The Outback Way is the stuff of legends — thousands of kilometres of dirt road through the centre of Australia into uncharted territory and to places most people can only dream of seeing. But it's certainly not for the faint-hearted, writes Lisa Millar.
The Outback Way is the stuff of legends, thousands of kilometres of dirt road through the centre of Australia.
In one four-wheel drive, sound recordist Tony Hill is polishing off the servo breakfast we'd grabbed, while cameraman Rob Hill drives, checking the verges for kangaroos. The Outback Way is a series of roads and dirt tracks that cross the nation from Laverton in WA to Winton in Queensland.It's a long, tough, isolated drive and one that requires plenty of planning.But we wanted to enjoy the rugged dust and remoteness while we could.The idea for a Back Roads story had its genesis around 2015 on one of the first-ever Back Roads stories, in fact.
There are parts, such as some of the remote Aboriginal communities, that are off-limits to help protect the locals' way of life.While we spent about two weeks on the road, one of the most deeply moving moments for me was on a Sunday morning in the Aboriginal community of Kaltukatjara/Docker River, about 670 kilometres west of Alice Springs.
If we needed a reminder of how privileged we were to be on this journey, we didn't need to look any further.There, you'll find a roadhouse, an Aboriginal community and a weather station — a harmonious blend of people and activities in one of the most remote outposts along the road dubbed Australia's Route 66.
When we look at those shots later, they are so filled with honest joy, so perfectly framed, you'd think a professional had taken them. They are some of my favourite photos from this trip.The welcome sign is out for tourists at the Giles Weather Station, where each morning at 8:45am they're able to watch the release of a large helium-filled balloon.
"Every little task we do, whether it's cleaning a rain gauge or fixing a radar or releasing a weather balloon, it's all part of that big picture."I came out last year in June when I was a manager at the BOM and wanted a break, and I fell in love with the place and the people," he says. Vera tells us a shocking story about a massacre here by a colonial police force that took ten lives in the 1890s. She had always promised her father she'd return to keep the stories of her people alive.
Outback Way Remote Communities Outback Australia Red Centre Road Trip
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
The Cost of Getting Rescued in Australia's OutbackHiking in Australia's vast outback can be dangerous, and helicopter rescues and emergency medical services can be very expensive. This article explores the costs associated with ambulance services and helicopter rescues in different states and territories of Australia.
Read more »
Exploring Australia's Outback: From Bat Caves to Geological WondersThis article narrates a journey through Australia's Gulf Savannah region, highlighting its unique wildlife and geological formations. It starts with a bat cave tour near Cairns, showcasing thousands of microbats, then moves on to the Undara Volcano National Park, exploring its extensive lava tubes. The article concludes with a visit to Cobbold Gorge, a stunning sandstone gorge discovered relatively recently and now a popular tourist destination.
Read more »
Exploring Australia's Outback: From Bat Caves to Sandstone GorgesThis article takes you on a journey through the stunning landscapes and unique wildlife of Australia's Gulf Savannah region. Experience the thrill of witnessing thousands of microbats emerge from their cave at sunset, explore the fascinating lava tubes of Undara National Park, and discover the hidden gem of Cobbold Gorge, a breathtaking testament to the power of nature.
Read more »
Australia's Largest Phosphate Project Set to Boost Outback Queensland EconomyNorth West Phosphate's Paradise South project in outback Queensland is on track to export its first product in two months, creating jobs and bolstering the local economy. The project received $5.77 million from the Queensland government to accelerate operations and address a looming job gap caused by upcoming mine closures.
Read more »
Australia Faces Devastating Heatwave: Record Temperatures Scorch Western Australia, Queensland to FollowRecord-breaking temperatures are plaguing Western Australia, while Queensland prepares for a dangerous heatwave. Perth and Geraldton experience scorching highs, with the former hitting its hottest day in a decade. The BOM warns residents to take precautions against the extreme heat, which can be especially dangerous for vulnerable groups.
Read more »
Double Demerit Periods Across Australia During Australia Day Long WeekendThis article outlines the double demerit point periods in effect across Australia during the Australia Day long weekend. It details the specific jurisdictions affected, the duration of the double demerit period, and the offenses that trigger these enhanced penalties. The article also clarifies how double demerits apply to drivers with licenses from different states and territories.
Read more »