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Desert Champions Way: Outback Camel Trail

Jundah to Winton

Duration: 5 days

Experience the thrill of the Outback’s most unique sporting tradition with the Desert Champions Way: Outback Camel Trail. This epic journey takes you through the heart of Outback Queensland, where the excitement of camel racing meets the region’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Camel racing has deep roots, with origins tracing back to the early Islamic period in the seventh century. In Australia, the sport has been part of Outback life since the late 19th century, gaining significant exposure in 1990. Today, it has grown into a major attraction, drawing competitors and spectators from across the country.

This trail follows three major racing events, each offering its own unique atmosphere. The journey begins in Jundah, visits Birdsville for the inaugral Camel Carnival, Bedourie and from there, the excitement builds in Boulia, home to Australia’s longest camel race, an incredible 1500-metre endurance test. The final stop is Winton, where a one-day event wraps up the season in true Outback style.

More than just a sporting spectacle, the Desert Champions Way is a cultural experience, celebrating the legacy of the cameleers who shaped the region and showcasing the Outback’s vibrant arts and heritage. Visitors can immerse themselves in local festivals, live entertainment, and authentic bush hospitality, making this a must-do adventure for anyone seeking a true Outback experience.

Join the journey and witness the power, unpredictability, and sheer excitement of Outback camel racing. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, the Desert Champions Way: Outback Camel Trail promises an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Australia.

Desert Champions Way: Outback Camel Trail

Itinerary

DAY 1

Jundah

Start:

Jundah

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End:

Winton

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The Desert Champions Way: Outback Camel Trail launches in picturesque Jundah, featuring thrilling races, community markets, family entertainment, and an authentic Outback experience. This unforgettable journey showcases rich history, vibrant arts, and legendary bush hospitality, making it a must-do adventure through the heart of Outback Queensland's most iconic camel racing events.
DAY 2

Jundah to Birdsville

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Jundah

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Betoota

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The next stop on the trail is the frontier town of Birdsville - Another exciting new event in Birdsville celebrates the town's rich history and cameleer heritage with camel-inspired attractions, storytelling, local markets, and live music. Located at the end of the famous Birdsville Track, this remote Outback town is surrounded by stunning landscapesu2014the Simpson Desert, Sturt's Stony Desert, and the lush Cha el Country. Visitors can explore iconic local attractions, including Big Red, the Birdsville Billabong, the historic Birdsville Racetrack, and the legendary Birdsville Hotel. Stop by the Wirrarri Visitor Information Centre for travel tips, road conditions, and an impressive gallery showcasing local artists' work.
DAY 3

Birdsville to Bedourie

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Birdsville

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Bedourie

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Bedourie known as the 'Town of Sand and Sun' Bedourie offers an unforgettable Outback experience, featuring exhilarating camel racing alongside family-friendly activities and local food stalls that showcase Diamantina Shire's warm hospitality. At this next destination on the trail are the Bedourie Camel and Pig Races, a day full of family entertainment and Camel Races. Birdwatchers will love the Cuttaburra Crossing wetlands, while history buffs can pass by Glengyle Station and Cookawinchika Waterhole. In town, see The Dust Storm Sculpture, symbolizing Spinifex swirling in a storm, and step back in time at the 1880s Mud Hut. After a day of adventure, unwind in Bedourie's Artesian Spa and Aquatic Centre, featuring a 22-person therapeutic spa and a 25-metre swimming poolu2014perfect for a refreshing Outback escape.
DAY 4

Bedourie to Boulia

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Bedourie

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Boulia

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As the 'Melbourne Cup of Camel Racing' the Boulia Camel Races are the pi acle of the Desert Champions Way trail. This thrilling three-day event transforms the town, drawing thousands for high-stakes racing, live entertainment, and an unforgettable festival atmosphere. Before arriving in Boulia, stop at Vaughan Johnson Lookout for breathtaking views and a perfect picnic spot. Once in town, experience the mysterious Min Min Encounter, a 45-minute animatronics show that brings the eerie legend of the Min Min Lights to life. Step back in time at the Stonehouse Museum, one of Western Queensland's earliest homes, and explore the Marine Reptile Fossil Display, featuring some of the region's best-preserved prehistoric discoveries. With a population that swells from 300 to thousands for race weekend, Boulia offers a truly unique Outback experienceu2014where history, legend, and the excitement of camel racing come together in one epic event.
DAY 5

Boulia to Winton

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Boulia

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End:

Winton

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Concluding the Desert Champions Way in the legendary town of Winton, visitors can enjoy exhilarating camel racing alongside a vibrant arts and music scene, celebrating Outback storytelling and history. The journey to Winton is just as captivating as the destination. Travel east along the Ke edy Developmental Road, stopping at the original Min Min Hotel site, where one of the first recorded sightings of the mysterious Min Min Light was reported. Continue 33 kilometres to Cawnpore Lookout, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Lillyvale Hills. A further 51 kilometres brings you to the historic Middleton Hotel, a true Outback icon from the Cobb and Co. era and one of Queensland's most remote pubs. From camel races to rich cultural experiences, Winton is the perfect finale to this unforgettable Outback adventure.