Longreach is 1,200 km west of Brisbane — a serious commitment however you travel. QantasLink flies direct from Brisbane and Rockhampton several times a week; the flight takes about two hours from Brisbane. The Spirit of the Outback train runs weekly from Brisbane, taking about 24 hours and passing through Rockhampton, Emerald, and Barcaldine before arriving in Longreach. The train journey through the changing landscape is an experience in itself.
By car from Brisbane, the drive takes roughly 13 hours along the Warrego and Capricorn highways. The road is sealed and straightforward, though fuel and services become sparse west of Longreach. Most visitors use the town as a hub for exploring further into the outback, so a car is useful once you arrive.