Ouyen Queen Bee Roadhouse

Ouyen Vic 3490 (Pop 1 500)
Pic: by Longhair

Ouyen is an important Murray rural transport and service town 442 km n-w of Melbourne. It sits at the intersection of the Mallee (Adelaide-Sydney) & Calder (Melbourne-Mildura) Hwys and is surrounded by national parks. Development of this area was delayed due to difficult scrubby terrain and the harsh climate. Originally inhabited by the Wergaia Aborigines, European settlement began with the arrival of the railway (1906). Autumn Art Show (Apr), Farmers Festival (Nov).

Tourist Attractions & Info:
Local History Research Centre, Oke St housed in the old courthouse, the centre has a fine local history collection of records and photographs. Open (9.30-4pm) Fri. Victoria Hotel, Rowe St beautiful, well preserved country pub. 

Nearby:
Murray Sunset NP (20 km north) Victoria’s 2^nd largest national park is a semi arid landscape of stunning spring wildflower displays and a good variety of bird and wildlife. There are a number of driving (many 4 WD) tracks and walking trails (Pink Lakes area which are coloured by an algae carotene). Hattah-Kulkyne NP (35 km north) 48 000 ha of mallee scrub and pine woodlands. Based around the Hattah Lakes, there are over 200 species of birds and diverse wildlife. Early Aboriginal occupation is also evident from the middens and canoe trees. Bushwalking, fishing and canoeing all popular pursuits. Manangatang (55 km east) small country town with an excellent museum and bush racecourse.

Accommodation:
Ouyen has 3 motels, a hotel and a caravan park. Visitor Information Centre: Oke St. Tel (03) 5092 1000.