Culture, Country & Connection: Stories from the Plenty Highway with Roxy Highfold

In this episode of The Outback Way Podcast, Robin McConchie speaks with Roxy Highfold, an enterprise development officer with the Central Land Council. Roxy brings deep personal and professional insight into the landscapes, stories, and cultural significance of Central Australia.The conversation covers the many ways visitors can engage meaningfully with the region—from geocaching and fossicking at places like Gemtree Caravan Park, to exploring the Outback Way’s outdoor gallery and Aboriginal-owned campgrounds like Spotted Tiger. Roxy also shares practical advice for travelling the Plenty Highway safely and respectfully.Robin and Roxy explore the power of Indigenous storytelling, the importance of respecting traditional owners and songlines, and the impact of intergenerational trauma caused by colonisation and the Stolen Generations. They also discuss the opportunities for economic development in Central Australia.From stunning night skies and rich histories to the road ahead for Aboriginal-led tourism and cultural connection, this episode is a powerful reminder of the resilience, knowledge, and opportunity that lives along the Outback Way.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.___________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____________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 @OutbackWay1Send 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.