Cloncurry

The copper mines of Cloncurry quickly made this town one of the most prosperous in the Outback. Down through the years since the copper lode was discovered in 1867, Cloncurry has hosted a plethora of other historic occasions. It was here where the idea for Qantas was first mooted. 'Conceived in Cloncurry, born in Winton and grew up in Longreach' goes a local saying. The original hangar still stands at the local aerodrome. The Royal Flying Doctor Service was also launched in Cloncurry. Visit John Flynn Place to get an insight into the story of this iconic outback service. The town is nicknamed "The Friendly Heart of the Great North West".

Cloncurry is on the Barkly Highway between Townsville and Mount Isa, around 120km from Mount Isa.

By train, The Inlander passes through Cloncurry twice a week.

The main street is Scarr St, one block north of the highway; however, many of the motels are along the highway (Ramsay St).

• Old Post office
• 🌍 Mary Kathleen Memorial Park (follow the signs from the highway). 
• 🌍 John Flynn Place Museum, Daintree St. M–F 9AM–4PM. Commemorates the founder of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. 

There is a supermarket on Scarr St.

Cloncurry doesn't have much of a main street, with not much around except a bakery (not open evenings) and some sort of fish place. You might be stuck with pub food (there are several pubs on Scarr St) or the motel restaurants (mainly on Ramsay St).

There are many motels on the highway (Ramsay St), some pubs on Scarr St and some caravan parks. Demand from mining leads to high prices.

• 🌍 Central Hotel, Scarr St. Nice motel rooms in a new block out the back. The claustrophobic pub has adequate food. $145 for motel rooms, less for hotel rooms with shared bathroom. 

Normanton and Karumba are to the north and offer a great Gulf experience.