Mick replied:

Do a course! Even though you may not need to use all the skills you learn, at least you will know what your vehicle can and can't do and you should enjoy your trip far better if you have the confidence and competence a course can give. Do you really know the right way to do a river crossing without trashing you vehicle or the environment? Have you ever done a river crossing before? Even though the crossings of the Wenlock and Pascoe Rivers in to Lockhart River may not be difficult on the main track much of the time, do you really want your first crossing to be so far from civilization.

When we were up the Cape a few years ago we were amazed at the number of ill-prepared people tempting fate. Sure there is enough traffic up there that someone will probably come along if help is needed and people usually love to assist less experienced people who have acquired a basic level of knowledge, such as doing a course. But experienced people are far less enthusiastic helping others who haven't been bothered to acquire a basic level of knowledge and equipment and neglected basic self-help things like carrying enough fuel ("is there a petrol station between here and the Jardine Ferry") or adjusting tyre pressures.

I would recommend whoever normally sits in the front passenger seat also do the course. They should be far more comfortable knowing what the driver is doing and you never know when the main driver might need a replacement. Many obstacles need teamwork with a passenger to safely traverse.

Do a course and you should have a much more relaxing and safer adventure.

Mal Try replied:

Maureen, very wise words from Mike. However, you won't learn everything you need to know from a course. They can't teach you what speed to travel on a particular corrugated road. Different road materials which can be distinguished by their colour have corrugations at different intervals and therefore require slightly different speeds for comfort and kindness to vehicles. No two river or creek crossings are the same and you can only learn from experience. Since you dont have this, learn from other's experience. Watch what other people do. It becomes very obvious who is doing it well and who is not. Drive at the speed that others are driving at on corrugations but only if you feel it is safe. The Old Telegraph Road has some challenges but there is little point in going to the Cape if you don't do the OTR. Just pull of the road at each crossing and watch others crossing. Ask why they did something in a particular way. If unsure, walk the crossings first remembering there are two wheel tracks and use your passenger as a guide walking in front of you. It is important to use the same gear for the complete crossing. 2nd low is generally OK but if you have a steep slippery exit I generally stick to 1st low. It is also important to maintain momentum - try not to stop during a crossing. This is where the guide is very handy. Have a great time and don't forget your "rip-off" money for the ferry. Mal.

Cashy replied:

Maureen, I have to agree with Mal. Do a course. What you will learn from this will not only help you with the driving but should also help with the recovery equipment you should carry. As Mal said the more experienced people will help but usally only if you at least have the minimum level of recovery gear. No one likes to use there gear on others who don't have any. My advise would be join one of the larger clubs who run there own course as it will be cheaper then a professional course. I was in the Cape last year and some sections are easy but the OTL has some challenges that take experience to safely tackle them. I would also advise to travel with at least one other vehicle for safty. Enjoy the trip. Cashy

Cairns Offroad Training & Tours replied:

Hi Maureen, pop in and say hello on your way thru Cairns, I am happy to provide any local information and advice Naturally we can also provide training if required and offer special rates for touring couples Cheers Rob