Winton begins rebuilding of iconic Australian tourism experience

Destroyed by fire in 2015, the $22 million rebuild of Winton’s Waltzing Matilda Centre has begun.

Expected to be completed in February 2018, the new 2250 metre² facility will again bring to life the legend of Waltzing Matilda and complement the region’s incredible dinosaur attractions.

Located between Longreach and Mt Isa, 1,350 kilometres north west of Brisbane, the rebuilding of the Centre has been backed by $8 million from the Federal Government and $1.2 million from the Queensland Government.

Winton Shire Mayor, Butch Lenton said the loss of the original Waltzing Matilda Centre was a heavy blow during a major drought, but the community and visitors had rallied together to ensure it wasn’t lost forever.

Mayor Lenton stated “the demolition and clean-up operation in 2015 was a tough time, but there’s no doubt about it, this is a town with a big heart.

“The support we had after the fire, with people coming to the town and staying in the town, from all over Australia really, was much appreciated.

“I can’t count the number of fire-damaged objects that have been saved from the ruins through the efforts of locals, and also tourists who have happily volunteered their labour while passing through.

“This is one of the council’s biggest projects since the North Gregory Hotel in the 1950s. The Waltzing Matilda Centre is an iconic Australian attraction.

“I am genuinely thankful for the community and Government support for the rebuilding of this important part of Winton’s outback history.”

Image shows a concept drawing of the new Waltzing Matilda Centre in Winton. (Courtesy Cox Rayner Architects) 

26th April 2017 - LOCAL COUNCILS MAKE BIG INVESTMENTS IN TOURISM 

15th April 2017 - OPEN-AIR DINOSAUR MUSEUM LAUNCHES IN WESTERN QUEENSLAND

15th April 2016 - WINTON’S WALTZING MATILDA CENTRE TO BE REBUILT

12th March 2016 - ARTN ANNUAL CONVENTION HEADS TO OUTBACK QUEENSLAND 

22nd June 2015 - FIRE DAMAGES WALTZING MATILDA CENTRE IN WINTON

15th June 2015 - NEW CAMPAIGN TO BOOST TOURISM IN OUTBACK QUEENSLAND TOURISM

17th November 2013 - QUEENSLAND OUTBACK TOURISM OPERATORS SHINE 

10th November 2009 - DINOSAUR TRAIL FOR QUEENSLAND OUTBACK 

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