Outback NSW
Ancient, stark and unforgiving to those who treat it with disrespect, the Outback flows west from the foothills of the high country to the border with South Australia and far beyond. The red landscape, shimmering in the heat, contains surprising contrasts considering the harsh habitat; flocks of Ibis on the Menindee Lakes, emus on the plains, kangaroos at Sturt National Park, tough plant life and wildflowers that bloom in that rare cloudburst.

Fossick for opals at Lightning Ridge and White Cliffs where homes are underground, take an outback tour from Bourke to Wentworth, where the Darling River meets the Murray, and experience life under canvas; days under the searing sun, nights under the cold, blazing stars. Visit the mining towns of Broken Hill and Cobar; and Mungo National Park to see the Walls of China.

For a complete change visit Mildura on the Murray River and a return to civilisation; people, running water, soft beds, great food, cold beer, sports on TV and above all - appreciation.