Dinosaur Discoveries Highlighted Across Queensland
Central Queensland is set to celebrate its prehistoric heritage during the first-ever Queensland Dinosaur Week, taking place from 4th to 10th May. National Dinosaur Day on 7th May anchors the event.
A leading palaeontologist, Dr Scott Hocknull, will host a series of events showcasing Queensland’s rich fossil history. Events across 15 locations will highlight the state’s significant dinosaur and marine fossil sites with 29 planned activities.
“Queensland preserves one of the most extraordinary and diverse fossil records in Australia,” Dr Hocknull stated. “When most Australians think of dinosaurs, they picture Hollywood blockbusters or far-flung fossil fields overseas. But if you want to stand where giants actually walked or swam, you don’t need a passport.”
Organizers of Queensland Dinosaur Week have collaborated with the Regional Tourism Organisation, Capricorn Enterprise, to promote the ‘Dig the Tropic’ drive itinerary, which shines a light on Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast. This itinerary features attractions like the Capricorn Caves, Capricorn Dinosaur Park, and Koorana Crocodile Farm.
Events Across Central Queensland
Highlights include a free talk on 4th May about trilobites and dinosaur tracks in the Mt Morgan Region. A prehistoric zoo walking tour on 9th May in Rockhampton is planned, concluding with a special presentation on Queensland’s palaeo stories on 10th May at the Rockhampton Showgrounds.
Dr Hocknull has been a driving force behind the state’s most significant fossil discoveries. He serves as the principal palaeontologist at both Eromanga Natural History Museum and Capricorn Caves. His extensive fieldwork connects deep-time science with real-world communities, shaping Queensland’s palaeo-tourism narrative.
Supported by Capricorn Enterprise, Dinosaur Week promotes the ‘Dig the Tropic’ drive itinerary, showcasing attractions such as the Capricorn Caves, Capricorn Dinosaur Park, and Koorana Crocodile Farm. This initiative brings Queensland’s prehistoric past to life.
Mary Carroll, CEO of Capricorn Enterprise, stated, “The Capricorn Coast Region is where Queensland’s prehistoric story comes to life. ‘Dig the Tropic’ invites visitors to explore, discover, and connect with a side of Queensland they never expected.”
Winton features dinosaur bones, while Richmond showcases giant marine reptiles from the Eromanga Sea. Eromanga is home to Australia’s largest dinosaur, and Mount Isa boasts Riversleigh’s World Heritage fossil deposits of ancient mammals and megafauna.
The GREAT Queensland Dinosaur Trail Pocket Guide will be available at participating destinations and online, offering a comprehensive guide to dinosaur-related attractions across the state.
Proudly supported by the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation, Queensland Dinosaur Week is delivered in partnership with CQUniversity, connecting deep-time discovery with future STEM pathways.
