Carpentaria

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Carpentaria is steeped in cultural heritage, natural beauty, and endless opportunities for adventure. Located on the Savannah Way, in the heart of the Gulf of Carpentaria, the Shire offers a unique lifestyle that blends the serenity of the outback with the vibrant traditions of its Indigenous communities.

The Carpentaria region is a true paradise, renowned for its pristine wetlands, lush savannahs, and rich biodiversity. Birdwatchers flock to the area to catch glimpses of rare species, while anglers are drawn to the world-class fishing opportunities in the Gulf's abundant waters. The shire’s vast landscapes are perfect for exploring by 4WD, offering a sense of adventure and discovery at every turn.

Residents boast one of the most friendly, laid-back lifestyles of the North and are uniquely placed to offer opportunities and experiences in lifestyle, holidays, employment and investment. Life in Carpentaria Shire is defined by a strong sense of community and a connection to the land with Normanton and Karumba serving as the shire’s vibrant hubs, where local events, markets, and cultural festivals bring people together.

Carpentaria Shire’s economy is diverse, with key industries including fishing, tourism, agriculture, and mining. The region’s strategic location as a gateway to the Gulf makes it a critical point for trade and transport. Tourism is a growing sector, with increasing numbers of visitors drawn to the area’s natural and cultural attractions. For those looking to invest or establish a business, Carpentaria Shire offers a wealth of opportunities in a region that is poised for growth.

Carpentaria Shire offers a unique blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and community spirit. Experience the tranquillity of the outback, the warmth of its people, and the endless possibilities for exploration and adventure. Discover why Carpentaria Shire is more than just a place to live – it’s a place to belong.

The Stats

2,159 Population

64,331km² Area

$88,608 Median Family Income (Above state average)

$190,000 Median House Price

Top 3 Industries

1. Mining & Critical Minerals

2. Agriculture & Aquaculture

3. Tourism

Education

3 Childcare Centres

Karumba Childrens Centre (Karumba)
Carpentaria Kindergarten C&K (Normanton)
Normanton Childcare Centre (Normanton)

3 Primary Schools

Karumba State School (P-6)
Gulf Christian College (P-9)
Normanton State School (P-12)

Many of the students from the Gulf region and surrounds complete their high school studies at boarding schools in Mount Isa, Townsville or Cairns, or through distance education through schools like the Cairns School of Distance Education or Charter Towers School of Distance Education. The Shire often provides support or information about these options to help families with the transition.

TAFE

TAFE North (Normanton)

Key Attractions

Croc and Crab Tours

The Anchorage Bar & Cafe

Gin Arm Creek

Les Wilson Barramundi Discovery Centre (Karumba)

Karumba Wharf

Gulflander Train

Mutton Hole Wetlands Conservation Park

Karumba Heritage Walk

Morning Glory Cloud Phenomenon

Burke and Wills Camp 119 (Normanton)

Krys the Croc

The Purple Pub

Connectivity

The Shire of Carpentaria is located in northern Queensland, stretching along the southern coast of the Gulf of Carpentaria. The main towns are Normanton and Karumba, both accessible by road via the Savannah Way.

Normanton is a hub for visitors exploring the Gulf region and can be reached by air through Normanton Airport. Although remote, the area is well-connected by sealed and unsealed roads, offering access to nearby national parks and attractions. The Gulf's coastline and wetlands provide stunning natural landscapes, making the region an essential stop on the outback adventure circuit.

By Road

Normanton is part of the Savannah Way, the 3,700 km route running between Cairns in North Queensland, through the Northern Territory, to Broome in Western Australia.

Make your way to Normanton via the National Highway (Route 1 when travelling from the east) and the Burke Development Road (Route 83 when travelling from the south).

If you’re travelling to Karumba, you will travel north from Normanton along the Burke Development Road to Karumba.

Road access to the Gulf is mostly sealed roads (with a few unsealed) however some areas may become inundated during the wet season so check before you drive.

By Air

Regional Express (REX) operates flights to and from Normanton with regular service to destinations such as Cairns, Doomadgee, Mount Isa, Burketown and Mornington Island. For more details visit Rex Airlines.

Note: Commercial flights do not operate from the Karumba Airport.

Cairns International Airport is a 1 ½ hour flight from Normanton and can connect passengers to regional, national and international destinations.

Service

In the Shire of Carpentaria, phone service can be limited due to its remote location, but coverage is available in the main towns like Normanton and Karumba. Telstra is the dominant provider, offering 3G and 4G mobile services in these towns and surrounding areas.

Residents and visitors in more isolated areas may rely on satellite phones or landlines for communication.

Wi-Fi access and NBN satellite internet services are also available in the region, providing essential connectivity.

Telstra's Coverage Map

With Thanks

Live North West Queensland would like to thank Carpentaria Shire Council for their support in developing this resource and continued support in developing regional north west Queensland. For further information visit the Council website and support services.