Outback Queensland has been on our radar lately, especially with the recent opening of Cunnamulla’s stunning artisan hot springs. But that’s not all that awaits amongst the red dirt of this remote part of the country. Queensland’s southwest is also home to Australia’s smallest town – with a postcode, that is.
Cooladdi is located more than 800 kilometres from Brisbane, between Quilpie and Charleville. What was once a community of 270 residents is now down to just two, both of whom live at the only inhabited building left in town: The Fox Trap Roadhouse.
Most nights see more than two people in town though, with the roadhouse popular amongst travellers stopping in for a home-cooked meal or a bed to sleep in.
While there isn’t any phone reception or much else to do in Cooladdi, spending a night in Australia’s smallest town does sound like a bucket list item asking to be ticked off.
Places to stop along the way
Since Cooladdi is a fair drive from Brisbane, you’ll want to make some stops along the way.
We recommend stopping in Toowoomba first, which is around two hours into your trip. If you go in spring, you’ll be able to check out their annual month-long flower festival.
Further into the trip, around halfway, you’ll find the country town of St George, nestled on the beautiful Balonne River. Here, you can visit Queensland’s westernmost vineyard at Riversands Wines.
A stop at Cunnamulla Hot Springs is also must. It’s made up of hot and cold plunge pools that you can submerge in, providing a truly rejuvenating experience in the heart of the outback.
If you’re looking for more places to stay on your outback adventures, you can’t go past Charlotte Plains, a family-owned sheep station near Cunnamulla known for its relaxing artisan baths.