SAY G'DAY

[Brigalow]

Thanks plucker...thanks for your words of encouragement...but every trip is differant and every area has its own special magic...errr what would the trips be without the corregations and the bull dust holes...

[Brigalow]

G'day to you too geoffjy and hope the weather is behavin up your way...
Last vist up you way was Sept/Oct 2007....I did the run up with the son in law (had a spare six weeks)doing the maintanece on the Telsta micro towers...he works for contractors who do the solar pannels and battery banks...we did the top 4 I think Batavia,Nimrod,Sailor and Jardine and he played a bit with the Mapoon small exchange...

We camped at each tower for 6 to eight days which are good clear sites even out side the fenced areas.
In the spare time we managed a trip to TI and swims in the falls and the good old Wenlock.
Bamaga Bamaga,how far away from the crazy horses down here is it great to be...no bloody road rage and no stupid tailgatin.
A bit of useless imfo:did you know that the Towers are about 50 kms apart as the crow flys.

At that time of year I was surpised how quite it was up your way...the Seisia park was empty...still there was a cyclone in the air at that time and it chased us down below the Archer just in case of flooding...

Heres cheers mate!!!

[geoffjy]

G'day to you too geoffjy and hope the weather is behavin up your way...
Last vist up you way was Sept/Oct 2007....I did the run up with the son in law (had a spare six weeks)doing the maintanece on the Telsta micro towers...he works for contractors who do the solar pannels and battery banks...we did the top 4 I think Batavia,Nimrod,Sailor and Jardine and he played a bit with the Mapoon small exchange...

We camped at each tower for 6 to eight days which are good clear sites even out side the fenced areas.
In the spare time we managed a trip to TI and swims in the falls and the good old Wenlock.
Bamaga Bamaga,how far away from the crazy horses down here is it great to be...no bloody road rage and no stupid tailgatin.
A bit of useless imfo:did you know that the Towers are about 50 kms apart as the crow flys.

At that time of year I was surpised how quite it was up your way...the Seisia park was empty...still there was a cyclone in the air at that time and it chased us down below the Archer just in case of flooding...

Heres cheers mate!!!


Hi Brigalow,

A mate of mine also has a contract with Telstra and every now and then he flies in by chopper to do repairs to them.

I'm not sure if it was you guys or not, but towards the end of 2007 i had a guy ring up asking permision to use the quarries. Apparently his job was to travel up the telstra line and cover up any exposed bits of cable.

It sure sounds like you had a great time on your travels up here mate. After watching the news for last several days, i am glad that i am up here. Flooding, fires..... Oh yes, no tail gaters and such.

[Brigalow]

The head honcho that my son in law worked for was called Steve too,but he came from Port Douglas...I hear he owns a chopper and works with it...by the way,my son in law is at present up in Cairns flying in and out of remote exchanges ...solar panals dont like cloudy weather for some reason so the stand by batteries have to be activated.

I remember we had a couple of guys from Weipa the"Carpentaria Hire" mob helping...great guys who had there 5 pig dogs and every arvo would give them a run up the creeks...the dogs were too young I think as they were more interested in roos and cattle.

Well here in Rocky we are promised some rain....hmmm here is hopein.

[Brigalow]

Here is a few shots...Im trying the attachments.:confused:

[geoffjy]

The head honcho that my son in law worked for was called Steve too,but he came from Port Douglas...I hear he owns a chopper and works with it...by the way,my son in law is at present up in Cairns flying in and out of remote exchanges ...solar panals dont like cloudy weather for some reason so the stand by batteries have to be activated.



Well here in Rocky we are promised some rain....hmmm here is hopein.

Thats right. The guys name is Steve. His mother-in-law is Patsy Lennoxx from Loyalty Beach.

[xina]

Welcome Brigalow,
Sounds like you're hooked too eh?
Cheers,
xina.

[Brigalow]

Welcome Brigalow,
Sounds like you're hooked too eh?
Cheers,
xina.

Thanks xina,thank you very much for the welcome...hmmm I see you are just up the road and around the corner from yours truly:grin:
Nice little drop of rain here in town...hope you are getting some down your way?

[Nedly]

Thanks guys,for letting this old cape york tragic in and hope to one day shout you all a beer or two..

G'day Brigalow, welcome aboard.
I hope for what you hope for....:D

[Brigalow]

Thanks Nedly....ahh yesss its a toss up between a good creek wash out crossing or sitting round a camp fire with a tin of cold bundy and coke....its a reallll worry!!!

[Nedly]

Thanks Nedly....ahh yesss its a toss up between a good creek wash out crossing or sitting round a camp fire with a tin of cold bundy and coke....its a reallll worry!!!

I try not to restrict my mtself, bundy & coke, beer, wine, beer, they're all good when sitting around a fire.
In fact, I plan on doing some of that this weekend.

[Brigalow]

I try not to restrict my mtself, bundy & coke, beer, wine, beer, they're all good when sitting around a fire.
In fact, I plan on doing some of that this weekend.
Arrrr my kinda man!...but truth be known,a miss spent youth and a consumption of too many stubbies,a man has developed a case of glass poisoning and now I am condemed to tin products...:confused:

[xina]

Thanks xina,thank you very much for the welcome...hmmm I see you are just up the road and around the corner from yours truly:grin:
Nice little drop of rain here in town...hope you are getting some down your way?

Hi Brigalow
21 ml today. Nice soaking rain. I'm in a rainshadow just here, so I usually miss a lot of it, but I got lucky this time.
Cheers,
xina.

[Brigalow]

Hi Brigalow
21 ml today. Nice soaking rain. I'm in a rainshadow just here, so I usually miss a lot of it, but I got lucky this time.
Cheers,
xina.

Good to hear thats around a inch I think....here in Rocky we had 100 mil's last night...absolutly came down....and looks like anoth little down pour at present.

[Stacky]

Good to hear thats around a inch I think....here in Rocky we had 100 mil's last night...absolutly came down....and looks like anoth little down pour at present.

Welcome to the forum Brigalow,

I passed over the Fitzroy early morning last Sunday and it looked a little swollen. I know they had a lot of rain the week before further up the Dawson which probably caused some of that.
That profile pic is some nice Barra, is that from the Fitzroy or Dam or up this way? Just wondering.

Cheers
Stacky

[campdog]

Arrrr my kinda man!...but truth be known,a miss spent youth and a consumption of too many stubbies,a man has developed a case of glass poisoning and now I am condemed to tin products...:confused:
Know the felling there.I still cant look at a brown muscat bottle and still cant stand the smell of wild turkey since Australia Day 2008.
Now its just me and TED. Were mates. (Tooheys Extra Dry). Carl goes wiyh me camping and Cape trips. (CARLton Mid Strength) 30 packs cans.Dont forget Jim and Jack. good spirited friends.
What other mates could a man want.
John

[Berniek]

Hi All
Just joined. Live (for the moment) in Canberra, heading North in the next year or so (can't stand cold winters anymore)
Mad fisherman, mostly game fishing.
Me & the missus are probably going camping to the Cape end of this month or next month. Taking the small boat (4.5m). Still deciding where when and how long.
Semi retired, so can please ourselves
cheers
Bernie

[geoffjy]

Hi All
Just joined. Live (for the moment) in Canberra, heading North in the next year or so (can't stand cold winters anymore)
Mad fisherman, mostly game fishing.
Me & the missus are probably going camping to the Cape end of this month or next month. Taking the small boat (4.5m). Still deciding where when and how long.
Semi retired, so can please ourselves
cheers
Bernie

Welcome Bernie to the forum Bernie.

I cant blame you for wanting to head north. Too cold for my blood down that way. Your off to a good start if you are taking the boat with you as it will open up a lot more areas when visiting the Cape. 4.5mt is a good size without really restricting access, just have to plan a little better.

[Nedly]

Welcome aboard Bernie.
It certainly does get cold down in Canberra, though winters in Brisneyland can get cold also. I remember it got down as low as 19° last year, very chilly :)

BTW, fisherman or not, it does help to be a little mad.

[ljboons]

Hi all
Just joined and wonder why I never found this site earlier.
I have lived and worked around the NPA and Torres Straits back in 05/06 and still have a soft spot for the place. Including hols have been up to the cape including around Weipa about a dozen times in the last 15 years.

Leo

[geoffjy]

G'Day Leo,

Welcome to the forum mate. Who knows, might have seen you round' the traps somewhere.

[Nedly]

Hey Leo, welcome to the forum.
It's not a bad site to re-live your time on the Cape, or to dream about what could be.

[grahcom]

Hi folks, been lurking for a couple of weeks as we research our coming trip towing the van to Loyalty Beach in June/July 2009, with lots of info gained here (and elsewhere) helping us plan the trip. Will post more about our trip in the general area and pose a few Q's there in the coming weeks. While we are not 'green' outback caravaners, we've not been to the cape or west of Normonton in the gulf yet. Have done many other remote areas like the Kimberley with the van, including Gibb River Rd to Kalumburu, and many other dirt roads like the Oodnadatta, Tanami, Birdsville, Plenty and Great Central roads

cya
Graham

[Nedly]

Welcome to the forum Graham.
Loyalty Beach is a nice spot, I'm sure you'll like it.

[grahcom]

Thanks mate, have heard Loyalty Beach is a nice spot, we're looking to spend a week there as we explore the area.

cya
Graham

[Nedly]

Thanks mate, have heard Loyalty Beach is a nice spot, we're looking to spend a week there as we explore the area.

cya
Graham

Make sure your explorations include Muttee Heads, take a lunch and a fishing rod. If you're lucky you'll have the place to yourself, I reckon it's worth the drive.

Les

[Rocky]

Hi all,joined a couple of months ago, and thought I would introduce myself. I am Paul Kelly (not the singer!) I live on the south side of Brisbane. I have done the Cape York trip with Nedley twice. Just love the Big Outdoors!
Cheers
Paul

[ant]

Hi all,joined a couple of months ago, and thought I would introduce myself. I am Paul Kelly (not the singer!) I live on the south side of Brisbane. I have done the Cape York trip with Nedley twice. Just love the Big Outdoors!
Cheers
Paul

Welcome aboard Paul.
With a name like that, and the fact that you are also a friend of Nedly, you are sure to be a good bloke.
Why aren't you on the Tag-A-Long this year??
I will bring my guitar!!

[Nedly]

Hi all,joined a couple of months ago, and thought I would introduce myself. I am Paul Kelly (not the singer!) I live on the south side of Brisbane. I have done the Cape York trip with Nedley twice. Just love the Big Outdoors!
Cheers
Paul

G'day Paul,
Good to see you finally come on bourd.

[Nedly]

Welcome aboard Paul.
With a name like that, and the fact that you are also a friend of Nedly, you are sure to be a good bloke.
Why aren't you on the Tag-A-Long this year??
I will bring my guitar!!

Hey Ant, check the front cover of the itinerary, Rocky's there with a question, I was waiting for him to make a post.

The guitar is a good idea, though I'm sure Paul can't sing, not sober anyway. If nothing else we can use the guitar as fuel if the firewood gets low :)

[ant]

Nedly,
Why burn a perfectly good guitar when we have plenty of Nissans on hand?

[geoffjy]

Make sure you empty the fuel tanks first Ant. Dont want to waste all that fuel as it would be worth more than the Nissan itself.

[Rocky]

Thanks Ant
I hopefully on the tag a long this year complete with Nedly's burnt our guitar
----------------------
Rocky

[plucker]

If nothing else we can use the guitar as fuel if the firewood gets low :)

Unfortunately my best uses with the guitar would probably resemble this statement.

On the bright side I cant sing either.

[aquilla1]

Hey there,

My name is Peter, heading up the cape with a few members of our club in July. Thought I would drop in and say hi, learn lots and meet people before we head there.

I drive an 02 Cruiser 105, acting as recovery vehicle for the Nissans that will be coming up with me. At last count I think we have 5 vehicles in the main group, with a sixth joining then leaving us. (Just cause he has more time off work...)

We leave Cairns on the 7th July, hoping to do the Creb (if it opens), up through Bathurst Bay, Jardine River before spending 4 days up top, then back through Weipa, Maytown, Chillagoe, through Longreach and back to Brissy, 4 weeks all up.

Cheers
Peter

[geoffjy]

Sounds like a great plan Peter. Its lots of fun when you go in several vehicles with mates.

Oh, and welcome to the forum. :D

[ant]

Hey there,

My name is Peter, heading up the cape with a few members of our club in July. Thought I would drop in and say hi, learn lots and meet people before we head there.

I drive an 02 Cruiser 105, acting as recovery vehicle for the Nissans that will be coming up with me. At last count I think we have 5 vehicles in the main group, with a sixth joining then leaving us. (Just cause he has more time off work...)

We leave Cairns on the 7th July, hoping to do the Creb (if it opens), up through Bathurst Bay, Jardine River before spending 4 days up top, then back through Weipa, Maytown, Chillagoe, through Longreach and back to Brissy, 4 weeks all up.

Cheers
Peter

Hi Peter,
Welcome aboard.
Don't forget to post up some pics of your vehicle in the appropriate thread.

[Tony&Shez]

Hi Everyone

Anthony & Sheridan here. We are planning our first trip to the cape in August next year.

We have an 01 GU Patrol 4.2TD Ute. Currently designing/building a new slide on canopy and hoping to buy a roof top tent.

Planning a 4 week trip and can't wait. Wish is was August this year!!

Cheers

[Scorcher]

For all us "Cape York Tragic's", it's great to hear from all the newbies planning & preparing for their trip up north.

Tony & Shez.......you'll be surprised how quickly August next year will sneak up on you ! Why not post some piccies of your trip planning & vehicle mod's ? All that stuff is half the fun !

Scorcher

[Nedly]

Nedly,
Why burn a perfectly good guitar when we have plenty of Nissans on hand?

I only suggested burning the guitar as I figured it would be easier than trying to burn the player.

[Nedly]

We leave Cairns on the 7th July, hoping to do the Creb (if it opens), up through Bathurst Bay, Jardine River before spending 4 days up top, then back through Weipa, Maytown, Chillagoe, through Longreach and back to Brissy, 4 weeks all up.

Cheers
Peter

Sounds like a good trip Peter.
I haven't been to Bathurst Bay or travelled the CREB yet, might have to leave that to next year.

Welcome to the forum.

[Nedly]

Hi Everyone

Anthony & Sheridan here. We are planning our first trip to the cape in August next year.

We have an 01 GU Patrol 4.2TD Ute. Currently designing/building a new slide on canopy and hoping to buy a roof top tent.

Planning a 4 week trip and can't wait. Wish is was August this year!!

Cheers

G'day Tony&Shez,

You'll look at your calendar one day and realise it's only 15 more days to the trip, and you'll still have dozens of things to finish before you go.
Best thing to do is not look at the calendar and get things done as quickly as possible.

Welcome aboard, plenty of usefull tips and heaps of information on this site.

[Barnsey]

................................

[plucker]

Welcome to the forum Barnsey, perhaps you can be the man on the ground for the current gulf roads and conditions.

Ahh the Central pub hey, good meals from my experiences.

[Nedly]

Hey Barnsey,.
Welcome to the forum, plenty of information lies within these threads, you should be able to find what you are after.
If not, some of the members will know I'm sure.

[plucker]

If anyone wants info on the Cloncurry area, please don't hesitate to ask. There's a great book available from the Council (and in the local shops)call "Cloncurry Trails", which gives directions and the history of abandoned mines and towns in the area. They're mostly 4wd tracks, some easy, some hard. All of them are well worth the effort.

If you have a few spare days, I highly recomend having a look around the area, specially between here and Mt Isa to the south to Duchess and Dajarra.



I spent quite a bit of time in the Curry with the Railways a few years ago. We used to fly out for 3 week stints every 12 weeks. I spent a bit of time with signals and on call so I have driven quite a few of those tracks down the Duchess and Phosphate Hill way, in all weather and all hours and all seasons.

Must admit it can be harsh but remarkable country through there. I was always amazed by the rapid rise and fall of creeks after rain and the fish that you could see while it was running, especially since the creeks were normally dry all year.

I have seen that book you mentioned Barnsey and it is a wonderfull publication on the area. Highly recommended for all who want to explore some of the country and it's rich mining history that surrounds there.

[grahcom]

Hi Barnsey,
Welcome. We are also new to the forum, have received lots of good info since joining.

Will be travelling thu your way heading south after caravanning to Cape York, Plucker has given us a few excellent tips re your region, (see Caravanning to Cape York 2009 (http://capeyorker.com/forums/showthread.php?p=9107#post9107) thread in General area.) So any tips you have to add to those you've already posted most welcome.

cya
Graham

[kcoyne]

Hello to all.
I have joined the forum to gain an insight to what I can expect when we are touring the 'Cape' in July 2010.

The info I read to date makes the trip seem acheivable. I can go the soft route and find out what the conditions are closer to date. If the conditions are right can tackle the ledgendary tracks.

I have a Nissan D40 and a Jimboomba camper trailer we holiday in. Had doubts in the D40 when originally thinking of the trip. With the information gleaned from the pages, as long as I prepare well it should be all good.

Thanks to all who have made my desire to travel Cape York an unbearable wait.

KenC;)

[blue]

Hi Everyone,

Been dropping in from time to time, getting some info etc.
Really good sight with plenty of useful talk, have learnt heaps.
Thanks for all the info.

Also been listening to Nedly rabbit on about the tag-along tour and thought I would join the happy group, sounds like it will be a good trip.
That is of course if you can believe everything Nedly says.

Anyway, I've got a slightly modified Rodeo trayback.
Has a 2" lift, lockers, winch, spotties etc, usual stuff.

Ken

[geoffjy]

Hi Ken, welcome aboard mate. By the sounds of it, you know Nedly. :)

[RippinRutman]

G'day everyone.

I thought i would make a quick introduction and say g'day.

I am not sure if i can give as much valuable information as i have seen others do on here as i have only been to the tip once (3 years ago) but i will share what i did learn.

I have a 1999 Toyota 'Snowy' Prado Landcruiser - which i did the trip in. Awesome vehicle and it has taken me many places on this great continent.

I am also the owner of a 2005 Yamaha WR450 (trail bike) of which i am planning to take to the tip in late August with a heap of mates.

I live in Cairns now after falling in love with the place after my second visit - which was on the way to CY. Sure beats living in Canberra!

Hopefully when the economy picks up i will be able to get out in my Crusier a bit more and explore more of the area.

Anyway - expect some stupid questions as that is what i am good at.:grin:

Cheers

RR

[highlift80]

Welcome aboard RippinRutman, your in the right place for all things to do with the Cape there's nothing the gang here can't help you out with and if they don't know they will find out for ya, I am hoping to get to the Cape again myself next year was spose to be up there this year but I became a victim of the global econmic downturn ahhh the joy's of working in mining.

[Nedly]

G'day RippinRutman, welcome aboard.
It's not a bad site, you should be able to find most of what you might be after somewhere in these threads.
I would imagine living in Cairns would be much better than Canberra, the smell of bs wouldn't be anywhere near a strong.

[Nedly]

Blue, glad you finally got around to making yourself known.

And yes Geoff, we do know each other, been on a couple of day trips.

[marjon]

Hi everyone,

I'm heading to the Cape for the first time by land, this July/August. Last time I was there was in 1976, when I lived on an old lugger, "Charm", with my parents and siblings. We were fishing in the Torres Strait, Weipa, then over at Nhullunbuy in the NT. So I'm looking forward to getting up there and having a good look around.
I drive a GU Patrol, with a camper trailer, and travel with my dog Jessie.

Cheers Marcus

[plucker]

Welcome to the forum Marcus. No doubt you will still love the place but I have a feeling that there might a change or 2 since your last visit.
Would be good if you could inform us of the changes that you notice as there are a few Cape trajics on the forum.

[marjon]

Welcome to the forum Marcus. No doubt you will still love the place but I have a feeling that there might a change or 2 since your last visit.
Would be good if you could inform us of the changes that you notice as there are a few Cape trajics on the forum.

No worries plucker, I'll see what i can do, certainly looking forward to having a good look around ........

[Nedly]

Hi everyone,

I'm heading to the Cape for the first time by land, this July/August. Last time I was there was in 1976, when I lived on an old lugger, "Charm", with my parents and siblings. We were fishing in the Torres Strait, Weipa, then over at Nhullunbuy in the NT. So I'm looking forward to getting up there and having a good look around.
I drive a GU Patrol, with a camper trailer, and travel with my dog Jessie.

Cheers Marcus

G'day Marcus, welcome to the forum.
Like all of us, I'm sure you'll enjoy your visit to the area and will want to keep coming back at more regular intervals.
Good choice of vehicle btw.
I'm sure you're aware that Jessie will restrict where you can go, Nat. Parks etc.

[marjon]

G'day Marcus, welcome to the forum.
Like all of us, I'm sure you'll enjoy your visit to the area and will want to keep coming back at more regular intervals.
Good choice of vehicle btw.
I'm sure you're aware that Jessie will restrict where you can go, Nat. Parks etc.

Thanks Nedly, yeah I'm happy with the Patrol,and I've thought hard about taking Jessie, but I'm a sol parent and I'll be taking her around Oz soon so I'll have to get used to working my way around the national parks. A bit of a shame, there's so many good walks in the parks too.

Can't wait to get up there!!!!

[blue]

Hi Ken, welcome aboard mate. By the sounds of it, you know Nedly. :)

Hi geoffjy,

Sorry for the late response, I'm one of those rare, technologically challenged types that doesn't own a computer.
Never used one at work and had no need for one at home.
I rely on friends and family to allow me to use theirs if I need.
My posts will be few and far between until such times as I bite the bullet and buy one.

I have met Nedly a couple of times, been on a couple of weekend trips with him, in fact we're going to the Glasshouse Mtn's this weekend.
I'm really looking forward to the Cape York tag-along, it's an area I've always wanted to go to but never seemed to find the time.

Once again, apologies for taking so long to reply.

[geoffjy]

No, thats ok.

Glasshouse Mountains hey? I have heard a bit about them but never been there. Should be a good trip. Its a good thing you are going with Nedly as he needs someone to keep him out of trouble. :D

Good to catch up on the Tag-a-long.

[xina]

Hi Guys,
You're going to where I grew up. [Don't call it HOME anymore, as apart from some personal stuff, I hate what has happened to the whole Sunshine Coast area.] It's been totally ruined.
If you're going up the Old Gympie Road way, keep an eye out for the Anoriginal Head on Tibrogargan, just as you go over the railway bridge at Beerburrum. If I remember rightly, that's where you get the best view of it.
Do you know any-one living up there?
I think of the Cape as my home these days.

Enjoy your trip,
Cheers,
xina.

[Nedly]

Keep me out of trouble, not likely.
For an old bloke (sorry Ken) he knows no fear, he's prepared to take his truck any where without hesitation.
I've got to keep him out of trouble more like it.

xina, not sure which way we're going in.
The trip is being led by another club member.
I'll keep an eye on Tibro if we go via Beerburrum.

[rompa]

Hello All,

Pete here, i have dropped a few posts on so thought i had better introduce myself.
heading up the cape in 4 weeks time for a 5 week break from the cold Melbourne weather.
Drive a 80 series with all the bells and whistles, hopefully the old girl will make it for one last trip, she is a tuff old thing but i have spent the last 10 years flogging her into the ground so this may just be her final big trip, (but then again i may take her to Tassie next year).
Got 3 kids and the cook on board, fridge and esky full of supplies, swags on the roof and we are ready to go.
Traveling up with 4 other cars, 11 kids and 10 adaults in total.
3 Toyota's and 2 Nissans, well 3 out of 5 aint bad, bloody Nissans.
Been heading bush for 20 years but never been to the Cape before.
cant wait for some good fishing, relaxing afternoons sipping on a cool can, plenty of laughs and sceaming at the kids to get away from the fire..ha ha.

Cheers for now
Rompa

[ant]

Pete,
Sounds like you are in for one hell of a trip. Good luck with it all and make sure you crack a cold one for me each day too please.

[Nedly]

11 kids, 10 adults, 10,000 km's.
Sounds like it should be fun.
Hope you have plenty of DVD's and something to play them on.

BTW, the fire may be safer than the water for the kids.

[rompa]

11 kids, 10 adults, 10,000 km's.
Sounds like it should be fun.
Hope you have plenty of DVD's and something to play them on.

BTW, the fire may be safer than the water for the kids.

All the kids are all seasoned travellers, they are used to the long days. we will do Cairns in 3 days then it is all small trips from there.
And yes the joys of swimming with the big lizards has been pointed out to the kids, i reackon if i told them there were crocs in the pool at the Cairns caravan park they would not go in, but what is it with kids and fire???

[grahamleee]

Hi Guys,

I am Graham and I am travelling up to the Cape in October with Dingo.

Have a 1993 2.4TD Toyota Surf, Been getting it ready for the trip with the following additions :

LPG Injection for extra power (any more lpg outlets up there yet??)
OME 2" Suspension
Safari Snorkel
Heavy Duty Torsion bars
Rear Spring Air Bags
9" Headrest DVD system to keep the kiddies occupied
ARB Bullbar and Winch
UHF Radio
Waeko 50L dual zone fridge
Storage unit/drawers on the way.
Blackwolf 300 Twin Turbo tent (Set it up ok, still working out how to get it folded small enough to fit back into the bag.)

Here's some pics

http://i486.photobucket.com/albums/rr221/grahamleee/PO20090816_0024.jpg

http://i486.photobucket.com/albums/rr221/grahamleee/PO20090816_0025.jpg

http://i486.photobucket.com/albums/rr221/grahamleee/PO20090816_0026.jpg

Had a good look around the forums and there is heaps of great info.

[ant]

Welcome aboard mate,
That rig is going to look more at home in the Cape without the houses in the background.

I may see you up there as I will be in the Cape for the whole of October and into the first week of November.

[dingo]

Good to see you here Graham,

(Set it up ok, still working out how to get it folded small enough to fit back into the bag.)

http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r221/RAG4X4/smilies%20II/laughing.gif

My vehicle is also a Surf. 1995 3.0L Turbo Diesel
Tough Dog 2" lift
H/D Tough Dog front Torsion Bars
RTC Steering Damper
1" body Lift
33" BFG Muds
ARB Winchbar
12,000lb Ironman winch
Front and rear ARB Lockers
Hayman Reece Towbar
Custom Rear Draws
35L Weaco fridge
Car PC

Using a 30sec OZTent RV1 for camping

I'll find a few more pics of the Surf soon

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g302/surfindingo/Avatar/012.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g302/surfindingo/Pics/P1010086.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g302/surfindingo/Dingomad.jpg

[rompa]

well the day has finally come, spent most of last night shoving gear into the old 80series, half a day of work left then we are on the road, Cairns by monday, then cruise up the cape and be at the top a week or so later. Cant wait to leave this Melbourne weather behind. 5 weeks of relaxin, drinkin and fishin... woooohoooo

Rompa out.

[ant]

rompa,
Go hard and have fun.

[Nedly]

well the day has finally come, spent most of last night shoving gear into the old 80series, half a day of work left then we are on the road, Cairns by monday, then cruise up the cape and be at the top a week or so later. Cant wait to leave this Melbourne weather behind. 5 weeks of relaxin, drinkin and fishin... woooohoooo

Rompa out.

Good on ya Rompa, have a great one.
We're only 34 days behind you.

[kenworth]

g'day all the name is dave I live in atherton and work in charters towers I'm a mad keen 4wder and hope to get to the tip next year will be heading up to cape melville in about 5 weeks (weather permiting) to check it out and do a bit of a test run to see what we will forget for the big trip see ya on the track Dave

[loxsmith]

g'day all the name is dave I live in atherton and work in charters towers I'm a mad keen 4wder and hope to get to the tip next year will be heading up to cape melville in about 5 weeks (weather permiting) to check it out and do a bit of a test run to see what we will forget for the big trip see ya on the track Dave

Welcome Dave, the more the merrier. They are a happy and informative bunch on here. Look forward to your input mate!! I intend to head north again next year so I might catch up with you some time.

Glen

[kingchevy]

g'day all the name is dave I live in atherton and work in charters towers I'm a mad keen 4wder and hope to get to the tip next year will be heading up to cape melville in about 5 weeks (weather permiting) to check it out and do a bit of a test run to see what we will forget for the big trip see ya on the track Dave


Good to see you made it mate...

[geoffjy]

Welcome to the forum mate.

I will be in the Bathurst Bay/Cape Melville area day after tomorrow for several days fishing so will give you an update on road conditions etc when i get back.

[nomad91]

Gday all,

have to say im very happy i came across this site (thanks to 4wd action 'cape york - be prepared thread') and have begun planning my first cape york trip beginning in May next year.

bit about me - i drive an 89 d/c hilux. 3.2L turbo diesel, extractors, with all the extra bolt-ons to get me where most cant.
- grew up on the NSW mid-north coast, love the place, to recently move to the gold coast to persue further employment...(have no drama with going even further north for work if any business owners on the cape are needing a graphic designer? i get so jealous when reading posts from locals!!!!!!)
a few of my mates & i have had enough of the city lifestyle here and are taking off for 3 months minimum, trying to gain work around the place if the piggy bank starts running low, as long as when we need money i can find work, the longer we gonna tour this great country. we all have trade backgrounds and will be getting our RSA ticket and MC, MR & HR truck licenses. Fruit picking or anything we can find!! its all part of the experince & adventure!

Cant say how excited we are all getting, only in the first stages of planning and we are all having sleepless nights already haha. we are starting our trip with at least 6 weeks on the cape, so if anyone has any tips on a good itinery for a cruizy slow paced adventure of the cape, involving all the things blokes like to do when camping (fishing, bow-hunting and isolated camping)
and seeing hopefully most there is to see, ide love to hear your words of experience.

Cheers and happy touring!

Reece

[loxsmith]

Gday all,

have to say im very happy i came across this site (thanks to 4wd action 'cape york - be prepared thread') and have begun planning my first cape york trip beginning in May next year.

bit about me - i drive an 89 d/c hilux. 3.2L turbo diesel, extractors, with all the extra bolt-ons to get me where most cant.
- grew up on the NSW mid-north coast, love the place, to recently move to the gold coast to persue further employment...(have no drama with going even further north for work if any business owners on the cape are needing a graphic designer? i get so jealous when reading posts from locals!!!!!!)
a few of my mates & i have had enough of the city lifestyle here and are taking off for 3 months minimum, trying to gain work around the place if the piggy bank starts running low, as long as when we need money i can find work, the longer we gonna tour this great country. we all have trade backgrounds and will be getting our RSA ticket and MC, MR & HR truck licenses. Fruit picking or anything we can find!! its all part of the experince & adventure!

Cant say how excited we are all getting, only in the first stages of planning and we are all having sleepless nights already haha. we are starting our trip with at least 6 weeks on the cape, so if anyone has any tips on a good itinery for a cruizy slow paced adventure of the cape, involving all the things blokes like to do when camping (fishing, bow-hunting and isolated camping)
and seeing hopefully most there is to see, ide love to hear your words of experience.

Cheers and happy touring!

Reece

Welcome to the fold Reece

Get up the Cape before the first set of traffic lights is installed, can't be far away!!!



Here is some advice I was given for the most useful tickets for Aust travel

CAMS marshalling license, Finke Desert Race and Bathurst etc etc
Forklift license
National Police check
Bus license, mine worker transport
RSA Responsible Serving of Alcohol
First Aid
Blue card construction and Blue card for childcare etc etc

And some web sites for regional employment

http://www.greynomadsemployment.com/pages.asp?PageID=2 Grey Nomads Employment
http://jobsearch.gov.au/harvesttrail/default.aspx Harvest Trail
www.workaboutaustralia.com.au Work avail Australia wide, join and go
http://farmsitters.com.au/index.html Farm sitting
http://www.madec.edu.au/harvest Madec Harvest Labour Service
http://www.frontierservices.org/outbacklinks/ Frontier Services

The grey nomad one is probably no good to you or me but I'll leave it there just in case?????

Keen to hear how you go

Glen

[nomad91]

Thanks alot Glen, didnt even think of a couple of those areas of work, interesting!

i might wait till im not at work to have a good look into the links you have provided. I will be sure to keep you posted on how im getting on and updated plans etc for more tips in the not too distant future.

Reece.

[ant]

Hi Reece,
A very good mate of mine lives in Weipa and is absolutely mad keen when it comes to bow hunting. If you are keen, I can try to put you in touch with him.

He got me into it and he certainly knows what is is on about.

[nomad91]

sounds GREAT ant!!

would love to have a local show us the ins & outs and some good spots etc. and safe places to hunt to avoid upsetting any locals etc.

I will keep you posted on the forum when my plans are really under way and when the time is drawing closer & organise something.

Thanks mate!

[900canoes]

G'Day to the Cape Yorkians,

Thought I had better join the board after reading some interesting bits of information here. Yes I am a southerner (Cairns) but lived and worked on TI in the early eighties and from time to time since then, so I have seen most of the Cape (at least from the air).
My intent is to drive the Cape to Bamaga from Cairns in June and experience the area first hand, towing a camper so the trip might be pretty tame compared to some of the options to do without a camper.

I hope I can ask some basic questions about the area and travel planning as I get prepared.

I drive a Mitsi Triton wagon (Challenger)

[Nedly]

900canoes, welcome aboard.
Cairns, that close to Cape York it almost qualifies you as a local, almost.
There is heaps in the forum, but if you have questions ask away, there'll always be someone in here with an answer.

900canoes?
I'm sure there is something behind the name.

Les

[900canoes]

900canoes?
I'm sure there is something behind the name.

Thanks for the welcome Nedly. The user name was a simple 'bastardisation' of the number plate from my 1st 4WD, but it was also to do with the day I bought it (heavy rain and a bit of flash flooding) had a slight floating sensation.

[rooboy98]

G'day all,

Been reading this forum for a while now and thought its time that I finally joined.

I currently live in Townsville and love my fishing/4WDing. My wife is currently living over in Weipa for work.

Got a trip planned to the Tip next month. Cannot wait. Been too long!

Cheers,
Roo.

[Milnesy]

Hi all,

Just registered on the site so I thought I'd pop in and say G'day.

A little about myself.

My name's Josh and I am married, no kids and just the one overly energetic staffy pup.

Moved to Weipa at the start of 2010 as my wife (Renee) is a teacher. For that matter so am I, however I am also still studying my PhD to eventually work as a uni researcher/lecturer. I work at the school here 2 days a week and write my doctorate the other 3 days. Weekends are purely for fishing/camping/4x4ing.

Looking forward to sharing some experiences and getting to know you all.

Cheers,
Milnesy.

[ant]

Welcome aboard Milnesy,
I am sure you will enjoy the forum and the fishing, 4wd and camping in your area. There is lots to see and do up there.

Out of interest, what are you majoring in with your PhD?

[Milnesy]

Hi Ant,

I have a Bachelor of Education (Hons) and the PhD is looking at the experiences of Parents of Deaf children in QLD schools. My interest in this field comes from having a deaf sister.

Milnesy.

[ant]

Hi Milnesy,
Sounds interesting. It would be very interesting to see what the general responses are from parents in different settings/locations in regards to support offered to families.
Are they still using Makaton up there in Weipa?

[Milnesy]

Makaton is for the most part being used in circumstances where an intellectual impairment coincides with a hearing impairment. Currently in QLD schools there is a transition from Australian Signed English to Australian Sign Language (Auslan) - this is the period of time that my thesis will focus on. I am no expert on Makaton but as I understand it Makaton is a simpler form of Auslan which focuses on a smaller core group of signs. It also uses some speech and gestures to convey meaning.

Completely off topic, we had a brief shower in Weipa today....bloody dry season! Of course I had clothes on the line didn't I! :mad:

[crankycruiser]

Hey guys n gals.. Im a newbie to the forum and also to Weipa.

Myself a mate and his missus all headed up from tassie and toured the east coast of Oz with the aim to go and do the tip.
The cars we did the trip in werent really ur average tourers... my 80 is cut down and runs a supercharged 5.7 and 37" tyres with beadlocks, and my mates 105 was pushing 36" tyres also on beadlocks... far from tourers but we got to do some cool stuff on the way up :cool:

So we did all that over a couple of months, my mate and his partner have headed back to tassie and im still in Weipa working! I blame Sam (kingchevy) :rolleyes:

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j240/Crankycruiser93/Cape%20Trip/P1010288.jpg

[Nedly]

Welcome to the forum crankycruiser.
There are lots worse places to work than Weipa.
Sam's a top bloke, very easy to get along with, not sure what he'd be like as a boss though.
Tell him I said hello.
He should be able to show you some good places up there.

[crankycruiser]

Welcome to the forum crankycruiser.
There are lots worse places to work than Weipa.
Sam's a top bloke, very easy to get along with, not sure what he'd be like as a boss though.
Tell him I said hello.
He should be able to show you some good places up there.


Thanks man, I don't work for Sam, am just mates with him. Used to talk to him on 4wd monthly forum years ago, and thought I should catch up with him. I'm working for one of the elec business up here. Figured it was too cold to go home lol

[Nedly]

Understandable, I suppose it could get cold in Tassie from time to time, especially around this time of year.
Careful, you won't want to go back if you spend too much time in Weipa :)

[Chilli]

Hi there,

Newbie from Brisbane. Enjoyed camping and four wheel driving. Keen on tagging along to 2012 Cape York trip after cancelling on Les's 2007 trip (to CY). I just hope the suzi is capable enough to withstand the punishment. The frenchman crossing will be an interesting obstacle.

Cheers
Kelvin

[xina]

We had a little Suzi. as a second vehicle when I lived at Temple Bay around 1984/6.
Not sure about Frenchmans' these days, but I believe most of the other roads are a hell of a lot easier to drive these days. Of course the earlier in the season you go, the less corrugations you'll have.

Cheers,
xina.

[loxsmith]

Hi there,

Newbie from Brisbane. Enjoyed camping and four wheel driving. Keen on tagging along to 2012 Cape York trip after cancelling on Les's 2007 trip (to CY). I just hope the suzi is capable enough to withstand the punishment. The frenchman crossing will be an interesting obstacle.

Cheers
Kelvin

Hey Kelvin, sounds like you still have the Grand Vitara? Just beef up the bash plate and all will be fine. Are you still in the Breakaway Offroad Club?

[Chilli]

Are you still in the Breakaway Offroad Club?

No...I left them early these year. It is a good club with excellent members but I needed a sea change.

How is your new Troppy? Have you added any modification to it since our last outing (X'mas 09)?

[loxsmith]

No...I left them early these year. It is a good club with excellent members but I needed a sea change.

How is your new Troppy? Have you added any modification to it since our last outing (X'mas 09)?

The Troopy is locked, with heaps of other mods. To many to list here.
Off to Birdsville early in the morning on the bike, bye!!!

[cranky]

Gday, My name's Kev live in Harrisville Qld. New to the forum but like what I've seen so far look foward to having a read when I can. Just gettin back into the 4x4 scene after to long a time not having one.Me & the missus have just bought a Triton that we'll be setting up for our first trip to the Cape.We both luv our fishin etc . Look foward to reading and gettin some tips. Cheers everyone .

[Nedly]

Hi there,

Newbie from Brisbane. Enjoyed camping and four wheel driving. Keen on tagging along to 2012 Cape York trip after cancelling on Les's 2007 trip (to CY). I just hope the suzi is capable enough to withstand the punishment. The frenchman crossing will be an interesting obstacle.

Cheers
Kelvin

G'day Kelvin,
Thanks for the reminder on the 2012 trip, may have to get started on that one.
Have you joined another club or just giving the whole scene a break?

Les

[Nedly]

Gday, My name's Kev live in Harrisville Qld. New to the forum but like what I've seen so far look foward to having a read when I can. Just gettin back into the 4x4 scene after to long a time not having one.Me & the missus have just bought a Triton that we'll be setting up for our first trip to the Cape.We both luv our fishin etc . Look foward to reading and gettin some tips. Cheers everyone .

Welcome to the home of CYtragics Kev.
Plenty of reading and tips within these pages, I'm sure you'll enjoy it all.

[Chilli]

Have you joined another club or just giving the whole scene a break?

Hi Les, presently trialing another club. They do more touring / sight seeing trips, once a month.

[Nedly]

Hi Les, presently trialing another club. They do more touring / sight seeing trips, once a month.
Hope it works out for you, the mob up here are more into camping, which is good.
Do a lot of fishing, drinking and eating when we're out, might go some way to explaing why my clothes seem to be shrinking ;)
4WD'ing up this way is mostly about mud and sand, depending on what season it is.
I hate mud.

[Stuart]

Howdy, my name is Stuart and I stumbled over this forum whilst searching for info on a Cape York Holiday we are planning for July 2012.
I live in central Vic, drive a decked out 80 series cruiser dragging behind it a jayco swan outback.
I have 5 kids and a wife that I plan on bringing to the cape as well as the numerous other families that are saying they are coming so we want to make it as safe and enjoyable as possible for everyone!

[Nedly]

Howdy, my name is Stuart and I stumbled over this forum whilst searching for info on a Cape York Holiday we are planning for July 2012.
I live in central Vic, drive a decked out 80 series cruiser dragging behind it a jayco swan outback.
I have 5 kids and a wife that I plan on bringing to the cape as well as the numerous other families that are saying they are coming so we want to make it as safe and enjoyable as possible for everyone!

Hey Stuart, welcome to the Forum.
You'll find heaps of useful info amongst these pages which I'm sure will help with the trip planning.
5 kids, make sure you allow plenty of non driving days, and take along some personnal DVD players, head phones etc.

Also, July is peak tourist season up that way, make sure you book ahead where ever possible.
Especially at places like Seisia/Punsand Bay etc.

Les

[Wario]

G'Day all. New to the forum so I thought I'd say hi. Online name is Wario but also known as Greg. Live in Airlie Beach, Qld & LOVE IT!

Originally from Adelaide but have lived in Darwin, Groote Eylandt, Alice Springs, Melbourne, Sydney, Las Vegas, Fort Lauderdale, Puerto Rico & now Airlie!

Have my own business as a distributor of equipment for pubs & clubs & cover the area from Moranbah to Thursday Island in Qld so I do a LOT OF MILES. Have a 4.8 pertol/lpg Patrol which you can look at here: http://www.patrol4x4.com/forum/garage/1103

I've seen a LOT of Australia over the years have driven from Darwin all the way around the coast to Perth>Adelaide then back up as north as Weipa & throughout the centre. Never been north of Weipa but that changes on 14.10.11 when we head off for a WORK trip to the Cape/Thursday Island etc. Can't wait! Love fishing & country life (why I live at the prettiest town in Qld & close to the reef).

If you see me on the track (You'll know my car as it has "Patrol 4x4.com & a Wario" sticker on it) pull me over as there's always a cold beer in the fridge in the back!

[ant]

Hi Greg,
Welcome aboard mate. Sounds like you have seen your fair share of this fine country and I am sure you will enjoy the stretch from Weipa to the tip. Looks like you have saved the best for last.

[Big Red]

Gday all. I'm very new to this forum stuff. Just enjoying the Xmas break in Central Queensland and planning future trips. Heading to the Vic High country again in Feb 2012, and then to the Cape again in July 2012. I'm presently driving a slightly modified GU Patrol ute. It's setup as a remote area touring truck. Verrrry comfortable. I hope everyone is enjoying their Xmas and Happy New Year. OOROO, Rik

[ant]

Hi Rik,
Welcome. Hope the Christmas day went well and I look forward to reading more about your plans for Cape York.
If you get time, feel free to put up a few shots of the GU Patrol. Always good to see what each of us is doing with their vehicles.

[Big Red]

Hi Rik,
If you get time, feel free to put up a few shots of the GU Patrol. Always good to see what each of us is doing with their vehicles.

Hmmm. Yep! I'll see if I can manage that.

[Big Red]

Hi Rik,
I look forward to reading more about your plans for Cape York.

Every time I go up the Cape I have a great time. This time though I'm gunna try to get to where my Uncle used to live at the mouth of the Olive River. Tried this year through Bramwell. No luck. Next time I'll try from the southern side. Hope to get there without having to resort to a boat.

[ant]

That would be around the Wattle Hills area wouldn't it??

[Big Red]

Not Sure about the Wattle hills area, but it's the single track coming out from the north side of the Jardine River mouth. Just south of Mutee Head. Aug '11

[ant]

Sounds like a different area than what I was thinking of.

[xina]

The mouth of the Olive is the Northern Boundary of what was Bromley Pastoral Holding, now under control of NPWS. You need a permit to go in these days. Some-one who went in a few months ago, sent me some pics of the beach at the southern end of Temple Bay.

Don't have them with me at the moment.

Cheers,
xina.

[Big Red]

That would be around the Wattle Hills area wouldn't it??

Gday Ant.
Just a bit slow off the mark. I didn't twig about the Wattle Hills area until I looked at the map. I thought you were referring to the Pic of me ute.
Yep.... I will have to come in through that area and Temple bay. Xina has assisted me heaps with her local knowledge. I hope ya goin ok up there with Cyclone/Tropical Low.

[ant]

Gday Ant.
Just a bit slow off the mark. I didn't twig about the Wattle Hills area until I looked at the map. I thought you were referring to the Pic of me ute.
Yep.... I will have to come in through that area and Temple bay. Xina has assisted me heaps with her local knowledge. I hope ya goin ok up there with Cyclone/Tropical Low.

Yep, All good up here. Just a bit of wind and rain. Managed 15inches in four days. That has certainly brought the rivers up and cut us off now.....

xina is a wealth of knowledge on the area you are looking at. It is certainly a little piece of paradise. Good luck with it all.

[Austravel]

Hi,

I've been lurking for a long time, reminiscing about my trips to Cape Melville and the top over the last decade. Only been to the top once but the plan is a 7week tr mid year.

Hope to pick your brains after I've put together a plan....might ask a few starter questions though.

Regards

[Nedly]

G'day Austravel, welcome aboard.
Plenty of info in amongst these pages, as I'm sure you are aware.
Most are more than happy to share what they know.

[Austravel]

Thanks for the welcome, hopefully I can participate even though my cape trip count is comparatively low.

G'day Austravel, welcome aboard.
Plenty of info in amongst these pages, as I'm sure you are aware.
Most are more than happy to share what they know.

[teamdevo]

Hey guys

Only just joined this forum as i am planning on breaking my cape virginty in july this year and i am so excited. A little about myself i am a 77 model married with 2 boys 6 and 3 and they are a bloody handful. I drive a 05 toyota prado with lots of little extras as i work at tjm.

My Interests are: Camping 4wding Drinking beer and spending time with family and friends
Dislikes: Girly shows like home and away, Dealing with dickheads and not having enough money to retire so i can travel this wonderful country.

[ant]

Hm, Sounds like you and I need to get together at some stage as we seem to have a few shared interests......

[teamdevo]

more than happy to ant and here i was thinking i was special:p with my likes and dislikes i will be prowling this forum with much interest over the next few months

Craig

[rosedog]

hi guys, heading to the cape myself in july, with two tinlids(3 and 5) and missus in tow... we are heading up with some friends from cairns, so will be towing them(or being towed) out of any sticky spots.. taking up our hilux, still not sure if il hire a camper trailer or not, we are looking at spending 4 weeks cairns to cairns, so should see a bit.. gonna throw a 2" lift in the lux and a whinch on the front to help the out, any other suggestions would be appreciated..
hope to catch yas on the tracks..

[Big Red]

Gday Rosedog. Good to have you with us. I'm glad that you will be taking 4 weeks to see the Cape. Steady as she goes and take it all in. Good tyres. Good shock absorbers, and a snorkel. And of course the usual stuff like a well serviced/maintained vehicle, a good quality recovery kit, a first aid kit, a spade, a tyre plugging kit, and a compressor. I'm sure i've missed something but that would be my bare minimum. Take your time at obstacles, get out and make a plan to drive them. The Tele track can be difficult at times but with a slow and easy does it approach you will get through with your Lux (even with a trailer) with zero damage. The most important thing is to HAVE FUN!!! Much more to say, but I wouldn't want to bore you. OOROO

[rosedog]

thanks big red, yea have all those bases covered so far, gaining some valuable info off this site... i see your from nebo, lovely spot, i work in the basin, got a couple of mates at nebo, not a bad pub there too..

[Big Red]

If you're in town Rosedog, you'll have to drop in for a beer or three