Visit Hughenden H U G H E N D E N | P R A I R I E | TO R R E N S C R E E K | S TA M F O R D
VISITHUGHENDEN.COM . AU
Contents Getting to Hughenden............................2 Events in the Region................................4 Frequently Asked Questions................5 Hughenden – A Potted History............6 Communities of the Flinders Shire......8 Attractions in Hughenden.................. 10 Attractions around the Region.......... 14 Prehistoric Past..................................... 18 Advertising Index.................................. 20
FB: Visit Hughenden | #visithughenden Instagram: visithughenden
welcome to Hughenden A gateway to the Outback. Experience the natural wonders, prehistoric past and incredible scenery of the Flinders Shire as part of your journey of discovery through North West Queensland.
FLINDERS DISCOVERY CENTRE 37 Gray Street, Hughenden QLD 4821 P: (07) 4741 2970 | E: info@flinders.qld.gov.au
www.visithughenden.com.au Open 7 days 9.00am – 5.00pm (April – October) Saturday & Sunday 9.00am – 1.00pm (November – March) Closed some public holidays and during the Christmas period
FLINDERS SHIRE COUNCIL 34 Gray Street, Hughenden QLD 4821 P: (07) 4741 2900 | E: flinders@flinders.qld.gov.au
www.flinders.qld.gov.au W W W.V I S I T H U G H E N D E N . C O M . AU
1
Getting to Hughenden
BY ROAD
Hughenden has five major roads connecting south to Winton and Muttaburra, east to Townsville, west to Mount Isa and north to Cairns. Most of these roads are fully sealed highways; however if travelling on unsealed roads, please check at the Flinders Discovery Centre for road conditions. Also visit www.qldtraffic.qld.gov.au | Ph: 13 19 40
BUS QUEENSLAND
Operates to Townsville Tuesday, Friday & Sunday | Operates to Mount Isa Monday, Wednesday & Saturday Ph: 1300 287 537 www.busqld.com.au
GREYHOUND BUS SERVICE
Operates to Townsville Thursday | Operates to Mount Isa Wednesday Ph: 1300 473 946 www.greyhound.com.au
2
FLINDERS SHIRE GUIDE
REX AIRLINES
Flights Monday, Wednesday & Friday between Townsville – Hughenden – Mount Isa Ph: 13 17 13 www.rex.com.au
TRAVEL TRAIN
Operates to Townsville Friday & Monday | Operates to Mount Isa Wednesday & Saturday Ph: 1300 131 722 www.traveltrain.com.au Reservations can be made at the Flinders Discovery Centre for Rex Airlines & Travel Train.
OUTBACK TRAVEL TIPS When travelling in Queensland’s 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 Hughenden region.
REX
Regional Express, best known as Rex, is Australia’s largest independent regional airline with some 1,500 weekly flights to 60 destinations across Australia, with 25 of those locations in Queensland. We offer flights to regional and remote destinations right across the country, including flights from Townsville to Hughenden three times a week. Our Monday, Wednesday and Friday services take only one hour, and offer breathtaking views of the outback while sipping on a complimentary coffee or tea, and indulging in a complimentary snack on board. Once you’ve landed in Hughenden, you can visit one of their four national parks, take a trip to the Flinders Discovery Centre, or sit under the historic Coolabah Tree. Instead of spending long hours on the road, take a ride up in the sky and enjoy Rex’s heartfelt hospitality. P: 13 17 13 www.rex.com.au
W W W.V I S I T H U G H E N D E N . C O M . AU
3
Events
in the Region JANUARY
AUGUST
Australia Day Celebrations
Prairie Races
MAY Hughenden Bracelet Races Kooroorinya (OAPC) Races Hughenden Show
JULY Hughenden Cup Races Stamford Races & Community Fun Day
Hughenden Gymnastics Junior Invitational Hughenden Country Music Festival
SEPTEMBER Hughenden Bowls Club Invitational Triples
Flinders Classic Campdraft
Campdraft For A Cause
Rugby 7s
NOVEMBER
ATRA Roping
4
Hughenden Campdraft Kooroorinya Ladies Day
FLINDERS SHIRE GUIDE
Remembrance Day Memorial Service
Frequently Asked Questions
MOBILE NETWORK
When travelling in the Flinders Shire, the only mobile phone coverage we have access to is the Telstra Next G and Optus networks.
RADIO STATIONS & TELEVISION
We may be in the bush, but we certainly do have access to television and radio stations. Hughenden receives all the major free to air digital TV channels. If you arrive in town and want to watch your favourite team play, both hotels have Foxtel Fox Sports. You won’t miss out on your early morning news with local radio. • ABC Local radio – 1485AM • ABC Radio National – 107.5AM • ABC Triple J – QLD 105.9FM • 4GC – 756AM • SBS – 104.3FM • FM 88
HOW MANY FUEL STATIONS IN HUGHENDEN?
We have 4 fuel stations in Hughenden that carry unleaded petrol, diesel and 98% octane. United Service Station on the Flinders Highway stocks Ad Blue and LPG.
WEEKEND BUSINESS OPENING HOURS
Remember you’re in the outback now and we love weekends free so we can take part in all the great activities and events happening. Generally most businesses are only open from 9am to 12pm on Saturday mornings and closed for the remainder of the weekend. Foodworks are open from 7am to 7pm – 7 days.
BOTTLE SHOP
We have one bottle shop in Hughenden. • Great Western Hotel – 14 Brodie Street
POOCH-FRIENDLY HUGHENDEN
Your pooches are welcome in Hughenden but please be aware that the Flinders Shire coordinates a wild dog (1080 poison) baiting program bi-annually throughout the Shire. A number of tourist routes journey through private property and we ask that you please respect this and be aware that baits may be close to roads. Dogs are not permitted in National Parks in Queensland. Daily dog boarding is available in town and we also have one dog-friendly caravan park.
PUBLIC POOL
The Hughenden Aquatic Centre in Resolution Street is unheated and closes during the winter months, usually from April through to September.
WHY THE GORGE IS NAMED ‘PORCUPINE GORGE’? ARE A LOT OF PORCUPINES THERE?
It is thought that the Gorge received its name due to the spear grass in the area (much like spikes on an echidna) and/or because there are a lot of echidnas in the area.
CAN I GET OUT TO PORCUPINE GORGE IN A 2WD? Yes, with no trouble. The 73 km road to the campground is fully sealed. During the wet season check with the Flinders Discovery Centre for recent road reports.
CHURCHES IN HUGHENDEN • St Thomas Anglican Church – Hardwicke St • Jehovah’s Witnesses – Churchill St Please check at the Flinders Discovery Centre for service times.
W W W.V I S I T H U G H E N D E N . C O M . AU
5
Hughenden A Potted History
W
elcome to the Hughenden region, with over 41,000 km² of diverse landscapes and history dating back over 100 million years.
Station was later sold to Ernest Henry’s cousin Robert Gray in 1865 for £4,999. Gray stocked Hughenden Station with 3,000 sheep.
Explorers William Landsborough and Frederick Walker were the first to lay their eyes on the vast open grassland downs to the south and the harsh basalt country north of Hughenden. These explorers were on a rescue mission for the ill-fated Burke and Wills. Reports from Landsborough’s journal sparked much interest in the rolling grasslands that seemed to go on forever.
Mrs Gray, who came to live on the property, was the first European woman on the Flinders River.
A blazed historical coolabah tree stands proud as a testimony to the discovery of this region by these two famous explorers.
By the following year, a store, a blacksmith and a butcher shop joined the hotel. After 1887, Hughenden began to grow again, as it became an important railhead for the Great Northern Railway.
First settlement was on Hughenden Station by Ernest Henry in 1863, so named from the Tudor Manor house of his grandfather in Buckinghamshire, England. Hughenden
6
FLINDERS SHIRE GUIDE
The establishment of the township of Hughenden itself did not take place until 1876. In that year, Robert Gray allowed a friend by the name of William Mark to build a hotel to cater for the travellers passing through to the Cloncurry mining area.
Settlement on the banks of the Flinders River, Queensland’s longest river, would have been a feat in itself. The river, which flows into the Gulf
HUGHENDEN Population 1,136 (town) | 1,536 (shire) Latitude | 20°85°’ S Longitude | 144°21.1’ E Metres above sea level | 324 m Average rainfall | 493 mm (19”) Temperature Min. average winter | 9.6° Max. average summer | 35°
of Carpentaria, is often a dry river and only runs in the wetter months of the year. Water was sourced through wells in the river base until the discovery of the Great Artesian Basin, where underground bores were installed. History for this area goes back hundreds of years, with prehistoric history of over 100 million years telling a very different story. Hughenden is situated on the edge of a vast prehistoric inland sea, once home to many terrestrial dinosaurs as well as marine reptiles. The first fossil to be found was in 1865 on a property west of Hughenden and so the discovery of a greater past was made. The streets of Hughenden are adorned with a unique series of sculptures from local artists depicting fossils, dinosaurs and history adding a touch of outback heritage.
opening of the Hughenden Recreational Lake has expanded the town’s existing recreational areas and has created new opportunities for boating, fishing, water sports or just relaxing on the beach!
The wide welcoming streets give easy access to local businesses, parks and picnic spots. The
Enjoy the relaxed small town way of life, with a smile and a friendly wave on every corner. W W W.V I S I T H U G H E N D E N . C O M . AU
7
Communities of the Flinders Shire
PRAIRIE
TORRENS CREEK
Prairie is surrounded by beautiful rolling plains of Flinders grass. In the 1870s, Prairie was a main horse change centre for Cobb & Co Coaches. The Great Northern Railway reached Prairie on 6 September 1887.
Torrens Creek has a long and interesting history. It was discovered in 1862 by the explorer William Landsborough whilst on an expedition in search of Burke and Wills. He named the creek after Sir Robert Torrens, Premier of South Australia.
Call into the Prairie Hotel and take a look at the collection of stockmans’ hats and other historical memorabilia. Hear the story of the wandering ringer; this ghostly prowler comes from a story dating back to the 1930s. Prairie Races in August offers visitors an authentic outback racing experience. Head south of Prairie to camp at the Kooroorinya Nature Reserve where you can relax by the natural billabong which overflows in the wetter months creating a spectacular waterfall.
8
FLINDERS SHIRE GUIDE
In 1942 an aerodrome consisting of an all weather bomber strip and reserve ordnance depot was constructed by the US Air Force aiding the World War II effort until mid 1944. Visit the Exchange Hotel to hear the stories of how this little town was almost blown away and the heroic efforts of those who risked their lives. Take a ride with Fox Helicopters from Torrens Creek to see the beauty of the White Mountains and Porcupine Gorge National Parks from the air.
STAMFORD
Stamford is situated 61 km south of Hughenden on the Kennedy Development Road, dubbed the ‘Dinosaur Way’. Named after the adjoining pastoral land ‘Stamfordham’, Stamford was once an overnight stop for Cobb & Co Coaches travelling from Hughenden to Winton. Stamford comes alive at its annual race meeting held in July. Many people travel large distances to enjoy this outback experience with the charm and excitement of a country race meeting.
FOX HELICOPTERS Torrens Creek | Hughenden
Soar over Porcupine Gorge, Australia’s ‘little grand canyon’. Discover towering sandstone cliffs, pockets of vine forest and deep waterholes. Experience incredible aerial views over Outback Desert Uplands and dramatic escarpments of White Mountains National Park. Departures from Hughenden, Torrens Creek and Porcupine Gorge Camp Ground Book online or at the Flinders Discovery Centre P: 07 4741 3116 E: foxheli@bigpond.net.au www.foxhelicopterservices.com.au
W W W.V I S I T H U G H E N D E N . C O M . AU
9
Attractions in Hughenden
FLINDERS DISCOVERY CENTRE
This huge display area houses an amazing exhibition of fossils from around the world, as well as an extensive and growing collection of fossils from the local area. ‘Hughie’ is the star attraction; a life size skeletal replica of a Muttaburrasaurus. ‘Hughie’ is a daunting figure as you enter the display area. Although this dinosaur is believed to have been a herbivore, you get the impression he is something that you would not want to meet on a dark night! Come and witness the amazing light and sound show that takes you back over 500 million years to the beginning of the formation of Porcupine Gorge. ‘Shearing the Stragglers’ tells the story of the demise of the sheep industry throughout the Flinders Shire. Tales of hardship and change are told through stories of men who lived this gruelling life from 1865 to present day times.
10
FLINDERS SHIRE GUIDE
While wandering around the centre, enjoy a documentary on Hughenden and the district, telling the story of how Hughenden came to be. View the historical and seasonal exhibitions and there’s even an interactive Children’s Discovery Corner! The Flinders Discovery Centre stocks a large range of souvenirs along with information on local and regional holiday destinations and attractions. Free Wi-Fi is also available.
FEDERATION ROTUNDA The rotunda is constructed from two Comet windmills that have a diameter of 20 ft (6 m) and pumped water for stock at Bogunda Station, south of Prairie, for over 45 years. The structure was commissioned as part of the Centenary of Federation Celebration in 2001.
andreacreagh
ECO WALK ON FLINDERS Enjoy a walk through the diverse bioregions of the Flinders Shire ‘Eco Walk on Flinders’. These natural ecosystems have been replicated along the northern banks of the Flinders River with over 1.5 km of walking tracks. Along the pathway are species of flora relevant to each of the three ecosystems along with local artwork illustrating important events and the biodiversity of the Flinders Shire.
CEMETERY ARTS & SYMBOLISM SELF GUIDED TOUR This self guided tour guides the visitor around 24 selected headstones and describes the symbols carved on them and the meanings they represent. The Hughenden Cemetery has a large number of elaborate headstones dating back to 1886. The details included on these headstones, carefully
chosen by loved ones and skilfully carved by stone masons, tell many stories through symbolism. Get your guide from the Flinders Discovery Centre.
FLINDERS RIVER
Queensland’s longest river extends 1004 km and flows into the Gulf of Carpentaria. The river was named after Matthew Flinders by Lieutenant Stokes of HMS Beagle in 1841. The River Walk incorporates a walking trail along the banks of the Flinders River.
HISTORIC COOLABAH TREE & SURVEYOR’S PEG
Frederick Walker and Sir William Landsborough, whilst searching for Burke and Wills, blazed this coolabah tree. The cement sculpture of a surveyor’s peg is adorned with four brass plaques representing historical figures and events of the area. W W W.V I S I T H U G H E N D E N . C O M . AU
11
ROBERT GRAY PARK
SCULPTURES AND PUBLIC ART
Situated on the northern banks of the Flinders River, this park is dedicated to local characters and pioneers of the district where facilities include free BBQs and picnic areas.
Hughenden is the home of many impressive sculptural pieces adorning buildings and garden areas throughout the town. The sculptures are made and designed by local artists. Have a look and see what you can find!
HUGHENDEN RECREATIONAL LAKE
• Darby the Dinosaur – Large wall sculpture depicting the Muttaburrasaurus
The Hughenden Recreational Lake was constructed in 2019 and jointly funded by the Australian Government under the Building Better Regions Fund and Flinders Shire Council. The Hughenden Recreational Lake is a multiple use lake shared by boaters, water skiers, kayakers, rowers and swimmers. We welcome all visitors to the Flinders Shire region and encourage you to enjoy the facilities and your time on the water. At the Hughenden Recreational Lake you can enjoy: • Picnicking and BBQs • Relaxing on the beached area • Swimming, fishing, boating and water-skiing • Non-motorised watercraft activities (canoeing, kayaking and rowing) • Shaded playground • A circular 2.7 km walking trail.
• Federation Rotunda – Made from two 20 ft windmills • Leanneosaur – Life sized flying metal sculpture of a Queensland Pterosaur • Flinders River Fish Sculptures – Metal fish made from washers and scrap metal • P terosaurs – Three metal sculptures on the roof of the Flinders Discovery Centre, one in a full skeletal resting state • Ammonite Sculpture – A representation of an Ammonite fossil made from windmill parts • Window panel sculptures – Creative window sculptures, depicting the rural culture and rich fossil areas in the Hughenden District • Murals at the skate park and on various toilet blocks.
andreacreagh
12
FLINDERS SHIRE GUIDE
ourlifeontop
HEBREW GRAVE Jeanette Tolano (Rodgers) married Phillip Tolano on 17 January 1883 in the Great Synagogue, Sydney. Phillip Tolano opened a drapery store in Hughenden in 1880 in partnership with Lou Goldring. The store was called ‘Goldring and Tolano’. The shop contained extensive stock such as drapery, boots and shoes, ironmongery, groceries, fancy goods, wines and spirits,
galvanised iron, woolpacks, tar, oil, wire, twine and much more. Jeanette was an only child and came from a Hebrew background. Much disappointment came to the family when she died on 13 November 1883 during childbirth; it is believed that the child is buried with her. Jeanette was only 24 years of age. Jeanette’s grave remains on the site of the old Hughenden Cemetery and was never moved because of religious beliefs.
W W W.V I S I T H U G H E N D E N . C O M . AU
13
Attractions around the Region
PORCUPINE GORGE NATIONAL PARK
Known as Australia’s ‘Little Grand Canyon’ with its cool, clear, flowing creek, towering cliffs of vibrantly coloured sandstone and dense vegetation. The Gorge provides a striking contrast to the sparsely wooded, dry, flat plains which surround it. This impressive canyon reveals strata of sedimentary rocks spanning hundreds of millions of years of geological history. Porcupine Gorge National Park is a canyon hidden away approximately an hour’s drive north of Hughenden. Explore the numerous points of interest along the fully sealed road. The Gorge has been carved over time revealing layers of basalt and coloured sandstones, creating the beautiful soft colours of the cliff walls that tower over the creek below. The Gorge can be appreciated from two distinct areas. The first point is a lookout giving a view
14
FLINDERS SHIRE GUIDE
deep into the Gorge below. There is no access to the base of the Gorge from this point. The second is a National Park campsite area. Walking tracks take visitors either along the rim or down to the base of the Gorge where the Pyramid formation is a prominent feature. Intermittent waterholes line the base of the Gorge, a perfect place for a cool swim. The Gorge is a great spot for bird watching with bird, flora and fauna lists available from the Flinders Discovery Centre. There are picnic shelters and eco toilets at the campsite available for day visitors. Camping sites must be booked in advance as there is limited mobile reception at Porcupine Gorge. Boasting a variety of caravan and tent sites, some of which have fire pits, they can either be booked online, by telephone or in person at the Flinders Discovery Centre.
WHITE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK
White Mountains National Park is characterised by white sandstone formations and complex gorge systems that cover 108,000 ha of rugged terrain. For much of the year this vast area is an arid landscape but during the wet season it becomes a water catchment for streams and rivers. These eventually feed into Lake Eyre in South Australia and the Gulf of Carpentaria in North Queensland. Encompassing a total of 14 different ecosystems, winter and early spring transform the landscape as the native plants bloom into a palette of colour. White Mountains National Park is very remote and undeveloped and is only suitable for well equipped, experienced bushwalkers and campers. Campsite access is from the Flinders Highway 107 km east of Hughenden or 140 km south west of Charters Towers where it is recommended for
4WD vehicles only. Campsite bookings are available by phone or online, or at the Flinders Discovery Centre.
MOORRINYA NATIONAL PARK
90 km south of Torrens Creek, along a partially sealed road in the heart of the Desert Uplands, the 32,607 ha Moorrinya National Park protects 18 land types in the Lake Eyre Basin, one of Australia’s most important water catchments. This historic sheep station, previously known as Shirley Station, still contains the old shearing shed and workers quarters amongst other historical features.
BLACKBRAES NATIONAL PARK
Blackbraes National Park and three associated resource reserves cover an area of approximately 52,000 ha. This park straddles W W W.V I S I T H U G H E N D E N . C O M . AU
15
the Einasleigh Uplands and the Gulf Plains biogeographical regions. Access is via the Kennedy Developmental Road 170 km north of Hughenden, which has sections of unsealed gravel road. The vegetation is largely open eucalypt woodland dominated by ironbark trees with spear and kangaroo grasses populating the grassy understorey.
GENERAL INFORMATION Always check road conditions before travelling, as weather circumstances can change road conditions quickly.
Visitors who enjoy geology, dense woodlands or bird watching should find Blackbraes National Park of interest. The park is particularly diverse in birds, with over 150 species of birds recorded. Camping is available at a shady bush camp near Emu Swamp Dam, which is rich in birdlife.
NATIONAL PARK CAMPSITE BOOKINGS Please ensure campsites are booked before arrival at these national parks.
Access to the campsite is along an unsealed road and is recommended for 4WD and high clearance vehicles only and is not suitable for caravans.
MOUNT WALKER
Once you reach the top of Mount Walker you will be greeted with sensational 360° views of Hughenden and surrounds from six lookout points. Named by explorer William Landsborough after Frederick Walker, Mount Walker is 478 m above sea level, making it 152 m above the township of Hughenden. Located 10 km south of Hughenden with a steep sealed access road to the top, this road is unsuitable for motorhomes or towed vehicles. Sunrise and sunset on Mount Walker is a must for any keen photographer. Picnic tables and shelters, free BBQs and public amenities are available at the top for visitors. No camping is allowed at Mount Walker.
16
FLINDERS SHIRE GUIDE
Visit www.qld.gov.au/camping or phone 13 74 68 (24 hours, 7 days), or staff at the Flinders Discovery Centre can book your site for you.
KOOROORINYA NATURE RESERVE
There is an abundance of native flora and fauna to look at. Spotting the odd kangaroo, dingo and emu is always a feature of the drive. The birdlife is abundant and in the wetter months of the year the wildflowers and flowering gums are spectacular. Amongst the downs area the flower called the Flinders Poppy (Pimelea decora), which Hughenden is well known for, blooms in the drier months of the year, creating rivers of red along the open plains.
This area comes alive each year at the Oakley Amateur Picnic Races held each May.
EROMANGA SEA BYWAY
Travelling south of Prairie brings you to an oasis in the desert. Kooroorinya has a spectacular waterfall during the wetter months of the year and retains a secluded billabong during the drier months. Kooroorinya offers bushwalking, swimming, bird watching, fishing and some excellent photographic opportunities. Camping sites offer modern toilet facilities, hot showers and wood fired barbeques. Campers must call into the caretaker’s office prior to setting up.
BASALT BYWAY
The Basalt Byway is a 4WD track that takes you on a journey between the landscapes north of Hughenden through some amazing country featuring rolling landscapes of basalt walls (ancient lava falls, typically formed from the first lava to be issued from a volcanic eruption), creating deep meandering valleys. This soil is highly nutritious and is classed as prime grazing land. This track crosses the Flinders River, boasting wonderful waterholes to swim in throughout the wetter months and excellent lookouts to view the length and depth of the valleys of the upper Flinders catchment.
Running parallel to the Flinders Highway, 50 km south of Hughenden, this drive takes you through the prehistoric Eromanga Sea and the Desert Uplands. Views from the scenic lookout gaze across the open sparse Mitchell Downs region. Take this picturesque 180 km 4WD loop from Hughenden and Prairie.
FLINDERS RIVER BYWAY
The Flinders River Byway connects the Flinders Highway and the Kennedy Developmental Road, north of Hughenden. This impressive 4WD track crosses the sandy base of the Flinders River, and travels through rugged country with views of basalt walls running along the horizon. W W W.V I S I T H U G H E N D E N . C O M . AU
17
Prehistoric Past
O
ver 3,000 fossil specimens from the Cretaceous period have been found around the Hughenden district. Fossil varieties include many marine reptiles, Muttaburrasaurus, Hughenden Sauropod, Queensland Pterosaur and a large selection of shells, molluscs and fish. The first discovery of Ichthyosaur in 1865 was on the Flinders River near Hughenden. This specimen of Ichthyosaur vertebra was sent to the Museum of Victoria in Melbourne. Later a more complete specimen was uncovered, including a skull and many more vertebrae. The head of an Ichthyosaur was found at Telemon Station west of Hughenden in 1935. It is one of the most complete Ichthyosaur in the world. Also during 1935 a skull of Kronosaurus was found on the same property. In 1963, a fragment of a Muttaburrasaurus was
18
FLINDERS SHIRE GUIDE
collected from a cattle yard on the Thomson River near Muttaburra. A near perfect skull was also discovered on a property west of Hughenden in 1987. Sometime after the 1960s, a large Sauropod was found on a property north of Hughenden. More recent finds include the jaw fragment of a Queensland Pterosaur in 2004, the second find of this species in the Hughenden district. Many hours of preparation revealed a three inch long lower jaw bone with a few teeth. The jaw had been washed up against a piece of fosillised wood in the shallow ocean. Pterosaurs were the pelicans of the Cretaceous inland sea. The animal would have had a wingspan of approximately two metres. To try your hand at finding your very own fossil, call at the Flinders Discovery Centre for a map and directions.
AUSTRALIA’S DINOSAUR TRAIL
Australia’s Dinosaur Trail is an exciting adventure travelling across Queensland’s Outback. The trail leads you to the townships of Hughenden, Richmond and Winton, areas all rich in world class fossils. The ADT Pass is a discounted ticket which entitles the bearer to all the paleo attractions within the regions: The Flinders Discovery Centre in Hughenden, Kronosaurus Korner in Richmond, The Australian Age of Dinosaurs in Winton and Dinosaur Stampede National Monument at Lark Quarry Conservation Park 110 km south west of Winton. Single, concession and family passes are available and can be purchased from each of the attractions as well as the Waltzing Matilda Centre in Winton. For more information please visit the ADT website:
www.australiasdinosaurtrail.com W W W.V I S I T H U G H E N D E N . C O M . AU
19
HUGHENDEN SUPERMARKET 31 Moran Street, Hughenden
Hughenden Supermarket is the perfect stop for all your grocery needs. Good food, great service and highly competitive prices is what you can expect when you shop with us. Drop by and check out what’s in stock and what’s on special ... Fresh Fruit & Vegetables EFTPOS Frozen Food Cold Drinks & Ice Cream Chips, Snacks & Chocolates Ample Parking Friendly Country Service Weekly Specials Competitive Supermarket Prices Why not drop in and stock up – 31 Moran Street, Hughenden Visit our Facebook page for the latest information + our weekly specials P: 07 4741 1109 E: hughendensupermarket@gmail.com FB: SPAR Supermarket Hughenden
RPQ SPRAY SEAL 181 Enterprise Street, Bohle
Providing service and quality to the road construction industry in Queensland and New South Wales for over 30 years. The RPQ group of companies provides a range of quality services in road construction and maintenance. For over three decades, the RPQ group has grown to match customer demands for quality, service and expertise. Through this substantial growth, RPQ has diversified to now operate dedicated companies in the supply of asphalt, bitumen spray sealing, road milling and profiling, road maintenance, foam bitumen stabilisation, mobile asphalt production, mobile crushing and equipment hire.
P: 07 4774 4400 M: 0409 799 412 E: david.symington@rpq.com.au www.rpq.com.au
20
FLINDERS SHIRE GUIDE
REST EASI MOTEL
11 Richmond Hill Drive, Hughenden
Rest Easi Motel, located on Richmond Hill Drive which is on the western side of the town, is a spacious, quiet motel that offers clean, well-appointed single, double bed and family rooms. All rooms have: Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning Foxtel Free Wi-Fi Evening meals and breakfast are served to your room, and BBQ and laundry facilities are also available. Rest Easi Motel is the perfect place for travellers who want some comfort for the night .. and we have enough parking space for large vehicles.
P: 07 4741 1633 E: info@resteasimotel.com.au www.resteasimotel.com
TORRENS CREEK EXCHANGE HOTEL Flinders Highway, Torrens Creek
Torrens Creek Exchange Hotel welcomes travellers with a cold drink, a hot meal and a friendly smile 7 days per week. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available daily from 7am until late. Visitors are encouraged to spend some time enjoying the humorous graffiti gallery which travellers have added to and enhanced over the years. Located between Hughenden and Charters Towers, Torrens Creek Exchange Hotel is the perfect place to take a relaxing break or take advantage of our motel or van park for an overnight stop. We’re an ideal base for exploring both Moorinya National Park and White Mountains National Park or to simply sit and watch the world go by.
P: 07 4795 5990 M: 0456 291 068
W W W.V I S I T H U G H E N D E N . C O M . AU
21
FLINDERS STAR SERVICE STATION 8 Flinders Highway, Hughenden
An unmanned fuel site offering 24 hour/7 days a week fuel for all your travelling needs. Offering Diesel, Premium 98 and Unleaded products, we accept most major Debit and Credit cards. How to Use: On arrival, identify the bowser number you wish to use Proceed to Card Machine and follow the prompts on the digital display Move to pump and begin, once complete return handpiece to bowser A receipt can be printed if you reenter your EFTPOS card and follow the prompts on the digital display Commonly Asked Question: What happens if I enter a higher dollar limit then take less fuel? You only get charged for the fuel you take .... Safe travels. P: 0427 411 626 E: coffisonfuel@gmail.com
FLINDERS RURAL
23 Brodie Street, Hughenden
We are a family owned business supplying the community and surrounding areas with: Work clothing, hats and footwear Casual and Dress clothing and footwear Swags, gift s, Montana silver jewellery Horse gear, rugs, shoes, buckets etc Feed and supplements for cattle, horses, poultry, dogs & cats + worm, flea/tick, fly treatments General animal husbandry products Drop in and see us, our friendly staff would love to help you.
P: 07 4741 0000 (opposite the National Bank)
ALLEN TERRY CARAVAN PARK 4–6 Resolution Street, Hughenden
The Allen Terry Caravan Park in Hughenden offers accommodation options to suit every traveller: Cabins (deluxe 1 & 2 bedroom cabins + standard ensuite/non-ensuite cabins) Single room donga (toilet/shower, air-con & TV) Caravan and camp sites (powered & non-powered) Online bookings available at our website Strategically based to visit many major attractions in the North West such as national parks and art/history trails. P: 07 4741 1190 E: admin@hughendenvanpark.com.au www.hughendenvanpark.com.au
22
FLINDERS SHIRE GUIDE
GREAT ARTESIAN VETERINARY SURGERY 1 Hann Highway, Hughenden
Dedicated, experienced, professional care to all species throughout the central and north west of QLD. Fully equipped small animal clinic, with boarding and hydro bath facilities. Servicing all animals, big and small, from cats to horses. In house diagnostic testing, vaccinations and microchips. Individual and herd health care is available for all species, either on farm or in clinic. PregCheck and BullCheck accredited, equine artificial insemination services available. 24 hour emergency service available. Aircraft equipped for long distance travel. P: 07 4741 1223 E: admin@greatartesianvets.net www.greatartesianvets.net
RAY WHITE RURAL HUGHENDEN 25 Brodie Street, Hughenden
Stock and Station Agency providing professional services to Hughenden, Richmond and surrounding areas, specialising in:
Residential Sales and Purchases Rentals and Property Management Rural Property Auctions Livestock Sales and Purchases
P: 0428 474 138 – Stephen Vohland P: 0427 474 138 – Alison Vohland www.raywhiteruralrichmond.com.au
HUGHENDEN JOCKEY CLUB Winton Road, Hughenden
HUGHENDEN RACES – MAY & JULY
Come along and join in with a great day of country racing twice a year, and enjoy a family fun day! The day has a five horse race program with bookies on site for locals and southern races. Fashions on the Field with large variety of categories for all ages and some great prizes. There will be food stalls, licensed bar, calcutt a and of course a free courtesy bus to and from the races to town. P: 0427 411 240 E: HJC@outlook.com.au www.hughendenraces.com.au
HUGHENDEN HARDWARE & BUILDING SUPPLIES 14 Gray Street, Hughenden
P: 07 4741 1644 E: hughhard@bigpond.com FB: Hughenden Hardware For all your Hardware, Building, Gas/refills, Paint, Gardening and Travel Supplies. If we don’t have what you’re looking for, we will do our best to order it in for you. So come see us soon!
FLINDERS BUTCHERY 29 Moran Street, Hughenden
P: 07 4741 1128 E: stuart.staceyr@bigpond.com www.facebook.com/FlindersButchery Locally owned and operated for 20 years. Home of award winning sausages. Follow us on Facebook.
W W W.V I S I T H U G H E N D E N . C O M . AU
23
CHENG’S CHINESE RESTAURANT
30 Stansfield Street, Hughenden
P/F: 07 4741 1478 FB: Cheng’s Chinese Restaurant Dine In | Take Away | BYO | Air–Conditioned Catering for Engagement/Birthday Parties, Wedding Receptions, Business Functions, and Social Occasions. Sun-Thurs 11.30am-2.30pm; 5pm-9.30pm Fri-Sat 11.30am-2.30pm; 5pm-10pm
P: 07 4741 1480 E: holdensbakery@hotmail.com www.facebook.com/HoldensBakery Freshly baked on the premises daily. Bread, rolls, famous pies and sausage rolls, cakes and sweets. Cold drinks and hot coffee available. Open 5am/6 days a week. Just down from the Mutt aburrasaurus.
WINDMILL INN CAFE
ANNMARIE’S HAIR SALON
P: 07 4741 1995 E: windmillinncafe@outlook.com FB: Windmill Inn Cafe OPEN 6 DAYS – Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri: 6am-3pm; Wed 6am-8pm; Sun 8am-3pm Meals • Catering • Coffee • Wraps • Burgers • Cake Locals Supporting Locals
P: 0437 189 206 A/H: 0429 411 703
7 Gray Street, Hughenden
GREAT WESTERN HOTEL
35 Brodie Street, Hughenden
Specialising in all aspects of hairdressing. Open Monday to Saturday mornings and afternoons by appointment only.
ROYAL HOTEL
14 Brodie Street, Hughenden
21 Moran Street, Hughenden
P: 07 4741 1454 E: great_western@live.com.au www.greatwesternhughen.wixsite.com/ghwhughenden Experience true Australian hospitality in a relaxing environment in the heart of the Outback. 10 air conditioned motel units + restaurant (lunch & dinner Mon to Sat), fully licensed bar and bottleshop.
P: 07 4741 1183 E: royal183@bigpond.net.au www.hughendenhotelmotel.com.au 45 Motel Units, 4 Semi Self-Contained Units all with aircon. Fully licensed bar/restaurant provides breakfast and dinner 7 days a week (lunch available weekends), as well as TAB and Pokie facilities. Two minutes to town centre.
PRAIRIE HOTEL/MOTEL Flinders Highway, Prairie
P: 07 4741 5121 E: prairiepub@hotmail.com FB: Prairie Hotel QLD Put us on your ‘to do’ list – visit Tom, Andrea and family for a true outback pub experience. See us on tripadvisor.com.au under Prairie Hotel Motel and WikiCamps Australia under Prairie Hotel Queensland.
24
HOLDENS BAKERY
31 Brodie Street, Hughenden
FLINDERS SHIRE GUIDE
FLINDERS DISCOVERY CENTRE, HUGHENDEN
Meet ‘Hughie’ a life sized skeletal Muttaburrasaurus Porcupine Gorge light and sound show Shearing the Straggler’s Exquisite fossil & gem display Kids Corner Excellent souvenir shop Town & cemetery walking tours Local and regional tourist information Open 7 days 9am – 5pm (April – Oct) Saturday & Sunday 9am – 1pm (Nov – March) Closed some public holidays and during the Christmas period. 37 Gray Street, Hughenden QLD 4821 P: (07) 4741 2970 E: info@flinders.qld.gov.au www.visithughenden.com.au
Visit Hughenden #visithughenden visithughenden Find us on TripAdvisor!
VISITHUGHENDEN.COM . AU