Perth to Cairns Tag-Along 4WD Adventure
Australia’s Longest Shortcut – Safely, Together
- DRAFT PROPOSED PROGRAM -
Proposed is a small, supported convoy trip from Perth to Cairns, crossing Australia’s outback via the Great Central Road. It’s a three-week adventure over 4,000km's designed for people who want the thrill of remote travel, but with the reassurance of not being alone in some of the most isolated parts of the country.
This isn’t a commercial “tour” in the traditional sense – everyone hires and drives their own 4WD camper – but we travel together, share the experiences, and I provide the support and guidance along the way.
The Journey
- Depart Perth, travelling through the Wheatbelt into the Goldfields.
- Stay overnight at the Grass Valley Pub.
- Explore Kalgoorlie, including the famous Super Pit and nearby mining towns.
- Visit Lake Ballard’s incredible sculptures and the ghost town of Kookynie.
- Travel the full length of the Great Central Road through sandhills, ranges and salt lakes.
- Spend time at Uluru and Kata Tjuta, with a sunset celebration dinner.
- Visit Curtin Springs Station and Alice Springs, with time to explore the MacDonnell Ranges.
- Cross into Queensland via the Plenty and Donohue Highways.
- Stay in Boulia, home of the mysterious Min Min Lights.
- Soak in Julia Creek’s outback hot springs.
- Visit Winton, the dinosaur capital of Australia, and the Waltzing Matilda Centre.
- See Porcupine Gorge, then explore the Undara Lava Tubes.
- Finish the adventure in Cairns with tropical rainforest and The Great Barrier reef on your doorstep.
What’s Included in the Tour Fee
- All camping fees
- Welcome dinner
- Red Centre celebration dinner
- Farewell dinner
- Kalgoorlie Super Pit tour
- Bauxite mine tour
- Boulia Min Min Lights tour
- Winton Dinosaurs Centre tour
- National Park entry permits
- Indigenous land access permits
- Experienced tour leader and guide
- Support vehicle equipped with first aid kit, defibrillator, satellite comms and PLB
The Investment
- Proposed fee: Aus$5-7,000 (US$3-5,000) per vehicle (includes up to two people)
- 4WD hire and fuel: budget around Aus$10-13,000 (US$6-8,000) (paid directly to the rental company and fuel stops)
Why Join
- Peace of mind travelling some of Australia’s most remote roads.
- Camaraderie of a small convoy (maximum 5 -6 vehicles, up to 10-12 people).
- Experienced leadership, knowledge of the route, and practical safety backup.
- A unique opportunity to cross Australia’s outback with a balance of independence and support.
Proposed Date: September, 2026
https://www.outbackqueensland.com.au/drive/the-outback-way-australias-longest-shortcut/
http://myseniorgapyear.com/great-aussie-shortcut/
http://myseniorgapyear.com/the-red-centre/
http://myseniorgapyear.com/the-outback-way/
http://myseniorgapyear.com/wheatbelt/