Arts on Alma and Mount Isa Regional Art Gallery local art, classes and workshops, Art on Zinc at Buchanan Park

Lake Moondarra Just 19 kilometres to the northeast of Mount Isa is Lake Moondarra, an enormous artificial lake on the Leichhardt River. Constructed in 1956 to supply water to the city and mines, its Aboriginal name means “plenty of rain and thunder” and was chosen via a public contest in 1957. No trip to Mount Isa is complete without a visit to the lake. It is well-used by locals for fishing and leisure activities yearround. Birdwatchers come from all around the world to snap the impressive array of bird species that live around the body of water, including spectacular peacocks. Nature lovers appreciate the 800m-return Wallaby Walk for its breathtaking views from three vantage points, and proliferation of labelled native plants. Before you head out there, pick up a few lunch provisions and plan to spend the day. The lake is famous for its water skiing, tubing and canoeing. You can walk across the dam wall, let the kids loose on the playground equipment and cook lunch on the free barbecue at Warrina Park where big shady trees provide respite from the sun. Take a swim at Transport Bay where more free gas barbecues are available. Freshwater fishing Launch your boat from the Lake Moondarra ramp and fish for barramundi, sooty grunters, alligator gar, fork-tailed catfish, jew, spangled perch, saratoga, sleepy cod and archerfish. In October, the annual three-day Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic attracts anglers of all ages and abilities from all over the country to vie for prize money and bragging rights. With a dragon boat regatta, fireworks, yabby races, live music, food and drinks, it is coordinated by the Mount Isa Fish Stocking Group and is a huge event on the city’s calendar. Watersports Head out to Lake Moondarra for some fun on the water: waterski, boating, fishing and swimming. Every third Saturday dragon boats are available for hire from the Canoe Club.

Lake Moondarra

Lake Moondarra is open from 6.00am to 10.00pm daily, free entry. Pets are not permitted at the lake and camping is only permitted during the Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic (annually, in October).