MITCHELL

Located on the Warrego Highway 587 kilometres west of Brisbane and 176 kilometres east of Charleville, the town of Mitchell marks the Gateway to Queensland's Outback. The town, on the banks of the Maranoa River, was named in honour of Sir Thomas Mitchell whose exploration of south-west Queensland led to the establishment of several towns in the region.

The town's wide tree-lined streets and substantial colonial buildings reflect its early importance as the centre of a busy farming and pastoral district famous for its grains, beef and sheep. The town is rapidly becoming an important stop on the tourist route to Outback Queensland.

The Great Artesian Spa is the centrepiece of Mitchell and the wider Booringa Shire. The large open-air spa has been making a huge splash among visitors to Mitchell. The warm waters are said to relax the muscles, ease tension and revitalise both the body and the mind.

Once you've tried the Spa, why not go bird watching at the Neil Turner Weir on the Maranoa River or wet a line further upstream at Fisherman's Rest? For those feeling more energetic, the Maranoa River Walk meanders along the Maranoa River. Be sure to look for the Graffiti Arts Project at the Maranoa River Bridge and view the series of fifteen murals entitled Booringa Past, Present, Future.

Visitors should also visit the Kenniff Courthouse which is where the infamous bushrangers Patrick and James Kenniff were committed to stand trial for the murder of a Policeman and Station Manager in 1902. Located seven kilometres south of Mitchell on the St. George Road, the Kenniff Statues depict the story of the trial and capture of the Kenniff Brothers.

If you are looking for an adventure, fun or just to relax, Mitchell has something to offer you.