Burke
Burke County is a local government area in Australia’s far northwestern corner.
It is bounded to the north by the Gulf of Carpentaria, to the west by the Northern Territory, and to the south and east by the Carpentaria and Cloncurry shires.
The county has a population of just over 1,000 people and an area of 39,864 square kilometres (15,391.6 square miles).
Burke County is a remote and rugged region with grasslands, woodlands, and savanna covering much of its land.
A number of national parks and protected areas are also located in the county, including the Boodjamulla National Park (also known as Lawn Hill National Park), the Nicholson River National Park, and the Gregory National Park.
Agriculture, mining, and tourism are the main industries in Burke County.
The county is a major beef cattle producer and also has a number of mineral deposits, including lead, zinc, and copper.
Burke County’s tourism industry is also important, with visitors drawn to the region’s natural beauty, Aboriginal culture, and fishing opportunities.
Burketown, the county’s main town, is located on the Albert River, about 20 kilometres from the Gulf of Carpentaria.
Burketown, with a population of around 250 people, is a small but vibrant town. The town is a popular starting point for fishing trips and tours of the surrounding area.
Gregory, Nicholson, and Lawn Hill are some of the other towns in Burke County. Gregory is a small town on the Savannah Way, about 20 kilometres from the border with the Northern Territory.
Nicholson is a small town on the Nicholson River, about 100 kilometres from Burketown. Lawn Hill is a small settlement in the Boodjamulla National Park.
Burke County is a stunning and one-of-a-kind Australian region.
It is a destination where visitors can experience the true Australian outback, complete with wide open spaces, rugged scenery, and an abundance of wildlife.
Things to do in Burke County
- See the stunning waterfalls, gorges, and Aboriginal rock art at Boodjamulla National Park (also known as Lawn Hill National Park).
- Go barramundi fishing in the Albert River and other nearby waterways.
- Visit the Nicholson River by boat and see the crocodiles, birds, and other wildlife.
- Visit the Gregory Downs homestead and learn about the region’s history.
- Learn about the town’s Aboriginal and European heritage at the Burketown Museum.
- Attend the Burketown Rodeo, which takes place every August.
Burke Shire is a remote and rugged region, but it is also beautiful and rewarding. Burke Shire has something for everyone, with its beautiful scenery, abundant wildlife, and rich Indigenous culture.