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ntp · 20-11-2011, 01:24 PM

Ryzz... stating the obvious... but it will be HOT over this time of year - especially in the Red Centre. Depending on temperatures - some walks in Central Australia can be closed because of this. Also, if you are staying in a tent... make sure you pack a fan and a good fridge/freezer!

Lastly, if you aren't used to doing some long haul driving over pretty boring stretches of road, you also need to factor this into your timing. Fatigue is a big killer on outback roads for those not use to it.

JeffH · 20-11-2011, 01:36 PM

Pushing sh!t up hill was my first thought in reading that itinerary. I just think that there are way too many big days (10 hours +) of driving in there, especially given how bloody hot it will be. For a start you'll just be driving the whole time, what about all those places you'll pass through on the way that have interesting things to see and places to visit that you'll be forced to drive past?

Additionally, as NTP mentioned, it will be so hot that I would say most of the walks at Uluru, the Olgas and Kings Canyon will be closed. And if they aren't closed, a half day at the Olgas and Kings Canyon is not enough time IMO.

As good as Central Australia is to explore, if you've only got 12 days for your holiday somewhere like the snowys and high country would give you better value for time.

Ryzz · 20-11-2011, 01:51 PM

Originally posted by ntp View Post

Ryzz... stating the obvious... but it will be HOT over this time of year - especially in the Red Centre. Depending on temperatures - some walks in Central Australia can be closed because of this. Also, if you are staying in a tent... make sure you pack a fan and a good fridge/freezer!

Lastly, if you aren't used to doing some long haul driving over pretty boring stretches of road, you also need to factor this into your timing. Fatigue is a big killer on outback roads for those not use to it.

Thanks for the feedback, long driving is no problems so not too concern about that. Re temp, was aware of the warmish temps, was planning on doing everything in the early morning/late afternoon due to the heat. Dont know how viable that will be though.

K & M McF · 20-11-2011, 08:14 PM

As pointed out, the walks will be closed if the temperature is likely to be over 35C. Even if they are not closed, then walking for four hours in almost 35C is not fun.

I also am used to driving long distances, but one day of 1000+ km is different to five in a trip.

I also would recommend going south to cooler climates.

Spurio · 21-11-2011, 06:42 AM

With all due respect, I would suggest a lot more research on the area you intend on travelling, including if your vehicle has ALL the necessary recovery and communication equipment (sat phone, HF) to get out of trouble, if you intend going even slightly off the bitumen you must be completely self recoverable.

The area is going to be VERY HOT and is extremely REMOTE - It is not uncommon for it to be over 50C during the day and only drop 25-30 just before dawn. The air conditioner will not be as effective as it is on the coast, this will increase fatigue especially if you are not use to the climate.

If a break down occurs or more likely >2 flat tyres, depending on where you are, there many not be another person for many days if not weeks.

if you drive between dusk and dawn expect to hit kangaroos, camels, pigs.....

It is strongly advised to carry at least 15L of water per person per day.

If you plan on running your vehicle fully loaded up in these conditions for 10+ hours per day expect something to break/leak.

Most of the tourist attractions will be closed. Most people will not be able to walk more than 1 km or so in this heat, even less if you have old or young people with you.

Australia is a big place with lots and lots of places to see.

Ryzz · 21-11-2011, 07:33 AM

Originally posted by Spurio View Post

With all due respect, I would suggest a lot more research on the area you intend on travelling, including if your vehicle has ALL the necessary recovery and communication equipment (sat phone, HF) to get out of trouble, if you intend going even slightly off the bitumen you must be completely self recoverable.

The area is going to be VERY HOT and is extremely REMOTE - It is not uncommon for it to be over 50C during the day and only drop 25-30 just before dawn. The air conditioner will not be as effective as it is on the coast, this will increase fatigue especially if you are not use to the climate.

Appreciate the feedback, one of the reaons for posting on here is the feedback/research. It was an early idea and the minister & I have spent the weekend researching it, and the more we do, the more it looks less feasible. I am aware of the self sufficient needs and self recoverable of the area, and have traveled in this vehicle to more remote places with even less chance of being found, so i have complete confidence in the vehicle.

Originally posted by Spurio View Post

If a break down occurs or more likely >2 flat tyres, depending on where you are, there many not be another person for many days if not weeks.

if you drive between dusk and dawn expect to hit kangaroos, camels, pigs.....

It is strongly advised to carry at least 15L of water per person per day.

If you plan on running your vehicle fully loaded up in these conditions for 10+ hours per day expect something to break/leak.

Most of the tourist attractions will be closed. Most people will not be able to walk more than 1 km or so in this heat, even less if you have old or young people with you.

Australia is a big place with lots and lots of places to see.

Once again tyhanks for the feedback, it is appreciated, one thing we didnt factor in was the tourist attractions being closed, althought it was a concern, we were not able to find any information on google to support/deny this concern, hence why we were asking for the feedback from people that have frequented this area.

Richoson · 21-11-2011, 09:46 AM

Hi Ryzz

We have done that area in October and September and even then it was a bit nasty, if you are looking for something a bit different have you considered going up the Great Dividing range through all the State Forests and National Parks, the SEQ guys did this to get to the 2010 GTg and we had a ball, there are some great driving roads, secluded camp sites with cool creeks to sit in having a quite ale or wine at the end of the day

If you would like some GPS locations I'm sure LFAR would be happy to assist.

See ya on the tracks, Richo.

Spurio · 21-11-2011, 05:35 PM

Hey Ryzz,

I don't want to deter you too much, a summer in the center for many is a once in a life experience, just go prepared.

OK today I almost needed a jumper !! It was lucky to be 20 C !!!!

Cheers - Spurio

AJ120 · 21-11-2011, 06:06 PM

I have to say it doesn't sound like a holiday to me, but then i'm not the one going. In reality the weather could be anything from really pleasant to unbearable at that time of year. I doubt the weather will matter much though looking at your itinerary. I wouldn't expect you to be travelling far after the first 2 days, given the speed you will be travelling to make the distance and the country you will be travelling through and the times of day you will be on the road, the chances of you hitting a roo and doing serious damage is pretty high IMO. The Kangaroo/Emu/Wild Goat population has exploded since the floods last year, a steel bullbar will help but I still wouldn't risk it myself.

High speed, long hours, reduced concentration, loaded 4wd! I would hate for a PP member to become another statistic. The great ocean road is a great drive, just a suggestion.

Cheers Andrew

Ryzz · 26-11-2011, 01:43 PM

Thanks for the feedback guys, we have put the red center idea on ice for the time being. Thinking maybe fraser might be the way to go instead. Thx again for the feedback.

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Xmas - Sydney -> Red Centre -> Return - Comments on itinery please

Xmas - Sydney -> Red Centre -> Return - Comments on itinery please

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