The Big Kronosaurus
Height
Life-sized replica (original species up to 11 metres long)
Year Built
Address
Kronosaurus Korner, 91A Goldring Street, Richmond, QLD 4822
The Lowdown
The Big Kronosaurus stands guard at Kronosaurus Korner, an impressive fossil museum in the outback town of Richmond in North West Queensland. This life-sized replica depicts the fearsome Kronosaurus queenslandicus, a massive marine reptile that cruised the ancient inland sea that once covered much of Queensland around 110 million years ago. Richmond is one of Australia's premier fossil hunting regions, with the Eromanga Sea having left behind remarkably preserved marine fossils including this apex predator. Kronosaurus was one of the largest pliosaurids ever discovered, growing up to 11 metres in length with a skull over 2 metres long and teeth the size of bananas. The replica at Richmond showcases this magnificent creature and draws palaeontology enthusiasts from around the world.
Did you know?
"Its skull alone measured over 2 metres in length"
History
Richmond lies in the heart of what was once the Eromanga Sea, a vast inland ocean that covered much of central Australia during the Early Cretaceous period around 100-110 million years ago. The region is one of Australia's richest fossil deposits, yielding remarkable marine reptile specimens including the Kronosaurus queenslandicus that the museum is named after. The first Kronosaurus fossil was discovered in Queensland in 1899, and the most complete specimen was found near Richmond. Kronosaurus Korner was established to showcase these incredible fossils and educate visitors about the prehistoric world that once existed beneath Australia's red outback soils.
More Fun Facts
- •Kronosaurus queenslandicus grew up to 11 metres long
- •Its skull alone measured over 2 metres in length
- •The creature's teeth were the size of bananas
- •Richmond sits on what was once the Eromanga Sea, 110 million years ago
- •The museum houses Australia's best collection of marine fossils
Visiting Tips
- 💡Allow 2-3 hours to explore the museum's extensive fossil collection
- 💡Join a fossil hunting tour to search for your own prehistoric treasures
- 💡Richmond is part of the Australian Dinosaur Trail with Hughenden and Winton
- 💡The drive from Townsville to Richmond passes through stunning outback scenery
Opening Hours
Museum hours. Check website for seasonal variations.
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