Thargomindah - Capital of the Bulloo Shire

Let me introduce you to another tiny bush town. Thargomindah is the hub of the Bulloo Shire in the south west corner of Outback Queensland. Like any other township in Outback Australia it has its very own flair and history. That's why I love them all. Aussie bush towns are never boring if you care to discover their secrets.

Thargomindah's main claim to fame is that it was the first town in Australia, and next to London and Paris, the third in the world, with electrical street lights generated by hydro power. It must be a special place that is mentioned with Paris and London in one sentence! Find out more in this article about renewable energy.

Landscapes in the Bulloo region vary and are ever changing from dry red dust to marooned mud. You'll always experience a special Outback feeling.

Thargomindah was established in 1874 on the banks of the Bulloo river. It is about 1000km west of Brisbane. For more info about distances in this part of Outback Queensland check the driving distances charts.

In the late 19th century the town was a Cobb & Co. station. From here coaches serviced settlements like Hungerford, Wompah and Toompine. You can still see the stone crossing in the Bulloo river.

Points of interest

Leahy Historic House was built in 1885 by John Leahy from local mud bricks. In 1912 well-known pastoralist Sidney Kidman bought the house for his travelling manager.

Today the house is owned by the historical society and open for the public, It is worth a visit to see the memorabilia.

The Post Office opened in 1870 and is one of four remaining mud brick houses. It was destroyed by a storm in 1877. It's interior was burnt in 1952. It still serves as a post office after a turbulent life.

Other historic buildings include the original hospital that houses the visitor information centre today.

Don't miss the artesian bore and the display of renewable energy just outside of the town.

Take the heritage walk in town, stroll along Bulloo river, explore the rich history of the region. Relax and absorb true Outback feeling.

Where to stay

For accommodation and other services in Thargomindah see the Queensland travel tips page.

Attractions in the neighbourhood

The main attraction in the park are Lake Numalla (freshwater) and Lake Wyara (salt water). The wetlands make the park a great place for bird-watching. The National Park's area was once a grazing property. Relics of buildings and machinery are of interest for those interested in heritage.

There's a project running to re-introduce the bilby which has nearly disappeared in Queensland.

Currawinya NP is about 200 km southeast near Hungerford and the border to New South Wales. You better have a high clearance vehicle to explore the park.

Lake Bindegolly National Park is just 35 km east of Thargo. It is a place for nature's enthusiasts. Access to the park and its three lakes is only by foot to protect the fragile nature. There's a 9,2 km walking trail along Lake Bindegolly.

Hungerford on the Queensland/New South Wales border. The Royal mail Hotel from 1873 still exists and serves the local population of 12. Hungerford is close to the Currawinya National Park.

Noccundra is about 145 km west of Thargomindah on the banks of the Wilson river. In the early 1880s a stone hotel was built which is heritage listed today. Enjoy a cold drink in the beer garden or on the veranda before you head out further into remote areas.

This is remote country, and it is beautiful. Be prepared and don't miss the Outback safety chapter to get essential tips about Outback driving and how to prepare for a safe Outback trip.