It’s big, it’s spectacular, it’s diverse and it’s definitely welcoming. Exploring Outback Queensland is adventurous and exciting, with the ultimate sense of finding peace through freedom and solitude.
After all, there’s over 901,574 square kilometres to wander around, which just means that there’s a whole lot of things to do in such a big space.
The Outback spirit lies heavily in your sense of adventure, plus your insights into getting down and dirty with the locals who call this region home. Here are some amazing things to do that can only be done when you’re on an Outback Queensland holiday.
The Vision Splendid Outback Film Festival
Make the most out of your Outback Queensland Holiday by heading to the Vision Splendid Outback Film Festival in Winton. Happening from 25 June 2021 to 3 July 2021, this is your opportunity to see firsthand the biggest Australian film festival in the world.
Featuring live entertainment, that goes beyond your wildest imagination, there truly isn’t anything else like it in the world.
This unique film festival is inspired by the Sundance Film Festival in Salt Lake City, being the largest independent film festival in the United States.
The passion mustered by the Winton community to recreate something similar, but uniquely Australian, led to the development of the non-profit organisation that fuels the show. With a growing reputation of being “Hollywood in the Outback”, Winton’s landscape has had countless film producers talking about the limitless potential the lands create.
With major film productions having been filmed in the area, such as Nick Cave’s “Proposition” and Ivan Sen’s “Goldstone” and “Mystery Road”, there are only higher hopes for what is to come next. Recent filmings including the History Channel’s documentary series and Bill Leimbach’s “Waltzing Matilda”.
Experience Outback Queensland through independent film, and take on this opportunity to walk among fame while exploring the 2021 Vision Splendid Outback Film Festival in Winton.
Camooweal Campdraft & Rodeo
Happening this 28 May 2021 to 30 May 2021, the Camooweal Campdraft & Rodeo will have you hanging off the edge of your seats in full-blown cowboy and cowgirl fashion.
Representing the best of the best, competitors from all over the nation will make their way to fight for a chance to win at the annual competition.
History has proven the popularity of this event, with first round campdraft nominations reaching as high as 1,100. Needless to say, a big crowd of enthusiastic professionals will be making their way from all over to attend.
Not only does the event bring together great competitive campdrafters, but it also helps bring the community together to enjoy a True Blue Australian sport.
The campdrafting itinerary typically starts with the Novice Novice A, Maiden A, Maiden for Maiden, Ladies Draft, and then the Bareback Cutout. Day 2 will usually see the Maiden B, Mini Draft, Junior Draft, Juvenile Draft, Open Draft, and Barrel Race. That evening will also have the rodeo kickoff at 6pm with the impressive Bull Ride, Crazy Cow Ride, Station Buckjump, Saddle Bronc, and Calf Ride.
The third day will usually cover the Novice B, Kids Gymkhana, Restricted Open, with the finals as an event conclusion.
With the high activity comes plenty of food, bar, and trade stalls that will give you a sense of Outback Queensland diversity.
The Mount Isa Show
Featuring the first major event for the Mount Isa community, the Mount Isa Show kicks off this Friday 18 June 2021 and Saturday 19 June 2021.
Spread over a sensational two days, the 2021 Mount Isa Show brings high hopes for the community to get out and celebrate Mount Isa, especially the tough year of the pandemic.
The Show showcases the best of Mount Isa, where there are ample displays and exhibitions to view, including entries in arts, photography, woodwork; quilting, horticulture, cooking, and much more. Live entertainment, plenty of food stalls, and market booths await, along with tons of free kids activities and experiences that the whole family can enjoy.
From getting up close and personal with wildlife and farm animals to aweing at sculptures and going on amusement rides, the range of events certainly caters to everyone no matter your age.
Entry is anticipated to be $25 per person, with the 2021 Mount Isa Show taking place at the Buchanan Park Events Complex.
Oh, and don’t miss out on your chance to win a 2020 Hyundai Kona Active (AWD) Automatic valued at $29,225, for only $25 a ticket, a draw hosted by the 2021 Mount Isa Show, taking place on Mother’s Day, 9 May 2021.
Mount Isa Mines Rodeo
Happening this 12 August 2021 to 15 August 2021, the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo is a truly exciting experience, being the largest rodeo in the Southern Hemisphere.
Luring cowboys and cowgirls from all over the country, the tradition dates back to 1959 where the first Isa Rodeo was staged. Attracting over 30,000 attendees from both national and international terrains, this event will certainly not disappoint. Rodeo competition includes bull riding, saddle bronc and bareback, street wrestling, roping, ladies barrel racing, and breakaway roping.
From the colour and scope of competitive events, to the marvellous sights, sounds, food, and entertainment, this is the place to sit back, relax, and enjoy the best of the Outback.
An exceptional dining experience at Mount Isa
If you’re looking to go all out on your Outback Queensland holiday, you definitely do not want to miss out on a true blue Aussie steakhouse experience at the Rodeo Bar & Grill Steakhouse.
Serving award-winning steaks, prime cut meats, all of which are grilled to perfection, you won’t find an experience like it anywhere else that isn’t in Outback Queensland. An open-style kitchen engages you with the exciting experience of an outback steakhouse as you watch your meals being cooked right in front of you and just the way you like it.
This western-themed bar and grill is open 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and is a dining experience you simply must try.
Banner image credit: Splendid Film Festival
