Outback Aussie Tours - 2020-21

4WD COACH ADVENTURES

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GORGE & RIVER CRUISES

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ICONIC RAIL JOURNEYS

outbackaussietours.com.au

Outback Queensland Touring Experiences 2020-2021

Horn Island

Legend

Thursday Island

Spirit of Queensland

Cape York

Seisia Jardine River NP

Fruit Bat Falls

Moreton Telegraph Station

Spirit of the Outback

Bamaga

Archer River

Weipa Mungkan Kandju NP

Savannahlander

Horn Island to Cairns

Gulflander QantasLink or REX flights

Iron Range NP

Boat/Ferry Cruise

Old Telegraph Track Coen

TOURING ROUTES Lakefield NP

Musgrave

Lion’s Den Hotel Cape Tribulation Staaten River NP

Wujal Wujal

Daintree Port Douglas

Critters Camp

R

I

Undara Lava Tubes Croydon Einasleigh Cobbold Gorge Forsayth

Gregory

r Rive rry Fli cu nd

n

Birdsville Desert Escape

n

Legendary Longreach & Winton

n

Corner Country Explorer

sR

Cloncurry

E

R

R

E

E

F

Brisbane to Cairns

er

Clo n

Journey of the Gulf Savannah

Townsville

Burke & Wills Roadhouse

t hhard Leic iver R

Adels Grove

Mount Surprise

Georgetown

Leichhardt Falls

n

R

Lawn Hill Boodjamulla NP

Cape York & Torres Strait

A

Karumba

Normanton Burketown

B

Cairns

Lake Barrine

AT G R E

Cooktown

n

Porcupine Gorge NP iv er

Longreach to Townsville

Jundah

Lake Eyre NP

liam eek

2

Innamincka Strzelecki Regional Reserve Cameron Corner

g rre

o

iv er

Bundaberg

Wa

Charleville

Noccundra

Coongie Lakes

Ba rco oR ive r

Dig Tree Thargomindah Eulo Sturt NP

Tibooburra

Carnarvon Gorge NP

Brisbane to Longreach

Maryborough

Roma Miles

o Ri ver

Innamincka Regional Reserve

Goyder’s Lagoon

Idalia NP

Paro

Haddon’s Corner

Creek Cooper

S O U T H Birdsville AUSTRALIA

Windorah

Gladstone

Camden Park Station

Welford NP

Betoota

Poeppel Corner

Riv er

Stonehenge

Rockhampton

Bullo oR

Big Red

Lochern NP

Th om son

Simpson Desert NP

Strathmore Station

Diamantina NP Diam ant ina Riv er

ree Eyre C k

Bedourie

LONGREACH

er

Dinosaur Stampede

QUEENSLAND

R iv

Boulia

Belyand oR iv e r

Australian Age of Dinosaurs

Bladensburg NP Middleton

River ina org Ge

NORTHERN TERRITORY

Winton

Thom son River

Mackay

Dalby

BRISBANE

Toowoomba

Cunnamulla

NEW SOUTH WALES

Gold Coast

Great Ways to Save EARLY EMU OFFER

Book and pay deposit by 31 Dec 2019 and save up to $400pp on selected departures.

PAST PASSENGER SAVINGS Past passengers enjoy Early Emu Offers on all tour departures if booked at least two months prior to departure.

TRAVEL WITH FRIENDS & SAVE* Book and travel with six or more of your favourite people and you will each receive $150*pp off your tour price.

SECOND TOUR DISCOUNT* Book two or more of our extended tours at the same time and receive a 10% discount. This discount applies to the tour of lesser value. Offers valid on new bookings only. *May not be combined with Early Emu Offers.

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Contents 04

RAIL & FLIGHT CONNECTIONS

12

6 Days LEGENDARY LONGREACH & WINTON

05

OUR VEHICLES

14

9 Days BIRDSVILLE DESERT ESCAPE

06

08

THE OUTBACK AUSSIE TOURS EXPERIENCE

FEATURED ACCOMMODATION & PRE/POST PACKAGES

16

20

11 Days CAPE YORK & TORRES STRAIT

13 Days JOURNEY OF THE GULF SAVANNAH

10

5 Days OUTBACK GETAWAY

24

14 Days CORNER COUNTRY EXPLORER

3

UNWIND AND RELAX BY RAIL

Spirit of the Outback

Spirit of Queensland

All aboard the iconic Spirit of the Outback to Longreach in a First Class Sleeper! This must-do 26-hour rail adventure is the perfect introduction to your Outback Queensland holiday. All Outback Aussie Tours commencing or ending in Longreach can be packaged with either one way or return rail from Brisbane. Here’s some of the onboard features:

Settle back in a state-of-the-art RailBed for a very comfortable trip between Brisbane and Cairns. This spacious reclining seat converts to a flat bed for a restful sleep. It’s a 24-hour journey operating five times weekly. Here are some of the features:

n Exclusive access to the Shearers Rest Lounge carriage

n 18.5 inch on-demand personal entertainment system

n 35 degree seat recline and seat converts to flat bed

n All main meals are served directly to your seat n 240 volt power point, reading light and drink holder n All bed linen, towel and amenities pack n Restrooms are provided at the end of all seating carriages n Showers are located at the end of two carriages n Accessibility RailBeds and facilities are available

n Outback inspired meals created with Queensland’s best produce served in the Tuckerbox Restaurant n Portable entertainment tablets are available for use n Single or Twin cabins with all linen, 240 volt power point & reading light n Share toilets and showers are at the end of each carriage

QantasLink Longreach is where Qantas began and is home to the award-winning Qantas Founders Museum. It’s just a 2 - 3 hour daily flight with QantasLink from Brisbane. The flight includes full onboard service and awesome aerial views of Outback Queensland.

We have packaged selected tours to include return or one way flights.

4

MERCEDES BENZ & MAN 4WD TOURING COACHES

When you travel with Outback Aussie Tours, you’re guaranteed to travel in comfort and safety. Our fleet of 2WD coaches and custom-built 4WD coaches, built to German precision, are specially designed for outback conditions.

Features for your comfort and safety include: n Coach reclining seats with generous legroom n Onboard restroom n Television and DVD Player n USB charging points for tablets and smart phones n Air-conditioning n Satellite communications n Refrigerator & hot water urn

SAVANNAH GUIDES OPERATOR DRIVERS & HOSTS

You’re in good hands with our Savannah Guides Operator drivers and dedicated onboard hosts. Trained to Savannah Guides standards, our drivers are professional tour guides, protectors and interpreters of the Outback. Authentic, genuine and knowledgeable, every Outback Aussie Tour is a journey of a lifetime.

5

Cobbold Gorge Infinity Pool

MEMORABLE

EXPERIENCES

6

CARISBROOKE STATION 85km south west of Winton

BIG RED SAND HILL 35km west of Birdsville

BOODJAMULLA (LAWN HILL) NATIONAL PARK

QUINKAN ROCK ART SITES, LAURA

The view from Cory’s Range at Carisbrooke Station is rated #27 of Australia’s Best Views by Australian Traveller. The beauty of this time-sculpted, ancient landscape is mesmerising.

Toast the sunset from this 40 metre high dune. The first of 1113 dunes in the Simpson Desert, the spectacular sunsets from the top of Big Red are a bucket-list item for sure.

Red sandstone cliffs contrast with emerald green waters at Boodjamulla, Queensland’s hidden gem. Cruise this majestic waterway on a solar electric powered boat.

This dramatic body of prehistoric rock paintings has been identified as being at least 15,000 to 30,000 years old. Join a guided tour of the Split Rock Galleries.

THE

OUTBACK AUSSIE TOURS EXPERIENCE With over 30 years’ experience in crafting authentic Outback tours, you’re assured of a memorable and highly personalised touring holiday with Outback Aussie Tours. Guests travelling to our outback home are hosted to a suite of signature experiences, made possible through our long-standing local connections and partnerships.

SAVANNAH GUIDES OPERATOR

Professional tour guiding services play an essential role in great tours. Our drivers are all trained to Savannah Guides standards. This is a highly professional network of paleontologists, geologists, agronomists, wildlife experts and Traditional Custodians. What does this mean for you? It means you benefit from in depth natural and cultural interpretation and stories that will remain with you for a lifetime.

ONBOARD HOSTS

All of our extended tours (with the exception of the Outback Getaway and Legendary Longreach and Winton tours) travel with a dedicated onboard host.

Our hosts are specially selected for their people skills and attention to detail. They are truly the icing on our touring cake!

THEMED DINNERS & OUTBACK HOSPITALITY

Get a real taste of the Outback with our onboard home-baked goodies made to Sue’s favourite family recipes. Make the most of the incredible outback vistas with our special sunset drinks and nibbles events. Enjoy the benefits of our local connections with exclusive hospitality at outback stations and attractions.

STATION VISITS

Enjoy the hospitality of local graziers when we visit outback stations. It’s a true privilege to introduce guests to our local producers. Real working station visits are a signature experience with Outback Aussie Tours.

COMMITTED TO SUSTAINABILITY

Outback Aussie Tours is a proud Eco Certified Nature Tourism Operator committed to best practice environmental sustainability, contributing to conserving the environment and helping local communities. We take our role as local custodians very seriously and our ethos is to leave the environment a better place.

7

OUTBACK RETREATS, OUTBACK STATIONS & OUTBACK PUBS There are some exceptional accommodation experiences in Outback Queensland. Here’s a small sample…

SALTBUSH RETREAT, LONGREACH Saltbush Retreat’s rustic but beautiful accommodation reflects the unique textures and tones of Outback Queensland.

The exquisitely themed Homestead Stables and Slab Huts deliver an authentic outback experience; without sacrificing those allimportant creature comforts.

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ADELS GROVE, LAWN HILL GORGE Adels Grove is just 10km from Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill National Park), the jewel in our Journey of the Gulf Savannah Tour. Cabins have all the outback comforts and are perfect after a day exploring one of Queensland’s spectacular hidden gems.

COBBOLD GORGE VILLAGE

BIRDSVILLE HOTEL

Located on Robin Hood Station, Cobbold Gorge Village boasts an Infinity Pool with a swim up bar (and cocktail list); a delightful Outback Oasis. However, it’s the spectacular sandstone gorge that is the star. Well-appointed en suite cabins allow guests to relax into their beautiful surrounds and enjoy the serenity.

This iconic Aussie pub is steeped in Australia’s pioneering history. A destination in its own right, the Birdsville Hotel is on many a traveller’s bucket list.

The comfortable motel rooms in the property complex allow guests plenty of time to discover the stories of this important outback landmark.

PRE & POST TOUR ACCOMMODATION If you would like to spend extra time at a destination before or after your tour our team are happy to book your accommodation. Please see rates below.

LONGREACH

BRISBANE

SALTBUSH RETREAT

ROYAL ON THE PARK

63-65 Ilfracombe Road, Longreach Room only $210 Bed & Breakfast (Single) $235 Bed & Breakfast (Twin/Double) $260

152 Alice Street, Brisbane Room only $154 Bed & Breakfast (Single) $174 Bed & Breakfast (Twin/Double) $194

LONGREACH

CAIRNS

LONGREACH MOTOR INN 84 Galah Street, Longreach Room only $180 Bed & Breakfast (Single) $205 Bed & Breakfast (Twin/Double) $230

RYDGES ESPLANADE 209-217 Abbott Street, Cairns Room only $204 Bed & Breakfast (Single) $224 Bed & Breakfast (Twin/Double) $244

9

5 DAYS

OUTBACK GETAWAY Including Winton Full Day Tour

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Historic Wellshot Hotel Dinner Longreach School of Distance Education Tour Qantas Founders Museum & Jets Tour Drover’s Sunset Cruise including Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show Australian Age of Dinosaurs Tour of Laboratory, Collection Room & Dinosaur Canyon Waltzing Matilda Centre, Winton Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame & Outback Stockman’s Show Strathmore Station Smoko Tour

Strathmore Station

Arrive in Longreach, the heartland of Queensland’s Outback. You will be met by your Savannah Guides Operator driverguide at either Longreach Railway Station or Longreach Airport and transferred to your accommodation for the next four nights.

Tonight, join your guide for a poolside welcome barbecue at Longreach Motor Inn where you will meet fellow travellers.

4 nights Longreach Motor Inn, Longreach

Day 2 | MONDAY | LONGREACH

Witness a totally different way of schooling at Longreach School of Distance Education. Tour one of the largest classrooms in the world! Learn how education is delivered in the bush using technology and inspirational teaching methods. Wander the Qantas Founders Museum and join a guided tour of the 747 and 707 jets. Late afternoon join your tour group for a short drive to Ilfracombe.

Founded in 1891, it was a transport hub for Wellshot Station, which at the time held the largest number of sheep on any station in the world. We’ll cap off the tour with an authentic pub welcome dinner at the historic Wellshot Hotel.

OUTBACK GETAWAY

Twin Share

Single

5 Day Longreach – Longreach

$1999pp

$2459pp

6 Day Brisbane – Brisbane FLY/RAIL

$2708*pp

$3168*pp

One way flight + one way overnight rail

10

Day 1 | SUNDAY | LONGREACH

Day 3 | TUESDAY | WINTON

Travel from the Mitchell grass plains of Longreach towards the dramatic mesa country of Winton on our full day tour.

We visit the Australian Age of Dinosaurs perched high on a magnificent mesa overlooking the plains where dinosaurs once roamed! Onsite dinosaur enthusiasts treat us to a top-class interpretive tour of the laboratory, collection room and Dinosaur Canyon. In Winton see the quirky Arno’s Wall, the Musical Fence and learn the story behind Australia’s unofficial national anthem at the Waltzing Matilda Centre. Return to Longreach late afternoon. Dine tonight in the awardwinning Harry’s Restaurant at Longreach Motor Inn.

Australian Age of Dinosaurs

HIGH SEASON (GET5):

2020: 19 Apr, 24 May, 07 Jun, 21 Jun, 19 Jul, 26 Jul, 16 Aug, 30 Aug, 20 Sep, 18 Oct

N O R T H E R N T E R R I TO RY

Winton LONGREACH

4 Strathmore Station

Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show

QUEENSLAND

NEW SOUTH WALES Drover’s Sunset Cruise

Low level of fitness required Qantas Founders Museum

Day 4 | WEDNESDAY | LONGREACH Join our Strathmore Station Smoko Tour for an insider’s view into life on the land followed by a delicious morning tea. Explore the five themed galleries of the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame then take your seat for the entertaining Outback Stockman’s Show. Late afternoon, board the Longreach Explorer for the Drover’s Sunset Cruise on the Thomson River. Unwind with onboard nibbles and drinks, watching a magnificent outback sunset. Enjoy a two-course table service dinner under the stars as you watch the entertaining Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show. Top off the evening with billy-tea and freshly baked damper.

Day 5 | THURSDAY Your Outback Queensland adventure comes to an end after breakfast with a complimentary transfer to your homeward bound connections.

INCLUSIONS 4 nights en suite accommodation Touring with our Savannah Guides Operator driver-guide Most meals (4 continental breakfasts; 4 dinners; 1 lunch) Entries/activities as per itinerary Longreach accommodation arrival/ departure transfers

EARLY EMU DEAL FOR 2020 DEPARTURES Save $100pp Valid Apr & Oct 2020 departures only for bookings made and deposited before 31 December 2019

Wellshot Hotel, Ilfracombe

2020-21 SUMMER GETAWAY PACKAGES

A SK

AB

SU M O U T R A IL M ER DEA LS

LOW SEASON (GET5S):

2020: 01 Nov, 15 Nov, 29 Nov 2021: 28 Feb, 14 Mar, 28 Mar Please note: There will be some itinerary variations on our Low Season tours. Please request full itinerary.

Price from

$1849 #pp Twin Share

Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame *Price includes one way First Class overnight rail on the Spirit of the Outback based on Aust. Govt. Senior Card holder fares + one way economy flight between Longreach & Brisbane. #Summer Getaway price is land only and subject to change.

11

6 DAYS

LEGENDARY LONGREACH & WINTON TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Strathmore Station Smoko Tour Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame & Outback Stockman’s Show Camden Park Station Sunset Tour Longreach School of Distance Education Tour Rosebank Station Morning Tea Qantas Founders Museum & Guided Jets Tour Drover’s Sunset Cruise including Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show Winton Town Tour

Day 1 | WEDNESDAY | LONGREACH

Arrive in Longreach for the start of your Outback Queensland adventure. You will be met at either Longreach Railway Station or Longreach Airport by your Savannah Guides Operator driverguide and transferred to your beautiful accommodation at the boutique outback lodgings, Saltbush Retreat. Meet fellow travellers for a tour briefing and Welcome Supper before retiring to your accommodation for the next three nights.

While at the property, you can enjoy an indulging soak in one of three clawfoot baths on their exclusive Outdoor Bath Terrace or a swim in their outdoor pool.

3 nights Saltbush Retreat, Longreach

Waltzing Matilda Centre Australian Age of Dinosaurs Tour including Dinosaur Canyon and Deluxe Sunset barbecue Carisbrooke Station Tour Dinosaur Stampede National Monument at Lark Quarry Conservation Park

Day 2 | THURSDAY | LONGREACH

Join our Strathmore Station Smoko Tour for an insider’s view into life on the land followed by a delicious home-baked morning tea. Explore the five themed galleries of the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame then take your seat for the entertaining Outback Stockman’s Show.

Late afternoon experience the warm hospitality of local graziers with a visit to Camden Park Station. Enjoy a personalised tour of the property, family homestead and sunset drinks.

Day 3 | FRIDAY | LONGREACH Witness a totally different way of schooling on a tour of the Longreach School of Distance Education. Visit historic Rosebank Station originally settled as a sheep and cattle station some 100 years ago. Wander the world-class Qantas Founders Museum, eloquently telling the story of the founding of Qantas. View marvellous interpretive and interactive exhibits then join a guided Jets Tour. Late afternoon, unwind on the Drover’s Sunset Cruise with tasty onboard nibbles platters followed by a two-course table service dinner under the stars at Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show.

Day 4 | SATURDAY | WINTON Travel west to Winton and learn the story behind Australia’s unofficial national Dinosaur Stampede at Lark Quarry

Australian Age of Dinosaurs

12

N O R T H E R N T E R R I TO RY

Winton

2 Dinosaur Stampede

3

Strathmore Station

Camden Park Station LONGREACH

Outback Dan, Camden Park Station

QUEENSLAND

NEW SOUTH WAL Carisbrooke Station

Low level of fitness required Rosebank Station

anthem at the Waltzing Matilda Centre; the only museum dedicated to a song.

Discover the quirky Arno’s Wall and play a tune on what is believed to be the world’s only musical fence. Check-in to your accommodation for the next two nights then enjoy some free time. Mid afternoon, we take a short drive out of town to the Australian Age of Dinosaurs, perched high on a spectacular mesa.

Join a guided interpretive tour of the laboratory, collection room and Dinosaur Canyon. Take in the moment at our very special sunset barbecue overlooking the plains where dinosaurs once roamed!

2 nights Boulder Opal Motor Inn, Winton

INCLUSIONS All en suite accommodation (3 nights Longreach, 2 nights Winton) Touring with our Savannah Guides Operator driver-guide All meals (5 buffet breakfasts; 4 lunches; 5 dinners) All entries/activities as per itinerary

Drover’s Sunset Cruise including Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show

2020 DEPARTURES

15 Apr, 13 May, 20 May, 10 Jun, 17 Jun, 01 Jul, 15 Jul, 12 Aug, 26 Aug, 02 Sep, 09 Sep, 07 Oct, 14 Oct

Day 5 | SUNDAY | WINTON Travel into the heart of Waltzing Matilda country and drive along private tracks to the beautiful Carisbrooke Station.

Here we’ll follow the scenic Cory’s Range drive to the Three Sisters rock formation, fossick for opals and enjoy a relaxed billy tea. Witness a prehistoric event from BOUT A SK A some 95 million years ago at Dinosaur A IL FLY/ R FROM Stampede, Lark Quarry Conservation S E G PACK A Park. Join an interpretive tour of # pp Australian Age of Dinosaurs Deluxe Sunset Barbecue $ the world’s only recorded dinosaur stampede featuring over 3000 footprints frozen in time in ancient mudflats. Return to Winton for a relaxed dinner at your LEGENDARY LONGREACH & WINTON accommodation.

3408

Day 6 | MONDAY Following an early breakfast, we end the tour with a short drive back to Longreach to join your connecting transfers home.

Longreach accommodation arrival/ departure transfers

EARLY EMU DEAL FOR 2020 DEPARTURES Save $150pp Valid Apr & Oct 2020 departures only for bookings made and deposited before 31 December 2019

Twin Share

Single

6 Day Longreach – Longreach

$2699pp

$3299pp

8 Day Brisbane – Brisbane*

$3417*pp

$ 4017*pp

(with return overnight rail)

*Price includes return First Class overnight rail on the Spirit of the Outback based on Aust. Govt. Senior Card holder fares. Please ask for other fare types. #Fly/Rail and Flight Package from prices are twin share. Enquire about Sole Use prices. Subject to availability and airline booking conditions.

13

9 DAYS

BIRDSVILLE DESERT ESCAPE TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Qantas Founders Museum Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame Drover’s Sunset Cruise including Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show Welford National Park Sunset Sandhill nibbles, Windorah Betoota Ghost Town and JC Hotel Ruins Deon’s Lookout and Dreamtime Serpent Art Sculpture

Day 1 | WEDNESDAY | LONGREACH Arrive in Longreach for the start of your Outback Queensland adventure. You will be met at either Longreach Railway Station or Longreach Airport by your Savannah Guides Operator driver and host. Transfer to your accommodation for a Welcome Supper and tour briefing.

2 nights Longreach Motor Inn, Longreach

Day 2 | THURSDAY | LONGREACH

Min Min Encounter and Boulia Heritage Complex

Enjoy an orientation tour of Longreach then visit the world-class Qantas Founders Museum, eloquently telling the story of the founding of Qantas. Discover the inspiring stories of our pioneering heroes at the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame. Late afternoon, unwind on the Drover’s Sunset Cruise with tasty onboard nibbles platters, before taking your seat at Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show.

Historic Middleton Hotel & Cawnpore Lookout

Day 3 | FRIDAY | WINDORAH

Sunset nibbles atop Big Red (Sand Dune) Inland Hospital Ruins Channel Country Touring Famous Birdsville Hotel

Australian Age of Dinosaurs Tour & Sunset Barbecue Waltzing Matilda Centre

Follow the mighty Thomson River floodplain to Windorah, said to be the only place in the world where two rivers form a creek! See magnificently contrasting

colours in Welford National Park; golden green spinifex, white-barked ghost gums and stunning red sand dunes. Late afternoon in Windorah, we’ll take a short trip out of town to toast the sunset from beautiful wind-swept red sandhills. Have your cameras ready!

Overnight Cooper Cabins, Windorah

Day 4 | SATURDAY | BIRDSVILLE See the JC Hotel Ruins, once part of the old township site of Canterbury. Visit Betoota, originally established to collect cattle tolls and later as a Cobb & Co change station. It’s now a ghost town.

Take in spectacular views and enjoy a picnic lunch at Deon’s Lookout. See the Dreamtime Serpent Indigenous artwork; an impressive hillside installation created with gravel and gibbers. At the end of the legendary Birdsville Track we arrive in Birdsville.

2 nights Birdsville Hotel or Birdsville Lodges

Day 5 | SUNDAY | BIRDSVILLE

Cawnpore Lookout

14

Stroll down to the banks of tranquil Birdsville Billabong and see the famous Birdsville Racetrack. Visit the Wirrarri Centre to view local artists’ work and explore the Inland Hospital. Tonight we toast the glorious outback sunset from atop Big Red, a 40 metre high sand dune marking the symbolic eastern edge of the Simpson Desert.

QUEENSLAND

N O R T H E R N T E R R I TO RY

Winton

Boulia

2

1

LONGREACH

2

Bedourie

2

Birdsville

Stonehenge Jundah 1 Windorah Betoota

Wild camels, Boulia

NEW SOU

Big Red

Medium level of fitness required Carcory Ruins

Day 6 | MONDAY | BOULIA

Take a close up look at the rare and ancient Waddi Trees and visit the Carcory Ruins.

Explore the remote town of Bedourie, located on a sand dune, overlooking the Eyre Creek floodplain. See the historic Royal Hotel, built in the 1880s with adobe bricks; still very much in its original condition. Witness spectacular 360-degree views from the Vaughan Johnson Lookout.

In Boulia, visit the Min Min Encounter, a tribute to the famed Min Min Light phenomenon. Explore the Stonehouse Museum, one of the first homes built in Western Queensland and see the impressive Marine Reptile Fossil exhibit.

Overnight Australian Hotel or Desert Sands Motel, Boulia

Day 7 | TUESDAY | WINTON

Day 8 | WEDNESDAY | WINTON

If there is one song that lives in the heart of all Australians, it is Waltzing Matilda.

Uncover the story behind the song at the newly rebuilt Waltzing Matilda Centre.

Discover state of the art interpretive displays and learn Winton’s connection with Qantas’ first ever board meeting at the Qantilda Museum. Mid afternoon, visit the Australian Age of Dinosaurs for a fascinating tour of the laboratory, collection room and the incredible Dinosaur Canyon. Relax with cool drinks and great company at our exclusive sunset barbecue overlooking the plains where dinosaurs once roamed!

Day 9 | THURSDAY

Following breakfast you will be transferred to either Longreach Airport or Longreach Railway Station for your homeward bound connections.

We follow a spectacularly scenic drive to Winton via Cawnpore Lookout to view the stark flat-topped beauty of the surrounding Lillyvale Hills. Visit the historic Middleton Hotel, built during the Cobb & Co. era. It was originally a BOUT A SK A changing station where tired horses A IL FLY/ R FROM were replaced with fresh horses on S E G PACK A the Winton to Boulia route. While at # pp Birdsville Hotel $ the pub hear some entertaining yarns by the local publican over morning tea.

Arrive in Winton in time for lunch at the historic North Gregory Hotel on the site BIRDSVILLE DESERT ESCAPE where Waltzing Matilda was first played.

Enjoy some free time downtown to 9 Day Longreach – Longreach wander the Opal Walk or visit the Winton Truck Museum.

11 Day Brisbane – Brisbane* 2 nights Boulder Opal Motor Inn, Winton (with return overnight rail)

4708

INCLUSIONS 8 nights en suite accommodation Travel by comfortable touring coach Touring with our Savannah Guides Operator driver and host All meals (8 buffet breakfasts; 7 lunches; 8 dinners) All entries/activities as per itinerary Longreach accommodation arrival/ departure transfers

2020 DEPARTURES

22 Apr, 06 May, 03 Jun, 29 Jul, 12 Aug, 16 Sep, 07 Oct

EARLY EMU DEAL FOR 2020 DEPARTURES Save $200pp Valid Apr & Oct 2020 departures only for bookings made and deposited before 31 December 2019

Twin Share

Single

$3999pp

$ 4799pp

$ 4717*pp

$5517*pp

*Price includes return First Class overnight rail on the Spirit of the Outback based on Aust. Govt. Senior Card holder fares. Please ask for other fare types. #Fly/Rail and Flight Package from prices are twin share. Enquire about Sole Use prices. Subject to availability and airline booking conditions.

15

11 DAYS

CAPE YORK & TORRES STRAIT

Medium level of fitness required

16

Kazu Pearl Farm, Friday Island

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Thursday Island Friday Island

Daintree Rainforest and Daintree Discovery Centre

Bamaga

Bana Yirriji Art & Cultural Centre

Weipa

Bloomfield Track and Daintree Coast

Horn Island

1 2

2

James Cook Museum

1

Cooktown Botanic Gardens

Musgrave

Guided tour of Split Rock, Quinkan Centre

2

Weipa Bauxite Mine Tour

Daintree

Gulf Eco Cruise Moreton Telegraph Station Fruit Bat Falls (swimming opportunity)

Cooktown

2

Bloomfield Falls

CAIRNS

Endeavour Strait Cruising

Day 1 | FRIDAY | CAIRNS

Kazu Pearl Farm Tour

NORTHERN TERRITORY

Cape York Walk to ‘The Tip’

Your adventure begins with a Welcome Dinner at our tour hotel. Please check-in after 2.00pm. Meet fellow travellers and hear all about the adventures ahead with a comprehensive tour orientation by your Savannah Guides Operator driver and host.

Overnight Rydges Esplanade, Cairns

Horn and Thursday Island Touring Torres Strait Cultural Heritage Experiences

Day 2 | SATURDAY | COOKTOWN

We travel north along one of Australia’s most scenic coastal drives to Mossman; nestled in the World Heritage-Listed Daintree Rainforest. We’ll board the Daintree River Ferry for a short cable crossing of the famous Daintree River.

Visit the Daintree Discovery Centre, an award-winning interpretive facility.

Join a guided tour of the rainforest boardwalks. Follow the Bloomfield Track on a spectacular scenic journey hugging the Daintree Coast. Visit the Bana Yirriji Art and Cultural Centre in Wujal Wujal, a small coastal Aboriginal community on the banks of the Bloomfield River.

2 nights River of Gold Motel, Cooktown

Day 3 | SUNDAY | COOKTOWN Cassowary

Cooktown

Discover Cooktown’s colourful history today. Join our guide on a tour of the Cooktown Cemetery and hear the intriguing story of a fair skinned woman known as the “Normanby Woman” who was sighted living with Aborigines back in the 1800s. Visit James Cook Museum in the magnificent 19th Century Sisters of Mercy Convent. Gain an insight into the grounding of the Endeavour and the most significant land based stay of Captain Cook’s east coast expedition. Wander the beautiful heritage-listed Cooktown Botanic Gardens and see the Vera Scarth-Johnson collection of original regional botanical illustrations. Enjoy some free time to stroll downtown Cooktown and a late afternoon tour of Grassy Hill with 360-degree views of Cooktown, the Endeavour River and the Great Barrier Reef.

Day 4 | MONDAY | MUSGRAVE

Q U E E Nand S L ALaura N D via the Travel to Lakeland mysterious Black Mountains, a special story place for the Kuku Yalanji people.

World-class Aboriginal rock art and wonderful locally grown coffee are two big drawcards for these small towns.

Best known are the Quinkan Rock Art Galleries, considered to be some of the most significant Aboriginal art sites in the world. We'll join a guided tour of the Split Rock Galleries. Travel along the Peninsula Developmental Road to the Hann River Roadhouse for a short break before continuing on to Musgrave Roadhouse.

Birdsville Overnight Musgrave Roadhouse

LONGREACH

Windorah

Charleville

Day 5 | TUESDAY | WEIPA

Rom

We continue along the Peninsula CAPE YORK & Innamincka Developmental Road to the old mining TORRES STRAIT community of Coen. The town was originally created around a repeater station in the Overland Telegraph Line to the tip of Cape York Peninsula. We’ll arrive in time for lunch at N the E WArcher SOUTH WAL Cameron River Roadhouse.

Located on the banks Tibooburra Corner of the crystal clear Archer River, the Roadhouse is famous for the massive Archer Burger, best served with an icy cold drink under their shaded patio. Last stop for the day is Weipa, the Barramundi capital of Queensland. Originally an Aboriginal mission, Weipa grew to become a township after the discovery of bauxite. Late afternoon relax at your accommodation with sweeping views of Albatross Bay. 2 nights Albatross Bay Resort, Weipa

Day 6 | WEDNESDAY | WEIPA

Learn about Weipa’s mining operations on a morning tour of the world’s largest bauxite mine, operated by Rio Tinto. Get up close and personal to the 190 tonne Belly Dumper Haul trucks while touring the working mine site and follow the rail and conveyor belt system as the bauxite makes its way to the loading dock. Join an Eco Cruise on the Gulf of Carpentaria

17

11 DAYS

CAPE YORK & TORRES STRAIT for a chance to spot local birdlife and crocodiles. Relax with drinks and nibbles as you learn about the incredible ecosystems and local culture. Witness a stunning sunset in one of the few places in Queensland where the sun sets over the ocean in the west.

Day 7 | THURSDAY | BAMAGA

Fruit Bat Falls

Smithy at ‘The Tip’

Thursday Island

Gulf Eco Cruise

Follow the Old Telegraph Track to Moreton Telegraph Station on the banks of the Wenlock River. Part of the historic Overland Telegraph Line, Moreton Telegraph Station was completed in 1887 and ceased operations in 1987 with the introduction of microwave telecommunications. Spot giant termite mounds as the country changes to the open plains of Heathlands Resources Reserve. Cool off in the lush Fruit Bat Falls with its crystal clear water (croc free), a perfect swimming spot and one of the most special places on the Cape.

Cross the Jardine River by cable ferry to Bamaga, the closest settlement to the tip of Australia. This evening, enjoy a relaxed dinner overlooking tropical gardens.

2 nights Cape York Peninsula Lodge, Bamaga

Day 8 | FRIDAY | BAMAGA Experience the highlights of Cape York Peninsula, one of Australia’s last great wilderness areas. We begin with a drive to Pajinka. The 45-60 minute walk over rocky headland to ‘The Tip’ of Cape York requires a good level of fitness. Take that ‘bucket-list’ photo as you stand at the Tip of Australia; then savour a picnic lunch on Somerset Beach with breathtaking views to Albany Island. Visit the iconic Croc Tent

18

Green Hill Fort, Thursday Island

then enjoy some free time back at your accommodation.

Day 9 | SATURDAY | TORRES STRAIT ISLANDS

Cruise the beautiful turquoise waters of the Endeavour Strait to Thursday Island; just one of 274 islands which lie between the northern tip of Queensland and Papua New Guinea. Discover Thursday Island’s hidden past, including Green Hill Fort, on a guided history tour. Join a special tour to Friday Island and the Kazu Pearl Farm.

Tuck into a delicious Japanese seafood lunch followed by a demonstration on the cultivation, seeding and harvesting of the pearl. Time also to visit the Pearl Farm Shop. Return to Thursday Island before travelling by ferry to Horn Island late afternoon.

Overnight Gateway Torres Strait Resort, Horn Island

Daintree Discovery Centre

Day 11 | MONDAY

Your Cape York and Torres Strait adventure concludes after breakfast at Rydges Esplanade Resort. Own arrangements for your connecting flight or rail home. Alternatively you may like to extend your stay in Cairns with one of our Post Tour packages, please refer to page 9.

INCLUSIONS 10 nights en suite accommodation Travel by luxury 4WD coach from Cairns Touring with Savannah Guides Operator driver & host All meals (10 buffet breakfasts; 9 lunches; 10 dinners) All entries/activities as per itinerary Ferry transfers between Cape York, Thursday Island and Horn Island One way economy flight Horn Island to Cairns

2020 DEPARTURE DATES

29 May, 26 Jun, 24 Jul, 21 Aug, 18 Sep

Day 10 | SUNDAY | CAIRNS

Join local guides on a tour of the World War II sites. See gun emplacements, an underground command post and an aircraft wreck with an epic tale. Walk BOUT A SK A in the steps of traditional owners, T FLIGH ROM the Kaurareg People, and learn their F S E G PACK A Crocodile on stories. Following the tour you will # pp Daintree River $ have time to wander the Torres Strait Heritage Museum. Enjoy an Asian buffet lunch on Horn Island before transferring to Horn Island Airport for your QantasLink CAPE YORK & TORRES STRAIT flight to Cairns. Tonight we’ll celebrate the end of our adventure with a Farewell 11 Day Cairns – Cairns Dinner at the Coral Hedge Brasserie Restaurant & Bar. 12 Day Brisbane – Brisbane* Overnight Rydges Esplanade, Cairns (Fly/Rail package)

7699

EARLY EMU DEAL FOR 2020 DEPARTURES Save $400pp Valid on May & Sep departures, for bookings made and deposited before 31 December 2019

Twin Share

Single

$ 6999pp

$ 8199pp

$7686*pp

$ 8886*pp

*Price includes one way RailBed on the Spirit of Queensland based on Aust. Govt Senior Cardholder rates + one way economy flight between Cairns & Brisbane. #Flight Package from prices are twin share. Enquire about Sole Use prices. Subject to availability and airline booking conditions.

19

13 DAYS

JOURNEY OF THE GULF SAVANNAH

Medium level of fitness required

Normanton Station

Gulf Sunset, Karumba

20

Savannahlander

CAIRNS

Karumba Lawn Hill Gorge NORTHERN TERRITORY

2

Mt Surprise

2

2

2

Adels Grove

Spirit of Queensland

Einasleigh

Cobbold Gorge Burke & Wills Roadhouse

1 Legend

1

Cloncurry

QUEENSLAND

Winton

Spirit of the Outback Savannahlander Gulflander

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame Qantas Founders Museum Drover’s Sunset Cruise including Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show Crocodile Dundee’s Walkabout Creek Hotel Cloncurry Unearthed & John Flynn Place Museum – Royal Flying Doctor Service Guided Interpretive Tour of Boodjamulla National Park Lawn Hill Gorge Cruise Burketown touring

LONGREACH

2

the founding of Qantas. View interpretive displays, interactive exhibits, original and replica aircraft, and an impressive collection of genuine artefacts. Wander the five themed galleries of the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and discover inspiring stories of our pioneering heroes.

Enjoy some free time in downtown Longreach to meet the locals and wander the local shops. Late afternoon, unwind on N ECruise W SO U tasty TH WALES the Drover’s Sunset with onboard nibbles platters; then take your seat at Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show.

Relax under the stars savouring a table service two-course camp oven themed dinner, as the talented musical artists perform live on the river stage.

Leichhardt Falls Normanton’s Purple Pub Sand Island at Sunset Cruise Barramundi Discovery Centre Gulflander and Savannahlander Scenic Rail Cobbold Gorge Tour and Cruise Undara Lava Tubes Woodleigh Station Lunch Lake Barrine Cruise Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park

Day 1 | WEDNESDAY | LONGREACH Arrive in Longreach, the heartland of Queensland’s Outback. You will be met by your Savannah Guides Operator driver and host at either Longreach Railway Station or Longreach Airport and transferred to your central accommodation for the next two nights. Meet fellow travellers at our Welcome Supper and hear about the adventures ahead with a comprehensive tour briefing by your driver and host.

2 nights Longreach Motor Inn, Longreach

Day 2 | THURSDAY | LONGREACH Visit the world-class Qantas Founders Museum, eloquently telling the story of

Day 3 | FRIDAY | CLONCURRY We follow the Matilda Way via Winton to Kynuna and the Blue Heeler Hotel for a slice of Australian folklore. It was here that Banjo Paterson brokered a truce with the shearers who had burnt the Dagworth woolshed and 143 jumbucks.

Rather than shoot each other, they sang Waltzing Matilda and both ‘swagman’ and ‘squatters’ sank their last drinks at the bar. Next stop will be the Walkabout Creek Hotel made famous in the movie blockbuster Crocodile Dundee. Late afternoon in Cloncurry we discover the great Australian story of our Royal Flying Doctor Service at John Flynn Place; one of the largest and most comprehensive aeromedical organisations in the world.

Overnight Gidgee Inn, Cloncurry

Day 4 | SATURDAY | ADELS GROVE Journey around 180km north of Cloncurry on a sealed road to the Burke & Wills Roadhouse before travelling on to the beautiful Gregory River for a relaxed picnic lunch. The river is spring fed and the water is crystal clear. We’ll then travel a largely unsealed section of road around 90km to Adels Grove, an oasis in the Outback and just 10km from the spectacular Lawn Hill Gorge, Boodjamulla National Park. The park features breathtaking gorge country,

21

13 DAYS

JOURNEY OF THE GULF SAVANNAH

sandstone ranges and World Heritage fossils. On arrival at Adels Grove, your accommodation for the next two nights, enjoy some free time to explore your surrounds before dinner.

2 nights Adels Grove

Day 5 | SUNDAY | ADELS GROVE

Karumba Gulf Sunset

After breakfast, you’ll board a state-ofthe-art solar powered pontoon boat for an hour long guided cruise along tranquil Lawn Hill Creek and the breathtaking Lawn Hill Gorge. Have your camera ready to capture the gorge’s vivid orange sandstone cliffs towering above emerald green waters. Join a guided interpretive tour on one of the many walks the Park has to offer featuring natural and cultural sites. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure in this stunning location. Tonight we’ll watch the beautiful sunset from Harry’s Hill.

Day 6 | MONDAY | KARUMBA Leaving Adels Grove today we’ll head east on the Gregory-Lawn Hill Road then travel north to Burketown along State Route 84. Enjoy a short break in Burketown for morning tea and local stories then relax with a picnic lunch at Leichhardt Falls. In Normanton, take a selfie with Krys the life-size statue of the largest saltwater crocodile ever caught. See the Purple Pub and Queensland’s earliest surviving and heritage-listed Burns Philp store. Arrive in Karumba with time to capture your first memorable Gulf sunset.

Gulflander

22

2 nights End of the Road Motel, Karumba

Day 7 | TUESDAY | KARUMBA

Discover the amazing secrets of the mighty Barramundi at The Barramundi Discovery Centre, the only hatchery in the world to breed the Southern Gulf strain of this iconic fish. Your tour of this new stateof-the-art Interpretive Centre includes the opportunity to feed a Barramundi.

Enjoy free time after lunch to explore the town or to simply relax and take in this beautiful location. Late afternoon, we’ll cruise to a special sand island in the Gulf of Carpentaria to toast the sunset and feast on fresh seafood as spectacular twilight hues colour the skies.

Day 8 | WEDNESDAY | COBBOLD GORGE

Travel to Normanton for a nostalgic rail journey on the famous Gulflander, affectionately called the ‘Tin Hare’.

Visit the historic gold mining townships of Croydon and Georgetown. See the impressive mineral collection display at the TerrEstrial Centre. Arrive at the hidden outback oasis Cobbold Gorge in time for sunset drinks overlooking the stunning infinity pool!

2 nights Cobbold Gorge Resort

Day 9 | THURSDAY | COBBOLD GORGE

Enjoy a tour of the magnificent sandstone gorge on this privately owned cattle station. The gorge is stocked with a variety of native fish and freshwater crocodiles. On a guided cruise, you’ll glide silently between towering cliffs in a specially designed, battery powered punt. Join an optional walk to the top of

Cobbold Gorge

the escarpment for awesome views of the gorge below.

Day 10 | FRIDAY | MOUNT SURPRISE We board the Savannahlander in Forsayth for a unique outback rail experience on this classic 1960s ‘silverbullet’ railmotor. Enjoy a light lunch at the Einasleigh pub with its quirky miniature furniture collection. Reboard the train and travel to Mount Surprise, then transfer by coach to Bedrock Village.

2 nights Bedrock Village, Mount Surprise

Undara Lava Tubes

Atherton Tablelands and an enchanting natural lake hidden in World Heritage Rainforest, Lake Barrine. Gain a closeup view of one of the most amazing rainforest ecosystems in the world as you cruise this beautiful lake. Tonight enjoy a farewell dinner at your accommodation.

Overnight Rydges Esplanade, Cairns

Your tour concludes after breakfast.

Own transfer to your homeward bound connections.

Savannah Guides Operator driver & host All meals (12 buffet breakfasts; 11 lunches; 12 dinners) Arrival transfer from Longreach Airport or Railway Station

2020 DEPARTURE DATES

29 Apr, 27 May, 17 Jun, 01 Jul, 12 Aug, 30 Sep

Explore the Undara Lava Tubes, part of the world’s longest lava flow from a single volcanic crater. These tubes were created when the Undara Volcano erupted over 190,000 years ago, pouring out enough lava to fill Sydney Harbour three times over. Join a highly skilled Savannah Guide for amazing insights into the tubes’ environmental, geological BOUT A SK A and historical features. We return A IL FLY/ R FROM to Bedrock Village for a relaxed S E G PACK A # pp dinner under the stars before $ gathering around the campfire with fellow travellers.

7508

Travel through contrasting landscapes and Forty Mile Scrub National Park to Woodleigh Station. Relax with lunch in view of the giant 100-year-old bougainvillea, then take a stroll around the expansive gardens. Continue on to

All en suite accommodation Travel by luxury 4WD coach from Longreach to Cairns

All entries/activities as per itinerary

Day 13 | MONDAY

Day 11 | SATURDAY | MOUNT SURPRISE

Day 12 | SUNDAY | CAIRNS

INCLUSIONS

EARLY EMU DEAL FOR 2020 DEPARTURES Save $400pp Valid on Apr & Sep departures only for bookings made and deposited before 31 December 2019.

Lake Barrine

JOURNEY OF THE GULF SAVANNAH

Twin Share

Single

13 Day Longreach – Cairns

$ 6799pp

$ 8099pp

15 Day Brisbane – Brisbane*

$7495*pp

$ 8795*pp

(with return overnight rail)

*Price includes return First Class overnight rail on the Spirit of the Outback and Spirit of Queensland based on Aust. Govt. Senior Card holder fares.

Please ask for other fare types. #Fly/Rail and Flight Package from prices are twin share. Enquire about Sole Use prices. Subject to availability and airline booking conditions.

23

14 DAYS

CORNER COUNTRY EXPLORER

Innamincka Sandhills

Medium level of fitness required

24

LONGREACH

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Roma Big Rig Night Show Roma Saleyard Tour

Simpson Desert NP

1

Birdsville

2

Cunnamulla Fella Centre Eulo Artesian Springs Historic Noccundra Hotel

Innamincka Innamincka

Windorah

1

Charleville

Cosmos Centre Twilight Telescope Observation Session Meet the Bilby Experience

3

2

Lake Eyre Cameron Corner

Roma

1

1

BRISBANE

Thargomindah

1

Tibooburra

1

QUEENSLAND

NEW SOUTH WALES

Cameron Corner & Strzelecki Desert Cooper Creek Cruise Burke & Wills Dig Tree Birdsville Hotel and Big Red Sunset Inland Hospital and Royal Hotel Ruins Birdsville Racetrack and Birdsville Billabong Betoota Ghost Town and Deon’s Lookout Windorah Sandhills at Sunset Welford National Park Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame & Outback Stockman’s Dinner & Show Qantas Founders Museum & Jets Tour Drover’s Sunset Cruise including Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show

Day 1 | TUESDAY | BRISBANE

Arrive in Brisbane and check-in to your accommodation early afternoon. At the Welcome Dinner tonight, meet fellow travellers. Hear all about the adventures ahead with a comprehensive tour orientation by your Savannah Guides Operator driver and host.

Overnight Royal on the Park, Brisbane

Tunnel. Discover the quaint township of Eulo, hear tales of Isabel ‘The Eulo Queen’ and learn the story of the Eulo Artesian Mud Baths. Travel to Thargomindah and discover its historic electrical street lighting story.

Overnight Oasis Motel or Explorers Caravan Park Cabins, Thargomindah

Day 5 | SATURDAY | TIBOOBURRA

Day 2 | WEDNESDAY | ROMA

Travel south-west across the Dingo Barrier Fence to historic Noccundra Hotel.

Then cross the border at Warri Gate into Outback New South Wales. View the eastern sections of the Sturt National Park.

Traverse gibber plains and spectacular ‘jump up’ country to Tibooburra.

The striking granite boulders around Tibooburra are said to be remnants of a mass underground granite dome dating back around 410 million years. Explore the National Park Interpretive Centre and Court House Museum.

Overnight Granites Motel, Tibooburra

Day 3 | THURSDAY | CHARLEVILLE

Travel through Sturt National Park to Cameron Corner where the boundary lines of the states of Queensland, South Australia and New South Wales meet.

See the Strzelecki Desert, characterised by extensive red dune fields; home of the endangered Dusky Hopping Mouse.

Pass by large cattle stations then travel through the heart of the oil and gas fields to Innamincka, on the banks of Cooper Creek. Learn the important role played by the Australian Inland Mission in providing essential medical services to remote towns.

2 nights Innamincka Hotel, Innamincka

We will travel north-west from Brisbane to the Garden City of Toowoomba for a nostalgic morning tea at the Historic Railway Station. Continue along the Adventure Way to Chinchilla, home of the Chinchilla Melon Festival and Miles, a vibrant rural township. Arrive in Roma, the heart of beef country late afternoon with time to check-in to your accommodation and refresh. Tonight, join a tour of the Big Rig; see the entertaining sound and light show telling the story of Australia’s boom and bust oil and gas years.

Overnight Roma Explorers Inn, Roma

Day 6 | SUNDAY | INNAMINCKA

Visit Roma Saleyards, the largest cattle selling facility in Australia. On your guided tour you’ll learn the day-to-day processes of the saleyards and have the opportunity to watch the cattle sales in action. Travel to Charleville for a tour and lunch at the historic Corones Hotel. This afternoon we meet the rare and endangered Bilby at the Bilby Experience. Learn more about this native marsupial and the long-running captive breeding and conservation program.

Discover the wonders of the magical outback night sky at the mesmerising Cosmos Centre Twilight Telescope Observation Session.

Overnight Mulga Country Motor Inn, Charleville

Day 4 | FRIDAY | THARGOMINDAH

Channel Country Birdlife

Follow the Warrego River to Cunnamulla, which came into being as a Cobb & Co coach stop. Visit the Cunnamulla Fella Centre, home to the art gallery and Artesian Time

Day 7 | MONDAY | INNAMINCKA

Retrace the last days of Burke & Wills and hear about the town with two lives.

Visit the historic Burke & Wills Dig Tree then take your seat aboard the ecocertified sunset cruise on the Cooper Creek. Take in the stunning birdlife and spot the occasional inquisitive animal on the banks.

25

14 DAYS

CORNER COUNTRY EXPLORER

Cooper Creek

Day 8 | TUESDAY | BIRDSVILLE

Birdsville Hotel

Follow the Strzelecki Desert through flood plains, sand dunes and gibber country. See the historic woolshed on Cordillo Downs Station; once one of the largest pastoral properties in the country. Further north we’ll pass the crumbling ruins of Cadelga Outstation as we travel to Birdsville through some of Australia’s richest cattle country.

Tonight have a yarn with the locals and enjoy a dinner at the famous Birdsville Hotel.

2 nights Birdsville Hotel, Birdsville

Day 9 | WEDNESDAY | BIRDSVILLE This morning visit the Wirrarri Centre to view work by local Indigenous artists. Next take a stroll to the Birdsville Billabong where birdlife, fish and yabbies abound.

Stand on the well known Birdsville Racetrack and explore the Inland Hospital and Royal Hotel ruins; poignant reminders of a pre-federation metropolis. Tonight we’ll toast the glorious outback sunset from Big Red, a 40 metre high sand dune on the edge of the Simpson Desert.

Day 10 | THURSDAY | WINDORAH

Tarpot’s Cottage, Windorah

26

Travel on to the ghost town of Betoota, once a Cobb & Co changing station. Stand atop Deon’s Lookout with its amazing view of the Diamantina Shire. We arrive in Windorah on the Cooper Creek where the Thomson and Barcoo Rivers merge.

Explore Windorah in the heart of the Channel Country with its majestic red sand dune landscapes. Late afternoon, we’ll

The Dig Tree

drive out to Windorah’s red sandhills for a spectacular sunset.

Overnight Cooper Cabins, Windorah

Day 11 | FRIDAY | LONGREACH

Follow the Cooper Creek floodplain via Welford National Park to Jundah on the banks of the Thomson River. Just outside of town we visit a Native Well, once a valuable source of water for Indigenous people. We’ll stop at the picturesque Swanvale Lookout en route to the tiny town of Stonehenge. See the unusual Address Book at Stonehenge where visitors sign their town names in stone! We arrive in Longreach late afternoon.

3 nights Albert Park Motor Inn, Longreach

Day 12 | SATURDAY | LONGREACH

Cooper Creek Cruise

Day 13 | SUNDAY | LONGREACH

Enjoy some free time and lunch in downtown Longreach or relax at your accommodation. Explore the five themed galleries at the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame. Then, take your seat at the Outback Stockman’s Dinner & Show.

This exciting show of horsemanship showcases the traditional Australian Stockman skills that are still used today.

Enjoy a gourmet outback barbecue buffet dinner while you watch the action.

INCLUSIONS All en suite accommodation Travel by luxury 4WD coach Brisbane to Longreach Touring with Savannah Guides Operator driver & host All meals (13 buffet breakfasts; 12 lunches; 13 dinners) All entries/activities as per itinerary Longreach accommodation departure transfer to Longreach Airport or Railway Station

Day 14 | MONDAY

Your Outback Queensland adventure comes to an end after breakfast with a complimentary transfer to your homeward bound connections. The journey may have ended, but the memories will last a lifetime.

Wander the interactive displays of the Qantas Founders Museum to discover the real Qantas story. Hear the inspiring human stories of our BOUT national airline’s early years. Step A SK A T inside the 747 and 707 Jets on FLIGH ROM F S E G an interpretive tour followed by PACK A # pp an exclusive Qantas Founders Bilby Experience, Charleville $ Museum lunch. Relax with some free time then join the Drover’s Sunset Cruise on the beautiful Thomson River. Unwind with onboard CORNER COUNTRY EXPLORER nibbles and drinks whilst watching a 14 Day Brisbane – Longreach magnificent outback sunset. Enjoy live entertainment and a two-course camp 15 Day Brisbane – Brisbane* oven themed dinner under the stars at (with one way overnight rail) Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show.

7349

2020 DEPARTURE DATES

19 May, 16 Jun, 28 Jul, 01 Sep

EARLY EMU DEAL FOR 2020 DEPARTURES Save $400pp Valid on May & Sep departures only for bookings made and deposited before 31 December 2019.

Twin Share

Single

$ 6999pp

$ 8289pp

$7358*pp

$ 8648*pp

*Price includes one way First Class overnight rail on the Spirit of the Outback based on Aust. Govt. Senior Card holder fares. Please ask for other fare types. #Flight Package from prices are twin share. Enquire about Sole Use prices. Subject to availability and airline booking conditions.

27

1. TOUR PARTICIPATION / EXCLUSION / RELEASE

5. PRICING AND CONDITIONS

Outback Aussie Tours (OAT) may, if in the opinion of any representative of Outback Aussie Tours or carrier, either refuse to allow persons on the tour or expel persons from the tour if their mental or physical condition is such as to render them: incapable of caring for themself; likely to become objectionable to other passengers; or a hazard to themself or other passengers. Outback Aussie Tours will not be liable for any expenses arising from such persons being precluded from completing the tour for any such reason. Each booking is conditional on Outback Aussie Tours securing the minimum number of bookings required to operate the tour and to ensure an enjoyable group atmosphere. Where sufficient numbers cannot be achieved, Outback Aussie Tours reserves the right to cancel or suspend a scheduled departure.

2. SPECIAL DIETS

Passengers requiring special diets, such as vegetarian or gluten free, must inform Outback Aussie Tours at time of reservation and reconfirm their request with the Outback Aussie Tours Driver/Host upon arrival. Outback Aussie Tours cannot guarantee special requests will be met in all instances.

3. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Outback Aussie Tours welcomes passengers with disabilities or special needs provided they are accompanied by a companion capable of providing all necessary assistance. Any special requirements must be advised at time of booking. Outback Aussie Tours reserves the right to refuse to carry any person who it deems cannot fully care for themselves on tour without assistance. Wheelchairs cannot be carried on motorcoaches due to space limitation.

Wheelchair passengers should be aware of these limitations. We regret that we cannot provide individual assistance to a passenger for walking, dining, getting on and off motorcoaches or other transportation vehicles, or other personal needs. Passengers who need such assistance must be accompanied by a qualified companion.

4. HEALTH AND FITNESS

Tours include short and long distance walks with varying degree of difficulty from moderate to challenging, and often over uneven ground or including steps. For safety and enjoyment passengers should be in good physical condition to participate in all tours. OAT 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 coach travel – this includes using coach steps for embarking and disembarking; needing services or facilities that are not available; failing to comply with the reasonable instructions of OAT personnel; and/or engaging in undesirable behaviour or interfering with the enjoyment of or jeopardising the safety of other participants. In accordance with these conditions, OAT will not be held liable for any termination of your travel arrangements or any expenses incurred as a consequence of decisions made by OAT. Passengers need to be aware of the high temperatures which may be experienced in the outback. Medical Equipment: Please note that in some remote Outback locations electric power may not be available 24 hours per day. Passengers are advised to bring adequate medication (and spare prescriptions for essential medication) for remote travel and emergencies.

Low level of fitness – minimal walking with some wheelchair/wheelie-walker accessible facilities; please note a Carer is required should guests have mobility concerns with any facilities on tour or boarding the coach.

Medium level of fitness – guests have no mobility concerns and they have declared any pre-existing injuries which may affect their participation.

Please note tours include leisurely walks that can be in excess of 1.5km. Not suitable for guests needing wheelie walkers or wheelchairs

All prices in this brochure are quoted in Australian currency and include tour preparation, operation costs and GST where applicable. Prices include all on-tour coach travel, Longreach railway station and Longreach Airport transfers, meals, accommodation, sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary. Prices do not include airfares, rail tickets, meals and transfers not specified in the itinerary. Nor do they include drinks, laundry, optional activities or items of a personal nature.

Changes to rail/flight schedules may require additional overnight accommodation at either commencement or completion of the tour, which is at passenger’s own expense. Additional Optional Activities are not included in the tour cost and incur additional charges. Tours are subject to availability, operational and seasonal factors. A minimum number of people is required for some activities to operate and passengers are encouraged to pre-book these prior to arrival to avoid disappointment.

6. CHANGES TO THE ITINERARY

Outback Aussie Tours is often not the provider of attractions, excursions and/or optional tours. Accordingly, Outback Aussie Tours may, where it is required to do so, suspend or cancel any tour inclusion where that tour inclusion is not available or in the opinion of Outback Aussie Tours, unadvisable, unsafe or unsuitable. During local or national holidays, certain facilities such as museums and restaurants, sightseeing tours and shopping may be limited or not available. Outback Aussie Tours reserves the right to alter or change the accommodation, carriers or vessels at any time for any reason; and cancel or alter the itinerary and/or tour at any time without notice as Outback Aussie Tours considers necessary for any reason whatsoever including road, weather or traffic conditions, nonperformance of suppliers, industrial action, operational conditions and requirements. Where a tour is cancelled prior to the departure date, Outback Aussie Tours will use all reasonable endeavours to offer the nearest possible alternative tour (subject to a refund or payment to cover any tour price difference) or, if this is not acceptable, refund the tour price or such portion of it as Outback Aussie Tours considers appropriate. Services of a tour host are not guaranteed on tours with less than 20 passengers.

7. CANCELLATION FEES DAYS OF NOTICE

FEE PER PERSON

60 days and over

loss of deposit

59-46 days

50% of tour fare

45-15 days

75% of tour fare

14-0 days

100% of tour fare

Please note: transferring to another date is treated as a cancellation and cancellation fees apply.

All cancellations must be advised in writing.

8. DEPOSITS AND FINAL PAYMENTS

To confirm your reservation, a non-refundable deposit of between $200 - $400 per person (depending on the tour) is required. Additional deposit payments are required for Rail and Flight add-ons and deposit amounts will be advised at time of booking. Reservations will be held for 7 days only without deposit. Once your deposit has been received, OAT will send your travel agent or yourself (if you’ve booked direct with OAT) confirmation of your booking. All airfares are subject to strict payment and ticketing deadlines, to be advised at the time of booking.

Balance of payment for your tour is to be paid 60 days prior to departure. For bookings made less than 60 days prior to travel, full payment is required within 48 hours of booking. It is the responsibility of the passenger or their agent to pay the tour price by the due date. Agents must advise OAT in writing if payment is not received by their client on time to avoid cancellation fees.

9. TRAVEL INSURANCE

Passengers are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance to cover against unforeseen circumstances. Ask your travel agent for details.

10. BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE

One small to medium sized suitcase per person (approx. height 60cm - width 40cm - depth 30cm) maximum weight 20kg. One piece of hand luggage/day pack may be carried onboard the coach. Due to limited space, the carriage of wheelie-walkers must be requested prior to travel.

11. YOUNG TRAVELLERS

Persons under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Where a child rate is quoted, children aged 4 to 14 years are permitted to travel. Some guided tours are not suitable for children.

12. RESPONSIBILITY

Passenger participation in tours operated by the carrier companies and Outback Aussie Tours may incur certain risks and dangers which are beyond the operators’ control including, but not limited to, the hazards of travelling in remote areas, travel by boat, train, automobile, aircraft or other means of transportation, the forces of nature and accident or illness in remote regions without means of rapid evacuation or medical facilities. The carrier companies and Outback Aussie Tours will not have any liability regarding provision of medical care or the adequacy of any care that may be rendered. It is understood that Outback Aussie Tours will use their best efforts to ensure that adequate measures are taken.

Passengers must make their own enquiries regarding safety warnings in relation to the destination they are travelling to.

13. SEAT ROTATION AND SMOKING

To ensure all clients have the opportunity to enjoy front and window seats, a daily seat rotation system is employed.

Government regulations prohibit smoking on tour coaches.

14. THIRD PARTY SUPPLIERS

Third party excursions such as Scenic Flights, Boat Cruises and Rail are not operated by Outback Aussie Tours, nor by persons or companies associated with Outback Aussie Tours.

These activities may involve inherent risk of injury, death, accident, delay and loss and clients assume all such risk with regard to any misadventure, death, injury, delay or loss which occurs during, or as a result of, any such activity. Please note that Outback Aussie Tours does not incur any liability for airfares purchased by travel agents or clients via the internet, if a tour is cancelled. Outback Aussie Tours cannot be held responsible for airfare conditions. All such risk, loss and expense must be borne by the travel agent or client.

15. BROCHURE VALIDITY

01 April 2020 to 31 March 2021 These terms and conditions may be subject to further changes by Outback Aussie Tours from time to time and are shown on the Outback Aussie Tours website.

YOUR LICENSED TRAVEL AGENT

Call 1300 78 78 90 (within Australia) or +61 7 4658 3000 (International) Email info@oat.net.au or visit www.outbackaussietours.com.au Longreach Historic Railway Station, Landsborough Hwy ABN: 31 010 813 313 | ACN: 010 813 313