Desert Safaris AN INCREDIBLE ADVENTURE AWAITS - PRE-RELEASE BROCHURE 2020 - Outback Spirit Tours

Page created by Jerome Obrien
 
CONTINUE READING
Desert Safaris AN INCREDIBLE ADVENTURE AWAITS - PRE-RELEASE BROCHURE 2020 - Outback Spirit Tours
Desert
Safaris
AN INCREDIBLE
ADVENTURE
AWAITS
PRE-RELEASE BROCHURE 2020
OUTBACKSPIRITTOURS.COM.AU
Desert Safaris AN INCREDIBLE ADVENTURE AWAITS - PRE-RELEASE BROCHURE 2020 - Outback Spirit Tours
Desert Safaris AN INCREDIBLE ADVENTURE AWAITS - PRE-RELEASE BROCHURE 2020 - Outback Spirit Tours
Welcome to
a path less travelled
The Canning Stock Route & Simpson Desert

Deep in the heart of Australia’s remote desert country lies some
of the most spellbinding scenery on earth. The unique, beautiful
yet fragile environment will surprise and delight, and there’s
always more than meets the eye. But because of the immense
challenges of simply getting there, very few have seen it.
The planning, expertise and equipment that’s needed for an adventure down the Canning Stock
Route or across the Simpson Desert is often beyond even the most enthusiastic outback traveller.
Just the cost of doing it under your own steam is astronomical. People who have ventured
into these areas with us speak of a dream that would never have been fulfilled if it wasn’t for
Outback Spirit. They didn’t want to do it themselves, and simply wouldn’t trust anyone else in
such remote, unforgiving country.

One of the most appealing aspects of our desert safaris is the ability to use a proper flushing toilet,
and have a hot shower. Providing this in the middle of a desert is no mean feat (see to page 5 for
more details). Putting comfort to one side, these remote adventures also hinge on having the right
tour drivers and back-up support. Our team of drivers are experienced professionals, as are our
specially trained Mercedes Benz technicians who are on call 24 hours a day.

We hope you’ll join us on a path less travelled in 2020.

Andre & Courtney Ellis
Brothers / Founders / Owners
Desert Safaris AN INCREDIBLE ADVENTURE AWAITS - PRE-RELEASE BROCHURE 2020 - Outback Spirit Tours
Desert Safaris AN INCREDIBLE ADVENTURE AWAITS - PRE-RELEASE BROCHURE 2020 - Outback Spirit Tours
3

The incredible
Mercedes Benz
G Wagon
The Mercedes Benz G Wagon is one of the most
capable and robust all-terrain vehicles in the world.
Off-road, they are unrivalled. Comfort-wise, nothing
comes close. And then, there’s the engineering and
safety which Mercedes Benz is renowned for.
Like the Australian Defence Force, we have a fleet that consists of 6x6 and 4x4
G Wagons. The 6x6 vehicles underpin the whole expedition thanks to their high
payload, allowing us to carry our own kitchen and amenities units, both of
which were custom made and engineered for Outback Spirit. The amenities
unit features two shower/toilet cubicles and retains all toilet waste for disposal
in town. For a trip like this, the ability to have a hot shower and flushing
toilet makes all the difference.
All passenger seats in the G Wagons face forward, are full size and have seat belts
(seat rotations occur daily). They feature good legroom (far more than normal
4WD vehicles), great visibility and are very comfortable. The vehicles are also
equipped with satellite telephones and advanced medical kits.
Outback Spirit’s investment in these vehicles totals $4 million, or $2 million
per convoy. They are the most capable commercial expedition fleets in Australian
touring history, something you’re sure to attest to if you come aboard for an
adventure like no other.
Desert Safaris AN INCREDIBLE ADVENTURE AWAITS - PRE-RELEASE BROCHURE 2020 - Outback Spirit Tours
Desert Safaris AN INCREDIBLE ADVENTURE AWAITS - PRE-RELEASE BROCHURE 2020 - Outback Spirit Tours
5

Camp in
Comfort
The idea of going without basic comforts is enough
to turn anyone off heading bush. Digging holes or
hooking up a cumbersome hot water apparatus is
no one’s idea of a good time. This is why our desert
safaris are so unique.
Aboard each of our six-wheel-drive military style G Wagons is a specially designed
and engineered pod. One vehicle houses a mobile kitchen, whilst the other features
two equal sized bathrooms, complete with hot showers and flushing toilets.
A work of art, this incredible amenity unit features a hydraulically raiseable roof,
large water storage and return effluent tank. So, in addition to providing that
all-important level of comfort, we’re also looking after the environment by
removing waste instead of burying it in the scrub.
In each Desert Safari crew there’s an experienced camp cook who’ll provide
delicious cuisine for the expedition. And, with ample refrigeration and a resupply
rendezvous (on the Canning), we’re never short of good quality, fresh food.
Of course a good night’s rest is just as important as a shower and a good meal,
so we’ve provided the best camping equipment available to make the experience
as enjoyable as possible. The large tents are easy to erect with only one centre
pole and a few pegs. You’ll be sleeping off the ground on a sturdy lightweight
stretcher bed, with a self-inflating mattress to go on top. As the desert nights
can get quite cold, we also provide you with a high quality sleeping bag to keep
you warm and comfortable.
No campsite is complete without a crackling fire, and it’s here that you’ll
be able to relax and unwind at the end of the day, chatting to new friends
under the desert stars.
Desert Safaris AN INCREDIBLE ADVENTURE AWAITS - PRE-RELEASE BROCHURE 2020 - Outback Spirit Tours
Desert Safaris AN INCREDIBLE ADVENTURE AWAITS - PRE-RELEASE BROCHURE 2020 - Outback Spirit Tours
Freecall 1800 688 222                                                                                                                                                    7

            2020 Pre-release Offers

                 SAVE $1250PP                                          up
                                                                       to
                                                                                                                                        *

                        HURRY! STRICTLY LIMITED AVAILABILITY
                          MUST BOOK BY 30 SEPTEMBER 2019

         PRE-RELEASE DISCOUNT                                                               EARLY PAYMENT INCENTIVE

                      Save $900                                                       Save up to an
                      per person                                                  + additional $350pp
             Book before our official brochure                                                         Pay your tour in full by
           is released to enjoy massive savings.                                              30 September 2019 and save even more
            Must book by 30 September 2019                                                        off the price of your adventure

                  +                                                                                       +
           Past Passenger                                                                       Travel with friends &
          Loyalty Rewards                                                                        Save even more!
              TRAVELLED                    DISCOUNT                                                     GROUP SIZE                    DISCOUNT

                           Once            Save $150pp                                                        4 travellers            Save $150pp
                   2 – 3 tours             Save $250pp                                                   5 – 7 travellers             Save $200pp
            4 or more tours                Save $350pp                                                         8 or more              Please Enquire

     *Conditions Apply. Pre-release offers are available for bookings made on or before 30 September 2019 for travel in 2020. Discounts vary between months of travel.
                  $1250 per person saving represents Pre-release offer combined with maximum Early Payment Incentive. All discounts can be combined.

             Call 1800 688 222 or visit www.outbackspirittours.com.au
Desert Safaris AN INCREDIBLE ADVENTURE AWAITS - PRE-RELEASE BROCHURE 2020 - Outback Spirit Tours
Canning
Stock Route
Expedition
16 DAYS | 15 NIGHTS
BROOME – NEWMAN (AND VICE VERSA)
Includes flight from Newman to Perth on day 16

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Journey down the longest and most remote stock route
  in the world, from Billiluna to Wiluna (or vice-versa)
• Spend 12 nights on the stock route in scenic locations,
  including the oasis of Durba Springs, described as one of
  the most beautiful locations in Australia
• Learn the rich history behind many of the 51 Wells
  installed in 1910 to provide drinking water to the cattle
  (and drovers!)
• Visit Breaden Pool, the Breaden Hills and Godfrey Tank
• Camp on the banks of Lake Disappointment for an
  unforgettable sunset over the salt flats
• Gain an insight into the unique and ancient culture of the
  Western Desert people who have occupied this remote
  area for over 30,000 years
• Travel through the traditional lands of the Martu People
  and view Western Desert rock art
• Enjoy travelling the route in comfort, with hot showers,
  flushing toilets & exceptional catering
• Travel in a specialised convoy of 5 Mercedes Benz
  G Wagons, offering unrivalled capability, reliability
  and comfort
Freecall 1800 688 222                                                                                 9

                                                                         Watch the video
                                                                         for this tour on
                                                                           our website

ACCOMMODATION & ITINERARY SNAPSHOT

DAY DESTINATION                        ACCOMMODATION   DAY   DESTINATION              ACCOMMODATION

  1    Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa   Accommodated     9    Well 24                  Camping

  2    Tanami Track                    Camping         10    Lake Disappointment      Camping

  3    Canning's 303 Marker            Camping         11    Durba Springs            Camping

  4    Well 46                         Camping         12    Durba Springs            Camping

  5    Well 42                         Camping         13    McConkey Hill            Camping

  6    Well 38                         Camping         14    Well 1                   Camping

  7    Well 33                         Camping         15    Seasons Hotel, Newman    Accommodated

  8    Thring Rock                     Camping         16    Tour Concludes
10                                                                                                                                 outbackspirittours.com.au

Canning Stock Route
Expedition
16 DAYS | DELUXE CAMPING | BROOME – NEWMAN (INCLUDES FLIGHT TO PERTH ON DAY 16)

Your Journey                                           DAY 5
                                                       Well 45 – The Great Sandy Desert –
                                                                                                             After morning tea, we continue south to Well
                                                                                                             36 where you’ll learn about Eileen and George
                                                       Gravity Lakes                                         Lanagan. We then press on and make camp
DAY 1                                                                                                        at Well 33 on the outskirts of Kunawarritji
Meet in Broome                                         Today we tackle the Great Sandy Desert and head       Aboriginal Community, one of the most remote
Today you’ll be picked up from Broome airport          to an area known as Gravity Lakes. We’ll make         communities in Australia. Well 33 has a large
by your Outback Spirit safari team and whisked         brief stops at a couple of wells, spending longer     water tank and windmill providing plenty of
off to Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa.                  at Well 43 - traditionally known as Billowaggi.       fresh water, so it’s a good spot to catch up on
This evening, meet your fellow adventurers             A drive over the Guli Lake System takes us to our     some washing. This afternoon we also meet our
during your pre-tour briefing, enjoy dinner            camping spot just north of the Helena Springs         resupply plane at the airstrip. Meals: B.L.D
together and start to get a little excited. Meals: D   Track. Make camp amongst the gum trees and
                                                       enjoy another magnificent evening under the           DAY 8
DAY 2                                                  desert stars. Meals: B.L.D
                                                                                                             Wells 32, 31 & 30 – Thring Rock
The Adventure Begins                                                                                         This morning we stock up on diesel from the
                                                       DAY 6
This morning we depart Broome for the                                                                        community store and continue our adventure
adventure of a lifetime. Follow the Great
                                                       Tiru – Tobin Lake – Wardabunni                        south to Wells 32 (Mallowa), 31 (Wullowla)
Northern Highway to Fitzroy Crossing before            Our first stop this morning is at Well 41, also       and 30 (Duna Jinnda). Enjoy lunch under the
continuing to our first campsite near Halls Creek.     called ‘Tiru’ by traditional owners. The area         shady trees surrounding Well 30 before trekking
Your crew will help you become familiar with the       surrounding ‘Tiru’ has better than average soil       on to Thring Rock, named by Larry Wells in 1896
camping equipment and prepare a sumptuous              which in turn provided good feed for the mobs         after a member of John McDouall Stuart’s 1862
dinner under the stars. Meals: B.L.D                   of cattle that were driven down the track.            expedition across Australia. Thring Rock is an
                                                       Well 40 has some fascinating history regarding        impressive sandstone outcrop, and a short climb
DAY 3                                                  a fellow called Michael Tobin, who was part of        to the lookout provides exceptional views of the
Billiluna – Crystal Well – Canning's                   the original 1906 survey expedition.                  surrounding countryside. Tonight, we camp at
303 marker                                             After some morning tea we trek across Lake            the base of Thring Rock. Meals: B.L.D
Anticipation grows today as we travel down the         Tobin to arrive at Well 39, home to hundreds
                                                       of budgerigars that thrive on the surface water       DAY 9
Tanami Road and reach the official start of the
Canning Stock Route at Billiluna. From here we         provided by the well, now in ruins. We then arrive    The Beautiful Desert Oaks
pass Bloodwood bore, Well 51 and Well 49 -             at Wardabunni Rockhole, the location of Well 38       After breakfast we pack up camp and traverse
known as the ‘Crystal Well’ because of its reliable    which was created when members of Canning’s           numerous sand dunes en route to Well 27.
drinking water. Our first night on the stock route     party blasted a hole in the rocky creek bed.          Enjoy a short morning tea break before
will be nearby at Canning’s 303 Marker.                Water was abundant but it proved difficult to         continuing to Well 26, recently restored
Meals: B.L.D                                           persuade cattle to drink at the site. Nevertheless,   to provide excellent drinking water. After
                                                       it makes for a lovely campsite. Meals: B.L.D          replenishing the convoy’s water tanks, we push
DAY 4                                                                                                        on to Well 25 for lunch under the shade of some
Godfrey Tank & Breaden Pool                            DAY 7                                                 beautiful Desert Oak trees. This afternoon we
Our destinations today were named after two
                                                       The Mystery of Well 37 – Kunawarritji                 arrive at Well 24, located just past the intersection
                                                       After packing up camp our first stop is Well          of the Talawana Track. Set up camp and get ready
members of David Carnegie’s expedition of 1896.
                                                       37, a place shrouded in mystery since the first       for a superb sunset. Meals: B.L.D
As the party desperately searched for water,
Godfrey Massie found a huge natural stone              cattle drive down the stock route in 1910.
                                                       About 150 bullocks were being driven by George        DAY 10
catchment, hence the name ‘Godfrey Tank’.
Another party member, Joe Breaden, also found          Shoesmith, James Thompson, Fred Terone                Georgia Bore – Lake Disappointment
water in a lower area which was named Breaden          and an Indigenous stockman called ‘Chinaman’.         Today’s section of the route is also part of the
Pool. Today we’ll explore the wonderful natural        After Fred Terone headed back to Halls Creek          Talawana Track, which if followed west for
features of these waterholes before continuing         due to illness, the remaining men pushed on to        450kms will take you to Newman. We'll pass
our journey south. Briefly stop at Wells 48 and        Well 37 where they were later found dead under        by the Capricorn Roadhouse fuel dump, where
47 before tackling the first of the big sand dunes.    mysterious circumstances. Their graves have           many travellers pre-arrange a ‘fuel drop’ through
Tonight, we camp at Well 46. Meals: B.L.D              been preserved near the well.                         the Capricorn Roadhouse. Fuel is carted out in
Freecall 1800 688 222                                                                                                                                           11

                                                                                                                pass Wells 14 and 13 before reaching Well 12,
                                                                                                                which offers excellent drinking water thanks to a
                                                                                                                recent restoration. After replenishing our water
                                                                                                                supplies, we continue on to McConkey Hill near
                                                                                                                Well 10 and set up camp. Meals: B.L.D

                                                                                                                DAY 14
                                                                                                                Glen-Ayle Station – Wiluna – Well 1
                                                                                                                Also known as Weld Springs, Well 9 is where
                                                                                                                the remote pastoral property Glen-Ayle
                                                                                                                Station begins, evident by the cattle yards and
                                                                                                                infrastructure. It’s also where John Forrest, the
                                                                                                                first premier of Western Australia, was forced to
                                                                                                                build a small fort in 1874. Here, we deviate from
                                                                                                                the official stock route and travel through
44-gallon drums with names written on top, but       Rockhole before arriving at one of the most                Glen-Ayle Station to Wiluna. After refuelling, we
with the availability of fuel at Kunawarritji the    scenic parts of the entire stock route, Durba              return to the stock route and set up camp at
practice has become less popular.                    Springs (Jilikuru). We’ll camp here for two nights         Well 1. Meals: B.L.D
This morning we make a stop at Georgia Bore,         to get the most out of this truly magnificent
which is not a traditional Canning well but a        setting. Meals: B.L.D                                      DAY 15
bore drilled by CRA for use by their survey crews                                                               Hello Newman
in the 1970’s. We then trek on towards Lake          DAY 12                                                     Today marks the end of our journey along the
Disappointment, an ephemeral salt-lake named         Durba Springs                                              Canning Stock Route as we meet up with the
by Frank Hann in 1897. After following the           Durba Springs was always a popular spot for                Great Northern Highway. Arrive into Newman
direction of several creek beds, Hann was            drovers to rest up for a few days while driving            early this afternoon and check in to the Seasons
expecting to find a large freshwater lake.           cattle down from the East Kimberley. The area,             Hotel, with time to unwind before our final
He instead came across a large dry salt-lake,        traditionally called ‘Jilikuru’ by the Martu people,       celebratory dinner together. Meals: B.L.D
hence the name ‘Lake Disappointment’.                is also home to a number of distinctive Western
This afternoon we set up camp on the banks of        Desert Aboriginal rock art sites. This morning,            DAY 16
Lake Disappointment and watch the spectacular        enjoy guided walks around the Durba Hills taking           Farewell, But Not Goodbye
panorama come alive as the sun sets. Meals: B.L.D    in some of the art sites. The afternoon can be             Enjoy breakfast together once more, before being
                                                     spent at your leisure. Meals: B.L.D                        transferred to the Newman airport for your flight
DAY 11                                                                                                          to Perth*. Farewell, until your next Outback Spirit
Tropic of Capricorn – Durba Springs                  DAY 13                                                     adventure! Meals: B
After breaking camp this morning we follow the       Well 16 through to Well 10
                                                                                                                * Please confirm the time of your included flight
western edge of Lake Disappointment to Savory        Well rested, we begin early and head south to              with our office. This flight can be excluded from
Creek. Depending on recent rainfall, we may          Well 16. Here you’ll learn of the area’s torturous         the package.
need to travel further west to avoid the muddy       history before moving on to Well 15, where we
creek bed. We’ll pass by Well 19 and Onegunyah       stop at the lookout for morning tea. Next, we
                                                                                                                  G HURRY!

2020 PRICING, DATES & PRE-RELEASE OFFERS                                                                            Must book by 30 September
                                                                                                                    to obtain pre-release offer!
16 DAYS | 15 NIGHTS                                   2020 DEPARTURE DATES                                        PRE-RELEASE OFFER

$12,795 per person twin share
        Less any discounts                             MAY 1, 20*

$12,495 excluding Newman to Perth airfare
                                                       JUN      9, 28*
Single Supplement:                 $395
Deposit required on booking:       $2,500pp
                                                       JUL      10, 18                                                     SAVE $900
TOUR INCLUSIONS                                                                                                                   per person
                                                       AUG      6*, 26
      Small group size 19
  	All meals, including all breakfasts,
    lunches and dinners whilst on tour                 SEP      14*

   	All attraction, entry & national park fees      NOTE: Departures with an * next to them operate in the opposite direction. Reverse itinerary available on request.
      2 Nights of exceptional accommodation
      13 Nights of deluxe camping with full             EARLY PAYMENT INCENTIVE
      facilities, including hot showers & flushing
                                                       Pay your tour in full by 30 September 2019 and save an additional $350 per person.
      toilets. All equipment is provided and is
      the most modern, comfortable and user
      friendly available
                                                        LOYALTY DISCOUNT                                           GROUP DISCOUNT
   	One-way flight from Newman to Perth, or
     Perth to Newman on reverse departures              Travelled                Discount                          Group size               Discount
                                                        Once                     Save $150pp                       4 travellers         Save $150pp
   	Travel aboard specialised convoy of tour
     vehicles – the Mercedes Benz G Wagon               2-3 tours                Save $250pp                       5-7 travellers       Save $200pp
                                                        4 or more tours          Save $350pp                       8 or more travellers Please enquire
      Services of 5 professional driver guides
Simpson
Desert
Expedition
14 DAYS | 13 NIGHTS
ALICE SPRINGS – BIRDSVILLE
AND RETURN

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Cross the world’s largest parallel sand dune desert with
  an expert safari crew
• Travel in comfort with hot showers, flushing toilets
  & exceptional catering
• Discover the rich Aboriginal and European history
  of the area
• Visit Dalhousie Springs and enjoy a swim in the thermal
  pools, the largest surface expression of the Great
  Artesian Basin
• Follow the historic Old Ghan Railway to Finke
• Travel the infamous French Line through the Simpson
  Desert Regional Reserve
• Camp at Chambers Pillar and admire a spectacular sunset
  from the viewing platform
• Spend 2 nights at the Birdsville Hotel in the middle
  of the adventure
• Explore the northern Simpson Desert along the Hay River
  Track, running between the dunes
• Visit Goyder’s Pillar near Batton Hill
• Discover Ewaninga Rock Carvings and visit Tapatjatjaka
  Art & Craft Centre
• Travel in a specialised convoy of 5 Mercedes Benz
  G Wagons, offering unrivalled capability, reliability
  and comfort
Freecall 1800 688 222                                                                                          13

ACCOMMODATION & ITINERARY SNAPSHOT

DAY DESTINATION                           ACCOMMODATION   DAY DESTINATION                     ACCOMMODATION

  1    The Mercure Alice Springs Resort   Accommodated     8   Birdsville Hotel               Accommodated

  2    Chambers Pillar                    Camping          9   Eyre Creek                     Camping

  3    Mt Dare                            Camping         10   Hay River                      Camping

  4    French Line                        Camping         11   Tropic of Capricorn            Camping

  5    French Line                        Camping         12   Batton Hill Camp               Camping

  6    French Line                        Camping         13   The Mercure Alice Springs Resort Accommodated

  7    Birdsville Hotel                   Accommodated    14   Tour Concludes
14                                                                                                                                outbackspirittours.com.au

Simpson Desert
Expedition
14 DAYS | DELUXE CAMPING | ALICE SPRINGS - BIRDSVILLE AND RETURN

Your Journey                                         Later this morning we continue heading south
                                                     to Titjikala and visit the Tapatjatjaka Art and Craft
                                                                                                             DAY 4
                                                                                                             Dalhousie Springs – Simpson Desert
                                                     Centre. Browse through the gallery and chat to          Regional Reserve
DAY 1                                                local artists before heading west to Chambers
Your Adventure Begins in Alice Springs               Pillar Historical Reserve. Here, we’ll set up camp      Among the sand dunes and floodplains of the
Upon your arrival in Alice Springs today you’ll      and your crew will help you get familiarised with       Simpson Desert’s western edge lies a series of
be met at the airport by your friendly and           the equipment. Late this afternoon, enjoy a             thermal springs surrounded by lush vegetation
professional safari crew. Check in to the Mercure    walk to Chambers Pillar for a magnificent desert        and an abundance of wildlife. Inscribed onto
Alice Springs Resort and join your fellow            sunset. Meals: B.L.D                                    the Australian National Heritage List in 2009,
adventurers for a trip briefing. The rest of the                                                             Dalhousie Springs is the largest surface expression
afternoon can be spent at your leisure before a      DAY 3                                                   of the Great Artesian Basin and was used as a
                                                                                                             source of food and medicine by Aboriginal people
welcome dinner at the hotel restaurant. Meals: D     Finke – Mt. Dare
                                                                                                             for thousands of years. The springs are home
                                                     This morning we depart Chambers Pillar and              to unique species of fish such as the Lake Eyre
DAY 2                                                once again follow the Old Ghan Railway south.           Hardyhead, and other rare aquatic life found
Alice Springs – Tapatjatjaka Art and Craft           Your knowledgeable guides will tell you all about       nowhere else in the world. They’re also a haven
Centre – Chambers Pillar                             this fascinating part of Australian history as you      for arid-land birdlife.
Today the adventure begins as we depart Alice        head towards Finke. This afternoon we pass
                                                                                                             This morning we arrive at Dalhousie Springs for
Springs and follow the Old Ghan Railway south.       through Charlotte Waters, the site of an old
                                                                                                             morning tea and a swim in this beautiful oasis.
Stop to view the Ewaninga Rock Carvings, a           Telegraph Repeater station built in 1872, before
                                                                                                             We then begin our crossing of the Simpson
highly-concentrated series of petroglyphs which      crossing the NT/SA border. From here we head
                                                                                                             Desert, the largest parallel sand dune desert in
provide a valuable link to the activities of early   into the vast Witjira National Park and on to Mt.
                                                                                                             the world. In total, over 1100 dunes run parallel
Arrernte Aboriginal people. Sandstone outcrops       Dare Hotel, the last we’ll see of civilisation before
                                                                                                             to one another from the Witjira National Park
form natural galleries which contain a great         heading into the desert. Here we’ll make camp
                                                                                                             to Birdsville. Travelling east we cross the vast
variety of symbols and motifs.                       for the night and enjoy dinner at the hotel.
                                                                                                             floodplains of Spring Creek Delta before
                                                     Meals: B.L.D
                                                                                                              arriving at the first of the dunes, which start
                                                                                                              out small and then gradually increase in size.
                                                                                                              Continue to Purni Bore, an uncapped bore
                                                                                                              from the 1960’s which has created an artificial
                                                                                                              wetland in the desert.
                                                                                                             This afternoon, trek further into the Simpson
                                                                                                             before making camp along the French Line.
                                                                                                             Meals: B.L.D

                                                                                                             DAYS 5, 6 & 7
                                                                                                             Crossing the Simpson
                                                                                                             Over the next three days we continue trekking
                                                                                                             east along the French Line but also follow
                                                                                                             other tracks including the WAA and K1 Lines.
                                                                                                             On occasions we’ll divert down other seismic
                                                                                                             survey tracks to points of interest, such as the
                                                                                                             Approdinna Attora Knolls. Standing out amongst
                                                                                                             the red sand, these two flat topped hills of white
                                                                                                             gypseous rock were once dunes formed of flour
                                                                                                             gypsum that later hardened to their present
                                                                                                             form. Today they offer some of the best views
                                                                                                             in the Simpson.
Freecall 1800 688 222                                                                                                                                    15

Our camp sites for each evening will be between         of Annandale Station, the first QLD station          After lunch, continue heading north to the Tropic
the Simpson’s red dunes. Clumps of shady gidgee         purchased by Sir Sidney Kidman in 1896.              of Capricorn, where we’ll set up camp nearby.
trees can be found in some of the dune corridors,       This afternoon we make camp along the                Meals: B.L.D
which make for ideal campsites.                         Eyre Creek. Meals: B.L.D
A climb to the top of the nearest dune at sunset                                                             DAY 12
is well worth the effort; the breathtaking view and     DAY 10                                               Tropic of Capricorn – Batton Hill Camp
change in colours a true feast for the eyes. In the     Hay River Track                                      This morning we pass by Vantage Point, with
evening, enjoy sitting around the campfire as your      In the winter of 1939, explorer Cecil Madigan        views to Mt Winnecke. We then follow the
crew prepare dinner and explain the fascinating         from Renmark undertook a crossing of the             Hay River to Batton Hill Camp, a serviced camp
landscape. On clear nights, star gazing is truly an     Simpson Desert with a party of nine, including       site managed by Traditional Owners in the far
incredible experience in the Simpson.                   a biologist, botanist, photographer and a radio      north of the Simpson. After setting up camp,
On Day 7, travel south along the K1 line from           operator. With nineteen camels, the expedition       we head off to take a look at the imposing
Poeppel Corner to the Warburton Creek                   team made the exhausting crossing from Andado        Goyder’s Pillar. We then return to camp and soak
before meeting up with the Birdsville Track.            Station in the Northern Territory to Birdsville      up the majesty of the Simpson for the last time.
From here we head north and arrive in Birdsville        in twenty-five days. The expedition is regarded      Meals: B.L.D
late afternoon for our two-night stay at the            as one of the last classic Australian exploration
Birdsville Pub. Enjoy a few nights in relative luxury   adventures. It also pioneered the use of mobile      DAY 13
and prepare for the next leg of the journey!            radio communication, with national broadcasts        Batton Hill Camp – Alice Springs
Meals: B.L.D - daily                                    being made through the ABC from desert camps
                                                                                                             Returning to civilisation, we pack up camp for
                                                        along the journey.
                                                                                                             the final time and trek west to join up with the
DAY 8                                                   This morning we pass by Madigan Camps 21             Plenty Highway. From here we’ll travel alongside
Birdsville Rest Day                                     and 20 before entering the Munga-Thirri              Harts Range before passing through Gemtree and
Today is a day of rest for passengers and crew          (Simpson Desert) National Park. Heading              joining up to the Stuart Highway. From here it’s
alike. Catch up on some washing, visit some of          west, we start climbing the dunes again before       just a short run south to where it all began –
the sights around town or wander down to the            arriving at the intersection of the Hay River        Alice Springs. Arriving mid-afternoon, we check in
edge of the Diamantina River. Our meals for the         Track and Madigan’s Camp 16, where there is a        to the Mercure Alice Springs Resort for the final
day will be at the hotel. Meals: B.L.D                  Eucalypt with a faint blaze from Madigan’s 1939      night of our adventure. Enjoy a celebratory dinner
                                                        expedition. From here we head north, travelling      together and relive the expedition with your
DAY 9                                                   within the dune corridors alongside the Hay River.   fellow travellers. Meals: B.L.D
                                                        Despite the river being mainly dry, there are
Birdsville – Nappanerica – Madigan Line
                                                        some towering River Red Gums in sections.            DAY 14
Time to saddle up again and head back in to the         This afternoon we make camp in a picturesque
mighty Simpson. Our first challenge for the day is                                                           Tour concludes
                                                        spot beside the river. Meals: B.L.D
Nappanerica (Big Red) which affords sensational                                                              After breakfast this morning you’ll be transferred
panoramic views over the desert plains once             DAY 11                                               to the airport or to your accommodation if
the top is reached. From here we take the QAA                                                                staying on in ‘the Alice’. Meals: B
                                                        Hay River Track – Lake Caroline –
line to the Eyre Creek, where we’ll start trekking
north along the Madigan Line through Adria              Tropic of Capricorn
Downs Station (Adria Downs is private property.         Our journey today continues alongside the Hay
Outback Spirit has special permission to traverse       River and up to Lake Caroline, a vast claypan that
through the station). Learn about the history           on occasions contains water.
                                                                                                              G HURRY!

2020 PRICING, DATES & PRE-RELEASE OFFERS                                                                         Must book by 30 September
                                                                                                                 to obtain pre-release offer!
14 DAYS | 13 NIGHTS                                      2020 DEPARTURE DATES                                 PRE-RELEASE OFFER

$11,695 per person twin share
        Less any discounts                                APR     27

Single Supplement:                   $425
                                                          MAY 14
Deposit required on booking:         $2,500pp

TOUR INCLUSIONS                                           JUN     2, 19                                                SAVE $900
      Small group size 19
                                                                                                                              per person
                                                          AUG     4, 22
   	All meals, including all breakfasts,
     lunches and dinners whilst on tour
                                                          SEP     9
   	All attraction, entry & national park fees
      4 Nights of good quality hotel
      accommodation                                       EARLY PAYMENT INCENTIVE
      9 Nights of deluxe camping with full                Pay your tour in full by 30 September 2019 and save an additional $300 per person.
      facilities, including hot showers & flushing
      toilets. All equipment is provided and is
      the most modern, comfortable and user               LOYALTY DISCOUNT                                     GROUP DISCOUNT
      friendly available
                                                          Travelled               Discount                     Group size              Discount
   	Travel aboard specialised convoy of tour             Once                    Save $150pp                  4 travellers         Save $150pp
     vehicles – the Mercedes Benz G Wagon
                                                          2-3 tours               Save $250pp                  5-7 travellers       Save $200pp
      Services of 5 professional driver guides            4 or more tours         Save $350pp                  8 or more travellers Please enquire
Terms & Conditions
                                                                                      HEALTH & FITNESS Most of our tour itineraries contain guided
                                                                                      sightseeing walks to natural attractions. As such passengers are required
                                                                                      to have a reasonable level of fitness in order to participate in such walks.
The Terms & Conditions under which Outback Spirit Tours operate are                   Some walking tracks have sections of uneven rocky ground and may be
detailed below. Payment of the Tour deposit represents an acceptance of               slippery. The walks on our tours vary in length, so please read your chosen
the Terms & Conditions.                                                               itinerary for further information or contact one of our friendly travel
                                                                                      consultants who will be able to describe the walk to you. If passengers feel
BOOKINGS & DEPOSITS The deposit payable to confirm a reservation is
                                                                                      they are unable to participate in the walk on the day, alternative arrangements
shown in the pricing section on each of the tour pages within this brochure.
                                                                                      will be made with adequate provision for passenger comfort and safety.
To confirm a tour booking, the deposit must be paid at the time of making
the reservation by credit card or direct deposit. Credit cards accepted are           Whilst on a bushwalk it is the responsibility of each passenger to carry
Visa and MasterCard. If paying by cheque, Outback Spirit will allow 7 days for        adequate drinking water. Bottles are supplied as part of the explorer pack
the cheque to be received in our office.                                              which is included in each tour fare. If passengers elect not to receive the pack,
                                                                                      they must source and bring another water bottle on tour. All Outback Spirit
CREDIT CARD FEES If paying by credit card a small transaction fee of 1% is
                                                                                      coaches feature a water refilling point.
applicable. Cards accepted are Visa and MasterCard.
AT TIME OF BOOKING Passengers are asked to notify Outback Spirit of any               GENERAL MOBILITY AND SPECIAL ASSISTANCE Passengers are required
special requirements (for example health or diet) at the time the booking             to have a reasonable level of mobility to be able to board and alight the
is made. Outback Spirit will advise all third parties such as hotels and cruise       safari vehicles unaided. Due to space restrictions aboard our vehicles we
operators of these requirements and will endeavour to ensure they are met.            are unable to accommodate passengers who require the use of wheelchairs
However, we cannot guarantee that all special requirements will be met in             or walkers. Our vehicles are not equipped with wheelchair ramps or lifters.
all instances.                                                                        Passengers requiring physical or mental assistance must be accompanied by
                                                                                      a companion who is willing and capable of providing such assistance.
FINAL PAYMENTS The final payment for our booking must be received in
our office no later than 100 days prior to your departure date. This payment          LARGE GROUPS/EXCLUSIVE USE For large groups taking an entire
date will be clearly spelt out on your booking documentation. For bookings            departure, different terms and conditions apply. Please contact our office
made within 100 days of the tour departure the full payment will be required          for details.
within 7 days. If taking the early payment discount final payment must be             RISKS, PARTICIPATION & ENJOYMENT
received by 30-09-2019.                                                               • 	Smoking is not permitted on board Outback Spirit Tour vehicles.
PASSENGER CANCELLATIONS Cancellation fees will be levied relative to                  •	Seat allocations on board Outback Spirit G Wagon safari vehicles operate
the amount of notice given and must be received in writing or by email.                   with a daily seat rotation system to ensure passengers enjoy different
  Days Notice     180 or more     100–179 Days      60–99 Days    Less than 60 Days
                                                                                          seating positions whilst on tour.
    Fee PP       50% of deposit   Loss of deposit   50% of fare     100% of fare      •	Passengers accept that tours include participation in activities which may
                                                                                          involve certain risks and dangers beyond the control of Outback Spirit.
DATE CHANGES Changing to another tour departure for the same tour                         Such activities containing risks include, but are not limited to, bush
is permitted if there is sufficient availability and the new date falls within            walking, swimming, and travelling in remote undeveloped locations.
150 days of the old departure date and is within the same calendar year.              •	Passengers accept that Outback Spirit’s desert safaris travel through
Requests must be made at least 60 days prior to travel. If an alternate date              extremely remote regions for days on end. Overnight stays are in extremely
is unavailable or unsuitable and you cannot travel on the original date your              remote areas located far away from hospitals, medical centres or other
booking will be subject to our standard cancellation terms detailed above.                forms of professional medical facilities. Outback Spirit crew members
TOUR FARES The tour fares quoted in this brochure are per person twin                     all have current first aid qualifications. The vehicles carry an extensive
share. Single supplements are applicable for single travellers requesting                 medical chest and numerous satellite telephones. In the event of a medical
single accommodation. Forced singles are also required to pay the single                  evacuation, Outback Spirit will liaise with the Royal Flying Doctor Service
supplement. The tour fares quoted in this brochure are valid for the 2020                 who will be met at the closest possible airfield for passenger extraction.
calendar year.                                                                        •	Passengers accept that it is their responsibility to ensure that their health
The tour fares quoted are in Australian Dollars (A$) and include Australian               is in a state which will allow them to enjoy the tour and successfully
Goods and Services Tax (GST).                                                             complete the activities that the tour offers.
PRE RELEASE OFFER The pre-release offers detailed in this brochure are                •	Passengers will not be permitted to continue on tours when in the opinion
applicable to bookings made on or before Monday 30th September 2019, for                  of the Outback Spirit Tour Leader, the passenger’s conduct or condition is
travel in 2020.                                                                           placing their own or the safety of other passengers at risk, or is adversely
TRAVEL INSURANCE Outback Spirit strongly advises passengers to take out                   affecting the enjoyment of other passengers; for whatever cause.
travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances, such as cancellation.         •	Outback Spirit will take all reasonable steps to provide an enjoyable tour.
We recommend that you do this at the time of booking to insure your                       However, no liability will be accepted for any loss of enjoyment experienced
deposit. Outback Spirit can organise and issue this insurance for you.                    by passengers due to circumstances which are out of our control.
LUGGAGE LIMITS Each passenger is entitled to take one medium size                     DISPUTE RESOLUTION Should any dispute arise between Outback Spirit
suitcase weighing no more than 14 kg. The sum of each case’s width, length            and a passenger, it is agreed that formal proceedings in a Court or Tribunal
and depth is not to exceed 150cm. Passengers may also take on board the               will not commence until after the following process has been complied with:
safari vehicles one hand luggage item, such as their Explorer Pack. The weight        A written notice specifying the nature of the dispute (“the notice”).
of hand luggage is not to exceed 3 kg per person and size must be kept to
a minimum. Luggage limits are enforced on every tour. Passengers will be              Following the issue of the notice, the parties will in good faith attempt to
asked to leave their excess baggage behind in the event that the weight of            resolve the dispute by negotiation, mediation, expert determination or as
the luggage exceeds our limits. The luggage is entirely at the passengers’ risk       otherwise agreed.
during the tour.                                                                      If the process for the resolution of the dispute is not agreed with within
ITINERARY AND TOUR ARRANGEMENTS Passengers accept that                                7 days of the receipt of the notice, the parties must mediate the dispute.
Outback Spirit may need to alter or amend itineraries, accommodation or               Mediation will be conducted in accordance with Rules and Regulations of the
sightseeing arrangements from those published, with little or no notice.              New South Wales Law Society, as at the date of the dispute. If the parties
This may be due to road conditions, cultural considerations, weather, safety          cannot agree, the Mediator will be appointed by the President of the Law
factors and other operational considerations at the time. Such decisions will         Society of New South Wales, or nominee.
be made in the best interests of the passengers’ comfort and safety.                  If there is no resolution to the dispute at the expiration of 30 days from the
Outback Spirit is unable to guarantee exact arrival or departure times and            receipt of the notice, formal proceedings may be commenced.
is not liable for any failure to make connections with any other service or           The laws applicable in New South Wales govern these Terms and Conditions
guarantee the operation of any particular service.                                    and the parties submit to the jurisdiction of the Courts and/or Tribunals of
RESPONSIBILITY & LIABILITY Outback Spirit accepts no responsibility or                New South Wales to herein determine any disputes between the parties.
liability for any injury, loss, damage, change of itinerary or inconvenience          PRIVACY Outback Spirit respects your privacy and will only use your personal
caused either directly or indirectly as a result of force majeure or other            information in accordance with our Privacy Policy and in accordance with the
events which are outside of our control, including but not limited to: fires,         Privacy Act 1988. You can obtain full details of how we collect, hold, use
floods, acts of God, unusually severe weather, industrial action or commercial        manage and disclose your personal information from our Privacy Policy, a
flight disruptions. Passengers are advised that the service provided by               copy of which may be obtained free of charge by ringing us on 1800 688 222
Outback Spirit is for the booking and packaging of goods and services                 or by visiting our website at www.outbackspirittours.com.au/privacy
provided by other operators such as hotels, motels, attractions, cruise lines,
airlines and other transportation companies. Outback Spirit will not be liable
for any loss, damage, omission or act of negligence or otherwise committed
by these operators, their assignees or agents.
93 Bennu Circuit, Albury NSW 2640
                      Telephone: 02 6049 3500              Facsimile: 02 6049 3555
                             ACN 006 972 130 | ABN 74 006 972 130

                     For bookings and enquiries
              Freecall: 1800 OUTBACK
                  (1800 688 222)
                                      for New Zealand Residents
                                   Freecall: 0800 805 265

                                      Other international callers
                                       (+61 2) 6049 3500
                                 Email: info@outbackspirit.net.au

                      www.outbackspirittours.com.au

                                     Proudly printed in Australia
                       The paper used in this publication is from virgin pulp derived from
                        well-managed forests and controlled sources. It is manufactured
                          by an ISO 14001 certified mill and is Elemental Chlorine Free.

Get in the Spirit, join us online                                    Search: Outback Spirit

                        Find us on
You can also read