Outback sunsets, endless skies and aviation history are the things that have put Longreach on the map. Located several hundred miles inland from the beach at Rockhampton, it is home to the Australian Hall of Fame and Outback Heritage Centre, a museum dedicated to Queensland’s rugged heritage. Longreach isits proudly on the Tropic of Capricorn and is surrounded by some stunning national parks, including Diamantina and Lark Quarry. Get up close and personal with nature in a truly unspoiled landscape.
Areas & Neighbourhoods in Longreach
Longreach - The town itself is home to the beautiful Thomson River and some of the best outback sunsets in all Australia.
Ilfracombe - Known as the ‘hub of the west’, this little village sits on the Matilda Highway with enough facilities to make any short stay memorable.
Isisford - Right on the banks of the Barcoo, this once humble outback town has some great leisure facilities, including an 18-hole golf course and museum.
Yaraka - A small township with a race track and compact town centre, with gardens and a few amenities for visitors.
Things to See in Longreach
The Qantas Founders Museum celebrates the association of the national airline with the town. There are airplanes to see, including a 747, so it’s a must for aviation enthusiasts. The Australian Hall of Fame and Outback Heritage Centre is dedicated to showing off this part of the state’s rugged history. There are even shows to give you a more visual experience of how outback life used to be. Bird watching is another great activity here, especially at the Iningai Park, named after the traditional owners of the land. These reserved flat and woodlands are home to some beautiful bird species.
Things to Do in Longreach
There’s a choice of national parks around Longreach. One of the most popular is the Lochern National Park which ranges from thick scrub to lofty escarpments. You can see rock-wallabies and walk through rocky gorges. Hang around for sunset too, as it’s spectacular. The Welford National Park is another top attraction, where you can camp out at a billabong or explore red desert dunes. Idalia and Forest Den national parks should also be on your list of things to do here. They’re great for mountain biking and hiking, with fishing and canoeing options also available. Or, if you’re in the mood for something more relaxed, just enjoy a picnic in the stunning surroundings. Longreach is a gateway to all of this natural beauty and more.