vehicles on single lane roads, slow right down and move off the road to the left. If it is safe to do so, move off the road entirely and stop to avoid driving into any obstacles on the verge. In wet conditions road verges tend to be soft and/or slippery, so when pulling off to the left you should always keep your right wheels on the bitumen and keep moving slowly to avoid getting bogged.
Animals
If you see stock or wild animals near the road, slow down; don’t swerve as this may cause your vehicle to roll. Be patient of stock and wary of kangaroos and emus. It pays to be vigilant when driving in the Outback, especially either side of sunrise or sunset, when kangaroos tend to be at their most active and the light more difficult.
Station Properties
Many roads are gated and cross station properties. The rule of the Outback is to leave gates in the same way that you find them, ie. if the gate is closed when you get there, close it again after you drive through or, if the gate is open when you arrive, leave it open.
Remote Areas
Always check road and weather conditions before travelling into remote areas. Advise the police or some other responsible person of your intended itinerary and report
back on your arrival. Two-way radios or satellite phones are recommended as normal mobile phones do not work in remote areas. Spare fuel should be carried outside the passenger compartment and always gauge your requirements – overladen vehicles invariably get into trouble. If you break down, stay with the vehicle until help arrives.
Minimal Impact
Depending on how you drive, you can be a welcome visitor or someone who causes careless damage to roads and wildlife. Follow these tips for low impact driving: Stay on existing roads and tracks. Give way to animals. Parks and forests are for their protection. If you get stuck, try not to use trees for winching. If you have no choice, use tree protectors. Wash your vehicle thoroughly before and after trips to prevent the spread of weeds.
Water Crossings
Water crossings are not recommended and should not be attempted if you are uncertain of your vehicle’s capabilities. Walk through the crossing first – test the depth and current and try to detect
Eyre Creek, Cuttaburra Crossing
any underwater obstacles by using your feet or a stick. Engage Low 4x4 and drive through in second or third gear, keeping the momentum up.
Fires
Most roads run through private property or national parks and open fires should never be lit. Use only designated fireplaces.
Litter
Help us keep the Outback clean for future visitors by properly disposing of your rubbish.
Information Centres
Always use accredited Visitor Information Centres to obtain local and regional information.
Please see the Travel Directory for the contact details of our Outback Visitor Centres.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT VISITING OUTBACK QUEENSLAND P: 1800 247 966 E: admin@outbackqld.com.au www.outbackqld.com.au instagram.com/outbackqld plus.google.com/ +OutbackQueensland/posts www.facebook.com/ OutbackQueensland
Outback Queensland Travellers’ Guide 2015/16
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