Once a thriving railway siding with a population of 30 it today has only two residents.
Emmet, approx. half way between Isisford and Yaraka, was once a fully functional town with an operating railway station and a large number of residential housing. Situated on the railway line running from Blackall to Yaraka, it was the main depot for neighbouring properties to pick up their supplies, stores and mail. Now the residents are down to two people. Stop and look through the historical display at the old store and railway station. There is also a picnic area for you to use to take a break.
The Powerhouse & Historical Museum is a local history museum and heritage listed generating station. The museum is a great family & pet friendly attraction to visit, not only incorporating the history of power in Longreach over the years but a space for kids to learn in a fun way by following a scavenger hunt throughout the complex.
The story of the “Great Brown Land, its people, its landscapes, its animals, and its environment. That is our story, a moment captured, a time remembered, a people and place that is like no other. Indigenous, pastoralists, explorers, men, women and children, animals, and environment co-existing, succeeding, failing, living, and dying, they all have a story to tell, and it is our great honour to be the custodians of these stories and share them with our visitors.
Experience the captivating journey of aviation history at the Qantas Founders Museum in Longreach, a true gem of the outback. Step back in time and explore the birthplace of the world-renowned airline, Qantas, in this remarkable museum. Immerse yourself in the rich history of aviation through interactive displays, engaging exhibits, and a stunning collection of aircraft, including the legendary Boeing 747 and Super Constellation. Discover the courage and innovation that shaped Qantas into an international icon.
Your guided tour includes an overview of distance education in the bush and beyond. You’ll meet students, see them on on-air and find out about their lives. You’ll catch an on-air lesson with teachers based at the school and have time to explore the school grounds, student and other information displays and meet school staff.
Back in the pioneer era, people flocked to the tent shows when they arrived in town. This show is inspired by the simple fun and humour of those days. Of course times have changed and we shudder at some of the original exhibits but we’ve still managed to pack in plenty of quirky humour and a few animal antics.
You rarely feel closer to the iconic Australian life than when you’re on an outback station. You’ll discover the merino story and meet the merinos in the historic woolsheds, you’ll join your host on the water run, you’ll see the ruins of Captain Starlight’s famous stockyards and you’ll see domestic animals, feral animals and wildlife on the sunlit plains.
Clamber aboard the old stagecoach, just as a pioneer would have done, while the team of horses wait patiently. Then it’s off with creaks and rattles to the old Longreach-Windorah mail route. There you’ll travel along the bush track, before a short gallop to ‘outrun the storm’. This is the only place in Australia you can gallop in a stagecoach!
The experience also includes a delicious outback smoko (morning tea), a classic bush movie in the old theatrette and the Old Time Tent Show.
Wear old clothes as it can be a dusty ride and discover your pioneering spirit!
Location – Corner of Landsborough Highway and Galah Street, Longreach
Edkins park has a covered BBQ facility with a children’s playground and Male/female/disabled toilets. Edkins Park also has the site of The Cenotaph and the Longreach ANZAC service is held here each year as well as Carols by Candlelight and other activities throughout the year.
Location – corner Sparrow and Cassowary Streets, Longreach
Lioness Park has a BBQ, children’s playground area and male/female/disabled toilets. This park is entirely fenced. Playgroup is held here weekly.
Location – at the end of Eagle Street in Longreach, heading south towards Jundah.
The skate park is a covered and surround by a lovely green lawn and gardens. This is where you can ride your skate board, BMX Bike or Roller Blades. The skate park is a popular social area for local youth. The park has toilets, BBQ area, playground and a lovely lawn area.
Feel the benefits as you soak your travel weary muscles as you step in and immerse yourself in the rejuvenating mineral waters of this artesian spa. The Artesian Spa is located in the Ilfracombe Memorial park which also has a swimming pool.
This attractive park has access to a 20m swimming pool and heated mineral spa. Shade structures are situated throughout and there are Male/female/disabled toilets/showers. Enjoy a leisurely soak and take advantage of the playground equipment and free barbeque facilities. The park is also home to the Rotunda, an elegant centrepiece erected in memory of Ilfracombe’s war heroes.