Julia Creek & McKinlay Shire Visitors Guide

& McKinlay Shire

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JULIA CREEK VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE www.atthecreek.com.au Phone (07) 4746 7690 Fax (07) 4746 7005 Email tourism@mckinlay.qld.gov.au facebook.com/ JuliaCreekVisitorInformationCentre @juliacreekqld #juliacreek

OVERLANDER’S Way TENNANT CREEK

QLD/NT BORDER

Three Ways

Barkly Homestead

TO BOODJAMULLA (LAWN HILL) NATIONAL PARK

Camooweal Mount Isa

TO BOULIA

www.overlandersway.com 2

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WELCOME TO McKINLAY SHIRE

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GETTING HERE

06-08 JULIA CREEK 09 McKINLAY 10

NELIA & KYNUNA

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SHIRE MAP & HALF DAY TRIPS

12-13 JULIA CREEK TOWN MAP 14-15 MAJOR EVENTS 16

JULIA CREEK DUNNART

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GAB, FISHING & BIRD WATCHING

18-23 SERVICE DIRECTORY 24

QUEENSLAND MAP

TOWNSVILLE TO CAIRNS

TO NORMANTON

TO CROYDON

Cloncurry Julia CreekNelia Nelia

TO PORCUPINE GORGE

Hughenden Richmond

Matild

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gh

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McKinlay Kynuna

Winton Winton

Homestead

Prairie

Mingela

Charters Towers Pentland Balfe’s Creek Torrens Creek TO CLERMONT

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TO LONGREACH

TO MUTTABURRA

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Welcome to the McKinlay Shire, heart of the Queensland Outback and Gateway to the Gulf of Carpentaria.

McKinlay Shire comprises four towns in Julia Creek, Nelia, McKinlay and Kynuna.

Julia Creek and Nelia are located on the Flinders Highway (Overlander’s Way).

McKinlay and Kynuna are positioned on the Landsborough Highway. Kynuna and Julia Creek are connected by a fully sealed road.

Julia Creek earned the tagline ‘Gateway to the Gulf’ with the sealing of the road north to Normanton in the 1960s. McKinlay Shire has a population of around 1100 people and covers an area of 40,728 square kilometres.

We hope you join us at one of our many events or unearth our unbridled, natural beauty during your travels.

Although most of McKinlay Shire is easily accessible, when driving our roads please take care. It is essential to carefully plan your trip and remember that good preparation and common sense are the keys to a successful journey in Outback Queensland. Some tips to remember: n Ensure you have a good map and plan ahead, including calculating travel times and distances between stops. n Be aware of the next available facilities and services including fuel, water, medical and food supplies. Towns and fuel stops in McKinlay Shire are no more than 200kms apart.

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The Julia Creek to Kynuna Road (115kms) is now a fully sealed road.

AIR Regional Express Airlines (REX) is the only commercial air service available in McKinlay Shire.

REX offers regular flight services every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from the Julia Creek Airport to Townsville and Mount Isa. For schedules and fares call 13 17 13 or visit www.rex.com.au

The Julia Creek to McKinlay Road (80kms) is a one lane, mostly unsealed road, impassable when wet.

The Julia Creek to Burke & Wills Roadhouse (235kms) is a one lane, sealed road with passing opportunities.

BUS Bus Queensland and Greyhound Coach Service stop in Julia Creek, McKinlay and Kynuna. Arrival and departure times vary and are subject to change. Check out www.busqld.com.au and www.greyhound.com.au for schedules and fares.

ROAD Julia Creek and Nelia are situated on the Flinders Highway (Overlander’s Way) between Townsville and Mount Isa. This is a sealed, double lane highway accessible to all vehicles during the dry season.

Kynuna and McKinlay are situated on the Landsborough Highway between Longreach and Cloncurry. This is a sealed, double lane highway accessible to all vehicles during the dry season.

n Take frequent rest breaks and change drivers regularly. n Always carry spares including tyres, water, extra food and a comprehensive first aid kit. n If you encounter gates, they should always be left as they were found. Open gates should be left open and closed gates should be closed after passing through them. n Avoid driving after dark. Slow down and keep a look out especially at dawn and dusk as cattle, kangaroos and other wildlife often congregate alongside the road. n Obey road closure signs.

RAIL Queensland Rail offers one rail service (The Inlander) twice weekly in Julia Creek between Townsville and Mount Isa. Log onto www.queenslandrail.com.au for more information.

n Drive slowly on unsealed roads and take extra care – loose surfaces are unpredictable. n Take care when overtaking road trains (some can be 50m long), heavy vehicles and caravans, and only do so when you can clearly see at least 1km of the road ahead. Be prepared for road trains to move a little from side to side as you overtake. Be aware that dust and stones can be flicked up, potentially damaging your vehicle and obstructing your vision. n If a road train is approaching to overtake you, move over as far as possible to the left and stop if necessary to allow it to overtake.

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JULIA CREEK VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Located on the main street of Julia Creek, ‘At the Creek’ is an accredited Visitor Information Centre offering unparalleled local information, a great selection of travel brochures and a unique array of souvenirs that can only be found in Julia Creek. Staffed by friendly locals, ‘At the Creek’ engages in many audio and visual displays housed in historic railway fettler cottages that focus on the themes of water, country and people. ‘Beneath the Creek’, the latest attraction at the centre, provides a hands-on interactive journey through many facets of life in the McKinlay Shire. Watch out for the wildlife!

Visitors are able to view the live fat-tailed dunnarts being fed daily.

‘At the Creek’ is located on the corner of Burke and Julia Streets and has free Wi-Fi.

OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday 8.30am – 5.00pm Saturday and Sunday 9.00am – 12.00pm (during April–September) 34 Burke St, Julia Creek QLD 4823 Ph: (07) 4746 7690 Fax: (07) 4746 7005 Email: tourism@mckinlay.qld.gov.au www.atthecreek.com.au facebook.com/JuliaCreekVisitorInformationCentre @juliacreekqld #juliacreek

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JULIA CREEK (POPULATION 500)

ARTESIAN BATH HOUSES

BUSH DINNERS

Take a refreshing dip in our artesian bath houses located within the Julia Creek Caravan Park. For caravan park guests only.

From April to September, be sure to attend the renowned Julia Creek Caravan Park Bush Dinners on Monday nights. Visitors can have a beautifully cooked meal and a chat with the locals and fellow tourists around a camp fire. Everyone welcome to attend. A free courtesy bus will pick up and drop off at the RV site.

BIRD WATCHING ON THE NATURE TRAIL In the afternoon, a stroll along the nature trail usually rewards you with the sight and sound of wonderful birdlife and other wildlife. Bird lists can be obtained from the Visitor Information Centre.

The circuit takes approximately 45 minutes to complete.

JULIA CREEK HISTORICAL WALK Walk the 36 sign posted historical sites to discover and explore Julia Creek’s proud and honest history.

Obtain a map and brochure from the Visitor Information Centre.

WATER TOWER At 30 metres tall, the wine glass shaped water tower is a landmark visible from up to 20kms away.

Opened in 1971, it has a 100,000 gallon capacity.

A blue light illuminates the Water Tower at night creating a truly unique photo opportunity. Located on Burke Street.

PADDOCK TO PLATE LUNCHES Julia Creek hosts Paddock to Plate Lunches featuring our hero local cuisine, pasture fed beef.

The lunches feature a presentation from local producers on the processes to get these products to the table. See when the next lunch is at www.atthecreek.com.au

DUNCAN McINTYRE MUSEUM The Duncan McIntyre Museum, on Burke Street, is home to relics synonymous with the McKinlay Shire’s past. On proud display is a railway carriage, a Willy’s Jeep Truck, machinery, fossils from the Eromanga Sea, displays saluting the Shire’s prevalent wool heritage and countless other relics. Entry is free. Open 9am – 5pm daily.

FREE CRUISER BIKES If you are staying at the Julia Creek Caravan Park or RV Site, jump on a Cruiser Bike and head up town to sample some of the local produce or take in our local sights. Best of all, they are free to use!

WORLD WAR II BUNKERS The remains of a Directional Finding Installation are located near the cattle sale yards on the western side of town. This installation was one of a series which spread across Queensland and the Northern Territory. Their purpose was to assist pilots who may have travelled off course. The directional beams assisted pilots to get back on course.

OPERA HOUSE Located in Julia Street, tucked in behind the Civic Centre, the Opera House is home to a historical photo gallery of the last 100 years in and around Julia Creek.

The Opera House, opened on the same day as the Sydney Opera House, is open from Monday to Friday 9am – 4.30pm.

SPIRIT OF THE LIGHT HORSE SCULPTURE Standing proud at the Julia Creek RSL, Samson was created by artist, Sue Tilley, from a range of vintage metal objects collected locally. Together with the surrounding Light Horse Brigade silhouettes, they form a prominent tribute to the spirit of the ANZACs.

JULIA CREEK SWIMMING POOL

Paddock to Plate lunch

Located across the road from the Julia Creek Caravan Park, the pool is heated in Winter and is open year round. Check the notice board for seasonal opening hours.

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GANNONS HOTEL MOTEL n 12 air-conditioned rooms n Meals 7 days

36 Burke Street, Julia Creek QLD 4823 Phone: (07) 4746 7103 Email: gannonshotel@bigpond.com

JULIA CREEK MOTEL

n 19 comfortable air-conditioned rooms n Undercover parking n Room service and breakfast available n Free Internet access available n Kitchenette and swimming pool n Evening meals and packed lunches n Free Wi-Fi for guests 98 Burke Street, Julia Creek QLD 4823 Phone: (07) 4746 7305 Fax: (07) 4746 7124 www.juliacreekmotel.com

JULIA CREEK VILLAS n 20 air-conditioned self-contained units n Weekly rates available n TV, Austar, BBQ area, swimming pool in complex, laundry facilities n Homely atmosphere, off-street parking

JULIA CREEK CARAVAN PARK

n Self-contained cabins (sleeps 4 & 6) – air-conditioned, bathroom, kitchen, dining table, lounge, VAST TV n 4 dongas – 2 singles in each, air conditioning, fridge, kettle, VAST TV n 20 powered van sites n 15 powered sites on grass for motorhomes or camping n Large grassed camping area n Camp kitchen – communal BBQ, TV, fridge and wash-up facilities n Brand new amenities n Waste dump point available for all travellers n Public swimming pool and sports centre across the road n Well behaved pets are welcome n Free Wi-Fi for guests n Bookings are essential (May to September) n Artesian bath houses for caravan park guests only Old Normanton Road, Julia Creek QLD 4823 Phone: (07) 4746 7108 www.jccaravanpark.com.au

2 Burke Street, Julia Creek QLD 4823 Phone: (07) 4746 7468 Fax: (07) 4746 7328

JULIA CREEK HOTEL/TOP PUB

n 15 air-conditioned rooms n Meals available 6 days per week, EFTPOS Cnr Goldring & Julia Streets, Julia Creek QLD 4823 Phone: (07) 4746 7727 Fax: (07) 4746 7773

Julia Creek is an RV Friendly town and has a designated free camping area alongside Julia Creek for self-contained RVs and caravans (toilet and shower on board). This area is located 1.3kms on the eastern side of town. With picnic tables provided, this is a great area to relax with some cheese and wine, to watch the beautiful Julia Creek sunsets.

Please obtain a free permit from the Julia Creek Visitor Information Centre – ‘At the Creek’ before camping. Permits are valid for 96 hours.

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McKINLAY (POPULATION 20)

CANNINGTON MINE

The McKinlay district was first discovered by Scottish born explorer, John McKinlay in 1861 during his travel from Adelaide to the Gulf of Carpentaria. McKinlay was established in 1888 as a staging post for the Cobb and Co. coaches and a gathering point for the graziers from surrounding properties. The bore on the edge of town was sunk in the 1900s to give a permanent water supply.

McKinlay was the service centre for many of the surrounding stations. The McKinlay Shire Council offices were originally located in McKinlay until 1930, when they were moved to Julia Creek, which was serviced by the Great Northern Railway. Travel from Julia Creek to McKinlay is 100kms and via a predominantly unsealed road.

Located 87kms south of McKinlay is Cannington mine site – the world’s largest and lowest cost single mine producer of both silver and lead. Opened in 1997, Cannington was the supplier of silver for the Olympic Games medals in Sydney in 2000 and again for the Beijing Olympics, 2008.

CENTENARY PARK Pull up for a break at Centenary Park and view the new historical story boards which feature the history of McKinlay. April 2012 marked 150 years since explorer John McKinlay discovered the area.

A statue of “Big John” was erected to commemorate the event and can be seen in Middleton Street, across from the Park.

MARONAN STATION Located west of McKinlay, try your luck at fossicking for gemstones, particularly garnets.

Maximum 3 day stay, no open fires.

WALKABOUT CREEK HOTEL Phone: (07) 4746 8424 Fax: (07) 4746 8768 Landsborough Highway, McKinlay QLD 4823 Originally known as the Federal Hotel, the pub was built in 1900 and licensed in 1901. The Walkabout Creek Hotel is now famous for being recognised as the pub in the Paul Hogan movie “Crocodile Dundee”. The pub, together with other buildings in the town, were featured in this iconic Australian film. The pub is now home to Mick’s truck and other film memorabilia.

QUEENSLAND’S SMALLEST PUBLIC LIBRARY & TOURIST CENTRE

nnAir-conditioned hotel rooms nnPowered and unpowered camping sites

Located in Middleton Street, McKinlay, Queensland’s smallest public library is open seasonally. The library houses a broad range of fiction and non-fiction books. There is also a selection of travel information on offer from a friendly McKinlay local. Behind the library is the Centenary Museum, featuring photos and relics plus WWI Honour Roll and Soldier Profiles.

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NELIA (POPULATION 10)

KYNUNA (POPULATION 20)

Located on the Overlander’s Way, the travel route between Townsville and the Northern Territory, sits a small outback town called Nelia. Approximately 50kms to the east of Julia Creek, Nelia boasts an active CWA committee. The world’s largest brolga sculptures crafted by artist, Sue Tilley, create a truly unique photo opportunity. The Gallery @ Nelia showcases local art and craft and visiting exhibitions.

The Nelia Post Office celebrated its centenary in 2009 however it is no longer operational.

Kynuna is located on the Landsborough Highway 165kms north west of Winton and 75kms south east of McKinlay. Kynuna is connected to Julia Creek via a fully sealed road. Kynuna is in the heart of Waltzing Matilda Country. Kynuna was established on the Diamantina River and was gazetted as a town in 1894. Within a few years, Kynuna had a substantial population (up to 700) and once had three bustling hotels.

BLUE HEELER HOTEL Phone: (07) 4746 8650 Landsborough Highway, Kynuna QLD 4823 Built in 1889 as the Kynuna Hotel, the Blue Heeler Hotel is the only hotel in Kynuna and is the only remaining building with an association with ‘Waltzing Matilda’.

It is said that both the swagman and squatter had their last drinks at the hotel. Banjo Paterson also drank at the hotel. Come in for a cold beer and immerse yourself in the history.

CORELLA CREEK COUNTRY FARM STAY

n Air-conditioned motel rooms and dongas n Powered and unpowered camping sites n Wi-Fi internet

Phone: (07) 4746 7555 Guesthouse and Nelia Camping ground nnAir-conditioned rooms nnWi-Fi nnGuesthouse kiosk nnWildlife refuge nnBook exchange nnLaundry nnA range of unique outback experiences

KYNUNA ROADHOUSE/CARAVAN PARK Phone: (07) 4746 8683 Landsborough Highway, Kynuna QLD 4823 n Drive through Caravan sites unpowered and powered n Large grassed camping area n Air-conditioned dongas n Shower and restroom facilities A visit to Kynuna is not complete without a trip to Combo Waterhole (details page 11).

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HALF DAY TRIPS COMBO WATERHOLE Combo Waterhole Conservation Park is located 16kms east of Kynuna (dry weather access only).

It is a picturesque place and the overshot dams built by Chinese labourers in 1883 are technical masterpieces. Combo Waterhole is linked to the national folk song ‘Waltzing Matilda’ and a monument can be found at the entrance to the park. Walk the 2.5km return circuit to the waterhole along the Diamantina River and have a picnic ‘under the shade of a coolibah tree’. Camping is prohibited.

PUNCHBOWL WATERHOLE Located on the Flinders River 45kms north east of Julia Creek, follow the entirely sealed road to this lovely recreation area ideal for picnics, fishing and swimming, and bird watching. Return via the township of Nelia. This road is not entirely sealed and is only passable in dry conditions.

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Cemetery

TOWN OUTSKIRTS

LEGE Place

Public Mt Isa

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Bank

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Livestock Centre

Water

Richmond Airport

McIntyre Park

Normanton: 363km

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for Caravan Park guests only

HICKMAN STREET

Telecommunications Tower

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Artesian Bath Houses

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Bike Park 10

C Caravan Park

SHAW STREET

Swimming Indoor Pool & Sports Tennis Water Park Centre Courts

Truck Parking

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Suncorp Bank Medical Centre

Fire Station

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GOLDRING STREET JULIA CREEK - KYNUNA ROAD

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MATHEWS STREET

CSA Building

Peter Post Dawes Office W Park

Duncan McIntyre Museum BURKE STREET

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Kev Bannah Oval

JULIA STREET

ALLISON STREET

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Cloncurry: 134km Livestock Centre / WWII Bunker: 5km Airport: 5km

QUARRELL STREET

Skate Park BYRNE STREET

COYNE

Anglican Church

FLINDER State Gov. Julia Creek RSL Precinct Police 8 Top Pub Station GOLD

Railway Station

Kynuna: 115km McIntyre Park: 2km

McIntyre Park

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Catholic Church

HOSPITAL LANE

RV Friendly Camping Area

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RV Friendly Camping Area ........... (O9)

Julia Creek is an RV Friendly town and has a free camping area alongside the water’s edge of Julia Creek. This area is suitable for self-sufficient RVs and caravans and is located 1.3kms on the eastern side of town. Picnic tables and bins are provided. Please obtain a free permit (valid 96 hrs) from the Visitor Information Centre ‘At the Creek’ 34 Burke Street, Julia Creek, before camping.

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Water Tower............. (E11)

The 30 metre wine glass-shaped water tower has the capacity to hold 454,000 litres of water and stands above the fourth bore that was sunk in Julia Creek.

Blue lights create an impressive visual effect at night.

Nature Trail ..(Start at L6)

Take a walk around the Nature Trail and view the wonderful birdlife. Start at the corner of Shaw and Julia Streets and follow the signs behind the tennis courts.

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At the Creek ..............(J11)

Stop ‘At the Creek’ and say hello as you enter our friendly town.

We have an up-to-date range of information brochures and maps covering the local and regional areas. Gain an insight into the way we live in McKinlay Shire. Don’t forget to take a look at the dunnarts, which are fed daily. Free Wi-Fi.

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Richmond: 144km

RS HIGHWAY

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Library .................... (H11)

Come in and swap a book for free at the local book exchange.

Internet access available.

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Opera House .............(J10)

Relive the history of Julia Creek through a large collection of photographs. Free entry.

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Duncan McIntyre Museum ................... (F11) The Duncan McIntyre Museum is home to countless relics synonymous with the McKinlay Shire’s past. Machinery, fossils from the Eromanga Sea and a

display saluting the Shire’s prevalent wool heritage and much more on display. Entry is free.

8 Julia Creek RSL ...... (K12) The Julia Creek RSL branch 8 showcases the Spirit of the Lighthorse Sculpture and a display saluting McKinlay Shire’s servicemen and women.

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Father Bill Busuttin Community Centre (M10) Air-conditioned small 9 conference facility with kitchen and community centre. Julia Creek HACC and Community Nurse base.

10 Bike Park ...................(L7) Children can learn road safety skills on their push bikes.

C Caravan Park Julia Creek Caravan Park..... (J7) M Motel Julia Creek Motel ...............(C11) Julia Creek Villas ..............(M12) Gannons .............................(I11) H Hotel Julia Creek Hotel (Top Pub) ........................... (J12) Gannons .............................(I11) Others Places of Interest Ambulance .......................(M10) Cemetery ................... (see inset) Churches: Anglican – St Barnabas...(L10) Catholic .........................(M11) Civic Centre........................(J11) Driver Reviver Stop .......... (N11) Fire Station ....................... (G12) Hospital ............................ (N11) Information Centre.............(J11) Library .............................. (H11) McIntyre Park ................... (D16) Medical Centre ................. (H12) Police Station .....................(L12) Post Office ..........................(I11) Railway Station .................. (J13) RV Friendly Camping Area (free) ........... (O9) Skate Park ............................ (J8) State Government Precinct & Court House .... (L11) Suncorp Bank .....................(I11) Swimming Pool & Water Park (J8) Tennis Courts / Indoor Sports Centre / Gym ........... (K8) Truck Parking ....................(C11)

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JULIA CREEK DIRT N DUST FESTIVAL

January – Australia Day Celebrations April – Julia Creek Dirt n Dust Festival & Artesian Express Races May – Julia Creek Campdraft June – McKinlay Races June – Saxby Round-Up (Rodeo, Campdraft & Gymkhana) July – Julia Creek Turf Club Races August – Sedan Dip Sports & Rec Weekend (Races, Rodeo, Campdraft & Gymkhana) September – Town VS Country Rugby League Match September – Julia Creek Turf Club Races November – Julia Creek Turf Club Races

The largest event of the year is the multi-award winning Julia Creek Dirt n Dust Festival which offers three days of triathlon, horse races, professional bull ride, Australia’s best butt competition, live concerts and novelty events. The event attracts 3,000 people. www.dirtndust.com

JULIA CREEK CAMPDRAFT Every May, horsemen from far and wide gather at the Julia Creek Campdraft to put their skills to the test in a riveting display of horsemanship.

Catering, bar and entertainment.

McKINLAY RACES Experience the true colour of country racing at the McKinlay Races. Big prize money, Fashions on the Field, free camping, hot showers, entertainment, lucky gate prize, bar and catering facilities.

SAXBY ROUND-UP Approximately 200kms north of Julia Creek at Martin’s Waterhole, the Saxby Round-Up is an iconic bush event featuring campdrafting, rodeo, gymkhana and novelty events.

Entertainment, bar, food and free camping. No power.

SEDAN DIP From bush races to campdrafting to rodeo to gymkhana, Sedan Dip is a weekend in August that has it all. 100kms north of Julia Creek on the sealed Burke and Wills road, Sedan Dip offers food and bar facilities, free camping and entertainment. www.sedandip.com.au 14

JULIA CREEK TURF CLUB RACES Julia Creek Turf Club has four race meetings a year including the Artesian Express which is run in conjunction with the Julia Creek Dirt n Dust Festival.

The Julia Creek Turf Club is located at McIntyre Park approximately 1km south of the Julia Creek town centre on the Kynuna Road.

TOWN VS COUNTRY RUGBY LEAGUE MATCH The Town VS County Rugby League Match is an annual rugby league show down held in Julia Creek. The fiercely fought battle attracts large crowds and has even featured celebrity run-on appearances from big names such as Petero Civoniceva. Bar, catering and entertainment.

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Julia Creek is home to the endangered Julia Creek dunnart (Sminthopsis douglasi). This tiny brighteyed creature is an insect-eating marsupial, only found in the Mitchell grass downs of North West Queensland. With a body length of 100–120mm and a tail length of 90–100mm, the Julia Creek dunnart can be distinguished from rats and mice by its size. Unlike rodents, dunnarts have pointy noses, large rounded ears and dog-like teeth.

RECOGNISED AS A SPECIES The dunnart was first documented in 1931 but not recognised as a species until 1979 after examination of four museum specimens revealed them to be a distinct species. A live animal was not seen until 1992 when, with the aid of information provided by locals, seven animals were trapped and another was brought in from a property after being saved from a domestic cat. The species is currently listed as near endangered under the IUCN Red list of Threatened Fauna (2008) because of its restricted distribution and the lack of knowledge of its ecology and threatening processes.

The downs country of North West Queensland are typically flat or gently undulating grasslands dominated by Mitchell grass (Astrebla spp.) tussocks, with grasses such as Flinders grass (Iseilema sp.) and forbs growing between the tussocks after rain. An aspect of the Julia Creek dunnart’s habitat that may be essential to its survival in this harsh environment is black soil, where cracks up to 70cms deep develop as the dry season progresses. Julia Creek dunnarts shelter in these cracks to escape the extreme daytime temperatures then emerge at night to hunt insects and small reptiles.

Breeding occurs between October and February, during which time females may produce two litters of young if environmental conditions are favourable. Like other marsupials, they have a pouch and give birth to young at a very early stage of pregnancy, at which time the young are permanently attached to the nipple. The pouch contains eight nipples in a circular arrangement 16

allowing each female to carry eight young at a time.

Reproduction is timed to coincide with the wet season so that the young are weaned when there is an abundance of insects to feed on and ample vegetation to provide shelter from predators.

LIVE DUNNART DISPLAY The Julia Creek Visitor Information Centre currently displays fat-tailed dunnarts (Sminthopsis crassicaudata). Fat-tailed dunnarts, as their name suggests, are distinguished by their carrot-shaped tail where they store excess fat for times of food shortage. The feisty fat-tailed dunnarts are rotated between two off display enclosures and one display enclosure.

GREAT ARTESIAN BASIN

FISHING North West Queensland has a great variety of fishing sites including rivers, lakes and creeks.

The most common fish caught in this region are barramundi, sleepy cod, catfish and redclaw yabbies. McKinlay Shire has several waterholes to try your luck at including Punchbowl Waterhole (45kms from Julia Creek), Sedan Dip (100kms from Julia Creek), Julia Creek (in town), Combo Waterhole (near Kynuna) and Eastern Creek (22kms from Julia Creek). Throw in a line and spend some time exploring this unique region.

The Great Artesian Basin (GAB) is one of the largest artesian groundwater basins in the world. It extends 2,400kms from Cape York in the north to Dubbo in the south. At its widest it is 1,800kms from the Darling Downs to west of Coober Pedy.

With an area of over 1.7 million square kilometres the Basin underlies approximately one-fifth of the Australian continent. The GAB stores a huge volume of water that is estimated to be 64,900 million megalitres. It is enough water to fill Sydney Harbour 130,000 times. The water supply in McKinlay Shire comes from the Great Artesian Basin. Come and view the “Gift of the GAB” movie in the auditorium ‘At the Creek’.

BIRD WATCHING McKinlay Shire has a variety of birdlife throughout the year in various places. The best times to visit are directly after the wet season (from January to June), but an abundance of birds can be found well into the dry season, particularly drier climate species. A guide to bird watching in McKinlay Shire and a bird list are available from ‘At the Creek’.

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EMERGENCY SERVICES EMERGENCY – Ambulance, Fire, Police.......................................................................................... 000 Julia Creek Ambulance – Hospital Lane................................................................................ 4746 7101 Julia Creek Fire Station – Burke Street.................................................................................. 4746 7917 Julia Creek Police – Mathews Street.......................................................................................4746 7120 Kynuna Police.........................................................................................................................4746 8777 McKinlay Police.....................................................................................................................4746 8420 McKinlay Shire Council........................................................................................................4746 7166 Ergon Electricity.......................................................................................................................13 10 46 State Emergency Service...................................................................................... 132 500 / 4746 7206

ACCOMMODATION Julia Creek Caravan Park......................................................................................................4746 7108 Julia Creek RV Friendly Site.................................................................................................4746 7690 Julia Creek Motel.................................................................................................................. 4646 7305 Julia Creek Hotel (Tob Pub)..................................................................................................4746 7727 Julia Creek Villas...................................................................................................................4746 7468 Gannons Hotel....................................................................................................................... 4746 7103 Blue Heeler Hotel, Kynuna....................................................................................................4746 8650 Kynuna Road House...............................................................................................................4746 8683 Walkabout Creek Hotel, McKinlay.......................................................................................4746 8424

SERVICE STATION AND MECHANICAL REPAIRS Julia Creek Roadhouse – Burke Street................................................................................... 4746 7178 Crawford & Co – Burke Street............................................................................................... 4746 7011 Felsie’s Mobile Workshop – Byrne Street..............................................................................4746 7271 Marwill (Tyres & Electrical) – Burke Street.........................................................................4746 7140 RACQ (Breakdown service).......................................................................................................13 11 11 McKinlay Roadhouse.............................................................................................................4746 8472 Kynuna Roadhouse................................................................................................................4746 8683 Robbie’s Tyres...................................................................................................................0427 792 162

GROCERY SHOPS, TAKEAWAY FOOD AND COFFEE Godiers Friendly Grocer – Burke Street................................................................................4746 7201 Julia Creek Foodmart – Burke Street.....................................................................................4746 7193

MEALS Julia Creek Roadhouse – Burke Street................................................................................... 4746 7178 Julia Creek Hotel (Top Pub) – Goldring Street......................................................................4746 7727 Kynuna Roadhouse – Kynuna................................................................................................4746 8683 Blue Heeler Hotel – Kynuna...................................................................................................4746 8650 McKinlay Roadhouse – McKinlay..........................................................................................4746 8472 Gannons Hotel Motel............................................................................................................. 4746 7103

BANKING SERVICES Commonwealth Bank Agency (Post Office) – Burke Stree..................................................... 4746 7147 National Australia Bank Agency (Post Office) – Burke Street…........................................... 4746 7147 Suncorp Bank – Burke Street..........................................................................................................4746 7688 18

MEDICAL SERVICES Julia Creek Hospital – Burke Street...................................................................................... 4746 4000 Julia Creek Doctor’s Surgery – Quarrell Street.....................................................................4746 7159 McKinlay Bush Nursing Clinic – Wylde Street, McKinlay....................................................4746 8505

PHONE COVERAGE Julia Creek..........................................................................................................Telstra Next G network Nelia, Kynuna, McKinlay.............................................................................No mobile phone coverage

CHURCHES Anglican – Mathews Street.....................................................................................................4746 7258 Catholic Presbytery – Burke Street........................................................................................4746 7164 Uniting – Julia Street...............................................................................................................4746 7387

OTHER SHOPS AND SERVICES Australia Post – Julia Creek – Burke Street............................................................................ 4746 7147 Booth Rural – Burke Street.....................................................................................................4746 7666 Cooleebah Gifts (Pharmacy Depot – no scripts) – Burke Street ............................................ 4746 7176 Crawford Painting Contractors – Burke Street.....................................................................4746 7468 Crawford Plumbing & Gas Fitting................................................................................. 0428 587 845 Elders – Burke Street...............................................................................................................4746 7188 Gravel & Grace – Burke Street...............................................................................................4746 7228 Julia Creek Butchers – Burke Street ........................................................................ Ph/Fax: 4746 7301 Julia Creek Hardware – Burke Street.....................................................................................4746 7282 Julia Creek Early Learning Centre – Shaw Street.................................................................4746 7279 Julia Creek Library – Burke Street.........................................................................................4746 7930 Julia Creek News – Burke Street............................................................................................4746 7322 Julia Creek State School – Burke Street................................................................................ 4746 4444 Lonsdale Building Contractors – Goldring Street.................................................................4746 7467 Marwill Pty Ltd (Electrician) – Burke Street.........................................................................4746 7140 McKinlay Library and Tourist Centre – Middleton Street................................................... 4746 8848 QCWA Hostel – Julia Creek – Burke Street............................................................................4746 7258 QCWA Hostel – McKinlay......................................................................................................4746 8695 QCWA Hostel – Nelia............................................................................................................. 4746 8614 Queensland Government Agency – Burke Street.................................................................. 4746 7162 Raine and Horne Rural – Shaw Street....................................................................................4746 7030 SNG Constructions...........................................................................................................0427 596 765

DUMP POINT Julia Creek......................................................................................................................Hickman Street McKinlay............................................................................................................................... Truck Stop

LAUNDROMAT Julia Creek...................................................................... Cnr Burke & Julia Street/Australia Post Office

SHOWERS Julia Creek...........................................................................................................Julia Creek Roadhouse 19

Ca l l i n a n d s e e o u r e x t e n s i v e a n d v a r i e d l i n e s

Julia Creek NEWS 42 Burke Street www.juliacreeknews.COM

MOnday-friday 8am to 5pm SATurday-sunday 8.30am to 12noon

Julia Creek Villas 2 Burke St, Julia Creek Qld 4823 Ph: 07 4746 7468 Fax: 07 4746 7328 Mobile: 0427 474 674 Fully Self-Contained Motel Accommodation - 20 Units - 7 Family Units - 1 Disabled Unit - 12 Double Units Plenty of parking space Home away from home

20

OPE N7

DAY S

JULIA CREEK

FRIENDLY GROCER 43 Burke Street

Come in and enjoy our country hospitality.

We have all your Grocery and Convenience supplies.

Fresh Milk, Bread, Fruit – Veg, Music and DVDs for sale.

Real Coffee – Fresh Juice, Real Ham and Chicken on our Sandwiches For those of you keen on our environment, come in and chat with one of Western Queensland’s recognised Naturalists and Photographers, Stephen Malone. His photography is displayed in our shop.

Phone: (07) 47 467 201 Fax: (07) 47 467 316 Stephen Malone Photography www.smalone.com.au

21

Felsie’s Mobile Workshop ABN 55 698 498 129

42–44 Byrne Street, Julia Creek Qld 4823

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL Vehicle Maintenance & Repairs Air Conditioner Repairs & Service Windscreen Fitting Hydraulics Hoses & Fittings Mobile Service Gordon & Kathryn Fels Mobile: 0427 467 271 Ph: 07 4746 7271 Fax: 07 4746 7616 Email: felsies@bigpond.com

JULIA CREEK FOODMART

Paint  Garden  Outdoor Living Motor Stock/Batteries  Tools Re-fill gas bottles  Hose fittings Camping gear, eskies & water bottles Also fishing equipment/home living Open Monday to Friday 8.00am – 5.00pm Saturday 8.30am – 12noon Burke Street, Julia Creek Qld 4823 Ph: 07 4746 7282

Julia Creek Post Office Commonwealth Bank Agent National Australia Bank Agent Phone Credit Passports Phones and accessories Coffee and snacks Gift ware

• Hot Food • Cold Drinks • Hot Beverages • Snacks • Ice • Fresh Produce

• Quality Meat • Phone Credit • Wide variety of Groceries • Garden Supplies • Pool Supplies

OPEN 7 DAYS

Burke Street, Julia Creek Qld 4823 Ph: 07 4746 7193

22

Open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm Ph: 07 4746 7147

Cooleebah Gifts We sell:

- Giftware & Souvenirs - Furniture - Electrical Goods - Over the counter pharmacy medication

Since the historic Mrs Macs Pharmacy You won’t miss us right in the main street Open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 12noon Saturday

45 Burke Street, Julia Creek Qld 4823 Ph: 07 4746 7176

Gannons Hotel Motel 36 Burke Street Julia Creek 12 rooms | Meals 7 days in 40 seat bistro Wifi, Fox Sports | TAB, Keno & Pokies Drive thru bottle shop Member of Golden Chain Motel Group

Robbie’s Tyres On Road, On Property Wherever & Whenever

Lot 37 Coyne St, Julia Creek E: robbiestyres@gmail.com | 0427 792 162

07 4746 7103 | E: gannonshotel@bigpond.com

Scott & Michele at the

Julia Creek Motel Home Cooked Meals with a Comfor table, Friendly Atmosphere

DIGITAL TV

BBQ

07 4746 7305

POOL

FREE INTERNET

Western side Po Box 213 - 98 Burke St Julia Creek Qld 4823 of town (Opp. B.P.)

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G R EAT B A R R R I E

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EE

QUEENSLAND

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F

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d eale

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a Ro

d

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H HAR D

E HW

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24

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