Cocklebiddy to Rawlinna to Kalgoorlie

Very slow going over limestone covered track to Rawlinna, but from there through to Kalgoorlie is a super, wide road and a great surface, with great camping along the way.

Stephen describes the condition of the track well. It is quite slow for much of the way to Rawlinna.
In 2018, we left Cocklebiddy early afternoon, and didn’t get to Rawlinna till after dark, not towing. Lucky enough to see the Indian-Pacific, stopped there while the passengers were entertained & fed.

Bob

I understand that there is a lot of mining activity around that area, stations being sold etc… That could mean that access has changed. There may be a bonus in that the road may be in better shape. I’ll give the roadhouse a call closer to the time. Either way, time is my friend so an adventure is pending ????

According to the Hema map most of that track C-R is MVO.

Hi Again Julie

These may give you a better idea of track conditions and show you what to expect re track conditions.

As for a reply above regarding stations being sold and mining activates, Rawlinna Station is part of the Jumbuck Pastoral Company that is managed here in South Australia and dealing first hand with the company, they never sell any of their assets, rather they buy up.

Yes there is mining activities closer to Kalgoorlie, but not around Rawlinna.
We spoke to the Cocklebiddy Roadhouse before leaving and the advise was keep heading north, but when you get to the Dingo Gate and fence, do not follow the track to the right, but actually open the gate and then keep following it and you will not get lost.

Track conditions were very slow and was not a race, rather slow and steady and watch out for the limestone rocks. After leaving the Dog Fence Gate track conditions greatly improved and to keep you on track, there were large signs welded to the side of the many gates, with direction markers which were very clear and concise.

As you enter the main Trans Access Road, you will be a few kilometres actually west of the Rawlinna Siding, so its a matter of turning right to see what Rawlinna Siding is like. The main road now, all the way to Kalgoorlie and managed with the railways, it is super wide and in very good condition. The only time this road is closed is in times of heavy rainfall to stop any damage on the great road.

But before you start, seek local advise first to the most up to date conitions.

Now for these photos that will give you a far better idea of actual conditions.

Safe Travels.

Thank you so much Stephen.
Your information is fantastic and the pics will be a good reference.

I've just received confirmation from the Dundas Shire that I can travel the road and the fellow warned me that the Cocklebiddy end which is managed by that Shire, has not been graded for a few years. He couldn't comment on the rest of the road. I'll just poke along. I'm not in a hurry.

My reference to mining is to do with a proposed purchase by AndrewForrest. I think he is looking at property north of the railway line.

In regard to the station owners/managers, do you know if I need to contact them know that I will be travelling through?

Thanks again for your information. Hugely appreciated :)

Thank again.
I’m have a farming background and know the gate rules well. Only issue with this trip: I will be the gate opener ????
No false hopes, as I said, I’ll just poke along. It will do my soul good ??

Hi Julie. I have traveled this route five times, in either direction.

If it has been wet it can be very gluggy. Otherwise your main problem might be tyre issues; the limestone being plentiful, hard, and sharp.

Good luck. Cheers. JB.