Today, begin your journey aboard the Spirit of the Outback train departing from Roma Street Station and bound for Longreach. Settle into your reserved Economy Seat or upgrade to a Sleeper Cabin for added comfort and included meals. Sit back and relax as you take in the changing scenery, from coastal farming landscapes to the rugged mountain ranges before heading inland into the heart of the Queensland Outback.

Note: If making your way to Longreach under your own arrangements, please see Day 2 for details.

Accommodation: Spirit of The Outback train
Included Meals: All meals for railbed passengers. Dining cart available for economy seat passengers at your own expense.

Upon waking this morning aboard the train, you’ll notice the coastal green hills have transformed into the striking tones of rustic reds and sunburnt plains. As we journey through historic outback towns, we make our way toward Longreach, arriving in the late evening for a transfer to our motel.

NOTE: If starting your tour in Longreach, please arrive today check into the motel anytime after 15:00pm.

Accommodation: Longreach Motor Inn
Included Meals: All meals for railbed passengers. Dining cart available for economy seat passengers at your own expense

After breakfast, we begin our day at the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, an inspiring tribute to the pioneers of Outback Australia. We journey through The Long Paddock exhibit, guided by our virtual stockman “Hugh,” as we follow the stories of the resilient men and women who helped shape the nation. Next, we take our seats for A Stockman’s Life—a thrilling live show in the Outback Stockman Arena, featuring horsemanship, working dogs, a live sheep muster, and the stars of the outback, both human and four-legged.

Our journey continues to the iconic Qantas Founders Museum, where we enjoy a relaxed lunch before stepping aboard the historic Boeing 747. The tales of aviation, innovation, and daring come alive as we explore the original hangar and rich displays of Australia’s flying legacy.

As the day softens into golden hour, we set sail on a sunset cruise along the Thomson River. With warm breezes, glowing skies, and reflections dancing on the water, it’s a moment to pause and soak in the serenity of the outback. The evening concludes by the riverside under a starlit sky, where a campfire dinner awaits, flames flickering, stories shared, and the magic of the outback gently unfolding.

Accommodation: Longreach Motor Inn
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today, immerse yourself in the timeless charm of outback life with a visit to Nogo Station, a working sheep and cattle station that offers a rare glimpse into the spirit and resilience of country Australia. Journey across the red-dirt plains aboard an open-air safari-style vehicle, learn about sheep shearing and station life, and discover the deep connection between the land and its people.

Later, an Optional Extra is to step back in time with a nostalgic ride on the Cobb & Co Stagecoach, thundering along the original mail route in a truly unforgettable experience that brings history to life. (Cost $120pp paid locally).

After time to freshen up, we’ll head out to experience the spectacular Luminescent Longreach—a 20-minute night-time light and sound show set amongst iconic aircraft. With world-class projection mapping and 360-degree immersive sound, the show brings to life the 100-year story of Qantas, using the mighty Boeing 747 as a dramatic canvas. This unforgettable experience captures the daring spirit of early aviation, iconic aircraft, wartime history, and outback innovation.

Afterwards we gather for a unique Stonegrill Dinner, where your meal is cooked to perfection on a sizzling volcanic stone at your table, an interactive and flavoursome way to end a day filled with stories, dust, and true outback hospitality.

Accommodation: Longreach Motor Inn
Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Today we journey to the legendary town of Winton, home of Waltzing Matilda and a treasure trove of quirky outback charm. We explore the Waltzing Matilda Centre, a fascinating tribute to Australia’s most iconic ballad, and take in local landmarks including Arno’s Wall, the whimsical Musical Fence, and Banjo Paterson’s Music Wall, each offering a glimpse into Winton’s creative and colourful spirit.

Our adventure continues with the Ultimate Dinosaur Tour at the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum, where we step into prehistory among the world’s largest collection of Australian dinosaur fossils. We enjoy a guided tour of the Collection Room and Fossil Preparation Laboratory, visit the incredible March of the Titanosaurs exhibition, and take a self-guided walk through Dinosaur Canyon, surrounded by dramatic outback landscapes.

As the sun dips low over the savannah plains, we gather for a truly unforgettable Deluxe BBQ on the Jump Up! A magical outback dining experience among the ancient giants. With panoramic views, golden light, and the stillness of the land around us, it’s a perfect end to a remarkable day in the heart of dinosaur country.

Accommodation: Boulder Opal Hotel, Winton
Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

After breakfast, we set off into the heart of Outback Queensland to visit The 3 Sisters, an extraordinary series of ancient rock formations located on a private station just outside of Winton. With exclusive access granted to Great Value Holidays, you’ll have the rare opportunity to explore these natural wonders in a peaceful, untouched setting.

We then continue to the world-renowned Lark Quarry Conservation Park, where the past comes vividly to life. Here, you’ll witness the awe-inspiring Dinosaur Stampede—a 95-million-year-old fossilised snapshot of prehistoric chaos, preserved in stone. As you stand before thousands of fossilised footprints, you can almost hear the thunder of ancient creatures fleeing in panic across the mudflats. After exploring the site, we enjoy a bush lunch surrounded by the raw beauty of the outback.

This evening we enjoy our Farewell Dinner together, sharing stories and memories under the outback stars.

Accommodation: Boulder Opal Hotel, Winton
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Following breakfast this morning, we transfer back to Longreach to board the Spirit of the Outback for our journey home. Settle in and relax as the train winds its way through sunburnt plains, wide open spaces and historic outback towns, offering one final chance to soak in the spirit and scenery of this remarkable region.

Note:
If not using the rail service, please check out by 10am and enjoy the rest of your holidays.
Return Rail can be pre-arranged for a later date upon availability.  Extra nights in Winton or Longreach can be pre-arranged.

Accommodation: Spirit of Outback train
Meals: All meals included for Sleeper Cabin guests, dining cart available for economy seat passengers at your own expense.

Today you arrive back in Brisbane, carrying with you lasting memories of incredible Longreach, fascinating Winton, and the vast, breathtaking landscapes of Queensland’s Big Sky Country.

Accommodation: Spirit of Outback train
Meals: Breakfast included for Sleeper Cabin guests, dining cart available for economy seat passengers at your own expense.