Longreach: Cobb & Co Stagecoach Ride with Smoko & Show

Summary

Longreach stagecoach gallop smoko and bush show in one day

You’ll feel every bump on Australia’s only stagecoach gallop along Longreach’s historic mail route before relaxing over fresh scones with jam and tea for smoko. Watch a classic bush movie from canvas seats, laugh at a lively tent show, and meet locals who bring pioneer stories to life—it’s more real than you might expect.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the way the sunlight hit the old Cobb & Co stagecoach—kind of golden and dusty, like something out of an old film. The horses were already restless, stamping at the red dirt just outside Longreach. Our guide, Mick, handed me this paper ticket (they call it a “commemorative” one) and grinned, “You ready to rattle your bones?” I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect—thought it’d be gentle, but when we took off down that original mail route, the wheels started bouncing and everyone laughed or grabbed their hats. You could actually smell the leather and hear every hoofbeat pounding through you.

I sat next to a couple from Brisbane who kept joking about how their Fitbits would count this as cardio. At some point, Mick pointed out an old telegraph pole leaning into the scrub—said it’s been there since before his granddad was born. There was this moment during the gallop where all you could hear was wind and hooves and someone’s nervous giggle behind me. It’s not smooth at all—more like riding a wooden rollercoaster—but that’s kind of the point. My hands were covered in fine red dust by the end.

Afterwards, we slowed things down for “smoko”—which is basically tea with these warm scones (still steaming), thick cream and sweet jam. I tried to pour my own tea but nearly spilled it; one of the ladies working there just smiled and helped me out, no fuss. The air smelled like baking and eucalyptus leaves drifting in from somewhere outside. We ended up watching an old bush movie in these creaky canvas seats—popcorn in hand—and then wandered over to see a tent show that was half slapstick, half animal chaos (I still have no idea how they got that goat to cooperate). By then I’d stopped checking my phone entirely.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cobb & Co stagecoach and shows

• Collect ticket at booking office
• Gather in The Parlour
• Photo before stagecoach ride
• Enjoy Cobb & Co stagecoach ride
• Have traditional outback smoko
• Watch classic Australian bush movie
• Attend old time tent show

Top questions

How long does the Cobb & Co Stagecoach Experience last?

The experience includes several activities across half a day: stagecoach ride, smoko, bush movie screening, and tent show.

Is lunch included on this Longreach stagecoach tour?

No full lunch is included, but you get home-baked scones with jam and cream plus tea during smoko.

Are there any physical restrictions for riding the stagecoach?

The ride can be bumpy like a 4WD track; not recommended for travelers with serious back or neck concerns.

Is hotel pickup included for this Cobb & Co tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby.

What should I wear for the stagecoach ride?

Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting dusty; hats are handy but hold onto them during the gallop!

Can children join this Longreach day trip?

Yes—infants must sit on an adult’s lap; suitable for all fitness levels except those with serious back or neck issues.

What is ‘smoko’ on this tour?

Smoko is a traditional Australian tea break featuring home-baked scones with jam and cream plus tea.

Do I need to book in advance?

Advance booking is recommended as spots can fill up quickly for this popular experience.

What’s included

Your day includes entry to the Cobb & Co Stagecoach Experience in Longreach—with commemorative ticket collection on arrival—a full-length ride including Australia’s only stagecoach gallop along part of the original mail route, time for traditional smoko (fresh scones with jam and cream plus tea), screening of a classic Australian bush movie in retro canvas seats with popcorn provided, access to browse historic collections in the courtyard, plus a live tent show tribute to travelling entertainers—all hosted by experienced locals before you head off again into town.