Our Story
Birdsville Big Red Tours
Big Red Tours owner Alex Oswald got the travel bug before leaving school and always wanted to be a tour guide. He became a diesel mechanic and truck driver to get useful skills for the Outback. Wanderlust set in and Alex worked his way around Australia and across the globe, as a tour guide. Alex’s love of the outback brought him to Birdsville in 2018 where he developed a passion for the quirky town and unique surroundings while working as a tour guide.
During COVID-19 he went back on the tools while tourism closed down. As the country opened up again in 2020, Alex established Big Red Tours, offering a luxurious tour experience from Birdsville in Outback Queensland.
Alex and the Birdsville Big Red Tours team are proud to share a top-shelf visitor experience packed so full of local information and knowledge, along with a relaxed casual feel and great hospitality, that guests rate it as the best in the outback.
Our Vehicles
Our guests enjoy a luxurious off road experience in purpose built air-conditioned vehicles that are designed with large roomy seats and oversized tyres for maximum comfort and reliability on the sand dunes. Our vehicles provide excellent visibility and are fitted with sound systems for commentary.
Big Red Tours Fleet:
22-seat 4WD tour bus.
Our 4WD tour bus has been chosen for reliability. With a 7.8 litre turbo intercooled engine, 13,000 kg rating, 6-speed gearbox and high range with locking centre and axle locks, the Isuzu 800 is a superior vehicle (the Rural Fire Brigade use the same vehicle). We have modified ours with oversized tyres, giving a bigger footprint to climb the dunes and smoother ride. Plus there’s a huge luggage area for fridges, tables, and chairs with space for a mobility scooter.
57-seat 4WD coach for larger groups.
The coach is a BCI 57 seat coach on air suspension which runs a CAT engine and automatic transmission.
Luxury 7-seat Mercedes GL320 wagon.
We also have a luxury full size 7 seat Mercedes GL320 wagon with a V6 turbo diesel engine which may be used for smaller groups or transfers. It is an automatic with lockable high and low range and locking diffs and has adjustable ride height and air suspension.
29-seat Brahman bus
We keep a 29-seat Brahman bus as a backup in the event that one of our vehicles requires maintenance. It is an auto with a Cummins engine and is fitted the same huge tyres as the Isuzu.
Offering Memorable Birdsville Big Red Tours with Experienced Local Guides
Over 30 years combined experience in the tourism industry
Our guides live, work and volunteer in the local community
Experienced at navigating the sand dune terrain
Our guides share a detailed commentary on the history, evolution and stories of Birdsville
We value old fashioned, country hospitality
Big Red Tours respects the natural environment
Your Guides
With 26 years experience operating tours, Alex is a true professional who is passionate about ensuring the best guest experience. Alex established Big Red Tours in Birdsville in 2020 and is a valued member of the community, volunteering with local emergency services in his spare time. Alex loves a laugh! He will entertain with his colourful stories and has a wealth of knowlege to share about Birdsville, Big Red and the Simpson Desert.
What guests are saying about Alex on TripAdvisor …
” Alex was an amazing host and demonstrated his deep knowledge of the area with his commentary, and with his sense of humor made for a very enjoyable and relaxed 3-4 hours.”
“Alex the tour guide is the best. He has so much knowledge of the area and we thoroughly enjoyed our tour. He is the whole tour package with charm and wit. This was a tour not to be missed when in Birdsville.”
Greetings, adventurers! I’m Greg, your guide to the wonders of Birdsville. With over a decade of exploring this mesmerizing terrain, I unveil the secrets of this majestic land. Alongside my wife, Sam, I’ve called Birdsville home for three immersive years, delving into its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural marvels. As a seasoned tour driver for Big Red Tours, I bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to every expedition. My extensive familiarity with the local area stems from years of exploration and my deep-rooted interest in uncovering its historical treasures. Prepare to be enthralled as I lead you on a journey through Birdsville’s hidden gems, regaling you with tales of intrepid explorers and indigenous lore. Let’s embark on an adventure of a lifetime together!
