The Story of Longreach

Prior to 1860, the land around what is now the Shire of Longreach was peopled by the Iningai, Malintji and Kunngkari.

In 1860, William Landsborough and Nat Buchanan, searching for new grazing land, came upon this area and saw in it a potential not appreciated by former explorers.

In 1863 a pastoral lease was granted to the partnership of the Scottish Australia Company, William Landsborough, Nat Buchanan and Edward Cornish. This lease was named 'Bowen Downs'.

In 1872, following management difficulties — not the least of which was the infamous cattle theft by Harry Readford — the company divided 'Bowen Downs' in two.

In 1887 'Bowen Downs' was resumed and blocks of approximately 40,000 acres were thrown open for selection. Many of these selections have changed ownership a number of times.

In 1886 the railways were surveying for the rail line west of Rockhampton and found the present site of Longreach to be suitable for the terminus of the rail line.

In November 1887, the township of Longreach was gazetted. The name 'Longreach' had been used prior to the establishment of the town by an outstation of 'Mt Cornish'.

In December 1887, the first sale of Longreach town allotments was held at Barcaldine. The first sale was to the Queensland National Bank for 107 pounds.

Following the completion of the rail link in 1892, the growth of Longreach accelerated, soon boasting a post office, court house, police station and lockup, and a school.