Top ten things to do in Barcaldine
1. Visit the Tree of Knowledge
This iconic ghost gum grew in front of the Barcaldine Railway station until it was poisoned, after which it was immortalised in a magnificent art installation. Visit this monument and learn about why this tree is so important to the history of the labour party and trade unions.
TIP - Visit the Tree at night to get a beautiful perspective of the Tree of Knowledge all lite up!
2. Australian Workers Heritage Centre
The Australian Workers Heritage Centre is the nation’s only dedicated and ongoing tribute to the history of all Australian working men and women. The centre has exhibitions displaying the history of healthcare workers, traditional bush medicine and history of the labour party that was born in Barcaldine. The Australian Workers Heritage centre is open 7 days a week and is open 8.30 to 2pm.
3. Lloyd-Jones Weir
The Lloyd-Jones Weir is located 15km south of Barcaldine and is a great spot for bird watchers and nature lovers alike. It was built in 1952 and is a scenic area that offers picnic tables, BBQ’ and toilet facilities. A good place to swim, fish and relax.
4. Barcaldine Tag Along Tours
Tag Along Tours is a family run tour that show cases Dunraven a sheep and cattle property. If you really want to experience a working station this is the tour for you. Tours operate on Tuesdays and Fridays - bookings essential. Call Roberta 0427 511 651. Smoko included. A great day out.
5. The Radio Picture Theatre
Located in Beech street, the theatre first opened in 1926 with silent movies, followed by the introduction of sound movies in 1931. The theatre still provides old style canvas seats for comfort when movies are screened. Open only on the weekends (Friday and Sunday nights) and showing the latest flicks, this icon of Barcaldine is a gorgeous art deco style cinema. Step back in time whilst watching the latest blockbuster!
6. The Lake Dunn Sculpture Trail
The Lake Dunn Sculpture Trail is a display of the fine work of a local sculptor Milynda Rogers. The trail is one of the biggest permanent outdoor exhibitions in the world. The trail features 40 sculptures made from scrap mental and covers approximately 200km. Barcaldine is the perfect place for a day trip to do the Sculpture trail as it starts in Aramac and ends in Jericho. To do the trail completely it takes a day, it is so worth a look at this unique display of art. While you are out and about be sure and take a look at Gray Rock, the Healing Circle and Lake Dunn. Grab a map at the Tourist Information Centre.
7. Healing Circle
The Healing Circle is an ancient scared circle that is part of 7 such circles that are said to be connected energetically. The other circles reside in japan, Tibet, Madagascar, Peru, Turkey and the USA. The circle is used for prayer, meditation, and healing. It is a great point of interest and is located on the drive to Lake Dunn.
8. Masonic Lodge
This national heritage listed building is a unique site in Barcaldine. Built in 1901, the iron and timber building has a painted facade on the front and back which has been designed to make the building look as though it is made from brick. It is still used as a Masonic Temple and meetings are held once a month. Tours of the Lodge by a local mason can be arranged by contacting the Visitor Information Centre.
9. Barcaldine Rec Park
Visit the newest edition to the township of Barcaldine located approximately 1km from the town centre. Enjoy this manmade lake which is 1100m long and 250m wide. A variety of water sports are allowed along with swimming and you can also enjoy bird and people watching. You will find the entrance to the Rec Park along the highway to Longreach.
10. Lara Station
Lara Station is 28km South of Barcaldine and 78km North of Blackall on the Landsborough Highway. Enjoy the lovely drive, then look for the yellow and black Lara sign. Follow the signs for 13km along a graded dirt road to the booking office. You could enjoy a campfire and star gazing at night, whilst enjoying the sounds of the nightlife, or go out early in the morning to experience the majestic sunrise over the wetlands.
Evening Dining
A question we are often asked is where to have an evening meal.
The Landsborough Lodge and the Ironbark Inn are located within walking distance from Roses N Things Caravan Park. Both offer good food and are licensed.
In the main street of Barcaldine
There is one pub that offers food The Union Hotel.
The Barcaldine Motor Inn also offers a good menu but bookings are essential so be sure to phone ahead.
For a quick bite the Choice service station has a take away menu - you can dine in or takeaway.
The Barcaldine Ski Park Dinner is also open for evening meals, located approximately 1km along the Longreach road. You can sit and admire the view of the Ski Park or take away.