Bedourie is an outback town in the heart of the 95,000 square kilometre Diamantina Shire. Meaning ‘dust storm’ in the local Indigenous language, it was originally inhabited by the Wangkamahdla people.
Today, this history is honoured in a Dreamtime sculpture, also titled Dust Storm, which can be recognised due to its swirling design meant to symbolise the way spirits travel in Dreamtime stories.
Perhaps the biggest attraction in Bedourie, the Artesian Spa and Aquatic Centre draws its water from an artesian bore that was drilled in 1905. This ensures that the spa water is naturally heated between 30 to 40 degrees at all times. Kids will love splashing around in the 25-metre swimming pool, while adults can soak tired muscles in the 22-person therapeutic spa.
Recreation in Bedourie
Sports fans should check out the Bedourie Outback Golf Course, located on the banks of Lakes Larry and Sampson. The nine-hole course is designed to suit beginners and prolific players, with sand traps and other obstacles to overcome. Plus, the prime location by the water offers many chances for birdwatching while you’re waiting for your turn.
For insight into Bedourie’s past, make sure to visit the Pise House, known locally as the Mud Hut. Built by Mary Brodie in 1896, it was constructed using rammed earth and mud from Eyre Creek, and now stands as one of only two remaining buildings from this time period.
Outdoor Adventures
If you’re willing to travel off the beaten track, Diamantina National Park overflows with waterholes, sandstone ranges, wetlands, sand dunes, and everything in between. Visitors can try canoeing or kayaking down the Diamantina River, or even stay the night at one of several tent and caravan campgrounds. The best way to experience this vast national park is by car,
and there are plenty of picturesque lookouts to visit.
Just 68 kilometres south of Bedourie, Cuttaburra Crossing is a permanent waterhole and wetland on Eyre Creek, known for its diverse range of bird species which can be viewed along the banks of the creek. Visitors can also make use of the free campsite, which is dog-friendly and perfect for RVs, caravans and tents.
Hotels and restaurants
The Bedourie Hotel, first opened in 1886, is a town institution. It maintains its classic look with original adobe bricks and a green roof. Here, you can expect a friendly greeting, and a number of comfortable rooms perfect for an overnight stay. The dining room, which used to be the headquarters for the boundary riders on the rabbit netting fence at Ethabuka Springs, today exudes country charm with its wooden decor and framed newspaper articles. Visitors can expect a delicious pub meal, with some quirky specialties including camel pies. The pool table and dart board are always open for business, and friendly pet residents are always ready to say hello.
For a classic Outback camping experience, check out the Simpson Desert Oasis. Visitors can choose from air-conditioned cabins, motel rooms, or caravan campgrounds on the edge of the Simpson Desert. It’s a bit of a drive from town, but perfect for those wanting to explore the desert and embark on an adventure like no other. Facilities include a grocery story, fuel and tire repair, and a laundromat, so you can stock up before leaving civilisation behind. The on-site restaurant is also a top spot, serving hearty pub food, with an outdoor and barbecue area for more relaxed dining.
Did you enjoy this feature on Bedourie? Check out one of our other stories here.