The wait is over! QLD Music Festival and local outback communities are ready to welcome you for an unforgettable journey of live music, storytelling and connection.
We will be traversing the red dirt roads, endless horizons and starry night skies of Western Queensland as QLD Music Trails: The Outback returns from 24 April to 9 May 2026.
If you’re hitting the road with us, we’ve pulled together travel tips, safety advice and event information in one place — so you can focus on dusting off your cowboy boots and getting ready for the adventure ahead.
We know fuel availability is front of mind as you prepare to travel.
We're in regular contact with local councils and community partners along the Outback Trail to help us monitor conditions and keep everyone informed.
Locals in the Queensland Outback have told us they want us to hit the road and bring visitors with us to support their communities after recent flooding and fuel shortages — so long as travel is safe and responsible.
There is fuel available in the towns we’re visiting and surrounding areas, and communities are ready to welcome you with signature outback hospitality.
To help you plan ahead with confidence, you can use resources such as the:
Local fuel tracker from the South West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils
Check Petrol website for fuel pricing and availability.
Travelling the outback roads is part of the magic of the Trail — but like any journey, preparation is key and there's a few things to remember before you go:
- Check brakes and lights before setting off - Ensure tyres are in good condition with sufficient tread - Check motorhome or caravan hatches and seals - Drive carefully on wet roads and maintain safe following distances - Be cautious around standing water — if you're unsure of the depth, proceed slowly or avoid where possible
For more regional and remote driving advice, visit the Queensland Government StreetSmarts website.
When should I drive?
Where possible, aim to arrive before sundown. If you can’t, please avoid driving at night as much as possible.
Kangaroos are most active at sunrise and sunset, so planning ahead can help to reduce the risk so you can focus on the Outback Queensland vistas and enjoy the drive much as the destination.
What if I break down?
Stay with your vehicle and call RACQ Roadside Assist on 13 11 11.
What should I carry in my car?
Make sure you have: - Snacks - Plenty of water - A jerry can of fuel - An offline map (Google Maps downloaded to your device or a good old-fashioned paper map) - A spare tyre and tyre‑changing kit
What about the road conditions?
We’re aware of recent flooding in parts of Outback Queensland and are working closely with venues and local partners to share any important updates.
For the most up‑to‑date road information, check qldtraffic.qld.gov.au
We recommend bringing:
- A hat and sunscreen - Your event ticket - Photo ID - Bug spray - A jacket or cardigan, as temperatures can drop at night in Outback Queensland - Card is our preferred payment method, though cash options are available. Please note: the Mount Isa Bar will be card‑only.
What NOT to bring to events:
Pets: Your furry friends are welcome to travel the Trail with you, but remember most event sites are not pet‑friendly. Pets are permitted at Julia Creek and Barcaldine if restrained. Registered assistance animals are permitted with valid government ID.
Alcohol: BYO alcohol from outside the event is strictly prohibited at all Outback Trail events.
Gazebos: Large shade structures, including gazebos, are not permitted.
BYO food and chairs: These vary by event — check individual event pages for details.
For a full list of permitted and not permitted items, check out each event’s FAQs.
Join the Outback Trail Travellers Facebook group to connect with fellow Trail‑goers and receive updates.
Got a burning question? For general event and ticketing information, check out our FAQs page, or contact the team at [email protected] or (07) 3010 6600.
Tickets are still available for a number of events on this year's Outback Trail. Explore the events and plan your journey over here.
See you on the Trail, traveller!
Support for this event has been provided through the jointly funded Australian-Queensland Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principle arts investment and advisory body.
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