Is a winter getaway in the Whitsundays calling your name?
QLD Music Trails: The Reef is almost here and reaches its pinnacle in Airlie Beach with Between the Tides on the Airlie Beach foreshore on Saturday, 4 July.
We're bringing a stellar line-up featuring Boy & Bear, Jem Cassar-Daley, Mid Drift, Tjaka and local favourite Kaylee West. Imagine the raw beauty of Queensland's Whitsunday coastine meets world-class music and rich cultural storytelling.
Adult tickets to Between the Tides are from justr $49 - amazing value for a full-day event. Feel the breeze off the Coral Sea, and let the music, culture, and coastal beauty carry you away.
Day 1 | Friday 3 July Arrive in Airlie Beach and settle into coastal time
Located in the heart of the Whitsundays, Airlie is the perfect launching pad for exploring the region, from day trips, to secret beaches, lagoons, rainforest, hikes, cafes and bars.
Heading to Between the Tides? Stay moments away from the music and save 10% off your stay at the NRMA Parks & Resorts, Airlie Beach Holiday Park, plus an additional 5% off your NRMA members.
Simply use promo code QMF2026 when booking.
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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