The Cardwell Pioneer Tours are currently operating every Monday and Thursday morning from 10am at the Visitor Information and Heritage Centre located in Cardwell. The tour incorporates all the buildings in the historic precinct and takes visitors on a fascinating journey of the area’s colourful history as they move through each building. The tour begins at the old Bush Telegraph building which was the Telegraph and Post Office and explains how Cardwell was founded in 1864 as the first port in North Queensland. Over in the Courthouse visitors can gain an understanding of the old judicial system. Several interesting items are on display including the original straight-jackets used in Tully to restrain the more energetic offenders. The old lock-up building was still in use during the1980s at the Cardwell Police Station. The final building is the old Shire Hall which the community used for a multitude of purposes included balls and other formal social events. The tour concludes on the balcony of the Visitor Information Centre where visitors can enjoy a complementary Devonshire Tea while taking in one of the best views in North Queensland overlooking Hinchinbrook Island, Gould Island and the Family Islands
A hyperactive inner-city night market explodes around Franklin Square: bring your tastebuds and your dancing shoes for a Friday night fling. Nothing but Tasmanian street food and craft drinks.
4.30pm - 9.00pm | December – April every year!
Friday (Weekly)
Event date: 26 June - 5 July 2026
The Vision Splendid Outback Film Festival is Australia’s only Outback film festival and the world’s only festival dedicated to profiling and supporting the Australian film industry. Held in Winton, Queensland, this family-friendly festival offers an immersive experience that caters to diverse audiences, celebrating Australian storytelling against the stunning backdrop of the Outback.
The festival’s dynamic program features themed special events, Breakfast with the Stars, the unique Silent Night Experience, film-student-led Short Film Competition and film location tours. These engaging activities allow visitors to connect deeply with Australian cinema and culture. The festival also plays a vital role in the industry by supporting Queensland and Australian filmmakers, often providing premiere screenings for local productions that face distribution challenges.
Showcasing the best new Australian films alongside a retrospective program, the Vision Splendid Outback Film Festival ensures that authentic Australian stories reach appreciative audiences.
A highlight of the festival is its venue—the historic Royal Theatre, Winton’s open-air theatre. Established in 1918, it is one of only two remaining open-air theatres in Australia, making it a must-visit destination for film lovers and history buffs alike.
Experience the magic of Australian cinema under the Outback stars at the Vision Splendid Outback Film Festival, where stories come to life in the heart of Queensland.
