27th June to 1st July

The 2008 Xstrata MacAir Outback Tour is a unique travel adventure enhanced by beautiful music performed in some of Queensland's most spectacular and isolated locations. Conducted the week prior to the Festival, music lovers join five talented musicians for a five day tour like no other.

Sponsored by Xstrata Copper and MacAir Airlines, the Tour mixes dramatic scenery, opportunities to meet outback Australians at work and play with a selection of musical works for didgeridoo and strings.

This year's artists include Australia's leading didgeridoo player, William Barton and the dynamic Euphoria Quartet. The quartet consists of Lucy Warren and Edwina George (violins), Tara Houghton (viola) and Stephanie Arnold (cello).

The Tour will travel into the heart of North West Queensland and the Gulf Country visiting Mt Isa, Cloncurry, Ernest Henry Mine, Karumba and Normanton.

All masterclasses and concerts performed in remote communities are provided free of charge. The Festival is extremely grateful to our Outback Tour sponsor and the huge support and assistance provided by the communities visited.

William Barton is proudly sponsored by Moore Stephens Qld.

The Euphoria Quartet is proudly sponsored by Marg O'Donnell and Martin Moynihan.