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Fuel and Food
The Centre is a big place and food and fuel stops are often between 100 km and 300 km apart. Travel in remote areas may require you to carry additional fuel because some remote service stations have restricted opening hours and limited credit card facilities. It is advisable to carry basic supplies such as a tyre jack, spare tyre, tyre repair kit, radiator hoses, fan belt, tow rope and ignition parts. |
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Road Information
Information about road conditions is available from the Central Australian Tourism Visitor Information Centre on (08) 8952 5800 in Alice Springs or by phoning 1800 246 199. |
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Fatigue
Distances in Central Australia are long and fatigue is one of the most frequent causes of serious motor vehicle accidents. Stop and take a break every two hours. |
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Speed
Restricted speed limits apply in all urban areas. The speed limit is set at 130km/h on the Stuart, Arnhem, Barkly and Victoria Highway, while rural roads are designated 110km/h speed limits unless otherwise sign posted. Travellers should however, drive at speed that suits the road, vehicle, weather conditions and their driving experience. Wandering stock and wildlife can stray on to the roads without warning. When driving remain alert, reduce speed and try to avoid driving at dawn, dusk and after dark when animals are most active. |
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Seat Belts
By law in the NT, everyone in a vehicle fitted with seat belts must be wearing a seat belt. Fines are imposed on those who do not wear them and it is the drivers' responsibility to ensure all passengers are wearing belts. It has been proven time and again that seat belts save lives. |
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Floods
Despite the great climate, it does rain heavily from time to time in the Centre. Unless you are sure of the water depth, flow rate and any road damage, do not attempt to cross flooded bridges or causeways. |
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Stock and Wildlife
Many roads, both sealed and unsealed, are not fenced. Stock often feed on road verges or wander across the road. Wildlife such as kangaroos, birds and occasionally camels can also wander across the road, often without warning. Locals generally try to avoid driving at dawn, dusk and after dark. |
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Dust
Dust on outback roads can pose a danger, obscuring vision of the road ahead. It is best to wait for it to settle. |
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Lost or Broken Down
A missing vehicle is easier to locate than missing people, so never leave your vehicle regardless of the circumstances. Economise on water if you are away from a main road. If you intend to leave a main road let someone trustworthy know of your plans, your intended route and your expected time of arrival. Importantly let them know you have arrived safely. |
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Aboriginal Land
Central Australia has several areas and sites of great significance to the Aboriginal people. You have numerous opportunities to visit these sites, but remember that access is a privilege. Always obey all signs and leave areas as you found them. For further information please contact the Central Land Council on (08) 8951 6320. |
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Pastoral Property
If you drive off-road, be sure you are using a public access road or that you have permission to travel on the property. Travelling on any road that crosses a pastoral property, leave everything as you found it - if a gate is open, leave it open, if a gate is closed, leave it closed. |
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Water
Be aware of the climate and the effect it has on your body. Drinking plenty of water is essential to enjoying your holiday in the Centre. It is easy to forget, but the dry atmosphere and the temperatures can make you prone to dehydration.
If you are walking or climbing you will need to consume additional water at regular intervals. You should carry at least two litres of water for every hour the activity will last.
Regardless of where you plan to travel, it is essential to carry plenty of water - 20 litres minimum. |
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Travelling with Pets
Dogs and cats cannot be taken into any Northern Territory National Park and many caravan parks do not allow pets. The Central Australian Tourism Visitor Information Centre can provide advice about dog kennels and catteries in Alice Springs. |
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