4WD COACH ADVENTURES
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GORGE & RIVER CRUISES
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ICONIC RAIL JOURNEYS
outbackaussietours.com.au
INCLUDES 2022 EARLY EMU DEALS
Outback Queensland Touring Experiences 2022
SAFE BOOKING GUARANTEE
Horn Island
Legend
Thursday Island
Spirit of Queensland
Cape York
Seisia Jardine River NP
Fruit Bat Falls
Moreton Telegraph Station
Spirit of the Outback
Bamaga
Archer River
Weipa Mungkan Kandju NP
Savannahlander
Horn Island to Cairns
Gulflander QantasLink or REX flights
Iron Range NP
Boat/Ferry Cruise
Old Telegraph Track Coen
TOURING ROUTES Lakefield NP
Musgrave
Lion’s Den Hotel Cape Tribulation Staaten River NP
Wujal Wujal
Daintree Port Douglas
R
I
Undara Lava Tubes Croydon Einasleigh Cobbold Gorge Forsayth
r Rive rry Fli cu nd
n
Birdsville Desert Escape
n
Legendary Longreach & Winton
n
Corner Country Explorer
sR
Cloncurry
E
R
R
E
E
F
Brisbane to Cairns
er
Clo n
Journey of the Gulf Savannah
Townsville
Burke & Wills Roadhouse
t hhard Leic iver R
Adels Grove
Mount Surprise
Georgetown
Gregory
n
R
Critters Camp
Leichhardt Falls
Cape York & Torres Strait
A
Karumba
Normanton Burketown Lawn Hill Boodjamulla NP
Dimbulah
B
Cairns
Lake Barrine
AT G R E
Cooktown
n
Porcupine Gorge NP iv er
Longreach to Townsville
Jundah
Lake Eyre NP
Innamincka Strzelecki Regional Reserve Cameron Corner
g rre
o
iv er
Wa
Dig Tree Thargomindah Eulo Sturt NP
Tibooburra
2
Bundaberg
Charleville
Noccundra
Coongie Lakes
Ba rco oR ive r
Carnarvon Gorge NP
Brisbane to Longreach
Maryborough
Roma Miles
o Ri ver
Innamincka Regional Reserve
Goyder’s Lagoon
Idalia NP
Paro
Haddon’s Corner
Creek Cooper
S O U T H Birdsville AUSTRALIA
Windorah
Gladstone
Camden Park Station
Welford NP
Betoota
Poeppel Corner
Riv er
Stonehenge
Rockhampton
Bullo oR
Big Red
Lochern NP
Th om son
Simpson Desert NP
Strathmore Station
Diamantina NP Diam ant ina Riv er
ree Eyre C k
Bedourie
LONGREACH
er
Dinosaur Stampede
QUEENSLAND
R iv
Boulia
Belyand oR iv e r
Australian Age of Dinosaurs
Bladensburg NP Middleton
River ina org Ge
NORTHERN TERRITORY
Winton
Thom son River
Mackay
Dalby
BRISBANE
Toowoomba
Cunnamulla
NEW SOUTH WALES
Gold Coast
Great Ways to Save 2022 EARLY EMU DEALS*
Travel at 2021 prices on selected tours if booked by 30 November 2021.
PAST PASSENGER SAVINGS* Past passengers save $150 per person on all extended tour departures of 5 nights or more if booked at least two months prior to departure.
TRAVEL WITH FRIENDS & SAVE* Book and travel with four or more of your favourite people and you will each receive $150*pp off your tour price.
SECOND TOUR DISCOUNT* Book two or more of our extended tours at the same time and receive a 10% discount. This discount applies to the tour of lesser value. Offers valid on new bookings only.
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*These offers may not be combined. Conditions apply. Limited spaces. Subject to availability
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Contents 04
RAIL & FLIGHT CONNECTIONS
12
6 Days LEGENDARY LONGREACH & WINTON
05
OUR VEHICLES
14
9 Days BIRDSVILLE DESERT ESCAPE
06
THE OUTBACK AUSSIE TOURS EXPERIENCE
16
11 Days CAPE YORK & TORRES STRAIT
08
FEATURED ACCOMMODATION & PRE/POST OPTIONS
20
12 Days JOURNEY OF THE GULF SAVANNAH
10
5 Days LONGREACH OUTBACK GETAWAY
24
14 Days CORNER COUNTRY EXPLORER
3
UNWIND AND RELAX BY RAIL
Spirit of the Outback
Spirit of Queensland
All aboard the iconic Spirit of the Outback to Longreach in a First Class Sleeper! This must-do 26-hour rail adventure is the perfect introduction to your Outback Queensland holiday. All Outback Aussie Tours commencing or ending in Longreach can be packaged with either one way or return rail from Brisbane. Here’s some of the onboard features:
Settle back in a state-of-the-art RailBed for a very comfortable trip between Brisbane and Cairns. This spacious reclining seat converts to a flat bed for a restful sleep. It’s a 24-hour journey operating five times weekly. Here are some of the features:
n Exclusive access to the Shearers Rest Lounge carriage
n 18.5 inch on-demand personal entertainment system
n 35 degree seat recline and seat converts to flat bed
n All main meals are served directly to your seat n 240 volt power point, reading light and drink holder n All bed linen, towel and amenities pack n Restrooms are provided at the end of all seating carriages n Showers are located at the end of two carriages n Accessibility RailBeds and facilities are available
n Outback inspired meals created with Queensland’s best produce served in the Tuckerbox Restaurant n Portable entertainment tablets are available for use n Single or Twin cabins with all linen, 240 volt power point & reading light n Share toilets and showers are at the end of each carriage
QantasLink Longreach is where Qantas began and is home to the award-winning Qantas Founders Museum. It’s just a 2 - 3 hour daily flight with QantasLink from Brisbane. The flight includes full onboard service and awesome aerial views of Outback Queensland.
We have packaged selected tours to include return or one way flights.
4
MERCEDES BENZ & MAN 4WD TOURING COACHES
When you travel with Outback Aussie Tours, you’re guaranteed to travel in comfort and safety. Our fleet of 2WD coaches and custom-built 4WD coaches, built to German precision, are specially designed for outback conditions. Features for your comfort and safety include: n Coach reclining seats with generous legroom n Onboard restroom n Television and DVD Player n USB charging points for tablets and smart phones n Air-conditioning n Satellite communications n Refrigerator & hot water urn
SAVANNAH GUIDES OPERATOR DRIVERS & HOSTS
You’re in good hands with our Savannah Guides Operator drivers and dedicated onboard hosts. Trained to Savannah Guides standards, our drivers are professional tour guides, protectors and interpreters of the Outback. Authentic, genuine and knowledgeable, every Outback Aussie Tour is a journey of a lifetime.
5
Cobbold Gorge Infinity Pool
MEMORABLE
EXPERIENCES
6
CARISBROOKE STATION 85km south west of Winton
BIG RED SAND HILL 35km west of Birdsville
BOODJAMULLA (LAWN HILL) NATIONAL PARK
QUINKAN ROCK ART SITES, LAURA
The view from Cory’s Range at Carisbrooke Station is rated #27 of Australia’s Best Views by Australian Traveller. The beauty of this time-sculpted, ancient landscape is mesmerising.
Toast the sunset from this 40-metre-high dune. The first of 1113 dunes in the Simpson Desert, the spectacular sunsets from the top of Big Red are a bucket-list item for sure.
Red sandstone cliffs contrast with emerald green waters at Boodjamulla, Queensland’s hidden gem. Cruise this majestic waterway on a solar electric powered boat.
This dramatic body of prehistoric rock paintings has been identified as being at least 15,000 to 30,000 years old. Join a guided tour of the Split Rock Galleries.
THE
OUTBACK AUSSIE TOURS EXPERIENCE With over 34 years’ experience in crafting authentic Outback tours, you’re assured of a memorable and highly personalised touring holiday with Outback Aussie Tours. Guests travelling to our outback home are hosted to a suite of signature experiences, made possible through our long-standing local connections and partnerships.
SAVANNAH GUIDES OPERATOR
Professional tour guiding services play an essential role in great tours. Our drivers are all trained to Savannah Guides standards. This is a highly professional network of paleontologists, geologists, agronomists, wildlife experts and Traditional Custodians. What does this mean for you? It means you benefit from in depth natural and cultural interpretation and stories that will remain with you for a lifetime.
ONBOARD HOSTS
All of our extended tours (with the exception of the Outback Getaway and Legendary Longreach and Winton tours) travel with a dedicated onboard host. Our hosts are specially selected for their people skills and attention to detail. They are truly the icing on our touring cake!
THEMED DINNERS & OUTBACK HOSPITALITY
Get a real taste of the Outback with our onboard home-baked goodies made to Sue’s favourite family recipes. Make the most of the incredible outback vistas with our special sunset drinks and nibbles events. Enjoy the benefits of our local connections with exclusive hospitality at outback stations and attractions.
STATION VISITS
Enjoy the hospitality of local graziers when we visit outback stations. It’s a true privilege to introduce guests to our local producers. Real working station visits are a signature experience with Outback Aussie Tours.
COMMITTED TO SUSTAINABILITY
Outback Aussie Tours is a proud Eco Certified Nature Tourism Operator committed to best practice environmental sustainability, contributing to conserving the environment and helping local communities. We take our role as local custodians very seriously and our ethos is to leave the environment a better place.
7
OUTBACK RETREATS, OUTBACK STATIONS & OUTBACK PUBS There are some exceptional accommodation experiences in Outback Queensland. Here’s a small sample…
SALTBUSH RETREAT, LONGREACH Saltbush Retreat’s rustic but beautiful accommodation reflects the unique textures and tones of Outback Queensland. The exquisitely themed Homestead Stables and Slab Huts deliver an authentic outback experience; without sacrificing those allimportant creature comforts.
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UNDARA EXPERIENCE, RAILWAY CARRIAGES Spend a night in a beautifully restored, turn of the century, railway carriage in Undara Experience's signature accommodation. The carriages are set along an original teamsters coach road in the Australian bush.
COBBOLD GORGE VILLAGE
BIRDSVILLE HOTEL
Located on Robin Hood Station, Cobbold Gorge Village boasts an Infinity Pool with a swim up bar (and cocktail list); a delightful Outback Oasis. However, it’s the spectacular sandstone gorge that is the star. Well-appointed en suite cabins allow guests to relax into their beautiful surrounds and enjoy the serenity.
This iconic Aussie pub is steeped in Australia’s pioneering history. A destination in its own right, the Birdsville Hotel is on many a traveller’s bucket list. The comfortable motel rooms in the property complex allow guests plenty of time to discover the stories of this important outback landmark.
PRE & POST TOUR ACCOMMODATION If you would like to spend extra time at a destination before or after your tour our team are happy to book your accommodation. Please request rates.
LONGREACH
BRISBANE
SALTBUSH RETREAT
ROYAL ON THE PARK
63-65 Ilfracombe Road, Longreach
152 Alice Street, Brisbane
LONGREACH
CAIRNS
LONGREACH MOTOR INN 84 Galah Street, Longreach
RYDGES ESPLANADE 209-217 Abbott Street, Cairns
9
5 – 6 DAYS
LONGREACH OUTBACK GETAWAY EXPLORE QUEENSLAND'S HEARTLAND TOWNS OF LONGREACH & WINTON
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Day 1 | SUNDAY | LONGREACH
Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame Entry
Feel that sense of freedom and adventure as you arrive into Longreach. Fly/Rail guests will be met at Longreach Airport on arrival. You’re standing in the true heartland of Outback Queensland, home of legends, larrikins and our pioneering giants. Get acquainted on an introductory town tour with our Savannah Guides Operator Driver-Guide before checking into your accommodation. Take a short drive to Ilfracombe. Founded in 1891, it was a transport hub for Wellshot Station, which at the time held the largest number of sheep on any station in the world. We’ll start the tour with an authentic pub dinner at the historic Wellshot Hotel.
Luminescent Longreach Sound & Light Show & Exclusive Qantas Founders Museum Dinner
4 nights Longreach Motor Inn (Optional upgrade to Mitchell Grass Retreat or Saltbush Retreat)
Longreach Town Tour Ilfracombe Tour & Historic Wellshot Hotel Rosebank Station Tour & Smoko Qantas Founders Museum Entry & Airpark Tour Drover’s Sunset Cruise including Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show Winton Town Tour Waltzing Matilda Centre Entry Australian Age of Dinosaurs Tour Camden Park Station Smoko Tour
Day 2 | MONDAY | LONGREACH Meet the Smith family at historic Rosebank Station for an exclusive tour and a relaxed homestead morning tea. Back in town, wander the interactive displays of the Qantas Founders Museum
to discover the real Qantas story. Hear the inspiring human stories of our national airline’s early years. Step inside the 747 and 707 Jets on an interpretive tour of the impressive Airpark. Late afternoon board the Longreach Explorer for the award-winning Drover’s Sunset Cruise on the mighty Thomson River. Unwind with onboard nibbles and drinks, watching a magnificent outback sunset. Enjoy a two-course table-service dinner under the stars at the entertaining Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show. Top off the evening with billy-tea and freshly baked damper.
Day 3 | TUESDAY | WINTON Be prepared to be impressed with the changing landscapes as we travel from Longreach to Winton. See the quirky Arno’s Wall, the Musical Fence and learn the story behind Australia’s unofficial national anthem at the Waltzing Matilda Centre. Visit Australian Age of Dinosaurs perched high on a magnificent mesa overlooking the plains where dinosaurs once roamed! Onsite dinosaur enthusiasts treat us to a top-class interpretive tour
INCLUSIONS 4 nights en suite accommodation Touring with Savannah Guides Operator driver-guide All meals as per itinerary Entries/activities as per itinerary Longreach accommodation arrival/departure transfers Camden Park Station
10
NORTHERN TERRIT
Winton
LONGREACH
4
Camden Park Station
Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame
QUEENSLAND
Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show
NEW SOUTH WALES
Drover’s Sunset Cruise
Low level of fitness required Qantas Founders Museum
of the laboratory, collection room and Dinosaur Canyon. Return to Longreach late afternoon. Dinner tonight will be at your accommodation.
Day 4 | WEDNESDAY | LONGREACH
Experience the warm hospitality of local graziers with a visit to Camden Park Station. Enjoy a personalised tour of the property, followed by a delicious morning tea. Explore the fascinating themed galleries at the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and discover inspiring stories of our pioneering heroes. Enjoy some free time downtown mid afternoon. Return to Qantas Founders Museum for an exclusive
dinner surrounded by aviation history, and the entertaining and informative Luminescent Longreach Sound & Light Show, which brings the 100-year story of Qantas to life.
Scan the QR code below to view itinerary and deals on our website
Day 5 | THURSDAY
Wake up to your last outback sunrise and a tasty breakfast before checking out of your accommodation. Your tour will conclude after breakfast this morning with a transfer to either Longreach Railway Station or Longreach Airport. Guests choosing to rail back to Brisbane aboard the Spirit of the Outback will enjoy all meals whilst onboard.
ACCOMMODATION UPGRADES Mitchell Grass Retreat from $344 pp twin share
2022 DEPARTURES
06, 27 March; 10, 24 April; 15 May; 12, 19 June; 03, 17, 31 July; 14 August; 18 September; 02, 16 October 2022
2022 EARLY EMU DEALS!
Book by 30 November 2021 and travel at 2021 prices. *Limited spaces. Subject to availability
Wellshot Hotel, Ilfracombe
Saltbush Retreat from $322 pp twin share
2022 TOURS
LONGREACH OUTBACK GETAWAY
Twin Share
Single
5 Day Longreach – Longreach
$2329pp
$2849pp
6 Day Brisbane – Brisbane FLY/RAIL
$3038*pp
$3558*pp
with one way flight + one way overnight rail
*Price includes one way economy flight and one way First Class overnight rail on the Spirit of the Outback between Brisbane and Longreach. Rail is based on Aust. Govt Senior Card holder fares. Please ask for other fare types. Included Economy flights are subject to airline’s booking and carriage conditions. ^Accommodation Upgrade is subject to availability.
11
6 – 7 DAYS
LEGENDARY LONGREACH & WINTON OUR BEST SELLING FULLY INCLUSIVE TOUR FEATURING TOP LONGREACH & WINTON ATTRACTIONS AND HOSPITALITY
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Rosebank Station Tour & Smoko Longreach School of Distance Education Qantas Founders Museum Entry & Airpark Tour Drover’s Sunset Cruise including Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame & Outback Stockman’s Show Camden Park Station Sunset Tour and an Exclusive Historic Woolshed Dinner Carisbrooke Station Tour Dinosaur Stampede National Monument at Lark Quarry Conservation Park Winton Town Tour Waltzing Matilda Centre Entry Australian Age of Dinosaurs Tour including Dinosaur Canyon and Deluxe Sunset Barbecue
Day 1 | WEDNESDAY | LONGREACH Arrive in Longreach for the start of your Outback Queensland adventure. You will be met at either Longreach Railway Station or Longreach Airport by your Savannah Guide Operator driverguide and transferred to your beautiful accommodation at the boutique outback lodgings, Saltbush Retreat. Meet fellow travellers for a tour briefing and Welcome Supper before retiring to your accommodation. During your three night stay at Saltbush Retreat, you can enjoy an indulging soak in one of three clawfoot baths on their exclusive Outdoor Bath Terrace or a swim in their outdoor pool. 3 nights Saltbush Retreat, Longreach
Day 2 | THURSDAY | LONGREACH Witness a totally different way of schooling on a tour of the Longreach School of Distance Education. Receive a warm welcome to Longreach at historic Rosebank Station, originally settled as a sheep and cattle station some 100 years
ago. Enjoy morning tea and a chat with the local Outback Aussie Tours owners. Wander the world-class Qantas Founders Museum, eloquently telling the story of the founding of Qantas. View marvellous interpretive and interactive exhibits then join a guided Airpark Tour. Late afternoon experience the warm hospitality of local graziers on a visit to Camden Park Station. Join Outback Dan on a personalised tour of his family property, sunset drinks at Two Tree Hill, followed by an exclusive dinner in their 100-year-old woolshed.
Day 3 | FRIDAY | LONGREACH Explore the fascinating themed galleries at the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and discover inspiring stories of our pioneering heroes. Take your seat at the exciting Stockman’s Live Show to see amazing horsemanship and the action of a live muster. Witness the traditional Australian Stockman skills that are still used today. Enjoy some free time and outback retail therapy in downtown
INCLUSIONS All en suite accommodation (3 nights Longreach, 2 nights Winton) Touring with our Savannah Guides Operator driver-guide All meals (5 buffet breakfasts; 4 lunches; 5 dinners) All entries/activities as per itinerary Longreach accommodation arrival/departure transfers Australian Age of Dinosaurs
12
N O R T H E R N T E R R I TO
Winton
2 Dinosaur Stampede
3
Camden Park Station LONGREACH
Outback Dan, Camden Park Station
QUEENSLAND Australian Age of Dinosaurs NEW Deluxe Sunset Barbecue
Carisbrooke Station
Low level of fitness required
Longreach. Late afternoon, unwind on the Drover’s Sunset Cruise with tasty onboard nibbles followed by a two-course table service dinner under the stars at Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show.
Day 4 | SATURDAY | WINTON
Be prepared to be impressed with the changing landscapes as we travel from Longreach to Winton. Enjoy a town tour to discover the quirky Arno’s Wall and play a tune on what is believed to be the world’s only musical fence. Learn the story behind Australia’s unofficial national anthem at the Waltzing Matilda Centre; the only museum dedicated to a song. Mid afternoon, we take a short drive out of town to the Australian Age of Dinosaurs, perched high on a spectacular mesa. Join a guided interpretive tour of the laboratory, collection room and Dinosaur Canyon. Take in the moment at our very special sunset barbecue overlooking the plains where dinosaurs once roamed! 2 nights Boulder Opal Motor Inn, Winton
SOUTH WAL
Dinosaur Stampede at Lark Quarry
Alan & Sue Smith, Rosebank Station
in time in ancient mudflats. Return to Winton for a relaxed dinner at your accommodation.
Scan the QR code below to view itinerary and deals on our website
Day 6 | MONDAY
Following an early breakfast, we end the tour with a short drive back to Longreach to join your connecting transfers home.
2022 DEPARTURES
13 April; 04, 18 May; 01, 15 June; 06, 20, 27 July; 03, 24, 31 August; 07, 21 September; 05 October 2022
2022 EARLY EMU DEALS!
Book by 30 November 2021 and travel at 2021 prices.
Day 5 | SUNDAY | WINTON
Travel into the heart of Waltzing Matilda country and Carisbrooke Station. Here we’ll follow the scenic Cory’s Range drive to the Three Sisters rock formation, fossick for opals and enjoy a relaxed billy tea. Witness a prehistoric event from some 95 million years ago at Dinosaur Stampede, Lark Quarry Conservation Park. Join an interpretive tour of the world’s only recorded dinosaur stampede featuring over 3000 footprints frozen
Drover’s Sunset Cruise including Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show
*Limited spaces. Subject to availability
2022 TOURS
LEGENDARY LONGREACH & WINTON
Twin Share
Single
6 Day Longreach – Longreach
$3079pp
$3819pp
7 Day Brisbane – Brisbane FLY/RAIL
$3788*pp
$ 4528*pp
one way flight + one way overnight rail sleeper
*Price includes one way economy flight and one way First Class overnight rail on the Spirit of the Outback between Brisbane and Longreach. Rail is based on Aust. Govt Senior Card holder fares. Included flights are subject to the individual airline booking and carriage conditions. Please ask for other fare types. Subject to availability.
13
9 – 10 DAYS
BIRDSVILLE DESERT ESCAPE
OUR POPULAR FULLY INCLUSIVE TOUR FEATURING BIRDSVILLE, WHERE THE CHANNEL COUNTRY MEETS THE DESERT, BOULIA, WINDORAH & LONGREACH
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Longreach Town Tour Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame Entry Qantas Founders Museum Entry Luminescent Longreach Sound & Light Show & Exclusive Qantas Founders Museum Dinner Waltzing Matilda Centre Entry Historic Middleton Hotel & Cawnpore Lookout Min Min Encounter and Boulia Heritage Complex Channel Country Touring Famous Birdsville Hotel Sunset nibbles atop Big Red (Sand Dune) Inland Hospital Ruins Deon’s Lookout and Dreamtime Serpent Art Sculpture Betoota Ghost Town and JC Hotel Ruins Sunset Sandhill nibbles, Windorah Drover’s Sunset Cruise including Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show Cawnpore Lookout
Day 1 | SUNDAY | LONGREACH
Arrive in Longreach for the start of your Outback Queensland adventure. You will be met at either Longreach Railway Station or Longreach Airport by your Savannah Guides Operator driver and host. Transfer to your accommodation for a tour briefing and a Welcome Supper. 2 nights Albert Park Motor Inn, Longreach
Day 2 | MONDAY | LONGREACH
Explore the fascinating themed galleries at the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and discover inspiring stories of our pioneering heroes. Enjoy an orientation tour of Longreach and some free time downtown to meet the locals and wander the shops. Visit the world-class Qantas Founders Museum, eloquently telling the story of the founding of Qantas. View interpretive displays, interactive exhibits and original and replica aircraft. Early evening return to the Qantas Founders Museum for an exclusive dinner surrounded by aviation history, and the entertaining and informative Luminescent Longreach Sound & Light Show, which brings the 100-year story of Qantas to life.
Day 3 | TUESDAY | BOULIA
This morning we drive to Winton and uncover the story behind the song that lives in the heart of all Australians, Waltzing Matilda. Follow a spectacularly scenic drive from Winton via historic Middleton Hotel, built during the Cobb & Co. era. It was originally a changing station where tired horses were replaced with fresh horses on the Winton to Boulia route. While at the pub hear entertaining yarns by the local publican over morning tea. We stop at Cawnpore Lookout to view the stark flat-topped beauty of the surrounding Lillyvale Hills, before arriving into Boulia, the capital of the Channel Country. Overnight Australian Hotel or Desert Sands Motel, Boulia
Day 4 | WEDNESDAY | BIRDSVILLE
This morning visit the Min Min Encounter, a tribute to the famed mysterious Min Min Light phenomenon. Explore the Stonehouse Museum, one of the first homes built in Western Queensland and see the impressive Marine Reptile Fossil exhibit. Witness spectacular 360-degree views from the Vaughan Johnson Lookout.
INCLUSIONS 8 nights en suite accommodation Travel by comfortable touring coach Touring with our Savannah Guides Operator driver and host All meals (8 buffet breakfasts; 7 lunches; 8 dinners) All entries/activities as per itinerary Longreach accommodation arrival/departure transfers
14
QUEENSLAND
N O R T H E R N T E R R I TO RY
Wild camels, Boulia
Winton
Boulia
1
LONGREACH
3
Bedourie
3
Birdsville
Stonehenge Jundah 1 Windorah Betoota
NEW SOUT
Carcory Ruins
Big Red
Medium level of fitness required
Explore the remote town of Bedourie, located on a sand dune, overlooking the Eyre Creek floodplain. See the historic Royal Hotel, built in the 1880s with adobe bricks and still very much in its original condition. Visit the Carcory Ruins, a heritage-listed homestead built in 1877 and abandoned after years of drought. Arrive in Birdsville late afternoon. 3 nights Birdsville Hotel, Birdsville
Day 5 | THURSDAY | BIRDSVILLE Wake up to a glorious outback day in this remote town on the edge of the Simpson Desert. Join your guide for a town tour of Birdsville. Stand on the famous Birdsville Race Track which hosts the annual ‘Melbourne Cup of the Outback’. See the Burke and Wills Tree, said to mark one of Burke & Wills’ final campsites. Take a stroll to Pelican Point Billabong with its abundant birdlife and tuck into a locally made pie at the Birdsville Bakery. Tonight we toast the glorious outback sunset from atop Big Red, a 40-metre-high sand dune marking the symbolic eastern edge of the Simpson Desert.
the company and stories from Birdsville locals as we share a traditional Stockman’s dinner around the campfire. Tuck into a mouthwatering homemade stew, made with the finest produced OBE organic Beef. Certified 100% organic and natural, it’s produced locally in the spectacular Channel Country. Complete the meal with a side of damper, cup of tea and rustic dessert.
oven themed dinner under the stars at Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show. Overnight Albert Park Motor Inn, Longreach
Day 9 | MONDAY
Following breakfast you will be transferred to either Longreach Airport or Longreach Railway Station for your homeward bound connections.
Day 7 | SATURDAY | WINDORAH
After a wonderful stay in Birdsville we set off to see the Dreamtime Serpent Indigenous artwork; an impressive hillside installation created with gravel and gibbers. Visit Betoota, originally established to collect cattle tolls and later as a Cobb & Co change station. It’s now a ghost town. Take in spectacular views from Deon’s Lookout and see the JC Hotel Ruins, once part of the township site of Canterbury. Arrive into Windorah, said to be the only place in the world where two rivers form a creek! Late afternoon, we’ll take a short trip out of town to toast the sunset from beautiful wind-swept red sandhills. Have your cameras ready! Overnight Western Star Hotel, Windorah
Scan the QR code below to view itinerary and deals on our website
2022 DEPARTURES
17 April; 08, 22 May; 12 June; 24 July; 14 August; 04, 25 September 2022
Day 8 | SUNDAY | LONGREACH
Stop in for a yarn over lunch at the Stonehenge Hotel. Follow the mighty Thomson River floodplain back to Longreach. Late afternoon join the Drover’s Sunset Cruise on the beautiful Thomson River. Unwind with onboard nibbles and drinks whilst watching a magnificent outback sunset. Enjoy live entertainment and a two-course camp
2022 EARLY EMU DEALS!
Book by 30 November 2021 and travel at 2021 prices. *Limited spaces. Subject to availability
Day 6 | FRIDAY | BIRDSVILLE Discover the stories behind this iconic town today. Cross over the border to South Australia along a section of the famous Birdsville Track. Keep a look out for a rare stand of Waddi Trees which occur in only a few places in the world. Visit the Australian Inland Mission Hospital Museum and view local Indigenous artists’ work at the Wirrarri Centre. Tonight enjoy
BIRDSVILLE DESERT ESCAPE
2022 TOURS Twin Share
Single
9 Day Longreach – Longreach
$ 4449pp
$5249pp
10 Day Brisbane – Brisbane FLY/RAIL
$5158*pp
$5958*pp
with one way flight + one way overnight rail
*Price includes one way economy flight and one way First Class overnight rail on the Spirit of the Outback between Brisbane and Longreach. Rail is based on Aust. Govt Senior Card holder fares. Please ask for other fare types. Subject to availability and airline booking conditions.
15
11 DAYS
CAPE YORK & TORRES STRAIT DISCOVER THE WILD UNSPOILED BEAUTY OF THE CAPE YORK PENINSULA AND THREE TORRES STRAIT ISLANDS
Medium level of fitness required
16
Kazu Pearl Farm, Friday Island
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Thursday Island Friday Island
Daintree Rainforest and Daintree Discovery Centre
Bamaga
Bana Yirriji Art & Cultural Centre
Weipa
Bloomfield Track and Daintree Coast
Horn Island
1 2
2
James Cook Museum
1
Cooktown Botanic Gardens Guided tour of Split Rock, Quinkan Centre
2
Weipa Bauxite Mine Tour
Fruit Bat Falls (swimming opportunity)
Cooktown
Daintree
Gulf Eco Cruise Moreton Telegraph Station
Musgrave
2
Bloomfield Falls
CAIRNS
Cape York Walk to ‘The Tip’ Kazu Pearl Farm Tour Horn and Thursday Island Touring Torres Strait Cultural Heritage Experiences
intriguing story of a fair skinned woman known as the “Normanby Woman” who Your adventure begins with a Welcome was sightedQliving back U E E Nwith S L A Aborigines ND Dinner at our tour hotel. Please check-in in the 1800s. Visit James Cook Museum after 2.00pm. Meet fellow travellers and in the magnificent 19th century Sisters of hear all about the adventures ahead with Mercy Convent. Gain an insight into the a comprehensive tour orientation by your grounding of the Endeavour and the most Savannah Guides Operator driver and host. significant land based stay of Captain Overnight Rydges Esplanade, Cairns Cook’s east coast expedition. Wander the beautiful heritage-listed Cooktown Day 2 | WEDNESDAY | COOKTOWN Botanic Gardens and see the Vera ScarthWe travel north along one of Australia’s Johnson collection of original regional most scenic coastal drives to Mossman, botanical illustrations. Enjoy some free nestled in the World Heritage-Listed time to stroll downtown Cooktown and Daintree Rainforest. We’ll board the a late afternoon tour of Grassy Hill with Daintree River Ferry for a short cable 360-degree views of Cooktown, the Birdsville crossing of the famous Daintree River. Endeavour River and the Great Barrier Windorah Visit the Daintree Discovery Centre, Reef. Rom an award-winning interpretive facility. Join a guided tour of the rainforest Day 4 | FRIDAY | MUSGRAVE CAPE boardwalks. Follow the Bloomfield Track Innamincka Travel to Lakeland and Laura via theYORK & on a spectacular scenic journey hugging mysterious Black Mountains,TORRES a specialSTRAIT the Daintree Coast. Visit the Bana Yirriji story place for the Kuku Yalanji people. Art and Cultural Centre in Wujal Wujal, a World-class Aboriginal rock art and small coastal Aboriginal community on the wonderful locally grown coffee are two banks of the Bloomfield River. big drawcards for theseN small E Wtowns. SOUTH WAL Cameron Best known are the Quinkan Rock Art 2 nights River of Gold Motel, Cooktown Tibooburra Corner considered to be some of the Galleries, most significant Aboriginal art sites in the world. We’ll join a guided tour of the Split Day 3 | THURSDAY | COOKTOWN Rock Galleries. Travel along the Peninsula Discover Cooktown’s colourful history Developmental Road to the Hann River today. Join our guide on a tour of the Roadhouse for a short break before Cooktown Cemetery and hear the continuing on to Musgrave Roadhouse. Overnight Musgrave Roadhouse
Day 1 | TUESDAY | CAIRNS
NORTHERN TERRITORY
Endeavour Strait Cruising
LONGREACH
Charleville
Cassowary
INCLUSIONS 10 nights en suite accommodation Travel by luxury 4WD coach from Cairns Touring with Savannah Guides Operator driver & host All meals (10 buffet breakfasts; 9 lunches; 10 dinners) All entries/activities as per itinerary Ferry transfers between Cape York, Thursday Island and Horn Island One way economy flight Horn Island to Cairns Cooktown
Day 5 | SATURDAY | WEIPA We continue along the Peninsula Development Road to the old mining community of Coen. The town was originally created around a repeater station in the Overland Telegraph Line to the Tip of Cape York Peninsula. We’ll arrive in time for lunch at the Archer River Roadhouse. Located on the banks of the crystal clear Archer River, the Roadhouse is famous for the massive Archer Burger, best served with an icy cold drink under their shaded patio. Last stop for the day is Weipa, the Barramundi capital of Queensland. Originally an
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11 DAYS
CAPE YORK & TORRES STRAIT Aboriginal mission, Weipa grew to become a township after the discovery of bauxite. Late afternoon relax at your accommodation with sweeping views of Albatross Bay. 2 nights Albatross Bay Resort, Weipa
Day 6 | SUNDAY | WEIPA Fruit Bat Falls
Smithy at ‘The Tip’
Thursday Island
Learn about Weipa’s mining operations on a morning tour of the world’s largest bauxite mine, operated by Rio Tinto. Get up close and personal to the 190 tonne Belly Dumper Haul trucks while touring the working mine site and follow the rail and conveyor belt system as the bauxite makes its way to the loading dock. Join an Eco Cruise on the Gulf of Carpentaria for a chance to spot local birdlife and crocodiles. Relax with drinks and nibbles as you learn about the incredible ecosystems and local culture. Witness a stunning sunset in one of the few places in Queensland where the sun sets over the ocean in the west.
Day 7 | MONDAY | BAMAGA
Gulf Eco Cruise
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Follow the Old Telegraph Track to Moreton Telegraph Station on the banks of the Wenlock River. Part of the historic Overland Telegraph Line, Moreton Telegraph Station was completed in 1887 and ceased operations in 1987 with the introduction of microwave telecommunications. Spot giant termite mounds as the country changes to the open plains of Heathlands Resources Reserve. Cool off in the lush Fruit Bat Falls with its crystal clear water (croc
Green Hill Fort, Thursday Island
free), a perfect swimming spot and one of the most special places on the Cape. Cross the Jardine River by cable ferry to Bamaga, the closest settlement to the Tip of Australia. This evening enjoy a relaxed dinner overlooking tropical gardens. 2 nights Cape York Peninsula Lodge, Bamaga
Day 8 | TUESDAY | BAMAGA Experience the highlights of Cape York Peninsula, one of Australia’s last great wilderness areas. We begin with a drive to Pajinka. The 45-60 minute walk over rocky headland to ‘The Tip’ of Cape York requires a good level of fitness. Take that ‘bucket-list’ photo as you stand at the Tip of Australia; then savour a picnic lunch on Sommerset Beach with breathtaking views to Albany Island. Visit the iconic Croc Tent then enjoy some free time back at your accommodation.
Day 9 | WEDNESDAY | TORRES STRAIT ISLANDS Cruise the beautiful turquoise waters of the Endeavour Strait to Thursday Island; just one of 274 islands which lie between the northern tip of Queensland and Papua New Guinea. Discover Thursday Island’s hidden past, including Green Hill Fort, on a guided history tour. Join a special tour to Friday Island and the Kazu Pearl Farm for a fascinating demonstration on the cultivation, seeding and harvesting of the pearl. Time also to visit the Pearl Farm Shop. Transfer to Horn Island late afternoon. Overnight Gateway Torres Strait Resort, Horn Island
Daintree Discovery Centre
Day 10 | THURSDAY | CAIRNS Join local guides on a tour of the World War II sites. See gun emplacements, an underground command post and an aircraft wreck with an epic tale. Walk in the steps of traditional owners, the Kaurareg People, and learn their stories. Following the tour you will have time to wander the Torres Strait Heritage Museum. Enjoy an Asian buffet lunch on Horn Island before transferring to Horn Island Airport for your QantasLink flight to Cairns. Tonight we’ll celebrate the end of our adventure with a Farewell Dinner at the Coral Hedge Brasserie Restaurant & Bar. Overnight Rydges Esplanade, Cairns
Scan the QR code below to view itinerary and deals on our website
2022 DEPARTURES
24 May; 07 June; 05, 19 July; 02, 30 August; 13 September 2022
Day 11 | FRIDAY Your Cape York and Torres Strait adventure concludes after breakfast at Rydges Esplanade. Own arrangements for your connecting flight or rail home. Alternatively you may like to extend your stay in Cairns with one of our Post Tour packages – please contact us for further information.
CAPE YORK & TORRES STRAIT
HURRY BOOK EARLY! This is a very popular tour.
2022 TOURS Twin Share
Single
11 Day Cairns – Cairns
$7399pp
$ 8779pp
11 Day Brisbane – Brisbane*
$ 8199*pp
$9579*pp
with return economy flights
*Price includes return economy flights between Brisbane and Cairns. Subject to availability and airline booking and carriage conditions.
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12 – 14 DAYS
JOURNEY OF THE GULF SAVANNAH VISIT SPECTACULAR BOODJAMULLA (LAWN HILL) NATIONAL PARK, EXPERIENCE THE GULFLANDER AND SAVANNAHLANDER SCENIC RAIL JOURNEYS, DISCOVER COBBOLD GORGE AND MUCH MORE.
Medium level of fitness required
Normanton Station
Gulf Sunset, Karumba
20
Savannahlander
Karumba Lawn Hill Gorge NORTHERN TERRITORY
2
2
Adels Grove
Legend Spirit of Queensland
Dimbulah Undara
2
1
CAIRNS
1 Einasleigh
Cobbold Gorge Burke & Wills Roadhouse
1
Cloncurry
QUEENSLAND
Winton
Spirit of the Outback Savannahlander Gulflander
LONGREACH
2
Day 2 | THURSDAY | LONGREACH
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame Entry Qantas Founders Museum Entry Drover’s Sunset Cruise including Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show Crocodile Dundee’s Walkabout Creek Hotel Cloncurry Unearthed & John Flynn Place Museum – Royal Flying Doctor Service Guided Interpretive Tour of Boodjamulla National Park Lawn Hill Gorge Cruise Burketown touring Leichhardt Falls Normanton’s Purple Pub Barramundi Discovery Centre
Day 3 | FRIDAY | CLONCURRY
Gulf of Carpentaria Sunset Cruise
We follow the Matilda Way via Winton to Kynuna and the Blue Heeler Hotel for a slice of Australian folklore. It was here that Banjo Paterson brokered a truce with the shearers who had burnt down the Dagworth woolshed and 143 jumbucks. Rather than shoot each other, they sang Waltzing Matilda and both ‘swagman’ and ‘squatters’ sank their last drinks at the bar. Next stop will be the Walkabout Creek Hotel made famous in the movie blockbuster Crocodile Dundee. Late afternoon in Cloncurry we discover the great Australian story of our Royal Flying Doctor Service at John Flynn Place; one of the largest and most comprehensive aeromedical organisations in the world. Overnight Gidgee Inn, Cloncurry
Gulflander and Savannahlander Scenic Rail Cobbold Gorge Tour and Cruise Einasleigh Pub & Copperfield Gorge Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park
Explore the fascinating themed galleries at the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and discover inspiring stories of our pioneering heroes. Enjoy an orientation tour of Longreach and some free time downtown to meet the locals and wander the shops. Visit the world-class Qantas Founders Museum, eloquently telling the story of the founding of Qantas. View interpretive displays, interactive exhibits, original and replica aircraft, and an impressive collection of genuine artefacts. Late afternoon, unwind on the Drover’s Sunset Cruise with tasty onboard nibbles, then take your seat at Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show. Relax under the stars savouring a table service two-course camp oven themed dinner, as our talented outback entertainer performs live on the river stage.
Undara Lava Tubes Woodleigh Station Morning Tea
Day 1 | WEDNESDAY | LONGREACH Arrive in Longreach, the heartland of Queensland’s Outback. You will be met by your Savannah Guides Operator driver and host at either Longreach Railway Station or Longreach Airport and transferred to your central accommodation for the next two nights. Meet fellow travellers at our Welcome Supper and hear about the adventures ahead with a comprehensive tour briefing by your driver and host. 2 nights Longreach Motor Inn, Longreach
Day 4 | SATURDAY | ADELS GROVE Journey around 180km north of Cloncurry on a sealed road to the Burke & Wills Roadhouse before travelling on to the beautiful Gregory River for a relaxed picnic lunch. The river is spring fed and the water is crystal clear. We’ll then travel a largely
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12 – 14 DAYS
JOURNEY OF THE GULF SAVANNAH
unsealed section of road around 90km to Adels Grove, an oasis in the outback and just 10km from the spectacular Lawn Hill Gorge, Boodjamulla National Park. The park features breathtaking gorge country, sandstone ranges and World Heritage fossils. On arrival at Adels Grove, your accommodation for the next two nights, enjoy some free time to explore your surrounds before dinner. Karumba Gulf Sunset
2 nights Adels Grove
Day 5 | SUNDAY | ADELS GROVE
INCLUSIONS All en suite accommodation Travel by luxury 4WD coach from Longreach to Cairns Savannah Guides Operator driver & host All meals All entries/activities as per itinerary Arrival transfer from Longreach Airport or Railway Station
After breakfast, you’ll board a solar powered pontoon boat for an hour long guided cruise along tranquil Lawn Hill Creek and the breathtaking Lawn Hill Gorge. Have your camera ready to capture the gorge’s vivid orange sandstone cliffs towering above emerald green waters. Join a guided interpretive tour on one of the many walks the Park has to offer featuring natural and cultural sites. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure in this stunning location. Tonight we’ll watch the beautiful sunset from Harry’s Hill.
Day 6 | MONDAY | KARUMBA
Gulflander
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Leaving Adels Grove today we’ll head east on the Gregory-Lawn Hill Road then travel north to Burketown along State Route 84. Enjoy a short break in Burketown for morning tea and local stories then relax with a picnic lunch at Leichhardt Falls. In Normanton, take a selfie with Krys the life-size statue of the largest saltwater
crocodile ever caught. See the Purple Pub and Queensland’s earliest surviving and heritage-listed Burns Philp store. Arrive in Karumba in time to capture your first memorable Gulf sunset. 2 nights End of the Road Motel, Karumba
Day 7 | TUESDAY | KARUMBA Discover the amazing secrets of the mighty barramundi at The Barramundi Discovery Centre, the only hatchery in the world to breed the Southern Gulf strain of this iconic fish. Your tour of this stateof-the-art Interpretive Centre includes the opportunity to feed a barramundi. Enjoy free time after lunch to explore the town or to simply relax and take in this beautiful location. Late afternoon, we'll board a flat bottom boat for a magical cruise on the Gulf of Carpentaria. Toast a magnificent Karumba sunset and feast on fresh seafood as spectacular twilight hues colour the skies.
Day 8 | WEDNESDAY | COBBOLD GORGE Travel to Normanton for a nostalgic rail journey on the famous Gulflander, affectionately called the ‘Tin Hare’. Visit the historic gold mining townships of Croydon and Georgetown. See the impressive mineral collection display at the TerrEstrial Centre. Arrive at the hidden outback oasis Cobbold Gorge in time for sunset drinks overlooking the stunning infinity pool! 2 nights Cobbold Gorge Resort
Cobbold Gorge
Day 9 | THURSDAY | COBBOLD GORGE Enjoy a tour of the magnificent sandstone gorge on this privately owned cattle station. The gorge is stocked with a variety of native fish and freshwater crocodiles. On a guided cruise, you’ll glide silently between towering cliffs in a specially designed, battery powered punt. Join an optional walk to the top of the escarpment for awesome views of the gorge below from the glass bridge!
Day 10 | FRIDAY | MOUNT SURPRISE Enjoy a light lunch at the Einasleigh pub with its quirky miniature furniture collection and see the impressive rock formations of Copperfield Gorge. We take a scenic drive to Mount Surprise before heading on to the Undara Experience. This afternoon we join a guided tour of the incredible Undara Lava Tubes, part of the world’s longest lava flows from a single volcanic crater. Enjoy learning about the geological and historical features pointed out and explained by your Savannah Tour Guide. 1 night Undara Experience, Mount Surprise
Day 11 | SATURDAY | CAIRNS Travel through contrasting landscapes and Forty Mile Scrub National Park to Woodleigh Station. Take a tour through the original homestead built in 1876 and
Undara Lava Tubes
learn how hard life was for Queensland’s early settlers. See the cattle yards and hear the story of the cattle’s journey from paddock to plate. Relax with morning tea in view of their giant 100-year-old bougainvillea and take a stroll around their expansive gardens. Travel the Kennedy Highway to the lush Atherton Tablelands and Dimbulah. We'll pass through Ravenshoe, the highest town in Queensland at 920m above sea level and the bustling township of Atherton. Next we board the Savannahlander in Dimbulah for a unique outback rail experience on this classic 1960s 'silverbullet' railmotor. Enjoy Happy Hour and spectacular views on the descent into Cairns. Overnight Rydges Esplanade, Cairns
Day 12 | SUNDAY Your tour concludes after breakfast. Own transfers to your homeward bound connections.
Scan the QR code below to view itinerary and deals on our website
2022 DEPARTURES
20 April; 04 May; 01, 15, 29 June; 24 August; 07, 28 September 2022
HURRY BOOK EARLY! This is a very popular tour.
2022 TOURS
JOURNEY OF THE GULF SAVANNAH
Twin Share
Single
12 Day Longreach – Cairns
$7119pp
$ 8419pp
14 Day Brisbane – Brisbane*
$7815*pp
$9115*pp
with return overnight rail
*Price includes return First Class overnight rail on the Spirit of the Outback and Spirit of Queensland based on Aust. Govt. Senior Card holder fares. Please ask for other fare types and flight packages. Subject to availability.
23
14 – 15 DAYS
CORNER COUNTRY EXPLORER EXPLORE MAJESTIC DESERT LANDSCAPES AND REMOTE OUTBACK TOWNS WITH LEGENDARY OUTBACK CHARACTERS.
Innamincka Sandhills
Medium level of fitness required
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TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Mount Hope Station Tour & Camp Oven Dinner Roma Saleyards Tour Cosmos Centre Big Sky Twilight Session
LONGREACH
3
Simpson Desert NP
1
Birdsville
2
Windorah
1
Charleville
Roma
1
Historic Corones Hotel Tour Meet the Bilby Experience Cunnamulla Fella Centre Eulo Artesian Springs Exclusive Thargomindah Sunset Drinks & Dinner under the stars
Innamincka Innamincka
2
Cameron Corner
1
BRISBANE
Thargomindah
1
Tibooburra
1
QUEENSLAND
NEW SOUTH WALES
Historic Noccundra Hotel Cameron Corner & Strzelecki Desert Cooper Creek Cruise Burke & Wills Dig Tree Birdsville Hotel and Big Red Sunset Inland Hospital and Royal Hotel Ruins Birdsville Racetrack and Birdsville Billabong Betoota Ghost Town and Deon’s Lookout Windorah Sandhills at Sunset Stonehenge private property Tour and Pub Lunch Longreach Town Tour Qantas Founders Museum & Airpark Tour Luminescent Longreach Sound & Light Show & Exclusive Qantas Founders Museum Dinner Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame Entry & Stockman’s Live Show
Day 1 | TUESDAY | BRISBANE
Arrive in Brisbane and check-in to your accommodation early afternoon. At the Welcome Dinner tonight, meet fellow travellers. Hear all about the adventures ahead with a comprehensive tour orientation by your Savannah Guides Operator driver and host. Overnight Royal on the Park, Brisbane
Day 2 | WEDNESDAY | ROMA
We will travel north-west from Brisbane to the Garden City of Toowoomba for a picturesque morning tea at Picnic Point Cafe. Continue along the Adventure Way to Chinchilla, home of the Chinchilla Melon Festival and Miles, a vibrant rural township. Arrive in Roma, the heart of beef country. Late afternoon, join a tour of Mount Hope, a working cattle station. This property is home to Droughtmaster cattle, coal seam gas and three generations of the Price family. Enjoy sunset nibbles and drinks followed by a delicious two-course camp oven dinner. Overnight Roma Explorers Inn, Roma
Ilfracombe Tour & Historic Wellshot Hotel Drover’s Sunset Cruise including Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show
Day 3 | THURSDAY | CHARLEVILLE
Visit Roma Saleyards, the largest cattle selling facility in Australia. On your guided tour you’ll learn the day-to-day processes of the saleyards and have the opportunity to watch the cattle sales in action. Travel to Charleville for a fascinating tour of the historic Corones Hotel. This afternoon we meet the rare and endangered Bilby at the Bilby Experience. Learn more about this native marsupial and the long-running captive breeding and conservation program. Discover the wonders of the magical outback night sky at the mesmerising Cosmos Centre Big Sky Twilight Session. Overnight Mulga Country Motor Inn, Charleville
Day 4 | FRIDAY | THARGOMINDAH
Channel Country Birdlife
Follow the Warrego River to Cunnamulla, which came into being as a Cobb & Co coach stop. Visit the Cunnamulla Fella Centre, home to the art gallery and
Artesian Time Tunnel. Discover the quaint township of Eulo, hear tales of Isabel ‘The Eulo Queen’ and learn the story of the Eulo Artesian Mud Baths. Travel to Thargomindah and tour the historic Old Thargomindah Hospital to learn some fascinating tales from the 1800s. Discover the story behind Thargomindah’s electrical street lighting story. Enjoy exclusive sunset drinks at the historic bore followed by a delicious hot pot dinner under the stars. Overnight Oasis Motel or Explorers Caravan Park Cabins, Thargomindah
Day 5 | SATURDAY | TIBOOBURRA Travel south-west across the Dingo Barrier Fence to historic Noccundra Hotel; then cross the border at Warri Gate into Outback New South Wales. View the eastern sections of the Sturt National Park. Traverse gibber plains and spectacular ‘ jump up’ country to Tibooburra. The striking granite boulders around Tibooburra are said to be remnants of a mass underground granite dome dating back around 410 million years. Explore the National Park Interpretive Centre and Court House Museum. Overnight Granites Motel, Tibooburra
Day 6 | SUNDAY | INNAMINCKA Travel through Sturt National Park to Cameron Corner where the boundary lines of the states of Queensland, South Australia and New South Wales meet. See the Strzelecki Desert, characterised by extensive red dune fields and home of the endangered Dusky Hopping Mouse. Pass by large cattle stations then travel through the heart of the oil and gas fields to Innamincka, on the banks of Cooper Creek. Learn the important role played by the Australian Inland Mission in providing essential medical services to remote towns. 2 nights Innamincka Hotel, Innamincka
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14 – 15 DAYS
CORNER COUNTRY EXPLORER
Cooper Creek
Day 7 | MONDAY | INNAMINCKA
INCLUSIONS All en suite accommodation Travel by luxury 4WD coach Brisbane to Longreach Savannah Guides Operator driver & host All meals All entries/activities as per itinerary Longreach accommodation departure transfer to Longreach Airport or Railway Station
Retrace the last days of Burke & Wills and learn the story of Innamincka, dubbed 'the town with two lives'. Visit the historic Burke & Wills Dig Tree then take your seat aboard the Eco-certified sunset cruise on the Cooper Creek. Take in the stunning birdlife and spot the occasional inquisitive animal on the banks.
Day 8 | TUESDAY | BIRDSVILLE
Follow the Strzelecki Desert through flood plains, sand dunes and gibber country. See the historic woolshed on Cordillo Downs Station, once one of the largest pastoral properties in the country. Further north we’ll pass the crumbling ruins of Cadelga Outstation as we travel to Birdsville through some of Australia’s richest cattle country. Tonight have a yarn with the locals and enjoy a dinner at the famous Birdsville Hotel. 2 nights Birdsville Hotel, Birdsville
Day 9 | WEDNESDAY | BIRDSVILLE
This morning visit the Wirrarri Centre to view work by local Indigenous artists. Next take a stroll to the Birdsville Billabong where birdlife, fish and yabbies abound. Stand on the well known Birdsville Racetrack and explore the Inland Hospital and Royal Hotel ruins; poignant reminders of a pre-federation metropolis. Tonight we’ll toast the glorious outback sunset from Big Red, a 40-metre-high sand dune on the edge of the Simpson Desert.
Day 10 | THURSDAY | WINDORAH Tarpot’s Cottage, Windorah
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Travel on to the ghost town of Betoota, once a Cobb & Co change station. Stand atop Deon’s Lookout with its amazing
view of the Diamantina Shire. We arrive in Windorah on the Cooper Creek where the Thomson and Barcoo Rivers merge. Explore Windorah in the heart of the Channel Country with its majestic red sand dune landscapes. Late afternoon, we’ll drive out to Windorah’s red sandhills for a spectacular sunset. Overnight Western Star Hotel, Windorah
Day 11 | FRIDAY | LONGREACH Follow the Cooper Creek floodplain to Jundah on the banks of the Thomson River. At the picturesque Swanvale Lookout we’ll be joined by a local station owner for a personal tour through his property followed by lunch at the Stonehenge Hotel. See the unusual Address Book at Stonehenge where visitors sign their town names in stone! Late afternoon, we will arrive into Longreach, heart of the central west. Check in and enjoy a relaxed evening at your accommodation. 3 nights Longreach Motor Inn, Longreach
Day 12 | SATURDAY | LONGREACH Enjoy an introductory town tour of Longreach and some free time downtown. Wander the interactive displays of the Qantas Founders Museum to discover the real Qantas story. Hear the inspiring human stories of our national airline’s early years. Step inside the Boeing 747, 707 and Super Constellation on an interpretive tour of the impressive Airpark. Late afternoon we return to Qantas Founders Museum for an exclusive dinner surrounded by aviation history, followed by the entertaining and informative
The Dig Tree
Luminescent Longreach Sound & Light Show, which brings the 100-year story of Qantas to life.
Day 13 | SUNDAY | LONGREACH
This morning, explore the fascinating themed galleries at the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and discover inspiring stories of our pioneering heroes. Take your seat at the exciting Stockman’s Live Show to see amazing horsemanship, experience the action of a live muster, and witness the traditional Australian Stockman skills that are still used today. Take a short drive to Ilfracombe, founded in 1891 as a transport hub for Wellshot Station, which at the time held the largest number of sheep on any station
Cooper Creek Cruise
in the world. We’ll cap off the tour with an authentic pub lunch at the historic Wellshot Hotel. Late afternoon join the Drover’s Sunset Cruise on the beautiful Thomson River. Unwind with onboard nibbles as you gaze out to a magnificent outback sunset. Enjoy live entertainment and a two-course camp oven themed dinner under the stars at Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show.
Day 14 | MONDAY
Your Outback Queensland adventure comes to an end after breakfast with a complimentary transfer to your homeward bound connections. The journey may have ended, but the memories will last a lifetime.
Bilby Experience, Charleville
Scan the QR code below to view itinerary and deals on our website
2022 DEPARTURES
10, 24 May; 21 June; 26 July; 16 August 2022 Birdsville Hotel
CORNER COUNTRY EXPLORER
2022 TOURS Twin Share
Single
14 Day Brisbane – Longreach
$7449pp
$ 8599pp
15 Day Brisbane – Brisbane*
$7808*pp
$ 8958*pp
one way overnight rail
2022 EARLY EMU DEALS!
Book by 30 November 2021 and travel at 2021 prices. *Limited spaces. Subject to availability
*Price includes one way First Class overnight rail on the Spirit of the Outback based on Aust. Govt. Senior Card holder fares. Please ask for other fare types and flight packages. Subject to availability.
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1. TOUR PARTICIPATION / EXCLUSION / RELEASE
5. PRICING AND CONDITIONS
Outback Aussie Tours (OAT) may, if in the opinion of any representative of Outback Aussie Tours or carrier, either refuse to allow persons on the tour or expel persons from the tour if their mental or physical condition is such as to render them: incapable of caring for themself; likely to become objectionable to other passengers; or a hazard to themself or other passengers. Outback Aussie Tours will not be liable for any expenses arising from such persons being precluded from completing the tour for any such reason. Each booking is conditional on Outback Aussie Tours securing the minimum number of bookings required to operate the tour and to ensure an enjoyable group atmosphere. Where sufficient numbers cannot be achieved, Outback Aussie Tours reserves the right to cancel or suspend a scheduled departure.
2. SPECIAL DIETS
Passengers requiring special diets, such as vegetarian or gluten free, must inform Outback Aussie Tours at time of reservation and reconfirm their request with the Outback Aussie Tours Driver/Host upon arrival. Outback Aussie Tours cannot guarantee special requests will be met in all instances.
3. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Outback Aussie Tours welcomes passengers with disabilities or special needs provided they are accompanied by a companion capable of providing all necessary assistance. Any special requirements must be advised at time of booking. Outback Aussie Tours reserves the right to refuse to carry any person who it deems cannot fully care for themselves on tour without assistance. Wheelchairs cannot be carried on motorcoaches due to space limitation. Wheelchair passengers should be aware of these limitations. We regret that we cannot provide individual assistance to a passenger for walking, dining, getting on and off motorcoaches or other transportation vehicles, or other personal needs. Passengers who need such assistance must be accompanied by a qualified companion.
4. HEALTH AND FITNESS
Tours include short and long distance walks with varying degree of difficulty from moderate to challenging, and often over uneven ground or including steps. For safety and enjoyment passengers should be in good physical condition to participate in all tours. OAT reserves the right at its discretion to exclude from a tour, or to terminate the travel arrangements during the course of the tour without refund, of anyone who is unable to cope with the requirements of coach travel – this includes using coach steps for embarking and disembarking; needing services or facilities that are not available; failing to comply with the reasonable instructions of OAT personnel; and/or engaging in undesirable behaviour or interfering with the enjoyment of or jeopardising the safety of other participants. In accordance with these conditions, OAT will not be held liable for any termination of your travel arrangements or any expenses incurred as a consequence of decisions made by OAT. Passengers need to be aware of the high temperatures which may be experienced in the outback. Medical Equipment: Please note that in some remote Outback locations electric power may not be available 24 hours per day. Passengers are advised to bring adequate medication (and spare prescriptions for essential medication) for remote travel and emergencies. Low level of fitness – minimal walking with some wheelchair/wheelie-walker accessible facilities; please note a Carer is required should guests have mobility concerns with any facilities on tour or boarding the coach. Medium level of fitness – guests have no mobility concerns and they have declared any pre-existing injuries which may affect their participation. Please note tours include leisurely walks that can be in excess of 1.5km. Not suitable for guests needing wheelie walkers or wheelchairs
All prices in this brochure are quoted in Australian currency and include tour preparation, operation costs and GST where applicable. Prices include all on-tour coach travel, Longreach railway station and Longreach Airport transfers, meals, accommodation, sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary. Prices do not include airfares, rail tickets, meals and transfers not specified in the itinerary. Nor do they include drinks, laundry, optional activities or items of a personal nature. Changes to rail/flight schedules may require additional overnight accommodation at either commencement or completion of the tour, which is at passenger’s own expense. Additional Optional Activities are not included in the tour cost and incur additional charges. Tours are subject to availability, operational and seasonal factors. A minimum number of people is required for some activities to operate and passengers are encouraged to prebook these prior to arrival to avoid disappointment.
6. CHANGES TO THE ITINERARY
Outback Aussie Tours is often not the provider of attractions, excursions and/or optional tours. Accordingly, Outback Aussie Tours may, where it is required to do so, suspend or cancel any tour inclusion where that tour inclusion is not available or in the opinion of Outback Aussie Tours, unadvisable, unsafe or unsuitable. During local or national holidays, certain facilities such as museums and restaurants, sightseeing tours and shopping may be limited or not available. Outback Aussie Tours reserves the right to alter or change the accommodation, carriers or vessels at any time for any reason; and cancel or alter the itinerary and/or tour at any time without notice as Outback Aussie Tours considers necessary for any reason whatsoever including road, weather or traffic conditions, nonperformance of suppliers, industrial action, operational conditions and requirements. Where a tour is cancelled prior to the departure date, Outback Aussie Tours will use all reasonable endeavours to offer the nearest possible alternative tour (subject to a refund or payment to cover any tour price difference) or, if this is not acceptable, refund the tour price or such portion of it as Outback Aussie Tours considers appropriate. Services of a tour host are not guaranteed on tours with less than 20 passengers.
7. CANCELLATION FEES DAYS OF NOTICE
FEE PER PERSON
60 days and over
Loss of deposit**
59-46 days
50% of tour fare
45-15 days
75% of tour fare
14-0 days
100% of tour fare
Please note: transferring to another date is treated as a cancellation and cancellation fees apply. **COVID-19 Safe Booking Guarantee - we recognise that travel plans may change especially during these unprecedented times. Where Govt. imposed COVID-19 restrictions impact your tour arrangements, 100% of your deposit can be transferred to another date or refunded. Conditions apply. All cancellations must be advised in writing.
8. DEPOSITS AND FINAL PAYMENTS
To confirm your reservation, a non-refundable deposit of $200 per person is required. Additional deposit payments are required for Rail and Flight add-ons and deposit amounts will be advised at time of booking. Reservations will be held for 7 days only without deposit. Once your deposit has been received, OAT will send your travel agent or yourself (if you’ve booked direct with OAT) confirmation of your booking. All airfares are subject to strict payment and ticketing deadlines, to be advised at the time of booking. Balance of payment for your tour is to be paid 60 days prior to departure. For bookings made less than 60 days prior to travel, full payment is required within 48 hours of booking. It is the responsibility of the passenger or their agent to pay the tour price by the due date. Agents must advise OAT in writing if payment is not received by their client on time to avoid cancellation fees.
9. TRAVEL INSURANCE
Passengers are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance to cover against unforeseen circumstances. Ask your travel agent for details.
10. BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE
One small to medium sized suitcase per person (approx. height 60cm - width 40cm - depth 30cm) maximum weight 20kg. One piece of hand luggage/day pack may be carried onboard the coach. Due to limited space, the carriage of wheelie-walkers must be requested prior to travel.
11. YOUNG TRAVELLERS
Persons under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Where a child rate is quoted, children aged 4 to 14 years are permitted to travel. Some guided tours are not suitable for children.
12. RESPONSIBILITY
Passenger participation in tours operated by the carrier companies and Outback Aussie Tours may incur certain risks and dangers which are beyond the operators’ control including, but not limited to, the hazards of travelling in remote areas, travel by boat, train, automobile, aircraft or other means of transportation, the forces of nature and accident or illness in remote regions without means of rapid evacuation or medical facilities. The carrier companies and Outback Aussie Tours will not have any liability regarding provision of medical care or the adequacy of any care that may be rendered. It is understood that Outback Aussie Tours will use their best efforts to ensure that adequate measures are taken. Passengers must make their own enquiries regarding safety warnings in relation to the destination they are travelling to.
13. SEAT ROTATION AND SMOKING
To ensure all clients have the opportunity to enjoy front and window seats, a daily seat rotation system is employed. Government regulations prohibit smoking on tour coaches.
14. THIRD PARTY SUPPLIERS
Third party excursions such as Scenic Flights, Boat Cruises and Rail are not operated by Outback Aussie Tours, nor by persons or companies associated with Outback Aussie Tours. These activities may involve inherent risk of injury, death, accident, delay and loss and clients assume all such risk with regard to any misadventure, death, injury, delay or loss which occurs during, or as a result of, any such activity. Please note that Outback Aussie Tours does not incur any liability for airfares purchased by travel agents or clients via the internet, if a tour is cancelled. Outback Aussie Tours cannot be held responsible for airfare conditions. All such risk, loss and expense must be borne by the travel agent or client.
15. BROCHURE VALIDITY
01 April 2022 to 31 March 2023 These terms and conditions may be subject to further changes by Outback Aussie Tours from time to time and are shown on the Outback Aussie Tours website.
YOUR LICENSED TRAVEL AGENT
Call +61 7 4658 3000 Email info@oat.net.au or visit www.outbackaussietours.com.au Longreach Historic Railway Station, Landsborough Hwy ABN: 31 010 813 313 | ACN: 010 813 313