Monday, October 19, 2009

Isisford - Wed 14th to Sat 17th October

We had originally planned to travel onto Barcaldine from Blackall but as we intimated in an earlier post, a change of direction was also possible. A chance encounter at Augathella with a couple of Victorian travellers heading home and their recollections of camping at Isisford prompted a re-appraisal of our intentions.


We left the highway at Blackall and turned onto a minor road towards Isisford, this road is in good condition but fairly narrow. We had to leave the road on several occasions and let the cattle road trains have all the bitumen. We drove through some prime pastoral land, home to some large stations with names such as 'Isis Downs' and 'Thornleigh Creek Station'. Although we noticed many prime cattle along the roadside, we also saw many emus with chicks and brolgas.


Camp fees at Isisford are quite reasonable at $2 per night or $10 per week. We camped on the bank of the Barcoo River in a secluded niche amongst the trees (not river gums).





The river view from our camp.


Well maintained toilets and drinking water was supplied, no showers. We used our own external shower for the first time here and found it most satisfactory. We could walk into town for our food supplies.




The road into town from the west.




The Golden West, one of two pubs in town.



The other pub, Clancy of the Overflow. Where Banjo Paterson found inspiration for his writing. The owners must have faith in the future of the town as there are extensive refurbishments underway.




More of the main street.




Every country town seems to have a museum. This one had photo collections in albums and comfy chairs to sit and view them.




The museum and historical park are behind the Isisford Shire Office (now part of Longreach Council).


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