Mitchell

Population: 950 - Amby, Muckadilla and Mungallala (Total combined district population 2,000 people approximately)

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Named in honour of Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Thomas Livingstone Mitchell, the township of Mitchell is located on the banks of the Maranoa River 87 kms west of Roma on the Warrego Highway. Known as the Gateway to Queensland’s Outback Mitchell services the adjoining communities of Amby, Muckadilla and Mungallala.

No visit to Mitchell would be complete without a soak in the thermal mineralized waters of the Great Artesian Spa which is relaxing for the body and therapeutic for the soul. The people of Mitchell recognise the value of this precious natural resource from the Great Artesian Basin and have created this wonderful unique artesian experience. Situated in Mitchell’s aquatic centre, the Great Artesian Spa comprises of two large pools of artesian water. One of the pools is a warm pool which is maintained at a comfortable temperature to relax tired muscles, ease tension and rejuvenate the soul. The other pool is designed for those who prefer a cooler experience. The spa has been designed for easy access, which includes a hydro chair for those guests with restricted mobility.

Visitors can enjoy superb vistas and explore the magnificent sandstone formations at numerous sites throughout the area such as Mt Moffatt National Park and Claravale Wilderness Experience which also boasts some of the most spectacular panoramic scenery, pristine native ecosystems and landforms. Whilst nature lovers will not be disappointed with the abundance of wildlife including over 250 bird species living in and visiting the area.

Take a step back in time and visit Ooline Park 35 kms west of Mitchell on the Warrego Highway. The Ooline tree with its rainforest origins dating back to the Pleistocene Era has been listed as a vulnerable species. This relic of the Gondwanan rainforests which once covered inland Australia millions of years ago is an example of a tree once relatively common but now threatened as a result of human activities. The survival of these trees in this area make it even more unique, given that they are found in a hot dry climate - an environment in stark contrast to their rainforest origins.

Opportunities for adventure abound. For the adrenalin-seeker there are awe-inspiring national parks and walking or 4WD tracks waiting to be explored. Visitors interested in more leisurely pursuits are invited to experience the tranquillity of local fishing spots along the Maranoa River such as the Neil Turner Weir and Fisherman’s Rest.

The people of Mitchell are proud of their cultural heritage and welcome the opportunity to share it with visitors. Steeped in history, the Mitchell community is keen to preserve the treasures and lessons from the past and have created a range of heritage and cultural displays covering its local Indigenous cultural heritage, early explorers, bushranging past, and social history.

Travel back in time with a visit to the original courthouse where the infamous local bushrangers Patrick and James Kenniff were committed to stand trial for the gruesome murders of Constable George Doyle and Station Manager Albert Dalke in 1902. View an artistic impression of the capture of the Kenniff Brothers at Arrest Creek located 7 kms south of Mitchell on the St George Road.

Bonus Downs is ranked as one of finest and oldest established properties of the Maranoa. Guided tours of this impressive property are available however for those visitors wanting to capture the real essence of station life, Bonus Downs also operates as a farm stay.

The people of Mitchell invite you to become a member of their small vibrant rural community for the duration of your visit and experience the wonderful lifestyle and cultural diversity that the area has to offer. Mitchell has many gifted and community spirited artists who have freely given their time and talent to many of the community arts projects which can be found throughout Mitchell and the two adjoining communities of Amby and Mungallala.

The Mitchell on Maranoa Art Gallery is a dynamic visual arts centre which has an impressive exhibition program that proudly showcases local artists as well as featuring exhibitions from renowned artists. Works of art can be viewed at parks and other public areas so why not take the time to visit and enjoy them - they’re free.

Amby

This quaint country town is well known for its country hospitality and it is recommended that visitors stop and meet the locals and take up the challenge of the ‘no horse’ golf course.

Muckadilla

Once home to the famous Muckadilla Baths, visitors can now enjoy the native gardens as a fine example of the sense of community which found in abundance in this wonderful township.

Mungallala

The original site of a Cobb & Co Changing Station, railway town and more recently cypress milling. Why not follow in the footsteps of a bygone era – stop and rest the “horses”, feed the passengers and catch up with local news.

For more information on Mitchell and it's surrounds, go to www.visitmitchell.com.au

Things to see and do

  • Great Artesian Spa - relax and enjoy the rejuvenating powers of the ancient waters from the Great Artesian Basin
  • Mt Moffatt National Park - explore magnificent sandstone formation millions of years in the making
  • Major Mitchell’s Camp Site - established 1846 on Major Mitchell’s 4th expedition to map an overland route from Sydney to Darwin
  • Kenniff Court House - the original courthouse where local bushrangers, the Kenniff Brothers, were committed to stand trial in 1902.
  • Arrest Creek Monuments - site of the Kenniff Brothers capture
  • Heritage Museum - packed full of local history, historical items and photographs
  • Bonus Downs - working property and fully restored homestead built in 1911 by one of Australia’s pastoral legends, Sir Samuel McCaughey
  • Claravale Natural Wilderness Experience - spectacular panoramic scenery, native ecosystems and landforms.
  • Ooline Park - remnants of a Gondwana rainforest
  • Aerosol Art Murals & Street Scaping - community arts projects depicting local history on everyday public structures
  • Mitchell on Maranoa Gallery - inspirational exhibitions from local, state and nationally renowned artists.
  • Maranoa Theatre Display - relive the magic and romance of an old picture theatre and go behind the scenes with a visit to the original projection room of the Maranoa Theatre
  • Maranoa River Walk - experience the tranquility of the Maranoa River, Neil Turner Weir and Fisherman’s Rest popular for its fishing and birdlife