The Australian Outback Spectacular
Training & Horsemanship
The Australian Outback Spectacular is a renowned live entertainment show located on the Gold Coast, Australia. It offers an immersive experience that celebrates the rich heritage and rugged beauty of the Australian Outback. Featuring a mix of spectacular stunts, impressive horsemanship, and engaging storytelling, the show is set against a backdrop of vibrant sets and cutting-edge special effects. Guests are treated to a three-course dinner inspired by traditional Australian cuisine, enhancing the overall cultural experience. The performance typically revolves around themes of Australian history, culture, and rural life, often highlighting the tales of iconic characters and legendary landscapes. This family-friendly attraction provides a unique blend of education and entertainment, making it a must-see for both locals and tourists seeking to experience the essence of Australia’s outback spirit.
Visit The Australian Outback Spectacular at the following sessions
Details
Thursday November 14th
12:15 pm to 1:00 pm
Stallion Rail Demo Arena, OTT Pavilion
The Show Must Go On
Australian Outback Spectacular is a shining example of long-standing Australian entertainment, captivating audiences for over 18 years with its mesmerising equine performances. However, delivering show after show, week after week in such a unique industry presents its challenges, particularly in managing the well-being and performance of the animals. This requires careful attention to the animals physical and emotional needs.
But, “the show must go on.”
To ensure the continuity of this iconic show, careful planning and dedication are paramount. Maintaining a pool of backup animals trained to be versatile performers is essential, providing a safety net for any unforeseen circumstances. Matching riders with horses based on compatibility and skill ensures a seamless and consistent performance, where the natural rapport between them enhances the show.
Furthermore, recruiting talented actors, riders, and vocal performers enriches the show’s narrative and ensures its enduring appeal to audiences.
Details
Friday November 15th
5:00 pm to 5:45 pm
Stallion Rail Demo Arena, OTT Pavilion
Behind the Scenes: Training for Longevity
Australian Outback Spectacular offers a mesmerising showcase of horsemanship and captivating equine performances. Training animals for longevity in such shows involves meticulous selection and understanding of each animal’s temperament. Choosing the right breed and individual disposition ensures a harmonious partnership between animal and rider.
Planning the training path is crucial, focusing on gradual progression and building trust. Any pressure that comes from the show environment is applied without rushing, allowing animals to adapt and develop at their own pace, minimising stress and ensuring their well-being.
Desensitising animals to the sights, sounds, and sensations of the performance environment is important as well as fostering confidence and composure in the face of excitement. Through careful training methods and respect for the animals’ natural instincts, Australian Outback Spectacular continually creates enduring partnerships that are reflected during performances.
Details
Sunday November 17th
9:15 am to 10:00 am
Stallion Rail Demo Arena, OTT Pavilion
From Hooves to Paws: The Stars of the Show
Australian Outback Spectacular showcases an extraordinary display of animal prowess, featuring horses, dogs, cattle and even an eagle. Each animal assumes a pivotal role in the performance, highlighting their remarkable abilities.
From the dynamic agility and discipline of our three Australian Kelpie’s — Red, Oi, and Spud — to upwards of 70 unique equines including Australian Stock Horses, Quarter Horses, Percherons and Friesians to name a few. Each individually and carefully chosen to execute intricate manoeuvres for different disciplines within the show, including trick riding, liberty work, wagon driving and much more!
In the dynamic world of live performances and working with animals, we hold firm that mishaps never reflect on the animals. It’s rooted in the mutual respect and understanding between trainers, built on trust and communication. Unexpected moments prompt no blame, only adaptation and support.
Ensuring an animal’s confidence in a show environment is paramount to our ongoing success. Australian Outback Spectacular is one of the longest running live animal shows in the world. Our production runs up to five nights a week all year round, which means a diligent animal welfare and management program is essential.
