What You Need to Know
Before You Go

Whether this is your first rodeo on outback roads or your odometer tells the tale of long road trips already, we’ve got you covered with these traveller tips for roaming the region.

Traveller Tips

Don’t rely only on mobile coverage while travelling our region. If you don’t have a UHF or satellite phone, make sure you share your travel plans with a friend or family member – in case you drop out of range.

See a road train or wide load approaching? If you’re travelling along
a narrow stretch of highway, slow down and pull to the side of the road and allow it to pass.
Leaving enough room will also help avoid stone chips to your paintwork and windscreen.

Stop by our Visitor Information Centres to get up to date local information.
They can also let you know of any roadworks taking place and the status of roads, especially following rain.

Before You Buckle Up

CHECK YOUR VEHICLE:
Have you had it serviced recently? Ensure it’s in good working order before you enter postcode 4455 into the GPS.

KNOW THE DISTANCE:
Have you mapped out your itinerary? Do you know how long it will take to travel between towns? Don’t trust Google Maps, either – ask a local for an accurate estimated arrival time.

CARRY ESSENTIALS:
First aid kit, extra water, food, blankets and rubbish bags, spare tyre and tools – and remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

CHECK CONDITIONS:
Are the roads ahead sealed or unsealed? Chat to the team at our Visitor Information Centres to find out what to expect.

When cruising the highways

TAKE BREAKS:
Pull over and stretch your legs every two hours when driving and be realistic with how much tarmac you can cover in one day. Always aim for less than eight hours behind the wheel per day.

BE SEEN:
Turn lights to low beam during daylight hours to be visible to other vehicles.

CHECK YOUR VEHICLE REGULARLY:
Allow for regular mechanical and tyre checks when driving long distances.

SHARE THE ROAD WITH CATTLE AND WILDLIFE:
Be aware of cattle and wildlife that may be travelling along stock routes which cross
over the road. Limit driving
at dawn, dusk and after dark, when animals such as kangaroos are most active.

A few extra tips

PHONE COVERAGE:
Telstra 4G and Optus 4G (in main towns), Vodafone 4G in Roma only.

RADIO STATIONS:
HitFM 95.1, Hot Country 16611 AM, Radio National 107.3, ABC Southern Queensland 105.7 and Switch FM 95.9.

FOR UP TO DATE INFORMATION:
About road closures, road works and hazards, visit https://qldtraffic.qld.gov.au/