In this episode of The Outback Way Podcast, Helen interviews Damien Ryan about the Tatts Finke Desert Race. Damien is the Mayor of Alice Springs, and he talks about how he grew up in the town, and the wonderful outback events that happen in Alice Springs.

He shares some background of how the Tatts Finke Desert Race (www.finkedesertrace.com.au) came to be, and some information about this year's race, coming up on the 7th June 2018. Damien also mentions the Parrtjima Light Festival (www.parrtjimaaustralia.com.au) and the Red Centre NATS in September (www.redcentrenats.com.au), and the Masters Games in October (www.alicespringsmastersgames.com.au).

There are many reasons the sealing of the Outback Way is important for Alice Springs and for grey nomads and other tourists in Australia, but it's also especially close to Damien's heart due to his father's involvement in other historical road projects.

You can find all notes and links on our website, www.outbackway.org.au where you can subscribe to our newsletter, buy our guidebook and download the app if you haven't already. Join us on Facebook and Twitter @OutbackWay1

Send your questions, comments and travel stories to [email protected] and if you share your story, we may even feature you on this podcast! Thank you for joining us through the heart of Australia, on Australia's longest short cut.

From across the Outback Way we acknowledge the Koa People, Pitta Pitta People,  Wangkayuju People, Wangkamahdla People, Arrernte Nation, Anangu People, Yarnangu People, Wangkatja People as traditional custodians and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands The Outback Way traverses.

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The Outback Way has become a symbol of resilience, connection, and progress, weaving together the diverse landscapes and communities of Australia's heartland.

 In celebration of the  25-year journey of advocacy and lobbying to the funding announcement to complete the seal, the Outback Highway Development Council is proud to present ‘From Bulldust to Bitumen – 25 Years of the Outback Way’. A book that captures the spirit, history, and future vision of this transformative project.

Order your copy and be part of the journey that continues to shape Australia's outback, it’s people and the nation. 

Head over to our website and order yours today  W: outbackway.org.au

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You can find more information about this podcast on our website, www.outbackway.org.au where you can subscribe to our newsletter, buy our guidebook and download the app if you haven't already. Join us on Facebook and Instagram @OutbackWay1

Send your questions, comments and travel stories to [email protected] and if you share your story, we may even feature you on this podcast! Thank you for joining us through the heart of Australia, on Australia's longest short cut.

The Outback Way Podcast is produced by Perk Digital.