A new Camel Carnival in Outback Queensland will feature in a month-long celebration of the ships of the desert.
State Arts Minister John-Paul Langbroek said the new Desert Champions Way: Outback Camel Trail was a unique cultural tourism experience celebrating the rich cameleer history and the vibrant arts of the region.
Minister Langbroek said the month-long trail, from July 5 to July 26, was set to become a cornerstone of sustainable tourism in Outback Queensland, drawing visitors to multiple iconic towns.
He said the trail included a newly created Birdsville Camel Carnival from July 8 to 10.
“This inaugural event in Birdsville is a central part of a larger Outback Camel Trail, uniting communities across the region in a celebration of heritage, sport, and culture.”
Minister Langbroek said the Birdsville Camel Carnival offered visitors an immersive cultural experience, including:
- Evening concerts featuring headline acts at the Birdsville Hotel.
- Camel rides and cameleer history celebrating the region’s unique heritage.
- Entertainment by the Crack-Up Sisters, pig races, and acoustic performances.
- Queensland artisan markets, showcasing the creativity of local makers, including the Birdsville Bakery’s Camel Pies.
“Birdsville’s newest cultural event is presented alongside the John Williamson Big Red Sunset Concert, offering outback audiences a wealth of arts activity across several days,” he said.
Other Desert Champions Way: Outback Camel Trail highlights include:
- Jundah Camel Races: July 5: Launching the trail in the picturesque township of Jundah, the event offers thrilling races alongside community markets, family entertainment, and a taste of the quintessential Outback spirit.
- Betoota Outback Muster: July 4-7: A new multi day event celebrating music at the Betoota hotel, fantastic way to kick off the events in the Diamantina Shire.
- Bedourie Camel Races: July 12: Known as the “Town of Sand and Sun,” Bedourie hosts a day of exhilarating camel racing paired with family-friendly activities and local food stalls, showcasing the hospitality of the Diamantina Shire.
- Boulia Camel Races: July 18–20: As the “Melbourne Cup of Camel Racing,” the Boulia Camel Races are the pinnacle of the trail. This three-day event draws thousands for high-stakes racing, entertainment, and a true festival atmosphere.
- Winton Camel Races: July 26: Concluding the trail in the legendary town of Winton, visitors can enjoy camel racing alongside the town’s vibrant arts and music scene, including nods to its strong ties to Outback storytelling and history.
Diamantina Shire Mayor Francis Murray said the trail embodied the spirit of Outback Queensland, combining adrenaline-filled racing with rich cultural programming.
“It’s a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with our history, meet our communities, and experience the magic of the Outback,” Cr Murray said.
