Come Well Prepared
Some of the things you need to remember include:
4-5 litres of water per person per day (preferably in at least two containers).
A detailed recent road map (it is a good idea to keep track of your mileage so you always know where you are).
Ensure your vehicle is in good mechanical running order and that you have a collection of spare parts and tools (you may be able to find a bush mechanic, but not the right parts). Make sure your tyres are suitable for unsealed roads and that you have at least two spares.
Check on road conditions with local Shires or Main Roads, especially in wet weather.
Always notify someone of your travel plans and of any changes you make to your itinerary. When your journey's over let your travel buddy (be it police, car hire firm or friends) know.
If your vehicle breaks down or can not be driven such when bogged then always stay with the vehicle, (during searches a vehicle is easier to spot from the air than a person under a tree).
Remember to take regular breaks from driving to keep refreshed and admire the sights.
Road Conditions
Unsealed roads can change condition quickly without warning. Dust can obscure other vehicles, so slowing down on dirt roads is the safest option and you get to see more.
If you are tempted to leave your seat belt off then DON'T. Accidents do happen on outback roads and you are much better off "Belted Up". Make sure your passengers wear their seat belts too.
If floodwaters cover the road, then only attempt the crossing if you absolutely must and you have first checked that it is safe to do so. Every year travellers lose their vehicles and/or lives to misadventure, making unsafe crossings of flooded roads. If checking depths and water speed before attempting to drive across then always use a safety line.
Outback Pedestrians
Nearly 50% of vehicle crashes reported to police in outback Western Australia are vehicle versus animal. Even a minor collision with an animal can disable your vehicle and necessitate expensive repairs.
Kangaroos are prevalent, especially in the early mornings and evenings. Emus are unpredictable and often have a mate following close behind. Cattle like to camp on roads often at night and are hard to see.
It is best to travel at day and slow down in populated areas. Other animals you may see that may be hazardous to motorists include wild goats, camels and large eagles feeding on road kill.
The Neighbours
Always stay on gazetted roads unless you have personal permission from pastoralists to wander. Leave gates as you find them. Avoid lighting fires. Do not camp on water points as you may find yourself visiting a large, thirsty and angry bull. Worse still you may frighten the stock off watering. When stopped, always have your dogs on a lead.
Remember baits are laid for wild and stray dogs. No dogs at all are allowed in any of our National Parks. Take all your rubbish with you. And remember that pastoral stations are people's homes and places of business, so please respect their privacy and commitment to the pastoral industry.
Outback people are notoriously friendly and helpful, but travelling motorists in their backyard must aim to be as self sufficient as possible.
For further information, please contact RoadWise on 08 9213 2066 or visit the website www.roadwise.asn.au
