7 reasons to play the Outback Queensland Masters

Playing a round of golf in the Outback is an experience. The greens aren’t always green, water hazards are extremely rare and there’s often an abundance of kangaroos and emus to tip your akubra to. And that’s the beauty of the Outback Queensland Masters – it’s a whole new challenge for serious and not-so-serious golfers.

You don’t need to be a pro to play. In fact, you could quite comfortably enter having never picked up a golf club before – so don’t worry if you have no idea what a Golf Australia handicap is - in true Outback spirit, the atmosphere at this event is incredibly welcoming and cheerful.

Each of the six events are played over two nine-hole rounds (18-holes total), with nine-holes played on the first day of the event and the remainder on the second day.

For the competitive golfers, there are plenty of prizes up for grabs.

2. There's a chance to win a million dollars

Unless you’re Adam Scott or Karrie Webb, your chances of winning significant prize money playing golf is relatively low. That is until the Outback Queensland Masters came along.

The first five events of the series feature a $10,000 hole-in-one challenge, while those teeing off in Mount Isa for the finale can take their shot at the Million-Dollar hole-in-one.

Note: players must have competed in two previous locations to be eligible for the million dollars. 

When the golf finishes, the entertainment begins at each of the competition stops. And being the Outback, it’s not just your standard either.

Set your abs on fire with comedy sets from Darren Carr, Ting Lim, Lindsay Webb, Scared Weird Little Guys, and Bev Killick. Be wowed by illusionist Josh Norbido, and sway to the beat with music from Luke O'Shea, The Long Johns, Joe Geia, and Mamma Funk Band. 

So, even if you finished the round with 18 triple bogeys, you’ll be sure to have a smile on your dial (and hopefully a beer in hand).

4. There's time to explore the best of our outback towns

More than a golf tournament, Outback Queensland Masters is your invitation to explore our outback towns and appreciate its rich history. This is a one of a kind adventure that'll take you from our Sandstone Wilderness to dinosaur country, to the edge of the Simpson Desert. 

In 2024, the competition will stop at:

• Birdsville: 15 - 16 June 2024
• Boulia: 22 - 23 June 2024
• Winton: 29 - 30 June 2024
• Barcaldine: 6 - 7 July 2024
• Charleville: 13 - 14 July 2024
• Quilpie: 19 - 21 July 2024

Get to know each town between rounds and you'll discover just how diverse and character-filled they are. Descend beneath the surface on Mount Isa's Hard Times Mining Tour. Go on a Croc and Crab tour in Karumba and devour their famous fish burgers. Or go wine tasting at Queensland’s most western vineyard in St George. 

And that's only scratching the surface of the incredible experiences to have in Outback Queensland. 

5. It's the perfect opportunity to take a road trip

If you’re already thinking about an outback road trip, why not tie it in with the Outback Queensland Masters?

The event is planned so keen road-trippers can journey from town to town, experiencing the best of the Outback while having a swing at the six different locations – and there’s plenty of time between each event to experience the best of the Outback.

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need a souped-up 4WD to venture into the Outback. In fact, the majority of all the roads are sealed and suitable for all vehicles. (Here are six other Outback myths that aren’t true.)

If you haven’t headed west before, read up on how best to prepare for the trip.

6. It's so much more than the golf

While we can't guarantee you'll walk away with the hole-in-one cash prize, you're sure to leave Outback Queensland Masters with new friends. 

The great people you'll meet - from friendly locals to your fellow competitors - are the cherry on top of the experience. There's plenty of opportunities to have a yarn over the catered lunches, Aussie baked goods, and around the firepit after sunset. 

7. The orange jacket

Having to chance to win a million dollars is great - but how about the satisfaction of slipping into that orange jacket? The winner with the highest 18-hole stableford score from each location will be awarded the illustrious Outback Queensland Masters orange jacket.

Just imagine the respect you will receive rocking back up to your local golf club wearing this fine look. And that's not to mention all the stories you'll have from taking part in a truly special outback event.

Looking for more events in Outback Queensland? Add these to your calendar.