Boulia Queensland

Before heading off we go for a bit of an explore around the dam. 

It’s a lovely area with plenty of granite outcrops, which continue for some kilometres as we drive south towards Boulia. Then it’s predominantly Mitchell and Flinders grass plains with plenty of cattle scattered through out. 

It’s a reasonable single lane sealed road to the small township. 

This once bustling town has now 250 inhabitants, a pub, general store, supermarket and a motel. Its population increases significantly during the annual July camel races and the Easter races. There is a heritage center offering information about the marine fossils found in the district along with local history.

The area is also known for the mysterious Min Min lights, an unexplained phenomenon.  The light often appears just after dark and is said to be similar to a car headlight except that it manifests itself as a small ball and often follows a traveller for some kilometres before disappearing into the darkness. There have been sightings for 100’s of years.

On the edge of town is a windmill and water tank.

We park up and put a wash on before going for a stroll.

There are some signs explaining the historic significance of some of the buildings.

Wide open streets and not much traffic

The town lawn mower

We then head out to a free camp just behind the race course on the banks of the Burke River… named by the explorer himself when they came through during their ill fated expedition in 1861.

Some camels left from the recent races..

The racecourse

 173km today