An easy day today -- just 210km west from Charleville to the nice little town of Quilpie, population 650. In the heart of the Channel Country, this is the end of the train line from Brisbane; and the area is Durack country, made famous in Mary Durack's Kings in Grass Castles. It is 953km by road from Brisbane.
The Diamentina Development Road boasts of being Australia's longest, running from Charleville to Mt Isa, 1374km. The stretch I drove is in very good condition, just wide enough for 2 cars to pass. Have to go bush when a road train approaches! Nothing to see along the way, just one little pub. The rail line paralleled the road most of the way.
All these little towns have wonderful Information Centres sponsored by the local shire council, with very enthusiastic staff who are most helpful . Same here in Quilpie. Booked into the motel at the Imperial Hotel .. rather unique. A set of 8 dongers are lined up under a shelter; each has twin beds, ensuite, TV , aircon, fridge and are immaculately clean and comfortable. So I should get a good sleep.
The local Catholic Church is a tourist spot: the front of the altar and ambo are covered with opal stone: must unusual. This is opal country and there are plenty of signs pointing to reserves where one can fossick if so inclined.
During the wet season on radio one hears constant flood warnings for the Paroo and Bulloo rivers. Passed over both near Quilpie: just dry gullies now. Hard to imagine how they channel water from such a vast flat catchment when it rains. Outside of the town is a small hill called Baldy Top. I scarmbled to the top and had a wonderful 360' view of the flat scrubby countryside.
I am hurrying this post at the local library before it closes at 4.30 pm. Won't have time to label the pics ... will do that and maybe add to the post tomorrow. This is the only spot in town where I could find internet access!
Photos here
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