Maxwelton is a rural town and locality in the Shire of Richmond, Queensland, Australia. It is situated in the Gulf Country region of North West Queensland.
Geography Maxwelton is located approximately 1,600 kilometres (990 mi) north-west of Brisbane and approximately 430 kilometres (270 mi) east of Mount Isa. The Flinders Highway passes through the locality from east to west, and the Great Northern railway line runs parallel to the highway. The town is situated on the banks of the Flinders River.
History The town takes its name from the Maxwelton railway station, which was named after the Maxwelton pastoral run. The pastoral run was established in the 1860s. The Maxwelton Post Office opened by 1907 (a receiving office had been open from 1884). Maxwelton State School opened in 1923.
Economy The surrounding district is primarily used for beef cattle grazing. The town serves as a service centre for the surrounding pastoral properties.
Facilities Maxwelton has a state primary school (Maxwelton State School), a hotel (the Maxwelton Hotel), a general store, and a police station. The town also has a rodeo ground and a racecourse which host annual events.
Population According to the 2021 Australian Census, the locality of Maxwelton had a population of 74 people. The 2016 census recorded a population of 81.
Transport Maxwelton is a stop on the Inlander passenger train service operated by Queensland Rail, which runs between Townsville and Mount Isa.
