Charleville: The Heart of Queensland’s Mulga Country
Nestled in Queensland’s Outback, Charleville stands as a testament to the region’s rich history and vibrant culture. As the largest town in the southwest of the Queensland Outback, Charleville was officially recognized as a town in 1868. Its name, bestowed by Government surveyor Mr. WA Tully, pays homage to an Irish town where he once resided.
In March 1888, Charleville was connected to Brisbane, the state capital, by rail. Today, the Westlander Train by Queensland Rail continues to offer bi-weekly passenger services to Charleville.
The renowned coach company, Cobb and Co, established their most significant coach-making factory in Charleville in 1890. The relocation was strategic; coaches crafted near the coast would deteriorate in Western Queensland’s arid conditions.
In 1922, Qantas launched its inaugural fare-paying passenger service from Charleville, connecting to Cloncurry via Longreach and Winton.
Charleville’s Heritage Trail offers a journey through time, highlighting the town’s historical landmarks and heritage buildings. For stargazers, the Charleville Cosmos Centre and Observatory promises a celestial experience, with clear skies offering unparalleled views of the cosmos.
The region is teeming with native wildlife, from kangaroos and emus to majestic birds of prey. The National Parks Research Station, home to the Save the Bilby Fund, offers seasonal tours where visitors can encounter these endangered marsupials.
Located on the Mitchell Highway, also known as the Matilda Highway, Charleville is the crown jewel of the Murweh Shire with a population of 3,500. The shire also encompasses towns like Augathella, Morven, and Cooladdi, with populations of 400, 230, and a few residents, respectively.
Artesian water, sourced from the shire’s four bores, is vital for Charleville, given the area’s average annual rainfall of just 491mm. The climate varies, with winter temperatures ranging from -3 to 20°C and summer temperatures oscillating between 20 to 40°C. The vast landscapes here comprise properties spanning 25,000 to 40,000 acres.
Education in this remote region is facilitated by the School of Distance Education, ensuring students, even those residing hundreds of kilometers away, receive quality education.
Lastly, Charleville is home to the base of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, an iconic institution known for its invaluable medical assistance to outback residents and travelers. A visit to their visitor center is a must for anyone keen to understand the spirit of the Queensland Outback.
