Discover 34 new outback experiences

Road Trip

Queensland’s outback is ready to welcome visitors to enjoy a swag of new experiences on their road-trip adventures.

A sandhill near Toogunna Plains.
Scenery at Toogunna Plains station.
The Outback Queensland Tourism Association has launched the 2024 Outback Queensland Traveller’s Guide, featuring 34 new experiences for travellers to consider.

Outback Queensland Tourism Association CEO Denise Brown unveiled the 110-page guide filled with attractions to suit all tastes.

“With 34 new experiences this year, there has never been a better time to hit the trail and embark on an outback escapade – from the serene Cunnamulla Hot Springs to the intriguing Grave Keeper Tour in Charleville; the outback promises to enchant and inspire travellers of all ages,” Ms Brown said.

She said some outback regions had big plans for 2024 after quieter tourism seasons last year as overseas travel and cruising holidays regained popularity after the pandemic shutdown.

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“Australians headed overseas again and were bursting to go on cruises and bursting to go to other places for short-break holidays, like Fiji and Bali; we were up against a lot of competition,” Ms Brown said.

“Places like Longreach and Winton weren’t as busy as they were in previous years because people who had been to the outback were keen to see something else.

“Our strategy is about giving people reasons to return to the outback.

“Outback Queensland continues to be a beacon for intrepid travellers seeking authentic experiences and unforgettable moments.”

Cunnamulla Hot Springs.

Cunnamulla Hot Springs.

New experiences featured in the 2024 Outback Traveller’s Guide

Cunnamulla Hot Springs

This new attraction beside the Warrego River features pools filled with mineral-rich geothermal water of different temperatures, naturally heated by the Great Artesian Basin that runs deep below ground. There are hot pools to dip into for a steamy session and cold plunge pools to chill your body alongside the Warrego River's natural beauty. A sauna, steam room and therapeutic activities in the state-of-the-art complex opened early this year.

St George region fishing loop

Grab your fishing gear and cast a line in the one-of-a-kind St George Region. Each town in this area is perched on a waterway, offering a freshwater fishing paradise. You don’t need a licence to reel in the biggest Murray cod, yellowbelly or blue claw yabby.

Old Mary Kathleen Uranium Mine Tour

Departing from Unearthed in Cloncurry, join North West Tours for an interpretive tour of the old mining town of Mary Kathleen. Go back in time and discover some mining and social history from the 1950s.

Morven Historical Museum

Stop by the Morven Historical Museum to enjoy the new Vietnam Nurses Memorial and the Allis K Chalmers Crawler Tractor. There are also the newly refurbished 1946 Blitz Chev and Fordson Tractor exhibits to explore. The museum is open 10am–noon, Monday to Friday, but can be opened outside these times if requested.

Fishing in the St George region.

Fishing in the St George region.

Golden West Tours

Run by husband-and-wife team, Brett and Kathy Hintz, Golden West Tours specialises in boutique tours of the sights, sounds and history of Longreach. The tours will provide personalised service and care in the good old-fashioned country way.

LifeFlight Australia Visitor Experience Centre

As part of the Lee Family and Australian Country Choice LifeFlight Centre, the new LifeFlight Visitor Experience has opened in Roma. Discover aeromedicine and its role in healthcare access across the south-west, learn some community safety tips and experience fun static and interactive exhibits to learn more about LifeFlight in the region.

Western Queensland Spirit function venue

This former grape and citrus farm in Roma is now a craft distillery producing gin and vodka. Visit the cellar door for a delicious blend infused with the natural flavours of outback Queensland. This year, a new function space will be available for weddings, parties, corporate events, and catered gatherings.

Toogunna Plains farm stay

Toogunna Plains is an exciting new farm stay in the Channel Country midway between Eromanga and Quilpie, opening in April. This fourth-generation family-owned sheep and cattle property offers 20 beautifully presented ensuite rooms for groups or individual visitors. Guests are guaranteed a unique experience at Toogunna Plains, nestled on a vast open plain with panoramic views.

Grave Keeper Tour

Join the mysterious Grave Keeper in Charleville as he unlocks the secrets of the outback. Hear stories from the late 1800s to the present of life-changing hardships leading to untimely deaths and inspiring accounts of bravery.

Thallon silos at night

The Thallon silos, with their spectacular art murals, are lit up each night and are also visible from the McGeever Recreation Grounds, which provides a spectacular view.

Virtual reality cattle mustering

Experience the excitement of cattle mustering in air-conditioned comfort at the Julia Creek Visitor Information Centre. This immersive virtual reality experience places you at the centre of the action from the back of a dirt bike, in the air, or amid the cattle yards. A small entry fee applies.

Click here to find more other new outback experiences and holiday options.

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