David Littleproud (Maranoa, National Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

As we head into the winter break, I want to mention a unique and special event happening in my electorate of Maranoa in case anyone is looking for an outback holiday that will stick with them for life. Standing at 30 metres high on the edge of the Simspon Desert, the Big Red sand dune is a stage for Birdsville Big Red Bash. The sky is spectacular in Birdsville, painted with the most unique sunrises and sunsets but also millions of bright stars to light the night. The Big Red Bash, the most remote music festival in the world, is set to take place on 4 to 6 July. The Big Red Bash kicks off this weekend with the Big Red Run, which is Australia's first and only 250-kilometre multiday race. This year's Big Red Bash has attracted artists of the calibre of Missy Higgins, Lee Kernaghan, Troy Cassar-Daley, The McClymonts and The Wolfe Brothers, just to name a few of the iconic Aussie artists hitting the stage. Last year, more than 7,000 people made the trip to Birdsville for the Big Red Run and the Big Red Bash. These iconic events also complement the iconic Birdsville Races, which attract thousands in the first week of September every year. The Big Red Bash enhances the sense of community in the outback and Birdsville and could not happen without the tireless work of Greg Donovan and his 100-plus team of volunteers who make this event such a success. Do yourself a favour, go to Birdsville and stop into the many welcoming country towns to say g'day, have a meal and stay the night.