Cooper Creek Ferry

Submitted: Thursday, Sep 08, 2011 at 20:15
ThreadID: 88911 Views:2274 Replies:3 FollowUps:4
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I would like to congratulate the Cooper Creek ferry operators. Prior to the Birdsville races a Club of Motorhomes (in access of 50) travelled the track to go to the races, unfortunately one motor home got stuck on the off ramp causing a huge backlog of vehicles wanting to cross. By the time we arrived we were about 20th in place and with only two hours of sunlight left. Not wanting to loose our place we ended up sleeping in our 4X4 because we were unable to set up. Well the next morning most people were in good spirits. The off ramp on the other side needed to be repaired before anymore motorhomes could be ferried. They were able to take smaller vehicles such as ours but this cause some decent amongst a few of the motorhome owners. Under a lot of complaints the operators kept their cool and continued to ferry as fast as was possible. We didn't get across until midday when repairs began on the off ramp. Motorhomes began to cross after us but the delay had increased and by the time we arrived at Birdsville there was a two day delay. I was of the understanding that the ferry was mainly for 4x4 vehicles and trailer, not that I wish to exclude any particular group but I overheard one motorhome owner even complaining about the road conditions. Sometimes the mind boggles! Well done to the operators who were under a lot of pressure and kept there cool. I lift my hat to you.
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Reply By: Member - Justin O (QLD) - Thursday, Sep 08, 2011 at 20:19

Thursday, Sep 08, 2011 at 20:19
Hi Steven, How was the rat plague? They were pretty crook a few weeks ago esp. on the north bank of the Cooper.
AnswerID: 464522

Follow Up By: Steven G1 - Thursday, Sep 08, 2011 at 20:23

Thursday, Sep 08, 2011 at 20:23
Didn't notice any on the south side, first came across them at Mungarinnie where one was trying to get into the tent. At Birdsville they where more noticeable, getting into tents, rubbish and even chewing my thongs that I left outside. Cheeky buggers.
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Follow Up By: Member - Joe n Mel n kids (FNQ - Friday, Sep 09, 2011 at 18:07

Friday, Sep 09, 2011 at 18:07
we went from Bedourie to Birdsville on the Sunday Morning before the sun came up avoiding the outbound traffic and saw a rat, not mouse but rats every few mins .............. we have heard they are male only at the moment, dont know why, we never had any trouble with them at all camping ............
Cheers Joe
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Reply By: Member - Stephen L (Clare SA) - Thursday, Sep 08, 2011 at 20:49

Thursday, Sep 08, 2011 at 20:49
Hi Steven

The Cooper Creek is able to ferry any vehicle providing that it is no longer than 9.8 metres in length and under the 10 ton gross weight limit. The ferry operators do a great job and without their input, could make things very difficult for the such of those motor homes that wanted to cross.

Like I have said countless times here on the forum, it is one experience that everyone should try to experience, as who knows when the next time it will run.

Great to hear you had a great time.


Cheers


Stephen
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AnswerID: 464527

Follow Up By: Rockape - Friday, Sep 09, 2011 at 11:29

Friday, Sep 09, 2011 at 11:29
Steven L,
I have to agree with all your comments. The operators we had were very courteous and efficent, taking time to take a photo of you with your camera.

As for the condition of the road we even had coil sprung 4x4 owners telling us how bad sections were. Oh well I guess you can't please everyone.

Nice rain here last night at Cunnamulla, 19mm.

Have a good one,
RA.
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FollowupID: 738544

Follow Up By: Member - Joe n Mel n kids (FNQ - Friday, Sep 09, 2011 at 18:02

Friday, Sep 09, 2011 at 18:02
we did it Steven ............ was well worth it and the guys on the ferry were exceptional after a very busy week, did it after the races a few days ago ....
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FollowupID: 738579

Reply By: Member - Mud 11(VIC) - Tuesday, Sep 13, 2011 at 15:48

Tuesday, Sep 13, 2011 at 15:48
I am also one to congratulate the Cooper Ck barge operators as I arrived at the crossing 11.30am on the Wednesday and did not cross until 10am Thursday morning. On arrival at the crossing I was vehicle #64 and by the time I made the barge there were at least a 100+ vehicles, the operators were moving approx 7 vehicles per hr. They never stopped apart for a quick lunch and pushed on until just past dusk .We also camped on the Birdsville track and fortunate to purchase our meals from the boy's that operated the Charcoal Chicken & BBQ Ribs who were also on their way to Birdsville Races. The issue with some motorhomes compaired with other vehicles is that some have a larger overhang behind the rear axle and this is the issue of disembarking from the barge and not being 4WD. We would have appreciated some sort of warning of thge backlog at Marree before heading up the Birdsville Track, would have traveled to Birdsville another way. But have enjoyed the experience anyway.
AnswerID: 464895

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