Image credit: Burke Shire Council
The Shire of Burke, located in far north west Queensland about 400km north of Mount Isa, lies on the southern coast of the Gulf of Carpentaria and along the Northern Territory border. The shire is a vast and sparsely populated area covering 40,127 square kilometres.
It is known for its pristine natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and economic significance in northern Australia. The main towns in the shire are Burketown, the administrative centre, and Gregory. These small but resilient communities serve as hubs for the surrounding pastoral and tourism industries.
Traditional Custodians
The traditional owners of different areas in Burke Shire are the Gangalidda and Garawa and the Waanyi people, who maintain a deep cultural connection to the land and waters. Their presence and history are integral to the cultural fabric of the Shire.
Key Industries
Burke Shire’s economy is primarily driven by cattle grazing, mining, construction and civil works and tourism.
Large cattle stations contribute to Queensland’s beef production while fishing in the Gulf’s bountiful waterways attract both commercial fishers and recreational anglers. Burke Shire is a Barramundi capital of Queensland.
Several large minerals deposits provide economic benefits to the Shire and local communities.
Following major flooding events in 2023 and 2024, Burke Shire has seen extensive construction and civil works projects underway.
History & Culture
The Shire of Burke has a rich cultural history deeply connected to its Aboriginal traditional owners, the Gangalidda, Garawa, and Waanyi peoples.
Their strong spiritual and cultural ties to the land are evident in their storytelling, art, and connection to sacred sites.
Tourism
Tourism is steadily growing, with visitors drawn to the natural wonders of the Gulf Savannah, fishing opportunities, Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park, and the unique phenomenon of the “Morning Glory” cloud, a rare meteorological event visible in the skies around Burketown.
Local Indigenous owned businesses offer unique nature and cultural experiences for locals and visitors.
Cultural events and festivals in the shire, such as rodeos, campdrafts, the world infamous Burketown Barramundi Fishing competition and various community gatherings, reflect the strong sense of identity and resilience among its residents.
The Shire of Burke offers a unique glimpse into the outback’s rugged beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, making it a special part of Queensland’s Gulf region.
Burketown is 2,115km to the north west of Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, and 2,100km from Darwin.
GSD also works closely with other LGAs surrounding the Gulf Savannah region to leverage opportunities, strengthen our regional economic development approaches, and develop joint initiatives.
Projects in this region
GSD also works closely with other LGAs surrounding the Gulf Savannah region to leverage opportunities, strengthen our regional economic development approaches, and develop joint initiatives.
