Everything good about country events was on display at the Dirt n Dust Festival in Queensland’s Julia Creek a week or so ago … and everybody was a winner.
In a town that famously welcomes grey nomads, visitors travelled from across the country to see the mud flying, the bulls bucking, and the good times rolling.
Over two action-packed days, some 2,000 people were there to see the small Outback settlement transform into the centre of rodeo action, country racing, muddy adventure runs, live music and legendary Outback hospitality.
What began in 1994 as a bold idea around the bar of the Julia Creek Town & Country Club to put the town on the map has grown into one of Queensland’s most loved regional events.
The Dirt n Dust festival was a big hit with travellers and locals alike. PIC: Jo Thieme
The event featured an action-packed rodeo. PIC: Jo Thieme
McKinlay Shire Mayor, Janene Fegan, said the event delivered substantial benefits to local businesses, accommodation providers, community organisations and tourism operators.
“The event usually beings an economic impact of more than $1.5 million for our region, demonstrating the enormous value events bring to regional and Outback Queensland,” she said. “Every visitor who travels to Julia Creek and McKinlay Shire helps support local jobs, local businesses and the long-term prosperity of our communities.”
But the Mayor said there was an equally important benefit.
“Events create a tremendous sense of pride for our residents and showcase the resilience, hospitality and character that make our region so special,” she said.
WIN IT-FIT CARAVAN SHEETS
Grey Nomad members are being given the chance to win some specially made caravan sheets, courtesy of competition sponsor, It-Fits.
It-Fits caravan sheets are made from soft, 100%-Australian, cotton jersey and naturally stretch and flex to adapt to different mattress shapes and sizes without needing custom-made sheets. They fit rounded corners, narrow caravan beds, bunk mattresses, and non-standard sizes while still staying smooth and secure.
Click here to learn more about the competition and how to enter.
