Winton, Queensland

Winton is a small town in central-west Queensland, Australia. It is the main town in the Shire of Winton and is located in the Outback, about 1,350 kilometres (840 miles) northwest of Brisbane and 180 kilometres (112 miles) northwest of Longreach.

 History 
The Winton area is on the land of the Koa people, the region’s Traditional Owners.

European settlement began in the late 1800s, and Winton became a service centre for the growing sheep and cattle industries.

Winton is known as the birthplace of “Waltzing Matilda,” one of Australia's most famous songs. It was first performed in Winton in 1895.

 Geography 
Winton is located in the Channel Country, a dry region where rivers only flow after heavy rain. The land around Winton is mostly flat and dry, with gibber plains (rocky deserts), grasslands, and red soil. The town sits near the Western River (a dry riverbed most of the year).

 Climate 
Winton has a hot semi-arid climate. It is very hot in summer and mild in winter. Summer temperatures often go above 40°C (104°F), and winters are warm during the day, but nights can fall below 5°C (41°F). Rain is rare, but most falls between December and March. Clear skies mean strong sun during the day and cool nights.

 Population 
As of the 2021 census, about 875 people live in Winton. Although small, Winton plays an important role in the Outback region.

 Economy 
Winton’s economy is based on:
 Sheep and cattle grazing
 Tourism, especially fossil tourism and Outback history
 Local services for surrounding properties

 Transport 
Winton is connected by:
 Road: On the Landsborough Highway between Longreach and Cloncurry
 Rail: Winton used to have a train line, but it is now closed
 Air: Winton has a small airport with flights to Longreach, Townsville, and other towns

 Tourism and Attractions 
Winton is famous for its dinosaur fossils, bush poetry, and Outback culture. Tourist attractions include:
 Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum – home to real dinosaur fossils found nearby
 Waltzing Matilda Centre – a museum about the song and Outback life
 Dinosaur Stampede National Monument at Lark Quarry – the site of 95-million-year-old dinosaur footprints
 Outback landscapes, wildlife, and sunsets

 Events 
Winton hosts popular events such as:
 Waltzing Matilda Day (April)
O utback Festival – held every two years, includes fun games, races, and music
 Way Out West Festival – country music and culture
 Film festivals – Winton has been a filming location for Outback movies

 Facilities 
Winton has:
 A school
 A hospital and health clinic
 Shops, fuel station, and pubs
 A library, museums, and visitor centre
 Caravan parks and tourist accommodation