Riders, travellers from around the world, and more than one million social media fans have handed over the reins, as the sun sets on the 2026 Outback Queensland Cattle Drive.

The cattle drive finished in Blackall today after travelling more than 39,925 km (accumulated individual distance travelled) along traditional stock routes known as “the long paddock” from Longreach through to Muttaburra, Aramac, Ilfracombe and Barcaldine.

According to CERES tags, the herd of around 1200 cattle collectively clocked up more than 32,861 hours of grazing along the way.

Chair and Beefbank Director Bim Struss said the OQCD has been an extraordinary experience bringing together people from all walks of life.

“So many Queenslanders are doing it tough at the moment and it’s been wonderful giving joy to bush communities and putting food on the plates of people who might be struggling,” Mr Struss said.

“We sold out of saddle space as visitors jumped at the chance to ride alongside the cattle and take part in a truly Aussie experience, or pull up in their vehicles by the campfire for some bush tucker, entertainment and stargazing under outback skies.”

Queensland Governor Dr Jeannette Young officially launched the 2026 OQCD in Longreach in May describing it as a “moving symbol of generosity, resilience and hope.”

The event started in 2025 to promote more awareness about food insecurity as one in five Australians every week face the alarming challenge of not knowing where their next meal is coming from.

Mayor of Barcaldine Regional Council, Councillor Rob Chandler said OQCD events held in the smaller towns were welcomed with open arms, after a succession of drought, floods, fuel price hikes and cost of living struggles.

“This is such a feel-good drive which has given locals and economies in the region a much needed boost,” Mayor Chandler said.

Registrations are now open for the 2027 OQCD – saddle up, it’s sure to be another cracker!

Source: Outback Queensland Cattle Drive. For more information please visit the OQCD website: www.outbackcattledrive.au