Katherine Outback Experience: Live Horse & Dog Show Ticket

Summary

Dust, dogs, music and laughter in the heart of Katherine

You’ll step straight into real outback life at Katherine: watch live horse training up close, meet clever working dogs (and their quirks), and hear bush stories set to music by Tom Curtain himself. It’s dusty, honest fun that leaves you thinking about trust—between people and animals—long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We shuffled through the red dirt toward the arena in Katherine, boots kicking up little puffs — I could already hear a few dogs barking somewhere behind the corrugated iron. Tom Curtain was there with his hat tipped back, grinning like he’d just heard a good joke. He waved us in and started right off with a story about growing up out here (I missed half of it because a horse snorted nearby and I got distracted — they’re just so big up close).

First thing, they brought out this young horse, wide-eyed and twitchy. Tom explained what “horse starting” actually means — not breaking them, but building trust. He moved slow, talking to both us and the horse, explaining every flick of an ear or shift of weight. I could smell hay and that sharp tang horses have, mixed with dust. Honestly, watching him work was kind of hypnotic. There was a moment when the horse let him touch its nose for the first time — everyone went quiet except for some galahs screeching overhead.

Next came the working dogs — Kelpie tails wagging so hard their whole bodies wiggled. Each one had its own personality; Tom introduced them like they were old friends (which I guess they are). The way those dogs listened to a single whistle or word was wild. At one point he called out for “Maggie” and three dogs came running — someone behind me laughed and said that’s half the dogs in Australia.

Between all this action, Tom picked up his guitar right there on horseback (I still don’t know how he manages that) and sang a couple songs about life out here. The words stuck with me more than I expected. The show wasn’t polished or perfect — sometimes things didn’t go as planned and Tom just rolled with it, making jokes or telling another yarn while someone wrangled an uncooperative pup.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Katherine Outback Experience Show

• Introduction about story and history
• Train a young horse live
• Explain horse psychology and trust
• Saddle and attempt first ride
• Demonstrate advanced horse training
• Introduce and train working dogs
• Perform original songs from saddle

Top questions

Is Katherine Outback Experience wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible including transportation options.

How long does the Katherine Outback Experience show last?

The exact duration isn’t listed but expect enough time for horse training demos, dog displays, and live music.

Are children allowed at the show?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Is there shelter if it rains during the show?

Yes, the show is undercover so it operates in all weather conditions.

Can infants attend the Katherine Outback Experience?

Infants can attend and may ride in a pram or stroller during the show.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are permitted at the venue.

Who runs the Katherine Outback Experience?

The show is owned and operated by Tom Curtain, an award-winning musician and horseman.

What’s included

Your ticket includes entry to the live show with commentary throughout—expect demonstrations of horse starting and working dog skills plus original Australian music performed by Tom Curtain from horseback. All areas are wheelchair accessible for guests of every age or mobility level.