Head out west on a home grown Aussie outback adventure

For those looking to spend the Christmas holidays a little closer to home, there has never been a better time to travel with the family by rail, exploring the great Australian outback.

Recently awarded best ‘Major Tourist Attraction’ at the 2008 Outback Queensland Tourism Awards, Traveltrain’s overnight relaxing rail journey aboard the Spirit of the Outback is a must do on your Christmas list.

QR Passenger Executive General Manager, Paul Scurrah, said previous outback holiday offers had proved exceptionally popular with customers.

“There’s no denying the magic of the Australian outback and the sell-out success of our recent outback holiday packages is testament to the appeal of the rugged west,” Mr Scurrah said.

“To help meet demand this year we are offering two outback adventures for avid travellers and families.

“Each holiday package offers a unique outback experience with the opportunity to meet true blue Aussie characters and take in the rugged yet breathtaking beauty of the outback.”

“With a rail adventure your holiday begins the moment you board the train – mingle with fellow passengers over a drink in the club car, or just sit back, relax and watch the scenery roll by.”

Mr Scurrah said the upcoming release of Baz Luhrmann’s film Australia could further fuel interest in Queensland outback holiday adventures.

Travelling with Traveltrain, holidaymakers can choose between adventures to Longreach onboard the Spirit of the Outback, or to Charleville onboard The Westlander.

Both packages include tours, allowing customers to really explore and experience the outback.

An overview of each package is outlined below:

Outback Colours and Winton Wonders

* First class accommodation onboard Spirit of the Outback
* 4 nights accommodation in Longreach
* Continental breakfast daily
* Entry to the Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Qantas Founders Outback Museum
* Full day trip to Winton
* Sunset cruise on the MV Longreach Explorer
* $1,023 per person, ex Brisbane, Twin Share

Get Down and Dusty

* First class accommodation on board The Westlander
* Connecting coach from Charleville to Cunnamulla
* 2 nights accommodation in Cunnamulla, including breakfast daily
* Sunset river cruise on the Warrego River
* Farming demonstrations
* $869 per person, ex Brisbane, Twin Share

The Outback Colours and Winton Wonders and Get Down and Dusty outback offers are valid for travel between 1 January 2009 and April 30 2009.

For more information, or to book, phone 1800 627 655, visit www.traveltrain.com.au or see your local QR Travel Centre.