Birdsville

Noted for its isolation and wild country, Birdsville is a classic ‘must visit’ Outback Town. The town began life as ‘Diamantina Crossing’ in 1881. Later given the name of Birdsville in 1885, reportedly a compliment to the local birdlife. The name Burtsville, after the popular settler J. Burt was also proposed but was eventually declined. The town’s original function was as a ‘tariff wall’ between Queensland and South Australia. Tolls which had provided the town’s income finally ceased in 1901 with the formation of the Federation and the town population declined.

Birdsville today is a modern community with a sporting complex, gymnasium, two galleries, a bakery, air services, motel, hotel, caravan park and cabins, coffee shops and restaurants, general store, post office, medical clinic, fuel and auto services, and a police station. It is often the starting point for travellers making their way into South Australia along the Birdsville Track. Featured attractions in the town include the famous pub, annual Birdsville Races and the Birdsville Bash held annually in July.

Some attractions in and around Birdsville include Big Red Sand Dune, Birdsville Hotel, Wirrarri Visitor Information Centre, Birdsville Racecourse, Birdsville Billabong, Birdsville Track, Burke & Wills Tree, Inland Hospital Museum,Geothermal Power Station, Birdsville Waddi Trees, and Muga-Thirri (Simpson Desert) National Park.

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