Introduction to Matilda Country WATER. It’s the lifeblood which makes outback Queensland viable. But when water reaches natural disaster proportions as the floods did this year in southwest Queensland, it’s devastating. Charleville and Roma were declared natural disaster areas, but the flooding was so widespread that St George, Mitchell, Cunnamulla, Eulo, Thargomindah, Quilpie and other areas were also inundated. The clean-up operation in the wake of this disaster has been massive as people deal with everything from personal loss to infrastructure damage to stock losses. The effects are felt months - and even years - later. But these outback people have done what they always do in difficult times. They’ve dried themselves off, cleaned up the mess and done everything they can to get on with their lives. So this year is a particularly good year to visit the outback and support the people who have taken a huge hit but who are nevertheless goodnaturedly going about their lives and welcoming visitors to their towns. It’s a good year to come in another way, too. See what this country looks like after rain, and be amazed at the stunning birdlife you’ll find this year. If you’ve never been to outback Queensland or you haven’t visited for years, now’s the time! Discover the diverse, fascinating landscape of the outback. Learn the stories of pioneers and explorers, Aboriginal art, the Great Artesian Basin, ancient lava flows and dinosaurs, the QANTAS connection, the challenges of long distance education and John Flynn’s vision for a doctor with wings. The information in this website has been provided free of charge. In return, all we ask is that you support the businesses featured here when you visit the Matilda Highway.