the new trail in Outback Queensland

Follow the camels as they race through outback Queensland.

What is it about camels? Hardy, lumpy and notorious for spitting when they’re grumpy. Yet they’re still so damn adorable and just a little thrilling to be around. Now imagine red dirt flying, camels charging and crowds cheering throughout outback Queensland towns in one giant, month-long race. Enter Desert Champions Way: Outback Camel Trail.

This all-new outback Queensland experience started in the tiny town of Jundah, made its way to the iconic town of Birdsville for a brand new event, the Birdsville Camel Carnival. And now the race will continue through four other towns until July 26 (with plenty of time to rest in between, of course). But how can you get involved?

July 12: Bedourie

Race over to the Bedourie Camel and Pig Races this weekend to see the races, of course, but also browse market stalls, enjoy a tasty lunch and experience the unique performance that is the Crack Up Sisters. From aerial circus stunts, knockabout clown acts, impressive whip cracking (no really, the sisters have won awards) to a whole lot of gags, a performance by The Crack Up Sisters goes big or goes home.

July 18 – Aug 2: Boulia

The Boulia Camel Races is a three-day event of camel racing, live music, performances and even a race for humans who don’t mind running in jocks and socks. It’s a true and quirky taste of the Queensland outback. Outside the festivities, you may even spot the famous Min Min Light: an unexplained phenomenon reported in the Australian outback, where a floating, fast-moving ball of light appears to follow cars.

July 26: Winton

Yet another reason to visit Winton, the camel racing will culminate in a vibrant arts and music celebration in a nod to the town’s famous ties to outback storytelling (Banjo Patterson first performed Waltzing Matilda in a local pub here).

A good reason to stock the esky and hit the highway.