The Head of the Outback
Sunday 5 October 2025 – Thompson River, Longreach
On Day 2 of our Outback Regatta weekend, we take to the mighty Thomson River in Longreach for the Head of the Outback — a 6km head race in eights that brings the time-honoured rowing tradition to the red heart of Australia.
Crews race out and back around the iconic Longreach Explorer cruiser, which also doubles as a floating grandstand. When you're not rowing, you’ll be onboard with other spectators for a front-row view of the action at the turn. It’s an unforgettable way to see the race unfold.
All Races in Eights Only
No small boats — just big crews, big energy, and big fun.
We welcome entries in the following categories:
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School-aged
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Open and Masters
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Men’s, Women’s & Mixed
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Octa-Eights
No Crew? No Problem.
Solo rowers or small club groups — our “Club Orphans” system has you covered.
Register as an Orphan Rower and we’ll match you into a crew so everyone gets a seat.
Come in your club colours or create a fun crew look of your own.
Getting to the Regatta
There are plenty of ways to get here:
Register your travel on our event page to stay up to date. We’ll provide a downloadable convoy map, itinerary, and suggested accommodation in key towns to help you stay close to the rowing crew along the way.
Convoy cars with spare seats — we’ll rotate passengers to keep it social and inclusive!
Boat Rental or BYO?
Bringing your own boat is ideal but if you need help let us know and we’ll support logistics where possible.
We can arrange rental eights for your crew — just let us know on this registration page.
Registrations
Don't have a crew, don't worry! Register your interest as an Orphan on this page.
Race & Event registrations will open end July for full crews.
Need a boat? We can help arrange rental eights. Register your requirements on this page.
Join us for head-to-head excitement and big Outback energy!
Proudly hosted by Outback Rowing Australia.
Let’s take the tradition of rowing off the beaten path — and onto the Thomson River.
