A perfect way to experience the outback atmosphere is on Bourke's newest attraction, the Jandra. She's the only outback paddleboat in Australia and a spitting image of those from the pioneering days of the 1860s. Once you're out on her you get a real sense of peace and serenity - any thoughts of the city are left a million miles behind! Back on dry land, it's just a 90-minute drive from the centre of town to Trilby Station, a massive sheep property dating back to the 1950s. These days it also operates as a farm stay. The station is so big - 53,000 hectares in total - that it used to take a good day or two to find and muster the livestock. These days it can be done in a matter of hours using a helicopter. Station owner and pilot, Gary Murray, puts on quite a show for his visitors!At the end of a hard day on the land, the Murrays head down with their guests for an afternoon drink by the billabong. This is followed by a delicious campfire dinner in true country style.
The facts
Return flights to Bourke start from $924 per person from Sydney
Double rooms at Trilby station cost $150 per person per night including a campfire dinner, breakfast and most activities. Trilby also has a cheaper accommodation option called the Bunkhouse. Rooms start from just $25 per person.
Bunkhouse
Tel: 02 6874 7420
Tourism NSW
Tel: 02 9931 1416
