Lorraine Station

Stokes is a remote area situated within the Shire of Carpentaria, in Queensland, Australia. According to the most recent census, the population of Stokes was recorded at 75 residents.

Geography

The western edge of Stokes is defined by the Leichhardt River. This river, along with the Alexandra, Cloncurry River, Flinders River, and Saxby River, traverses the region flowing from south to north. The Alexandra River merges with the Leichhardt River in the northwest part of the locality, while the Cloncurry and Saxby Rivers converge into the Flinders River toward the northeast. Both the Leichhardt and Flinders Rivers proceed northward, ultimately draining into the Gulf of Carpentaria.

Two significant roads cross Stokes: the Burke Developmental Road runs from northeast to south, and the Wills Developmental Road cuts across the southwest section. These thoroughfares intersect close to Four Ways. The terrain predominantly consists of pastoral leases and is largely flat, with an elevation near 50 metres above sea level.

A distinctive landmark within this flat region is a hill named Bang Bang Jump Up, located along Burke Developmental Road. This hill provides a rare change in elevation and serves as a popular viewpoint for visitors, partly due to its unique name.

History

The area derives its name from John Lort Stokes, who served as commanding officer of the HMS Beagle between 1841 and 1846.

Demographics

Population figures indicate that Stokes had 84 inhabitants at one census, which later decreased to 75 according to subsequent data.

Education

There are no schools situated within Stokes itself; therefore, educational opportunities are limited to distance education programs or attending boarding schools.