The Longest Shortcut – Perth to Cairns

Departing Perth, we head off on Australia’s Longest Shortcut – Perth to Cairns. We travel through the wheatbelt to the WA Goldfields, arriving in the mining town of Kalgoorlie, our home for the evening.  (D)

This morning we head to Menzies after a visit to the historic Kalgoorlie two-up ring and some morning tea.  We pass many ghost towns from a bygone era, then the Gwalia Museum on the edge of the large open pit of Sons of Gwalia Mine. Here we explore this wonderful old town, before continuing on to Leonora, our stop for the night. (B,D)

On to the first of many dirt roads on this tour just north of Laverton – The Great Central Road, winding through the ranges, sand hills and salt lakes of the desert which  has a beauty that is iconically Australian. We arrive at the remote town of Warburton, our stop for the night. (B,D)

We pass through many ranges today, one being the Schwerin Mural Ranges, and then we cross over into the Northern Territory through the Gibson Desert. Deep into the south west corner of the Northern Territory. In the distance we sight the Olgas and Uluru, which we visit tomorrow. We continue on to Curtin Springs Station, our home for the night. (B,D)

A later start today before we head to Alice Springs  in the centre of Australia. We pass through range country, which shows us just how big our country is and how vast the distances  are. We arrive in Alice later in the afternoon and settle into our accommodation at the wonderful Desert Palms, for a two-night stopover. (B,D)

This morning you have the option for a early morning hot air balloon through the rugged MacDonnell Ranges, followed by a visit to Simpson Gap and the Old Telegraph Station. (B) Note: Optional Hot Air Balloon approx $415.

An early start for a big drive into Queensland. We take a short drive up the Stuart Highway then back on the dirt of the Plenty Highway. Through the Harts, Jervois, Tarlton and Toko Ranges in the northern reaches of the Simpson Desert to Tobermorey Station just inside the Northern Territory border. This is our home for the night. (B,D)

Today we cross into the Queensland channel country. We stop for a break on the way at Boulia, best known for sightings of the Min Min light (an unusual shimmering light phenomenon that appears at night). We also stop at Middleton, which made history in 1862, when the first white men, McKinlay and his search party for Burke and Wills, explored the area, and continue on to Winton, our stop for three nights. (B,D)

Today you have free time to relax and enjoy the beautiful sheep and cattle town of Winton which lies on the sprawling Western River. Meet the locals at the shops, discover the very quirky Arno’s Wall, or simply stroll to the river and enjoy the tranquility of country life. You also have free time to purchase your own dinner tonight, completing this full leisurely day. (B)

This morning we visit the Age of Dinosaurs Centre, the world’s largest collection of Australian dinosaur fossils. You’ll have ample time to purchase lunch after this, then in the afternoon we visit the Waltzing Matilda Centre, a museum steeped in Australian history. Learn about the Waltzing Matilda legend, the Qantas origins, Aboriginal cultural history, opal mining, the Shearers’ Strike, and the dinosaur trail. We enjoy dinner together tonight at the famous Gregory Hotel, where Waltzing Matilda was written. (B,D)

A late start today before we arrive in Hughenden, travelling through typical cattle country of the area. We visit some the attractions of the town, before arriving at our accommodation. (B,D)

A morning visit to Porcupine Gorge Lookout on the last of the outback dirt roads. We travel past Mount Garnet and Ravenshoe, before descending the Great Dividing Range through the winding rainforest highway, enjoying the lush rainforest and tropical plantations on the way into Cairns. (B)

We start the day with a relaxing and informative tour at the Hartley’s Crocodile farm, set in the rain forest area of Cairns. Hartley’s was also the first place in Australia to breed crocs in captivity. Later we visit the rainforest town of Kuranda. You will have an opportunity to take the Sky Rail down the mountain, where your crew will be waiting for you to transport you back to your accommodation. (B,D)

Late check out today with time to relax around Cairns  before a flight home having crossed this amazing country. We have made new friends and new memories – ones that will last a lifetime. (B)