Outback Tracks and Trails

About Outback Tracks and Trails

Outback Tracks and Trails – where three mates (that's me, Tony, and Mick) spill the beans on every sunburnt, dust-choked adventure we've dragged ourselves through. Think off-grid camps under a million stars, busted utes, and the kind of shortcuts only locals know. We talk real—where to park without getting bogged, what gear actually survives the heat, and why you should never trust a map that says 'easy access'. Sometimes we drag in a guest—some bloke who's crossed the Simpson or camped on a ghost station—just to hear how they didn't die. No polished scripts, no fancy edits. Just us, laughing and having fun. So grab yourself a cold one and settle in. Enjoy!

Publisher

Andrew Newey

Category

leisure · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

28 Mar 2026

Latest episode

24 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   24 Oct 2026

   Micky’s East Coast Adventure: Canberra to Byron Bay & Beyond

   Episode 18 of The Outback Tracks and Trails Podcast is live! Just Tony, Mick and I catching up on Micky’s current east coast adventures as he heads north. We go through the trip so far, starting from Oakleigh and Holbrook, then into Canberra where he camped at the trotting track and hit the War Memorial, Mount Ainslie, Telstra Tower, the Arboretum and Lake Burley Griffin. From there it’s Budgewoi (pub with the famous rubber tree, Smugglers Island and the lakes), then Anna Bay with sand dunes, camels, 4WD sand buggies, beach driving, Boat Harbour views and a free camp at Samurai Beach. Highlights continue at Tiona Beach Caravan Park (rated the best so far), the Green Cathedral, Booti Booti National Park, Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse, swimming at Seal Rocks, and cracking seafood in Forster/Tuncurry. Further north: Crescent Head free camping and Delicate Campground, open-air Bali showers, the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour, Nambucca Heads boardwalk and water dragons, Corindi Beach headland views with kangaroos, kookaburras and even a white rabbit, plus a stop at the historic New Italy settlement. The latest leg takes in Brunswick Heads (great old-school pub where the river meets the ocean), Ocean Shores, busy Byron Bay, the hippie vibes of Mullumbimby, relaxed Lennox Head and Ballina. Plenty of laughs, great spots and proper east coast road-trip energy as Micky keeps rolling. 🔥 Drop a comment: What’s your favourite stop on the NSW east coast? 👇

2. 

   10 Oct 2026

   From the Thin Blue Line to Mortgage Broker: Mark Wheller on Golf, Bali & Life

   Episode 17 of The Outback Tracks and Trails Podcast is live! This week we’re joined by a long-time mate of the boys, Mark Wheller. Mark has walked the thin blue line and worked as a mortgage broker. He’s passionate about three things above all else — golf, Bali, and Melissa (not necessarily in that order 😉). A proud member of the Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club, Mark and Melissa split their time between the championship Sandbelt courses and their Bali timeshares. We sit down for a proper yarn about career changes, the golf life, escaping to Bali, and what keeps him grounded. Expect plenty of laughs, a few life lessons, and the usual good banter that comes when old mates get together. 🔥 Drop a comment: What’s your favourite escape — the golf course or Bali? 👇

3. 

   26 Sept 2026

   80 Days Recap: The Stats, the Beers & Best Interviews

   Episode 16 of The Outback Tracks and Trails Podcast is live! We sit down and recap the entire 80-day Big NT Run — the numbers, the costs, and some of the best conversations we had along the way. In this episode we break down the full stats: - Total kilometres travelled - Diesel and petrol used - What we spent on fuel, food and accommodation, repairs - And of course… how many beers were drunk on the road We also give you a sneaky peek at some of the standout interviews from the trip, including: - Trevor Wright from William Creek (Wrightsair & the legendary outback identity) - The lovely Molly from Marree Hotel - Belinda from Arltunga Bush Pub on the Binns Track This is the numbers episode mixed with some of the best yarns we collected over those 80 days. Perfect if you want the full picture of what it actually costs (and takes) to do a trip like this. 🔥 Drop a comment: What number are you most curious about — the kilometres, the fuel bill, or the beer count? 👇

4. 

   12 Sept 2026

   80 Days on the Road: Home at Last!

   Episode 15 of The Outback Tracks and Trails Podcast is live – and this is the final chapter of The Big NT Run! After 80 incredible days on the road, we wrap up the last two weeks of the adventure. We start with a cracking night at the pub in Mission Beach, then continue south through Alligator Creek campsite, St Helens Beach, Rockhampton and Hervey Bay. One of the absolute highlights of the entire trip was Fraser Island (K’gari) – a total surprise and pure magic. From there we catch up with family and friends in Brisbane, Burleigh and the Sunshine Coast before crossing into NSW for a memorable final night at the Jingellic Pub (a cracking night that also included a donation to a great cause). We finish the journey back in Victoria at Rutherglen for Father’s Day, before finally rolling home after 80 days on the road. This has been an absolute adventure – one that simply wouldn’t have been possible without the love, support and patience of our beautiful wives and families. Thank you. It’s been a privilege to share this journey with you all. 🔥 Drop a comment: What’s been your favourite moment from The Big NT Run? 👇

5. 

   29 Aug 2026

   From Darwin Cup to Cahills Crossing – Rolling East Toward Cairns

   Episode 14 of The Outback Tracks and Trails Podcast is live! We’re still in the Top End on The Big NT Run and this episode is packed with Darwin highlights, classic Territory pubs, and heading east along the Savannah Way. We kick things off with a Darwin Harbour Cruise and some fishing by the sea, then soak up the atmosphere at Mindell Beach Markets and Zen Bar. There’s the big day at the Darwin Cup, a stop at the Stone House, and a proper feed at Tim’s Surf n Turf. Heading out of Darwin we call into the Humpty Doo Hotel and the legendary Bark Hut Hotel before checking out the famous Cahills Crossing (croc central!). Further along the road we stop at the Pine Creek Hotel and Tool Shed, cool off at the Mataranka Thermal Pools, and push on along the Savannah Way. Highlights include Butterfly Falls, the stunning Western Lost City, and some solid fishing action at Borroloola. This one’s full of Top End colour, good food, iconic stops, and that classic Northern Territory road-trip vibe as we keep rolling east. 🔥 Drop a comment: Have you done the Savannah Way or fished around Borroloola? 👇

6. 

   25 Aug 2026

   Dundee Beach Fishing, Litchfield Falls & Darwin Vibes

   Episode 13 of The Outback Tracks and Trails Podcast is live! We’re deep into the Top End on The Big NT Run and this episode is packed with waterfalls, fishing, sunsets and good times. We kick things off at the Beach House at Dundee Beach with special hellos to Maria and Anni. From there we explore Litchfield National Park — termite mounds, Florence Falls, Buley Rockhole, Wangi Falls, Walker Creek swimming and some abandoned camp site finds. There’s even a bit of “Pud flying” action. Back towards Darwin we hit the Darwin River Tavern, cool off at Berry Springs hot springs, catch the Pitch Black Air Show, and enjoy a top lunch at Loose Goose with Micky P. We soak up sunsets and great food at Gun Beach, call into the Darwin Ski Club, and spend more time at the Dundee Beach House with loads of fishing action. There’s a classic moment with old mate “More Beers” falling asleep (wake up Jeff!), and we wrap it all up with an absolute cracker of a crab dinner on the last night — wow! This one’s full of Top End scenery, mates, fishing, and that easy-going Northern Territory vibe. 🔥 Drop a comment: What’s your favourite spot in Litchfield or around Dundee Beach? 👇

7. 

   6 Aug 2026

   Binns Track Final Stretch: Ruby Gap, Devils Marbles & Onwards to Litchfield

   Episode 12 of The Outback Tracks and Trails Podcast is live! We’re wrapping up the final section of the Binns Track and continuing north on The Big NT Run. This episode kicks off with a stop at Alice Springs Brewery for a Pale Ale and Super Crisp, followed by emotional farewells to Ryan, Nic and the kids. From there we head into the East MacDonnells, visiting John Hayes Rockhole, Trephina Gorge Nature Park with its striking Ghost Gums, Ross River and N’Dhala Gorge Nature Park, before calling into Arltunga Bush Pub & Eco Retreat. We spend time at Ruby Gap, camping off the track in the grass, with views of Andrew working at camp and a stop at Police Waterhole. There’s a funny “Lost Pud” map moment, a classic photo of Pud’s car at the 91 fuel stop, and the always-impressive Devils Marbles. Further north we roll through Dunmarra Roadhouse, into Judbarra / Gregory National Park and Top Humbert Campsite, reflecting on “The Investment in Time” and sharing some camper video. We grab beers at Timber Creek Hotel, spot cattle and donkeys along the way, and finish strong with a photo of Micky and AM before arriving at Litchfield National Park and Edith Falls. This one’s packed with remote camps, beautiful gorges, classic outback characters, and that real on-the-road energy as The Big NT Run keeps rolling. 🔥 Drop a comment: What’s been your favourite section of the Binns Track so far? 👇

8. 

   18 Jul 2026

   Oodnadatta Track & Binns Track to Alice Springs: Dalhousie Springs, Meteorites & Family Reunion

   Episode 11 of The Outback Tracks and Trails Podcast is live! We’re deep into The Big NT Run — taking on both the Oodnadatta Track and the legendary Binns Track on our way to Alice Springs! In this episode we cover: - Marree Pub (Molly), William Creek, and the Oodnadatta Track being open - Pub flights and great chats with locals Trevor, Chris and Andy - A relaxing soak at Dalhousie Springs - Fuel at Mount Dare and a big thanks to the RFDS ($500) - Stories from Molly Clark, Lambert Centre, Finke Town, Simpson Desert dunes & Arkaroola Range - Arrival into Alice Springs via the Binns Track We also share highlights from the Desert Park, Simpsons Gap, Emily Gap & Ellery Gap Big Hole, Henbury Meteorite Conservation Park, Yipirinya, the Todd River flowing, AFL footy in Alice, the Finke Race vibes, sunset & star photos, plus a special family catch-up with Nic, Ryan and Em at the airport. This episode captures the real remote outback feel as we push north through two iconic tracks. 🔥 Drop a comment: Would you tackle the Oodnadatta Track and Binns Track? 👇

9. 

   4 Jul 2026

   Flinders Ranges Adventures: Bunyeroo Gorge, Prairie Hotel Feasts & Muddy Tracks

   Episode 10 of The Outback Tracks and Trails Podcast is live from the stunning Flinders Ranges! Mick, Tony and I recap our adventures as we explore one of Australia’s most beautiful regions. We share photos and stories from William Creek fuel stop (the iconic refuel point heading onto the Oodnadatta Track), Rawnsley Park Station, the historic Blinman Hotel, Beltana’s Royal Victoria Hotel, Miners Crib Bakery, Farian Bakery, and the legendary Prairie Hotel in Parachilna. You’ll see drone footage of beautiful Bunyeroo Gorge, photos of the Oodnadatta Track, a very muddy ute after some washouts, and plenty of “work” photos from the road. We also talk through some of the standout menu items we enjoyed — Green Olives, Baked Haloumi, Feral Antipasto, Nomad Roast Chicken, Panzanella Salad, and Hash Browns — classic outback feasting at its best. This episode is full of scenery, good food, tough tracks, and real on-the-road vibes as The Big NT Run continues north.🔥 Drop a comment: What’s your favourite spot in the Flinders Ranges? 👇

10. 

    20 Jun 2026

    The Big NT Run - Safety, Food & Final Prep | Flinders Ranges Bound

    Episode 09 of The Outback Tracks and Trails Podcast is live! Mick, Tony and I sit down to talk all things about "The Big NT Run" as we prepare to head deep into the Flinders Ranges. We cover essential safety gear — fire extinguishers, solid first aid kits, and our GME (Australian-made) Personal Locator Beacon (PLB). We also give the ute a proper once-over, checking every nut and bolt before the real remote stuff begins. Plus we run through our menu and food prep plans, give a high-level itinerary, and send a big special shoutout to our mate Sid who is recovering from open heart surgery. This episode is full of practical tips, laughs, and that pre-trip buzz you get before a big outback adventure. 🔥 Episode drops Sunday while we’re already in the Flinders Ranges! Drop a comment: What’s the most important piece of safety gear you never leave home without on a big trip? 👇

11. 

    6 Jun 2026

    Old Mates, Luxury Camping & The Federal Budget: Fireside with Clayton

    Episode 8 of The Outback Tracks and Trails Podcast is a real yarn with one of my oldest mates! Clayton — a lifelong friend of 38 years — jumps in to reminisce about the old days of rough camping and swags, and how “coming of age” now looks like enjoying the 5-star luxury of Micky Paydon’s caravan. With his strong background in finance, Clayton breaks down the latest Federal Budget and what it actually means for Aussie campers, caravanners, and weekend warriors. We also get a sneak peek at Clayton’s upcoming podcast Smoke and Barrels, where he’ll be mixing sharp business talk with fine whiskies and cigars. We even touch on some of his favourite classic sips and smokes. This episode is packed with laughs, nostalgia, real talk, and plenty of wisdom from the road. If you love genuine mate conversations, camping stories, or want to hear how the budget affects everyday Aussies who love the outdoors — this one’s for you. 🔥 Full episode is live now! Let us know in the comments: What’s your go-to camping style — roughing it or luxury caravan life? 👇 --- In the Podcast we touch on the 30 by 30 is a global biodiversity target (part of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework) aiming to protect and conserve 30% of the world’s land and oceans by 2030. In Australia, the government has adopted this target. While the goal is to protect nature, many in the 4WD, camping, hunting, and prospecting communities are concerned that it’s being used to rapidly lock up large areas of state forests by turning them into national parks or stricter reserves. This often results in reduced or lost public access for recreational activities like dispersed camping, off-road driving, and fishing on tracks that have traditionally been open. Groups like Save Our Summits are pushing back to ensure balanced outcomes that protect the environment without unnecessarily closing off public land access. Our conversation ties in closely with the important work being done by Save Our Summits (https://www.saveoursummits.org/ (https://www.saveoursummits.org/)), who are actively advocating for fair public access to our summits, national parks, and state forests. We highly recommend checking out the recent episode of The Outer Side Podcast with Marc Hendrickx (President of Save Our Summits) — they dive deep into the growing threats of closures and restrictions on public land access across Australia. A big thank you to everyone fighting to keep our public lands open. These issues directly impact all of us who love camping, 4WD trips, and exploring state forests — the more voices we have pushing back, the better chance we have of keeping our outdoor spaces open for everyone.

12. 

    23 May 2026

    From Burleigh Heads to Utah: Kenny’s Animas Quest Adventure

    Grab a cold one and settle in for a special yarn with lifelong mate Kenny on Outback Tracks and Trails. Kenny, originally a Victorian and now living the good life in Burleigh Heads, QLD, joins us to talk about his upcoming journey to Utah in July. He’s taking on the Animas Quest — a powerful modern wilderness vision quest involving four days and nights of solo fasting in nature, deep soul work, ceremony, and seeking clarity on life purpose and meaning. We chat about why he’s called to do this transformative experience, how it contrasts with our usual outback 4WD trips and High Country adventures, his love for the Queensland coastal lifestyle, and what he hopes to bring back from the Utah wilderness. It’s a raw, honest, and inspiring conversation about personal growth, stepping out of your comfort zone, and the power of nature as a teacher. Whether you’re into big adventures, self-discovery, or just love a deep fireside chat with a good mate, this episode is one you won’t want to miss. Pull up a chair and join the conversation — you’ll feel right at home.

13. 

    9 May 2026

    Fuel Crisis, Rig Talk & Tech Essentials for Outback Travel

    Grab a cold one and settle in — this episode of Outback Tracks and Trails is all about the realities of hitting the tracks in 2026. Andrew, Mick and Tony sit down to talk about the current fuel crisis and what skyrocketing prices mean for planning big trips into the Northern Territory. With city diesel sitting at $3.349 and outback prices hitting a painful $3.98 (compared to regular unleaded at $2.7090), we crunch the numbers and share how it’s affecting our route planning and trip budgets. We also give you the full lowdown on our current rigs: - Mick’s Toyota Landcruiser 200 Series V8 2020 Sahara — “Silver Fox” - Tony’s VW Amarok Core V6 manual 2021 — “Ride Oh Knight Of Black Thunder” - Andrew’s Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain 2024 — “Snow Flake” Plus, we dive into the technology that’s changed the game for our travels — Starlink for staying connected in the middle of nowhere, Google Maps and Memory Maps, CB radios for track communication, and all the battery-powered tools (drills, chainsaws and more) that make life easier around camp. It’s honest, practical chat mixed with the usual laughs and real-talk stories you expect from the crew. Whether you’re planning your own big outback adventure or just love hearing how mates are adapting to the current conditions, this episode is packed with useful insights and good yarns. Pull up a swag, hit play, and join the conversation — you’ll feel right at home.

14. 

    25 Apr 2026

    Live from Japan – Tony’s Food, Sights & Adventure Tour with Karen

    G’day mates — grab a cold drink (or a cold Asahi if you’re feeling thematic) and pull up a chair for something a bit different on Outback Tracks and Trails! This episode, Tony joins us live from Japan where he and his wife Karen are halfway through a 16-day tour soaking up the sights, the food, and the culture. From bustling city streets to serene temples, incredible eats (think fresh sushi, steaming ramen, and all the street food you can handle), and those pinch-yourself moments only Japan can deliver — Tony gives us the full rundown on what it’s really like on the ground. We chat about the highs (and any funny lows), how it compares to their usual outback 4WD trips, what’s surprised them most, and whether international adventures are sneaking onto the bucket list for the rest of the crew. It’s relaxed fireside-style yarns with a Japanese twist — full of laughs, travel tips, and that same good-mates vibe you know and love. Whether you’re dreaming of your own overseas escape or just love hearing real travel stories told over a beer, this one’s for you. Pull up a swag (or a tatami mat), hit play, and come along for the ride — you’ll feel right at home.

15. 

    11 Apr 2026

    Victorian High Country with Greg Cotton – From Dargo to the Snowy River

    Grab a cold one, pull up a camp chair and join Andrew, Tony, Mick and special guest Greg Cotton as he rolls up in his new Ford Ranger for a proper Victorian High Country adventure. We head deep into the legendary High Country, kicking things off at the iconic Dargo Hotel before tackling rugged tracks and stunning spots like Dogs Grave (Ada Hut), Little River Junction campsite, the engineering marvel of McKillops Bridge over the beautiful Snowy River, and the absolute cracker of a pub at Bendoc Hotel. From there it’s more remote gems — Dalegate Hotel, Wilson Hut, Yalmy Track, Murder Spur Track, Woods Point Campground, Bruthen Hotel, Buchan Hotel and the scenic Forest Creek Track. It’s full of laughs, epic scenery, classic outback (and High Country) yarns, and that unbeatable feeling of hitting the tracks with good mates. Whether you’re a seasoned 4WDer dreaming of your next trip or just love hearing real stories from the dirt, this one’s for you. Pull up a swag, hit play, and come along for the ride — you’ll feel right at home.

16. 

    28 Mar 2026

    The Best Adventures with Your Best Mates – Our Top Three

    Grab a cold drink and pull up a camp chair — this one's all about the good times! In Episode 3 of Outback Tracks and Trails, Andrew, Tony and Mick sit down for a relaxed yarn about their all-time favourite adventures over the years. From 4WD trips and remote camping in the Victorian High Country around Merrijig, to the breathtaking colours of the Painted Desert and Flinders Ranges in South Australia, plus stops at Mount Barry, Chandler Sidings and more — these are the trips that still make them smile. We talk epic campsites, stunning outback landscapes in the NT and SA, a few overseas stories, and the simple truth that your favourite place is usually wherever your favourite people are. No big plans, just three mates chatting about what makes a trip unforgettable. Perfect fireside listening whether you're planning your next escape or just dreaming about the outback. If you love real 4WD adventures, remote camping, and genuine travel stories told over a beer, this one's for you! Shout out to Ross and Dave - Be sure to check out their podcast on Spotify - Rosco and Dave (https://open.spotify.com/show/1DikUJiCoJ1ziMUMQZnt3i?si=55e7e7a31f614fba)

17. 

    28 Mar 2026

    From Lake Eyre to Uluru: Micky J’s Big Outback Escape

    Join Andrew, Mick and Tony with their special guest Micky J, to hear Micks four‑week “trip of a lifetime” through the heart of the Australian outback. From the rugged Flinders Ranges and vast station country to the salt plains of Lake Eyre, Coober Pedy’s underground streets and the iconic red rock of Uluru, this episode is packed with stories, laughs and hard‑earned lessons from the road. You’ll hear how Starlink and GPS changed the game in remote areas, what really happens on long night drives, and why chatting with locals in tiny pubs and outback stations can become the best memories of all. If you’re dreaming of your own big outback escape—or just love red dirt yarns—this one’s for you.

18. 

    28 Mar 2026

    The Joy of Travel and Connections

    Grab a cold one and join us for a cracking yarn on the very first episode of Outback Tracks and Trails! We kick things off with deciding to start a podcast—because why not turn our love for the open road and good mates into something you can listen to? We swap stories about our very first camping trips (think dodgy tents, burnt sausages, and dads who thought they knew every shortcut), right through to epic father-son adventures and how our camping game has levelled up over the years—fancier gear, but the same old terrible jokes. We also dive into some wild overseas travels, the big career switches we've pulled off, and what’s next on the bucket list. Spoiler: there are a few ridiculous dream trips in there that’ll probably never happen… but we can dream, right? It’s full of laughs, a bit of nostalgia, and plenty of real talk about why hitting the tracks with your mates is just bloody good for the soul. So pull up a swag, hit play, and come along for the ride—we reckon you’ll feel right at home..

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