Woods Point Track Conditions and Info

For anybody who is about to venture into the Jameson Woods Point area I have posted below the periodic report I receive from Snr Cnst.Kennith Dwight at Woods Point Police Station. Noting current travel issues and warnings.



For your members and readers
Riders& Drivers Woods Point
ReferenceWoods Point Spring/Summer 2008

Well winter is over again with only a three or four rescues required up here this year. I have to reiterate the need for travellers in the Mountain and Alpine Districts to be prepared, use good maps and learn how to read them carefully. This country is magnificent to travel in during the good times and the roads and tracks although harsh, are mostly safe to use, but we must remember that they can become treacherous in the worst conditions; even those of us who are fairly experienced have had our close calls. You guys on trail bikes should all have a briefing before you go on each trip, make sure each rider knows what tracks they are on, this helps in an emergency to relay reliable information to us for the ambulance.

One thing that seems to be rearing its ugly head more often is the sole use and reliance on some types of electronic maps and navigation tools as a means of navigation. These instruments may be satisfactory in the cities and towns but leave a lot be desired when used in the high country. If you follow them blindly, not referencing with a real good quality road map of the area, more often than not you will come to grief on a track not suited to your vehicle or your experience.

I recently had a couple from Melbourne who had driven 3 to 4 hours out of their way across totally unsuitable tracks for their two wheel drive vehicle because they blindly followed their navigation device and using some type of map gained from an Internet Site (who shall remain nameless). Yes the map showed the most direct route to Woods Point and yes the device told them when and where to turn but over old logging and mining tracks that are difficult for the best 4wd’s. I am still amazed that they got here at all and only 6 hours late. The moral is you still can’t beat a proper paper map that tells you all you need to know about the roads you are going on in conjunction with a good quality GPS or compass to find your way, the more detailed the better.

In wrapping up I would like to advise that to my knowledge the tracks are good and all open apart from Abbots Creek and Abbots Link, check with parks, Melb. Water and DSE for the latest info.

I have noticed a pick up in Trail Bike traffic the past few weekends so ride safely and make sure you are all registered and roadworthy; we have to concentrate more on you guys now due to the amount of accidents that are occurring and the people getting injured.

Kenneth DWIGHT BM
Leading Senior Constable 26884
OIC Woods Point Police Station



Its great to have the local police communicating with us. He is a great guy and understands the needs of the bush adventurer better than most.

safe traveling!
Kerry W
Road Conditions Coordinator