The Diamantina Visitors` Guide

Transcription

The
Diamantina
Visitors’
Guide
Where the Desert meets the Channel Country
Front Cover Photo: Waddi Trees 10km North of Birdsville by Rowan Bestmann
he Diamantina Visitors Guide - Birdsville | Bedourie | Betoota
1
The Diamantina Visitors’ Guide - Birdsville | Bedourie | Betoota
THE DIAMANTINA
LIKE NO PLACE ON EARTH
The Diamantina Shire is true frontier country. Its people,
heritage, stories, places, landscapes and wildlife blend
together to create an authentic old-world Australian
destination with a modern twist. People come from across
the globe to visit and those who live as part of the local
community are from culturally diverse backgrounds,
bringing with them a unique array of experiences
and energies.
The Diamantina is a land of extremes; searing hot days and
freezing nights, flood and drought, rare flora and fauna,
national parks, channel country, the wide red desert and
glorious space as far as the eye can see. Teeming with
wildlife, the area is home to one of the world’s most fragile
and unique desert ecosystems.
Rich in natural, cultural and pastoral heritage, the
Diamantina covers 95,000 square kilometres yet is home
to just 11 cattle stations and 300 residents. It captures
the very essence of Australia’s outback, and is accessible
to most vehicles, caravans and motor homes. Experience
a 4WD adventure of epic proportions on a Simpson
Desert crossing, trek through the stunning Diamantina
National Park and gaze in wonder at the Channel
Country, a rich tapestry of vast gibber and grass plains
stretching to the horizon.
For the best Diamantina experience, visit us between
March and October.
Welcome to Country
We acknowledge the traditional owners of this land, all of whom have a deep attachment to the Diamantina Shire. We hope that you also are
able to experience all of its beauty. We wish you a safe journey and ask that you respect this land and its traditions, past and present, by leaving
Country as you find it.
2
LONGREACH
DIAMANTINA
NATIONAL
PARK
61
LOCHERN
NATIONAL
PARK
151
44
109
109
94
51
e
40
209
Poeppel
Corner
158
re
Haddon
Corner
12
er
op
Co
C
Q U E E N S L A N D
69
187
84
85
QUILPIE
CHARLEVILLE
74
CHEEPIE
37
EROMANGA
48
88
COOLADDI
74
46
Ri
ve
r
il
son
W
5
NOCCUNDRA
55
120
98
82
20
23
THARGOMINDAH
The station had been named after his family’s estate,
Annandale,
YOWAH
191
131
in Gladstone.
LAKE BINDEGOLLY
215
NATIONAL PARK
7
25
13
Co
o
164
122
CUNNAMULLA
EULO
R i v e r
p
WYANDRA
TOOMPINE
Birdsville is also home to a sporting complex, gallery, bakery, air
services, motel, hotel, caravan park and cabin accommodation,
coffee shop and restaurant, general store, post office, medical clinic,
fuel, auto services and a
police station. If you’ve
always wanted to, now is
the time to tick Birdsville
off your bucket list!
Annandale Station is now part
of Adria Downs Station – a
pastoral lease that operates
as a cattle station. The
homestead ruins are situated
150km west of Birdsville and
permission is required to visit
the site.
The station was the first
established in the area
when Patrick Drinan took up
the run in July 1876. Other
properties were settled soon
afterward including Kaliduwarry
and Glengyle Stations.
3
BIRDSVILLE HOTEL
It’s impossible to come to Birdsville without popping into the
historic Birdsville Hotel, which was built in 1884. Pull up a stool,
order a coldy and get to know the locals. The hotel also offers
great meals and modern, air-conditioned rooms.
BARRINGUN
a
137
lg
War
rego R ive r
Once a notorious place through which cattle drovers moved their MARREE
N E W
stock, Birdsville is now a thriving modern community where you can
S O U T H
SCALE
WIRRARRI0 VISITOR
INFORMATIONW CENTRE
A L E S
enjoy a cold drink at the iconic Birdsville Hotel or back a winner at the LYNDHURST
50
25
75 100
Want to know about local road conditions or the weather, get a few
world-renowned Birdsville Races.
travelling tips and find out what to see and do? Drop into the Wirrarri
Watch the sun set over Big Red, the tallest sand dune in the
Visitor Information Centre in the centre of Birdsville. You might also
Simpson Desert, catch a fresh fish for dinner at Jardine’s water hole,
like to take a look at the work of local artists in the centre’s extensive
explore the Australian Inland Mission Hospital Museum, or spend an
gallery, or take in an informative documentary about the shire in the
theatrette. The centre offers wireless internet access, a library, maps
unforgettable day with family and friends at the Birdsville billabong,
and souvenirs.
where birdlife, fish, yabbies and marsupials abound.
The town of Birdsville is home to a number of local artists working in
different mediums, offering their intepretations of our unique land,
lifestyle and people of the Diamantina Shire.
119
o
CURRAWINYA
Drinan later sold the property to the Collins brothers the following
year.
NATIONAL
110
PARK
MERTY
The CollinsMERTY
brothers
then sold Annandale to Edward Wienholt
inHUNGERFORD
1881.
CAMERON
The property was purchased
in 1896 by Sir Sidney Kidman, significantly
CORNER
this was the first property he purchased
in Queensland. The Kidman
TIBOOBURRA
217
WANAARING
company sold the property in 1981.
68
a r
o
At the end of the famous Birdsville Track is the frontier town of
Birdsville. Deep in the heart of wild and isolated country, Birdsville is
situated between the eastern edge of the Simpson Desert, the vast
gibber plains of Sturt’s Stony Desert to theCOOBER
south
PEDY and rich Channel
Country to the north.
DIG TREE
INNAMINCKA
99
36
P
CADNEY
180
Cr
ee
k
SEE IT TO BELIEVE IT!
S O U T H
A U S T R A L I A
r
OODNADATTA
161
167
e
MARLA
119
AUGATHELLA
ADAVALE
o
85
INDULKANA
TAMBO
120
PARK
a
42
101
o
168
BIRDSVILLE
12
114
EMMET IDALIA
NATIONAL
YARAKA
k
BETOOTA
47
52
12
BLACKALL
WELFORD
NATIONAL
PARK
52
WINDORAH
KULGERA
B
50
102
R ive
r
92
164
o
JUNDAH
120
112
Bu ll
MUNGA-THIRRI
(SIMPSON DESERT)
NATIONAL PARK
ERIDUNDA
253
o
LAKE
MACHATTIE
53
106
ISISFORD
STONEHENGE
67
JERICHO
87
101
89
104
99
22
67
ILFRACOMBE BARCALDINE
80
Ri
ve
r
BEDOURIE
27
R
n
46
101
N O R T H E R N
T E R R I T O R Y
o
ms
Th
o
48
River
ARAMAC
100
OPALTON
168
191
116
iv
er
m
i a
D
58
67
22
e
t
LARK
QUARRY
CONSERVATION
PARK
131
LAKE
DUNN
63
89
BLADENSBURG
NATIONAL
179
125 PARK
110
Alic
R
a n
53
39
113
a
Ward R iv
er
in
244
114
iv
85
rc
BIRDSVILLE
N O R T H E R N
ALICE SPRINGS
118
73
BOULIA
Cu
BOURKE
BIRDSVILLE BAKERY
Say hi to Dusty and Teresa at the Birdsville Bakery.
Tuck into a Curried Camel or Kangaroo and Claret
pie, grab a sausage roll on the run or sit down
and enjoy a cuppa and a great breakfast. One of
Australia’s few licensed bakeries, there’s a modest
selection of beer and wine. Dinner is served once a
week – Birdsville Fried Chicken (our very own nod
to the Colonel) is available on Friday nights. The
bakery is open from Easter to October.
BIRDSVILLE CARAVAN PARK
Birdsville Caravan Park offers 52 powered sites,
12 cabins (three with ensuites), an amenities block
and plenty of camping sites. You’ll find the park on
the banks of the Birdsville billabong and kayaks are
available for hire.
BIRDSVILLE ROADHOUSE
The Birdsville Roadhouse, opposite the caravan park, provides all of the
necessities for the traveller including fuel, mechanical and tyre repairs,
groceries and a range of souvenir products. The Birdsville Roadhouse
also acts as the local RACQ agent and is the contact for desert and
remote recoveries.
BIRDSVILLE FUEL SERVICES
Located opposite the Birdsville Hotel, Birdsville Fuel Services provides
fuel, vehicle and tyre repairs. A small range of grocery and souvenir
items are also available. The Australia Post outlet is located at
Birdsville Fuel Service.
*No auto gas services are provided in Birdsville.
BIRDSVILLE STAR SHOW
The Birdsville Star Show is a great way to view the wonders of the
universe through an incredibly high-powered telescope, while learning
from an informative guide. The shows last for 45 minutes.
DESERT EDGE TOURS
Take a tour around Birdsville or drink in an outback sunset from the
edge of the Simpson Desert. Regular town and sunset tours depart
daily or on request.
CENTRAL EAGLE AVIATION
Central Eagle Aviation offers premier chartered flights and outback
scenic flights. Flights over Lake Eyre, the Simpson Desert, Coongie
Lakes, the Bourke and Wills Dig Tree and Big Red can be arranged to
meet your needs and requirements.
4
POWER STATION
Birdsville boasts one of the world’s few low-temperature geothermal power
stations. It draws water from the local Artesian Bore and the steam from the
water is used to provide around 40% of the town’s electricity.
WADDI TREES
Reach out and touch the ancient past. Located 12 kilometres from
Birdsville is a stand of rare Waddi trees, one of only three such
stands left in Australia. Some of these trees are almost a thousand
years old. The timber is almost impossible to burn and is so hard it
can damage an axe.
BIG RED SAND DUNE
Marvel at Big Red, the 40-metre-high sand dune that marks the
symbolic eastern edge of the Simpson Desert. Situated approximately
35 kilometres west of Birdsville, it is one of 1,140 parallel dunes that
cross the desert. Big Red is on private property and we ask that you
respect the owner’s land.
RACECOURSE
The Birdsville Races are world renowned. You’ll find the track three
kilometres east of the town. If you’re lucky enough to be in Birdsville
on the first Saturday of September, you’ll be part of one of the most
exciting events on the Australian sporting calendar.
THE BIRDSVILLE BILLABONG
The billabong, located on the edge of town, is a beautiful place to
view the outback sunset and you can also enjoy walking, kayaking,
he Diamantina
Visitors or
Guide
- Birdsville
Bedourie
swimming
fishing.
Across |the
water is| Betoota
Pelican Point, a small
peninsula with a great view of the billabong and its birdlife.
5
MUNGA-THIRRI NATIONAL PARK
(FORMERLY SIMPSON DESERT NATIONAL PARK)
Every year, adventurous travellers from Australia and around the
world experience the thrill of crossing the Simpson Desert. Home to
thousands of towering sand dunes, saltpans and rolling grey-green
spinifex, it’s a vast red wilderness under a rich blue sky. This is ‘the
sun country’, land of the Wangkangurra and Yarluyandi people.
Spanning more than a million hectares, the Munga-Thirri National
Park is Queensland’s largest protected area. It’s teeming with rare
mammals, strange reptiles and 180 exotic species of bird. It’s a
magical place where you can camp under the stars, immerse yourself
in the colours of the desert and feel the crunch of red sand and
ironstone under foot. Breathe in the pungent aroma of the Georgina
gidgee – a glorious yellow wattle that grows in the roughs between
towering dunes – and take a trip to Poeppel Corner and stand on
the very spot where Queensland, South Australia and the Northern
Territory intersect.
Only experienced, self-sufficient visitors should explore this park and
only from March to December. Be ready for hot days and freezing
nights, make sure your vehicle is well-equipped and take plenty of
water – this is, after all, the driest place in Australia.
There are no toilets, no designated camping grounds and no walking
tracks. It’s just you and the desert and it’s an experience you will
never forget.
All vehicles must have a Desert Parks pass, available in Birdsville.
THE FAMOUS BIRDSVILLE RACES
Get your glad rags on!
The world-famous Birdsville Races are the ‘Melbourne Cup of
the Outback’. The event has delighted race-goers for more than
125 years and is listed as one of the ‘100 things to do in Australia
before you die’.
The first race meeting was held in 1882. Today, the 12-race program
has a prize pool of more than $110,000. Approximately 8000 people
descend on Birdsville for a week long program of events.
The Birdsville Races happen on the first Saturday in September. The
spectacular event is sandwiched between the Betoota Races, which
kick off the Simpson Desert Racing Carnival in the last weekend of
August, and the Bedourie Races and Ute & Travellers’
Muster on the following Saturday.
6
58
DIAMANTINA
NATIONAL
PARK
61
LOCHERN
NATIONAL
PARK
109
Ri
ve
r
o
51
e
40
Haddon
Corner
12
Poeppel
Corner
er
op
Co
158
C
Q U E E N S L A N D
69
187
84
85
QUILPIE
CHARLEVILLE
74
CHEEPIE
37
EROMANGA
48
88
COOLADDI
74
DIG TREE
INNAMINCKA
Cr
ee
k
CADNEY
46
5
NOCCUNDRA
r
o
98
82
191
e
Co
55
120
THARGOMINDAH
JOURNEY ALONG THE BILBY WAY
WYANDRA
TOOMPINE
20
p
215
164
25
23
7
YOWAH
131
LAKE BINDEGOLLY
NATIONAL PARK
CURRAWINYA
NATIONAL
PARK
122
13
CUNNAMULLA
EULO
o
a r
o
BARRINGUN
P
TIBOOBURRA
217
7
137
War
rego R ive r
WANAARING
Its namesake, the rare and endangered bilby (otherwise known as
N aE rabbit,
W
the rabbit-eared bandicoot), is about the size of
with a long
S O U T H
SCALE
pointed nose,0silky
blue-grey
fur,
a
black-and-white
crested
tail and
W
A
L
E
S
LYNDHURST
50
25
75 100
long, almost transparent ears.
MARREE
68
119
110
The road from
Birdsville to Bedourie
is known as The Bilby Way. It
MERTY MERTY
HUNGERFORD
stretches for 186 kilometres,
CAMERON and meanders past some of the world’s
CORNER
most extraordinary natural wonders.
COOBER PEDY
99
36
R i v e r
180
Ri
ve
r
S O U T H
A U S T R A L I A
il
son
OODNADATTA
161
167
W
MARLA
1
AUGATHELL
ADAVALE
o
85
INDULKANA
e
209
o
168
BIRDSVILLE
94
TAMBO
120
PARK
a
42
101
EMMET IDALIA
NATIONAL
YARAKA
k
BETOOTA
12
114
WELFORD
NATIONAL
PARK
52
WINDORAH
BLACKALL
47
52
R ive
r
109
KULGERA
B
50
o
92
164
120
106
112
102
Bu ll
BEDOURIE
JUNDAH
5
101
ISISFORD
STONEHENGE
JERICHO
87
151
44
rc
MUNGA-THIRRI
(SIMPSON DESERT)
NATIONAL PARK
ERIDUNDA
80
89
67
253
67
ILFRACOMBE BARCALDINE
104
99
22
LAKE
MACHATTIE
27
R
n
46
101
BEDOURIE
o
ms
Th
o
48
River
ARAMAC
LONGREACH
168
191
116
100
OPALTON
67
22
Alic
LARK
QUARRY
CONSERVATION
PARK
131
LAKE
DUNN
63
89
BLADENSBURG
NATIONAL
179
125 PARK
110
Ward R iv
er
iv
114
R
iv
er
D
i a
m
39
113
a
t
53
244
N O R T H E R N
T E R R I T O R Y
BIRDSVILLE TO
in
re
ALICE SPRINGS
85
a n
N O R T H E R N
118
73
BOULIA
These nocturnal marsupials were once a common sight across southern
and central Australia and a much-prized delicacy of local Aborigines.
Sadly, the bilby’s numbers declined suddenly at the turn of the 20th
century, probably due to competition for food from rabbits and
livestock, as well as introduced predators like cats and foxes.
Cu
BOURKE
MOONEY’S GRAVE
William Mooney patrolled part of the dingo fence that skirts the
Simpson Desert. In 1885, after a night at the Birdsville Hotel, he loaded
his packhorse with two cases of whisky and set off along the road to
Bedourie. The story goes that he made camp about 40 kilometres from
Birdsville and, while sleeping, his packhorse wandered off, leaving him
stranded with only whisky to quench his thirst. His body was found
six weeks later surrounded by empty bottles. Mooney was buried
where he was found and his grave was marked with upturned whisky
bottles. Sadly, the bottles have long since disappeared and the exact
location of Mooney’s Grave is now lost to us. But, it remains one of the
strangest deaths in outback history.
CARCOORY RUINS
About 81 kilometres from Birdsville are the Carcoory Homestead Ruins.
They’re all that’s left of one of the first properties owned by Sir Sidney
Kidman. Purchased in 1899, Carcoory is referred to in Jill Bowen’s book,
‘Kidman: The Forgotten King’. The remains of this homestead are classified
by the National Trust.
CUTTABURRA CROSSING
BULLAGURDIE CREEK
It’s usually dry out here but, when there’s water, this gorgeous
waterhole is a great place to dip your toes and admire the stunning
birdlife. Bullagurdie Creek is just 53 kilometres south of Bedourie.
GLENGYLE STATION/EYRE CREEK
Sir Sidney Kidman bought Glengyle, a huge property of approximately
10,000 square kilometres, in 1903. Located 51 kilometres from
Bedourie, Glengyle is home to a large tree listed by the National Trust
as the ‘Kidman Tree’. Kidman camped under this tree during his first
trip through this part of the country and in later years it was the
rendezvous site for settlers in the area. Several graves on the west side
of the road date back to the early days when raging floods drowned
several stockmen trying to cross Eyre Creek. Glengyle Station is private
property with no public access. Please, no stopping on the bridge.
TOKO CHANNEL
42 kilometres from Bedourie stretch as the Toko floodplain
channels. These channels cross the road and are renowned
kangaroo feeding areas.
Get up close to amazing birdlife at Cuttaburra Crossing. This
permanent waterhole and renowned wetland on the Eyre Creek,
between Lake Koolivoo and Lake Machattie, is well worth a visit. It’s
68 kilometres south of Bedourie and the birdlife can be seen from the
roadside rest and viewing area, on the right after crossing the creek if
you’re heading north.
KING CREEK CROSSING – AFGHAN GRAVE
MEMORIAL TO WILL HUTCHINSON
COOKAWINCHIKA CREEK
Recognised as the founder of Coober Pedy, Will Hutchinson discovered
the first opal in Stuarts Range Opal Field in South Australia. A drover
for Sir Sidney Kidman at the time, Hutchinson was droving cattle from
Clifton Hills Station in South Australia to Glengyle when, along the
way, he went for a swim in Eyre Creek Although he was a confident
swimmer, Hutchinson drowned and the reason for his death remains
a mystery.Hutchinson’s body was recovered three days later and was
buried nearby. This memorial was unveiled on Saturday June 28, 2008.
King Creek was named after John King, the sole survivor of the ill-fated
Burke and Wills expedition. The waterhole, 21.5 kilometres from
Bedourie, with its natural stone causeway, was an excellent crossing
point for Afghan cameleers. Tragically one of the cameleers died here
and his body was buried facing Mecca.
11 kilometres from Bedourie is Cookawinchika Creek. When there’s
water, this stunning waterhole is a great place to cool off and admire
the abundant wildlife.
8
84
FOREST
DEN
NATIONAL
PARK
83
74
164
WINTON
MIDDLETON
MUTTABURRA
r
146
iv
85
in
110
LARK
QUARRY
CONSERVATION
PARK
131
DIAMANTINA
NATIONAL
PARK
61
LOCHERN
NATIONAL
PARK
n
44
109
51
e
Poeppel
Corner
er
op
Co
o
94
209
85
69
85
QUILPIE
CHARLEVILL
74
CHEEPIE
48
88
COOLADDI
74
215
164
YOWAH
131
LAKE BINDEGOLLY
NATIONAL PARK
122
EULO
68
11
BA
HUNGERFORD
CAMERON
CORNER
TIBOOBURRA
217
WANAARING
MARREE
LYNDHURST
0
SCALE
50
25
75
100
N E W
S O U T H
W A L E S
Town attractions include the historic Mud Hut, the cemetery and the
new artistic representation of a dust storm that stands in Herbert
Street. The structure is on Wangkamardla Country and represents the
dust storm and whirly winds, which were a way the spirits travelled.
Recreational facilities include the Artesian Spa and Aquatic Centre,
Bedourie Golf Club, Bedourie Gun Club, BMX track, tennis courts,
children’s playground and bikes available to hire.
Attractions around Bedourie include the Vaughan Johnson Lookout,
the renowned wetland of Cuttaburra Crossing, Carcoory Ruins and the
Diamantina National Park – one of Australia’s top ten National Parks.
Bedourie is also home to the Bedourie Camp Oven. Borne of
necessity under a tree in Bedourie during the 1920s by a tin
smith, the Bedourie Camp Oven was constructed for the drovers
and cameleers of the camel trains who were having problems with
their outback cookware. The cast iron ovens they were carrying
were cracking and breaking under the harsh conditions of the
outback. Over time the design for the oven was refined and was
manufactured from spun steel with a tight fitting lid. In 1945 R.M.
Williams began selling the ovens and in 1966, an R.M. Williams
catalogue listed the Bedourie Camp Oven with heavy duty rolled
edges for sale at two pounds, fifteen shillings ($5.50).
In 2001, the Australian Government recognised the origins of
the Bedourie Camp Oven as ‘Uniquely Australian’ and noted its
significance as an improvised oven used by the pioneers of the
Queensland outback. In recognition of the iconic oven, a street in
the ACT was named Bedourie Street in March 2001.
13
CUNNAMULLA
P
MERTY MERTY
7
CURRAWINYA
NATIONAL
PARK
110
25
23
1
War
rego R ive r
ForVisitors
a small Guide
community,
the town
has excellent
facilities including a
he Diamantina
- Birdsville
| Bedourie
| Betoota
hotel/motel, two caravan parks, a restaurant and tavern, general store,
wireless internet, fuel services, a police station and a medical clinic.
Ri
ve
r
THARGOMINDAH
191
p
98
82
R i v e r
Co
In the 1880s, Bedourie was a major watering and rest stop for drovers
moving cattle from the Northern Territory and north-west Queensland
PEDY
to the customs collection point in Birdsville, 200 COOBER
kilometres
south.
o
55
120
20
o
5
NOCCUNDRA
46
a r
o
DIG TREE
INNAMINCKA
WYANDRA
TOOMPINE
36
il
son
180
W
S O U T H
U S T R A L I A
e
Bedourie, meaning ‘dust storm’, is a small town withOODNADATTA
a population of A
120 people. Perched on a sand dune and surrounded by Eyre Creek, it is
CADNEY
the administrative centre of the huge 95,000 square kilometres of the
Diamantina Shire.
161
167
Cr
ee
k
MARLA
9
187
37
EROMANGA
r
AN OASIS IN THE DESERT
A
ADAVALE
o
Q U E E N S L A N D
INDULKANA
T
120
PARK
a
158
C
101
EMMET IDALIA
NATIONAL
YARAKA
o
Haddon
Corner
12
re
BIRDSVILLE
40
12
114
Bu ll
168
BLACK
47
52
k
BETOOTA
102
WELFORD
NATIONAL
PARK
52
WINDORAH
112
R ive
r
109
KULGERA
B
50
164
o
JUNDAH
92
1
106
ISISFORD
STONEHENGE
rc
MUNGA-THIRRI
(SIMPSON DESERT)
NATIONAL PARK
ERIDUNDA
253
87
101
151
67
LAKE
MACHATTIE
80
104
99
22
67
ILFRACOMBE BARCALDIN
89
Ri
ve
r
BEDOURIE
27
R
46
101
N O R T H E R N
T E R R I T O R Y
o
ms
Th
o
48
ARAMAC
LONGREACH
168
191
116
iv
er
m
i a
D
58
67
22
100
OPALTON
L
D
63
89
BLADENSBURG
NATIONAL
179
125 PARK
a n
53
39
113
a
R
t
73
BOULIA
114
e
118
244
248
e
229
205
Alic
209
67
CORFIELD
COMBO
WATERHOLE
CONSERVATION
PARK
115
ver
a R i
in
T E R R I
76
KYNUNA
rg
BEDOURIE
ALICE SPRINGS
DUCHESS
60
DAJARRA
o
Ge
TI TREE
112
URANDANGIE
N O R T H E R N
BARROW CREEK
BOURKE
BEDOURIE OUTBACK VISITOR CENTRE
Want to know what the weather forecast is, learn about the area, check
road conditions, access wireless internet services, visit the public library
or take in a documentary about the shire at the on-site theatrette?
Drop in to the Bedourie Outback Visitor Centre. The centre is located
next to the Diamantina Shire Council administration office. You can also
book a spot at the Diamantina Shire Caravan Park and hire a key to the
Artesian Spa and Aquatic Centre (refundable deposit required). A public
payphone and phone cards are also available at the centre.
MUD HUT
THE BEDOURIE RACES
The Bedourie Race Course comes alive on the second weekend
of September for the Bedourie Races, part of the Simpson Desert
Racing Carnival.
BEDOURIE CAMEL RACES AND CAMP OVEN COOK OFF
It’s not every day you see camels race! On the second weekend of July,
Bedourie hosts the famous Camel Races. Hundreds of people converge on
the town to watch dozens of camels race in six events, worth a total of
more than $11,000.
This stabilised earth house dates from the 1880s and is believed to
be one of the first buildings constructed in Bedourie. The simple tworoom building has thick, rammed earth walls, earth floors and a bush
timber roof framing with corrugated iron sheeting. The exact date of
construction is not known. However, the ownership of the building
closely parallels that of the Royal Hotel.
BEDOURIE HOTEL
ARTESIAN SPA AND AQUATIC CENTRE
SIMPSON DESERT OASIS ROADHOUSE
One of Bedourie’s best attractions is the Artesian Spa and Aquatic
Centre. Ease your tired muscles in the 22-person therapeutic spa
and cool off in the 25-metre swimming pool. The
crystal-clear water comes directly from Bedourie’s
artesian bore.
While you’re in town, say hello to the locals at the Bedourie Hotel,
which was previously known as the Royal Hotel. Constructed from
sun-dried mud bricks and originally with a thatched roof, the
building has been largely untouched since the late 1800s. Meals and
accommodation are available.
At the northern end of Bedourie you’ll find the Simpson Desert Oasis
Roadhouse. The roadhouse serves as the town’s general store, fuel
stop, restaurant and tavern and provides auto services and tyre
repairs. Car hire, motel, cabin and caravan accommodation
are also available.
10
DIAMANTINA NATIONAL PARK
One of the most glorious sights in nature
The Diamantina National Park is a must-visit destination and was
named one of Australia’s top 10 National Parks by the Worldwide Fund
for Nature. Visitors can get up close and personal with unique wildlife
including the kowari, plains wanderer, freckled duck, peregrine falcon
and two rare skinks. In times of exceptionally good rain or floods, the
native long-haired rat often has somewhat of a population explosion.
When this happens, predators like the inland taipan, letter-winged kite
and eastern grass owl also make a welcome appearance.
Vast numbers of waterholes are fed by the Diamantina River. After
cyclonic rains in the north, the passage of water can be an astounding
50 kilometres wide before passing through the narrows known as
Diamantina Gates. This spectacular view over Hunter’s Gorge can be
viewed from Janet’s Leap. The area is a fish and bird fancier’s paradise
and is a fabulous camping destination.
Formerly a pastoral property known as Diamantina Lakes, the Park was
purchased by the Queensland Government in the 1950s. The traditional
owners of the area are the Maiawali people.
Visit old station buildings, cemeteries and hotel ruins and pop in to
the information room at the old homestead to learn about the park’s
fascinating history.
Leave the caravan behind and take a day trip from Bedourie via Boulia.
Stop in at the Vaughan Johnson Lookout, affectionately known as ‘the
loo with a view’, drink in the scenery of the self-guided Warracoota
Circuit (approximately 90 kilometres from start to finish) and visit
Janet’s Leap for a bird’s eye view of the Diamantina.
Only self-sufficient travellers should visit the National Park. Camping permits are
required and can be booked online at: http://parks.nprsr.qld.gov.au/permits.
Diamantina National Park is an unforgettable experience – just don’t
forget to take a good map and plenty of food and water.
BETOOTA
RIDE WITH THE GHOSTS OF AUSTRALIA’S OUTBACK
Betoota stands lonely on a vast gibber plain, 170 kilometres east of
Birdsville. While Betoota is mainly a ghost town, it comes alive twice a year.
The annual Horse and Motorbike Gymkhana is held on the first weekend
of QLD Easter School holidays and then during the last weekend in August
when this tiny ghost town explodes with all the colour and excitement of
the Betoota Races, kicking off the Simpson Desert Racing Carnival.
Betoota is 70 metres above sea level and has an annual rainfall of
just 300 millimetres. In 1885, the Queensland Government set up a
customs post here to collect tolls for stock as they travelled to South
Australia. The toll station operated up until Federation in 1901. Betoota
was also once a Cobb & Co change station.
Photo courtesy of Mark Trinham
and Glenn Romanis
11
In the 1880s, three hotels were established here, along with a police
station, store and post office. The last-standing hotel was a favourite
spot for tourists until it closed in October 1997. In fact, the publican,
Simon Remienko, was the sole resident of Betoota for many years
and was once stranded on the Birdsville Track for 18 weeks with his
truckload of eight tonnes of beer.
Points of interest include Browns Creek – a popular camping area
near the Betoota Hotel – and Deon’s Lookout, the perfect place for
travellers to take a break and drink in the spectacular view. You can
also visit The Dreamtime Serpent – a work of art representing a series
of pathways travelled through Country to connect the river systems
in the Channel Country of the Diamantina Shire. The Serpent has been
created using gravel and gibbers found throughout the shire.
THINGS TO DO IN THE
DIAMANTINA
BIRDSVILLE

Perch on a stool at the famous Birdsville Hotel
Marvel at the rare and ancient Waddi Trees
Visit the frontier Australian Inland Mission Hospital Museum
View the ruins of the Royal Hotel
Enjoy an outback sunset at Pelican Point
Swim in the billabong
See Big Red, one of the highest of the 1,140 dunes in the
Simpson Desert
Visit Poeppel Corner where the NT, SA and QLD meet
BEDOURIE

Experience the excitement of the Bedourie Camel Races
Visit the magnificent hot Artesian Spa and Aquatic Centre
Drop in for a refreshing drink at the Bedourie Hotel
Pay your respects at the outback cemetery
Sink a hole-in-one at the Bedourie outback golf course
Explore the glorious Diamantina National Park
Admire the wetlands and birdlife at Cuttaburra Crossing
Drop into the Carcoory Ruins on your way to Birdsville
Purchase a genuine Bedourie Camp Oven
BETOOTA

Visit a real ghost town
Join in the fun of the annual Gymkhana
Take in the spectacular view from Deon’s Lookout
Kick up your heels at the Betoota Races
Camp under the stars at Browns Creek
View the amazing Dreamtime Serpent sculpture
EVENTS
There’s always something happening in the outback!
Betoota Gymkhana and Motorbike Event – A fantastic
weekend for the family, it includes live entertainment, barrel, flag and
bending races and novelty events. Plenty of camping spots are available.
Birdsville Bronco Branding – Wonder at the talents of bushmen
and women demonstrating the historic art of bronco branding.
Birdsville Gymkhana and Bikekhana – Enjoy a great weekend
of horse and motorbike events.
Bedourie Campdraft, Rodeo and Gymkhana – Experience
two days of outback horsemanship. Plenty of things for the family to
see and do!
Big Red Run and Music Festival – Race through the Simpson
Desert or watch big name artists perform on Big Red.
Bedourie Camel Races and Camp Oven Cook-Off – On
the second Saturday in July hundreds of people converge on
the town to watch dozens of camels race in six events worth a
total of more than $11,000.
Betoota Races – The Betoota Races, held in an outback ghost
town, kick off the Simpson Desert Racing Carnival in the last
Saturday of August.
Birdsville Races – Be part of one of the biggest events on
the Australian racing calendar. What are you doing on the first
weekend in September? You’ll be here of course!
Bedourie Races – The final and ultimate event in the Simpson
Desert Racing Carnival. Don’t miss all the fun!
Bedourie Ute & Travellers’ Muster – Watch the red dust go
flying in the second week of September. This uniquely Australian
event is a must-see!
Melbourne Cup Luncheon – Have a flutter with the locals on
‘the race that stops the nation’. Sweeps, fashion-on-the-field prizes,
fabulous food and drink – it’s glamour with an outback twist!
Bedourie Bikekhana – The last event on the Diamantina’s
events calendar is one of the most exciting, fast and action-packed
motorbike events in the outback.
For more information, contact The Diamantina:
P: 1300 794 257
E: info@diamantina.qld.gov.au
W: thediamantina.com.au
12
Bir
Insiddsville
e Tra
ck
13
The Diamantina Visitors Guide - Birdsville | Bedourie | Betoota
ROAD DISTANCES TO (KM)
BIRDSVILLEBEDOURIE
(Approximate distances will vary with route taken)
BIRDSVILLEBEDOURIE
CARAVAN PARKS/CAMPING (all with powered sites)
BRISBANE16021590
Sydney21292327
Melbourne24702666
Adelaide12071403
Perth32933489
Darwin23352137
Alice Springs
1186
1010
Longreach692754
Windorah385384
Marree540736
Mt Isa717516
Innamincka
(Via Cordillo Downs) 415
613
(Via Arrabury) 568
766
SIMPSON DESERT CROSSING (KM)
(via Mount Dare Homestead)
BIRDSVILLEBEDOURIE
Mt Dare
(French/QAA Line) 502
698
Ayers Rock10741270
Alice Springs
917
1112
Oodnadatta 758 954
William Creek
959
1155
Marree11631359
(via Dalhousie Springs)
BIRDSVILLEBEDOURIE
Oodnadatta 536 732
Marree9411137
(for travel on the WAA/QAA Line add 36km, for travel on the
Rig Road/QAA Line add 95km)
From Birdsville to
Big Red
35
Poeppel Corner
(150 sand dunes)
166
QLD National Parks Office 07 4656 3272
Warning: It is recommended that travellers crossing the Simpson Desert
do so with at least one other 4WD, allow at least 4 days (Mt Dare to
Birdsville), carry at least 5 litres of water per person per day, sufficient fuel,
carry packaged food, long life milk and other liquids, as well as recovery
gear, a UHF radio and sat phone, and pack vehicles as lightly as possible.
Ensure you notify a responsible person, such as a family member, of your
plans prior to travelling into remote areas and seek local advice. The use
of trailers in the Simpson Desert is strongly discouraged and motor homes
and caravans should never attempt this crossing.
Sat phones may be hired at Mount Dare or Birdsville – call Birdsville Wirrari
Visitor Information Centre for details on 07 4656 3300. Desert Park Passes
are also available from the Wirrari Visitor Information Centre. The desert is
closed from 1st December to 15th March each year, weather permitting.
AIR SERVICES
Skytrans | Ph: 1300 759 872 | www.skytrans.com.au
ACCOMMODATION
BIRDSVILLEBEDOURIE
Birdsville Hotel/Motel
07 4656 3244
Birdsville Caravan Park
(cabins)
07 4656 3214
Bedourie Hotel/Motel
07 4746 1201
Simpson Desert Oasis 07 4746 1291
Birdsville Caravan Park
07 4656 3214
Simpson Desert Oasis07 4746 1291
Diamantina Shire Caravan Park
07 4746 1040
POST OFFICE
07 4656 3263
07 4746 1201
Simpson Desert Oasis
Birdsville Bakery
07 4656 4698
07 4746 1291
COFFEE SHOPS
RESTAURANTS
Bedourie Hotel
Simpson Desert Oasis
Birdsville Hotel
07 4656 3244
Birdsville Bakery
07 4656 4698
GALLERIES
07 4746 1201
07 4746 1291
The Bakery (John Murray) Wirrari Centre
TOURS
07 4656 4697
Desert Edge Tours Birdsville Star Show
Central Eagle Aviation
0419 364 381
0488 007 300
0417 649 982
POLICE STATION
07 4656 5677
07 4746 1220
Birdsville Roadhouse
07 4656 3226
Bedourie Simpson Desert Oasis 07 4746 1291
MEDICAL CLINIC 07 4746 1226
GENERAL STORES
07 4656 3245
FUEL & AUTO SERVICES (including tyre repairs)
Birdsville Roadhouse (RACQ)
Desert & Remote Recovery
07 4656 3226
Birdsville Fuel Service
07 4656 3236
Simpson Desert-Oasis
OTHER BUSINESSES
Bedourie QGAP
Birdsville QGAP
Central Eagle Aviation – Scenic Flights
Don Purser – Refrigeration Technician James Humphries Electrical – Electrician
4WD Hire from Simpson Desert Oasis
Krakka Fabrication – Sam Barnes – Boilermaker
Peter Barnes – Hardware and station supplies
Outback Photography – Lorraine Kath –
Professional Photographer Kelly Theobald – Author and Journalist 07 4746 1291
07 4746 1128
07 4656 3310
0427 276 894
0437 779 590
0401 010 105
07 4746 1291
0447 450 518
07 4656 3226
07 4656 4949
0487 892 235
DIAMANTINA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES –
CALL 1300 794 257
Bedourie Outback Visitor Centre
13 Herbert Street, Bedourie Q 4829
Ph: 07 4746 1040
Birdsville Wirrarri Visitor Information Centre
29 Burt Street, Birdsville Q 4482
Ph: 07 4656 3300
www.diamantina.qld.gov.au
14
Contact The Diamantina
P 1300 794 257
E info@diamantina.qld.gov.au
W thediamantina.com.au
facebook/thediamantina