Day 1 /2 - Brisbane to Mt Isa

Mitchell – Augathella - Tambo - Blackall – Isisford .

This part of the trip was very much 'getting there' as we covered much of this area before.

We took the old Condamine Highway from Dalby through Kogan and Condamine then up the Roma to join the main Warrego Highway again to Mitchell. Enjoyed the drive. The roads were quiet although a bit lumpy in places.

Running repairs

Banks of the Maranoa River

Tambo is a lovely little town and lunch at Fanny Mae is to be recommended.

The road from Blackall to Isisford is not the same standard as the Landsborough Highway. A few cattle grids need to be crossed slowly to avoid putting the caravan into orbit.

Isisford main street has numerous plaques explaining the history. Campsite at Isisford is $3 per night but with one toilet only to cater for a large number of campers dispersed through the bush. Very quiet, very friendly and safe. There are three showers behind the shire offices – boy, girl and disabled. Very clean. Would come again to chill for a day or two.

Winton – Kynuna – Cloncurry – Mt Isa

The land between Winton and Kynuna looked dry and dead. Looked like most of the feed had gone and there were no animals. Very sad to see.

Winton has turned very ‘touristy’ and not as attractive as we remembered.

Dell's eyeing up her next reno

Kynuna is a spot on a bend in the road. Population used to be 400 in 1894 but is now about 40 with 2 caravan sites; The BlueHeeler Hotel and the Kynuna Roadhouse. We stayed at the Roadhouse which was a good little site. Looks like property is on the move though so things could be looking up. Dell is contemplating making an offer so she has her next reno project lined up.

Lake Moondarra by Mt Isa

The road from Cloncurry to Mt Isa is a lot more varied and interesting as the geology changes towards the Isa. Amazing to imagine the beginnings from the chance find in 1923 by passing prospector John Miles.

Mt Isa is our vittling stop before we head off to Adel’s Grove and Lawn Hill.