Burke and Wills Dig Tree, Nappa Merrie Station

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The Burke and Wills ‘Dig Tree’ is one of Australia’s national icons and an enduring reminder of our pioneering spirit. Nappa Merrie Station is proud to officially manage the site on behalf of the Royal Historical Society of Queensland.

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Located on the Northern bank of Coopers Creek the ‘Dig Tree’ is a Coolibah. It is believed that the tree is between 200-250 years old.

The ‘Dig Tree’ is one of Australia’s national icons

The History Behind ‘Dig Tree’

Burke and Wills ‘Dig Tree’ is a heritage-listed eucalyptus tree. Located in the heart of the Bulloo Shire in Queensland. It is said to have been blazed on the 21st of April in 1861. Associated with the explorers Robert O’Hara Burke and William John Willis, the pair followed a man named Charles Gray and John king up the northern coast of Australia. Unfortunately, they had to abandon their depot and begin their trek back home. However, before leaving Cooper’s Creek, the group left a message on the tree pointing to a cache of hidden stores.

This Australian Icon shows the pioneering spirit and extremely harsh conditions in which these men encountered whilst in the outback. Just 30metres downstream from the dig tree, you can find Burke’s face carved into another tree, which John Dick drew himself. A direct link to the explorers of Australia’s historic past, these carvings are still visible today.

Don’t forget to check out our Top 5 Stops on the Adventure Way and learn more about the history behind these quaint country towns.

Dean Miller - Campr Dean has been a trailblazer in the adventure television space for more than 15 years. With a passion for fishing, forged as a young fella growing up on Groote Eylandt NT, the only thing he loves more than boating, camping and touring is sharing a yarn.