The only connection that the Julia Creek Opera House has with its more famous Sydney cousin is that they share the same birthday – the quirky Outback humour at play there! While you’re unlikely to see performances of Carmen, Madam Butterfly or The Barber of Seville, you will find historical pictures, collected over the last 100 years, telling the stories of Julia Creek’s pioneers and heroes. Take a stroll along the nature trail at the back of the Julia Creek Caravan Park to see local birdlife and the tranquility of this natural space.Back on the road again, it’s just over an hour along the Flinders Highway to Cloncurry. Stretch your legs in the shaded parklands of Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Information Centre where you’ll find one of Australia’s most comprehensive gem and mineral collections. Burke and Wills passed through this region in 1861 and the town name has its origins from Burke’s cousin, Lady Elizabeth Cloncurry. Burke also left behind his water bottle, which is on display at Cloncurry Unearthed.