In appreciation and acknowledgement of our people, our land, and our history, celebrating Australia Day hits close to the hearts of many Australians.
Many families may be looking for free alternatives to celebrating Australia Day without the expensive price tag. Truth is, fun doesn’t have to come at a cost which is why we have put together a list of places to go to in Mount Isa to celebrate Australia Day for free this year.
Lake Moondarra
There is no better way to celebrate Australia Day than the Aussie way – which is kicking back, relaxing, and chilling out while firing up a barbecue with friends and family.
At Lake Moondarra, there are plenty of free to use barbecue spots and wide green spaces to lay out a picnic rug while the kids run around. Don’t forget to bring an esky full of drinks to keep your hydration levels up, and some snags, meats and veg to grill on the barbie for a great Australia Day barbecue.
Beyond food, Lake Moondarra offers some of the best views of Outback Queensland, with a stunning backdrop of clear blue waters and lush vegetation that surrounds it. Go in for a dip and cool yourself down with a swim in the lake, or be more adventurous with some water sports such as stand up paddle boarding, canoeing, kayaking, or water skiing.
Scout for local birds and wildlife around the lake while you’re there. You’ll be surprised to learn that Lake Moondarra is home to pelicans, cormorants and galahs. Spot a peacock along the lake, as they live not far from it at the lakeside Peacock Park.
Preparation is the key to enjoying Australia Day at Lake Moondarra, so don’t forget to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, hats and sunnies and head for the shade when the sun gets too hot.
Fishing at Lake Moondarra
If you’re a keen angler, throw in a line this Australia Day at Lake Moondarra. Stand a chance to reel in some barramundi, along with 19 other freshwater species, including cod fish, saratoga, and archer fish.
Before fishing, it pays off to know these tips for a satisfying catch at Lake Moondarra this Australia Day. If you have an eye out for barramundi, use hard bodied lures with a slow twitching retrieve such as shads, minnows or rattling lures to attract them. Cod fish simply can’t resist a fresh bardi grub. Light spin outfits work great for saratoga, while archer fish prefer going for small lures.
You don’t need a permit to fish at the lake, although catch limits do apply.
Mount Isa City Lookout
For the best views of the entire city, head to the Mount Isa City Lookout this Australia Day.
With magnificent scenery that will make you appreciate our land, the best times to visit are during sunrise or sunset thanks to the striking colours in the sky.
A 360 degree panoramic view that makes you appreciate the beauty of this old mining town, Mount Isa. Bring a picnic along and enjoy the view.
Free Australia Day activities at Isa Hotel
Join in on some fun Australia Day activities at Isa Hotel this coming Australia Day.
Last year, the thrill was heightened by a pie eating contest to raise funds for a good cause. Competitors had to pay a $10 entrance fee, but onlookers could watch and enjoy the show for free. The challenge was to eat 5 Mrs Mac’s plain pies washed down by a beer as quickly as possible, and the fastest winner won a $100 voucher.
The proceeds went toward the Salvation Army in support of the bushfire efforts as well as the drought.
This year, the fun carries on with a free sausage sizzle, giant Jenga, Connect Four and plenty of other games. If that's not enough, we'll also have live entertainment from 3pm.
Isa Hotel is a great place to explore with the family and kids this Australia Day. Beyond the free excitement and activities, the hotel also had a Kids Zone, which contains a dedicated multi level soft fall playground for the kids to enjoy. Packed full of slides, tunnels, obstacles and climbing frames, Australia Day fun can be enjoyed by both kids and adults at Isa Hotel.
Great food at the Rodeo Bar & Grill awaits the team as you indulge in a fabulous Australian meal that will make this nation proud. Great atmosphere, exceptional service, enthralling events, and even better food is what draws the crowds every year to Isa Hotel on Australia Day.
Banner image credit: Highlife
