Drive 4x4 The Doc

2026 Drive 4x4 The Doc

The 2026 Drive 4x4 The Doc will take place from 17–21 November 2026.

 Please bear in mind that the proposed route is subject to weather and other outside influences and may be changed at any time at the discretion of the event organiser.

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​Where Are We Going?
2026 Drive 4x4 The Doc — An Outback Journey That Gives Back
From 17–21 November 2026, Drive 4x4 The Doc will once again venture beyond the blacktop — exploring some of south‑eastern Australia’s most striking outback landscapes while raising vital funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS).
The 2026 route has been designed to balance scenic adventure, relaxed touring, and meaningful regional connection. While all routes remain subject to weather and local conditions, the itinerary below outlines the journey currently planned for this year’s event.

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Our Guiding Principles: 

• Have fun

• Explore places we might not normally go to, on roads less travelled

• Have a positive social & financial impact on the towns and regions we visit, and

• Raise funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service

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Accommodation:

For 2026, we will once again block‑book comfortable motel accommodation each night to ensure participants enjoy the best balance of convenience and comfort, all located close to our evening venues.

Accommodation costs are charged with your entry, although you are welcome to book your own if preferred.

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Day by Day Itinerary:

 

Welcome Evening in Mildura

Join us in Mildura on the eve of the event for a relaxed welcome evening to kick off Drive 4x4 The Doc 2026. It’s a chance to meet fellow participants, connect with the event team, enjoy good food, and settle into the spirit of the journey ahead — no rush, no extended speeches, just friendly conversation and anticipation for the road to come.

Day 1 — Mildura → Mildura via Murray‑Sunset National Park
The event kicks off with a spectacular loop through Murray‑Sunset National Park, one of Victoria’s largest and most awe‑inspiring wilderness areas.
Participants can expect:

• Vast open landscapes

• Pink salt lakes and big‑sky views

• A true outback atmosphere to set the tone for the week

A special community lunch stop is planned, offering the chance to meet local outback residents and supporters who proudly back the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
Overnight: Mildura

Day 2 — Mildura → Western NSW 
Day 2 sees the convoy cross into far‑western New South Wales, heading deeper into remote RFDS territory.
This day highlights the immense distances and isolation experienced by many rural communities — and the critical importance of flying medical services in these regions.
Overnight accommodation will be in Western NSW.

Day 3 — Western NSW → Packsaddle → Western NSW

This is a classic outback touring day, heading north to the iconic Packsaddle Roadhouse before turning south toward Broken Hill.

Highlights:

• Visit to Packsaddle Roadhouse (iconic outback stop)

• Expansive desert roads and remote travel

The evening return to Mt Gipps Hotel will see us host our iconic Trivia Evening for some fun and laughter.

Overnight accommodation will be in Western NSW.

Day 4 — Broken Hill → Silverton → RFDS Experience

The final day is set against the cinematic backdrop of Silverton and the surrounding outback, this day brings participants closer than ever to the people, stories, and impact of the RFDS.

The final stage of the day includes a specially curated RFDS experience, celebrating the 90th Anniversary of the Broken Hill Base — one of the most historic and significant locations in Flying Doctor history.

Highlights:

• Immersive time in Silverton, one of Australia’s most iconic outback towns

• Stunning desert landscapes providing a powerful and reflective setting

• A curated RFDS program featuring:

  • Behind-the-scenes insight into operations past and present

  • Storytelling from RFDS representatives, clinicians, and community voices

  • Exploration of the legacy and evolution of the Broken Hill Base over 90 years

  • Special event celebrating 90 years of the RFDS Broken Hill Base

• Rich interpretation of the region’s aviation, medical, and cultural history

This final day is designed to move beyond driving — offering a deeper connection to the purpose behind the journey and recognising the extraordinary impact of the RFDS across remote Australia.

Participants conclude the event with a shared sense of achievement, connection, and contribution.

Overnight: Broken Hill

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Download our information pack for 2026 HERE

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The Driving:

​You’ll need a 4WD (or a larger AWD), but this is not an extreme off‑road event.
Expect:

• Scenic touring

• Country dirt roads

• Beautiful lookout stops

• Plenty of time to chat, relax and enjoy the journey

 

There will be no river winching, mud slides, or technical 4WD manoeuvres.
We recommend leaving the recovery gear at home — and packing deck chairs and a cooler instead.

 

If you love stunning landscapes, friendly conversation, roadside morning teas, and exploring parts of Australia you might never otherwise see, you’ll fit right in.

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Our Charter

Each year, our goal is simple:
To find unforgettable places off the beaten track — combining scenic drives, great food, and comfortable accommodation, all at a reasonable budget level.

 

We think 2026 will deliver exactly that.

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The Royal Flying Doctor Service:

 

People living in rural and remote Australia need the same medical services as those in major cities — but access is often limited by distance and geography.

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The Royal Flying Doctor Service bridges that gap with:

• 24‑hour aeromedical emergency response

• Fly‑in fly‑out GP and nurse clinics

• Mental health services

• Telehealth consultations

• Mobile dental programs

• Patient transfers

• And a wide range of primary healthcare services

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With a “waiting room” stretching across 7.69 million square kilometres, the RFDS remains one of Australia’s most vital and trusted health services.

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