Find out what's in store on our 2022 adventure...
This one is a route to remember! Don't miss your chance to join the action...
Day 1
Tuesday 16
August 2022
Melbourne VIC to Beechworth VIC
Woiworung Country – Taungurong Country – Waveroo Country
Beechworth came to fame during the 1850s gold rush. With plenty of heritage buildings, this historic gem is one you won’t forget. Visit the old goal that hosted Ned Kelly, take a ghostly tour of the asylum - now a hotel - or indulge in the regions famous cold climate wines. An overnight stop in Beechworth is a first for the Bash and there's plenty of accommodation options for you to enjoy.
Day 2
Wednesday 17
August 2022
Beechworth VIC to Cobar NSW
Waveroo Country – Wiradjuri Country– Wongaibon Country
An iconic outback mining town, Cobar earned the name ‘The Copper City’ in the late 1800s when the small town was Australia’s top copper producer. These days, you might strike gold! Head to Fort Bourke Hill Lookout to cast your eyes over the open-cut gold mine and learn a thing or two about the town’s rich mining history. And get your camera's ready to strike a pose at the town's giant beer can!
Day 3
Thursday 18
August 2022
Cobar NSW to Broken Hill NSW
Wongaibon Country – Barindji Country – Danggali Country – Wilijali Country
Broken Hill plays an integral part in Australia's rich mining history. In fact, it is one of the country's oldest mining towns dating back to the 1880s. You might even recognise the town's iconic The Palace Hotel from Australian cult movie The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. This legendary outback town is, however, also home to a vibrant art scene with many exhibitions, galleries and the famous Living Desert Sculptures.
Day 4
Friday 19
August 2022
Broken Hill NSW to Marree SA
Wiljali Country – Andyamathanha Country – Malyangaba Country – Kuyani Country
Could Marree talk, this legendary outback town would have many tales to tell. Not far from Simpson desert, it’s a dry desert dwelling bearing mysteries like the Marree Man, a giant figure on the ground even visible from space. Following early pioneers’ footsteps, we’ll stop at Cameron Corner before we drive along the iconic Strezlecki track, passing the world’s largest shearing shed and stroll around Farina Ruins - the Outback’s famous ghost town.
Day 5
Saturday 20
August 2022
Marree SA to Birdsville QLD
Kuyani Country – Dhirari Country – Dieri Country – Ngamini Country – Yarluyandi Country
It’s safe to say Birdsville - located on the edge of the Simpson Desert - is a Variety Bash favourite. Opening its arms to many a Variety Bash over the years, this iconic Aussie town thrives off tourism. Pay a visit to the heritage-listed Birdsville Hotel to experience this authentic outback pub that has won the hearts of travellers from across the world.
Day 6
Sunday 21 August 2022
Birdsville QLD to Mount Isa QLD
Yarluyandi Country – Mithaka Country – Pitta-Pitta Country – Yalarrnga Country – Kalkadoon Country
Mount Isa is a booming mining town, with a notable history. Before European settlement, the traditional owners, the Kalkadoon people were famous for the quality of their stone, trading hand-crafted tools with Aboriginal groups from surrounding areas. Nowadays, there’s lots to see and do to keep you busy and there are plenty of accommodation options in this remote Gulf country town. Be sure to check out the sunset!
Day 7
Monday 22
August 2022
(REST DAY)
Mt Isa, QLD
Kalkadoon Country
With a day of rest in Mt Isa, make sure you'll explore the history of this iconic town. How about going on the "Hard Times Mine Underground Tour"? Sounds a bit grueling? It's actually fun and you can try an air-leg drill and feel the earth tremble underneath your feet. Or relax at Lake Moondarra located only 17 km from the town centre, go swimming, boating, sailing, canoeing or catch a fish for dinner. There will be plenty for you to explore.
Day 8
Tuesday 23
August 2022
Mt Isa QLD to Adels Grove QLD
Kalkadoon Country – Wakabunga Country – Nguburinji Country
Adels Grove is warm, outback Queensland at its best, In this oasis retreat, you'll find an eco-conscious campground where we'll settle for the night and explore the stunning surroundings. With a half-day of driving, we'll have the afternoon free to enjoy Lawn Hill gorge, with boat and kayak cruises, and cool off with a dip in the local swimming hole.
Day 9
Wednesday 24
August 2022
Adels Grove QLD - Karumba QLD
Nguburinji Country - Mayi-Kutana Country - Mingin Country - Kukatj Country - Kuthant Country
With a day to explore Karumba, be sure to take a chance to relax before the last leg of our journey. If catching fish isn’t your thing, you can check out the Barramundi Discovery Centre & Hatchery, or hire the local taxi and ask for a conducted tour of the town and its history. Afterwards, take a wander down the main street and soak in this outback town by the sea.
Day 10
Thursday 25
August 2022
Karumba QLD to Atherton QLD
Kuthant Country – Kurtjar Country – Agawamin Country – Mbabaram Country – Djirbalngan Country
Among the Tablelands region, you’ll find Atherton, one hour north of Cairns. This stunning small, tropical town is where you’ll find some of the state’s best produce and dairy products. With a picturesque waterfall around every corner, you won’t have to wander far for spectacular scenery.
Day 11
Friday 26
August 2022
Atherton QLD to Cairns QLD
Djirbalngan Country – Yidinjdi Country
Our final night destination is Cairns, on the doorstep to the Great Barrier Reef. Soak up all Cairns has to offer with beaches, restaurants, bars and pubs and great accommodation aplenty! Cairns is an easy fly in/fly out location for family members looking to join us for the final night dinner on the marina foreshore. For those who want to keep the fun going, why not add on your own holiday to Port Douglas or beyond?
Traditional owners of the land have been identified in accordance with the AIATSIS Map of Indigenous Australia. Variety – the Children’s Charity acknowledges the Traditional Owners and custodians of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respect to them and their Elders past, present and emerging.
