New MOUNT ISA tourism venture sets sail on Lake Moondarra
Launching during Mount Isa Mines Rodeo: now there’s bulls, broncs and boats at THE ISA!
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Mount Isa, Queensland – In a time when many tourism operators are feeling the effects of rising fuel costs and a challenging visitor economy, two passionate Outback tourism advocates come together to support a new tourism experience.
Following a conversation at the beginning of the year, Mount Isa tourism operator Kylie Rixon began developing a new tourism experience celebrating Lake Moondarra. Longreach tourism pioneer Richard Kinnon recognised the opportunity and supported the venture by leasing The Thomson Princess riverboat to the new business.
The result is Kylie’s newly formed Moondarra Cruises, a business dedicated to showcasing the beauty, tranquillity and unique character of Lake Moondarra through unforgettable sunrise and sunset cruises and floating function experiences.
As Outback Pioneers continues to focus on developing its two signature paddlewheelers in Longreach, the business has leased The Thomson Princess to Moondarra Cruises, providing the ideal vessel for this exciting new venture on Lake Moondarra.
“The Outback has always been built on resilience and optimism,” said Kylie Rixon.
“Richard has been incredibly supportive of this idea from the beginning. We both believe that even in the face of adversity, this is exactly the time to invest in experiences that inspire people to visit regional Queensland. I believe Lake Moondarra has enormous potential, and I’m proud to be bringing this experience to life. The Outback is worth it.”
The collaboration began with a simple conversation.
“When Richard and I started talking about the potential of Lake Moondarra, everything seemed to fall into place. Leasing The Thomson Princess gave us the perfect platform to bring this idea to life.”
The launch of Moondarra Cruises would not have been possible without the encouragement and support of the Mount Isa Water Board, whose commitment to activating and celebrating Lake Moondarra has been instrumental from the beginning.
“My husband and I couldn’t have brought this vision to life without the Mount Isa Water Board. They have supported us every step of the way and shared our vision for showcasing this incredible destination. Their willingness to embrace new tourism opportunities has made this possible. The support from Mount Isa City Council, Glencore and Bell and Moir Toyota, Mount Isa have not gone unnoticed. Their commitment to see this venture successfully running is really quite humbling. This is what makes the outback and Mount Isa so special, it’s locals supporting locals.”
Moondarra Cruises will offer visitors the chance to experience breathtaking Outback sunsets across the water, peaceful bird watching dawn cruises as the lake comes to life, and unique floating functions for private celebrations, corporate events and community gatherings. Beyond attracting visitors, Kylie hopes the business inspires renewed community pride in one of Mount Isa’s greatest natural assets.
“We want locals to fall in love with the lake all over again,” Ms Rixon said. “Lake Moondarra is part of our identity. We hope Moondarra Cruises gives people another reason to spend time on the water, to bring visiting friends and family, and to appreciate just how special this place really is. It’s something worth celebrating.”
Moondarra Cruises will begin operating in the coming weeks, with an official launch planned over the weekend of Mount Isa Rodeo. Locals are encouraged to get behind this exciting new business, proudly the first commercial operator of this kind on Lake Moondarra.
A Website, Facebook page and online booking engine will be released soon, making it easy for guests to secure their place on board.
Planning a Christmas party or special event? Moondarra Cruises offers a unique and memorable venue on the water. With all tours including convenient bus transfers, guests can simply relax, enjoy the serenity, and let the team take care of everything. As tourism continues to evolve, Moondarra Cruises represents confidence in the future of Outback Queensland—proof that innovation, collaboration, and a belief in place can create new opportunities even in challenging times.
Cost of sessions $129 concession and locals; $149 adults
Length of experience: 3 hours including bus transfers to and from
Kylie Rixon
Founder
0417 777 520
Moondarra Cruises
Contact details:
Kylie Rixon
Founder
0417 777 520
Moondarra Cruises
