trailers in the simpson

thanks for that
we are just trying to gauge whether or not to carry extra extra fuel or just a bit of extra

happy birthday too

steve

yes John, happy birthday,

and Steve I did one of the crossings with him...

PS. I wouldn't be worried about carrying too much fuel (like that warm and cosy feeling) but not enough - even a little can be a real PITA

Holy Sand Flags Beatit!

That one would be a danger to avation wouldn't it??????

Hi!

What sort of aerodynamic drag does a flag pole that high have? LOL

Hi Michael and Alan,

I have a simple philosophy on these things, if they are needed to provide warnings to oncoming traffic, then I want to be seen. No half hearted effort with this one! It worked very well and completed the journey unscathed.

Kind regards

Geez Baz, did you have the missus pushing or what? I suspect that the triton may not be as good as that.

Kind regards

G'day Ruth,

Well I for one appreciates your advise and track info. You are an EO treasure and your heart is in the right place. I like your electronic company and hope to make a return visit to Birdsville if for no other reason just to say hi!

My bride has all but ruled out another crossing and my travelling companions (he has a trachy hole) can't cope with the dry air so a visit to see the place and do big red is probably all we would do.

Kind regards

Theo

The Desert Parks Bulletin currently includes the following -:

"Due to a change of track conditions inthe Simpson Desert, DEH recommends that only visitors with extensive sand-driving experince should consider crossing at this time. Visitors are advised to drive in a convoy, carry a HF radio or sat phone and limit the total load of their vehicles. However, do take extra reserves of fuel and water. The trip may take longer than normal and some digging is likely. Over the summer period, strong and consistent easterly winds have built up a steeper than usual western face to the dunes. This western face can be very steep and soft and the track over the dune has disapperaed in places. While the situation will improve as more vehicles cross the desert, at this time visitors should plan for a difficult crossing. Check local conditions before travelling in the area. Delays are possible due to monsoonal rains."

Over the past few years those towing a well prepared camper that isn't overloaded have crossed the Simpson with little trouble & no damage, but the problem now is convincing those going this season that just getting the car over will be hard enough & trailers should be left behind. You're certainly not wasting your time Ruth advising everyone of the conditions as the majority I'm sure are listening & heeding your advice but plenty are out there purely for the challenge & will go no matter what. Lets hope too many don't get stuck putting people at risk & forcing a premature ban of trailers in the desert.
With my own trip to the desert later in the year I look forward to all the reports so I can more accurately estimate fuel useage on the Madigan. Unfortunately fuel usage on previous trips in other years could be innacurate & people should be carrying a bit more in reserve until conditions improve.
Cheers Craig...........