Today you will depart on the Spirit of the Outback Train departing Roma St Station for your journey to Longreach in your Economy Seat or upgrade to the Sleeper Cabin with all meals. Relax and enjoy the views of the  rugged mountain ranges and farming areas of the coast before making our way inland to the Queensland Outback.

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

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

Upon waking this morning on the train, the green hills of the coast have given way to the colour of rustic reds and sunburnt plains. We pass through historical towns of the Outback on our way into Longreach arriving late afternoon when we will transfer to our motel with time to freshen up for our evening activities.

We enjoy the Luminescent Longreach Show which is a 20 minute spectacular night time light and sound experience designed to delight, entertain, inform and move. Stand amongst iconic aircraft as world class projection mapping and 360 degree immersive sound brings the 100 year story of Qantas to life with the mighty Boeing 747 serving as a primary canvas. Luminescent Longreach weaves an unforgettable story through time, of the daring spirit of early aviation, of iconic aircraft, wars, distant places and outback innovation.

Following the show we enjoy our included Welcome Dinner.

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

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

Following breakfast this morning, we make our way to the Stockman’s Hall of Fame. We explore the Long Paddock and join our virtual stockman “Hugh” on a journey retracing the footsteps of the men and women who built our nation. Then we enjoy A Stockman’s Life –Live Show: Undercover grandstand seating in the Outback Stockman Arena, up close and personal experience with the stars of the show –human and four legged, live sheep muster, working dogs, horsemanship and stockman activities. Following our morning at SHOF, we make our way into Town and enjoy some time to wonder the historical streets and grab a bite to eat if you wish.

Late afternoon we enjoy a relaxing cruise as the sun sets over the Thomson River, then arrive at Smithy’s Outback Dinner for a camp fire cooked dinner.

Optional Extra: Cobb & Co Stagecoach Experience:
Take a 45 minute ride along the bush track, before a short gallop to ‘outrun the storm’.
This is the only place in Australia you can gallop in a stagecoach!
$120 per person – to be pre-booked with GVH and paid locally

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

This morning, we visit the Qantas Museum enjoying the many Qantas stories and a tour of the 747, Original Hangar and Museum.

We are then entertained at The Tent Show while enjoying an included Billy Can lunch.

We finish the day with a special Paddock to Plate Sunset Dinner Tour. Starting this landmark historical tour, we explore the rich history and workings of an ex-sheep station, the iconic Camdem Park Station. We enjoy nibbles and sunset drinks before transferring to Longreach Station for our Paddock to Plate dinner experience, capping of a wonderful

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

Departing Winton, we make our way to Cloncurry to visit the Unearthed Museum where you’ll have the chance to explore fascinating displays showcasing the region’s rich history, from its mining heritage to stories of early explorers and pioneers.

 After soaking up the history, we continue to one of the most iconic landmarks in outback Australia – the Walkabout Creek Hotel. This quirky pub is instantly recognizable as it was made famous in the classic film Crocodile Dundee. Step inside and you’ll find yourself surrounded by memorabilia and relics from the days when Paul Hogan brought the legendary character Mick Dundee to life on the big screen. We enjoy an included lunch while taking in the nostalgia of this Aussie icon.

With appetites satisfied and cameras full of photos, we travel onwards through rugged countryside to Mount Isa, a bustling mining town known as the heart of the great northwest. On arrival, we’ll check into our accommodation where we will stay for the next two nights, ready to explore everything this vibrant outback hub has to offer

Accommodation: IBIS Styles, Mount Isa
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 Today is dedicated to exploring the fascinating mining history and unique attractions of Mount Isa, often referred to as the “Oasis of the Outback.” We begin our day exploring the WWII Underground Hospital, a remarkable piece of wartime history. Built by off-duty miners during World War II to protect patients from potential air raids, this hidden hospital offers a fascinating glimpse into Mount Isa’s past and the resilience of its community. Next, we visit the Beth Anderson Museum home to a treasured collection of antique medical equipment, historical artefacts and displays that provide further insight into the pioneering spirit of the region.

This afternoon we visit the Outback at Isa, a major visitor and cultural centre that brings the region’s history and industry to life. Here, you’ll take part in the Hard Times Underground Mine Tour, an immersive experience that gives you a real taste of life as an underground miner. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll descend into the mine wearing authentic safety gear, learning about the harsh conditions miners faced while discovering the techniques, machinery and stories that built Mount Isa into one of the world’s largest mining towns.

After emerging from the depths of the mine, take time to stroll through the Outback Park, a beautifully landscaped area featuring lush gardens and serene water features, a striking contrast to the rugged outback surrounds. It’s a peaceful place to relax, reflect, and perhaps capture some photos.

After a full day of discovery, we return to our accommodation at IBIS Styles Mount Isa, where you can relax and unwind before enjoying a delicious group dinner.

Accommodation: IBIS Styles, Mount Isa
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, we farewell Mount Isa and begin our journey east, travelling through the vast, open outback plains where the sweeping landscapes seem to stretch endlessly to the horizon. Along the way, keep an eye out for native wildlife and the occasional historic outback homestead as we pass through this remote yet captivating part of Queensland.

Our first stop today is the tiny township of Julia Creek, a welcoming country town known for its rich cattle grazing history and friendly outback hospitality. Here, we’ll have time to enjoy lunch, giving you a chance to soak up the charm of this small community and perhaps chat with some of the locals who call this isolated region home.

Continuing our journey, we make our way to Richmond, part of Australia’s famous Dinosaur Trail. This area was once covered by a vast inland sea over 100 million years ago. Our visit here takes us to Kronosaurus Corner, Australia’s premier Marine Fossil Museum, where you’ll have the opportunity to view an incredible collection of nearly 1,150 unique fossil specimens. These include the fossilized remains of ancient marine reptiles such as Kronosaurus queenslandicus, giant fish, and ammonites. The museum provides a fascinating insight into prehistoric life and how this now arid region was once a thriving underwater ecosystem.

After a day of discovery, we check into our accommodation at the Ammonite Inn, Richmond, where you can unwind and share stories from your day over a delicious group dinner.

Accommodation: Ammonite Inn, Richmond
Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

After breakfast, we depart Richmond and travel through the rugged Queensland outback towards the historic town of Charters Towers.

Upon arrival, we’ll take a guided exploration of Charters Towers, where grand public buildings line the main streets – a lasting legacy of the gold rush days when the town was known as “The World” due to its wealth and significance. The beautifully preserved architecture tells the story of a once-thriving city that boomed in the late 19th century.

Our afternoon offers a deep dive into the town’s history with a series of exclusive experiences. We begin with a special after-hours entry to the Zara Clark Museum, where we’ll enjoy a private viewing of its fascinating exhibits and displays. This intimate setting allows plenty of time to browse the extensive collection of artefacts that reflect the pioneering spirit of Charters Towers, with a knowledgeable guide on hand to introduce the museum and answer questions. Next, we visit the Miners Memorial, where a local historian leads a guided tour, sharing captivating stories of the town’s gold mining history and paying tribute to the miners whose hard work and sacrifices built the community. Our journey continues at Goldtower Central, where we marvel at the stunning Wall of History mosaics, which bring the region’s past to life through intricate artworks and storytelling.

As evening falls, we come together for a memorable Farewell Dinner, sharing stories, laughter, and reflections on the incredible adventures and friendships forged throughout our journey.

Accommodation: Cattleman’s Rest Motel, Charters Towers
Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

After breakfast, we depart Charters Towers and journey east to Townsville arriving with time to stretch your legs and enjoy lunch at leisure along the waterfront or in the city centre. Take a short stroll along The Strand or admire views towards Magnetic Island before we transfer to the station to board the Spirit of Queensland for your relaxing journey towards Brisbane.

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 the Spirit of Queensland will finish the journey arriving at your home station with cherished memories of the QLD Outback. 

Meals: Breakfast for Sleeper Cabin guests, dining cart available for economy seat passengers at your own expense.