Image credit: Kazoo Creative
Carpentaria Shire is the Outback by the Sea©. Situated along the coast and hinterland of the Gulf of Carpentaria, Carpentaria Shire covers an area of over 64,000 square kilometres and is literally where the outback meets the sea.
Major towns include Normanton, the Shire’s administrative centre, and Karumba, a small fishing and tourism town. The Shire is known for its unique landscape of wetlands, savannahs, and coastline, attracting visitors interested in fishing, bird-watching, and exploring remote natural areas.
Traditional custodians
The traditional custodians of the region are the Gkuthaarn, Kukatj, and Kurtijar 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
Key industries in the Carpentaria Shire include agriculture (grazing and fishing), mining and tourism. The region has a thriving cattle industry and is rich in mineral resources, with nearby mines producing zinc, lead, and silver. Fishing is also significant, with prawn and barramundi exports contributing to the economy. Karumba is renowned for its Barramundi, King Salmon and prawns and supports a thriving seafood industry that provides fresh seafood for domestic and export markets. The Port of Karumba is an active port supporting exports from the North West Minerals Province.
The Les Wilson Barramundi Discovery Centre, the only hatchery in the world to breed the Southern Gulf strain of Barramundi, is also a key tourism drawcard showcasing the region’s history, stories and this iconic fish. Book a tour and enjoy great local produce at the café.
Tourism
Queensland’s iconic driving routes, The Savannah Way and Matilda Way, converge in Carpentaria Shire. Board the the Gulflander train in Normanton to step back in time and experience outback rail travel or visit Karumba to enjoy amazing sunsets, recreational fishing and boating, charter fishing and wildlife tours.
The Shire has a small population, with fewer than 3,000 residents, but welcomes thousands of tourists each year.
Tourism is a growing industry, with travellers drawn to the region’s rugged beauty, rich Aboriginal culture, and exceptional fishing and wildlife opportunities.
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.
