Principal Peter Holmes said the gang was happy to finish the ride, from Wiluna in Western Australia to Uluru , which was organised to raise money for laptop computers at the school.

"After many flat tyres, both vehicular and bicycle related, tons of adventures and misadventures, we've made our destination," he said.

"We feel very, very proud, and we are looking forward to getting home and seeing friends and families once again."

Mr Holmes said it had been a tiring three weeks' cycling through sand drifts in temperatures peaking in the 30s, though the magnificent scenery (as these pictures show) and wildlife had lifted flagging spirits and spurred on aching muscles.

"We have seen tons of camels and dingoes, which we heard howling at the full moon and we even had them in the camp sniffing around," he said.

Mr Holmes said one of the most rewarding experiences was riding into the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park just in time to see the sun setting in front of the Olgas.

"What a sight it was ... we settled into camp and listened to the radio for the first time in quite a while and enjoyed listening to the Wallabies thump the All Blacks."

To learn more log on to www.ridethegunbarrel.com.au.