Discover the magic of the Queensland Outback on this 4-day accessible itinerary

Between the dust, dirt, and drawl of the Outback Queensland, there’s a lot to think about when you’re planning an adventure to the middle of Australia. But for folk like me who live with a disability, there will always be a few more spanners in the works. 

I live with a handful of disabilities that impact the way I navigate the world. I have severe carpal tunnel that has led to completely numb fingers and palms, as well as rheumatoid arthritis, which means my finger joints are often swollen, stiff and sore. I can also only see out of one eye, and because of a myriad of other chronic illnesses, I battle with low energy levels everyday. 

From using doorknobs to driving a car, the limited dexterity in my hands makes everyday life a little trickier – and even more so on the road. So when I was given the opportunity to explore Outback Queensland and test the waters on the regions’ accessibility, I jumped at the chance. Here’s what I got up to. 

Day one: Morning

Touch down in Longreach with Qantas and step into a world you’ve likely never experienced before. This bustling little outback town will steal your heart from the get-go, but before you dot around the town, check in to the Saltbush Retreat. The rustic textures and tones of this accommodation will be more than just a place to rest your head. 

With a dedicated accessible room in the Homestead Stables, folk who use wheelchairs will feel comfortable thanks to the spacious room and attached bathroom. 

Drop off your bags and settle in, before heading into town to grab a coffee at The Branch Cafe. Make sure you try their locally-sourced Branch Country Breakfast. Think: a plate piled high with bacon, lamb sausages, eggs, sauteed mushrooms and sourdough.

Afternoon

Take your time this afternoon. There’s no rushing about in the outback – have a wander through the bustling streets, meander through the many antique gift shops and grab a cold beer at one of the local watering holes if that’s your style. Pull up a chair at local institution the Birdcage Hotel, or rub shoulders with the locals at the Longreach Tavern. 

Got a bit of a pep in your step? Take a short trip out of town to Camden Park Station and enjoy an outback view fit for a Queen – quite literally. In 1970, the Queen checked out the working sheep and cattle station in her Rolls Royce. 

Evening

Scrub up and head to Harry’s Restaurant for a mouthwatering bite to eat. No matter who you ask in town, this is the spot for award-winning local fare. Perched upstairs at the Longreach Motor Inn on Galah Street, their linen-clad tablecloths are a perfect spot for any date night (or meal with the kids for that matter). Pro tip: order the lamb belly starter. You’ll be thinking about it for weeks to come. 

Day two: Morning

Wake up on the right side of bed at your accommodation, and tuck into a fantastic big breakfast spread provided by Saltbush Retreat. If crumpets, haloumi, salmon and goat's cheese is up your alley, you’ll love a lazy breakfast date in your pyjamas here. 

After caffeinating, jump into the car and set your sights on Winton. Nestled around two hours north-west of Longreach, the historic town of Winton is one of the country’s most quintessential Australian towns. In fact, Waltzing Matilda was even penned out here by Australian bush poet Banjo Paterson in the 19th century. 

Once you’re in Matilda Country, head to the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum and step back in time. See giant dinosaur fossils up close and personal in the laboratory, have a gander at the fossil preservation techniques in the Collection Room, and ponder the prehistoric era on a larger scale during the Dinosaur Canyon tour. 

The reception and Dinosaur Canyon are fitted with ramps, and the Fossil Preparation Laboratory is level and accessible for most. It’s important to note that the shuttle between reception and Dinosaur Canyon is not accessible for wheelchair users – however guests are welcome to drive up. 

For those with low-vision, Dinosaur Canyon is accessible yet potentially a little trickier to completely engage with. This is remedied by the careful and interactive guidance from the tour operators, who will happily work with you to point a footprint or fossil out if you have trouble locating it. 

Afternoon

After a morning in the sun, head into Winton town and grab a bite to eat at Tattersal’s Hotel. A pillar of the outback, a pub meal here will do the trick. 

Work off your food coma by venturing into the world of the pioneers with a visit to the Waltzing Matilda Centre. Showcasing the incredible story of Australia’s beloved national song, take your time wandering around this iconic museum, learning a thing or two about the origins of Waltzing Matilda. Fitted with ramps and wide-open spaces, the Waltzing Matilda centre is accessible for wheelchair users and those with mobility needs. 

Once you’ve had your fill of this charming town, make your way back to the heart of the outback along the Landsborough Highway. 

Evening

Arriving back to the Saltbush Retreat, settle in for a relaxing night in the comfort of your own accommodation. Fire up the barbecues at the rustic communal cooking area, and feast on a classic Australian BBQ spread of lamb chops, pork loins, steaks, beef patties and salad. 

Day three: Morning

Rise and shine! Today’s the day you’ll be stepping back into the time of Australia’s pioneers. Start the day right with a classic breakfast buffet at The Staging Post, featuring a hearty spread of bacon, eggs, sausages and even a pancake machine. 

At 8.10am sharp, head out onto the street and watch the Town Crier do his daily round of public announcements, dealing out giggles to boot. Afterwards, make your way to the Outback Pioneers and clamber aboard the old Cobb & Co Stagecoach. Take off with your team of horses, following the old Longreach-Windorah mail route. As you head through the old bush track, you’ll marvel at the lightning speed gallop.

While the stagecoach is not wheelchair accessible, the operators are determined to make the experience work for everyone, as long as you’re up for it stating, ‘we provide an extra stair and strong arms to help you get into the stagecoach’. 

For those with low-vision, the provided audio guide is an epic addition to the adventure. 

Afternoon

At midday, gather your troops and head back to the Outback Pioneers for a show and lunch. Served in a campfire billy, nibble on your lunch pack as the locals pull out all the stops to bring a little lighthearted humour to your day. 

If you haven’t gotten your fill of pioneer history, check out the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame and Outback Heritage Centre after lunch. Celebrating the lives of the hardworking pioneers, learn about post-colonial Australia’s heritage through interactive exhibits.

Head back to your accommodation in the mid-afternoon, and rest up in preparation for a night full of nature, music and good food. 

Evening

Meet your coach at the reception of your accommodation at 4pm – and get ready to be whisked away by the humble sounds of the vibrant Australian outback. Jump on board a river cruise with Aussie Outback Tours and marvel at the sights of the Thomson River. The birdlife is set to impress, so settle in for a couple of hours of peace while nibbling on cheese and crackers (and a glass of champagne in hand if you’re into it). 

The real drawcard of the river cruise is the stunning auburn sunset, which you’ll watch anchored by the bank that boasts a vantage point like no other. After the sun dips below the horizon, the boat will head back to the starting point, where you’ll be shown a seat and treated to a live music show. Tuck into authentic bush tucker and make the most of the bar, before ending the night with freshly-cooked damper and bushman’s tea.

Unfortunately the river cruise is not accessible for those using a wheelchair, however the dinner and show afterwards is. 

Day four: Morning

It’s time to check out of the Saltbush Retreat! But first, enjoy the last morsels of your breakfast hamper with a coffee. You’re free to leave your bags at reception before making your way across the road to the Qantas Founders Museum. 

Longreach is a special destination in the founding story of Qantas, so enjoy an interactive tour through the hangars while learning about the history of Aussie aircrafts. Feeling brave? Step into a giant Boeing 747 and strap on a harness. You’ll be escorted onto the wing, watching the world from a whole new perspective. 

The Qantas Founders Museum is proudly accessible for those using a wheelchair, with ramps and steady ground fringing the whole establishment. Unfortunately, wheelchair users are unable to access the wing walk. 

Afternoon

As you finish up at the Qantas Founders Museum, grab a bite to eat at McGinness’ Restaurant. Hop over to the airport (located a short one minute drive away), and check in to your flight back to the city.