astounding EXPERIENCES IN outback queenSLAND
From sensational stargazing to full-tilt stagecoach gallops, Outback Queensland is home to absolutely sterling, and sometimes unexpected, adventures.
By: Sarah Hinder
Cobb & Co Stagecoach Experience, Longreach Qld
step back in time in longreach
Discover the thrills and traditions of pioneer life with the eclectic diversity of True Blue experiences in and around historic Longreach.
With Kinnon & Co’s Outback Pioneers, relax and be taken aboard an entirely organised Longreach Long Weekend, or create your own unique selection of experiences — from an open-top wildlife tour of historic Nogo Station, enjoying bush tucker and poetry under the stars, to a majestic sunset cruise aboard the charming Thomson Princess riverboat. Truly unmissable is the Cobb & Co Stagecoach Experience, the only stagecoach gallop in Australia to authentically recreate our Aussie pioneering past. Gallop full-tilt across the old Longreach–Windorah mail route, take a ‘smoko’ tea break), catch a classic bush movie in a retro cinema and experience a traditional tribute to the old travelling shows.
For an authentic experience on a working station, sign yourself up for a Nogo Station experience. Embrace the pioneering spirit on a safari-style, open-top overlander bus, and see where Captain Starlight branded his stolen cattle. Meet an inspiring shearer in the historic shearing sheds and visit the property's typical Queenslander homestead for a delicious home-baked treats.
Charleville Cosmos Centre & Observatory, Charleville Qld
Stargazing in Charleville
The uninterrupted illuminations of our night sky are something to behold. And with its minimal air and light pollution, flat surroundings for hundreds of kilometres and very few cloudy days, Charleville is a sensationally unique location for exploring our incredible Milky Way.
As the roof is rolled back at Charleville Cosmos Centre and Observatory, and the powerful Meade telescopes are focused on what’s above, the night sky and cosmos are revealed, while specially trained guides share their knowledge on star clusters, planets, binary stars, nebulae and the solar system.
During the day, the learning and wonderment continues. On a visit to the Stargazing Theatre, discover the explanation behind falling stars, the formation of the solar system, its five new dwarf planets, and even hold a meteorite in your hands.
Birdsville Races, Birdsville Qld
Birdsville Races
On the edge of the ethereal Simpson Desert, the small town of Birdsville comes alive each September with racegoers ready for two days of outback racing, glam and entertainment.
From humble beginnings in 1882, the Annual Birdsville Racing Carnival today encompasses a 13-race program, alongside exceptional entertainment in and around the outback town.
Support of the Royal Flying Doctor Service at their annual Fun Run, witness the last boxing tent showman in the world at Fred Brophy’s Boxing Troupe, experience the excitement of Fashions on the Field, and dress up to be welcomed in true country style at the Birdsville Races Cocktail Party — the most glamorous event of the week. Not to be missed is Tent City, a lively pop-up community built overnight before the races begin. It’s a popular choice as the races regularly book out all town accommodation a year in advance.
Australian Age of Dinosaurs, Winton Qld
Dinosaur Hotspots
Outback Queensland is home to Australia’s Dinosaur Trail — a Jurassic adventure encompassing realistic replicas, sculptures and preserved fossils across the triangular trail of Winton, Richmond and Hughenden.
At Winton’s Australian Age of Dinosaurs, discover the world’s largest collection of Australian dinosaur fossils and assisting in the fossil preparation process. In Richmond, marvel at Australia’s best-preserved dinosaur skeleton, named Penny, set among marine reptile fossils at Kronosaurus Korner. At Hughenden, quirky dinosaur sculptures adorn historic streets and public buildings, while Hughie, a terrific seven-metre Muttaburrasaurus, is the star attraction of the extensive Flinders Discovery Centre. 70 kilometres north of Hughenden is Porcupine Gorge National Park, which boasts towering sandstone cliffs and permanent waterholes.
The Australia’s Dinosaur Trail (ADT) Pass includes entry to all three towns’ museums and also gives you a tour of the world’s only recorded evidence of a dinosaur stampede, 110 kilometres south-west of Winton.
Mount Isa Rodeo, Mount Isa Qld
Rockin’ Rodeos of Outback Queensland
Home to some of the best rodeos in Australia, Outback Queensland offers all the bull riding, steer wrestling, agricultural exhibits and live entertainment that the greatest rodeo buff could ask for.
The rodeo capital of Australia is undoubtedly Mount Isa, home to the biggest rodeo of the Southern Hemisphere. Events range from wild-horse racing and live music to a glitzy Rodeo Ball and Rodeo Queen Quest — all packed into four exciting days every August.
In April 2019, the annual Dirt n Dust festival celebrates 25 years since its inception, and there'll be non-stop dangerous drama on dirt as the PBR’s insanely brave cowboys risk it all against the monstrous bulls that can weigh as much as 1,000kg.
isarodeo.com.au, dirtndust.com
Bonus Downs Qld
Jackaroo Farmstay at Bonus Downs
For a taste of history in the Outback, make a beeline for the classic homestead of Bonus Downs. It’s an experience of old-fashioned country hospitality, surrounded by tranquil bushland. It's a paradise for both birdwatchers and photographers, home to more than 100 bird species and abundant wildlife.
Bushwalkers can venture out on their own to explore the winding trails around prehistoric Ooline Forest, or join a tour led by owners Madonna and Lyle for insights into the forest’s plant species, wildlife and conservation efforts. Learn the ins and outs of station work through stockwhip cracking, cattle mustering, blade ploughing and assisting the working dogs. Or, cool down with a canoe ride on the dam.
The property is completed by a smokehouse with spit-roast fireplace and camp ovens, and the choice to stay in the rustic 1911 Jackaroo’s Cottage or to bring your own swag and sleep in the Shearing Shed.
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