Tanami track travel

So true. But I am glad Rabbit Flat closed he was ripping us for fuel.But surprised no one took it over ,perhaps something to do with traditional land owners?

No Lazylux16, The couple refused to put in Opel tanks at their cost (they had normal unleaded which the trad owners sniff) and the Government refused to assist them. I went down the track (as it was called then) in 1968 and it was the same people there in 2010 when they closed on New Years Eve. Also they sold beer to the locals, which was also being frowned upon. However now that it is closed it is remarkable how clean the road and side of road now is. Last time I went down 2018, not a car shell, beer can or any rubbish to be seen. Its now hard to get anything but low strength beer anywhere around there. Even wine is off limits at bottle shops unless drunk in the hotels where the publican can "monitor" intake.

"However now that it is closed it is remarkable how clean the road and side of road now is. Last time I went down 2018, not a car shell, beer can or any rubbish to be seen."

Sounds like progress to me. I just flicked through my 2008 photos from the Tanami. Several burned-out Vehicles appear in those photos.

BTW, during that trip, I did stop at rabbit Flat Road House. I didn't need fuel, but I went inside to have a look and bought a little snack, just some candy or gum. I might have stayed for a meal. But the woman who served me was so indifferent, if not downright rude, that I decided against it. Nevertheless, I'm glad I got to see the place while it was still open.

Yes they were a German couple I think, and towards the end they were very indifferent. In the 70"s that place used to "rock". When i went there in 2010, the servery was like an old bank tellers grill, with an opening just big enough to slide a slab of cans through. Very disappointing and in a sorry state.

I forgot to mention, on 25 May 2008, diesel at Rabbit Flat was $2.51 per liter.

I'm fairly sure they are still living out there or were ~ after they closed it ??

Bruce and Jackie Farrands established Rabbit Flat Roadhouse in 1969 and ran it for 42 years. Bruce was an Australian stockman and bushman. Jackie was born in France. They met at Mongrel Downs Station.

Here is a link to an article from a 1970’s airline in-flight magazine about the Farrands and Rabbit Flat:French Cooking, Australian wine and a dingo orchestra

I met Jackie in 2009. The servery was as described by David l1 above. I also noticed a rifle behind the bank tellers grill. It was not in a gun safe. It looked ready for action.

Cheers, John

Oops I thought 1968 must have been 69. And French not German. Grey Nomad syndrome. When I went in last time (2018) there was a gates across the two off road entrances. I walked in and the place was no longer there (or I could not see it). You could see where the petrol bowsers were, but nothing else. In 2010 Jackie looked very frail. I know the fuel was expensive, but they were never supported by fuel companies or any government agency. But by being there they opened up that track (road) to the average Joe or Jill who did not have a long range tank. Price of petrol in the middle of nowhere is always expensive. Ie Canning Fuel dump or at Kunawariji community, probably now at least $4 per litre.

Thankyou all for your input. It is my intention to use it from SA end thru to between Broome and Derby and back in a Mack Truck, empty on way over and loaded on way back. It is encouraging to hear that it is facing a gradual improvement rather than the opposite. Would it be possible in anyones opinion to average 35KPH. once again thanks
Ray

They were ripping us off. Down the road fuel was 85c a litre at Balgo in 1997 and $1.50 at RF. I spoke to BP and they told me they did not charge haulage of fuel to Rabbitt Flat.Also they were ripping the Aboriginals off with Alcholol prices too..

From my memory the bitumen goes well past Tilmouth. Its almost to the Yuendumu Community.

Thankyou Steve R May I ask how long it took you, we are ready to take off now.Regards Ray