Events and Highlights in North West Queensland
Queensland Dinosaur Week is set to captivate visitors from the 4th to 10th May 2026, with North West Queensland offering a unique opportunity to explore ancient prehistoric landscapes. This region, best experienced by road along the legendary Overlanders Way, invites travellers to follow one of Australia’s most extraordinary prehistoric journeys.
Renowned palaeontologist Dr Dean Lomax will join the event, providing fossil enthusiasts and families a chance to engage with Australia's prehistoric heritage. The area is packed with fossils from the Eromanga Sea and land-roaming dinosaurs, offering a rare opportunity to experience the full depth of Queensland’s palaeo story.
John Wharton AM, Mayor of Richmond Shire Council, stated, "Queensland Dinosaur Week is a fantastic opportunity to shine a spotlight on the rich prehistoric stories and world-class experiences we have here in North West Queensland. In Richmond, we’re proud to be home to some of the most extraordinary marine reptile fossils ever discovered."
Event Highlights and Experiences
Visitors can participate in various events, including Digging at Dawn with Dr Dean Lomax in Richmond on 9th and 10th May. Attendees can hunt for marine fossils from the ancient Eromanga Sea and gain insight into how discoveries are made, identified, and reconstructed.
Additional activities include Morning Tea with a Palaeontologist at Kronosaurus Korner in Richmond on 8th May. Attendees will meet Dr Lomax and hear stories from his global expeditions, research into marine reptiles, and insights into Queensland’s place in the international palaeo story.
Visitors can also take part in Palaeo Illustration Workshops with Zev Landes on 4th and 5th May, a Palaeontologist Panel discussing Sea Monsters of Prehistoric Australia on 7th May, and a family-friendly ROARsome Dino Scavenger Hunt in Hughenden throughout the week.
Karen Hanna Miller, Executive Officer of Dinosaur Experiences Australia, emphasised the diverse experiences available, stating, "It's hands-on, immersive and designed to spark curiosity at every age."
The event is supported by the Queensland Government and Tourism and Events Queensland, with a special emphasis on promoting the state's fossil heritage through the GREAT Queensland Dinosaur Trail. This initiative aims to boost tourism in the region and highlight the unique prehistoric finds.
Queensland Dinosaur Week culminates on National Dinosaur Day, 7th May 2026, with numerous activities encouraging visitors to delve into the state's prehistoric past. These events play a critical role in inspiring curiosity and learning among participants.
