The dust is flying, the camels are charging and one of Australia’s most unique Outback adventures has roared back to life.
The Desert Champions Way: Outback Camel Trail has officially kicked off, bringing four weeks of racing, storytelling and classic bush hospitality to some of Queensland’s most iconic remote towns.
And for travellers looking for something a little different, this isn’t just a race — it’s a full-blown Outback experience and a reminder that adventure doesn’t come with an age limit.
The trail begins in Jundah before rolling through Birdsville, Bedourie, Boulia and Winton, transforming the red dirt landscape into a celebration of camels, characters and country spirit.
While the four-legged athletes are the stars of the show, visitors can expect much more than a sprint to the finish line. The month-long adventure features live music, community festivals, markets, campfire storytelling, legendary Outback pubs and plenty of local characters.
Among those returning to the track are 2025 champions Polished Copper and Geoffrey, ready to defend their titles as camel racing’s unlikely sporting heroes.
One of the biggest highlights is the famous Boulia Camel Races, often dubbed the “Melbourne Cup of Camel Racing”, where competitors tackle Australia’s longest camel race over 1500 metres.
But organisers say the real magic is the journey itself.
It’s about the kilometres between towns, the sunsets that stop you in your tracks, conversations with strangers who quickly become mates, and discovering parts of Australia that still feel wonderfully untouched.
Recent rain has also delivered a bonus for visitors, with parts of the Outback bursting into colour as wildflowers transform the normally rugged landscape.
Camels also hold a special place in Australian history. Introduced in the 1800s, they became essential partners for cameleers who helped open up the nation’s remote interior, carrying supplies across harsh landscapes long before modern transport arrived.
Today, their descendants are part of a very different story — one filled with fun, competition and community pride.
For many travellers over 60, the event is also the perfect excuse to pack the caravan, hit the road and experience the freedom of the Outback.
Whether you’re cheering on a champion camel, enjoying a cold drink at an iconic country pub or simply ticking off a bucket-list adventure, the message from the bush is simple: the Outback is open — and it’s racing.
Jundah Camel Races – July 3 & 4, 2026:
Kicking off the Desert Champions Way: Outback Camel Trail, the Jundah Camel Races has added a day because one just wasn’t enough!! Joining the camel races will be sheep racing, working dog jumping, sheep penning on the Friday night, live entertainment and FREE CAMPING! This little Outback town with a big heart is home to incredible hospitality, great fishing, bird watching, sightseeing, swimming, canoeing, and boasts spectacular sunrises and sunsets! Follow (20+) Facebook for more
Birdsville Carnival – July 8 & 9, 2026:
The Birdsville Carnival is a spectacular new event celebrating the town’s deep-rooted history and Outback spirit, with live music celebrations at the legendary Birdsville Pub, Outback flavours at the renowned Birdsville Bakery (Camel Pie is a must taste!), family-friendly entertainment and more. All information HERE
Bedourie Camel & Pig Races – July 11, 2026:
Known as the “Town of Sand and Sun” – welcome to Bedourie where – and only in Outback Queensland – fans will experiences the thrill of camel racing, the hilarity of pig racing, and a whole variety of novelty events that make for bucket list memories! There’s food stalls and all the country hospitality this little town is famous for.
Boulia Camel Races – July 17–19, 2026:
Australia’s legendary and iconic Outback event is back, the Boulia Camel Races, aka the Melbourne Cup of Camel Racing. This is where horsepower steps aside and hump-power takes over. Experience on Saturday and Sunday camels thundering down the track in the epic 1200m Camel Cup, lawn mower races, boots & jock races, truck pull, camel tagging, yabby sprints, kids races, amusement rides and plenty of laughs, with live music under the stars Friday and Saturday nights. For tickets and more info visit www.bouliacamelraces.com.au
Winton Camel Races – July 25, 2026:
The finale of the trail takes place the legendary town of Winton, where visitors can enjoy camel racing alongside the town’s vibrant arts and music scene, including nods to its strong ties to Outback storytelling and history. The famed Crack Up Sisters will take the entertainment rein. The birthplace of Banjo Paterson’s “Waltzing Matilda”, Winton hosts more than just a race—it’s a celebration of Outback history, culture, and community spirit.
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