as well as the Founders gift store where you can purchase souvenirs, clothing, jewellery, books and Qantas memorabilia.

Educational resources are available on request

◆ Qantas Museum Exhibition

◆ Original 1922 Qantas Hangar

◆ 707 Restoration tour ◆ Secrets of the 747 tour

◆ Wing Walk & 747 tour ◆ McGinness’ Restaurant

◆ Founders Gift Store ◆ Exhibitions

◆ New exhibits coming

Historically, Longreach is known for its role with

QANTAS. The Queensland and Northern Territory

Aerial Service was founded at Winton on 10th February, 1921 but was soon moved to Longreach where a hangar

and the country’s first purpose-built landing field

were constructed.

DQFM17042 - CaravanningAustralia.indd 1 3/02/11 12:24 PMLongreach Guide 2011.indd 11 7/02/11 11:23 AM

12 Longreach

outback aussie toursPark your van and join the experienced team from outback aussie tours and get off the beaten track to discover areas often missed by travellers. hear entertaining yarns about unforgettable local characters and enjoy expert interpretations of our natural and cultural landscapes. have a beer at the birdsville pub; toast the sunset over the simpson Desert on big red sand dune; take an optional scenic flight over Lake eyre. Your safety and comfort are guaranteed in our custom- designed vehicles. also, ask about our half and full day Longreach touring experiences – meet the families on sheep and cattle stations; savour our camp oven cuisine complete with entertaining local characters and white linen table service! We look forward to welcoming you aboard soon.

MV Longreach exPLoreras you clamber up the gangway onto the “MV Longreach explorer” more than likely you will be heralded by a chorus of corellas in the river red gums on the bank. the vessel pulls out and the gentle thrum of the diesel pushes the boat through a different world, a world of gum trees and grazing cattle, the splash of herons, turtles surfacing for a looksee, and kites weaving through the late afternoon sky to nest in the tall trees.

Whether you notice all this nature happening is another thing as crew members ply you with hors d’ouvres and maybe a sip of wine. Maybe two sips. You certainly won’t miss nature’s sunset display, as the river turns as red and gold as a broncos jersey after winning the state of origin. With engines shut down, the silence of the outback is tangible, almost something you can touch.

Dinner – main course and sweets – is served in the cabin then, as the stars burst out of a velvet sky, the “explorer” docks and you head home with memories beyond price.

thoMson beLLe PaDDLeWheeLerthere is another way to experience the river. one so different to the “MV Longreach explorer” that it could pay to try both – time and wallet permitting. the “thomson belle” is a paddlewheeler that churns comfortably down the river, steaming through one of our magnificent sunsets… and then things change.

back on shore a bush-cooked meal awaits and you get to sit around a campfire. and a fella introduces himself to you, a shy sort of a fella called Milton taylor. Milton is an internationally renowned bush poet who has recited his work throughout australia and the united states. an evening with Milton is guaranteed to be a window on bush heritage, entertainment and bush humour. a shy sort of a fella? Well maybe not, but you’ll have to meet him to find out.

Longreach schooL of the airWhere Qantas was formed out of the need to cover the great distances of the australian outback, so too health and education had to rise to meet the same challenges. so today we have the flying Doctor and Distance education.

Distance education, like everything, has changed significantly with the new technologies. no pedal radio anymore, or crumpled brown envelopes of correspondence lessons that confused mothers as much as the children.

the same needs exist in the outback today, but the new technologies are taking over. kids on cattle stations and remote communities no longer even have to use the two-way tranceivers. it’s all done over the phone with computer support. Most children now have access to satellite internet.

school of the air guided tours give visitors a chance to watch as a teacher sits in a studio at the Longreach school of Distance education and his or her classroom could well be larger than 1,000km across.

as a visitor, you will be able to learn a thing or two at this school. there are daily tours with audio visual presentations as well as observing lessons in progress through a glass-walled studio. Life and learning is happening before your eyes and this schooling is vital to outback families.

Places to vis itPh

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Longreach 13

4 Day Birdsville Desert Escape (Ex Longreach)

Park your van for 3 nights and join an Outback journey of a lifetime. Optional Lake Eyre Flight Ex Birdsville.

Departure Longreach 19 May, 2 June, 21 July, 4 August, 22 September, 6 October 2011

From $1399 twin share.

Phone: 1300 78 78 90 Email: [email protected] www.outbackaussietours.com.au Licensed travel agents (1683) for Queensland Rail, Greyhound and Qantas. Based at Longreach Railway Station, Outback Queensland

OUTBACK AUSSIE TOURS®

Half and full day tours from $79 Sunset or Morning Tea Station Tours, the Drovers Dinner, and Winton’s Dinosaur Matilda Tour.

EX LONGREACH

Established 24 years

> White linen & candlelight > Breathtaking sunsets > 3 course dinner while cruising > Return transfersP: 1800 076 020 E: [email protected] W: www.outbacklongreach.com.au

MV ExplorerS u n s e t - S t a r s - S e r e n i t y

Centrally located • Family ownedSplit system A/C • Austar

Harry’s Restaurant & Bar – open to the public

Longreach Motor Inn

P: 1800 076 020 E: [email protected] W: www.outbacklongreach.com.au

Adults $8.00 Children $4.00 (NB. Pricing is subject to change.Bookings are necessary for groups of 20 or more)

GUIDED TOURS 9.00am & 10.30am, Monday to Friday{excluding Public & Christmas School Holidays)

SCHOOL OF THE AIR, LONGREACH Ph: 4658 4232

Longreach Guide 2011_.indd 13 9/02/11 11:47 AM

14 Longreach

LOCAL, LAKE EYRE AND CHANNEL COUNTRY SCENIC FLIGHTS 1 & 2 day Lake Eyre and Channel Country tours including:■ Longreach / Thomson / Diamantina / Georgina Rivers ■ Birdsville / Lake Eyre / William Creek ■ Cooper Creek / Innamincka / Burke & Wills Dig Tree / Lake Yamma ■ Windorah / Barcoo River / Longreach. ■ Lark Quarry Dinosaur Tracks.Single and twin engine / ex Longreach airport. Window seat per passenger, GPS mapping and intercom.

“Lleweylln”, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 9187 F: (07) 4658 9253 E: [email protected] www.aircentralwest.com.au

AIR CENTRAL WEST P: (07) 4658 9187

QUEENSLAND HELICOPTERS P: 0417 624 422

Bookings essential. Phone Tim RaynerP: 0417 624 422

Scenic helicopter fl ight around Longreach and over the mighty Thomson River.

Get a bird’s eye view, fantastic photo opportunities.

Scenic fl ight over Longreach and Thomson River is for 10 minutes: $50 per person (min. 2 passengers)

AUSTRALIAN AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE CORPORATION

Landsborough highway, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 4699

Longreach Pastoral campus, established in 1967, is the largest and longest established provider of practical agricultural and vocational training in Queensland. Walking tours operate daily from March to november starting at 10:30am.

cost: adults $6, children Free. group bookings welcome.

LONGREACH DAY TOURS P: 0458 580 728

P: 0458 580 728 www.longreachdaytours.com.au

Local tours to sheep and cattle stations. See shearing in full swing, cattle work and on a Wednesday a live cattle sale. Join local property owner and tour guide and meet the real people of the outback working this land for a living.

RUSTY FRAME & FRIENDS P: 0429 200 187

rUSTY FraMeM: 0429 200 187 e: [email protected]

outback Variety Show featuring a true Stockman, Stockhorse, Pack Mule, working dogs and loads more. • May to October. • Indoors, Longreach Showgrounds.

The Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Outback Heritage Centre is a spectacular tribute to the people of outback Australia.Learn all about our outback pioneering history:• Museum with fi ve themed galleries displaying some

of Australia’s greatest explorers, Aborigines, stock workers & pastoralists

• Live entertainment, audiovisual presentations & open displays

• Hugh Sawrey Art Gallery featuring outback artists• Café, landscaped gardens & RM Williams’ cottage• Cattlemen’s Bar & Grill offering snacks and Aussie

meals for family dining, functions, conferences – open for lunch and dinner – P/F: (07) 4658 1168

Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame & Outback Heritage CentreOpen 364 days (closed Christmas Day) 9am–5pmLandsborough Hwy, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 2166 F: (07) 4658 2495www.stockmanshalloffame.com.au

AUSTRALIAN STOCKMAN’S HALL OF FAME P: (07) 4658 2166


Longreach 15

Monduran outback MoteLs

If you seek quality motel accommodation try the albert Park Motor Inn and the Jumbuck Motel. true outback hospitality is the vision and rule-of-day at these premises. Friendly and professional service combined with local knowledge rounds up the experience for all guests.

on offer are spacious ground floor rooms, conference facilities, swimming pools, bars and restaurants all out in the tourist strip of Longreach, walking distance from the airport, the Qantas Founders Museum and the australian stockman’s hall of Fame. bookings for tours can be made here, just ask at the front desk.

the Monduran group also owns the boulder opal Motor Inn in Winton and we’ll discuss that more in the Winton story.

Longreach Motor Innacross the road from the railway station and easy walking distance from the town centre, the travel centres, the Longreach club and the rsL is the Longreach Motor Inn. not that you will need to go far as you laze by the pool or relax in your room, whether on a business trip or in one of the spacious family rooms. there are bus pickups at your door for all attractions and the in-house harry’s restaurant offers a wide menu including tender outback steaks you’ll boast about on your return home or perhaps taste the wild-caught barramundi, a house specialty.

MONDURAN OUTBACK MOTELS

• Conference facilities • Bar and restaurant• Austar • Outdoor entertainment area

Sir Hudson Fysh Drive, Longreach QLD 4730Ph: (07) 4658 1799Fax: (07) 4658 1832

[email protected]

• Winton’s premier motel• A la carte restaurant

overlooking pool• Friendly service

• Conference facilities

16 Elderslie Street, Winton QLD 4735

Ph: (07) 4657 1211Fax: 07) 4657 1331

[email protected]

• Professional & friendly service• Walk to airport, Stockman’s Hall of Fame,

Qantas Founders Museum• Restaurant, bar, poolside dining, conference facilities

• All ground fl oor units, undercover parking, reverse cycle air-conditioning & Austar

• Local tour details & bookings at reception

Cnr Ilfracombe & Stork Roads (PO Box 40), Longreach QLD 4730Ph: (07) 4658 2411 Fax: (07) 4658 3181

[email protected] www.albertpark-longreach.com.au

PLACES to StAy


16 Longreach

“We are proud of our services to the nation.”O’Briens Garage Pty Ltd is a locally owned family business which has been operating for over 30 years.

The services that we provide include Mitsubishi sales and service, mechanical repairs and service on most vehicles, automotive air-conditioning sales and service, Novus windscreen repairs and Autopro parts and accessories.

23 Swan Street, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 1366 M: 0427 465 827 E: [email protected]

O’BRIENS GARAGE PTY LTD P: (07) 4658 1366

Welcome to Longreach Motel. Your hosts are sisters, Annette and Coralee.You will enjoy country style hospitality and we will be more than happy to go the extra mile to ensure your stay is a memorable one.

The Longreach Motel is the most conveniently located motel in Longreach, within 300 metres of all banks, post offi ce, supermarket, cinema, restaurants and shops.

courtesy transfers are available upon request.

127-129 eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 1996 F: 4658 3035 e: [email protected] www.longreachmotel.net.au

LONGREACH MOTEL P: (07) 4658 1996

For a friendly relaxing stay in Longreach you can’t beat Aussie Betta Cabins . Each of the 22 cabins is fully serviced and can accommodate up to fi ve people. They include a kitchen with microwave and stove or if you want to enjoy the outback atmosphere, head to the pool and BBQ.

Aussie Betta Cabins are located on the eastern side of Longreach on the Landsborough Highway next door to the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, and across the road from the QANTAS Founders Museum and Longreach Airport.Vic and Ellie will be pleased to have you stay with them on your next visit to the Longreach region.

• Spacious fully self-contained air-conditioned units• Units sleep up to fi ve people• Shaded outdoor garden & BBQ area• Refreshing pool for your enjoyment

Vic and Ellie Scott65 Ilfracombe Road, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 3811 F: (07) 4658 3812

AUSSIE BETTA CABINS P: (07) 4658 3811

Open 7 days (Sat 8am-1pm; Sun 8am-4pm)• Hot chooks cooked fresh everyday

• Fresh fruit and vegetables

• Fresh bread and milk

• Newspapers

• Easy and accessible parking

• Great family friendly service

• ATM available

141 Ibis Street, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 1397

LONGREACH FOODWORKS P: (07) 4658 1397


Longreach 17

abajaz Motor InnLocated in Wonga Street, just off the Landsborough highway and a very short walk to the cbD, is the abajaz Motor Inn. With 18 comfortable rooms ranging from single, double, twin and family, there is something for everyone. all rooms have reverse cycle air-conditioning, free wireless internet access and undercover parking. to make your stay extra comfortable the abajaz provides a guest laundry and sparkling salt water swimming pool with a barbeque area for guests to entertain. the abajaz is the only green Motel in the central West with a state of the art, 56 panel, 10 kilowatt solar system. courtesy transfers are available to and from most attractions.

come on in and meet your hosts rodd and Liane.

DIScovery hoLIDay ParkS – LongreachIt’s one of the largest outback holiday parks in the country and that’s saying something in this land of wide horizons.

at Discovery holiday Parks in Longreach you can stay in a basic cabin with a variety of options through to the four star luxury “billabong villas”. If you are toting your bluey (or your van) you have a choice of spacious drive-through ensuite sites or small grassed tent and camper-trailer sites.

not only do you get somewhere decent to lay your head down, either in your own van or in a modern comfortable cabin, in season take in the on-site Woolshed restaurant and bar. Wine, dine, enjoy some entertainment and with a happy tummy wander back to your swag under a magnificent sky – it doesn’t get any better than this.

• Friendly family-run motel• Fully air-conditioned ground fl oor units with ensuites• Undercover parking• Saltwater pool and BBQ area• Courtesy transfers available to and from most attractions• Austar and free wireless internet to all rooms• Short walk to CBD• Only motel in the Central West with a state of the art, 56 panel,

10 kw solar system• Cooked/continental breakfasts delivered to rooms• Guest laundry • Tea/coffee/microwave in all rooms

11 Wonga Street, Longreach QLD 4730P: 1800 081 288 E: [email protected] www.abajazmotorinn.com.au

ABAJAZmotor inn

An outback adventure

12 Thrush Rd, Longreach QLD 4730Free Call 1800 356 099

Self-contained CabinsPowered Sites Ensuite SitesLarge Drive Through SitesTwo Swimming Pools Three SpasWoolshed Restaurant & Bar (Seasonal)

Cabins from $82 Sites from $28

TM

Longreach

www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au

For bookings or more details, please visit:

PLACES to StAy


18 Longreach

SPINIFEX COLLECTIONS P: (07) 4658 3636

118a eagle St, Longreach QLD 4730P/F: (07) 4658 3636 www.spinifexcollections.com.au

Spinifex Collectionsgifts from around the world –• Jewellery – modern & vintage• Unique small furniture pieces• Australian & locally made

JOHNLEE MOTORS P: (07) 4658 1423

34 Swan Street, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 1423 F: (07) 4658 2647 E: [email protected]

• Polaris & Cam-am sales and service• 4WD & car repairs and servicing• Flywheel machining• Engine rebuilding

LONGREACH OUTDOORS CENTRE P: (07) 4658 3229

1/136 Eagle St (Main Street), Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 3229 F: (07) 4558 0399

• Gas • Swags • Tents • Car fridges • Bait • Fishing / camping /

pool supplies and much more…

Open: Mon – Fri 8.30am – 5pm Sat 9am – 1pm

MYERS NEWSAGENCY P: (07) 4658 1324

113 Eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 1324 F: (07) 4658 0386

• Newspapers and magazines

• Toys and novelties

• Stationery and books

• Casket tickets, Lotto and Pools

• Agent for TNT Express and Australian Air Express

THURECHT BROS SADDLERY P: (07) 5658 1011

130B eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 1011 F: (07) 4658 0030 M: 0407 111 324e: [email protected]

Established in 1927 by the Thurecht Brothers, the saddlery is one of the few remaining working saddleries in Queensland today. Call in and see Phil, Jayne and Georgia and their great range of outback styled gifts, horse supplies and belts made to order.

LONGREACH EMBROIDERY & SEWING P: (07) 4658 3518

124a Eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 3518 F: (07) 4658 3598 E: [email protected]

• Shirts • Caps • Polos

• Stubby Coolers

• Drink Coasters

• Coffee Mugs

• Graphics Heat Sealing

LongreachEmbroidery& Sewing

Computers & Wireless Internet

TRAI

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DUCK

ST

SWAN

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G A L A H ST

X LEADING EDGE COMPUTERS • 127 GALAH ST • 4658 3937

LEADING EDGE COMPUTERS P: (07) 4658 3937

IRVINES P: (07) 4658 1666

115 Eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 1666E: [email protected]

“We dress the west in the best”Men’s, Ladies’, Children’s • Western wear• Fashion wear• AccessoriesYour one stop shop in Eagle Street Longreach

NATURE’S TONIC P: (07) 4658 3736

25 Swan Street, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 3736E: [email protected]

Your Wellbeing Oasis• Health foods • Natural skincare• Chemical free hair products • Vitamins/

minerals • Organic baby care range• Relaxing atmosphere and friendly staff

AND much more...

MERCURY BUSINESS SUPPLIES P: (07) 4658 3544

Jamie and Patsy Worland 41 Duck St, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 3544 F: (07) 4658 0405 M: 0429 025 302 e: [email protected]

Sales and repairs of Notebook and Desktop computers, printers, faxes .In-store: stationery, photocopying, laminating, designing and printing.

PALMERS BP P/F: (07) 4658 1136

9 Wonga Street, Longreach QLD 4730M: 0417 752 337E: [email protected]

• Full driveway service and mechanical repairs

• Spare parts and windscreens• Tyres and batteries• New bicycle sales and repairs• Castrol Oils

HIRST MECHANICAL SERVICES P: (07) 4658 0395

Shop 2, 172 Eagle St, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 0395 M: 0419 704 387e: [email protected]

Specialising in service & repairs to:• Earthmoving equipment• Trucks & trailers• 4WD• Motorbikes• Caravan chassis & suspensionSuppliers of:• Oils & fi lters• Hydraulic hoses & fi ttings


Longreach 19

MERINO BAKERY P: (07) 4658 1715

120 eagle Street, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 1715 F: (07) 4658 0045

Multi Award-Winning Business – Customer Service with a Smile!• Large range of breads, cakes, slices and

savouries – all baked fresh daily• Espresso coffee and award-winning

gourmet pies• Fresh, custom-made sandwiches and salads• Open Mon–Fri 5am–5pm; Sat 5am–12.30pm

EAGLES NEST BAR & GRILL P: (07) 4658 0144

110 eagle St, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 0144

Winner of Best New Business 2009Situated in the Main Street. Steaks, Salads, Seafood, Pasta plusover 30 beers from australia and overseas as well as wines, champagne and mixes.Trading hours:Wednesday to Friday – 11.30am till late Saturday & Sunday – 9am till late.

EAGLE BOYS LONGREACH P: (07) 4658 3294

135 eagle St, Longreach QLD 4730P: 1300 EAGLEBOYS or (07) 4658 3294F: (07) 4658 3438 www.eagleboys.com.au

open 7 days 4pm to 9pmFull eagle Boys MenuLocal DeliveryMobile eftpos available

Inspiring creativity through local arts, art supplies, great coffee and food.

27 Swan Street, Longreach QLD 4730 P: (07) 4658 2228

DRAWN IN CAFE P: (07) 4658 2228

HARRY’S RESTAURANT P: (07) 4658 2322

P: (07) 4658 2322 e: [email protected]

• Excellent dining experience• Excellent service within relaxed atmosphere• Centrally located• Ample parking

Places to eat

Monthly Markets: Arts & Crafts Market- Third Saturday of the month (March to Oct) 9am – 1pm, Arts & Crafts Centre

Old Roxy Theatre Markets- monthly- Contact Trevor 0430 154 391

BRUNO’S RESTAURANT

31 Duck St, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 1016 e: [email protected]

The Longreach club’s bar and restaurant has a pleasant garden and a more formal dining room. great steaks, reasonably priced bistro meals, roasts and buffets.Open 7 days for lunch and dinner.

P: (07) 4658 1016

CALTEX ROADHOUSE LONGREACH P: (07) 4658 1086

33 Ilfracombe rd, Longreach QLD 4730P: (07) 4658 1086

Family owned and operated Fuel & LPg Ice & aTMrestaurant & conveniece shopopen 6am - 11pm 7 days a week


20 Longreach

Four wheel drive (4WD) recommended roads can at times be accessible to two wheel drives (2WD) with suitable care and caution. Please check current conditions prior to travel.

StarLight’S Lookout Drive recommenDeD – 4WD

mention the name harry redford in Longreach and you’re sure to be greeted with tales from local residents that have been handed down from their parents and grandparents. During the last 120 years, this man has become something of a local legend. this is a leisurely 3 hour drive, including time to stop on the way and visit the place where captain Starlight used the advantage of magnificent vistas and spectacular panoramas to drive his stolen cattle to South australia. 3-8 hours recommended.

LiLy Lagoon recommenDeD – 4WD anD 2WD

Don’t miss beautiful Lily Lagoon. this waterhole, off the main thomson river waterway, is a hidden oasis. See the variety of wildlife including water birds normally confined to coastal areas. after flooding, the lagoon is filled with beautiful lilies, a perfect photo stop. Lily Lagoon is an easy 15 minute drive. 1-4 hours recommended.

Lochern circuit recommenDeD – 4WD

this drive takes you to a former grazing property, which was declared a national Park in 1993. the park conserves 24,600 ha of plant habitats found within the channel country and mitchell grass downs regions and don’t miss the Broadwater waterhole. getting there is half the fun, discovering the sites of tocal creek Pub and remnants of the old town of arrilalah, along the way. this is a leisurely half day drive which will give you time to explore and check out the wildlife. ½-2 days recommended.

outBack Watering hoLeS to the cooPer creek DriverecommenDeD – 2WD

the mighty cooper creek is accessible via the channel country community of Windorah. Fish, swim or just soak up the magic spirit of this special part of australia. this drive takes you down a fully sealed road, through the outback communities of Stonehenge, Jundah and Windorah, where ancient landscapes and historic sites make this one of the best drives on offer. a four wheel drive route includes all of this plus a visit to Lochern and Welford national Parks. 1-3 days recommended.

outer Barcoo LooP recommenDeD – 2WD

Discover fascinating history in the outer Barcoo. Find clancy’s overflow hotel and the famous Barcoo river in isisford. explore isisford’s pioneer and prehistoric past at the outer Barcoo interpretation centre. Learn about the heyday of wool, which is also highlighted at the Blackall Woolscour. Blackall is also home to record blade shearer, Jacky howe. the trail continues to Barcaldine which shares the secrets of the tree of knowledge and the 1891 shearers’ strike. take in the award-winning australian Workers heritage centre. this day drive will let you take in all the sights and see you comfortably back at your accommodation for dinner or plan to extend your stay in the outer Barcoo. 1-3 days recommended.

harry reDForD Drive recommenDeD – 4WD anD 2WD

Follow the epic trail of harry redford, otherwise known as captain Starlight, while seeing the towns of aramac and muttaburra, the home of the muttaburrasaurus. a full day will see you comfortably around the trail, with time to take in the sights at Lake Dunn and Bowen Downs before returning to Longreach. 1-2 days recommended.

Winton matiLDa Drive recommenDeD – 2WD

take the two hour drive across the flood plains of the thomson river, over the meandering Darr river into the vast open plains of mitchell grasslands, broken by jump-ups or mesas, which is Winton country. explore the only museum dedicated to a song at the Waltzing matilda centre, discover the australian age of Dinosaurs collection and have a beer at the north gregory hotel where "Waltzing matilda" was first recited in 1895. Don’t forget to call into the information centre at the matilda centre for your line of credit (attractions pass) and ask for the “Shin Plaster”. extend your drive and travel on to the only recorded dinosaur stampede on the planet at Lark Quarry Dinosaur trackways a further 110km south of Winton. 1-4 days recommended.

Collect a copy of the regional self- drive map from the Longreach Visitor Information Centre.

Regional DRives fRom longReach


Ilfracombe 21

a mIle of HIstoryIlfracombe is much more than a whistle stop between longreach and barcaldine. this town is integral to understanding the outback experience and a place to have a bit of fun away from the ‘big smoke’ of longreach just down the line… and fellas, if you’re lucky, you might even be seduced by Winsome Winnie…

Ilfracombe is a town whose heart pumps history, putting its soul on display even to the point of being a little absurd. Well, not really absurd, I mean everyone collects hub caps… don’t they?

from longreach, drive 27 clicks into the sunrise and Ilfracombe shimmers out of the mirages. as you drive into town, one of the world’s longest museums peels away as you pass. this is the machinery mile and Heritage Display where you will be able to trace the history of pastoral and community development from early walking beam drilling rigs, to early graders and fireploughs, tractors, pumps – just about every bit of heavy metal needed to establish a sheep station, make a town and keep the roads passable. and don’t forget to keep an eye out for Winnie, a winsome damsel who, as you walk the mile, is practising her wiles.

Info-central in Ilfracombe is the Wellshot centre, housed in a building in the centre of town dedicated to telling the story of one of australia's largest sheep stations. take in a 20- minute film "a rush for Grass" which graphically displays the challenges faced by early pioneers and their fortitude in adapting to the realities of a boom/bust climate. the building is also the local Visitor Information centre where souvenirs are available for purchase.

the town pub – the Wellshot Hotel – opened its doors in Ilfracombe in 1890 after being transported from the central Highlands, and is one of the few original bush pubs trading in Queensland. the wool press bar showcases the wool industry and includes photographs, wool stencils and other rural memorabilia. the main bar is well known for the collection of donated hats. the ceiling of the pub is decorated with money (notes). order a meal and ask a local how the cash can be made to defy gravity.

conditions were pretty rugged in times gone by and this hits home when you have a look at a very special historical attraction, lagenbaker House. this little heritage-listed cottage is more than 110 years old. langenbaker House presents a rare insight into the hardships, the ‘make do’ approach to life and the simple pleasures experienced by the pioneers who opened up the central West. In this unique window into the past you’ll find furnishings and everyday items used by pioneering families. Daily guided tours are available. call 07 4658 3551 or 4652 5400 for more details.

In september 2009 Governor General Quentin bryce opened the Jackson collections, the lifetime obsession of two brothers, Hilton and Ike Jackson. Ike’s collection is made up of more than 120 firearms from wars and battles throughout the world and includes a Japanese Nambu submachine gun. there are national flags from both world wars, knives, uniforms, helmets and an absorbing assortment of thought-provoking war memorabilia. you can also view a selection of bottles meticulously collected by Hilton.

council purchased these two collections so that they may be preserved and displayed for generations to come, and the distinctive facility within the museum precinct will be a lasting tribute to the passion and commitment of these two brothers.

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22 Ilfracombe

Just down the road at “Hiltons corner” you can view the remaining bottle collection, reputed to be one of the largest collections in australia. It contains over 30,000 bottles. Prepare to be thoroughly intrigued by the many other interesting items on display, from hub caps to rabbit traps.

romani Hall opened in march 1999 and is a tribute to the australain light Horse brigade. The hall houses memoribilia and information of the light Horsemen and their activities.

The Ilfracombe Post office, over 100 years old, is housed in its original building which also used to be the local telephone exchange. The post office celebrated 100 years of motorised mail service in april 2010, this service also has the honour of being the first in Queensland and the commonwealth. The Post office is the rural Transaction centre/library and internet

service for our local community and tourists. It currently sells australia Post stock and merchandise, as well as local craft and other gift lines.

cool down and relax in Ilfracombe’s artesian spa and swimming pool in the memorial Park in the main street. Throw your snags on the barbie while you soothe the aches of travel in the heated natural mineral waters of the spa. What better way to watch the sun go down on another perfect outback Queensland day?

Winnie you ask, what about Winnie? She’s waiting for you with all her memories – why don’t we keep it a mystery and YoU find Winsome Winnie (she’s from Warbreccan, there’s a clue). Now you’ll just have to come to Ilfracombe!


Ilfracombe 23

Ilfracombe Van Park and why not stay in the Ilfracombe Van Park. Hosts Jesse and cathy Hitson say you won’t believe how much fun you can have when you stay at the park, situated right next to the pub and set among colourful gardens and shady trees.

The Hitsons have brought a great atmosphere to the park and provide all the facilities you need. most evenings, they supply nibblies for a happy hour that’s the talk of the town. Jesse and cathy will make you laugh with their bush poetry, jokes and story-telling.

bring your own drinks and wander over to the barbeque that is a fine example of bush architecture featuring a huge fireplace with petrified wood built into the construction. Jesse finished it in 2005, but the spot looks like it’s been there for a century or so. It’s a great place to kick back, listen to local stories and jokes and maybe bring out your own musical instrument for a sing-along.

If you’re not towing your own van, book into one of the park’s self-contained, air-conditioned ensuite cabins. linen is supplied.

Ilfracombe – a relaxed little town out on the blacksoil plains, with its own atmosphere. and close enough to surrounding towns to use as a base to check out all the destinations of the region.

Community Happy Hour*

Assisted parking

Personal and friendly

Self-contained A/C ensuite cabins

Grassed campsites

Concrete slabs

Many free local attractions

Van Park Olympics – 11-18th June

*Seasonal

Owner Operators Jesse & Cathryn HitsonPh (07) 4658 1510 Fax (07) 4658 0634

ILFRACOMBE CARAVAN PARKOn the Landsborough Highway only minutes east of Longreach

www.ilfracombecaravanpark.com.au [email protected]

Still standing in the same place since 1890…Still doing the same thing today as we did back then!Serving Ilfracombe & district for 120 years!The Wellshot Hotel is a rare surviving outback treasure, bearing testimony to the good times, the hard times, and Ilfracombe’s persevering spirit. It is the place where town meets the bush, locals meet travellers, where people from all walks of life come together as one.Enjoy ice-cold drinks, good food, comfortable accommodation and a warm and friendly huge outback welcome.

Main Avenue, Ilfracombe QLD 4727Jo ScottP: (07) 4658 2106 E: [email protected]

THE HISTORIC WELLSHOT HOTEL P: (07) 4658 2106


24 isisford

The local Visitor information Centre, the Wellshot Centre, is dedicated to telling the story of one of Australia’s largest pastoral holdings. You can trace the history of how people lived and worked on the property and discover how a whole town was formed from the station.

Hilton’s Corner, easily visible due to the fence adorned with collected hubcaps, is a must-see. Hilton’s treasures or rarities including bottles, buttons, scissors, stones, drill bits, dog traps and other unusual items are on display.

The Great Machinery Mile display features horse-drawn vehicles, steam engines, harvesters and earth moving machinery. You can see one the earliest forms of transport in the form of a wool wagon named Winsome Winnie.

The Jackson Collections, opened in 2009, offer a magnificent gun display of over 130 firearms and a unique bottle collection.

The folk Museum showcases the role of women and children in outback life in the early years. Aboriginal artefacts and petrified wood are also on display.

oakhampton Cottage was relocated from a nearby property. it is significant as a typical outback structure and offers a glimpse into an early outback household.

romani Hall museum is dedicated to preserving the story of the Light Horse troops. it offers authentic and rare displays and provides a thought-provoking insight into what our troops underwent.

The ilfracombe Memorial Park has access to a children’s playground, sheltered picnic tables and a barbeque.

relax in the warm artesian water of the spa. The therapeutic waters will leave you feeling fresh and rejuvenated. The swimming pool is adjacent.

12 MiLe

south of ilfracombe along the isisford road is the 12 Mile, located on the stock route. View the fascinating art of stone pitching that was used to construct an embankment to contain water. The stone pitching also protected the embankment against erosion. The stones have remained in place for well over a century – an eloquent tribute to the skills of the builders. This is a great spot to enjoy a picnic and the silence of the bush.

iLfrACoMbe/KeLso/LonGreACH LooP roAd.

Approximately 2km from ilfracombe via the Aramac road is the Kelso road, taking you through to the Muttaburra road approximately 15km from Longreach. Along this road is a monument identifying where the boundaries of the original stations of Wellshot, beaconsfield and bowen downs met.

Call into the Wellshot Centre, ilfracombe for information on walks and regional self-drives.

* Refer to regional tourist drives map, page 29.

on THe oUTer bArCooit’s barcoo country: ‘on the outer barcoo where churches are few’ as banjo Paterson wrote in his poem, “The bush Christening”. isisford and the tiny centre of Yaraka. but don’t let the sizes of these places fool you, they are communities with big hearts!

isisford is the ‘ford’ to isis downs, the crossing over the barcoo river. A couple of pubs, a minimum of shops and an interpretation centre built in honour of a prehistoric crocodile. The streets are named after saints and the community spirit is strong.

The town lies south of ilfracombe, on the outer barcoo by-way. isisford was settled in the mid-1800’s and the architecture reflects its humble beginnings. The town has plenty of amenities with an 18-hole golf course, swimming pool, tennis court, park with covered children’s playground, a fascinating museum, post office, police station, two hotels, library and internet facilities. Camping is available for a small fee along the barcoo river at the weir and oma waterhole. shower and toilet facilities are also handy.

isisford gives you the chance to see a 100 million year old fossilised crocodile. Isisfordia Duncani is proudly displayed at the outer barcoo interpretation Centre. drop in and see for yourself what all the fuss is about and how this fossil has helped to put isisford on the map. While you’re there grab a cup of coffee or a bit to eat at the cafeteria.

Wander through the fascinating historical buildings, Hooper & brunckhorst, the old bakery and Whitman’s Museum.

it’s said that once you spend time on the tranquil coolibah-lined banks of the barcoo at isisford you become a local and find yourself returning again and again.

Walks in is isfordThe outer barcoo interpretation Centre houses the display of the Isisfordia Duncani, a unique crocodile fossil. The Centre provides information on the region’s ancient and recent history.

Along st Mary's street you will find museums dedicated to businesses of the past such as Arcadia Café. informative signs are placed on the footpath outside the buildings to assist the visitor.

stroll along st Mary's street and experience the many examples of pioneering heritage architecture which depict the humble beginnings of this community.

dr ives from is isfordoMA WATerHoLe

Approximately 15km southwest of isisford is this popular recreation spot. The waterhole is surrounded by river red gums, coolibah trees and paperbarks and is a renowned area for catching yellowbelly, black bream and catfish. Camping is

Slow Down, Stay longeR, So much to See

is isford

Walks in ilfracombe

drives from ilfracombe


isisford 25

Meet “Isisfordia Duncani” the Isisford crocodile fossilwho lived 98 million years ago — the ancestor of all crocodiles…

OUTER BARCOO INTERPRETIVE CENTRE - ISISFORD - 07 4658 8411

• View a life size model of Isisfordia duncani• Discover what life was like, 100 million years ago• Local fl ora and fauna displays• Presentation of Earth’s creation and the evolution of life• Cafés and local visitor information

OPEN DAILY

available at the oma Waterhole and the Barcoo Weir for a small fee.

oma stockyards

discover the remains of these stockyards where cattle thief, Harry redford (captain starlight), held stock during his daring cattle duffing venture through this country. see page 20 for starlight’s Lookout drive and Harry redford drive.

yuranigH Pond

approximately 6km from isisford, you’ll find the yuranigh Pond

waterhole. the explorer major mitchell once camped here and the waterhole was named after his aboriginal friend.

yaraka & mt sLoWcomBe

for a great day out, pack the camera and head to the hamlet of yaraka, 100km south of isisford. the flora and fauna is plentiful but the scenery from mt slowombe is breathtaking.

Call into the Isisford Branch Office, Longreach Regional Council, for information on walks and self-drives in the region.

* Refer to regional tourist drives map, page 29.


26 yaraka

Heading south from Isisford – and it’s best to ask directions – is a little town with gardens, shop, post office, fuel, police station, hotel providing accommodation and meals, a swimming pool, tennis court and playground area. But don’t let all these goodies fool you – when you get to yaraka, you have moved into a different world. This is the Outback with a difference. The wind still blows “roley-poleys” (tumbleweeds) through the old buildings. Some reckoned yaraka was left high and dry when the railway pulled out but there was no way the town was about to lie down for anyone.

There are wild ranges around yaraka, a tumbled landscape that produces a surprise at every corner. Take a camera and capture the myriad of colours at sunset, the local wildlife or, if you’re especially lucky, the rising of a new moon from behind the ranges that seem to pop up from nowhere.

Cruise slowly (you’ll have no other choice) up the newly-sealed jump-up track to the top of Mount Slowcombe. Now you can really see how small yaraka is from the summit, just like a sprinkling of salt on the rugged landscape. you are “back of beyond” here and as you gaze across this incredible panorama you will be able to say with feeling, “The Outer Barcoo? yeah, I’ve been there.”

LONGREACHIsisford, Ilfracombe, Yaraka & Emmet

make the

outbackconnection Join us to experience

the magic of the outback, accessible by air, rail, coach or road. The Longreach region will have you coming back for more...

Longreach Visitor Information CentreQantas Park, Eagle Street, LongreachP: 07 4658 4150 F: 07 4658 4177E: [email protected]: www.longreach.qld.gov.au

• Experience the culture and heritage

• Discover the National Parks• Meet the colourful locals• Dine in our award-

winning restaurants• Visit the art galleries• Relive the past and

explore our history

Visit...• Qantas Founders Museum• Stockman’s Hall of Fame• Cobb & Co• Powerhouse Museum• Mount Slowcombe – Yaraka• Machinery Mile – Ilfracombe• River Cruises on the Thomson

... and so much more

Longreach • • Ilfracombe

• Isisford• Emmet

• Yaraka

YarakaSlow down, Stay longer,

So much to See

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LONGREACHIsisford, Ilfracombe, Yaraka & Emmet

make the

outbackconnection Join us to experience

the magic of the outback, accessible by air, rail, coach or road. The Longreach region will have you coming back for more...

Longreach Visitor Information CentreQantas Park, Eagle Street, LongreachP: 07 4658 4150 F: 07 4658 4177E: [email protected]: www.longreach.qld.gov.au

• Experience the culture and heritage

• Discover the National Parks• Meet the colourful locals• Dine in our award-

winning restaurants• Visit the art galleries• Relive the past and

explore our history

Visit...• Qantas Founders Museum• Stockman’s Hall of Fame• Cobb & Co• Powerhouse Museum• Mount Slowcombe – Yaraka• Machinery Mile – Ilfracombe• River Cruises on the Thomson

... and so much more

Longreach • • Ilfracombe

• Isisford• Emmet

• Yaraka


28 Longreach

Drive yourself into the real outback of the Longreach region. Follow in the steps of the explorers and early settlers with this self-drive guide.

Meet the locals, taste the dry humour in outback pubs, find a fossil, drive through landscapes that could have come from a hollywood Western movie.

The tourist drives will take you through the towns of Ilfracombe, immersed in times gone by; Isisford, home of a 100 million year old fossilised crocodile from the age of dinosaurs; Yaraka, a remote town at ‘the end of the line’ in a landscape from a Western; emmet, where history blows in the dust like roley poleys; and explore the channel country at Stonehenge and Jundah.

The original outback landscape can be experienced in the three national Parks on route: Welford, Idalia,and Lochern. each park preserves the many landscapes of the ouback and are populated by their own flora and fauna ,you may even catch a glimpse of rare yellow-footed rock wallabies or bridle nail-tail wallabies.

Discover the many historical sites along the way, the Tocal creek Pub, the remnants of the old town of arrilalah, 12 Mile hotel and the stone pitching site, a native well and Magee’s Shanty. each site adds to the experience of the true outback.

request a tear off map at any of the following outlets to guide you through a journey that will amaze you:

Longreach Visitor Information Centre Qantas Park, Eagle Street, Longreach Ph: 07 4658 4150 E:[email protected]

Wellshot Centre 9 McMaster Drive,Ilfracombe Ph: 07 4658 3551 E:[email protected]

Isisford Branch Office Longreach Regional Council, 20 Mary Street, Isisford Ph: 07 4658 8900 E: [email protected]

The Longreach regionaL SeLf-DriveS

In The Longreach regIon> Stroll along the 2.5km Botanic Walkway from the

Longreach Town centre to the

> Stockman’s hall of Fame, interpretation of the native plants of the Mitchell grass downs region

>enjoy a picnic lunch at Lily Lagoon

>climb Starlight’s Lookout and admire the landscape

> explore Iningai nature Park with a variety of walking tracks on the Longreach Town common

> explore the charm of Ilfracombe with its historical attractions and take the time to have a relaxing dip in the great artesian spa

> Visit Isisford on the banks of the Barcoo, go fishing, admire the historical buildings along St Mary’s Street, or just enjoy the magic of the outer Barcoo.

> Visit the 12 Mile where you will visualise the art of stone pitching, constructed over a century ago, located 20km south of Ilfracombe

> Visit the rM Williams cottage and the Bruce Yeates memorial gardens

> have a BBQ lunch at the Mt Slowcombe Lookout, a short drive from Yaraka, the scenery is breathtaking.

> Discover the history of the outback’s rail development at the Longreach railway Station.

10 free ThingS To Do

1...Lochern Circuit (269km)

2...Wellshot Way (320km)

3...Where Rivers Run (552km)

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You will need to obtain a camping permit before camping in National Parks, fees apply. Enquiries call 13 13 04 or visit www.qld.gov.au/camping. Self registration available at selected parks.

This map is also available in A3 size from the

Longreach Visitor Information CentreQantas Park, Eagle Street, Longreach p • 07 4658 4150 f • 07 4658 4177e • [email protected]

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You will need to obtain a camping permit before camping in National Parks, fees apply. Enquiries call 13 13 04 or visit www.qld.gov.au/camping. Self registration available at selected parks.

This map is also available in A3 size from the

Longreach Visitor Information CentreQantas Park, Eagle Street, Longreach p • 07 4658 4150 f • 07 4658 4177e • [email protected]

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January 26 australia Day, Longreach, Ilfracombe, Isisford, yaraka

February1–31 Kids art exhibition, australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame Gallery

MarcH1–31 Local artists, Faye Parker, Jane colvin, australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame Gallery

7 MarcH–10 auGuSt

“Summers Past” art exhibition, Qantas Founders Museum

19 central Western Queensland community Music event, Qantas Founders Museum

26 tennis tournament, Ilfracombe

aPrIL1–30 Local artists, Phil christiansen & amy naef, australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame Gallery

9 Ilfracombe clay target club shoot, Ilfracombe

16–20 Qld barefoot Waterskiing championships , Longreach

23–25 easter in the Outback, Longreach

25 anzac Day – Isisford & yaraka

25–30 australian barefoot championships, Longreach

30 aPrIL–2 May 21st anniversary, australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, “Drovers reunion” Longreach

May1–31 Horse photographer, nicole emanuel, australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame Gallery

1–31 art exhibition, Lyn barnes, australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame cottage

13–14 Longreach Show, Longreach

20 Isisford Sheep & Wool Show, Isisford

June1–30“emily explorer” art exhibition-”Gemma-Lynch-Memory”, australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame Gallery

1–30 art exhibition-David Hart Gallery, australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame cottage

4 australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame “Pink ride” in the outback

18 australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame XXXX cup

25–26 Horse events: Gymkhana/Polocrosse/ Stockman’s challenge – Isisford

30 LOnGreacH

reGIOn

JuLy

1-31 exhibtion on Harry redford by John Morrison

1-31“Sisters in Senses”-artist in residence- Jean & Joyce

crombie, australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame Gallery

2 yaraka Horse & Motorbike Gymkhana

9–10 Ilfracombe clay target club annual two Day Shoot ,

Ilfracombe

16 Ilfracombe Races, Ilfracombe

28–31 aSHOF “Horse expo”, Longreach

30 – 31 Southern cross television & Isisford Fishing

competition, Isisford

auGuSt

1–31art exhibition, “art on cairncross”-tom Gill, australian

Stockman’s Hall of Fame Gallery

1–31 art by Deborah Hogan, australian Stockman’s Hall of

Fame cottage

6 Boree Billions Tennis Tournament, Ilfracombe

15 auGuSt–2nD OctOberHerbert basedow art exhibition, Qantas Founders Museum

27–28 yaraka campdraft Weekend

26–28 Longreach yellowbelly classic Fishing competition

SePteMber

1– MID SePteMber Heather Moore exhibition, mid to 30th,

“MacKinlay” australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame Gallery.

10 Ilfracombe clay target club ” elmsdale Shield” , Ilfracombe

OctOber

1–3 High School Students , Local art, australian Stockman’s

Hall of Fame Gallery

22 Qantas Founders Museum Music concert

nOveMber

1–30 High School Students , Local art, australian Stockman’s

Hall of Fame Gallery

12 Isisford ross cup races

DeceMber

10 Ilfracombe clay target christmas Shoot , Ilfracombe

2011 Longreach regionaL events caLendar


BARCOO 31

COme meet the lOCAlsOne of the first things you'll notice as you travel into the communities of Jundah, stonehenge and Windorah is the friendly hospitality of the locals. Whether you're looking for a place to camp, fish or general information of the area, friendly staff at the local watering holes and those you meet along the streets are only too happy to point you in the right direction. And of course the visitor information centres in each town will ensure you receive all the information and brochures to help you make the most of your stay.

Being in the heart of the Channel Country, the natural environment and unique landscapes are of specific interest. Nature drives, native wells, magical rockholes, famous river systems, magnificent red sand hills and lookouts with panoramic views all give an insight into our unique part of the outback. the Barcoo shire museum and historic sites throughout the shire ensure the past is not forgotten.

Of course, there are also the social events like bronco branding and rodeos, yabby races, sheep racing, horse racing, fishing competitions and car rallies which should be on every traveller’s itinerary. Along with local cricket matches and tennis tournaments, these events provide ongoing social interaction for the sparsely populated communities and surrounding districts.

lOCheRN NAtiONAl pARkFeaturing waterholes and diverse landscapes. Broadwater hole provides an excellent site for birdwatching and pleasant bush camping.

idAliA NAtiONAl pARkA unique natural landscape with a diverse range of wildlife and an ideal spot for birdwatching. self-sufficient bush camping and bushwalking is permitted.

WelFORd NAtiONAl pARkFour wheel drive tracks through ranges, spinifex planes, sand dunes and Channel Country. Camping is permitted at various sites along the Barcoo River or besides tranquil, permanent waterholes.

For further information on National parks please contact Queensland parks and Wildlife services ph 07 4652 7333.

lARk QUARRY diNOsUAR stAmpedeObservation facility with guided tours of the 3,300 dinosaur tracks. No camping permitted.

BlAdeNsBURg NAtiONAl pARkFeaturing rugged ranges, deep gorges and residual mesa tops, the park provides excellent vantage points of the surrounding flats. Bush camping is allowed at designated sites near waterholes.

BARCOOSlow down, Stay

longer, So much to See

NATIONAL PARKS

“Heart of the Channel Country”don’t miss the opportunity to see and experience it all right here in the outback. the sealed road from longreach right through to Windorah ensures easy access to each of our communities. hotel/motel/cabin accommodation or caravan parks make extending your visit a breeze.groceries, meals, fuel and eFtpOs are available in each centre.slow down, take the time to appreciate your surroundings and enjoy some recreation...• Bushwalking • Kayaking • Diverse landscapes and environments• Camping & fi shing • Brilliant star exhibitions • Historic sites • Museums

Windorah information Centrep: (07) 4656 3063 F: (07) 4656 3137 e: [email protected]

JUNDAH STONEHENGE & WINDORAH

Jundah information Centrep: (07) 4658 6930 F: (07) 4658 6221 e: [email protected]

stonehenge Community Centrep: (07) 4658 5987 F: (07) 4658 5859 e: [email protected]


32 WINTON

Just up the road from Longreach is Winton, Dinosaur Capital of Australia, and the home of Waltzing Matilda and Queensland Boulder Opal.

Want to see Australian dinosaurs in spectacular natural surroundings? Visit Lark Quarry Dinosaur Trackways and the Australian Age of Dinosaurs.

At Australian Age of Dinosaurs you'll see the world’s largest collection of Australian dinosaurs and the biggest dinosaur laboratory in the southern hemisphere. You can even sign-up and help prepare real dinosaur bones in the laboratory!

Winton is also home to the world’s only recorded evidence of a dinosaur stampede on Earth: Lark Quarry Dinosaur Trackways. More than 95 million years old, 3,300 stampeding fossilised footprints are on display inside a huge protective building. It is an iconic National Monument not to be missed. At the Corfield & Fitzmaurice Building, visitors can find a life-size diorama display of the stampede, as well as the Australian Age of Dinosaurs mini-museum, a mining display and Combo Crafts.

The legend of Waltzing Matilda began when A.B. ‘Banjo’ Paterson penned the ballad at nearby Dagworth Station in 1895, and it is believed the first public performance of “Waltzing Matilda” occurred at the North Gregory Hotel in Winton. Several decades later, Winton was the birthplace of QANTAS, with the Winton Club playing host to the first board meeting in 1921. One of the original airstrips is located just outside of town.

Winton honours its history with sculptures and artworks located throughout town, and at the Waltzing Matilda Centre, where visitors and locals alike can discover the romance and

legend behind the famous song. While at the Centre, visitors can also visit Qantilda Museum, dedicated to the aviation and pioneering history of Winton, and the Outback Regional Gallery, celebrating the Outback through art. Winton’s history can be further explored in a visit to the Royal Open Air Theatre Museum, where visitors can discover the history of the theatre and its operation.

Make sure you visit some of the other free attractions, including the world’s first permanent Musical Fence, and Arno’s Wall, an architectural marvel over 10 metres long, in which everything can be found – including the kitchen sink!

Drive your own natural adventures in Winton Shire at Bladensburg National Park, located only 7km from Winton, or further off the beaten track at Old Cork, Cawnpore Lookout and Diamantina National Park. Also try your luck fossicking for opals at Queensland’s Capital of Boulder Opal, Opalton.

Winton is known for friendly hospitality and big smiles and boasts a selection of good affordable accommodation, caravan parks, great food outlets, craft shop, gift and gem store and general stores for all your traveling needs.

To plan your visit to Winton, contact the Winton Visitor Information Centre or just drop in after you make your way to Winton.

Winton Visitor Information Centre Located at the Waltzing Matilda Centre 50 Elderslie St WINTON Q 4735 Ph: 1300 665 115 www.experiencewinton.com.au

experienceWINTON

Dinosaur capital of Australia, home ofWaltzing Matilda and Queensland Boulder Opal

Visitor Information Centre 1300 665 115 www.experiencewinton.com.au

Townsville

Corfield

WINTON

BladensburgNational Park

Longreach

Brisbane

Opalton

LarkQuarry

Middleton

Walk in the footsteps of dinosaurs at Lark Quarry Dinosaur Trackways, the world’s only known record of a dinosaur stampede and visit Australian Age of Dinosaurs Fossil Preparation Facility.

Discover the Waltzing Matilda Centre, a museum dedicated to a song, play the unique Musical Fence, marvel at Arno’s Wall or take a trip into transport history at the Diamantina Heritage Truck and Machinery Museum.

Try your luck opal fossicking at Opalton or drive your own adventure throughout Winton’s rugged beauty at Bladensburg National Park, Old Cork Station and Cawnpore Lookout.

WISC16837_Winton.indd 3 6/01/11 11:58 AM

WintonSLOW dOWN, STay LONgEr,

SO MuCh TO SEE


experienceWINTON

Dinosaur capital of Australia, home ofWaltzing Matilda and Queensland Boulder Opal

Visitor Information Centre 1300 665 115 www.experiencewinton.com.au

Townsville

Corfield

WINTON

BladensburgNational Park

Longreach

Brisbane

Opalton

LarkQuarry

Middleton

Walk in the footsteps of dinosaurs at Lark Quarry Dinosaur Trackways, the world’s only known record of a dinosaur stampede and visit Australian Age of Dinosaurs Fossil Preparation Facility.

Discover the Waltzing Matilda Centre, a museum dedicated to a song, play the unique Musical Fence, marvel at Arno’s Wall or take a trip into transport history at the Diamantina Heritage Truck and Machinery Museum.

Try your luck opal fossicking at Opalton or drive your own adventure throughout Winton’s rugged beauty at Bladensburg National Park, Old Cork Station and Cawnpore Lookout.

WISC16837_Winton.indd 3 6/01/11 11:58 AMLongreach Guide 2011.indd 33 7/02/11 11:34 AM

Longreach Visitor

Information Centre

Qantas Park, Eagle Street,

Longreach Q 4730

P 07 4658 4150 F 07 4658 4177

E [email protected]


Longreach region

GATEWAY TO THE OUTBACK


Documents

2011/2012 Longreach Region Visitors Guide