Dinosaurs and Fossils
Much of Queensland's Outback was once part of the 'Great Inland Sea'. This has resulted in the region being rich in fossils. Visit Hughenden, Richmond and Winton on Australia’s Dinosaur Trail for your introduction to life during the Cretaceous Period. Discover the prehistoric creatures that roamed the land and marine reptiles which swam in ancient inland seas around 100 million years ago. You can also visit the world’s best-preserved dinosaur stampede at Lark Quarry Dinosaur Trackways near Winton.
World Heritage
listed Riversleigh, part of Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park, is the site
of some of the most unique fossil finds consisting of previously unknown mammals,
birds and reptiles, with some fossils in this region dating back 25 million years.
Museums also house fascinating displays of fossils and reconstructed
dinosaur skeletons. For example, Kronosaurus Korner in Richmond has displays of
marine fossils and the Riversleigh Fossil Centre in Mount Isa interprets the
megafauna from World Heritage listed Riversleigh Fossil Fields. The Flinders
Discovery Centre in Hughenden also houses an international fossil collection as
well as interpretive displays of the geological history of the region. An ancient crocodilian is the star attraction
at the new Outer Barcoo Interpretive Centre in Isisford. Other great dinosaur and fossil centres
include the marine fossil display at Boulia’s Stonehouse Museum,
the dinosaur diorama at Corfield & Fitzmaurice in Winton and the Muttaburrasaurus replica in Muttaburra.
You are able to
fossick for your own fossils in designated areas and, at certain times in the
year, you can join a tour to dig up the past on an organised fossil dig.
