Way out in Queensland's Outback lies a peaceful waterhole surrounded by pretty coolibah trees, a perfect spot for a dip or a rest in the shade.


As You peer at the wide, blue sky above, its hard to believe that this is the place that inspired Banjo Paterson's immortal ballad, Waltzing Matilda.

This is the Combo Waterhole. It lies just south-east of the tiny settlement of Kynuna, on the sealed Matilda Highway in the North West Outback.

Legend has it that the billabong inspired Banjo Paterson to write his famous poem while visiting nearby Dagworth Station.

It's believed Banjo took his cue when Dagworth owner Bob MacPherson told him of the suicide of a shearer who was involved in the great strikes of the 1890s, which led to the burning of the Dagworth shearing shed.

Banjo heard several other stories of this nature and he soon penned the words to what became Australia's unofficial national anthem.

Legend has it that Christina MacPherson of Dagworth adpated a Scottish tune, Cragielea, for the music to the ballad.

The Combo Waterhole is easy to find. Drive on the Matilda Highway south-east out of Kynuna for about 13km.

The turn-off is well marked and a short drive leads to a car park. The waterhole is a 40 minute return walk. Remember to take a hat and some water with You .

Depending on the time of the year, You might find a few good places to take a swim as the Diamantina River meanders through the area.

Stone pitch-work found along the walk was actually built more than a century ago by Chinese labour.

The Combo Waterhole is a day access place only and has limited facilities.

Those who want to find out more can head 145km south-west along the Matilda Highway to Winton where the Waltzing Matilda Centre is situated.

Here, Banjo Paterson's story is spelled out in full detail with a sound and light show and interactive displays. Also on the premises is a regional art gallery and the Qantilda Museum with its vast collection of pioneering memorabilia.

Winton also claims fame as the place where Waltzing Matilda was first perfor med.

Christina and Banjo apparently travelled to Winton where the ballad was sung by Herbert, later Sir Herbert, Ramsay who was accompanied by piano at the North Gregory Hotel.

It's hard to believe a pretty little town and a picturesque waterhole way out west could have inspired such an amazing episode in Australian history.