Day 1 (L,D)

Our weekend holiday commences as we meet at Brisbane Jet Base at 7:00 a.m. Boarding commences at 7:30 a.m. for a 8:00 a.m. departure. During the two hour flight to Bourke (a township located on the banks of the Darling River) we fly over Cubbie Station and enjoy refreshments as we fly. A little time to stretch our legs as the plane is being refueled before resuming our flight westwards over the southern end of Lake Eyre and then view the stunning Painted Hills, only accessible by air, prior to arriving in Coober Pedy. Coober Pedy is the largest producer of opal in the world, comprising a huge number of small mines. Finished opals can be purchased from several outlets at “miners prices”. A late lunch in an underground restaurant in Coober Pedy on our arrival. During the afternoon we take a tour of this unique town; Catacomb and St Peter & Paul underground churches, the unique golf course, and view an opal cutting demonstration and opal mine.

Time to browse among the extensive local art, craft and jewelry shops – purchase if you wish. Dinner at the “underground” 4 star Desert Cave Hotel, our overnight home. You may request underground rooms, but there are only a limited number available and cannot be guaranteed.

Day 2 (B,L)

Following a hearty breakfast we rejoin our aircraft for the two and a half hour flight to Birdsville.

We fly over Anna Creek Station, approximately 24,000 square km (6 million acres), the world’s largest working cattle station.

The tiny town of William Creek is surrounded by Anna Creek station and is the home of Wrights Air, Australian outback scenic air specialists. Owner, Trevor Wright, assisted in the development of this Lake Eyre program.

On to Lake Eyre North to explore from the air many of the features of the lake; fly over Madigan Gulf, site of

Donald Campbell’s land speed record, be amazed at the constantly changing shoreline. We view Warburton Groove where the northern floodwaters enter Lake Eyre, follow Warburton Creek and then fly to Goyder Lagoon. Hopefully we will see many migratory birds on the water below. Marvel at the vast white salt pan which forms the bed of the lake. See the sand dunes of the Simpson Desert. During the flight passengers in aisle seats swap with passengers in window seats to maximize viewing (a condition of travel). Into Queensland where we land at the tiny township of Birdsville, now famous for the annual Birdsville Races. The airport is literally a two minute stroll from the town. Time to explore the town and visit the Wirrari Information Centre. Then stroll back to the historic Birdsville Hotel, dating back to the 1860’s. Enjoy a welcome drink prior to a delicious buffet lunch.

Sadly we return to our aircraft for the final leg of our journey to Brisbane. Enjoy refreshments from the bar as we fly. Our arrival time is approximately 6:00 p.m., having completed a most comprehensive, interesting and thoroughly enjoyable Lake Eyre weekend flying holiday.