Julia Creek, Queensland

Julia Creek is a small town in northwest Queensland, Australia. It is part of the Shire of McKinlay and is located on the Flinders Highway, between the towns of Cloncurry and Richmond. Julia Creek is about 650 kilometres (400 miles) west of Townsville.

 History 
The town was named after Julia Creek, a local waterway, which itself was named by explorer John McKinlay in the 1860s. The town grew in the early 1900s when the Great Northern railway was extended to the area. It became a service centre for the cattle and sheep industries.

 Geography 
Julia Creek is located in the savannah grasslands of northwest Queensland, a region known as the Gulf Country. The land is flat and open, with native grasses, low shrubs, and a few trees. The area is mostly used for cattle grazing.

 Climate 
Julia Creek has a hot semi-arid climate, with very hot summers and mild to warm winters. Summer temperatures can rise above 40°C (104°F), while winter days are warm, but nights can be cold, sometimes dropping to 5°C (41°F). Most rain falls in the summer wet season (November to March), and the rest of the year is usually dry and sunny.

 Population 
As of the 2021 census, about 500 people live in Julia Creek. It is a small but important town for the surrounding rural area.

 Economy 
Julia Creek's economy is based on:
 Beef cattle farming
 Tourism
 Mining (especially in nearby areas like Cloncurry and Mount Isa)
 Transport

Julia Creek is connected by:
 Flinders Highway – a major road across northern Queensland
 Railway line – part of the Great Northern Line
 Airstrip – small airport for mail and medical flights

 Facilities 
The town has:
 A primary school
 Medical clinic
 Swimming pool
 Shops, fuel station, and pub
 A visitor information centre

 Tourism and Attractions 
Julia Creek is known for its friendly outback atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy:
 "At the Creek" Visitor Centre – includes displays about the region and the Julia Creek dunnart, a rare small marsupial
 Nature walks and birdwatching
 Camping grounds and outback sunsets
 The annual Julia Creek Dirt n Dust Festival (including a triathlon, horse races, and fun events)

 Events 
 Dirt n Dust Festival – held in April, includes sports, music, and Outback fun
 Local agricultural shows, campdrafts, and rodeo events