Our Ancient Discoveries

Once Upon A Time

Around 100 million years ago during the Cretaceous period, the Australian continent was covered, in part, by a shallow inland sea. Fine marine sands rich in silica were deposited around the shoreline. The Great Artesian Basin formed when the sea receded. What followed was a series of very special geological, climate and biological events leading to today’s incredible ancient discoveries, specifically dinosaurs, megafauna and opals!

Boulder Belt

It’s rare, beautiful and found right here in the Quilpie Shire! Quilpie’s opal story began with this precious gem’s discovery in 1872. Boulder Opal occurs in a 700km long ‘belt’ stretching between Winton and Quilpie. Be sure to call into the Quilpie Visitor Information Centre to learn more about where you can fossick for your own beauty or even purchase your own treasure.

Super Sauropods

Not just any sauropod - around here you’ll discover the mighty titanosaur sauropod. At the Eromanga Natural History Museum, you’ll meet a couple of local lads called Cooper and George who hit their peak some 95-98 million years ago. These last remaining sauropod groups from the Cretaceous period were huge. In fact they are known as the biggest land-dwelling animals… ever! The bones of Cooper and George are the largest bones of any dinosaur so far discovered in Australia.

Mighty Megafauna

If you’re not sure what megafauna is, then picture giant kangaroos and wombats, huge birds, snakes and lizards. Australian megafauna evolved after dinosaurs became extinct some 66 million years ago. These ‘giants’ were at least 30% larger than their modern day cousins. Some ten species of megafauna have been found in the remote south west town of Eulo. See them at the Eromanga Natural History Museum.

Channel Country Hospitality

What could be better on your outback adventure than a chance to meet local graziers and stay on their stations. Just outside Quilpie in the heart of the red gibber landscape you’ll discover Moble Homestead which has been in the Rutledge family for five generations. Stay a few nights in your choice of private hut, cottage or ensuite room at the family homestead. Enjoy their fabulous hospitality and stunning gardens framing a tranquil waterhole. The family delight in sharing their special part of the Channel Country with the more ‘active explorers’ too. They offer a selection of guided packages and workshops which will appeal to walkers, riders, photographers, artists and birdwatchers alike. If sleeping under the stars is on your ‘to do’ list, then be sure to ask about their authentic camping experience at Bannerman’s Camp too!

Switch Off And Relax

Discover The Lake Quilpie, a beautiful natural expanse of water set amongst shady gum trees. Seasonally, an impressive display of water lilies eloquently edges the banks in the shallow water. Native birds flock to this lush oasis, taking pride of place on a 2,500 acre sheep and cattle property that was originally surveyed in the late 1800s. If a campsite with a lake view appeals, you’re in luck! There are loads of open, flat, shady camp sites to choose from. Campers can opt for powered or unpowered sites. There’s also traditional Shearer’s quarters and some self-contained cottages, including one with a private bath-house! Fish, swim, birdwatch or enjoy a soak in the Lakeside bath-house (additional charges apply). Make sure you bring the marshmallows for cosy campfires under a blanket of stars.

www.moblehomestead.com.au www.thelakequilpie.com

Rich In Colour

The sun in Queensland’s far south west beckons like a drop of burning gold for curious road-trippers. If you’re looking for colour, you’ll find it in the opal town of Quilpie, specifically the Boulder Opal. Unique to Queensland the formation of this beautiful gemstone dates back one hundred million years ago, at the end of the Jurassic (dinosaurs) period. While in town, try your hand at fossicking, and see the fascinating opal altar at St Finbarrs Church Quilpie also has an impressively colourful pioneering history. Listen for early settler names such as Tully, Durack and Costello. At the Quilpie Local History Museum, discover the link between the Durack family and what some say is the best saga of pastoral Australia ever published – Kings in Grass Castles

“Cattle Kings ye call us, then we are Kings in Grass Castles that may be blown away upon a puff of wind.” – Patsy Durack 1878

Birth Of A Railway Town

100 odd years ago in April 1917 the Great Western Railway Line came to Quilpie and changed the course of history. The youngest settlement in the Quilpie Shire became the biggest and main business centre. Prior to the rail line, Quilpie was no more than just a few humpies and Adavale was considered the main centre. Grand plans to extend the service further west were abandoned due to wartime restrictions making Quilpie the official ‘end of the line’. Locals tell the story of ‘The Flying Flea’, so named because it was the fastest rail time in Queensland connecting Charleville with Quilpie. Find out more at the Quilpie Rail Museum and take a selfie at the End of the Line!

Artesian Water Wonder

It’s been hailed as the greatest single event in the history of the Outback and Quilpie residents agree. Artesian water has been the lifeblood of Quilpie since the first bore was sunk in 1933. There’s not much demand in town for hot water systems, rather most residents have cooling tanks. This is because the 97 degree Celsius water is piped straight to the house and needs to be seriously cooled before use! Don’t be concerned with the water’s unique odour - it’s very healthy! Much has been written about the amazing health benefits of Artesian water. Just ask a local!

Rocking The Sunsets

Picture yourself perched atop a rugged rocky summit with nibbles and drinks ready to toast the glorious outback sunset. Located around 6.5km from downtown Quilpie, it’s an easy 10 minute climb to the crest of Baldy Top Lookout Feeling energetic? Consider following the scrambling trail to explore loads of ancient caves and crevices. Also rocking the sunsets is nearby Lake Houdraman aka ‘The Lake’. Home to masses of Aussie birdlife, this privately owned lake is popular for birdwatchers and serenity seekers alike.