Central West Outback Adventure Drive

Follow the Thomson River north through Outback Queensland, travelling from Windorah to Longreach with stops in Jundah and Stonehenge. This drive route showcases quiet country towns, river landscapes and classic outback scenery. Jundah offers a peaceful riverside setting and a glimpse into remote station life. Further along, Stonehenge is a small outback community surrounded by wide open plains. Just a short drive from Stonehenge, visitors can explore natural rock holes shaded by white gum trees, providing a place to relax and enjoy the landscape. Continuing to Longreach, travellers will find one of Outback Queensland's key heritage centres. Attractions include the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame, Qantas Founders Museum and the Powerhouse Museum. Visitors can also experience a Thomson River cruise or explore walking tracks along the river at sunset. The journey continues to Winton, known for its strong cultural identity and dinosaur discoveries. Key experiences include the Australian Age of Dinosaurs and the Dinosaur Stampede at Lark Quarry. The North Gregory Hotel is a historic site linked to the first public performance of Waltzing Matilda. Winton also hosts well-known events including the Vision Splendid Outback Film Festival and the Outback Festival, adding to the town's appeal as a destination for travellers. This section of the journey combines river scenery, heritage attractions and unique outback experiences, making it a highlight of any Outback Queensland road trip.

From Winton, travel west toward Boulia through classic Outback Queensland landscapes. This section of the drive features remote towns, geological formations and stories of the inland sea. Along the way, stop at Middleton, a small roadside settlement known for its historic pub. The surrounding landscape is marked by mesas, locally known as 'jump ups', which are remnants of an ancient inland sea. The Cawnpore Lookout provides panoramic views and interpretive information about these formations. Arriving in Boulia, visitors enter the heart of Min Min country. The Min Min Encounter shares the story of the mysterious Min Min Lights through an immersive visitor experience. The Stone House Museum, the oldest building in town, features local history, Aboriginal artefacts and dinosaur displays. Historic sites in the area include the ruins of the Min Min Hotel and the former police barracks north of town. For those travelling by four-wheel drive, Diamantina National Park is located south-east of Boulia. The park features the Diamantina River and the Diamantina Gates, offering remote landscapes and nature-based experiences. This section of the journey highlights the transition from dinosaur country to remote desert landscapes, with opportunities to explore history, geology and outback folklore.

Heading south from Boulia, this section of the journey highlights remote landscapes, small outback towns and iconic desert experiences. Stop at the Vaughan Johnson Lookout, located on the border of the Boulia and Diamantina shires. The lookout offers expansive views across the Cha el Country, known for its vast grazing land and seasonal waterways. Continue to Bedourie, a quiet outback town set in desert surrounds. Visitors can relax at the artesian spa and aquatic centre or explore local history at the Royal Hotel Bedourie. Travelling south along the Bilby Way toward Birdsville, keep an eye out for wildlife, including the endangered bilby. Along the route, the Carcoory Homestead Ruins provide a glimpse into early pastoral life. Nearby, a rare stand of Waddi trees can be found, one of only a few locations where this species grows. Arriving in Birdsville, visitors can experience classic outback hospitality at the Birdsville Hotel and enjoy a meal at the Birdsville Bakery. A short drive west leads to Big Red, the largest sand dune on the edge of the Simpson Desert. It is a popular spot for sunset and desert views. Experienced four-wheel-drive travellers can continue further into the Simpson Desert toward Poeppel Corner, where Queensland, the Northern Territory and South Australia meet. This section of the drive offers a mix of remote touring, natural features and iconic outback experiences, making it a memorable part of any Outback Queensland itinerary.

The drive to Windorah covers approximately 380 kilometres and passes through remote Cha el Country landscapes, historic sites and unique outback features. Along the route, travellers pass Betoota, once a Cobb and Co. exchange and toll point. Now uninhabited, the town is marked by the remains of its historic pub, which stands on the surrounding gibber plains. Betoota hosts occasional events, bringing visitors to this otherwise quiet location. Nearby, a large Rainbow Serpent artwork is visible on a ridge, creating a striking feature within the landscape. Further along, Deon's Lookout provides elevated views across the Cha el Country and is a suitable stop to rest and take in the scenery. Arriving in Windorah, visitors can experience a small outback town set near Cooper Creek, one of the region's most significant waterways. The Western Star Hotel offers a chance to co ect with locals and enjoy country hospitality. Cooper Creek is a key natural attraction, with opportunities for fishing, birdwatching and relaxing by the water. A short drive east of town leads to accessible sections of the creek, while the red sandhills to the west provide a popular location for sunset views. This section of the journey highlights the contrast of remote history, natural waterways and expansive outback scenery on the approach to Windorah.