2023 Outback Festival, Winton - Report to Sponsors

2023 - REPORT TO SPONSORS

outbackfestival.com.au

2023 FESTIVAL THEME – ‘’WHAT MAKES MEMORIES OF THE OUTBACK FESTIVAL GREAT!’’ CONTENTS Coordinator Overview.................................................... 02 Sponsors 2023..................................................................... 03 Marketing & Media PR Outcomes........................... 04 Online News......................................................................... 05 Print News............................................................................. 06 Volunteers & Good News Stories............................. 07 Quilton Australian Dunny Derby............................. 08 Sunset Gala Charity Dinner......................................... 11 Military story 2nd Cavalry Regiment & 1RAR Military Band............................... 13 Century Cycle Challenge.............................................. 14 Outback Iron Man & Iron Woman........................... 15 Western River Run Adventure Trail........................ 16 True Blue Aussie Sports................................................ 17 Bush Poets Breakfasts.................................................. 18 Whip Cracking Championships & Shank Bros BBQ ........................................................... 19 Outback Iron Junior Event.......................................... 20 Workshops: Music – Arts – Creative....................... 21 Little Swaggies & Outback Sports a Plenty...... 22 Roy Shaw Memorial Truck Pull................................. 23 Truckies Reunion............................................................... 24 Grand Parade...................................................................... 25 Opening Concert.............................................................. 26 Live on Stage & Free Street Concerts................... 27 Friday Night Spectacular Concert.......................... 28 Saturday Finale Concert & Fireworks Spectacular............................................... 29

Thanks for Major Partners.....................................30

Peter Evert Memorial Loo’ve Dunny Door Art Auction

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MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER FOR TOURISM, SPORT AND INNOVATION AND MINISTER ASSISTING THE PREMIER ON OLYMPICS AND PARALYMPICS SPORT AND ENGAGEMENT The Hon. Stirling Hinchliffe MP Welcome to Outback Festival, a highlight on the It’s Live in Queensland events calendar and a wonderful opportunity to showcase Outback Queensland as a tourism destination.

The Winton community is grateful to welcome visitors who fill their cafes and restaurants, stay in their accommodation, use local transport and explore our unique tourism experiences.

That’s why we support events through Tourism and Events Queensland’s Destination Events Program because they bring a welcomed boost to the local community and supports local jobs.

Events like the Outback Festival allows friends and family to reconnect and creates community pride. We hope you enjoy your stay and return again in the near future.

Be sure to immerse yourself in the local culture and get the opportunity to explore some of our world-class tourism experiences in this beautiful region.

Congratulations to the event organisers and volunteers – we wish you all the best for a successful event.

Message from the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Innovation and Minister Assisting the Premier on Olympics and Paralympics Sport and Engagement

CO-ORDINATOR’S OVERVIEW 27th Biennial Outback Festival Winton’s Outback Festival has once again lived up to its reputation as Australia’s quirkiest festival to be given the thumbs up by a record number of visitors flocking to Winton for the 27th biennial Outback Festival.

A big thank-you is extended to all attendees who made the journey to Winton to celebrate and take part in a spectacular line-up of events, our incredible volunteers who kept things running smoothly and of course each of our performers, entertainers and hosts for putting on such a show to celebrate the Outback Festival.

The 2023 Festival was as amazing success with a record 5,722 individuals attending over the five days with online ticket sales indicating 43% of visitors were from South East Queensland. Online bookings for caravan accommodation packages for powered sites increased by 56% compared to 2021 with over 800+ caravan/motorhome visitors nestled into the Showgrounds complex with a noticeable number of families and young children. The largest visitor market to the event continues to be the self-drive, self-contained traveller.

Overall ticket revenue was up 45% compared to the 2021 event.

The Outback Festival is a welcome economic boost to Winton’s economy, held during the September School Holiday period and during the tourism shoulder season at a time when business for Outback operators is usually winding down. Local business operators reported massive spikes (between 20% and 125%) in trading which is attributed to the influx of visitors while businesses along the major highways and byways have also reported a bumper school holiday period as visitors pass through the towns travelling to Winton.

The 2023 Outback Festival offered one of the most authentic Aussie experiences with world class bush poets, performers, festival groupies and sporting enthusiasts from across Australia. Visitors came from nearly every state of Australia and we also welcomed visitors from the USA and UK.

From this year’s visitor survey the Outback Festival has indeed earned its place as a “significant event” attracting large numbers of families across Queensland wide. Along the way they met local characters, joined in the quirky outback sporting activities, heard legendary outback stories and bush poems, discovered ancient landscapes and visited world-class dinosaur attractions. We know this because the average visitor stay was 7.8 nights in Winton.

Some 450 visitors were surveyed, with the largest visitor demographic recorded as the 40 to 55+ age group, confirming our appeal to the family market and empty-nesters. Outback Festival is extremely grateful to our many loyal sponsors for their generous support, businesses and local organisations for their continued support, and foresight in recognizing the enormous social and economic benefits generated by this event for Winton. Our hardworking team of volunteers continue to provide the backbone and soul of the event – ensuring the event’s integrity as a significant iconic Festival for Winton.

A major thrust of our marketing strategy was to increase and leverage the event through print, radio, television and our social media campaign. The festival achieved a total media reach in excess of 65M, made possible through our participation with Outback Queensland Tourism Association and TEQ ‘It’s Live’ Queensland Program.

An event such as the Outback Festival doesn’t continue for over 50 years without significant input. I would like to acknowledge on the on-going support from Tourism Events Queensland Qld. Destination Events Program Funding Program, Queensland Government and a large number of Corporate Companies, Winton Shire Council, and including our local community businesses and organisations, assistance from the Winton Correctional Centre WORK Camp, and our loyal sponsors and many more too numerous to mention.

Robyn Stephens OAM Event Coordinator

A SNAPSHOT OF FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2023 Outback Festival achieved a significant 37% increase in overall online ticket sales (Accommodation Packages, & Event Tickets compared to 2021 sales.

Outback Festival social media channels achieved a total reach of 481,735, a 90% increase from 2021.

A new Festival website was launched in early 2023 to support the digital marketing efforts and to encourage ticket sales. Website uses increased by 15% compared to 2021.

Ch.7, Ch. 9 & Ch.10 Qld. & ABC National News were highlights of the Major Media & Publicity with the Outback Festival being featured on these channels plus Ch10 Project and Cheap Seats.

TV Reach 2,561,402 which is a record for the Outback Festival.

Outback Festival promoted a 5 night Family Holiday prize to the Outback which attracted 1,317 entries, page views of 4,168 for a campaign period of 4 weeks.

A new festival website was launched in early 2023 to support the digital marketing efforts and to encourage ticket sales. Website users increased by 15% compared to 2021.

Several Community groups benefited from generous financial contributions to include – St. Paul’s Uniting Parish and Winton State School P&C, plus the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Qld. Section) received proceeds from the Peter Evert Memorial Loo’ve Dunny Door Art Competition and many thanks to our budding artists for their painted doors.

Profits from the live auction at the Sunset Gala Charity dinner were allocated to Ronald McDonald House Northern Australia & Ageing in the Outback “Jessamine Place”. A generous $14,375 has been allocated which was an excellent result from the Winton Community, visitors, and Major Sponsors.

A warm welcome was extended to our VIP guests attending; Assistant Minister for Tourism Industry Development MP Michael Healy and RFDS (Queensland Section) Chair Russell Postle and Executive General Manager Commercial & Corporate Affairs Carole Tokody. It was a pleasure to welcome once again Winton’s Sister City Councillors of the City of Moreton Bay. The festival achieved major national widespread TV coverage, with a reach of over 2.56M featuring across Ch7, Ch 9, Ch 10 and ABC National News including a live breakfast cross with the Today Show.

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A big thank you to our

2023 SPONSORS STRATEGIC PARTNER

FUNDING PARTNERS

PRINCIPAL PARTNERS

MEDIA PARTNERS

MAJOR PARTNERS

GOLD PARTNERS

SILVER PARTNERS

07 4657 1309

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SHAW FAMILY

Our heart is in the country

QUANTILDA QUARTERS

M & S MITCHELL EARTHMOVING

FESTIVAL SUPPORTERS

ALAN WESSLING WANDERERS CARAVAN PARK

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MARKETING & MEDIA PR OUTCOMES TOTAL MEDIA REACH

65,706,415+ 53,641,745+ compared to 2021

ONLINE NEWS REACH

RADIO REACH

61,100,118+

1,563,200+

TV REACH

AVE $603,328.56+

2,561,402+

FACEBOOK REACH

INSTAGRAM REACH

468,400

13,295

Total estimated combined reach from available data. Note: Not all news media outlets have available data. Sources: Meltwater Media Monitoring, Reporting: 16 October 2022 – 16 October 2023. Meta insights 16 October 2022 – 16 October 2023.

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ONLINE NEWS

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PR INT NEW S

NORTH QLD REGISTER – 26 SE

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THE LEADER - 15 SEP

COURIER MAIL - 22

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THE LEADER - 29 SEP

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VOLUNTEERS Behind every great event… is an even greater group of Volunteers!

The Outback Festival would not continue to be the immense success that it is without the hard work of our 70+ volunteers who cheerfully gave of their skills and time to ensure the 2023 Outback Festival was an outstanding success.

Winton has a population of less than 900 people, and the level of volunteer participation during this event is an exceptional achievement as they make up most of the “workforce” needed to deliver the five day program.

All of our volunteers were friendly, welcoming, helpful and enthusiastic about their role whether it involved an early start or late night as bus drivers, administration and event assistants, gate keepers, or sale of merchandise.

Festivals such as the Outback Festival not only give a large economic boost to the community and region, but more importantly the social interaction for the

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volunteers and participants is vital for promoting health and wellbeing, building friendships and networks, and contributing to skills development and learning about remote communities.

The hard work and commitment of our volunteers was outstanding.

Many of the volunteers, especially those from outside Winton, continue to return as volunteers every two years because of the rewarding experience and friends they have made by being part of the Outback Festival. This is a huge personal commitment, especially for those people who take time off from their paid profession to be a volunteer in a community they don’t even live in!

Special thanks to our Volunteer Coordinator Belinda Stedman for her valuable time and dedication overseeing our volunteers and allocating the job placements to suit the skills and interest of each volunteer.

A BIG THANK-YOU TO BELGRAVIA SPORTS APPAREL Sponsor of the Volunteer Shirts

QUILTON AUSTRALIAN DUNNY DERBY

The Quilton Australian Dunny Derby is the signature and drawcard event of the Outback Festival being conceived in 1991. The event has been recognised both nationally and internationally, with teams competing from BBC Glasgow in 2015 and teams from Iceland and Germany in 2019. National features in the past include Queensland Weekender, the Amazing Race Australia and Travel Oz.

Other Major Partners represented was Corey Dern, Education and Program Officer Central Queensland Hospital Health Service-Bowel Cancer Screening Program, Royal Flying Doctor Service, Primary Health Network Western Qld. CEO Sandy Gillies also present to witness the event first hand with the Primary Health Network Western Qld, actively involved with their team competing in the event.

“The Derby flushes out the best” and this year attracted some 2,500 people with Derby contestants travelling from as far away as Townsville, Kingaroy, Toowoomba, Redcliffe, Mt. Isa, and Brisbane to compete as well as the local entries who were ready and “hot to trot”!

The Dunny Derby helps to promote community spirit and wellbeing both in the lead up to and during the festival as teams come together to prepare for the event and get their local communities involved.

Our interest is to continue to target Western Queensland farmers and community members (who unfortunately can be notoriously shy at speaking about their physical and mental health concerns), while in a fun and social environment (we know they come out for the Dunny Derby!

Quilton has been the principal sponsor of the Derby since 2007, and it was an honour once again to welcome ABC Tissue Executive Sona Siou.

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The Australian Dunny Derby is now an event that helps to increase awareness of the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program with their slogan “Make No.2 Your No.1 Priority”. This state campaign is aimed to increase participation in the Bowel Cancer Program and was highlighted at this year’s Outback Festival advertised on the many Bum Box seats.

The Quilton lucky gate prize, a “Pallet of Quilton Toilet Tissue”, was won by the Youngermann family of Brisbane.

With no room in their vehicle to take home 1,296 rolls, 233,280 sheets and over 25km of toilet paper, Sona Siou from Quilton generously agreed to have the pallet transported back to Brisbane and delivery to the Youngman family. This was a wonderful gesture from Quilton.

The eight race program was called by professional Dunny Race Caller Barry Hamilton Breakfast Announcer of 4CC of Gladstone who kept the crowds thrilled with laughter at his “off the cuff” comments. Winton’s Crackup Sisters comically filled the roles of officials during the event amusing the audience with their funny quips and lots of action.

Crowds were entertained by the excellent presentations of the racing loo teams which have become a major feature of this zany event and were no exception for this year. Teams had the option of choreographing a 60sec musical performance highlighting the theme of their racing loo, showing excellent routines and costumes with the winning Outhouse “Strictly Bathroom” taking home the “R. Swiper Trophy”.

The Ladies Bracelet was hotly contested with “Swan Leak” the winning team. Second place was “Flush Dance” and coming in at third place was “The Nut Bushers”. The Constipation Stakes is where losers of each heat get a second chance to compete. Townsville’s “Shit Wrecked” took first place, with second place and third going to “Poop-Eyed” and local Winton team “Crackasaurus”.

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The Derek Dallas and the Underbogs Challenge was a feature in the 2023 race program, which will feature in the Movie “Dunny Derby – Derek Dallas & The Legend of The Underbogs”. The event was the perfect opportunity for the filming to take place.

Keep an eye out for this mockumentary to feature on the silver screen soon, showcasing the true-to-life but mostly outrageous comedy of the Aussie Outback and this famous Outback event!

The final event, the Quilton Australian Dunny Derby was once again hotly contested with the five best times from each heat contesting the final. The winner of the 2023 Quilton Australian Dunny Derby collecting $1,200 in cash and trophies in a time of 1m.01.32 was

“Wilderpiss Explorers” trained by Townsville’s Brian Geaney.

With only 0.0005 seconds behind first place and making it a very close race to take out second place was the ‘’Nut Crackers’’ and third place to ‘’Shits Ahoy’’ trained by Sarah Shadforth.

Other crowd favorites included teams “Dunnysauris” (Australian Age of Dinosaurs). “The Tina Turders” (Sandgate Collection), “The Bay City Rollers” (City of Moreton Bay) and even the Primary Health Network Western Qld. with their team “Western Qld. Dung Beetles” getting into the action.

Cash prizes and professionally crafted inscribed miniature wooden toilet seats were presented to winning team members.

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SUNSET GALA CHARITY DINNER Sponsored by Royal Flying Doctor Service (Qld. Section)

This very special Charity function held at the Winton Airport tarmac was a fitting place to recognize the two chosen charities – Ronald McDonald House Northern Australia supporting over 5000 families with seriously ill or injured children through their practical care programs and Ageing in the Outback “Jessamine Place”; since 2013 an Aged Care Continuum was developed and identified the need for an Aged Care Facility to be built in Winton to provide care for Winton’s elderly.

MC for the occasion was Michael Tomalaris, former SBS sports presenter who brought the Tour de France and other major world cycling events to Australian television screens for 26 years.

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The Official Welcome was delivered by the Hon. Michael Healy MP Assistant Minister for Tourism Industry Development and it was a pleasure to welcome Minister Healy to Winton.

Distinguished guests attending were RFDS Qld. Section Chair Russell Postle, Executive General Manager Commercial & Corporate Affairs Carole Tokody, Key Relationships Manager Heather Scott, Cr. Gavin Baskett Winton Shire Mayor, WO2 Danny Webb 2nd Cavalry Regiment ,and Lt. Zoe Monck Tank Troop Leader, Sona Siou (Representing ABC Tissue), City of Moreton Bay Councilors Cr. Cath Tonks, Cr. Mark Booth, Cr. Mick Gillam and partners.

250 seated guests were served a sumptuous three-course menu with

an Asian fusion supplied by the chefs of the Charleville Asian Restaurant.

First class live entertainment was provided by Band of the 1st Battalion 1RAR Townsville.

The theme for the Gala Dinner was “Stars of the Outback”. With the evening focused on the Royal Flying Doctor Service, including their static display of the RFDS Simulator Plane and their Mobile Dental Truck, set a prominent display and backdrop to the venue. RFDS Chair, Russel Postle, addressed the crowd regarding the establishment of a Primary Health Clinic in the Winton Region and celebrating the people who played an important part.

Winton resident Sandy Gillies CEO of Primary Health Network Western Qld. and Outback Festival President was invested as a RFDS Ambassador. The evening finale included the Lighting of the Lantern where guests viewed a spectacular fireworks display along the airport runway.

AUCTION ITEMS SPONSORS

The venue once again received rave reviews as the site looked amazing thanks to “Events by Ramona”.

The festoon lighting and the giant Inflatable stars around the perimeter of the dining area looked amazing, creating a brilliant atmosphere for the tables dressed in dramatic black and gold with deluxe centerpieces of multi-height gold candelabra with gold tea lights around the base brought in a touch of class to the event. Each dinner guest received an etched stemless wine glass with the Outback Festival insignia plus a RFDS Gift Pin as a souvenir gift.

There was much admiration for the prominent 2nd Cavarly Regiment Military personnel presence in forming the Lance Party (Honour Guard) for dinner guests.

The dinner featured a silent auction with funds going directly to the chosen charities delivering a grand total of $14,375 to assist our nominated charities. Special thanks to major sponsors and the many donors of the auction items and the enthusiasm of the bidders.

PETER & LINDA STEELE

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A PRIVILEGE TO WELCOME THE MILTARY 2nd Cavalry Regiment makes 6th visit to the Outback Festival

Winton’s Outback Festival once again was honoured to give a warm welcome to the 2nd Cavalry Regiment Townsville commanded by Danny Webb WO2, Army Operations and James Duquemin, Warrant Officer Class Two Band Sergeant Major of the Band of the 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment.

The 2nd Cavalry Regiment arrival in Winton was too impressive to go unnoticed along with their modern fighting vehicle (ASLAV) Australian Service Light Armored Vehicle and their presence at the welcoming ceremony was the beginning of an exciting five days of involvement between army personnel and admiring people of all ages intrigued with the ASLAV military fighting machine.

A special feature at the Sunset Gala Charity Dinner held at the Winton Airport was Military adding a formal presence as diners passed through a regimental lance party (Honour Guard) progressing to the Meet and

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Greet with many VIP guests. The live music and entertainment by the 1RAR Band of superb musicians was a highlight of the evening and also during the three days of the Festival including leading the Grand Parade Spectacular and the Saturday Finale Spectacular on Main Stage.

An exciting feature of the Live Auction was the 2nd Cavalry Regiment offering a driving experience in a (ASLAV) Fighting Vehicle with proceeds to benefit the Charities – Ronald McDonald House (Northern Australia) and Winton’s Ageing in the Outback “Jessamine Place”. The lucky bidder offering $3,000 for this driving experience.

The Outback Iron Man and Iron Woman event drew the attention of the men and women of the Regiment wanting to test their fitness and strength. Success came to Lt. Zoe Monck and Maddi Koschel claiming first and third placings in the event with Maddi receiving the Sportsperson’s Award.

They certainly did not leave Winton without claiming victory in many of the events including the famous Quilton Australian Dunny Derby, taking fourth place in the Derby Final as well as third place in the Roy Shaw Memorial 50 Metre Truck Pulling event.

The Outback Festival Committee appreciates the presence of 2nd Cavalry Regiment and 1RAR Military Band and their long association with Winton Outback Festival. “It was a pleasure to be invaded.”

CENTURY CYCLE CHALLENGE

The seventh edition of the Outback Century Cycle Challenge, an integral part of the Winton Outback Festival, was again very successful with over 28 entrants taking on the toughest, flattest cycling event in Outback Queensland. This year the early morning temperatures were much lower and more pleasant than on previous occasions in the past.

However, the spin-off to this was the toughest headwind back into Winton experienced by the riders. Our Ambassador for this year’s event was Michael Tomalaris, award journalist

and former SBS sports presenter who brought the Tour de France and other major world-cycling events to Australian television screens for 26 years. For his contribution to cycling in 2011 Michael was the recipient of the Australian Sports Commission Media Award for best coverage of sport by an individual.

The Waltzing Matilda Centre was an impressive backdrop for the 5:30am starting point of the challenge. The striking cycling jerseys sponsored

by Blackchrome Sportswear drew attention as the cyclists set forth on

their 100km challenge with riders coming from Mt. Isa, Rockhampton, Townsville, Brisbane, Sydney, Sunshine Coast, Hughenden and across the wider regions of Qld. Many thanks go to our event CoCoordinator Chris Carson for his dedication to this event since 2011.

This event has a reputation for stunning Outback scenery and its sheer toughness and cyclists; especially those from the populous city areas are amazed by the vastness of this Outback region. Add this event to your bucket list for 2025.

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OUTBACK IRON MAN Sponsored by SPAR This major sporting event staged for the 20th time is still one of the hotly contested major sporting events of the Festival program. 18 contestants showed their staying power, displaying their skills, strength and endurance in grueling events during the five days. All events drew enthusiastic crowds of spectators who loudly encouraged the contestants.

Entrants were thoroughly tested through timed events such as transferring fencing equipment, wade, swim and run at Long Waterhole, pushing a 4wd vehicle, a Farmer’s Carry challenge with a large hay bale obstacle course and running a 5km trail run.

Entrants came from far and wide, travelling from Townsville, Cairns, New

South Wales, Brisbane, and Winton with a strong contingent including eight members of the 2nd Calvary Regiment from Lavarack Barracks, Townsville.

Winner of the 2023 Spar Outback Iron Man was Bohdi Kersh; second place was taken out by Ryan Kinsey and third place by Quentin Kersh with all three from Townsville.

Incentive prizes were awarded for each day’s event sponsored

by Spar. Sportsperson was awarded to Quentin Kersh of Townsville, and the Encouragement award to Travis Hanson of Toowoomba.

Our long association with Spar Supermarket Winton as the major sponsor has continued since 2011. Over the five days of events a great camaraderie developed between the competitors as they took on multiple challenges.

A BIG THANK-YOU TO SPAR

OUTBACK IRON WOMAN Sponsored by Linfox Life’s tough in the Outback, and it is proven that women can take on the challenges as well as the men. This event was staged for the 16th time and is a twin of the Outback Iron Man event. Contestants came from Emerald, Greenvale, Toowoomba, Cairns, Brisbane, and Winton.

The 2023 LINFOX Iron Woman winner was Lt. Joe Monck of Townsville; Lucy Edwards of Crow’s Nest took out second place and Maddi Koschel of Townsville took third place.

Incentive prizes were awarded for each day’s event sponsored by LINFOX; the

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Sportsperson award was won

by Maddi Koschel and the Encouragement award was received by Isabella Close of Toowoomba.

Many new friendships result from competitions like this, with these young women encouraging each other throughout the entire five day event.

A BIG THANKYOU TO LINFOX

WESTERN RIVER RUN ADVENTURE TRAIL

The Western River Run made its second appearance on the Outback Festival program and had a 46% increase on the 2021 event with over 69 competitors. The Adventure Trail, suitable for all fitness levels, took athletes on a 5km Adventure Run, 8km Challenge Trail Run and 12km Ultra Challenge Trail Run through the Western River Channels, a braided river that often runs dry, made of small channels which eventually empty into the Diamantina River, south of Winton. Categories were open for Male/Female and Under 16’s, and for this first time event it was overwhelming to see 69 competitors taking up the challenge as well as travelling from far and wide to compete.

Women’s 12km Open winner was Nicole Lindenberg of Mackay in a time of 1.02.59 and Male winner was

Aden Hobbs of Brisbane in a time of 49.46. 8km winner was Sophie Elliott of Winton in a time of 43.33 and Joseph Short of Brisbane taking out the Male section in a time of 36.52.

Winner of the Male category in the 5km Open event was Joe Kenna of Victoria in a time of 20.45 and the female winner Matilda Searle of Winton in a time of 27.14.

We thank our Major Partner Greyhound for their sponsorship of prize monies, medallions and standout trophies.

Sam and Aline Stedman of Outer Limits Adventure Townsville coordinated the event and are both committed multi-sport and adventure racers in endurance events. Outback Festival Committee sincerely thanks Sam and Aline for their involvement.

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TRUE BLUE AUSSIE SPORTS Sponsored by North Gregory Hotel, Tatts Hotel, Winton Hotel, Australian Hotel, Winton Golf Club & Winton Bowls Club The popularity of this event simply keeps growing with the event selling out within 24 hours of going on sale. 250 competitors joined the True Blue Aussie Sports event sponsored totally by local Hotels and licensed Clubs.

The True Blue event required a marathon effort from all the competitors to remain focused on a variety of seven “sports”. Many groups wholeheartedly embraced the idea of dressing for the event and their colourful costumes were a talking point.

Beginning mid morning and finishing late afternoon, entrants displayed various levels of skills at golf, snooker, bowls, cricket, basketball, marbles, and cow pat discus whilst meandering from one watering hole to another.

At the end of the day the top ten scorers faced off in the “Roo Poo Final”. The 2023 True Blue Champion was Joshua Kinsey; the Male True Bluer was Ryan Kinsey with 130 points, meanwhile the Female True Bluer was Heidi Paynter with 110 Points. The three Best Dressed teams were “This Means Wario”, “Workingham Wombles”, and “Hello Possums”.

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BUSH POETS BREAKFASTS “Humour for Health” Funded by RACQ Foundation Starting your day off with a grin appealed to large audiences each day who went to the Bush Poets Breakfasts featuring Marco Gilori, Errol Gray and Ray Essery, with the hearty breakfast Sponsored

by Shoprite Winton. The Festival welcomed Australia’s best known bush poets to Winton once again knowing what versatile performers they are. A tasty breakfast was served to patrons who enjoyed a menu of bacon, sausages, eggs, savory mince, and baked beans.

was considered one of the most popular shows with over 900 patrons attending. A team of Australia’s funniest and favourite comedy poets and entertainers brought two hours of mayhem and hysterical yarn-spinning to enrapture the huge audience who turned up each day to hear yarns in poetry and song.

A great way to “gee-up” people first thing in the morning and stimulate their senses in readiness for the Bush Poets was being entertained by female entertainer Jess White, Matt Angell, and Tim Griffin, all providing live music over the three mornings of the breakfast.

“The Poets Brawl was a big hit with almost 20 contestants lining up for 60 seconds of fame which resulted in either a big round of applause or a gong from the cruel time-keeper.

Once again this was a hilarious occasion with Shanae from Townsville being crowned as the winner for her Outback Festival snapshot of mates, Festival events, Winton Hotels and Mateship… she nailed the atmosphere in 60 seconds of a vision splendid – Outback Festival 2023 – go Banjo!”

“Humour for Health” Bush Poets Breakfasts held over three mornings

The Poets will be back in 2025 and no doubt so will their fans!

A BIG THANK-YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

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OUTBACK WHIP CRACKING CHAMPIONSHIPS Curley Cattle Transport Whip

Ladies champion winner was Kayla

Cracking Competition saw an

Thacker of Townsville and Men’s

increase in numbers, mainly

champion was Stuart Lamping

Juniors, showcasing this true blue

of Kingaroy.

Aussie sport event. Workshops to

13-16 years title went to Chloe

hone skills were held in the days

Smith; second place was Ada Black

leading up to the Championships

and third place was Joseph Short.

with Winton’s Crackup Sisters

In the Juvenile 9-12 years event

conducting workshops for adults

Joshua Lamping took out first

and children with a record number

place with Lucy Elliott in second

of attendees learning the skills of

place, and Lily Smith third place.

whip cracking.

In the Pee Wees 8 years and under

Colin Erbacher of Diddillibah, Sunshine Coast, six times Outback Festival Whip Cracking Champion

Jack Caddis took first place, Patrick Wright second place, and Corbin Deer third place.

and recent winner of the Man

Cash prizes were awarded to all

From Snowy River Festival,

winners and place getters with

officiated as judge of the Outback

participants coming from all over

Whip Cracking Championships.

Queensland to compete.

A BIG THANK-YOU TO CURLEY CATTLE TRANSPORT

SHANK BROS BBQ Sponsored by MDH PTY LTD, WATCO & Queensland Gidgee Bros (QGB) The Shank Bros made their first appearance at the Outback Festival cooking up a storm and presenting live shows, sharing their incredible barbecue skills and tips as well as tasty samples of the giant tomahawk steaks or how to cook smoked chicken wings during two days of the Outback Festival.

A BIG THANK-YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

Voted the first ever “Hall of Fame Team” by Australian Barbecue Alliance (ABA), the Shank Bros have helped fellow Aussies ditch their gas BBQ’s and fall in love with cooking over a live fire.

Festival patrons followed the smell of smoke and sizzling meat on Derby Day to find the Shank Brothers cooking a “Hot n Fast” Tomahawk Steak BBQ Demo followed by the famous Hot Chili Wing Challenge for those who dared to enter.

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OUTBACK IRON JUNIOR EVENT We welcomed Telstra as the Major sponsor of this long running junior sports event.

A BIG THANK-YOU TO TESLTRA

This year saw a change to the event with Boys and Girls competing separately in age groups 12-15 years.

Challenging events were held over three days and included tests of speed, accuracy and strength and hot competition. Swag Toss, the Opal Miners Dash, and Whip Cracking are popular events for the spectators.

The young competitors tested their endurance in the Western River Run event as part of the mini marathon and showed off their strength tugging a Mini Moke vehicle for their final event.

In the Junior Boys event there was a tie for first place with

Cooper Mullineaux and Ashton Deer, with third place going to Archie Youngman. Sportsmanship award went to Jack Peasley and Encouragement award to Nate Shepherd-White.

In the Junior Girls event Anne Fitzgerald took out first place; second place went to Abigail Evert and third place to Matilda Youngermann.

Sportsperson award went to Skye Broadhurst and Encouragement award to Georgie Coogan.

Cash Prizes were awarded to place getters as well as colourful Telstra caps and waterbottles.

Participants came from all over Queensland to compete.

Thanks to Telstra as sponsor of the event.

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WORKSHOPS Music – Arts – Creative

MARIMBAS ON THE MOVE What a great experience! Marimbas on the Move introduced an entirely new musical concept to Outback Festival music lovers over three days of the Festival. Workshops were open to adults and children to learn to play these melodious giant wooden xylophones. Professional musicians Donna Miller and Oscar Langton were marvellously successful in teaching the exciting rhythms and how to perform as a group.

Having put in three days of workshops, the highlight for these students was their public performance in front of an audience of hundreds on the final day of the Outback Festival.

“MOOVIN JURASSIC JOE & THE BALLOONIN” ZANY DINOSAUR CLUB BALLOON MODELLER

A BIG THANK-YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

Balloon Modelling workshops for kids and the big kids were held over 3 days of the Festival.

“Keep on Roaring” Jurassic Joe & the Dinosaur Club provided a fun filled musical ride through the amazing world of prehistoric reptiles for the under 8 year olds.

A BIG THANK-YOU TO CORFIELD & FITZMAURICE

A BIG THANK-YOU TO NUTRIEN AG SOLUTIONS

WINTON’S CRACKUP SISTERS Presented Roving Puppet Show, Face Painting, Roving Entertainment plus Roving Stilts and the Giant Toilet Roll Doll.

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OUTBACK SPORTS A PLENTY

THE LITTLE SWAGGIES This event for the under 10 year olds is an introduction to the history of the Swagman and story of Waltzing Matilda. 26 children enjoyed testing their skills in the Swaggies Hat Toss, Tucker Bag Relay, Billy Can Dash, Dodge the Jolly Jumbuck and taking part in the March of the Little Swaggies at the Opening Ceremony.

For Young and Old Kids Art was a main street feature with Bunnings Fairfield Waters, Townsville providing the precut paint boards and It’s Paints Townsville sponsoring the paint for the Wobble Board Painting competition with over 120+ budding artists participating. Gold medallions for the three different age groups were presented to the winners and the children created their masterpieces.

A BIG THANK-YOU TO WALTZING MATILDA CENTRE

Aussie Outback Sports were a feature on the Festival Program with young and old enjoying Egg Throwing, Broom Throwing, Swag Toss, Wool Bale Rolling, Roving Puppet Show and Meggsie Cart Racing.

FAMILY FUN The Winton Outback Festival is full of fun for families, with many events held throughout the festival. The Egg Throwing competition was one such event with over 100 eggsperts.

This event allows for all ages to enjoy festival fun. Teams of two throw and catch the eggs with the long

standing record of 54.31 metres still safe for another 2 years. Aussie Outback Sports were a feature on the Festival program with young and old enjoying the Wool Bale Rolling, Broom Throwing, Swag Toss events along with the Kids Meggsie Cart Racing.

A BIG THANK-YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

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ROY SHAW MEMORIAL TRUCK PULL

A BIG THANK-YOU TO BROWN & HURLEY

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Thank you to the Shaw Family for sponsoring the Roy Shaw Memorial Truck Pull Event.

The Shaw Family is proud to sponsor this event in Honour of Roy’s and Beryl’s contribution to the trucking industry which spanned over 70 years, giving Roy legendary status in Outback Queensland. This long running Festival event saw an increase in participation numbers with seven men’s and six women’s teams contesting the team event. With loud encouragement from a large

crowd of spectators, each team took the strain and attempted to get the 18 tonne Prime-mover rolling. How quickly could they pull it over a 50 metre distance? With a time of 0.37.81 seconds, Team Army took home the men’s first prize of $900.

Winning team for the ladies collecting $900 in cash was the combined Outback Iron Woman’s team in a time of 0.55.84 seconds. Second and third placings also received cash prizes.

TRUCKIES REUNION Heritage Truck owners and enthusiasts gathered in Winton for the celebration of the 11th Truckies Reunion held Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th September providing another great spectacle during the Outback Festival. Coming in force with their truck-loads of restored trucks and prime-movers all presented in pristine condition.

Two days of truck-related events included the Truckies Backing Competition attracting 25 entrants.

Justin O’Sullivan taking out first place, Tim Ison second place and Robbie Dillon third place. Truckies were also recognized with Tiger Martyr taking home a Mack Bull Dog Replica trophy for the oldest working truckie, furthest travelled Wayne Dick of Lithgow, and most consistent Paddy Ward of Orange NSW. Thank you to the Western Truck Group Rockhampton.

The highlight for the Truckies is always the Grand Parade Spectacular which was huge with a total of over 50+ units taking part along with the many decorated community and visiting floats of all kinds along with the working, vintage vehicles, and tractors. Thank you to IOR for their sponsorship of the prizes.

A BIG THANK-YOU TO OUR SPONSORS The Truckies Show & Shine, sponsored by Corner Stone Insruance, NMB Insurance, and Regional Insurance Solutions attracted a large number of trucking enthusiasts showing off their wellloved heritage and vintage vehicles.

Winners of the six categories received cash prizes as well as inscribed bannerettes.

One of the major fundraisers was the live Monster Auction which really brought crowds out at the Tatts Hotel and attracted spirited bidding where proceeds will assist with further development at the Winton Truck Museum.

Sunday morning activities started the day with over 180 people enjoying a hearty Truckies Breakfast. Others enjoyed strolling through the Truck Museum chatting nostalgically about the memorabilia and photographs or just changing a-gear-or-two.

The event concluded with the induction of some well-deserved Inductees into the Memorial Garden.

The six inductees recognized; Alan Lenton, Barry Clough, Charlie Corey, Toby Harris, James Cooper, and Colin Searle.

They might say they have retired, but truckies just don’t stop driving and it was a pleasure to welcome so many visitors who rolled up for the 2023 Truckies Reunion.

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GRAND PARADE SPECTACULAR

The theme for the 2023 Grand Parade was “What Makes Memories of the Outback Festival Great”. This offered a great opportunity for the floats, bikes and marchers in the colourful parade being led by the 1RAR Military Band from Townsville.

With the Trucking Fraternity attending, the parade attracted over 50 trucks as well as local floats, pedestrian groups, bicycle, Pony Club equestrians, Winton’s Crackup Sisters and Stilt walkers, plus the Memphis Movers roving Duo as the parade swelled over four town blocks.

The 11th Truckies Reunion brought

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to town many trucking enthusiasts who proudly displayed their restored vintage vehicles, trucks, tractors in the parade with the commentaries and history of each vehicle.

The best overall entry was “Yabby”, a local Winton entry, and the best float to the Festival Theme was the “Salute to the Humble Yabby Racing Team”.

The most humorous float was the “Piglet & Eeyore”, the most attractive float was the “Vintage Vehicle Pioneer Valley Machinery”, the best equestrian entry was the Winton Pony Club, and the best community float was the “Winton Aging in the

Outback”. Best pedestrian entry went to the group of the Little Swaggies.

It was obvious that much time and thought had been put into the presentation of the floats, vintage trucks, and creation of many of the entries. It is always a very popular part of the Outback Festival celebrations with hundreds lining the streets to watch and applaud the Grand Parade entrants.

Colourful bannerettes sponsored by IOR were presented to all winners in eight different categories along with cash prizes.

SPECTACULAR OPENING EVENING CONCERT Australia’s Ultimate Tribute Show The Johnny Cash Special was an inspired choice for the Opening Spectacular Concert. Playing to a packed audience in Winton’s Shire Hall, and being the first show of its kind to deliver the stories and songs of the “Man in Black” like you have never heard them before.

Lincoln Howe delivered Johnny's trademark vocals and un-wavered storytelling. Patrons were taken along the train ride with the Orange Blossom Specials delivering the trademark boom-chicka-boom sound as well as Meg Ripps doing justice to music legend June Carter Cash that was so synonymous with Johnny Cash’s legendary music.

A main feature of the evening was highlighting Johnny Cash Stories on the two large digital screens.

Johnny Cash Special Music Show brought the appreciative, enthusiastic audience to their feet for a standing ovation.

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LIVE ON STAGE & FREE STREET CONCERTS MATT ANGELL Inspired by well-known music artists like Johnny Cash, Leonard Cohen and Neil Young, Matt Angell took these influences to form his own unique and distinguishable sound.

Performing in all far-flung corners of Australia, from mining towns on the West Coast to the tropical islands of The Whitsundays, Queensland Festival patrons fell in love with this travelling musician who tells stories through his music.

KIRSTY LEE AKERS

WADE FORSTER

Kirsty Lee Akers is one of Australia’s most unique and authentic recording artists.

Wade Forster is a North-Western

Kirsty-Lee is the only artist in history to have won three of the major prizes in Australian Country Music, Tamworth Toyota Star Maker, Telstra Road to Discovery and a Golden Guitar Award.

Cowboy and is no stranger to the

She is one of the youngest artists ever to be inducted in the Tamworth “Hands of Fame” alongside artists like Slim Dusty, Keith Urban and Troy Cassar-Daley.

THE MEMPHIS MOOVERS ROVING DUO Return favorites the Memphis Moovers Roving Band entertained throughout the Festival over three days with their ‘Music on the Moove’.

A duo of roving street entertainers providing music and song, here, there and everywhere singing and interacting with the crowd as they created a Mardi Gras atmosphere with their colourful costumes and Roving in their WW2 Willys Jeep and Ford Cobra Car.

A BIG THANK-YOU TO HAULMARK TRAILERS

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Her live music performance at the Wednesday Night Free Concert on Main Stage had everyone in a party mood “dancing like no one was looking”.

Queensland country artist and professional Rodeo Circuit bright lights. Wade found music whilst travelling around Australia competing in rodeos and decided to buy a guitar and teach himself to play.

Wade released his debut album The Beginning in 2022 which was a huge International and local success. He was also part of the “The Academy” in 2023 where he learnt new skills and got the opportunity to be part of the Opening Concert at the Tamworth Country Music Festival in 2023 on main stage.

GFORCE BAND

This up and coming country music

A Mackay based three-piece powerhouse party band with outstanding vocals and a set list full of bangers took the large audience on an exhilarating musical ride, with bulk energy and sing-along classics.

Stage, getting everyone into the

JESSICA WHITE Jessica, a young, local upcoming singer-songwriter from our home town of Winton, performed on Main Stage and at the Bush Poets Breakfast and was fully appreciated by a relaxed and receptive audience.

artist performed over four days of the Outback Festival on Main party mood.

A BIG THANKYOU TO OUR SPONSORS

FRIDAY NIGHT SPECTACULAR CONCERT Winton’s outdoor recreation sports complex rapidly filled with a large crowd ready to chill out and enjoy one of the things the Outback Festival is famous for - a musical feast of entertainment following the Quilton Australian Dunny Derby Day.

DRAGON

BEN RANSOM

This legendary band Dragon, purveyors of antipodean anthems and Australian rock since 1973, 893 shows, 12.800 songs played since their reformation in 2006, were chosen as the headline act for the Friday Music Spectacular Concert at the 2023 Outback Festival.

Ben opened the Friday Night Spectacular Concert winning new fans with his compelling vocals and ability to connect with a crowd with powerful vocals and infectious melodies.

The current band featuring Mark Williams, Pete Drummond, Bruce Reid and Todd Hunter since reforming in 2006, took the large audience on a journey through their young years, glory years, mid period and phoenix years performing in Outback Queensland.

A BIG THANK-YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

This Sydney based artist has travelled, toured and performed all over Australia and the world including a two and a half year stint in Europe. His style is a blend of country, blues and pubrock, presenting something for everyone’s varied musical tastes. He entertained the large crowd as they danced the night away.

It was an honour to have Dragon perform at the 27th biennial Outback Festival.

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SATURDAY FINALE CONCERT & FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR

GFORCE BAND Mackay based three-piece powerhouse party band with outstanding vocals and a set list full of bangers! This trio took festival goers on an exhilarating musical ride, with bulk energy and sing-along classics. GForce performed on Main Stage Thursday evening at the FREE Street Party to an energetic audience and also got the festival patrons in a party mood at the Finale Concert on Main Stage at the Eric Lenton Memorial Recreation Ground.

1RAR ROCK BAND The Band of the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR band) is a highly regarded component of the Australian Defence Force in North Queensland and making their appearance at the 2023 Outback Festival.

These multi skilled musicians can play a wide array of musical styles, but on this occasion the rock band delivered a high energy show that kept the large and enthusiastic crowd on their feet, finishing the Festival on a high note.

THE AUSTRALIAN EAGLES SHOW These five-seasoned session musicians have taken their love of the Eagles music. They pride themselves on giving the audience a flawless recreation of the Eagles in their heyday during the late 1970s. The Band performed all the classic hits including Desperado, Life in the Fast Lane, New Kid in Town, Take it to the Limit, Heartache Tonight and Hotel California plus many more during their two house performance with the large crowd up and dancing.

A BIG THANK-YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

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A HUGE THANKS TO OUR MAJOR PARTNERS & FESTIVAL FRIENDS WINTON SHIRE COUNCIL Without doubt one of the biggest supporters of this event.

Assistance by way of operational support with road closures, street cleaning and other essential services as required. A massive thank you from the Outback Festival Committee.

TEQ - QUEENSLAND DESTINATION EVENTS PROGRAM Funding support for the 2022-2023 Outback Festival for the services of Marketing/Media/PR team, Packaging and Distribution specialist & Temporary Accommodation through TEQ’s “It’s Live” Program.

IMPARJA TELEVISION Provided access to thousands of viewers in the Imparja broadcast footprint of Queensland – NSW, VIC, NT, and TAS showing the Festival’s 30sec TVC.

OUTBACK QUEENSLAND TOURISM ASSOCIATION Thank you to the team at OQTA for promotion of Winton’s Outback Festival via OQTA’s EDM’s, social media, website and for representation at the Outback Queensland Muster. It was our pleasure to host OQTA representative Kelly Hensley and her family to Outback Festival.

Proud sponsors of the Outback Festival with coverage on Hit FM and Triple MMM Townsville with key radio coverage area – Townsville, Mackay, Cairns & Rockhampton.

ABC RADIO WESTERN QUEENSLAND For actively promoting event and for their fantastic coverage of the festival.

INTERACTIVINK Thank you to the team for creating the eye catching Posters, Program, Website, Brochures and various graphic designs in the promotion of the Outback Festival.

Sponsor of generators and Lighting Towers used in the staging of the five days of events.

MITECH MT. ISA Sponsor of the power generators used in the staging of the 2023 Festival.

ANITA CLARK TOURISM SERVICES Thanks Anita and Polly for your long term services with packaging and distribution plus event packaging strategies helping to attract new visitor markets.

KRISTA HAURITZ Tourism + Marketing/ PR + Consulting - THANK YOU Krista and Sally for the amazing combined results for the 2023 event, which has taken the Outback Festival to a new level with Media & Marketing. Your attendance at the 2023 Festival was greatly appreciated.

TROPIC PETROLEUM Sponsor of fuel for generators, light towers and buses used to stage the five day event.

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RAYNER’S CRANE & PLANT HIRE LONGREACH On- going Sponsor of mobile generator and infrastructure used in the staging of the five day event.

LOYAL SPONSORS AND THE WINTON COMMUNITY WYTONS TRANSPORT Thank you for your on-going transport of freight services of equipment and infrastructure which is greatly appreciated.

A huge thank-you - Without your support, Winton could not claim to host the World’s quirkiest Festivals encompassing a wide variety of events, a great carnival atmosphere and spectacular entertainment over a continuous 5 days and nights.

OUTBACK FESTIVAL COMPERES

4LG & WEST FM LONGREACH Promoted the Outback Festival with advertising spots per station plus interviews on their Breakfast Show on 4LG.

Official Outback Festival photographers and Thank you so much Leeroy and Wade for your energy to cover so many of the events over the five days and produce thousands of eye-catching photos.

ON SITE RENTAL MT. ISA

KRISTA HAURITZ SCA

LEEROY TODD PHOTOGRAPHY & FLOWSTATE PRODUCTIONS

LENTON’S TRANSPORT Thank you for your on-going transport services assisting with freight services from Townsville to Winton and return.

Our loyal comperes throughout the Festival were Barry Hamilton of 4CC Gladstone. & Leon Mitchell of Bowen who return to Winton time after time and a Big Thank You once again.

OTB GROUP REX EXPRESS Air-travel Townsville to Winton & return for event personnel.

Thank you for your amazing photographs and drone footage of the Outback Festival events during the five days of the event.

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We hope you can join us again for another great outback experience.

Come celebrate 150 years of Winton in 2025.

28TH BIENNIAL OUTBACK FESTIVAL

23RD – 27TH SEPTEMBER 2025