Longreach: Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show

Longreach: Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show – A Genuine Taste of Australian Outback Culture

If you’re heading to Longreach and want to enjoy a memorable evening that combines good food, lively entertainment, and a chance to gaze at clear stars, Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show offers just that. For $65 per person, you get a three-hour experience filled with hearty Australian flavors, stories from the outback, and a relaxed atmosphere beside the Thomson River. Led by Outback Aussie Tours, this evening combines traditional cuisine over Gidyea coals with authentic performances that bring out the spirit of the Outback.

What we love most about this experience is the set-up of dining under the open sky, allowing you to appreciate the vastness and serenity of the Australian night. The live performances, filled with songs and stories, add a layer of genuine local flavor that’s hard to find elsewhere. Plus, the coach transfers make it easy to enjoy the night without worrying about logistics or driving back after a few drinks.

That said, one possible consideration is the availability of alcohol, which is not included in the ticket price but can be purchased at the licensed bar. If you’re expecting a full bar experience, plan accordingly. This tour suits travelers looking for an authentic, relaxed evening that emphasizes local culture, great food, and natural beauty — ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone eager for a taste of the Australian outback without camping out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Outback Atmosphere: Dining under the stars along the Thomson River makes for a genuine experience.
• Hearty 2-Course Dinner: Cooked over Gidyea coals, the camp oven-themed meal highlights traditional Australian flavors.
• Live Entertainment: Talented performers share songs and stories that bring the Outback to life.
• Convenient Transfers: Coach pickups and drop-offs from your Longreach accommodation simplify logistics.
• Value for Money: At $65, this experience delivers a memorable night with good food, entertainment, and cultural insight.
• Weather Considerations: A jacket might be needed, especially if the night turns chilly.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Setting the Scene: Dining beside the Thomson River

As we arrived at Smithy’s River Stage, the first thing that struck us was the peaceful environment — the river lined with coolibahs, the open sky stretching overhead. The outdoor setting creates an inviting, rustic vibe that captures the essence of the Outback. We appreciated the full table service, which meant no rushing or self-service — just relaxing and enjoying the surroundings.

The highlight of the dinner is the 2-course camp oven meal, prepared over Gidyea coals — a traditional method that offers a smoky, hearty flavor. The menu, while not precisely detailed, consistently earns praise for its deliciousness, with reviews mentioning “excellent food” and “superb” meals. The camp oven cooking technique is not just a culinary curiosity but a reflection of real outback traditions, making it more than just a meal but an experience.

The Food: Simple, Authentic, Delicious

The dinner features a camp oven-themed menu, cooked on Gidyea coals, which imparts a distinctive smoky aroma typical of Australian bush cooking. Guests are served a two-course meal with options that satisfy a range of tastes, from hearty mains to sides. Accompanying the meal, you’re offered tea, coffee, and damper, a classic Australian bread, baked fresh and served hot, adding to the authenticity.

While alcohol isn’t included in the price, you can purchase wine, cold beer, soft drinks, and pre-mixes from the licensed bar — the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. Many reviews note the high quality and flavorful nature of the food, with one guest describing everything as “superb” and “excellent.”

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Entertainment: Songs, Stories, and Outback Culture

Following dinner, the mood shifts to lively and engaging as talented local performers take to the stage. They sing outback songs, share stories, and bring a lively but warm atmosphere to the evening. The live performances are a definite highlight, with reviews praising the performers as “excellent” and describing the entire night as “our highlight of Longreach.”

The stories shared provide a glimpse into outback life, adding a layer of cultural authenticity that many travelers find enriching. The performers’ ability to entertain while sharing genuine stories makes the experience more than just a dinner — it becomes a window into Australian rural life.

Practicalities and Comfort

Transportation is straightforward, with coach transfers included from your accommodation. This means you won’t have to worry about driving back after an evening of good food and drinks. The tour lasts around three hours, with check-in times depending on availability, so it’s best to plan for a relaxed, unhurried evening.

We recommend bringing a jacket, as the temperature can drop once the sun sets, especially in the Outback. The overall group size tends to be manageable, fostering a cozy, intimate atmosphere, and the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

Authenticity and Value

The beauty of Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show lies in its authenticity. It’s not a polished tourist trap but a genuine representation of Outback culture, from the cooking methods to the storytelling. For $65, you get a full dinner, live entertainment, and a cultural experience in a stunning outdoor setting — a rare combination that delivers real value.

Guests frequently mention how surprisingly good the food and entertainment are, with one reviewer calling it “the whole experience.” The price is reasonable considering the quality of the meal, the setting, and the live performances, making it ideal for travelers who want to indulge in local culture without breaking the bank.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for those wanting a relaxed evening that combines authentic Australian cuisine with local storytelling and music. It’s ideal for couples seeking a romantic night under the stars or small groups eager to experience true Outback hospitality. If you’re curious about traditional bush cooking and local musical talents, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer a convenient, guided experience with transfers included, so you can focus on enjoying the night rather than logistics. This tour is less about high-end fine dining and more about authenticity, atmosphere, and culture.

Final Thoughts

Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show offers a wonderfully authentic taste of the Australian Outback in a relaxed, friendly setting. The combination of hearty camp oven cooking, live storytelling and music, and the stunning night skies makes it a highlight for many visitors to Longreach. Whether you’re a traveler seeking cultural insight, good food, or just a memorable evening under the stars, this experience delivers on all fronts.

The reasonable price point and inclusive transfers make it accessible and stress-free, while the genuine performances and delicious food create lasting memories. We think it’s a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to connect with Outback traditions in a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, especially those who enjoy storytelling and music with their meal.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, return coach transfers from your Longreach accommodation are included, making it easy to enjoy the night without the worry of driving.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for approximately three hours, including dinner and entertainment.

What should I bring?
A jacket is recommended, as it can get chilly after sunset in the Outback.

Is alcohol included?
No, alcohol isn’t included in the ticket price but can be purchased at the licensed bar.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.

What kind of food is served?
A two-course camp oven-themed meal cooked over Gidyea coals, complemented by damper bread and billy tea.

Are the performers local?
Yes, the live acts are performed by talented Australian outback artists, sharing songs and stories that reflect local culture.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere suggests it can be enjoyed by older children and teens.

What’s the best time to go?
Since the experience is outdoors under the stars, it’s best during clear evenings, typically in the warmer months, but always check availability and weather forecasts.

With its combination of traditional Outback cuisine, lively storytelling, and stunning natural surroundings, Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show offers an authentic, memorable taste of Australia’s heartland. For those eager to connect with local culture in a relaxed setting, this is a night worth experiencing.

You can check availability for your dates here: