Day 1- To Mildura 

Depart Melbourne in the morning, heading toward the picturesque Macedon Ranges. Stop for a break in the charming city of Bendigo, known for its gold rush history and heritage buildings. Next, travel through the countryside to Swan Hill, where you can enjoy lunch. After a suitable afternoon stop, arrive in Mildura, taking in the scenic views of the Murray River. This afternoon you will be warmly welcomed at the Chaffey International for 2 nights & your contact number will be 03 5023 5833 (L,D)

Day 2- Wentworth & Mildura

Begin your day in the historic Wentworth, a town situated at the confluence of the Darling and Murray Rivers. On a brief coach tour, you’ll discover a town steeped in history, where gracious buildings—such as the Anglican Church, the Post Office, the original Customs Officer’s House, and the Old Wentworth Gaol built in 1881—stand as proud reminders of its grand past. Next, board the Rothbury Paddle Vessel for your relaxing Murray River Cruise. You’ll relive the sights and sounds of the pioneering era as you glide past the working river locks, all while enjoying a light lunch on board. Once the cruise concludes, board your coach for a visit to Woodsies Famous Gem Shop. What began as a family hobby has grown into a unique tourist attraction, showcasing exquisite jewellery and an impressive collection of unique gemstones and minerals, including many of the world’s lesser-known varieties. (B,L,D)

Day 3- Broken Hill

This morning, begin your journey along the 296-kilometre Silver City Highway towards Broken Hill, a trip that promises both scenic beauty and intriguing history. As you leave, a comfort stop is scheduled just over halfway along the route—this is the only amenity available on today’s journey, since the previous Coombah Roadhouse closed during COVID-19 and has no plans to re-open. Upon arrival in Broken Hill, often described as a living, breathing time capsule in the desert, your first stop is at the Flying Doctor Service. Here, you’ll tour the base, view the aircraft up close, and explore the museum and theatre, where a brief DVD presentation brings the history of outback medicine to life. After this insightful visit, enjoy lunch at the famous Palace Hotel, a venue immortalised in the movie Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, where its storied past and vibrant atmosphere set the perfect stage for your meal. After lunch, a local guide will join you on the coach to provide an entertaining and informative tour of Broken Hill. As you explore, you will encounter a fascinating mix of architectural styles—from humble miners’ huts to classic stone and art deco shopfronts—that chronicle the evolution of this iconic outback town. Once a booming mining village, Broken Hill’s story is one of booms and busts, fortunes made and lost, and a legacy that continues to be defined by its mining heritage. Notably, the Broken Hill Proprietary Company, which began here, grew to become Australia’s largest mining company and later merged into what is now the world’s largest mining conglomerate, BHP Billiton. Unique among New South Wales towns, Broken Hill observes Australian Central Standard Time—the same time zone as South Australia and the Northern Territory—reflecting its isolated location over 1,100 kilometres west of Sydney and 500 kilometres from Adelaide. With a hot desert climate and an average annual rainfall of just 235 mm (9 inches), the town’s stark environment contrasts sharply with its rich history. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local art scene with a visit to the Pro Hart Gallery. Pro Hart, a painter, father, and husband, was born in Broken Hill in 1928 and spent his early years on “Larloona,” a sheep station about 130 kilometres from town. His artistic journey began at a young age and flourished even as he worked long underground shifts in the mines. Despite being mocked by the so-called “art mafia,” Hart’s work was admired by princes, presidents, and movie stars alike, though he remained a shy man who preferred the company of his mates. His art captures the essence of Broken Hill’s rugged character, and the gallery is a testament to his enduring legacy. Then, a short distance away—nine kilometres from Broken Hill—you’ll explore the Living Desert Reserve. Here, a collection of 12 sandstone sculptures dramatically highlights the skyline, offering a truly memorable view as the sun begins to set. Take a moment to appreciate the stunning Sculptures in the Desert as they glow in the evening light—a fitting end to a day filled with extraordinary natural beauty and rich cultural history. Check into the Hilltop Motel or Ibis Styles Broken Hill for a two-night stay. For any assistance during your stay, the contact number is 08 8088 2999 (Hill Top) or 02 8088 4044 (Ibis Styles). Enjoy your time in this extraordinary outback town, where history, art, and the rugged spirit of the desert converge. (B,L,D)

Day 4 – Menindee Lakes & Silverton

One of the highlights of your journey today is a visit to Menindee Lakes—a mesmerizing system of nine expansive, shallow lakes contained by weirs, levees, and channels. This inland oasis is teeming with life, supporting over 220,000 waterbirds and a rich diversity of both terrestrial and aquatic flora and fauna, including several threatened species. Not only does the Menindee Lakes system serve as a crucial water source for local communities, but it also lies in an area of significant environmental, social, and cultural importance, offering a wealth of recreational and tourism opportunities for the region. This afternoon, your journey continues to the nearby ghost town of Silverton, often referred to as the Hollywood of the outback. With its striking blood-red earth, picture-perfect sunsets, and solitary stone buildings, Silverton has provided the dramatic backdrop for films such as Mission Impossible 2, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Mad Max 2, Razorback, and A Town Like Alice, along with countless commercials. Lunch will be provided at the famed Silverton Hotel, an iconic establishment that has preserved its laid-back country charm while becoming one of the most photographed pubs in the nation. Just five kilometres from Silverton, you will visit the Mundi Mundi Plains Lookout, where you can marvel at the sensation of standing on the edge of the world as endless flatlands stretch out before you. Enjoy some relaxation time at your accommodation this afternoon before your adventure continues tomorrow. (B,L,D)

Day 5 – White Cliffs

Today your scenic adventure continues after an early start, even with the 30-minute time loss due to the time change. You are about to travel to a landscape like no other—the lunar-like diorama of the opal mining town of White Cliffs. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch before rejoining the coach for a guided tour led by one of the area’s fascinating locals. This tour will prepare you for an extraordinary experience: going underground into a real opal mine. Afterward, you’ll have the chance to browse for that special gift to commemorate your visit. Then, it’s time to check in to your unique accommodation for the night—the White Cliffs Underground Motel. Here, you’ll experience the novelty of staying in a hotel room fashioned entirely from rock, a truly memorable experience. Please note that shared bathroom facilities are available for tonight’s stay. For any inquiries or assistance during your stay, your contact number is 08 8091 6677. Enjoy your adventure in this one-of-a-kind outback town! (B,L,D)

Day 6- White Cliffs to Dubbo

Your journey takes you through the extraordinary outback, heading east along the Barrier Highway through Wilcannia, with a late lunch provided at Cobar. A morning tea stop and welcome break will be provided at your own expense at one of the few service centres along the way. This afternoon a suitable comfort stop will be provided as you travel through Nyngan to meet the Mitchell Highway with overnight accommodation, dinner & breakfast provided in Dubbo at the Quality Inn (02 6882 4777) (B,L,D)

Day  7- Dubbo to Griffith

Start the journey in Dubbo with a morning visit to the iconic Taronga Western Plains Zoo or Old Dubbo Gaol. Travel to Parkes, stopping for lunch. Continue to West Wyalong, pausing for a break and a wander through the town’s charming heritage streetscapes. Proceed to Griffith, where you can spend the afternoon visiting the Pioneer Park Museum or enjoying the local wineries, showcasing the region’s rich Italian heritage. Conclude the day with a relaxing evening in Griffith. (B,L,D)

Day 8 – Griffith to Melbourne

Depart Griffith in the morning, traveling through the lush Riverina countryside. Stop at Jerilderie, a historic town famous for its connection to Ned Kelly, where you can explore key landmarks and learn about its rich past. Continue to Shepparton, the heart of the Goulburn Valley, for a relaxing lunch. Take some time to enjoy the town’s vibrant arts scene, perhaps visiting the Shepparton Art Museum or admiring the Moooving Art cow sculptures. After lunch, proceed to Melbourne, arriving in late in the afternoon hopefully filled with wonderful new memories of your journey through the magnificent Outback. Thank you for choosing to travel with us. (B,L)