This year’s floods in western Queensland have transformed the Outback in a way locals hope will lure extra visitors to a new tourist trail.
Outback Queensland Tourism Association (OQTA) CEO Denise Brown said the new Desert Champions Way: Outback Camel Trail, which features five camel racing events across five towns, over four weekends, would benefit from the region’s renewed vibrancy.
“The desert is blooming, with wildflowers bursting through red dirt,” Ms Brown said.
She encouraged visitors to visit the region as it recovered “into a once-in-a-lifetime kaleidoscope of colour” following the floods of April.
“Running from July 5 to 26, this not-to-be-missed festival trail is a celebration of country, camels, community, and colour.”
Ms Brown said trail was a self-guided, choose-your-own-adventure, through a rare and spectacular Outback canvas, “brought to life with epic camel races, live music, local stories, markets, and country hospitality”.
“It’s not about walking, it’s about road-tripping through the heart of Outback Queensland and experiencing the kind of bucket list adventure you’ll talk about for years to come.”
She said the festival spanning five iconic towns, Jundah, Birdsville, Bedourie, Boulia and Winton was set to become a cornerstone of sustainable tourism in Outback Queensland.
“The trail has been designed to celebrate one of the Outback’s most iconic attractions and allow visitors to have more opportunities to be involved with camel racing.
“Visitors are encouraged to explore a number of our townships providing a unique opportunity to meet more locals and really embrace an authentic Outback experience that is bursting with colour.”
The Desert Champions Way: Outback Camel Trail:
- Jundah Camel Races: July 5.
- New Birdsville Camel Carnival: July 8–10.
- Bedourie Camel Races: July 12.
- Boulia Camel Races: July 18–20.
- Winton Camel Races: July 26.
