Things to do

Normanton

Normanton is one of the many beautiful historical towns of northwest Queensland. It has a population of approximately 1600 people and is the economic 'hub' of the Gulf of Carpentaria. Normanton services a large grazing area and is surrounded by facinating and internationally important wetlands where the bird population has to be seen to be believed.

As Normanton is situated on the banks of Norman River, you will often see many a local fishing for that prized barramundi off the Fred Pascoe Fishing Bridge or on the banks of the river. Why not give it a go yourself or take a cruise down the Norman River on Normanton's own Savannah Queen Charters and Cruises.

Normanton has some not to be missed events throughout the year, including the Normanton Annual Rodeo, Show and Gymkhana. This event is where the locals show the visitors how it's 'done' in the Gulf country! The Normanton Barra competition encourages many people into the area for a weekend of fishing and fun, not to mention the GREAT prizes to be won.

Karumba

Nestled on the mouth of the Norman River, Karumba is the town where, quite literally, the 'Outback Meets The Sea' and home to some of the most spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Carpentaria. Enjoy the beauty of these sunsets over a cold beer or wine, or some world famous barramundi and chips on the beach. But be careful not to get too close to the waters edge!

Karumba is accessible by a sealed road, some 73kms north west of Normanton; the only beach in the Gulf of Carpentaria that is accessible by road!

Karumba is a very laid back fishing community with a very small but cosmopolitian population. It has approximately 700 permanent residents, with an amazing number of visitors (in the thousands) throughout the year. With fantastic tourist facilities, exciting things to do and see and a number of great accommodation options, Karumba is a great holiday destination for the whole family.

Why not take a river cruise and enjoy the view, take up a spot of fishing or, for the more adventourous fisherman, take a fishing charter for a guaranteed good time. For those who would prefer to keep their feet on dry land, there are some lovely nature walks or an historical town walk, there is a Sports Centre open 7 days a week, a bowls club and a golf course. Visitors have no troubles adapting to the casual, easygoing atmosphere, whether they are here for a few days or the entire winter!

Many of the residents of Karumba are part of the fishing community. A prawning fleet operates out of the port of Karumba. It is an absolute mecca for those who love seafood; Barramundi fishing is a very big industry and mudcrabs are harvested here as well. Visit the Barramundi Discovery Centre to learn more about this prized fish; you can even feed one, but watch your fingers!

Karumba is also the home to the Min Minerals Port Site and Karumba Livestock Loading, both operations providing numeroous jobs for the community in their exporting activities.

For more things to do in the Carpentaria Shire, please refer to the Calendar of Events.

 

NormantonKarumba