The best way to experience everything the Quilpie Shire has to offer is to take a road trip…and we’ve got the itinerary just for you!
Day 1: CHEEPIE – The friendly ‘ghost town’
As you travel west from Charleville, take a detour to the friendly ‘ghost town’ of Cheepie. Once a Cobb & Co Change Station, Cheepie became a township when the railway came through in 1914. Just one long-time resident remain in town. The butcher, baker and blacksmith, to name a few, have since left. Picnic beside the tranquil Beechal Creek before driving another 77km east to Quilpie.
Set up camp at either The Lake or Channel Country Tourist Park at Quilpie for 2 nights.
Day 2: QUILPIE – Rich in colour & art
Start the date with a freshly brewed coffee at a Brolga Street coffee shop, a great starting point to appreciate the local art scene. Discover more of the regions flourishing art movement with visits to the Lyn Barnes and the Quilpie Shire Gallery. Try your luck at the free opal fossicking area of ask at the Visitor Information Centre for where you can purchase locally sourced opal jewellery. Be sure to take a peek at the incredible Opal altar at St. Finbarr’s Church. Late afternoon, toast the sunset from Baldy Top Lookout.
Multiple accommodation options available in Quilpie
Day 3: ADAVALE – Gateway to Hell Hole Gorge
Before starting your drive to Adavale, be sure to check road conditions and purchase a National Park camping permit from the Quilpie Visitor Information Centre. Keen ‘anglers’ and ‘twitchers’ will relish the fishing and birdwatching opportunities in Adavale. History buffs will enjoy the historical walk and outdoor mini museum. From Adavale it’s just under 1 ½ hours’ drive to the spectacular Hell Hole Gorge National Park.
Set up camp at Hell Hole Gorge campsite (4WD access only. Camping visitors must be self-sufficient).
Day 4: TOOMPINE – The pub with no town
Head south via Quilpie to the pub with no town on the Dowling Track – Toompine. The South Western Hotel is all that remains of this once bustling frontier town. There’s at least 120 years of stories linked to this local watering hole. It’s an ideal base for fishing and opal fossicking at Duck Creek or Sheep Station Creek (fossicking licences are required).
Set up camp around the pub grounds (basic facilities only – please call Quilpie Visitor Information Centre prior)
Day 5: EROMANGA – Land of the giants
Drive North West to Eromanga, the furthest town from the sea and home to Australia’s largest dinosaur. For a chance to touch a 95 million year old dinosaur bone, join the Australian Dinosaur Giant’s tour at the Eromanga Natural History Museum. Tuck into a hearty pub meal at the Royal Hotel, built in 1885 and follow the town’s historical walk.
Set up camp at Eromanga Caravan Park or stay in 4 star comfort at Cooper’s Country Lodge.
This itinerary is from page 6 of our new Quilpie Shire Visitor Guide which you can view online here. To request a hard copy click here.
