Population 288 (2015) State electorate(s) Mount Isa Founded 1879 | Established 1879 Website Shire of Diamantina Area 94,823 km² Mayor Geoff Morton | |
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The Shire of Diamantina is a local government area in Central West Queensland, bordering South Australia and the Northern Territory. Its administrative centre is in the town of Bedourie.
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Map of Diamantina, QLD, Australia
Like most places in Queensland with the "Diamantina" name, it was named after Lady Diamantina Bowen (née Roma), the wife of the first governor of Queensland, Sir George Bowen.
It covers an area of 94,823.2 square kilometres (36,611.4 sq mi), and has existed as a local government entity since 1879. The town of Birdsville is home to the iconic Birdsville Races, a horse race meeting to raise money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
History
On 11 November 1879, the Diamantina Division was established as one of 74 divisions around Queensland under the Divisional Boards Act 1879 with a population of 1153.
In October 1880, part of Diamantina Division was separated to create Gregory Division.
On 21 June 1883, the boundaries between Diamantina Division and Bulloo Division were adjusted.
With the passage of the Local Authorities Act 1902, Diamantina Division became the Shire of Diamantina on 31 March 1903.
Towns and localities
The Shire of Diamantina includes the following settlements: