Get ready for the most Outback-tastic adventure of the year | July 2026
From thrilling camel races and live music to vibrant arts, local flavours and Outback storytelling, the Desert Champions Way: Outback Camel Trail is a month-long festival in July packed with action across iconic Outback Queensland towns, including Jundah, Birdsville, Bedourie, Boulia, and Winton.
Whether you’re cheering on the camels, dancing under the desert sky, or soaking up cameleer history, there’s something for every kind of traveller along the trail.
From the excitement of camel racing to live music, vibrant arts, local flavours, and storytelling under desert skies, the trail connects iconic towns including Jundah, Birdsville, Bedourie, Boulia, and Winton. Each stop offers its own unique slice of Outback life — from red-dirt racing and cameleer heritage to country hospitality and community spirit.
The Trail returns in July 2026, promising even more thrills, culture, and adventure across Australia’s desert heartland.
Follow the trail through the heart of Outback Queensland — from the first dust-up at Jundah to the grand finale in Winton.
Kicking off the Trail, the Jundah Camel Races deliver high-energy racing, bustling markets, and a true taste of Outback hospitality.
Set against the backdrop of the picturesque township of Jundah, it's the perfect start to your camel racing adventure.
4 July 2026
Learn more → Jundah Camel Races
Experience Birdsville like never before at the Birdsville Carnival, a spectacular celebration of heritage and Outback culture. Enjoy evening concerts at the Birdsville Hotel, camel rides, live entertainment, artisan markets, and the iconic Birdsville Bakery Camel Pies.
6-9 July 2026
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Welcome to Bedourie – the Town of Sand and Sun! Feel the rush of racing, enjoy family fun, and feast on local flavours amid the stunning red-dirt landscapes of the Diamantina Shire.
Whether you're cheering on the camels, exploring the community festivities, or soaking up the laid-back country charm, Bedourie Camel & Pig Races is the place to be!
Mark your calendar for a day of racing, fun, and Outback adventure!
11 July 2026
July 17–19, 2026
Known as Australia’s Richest Camel Races, Boulia is the beating heart of the Trail. Watch top camels thunder down the track, surrounded by fireworks, live music, and the friendly buzz of the Outback’s biggest celebration.
This three-day spectacle attracts thousands of spectators for high-stakes racing, live entertainment, and an electrifying festival atmosphere.
With fast-paced action, family-friendly fun, and unbeatable Outback hospitality, this is one of Australia’s most iconic racing events—a must-see for adventurers and racing fans alike!
As the camels come hurtling down the track through the plume of red dust, you’ll have one of those ‘this is epic’ moments. The big final: The Pacific Fuel Solutions Cup is Australia's most prestigious camel race —the longest and richest in Australia! It's the culmination of 2 days of professional camel races.
Poster girl - Right: Camel Dolly from Anna Bay, NSW, being ridden by Jockey Beaver at the Boulia Camel Races, features on the official Desert Champions Way: Outback Camel Trail 2025 poster and marketing.
It’s an outback adventure, in the land of the legendary Min Min Light, sharing extraordinary events with a bunch of new friends.
Beyond the camel races you’ll find live entertainment, food, fireworks, children’s amusements and a host of novelty races.
Experience the thrill of camel racing at its best!
Boulia Camel Races
The Trail’s grand finale unfolds in Winton, where camel racing meets storytelling, music, and arts in the birthplace of Waltzing Matilda.
It’s the perfect blend of Outback sport and soul.
Join us for an iconic end to the ultimate camel racing adventure!
25 July2026
Experience Winton
The Desert Champions Way returns in 2026 — bigger, bolder, and more Outback-tastic than ever!
Stay tuned for event announcements and get ready to trace the trail through Queensland’s most iconic desert towns — where the red dunes, warm welcomes, and unforgettable moments await.
Plan Your Queensland Outback Camel Trail Adventure HERE