Longreach: Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show

Imagine sitting under a vast, star-studded sky, enjoying a hearty Australian meal while talented performers share stories and songs that echo out of the outback. That’s exactly what the Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show offers in Longreach—a blend of good food, live entertainment, and a genuine taste of Australian bush life. We’ve looked into this experience, and here’s what makes it stand out, as well as some things to consider before booking.

What we love about this tour are the delicious camp oven dinner cooked over Gidyea coals, the chance to dine under a clear outback sky, and the authentic storytelling and songs performed live by local artists. The relaxed atmosphere combined with scenic views beside the Thomson River makes it a memorable evening.

One thing to keep in mind is that the quality of entertainment can vary—some reviews mention performances that felt more pub-like than traditional outback shows. So, if you’re expecting a polished, high-production show, this might not fully meet that expectation. Still, for those wanting an authentic, laid-back experience, it’s a great fit.

This tour appeals most to travelers craving genuine cultural insights, delicious food, and a relaxed night out in the Australian bush with a dash of entertainment. It’s ideal for those who appreciate good storytelling, live music, and scenic outdoor settings.

Good To Know

• Authentic Outback Experience: Dine beside the Thomson River under the stars with a traditional camp oven dinner.
• Quality Food & Drinks: Enjoy a two-course meal and a selection of wines, beers, and soft drinks available for purchase.
• Live Entertainment: Be entertained with songs and stories from local outback performers.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes coach transfers from your Longreach accommodation.
• Atmosphere & Setting: An outdoor experience highlighted by clear night skies and cool breezes.
• Value for Money: A three-hour experience that combines dining, cultural storytelling, and scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect

Starting Point & Transport

The tour kicks off with a pickup from a choice of 13 locations around Longreach, including popular accommodations and key landmarks like the Railway Station and the Commercial Hotel. The transport is smooth and timely, with a brief 15-minute bus ride to the dinner venue. This makes logistics simple, especially if you’re staying locally. The return trip also drops you off at the same points, making it a convenient evening activity.

The Dining Experience

Once at Smithy’s, you’re greeted with the warm aroma of camp oven cooking. The meal is themed around traditional Australian bush fare, cooked over Gidyea coals—a method that imparts a smoky flavor and lends authenticity to the experience. The two-course dinner typically includes hearty, well-prepared dishes that reflect local outback cuisine, complemented by freshly baked damper and billy tea.

Guests have noted the food is “superb” and “delicious,” with some reviewers highlighting the quality of the meal as a highlight. The full table service makes it feel more special than just a casual dinner, and the option to purchase wine, cold beer, or soft drinks means you can settle in comfortably.

Scenic Dining Under the Stars

The dining area is set beside the Thomson River, lined with coolibah trees—classic outback scenery that’s both picturesque and peaceful. As you enjoy your meal, the wide-open sky offers a stunning backdrop, especially after sunset when the stars emerge. The temperature can drop in the evening, so bringing a jacket is advised—most guests find the cool breeze quite refreshing.

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Live Performances & Stories

Following dinner, the entertainment begins. Talented resident artists perform live on stage, sharing songs and stories that evoke the spirit of the outback. While some reviews mention that the quality of performances varies, many praise the authenticity and genuine connection these performers have with their stories. You might find yourself tapping your foot to bush ballads or listening intently as stories unfold about local life.

A few travelers have expressed mixed feelings about the musical style—some expected more traditional outback music, while others appreciated the modern twist. The live aspect is a major plus, offering an intimate feel that’s difficult to replicate in larger venues.

Drinks & Bar Options

A licensed bar is available, with a good selection of wines, beers, and soft drinks. These are sold separately, so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge. The availability of pre-mixed drinks adds to the relaxed, social atmosphere.

The Whole Package: Your Evening in Longreach

This tour is about more than just the dinner and show; it’s an immersive experience in outback culture. The combination of scenic outdoor dining, authentic storytelling, and friendly guides creates a warm, welcoming environment.

The entire event lasts around 3 hours, making it a manageable evening activity that doesn’t overrun or leave you exhausted. The relaxed pacing allows plenty of time to enjoy your meal, soak in the scenery, and listen to stories without feeling rushed.

The Value Proposition

For the price, you’re getting much more than a meal—you’re experiencing a slice of outback life with local performers and scenic views. The use of traditional cooking methods and the inclusion of storytelling add cultural depth to the experience. Many reviewers mention that the meal alone is worth the cost, and the entertainment adds a memorable layer.

Authenticity and Potential Drawbacks

The charm of Smithy’s is its laid-back, genuine vibe. However, some visitors might find the entertainment to be more casual than polished—some performances have been described as “like a pub,” and not all songs or stories might resonate equally with everyone. If you’re seeking a highly polished, professional stage show, this might not fully satisfy.

Weather can also be a factor—since most of the experience is outdoors, unexpected rain or cold weather could impact your comfort. It’s wise to check the forecast and bring a jacket as recommended.

Who Would Love This Tour?

Travelers who enjoy authentic Aussie culture, outdoor dining, and storytelling will find this experience rewarding. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed evening that combines good food with a glimpse into outback life. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate scenic settings and live music will find plenty to enjoy.

If you’re after a more formal or high-production show, this might not be your best choice. But if you want to connect with local traditions, enjoy hearty food, and soak up the starry sky, Smithy’s delivers.

The Sum Up

Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show provides a genuine taste of the Australian outback, combining hearty traditional food, live storytelling, and scenic outdoor dining. It’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience in a relaxed setting, especially those who value authenticity over slick performances.

The combination of a cozy, natural environment, friendly local performers, and delicious bush fare makes this a memorable highlight for anyone exploring Longreach. While the entertainment might be hit-or-miss for some, the overall vibe, scenic views, and authentic food make it a worthwhile addition to your Outback itinerary.

For those who want to wind down after a day of exploring, enjoy some true-blue Australian stories under a canopy of stars, and taste hearty bush cooking, Smithy’s offers a uniquely satisfying experience.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, coach transfers are included and pick up/drop off at various locations around Longreach, making it easy to join the tour without worrying about transport.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for approximately 3 hours, including pickup, dining, entertainment, and drop-off.

What should I bring?
A jacket is recommended, as the outdoor setting can get cool in the evening. It’s also good to dress casually but comfortably.

Are dietary requirements accommodated?
Yes, the tour hosts encourage guests to call ahead to discuss dietary needs. However, provisions cannot be made without prior notice.

Can I purchase drinks during the event?
Yes, there is a licensed bar with wine, beers, and soft drinks available for purchase separately from the meal.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, with arrangements made to support mobility needs.

What’s the best time of year for this experience?
While the tour runs year-round, you might find the best weather in the cooler months when evenings are less likely to be uncomfortably hot or humid.

In summary, this experience offers a delightful mixture of good food, scenic outdoor ambiance, and authentic storytelling—perfect for travelers wanting to experience the true spirit of the outback in a relaxed setting. It’s especially suited for those interested in culture, scenic beauty, and memorable nights under the stars.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby