Central West Queensland - national parks Queensland National Parks
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Queensland National Parks
Central West Queensland
national parks
Contents
Parks at a glance (facilities and activities)...................................2
Welcome......................................................................................3
Map of Central West Queensland.................................................4
Choose your escape.....................................................................5
Experience the Outback...............................................................6
Discover a land of boom and bust................................................8
Idalia National Park.................................................................... 10
Welford National Park................................................................12
Lochern National Park................................................................14
Forest Den National Park............................................................15
Bladensburg National Park......................................................... 16
Combo Waterhole Conservation Park.........................................18
Lark Quarry Conservation Park..................................................19
Diamantina National Park..........................................................20
Warracoota Circuit Drive............................................................22
Elizabeth Springs Conservation Park.........................................23
Munga-Thirri National Park........................................................24
Travelling tips, packing checklist, Be prepared, Be safe.............26
Further information....................................................................28
Parks at a
(4WD essential)
(non-flushing)
Day-use area
Ranger Base
Scenic drive
Short walks
2WD access
Kayaking /
viewpoint
Mountain
Canoeing
Camping
glance
Toilets
Scenic
biking
Bladensburg NP *
Combo Waterhole CP
Lark Quarry CP *
Diamantina NP
Elizabeth Springs CP
Munga-Thirri NP (Simpson Desert)
Lochern NP *
Forest Den NP *
Idalia NP
Welford NP *
Note: *2WD to park entry and/or specific campsite only, and only during dry weather. 4WD recommended.
Photo: Diamantina National Park © Peter Scott
2
Welcome to Central West Queensland national parks
Be adventurous! Journey
off the beaten track over dusty
Savour roads or desert dunes into
sunlit plains extended, wildflowers Queensland’s dry, but far from
blossoming after rain and the freedom lifeless, heart.
of sleeping out under a blanket of A
never-ending stars.
Follow
the footsteps of superbly adapted
arid-zone creatures and long-departed
dinosaurs. Traverse ancient Aboriginal
trading routes and the tracks of hardy
explorers and resilient stockmen.
E
B
Relax
under a shady gum tree on the
banks of a river. Boil a billy, throw in
a line and watch for wildlife taking
refuge from the dry.
D
Revel
C in the romance and stories of
this wide brown land and its
people. Catch a glimpse of
Capture
hardships overcome to survive
the essence of the real Australia—harsh
vast distances and unpredictable
but fragile, vivid yet subtle,
cycles of boom and bust!
as dangerous as it is beautiful.
Pen a poem, paint a sunset, capture it
on camera or simply spin a yarn!
(A) Peter Scott © Qld Govt; (B) © Karen Smith;
F (C) Chris Mitchell © Qld Govt; (D) © Robert Ashdown;
(E) © Qld Govt; (F) Karen Smith © Qld Govt.
Photo: Maxime Coquard © Qld Govt
Welcome to some of the most isolated national
parks in Queensland. Climb 30m high sand
dunes, explore rocky gorges, spot endangered
wildlife, travel to the one of the world’s most
famous dinosaur trackways. Remember to be
self-sufficient—supplies and help can often be
hundreds of kilometres away.
Gary Jorgensen, Senior Ranger
On behalf of rangers living and working in the west.
3
Photo: © John Augusteyn
Discover shifting sand dunes stretching towards the horizon.
Kynuna
Combo Waterhole
Conservation Park
Queensland d Forest Den
Roa National Park
tal
en Winton
er
pm
Riv
Central West elo La Muttaburra
ev nd
ina
Queensland yD Bladensburg sb
Kenne d or
nt
a ou
Boulia am National Park
Di
Elizabeth Springs gh
Conservation Park Lark Quarry Hi
gh Aramac
Walking access Conservation Park wa
y
only within park
Longreach Barcaldine Jericho
iver Alpha
Mayne R IIfracombe
Lochern
Diamantina No National Park ve
r
National Park access Ri
n
Goneaway so
Astrebla Isisford
m
National Park
o
Th
Downs No access
Bedourie National Park ee k Blackall
Stonehenge Cr
No access
er
Diam
o
Riv
rc o
an
tin
Ba
a La
Mulligan
e Creek De nd
E yr vel Welford s Tambo
opm Jundah Yaraka o ro
National Park Idalia
b
ent u
al R National Park
oa
gh
Munga-Thirri d
Windorah
Hig
National Park Hell Hole Gorge
hw
(formerly known as Simpson
Di National Park
ay
Desert National Park)
am
Betoota an
tin
aD Augathella
Birdsville Developm
ville e n t al Road ek
Birds
ev
re Adavale
elop
C
er
Mariala
p
me
Coo
National Park
nta
Charleville
lR
South Australia oa
Scale d Quilpie Morven
0 50 100 150 200km
Some parks require a 4WD to access, please see
individual park maps within this guide for more detail.
Legend for publication
National park State boundary Visitor information Sheltered picnic area 4WD access
centre
Conservation park Town with fuel and Natural viewpoint with
accommodation Wi-Fi access (visitor no built structure or Mountain biking
information centre) handrails
Restricted access area Town with fuel, Canoeing/
do not enter mechanical repairs, Ranger station Refreshments kayaking
Creek/river accommodation
and a dump point for Information Walking track Fishing
Waterway chemical toilet waste
Self-guided Camping
Parking
1 Point of interest walking track
Highway Caravan
Disabled access Wildlife spotting (high clearance)
Sealed road Drive Queensland Routes
Toilets/pit toilets Camper trailer
Warrego Way Cultural heritage site (high clearance)
Unsealed road
Matilda Way Hospital or medical Car access
4WD road services
Capricorn Way
4
Choose your escape Suggested itineries
Head west into the sunset, where distance travelled is measured in days or the number
Dinosaurs and drovers
of ‘roos, emus or flocks of wild budgies seen. Savour wide blue skies contrasting against Radiate out from your overnight base
rich red earth and wildflowers blossoming in a kaleidoscope of colours amid spindly at Winton or Bladensburg National
spinifex after rain. Like the dust that seeps into your boots, the vividness and spirit of Park, venturing north-west along the
this timeless land will be forever etched in your memory. highway across the Mitchell grass
plains to legendary Combo Waterhole,
Embrace vast horizons yet to be explored! Be sure to include a visit to some of
or south on rough unsealed roads
Queensland’s largest national parks in your itinerary.
into the eroded sandstone ranges of
Bladensburg and Lark Quarry. Take a
Short trips from an series of day trips, visiting other local
heritage sites in and around Winton
Outback town using self-guided drive brochures
(half to one day) available from the visitor information
• Bladensburg National Park (follow centre. 4WD vehicles are not essential,
The Route of the River Gum from but are recommended. (Minimum
Winton or take Scrammy Drive) 600km if you visit all parks mentioned.)
• Lark Quarry dinosaur trackways
Cooper catchment
• Combo Waterhole near Kynuna Drive direct or make a week-long
• Big Red west of Birdsville (on the way loop (minimum 500km) starting from
to Munga-Thirri National Park) Blackall, Windorah or Longreach along
minor byways and unsealed roads to
Idalia, Welford or Lochern national
Taste of the Outback journeys parks. Discover waterholes of the
(several days to a week) Thomson or Barcoo rivers at Lochern
and Welford, and on leisurely walks
• Dinosaurs and Drovers (Bladensburg and nature drives at towns of Jundah,
—Lark Quarry—Combo Waterhole) Stonehenge, Longreach and Isisford.
• Cooper Catchment (Idalia—Welford Relax beside Cooper Creek at Windorah.
—Lochern; just one or a combination) Stop for scenic views near Yaraka, and
between Jundah and Stonehenge where
• Forest Den National Park
you can also see Aboriginal wells.
• Diamantina National Park Step back in time at local museums
and heritage sites (Windorah, Jundah,
Extended 4WD expeditions Isisford, Emmet) and learn about the
Outback’s pastoral history at major
(Above): Enjoying the vivid
(one to two weeks)
heritage tourism attractions at Blackall,
colours and contours of the • Dusty Diamantina (Bladensburg—
Spinifex circuit at Lark Quarry. Barcaldine and Longreach.
© Karen Smith Combo Waterhole—Lark Quarry—
(Below): Savouring the sunset at
Welford National Park. Diamantina—Elizabeth Springs) Dusty Diamantina
© Shane Hume Touch the upper reaches of this mighty
• Munga-Thirri National Park (Simpson
Desert) (adds at least one week to river system near its source when you
any itinerary) visit Combo Waterhole (just off the
highway near Kynuna) or seasonal
feeder creeks at Bladensburg National
Park or Lark Quarry south of Winton.
If well-prepared for a true 4WD
challenge, follow the river downstream
to Diamantina National Park along
dusty, rough roads, stopping for scenic
views across steep-sided plateau
(mesa) country and to relive the past
at remains of Old Cork Station and the
Mayne Hotel. After spending a few days
relaxing by waterholes and exploring
sandhill country, return home past
Elizabeth Springs and back to Winton
via Middleton (a minimum 1,000km
loop), or head west to Boulia and
Bedourie; or downstream to Birdsville.
Diamantina National Park can also be
accessed from Windorah.
5
Photo: Alicia Whittington © Qld Govt
Nomadic budgerigars are regularly on the move searching for grass seeds.
Experience the Outback Guide yourself or
go with a local
In Central West Queensland you’ll visit some of the hottest and driest
Plan your own epic tour from an
places in Australia. You’ll get dust in your eyes, flies in your face, perhaps
outback town into the mulga scrub,
grit between your teeth—or even be stuck in some mud! Wear a grin as down a river or into the desert. Seek
wide as the landscape and capture memories lasting a lifetime. nature, find solitude or let history
fill you with wonder. If you prefer
Best time to go Stop along the way someone else to do the planning,
The cooler months (April to September) Remote national parks might be your driving or to supply the equipment,
are the best time to visit Central West destination, but don’t just drive past local you can join tours with experienced
Queensland to avoid extreme summer towns. Stop in for fuel and food, see local guides—for just a day or overnight.
daytime temperatures of over 45°C and sights, have a meal at the pub or stay the Visit outbackqueensland.com.au
the risk of rainfall events and flooding. night. Even most small towns have the
basics and you’ll receive warm, country
Rain can fall at any time of the year.
hospitality and helpful advice.
Many outback roads are unsealed and
impassable after even a small amount of
rain. Flooding can occur suddenly—even Add local flavour
weeks after rain in catchments upstream. Add one of the region’s fun-loving
No park has all weather access. Munga- events or tourist attractions to your
Thirri National Park (Simpson Desert) is journey. Whether at races for horses,
closed from 1 December to 15 March. camels or yabbies; a showcase of
livestock or rural prowess; an annual
festival or a world-famous museum—
the Outback spirit is alive and well and
waiting for you to join in. Meet local
characters, try a new skill, spin a yarn
and savour the experience. Find out
more at outbackqueensland.com.au
Experience heading off the
beaten track.
© Tourism & Events Qld
(Above right): Enjoy spotting
woodland birds in mulga scrub
or among the eucalypts.
Fiona Leverington © Qld Govt
6
Welford National Best parks to...
Park’s spinifex-clad Walk on marked tracks—
Idalia, Welford, Lark Quarry and
sand dunes hint of
Combo Waterhole.
the Simpson Desert
Camp by a waterhole—
in Munga-Thirri, while
Diamantina, Welford, Lochern
its open mulga on red
and Bladensburg.
soil contrasts with
Throw in a line, or take a quiet
the dense mulga of
paddle on a waterhole—
Idalia’s rocky ranges. Welford, Lochern, Bladensburg and
Diamantina.
Take a scenic drive—
Many parks have Mitchell Idalia, Welford, Lochern,
grasslands. Walk through Bladensburg and Diamantina.
them at Lochern, Forest Mountain bike on bush roads—
Den, Diamantina and Combo Idalia, Diamantina, Welford
Waterhole or look over them and Lochern.
from a higher vantage point at Relive the past—
Bladensburg. Idalia, Welford, Lochern,
Bladensburg, Combo Waterhole
and Diamantina.
Waterbirds and
Discover dinosaurs—
honeyeaters stay within Lark Quarry.
reach of the tree-
Capture the magic of the last rays
lined river channels of sunset from a cliff overlooking
and waterholes of mulga at Idalia and Welford, across
Diamantina, Lochern and open plains at Diamantina or
Bladensburg, or from the top of a
Welford national parks.
sand dune at Welford, Diamantina
or Munga-Thirri.
Channel country Snap a picture-perfect scene
where dinosaurs walked (Lark
dominates at
Quarry), under a coolabah tree
Diamantina (Combo Waterhole), or overlooking
National Park the mighty Diamantina Gates
which has (Diamantina).
extensive
wetlands Encounter wildlife!
of national Tick kangaroos and wallabies off
your list at Idalia, Welford, Lochern
significance.
and Bladensburg.
Watch birds flock to watering holes
Nestled amid at Diamantina, Welford, Idalia,
Lark Quarry’s Combo Waterhole and Forest Den.
spinifex-clad
jump-ups, you’ll
find footprints left
by dinosaurs 100
(Top to bottom):
© John Augusteyn; © Qld Govt;
million years ago. © Qld Govt; © Qld Govt;
Peter Lik © Tourism and Events Qld
7
Photo: © Robert Ashdown
Tiny thorny devils in Munga-Thirri wear fearsome camouflage.
Discover a land of boom and bust Arid environments
Mitchell grass downs
There’s much more happening in the Outback than evident at first glance. Natural grasslands, named for the
Be thrilled by discovering superbly camouflaged wildlife, a perfectly dominant native Mitchell grass, support
adapted plant, an anomaly in the landscape or relics of times long gone. the region’s grazing industry. Unlike trees,
grasses can anchor in dark clay soils that
expand when moist and crack deeply
Life in the dry Landscapes worn by time when dry.
Humans, plants and animals all depend on Craggy escarpments and deep gullies
unpredictable flood cycles of the world’s tell of a land alternately shaped by, then Mulga lands
most variable watercourses—Cooper Creek starved of, water. Sea floors and lakebeds Growing in almost pure stands, or
and Diamantina River. of 65–140 million years ago form the base interspersed with grasslands and
of the landscape, encasing fossils from eucalypt-acacia woodlands, mulga trees
First Nations people thrived on the secret
shellfish to dinosaurs, now exposed by dominate slightly moister, higher country
bounty of these arid and semi-arid lands,
the passage of time. in the east of the region. Each mulga tree
trading along rivers and finding food
(pictured below) directs rain to its deep
in unlikely places. Artefacts, stories
tap root, allowing survival in a dry climate.
and connections remain and Aboriginal
traditions and heritage are still alive today.
Explorers, miners and pastoralists sought
their fortunes. Many died, some barely
survived, but others adapted to establish
the towns, pastoral holdings and the parks
and reserves of today.
(Below): Rivers flood out
over flat channel country.
© Rob Murphy
(Right): Scrammy Gorge.
Rosemary Millward © Qld Govt
(Far right): Mulga trees.
© Robert Ashdown
Channel country
Mighty inland rivers disperse across
gently sloping land into braided channels,
creating waterholes, wetlands and
floodplains tens of kilometres wide.
Coolabah woodlands, sand plains and
vast dunefields are adapted to infrequent
rains that fall in short but massive deluges
that flood watercourses then evaporate in
the parching heat.
8
Memorable mammals Resilient reptiles
In the heat of the day mammals rest in Encounter reptiles when it is warm or see What wildlife where?
a shady spot, or hide in soil cracks and tracks where they have been. Arid lands Go birdwatching
crevices or down a burrow. Keep watch in are home to a diverse range of superbly Spot birds along creeks and
the late afternoon or at night. adapted lizards, dragons, skinks, geckos waterholes at Idalia, Forest Den,
and snakes. Combo Waterhole, Welford, and at
Brilliant birds Surprise Creek and in the spinifex
Be surprised by the variety and numbers Fantastic fish, turtles and frogs grasslands at Bladensburg.
of birds in the dry inland. Admire soaring Where there is water there is life. More Hunters Gorge and Lake Constance
birds of prey and colourful parrots, than a dozen fish are found in the region. at Diamantina, Boomerang
babblers in the mulga and honeyeaters Many, like the Cooper Creek catfish (at Waterhole at Welford and
along creeklines. Waterbirds seek refuge Lochern) and the unique Lake Eyre basin Broadwater Lagoon at Lochern are
at waterholes or breed opportunistically yellow-belly are not found anywhere great for watching waterbirds.
after floods. outside these catchments.
Spot lizards and snakes
See yellow-spotted monitors at
Bladensburg, Idalia, Lochern and
Diamantina. Ring-tailed dragons
are found by day at Lark Quarry
and spiny-tailed geckos hunt at
night at Bladensburg. Gilbert’s
dragons live in woodlands and
river margins, waving their legs in
turn to cool their feet.
Discover mammals
Both red and grey kangaroos
graze open plains while common
wallaroos prefer the slopes of
ranges. Black-striped wallabies
inhabit thicker vegetation, and
at Idalia, swamp wallabies live
along creek beds. Spot echidnas
and possums at Idalia, Lochern,
Bladensburg and Welford; gliders
and insect-eating bats can be
seen at Idalia and Forest Den. Of
the ground-dwelling mammals,
stripe-faced dunnarts and fat-
tailed dunnarts are widespread;
(Clockwise from top unlike the endangered bilbies and
left): Ornate kowaris seen rarely at Diamantina.
burrowing frogs (pictured)
and water holding frogs are In scrubby sand country you
widespread, hidden away
waiting until it rains again. might spy a tiny kultarr bounding
Robert Ashdown © Qld Govt
Black-headed pythons gracefully in search of cockroaches
stretch out across roads at and other bugs.
night in a range of habitats.
© Shane Hume
Colourful mulga parrots
favour a diet of seeds.
© Shane Hume
From huge wedge-tailed
eagles (left) soaring high
on upswept wings, to swift, Watch wildlife, don’t hit it!
streamlined falcons and
kites that seem to hang in Vehicles share the road with
mid-air, birds of prey are
always on the lookout for wildlife. Minimise your chance of
their next meal. collision by travelling at or below
© John Augusteyn
Central netted dragons can the speed limit, and avoid driving
be seen at Lochern.
© Shane Hume at dusk or dawn.
9
Photo: Fiona Leverington © Qld Govt
Rugged ranges provide panoramic views.
Idalia National Park
Emerge from thick mulga scrub to lofty escarpments and rocky gorges
Must dos where elusive yellow-footed rock-wallabies hide and views surprise.
• Tick 6 species of kangaroos and Be captivated by colourful sunsets over distant plains and explore
wallabies off your ‘must see’ list.
heritage sites for an insight into the hardships faced by those living
• Gaze from craggy escarpments
over mulga-covered ridges to here in years gone by.
distant plains beyond. Trees
line waterways that stretch from Mulga scrub covers much of 144,000ha
rocks to river channels. Wildlife spotting
Idalia, and mature mulga has good leaf Spot yellow-footed rock-wallabies at
• Imagine stories behind the rusty
litter cover and fallen logs that make ideal Emmett Pocket lookout and Bullock Gorge.
iron and splintered bush timber
of old stockyards, huts and fauna habitat. Dawson gums and mountain Discover red and grey kangaroos in open
pastoral-era relics at Old Idalia. yapunyah trees break the expanse of areas, but on slopes and in the forest keep
• Camp hidden in thick mulga mulga green on upper slopes; while river a lookout for wallaroos, swamp wallabies
scrub near Monks Tank and red gums and poplar box grow on sandy and black-striped wallabies typical of
awaken to the morning chorus flats beside the usually dry Bulloo River. inland areas.
of outback birds.
Watch at night for kultarrs (tiny mammals)
Things to do searching for cockroaches and bugs.
Getting there
Idalia National Park is 113km Driving and mountain biking See Hall’s babbler, colourful Australian
south-west of Blackall in the Gowan Most driving tracks are suitable for keen ring-necks, crested bellbirds and
Ranges. To access the park, a 4WD mountain bikers experienced in arid and
is recommended. From Blackall, plum-headed finches. Keep an eye out
remote terrain. It’s 47km from the park at the camping area for white-plumed
head west along the Isisford Road for
44km, then turn left onto Blackall– entrance to Emmet Pocket lookout, with honeyeaters and eastern yellow robins at
Emmet Road. After 25km turn left several side branches and walks along the far western limit of their known habitat.
again at the Idalia National Park sign the way.
and follow the road for 44km to the
entrance of the park. It is a further
33km to Monks Tank camping area.
Fuel and supplies are available from
Blackall (113km) and Isisford (120km).
Did you know?
Yellow-footed rock-wallabies
Petrogale xanthopus celeris are
well-camouflaged in the safety of
the rocky outcrops, leaving only to
drink and graze at the base of cliffs. (Above): Emmet Pocket lookout is
a perfect spot to enjoy the view.
They are vulnerable to extinction and Fiona Leverington © Qld Govt
threatened by foxes and competitors (Left): Yellow-footed rock-wallabies
such as goats and sheep. Please do inhabit high rocky escarpments.
© Qld Govt
not disturb them by climbing down
10 among the rocks.Places to go
Be up early to see the first
Old Idalia
rays of the sun creeping
(Allow 30 minutes to explore).
across the slopes and
Grade: easy.
plains; or end the day with
Wander through remains of a musterers’
a stunning sunset walk hut. Pass a wagon and an old ship’s tank
(remember to take a torch). where a natural spring supplied stock water.
Ranger Peter
Wave Rock walk
1.2km return (30min).
Grade: moderate.
Walk from Old Idalia to a wave-shaped
cliff where wind, sun and time are nature’s
carving tool and sunset is the paintbrush.
Stake stockyards
Visit innovative stockyards constructed
between the 1920s and 1950s. Lengths
of saplings and twisted wire held up to
300 cattle during muster.
Junction Hole
Watch for birds and kangaroos at this
roadside waterhole.
Rainbow Gorge walk
200m return (15min).
Grade: easy.
Admire white, red and yellow-tinted
Places to camp sandstone 14km north of the Old Idalia
Monks Tank turn-off.
Murphys Rockhole
4WD recommended. (Top): Wave Rock See animals watering at a gorge shaded by
(Above left): Stake fenceline
Peaceful bush camp hidden in mulga John Augusteyn © Qld Govt river red gums. Look for koalas in eucalypt
woodlands 33km from the park entrance. (Above): Native fuschia trees near water—you won’t find them
© Shane Hume
Not suitable for large caravans. much further inland.
Bullock Gorge walk
2.7km return (1hr).
To Blackall 85km Grade: easy.
Bullock Gorge Rock markers show the way through bendee
7 shrubland along a ridge top. Take care here
as there are steep gorges on either side.
8 9 5.7km
Emmet Pocket lookout
Emmet Pocket Gaze from the escarpment over the park’s
2.9km Murphys northern end. If quiet you might spy
6
3.8km 3.7km Rockhole yellow-footed rock-wallabies hiding
Rainbow Gorge among the rocks below.
5
9.4km
Monks Tank Emmet Pocket walk
Old
Idalia Wave 4.4km return (2–3hr).
1 Rock Grade: difficult.
Junction Hole 4
8.8 2 A steep track leads into the gorge where
Stake 3 km plains lie before you like a map.
stockyards 2.1km
Take drinking water.
7.9km
11.8km
Scale Take care near cliff edges.
0 5 10 15 20km
Supervise children closely.
11Photo: John Augusteyn © Qld Govt
Admire patterns and animal tracks in shifting wind-blown sands.
Welford National Park
Enjoy almost every outback experience in one amazing park. Birdwatch,
Must dos fish or camp at a billabong; see spinifex on red desert sand dunes; delve
• Enjoy the ebb and flow of life on into the past at historical sites and 4WD to rugged rocky scarps where
the Barcoo River. Camp, take it
easy, paddle or throw in a line. secretive yellow-footed rock-wallabies hide.
• Capture a sunset and the
contrasting colours of ghost At Welford’s southern boundary, the Things to do
gums and wildflowers on red Barcoo River cuts a green and brown
desert dunes. Wildlife spotting
swathe west from rugged, rocky mulga-
• Navigate along the river, through clad ranges towards Mitchell grass plains See emus on grassy plains and Major
the mulga scrub or across sand Mitchell’s cockatoos, red-winged parrots
and some of the most easterly red sand
plains, taking in the stunning
dunes in Australia. Seek contrasting and mulga parrots in mulga woodlands
scenery and spotting wildlife.
landscapes, varied wildlife and the shade and along the river. Look for brushtail
• Delve into the past at heritage
and tranquility of majestic river red gums possums in eucalypt trees at night.
sites that reveal how the
landscape has sustained people and coolabahs along river channels that Birding is brilliant around waterholes—
for generations. bring life-giving water to thirsty country. glimpse pelicans, brolgas, black swans,
whistling kites and freckled ducks.
Aboriginal cultural sites are scattered
Getting there Water rats hunt for fish and frogs and
Welford is 260km south-west of across the 124,000ha park. Welford’s gather mussels along the river, while
Longreach and 50km south of pisé (rammed earth) homestead built in spangled perch, yellow-belly and
Jundah. You enter the park via 1882 is one of only a few still occupied in Cooper Creek catfish are found in
unsealed Jundah-Quilpie Road. Queensland—but is not open to permanent waterholes.
From Blackall (257km) drive south- the public.
west to Yaraka then continue on the
Yaraka-Retreat Road, or from Quilpie
(270km) and Windorah (110km) take
the Diamantina Development Road,
connecting with the Jundah-Quilpie
Road and entering the park from
the south.
4WDs are recommended. All roads
within the park are impassable in
wet weather. The nearest fuel and
supplies are at Jundah (50km) and
Windorah (110km).
(Right): Rugged rocky escarpments are a
contrast to sandy plains.
John Augusteyn © Qld Govt
(Far right): Lily-covered Trafalgar Waterhole.
© Peter Hogan
12Fishing and canoeing Did you know? Places to camp
Although its banks are steep and slippery, Cattle find mulga Acacia aneura tasty
Little Boomerang Waterhole
Little Boomerang Waterhole is a great but ignore gidgee Acacia cambagei trees. 10km west of Jundah–Quilpie Road.
spot for fishing, canoeing and kayaking. Welford National Park and others are 4WD recommended.
now destocked of cattle and protect such Camp near shady river red gums and tea-
Driving and mountain biking mulga woodlands. trees on the banks of the Barcoo River.
Follow a bush track exploring dunes,
rocky outcrops, plains, channels Places to go
and billabongs. Early morning or late
afternoon is best for wildlife. Travel Desert Drive
22km one way (allow at least 3hr).
slowly and be careful of other road users
Mulga 4WD only.
and wildlife. Gidgee North-west of Little Boomerang Waterhole
is thirsty country of colourful sand
plains and dunes. Visit a life-sustaining
waterhole . Climb soft sand to the
dune and capture desert colours on
camera (take care not to disturb fragile
plants) . See a bore drilled to bring oil
from 1,800m below ground and where
a windmill once pumped precious water to
troughs for stock .
River Drive
12.3km one way (allow 1.5hr).
4WD recommended.
Travel along the banks of the river where
river red gums line steep-banked channels.
Usually dry with the occasional billabong,
debris high in trees is a reminder that
swirling floodwaters can sweep down
the river washing away vegetation and
Go birdwatching along the river and in the ranges. wildlife. Birdwatch at ‘The Jetty’ ,a
© John Augusteyn natural rock bar protruding into the water.
Mulga Drive
Our little-known sand 71km return (allow 4hr).
dune is Welford’s most 4WD only.
photographed feature and Venture east past the stockyards,
(stopping for glimpses of the old rammed
is magic to visit at sunset.
earth homestead) then onto scenic
Ranger Sophia
waterholes 6 and 7 . Journey over
river flats and up into rough mulga
country dissected by stony escarpments
and gullies towards a viewpoint 8 and
Sawyers Creek 9 .
Sawyers Creek 7 Trafalgar Waterhole
To Jundah 50km
viewpoint Sawyers Creek 18km east of Jundah-Quilpie Road.
8 4WD required.
16 Mile Bore 9
Perfect picnic spot beneath
Southern 4 Ju
nd coolabah trees.
ah
Deser t
Cross Bore -
Sawyers Creek viewpoint
Q
Dri 8
ui
Oil Bore 3
lp
1.2km return walk (allow 30min).
ve
ie
2 r
Ro
Desert Rive Grade: moderate.
coo
ad
Waterhole Frances rive Bar
Mulga D Enjoy panoramic views of exposed rocky
1 R iv Waterhole 6
er Drive outcrops, slopes and spidery networks
of channel country below.
5 7 Trafalgar
Little Boomerang Waterhole Watch for mulga parrots and at dusk
Waterhole The
Jetty Scale for yellow-footed rock-wallabies.
To Quilpie 270km 0 5 10 15 20km
13Photo: © Peter Scott
The mighty Thomson River is a ribbon of life in the dry.
Lochern National Park
Travel to the heart of ‘boom and bust’ country where devastating
Must dos droughts are followed by flooding rains that nourish the plains and
• Admire Australian bustards transform parched channels into wetlands teeming with life.
strutting across rolling Mitchell
grass plains. With a 20km frontage to the Thomson Walking and mountain biking
• See flood marks on tree trunks River, 24,300ha Lochern National Park’s Wander around the river and waterholes,
where floodwaters of the many lagoons and waterholes provide or along the habitat drive. The park has no
Thomson River have reached. refuge for birds and other wildlife. Wander walking tracks but it is quiet with gentle
through gidgee or mulga woodlands and terrain. Watch for vehicles.
• Take Lochern tourist drive and
drive across rolling Mitchell grass plains
contemplate how wildlife and
trying to distinguish between the four Lochern tourist drive
people adapt to cycles of wet
different species of Mitchell grass—hoop, 40km return (2–4hr). 4WD only.
and dry.
curl, barley and bull. See pastoral-era
• Relax at Broadwater Lagoon, Drive through the woodlands , past
relics including winged dams (known
gidgee swamps and gaze across open
keeping an eye out for Emmott’s locally as tanks).
plains . Visit Robertsons Dam . See
short-neck turtles, pelicans,
where gidgee logs were stacked in 1910 to
spoonbills, black swans,
Places to camp form yards and an old netting fence
sandpipers and stints.
Broadwater Waterhole was constructed to protect sheep
4WD recommended. from dingoes. Walk 100m to the edge of
Getting there shallow Bluebush Lagoon to spy
Camp by a permanent waterhole in the
Turn off the Longreach-Jundah Road waterbirds. Wander around the old
shade of coolabah trees.
at the Lochern signpost 100km homestead complex on the flood-
south of Longreach or 45km north of Accessible by conventional vehicle prone banks of the Thomson River.
Stonehenge, and take the unsealed only in dry weather.
road for 40km to the Thomson River There are no facilities.
and the park boundary.
The road from Winton (330km) via Things to do
Lark Quarry can be very rough and Fishing and Broadwater
takes 4–5 hours to drive. Watch for canoeing Waterhole
bulldust—very fine dust—and for Throw a line in at
road trains. any waterhole. To Winton Old homestead 8
330km
Canoe or kayak at
4WDs are recommended. Roads Tonkoro Road 3
i v er
Broadwater Waterhole. To
are impassable in wet weather. 1 Longreach
Shearing
R
131km
son
The nearest fuel and supplies are 2 complex
Road loo
to
om
at Longreach (140km) and Stonehenge
Water
Th
77km
Stonehenge (85km). Robertsons
Dam 4 5 6
Shepherds Bluebush
7
14
Scale
0 5 10km yards LagoonPhoto: © John Augusteyn
Torrens Creek is a shady wildlife haven.
Forest Den National Park
Immerse yourself in a bird-watcher’s paradise where creek channels
Must dos lined with magnificent river red gums meander across grassy plains and
• Spy squatter pigeons hiding intermittent waterholes provide refuge for humans and wildlife alike.
in the grass and blue-winged
kookaburras nesting by Established to conserve black gidgee Places to camp
waterholes. woodlands at their western limit, this
• Spot sugar gliders and brushtail 5,890ha park has a diverse range of plants Four Mile Waterhole
possums in river-side trees and fascinating wildlife. Reid River box, 4WD recommended.
at night. ironwood, beefwood, bauhinia and other Camp in solitude near the banks of
woodland trees occur on the sandy ‘patchy Torrens Creek under the shade of
plains’ in the park’s western sections. coolabah trees and river red gums.
Getting there
Although used as grazing land for more There are no facilities.
Forest Den is 100km north of
than 100 years, little remains of this era
Aramac, via Torrens Creek Road.
apart from a few pastoral relics—fences, (Below): Brown falcon keeping watch for
Turn east at the ‘Corinda’ signpost unsuspecting prey.
gateways and a derelict round timber © John Augusteyn
and travel 5km before heading
bridge over Torrens Creek. (Bottom): Acacia woodlands are great for birdwatching.
4.5km north to Four Mile Waterhole © John Augusteyn
camping area.
Things to do
Although accessible in a
conventional vehicle in dry weather,
Wildlife spotting
a 4WD vehicle is recommended as Watch birds and other animals coming to
small amounts of rain can make drink from waterholes at dawn and dusk.
See whistling kites, white ibis, spoonbills
roads impassable. Fuel and supplies
and egrets. Rufous-throated honeyeaters
are available at Aramac (100km).
nest by the waterholes. Look at night for
Beccari’s freetail bats skimming over water.
Four Mile
Waterhole
Torrens Creek
se Creek
Paradi
Corin
da R
oad
Scale
0 1 2 3 4km
To Aramac
100km
15Photo: Michael O’Connor © Qld Govt
Hard, rocky ranges rise above open grassy plains.
Bladensburg National Park
Leave open plains behind to refresh at unexpected waterholes, delve into
Must dos the park’s rich history and venture up impressive flat-topped plateaus to
• Picnic or camp at a waterhole not Scrammy Gorge and views over vast expanses of grasslands.
far from an outback town.
• Ponder life, and death, on a
station in this harsh, hot land.
Sense the significance of a cultural Things to do
landscape and aging reminders of the
• Admire gnarled ghost gums on past. Bladensburg is the traditional Scenic driving
rugged tablelands and the curly Route of the River Gum
country of the Koa People and was once a
red bark of mineritchie (red 72km return (half day) from Winton.
busy outback station.
mulga) in dry creek beds. Pick up a self-guided drive brochure at
• Take a rough track up a ‘jump See river red gums along watercourses, Winton’s visitor information centre,
up’ to gaze over almost tree-less drive past scattered patches of gidgee set your trip meter to 0km and head
plains stretching toward the trees then grassy spinifex and termite off to discover 15 places of interest
horizon. mounds on higher sandy slopes. Erosion- including waterholes along mostly-dry
resistant mesa (plateau) tops are hard Surprise Creek.
Getting there and dry with a sparse covering of stunted
From Winton head south towards vegetation—mostly acacias such as Scrammy Drive
Jundah, turning left after 8km along lancewood, bendee and mulga. 40km return (2–4 hr).
the Route of the River Gum. At the At Scrammy Lookout 8 at the edge of
junction 7km further on, turn left to an impressive flat-topped mesa you see
Bladensburg homestead (5km) and
amazing views over the grassy plains and
Scrammy Drive, or right to Bough
river flats—especially at sunset.
Shed Hole camping area (12km).
Only accessible to high-clearance vehicles
Conventional vehicles can access
the Route of the River Gum, the in dry weather. 4WD recommended.
camping area and homestead in
dry weather.
(Top): Take a self-guided
walk through the original
homestead complex and visit
other heritage sites on this
former grazing property.
© Qld Govt
(Left): You can get great photos
of local wildlife at Scrammy
Waterhole and, if the weather
is warm enough, you can swim.
© Dan Witten
(Far left): Red kangaroos are
seen on the plains.
© Qld Govt
16Places to camp
Did you know? Bough Shed Hole
Scrammy Jack was a boundary rider
who lived alone in a simple, remote
4WD recommended.
hut. After his hand was crushed by
See wallaroos and red kangaroos from
a wagon wheel he gained the name
your camp beside Surprise Creek, 12km
‘scrammy’—an old English term south of the park boundary along the
meaning ‘left-handed’. Route of the River Gum tourist drive. 4WD
recommended, but accessible to high
clearance 2WD vehicles in dry weather.
Wildlife spotting
Mitchell grass plains are a great spot to Places to go
see red kangaroos. They are also ideal
Bladensburg homestead
habitat for the largest known population
Imagine outback station life on a visit
of endangered Julia Creek dunnarts, as
to the restored homestead (now an
well as planigales (native marsupial mice) information centre and ranger office)
that sleep by day in the cracks of heavy and nearby staff quarters, meat house
black soil but are active at night. and store.
Bladensburg is home to a wonderful Engine Hole
diversity of birds, including emus, Picnic or swim at a horseshoe-shaped
Australian bustards, Hall’s babblers, waterhole lined with stunning, white river
spotted bowerbirds and singing red gums.
bushlarks. Discover painted firetails and
(Above): The greatest threats to this tiny Julia
rufous-crowned emu-wrens flitting among Creek dunnart Sminthopsis douglasi are feral Skull Hole
cats (which prey on them) and prickly acacia trees—a Sense the significance of a dry-country
the spinifex, and painted honeyeaters weed that alters the plain habitat.
Greg Mifsud © Qld Govt waterhole filled by a waterfall in the wet
or black honeyeaters in trees along
(Top): Spinifix pigeon season. This is believed to be the site
creek lines. Rosemary Millward © Qld Govt
of a tragic and violent massacre of
To Winton
Aboriginal people in the late 1800s.
14km
R oute of the Ri
Ca Racetrack remnants
S ur p
mp
be White stakes one furlong (200m) apart
ll C
ad
r i se
re mark the Old Bladensburg racetrack,
Ro ek
h where race carnivals were once held
Cre
a
W in t o n – Ju n d Shearing shed
ver Gum
ek
to raise funds for returning WWII
Opalton Road
Engine 1 Homestead servicemen.
Hole 2
Scrammy C r
Grave of baby Delia Dalrymple
Scr
Scrammy Imagine the hardships of a time before
am m
8 Lookout antibiotics, when babies sometimes died
3 ee
k
of simple infections.
y
Bough Skull Hole
Dr
4 e
Shed Hole
iv
Top Racetrack 7 Scrammy Scrammy Gorge
Waterhole
Crossing 5 Water coursing through cracks and
Baby Delia 6 Scrammy crevices of the hard-topped plateau
Gorge
grave
M
undermines the softer sandstone layer
ist
Surp
ak
Cr beneath, until eventually large blocks
e
Logan ee
ri s
eC k
Falls r Scale tumble into the gorge. Admire the gnarled
ee
0 5 10km
‘Octopus Tree’ (a ghost gum), rock figs
k
and lancewood clinging to life in rugged
conditions. Stay well back, cliff edges
are unstable.
Gaze over vast plains from
Scrammy Lookout.
© Karen Smith Scrammy Waterhole
This rock-bottomed waterhole is 2m deep
and rarely dries up.
Cliff edges are unstable.
Keep well back from
the edge and supervise
children closely.
17Photo: © Jodie Kurpershoek
Carefully constructed overshots help hold water between infrequent storms.
Combo Waterhole Conservation Park
Did the jolly swagman camp by Combo Waterhole? It’s easy to imagine
Must dos this infamous spot might have inspired Waltzing Matilda. Feel history
• Picnic in the shade of a coolabah come alive at coolabah-lined waterholes near a station visited by
tree, pondering tales of the past. renowned Australian poet AB ‘Banjo’ Paterson.
• Birdwatch along the river—a
ribbon of life in the dry. Rivers provide both life-force and Places to stay
connections across the dry inland. Explore
Camping is not permitted.
Getting there a series of waterholes surrounded by vast
Stay overnight in Kynuna nearby.
Turn off the Landsborough Highway Mitchell grass plains.
132km north-west of Winton (13km
The Koa People were the first to follow Places to go
south of Kynuna) and drive 8km to
the Diamantina River, pioneering paths
the picnic area. The access is sealed Combo Waterhole walk
of trade and travel along its braided
and suitable for 2WD vehicles. 2.6km return (1hr).
channels. Explorers followed, settlers
Grade: easy.
then brought sheep and cattle and
Discover the story of Waltzing Matilda on
established a stock route. Cobb and
a self-guided walk to Combo Waterhole.
Co teams trotted close behind and it is
believed that there was a changing station The track floods after rain—never attempt
at Combo Waterhole. See historic stone- to cross the flooded creek.
pitched overshots (crossings) along the
To Kynuna 13km
coach route traversing the Diamantina
River’s braided channels.
Things to do
Picnic at a small day-use area near
the car park, or near the waterhole.
Wildlife spotting
Birdwatching is particularly good here.
Admire the colours of rainbow bee-eaters
and sacred kingfishers, and the low-
gliding flight of spotted harriers. Listen
for the far-carrying call of a tiny weebill
and glimpse long-legged Australian
pratincoles in open country where they
Combo
feed and nest.
Waterhole
Rainbow bee-eater.
© Alistair Hartley
Scale
0 200 400m
18Photo: © John Augusteyn
Dinosaur trackways.
Lark Quarry Conservation Park
Wonder wide-eyed at more than 4,000 muddy footprints left by
Must dos pre-historic creatures on the shores of a lake 100 million years ago.
• Step back into the age of
dinosaurs on a guided tour of the
In a striking landscape of ancient mesas, Jump Up loop
dinosaur trackways .
gullies and broken escarpments rising
• Stroll through spinifex and climb 3.5km return (1.5hr).
above the spinifex, one of the world’s
broken escarpments to gaze east most important dinosaur sites has been Grade: difficult.
over Mitchell grass plains and uncovered. Preserved in rock formed Experienced, well-prepared walkers will
west to the channel country in from mud, these footprints from the past enjoy this unformed cross-country track.
the distance. were discovered in the early 1960s and It skirts several gullies, climbs along the
are now protected inside an ecologically- western escarpment then re-joins the
• Spy ring-tailed dragons,
sustainable, climate-controlled building Spinifex circuit.
lizards or snakes basking on
sun-baked rocks. with information centre.
Getting there Things to do
Stop in Winton for directions, fuel Wildlife spotting
and the latest road conditions, Spot spinifex pigeons, painted firetails,
Dinosaur
before making the drive 110km crimson chats, singing honeyeaters 1 trackways
south-west via rough, partially and little woodswallows. Watch for 2
sealed roads. A 4WD is not wallaroos snoozing under cliffs, look Spinifex
3
essential, but is recommended. for lizards and see snakes (including Ju circuit
mp U
death adders) in sunny spots. p l oo
Entry to the park, its walking tracks p
and the orientation centre is free. To Winton
But access to Lark Quarry’s dinosaur Places to go 110km
trackways is by guided tour only and Scale
fees apply. For details of tours and
Spinifex circuit 0 100 200m
bookings visit dinosaurtrackways. 500m return (30min).
com.au or the Winton Visitor Grade: easy-moderate.
Information Centre. Walk from the trackways building to a
lookout for amazing views both east and Light refreshments and guided tours
Camping is not permitted. are available in the wheelchair-
west. The track is steep in places and care accessible trackways building.
must be taken at the lookout’s edges. © John Augusteyn
It’s not just the trackways that
amaze. Take a walk to enjoy
spectacular views and wildlife of
the rugged spinifex-clad landscape.
Be sure to carry drinking water.
Ranger Sue
19Welcome to Maiawali Country
Maiawali People have lived on this land for
thousands of years, with Dreaming stories being
shared by Maiawali Elders for many generations.
We cherish our connection to country and ask that
you also respect and care for our traditional land.
Photo: © Qld Govt
Mitchell grass plains stretch to the horizon.
Diamantina National Park
Stretch your gaze across vast, treeless plains, over sand dunes and along
Must dos river channels towards eroded low ranges on the horizon. Camp in the
• Visit Janets Leap for a bird’s-eye shade of a coolabah tree, dreaming at night under endless starry skies
view of Diamantina Gates where of the Maiawali People and travellers along the mighty Diamantina River
converging channels of the long ago.
Diamantina River push through
a narrow gap in the Goyder and
Captured in song and spoken about with According to Maiawali tradition ‘Dust stirred
Hamilton ranges. by the winds is the Spirit of the Old People:
reverence, Diamantina is the subject to remember them’—Legend of the sandhill.
• Relax, canoe or birdwatch at © John Augusteyn
of folklore and a spectacularly variable
beautiful seasonal lakes or
landscape offering a unique near-desert
permanent waterholes.
experience. At 500,700ha Diamantina is
• Follow the Warracoota Circuit one of Queensland’s largest national parks.
Drive to explore pastoral relics
First Nations people understood this
and learn about the landscapes of
landscape—using the Diamantina River
the channel country.
as a trading route and finding food in its
• Get your camera snapping to
grasslands, sand dunes and sandstone
capture desert colours, amazing
ranges. Then came explorers ahead of
wildflowers, diverse wildlife and
pastoralists, stockmen and drovers
stunning sunsets across the
grazing livestock in good seasons on
plains.
Diamantina’s Mitchell grass plains.
See tracks and traces of mammals and
Getting there reptiles that have stood the test of time
Head south from Winton (306km) in this harsh environment. Experience its
or south-east from Boulia (183km), infinite beauty, replenishing waters and
north from Windorah (350km) or east shimmering mirages for yourself.
from Bedourie (275km) and follow
the signs. Fill up before leaving town
and take extra fuel. The drive is slow
and dusty, and a 4WD vehicle is
needed because roads are unsealed
for 200–300km and wheel ruts can
be deep. Even small amounts of rain
make roads impassable.
Visit in the cooler months between
April and September.
Maxime Coquard
© Tourism and Events Qld
20Walk up onto the plateau or
sand dunes near Gum Hole
to see the grasslands and
sandhills at closer range.
Ranger Chris
Things to do
Wildlife spotting
Birdwatch at waterholes and wetlands.
See flocks of waterbirds and screeching
bands of budgerigars, corellas and galahs
wheeling in unison. Look for resident
and migratory birds breeding at Lake
Constance and Hunters Gorge. Out on the
plains enjoy spotting bushlarks, chats,
emus and bustards, ground-dwelling
Australian pratincoles and birds of prey.
Places to camp
(Above): Australian bustards walk slowly, picking
Get caught up in a population boom of at seeds, leaves, fruit, lizards and insects.
native long-haired rats in channel country © Karen Smith Hunters Gorge
after good rains or floods. In response, the (Right): At Janets Leap. 4WD only.
Fiona Leverington © Qld Govt
rat’s predators, such as inland taipans, Although shade trees are few and it can be
kites, falcons and barn owls also increase windy here, the scenery and sunsets are
dramatically in numbers. Take a scenic drive stunning. Camp in an open area beside
Mundewerra Waterhole, 13.5km from the
4WD only.
Fishing and canoeing ranger base via Springvale Road.
Take 90km Warracoota Circuit Drive
Throw a line into the river at Hunters to marvel at permanent lakes, parallel
Gorge, or paddle peacefully on permanent Gum Hole (Nandibargoola)
sand dunes, claypans that appear as
waterholes and seasonal lakes. shimmering lakes in the heat and vast 4WD only.
plains clothed in gibbers or grass. Relax in the shade of coolabah and
Discover cultural heritage bauhinia trees at separate sites along
Immerse yourself in heritage at the Whistling Duck Creek 19.5km from the
Walk or ride to be closer
visitor information room at the ranger ranger base.
to nature
base, Mayne Hotel ruins at the park’s Ride a mountain bike along the park’s Note: Hunters Gorge provides higher
northern boundary, ruins at Warracoota roads and vehicle tracks to experience ground, but both camping areas are
Waterhole and at several grave sites. the wild—and often windy—nature subject to flooding in wet weather.
Diamantina National Park is particularly of Diamantina, but be sure to have
rich in evidence of First Nations people’s emergency contacts organised and
life here. carry water. Watch for vehicles.
Places to go
Janets Leap
Look out over river channels that constrict
To Winton together to pass through a narrow gap in
225km
the ranges. See Mount Mary (an island in
the middle) and Moses Cone.
Hunters Gorge
Gum Hole Mayne Hotel Plan well ahead
(heritage site)
Isolation, hot weather,
unexpected rain and the
To Boulia 183km, Janets Leap potential for vehicle breakdowns
Bedourie 275km
Restricted require you to carry extra fuel,
access area communication equipment, vehicle
Wa
r ra
co Diamantina spares and sufficient food, water
ota
Ci
rcu ranger base and medical supplies to last an
it Dr i ve
extra 2 weeks. Pack for hot and cold
conditions and ALWAYS carry plenty
To Windorah of drinking water.
350km
Scale
0 20 40km
21Warracoota Circuit Drive
Diamantina National Park
90km return (allow 4–5hr). Grasslands (19km) of Flinders
grass and 4 species of Mitchell
Set your trip meter to 0km near Gum Hole.
grass grow across vast plains.
Ensure you have enough fuel and drinking
See wildflowers here after early
water, keep to the track and leave all sites
spring rain.
as you find them.
Bronco yards (21.5km) were designed Maxime Coquard © Tourism and Events Qld
These steel yards (0km) built in the
to withstand restless cattle that
1980s by previous owners are still
were branded, tagged, castrated or
used by drovers moving stock along
dehorned here. Turn left at the T intersection
the Springvale Road stock route.
Lake Constance (24km) Warracoota Waterhole (44km)
Admire sand dunes (1.5km) formed
See waterbirds at this semi- Linger at an especially deep, long and
parallel to prevailing winds during the
permanent wetland of national narrow waterhole that has never been
last 30,000 years.
significance, as well as budgerigars, known to run dry. A special place for the
Claypans (7.5km) appear as corellas and honeyeaters in the Maiawalia, its importance to stockmen
shimmering lakes in the heat. Lake surrounding coolabah trees. as a base camp resulted in conflict over
Constance further on is one of the competing use. Leave artefacts as you
Flinders grass (29.5km) is common in
largest on the park. find them.
low-lying areas where floods occur.
Gibber plains (15.5km) are covered Warracoota Ruins (47km)
Floodout (33km) areas on heavy clay
by small stones (gibbers) polished Several stone-walled structures atop
soils between sand dunes become
smooth by windblown sand. a ridge (pictured above) are thought
swampy in wet years. Bluebush,
Maiawalia people used them for to have been built by early pioneers.
spindly-looking lignum and sesbania
chipping flakes to make stone tools. Access is via an easy 400m return walk.
pea grow here.
To Winton
(306km)
Goyder
Range
Map not to scale Gum Hole
Mundawerra
W ck C
Nandibargoola
Du
his re
Boundary Waterhole
tlin ek
To Boulia Bore
g
(183km)
13 Hunters Janets
Sp
r in g Gorge Leap
vale Road
Gum Hole yards 14
1
15 Moses
12 Steel Hamilton
Stock yards Mount Cone
2 Range
camp Mary
3 Di
Warracoota am eek
Spr an rie Cr
ing
Cre Waterhole 4 Diamantina ti Cooy
ek River
na
10
Ri
rR
ve
11 Diamantina oad
Ruins Bronco ranger base
W
yards 9
ar
ra
5
co
ta
o
Cir
cuit Little Lake Bronco
Driv 6
e Constance yards
8 Lake To Windorah
7 Constance (350km)
Legend
4WD road Permanent waterhole Sandstone range
Camping Claypan subject to flooding Mitchell grass downs
Information Sand dunes Ironstone gidgee country
Lookout Intermediary claypan country
22Return to main track
A series of parallel sand dunes Did you know?
(69km) reach up from the lower The Diamantina River provided
country along the floodplain and up a natural route for Aboriginal
onto higher plains. trade—a network of tracks running
north–south that became their
Mitchell grass plateau (72km)
commerce road. Maiawali People
Named after explorer Sir Thomas
traded boomerangs, shields, pituri
Mitchell, Mitchell grasses are
invaluable to the cattle and sheep (a plant with stimulant properties),
and later government blankets, in
Photo: © Qld Govt
industry of western Queensland.
National parks are some of the few exchange for yellow ochre, rocks for
places you can see ungrazed tools, flat-tipped single-piece
Mitchell grass. spears, white shells and shirts. Elizabeth Springs Conservation Park
protects fragile mound springs.
Turn right at Springvale Road (74.2km)
Turn right onto side-track at sign (82km)
Gum Hole yards (84km) were made
entirely of post and rails from
Elizabeth
durable gidgee and coolabah timber
by skilled Aboriginal people and Springs
Conservation
pastoralists working side-by-side.
Stock camp (85km)
An old shed and discarded items are
all that remain of a makeshift camp Park
where stockmen ate and slept after
a hard day mustering and yarding Venture north-west of Diamantina
livestock. to a small (101ha) park protecting
Return to Springvale Road endangered mound spring habitats.
The endangered Elizabeth Springs
goby fish and companion aquatic
snails live exclusively in this small,
restricted and very fragile ecosystem.
Explore Elizabeth Springs from a
signed 700m walk off Springvale
Road (103km south-east of Boulia).
You cannot drive into the park.
Camping is not permitted.
Did you know?
The Elizabeth Springs goby
(fish) and aquatic snails living
here can tolerate water that is
17 times saltier than seawater
and at temperatures reaching
41.5°C.
Hunters Gorge is a large waterhole on the Diamantina River.
(Above): © John Augusteyn
(Top): © Karen Smith
Boom or bust, water or dust Take extreme care
As isolated as it is dusty, at times you can be cut off at Diamantina by overflowing not to walk on the
claypans or flood waters spilling out from multiple river channels. Fed by rainfall in the sensitive mounds
north and draining towards Lake Eyre in South Australia, multiple river channels stretch or adjacent wetlands. The
several kilometres across in an impressive coolabah and lignum-lined river that defies mounds can be very dangerous
the desert landscape with brilliant green. After an influx of water, herbs and grasses as bogs are not visible under
burst forth across vast plains, followed by a boom in populations of insects and small the thin, dry crust.
mammals, and in turn more reptiles and birds of prey.
23You can also read
