Journey through fascinating country towns, uncover stories of pioneering history, marvel at rare black opals, and immerse yourself in the landscapes, wildlife, and culture that make this region so unique. From the historic Jondaryan Woolshed and Mitchell Artesian Spa to stargazing at Charleville’s world-class Cosmos Centre, this tour is the perfect blend of discovery, relaxation, and authentic outback adventure.
Our journey begins in Brisbane as we head west through Ipswich, Gatton, and Toowoomba, enjoying scenic views of the Darling Downs.
Our first stop is at the Jondaryan Woolshed, built in 1859 and one of the oldest and most significant shearing sheds in Queensland. Over morning tea, step back in time and learn about 160 years of pastoral history, including the wool industry’s vital role in shaping the outback.
We continue to Chinchilla, famous for its melons and rich farming history, where you can purchase lunch (own expense). In the afternoon, we arrive in Roma, a vibrant regional hub known for its cattle industry and iconic outback charm.
This evening, we take our seats for the Roma Big Rig Sunset Experience. As the sun dips below the horizon, enjoy a glass of Outback port while a local “Roma Rigger” guide shares fascinating tales of sabotage, drama, and discovery from the early days of oil and gas exploration. A captivating short film under the stars sets the perfect tone for our first night.
Accommodation: Best Western Bungil Creek Hotel, Roma
Meals: Dinner
After breakfast, we visit Mt Abundance Homestead, a heritage-listed property with deep historical significance. Explore the underground cellar built with locally handmade bricks, step inside Roma’s very first post office, and enjoy morning tea on the homestead veranda.
We continue to Mitchell, where a local guide will join us for a fascinating town tour. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at the Visitor Centre and take some free time to explore or even relax in the soothing waters of the Mitchell Artesian Spa (optional, at own expense).
In the afternoon, we travel deeper into Queensland’s outback, arriving in Charleville a welcoming town famous for its clear skies and rich history, where we stay for two nights.
Accommodation: Mulga Country Motor Inn, Charleville
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, we visit a local Date Farm just outside Charleville to learn about the cultivation of these desert fruits and sample their delicious produce during morning tea.
Back in town, our local guide leads a comprehensive Charleville town tour, sharing stories of devastating fires, floods, and the pioneering families who shaped the region. We also visit the remains of a top-secret WWII US base, established in 1942, offering insight into Charleville’s wartime role.
After free time to purchase lunch, we visit the Charleville Bilby Experience. Here, you’ll learn about the plight of Australia’s endangered native species and the vital breeding programs working to save them.
Tonight, after an early dinner at the historic Corones Hotel, prepare to be amazed at the world-class Charleville Cosmos Centre. With high-tech interactive displays and powerful telescopes, this extraordinary facility takes you on a journey through the universe and offers a breathtaking view of the Milky Way from the pristine outback night sky.
Accommodation: Mulga Country Motor Inn, Charleville
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Our first stop is the Cunnamulla Fella Museum and Art Gallery, showcasing a changing collection of local artworks and cultural displays. Beneath the town lies the Eromanga Basin, the world’s largest underground river system, covering one-fifth of Australia. Explore this natural wonder through the Artesian Time Tunnel, where an old mine lift transports you back 100 million years into the ancient sandstone depths.
Enjoy lunch at the historic Club Boutique Hotel before travelling to St George. This charming riverside town is home to the Riversands Winery, where we’ll enjoy a wine tasting before checking into our accommodation.
Accommodation: Merino Motor Inn, St George
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, discover St George’s vibrant murals, including the Cotton Mural and Transport Mural, before embarking on a relaxing Balonne River cruise. Spot native birdlife and take in the beauty of the river gums and peaceful waterways.
Lunch is at Queensland’s oldest continually licensed pub, the iconic Nindigully Hotel, once a Cobb & Co coach changeover station dating back to the late 1800s.
We then travel through Dirranbandi and Hebel, arriving in Lightning Ridge, a town with an almost otherworldly landscape. Known globally for its rare black opals, Lightning Ridge is the only place in Australia where these precious gems are found.
Our visit begins at Down to Earth Opals, where you can admire exquisite jewellery and gem-quality opals. There’s also free time to browse local shops before settling into our accommodation for the next two nights.
Accommodation: Wallungulla Motel, Lightning Ridge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, experience the fascinating underground world of opal mining at Opal Mine Adventure, learning about mining techniques and viewing stunning local opals.
We then visit the quirky John Murray Art Gallery, home to colourful, lighthearted works by one of Lightning Ridge’s most beloved artists.
Next, prepare to be amazed at Chambers of the Black Hand, an incredible underground art gallery where local artist Ron Canlin has created intricate carvings and sculptures 11 metres below ground. Highlights include a rendition of The Last Supper, an Egyptian tomb, and life-size Terracotta Warriors. The lower level reveals historic mining shafts over 100 years old.
Our final stop is the Australian Opal Centre, celebrating the beauty and history of our national gemstone with glittering displays and captivating stories.
Accommodation: Wallungulla Motel, Lightning Ridge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart Lightning Ridge and head to Moree, where a local guide will join us to share insights into the region’s thriving cotton industry and other agricultural enterprises.
Continue to Texas, a charming border town known for sheep and cattle grazing. Visit Texas Rabbit Works, a fascinating museum dedicated to the rabbit trapping and export industry that helped communities survive during the Great Depression. Enjoy afternoon tea here before travelling to Stanthorpe, nestled in the Granite Belt wine region.
Accommodation: High Street Motor Inn, Stanthorpe
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel via Warwick to the Gleneden Family Farm, where you’ll experience authentic Australian bush life. Watch a traditional bullock team in action, learn age-old bush skills, and enjoy a morning tea of fresh billy tea and damper.
Our final stop is at the historic Dugandan Hotel in Boonah for a relaxed farewell lunch in a charming country pub setting. After lunch, we return to Brisbane, saying farewell to new friends and reflecting on an unforgettable outback adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Tour cost is per person in a Double or Twin Room. Add $700 for single room
This is an Easy paced tour – Low Level if Fitness required
Travelers must be able to meet the below fitness level requirements or have a carer who is available to assist. GVH Staff are not able to assist with those who have reduced mobility or other health problems. It is Your responsibility to arrange for such a carer if so required:
GVH 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 the tour, including using coach steps for embarking and disembarking or needing services or facilities that are not available. We will not be held liable for any termination of your travel arrangements or additional expenses incurred. Please be aware that some outback locations may experience high temperatures.
