Willem replied:

The Madigan is run a couple of times a year by groups. The Hay more often

I myself haven't been there or the Hay River as such, but have cruised the Simpson in other places

You can read about it here and also here

Good tyres and low pressures are the key in any Simpson off track crossing


Cheers

Member - Kingsley N (SA) replied:

John,

We did the Hay River from Jervois to Poeppels last July. We had an enjoyable couple of days at Batton Hill with Lindsay's Mob. The facilities are excellent for bush camping. After leaving Batton Hill camp we visited Lake Caroline and crossed the Madigan line at Camp 16 with the Blaze tree right on the track. We followed the line west to camp 15 and 14 which are quite close (less than 10 KM off the Hay River track). The track is very slow with remnants of spinifex causing a "mogul" effect. We only intended to take a quick look so we turned back to the Hay River track. In camp that night we met a group of three well equipped farmers from WA. They were heading east from Old Andado. I forget how long it had taken them, but they commented on how slow it was. Next day they continued east but turned back after about 10 -15 KM. They said it was just too tough and the ladies were getting sick of it. I think there was also an issue with permission required from property owners closer to Birdsville. I think the farmers were a bit casual about aboriginal permits etc.

Kingo

Member - Phil G (SA) replied:

Been there in 2004, 2005 and 2006!!

In 2004, we did the full Madigan Line; 2005 we did the Hay River and went from Camp 15 to camp14 and back again; in 2006 we came up from the south, and went pretty much all the way from camp 15 to camp 13 and returned. It gives you a great taste of the Madigan Line. The dunes between camps 15 and 13 are no big deal - not as big or as steep as in other parts of the Madigan line. If you're out there on the Hay River, just do it.

To head directly east from Camp 16, you are on crown land until you hit the Qld border just after camp 17. The dunes out that way can be pretty soft, as most of the area was burnt out in 2002, and you may find it impossible to get back to the Hay River track.

Cheers
Phil

Member - Jan Z (QLD) replied:

Thanks everyone for your advice. It seems like a great trip waiting to happen. We will try and check out the Madigan Line and will post our trip when we return. Jan