Flinders Shire Council, Media Release, 28 April 2026
Queensland Dinosaur Week 2026 (4-10 May) will shine a spotlight on Hughenden and the Flinders Shire, celebrating the region’s extraordinary dinosaur heritage and its proud place in Australia’s palaeontological history.
As the home of Queensland’s fossil emblem, the Muttaburrasaurus, Hughenden holds a special connection to one of Australia’s most iconic dinosaurs.
Fossil discoveries from the Hughenden area and broader Flinders Shire have played a significant role in shaping scientific understanding of Australia’s prehistoric past and continue to inspire interest from researchers, families and visitors alike.
Flinders Shire Mayor Kate Peddle said Queensland Dinosaur Week is an opportunity to celebrate both science and community pride.
“Hughenden is recognised across the state as the home of the Muttaburrasaurus, and this dinosaur is an important part of our identity,” Mayor Peddle said.
“Queensland Dinosaur Week provides a fantastic chance for locals and visitors to reconnect with our region’s remarkable fossil history while supporting community events that spark curiosity, learning and fun for all ages.”
One of the most memorable fossil stories linked to the region is the remarkable discovery made by Queensland schoolboy Robert Walker in 1987, whose curiosity led to the unearthing of a 110-million-year-old Muttaburrasaurus fossil.
While exploring a property, Robert picked up a tooth-encrusted rock and later handed it to his mother who was using it as a doorstop. After the significance of the find became clear, Robert and his stepfather notified the property owner, who then contacted the Queensland Museum.
Dr Mary Wade and a team of volunteers travelled to the site, where they uncovered the near-perfect skull of a Muttaburrasaurus. It was only then that Robert realised the “doorstop” he had given his mother months earlier was in fact the lower jaw of a dinosaur.
When held against the newly-uncovered skull, it fitted together like a perfect puzzle piece – a moment that confirmed the extraordinary importance of his discovery.
Stories like Robert’s highlight the role of curiosity in scientific discovery, the importance of regional landscapes in Australia’s palaeontological record, and the delightful unpredictability of who might stumble upon the next major find.
As part of Queensland Dinosaur Week 2026, events will be held across the State, encouraging communities to celebrate their unique dinosaur stories.
In Hughenden, the Flinders Discovery Centre will host a Dinosaur Week Scavenger Hunt, running throughout the week.
Designed for children, families and the young at heart, the scavenger hunt invites participants to explore the Centre, learn fascinating dinosaur facts, and discover why the Flinders Shire is such an important location on Australia’s dinosaur map.
Mayor Peddle encouraged the broader community to get involved.
“Whether you’re a lifelong local, a visitor passing through, or someone with a passion for science, Queensland Dinosaur Week is for everyone,” she said.
“Events like the scavenger hunt invite people to engage with our local attractions in a hands-on way, and they help build pride in our region’s history and future.”
Queensland Dinosaur Week 2026 will feature activities, exhibitions and events in communities across Queensland, celebrating fossil discoveries, scientific research and the landscapes that once supported dinosaurs millions of years ago.
Backed by Dinosaur Experiences Australia, the initiative aims to strengthen connections between regional communities, education providers, tourism operators and families, while highlighting Queensland as a global destination for dinosaur discovery.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to follow local announcements for event details and to take part in Queensland Dinosaur Week by visiting local attractions, attending activities and sharing their dinosaur discoveries.
For more information on local events, go to the Visit Hughenden website or follow Dinosaur Experiences Australia communication channels.
