OUTBACK ROAD TRIP DRIVING
OUTBACK ETIQUETTE
Always check the road and weather conditions before travelling to remote areas in the NSW Outback and let local authorities know about your intended route.
Before camping on private property, always call in at the homestead and ask permission. Always leave gates as you found them, open or shut, when crossing property boundaries. And try your hand at a classic outback wave to passing drivers – which can be anything from raising a finger from the steering wheel to tipping your hat, if you’re wearing one.
Avoid driving between dusk and dawn and take a break every few hours. Also, share the driving as much as possible. Always check distances that need to be travelled. Carry enough water and fuel. Drive according to the conditions. Drive slowly on narrow bridges and be aware of dangers like flooded roads and wandering livestock. Take special care at dawn and dusk when native animals are most prevalent.
UNSEALED ROADS Drive 10-20km slower on unsealed roads because surface conditions can change suddenly. Slow down when approaching oncoming vehicles. Pull over rather than stop in the middle of the road but be careful because roadside drains may look dry but can be very wet underneath.
BREAKDOWNS Never leave your vehicle if you break down because it will provide you with shelter until help arrives. This will also make it easier for a search party to spot you.
ROAD CONDITION REPORTS Broken Hill District
(08) 8082 6660
Central Darling Shire (08) 8091 5155 Wilcannia, White Cliffs, Ivanhoe, Menindee New South Wales www.rms.nsw.gov.au South Australia www.transport.sa.gov.au
1300 361 033
Queensland www.racq.com.au Northern Territory www.ntlis.nt.gov.au/roadreport
1800 246 199
RAA
13 11 11
NRMA
13 11 22
www.travelin.com.au
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