Grassroots Opera Trail

Your Festival of Outback Opera adventure begins today. Check in at Roma Street Station and board the Spirit of the Outback for a legendary rail journey. The train makes its way north to Rockhampton before turning west through the Central Highlands and across the Great Dividing Range into Outback Queensland. Relax to the gentle rhythm of the rails and enjoy warm onboard hospitality, highlighted by talented opera singers who set the tone for the week ahead. Travel in your reserved economy seat as the landscape unfolds and let your mind wander to the incredible performances still to come. Settle in for six days of iconic scenery, extraordinary talent, and the unique camaraderie that define the Festival of Outback Opera

Overnight on the Spirit of the Outback train

Wake to the romance of rail as the train winds through the dramatic Drummond Range, Bogantungan, and Hannon’s Gap. Pass through the charming townships of Alpha, Jericho, Barcaldine, and Ilfracombe, journeying across desert uplands, eucalypt and gidgee, scrublands, and into the vast plains of Mitchell grass downs.

Arrive in Longreach where your Outback Aussie Tours driver will be waiting to greet you. Settle into your accommodation at Longreach Station (formerly the Longreach Pastoral College) before gathering with fellow travellers for a Welcome Supper.

4 nights at the Longreach Station Quarters (shared facilities)

Get ready for a big day in Winton. After breakfast travel through open plains and coolibah-lined creeks. Late morning, discover the Waltzing Matilda Centre—the world’s only museum dedicated to a song—before lunch.

Next, explore the Australian Age of Dinosaurs, set high on a mesa with panoramic views. Passionate guides will share the stories of the prehistoric giants that once roamed this land.

As night falls, immerse yourself in the signature Outback Opera event, Dark Sky Serenade. Under a canopy of stars, the outback becomes a natural cathedral where glorious voices soar. Afterwards, enjoy a light supper and explore Dinosaur Canyon before returning late to Longreach.

This morning, step aboard the historic 2000-class rail motor at Longreach Railway Station. Feel the rhythm of the rails as the journey reveals wildlife, waterholes, and landscapes rich with natural and cultural heritage. Pause for a short Mulga Walk to learn about bush medicines and sand ridge secrets, before continuing to the Darr River waterhole to boil the billy for smoko.

Later, join the festivities at the Longreach Show, a vibrant showcase of rural life with livestock displays, exhibitions, and country hospitality. Catch pop-up performances from the show ‘All Together Now’ at the Show. This evening enjoy dinner at the showgrounds at your leisure and own expense.

Spend a leisurely morning exploring downtown Longreach—browse local shops or enjoy a coffee.

Later, visit the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, discovering themed galleries that celebrate our pioneering spirit. Witness traditional stockman skills and horsemanship at the Stockman’s Live Show. (Lunch today at own expense.)

In the evening, experience another Festival highlight: Singing in the Night at historic Camden Park Station. This working cattle property, famously visited by Queen Elizabeth II, provides a magical backdrop as the sun sets and the outback twilight frames an unforgettable concert of opera classics.

Enjoy a relaxed morning before joining Sing, Sing, Sing at The Drover’s Place Cottage. Led by Opera Queensland artists, this uplifting event invites singers of all experience levels to come together for a morning of music, laughter and connection – a fitting finale to your Festival of Outback Opera journey.

After lunch, explore the Qantas Founders Museum and uncover the inspiring story of Australia’s iconic airline. Enjoy a guided interpretive tour, stepping aboard the 747 City of Bunbury for a peek inside the flight deck and crew rest area, and marvel at the Super Constellation, Qantas’ first pressurised aircraft.

Your Festival of Outback Opera adventure concludes with a transfer to Longreach Airport.