TOCA Simpson Desert Trip — Group 2 (Post-Muster)

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

Group 2 is for those without school-holiday constraints who want to extend the adventure. Depart Birdsville immediately after Track Muster closes, cross the Simpson Desert west to east, and finish at Mount Dare or Dalhousie Springs in South Australia.

At a Glance

• Direction: East to West (Birdsville, QLD → Mount Dare/Dalhousie Springs, SA)
• Departs: Sunday 13 July 2027 — the day after Track Muster closes
• Finishes: ~Thursday 17 – Saturday 19 July 2027 (depending on route and pace)
• Duration: Approximately 4–7 days in the desert
• Suitable for: Anyone not constrained by school terms — couples, retirees, those with flexible work arrangements

The Route (Proposed)

The crossing runs east to west, departing Birdsville and heading over Big Red on day one, then traversing the desert via the QAA Line toward Dalhousie Springs and Mount Dare. The full route will be confirmed by the trip leader closer to the event.

Key highlights along the way:

• Big Red (Nappanerica Dune) — the iconic first challenge departing Birdsville, tackled fresh from Track Muster
• Poeppel Corner — the three-state meeting point of QLD, SA and NT
• Dalhousie Springs — natural thermal springs at the western edge of the desert, a brilliant way to conclude the crossing

What You’ll Need

Same requirements as Group 1. The Simpson Desert demands thorough preparation regardless of direction. Minimum requirements will be confirmed by the trip leader, but expect to need a capable 4WD, sand flag, UHF radio, adequate fuel and water, recovery gear, Desert Parks Pass, and a satellite communication device.

Connects To

Group 2 departs from Track Muster 2027 in Birdsville (9–11 July 2027). Attending Track Muster before the crossing is strongly encouraged — it’s the perfect way to meet your fellow travellers and get your gear checked over before heading west.

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.