Queensland’s palaeo sector unites for new era of growth
Regional investment, scientific discovery and statewide collaboration strengthening Queensland’s position as a leader in palaeotourism.
Queensland’s palaeontology and tourism sectors have committed to working together to develop new visitor experiences, support scientific discovery and share the state’s extraordinary prehistoric story with national and international audiences. It’s roarsome news for all involved!
Representatives from museums, attractions, councils, universities, tourism organisations, education and government gathered at the Queensland Palaeo Sector Breakfast during Queensland Tourism Week to share current projects and identify opportunities for greater collaboration.
Dinosaur Experiences Australia Chair, John Fitzgerald said the gathering demonstrated the strength and potential of the sector. “Queensland has one of the world’s great prehistoric stories, and it is a story that belongs to our regions,” Mr Fitzgerald said. “These are genuine Queensland discoveries, found in Queensland landscapes and experienced in the communities where the science continues today. By working together, we can turn that science into compelling visitor experiences, educational opportunities, citizen science programs and new reasons to explore regional Queensland.”
Significant projects progressing across the state include:
- Kronosaurus Korner’s Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund-backed museum upgrade, introducing new interpretation, immersive exhibition elements, a refreshed visual identity and stronger connections between the museum and Richmond’s public fossil Dig Site.
- The almost $18 million Stage 3 development of the Eromanga Natural History Museum, delivering new gallery spaces and associated visitor facilities, including a Grand Dinosaur Gallery.
- Future development of the Outer Barcoo Interpretation Centre at Isisford.
- Renewal of the Journey Through Time experience at The Big Rig in Roma.
“Richmond sits at the heart of Queensland’s ancient inland sea story. The investment in Kronosaurus Korner, together with our vision for Sea Monsters Graveyard, will give more visitors the opportunity to engage with real fossils and experience the excitement of scientific discovery for themselves,” said Richmond Mayor John Wharton.
The collaboration supports the Queensland Government’s Destination 2045 strategy, which identifies dinosaur tourism as an important opportunity for regional Queensland. The sector is also closely aligned with the state’s science and innovation priorities through its focus on research, partnerships, STEM learning and community participation.
“Queensland’s dinosaur and fossil experiences combine globally significant science with the landscapes and communities that make our state unique. By supporting investment, collaboration and new visitor experiences, we can grow regional tourism while inspiring the next generation of travellers, scientists and explorers,” said Craig Davidson, CEO, Tourism and Events Queensland.
The breakfast also confirmed that Queensland Dinosaur Week will return from 1–8 May 2027, following a successful inaugural program that delivered more than 30 events across 16 locations.
“Queensland’s prehistoric story is unique, it is still unfolding, and it is ready to take centre stage,” Mr Fitzgerald said.
The sector is also anticipating the publication of several globally significant scientific papers during 2027, documenting new discoveries from regional Queensland. While details will remain confidential until the research is formally published, the findings are expected to attract international scientific and media interest and create new opportunities for tourism, education and public engagement.
“These forthcoming papers reinforce that Queensland is not only home to remarkable prehistoric attractions—it is a place where important scientific discoveries continue to be made,” Mr Fitzgeradl said.
QUEENSLAND DINOSAUR WEEK:
“What impressed me most was seeing entire communities embrace their prehistoric story. It’s time for Queensland’s fossil heritage to take centre stage globally — and for everyone who loves fossils and palaeontology to stand up and be proud,” internationally acclaimed British palaeontologist Dr Dean Lomax
Held from 4–10 May 2026 and anchored by National Dinosaur Day on 7 May, the first-ever Queensland Dinosaur Week delivered more than 40 events across 16 venues and locations, drawing visitors, families, fossil enthusiasts, scientists and regional communities together in a landmark celebration of Queensland’s globally significant fossil heritage. With SOLD OUT signs across the state, including fossil digging experiences, behind-the-scenes museum tours, public talks and special guest appearances, the week highlighted the enormous appetite for dinosaur and fossil experiences across Queensland. Internationally acclaimed British palaeontologist Dr Dean Lomax, who made his first-ever visit to Australia as headline guest for the week, said the event demonstrated the enormous global appeal of Queensland’s fossil story.
Dinosaur Experiences Australia | Discover the Outback Dinosaur Trail
Contact details:
Kath Rose | 0416 291 493 | [email protected]
