TOCA Simpson Desert Trip — Group 1 (School Holidays)

📌 Planning in progress — details subject to change. This event is in early draft stage. Routes, start points and logistics are yet to be confirmed by the TOCA committee. Expression of interest welcome — contact us at [email protected]

Group 1 is designed for families and anyone tied to the school holiday calendar. Depart during the Queensland winter school holidays, cross the Simpson Desert, and arrive in Birdsville just in time for Track Muster 2027.

At a Glance

• Direction: West to East (Mount Dare, SA → Birdsville, QLD)
• Departs: ~Saturday 28 June 2027 (start of QLD school holidays)
• Arrives Birdsville: Friday 9 July 2027 — Track Muster opening day
• Duration: Approximately 10–12 days including travel to start point
• Suitable for: Families with school-age children, all experience levels welcome with appropriate preparation

The Route (Proposed)

The crossing will run west to east, entering the Simpson Desert from the South Australian side near Mount Dare and Dalhousie Springs, and exiting at Birdsville via the QAA Line over Big Red. The full route and track selection will be confirmed by the trip leader closer to the event.

Key highlights along the way:

• Dalhousie Springs — natural thermal springs at the western edge of the desert
• Poeppel Corner — where Queensland, South Australia and the Northern Territory meet
• Big Red (Nappanerica Dune) — the tallest sand dune in the Simpson, the final challenge before Birdsville
• Birdsville arrival — cold drinks at the pub, hot showers, and Track Muster begins

What You’ll Need

The Simpson Desert is a serious remote adventure requiring thorough preparation. Minimum requirements will be confirmed by the trip leader, but participants should expect to need:

• Capable 4WD with low range and good ground clearance
• Sand flag (compulsory)
• UHF radio (channel 10)
• Adequate fuel and water for the crossing
• Recovery gear
• Desert Parks Pass (SA/QLD)
• EPIRB or satellite communication device

Connects To

Group 1 concludes at Track Muster 2027 in Birdsville (9–11 July 2027). Participants are welcome to stay for the full muster before heading home.

This is an early draft. The TOCA committee is working to confirm a trip leader, route details, group size and registration process. Stay tuned to the TOCA website and Facebook Group for updates.