Discover the animals and attractions that make Julia Creek a great destination for your next adventure.
Julia Creek is known as the ‘Gateway to the Gulf’ due to its position in the heart of Outback Queensland. But apart from being uniquely located, there are also lots of incredible things to see and do in Julia Creek for tourists seeking an experience like no other.
Dirt n Dust Festival
Perhaps the most well-known thing to see and do in Julia Creek is the Dirt n Dust Festival, an annual event that has been running for the last 28 years. The festival is all about celebrating the culture and spirit of outback Queensland through a crazy lineup of events and performances. This includes shows such as nightly bull rides and musical performances, bound to get the whole family involved. And, for those seeking to really get amongst the fun, there are plenty of events. The Adventure Run, also known as the dirtiest outback run, is an obstacle course through the outback packed full of mud, dirt, and thrilling challenges. During the festival, visitors are also invited to attempt Australia’s toughest triathlon. There really is something for everyone at this great festival.
Duncan McIntyre Museum
For those wanting to explore history and heritage, it’s hard to look past the Duncan McIntyre Museum. The building is home to many interesting artifacts that paint a picture of what life was like in Julia Creek throughout its history as one of the first European settlements in north western Queensland. While here, you will discover a Willy Jeep Truck, steam engine, and plenty of fossils from the Eromanga Sea. Entry is free, and the museum is well worth a visit while you’re in town. This is one of the best things to see and do in Julia Creek if you want to learn about the area’s past, present and future.
Visit the Dunnarts
The Julia Creek Visitor’s Centre is an award winning attraction thanks to its collection of travel information and exhibits. It’s in this centre where visitors will have the chance to meet two beautiful Dunnarts, Duncan and Donald.
Dunnarts are nocturnal marsupials found only in Australia. The Julia Creek Dunnart is one of the biggest in the country, growing up to 25cm. Aside from being uniquely large, the Julia Creek Dunnart is also endangered. Spotting them in the wild is extremely rare, due to their shy nature and nightime hunting practices.
However, Duncan and Donald can be found in the ‘beneath the creek’ exhibit, a hands on attraction showcasing the flora and fauna found in this spectacular area. While here, you can watch a Dunnart feeding, and even meet them for yourselves.
Julia Creek Artesian Baths
After a long day of exploring this outback oasis, there’s nothing better than relaxing in a private bath. Located in the Julia Creek caravan park, the Artesian Baths are filled with artesian water, which is pressurised within a porous and naturally heated to aroun 38 degrees. The water is then extracted using bores over 900 meters deep, and delivered straight to the tubs. It’s believed that this water has the power to heal and soothe. And after hours of driving and exploring, nothing sounds better than that.
Rex now flies to Julia Creek! Check out their website or the route map below for more details.
Loving these things to see and do in Julia Creek? Check out what’s on offer in the outback town of Bedourie here.
Or, for a complete guide to Australia’s iconic outback destinations, click here.
Cover image: Samson sculpture by Sue Tilley © Outback Queensland
