Birdsville - Queensland

First of all, Birdsville is well-known for its dust storms, the scorching heat in summer, and loneliness. It's also famous for the race weekend in September. The races attract thousands of visitors, and everything goes a bit crazy in town.

You think you finally arrive at populated areas once you've managed the Birdsville Track? Far from it! Whichever route you took to get here, you've come a long way. And it sure takes some driving to return to civilisation. Believe me, you're still in the middle of nowhere. But hey, this is Outback Australia! You'll love it. Relax and enjoy true country hospitality in an historic town.

Birdsville - a sleepy little bush town

The township at the edge of the Simpson desert is surrounded by sandy plains. However, the Diamantina River provides the town with a lovely permanent waterhole. The billabong, right behind the caravan park, truly is a paradise for bird-watching. Australia's bird life is so rich and colourful. Unfortunately, the billabong is a heaven for the mozzies, as well.

The rich birdlife gave the little settlement that was once known as Diamantina Crossing its final name.

Like many outback towns, this bush town had its ups and downs. Today it serves as a "major" centre in the huge Diamantina Shire. Well, it is easy to get the "major" status out there when in fact the entire shire has only two towns of any size.

Points of interest

A visit to the Working Museum is a trip down memory lane. Old wagons and coaches, a blacksmith shop, pottery, jewelery, toys, there's so much to see. John Menzies will be happy to show you around. The Museum is open daily, and there are tours three times a day.

The Royal Hotel ruins - the hotel was built in 1883, and operated as a hotel for 40 years. From 1923 to 1937 the Royal was used as a hospital. The materials to convert it from a hotel to a hospital were brought to town by a camel train of 75 camels. Imagine that!

You can't miss the hotel ruins, they are just across the caravan park.

The Blue Poles Art Gallery - do you expect a gallery out there in the bush? The Blue Poles Art Gallery is run by Wolfgang John, who came from Germany to Australia in the 1960s. He fell in love with the Outback, and moved to Birdsville in 1993. If you feel hungry after seeing beautiful Outback paintings, you can take a rest at the Big Red Cafe on the premises, run by Wolfgang's son Karsten and his partner Jackie.

It is just a wonderful country out there, for painting and photography, for everyone who enjoys nature. All you need is a little bit time, and the Outback rewards you with spectacular sunsets and sheer beauty.

The Birdsville Hotel is Australia's most legendary Outback Pub. Built in 1884, the hotel has a long history of being a place to spin a yarn, experience the Aussie spirit, and get an ice-cold beer.

During the annual Birdsville races in September things in and around the pub sure go a bit crazy. Imagine 5000 people from all around Australia invade the sleepy little town.

Are you keen for a sense of adventure? The Big Red Sand Dune, the most famous dune of the Simpson Desert, is just 35 km to the west. It is the first and highest sand dune in the Simpson, and a challenge for 4x4 enthusiasts.

Please be aware that you need to be well equipped and experienced if you're going to cross the Simpson Desert. Read more about Outback driving in the Outback safety section.

This map gives you an idea about town's isolation. Zoom in and out, and move around to get a glimpse of the stunning dunes west of the town.

Want to know where to go beyond Birdsville? Also check out the travel tips for ideas about where to stay and get supplies in town.

Search for more information in the Outback guide.

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