itinerary
DAY 1. Wednesday 12 May | Longreach (D)
Depart Brisbane this morning and enjoy breathtaking views of the Darling Downs by air before crossing into the expansive and iconic landscapes of Outback Queensland.
On arrival in Longreach, meet your Outback Aussie Tours driver and host before commencing your Festival of Outback Opera experience. Settle into your accommodation before enjoying a town tour and some free time to explore downtown.
Tonight, meet your fellow travellers over dinner. Overnight: Albert Park Motor Inn, Longreach
DAY 2 Thursday 13 May | Winton (B,L,D)
This morning, enjoy a thought-provoking Cultural Conversation or some leisure time. After lunch, check into your accommodation and prepare for this evening’s event.
This evening, travel to the Australian Age of Dinosaurs, perched high on a mesa formation with panoramic views. As darkness falls, experience the unforgettable Dark Sky Serenade – an outdoor gala concert beneath the spectacular, star-filled Outback sky, combining world-class entertainment with the unique beauty of this remarkable landscape.
Enjoy a light supper or explore the food options onsite before returning to your accommodation. 2 Night Stay: Boulder Opal Motor Inn or Matilda Motel, Winton
DAY 3. Friday 14 May | Winton (B,L,D)
Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring Winton at your own pace, with the option to attend Opera Queensland’s complimentary events or wander through the charming town centre.
After a light dinner this evening, settle in beneath the Outback sky for a special screening at the Royal Open-Air Theatre – the perfect way to end a wonderful day in Winton.
DAY 4. Saturday 15 May | Longreach (B,L,D)
Bid farewell to Winton this morning and set off for Longreach, enjoying a delightful morning tea and Opera Pop-Up performance at the Morella CWA Hall along the way.
After morning tea, board the historic 2000-class rail motors for a unique rail adventure through the heart of the Outback. Sit back and enjoy a new perspective on the country as the train winds its way through vast scrublands, open grass plains and waterholes alive with birdlife.
On arrival in Longreach, enjoy lunch before discovering the story behind the founding of our national airline at the Qantas Founders Museum. Explore its fascinating interpretive and interactive exhibits and uncover the remarkable history of Qantas.
As the sun begins to set, journey to Camden Park Station for Singing in the Night. Set against the breathtaking colours of the Outback at dusk, this unforgettable concert brings some of opera’s most beloved classics to life beneath the fading twilight sky. 2 Night Stay: Saltbush Retreat or Albert Park Motor Inn, Longreach
DAY 5. Sunday 16 May | Longreach (B,L,D)
Start the day with a leisurely breakfast followed by the uplifting Sing Sing Sing community sing-along event with Opera Queensland.
Mid-morning, delve into the rich history of the Outback at the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, exploring its fascinating themed galleries and discovering the inspiring stories of Australia’s pioneering heroes.
As the day winds down, dust off your boots and slip into your finest attire for an Opera Ball like no other. Embark on a serene cruise along the Thomson River aboard the M.V. Explorer, enjoying spectacular 360-degree views.
Then, it’s time to embrace the glamour of the Opera Ball at Smithy’s River Stage. This relaxed yet stylish evening captures the true spirit of the Outback, blending a wonderfully casual atmosphere with just the right touch of glitz and sophistication to create a truly memorable night.
DAY 6. Monday 17 May | Longreach – Spirit of the Outback (B,L,D)
Your Outback Opera adventure comes to an end following breakfast, with transfers to Longreach Railway Station.
Settle in and let the landscape unfold as you journey from Longreach to Brisbane aboard Queensland’s iconic Spirit of the Outback.
Following our unforgettable Festival of Outback Opera experience, this scenic rail journey offers a wonderful way to savour the changing scenery of regional Queensland as we travel east from the heart of the Outback towards the coast.
Relax in comfort, watch the rugged Outback gradually give way to greener country, and enjoy the camaraderie of travelling together as the landscape rolls past your window. Overnight: Spirit of the Outback
DAY 7. Tuesday 18 May | Arrive Brisbane (B)
After a leisurely journey through the heart of Queensland, with time to reflect on the music, characters and unforgettable experiences of the Festival of Outback Opera, arrive in Brisbane. The train is scheduled to arrive at 11.50am
B = Breakfast L = Lunch HT = High Tea D = Dinner S = Supper
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