What deterent for the unwanted visitor that prowls around the camp?

Submitted: Saturday, Feb 04, 2012 at 21:03
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A few mths back i was talking to a couple up at Hill End NSW,Who where caravaning around the place and the conversation got onto security for a couple on their own camping alone when travelling around. They had a few incidents where there purebred BullMastiff collected himself a few flannelette shirts and the legs off a few jeans ...(LOL). So they said!, But interesting enough although they where having a great time, they claimed thats theres no way they would go anywhere slightly remote without their Dog, Especially these days,.. Have been woken up late at night in our van by noise, when parked off road, at times and the hair on the neck has stood up, Not a comfortable feeling, when your the sole protecter,.. There are a few things you can carry in case of trouble, but if these where to be retrieved off you by being outnumbered then you might be worse off!, Just maybe a 90kg bully could be a good thing, ...All hyperthetical. but things can happen and the way societys going more often.

Cheers Axle.
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Reply By: Member - Des Lexic - Saturday, Feb 04, 2012 at 21:19

Saturday, Feb 04, 2012 at 21:19
On our recent trip along the Gary Junction, Dingo's were occasionaly hanging around. I just sent the missus out wearing her best birthday suit and seemed to work pretty well.
I now carry a bait and lure caster with a few marbles just to protect the Dingo's.
I haven't hit her yet.
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Reply By: Motherhen - Saturday, Feb 04, 2012 at 21:23

Saturday, Feb 04, 2012 at 21:23
Hi Axle - what do you do at home? (That is assuming you don't live out in the bush like i do.) Odds on you'll be fair more likely to have a prowler or burglar in a suburban street that out in the sticks.

Des Lexic's reply gave me a good laugh.

Motherhen
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Follow Up By: Axle - Saturday, Feb 04, 2012 at 21:41

Saturday, Feb 04, 2012 at 21:41
MotherHen, ..Not so long ago my sister encounted knife wounds on a trip to The Isa, ...Without going into detail for reasons, all i can say she was not on her own either,...So i would not laugh to loud!!.


Cheers Axle.
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Follow Up By: Motherhen - Saturday, Feb 04, 2012 at 21:57

Saturday, Feb 04, 2012 at 21:57
OUCH - Not a nice occurrence

Mh
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Follow Up By: Nutta - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 00:26

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 00:26
Whats being at home got to do with being away?

Answer a question with a question...

I suppose the answer is simple, their dog!

Myself, I like a loaded gun!!

And if outnumbered in the bush with no reception? Call the police?

So what is the answer Motherhen when in the bush and under threat?
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Follow Up By: Motherhen - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 00:52

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 00:52
Hi Nutta

My point was that if parked away from a town or settlement, chances of a prowler are very much less than in a suburban street (or even in a caravan park) where there is a much higher chance of someone prowling up and down looking for easy pickings.

I have never felt insecure in the bush, nor had anyone prowling around; nor do i ever expect it to happen.

Perhaps the best defence is a Doberman - or at least a recording of him snapping and snarling at the door as if to say - "Let me at 'em!"

Firearms? Been discussed at length before.

Why would what you do be any different if threatened when camping to what you would do if threatened when at home? Perhaps not having phone reception to call Police, although many carry a satellite phone these days if spending much time out of phone range. Then again, if you are out of phone range, you are probably out of range of the troublemakers too.

Mh
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Follow Up By: Shaker - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 09:41

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 09:41
A Nutta with a loaded gun????
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Follow Up By: Bazooka - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 12:07

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 12:07
Spot on Mother. Far more danger in the burbs. With all the alarm and publicity I often wonder how I survive the constant threats.
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Follow Up By: get outmore - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 14:56

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 14:56
I disagree MH ive never been ripped off in the burbs but while out bush this raid saw me missing my sausage for tea

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Follow Up By: Motherhen - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 15:54

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 15:54
Just gorgeous get outmore. Although at home kangaroos are nuisances that knock down fences and eat crops, we always delight in seeing kangaroos and wallabies around us when touring.

I was amused by a fox once (now i really hate foxes; feral, and do so much damage by killing all my chooks, taking lambs and kids). We were camped in station country and sleeping on the back of the ute. I left the dishes out on the table to wash up in the the light of day. I was sitting on the back of the ute when a fox came round, stood on hind legs, and licked out the fatty frypan - did a good job too LOL

Oh, and a dingo ran off with our sullage hose at Kings Canyon campground.

Mh
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Follow Up By: Members Pa & Ma. - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 16:20

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 16:20
Hi mother hen.
Yes Kings caniyon was once noted for that,particularly shoes.
That was because of stupid people working there making a pet out of a dingo They bought it a teddy bear to play with.
I love that photo, you're lucky that's all it got. Did it eat it?
I'll catch up with you maybe next week.
Take care, safe travels.
Bye Ma.
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Follow Up By: Off-track - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 22:56

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 22:56
There was a family that lost something to a dingo of even greater value around Ayres Rock once...
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Follow Up By: get outmore - Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 00:08

Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 00:08
yep had no worries eating a snag

ive seen pet kangaroos eating steak
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Follow Up By: Motherhen - Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 00:18

Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 00:18
And i thought kangaroos were vegetarians. Sounds the wrong way around - I've eaten kangaroo steak.
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Follow Up By: Members Pa & Ma. - Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 13:31

Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 13:31
Yes, I do remember that family at Ayers rock & it was 12mnths after that that we were at Kings canyon & picked up the teddy bear, thinking it was a childs' one which the Dingo had taken. To our amazement, when we took it back! It was the one they'd given their Pet Dingo.


Thanks get out more--- hard to believe but amazing.

No, Mother hen I've eaten croc but not roo or Emu.

Take care, keep safe.
Bye for now Ma.
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Reply By: Member - Josh- Saturday, Feb 04, 2012 at 22:35

Saturday, Feb 04, 2012 at 22:35
In 3 yrs on the road we only ever had trouble at the caravan park in Devonport by a guy who was known to police for doing it before. Never ever felt unsafe anywhere else. Spent a lot of time in remote areas by ourselves. Not saying it doesn't happen. We were careful where we camped and if an area looked/felt unsafe we went somewhere else.
I've heard of people setting rabbit traps around their van. Having string with bells on them. recordings of a gun being cocked. Met one guy who carried a flare gun (for his tinnie of course).

Josh
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Follow Up By: Member - Krakka - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 10:40

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 10:40
Personally if I felt I needed to set rabbit traps, which if you are wearing suitable footwear for being out in the bush, wont do much to stop a human, or having to set up strings with bells on them, I'm afraid that camping is not for you.
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Reply By: Member - Michael J (SA) - Saturday, Feb 04, 2012 at 23:44

Saturday, Feb 04, 2012 at 23:44
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We just do not have any problems Axle..

MJ
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Follow Up By: Member - Dunworkin (WA) - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 01:13

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 01:13
How gorgeous Michael J. I'm sure you don't have any problems. LOL


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Follow Up By: Mick O - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 08:07

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 08:07
Hey I've met that dog. It's more likely to mug them for snacks and tidbits lol lol
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Follow Up By: Motherhen - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 11:44

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 11:44
Kane, you're gorgeous, and I'm sure you'd mouth me, find me a friend (or not palatable to eat), and lick me near to death LOL.

Mh
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Follow Up By: Members Pa & Ma. - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 12:00

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 12:00
Kane is beautiful but you have to watch for baits & snakes.
Hubby has the same idea as Mother hen.
I grow feathers when it gets dark anywhere.My hairs on the back of my neck stood up at Durbur Spring & not for the usual reasons.!!


I agree with Nutta, but with the gun not loaded until needed. However it is illegal, as we know.

The 22 could be very useful in other situations too.
We can't even carry a knife for cutting hay band in the car at work when feeding out hay!! between out paddocks. It's considered a weapon.
Sadly, I have heard of some horrible things happening when camping out bush & also in caravan Parks.

Take care, safe travels.
Bye for now Ma.
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Follow Up By: Member - Krakka - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 15:04

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 15:04
I'm sure there is no problem having a knife in your posession to perform your work, a little different to someone walking down the street carrying a concealed knife, didn't know there was a rule saying I can't carry a firearm in my vehicle, whats the go there?
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Follow Up By: Member - Josh- Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 16:37

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 16:37
Peter, The rules in vic now state that you can't carry a knife without reason. That is you must have a reason for having it on you. A friend of ours was fined for carrying a knife. He is a farmer, was laying polly pipe, using his pocket knife to clean up the ends. He went into town to pick up some fittings and was pulled over by police for rutine check. Cop notice the knife and asked why he was carrying it. He explained he used it on the farm. Cop said you should have left it on the farm and fined him.
Each state has different laws about firearms. Some require you to have a reason for carrying it if not residing in that state. ie. going to a shooting range or going to a property to shoot but you can't just carry it for the sake of it.
I think WA requires you to have a reason.

Josh
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Follow Up By: Motherhen - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 16:41

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 16:41
Hi Peter - Check your state's requirements for transporting firearms. They must be kept secure, unloaded, and in most case have the bolt removed and kept in a separate secure location. Whether just locking the car is adequate or whether they must be in a locked receptacle varies from state to state. Personal safety is unlikely to be accepted as an adequate reason to carry a firearm.

Mh
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Follow Up By: Member - Krakka - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 22:14

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 22:14
I'm not that stupid as to use person al safety as a reason to have a firearm in my vehicle, but surely hunting is a legit reason for having a firearm in the vehicle. Hunting is the endorsement on my licence for owning firearms so that is the answer I would give if asked.

People get too paranoid these days, very rarely does a crim use a registered firearm to commit firearm offences, firearm laws only punish the law abiding citizens that take notice of laws anyway.
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Follow Up By: Motherhen - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 22:30

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 22:30
Hi Peter

As regulations are different in every state, and reasons for being able to travel with firearms likewise, your local Police would be a better starting point than here. If travelling interstate, check out each state you may cross ahead of time.

As you say, they'd hardly be using their licenced firearms for criminal purposes. But we digress too far off topic if we talk about how strict gun legislation created a booming black market far bigger than it was before.

Mh
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Reply By: Michael ( Moss Vale NSW) - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 06:46

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 06:46
Axle!! I hope your'e not thinking of defending yourself? I dont think that's legal anymore.. I think the laws are that you turn the other cheek and report it to the Police if you survive the ordeal. :) Michael
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Follow Up By: Axle - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 09:43

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 09:43
Your Dead right Mike..



Cheers Axle
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Follow Up By: Members Pa & Ma. - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 13:29

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 13:29
Hi Michael & Axle.
That's how the story goes.
I'll get hounded for this, but I worry most about the phsycos & the drunks & the druggies out for some fun in the way out back blocks.
I did hear of one incident where the scum drove their car into the caravan door, the people couldn't get out & the scum got into the tow vehicle, leaving basically nothing!
Try to find a van where the door opens inwards or barn doors? maybe?

Sadly dogs can be baited.
You can buy those Dog barking things but I haven't heard one. We've never had trouble with theft yet. Thanks to good luck, I think.


If you come across badly injured irreparable wild life, a quick bullet puts it out of it's misery,Humanely.
We have come across this 3 times, no we don't carry a rifle & trying to hit the poor thing over the head is very traumatic for both,especially where one leg is hanging just enough for it to struggle.


Take care, keep safe.
Bye Ma.








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Follow Up By: Teejay - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 14:53

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 14:53
Hi Pa and Ma, that icident you heard of is an Urban Legend. I have heard it all over the place. Just the location of the incident changes each time I've heard it.

Don't worry about what might happen. There are more psycho's drunks and druggies in your nieghborhood than out in some campsite.

When near major roads I like to get off the road as far as possible and if there is no option I go for the safety in numbers idea and camp somewhere near to others.

Enjoy your camping.

TJ...
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Follow Up By: Members Pa & Ma. - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 15:35

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 15:35
Thanks T.J.
That was our cats name!! after Trapper John in M.A.S.H.
How do you know where we live???? You're pretty spot on!!!!! !LO L It used to be good till the Blue gums bought out farming land.

We have had to camp in an area. I can't mention names but way out back where they're a big problem & that is when there is a shutdown on. The caravan parks are booked out & you have no choice but to drive as far out of town as you can only to be smack in the middle of a (let off steam ) play ground. between 2 towns, a long way apart. We usually only camp the night & move on due to holiday time limits.
Take care, safe travels.
Bye again Ma.
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Reply By: shedboy - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 08:11

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 08:11
fire extinguisher is the way to go. either end would do the trick.

plus would be easy to identify.

george
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Follow Up By: racinrob - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 08:23

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 08:23
I like your idea George, I carry a large Magnalite torch same as the police have, I doubt they can charge me for carrying an offensive weapon ?

rr VKE237 Sel6678
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Follow Up By: get outmore - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 09:48

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 09:48
x2 on a maglight doesnt have to be a 6er a 4 will do.

these scum tend to skulk in darkness and hate light so a bit of illumination would be all thats required to see them off. also use to shine in their eyes so they cant see you

wouldnt normally have to go so far as acting as a weopon but if needed its there
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Reply By: Member - Royce- Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 08:54

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 08:54
A very worrying idea.

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Reply By: NTVRX - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 09:40

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 09:40
Hi Axle, I think most "Prowlers" around parks & camping areas are basically "Thieves by opportune" that is,they walk around see open vehicle scrounge for money,phones any think of value or venture into annex or outside van & see what they can help themselves to. Most won't try and carry off a very large Waeco or Engel but will most certainly relieve you of the contents!! A Dog is probably the best "Early warning system" even if it is only a little yapper!!! Be careful arming yourself & or setting traps!!! You may come under notice of the Police if things go pear shape...I think there is something written in the legislature about setting "Man traps"....the song "Copperhead Road comes to mind"!!! You can only meet or deal with the force inflicted towards you by the offender & it must be reasonable in the circumstances....if he comes at you with a lump of wood send him on his way with a long handle shovel under the jaw line ( I have a very sharp end on my LHS blade) If you catch someone ransacking your vehicle you cannot club him to death that would be disrepropriate to the circumstances...unless he was found by the cops with a very large knife in his hand!!! Remember if you decide to tackle someone first of all realise...we are not 19yrs old anymore...what if that person turns out to be persons!!or they get your Maglite baton torch off you and use it on you? I think a fire extinguisher is a good thing too...."Well Officer I am sure I smelt smoke"!!!! Don't fire weapons at the wild life!!! It's their country too. If Dingoes come around & rip into your rubbish expect to get fined for being a fool in charge of food/rubbish.
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Follow Up By: Mick O - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 10:10

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 10:10
Well said.

''We knew from the experience of well-known travelers that the
trip would doubtless be attended with much hardship.''
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Follow Up By: Member - John G- Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 13:21

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 13:21
G'day NTVRX

Apologies for distracting you from this Thread, but what do you do for an annex with your Jayco? We're contemplating swapping the bag awning on ours for a retro fit Fiamma awning, but perhaps you have a better option altogether.

Cheers
John
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Follow Up By: NTVRX - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 14:13

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 14:13
John, Have sent you a PM. Rob.
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Reply By: Member - Richard H - West NSW - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 10:23

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 10:23
I usually keep quiet about my former profession on this forum, but for 36 years I was copper in N.S.W. and not in one place either.

Firstly, I'm dead against traveller's carrying firearms. They will get you into more strife, even if you and the weapon is legal, than you can possibly imagine. Even if you do shoot someone who is up to mischief around your camp it doesn't stop there. You will be greeted by some usually very polite young men or women who will take a keen interest in what you say, and they'll be accompanied by some people who closely resemble C.I.S. TV show operatives, the only difference with them is that they don't solve the incident in 35 minutes, commercials excluded, they'll be there for hours & hours. Then there the is a coronial inquiry, and quite possible a trail. So is it worth it? Taking another persons life is looked at very closely, and seldom do people get away with it.

A dog is a good idea, and I travel with two of 'em, but dogs have their problems also. You can't go into national parks with them, there are still caravan parks that won't allow them, and then there's the frequent stopping for them to go wee wee's etc..... I won't admit this, but my two are all bluff, and though they'll bark, I reckon that they would open the van up and assist the thief carrying my possession out the door. But people who are usually up to no good around a camp site are thieves of opportunity, that is move in quickly, knock off whatever they can, and get the hell away just as quick. So a couple of dogs tied up near the van can act as a very good deterrent. But don't let them run loose, clean up their 'do dars', and keep them under your control, not theirs.

Don't believe for one minute that caravan parks are secure either. How many people here have ever been challenged by park proprietors or staff when they walk in the gate, after being up the town? I don't see too many hands up in the air. So, when you go for a tub or go to the loo, leave someone at the site. Place your possessions well away, out of view in a place that's difficult to access, and that includes mum's jewellery, because they do need it travelling, as you never know, they might meet the Queen. So think security, and spread the cash around, don't have mummy holding all the readies in the 'big' handbag, because it's usually the first thing that's grabbed. Lock you wallet up in the vehicle's glove compartment, and lock the bloody vehicle.

When I'm travelling and I bush camp wherever I can, I NEVER stay within 15 km of an 'Aboriginal Town', and that's right across Oz. I always park so that the van's door cannot be blocked, as I've heard of instances where a vehicle will be parked across the van's door, thereby preventing egress, and the towing vehicle is broken into, and meanwhile you are powerless to prevent the theft.

If you do have an instance where something occurs don't stuff about looking for the number of the nearest cop shop. Dial 000 if you are in mobile range, let them work out where your help will come from. That's what they get the big bucks for, and don't concern yourself about the magnitude of the problem. Little things can quickly develop into big things.

One think that be used as a pretty good defensive item is your fire extinguisher, and every van should have one ready to rock' n' roll anyway. A face full of white powder will do wonders, and there's few after effects.

But I believe the best advice I can give anyone is this, don't compromise yourself, try not to camp alone, and if you are not happy with the place you have selected, find another.
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Follow Up By: Wayne David - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 11:14

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 11:14
Good on you Richard H for blowing your cover for a good cause. Some good advice there.

Thanks for clarification on the fire extinguisher too "One think that be used as a pretty good defensive item is your fire extinguisher, and every van should have one ready to rock' n' roll anyway. A face full of white powder will do wonders, and there's few after effects."

To be honest up to that point I thought it was being suggested as something to hit people with. But I get it now.

Cheers - Wayne
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Follow Up By: Motherhen - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 11:30

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 11:30
What a sensible post, thank you Richard.

My only difference of opinion with you is that i feel far safe camped alone - and generally nobody knows you are there. We have only felt cautious if staying in a caravan in larger towns. Prowlers won't come scouring the bush looking for the odd camper - easier pickings in large groups. People driving by who just may notice a caravan tucked away in the bush if you are that visible are going about their business and won't stop or care. The more remote, the safer you are.

Mh
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Reply By: Mick O - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 10:27

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 10:27
You should know better Axle. It’s been done to death and I’m at a loss why we always have to have this persistent scaremongering about the “danger” of camping in the middle of nowhere where we end up with the standard response of “I sleep with my loaded gun”. If that’s what you do, I really think you need a valium and a lie down sport. A reassessment of your suitability to own a firearm might be a good thing as well. Bad people exist everywhere and yes bad things happen in the outback (usually perpetrated by a loony European tourist who’s liberated a high powered rifle from the dickhead who was sleeping with it loaded next to him!) but the incidence is rare and certainly a lot less likely than wandering down a city street. You are more likely to encounter the obnoxious drunk or even worse, inconsiderate generator user than someone who is out to do you mischief.

Sad to say but camping in a caravan park has the same risks of theft as you encounter in your own street. If you leave your valuables on the front veranda in plain view, they are just as likely to disappear as they are if left out the front of your annex. This is why most caravan parks caution you on entry with big signs advising you to be mindful and take responsibility for the security of your property. Mobile phone or GPS in view on the dash. The chances of it disappearing in any suburb of a major city are far greater than in Warburton, Wiluna or Tennant Creek.

How about some reasoned consideration. If you are that worried, travel with friends or in a group or do your research before travel and stay in recognised and well patronised camping spots (get a copy of Free Camps, you can guarantee any site selected from there will be crowded ;-) If there are like minded individuals camped out on the track, ask if you can join them for the night. Beats digging a bunker and standing shifts with your loaded gun waiting for the hoard of thieving , pillaging axe-murders to come charging over the nearest sand dunes as all Len Beadell Roads are renowned for ...NOT! Or, better still, stay at home and buildbunker in the back yard for the caravan. Now there’s an idea.

''We knew from the experience of well-known travelers that the
trip would doubtless be attended with much hardship.''
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Follow Up By: Bluefin48 - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 11:09

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 11:09
Well said, wife a I have been on the road for 13 years and camped all over Australia,never had a problem.
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Follow Up By: Wayne David - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 11:28

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 11:28
Hi Mick O
It's interesting that you mention "get a copy of Free Camps, you can guarantee any site selected from there will be crowded ". On our 2011 trip around Oz we used our copy of Free Camps Australia to actually stay clear of recommended sites, based on your very reasoning.

So where we spotted a site with a big red tick and lots of wonderful facilities (water, toilets & tables), we felt it would be a camper magnet & opted more for the 'down 10 kms of narrow windy dirt track' option. Worked for us.

Having said that, we did enjoy occasionally camping near others more for the exchange of information than the security aspect.

Cheers - Wayne
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Follow Up By: Member - John (Vic) - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 12:06

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 12:06
Yep, what he said!!

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Follow Up By: Axle - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 13:51

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 13:51
G/Day Mick O,..... I'm not worried about anything at the moment!,


Maybe its your turn for a valium..lol. ..arking up like that!


Just stating a few facts from a traveller, a couple of nights of concern of my own let alone my sister.

There has been some good issues out of this post on sensible self defence.

Thats all i intended it to be,... And Know i don't think i'll bother with the bunkers thanks for the idea, ..mate.. unless you wan't to come and start diggin...lol.

Hope your day goes well

Cheers Axle.
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Follow Up By: Mick O - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 15:35

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 15:35
Hardly arking up mate, just disappointed and never a need for Valium when I have natures golden elixer close at hand (scotch). I'm of the firm belief that this is a great country full of great people of all "cultural" beliefs and there there is no place for hysterical scaremongering.

Now it's scotch o'clock so I may go and poor myself one.

Cheers Mick
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trip would doubtless be attended with much hardship.''
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Follow Up By: Axle - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 17:15

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 17:15
" No Worries Mick"....Have one for me...Lol.





Cheers Axle.
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Follow Up By: Shaker - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 17:39

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 17:39
Well said Mick!
I thought I was the only one that used the Camps Australia books so as to be able to avoid the listed camp sites. We would much rather find our own!
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Reply By: Kris and Kev - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 11:16

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 11:16
Yes, it is really common sense. And yes, do not think caravan parks are safe. Low life scum are about and they do target certain parks. Also being a retired copper, I know caravan parks where grubs were targeted fridge/freezers, no matter what the size. Good resale value! Usually from annexes or beside tents. And don’t rely on signs warning to lock up. Some councils will not allow such signs as it may put tourists off.
We have travelled a fair bit and the only time we have felt a little unsafe was in Borroloola and Katherine.Katherine we used an ATM and were followed by a car full of suspicious persons. We just kept an eye on them and went and did our shopping. They did not like being watched.Borroloola we went to a local boat ramp and suddenly a car load of suspicious males came screeching up. We just drove off and found out later that we went to the wrong boat ramp; that was their boat ramp. My point, again, just use common sense, it can happen anywhere, and in any country, but we always feel very safe when travelling.
I do recall reading a blog from way back about a security measure. Hang a Hells Angel jacket outside and leave a note saying that you are out testing your rifle’s scope and will be back soon....
AnswerID: 476965

Reply By: The Bantam - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 11:21

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 11:21
If you are thinking about some sort of weapon...the law takes a very dim view of anything specificaly carried with the intent of using it as a weapon.

If for instance you produce a wheel brace from under the drivers seat, you are very likly to be zipped for carrying an offencive weapon because that is not where it is "normally stored"

But something that "came to hand" when you were threatened...Oh thats fine!!

The fire extinguisher is something I have looked at with a view to self defence for ages....have ya seen how much white powder comes out of one of those things.....but remember it all comes out very quickly..so if you are going to use it make it count.
The other thing is that if you dust someone with a fire extingusier, it is clear your intent was not to cause "grevous bodily harm".
That is unless while they are stagering blinded and choking you dong em on the head with the empty canister.

As far as dogs.......
If ya want real good deterant value, find a dog with different coloured eyes........quite a lot of people with "certain cultrual views" will not come near a pi-balled dog..they think its a "devil dog".

Some friends of my nieces, keep huskies (real ones) and they are almost all pi-balled......these domesticated dogs are soft and mild mannered...but the "persons of certain cultrual views" give them a very wide berth.

cheers
AnswerID: 476966

Follow Up By: Teejay - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 15:08

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 15:08
"certain cultrual views" ????
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Follow Up By: BarryR1 - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 15:54

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 15:54
Ahh, the Rednecked Bantam. Hardly a show winner. Generally found strutting in their natural habitats, hotel bars, around campfires and hiding anaonymously on internet forums crowing about their cultural beliefs. Usual plumage is a blue singlet with the redneck becoming more florid and pronouced with the more beverages consumed. Generally seen to worship their cultural icon....an alcohiolic beverage of greater than 5% alcohol content.

Crowing also becomes more pronouced with increased beverage consumption. Generally cluster together in groups so they can intimidate "lesser" species or "cultural" groups. Most dangerous in a pack but even alone will stike without provocation although this is almost always from behind as they are generally a cowardly lot.

Unfortunately all too common these days but one we can only hope will hit the endangered species list one day soon. A sorry blight on this country.

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Follow Up By: pop2jocem - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 16:19

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 16:19
Well Bantam, you certainly got Barry's pot boiling.
Just on the subject of dogs with different coloured eyes, myself and a couple of my family have owned border collies and found them to be the most placid, friendly breed. My neighbour had one that was also very good natured. Like all living things it got old and sick and he had it put down. So he replaced it with another collie but this one had one brown and one blue eye. This dog had the widest visious streak I have seen in any dog. After it ran out into the street and bit a passer by it got put down and he wound up with this guys medical bills.
Coincidence...yeah maybe???

Cheers
Pop
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Follow Up By: Michael ( Moss Vale NSW) - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 16:27

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 16:27
I will check my ex-wife for different coloured eyes next time i have the misfortune of seeing her. Although i dont remember if she had, i think she must have after considering that statement!!! :) Michael.
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Follow Up By: Axle - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 18:57

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 18:57
Make sure you look at whats in her hand then!!, Before gazing into her eyes..LOL.


Axle.
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Follow Up By: Michael ( Moss Vale NSW) - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 19:35

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 19:35
Thanks Axle, i will.. Michael LOL
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Follow Up By: Geoff H (Q - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 21:44

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 21:44
As I was told by a wise old Sergeant. If all else fails and you have to hit them, remember that dead men don't talk, so your story of self defence can't be disputed.

Regards
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Follow Up By: The Bantam - Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 10:13

Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 10:13
Barry R a totaly unwaranted outburst, particularly considering other comments posted earlier.

sorry. don't own a blue singlet, don't drink alcahol and have sat in a bar less than a hand full of times in my life.

So I stop pussy footing arround.

The truth is often not convienient and unpleasant and not politicaly correct.

Unfortunately there are places and areas of certain cities & towns where there is a real problem with certain aboriginal people, in particular drunkedness, theft and violence.
Make no mistake some of these people have a vigorous ratial hatred of "white people" and consider it their right to steal from them.

These individuals are a discrace to their people and culture, and certainly not the majority.

If you fail to recognise this you can easily get yourself into a lot of trouble.


Dogs are marvelous creatures and can often sense a persons attitude and intent long before us......low life scum of all races are very wary of dogs for this reason.....that and the fact that they have sharp teeth and no sence of remorse or fear of the justice system,

In an environment where most people and most animals have brown eyes, any animal with bright coloured eyes of differing colours is considered strange even magical.

I have met these people and their sweet natured "devil dogs".
Even to me their gaze is sort of disturbing......and these particular dogs have a habit of looking straight at you with their piercing eyes.

I am not surprised that "certain people" will walk away or cross the street so as not to come too close.

cheers




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Follow Up By: BarryR1 - Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 17:43

Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 17:43
Bantam, I'm only worried about your comments. They are just so unnecessary and of course you're right. My comments were totally unnecessary as you continually manage to out yourself. It's not about political correctness or unpleasantness. Blind Freddy could tell you that certain areas have problems with aboriginals due largly to alcohol abuse and social/cultural disconection. Where you fail to make a distinction is that in 99.8% of locations within Australia the problem you'll have is with drunken yobbos and trash usually white in colour and often sporting a hatred of other people who aint white! Why don't you just substitute "Aboriginal" with Lebonese, Indian, muslim, Sudanese, Arab or African. I feel pretty sure that anyone who's "Cultural beliefs" differ from yours will be viewed the same.

These are difficult issues that I feel from your comments you certainly don't have the depth to grasp.

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Follow Up By: Geoff H (Q - Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 22:15

Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 22:15
Dogs are great, they don't know if someone is a Redneck, Indigenous or Lebanese, but they can sense if someone is up to no good, maybe it's fear or anxiety.

My parents had a little yapping dog years ago and it was the best guard dog we ever had.

Regards
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Follow Up By: The Bantam - Tuesday, Feb 07, 2012 at 00:48

Tuesday, Feb 07, 2012 at 00:48
Barry you I am sure you R1.

I don't know what I am suposed to be outing my self from or to.

Your comments ARE all about political correctness.

You are drawing far to many conclusions.

If you knew me (you don't), you will find me to be one of the most ratialy and cultrualy tolerant people you will find, what I will not tolerate is bad behaviour from anybody.

The only person responsible for that bad behaviour is that person and no one else.
In this country no one needs to steal to feed and clothe themselves or their family.


In the regions outside of major cities areas there are very few problems with asian, lebonese, indian, muslim, sudanese, arab or african people.

As for common white trash, I am sure they have cultrual views too and reasons for their behaviour.....I avoid them too.

When you are considering your own personal safety, the cause of anti-social behaviour, violence or theeving is irrelivent.

What is important is knowing where and what the problem is and avoiding it, political correctness will help you not a single bit.

When you are dealing with people who have no respect for anybody, a politically correct outlook and a generous heart will be no help to you at all.
In fact it will simply mark you as a sucker and a target.

cheers


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Reply By: Member - John (Vic) - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 12:13

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 12:13
This constant thought of carrying a loaded gun, or a gun in peoples possession for self defense is a worry.
This thought process and those individuals who even think that way would appear not to be suitable people to hold a gun license.

I hope the mentality of this country is not heading down the path of the USA and its Texan attitudes!!

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Follow Up By: Motherhen - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 16:46

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 16:46
Don't worry about them John - If they use them to threaten another person, they will most likely get a free holiday - just without the views that they had intended LOL

Mh
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Reply By: Member - hopbush - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 13:30

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 13:30
I do most of my remote area travelling solo and I have never had a problem whilst bush camping...but I make sure that I am out of sight of the road or track if possible and if I am not, then I may decide not to light a fire and am careful what lights I might show..I am also careful if I am camping between a community and township because of the likelihood of traffic on that track
If I am near or in a town, I will rarely camp in a camp ground but will often stay in a cabin if possible or even a Motel, Hotel or roadhouse.
As for protection, a fire extinguiser or good heavy torch is enough as already mentioned in above posts. Not that I have ever needed them.
I have a firearms licence but would never consider carrying a gun in the car....that would be not only crazy but illegal as well, unless you are carrying it to shoot on a particular property as a condition of that licence, also illegal to carry in National Parks.
The only time I felt threatened was in an Alice Springs inner city Motel where aboriginal youths roamed the Motel grounds half the night. I was more concerned for my car, unnecessarily as it turned out.
I am also careful when stopped for smoko or lunch.
I love my solo journeying and the remoter the area the happier I am. I'm an old fella and whilst I don't really fear anything in the bush, I drive safe, camp safe and anyone I meet on the road, be they black or white, I treat with the same courtesy and respect that I would expect in return.
Tony
AnswerID: 476984

Follow Up By: Members Pa & Ma. - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 16:09

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 16:09
Hi Tony,
we're in a tent,or tent trailer. We do the same as you do unless what I told T J. happens.
We aren't old but getting old enough to be aware that we aren't up to defending ourselves very well.
We also look for a little comfort now & then.
I do fear things in the outback but I'm a female & hate creepy crawlies no matter what color nor how many legs they have.,or don't have.

Do you believe the Peter Falconio incident.? That is when I started to have concerns re helping people. & camping solo with hubby. We were on the road then. on Holidays.
Take care, safe travels.
Bye for now. Ma.
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Follow Up By: Mick O - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 17:30

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 17:30
And there endeth the lesson. Sage words Tony.

Ma, at the risk of sounding opinionated, you can't let a creep like Bradley John Murdoch worry you. A situational opportunist and a sex offender of the worst type, he is an aberration who will hopefully never see the light of day again. That type of scum are a rarity. Your chances of winning tattslotto are greater than are those of running into someone of with that lack of moral fibre.

You keep travelling and enjoying life.

Mick
''We knew from the experience of well-known travelers that the
trip would doubtless be attended with much hardship.''
Richard Maurice - 1903

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Reply By: the_fitzroys - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 14:35

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 14:35
Only experience we've ever had that came close to scary was bush camping on the Darling. Three o'clock in the morning and we wake up to hear a car idling in our camp. My husband wonders what took me so long to wake up. He's more interested in why I'm not screaming my lungs out than in the car (although he did admit later that he was starting to get a bit anxious). We heard some voices and after a minute or two they drove off. We chose to believe we were camped in their favourite fishing spot and they were having a discussion about where to go instead. Not everything has a sinister cast. Truck was open and keys were inside. Nothing stolen but we did decide it might be a good idea to lock it and bring the keys in the tent in future :-)
Good idea about the fire extinguisher, thanks.
Lou
AnswerID: 476992

Reply By: Michael ( Moss Vale NSW) - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 16:29

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 16:29
I think there will be a run on fire extingushers tomorrow all over our great continent!!! Michael
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Follow Up By: Members Pa & Ma. - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 19:09

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 19:09
Hi Mick & thanks.
Actually, as the story unfolded, I'm not so sure any more.
I actually expected to get bombarded with replies telling me it didn't happen.I'm sure a dog would have found her.
Speaking of dogs, I know a very big German Shepherd,( referring to the gorgeous Kane)
who flattens you for a cuddle & licks you all over the face. on the other hand, we had a Blue Heeler German shepherd cross, now that was a different story! but he loved us
I think this has been a great discussion & I think that the torch & the fire extinguisher used in unison sounds good.
It's a shame when it comes to this but there is the chance it can & you need to be prepared. Especially when you don't travel with friends,for back up.
I'll get Hubby to sharpen the spade! LOL. Good idea too.
Take care, keep safe. Bye , Ma.
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Reply By: landseka - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 17:25

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 17:25
The red-necks reckon that owning & carrying guns make for a safe society!

In that case USA should be the safest place to live. I don't think so.

Cheers Neil

ps: a tightly rolled newspaper can make a very good defensive weap...ummm...appliance used correctly.
AnswerID: 477016

Follow Up By: Kris and Kev - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 21:09

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 21:09
You do not need a rolled up paper. Just a sheet of paper will do. If attacked, just give them a paper cut!
Mind you the worst paper cut I have suffered was to the lip! It was in the old days when one had to lick the envelope flap to stick it down... One good thing about emails, no paper cuts!

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Reply By: Tim - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 21:12

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 21:12
Without posting a resume, I'll just say I am "educated" in this field....
As silly as it sounds, a lot of people leave their vans unlocked at night, so simple yet so many people fail to do it.
Tim
AnswerID: 477039

Reply By: Member - DAZA (QLD) - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 21:19

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 21:19
If you don't feel comfortable camping alone just don't do it.

As others have mentioned, don't camp near towns ect.

Most people who have guns to protect them selves end up being harmed by their own gun.

We have external Motion Sensors on the van that are activated before we retire for the night, one is a security light and the other is a controlled volume alarm that wakes you but dosen't wake the dead, (it can if you turn the volume up).

A couple of times they have been set off by four legged critters ect.

Both of these work off the 12 volt system in the van.

As far as protecting our selves go I have a Baseball Bat.

Cheers
AnswerID: 477040

Follow Up By: Kimba10 - Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 10:52

Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 10:52
Make sure you have a ball and mitt with that bat then it cant be classed as a weapon which it can be otherwise..........Im sure the dog loves chasing after the ball when you have slogged it with the bat !!!!!!!
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FollowupID: 752266

Reply By: Member - Krakka - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 22:26

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 22:26
Maybe I had better clarify that I don't take firearms with me when camping, before I get tied to the stake and burnt alive.

I am a hunter though and have no appologies for that.
AnswerID: 477054

Follow Up By: the_fitzroys - Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 22:41

Sunday, Feb 05, 2012 at 22:41
Bush camping anxiety #124
Hearing guns really puts my teeth on edge. I accept a number of things:
1. They are probably a lot further away than I think
2. They are shooting at something low on the ground from a flat bed, not wildly in the air (tell me this is so)
3. I probably won't be killed by a stray bullet.
We spent a very trying day camping in the aftermath of those red dust storms in Western NSW a couple of years ago. A day cloaked in dust with a hot pink sky. I'd luckily already had a wine or two when the guns began but it was unnerving,
Lou
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FollowupID: 752223

Follow Up By: Member - Krakka - Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 13:01

Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 13:01
Have to agree Lou, we were camped in a pine forest Jan 2011, out of sight of everyone. One night we could hear gunshots and it is quite un nerving, very hard to tell how far away on a very still night.

I hunt on private property and then if people have done the right thing and let the farmer know of there movements, should be no danger. 100,000+ acre properties I am talking about.
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Reply By: The Bantam - Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 10:39

Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 10:39
Seems we get both ends of the spectrum.

Those who are generally afraid of being murdered in their beds, and those who seem to camp with no concern for their own safety or security.

It occurs to me like in most things if we take the basic and simple precautions we would in our own homes, we are statisticly most unlikely to have any trouble at all.

We need to know what we are doing, where we are going, don't leave our valuables exposed and lock stuff up.

Of course like anywhere.......looking less like a target always works...the more expensive and pretty your rig, the more you must have to steal....and the low lifes are less likely to take on a bloke in king g, a big hat & boots than a couple in fancy city clothes

cheers
AnswerID: 477095

Reply By: Hairy (WA) - Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 12:43

Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 12:43
Gday Axle,
Over the years I have carried heaps of items that could be used for self defense or a deterent...rifles, hand guns, baseball bats, tyre levers, knifes, wheel braces ,cattle prods, stock whips, and even a boomerang (I can hear them all screaming REDNECK!!!)
But I reckon the best deterents yet are my Dogs, (Akita and a Red Healer) and my mates........Ive been blessed with a bunch of the ugliest big mongrels for mates you will ever come across. For those that brave the dog ( big puppy he is) and venture into our camp usually take one look at the motley crew and only have happy thoughts......Hahahahaha

Cheers
AnswerID: 477105

Follow Up By: Axle - Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 15:31

Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 15:31
G/Day Hairy,.. Good choice, i remembr pics of those two!


You have know worries!...LOL.

Cheers Axle.






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FollowupID: 752290

Reply By: david m5 - Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 23:00

Monday, Feb 06, 2012 at 23:00
Capsicum(pepper) spray , similar to the fire extinguisher but more grunt.
AnswerID: 477157

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