Running from Willow Tree, just south of Tamworth, straight out to the back of Bourke, the Kamilaroi Highway offers the most direct route from the Great Divide to the Great Outback. Along the way, you’ll discover the quintessential Australian bush experience – from street-strolling koalas to road-running emus and from country squires to colourful opal miners.

The Kamilaroi Highway route to Bourke from the east coast takes you into the agricultural heartland of NSW, cruising through golden fields of wheat, sunflowers and canola; past the rugged mountain ranges of the Nandewars and Mt Kaputar; and on to the sunburnt plains of the Outback grazing runs.

Along the way, the Kamilaroi’s iconic towns and settlements give you every excuse to extend your journey over several days, with each stop presenting its own unique slice of life in the bush.

At Werris Creek, near Quirindi, you can immerse yourself in the history of the railways that opened up the North West.

In Gunnedah, keep an eye out for the urban koalas that regularly roam the streets.

In Narrabri, learn how the Australian cotton industry is leading the world by developing more sustainable practices.

In Lightning Ridge, you’ll love all the quirky, off-beat attractions and the equally colourful opal miners.

In Brewarrina, step into the Aboriginal dream-time at one of the oldest man-made structures on earth.

And in Bourke, relive the glory days of the Darling River trade on an old paddle steamer.

Extending a warm Outback welcome are the wealth of accommodation operators offering the choice of historic homestead farmstays, luxury B&Bs, affordably priced motels, traditional country pubs, rustic bush cabins, well-serviced caravan parks and peaceful camping spots on a riverbank.

You’ll find more friendly faces at the Visitor Information Centres in each main town where they can help you make the most of your Kamilaroi adventure by giving you details on all the local attractions and mapping out a scenic detour along the roads less travelled.