100th anniversary of Barcaldine cinema: The Barcaldine Radio Theatre has celebrated 100 years since it first opened. The anniversary was marked with a showing of the silent film Man on the Box, which played on opening night in 1926. The Barcaldine Radio Theatre ran as a commercial operation until the 70s, briefly becoming an indoor sports centre before a group of volunteers revived the cinema in 1992. Cinema treasurer Cara Burger says it's the passion of volunteers that has kept the heritage cinema alive.
Image: ABC Western Qld/ Hannah Walsh
Fuel availability tracker: A group of councils has released an online tracker showing fuel supply across south west Queensland. The platform was developed in an effort to encourage tourism by showing the availability of petrol and diesel in the region. South West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils deputy chair Shaun 'Zoro' Radnedge says more needs to be done to give confidence to those wanting to visit the outback.
Road access returns to Bedourie: Road access to a far western Queensland town has returned after more than five weeks of isolation. Bedourie was cut off by floodwaters in February, but the road north to Boulia was reopened to traffic with caution last Wednesday. Diamantina Shire Council Mayor Francis Murray says local businesses still face an uncertain tourism season amidst high fuel prices.
Blackall driving tests: Driving tests are expected to be made available in a central west town after a community petition received 140 signatures. Blackall residents say they currently have to travel more than 100 kilometres to Barcaldine, which offers a limited number of tests once a month. A Department of Customer Services spokesperson says driving tests are anticipated to start in Blackall by mid-year to address community needs.
