Birdsville is a small town located in the Channel Country of Central Western Queensland, Australia with a population of around 150 people.
Known as Diamantina Crossing until 1881, there are a number of different theories as to the origin of the name Birdsville, however, by 1882, the name became common use and was formalised at the proclamation of the town in 1887.
Birdsville sits on the edge of the Simpson Desert, approximately 174km east of Peoppel Corner which is the point at which the states of Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia meet. It is also the ending point of the Birdsville Track which extends 514 kilometres from Marree in South Australia through the Strzelecki Desert.
The climate in Birdsville is very arid with an average of only 22 days of rain a year. Summers are extremely hot and dry, with winters being mild to warm. Dust storms are most likely during periods of strong wind which typically occur in spring. Birdsville has recorded the highest temperature in the state of Queensland with 49.5°C (121°F).
Once a notorious place through which cattle drovers moved their stock, Birdsville is now a thriving community where you can enjoy a cold drink at the iconic Birdsville Hotel, back a winner at the world-renowned Birdsville Races or dance the day away at the Birdsville Big Red bash.
Birdsville also featured in the 2014 British comedy film, The Inbetweeners 2.