CHARLOTTE PLAINS

Welcome to Charlotte Plains

Imagine stepping into a world where the deep azure sky stretches endlessly, and the land is a mosaic of red earth and golden grasslands. Charlotte Plains, a family-owned sheep station and campground near Cunnamulla, is a sanctuary for those yearning for the essence of the Australian Outback. Here, the air carries the fresh, earthy scent of native trees, mingled with the occasional whiff of a campfire, creating a sensory experience as vast and untamed as the landscape itself.

As you wander the property, the natural artesian hot springs beckon. Steam curls into the air, offering a soothing contrast to the open plains. The mineral-rich, naturally heated water soothes muscles and joints, inviting you to unwind as the sun dips beneath the horizon, painting the land in fiery oranges and reds. Listen closely, and you’ll hear the melodic chorus of native birds, their songs weaving through the rustling of grasses and the distant bleats of sheep.

Visiting Charlotte Plains is a true immersion into the rhythm of Outback life. Learn the art of resilience from those who have lived it, explore the workings of a sheep station, or simply revel in the beauty of solitude. Whether it’s the call of adventure or the allure of tranquillity, Charlotte Plains offers an experience as unique as the land it inhabits.

Our History

Established in the 1860s, the station originally spanned an impressive 155,920 hectares. By 1914, it was home to over 67,000 sheep, producing nearly 1500 bales of high-quality wool – a testament to its pivotal role in Australia’s wool industry.

The station’s legacy took a significant turn in 1923, when it was acquired by the Nagel family. With more than 100 years of stewardship, they have nurtured the property, preserving its traditions while adapting to the challenges of the Australian Outback. Today, under the ownership of Robyn Russell (née Nagel), Charlotte Plains covers 27,000 hectares, yet its historical significance remains intact.

At the heart of the property lies the historic woolshed, a symbol of endurance and hard work. Sheep shearing was once a necessity for survival, but is now no longer practised. However, the air inside the woolshed carries the faint, distinctive scent of lanolin, a tactile reminder of the property’s wool-producing past. In recent years, Aussie White sheep – which are resilient, self-shedding and suited to arid conditions – have been introduced for meat production.

Adding to this rich history is the life-giving bore, drilled in 1892 to a depth of 561 metres into the Great Artesian Basin. Initially flowing at an astounding 11 million litres per day, the bore’s steady supply has sustained the station’s livestock and wildlife through generations. Due to a reduction in pressure in the aquifers, and also partly due to an object falling down the bore casing in 1929, the flow reduced significantly and so the bore was capped. A new bore was put down and is controlled to just under 2 million litres daily. Once spanning over 180 kilometres of bore drains, this intricate network now only stretches 20 kilometres but still acts as a vital life source to the livestock of the property.  

The artesian water, emerging at a soothing 42 degrees centigrade, holds another charm: its therapeutic qualities. Rich in minerals, the water flows into the station’s renowned bathing area, offering visitors a fabulously rejuvenating experience. In 2019, the addition of porcelain baths and a shower overlooking the natural pools transformed the bore head into a tranquil retreat, connecting past and present in a uniquely Charlotte Plains way.

Artesian Bath

At Charlotte Plains, the artesian bath offers a truly unique and rejuvenating experience, blending the beauty of the Outback with the healing properties of natural, mineral-rich water. Set under the vast expanse of open sky, this outdoor retreat allows you to soak away the stresses of daily life, surrounded by the tranquil sounds and sights of the quintessential Australian landscape. Whether it’s a peaceful daytime escape or a serene night-time bath under a canopy of stars, the artesian bath promises an unforgettable experience of relaxation and connection with nature.

The water, naturally heated to a perfect 42 degrees centigrade, emerges from a bore drilled in 1892 into the Great Artesian Basin – the largest and deepest basin of its kind in the world, taking up one fifth of Australia. This ancient source of water flows to the surface under natural pressure, requiring no pumps, and is rich with minerals absorbed over millennia. Unlike many of the other artesian springs in Central Australia, this artesian water is 100% natural, and has not been treated with chlorine or any other chemicals. It not only nourishes bathers but also sustains livestock and wildlife across Charlotte Plains’ 27,000-hectare expanse, creating a remarkable cycle of life and vitality.

Bathing in the artesian water is a sensory experience with numerous potential health benefits. The soothing warmth of the water relaxes muscles, relieves tension, and helps alleviate pain from conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, peripheral neuropathy and back pain. Its mineral content promotes detoxification, improves circulation, and supports healthier skin by reducing inflammation and encouraging cell renewal. Guests invariably emerge from the bath feeling deeply refreshed, both physically and mentally.

For the ultimate bathing experience – ideal for a romantic getaway – book the two private baths located 10 kilometres from the Bore Campsite and 1.5 km from the Shearers Campsite. With no power, no mobile reception and no toilet facilities, you’ll need to be self-sufficient but your privacy is guaranteed!

To ensure you make the most of your visit, it’s important to follow a few simple guidelines. Limit your time in the water to 20 minutes at a time and take breaks to prevent overheating. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during and after your soak. Remove silver jewellery to avoid discolouration caused by the water’s sulphur content, and always be mindful of sharing the baths with other guests. For safety, avoid alcohol while bathing and supervise children closely.

While the artesian bath is a place of relaxation, certain precautions will ensure a safe experience. Pregnant women and those with heart conditions or other health concerns should consult a doctor before bathing. Those with open wounds should refrain from entering the water to prevent infection. The intense heat can enhance the effects of medications or alcohol, so it’s important to approach the bath with mindfulness and care.

Self-Drive Property Tour

Robyn, the current owner, is a wealth of knowledge and a wonderful guide when she is available. However, due to her many commitments, she may not always be present to lead tours. In response to popular demand, we’ve created a self-guided tour book and audio guide recorded by Robyn, allowing you to explore Charlotte Plains’ rich history at your own pace. With four key stops and fascinating landmarks along the way, this experience offers a window into the past, enriched by the stories of the people and places that shaped this remarkable station. 

Your journey begins at Charlotte Plains Bore, established in 1892 and still vital to the station today. This 561-metre-deep bore supplies essential water across the property through an impressive network of drains, which represent a lifeline for life in the Outback.

Next, visit Jack’s Hut, the former home of Jack Emblem, known as “Jack the Bullocky”. This historic hut, also frequented by Willie “The Camel Man” Cooma, encapsulates over 70 years of rugged Outback life and timeless stories.

The tour continues to the Woolshed, which represents a remarkable piece of pastoral history. Likely built before 1887, this 22-stand shed was once alive with shearers and shed hands, embodying the station’s wool-producing legacy. Its engravings and artefacts tell tales of more than a century’s hard work and resilience.

Finally, explore the Cemetery, a tranquil reminder of the pioneers who shaped Charlotte Plains. With weathered headstones and peaceful surroundings, it’s a place of reflection, honouring the lives and legacies of those who came before.

You can purchase the tour book and audio guide from the Merch Hut, which doubles as a licensed bar, as well as many other souvenirs. It's generally open in the afternoons but if you miss it, don’t worry: you can just visit our online store.

Activities in Charlotte Plains

Charlotte Plains offers a wealth of activities that immerse you in the heart of Outback life, creating unforgettable memories for visitors of all ages. From practical station traditions to breathtaking natural experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

One unique activity is delving, a rural practice that ensures the bore drains, which supply vital water for livestock, remain clean and unobstructed. Beyond its practical purpose, delving transforms into a fun community event! Join in as adults and children line the drains, gumboots and buckets at the ready, eagerly collecting yabbies, fish and even turtles scooped out by the delver. If you’re lucky enough to gather some yabbies, try your hand at campfire cooking – fresh yabbies make for a mouthwatering linguine!

Exploration is endless at Charlotte Plains. Spanning 27,000 hectares, the property is home to horses, camels, cattle and a variety of Outback wildlife. Kilometres of walking trails beckon adventurers to uncover the rugged beauty of the land, while seasonal opportunities to experience station activities and animal feeding provide a deeper connection to life on the plains.

For water enthusiasts, the Bore Drain offers a refreshing oasis. Whether you prefer kayaking, swimming or simply floating on a tube, the still waters are perfect for relaxation and fun. Kayaks are available for guests to use, making it easy to explore and enjoy this unique feature of the property. Try the greasy barrel ride –   make it across and get a free drink!

Charlotte Plains is a paradise for birdwatchers and photographers. With over 130 bird species calling the station home, the property offers boundless opportunities for observation and photography. The magic is at its peak during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when birds gather at watering holes, feeding and moving across the landscape. The vibrant lighting and dynamic scenes create a dream setting for both budding and professional photographers alike.

As the day draws to a close, the skies at Charlotte Plains come alive with breathtaking displays of sunset reds, pinks and yellows. Enjoy a sundowner at our licensed Bore Baa as twilight transitions seamlessly into a starlit spectacle, with millions of stars twinkling above, offering an awe-inspiring backdrop for an unforgettable evening. End your day with a gathering around a glowing campfire, toasting marshmallows, strumming a guitar and sharing stories under the star-strewn Outback sky. There’s no better way to relax and connect with friends, family and the enchanting spirit of Charlotte Plains.

Accommodation

The Shearer’s Quarters, which historically housed Charlotte Plains’ sheep shearers, offers basic accommodation. In the Quarters, there are six twin-king-single rooms and two double-bed rooms, all air-conditioned. Situated at the centre of the property, this accommodation is located 8.5 kilometres from the Bore Campsite and the Hot Artesian Springs, a kilometre from the Private Bathing Hut and two kilometres from the Homestead. There’s a shared bathroom, laundry and kitchen with a barbecue on the deck.

Nearby the Shearer’s Quarters, the Merino Cabin is a newly renovated, well-appointed, self-contained unit that can accommodate up to four guests. It features an open-plan kitchen and dining area, along with two air-conditioned bedrooms. Relax and enjoy the serene surroundings from the hammock slung on your private deck, or while tending the BBQ.

Those with their own tent can camp at the Bore Campsite, which is equipped with toilets, showers, a bar and shop, as well as two barbecues, a table and chairs and a separate washing-up area.

How to Get Here

If you’re travelling by road, the Bore Campsite & Baths are conveniently located just 4 kilometres off the highway, making it an easy and accessible stop. For those heading to the Shearer’s Campsite & Accommodation, you’ll find them a bit further on, just another 8 kilometres towards the homestead.  If you’re coming from Cunnamulla, the Bore Campsite is around 50 kilometres away, roughly a 40-minute drive. From Bollon, it’s approximately 135 kilometres, which takes about 90 minutes by car. There is no phone service along the highway however if you have a UHF radio you can tune into  Channel 26 for updates and communication as you get closer.

For travellers arriving by air, Charlotte Plains welcomes private flights and charters. Our airstrip is a clay-surfaced, 940-metre runway with clear approaches in both directions. However, it’s important to note that this landing area is uncertified, and prior permission is required for use. Please contact us in advance to confirm the condition of the strip. If you prefer commercial flights, Regional Express (more commonly known as REX) offers services to Cunnamulla from Brisbane on Wednesdays and Sundays. From Cunnamulla, it’s a 40-minute drive to the property.

Public transport options include both rail and coach services. Bus Queensland operates three weekly services to Cunnamulla, departing on Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays, with return services on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays. 

Accessibility

At Charlotte Plains, we strive to provide an inclusive and welcoming experience for all our guests. While some aspects of the property present unique challenges due to its historic and rural nature, we are committed to accommodating as many visitors as possible.

Our venue is wheelchair accessible; however, the grounds of the campsite are dirt and sand which might be problematic for some wheelchair users and others with limited mobility. There is an accessible bathroom located at the Bore Campsite with wide doorways and all facilities located on a single level. There is a utility buggy available for transfers around the campsite  for those who need it.  Accessing bathing areas can be tricky but improvements are being made constantly so you should always enquire first.

Some areas, such as the Woolshed, may be inaccessible or restricted for safety reasons due to the nature of the historic structure. Visitors are advised to take care and follow guidance when exploring these spaces.

Neither the Shearer’s Quarters nor the Merino Cabin is wheelchair-accessible. There are three wooden steps, equipped with a wooden handrail, to access the Shearer’s Quarters. Once on the deck, all rooms and amenities are on a single level. There is a 15-centimetre step to get onto the deck of the Merino Cabin, but there are no steps inside. However, guests should note that the layout is not spacious.

Guests with service animals will be happy to learn that the Shearer’s Quarters has two pet-friendly rooms – one double and one twin-king-single.

For those arriving by car, an accessible parking bay is located conveniently close to the entrance. We also welcome service dogs and have areas away from communal spaces where they can be toileted. However, dog handlers are responsible for cleaning up after their guide dogs.

Although the property does not feature tactile indicators, Braille signage or sensory accommodations, we encourage visitors with specific needs to contact us in advance to discuss their requirements. Staff members are friendly and eager to assist wherever possible to ensure a comfortable visit.