The Extra Mile

Tracks to the Top - SE Qld to Darwin 4x4 Adventure Tour

A 15 Day 4x4 Coach Adventure Tour
Departs early July 2013

When the going gets tough, the tough get going!

Put your explorer's cap on and jump aboard our mighty MAN 4x4 half-truck-half-coach for two weeks tracking north and west on the back blocks of Queensland and the Northern Territory. From the fertile Downs we'll go out over black soil plains into stony red mesa country, then around the Gulf of Carpentaria, through Aboriginal lands, across the giant new Limmen National Park, along the Roper River bordering Arnhem Land - and complete the trip with the stunning sights of Mataranka, Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) and Kakadu, ending in balmy Darwin. There's much more dirt than black top – and even a couple of nights camping – on this exciting, once-only, off-the-beaten-track expedition!

Connecting Flights are included for all mainland capitals (Conditions Apply)

Day 1 - Brisbane or Toowoomba to St George
Leaving aside the main roads, our adventure begins this morning by travelling west to Cecil Plains across the breadth of the fertile Darling Downs. We're then on dirt through the state forests that cover the western slopes of the Downs and break for lunch at Moonie from where it's an easy run on to St George and our motel. (LD)

Day 2 - St George to Quilpie via Yowah Opal Fields
The Balonne Highway heads out into the great yonder of South-West Queensland. Points of interest include Cunnamulla on the Warrego River and the quirky village of Eulo on the Paroo – becoming famous for its date wines and beautifying hot mud baths. The afternoon has us visiting Yowah's opal fields and we can't drive past the remote Toompine Pub without a stop and 'hello'. Quilpie is an historic railhead town with several grand hotels and a refreshing carpet of green grass on Brolga Street's median strip. (BLD)

Day 3 - Quilpie to Windorah
Just over an hour west is Eromanga, about the last place you'd consider for a 'sea-change' as it's arguably as far away from the shore as you can be! This is typical ochre-coloured country and it hides valuable opals and gas seams. A hundred miles north across station country we join the Diamantina Road and then bridge Cooper Creek to arrive in Windorah. The billabongs and water holes are home to spectacular bird life. The lone pub is the best place for a beer and getting to know the locals and your fellow outback explorers. (BLD)

Day 4 - Windorah to Carisbrooke
There's 400km to travel leaving a dusty trail today. This is 'jump-up' country, a vast landscape of interesting formations and earthy colours, dry riverbeds and occasional scrubby forests of eucalypt and acacia. Be first among your friends to visit Goneaway National Park! Cattle stations rule and they include Carisbrooke, our home for the next two nights. (BLD)

Day 5 - Carisbrooke
Welcoming many visitors every year, Charles and Penelope Phillott and their family run this rugged outback grazing property. It's surprisingly photogenic with crooked ghost gums standing out against red rocky gullies, plains of yellow grasses and the ever-blue sky. Sights to see include the Three Sisters, Meteor Lookout and the rock art of Python Gorge. (BLD)

Day 6 - Carisbrooke to Julia Creek
Leaving Carisbrooke, we're well and truly in Waltzing Matilda country, with a planned stop at Kynuna's Blue Heeler Hotel to dampen the dust.  Local lore has it that the self-destruction of shearer Samuel Hoffmeister at nearby Combo Waterhole inspired Banjo Peterson who actually visited the area in his courtship of a nearby squatters' daughter. An hour and some heading north is Julia Creek, a key town of several hundred folks on the Townsville to Mt Isa road and rail routes. (BLD)

Day 7 - Julia Creek to Burketown
Our morning drive takes us north-west along the Wills Development Road which intersects with the Burke Development Road at – you guessed it – the Burke and Wills Roadhouse. After lunch, on our way to Burketown, we branch off to go via Augustus Downs, more or less following the Leichhardt River and crossing on a picturesque causeway at Leichhardt Falls where we also join the Savannah Way – the Gulf Of Carpentaria adventurers' route to the NT. Like the explorer Burke, Burketown also doesn't view the Gulf shore – but you can sense it's out there! Good chance there'll be barra on the menu one of these nights. (BLD)

Day 8- Burketown to Borroloola or Cape Crawford
The suspension on our trusty 4x4 coach will be working furiously today! Doomadgee, an aboriginal community, is followed by Hells Gate Roadhouse and the Northern Territory border. We travel through large tracts of aboriginal lands and cattle stations managed by both European and indigenous Australians. Borroloola on McArthur River is famed for its barramundi fishing. Cut-off by road for months during the wet season the town is still home to over 500 people, mostly aboriginal. Undisturbed until the 1870s, early contact with European settlers and drovers had a decimating effect on the local tribes. (BLD)

Day 9 - Borroloola or Cape Crawford to Roper Bar
Cape Crawford is actually100kms inland from the Gulf – there's no 'sea cape' but the area features savannah woodlands, rock escarpments, waterfalls and waterholes. Nearly the entire way today is travelled in Limmen National Park, just declared in early 2012 and at 10,000 square kms Australia's second biggest after Kakadu. It borders the Roper River and Arnhem Land to the north. One spectacular area is known as the 'Lost City' and to see this, a helicopter ride may be a possible extra-cost option from Cape Crawford. At the hide tide limit of the Roper River is the rocky shelf named Roper Bar by explorer Ludwig Leichhardt. The campground is sited a safe distance from the riverbank! (BLD)

Day 10 - Roper Bar to Katherine
The road soon becomes sealed and joins the north-south Stuart Highway at Mataranka Homestead where we can take a steamy dip in the palm-shaded thermal pools. This is where Jeannie Gunn in 1902 wrote the autobiographical account 'We of the Never Never'. Not far up the highway lies Katherine township. Before day's end we'll cruise the remarkable series of sheer gorges that make Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) National Park so famous. (BLD)


Day 11 - Katherine to Jabiru and Kakadu
Historic Pine Creek marks the southern turn-in to Kakadu National Park, a massive diorama of the Top End protecting landscapes ranging from the sandstone escarpments with their steep gorges and postcard waterfalls to eucalypt woodlands and rivers – then finally the lush floodplains, billabongs, coastal estuaries and mangroves. As a visitor, aim to try and get a feel for the entirety of the Kakadu environment. A two night stay at Jabiru allows us time to experience the highlights. (BLD)

Day 12 - Kakadu Sights
While in Kakadu we'll cruise the wildlife-laden billabongs of Yellow Waters, hike around Nourlangie Rock and examine the artworks of Ubirr. Here short walks to sandstone outcrops offer the famed views of the floodplain. Nearby at the Border Store, there is a magical boardwalk through rainforest beside East Alligator River. (BLD)

Day 13 - Jabiru to Darwin
The northern road out of Kakadu crosses several more notorious Top End rivers: the South Alligator, the West Alligator (noticed a common theme?) and the Mary River.  Balmy Darwin, Australia's resilient frontier city looks out to Beagle Gulf and the Timor Sea. Flattened twice, it is known for a knack of getting back on its feet. Be ready to enjoy the town as you've really travelled to get there! (BLD)

Day 14 - Darwin
There's sights a-plenty including the Darwin Museum, Aviation Museum, Mindl Beach and Sunset Markets. There's free time too when you can shop around the CBD, walk the botanic gardens and a good tip is to enjoy a meal and a few drinks nearby at the savvy Cullen Bay Marina. (B)

Day 15 - Darwin to Home
Going home is a lot faster – by jet. The other choice is to keep on exploring – in this case, see our Kimberley and Tanami Expedition! (B)

Download Brochure or call Stonestreet's on 1 300 555 899 for more information.

The Gunbarrel East-West Crossing

Cape Byron NSW to Steep Point WA in 28 days
Departs early September 2013

This is as remote and rugged as we get!

From Brisbane, it’s a smooth run to Cape Byron, Australia’s most easterly point. Aiming the bull-bar west, we then drive across the entire waist of Australia. Our trail includes the Gunbarrel, the iconic road blazed through the desert by Len Beadel and his dozer crew.

Extreme West is Steep Point on the Indian Ocean – a refreshing sight. We then track the West Coast south to end in Perth.

The itinerary includes Moree, Lightning Ridge, Bourke on the Darling River, Corner Country, Birdsville on Race Day, Boulia, Plenty Hwy, Alice Springs, West Macs, Kings Canyon, Uluru and Kata Tjuta, Giles, a swag of dusty remote WA locales, Monkey Mia, Kalbarri and Pinnacles. We’re camping all the way.

It’s possible also to end or start the journey in Alice Springs or Yulara. Brisbane to Alice is 12 days or Yulara 16 days. For the Centre to Perth, start in Alice for 18 days or Yulara 15 days.

For more information download a brochure for the East to West Across Australia via the Gunbarrel tour.

Cavalia - Go With Stonestreet's

Internationally Acclaimed Theatrical Production Cavalia

A Magical Encounter Between Human and Horse Gallops Down Under for First Time in 2013 - And you can be there to see it!

Cavalia is a lavish production involving 50 magnificent horses and featuring 42 riders, aerialists, acrobats, dancers and musicians from all over the world. A show unlike any other, Cavalia celebrates the relationship between humans and horses, virtually reinventing the equestrian arts.

In Cavalia, horses cavort with the many artists in front of a constantly changing digital background projected onto a 60 metre-wide screen, drawing spectators into dream-like virtual environments. Unlike traditional horse shows, Cavalia’s audience faces a single 50 metre-wide stage which allows the horses space to gallop at full speed, at times running completely free, unfettered by bridles or halters. Cavalia takes place under a white, 2,440-square-metre big top, rising some 35 metres high that gives the horses an ample playground to perform with their trainers and artists.

Prices:  $195 (Adult) $175 (Concession) and $150 (Child) includes show tickets and return coach travel.

PHONE STONESTREET'S ON 4687 5555 TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS.

Lightning Ridge - Unearthing Delights Coach Tour

A 5 Day Coach Tour
Departs early August 2013

Eccentric and eclectic, Lightning Ridge is not your typical Australian town. Way out in the remote scrub of North-West NSW, the Ridge's precious black opals drew a jumble of fortune seekers, city-dodgers, dreamers and nutters. How can we describe their legacy? We can't – come and see it for yourself. This is certainly a town full of creativity and surprises.

Day 1 - South East Queensland to Moree
Start thinking about this afternoon's dip in the thermal waters while we travel across the Darling Downs to Goondiwindi, over into NSW and south to Moree. Here the spectacularly redeveloped hot artesian mineral pools soak an international mix of people - it's not unusual to hear a dozen soothing languages as you relax and revitalise. The water gushes into the pools as over 40 degrees. Perhaps out of favour with visitors in decades past, nowadays Moree has become something of a trendy spa destination, especially with senior cits from Sydney, and is served by a daily train and direct Qantas flights. (LD)

Day 2 - Moree to Lightning Ridge
The Gwydir Highway rolls west to Collarenebri where the Gwydir River joins the Barwon. An hour on, the town of Walgett is our lunch stop. Arrive in Lightning Ridge early afternoon and settle into to our motel accommodation for the next 2 nights. Possibly named after a tragedy striking from the skies, Lightning Ridge has about 2000 residents but authorities have trouble counting this statistic as folks tend to come and go – with many living out of town irregularly on mining leases. Lightning Ridge gave the world precious black opals – and Paul Hogan. (BLD)

Day 3 - Lightning Ridge
Enjoy a full day of sights and rambling around the town. Herman from Opal Cave will take us for a guided tour and show us what happens to opal from discovery to jewellery. Shopping is fun too – as well as the tempting opals there are all manner of local souvenirs and art galleries displaying indigenous and non-indigenous art. Famous outback artist John Murray has his gallery here too. Try your luck fossicking. The Ridge's quirkier constructions include a castle, bottle house and underground labyrinths of ancient arts. Lawn bowls is popular here – the well appointed club has eight artificial greens. (BLD)

Day 4 - Lightning Ridge to St George
Leaving the Ridge, we'll take the road north to the Queensland border village of Hebel, no doubt a 19th century customs point before Federation did away with cross-state duties. The Castlereagh Highway continues to rustic Dirranbandi and our night stop, the sizable town of St George on the oft-flooding banks of the Balonne River - home to a couple of dragon boat teams. Following the town's desperate flood fights of recent years, perhaps this watercourse should be re-named the Dragon River? (BLD)

Day 5 - St George to South East Queensland
Today takes in sights around St George followed by an easy drive home along the Moonie Highway to Dalby then back over the Downs to Toowoomba and Brisbane. (BL)

Download Stonestreet's Lighting Ridge - Unearthing Delights tour brochure.

Stonestreet's Extended Coach Tours 2013

As well as our adventurous 4x4 coach tours, Stonestreet’s offer a range of accommodated tours travelling by luxury coach. These mostly commence and/or end in South East Queensland.

Tasmania, Avalon Airshow option, Great Ocean Road and Melbourne Flower Show
26 days departs late Feb 2013 (tour can be split)
First a 4 day trip via Gulgong, Sofala and Beechworth. Then 4 days in Melbourne with optional Avalon Air Show. Sail to Tasmania for a full 12 day circuit tour. Finally 6 days for Great Ocean Road, Melbourne Flower Show and a road tour home via Echuca.

Maclean Highland Gathering
5 days departs late Mar 2013
Escape for Easter staying 4 nights at the superb Angourie Rainforest Resort, enjoying Maclean’s Annual Highland Gathering and all things tartan.

Bays, Beaches & a Bottle of Red
11 days departs Apr 2013
Roaming NSW, this jaunt takes in New England, Cowra wineries, Canberra 2 nights, South Coast, Kiama, Kangaroo Valley and Bowral, Warilla (World Cup Bowls), Grand Pacific Drive, Hunter Valley, Nelson Bay 2 nights and Nambucca.

Wine, River and Song
9 days departs mid Aug 2013
Enjoy SA’s delights with nights both in Adelaide city and on large luxury Murray River houseboats. Tour Mt Lofty Ranges, Barossa vineyards and cruise Swan Reach to Mannum admiring the scenery and birdlife. Crew will help on the houseboats. Fly in and out of Adelaide.



Whales and Fraser Island
5 days departs late Aug 2013
Stay seaside in Hervey Bay with a day each for Fraser Island by 4x4, a whale watch cruise and Maryborough’s Heritage Markets.

Spirit of the Outback and Kings in Grass Castles
9 days departs early Sep 2013
Clickety-clack to the Outback in your Rock ‘n Roll era Queensland Rail sleeping berth. See the sights of Longreach then shift to Ray Station for 2 nights. Return via Quilpie and Charleville.



Blue Mountains and Western Plains
8 days departs mid Nov 2013 (ends Sydney)
With stays in Orange, Bathurst and Katoomba (2 nights), this tour delves into a wonderful region of character towns, gorgeous scenery and some fascinating history. Last 2 nights are in Sydney.

Contact Stonestreet's on 1300 555 899 or 07 4687 5555 for enquiries or bookings.

Autumn in Bright - 9 Day Coach Tour

(There ‘n back from South East Queensland)
Departs early May 2013

Nestled in the Ovens River Valley at the foot of the Victorian Alps, Bright is a delight to visit and base oneself anytime of the year.

In Autumn the colourful display of deciduous world trees is breathtaking. Bright's famous shady avenues include elks, elms, poplars, silver birches, liquid ambers and Japanese maples.

Travelling by road both ways, our tour also features many areas of NSW in Autumn splendour – the Central West, Southern Highlands, Hunter Valley and New England.

Day 1 - SE Qld to Coonabarabran
Boarding in Brisbane or Toowoomba, relax in your comfy seat as we travel the inland path to cute little Coonabarabran by way of Goondiwindi, Moree (for a dip in the famous hot spa pools), Narrabri and through the Pilliga Scrub. Today knocks off some good miles so we can slow down beyond!  (LD)

Day 2 - Coonabarabran to West Wyalong
Along our way, many country towns turn on awesome autumn streetscapes. On the coach for around five hours today, we progress through Gilgandra, Dubbo, Parkes and Forbes, with several stops to stretch the legs and see the sights - then rest for the night appropriately in West Wyalong. (BLD)

Day 3 - West Wyalong to Bright
It's not as far as it sounds, about another five hours of travel through rolling Aussie landscapes, evolving into alpine country. Towns to admire on the way include Temora, Wagga, Henty, Culcairn, Albury, Beechworth and Myrtleford. Settle in to Bright for our 4 night stay. (BLD)

Day 4, 5, 6 - Bright and Region
Wake up to Gala Day at the Bright Autumn Festival and get to know this popular town. Overlooking the Ovens Valley is the mighty Hotham Range which we will climb – the easy way by coach. The summit is 1861m and Mt Hotham village at 1750m is higher than all other major Australian ski resorts. Bring your warmest jacket!

The Mount Buffalo Plateau is another great alpine outing however the once-grand Railways Chalet stands forlorn, hoping for a new future. Bright's surrounding valleys boast rich soils and are home to dairy farms, orchards, vineyards and the growing of hops, oats, fruit and nuts. Nearby towns and villages share the autumn colours and offer delightful shopping and café experiences. Altogether the region is a gourmet table. (BDx3, Lx2)

Day 7- Bright to Mittagong
Today we salute the explorer Hume by humming along the route named in his honour. Sadly his partner in discovery seems to be overlooked by those who dished out the names for roads, towns, rivers and other landmarks? There is a Hovell Creek at least. The afternoon brings us into the idyllic NSW Southern Highlands and
our overnight stop in leafy, autumn-y Mittagong. (BLD)

Day 8- Mittagong to Tamworth
Discover the semi-rural patchwork of the Greater Sydney Plain as we cut across to historic Windsor and line up to take the iconic 'Putty Road' for the 150 km run to Singleton. Dating back to 1823 this first road north from Sydney to the Hunter is a magnificent roller-coaster drive bordering the rugged wilderness of Wollemi and Yengo National Parks. It's very popular with motorcyclists. (BLD)

From Singleton, we tour the Upper Hunter Valley visiting Scone and Muswellbrook en-route to Tamworth for our overnight rest.

Day 9 - Tamworth to SW Qld
Enjoy the autumn shades of New England's quintessential towns as we head home on our final day: Uralla, Armidale, Guyra, Glen Innes and Tenterfield. Return to either Toowoomba or Brisbane. (BL)

Explore Australia's Outback on Stonestreet’s 4x4 coach tours

You can roam the world or sail the seven seas – but there’s nothing like Australia and our inspirational interior. For 2013 Stonestreet’s offer a series of overland 4x4 adventures crisscrossing the continent and going far beyond anything else out there.

 
Our motto is “We go the extra mile!” and it’s no idle line. With over 20 years touring experience, Stonestreet’s strive to give the service, satisfaction and safety to match.

Make 2013 your ‘Year of the Outback’. Come and be inspired – join in the journey of travelling our incredible country overland.

Some of the highlights in 2013

Limmen National Park – below Arnhem Land and just declared, it’s second in size only to Kakadu.

Gibb River Road – travel the heart of the wild Kimberleys.

Arkaroola Sanctuary – amazing tightly-folded ranges at the desert’s edge.

Gunbarrel Highway – trekking along one of our favourite remote trails.

Corner Country and Birdsville Races – atmosphere and excitement plus.

Cape York and Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park – the great wilderness.

Stonestreet’s 4x4 coach tours operate with 2 crew and a maximum of 26 travellers. Accommodation is a mix of motels, cabins, stations, pubs and camping. Some tours include a number of nights bush camping.

If you’d like to know more, we’d be delighted to hear from you.

Across The Top Jul 17 - Aug 8 2012

Crossing the continent of Australia from east to west you'll travel through some of the most intriguing country with fascinating flora and fauna, and breathtaking scenery. For 23 days you’ll explore, discover and be amazed at the sheer diversity of our wonderful country.

There are so many highlights included in the Across the Top tour package it's sure to be an awe-inspiring journey you'll love! Join us for this trek across the top end of Australia.

DAY 1 TOOWOOMBA/BRISBANE TO CAIRNS (flights) (D)

DAY 2 CAIRNS TO UNDARA

We begin our adventure with a visit to the captivating Undara Lava Tubes for a unique insight into the geology and ecology of the Undara Volcanic National Park. (BLD

DAY 3 UNDARA TO COBBOLD GORGE

Further west we go, stopping in the old gold rush town of Georgetown. Next we'll motor on down to Forsayth for the afternoon’s sightseeing. (BLD)

DAY 4 COBBOLD GORGE

Take in the sights of Cobbold Gorge on an unforgettable three hour boat cruise. The spectacularly sculpted walls tower over us as we glide along in almost eerie silence. Keep an eye out for freshwater crocodiles that make this majestic gorge home. Then trip into the heart of nearby Robin Hood Station in an all terrain vehicle. A fairly easy guided bush walk to the top of the escarpment rewards us with a magnificent view of the gorge and surrounding countryside. (BLD)

DAY 5 COBBOLD GORGE TO KARUMBA

It’s off toward the gulf with our first stop along the way another gold rush town - Croydon. After lunch a visit to 'Critters Camp', from where we board the Gulflander for a one-of-a-kind journey. This old rail motor, dubbed 'The Tin Hare' shakes, rattles and rolls across the stark red plains of the gulf country, destination the small cattle town of Normanton. Back on the road, a short jaunt brings us to Karumba, on the mouth of the Norman River. (BLD)

DAY 6 KARUMBA

We'll spend the whole day getting acquainted with this fishing mecca and birdwatcher's paradise. The rich marine wetlands wind their way some 30kms or so inland from the coast, it's where the savannah outback meets the sea. (BLD)

 

DAY 7 KARUMBA TO ADELS GROVE 

From Karumba to Normanton, keep a watch on the waterholes we pass for the magnificent birdlife. You may even spy the Jabiru - Australia’s only member of the stork family. (BLD)

DAY 8 ADELS GROVE

We journey to Lawn Hill, an oasis in the middle of this harsh landscape, where a magnificent watercourse has cut its way through solid rock. Hire canoes (optional) to see the gorge from water level, or take a hike on the trail. Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing or maybe enjoying a couple of cool beverages in the shady grove. (BLD)

DAY 9 ADELS GROVE TO MT ISA

Today’s a bit of a mystery as road conditions will determine the route we’ll take to the copper mining village of Mount Isa. We may travel via the sealed roads through Cloncurry, or possibly along the more direct route and Riversleigh. (BLD)

DAY 10 MT ISA TO THREE WAYS

After departing Mount Isa travel along the longest main street in the world to Camooweal. Cross the border into the Northern Territory then onto the Barkly Tablelands - a huge stretch of grass plains. (BLD)

DAY 11 THREE WAYS TO KATHERINE

Follow the Carpentaria Highway from Cape Crawford to Daly Waters stopping at the Daly Waters Hotel. Continue north along the Stuart Highway to Mataranka, made famous by its hot thermal pool and also by a book written by Jeannie Gunn called ‘We of the Never-Never’. A little north is Katherine our home for the next two nights. (BLD)

DAY 12 KATHERINE TO DARWIN

This morning we’re off to Katherine Gorge to indulge in a breakfast cruise through this awe inspiring country. Following Adelaide River and a visit to the Adelaide River War Cemetery, we're bound for Darwin. (BLD)

DAY 13 DARWIN

The day starts with a tour of this tropical city, and a visit to both the Darwin Museum and the Aviation Museum. Enjoy some leisure time this afternoon, before hitting the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets. (B)

DAY 14 DARWIN

There's an optional tour (own expense)available to Kakadu for those of us who won't be continuing westward before taking your flight back to Brisbane. For those continuing on tour it’s a day of leisure to do Darwin at your own pace. (B)

DAY 15 DARWIN TO JABIRU

First off it's up to Beatrice Hill for a 'Window on the Wetlands' experience. We'll meet a croc or two that likes to jump about. After lunch it’s Ubir Rock for some art appreciation. We'll finish the day in Jabiru, originally set up as a service town for the nearby Ranger Uranium Mine. (BLD)

DAY 16 JABIRU TO KATHERINE

Today, more art appreciation at the big sandstone outcrop that is Nourlangie Rock. Then a cruise through the wetlands that make up Yellow Water Billabong. A visit to Pine Creek is also on the cards, a fascinating historic town full of unusual buildings that echo its old railway and overland telegraph past. We finish the day in Katherine, the 'Crossroads of the North'. (BLD)

DAY 17 KATHERINE TO KUNUNURRA

Sit back and relax as we travel along the Victoria Highway, through vast cattle properties following alongside the majestic Stokes Ranges then the massive Victoria River. Cross the border into Western Australia, arriving in Kununurra toward evening. (BLD)

DAY 18 KUNUNURRA

Optional flights over Lake Argyle, the Argyle Diamond Mine and Bungle Bungles are available before we take our adventure into the Ord River Irrigation Region, where you’ll see the Lost City and the Ord River. (BLD)

DAY 19 KUNUNURRA TO HALLS CREEK

Continuing west the scenery along the Great Northern Highway is spectacular with the backdrop of the Carr Boyd and O'Donnell Ranges framing the road we travel. Continue on to Halls creek and detour to the original site of this former gold mining town. Nearby is the amazing natural formation of quartz, aptly named ‘The China Wall’. (BLD)

DAY 20 HALLS CREEK TO FITZROY CROSSING

After spending some more time in and about Halls Creek, we make tracks for Fitzroy Crossing. From here we make our way to Geikie Gorge, a 30 metre deep gorge carved into the limestone reef, where the Oscar and Geikie Ranges meet. You'll experience its remote beauty on a relaxing cruise. (BLD)

DAY 21 FITZROY CROSSING TO BROOME

We’re off to a town on the edge of King Sound, known for its boab trees, including its famous Boab Prison Tree - Derby. We'll do lunch and tour about the town for a bit before heading off to Broome, an oasis of colour in outback Western Australia. (BLD)

DAY 22 BROOME

It's out and about Broome today with an extensive tour of the Willie Creek Pearl Farm. Finish the day off with a sunset dinner by scenic Cable Beach. (BLD)

DAY 23 BROOME

Those not continuing on the West Coast tour will fly to Brisbane today. The others will enjoy an extensive tour of this jewel of the north west, learning of the perils of the deep and the hazardous life of a pearl diver at Pearl Luggers, in the heart of Broome's 'Chinatown'. (BLD)

For more information on this tour download a brochure. For enquiries or to book call Stonestreets Coaches on 1 300 555 899.

Cape York 1 July 15 - 31 2012

A Journey to the very top of Australia.

Cape York is one of the last great wild places on Earth. It is definitely one of Australia’s must see destinations. It's an extraordinary environment with seamless transitions between mangroves, tropical rainforests, savannahs, wetlands - and bountiful coasts and seas. From Cooktown to the tip of Australia you'll find some of the most spectacular and rugged scenery in the country. The ‘Cape’ is an under-explored paradise with thousands of species of tropical birds, beautiful waterfalls and basking crocodiles.

DAY 1  TOOWOOMBA - BILOELA (LD)

Welcome aboard! Our "Cape York Adventure Tour” begins as we travel west to Miles before turning northward via the townships of Taroom and Theodore to the Central Highlands and Biloela.

DAY 2 BILOELA - CHARTERS TOWERS (BLD)

Today continues north to Emerald and onto the oldest inland settlement in central Queensland, Clermont. Vast cattle stations dominate the scenery of the lonely Gregory Development Road en route to Charters Towers.

DAY 3 CHARTERS TOWERS - MAREEBA (BLD)

Begin the day by viewing the many impressive, stately buildings which stand testament to the wealth and importance of this once thriving gold mining township. Following a tour of the Venus Battery it’s back on the highway to the nickel mining township of Greenvale. Relax as the afternoon takes us through Mt Garnet, Ravenshoe to the picturesque green hills of the Atherton Tablelands.

DAY 4 MAREEBA - MUSGRAVE STATION (BLD)

Our day of sightseeing begins around Mareeba, passing through Mt Molloy, Mt Carbine en route to Palmer River Roadhouse. Continue to Lakeland Downs, better known as the "Gateway to the Peninsula”, situated in the picturesque Laura River Valley.

DAY 5 MUSGRAVE STATION - MORETON STATION (BLD)

Today's travel encounters numerous creek crossings, open woodlands,  eucalypt forests and spectacular mountain ranges. The Rokeby National Park provides a change in scenery as we trek north to Archer River Roadhouse and conclude the day with a crossing of the Wenlock River to overnight at the Moreton Telegraph Station.

DAY 6 MORETON STATION - PUNSAND BAY/CAPE YORK (BLD)
We travel via Jardine River National Park to the banks of the Jardine River. Touring through this remote, region, our destination is Punsand Bay, a wilderness reserve located just 5 kms west of the tip of Cape York Peninsula.

DAY 7 SOMERSET (BLD)

An enjoyable and exciting day, lies ahead. As, today is the day that we reach the very top of Australia. Folks load up your cameras and board our 4WD coach for a truly unforgettable day. Today you can stand on the very tip of Cape York.  Visit the ruins of Torres Strait's first administrative centre, Somerset. A few rusting relics, and the grave of explorer and resident magistrate, Frank Jardine and his wife are all that remain.

DAY 8  PUNSAND BAY FREE DAY (BD) (optional Day Tour available)

Today is at your leisure to enjoy as you please. A few suggestions (all own expense); laze on the beach and soak up the sun, take a guided rainforest walk, or a sportfishing expedition to Jacky Jacky Creek and the Jardine River. Or take the optional cruise across to Australia's most northern settlement - Thursday Island.

DAY 9  PUNSAND BAY - MORETON STATION (BLD)

Another adventurous day of touring, encountering creek crossings, ferry crossing of the Jardine River and interesting scenery as we retrace our steps to Moreton Station.

DAY 10 MORETON STATION - WEIPA (BLD)

Continue south to Batavia Downs Station, then Go West! Large cattle stations and aboriginal reserves lead the way to the blue waters of the Gulf of Carpentaria.

DAY 11 WEIPA - MUSGRAVE STATION (BLD)

With the sparkling waters of Albatross Bay behind us, head inland over the rolling Piccaninny Plains to the Archer River Roadhouse.

DAY 12 MUSGRAVE STATION - COOKTOWN (BLD)

Today we enter a wilderness lover's delight, Lakefield National Park. From here we head east to the picturesque waters of the Coral Sea and historic Cooktown.

DAY 13 COOKTOWN (BD)

A leisurely day lies ahead to explore the beauty and history of Cooktown.

DAY 14 COOKTOWN - MOSSMAN (BLD)

Enjoy a scenic journey through the renowned Cape Tribulation National Park, with undisturbed rainforests, a rich mosaic of vegetation coastal and upland rainforest, mangroves which is all home to a variety of flora and fauna. Sandy beaches, turquoise waters and rugged mountains all make for more treasured photographs.

DAY 15 MOSSMAN - CAIRNS (BD)

Begin the day with Breakfast with the Birds at the unique Rainforest Habitat, then tour the palm lined streets of Port Douglas. Retreat to the quaint village of Kuranda. Early afternoon join the Skyrail for an intimate encounter with mother nature gliding just metres above the rainforest canopy descending from Kuranda into Cairns.

DAY 16 CAIRNS (BD)

No trip to Cairns would be complete without a cruise to the Great Barrier Reef. This morning we’ll cruise to one of the many islands here in the Coral Sea. Return to Cairns this afternoon for some shopping time.

DAY 17 CAIRNS - BRISBANE - TOOWOOMBA (B)

Farewell our coach crew at the Cairns Airport then sit back and enjoy your flight home.  A Stonestreet’s Coach will be waiting for you at the Brisbane Airport.

You may also be interested in Cape York 2 - Cairns to SE Queensland. Also 17 days, Stonestreets Coaches second Cape York adventure runs in the reverse format, commencing in Cairns and ending in Toowoomba or Brisbane.  Download a brochure.

For enquiries and bookings call 1300 555 899

Weekend With Mary - 25 to 27 May 2012

Discover magic, history and timeless fun in the heritage city of Maryborough, Queensland. The city shares close ties with Mary Poppins being the birthplace of PL Travers, the author behind the famous character. 

Join our tour for a weekend filled with supercalifragilistic fun!

Day 1 - Friday 25 May 2012
Toowoomba / Brisbane to Maryborough (MT, L, D)

We’re off! Travelling north towards the Fraser Coast we’ll stop in Gympie for a bit. While we're here, we'll drop into the Woodworks Museum and time travel back to the timber industry's very beginnings in colonial times. From here we’ll take a detour to Rainbow Beach, before making our way to Maryborough through quaint coastal towns. Once we’ve checked into our accommodation they’ll be time to relax before dinner where you can get acquainted with other travellers.

Day 2 - Saturday 26 May 2012
Maryborough Sights (B, MT)

After breakfast discover all things Mary on the “Tea with Mary” tour, including a visit to Bond Store and Customs House Museum, finishing up with a delightful morning tea at a heritage cafe. Stop by Gatakers Artspace, a heritage listed warehouse transformed into an art gallery, for a peek at the exhibitions. While there, stroll through Portside Passage, a landscaped lane with works of art that reflect Maryborough’s rich history. Enjoy lunch (own expense) at one of the many cafes or pubs before embarking on a city highlights coach tour.

Late afternoon, head off to the heritage Portside precinct for the Lamplight Bazaar to relive days gone by. Costumed characters, torchlight tours, entertainment and old fashioned food and craft barrows help to recreate the atmosphere of a once thriving port from 150 years ago. Enjoy some culinary delights from one of the stalls for dinner (own expense) before taking a themed tour of your choosing - the Night Watchman's tour, Night at the Museum tour or The Portside Pub tour.

Day 3 - Sunday 27 May 2012
Maryborough Sights (B, L)

Enjoy a wonderful Sunday morning amid the many sights and sounds of Maryborough’s beguiling Queens Park. The music of brass bands drifts from the graceful old rotunda while the unique notes of a calliope echo across the park. A miniature steam train meanders through the park, past the fountain and a grand old Banyan Fig.  Hear the boom of Maryborough’s famous time cannon when the Town Crier fires it off at 11am. Or take “A Sunday Stroll” with Mary through the heritage listed Queens Park.

Experience the captivating sights and architecture of Maryborough from a different perspective with a one hour cruise on the Mary River.  From the deck of 'The Mary' keep a watch for wildlife as you enjoy entertaining commentary as you sale past the historic docklands, heritage buildings and stately homes with landscaped gardens rolling down to the riverbanks.

Lunch is a laid back affair - sausage sizzle anyone? Afterwards we take a look inside one of Maryborough’s historic homes - "Mavis Bank". It's a living museum full of furniture and collectables, preserved in a time capsule spanning three centuries from 1620 to 1920.

In the afternoon, we say farewell to (Mary)borough as we head back home.

A Weekend With Mary includes all touring, accommodation and most meals. Departures from Toowoomba and Brisbane. From $535 per person twin share.  Phone 1 300 555 899 to book.

Great Keppel and the Capricorn Coast

With its warm sunny days and balmy moonlit nights, what's not to like about this part of the Queensland coast?

The Capricorn Coast in Central Queensland, Australia, stretches from Thompson's Point on the Fitzroy River in the south, to Shoalwater Bay in the north. The area straddles the tropic of Capricorn and includes Rockhampton and the seaside towns of Yeppoon and Emu Park.

Inland from the coast, the historic river city of  Rockhampton founded in 1853 boasts many majestic buildings that stand as reminders of the days of the Mount Morgan Gold Rush. The heritage listed streetscape of Quay Street and East Street feature 26 buildings of historical significance in just three blocks.

Back in 1770, Captain Cook sailed along this coast naming Keppel Bay and the surrounding areas. In Emu Park you'll find the Singing Ship, a musical sculpture built to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Cook's discovery. From here you can see the islands of the bay, including Great Keppel island which lies 15km off the coast.

Surrounded by crystal clear water, white sandy beaches pockets of coral reefs, much of Keppel Island is national park teeming with native flora and fauna.

Day Seven of our Cruises Along the Pristine Coast tour will feature this region and includes a cruise to Great Keppel Island.

 

Fraser Island

Its beauty is exceptional. Its white sandy beaches seem to go on forever, flanked by stikingly coloured sand cliffs. It has over 100 freshwater lakes, some clear and blue, others the colour of tea. Here ancient rainforests grow along the banks of fast flowing creeks and streams.

The dingoes on Fraser Island as said to be the last remaining 'pure' dingoes in all of Eastern Australia. The were once quite common on the island but their numbers a steadily decreasing. Due to the increased number of Dingo 'incidents', dingo-proof fences have been built around the island townships. Although most of the Dingo population is said to be malnourished, they are still wild animals, so please don't attempt to feed them.

 

The wreck of the S.S. Maheno is a major landmark and tourist attraction on the island. It started life in Scotland in 1905 as a luxury passenger liner. It spent World War I as a hospital ship before returning its former life as a luxury liner. Decommissioned in 1935, it was being towed up from Melbourne when it was caught in a cyclone off the coast. It eventually drifted ashore and was beached on Fraser Island. It's since been used as target practice by the R.A.A.F. and demolition practice by commandos. It sits quietly rusting these days, with most of it's bulk buried beneath the sand.

If you fancy a cruise to this part of the world, take a look at Cruises Along the Coast Tour 2012.

One of Australia's Great Journeys - Coral Coast & Tablelands

7 Day Coach Tour 9 - 15 July 2012

One of Australia’s great journeys is the trip up Queensland’s Coral Coast, north to the tropical zone. Our one week tour travels from Mackay and the Whitsunday Islands to tropical Cairns and the Atherton Tableland. Like familiar travelling companions, the Great Barrier Reef, the sandy beaches and rocky headlands, the coastal canefield country and rugged Great Dividing Range run alongside all the way.

Days 1 – 2 – Whitsundays, Daydream Island ‘it IS real’ Tour scenic Pioneer Valley en-route to Proserpine, set amid a sea of cane fields. Not far on, Airlie Beach is our base for 2 nights. The 74 islands of the Whitsundays are like a flotilla of green sails on the Coral Sea. Next day we cruise out to Daydream Island Resort and experience the wonderful world of the Whitsundays: lush islands, white sand beaches and the gorgeous sea.

Day 3 – Bowen, Ayr, Townsville ‘a rocky castle’ Explore Bowen with its prominent murals depicting a colourful past. Then it’s on to sugary Ayr and the city of Townsville. We do ‘The Strand’ and take in views of the port, Cape Cleveland and Magnetic Island. And let’s get up the pink granite monolith that dominates the city skyline - Castle Hill.

Day 4 – Paronella Park, Innisfail ‘one man’s castle’ Cardwell, looks out to the wilderness of Hinchinbrook Island. Break for morning tea at Tully’s ‘Golden Gumboot’ marking the record rain in 1950 and the competition for the wettest town in Australia. Paronella Park is the end result of one man’s dream for a castle in rainforest gardens. We finish our day in Innisfail in the heart of the ‘Cassowary Coast’   

Days 5 – 6 – Atherton Tablelands, Cairns ‘the tropical city’ Highlights of the Atherton Tablelands include Millaa Millaa Falls, Ravenshoe altitude 930m, Malanda Dairy, Nerada Tea, Hallorans Hill lookout and the 800 year old Curtain Fig Tree. Settle in to Cairns for 2 nights. Next morning we trundle back up the range to the Kuranda Rainforest Markets on the Scenic Railway. After lunch we make a tour of the city including the ‘Cairns Wildlife Dome’, a well-rounded wildlife experience.

Day 7 – Home to SE QLD or beyond ‘airport farewells’ Today we leave the tropical paradise of Far North Queensland and jet our way back to Brisbane or beyond.

Ask us if you’d like to remain longer in Cairns – or travel on our following tour ‘Across the Top’ to Darwin, Broome or Perth!

Download a brochure.

Cruises Along The Coast

11 or 15 Day Coach Tour (starts South East Queensland, fly out Proserpine, option to Cairns - see 'Coral Coast' tour)

Escape the southern winter chills with Stonestreets as we travel north, following the coastline across the Tropic of Capricorn all the way to Airlie Beach in the heart of the Whitsundays. Enjoy cruise after cruise, exploring the many waterways, harbours, inlets and islands of the Queensland coast en route. Grab your camera, ready to capture the sights on this inspirational seafaring journey.

This all-inclusive coach tour features seven cruises and includes flight from Proserpine to Brisbane.

Days 1 – 2 – Noosa ‘up the gangplanks we go’ At Caloundra we’ll board a double deck 30’s-style boat to enjoy views across Bribie Island National Park, the birdlife of Moreton Bay and sail to Pelican Waters. Later from Mooloolaba we’ll take a river/canal cruise on the M.V. Mudjimba. Staying in Noosa for 2 nights, the next day we cruise the Cooloola Coast. Glide along the Noosa River and the mirrored waterways of Noosa Everglades.

Days 3 – 4 – Gympie, Fraser Island ‘World Heritage’ Spend several hours enjoying the sights of historic port of Maryborough. “All Aboard!” - this time for a scenic cruise on the Mary River. Nearby Hervey Bay is our base for 2 nights on the Fraser Coast. On day 4 we sail over to Kingfisher Bay Resort on the world’s largest sand island – the World Heritage listed Fraser Island. Return to Hervey Bay mid-afternoon.

Day 5 – Coral Coast, Town of 1770 ‘Capricornian capers’ Onward to Bundaberg and a glorious stretch known as the Coral Coast. In ‘Bundy’ we’ll board the historic river ferry for a cruise along the Burnett River. Cross the Tropic of Capricorn to the Town of Seventeen Seventy where we climb aboard a large pink LARC and head off for some beach bashing and amphibious adventures. It’s an enthralling joyride along the ruggedly beautiful coastline. Overnight in Booren.

Days 6 – 7 – Great Keppel ‘through the looking glass’ Intended for convicts, Gladstone is now Queensland’s busiest port (the trade has changed somewhat). We’ll ‘get ferried’ around Queensland’s largest natural harbour and watch out for their dolphins. Let’s then look about Gladstone, do lunch and make tracks for ‘Rocky’, then Yeppoon and Emu Park for 2 nights. Next morning, slop on the sunscreen, slap on a hat and slide on the sunnies for a full day of Capricorn Coast cruising. The fun starts when we take a ‘Freedom Fast Cat’ lunch cruise to Great Keppel Island — a paradise where folks don’t get so wrecked anymore. From a glass bottom boat, admire the reef’s magnificent corals and feed the fishies.

Day 8 – Mackay, palms & art-deco buildings ‘style council’ Travel north for the morning. Mackay’s palm lined streets complement its Art Deco buildings and we spend much of the day touring around the city soaking up the tropical ambience.

Days 9 – 10 – Airlie, Whitsundays ‘islands for everyone’ Tour scenic Pioneer Valley en-route to Proserpine, set amid a sea of cane fields. Not far on, Airlie Beach is our base for 2 nights. The 74 islands of the Whitsundays are like a flotilla of green sails on the Coral Sea. Next day we cruise out to Daydream Island Resort and experience the wonderful world of the Whitsundays: lush islands, white sand beaches, the gorgeous sea and amazing corals.

Day 11 – Brisbane and home ‘leave now or stay on!’ The last morning is yours in Airlie Beach. Make sure you get everything you need to see and do, seen and done, because we fly out of Proserpine early afternoon. Take home many memories of an extraordinary holiday, cruising along the coast.

Consider matching up our next tour ‘Coral Coast & Tablelands’, and continue on to Cairns for a 15 day tour! Day 11 above becomes Day 3 for the Coral Coast becomes Day 3 for the Coral Coast.

Download a brochure.

11 Days, fly out of Proserpine Accommodation Tour Price Extra Mile Awards Twin/Double Share $3199 6 Single Supplement + $495 $3694 7 Tour includes 7 cruises and flight from Proserpine to Brisbane. 15 Days, fly out of Cairns Accommodation Tour Price Extra Mile Awards Twin/Double Share $4590 9 Single Supplement + $1235 $5385 10 Tour includes 7 cruises and flight from Cairns to SE QLD..

 

Tibooburra

The outback town of Tibooburra is known as the 'Capital of Corner Country'. It's area first explored in 1844 by Charles Sturt. Pioneer Park hosts a replica of his 27ft long whale boat that he carted by wagon north-west to Lake Pinaroo as he searched for the fabled ‘inland sea’.

Once referred to as ' The Granites', the region saw 1000's of prospectors arrive with the discovery of gold. It is said that during heavy rains gold was exposed in the streets. Rain doesn't come often to the arid landscape. When it does, you may not see gold, but the area comes alive with wildflowers.

Tibooburra, aboriginal for 'heaps of rocks' was established at the height of this gold rush in 1881. The 450 million year old granite tors that surround the town are part of the southern boundary to Sturt National Park. Its north-west boundary is the iconic Cameron Corner, where the NSW-QLD border intersects with the NSW-SA border.

Tibooburra is one of the many outback places Stonestreet's will visit on our Outback Tracks and Corner Country Tour.

Outback Tracks & Corner Country June 26 - July 9 2012

Corner Country stretches toward the famous Corner Post where Queensland, South Australia and New South Wales meet. It's a place of wide-open spaces and big blue skies, a landscape that remains much the same as when the first explorers arrived more than 150 years ago.  From the wild dog fence, remnants of remote homesteads and historic mining towns to the remarkable plants and wildlife, Corner Country is a place like no other.

Day 1 Toowoomba to Moree

Westward Ho we go to Goondiwindi on the Macintyre, home of 'Gunsynd' and the heart of the Border Rivers region. Then its over the border and down the Newell Highway into the Gwydir Valley. Moree, known for its Hot Mineral Baths is todays final stop. (LD)

Day 2 Moree to Bourke

We head off, the morning sun at our backs, making tracks for Bourke. Once a major inland port on the mighty Darling River, it’s known as the gateway to the outback. The editor of ‘The Bulletin’ sent a young writer by the name of Henry Lawson out this way in 1892, to give him a taste of outback life. As Lawson later wrote, ‘if you know Bourke, you know Australia’. It’s where the REAL outback begins. (BLD)

Day 3 Bourke to Tibooburra

Tonight we lodge in the capital of the Corner Country - Tibooburra. They say you haven’t really understood the outback until you visit Tibooburra. Gold was first found in these parts in 1880 and the area used to be known as ‘The Granites’. The town’s name is believed to come from an aboriginal word for ‘heap of boulders’. This part of the world seems so isolated but you’ll be surprised just how full of friendliness it is. (BLD)

Day 4 Tibooburra

Charles Sturt visited out here back in 1844 and Pioneer Park is where you’ll find a replica of his 27ft long whale boat. He carted it by wagon north-west to Lake Pinaroo as he searched for the fabled ‘inland sea’. The Tibooburra ‘Keeping Place’ museum houses an interesting collection of the remains of Aboriginal tools and artefacts found around the district. The Outback School of the Air is the most geographically isolated school in the state and the only dual mode school in the country. The 450 million year old granite tors that surround the town are part of the southern boundary to Sturt National Park. Its north-west boundary is the iconic Cameron Corner, where the NSW-QLD border intersects with the NSW-SA border. (BLD)

Day 5 Tibooburra to Innamincka

Today we’ll head on up the track a way to a former ghost town - Innamincka - which has seen an increase in travellers to the area since oil and gas were discovered in the 60’s. It’s a tiny settlement on the banks of the Cooper Creek and is surrounded on all sides by the Strzelecki, Tirari and Sturts Stony deserts. (BLD)

Day 6 Innamincka

A few kilometres to the east of town you’ll find a monument marking the site where Robert O’Hara Burke, leader of the ill fated Burke & Wills expedition, died. Further east is Nappa Merrie station, where the famous ‘Dig Tree’ can be found. (BLD)

Day 7 Innamincka to Marree

We follow the Strzelecki Track  and then the Oodnadatta Track, wending our way south and west, heading for Marree. There’s Lyndhurst, with its red ochre cliffs and the red dust coloured stone ruins of ghostly Farina on the way. Marree is an old settlement on the edge of the vast desert inland, it’s where the Oodnadatta and Birdsville tracks meet.  (BLD)

Day 8 Marree

Marree started life as a camp near Hergott Springs, built to support the Overland Telegraph Line workers back in the 1870s, and was called Hergott Springs until about 1916. The oldest stone building in town is The Great Northern Hotel, built around 1883. The railway station’s huge concrete platform looks out of place in such a small town and you’ll find old locomotives and railway carriages spread about the town. Marree’s population dwindled when diesel engines replaced the 'romance' of steam, and the railway line was rerouted to a waterless area to the west. (BLD)

Day 9 Marree to Birdsville

We take the Birdsville Track north, out of Marree, across the Tirari Desert and Sturts Stony Desert, to Birdsville in far south-western Queensland. The track started life in the 1860s when it was used to bring cattle from northern Queensland and the Northern Territory, to the railheads at Port Augusta and Maree. It crosses the driest part of the country, a very barren and isolated area. It’s now a popular route for tourists and stock trucks carrying livestock. (BLD)

Day 10 Birdsville

The town was originally called ‘Diamantina Crossing’, but the name was changed to Birdsville in 1885. Some say that a local identity named it as a compliment to the abundant birdlife in the area. It’s best known for its famous pub and the annual race meeting, the Birdsville Races. (BLD)

Day 11 Birdsville to Windorah

We wander our way across far western Queensland, to a place in the heart of ‘Channel Country’ - Windorah - set amongst giant red sand hills beside the multi-channeled Cooper Creek. It gets it name from the local Aboriginal word meaning ‘place of large fish’. (BLD)

Day 12 Windorah to Thargomindah

We head further east across South Western Queensland bound for Thargomindah. This town's one claim to fame is it's artesian bore. They used the water pressure from the bore to drive a generator to supply the town with electricity. This hydro-electric scheme operated successfully until 1951, when it was replaced with a diesel powered generator. (BLD)

Day 13 Thargomindah to Cunnamulla

Eastward Ho as we continue our trek across South Western Queensland. On the way we'll pass through the small town of Eulo, on the banks of the Paroo River. The it's on through to Cunnamulla, the home of the 'Cunnamulla Fella'. (BLD)

Day 14 Cunnamulla to Toowoomba

We head ‘back east’ today, leaving the ‘Big South West’ and wending our way back to the Darling Downs, finishing up in Toowoomba. (BL)

Stonestreet's 14 day 4x4 adventure tour features mostly 2 night stops in key locations: Tibooburra, Innamincka, Marree and Birdsville. This gives our travellers more of a feeling for life in the Outback.

Waltzing Through Outback Queensland (4x4) May 6 - 12 2012

Australia’s Outback is at the heart of our nation’s character. With startling raw landscapes, endless horizons and an atmosphere ‘to die for’, it’s there for us to explore - in relative comfort and safety! Come and revel in its simple elements and hard colours, and meet the laconic scattered people who, it must be said, stand out from the plain. The Outback will win your heart too. On this unhurried 7 day adventure tour by 4x4 coach, we’re exploring the diversity that is South West Queensland – from the prehistoric to the present. This is quirky country full of surprises. This is also an ideal tour if you haven’t been Outback before nor travelled on a 4x4 coach and would like to try it out.

Day 1– West to Charleville ‘grab your swag, so to speak!’ Swag or no swag, we’re waltzing into the Outback in our four wheel drive coach. Travelling the Warrego Highway across the Darling Downs, we pass through Chinchilla and Miles, pause in Roma and head onto Charleville, the ‘Gateway to the Outback’. Tonight over dinner we’ll get acquainted.

Day 2 – Channel Country, Windorah ‘budgies in the bushes’ Tour the local sights of Charleville, then we push further west through Cheepie to a place of fiery colours - Quilpie. On the Bulloo River, its key industries are opals, oil and gas. Watch for ‘Oil Donkeys’ on the drive to Eromanga, the furthest Outback town from the sea. Next we travel to Cooper Creek in the Channel Country where lies sleepy Windorah village.

Days 3-4 – Lark Quarry, Carisbrooke ‘meet your hosts’ Someway up Cooper Creek stands the tiny settlement of Jundah. We’ll drop in to say hello then keep up the track to Lark Quarry where a guide will try to explain how once some jolly dinosaurs stampeded by the billabong. At Carisbrooke Station Charles and Penelope look forward to welcoming us onto their property for the next two nights. Spend a day exploring with Charles. Here sheep and cattle share the land with wildlife and native vegetation. We can also fossick in the old opal mine. Altogether experience some famous outback hospitality, tea from the billy boiled - and tuck into scrummy homemade cooking.

Day 5 – Waltzing Matilda & the ‘Muttaburrasaurus’ We bid our hosts farewell and travel to Winton where ‘Waltzing Matilda’ was first performed at the North Gregory Hotel. Muttaburra was once a vast inland sea and is now famous for the Muttaburrasaurus, one of Australia’s largest dinosaurs. Onwards to Aramac, Jericho and we wind up today in Blackall on the Barcoo, said to be the home of the original ‘Black Stump’.

Day 6 – Carnarvon Range ‘teddies like tour travellers’ Stop by the oldest town in Western Queensland, Tambo, home of the ever popular ‘Tambo Teddies’. Travelling the dirt road east to Springsure the scenery is beautiful. Next we journey south through the Carnarvon Range, home of the impressive Carnarvon Gorge. Injune is the final night stop of our tour..

 Day 7 – Roma, Surat and home ‘what a wonderful week!’ We return to Roma briefly and continuing down to Surat, where we turn east for home. We arrive back in Toowoomba about 4:00pm, Brisbane 6:00pm.

Cost of Tour: Twin/Double Share $2099 Single $2579

Join us on this adventure to explore the Outback of the state of Queensland. Phone Stonestreet's Coaches on 1 300 555 899 or 07 4687 5555 for bookings and enquiries.

An Evening At Velvet Waters

AN EVENING AT VELVET WATERS
Great Music, Great Food & Accommodation

Saturday March 24 - Sunday March 25

Welcome to Velvet Waters. Located in the main street of Caloundra on Queensland's beautiful Sunshine Coast, Velvet Waters offers a unique dining, dancing and live entertainment experience. Show nights are on every Saturday from 7 pm, with a delicious Dinner Show and live entertainment.

Join the Velvettes and the Velvet Waters Live Band and re-live the good old days of “Rock ‘n’Roll” with all the hits of the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s with the songs of Buddy Holly, Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, Bobby Darin, The Beatles, Johnny Cash, June Carter, J.O.K and many more of your favourites.

Next morning take a relaxing stroll through the Caloundra Markets or along the beach before returning home.

Departs 2:00pm Depot - 78 Warwick St , 2:10pm Interchange - Neil St,  2:20pm Range - James St  

Cost: $245 pp Includes coach travel, dinner show, accommodation and breakfast. 
Phone 4687 5555 for bookings and enquiries.

Stonestreet's Destinations 2012

STONESTREET'S DESTINATIONS 2012 TOURING CATALOGUE 
The new catalogue is chock full of exciting tours and 4x4 adventures - From Tip to Toe, East to West and lots of great places in between. 

Whether it's the Queensland Coast, Cape York, the Red Centre, Top End, North West, WA's South West, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, Canberra and New South Wales there's a tour to get you 'out and about' Australia.

Browse Destinations to discover where we're heading in 2012

Australia Day at Australia Zoo Thursday 26 January 2012      Crikey! It as wild as life gets at Australia Zoo's new open-range exhibit - Africa! Step on board the Africa Safari Shuttle to experience giraffes and zebras, and keep your eyes peeled for the brand new baby rhino! Afterwards take a stroll through the zoo from the Tiger Temple and Asian Elephants to the Billabong and Outback. Be sure to check out all of the animal action in the Crocoseum and watch a crocodile launch from the waters edge. Australia Zoo is the ultimate wildlife adventure with so much to see you may want to plan ahead. Price pp: $95 Ad $84 Con $74 Ch (3-14)  Includes return coach travel and entry. Departs: 7:00am Depot - 78 Warwick St, 7:10am Interchange - Neil St, 7:20am Range - James St   For bookings & enquiries phone 4687 5555..

Lost City River Cruise Thursday 2 February Enjoy a relaxing smooth water morning tea cruise in the precincts of the Coomera River, followed by lunch and dessert at the imaginatively themed Lost City Tavern. Promises to be a great day out! Price pp: $90 Includes coach travel, morning tea cruise and lunch

St Valentine’s at St Bernard’s Tuesday 14 February St Bernard's Hotel sits on the edge of an ancient volcanic escarpment overlooking Guanaba Gorge, Moreton Bay, the Gold Coast skyline and the Pacific Ocean.Come and enjoy some country hospitality, with spectacular sea views and the invigorating air of Mt Tamborine. Oh! And while you’re there you may just bump into Leo and baby Molly. Price pp  $75 Includes coach travel, morning tea and lunch at St Bernard’s.

Chasing The Queen - Evening Dinner Cruise Thursday 16 February We'll board the MV Calypso to follow the Queen Mary 2, one of the most magnificent ocean liners ever built,as it sails up the Brisbane River. Witnessing the arrival of the QM2 from onboard the MV Calypso should make for a memorable trip. Price pp $125 includes coach travel and BBQ dinner cruise.

Green, Green Grass of the Gabba Thursday 23 February In 1895 a small patch of land was set aside as the location for what is now one of the world’s most famous sporting arenas. Since then the iconic Brisbane Cricket Ground has been affectionately known as the Gabba. Join us on this fantastic tour for a guided tour of this ground where many Australian sporting legends have made their mark on history. Price pp $69  includes coach travel, morning tea, tour and lunch.

Concert Connect Latest News

AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK SPECTACULAR
SPIRIT OF THE HORSE
Saturday 28 January 2012
There is no place on earth like the Australian outback... and no show on earth like Australian Outback Spectacular. The all new show, ‘Spirit of the Horse’ celebrates the courageous spirit of the Australian horse and commemorates the legend that is Phar Lap.  It features an amazing cast of larger than life characters as well as magnificent animals including the spirited Australian stockhorse. The stunning special effects will have you on the edge of your seat;

 It’s more than a night out – it’s an experience steeped in courage, tradition, a daring spirit and a unique, laconic sense of humour.

You'll be treated to a stirring musical score composed exclusively for the show, as well as popular music composed and written by country music legend Lee Kernaghan.

Ticket price includes coach travel, show & 3 course Aussie BBQ dinner.
Adult $162 - Concession $153.50 - Child $136.50
Call Stonestreet's on 4687 5555 to book.

TIM MCGRAW & FAITH HILL
Sunday 25 March 2012
The long-awaited Tim McGraw & Faith Hill  tour kicks off in March and we have tickets available for their third concert at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on March 25.

The tour will be the first time the country music superstars have toured together outside of North America, will be Hill's first time touring Australia and will include them performing separately and together.

It will feature their massive hits including McGraw's Live Like You Were Dying, Everywhere, Real Good Man and Hill's Breathe, This Kiss and The Way You Love Me, as well as duets It's Your Love, Let's Make Love and I Need You.

Don't miss Tim McGraw and Faith Hill touring together for the first time in Australia.

 Cost: $200pp for tickets & travel. Call Stonestreet's on 4687 5555 to book.  

Get in the Spirit with Stonestreet's

Christmas is just around the corner...we're only one month away from the last shopping day, Christmas Eve. Are you looking for gift ideas? A Stonestreet's Coaches Gift Certificate is a unique and practical idea that lets you give something special - the experience of travel. Or maybe you'd like to give someone a big hint and get something you'll love! Certificates are available in numerous denominations and are easily redeemed. To learn more phone 4687 5555 or drop by the office at 78 Warwick Street, Toowoomba. BRAND NEW ANNUAL TRAVEL CLUB NEWS OUT SOON After 14 years of publication the Travel Club news is changing to an annual publication that will provide you with a full list of Extended Tours and Day Trips for 2012.  And we have lots of exciting new tours and trips instore for you. We'll also be sending out regular communications with all sorts of specials, additional tours and information throughout the year so you will be kept well up to date.   Watch your inbox... it's coming soon.

Morning Melodies at Boonah Trevor Knight sings John Denver Friday 9 December 2011  $55 From the opening chords of ‘Rocky Mountain High’ to the soaring grandeur of ‘The Eagle and the Hawk’ and on to the deep romance of ‘For You’ and ‘Lady’ the songs just keep on coming. ′I closed my eyes and it was John Denver on stage.’ ‘He made me laugh, he made me cry, a wonderful experience’. ‘I just loved his stories.’‘Beautiful songs and so much fun’. Includes return coach and show entry. For bookings & enquiries phone 4687 5555..

Travel Club Christmas Party At Lone Pine Sanctuary Thursday 15 December 2011         $99 It’s that time of the year again when we’ll all gather together to share our memories with our Travel Club friends from the year just gone by. Enjoy a delicious lunch and maybe a drink or two at a fabulous location. This time we’ll be heading Lone Pine Sanctuary. Enjoy a great day out. Tickets are selling fast - book now for the party of the year. Includes lunch and entry. For bookings & enquiries phone 4687 5555.

The Colour of Christmas - Christmas Lights Toowoomba Each Evening, 12 - 16 December 2011 $15 Adults $10 Child Family - Adults at children's prices Every year more and more people are dressing up their homes with colourful Christmas Lights. This year is looking like it may be better than ever. Come along on our special Christmas lights bus and see the beautiful lights for yourself. It’s much more fun and relaxing than trying to drive around looking for them and having to contend with parking. For bookings & enquiries phone 4687 5555.

Beautiful Brisbane Christmas Lights Wednesday 21 December 2011        $65 You thought the Toowoomba Christmas lights were fantastic, didn’t you? Well, you should see the lights in Brisbane - magnificent! Let us take you to the best of the Christmas Lights in Brisbane. Last Year whole streets were decorated. This year should be equally spectacular. Limited places. Book now! Includes light dinner. For bookings & enquiries phone 4687 5555.