Information for Visitors

There are 59 places called Richmond in the world. As most of the Richmond’s have been named after Richmond, North Yorkshire, it is considered to be the “Mother” of all Richmond’s.

The town of Richmond (Queensland) is the pivotal point of the Richmond Shire, situated on the South bank of the Flinders River. Richmond is 500 kilometres (310 miles) West of Townsville and is situated 216 metres (648 feet) above sea level.

The Shire of Richmond, originally named Shire of Wyangarie after a prominent grazing Homestead in the area, was constituted in 1954. The former name had existed since 1910, and the Homestead upon which it was named still exists today It's early history is based around explorers, adventurers and pastoralists in search of new land.

Originally sheep were the primary source of income, however later years have seen cattle become the predominant market commodity. Presently the Shire boasts a community of in excess of 1,000 people with approximately 750 of those residing in the township.

The Shire experiences, from time to time, extremes of climatic conditions – floods and drought are not uncommon.

Richmond hosts four (4) race meetings a year, including the Melbourne Cup Race Day Meeting. The annual Richmond Field Days (16-17 June, 2006) and the Biennial Fossil Festival (28-30 April, 2006) are events not to be missed.

During the winter months Richmond has many attractions to offer the tourists and local residents, including:

• Kronosaurus Korner, our very own World-Renowned Marine Fossil Museum right in the heart of Richmond;
• Lake Fred Tritton, a 300ML Recreational Lake in the town limits boasting shaded areas, barbeques, picnic areas, water park for the kids, water sports, walking track and fitness stations; and
• Beautiful gardens and parks scattered with colourful Bougainvillea.