About Mount Isa

Happy 100^th Birthday Mount Isa

In 2023 Mount Isa celebrates the 100th anniversary of John Campbell Miles signing the mining lease that gave rise to Mount Isa.

This will be a year to remember for everyone. From those who have spent their entire lives in the city, to those just arriving, and those who have moved in and out over the years, the celebrations are for you.

Please see https://www.mountisa.qld.gov.au/100years for more details

Affectionately known as the ‘oasis of the outback’, and home of the Kalkadoon people, which we pay are respect to those elders pass and present. Mount Isa is a gleaming mirage on the horizon for travellers from all directions. Nestled among the ochre-red Selwyn Ranges, on the banks of the Leichhardt River, Mount Isa is a bustling melting pot of culture and industry and also home to the world’s second largest rodeo.

It’s grown from strength to strength over the years but the harsh picturesque landscape has barely changed, becoming one of the main draw-cards for visitors each year. Mount Isa has ample places to fish, camp or relax and enjoy an outback sunset. The rugged terrain is a four-wheel-driver’s haven, and visitors can explore the region just as the pioneers of the region did many years ago.

The twin jewels in Mount Isa’s crown are the spectacular Lawn Hill Gorge in Boodjamulla National Park and its neighbour, the world heritage listed Riversleigh Fossil Fields.

Mount Isa’s existence and its main financial base is the huge Mount Isa Mine, the world’s largest single producer of copper, silver, lead and zinc. In 1923, John Campbell Miles found a silver-lead ore outcrop. This rich deposit is still producing high volumes of ore and is classed as one of the world’s great mines.