The Premier said the offer provided the perfect opportunity for families to explore western Queensland during the school holidays.

“The iconic Queensland outback is a must see for any traveller, domestic or international, but numbers usually dip in the warmer months,” she said.

“We’ve declared 2019 The Year of Outback Tourism to support outback communities when they need it most, and Queensland Rail is backing the fantastic initiative by helping to get people to the west for less this summer.

“We are committed to supporting tourism in local communities by bringing visitors to regions across the state, whether to visit family and friends or for a holiday.

“These discounted fares are yet another reason to travel by rail to Longreach, Charleville, Mount Isa and all stops in between.

“And you can support local economies and tourism operators along the way.”

Acting Transport Minister Mark Ryan said since “2 for 1” summer fares began on the Spirit of the Outback in 2015, and on The Westlander and The Inlander the following year, there had been an increase of 26% in passengers on the services to the west.

“It is an important and very effective initiative to bring tourists to the regions when they need it most,” he said.

“In some cases the deal will enable local businesses’ doors to remain open through the summer.

“With this special fare, people can experience the incredible sights of the outback from the comfort of an air-conditioned train carriage for half the price.

“As an example, two customers can travel from Brisbane to Longreach in Economy seats from just $141, Brisbane to Charleville in Economy seats from $90 or Townsville to Mount Isa in Economy seats from $108 during the sale.

“From the picturesque outback scenery and rich farmlands of the Darling Downs, to the Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Qantas Founders Museum in Longreach, and the home of John Flynn, the founder of the Royal Flying Doctor Service in Cloncurry, outback Queensland has so many stories to tell about the history of our country, spirit of our nation, and what it means to be Australian.”

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said today’s announcement would provide a welcome boost to the outback tourism sector.

“Making sure visitors have better access to the outback is crucial to growing the tourism industry in west Queensland,” she said.

“From the Waltzing Matilda Centre to the Australian Dinosaur Trail there’s always plenty to experience in outback Queensland.

“Through our Outback Tourism Infrastructure Fund we’re investing $10 million to partner with tourism operators to build new attractions that we know will entice even more visitors to the region.”

Each of the three outback services, the Spirit of the Outback, The Inlander and The Westlander, depart twice weekly, stopping in towns along the way.

The ‘2 FOR 1’ tickets are on sale now and valid for travel on the Spirit of the Outback, The Inlander and The Westlander until 31 March 2019.