THE PRESENT, the past and even the earth’s prehistoric era are all rolled into one at the township of Isisford.

Isisford itself is a classic example of a pioneering town and has a variety of historical architecture ranging from government facilities to hotels. There’s a general store, pool and an 18-hole western golf course.

Clancy’s Overflow Hotel is a grand example of the gracious architecture of a bygone era. It was established in 1875 and has mellowed comfortably into another new century. It’s a treat to stay here while visiting Isisford.

Visit Whitman’s Museum, situated behind the council offices. You need to call at the office to pick up a key. For history dating right back to the original exploration of the area, visit the Major Mitchell cairn.

Isisford’s newest attraction also features its oldest claim to fame. The Outer Barcoo Interpretation Centre opened last year and features everything from a snapshot of the region 100 million years ago to relics from a more recent past to today’s arts and crafts. The highlight of the display is Isisfordia duncani, a crocodile fossil that is unique to the world. The centre has a theatrette and cafeteria.

A great local event in Isisford on May 19 is the Sheep and Wool Show, which is a perfect opportunity to see a rural show and catch everything from the yard dog trials to the stockhorse workout. The show has $15,000 in trophies and prizemoney and also features fashion parades, a ute competition and a painting competition.

Another big event on the Isisford calendar is the Isisford Shire Fishing Competition. This area is well known as yellowbelly country, and the freshwater fish (its real name is golden perch) can be found in the creeks and rivers. This year’s fishing competition will be held on July 28 and 29 at the Oma Waterhole. You might catch yellowbelly, black bream and catfish, and the prizes are great. Entrants compete in either the junior or senior categories to see who can catch the longest yellowbelly, catfish and black bream. The Saturday night entertainment is always great fun. For more information on the competition, ring the Isisford Shire Council on (07) 4658 8900. Camping is free and a barbecue and bar operate throughout the weekend.

Oma Waterhole is about 15km southwest of Isisford and is a popular recreation spot at other times of year as well. The waterhole is surrounded by red river gums, coolibahs and paperbarks. The Barcoo Weir is another good place to wet a line for a few hours.

Discover the remains of the Oma Stockyards, where cattle duffer Harry Redford held his cattle during his daring cattle duffing venture that went from Bowen Downs to the northern edge of Adelaide in South Australia.

A major historical site in the shire is the Isis Downs Shearing Shed, 20km east of Isisford. This is one of only two semi-circular shearing sheds in the world and was erected in 1913. The Isisford Shire Council office has copies of the souvenir booklet, “History of the Isis Downs Shearing Shed.”

For other souvenirs of Isisford as well as the opportunity to mail your postcards and stock up on postal supplies, drop in to the Isisford Post Office.