Lake Eyre & the Birdsville Races

Depart Moorabbin Airport at 8.00 am, soaring northwest into South Australia's breathtaking Flinders Ranges, where the sun exposes the vibrant palette of colours on the mountains.

Upon arrival at Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, dive into adventure with the renowned Ridgetop Tour. Traverse the rugged terrain in an open-air 4WD vehicle, arriving at Sillers Lookout to witness the wild beauty of the Northern Flinders Ranges. The region is home to over 160 bird species and the elusive yellow-footed rock wallaby amidst towering granite peaks, magnificent gorges and enchanting waterholes.

Following dinner, gaze up at the mesmerising starlit sky from the resort's observatory, where the dark sky reveals a canvas of celestial wonders.

Overnight: Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, Mawson room

An early start will have you landing in Birdsville late morning. On race day, check out the wonders of Birdsville, have a quick drink at the iconic Birdsville Hotel, and take in the carnival atmosphere before a short drive out of town to the Birdsville Racecourse.

Have a few drinks and a flutter on the horses. Watch them carve up the red dirt and be entertained by the colourful characters. If you're feeling dapper, you could show off your sartorial elegance in Fashions on the Field. Lunch and drinks at the Races are at your own expense.

Winnings in hand (hopefully!), hop back on the aircraft for the short journey to Innamincka in South Australia's remote northeast. The Innamincka Hotel is another authentic outback pub with comfortable rooms and quality food with an outback focus.

Overnight: Innamincka Hotel

Innamincka is famous for where pioneering explorers Burke and Wills set up camp for their ill-fated expedition. A short tour will give you an insight into their adventures.

Depart Innamincka for a scenic flight over Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, a breathtaking spectacle, whether dry or during those rare periods when rains create a watery oasis.

Fly over the fascinating Marree Man, with its intriguing story – who put it there in the 1990s, and why? Stop for lunch at the Marree Hotel and perhaps find answers to these questions before landing at Moorabbin Airport at 7.30 pm.