The Richmond–Winton Road commences at an intersection with the Flinders Highway in Richmond, about 3.7 kilometres (2.3 mi) west of the town.

After a short attempt at settlement in 1866 the first European settler came to what is now Winton in about 1875 to set up a shop and public house.

The proposed site became a ghost town and Winton became the administrative centre for the district.

[11] Pastoral runs were established in the area, including Corfield Downs, about 100 kilometres (62 mi) to the north.

[12] Early roads were cut from both Richmond and Winton to provide access for wheeled vehicles to the pastoral runs and other settlements.