Mount Isa Profile

picture1

The City of Mount Isa is a local Government area in North West Queensland, Australia. The City is situated in the heart of the North West Mineral Province, one of the world’s richest mineral resources and is set among the brilliance of the Selwyn ranges.  The City shares a boundary with the Northern Territory to the West and located approximately 1834 kilometres or 2 hours and 40 minutes flight time from Brisbane and 910 kilometres or 1 hour and 40 minutes flight time from Townsville.

 

The boundaries of the Mount Isa City Council also include the township of Camooweal, located 188 kilometres to the North West. This makes Mount Isa the second largest City (geographically) in Australia.

Mount Isa came into existence because of the vast mineral deposits found in the area and this year is celebrating its 85th Year of Commerce and Community.

 

chamber pictures 002

Industry in the City is based around Xstrata Mount Isa Mines, a source of lead, copper, silver and zinc.  Mount Isa Mines is one of the most productive mines in the world, based on its combined production.   Cattle grazing and tourism are other major industries of note.

Once a basic pioneer town built around the vast mineral resources the City is famous for, Mount Isa has grown into a successful industrial and commercial centre. Renowned for its friendly welcoming nature, Mount Isa offers modern metropolitan conveniences which add to the City’s ever increasing cosmopolitan feel. With a population of approximately 21,000 in the City and 1,000 in the surrounding regions, Mount Isa is the administrative, commercial and industrial centre for Queensland’s vast North-West region.

 

mtisa1Although situated in an arid area, the City’s Lake Moondarra, 19 kilometres to the north of the CBD, provides both drinking water and a haven for water sports, bird watching and recreation.

 

The lake is stocked with Barramundi and Sooty Grunter.   Mount Isa’s annual fishing classic is highly contested with a grand prize of $25,000.00 for the tagged Barra.

 

Mount Isa’s traditional owners are the Kalkadoon tribe.