For those planning a journey to Australia’s rugged and remote outback, tour guide Dave Overton has one key piece of advice: bring a good pair of hiking boots. Overton, who swapped his city life for a career as a tour guide with Trafalgar, currently leads trips through iconic destinations such as Uluru, the Great Barrier Reef, and Melbourne. With years of experience, he shares what makes a visit to the outback truly unforgettable — and why Australians shouldn’t wait until retirement to explore their own backyard.
Having grown up in farming and hospitality, Overton was drawn to the peace and solitude of the outback after years in busy urban environments. “When I first began working as a tour manager, I had no idea how much the vast, quiet landscapes and starlit skies would change my perspective,” he says. “The people I’ve met and their stories have reshaped how I view the world.”
Why Australians Should Explore Their Own Country First
Overton believes that Aussies tend to overlook the beauty of their own land in favor of overseas travel. “There’s this belief that there will always be time to see Australia later,” he explains. “But the reality is that Australia is so vast, and the landscape can be both challenging and awe-inspiring. Many of us end up waiting until we’re too old to truly enjoy it.”
In his view, this reluctance to travel locally means Australians are missing out on the incredible natural beauty and rich history of their own country. “From the Aboriginal creation stories to the pioneering tales of those who built cattle stations and townships, the outback is part of Australia’s rich heritage,” says Overton. “We often go looking for the kind of beauty we have right here at home.”
Hidden Gems in the Northern Territory and Kimberley
Overton points to lesser-known spots in the Northern Territory and Kimberley as must-see locations for adventurous travelers. “Judbarra / Gregory National Park is a hidden gem,” he reveals. “It’s the second-largest national park in the NT, yet few people even know it exists. It’s home to stunning gorges, Aboriginal art, wildlife, and the incredible Victoria River.”
For those exploring the Kimberley, Overton recommends visiting spots like Lake Argyle, Wyndham, and Five Rivers Lookout. “The Kimberley feels like stepping back in time,” he says. “Driving through the ancient landscapes, you get a sense of how small we are in the grand scale of history. It’s a place where time seems to stand still.”
A Call to Action: Explore Before It’s Too Late
Overton is quick to stress that anyone planning to explore the outback should come prepared. “Hiking boots are a must, and a sense of adventure is key,” he advises. “The Outback Explorer tour often surprises people with how much walking is involved, and many don’t bring the proper footwear.”
Whether it’s the quiet beauty of Gregory National Park or the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Kimberley, Overton believes there’s no better time than now to embrace Australia’s natural wonders. “This is a part of the world that’s unlike anything else, and it’s waiting to be explored. The time to experience it is now.”
For Australians, and visitors from abroad, the outback offers an unparalleled adventure. With the right gear and a sense of curiosity, it’s a journey that promises to leave a lasting impact.
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