Guide to Hughenden Queensland Australia

Hughenden is located half-way between Townsville and Mount Isa on the Flinders Highway, North West Queensland and is the major centre of the Flinders Shire which includes the centres of Prairie, Torrens Creek and Stamford.

Hughenden is situated on the banks of Queensland’s longest river, the Flinders. The town is located above the Great Artesian Basin and relies on sub-artesian bores for its water supply.

Hughenden, the hub of the North West, has direct road access to all major centres and tourist attractions in this region, including Charters Towers and Townsville, and their many, many attractions.

Hughenden has many attractions to offer with four National Parks, gemfields, mountainous volcanic basalt country, sweeping black soil plains and rich fossil and dinosaur areas. Put swimming, fishing and birdwatching high on your agenda.

Situated on the edge of a vast pre-historic inland sea, the area was once home to many terrestrial dinosaurs as well as marine reptiles. Fossils are to be found in many of the creek beds surrounding the town. The town boasts a series of sculptures from local artists depicting fossils and dinosaurs with a touch of outback heritage. The Flinders Discovery Centre houses a life-size Mutttaburrasaurus skeletal replica and a fossil display of international standards.

Hughenden offers gem fossicking and scenic four wheel drives through magnificent volcanic basalt country. A number of scenic four wheel drive routes have been mapped and identified. These drives offer panoramic views and lookouts and a diverse range of flora, fauna, rocks and soils. The colours and textures are amazing and constantly changing.