The Paroo Shire incorporates the Fout Towns of Cunnamulla, Yowah, Eulo and Wyandra, with Cunnamulla being the hub of the Shire and is centrally situated on the crossroads of the Balonne and Mitchell Highways.
Cunnamulla
Nestled on the banks of the Warrego River is where you will discover this western gem. Cunnamulla, meaning “long stretch of water” is located at the crossroads of the Mitchell Highway (Matilda Highway) and the Adventure Way and is home to characters from all backgrounds.
The Cunnamulla Fella sits proudly on his pedestal overlooking the rose lined streets and welcomes visitors to our town. “Cunnamulla Fella” was written by Stan Coster in the 50’s and Slim Dusty put the infamous words to song. The Cunnamulla Fella Statue was created to honour the characters that have passed through, set up camp, worked and wandered this country.
Eulo
The “Montville of the Outback”, Eulo, is a small community, on the banks of the Paroo River, with a large pride which is evident when you visit. Famous not only for the infamous “Eulo Queen” and the hotel named after her but also for the abundant local produce, products, opal and craft which can all be purchased in the town and the old fashioned “we care” attitude.
You won’t be short of something to do – have an Artesian Mud Bath, discover why there is an Air Raid shelter in Eulo, wander through the Telegraph House Gallery to look at the wide selection of opals and art work, find yourself a whip, belt or handbag from Paroo Patch, relax, fish & birdwatch on the Paroo River, go bush camping on an outback station or take advantage of the Billabong and Granite Nature Drives.
While in the area do not miss exploring the Artesian Mud Springs just 12 km outside of Eulo, this natural phenomenon is a natural release valve for the Artesian Basin.
Make a trip to Eulo in May, as each year over the third weekend in May, “Wandilla Station” just outside Eulo, hosts the 5 day Music In The Mulga Country Music Festival.
Yowah
Opal is the Australian National Gem and the township of Yowah is a “Living Gallery” with the story of Opal everywhere you turn, their beautiful colours and magnificent patterns never cease to amaze.
This little townships point of difference is the “Unique Yowah Nut” and distinctive Galleries that are scattered throughout the town to welcome you into their wonderful displays.
Stay at the Artesian Waters Caravan Park and then set about enjoying your time in this small community. Try your hand at fossicking to find your own colour in the fossicking area adjacent to the town. Visit the Bluff and marvel at the views of the surrounding country and the magnificent rock formations for great photo opportunities and spectacular sunsets. Local birdlife abounds so why not join a birdwatching tour with a knowledgeable local.
You can test your skills on the Golf Course, have a game of tennis and rest afterwards with a coffee at the RTC Cafe or at the Artesian Waters before sharing a meal at the Community Fireside Barbecue where everyone is made feel welcome. Enjoy a “borebath” in the Artesian Waters open air baths under the painting of stars which use the sky as their canvas. You can also soak in the new community Artesian Spas during your visit to yowah.
Visitors are invited to attend the community barbecue held each Saturday night during winter. The Sunday Tailgaters Stall which starts around 12 noon, will have you in awe with the opals and craft from this community.
Wyandra
A great area to have a break, half way between Cunnamulla and Charleville, Wyandra is a small township that welcomes tired travellers.
Set up camp and then head off to discover what this little town has to offer. In bygone years, Wyandra was a thriving township so endeavour to explore the history of the town. A trip around the Heritage Trail will whet your appetite for knowledge prior to having a cool drink at the Gladstone Hotel to find out some of the towns history from the locals.
Just down the road, the Powerhouse Museum houses some great nostalgia and continues the historic journey and there won’t be too many questions that Glen will not be able to answer. Also ask about the bottling of the Artesian Water in the town.
Take a picnic lunch and head to “The Beach” on the Warrego River to enjoy the beautiful scenery, tranquility, a spot of fishing or bushwalking. A meal is not a problem as this is available from The Post Office Café or the Gladstone Hotel before watching a film in the unique outdoor Cinema at the Post Office and General Store.
Find a serene spot along the river and sit with your bobbing rod or line to catch a feed of fish or to tell the yarn about the one that got away.
After a few days in the area you will be rejuvenated and ready to continue your journey.