Cape Dates for 2010

[loxsmith]

Someone's got to start a new thread, it's too quiet here so lets try this for discussion
I need to pick a date for what should be a 5-6 week trip to the Top via Western Queensland next year in my new Troopcarrier.
Previous trips have been in the months of early June and August Sept.

So what am I asking, well what is the general consensus of the best overall months to head to the Cape???? I know it is a hard question to answer, it depends on where you want to go and how big a wet season was had.

Generally I like to investigate any track I find, and I also like to get away from the crowds. There must be peak tourist months, I would like to avoid them like the plague.

pls share your opinions with me

Glen

[Scorcher]

Glen,

Don't go at the time I have to go next year. I'm taking the family, so have to fit in with school holidays ! Bugga.

My personal pick is late April, but a late wet season can stuff things up there.

Have fun planning it anyway.

Cheers

Scorcher

[geoff.hardiker]

It's always a tough decision,

I've been trying to get to the cape for 5 years. I would like to go in October or November for the fishing, but have to fit in with the wife's work commitments so we have a 3 week window in July 2010 and will make the most of it.

Hope to fit in The Daintree, Cooktown, The tip, The falls, Chilli Beach and Coen.

I'll post an itinerary when I get it sorted to see if my travel times are ok.

Regards
Geoff

[loxsmith]

Looks like the kids in NSW are the last to go back to school so we will work dates in just after that for a 6 week run ex Brisbane

[dave]

you purchasing a new troopy ? what are you doing with your old one trade?
might be intrested glen. if its for sale

[loxsmith]

you purchasing a new troopy ? what are you doing with your old one trade?
might be intrested glen. if its for sale

New truck arrived Tuesday this week, and what a weapon they are!!!

As much as I would like to keep the old bus it really has to go. It is a good machine and has a considerable amount of cash spent on it in the last 3 years. If you are interested then send me your email address and I can give you all the info, pics and price

Glen

[dave]

yeah if the price is right and in my buget yes i would be intrested Glen
send some pics and info to ( dave_GTR_is_@hotmail.com ) i like the troopys .

[loxsmith]

yeah if the price is right and in my buget yes i would be intrested Glen
send some pics and info to ( dave_GTR_is_@hotmail.com ) i like the troopys .

Sent some info to you earlier today

[loxsmith]

This looks to be the dates
Leave Brisbane Saturday 24th July, return Brisbane Sunday 5th September

That should miss out on all the school holidays

[Nedly]

New truck arrived Tuesday this week, and what a weapon they are!!!

Glen

Might have to take it out for a run :)

[loxsmith]

Might have to take it out for a run :)

Keys are here ready when you are! Getting lockers fitted today

[Nedly]

Keys are here ready when you are! Getting lockers fitted today

Locked as well, there'll be no holding you back.
Make that quarry look like a puddle :)

I won't be doing too much more this year, plaster comes off in 2 weeks then I suppose there will be a period of rehabilitation.
Will have to plan something for the new year.

[loxsmith]

Locked as well, there'll be no holding you back.
Make that quarry look like a puddle :)

I won't be doing too much more this year, plaster comes off in 2 weeks then I suppose there will be a period of rehabilitation.
Will have to plan something for the new year.

When it gets stuck it will need a grader to get it out that's for sure. I have a weekend free in December so I might try and sneak one more trip in.

Have you been milking the injury Les? Do you want be to buy a bell? Now Chris would just love that. All jokes aside I hope the recovery is short and complete.

Will let you know about the Postie Pub Crawl for next year when planning is complete. Might even have a backup truck this time!

Keep smiling
Glen

[Nedly]

If I can manage it, we'll head off for a weekend in December also, though not 4WD'ing, more sitting quietly with an ale or 12.

As for milking the injury, it does work in my favour from time to time. I don't know about the bell though, could make sitting awfully uncomfortable.

Postie pub crawl, hhmmm.
Might have to invest in a postie bike.
But then again maybe not, I'm part way through your magazine article, I don't think I'm that crazy :)

I was going to check on the pantree the other weekend but the rain turned the black dirt to SLIPPERY black mud, couldn't get into the camp.
I'll check next time we're there.

[loxsmith]

If I can manage it, we'll head off for a weekend in December also, though not 4WD'ing, more sitting quietly with an ale or 12.

As for milking the injury, it does work in my favour from time to time. I don't know about the bell though, could make sitting awfully uncomfortable.

Postie pub crawl, hhmmm.
Might have to invest in a postie bike.
But then again maybe not, I'm part way through your magazine article, I don't think I'm that crazy :)

I was going to check on the pantree the other weekend but the rain turned the black dirt to SLIPPERY black mud, couldn't get into the camp.
I'll check next time we're there.

Just found that the "Multi Quote" button doesn't work?

Nothing wrong with sitting under a shady tree sinking a few cans.

Been looking at Byfields NP http://epa.qld.gov.au/parks_and_forests/find_a_park_or_forest/byfield_national_park_and_conservation_park/index.html near Yeppoon, might be worth a look soon.

Forget that bell suggestion, that was just plain silly!

The Pub Crawl should be fun, I have a handful of starters so far. We intend to trailer the Red Rockets to Charleville then a northern loop to take in Blackall, Jundah, Winton, Longreach, Ilfracombe, Barcaldine, Alpha, Tambo, Augathella, Charleville. That's somewhere to start anyway. Crazy you say? We're just out for some cheap fun that's all and to make it up as we go.

I haven't had time to start on the "09 Caper Yorker mag just yet. My nose is still buried in the "Northern Safari" book.
Ah yes the pantree, it should be fruiting well by now! I would not like to be in that park when it rains, it's a long way to winch to the front gate through that black soil.
An updated pic of the pantree progress would be good, makes more sense than a thong tree anyday.

[Brigalow]

Just found that the "Multi Quote" button doesn't work?

Nothing wrong with sitting under a shady tree sinking a few cans.

Been looking at Byfields NP http://epa.qld.gov.au/parks_and_forests/find_a_park_or_forest/byfield_national_park_and_conservation_park/index.html near Yeppoon, might be worth a look soon.

Forget that bell suggestion, that was just plain silly!

The Pub Crawl should be fun, I have a handful of starters so far. We intend to trailer the Red Rockets to Charleville then a northern loop to take in Blackall, Jundah, Winton, Longreach, Ilfracombe, Barcaldine, Alpha, Tambo, Augathella, Charleville. That's somewhere to start anyway. Crazy you say? We're just out for some cheap fun that's all and to make it up as we go.

I haven't had time to start on the "09 Caper Yorker mag just yet. My nose is still buried in the "Northern Safari" book.
Ah yes the pantree, it should be fruiting well by now! I would not like to be in that park when it rains, it's a long way to winch to the front gate through that black soil.
An updated pic of the pantree progress would be good, makes more sense than a thong tree anyday.

Hey,If you do decide to run up here to our neck of the woods re Byfield and five rocks you give yours truly a yell...great place for a bit of sand driving and although the NP rangers have stuffed up access to a few of the top places,there still is some magic driving to be had.:p

[loxsmith]

Hey,If you do decide to run up here to our neck of the woods re Byfield and five rocks you give yours truly a yell...great place for a bit of sand driving and although the NP rangers have stuffed up access to a few of the top places,there still is some magic driving to be had.:p

I think it will have to be next year now, there is to much on for the next 6 weeks. It will happen, stay tuned.

Glen

[rudic]

hey all,

im heading up to the cape from melbourne next year, havent got a set date yet, but between july september is my target. anyone else trekking along this time?

[loxsmith]

Locked as well, there'll be no holding you back.
Make that quarry look like a puddle :)



I have renamed the Air Lockers "tree climbers" after a weekend test through the Mt Mee state forestry. You can just idle up any hill climb. Need to have stronger fixing points for the jesus bar as the boss lady nearly tore it out of the A pillar. One side step needs a little panel beating and I need to throw away that coke can rear bumper. Can't get that silly smile off my face at the moment
Glen

[loxsmith]

hey all,

im heading up to the cape from melbourne next year, havent got a set date yet, but between july september is my target. anyone else trekking along this time?

Looks like our dates might be similar, see you there!
Glen

[Lynz and Nath]

Hi all.

We're planning on leaving Cairns on the 21st September and will spend about a month exploring the Cape. I'ts just the two of us at the moment but we're trying to persuade some friends to come along. We want to go the hard way up and back. Spend lots of time fishing and realxing at night with a few beers.

[Tony&Shez]

hey all,

im heading up to the cape from melbourne next year, havent got a set date yet, but between july september is my target. anyone else trekking along this time?

Hi there

We are also heding up around the 24th July from Sunshine Coast for 4 weeks. Can't wait!!

[loxsmith]

Hi there

We are also heding up around the 24th July from Sunshine Coast for 4 weeks. Can't wait!!

I thought that date looked familiar, that's the same day I leave Bris for a run to the top.

[geoff.hardiker]

We finally have a date set in concrete for our cape trip next year, we will leave Brisbane on 31 May and hope to miss the school holiday rush even though the fishing might be a bit slow in June. Hope to catch up with a few of you up there.
Regards

[Tony&Shez]

I thought that date looked familiar, that's the same day I leave Bris for a run to the top.

Hey loxsmith. This will be our first trip, we have built a slide on camper with roof top tent on the back of our patrol ute. It would be great to meet up along the way. Still trying to plan what places to go to, but are wanting to do the creb track, elim and chilli beach and probably spend a week up the tip.

Cheers

[rudic]

in the new year im finding out from our daughters school when her communion is, then working around that... let the planning begin!

[loxsmith]

Hey loxsmith. This will be our first trip, we have built a slide on camper with roof top tent on the back of our patrol ute. It would be great to meet up along the way. Still trying to plan what places to go to, but are wanting to do the creb track, elim and chilli beach and probably spend a week up the tip.

Cheers
Looks like we will be travelling alone, 2 vehicles have pulled out already, pussies. Rain, hail, shine, tsunami, I will be there!
Are you solo?
We are doing a shakedown trip this weekend to see what breaks and what can be ditched!

[AC]

Hi ,
we will be leaving Melbourne in May and hitting the Cape around the start of June.

It would be good to meet up with some of you if you are around.

Cheers Alan

[evanmunroe]

Hi ,
we will be leaving Melbourne in May and hitting the Cape around the start of June.

It would be good to meet up with some of you if you are around.

Cheers Alan

G'day Alan,

There will be a few people hitting the track around that time. We will be there so may meet up somewhere

ers
Ev

[geoff.hardiker]

Hi Evan and AC,

We are leaving Cairns around the start of June. I'll let you know our itinerary when we get it sorted.

It would be good to catch up for a chat and a beer if our paths cross along the way.

Regards
Geoff

[evanmunroe]

Hi Evan and AC,

We are leaving Cairns around the start of June. I'll let you know our itinerary when we get it sorted.

It would be good to catch up for a chat and a beer if our paths cross along the way.

Regards
Geoff

G'day Geoff,

That would be great. I have just about sorted my itinerary and will post it soon for some feedback from those that know the roads, timeframes, etc.

Cheers
Ev

[AC]

sounds good Geoff, i wil try and get my itinary sorted by next week and compare

cheers Alan

[Grahame M]

Hi Guys,

I'm new to this site and am trying to work out how to communicate with people. I hpoe this doesn't interupt your conversation but can someone tell me how to start a new thread as I am heading to the cape in June/July for the first time and would like to find out some information from people that have either been there recently or are planning to be there this year(2010).

Thanks

Grahame M.

[evanmunroe]

Hi Guys,

I'm new to this site and am trying to work out how to communicate with people. I hpoe this doesn't interupt your conversation but can someone tell me how to start a new thread as I am heading to the cape in June/July for the first time and would like to find out some information from people that have either been there recently or are planning to be there this year(2010).

Thanks

Grahame M.
G'day Grahame,

Welcome. On each index page there is a button top left saying new thread, just click on it and away you go. There are a few other threads about people wandering up the cape this year. There is also lots of great info anf pics from people that have done trips last year. I'm sure you will find lots of relevant info.

Cheers
Ev

[Grahame M]

G,day Ev,

Thanks for the info, it's good to finally comunicate with someone! I am heading to the cape in June/July 2010.Would you have any info regarding road conditions and/or track closures for the this period?

Thanks,

Grahame.

[Scorcher]

G'day Grahame,

Welcome to the forum. I hope you find most of the information you are looking for. If not, ask away. There are many Cape York Tragics here with lots of knowledge !

Just so that you don't get worried about possible gremlins in the website, I deleted your duplicate thread (on road conditions), so that you can track your questions better.

I would suggest that you wait another month to 2 before chasing up the answer to road conditions. Every wet season is different - amount of rain, when it finishes, what areas are worst affected, which will all become clearer towards the end of March (normally). Whilst ever there are Cyclones hanging around, it is impossible to guess when roads will start reopening.

As soon as the roads start drying out, the road gangs move in & start repair work for areas worst affected. I would be pretty confident in saying that by the time you plan to go up there, all roads should be open, except perhaps the CREB track, and maybe some private roads that aren't well used.

Cheers

Scorcher

[evanmunroe]

G,day Ev,

Thanks for the info, it's good to finally comunicate with someone! I am heading to the cape in June/July 2010.Would you have any info regarding road conditions and/or track closures for the this period?

Thanks,

Grahame.

Hi Grahame,

I agree with Schorcher re: road conditions. I will probably be on my way home when you are heading up so should be able to give you some reasonably accurate info. Also this website has up to date info http://www.cook.qld.gov.au/council/Roads/currentstatus.shtml#16
How is all your planning going? are you tenting or taking a camper trailer?

Regards
Ev

[Grahame M]

Hi ev,

Planning is going quite well,Its taking a bit of time becuase i will be travelling from Sydney with seven vehicles all with camper trailers. We contacted Punsand Bay caravan park and asked if they had room for us and they said yes, they also said that they had an undercover area that would easily accomodate our campers. Do you know any thing about such an area? Also we were planning to spend a night or two at Chilli Beach but have been told that it gets quite windy there.Is this true?


Cheers,

Grahame

[evanmunroe]

Hi Graheme,

I believe Punsand bay camp ground is quite big, didn't know about the shelter though. We are also planning to visit Chill Beach as well as Captain Billy Landing and Virylia Point. I have been told Chilli Beach can get very windy, I think it gets the same sort of winds as Cooktown, it will blow a dog off a chain up there!

Cheers
Ev

[Grahame M]

Hi Ev,

We are planning to take 25 days from Cairns to tip and back to Cairns.Originally starting at the CREB track but have since revised that to the bloomfield track,Endeavour Falls,Bathurst Head,Saltwater Creek,Archer River Roadhouse, Lockhart River, Bramwell Junction, Elliot Falls, Jardine River Ferry,Pubsand Bay, Vrilya Point, CannibalCreek, Mistake Creek, Cypres Creek, Moreton Telegraph Station, Eeipa, Coen, Laura & back to cairns.


Cheers,

Grahame

[evanmunroe]

Hi Ev,

We are planning to take 25 days from Cairns to tip and back to Cairns.Originally starting at the CREB track but have since revised that to the bloomfield track,Endeavour Falls,Bathurst Head,Saltwater Creek,Archer River Roadhouse, Lockhart River, Bramwell Junction, Elliot Falls, Jardine River Ferry,Pubsand Bay, Vrilya Point, CannibalCreek, Mistake Creek, Cypres Creek, Moreton Telegraph Station, Eeipa, Coen, Laura & back to cairns.


Cheers,

Grahame
Sounds Good Grahame,
Similar to what we are doing, all depends on conditions, weather, etc but at the end of the day I will just be happy to be up there!!

Cheers
Ev

[Grahame M]

Hi Ev,

Your not kidding about just being happy to be there! This is one thing that i have been trying to get to happen for the last 4 years. Looks like i can finally cross this one off my bucket list. Ha Ha.

Cheers

Grahame

[Nedly]

Hi Graheme,

We are also planning to visit Chill Beach as well as Captain Billy Landing and Virylia Point. I have been told Chilli Beach can get very windy, I think it gets the same sort of winds as Cooktown, it will blow a dog off a chain up there!

Cheers
Ev

One saving grace for Chilli beach is the rainforest.
Most of the sites are behind a line of rainforest trees so you get some protection from the wind at camp.
Capt'n Billy's is all together different, you will be fully exposed to the wind.
There are 365 days in most years, it's windy at Chilli beach & Capt'n Billys just about every one of those days.

But don't let that stop you, they are both great places.

[Tony&Shez]

Looks like we will be travelling alone, 2 vehicles have pulled out already, pussies. Rain, hail, shine, tsunami, I will be there!
Are you solo?
We are doing a shakedown trip this weekend to see what breaks and what can be ditched!

Oh no! They don't know what they will be missing! We are travelling with another couple, who also have a patrol ute and have the same camper and roof top tent. We are thinking of leaving on the Monday the 26th now to give us a couple of days to get ready after finishing work. But we will be there rain, hail, shine, tsunami as well!!

Where abouts will you be travelling in the cape?

[Grahame M]

Hi Ev,

How is your planning going?
What dates will you be at the cape?

Cheers,

Grahame.

[evanmunroe]

Hi Ev,

How is your planning going?
What dates will you be at the cape?

Cheers,

Grahame.

Hi Grahame,

Just a little to do on the itinerary before I post it, doing plenty of reading and research.
At this stage we will leave Bris on 22nd May, get to Cooktown, spend a couple of days with relatives, a couple of days at Elim Beach and then start really heading up the Cape probably 28th/29th May.
We are planning to do the Tele track but that will depend on the water height in the creeks as to how much we do, will take it as it comes with that one.

How's your planning going?

Cheers
Ev

[Grahame M]

Hi Ev,

Plannining is almost complete, athough still tossing up whether or not to stay at lockhart river for 2 nights or at chilli beach( bit worried about the wind) for 1 night & then up to bramwell junction for 1 night & then 2 nights at Elliot falls?
Any thoughts?

Cheers,

Grahame.

[evanmunroe]

Hi Ev,

Plannining is almost complete, athough still tossing up whether or not to stay at lockhart river for 2 nights or at chilli beach( bit worried about the wind) for 1 night & then up to bramwell junction for 1 night & then 2 nights at Elliot falls?
Any thoughts?

Cheers,

Grahame.

Hi Grahame,

For me places like Chilli Beach and Captain Billy's I will see what is happening when I get there. I am allowing a fair degree of flexiity in the itinerary for unfavourable or changing conditions, places being too crowded, roads, weather, etc.
However, having been to Elliot Falls before I would stay a minimum of 2 nights - it is beautiful and you really need at least a full day swimming there to appreciate it; also my partner loves swimming in and around waterfalls. We were at Lawn Hill a couple of years ago and I havnever seen her happier than when she was sitting in the natural spa beneath a small waterfall.

Cheers
Ev

[Grahame M]

Hi Ev,

Thanks for the info,we were leaning towards to 2 days at elliot falls and making executive decision thats what we will be doing( with your assistance)
Further to your comment about crowds etc. we are coming up from Sydney & have heard that quite a few clubs etc. will be venturing that way from down here. The cape is a pretty big place & i am sure( hope) that places wont be to crowded.

Cheers,

Grahame.

[evanmunroe]

Hi Ev,

Thanks for the info,we were leaning towards to 2 days at elliot falls and making executive decision thats what we will be doing( with your assistance)
Further to your comment about crowds etc. we are coming up from Sydney & have heard that quite a few clubs etc. will be venturing that way from down here. The cape is a pretty big place & i am sure( hope) that places wont be to crowded.

Cheers,

Grahame.
Hi Grahame,

I am anticipating crowds but hopefully not as bad as the school holidays!!
But you are right, the cape is a big place so there should be a patch of dirt somewhere that is quiet and peaceful - at least for one day. I guess clubs and tours will have pretty rigid itineraries where as we will have flexibility to go in the other direction if necessary.
I must admit though that at some places I will be happy for a crowd - like some creek crossings!!

Cheers
Ev

[Grahame M]

Hi Ev,

Are you guys travelling alone or with a group? When does your trip finish?

Cheers,
Grahame.

[evanmunroe]

Hi Ev,

Are you guys travelling alone or with a group? When does your trip finish?

Cheers,
Grahame.

Hi Grahame,

We are travelling alone this time. We haven't done a trip by ourselves for many years so are really looking forward to it, mainly because we can be as flexible as we like, sort of wake up and everything depends on the day so to speak. We figured also that we will meepeople up there and catch up at various places throughout the trip.
We will probably need to be back at Cooktown by 21st/22nd June, have to be back in Bris on 26th.

Cheers
Ev

[Grahame M]

Hi Ev,

Would appear that we wont be travelling at the same time, but would like to hear from you either through your trip or at the end regarding track conditions & the like as we are starting our trip from Cairns on the 28th june 2010.

Cheers,
Grahame.

[evanmunroe]

Hi Ev,

Would appear that we wont be travelling at the same time, but would like to hear from you either through your trip or at the end regarding track conditions & the like as we are starting our trip from Cairns on the 28th june 2010.

Cheers,
Grahame.

Hi Grahame,

Happy to give you trip and track reports during if possible (mobile coverage) and definately after we get back to civilisation.
What route are you taking to get to Cairns?

Cheers
Ev

[Grahame M]

Hi Ev,

We are heading up the east coast from sydney ( flying the wife & daughter to cairns). Doing a straight through trip from sydney to cairns over 2 & a half days to maximise our time at the top.

Cheers,
Grahame.

[evanmunroe]

Hi Ev,

We are heading up the east coast from sydney ( flying the wife & daughter to cairns). Doing a straight through trip from sydney to cairns over 2 & a half days to maximise our time at the top.

Cheers,
Grahame.

Hi Grahame,

Wow, thats a decent run in 2 1/2 days. We will catch up by phone, may even pass each other on the road depending if I stretch things to get back on the Sunday.

Cheers
Ev

[Grahame M]

Hi Ev,

Sorry for not getting back to youy sooner we have been away for a couple of days.Yeah i know thats a lot of k's! It may stretch out to 3 days!
It would good to catch up with you either by phone or email or even catch in person when you are on your way back.

Cheers

Grahame

[evanmunroe]

Hi Ev,

Sorry for not getting back to youy sooner we have been away for a couple of days.Yeah i know thats a lot of k's! It may stretch out to 3 days!
It would good to catch up with you either by phone or email or even catch in person when you are on your way back.

Cheers

Grahame

Hi Grahame,

No problems, will catch up some way to share stories

Cheers
Ev

[loxsmith]

Where abouts will you be travelling in the cape?

Just sorting that out now, it doesn't take long to soak up 6 weeks does it?

Glen

[loxsmith]

How quick is this year going?

Before I know it I'll be heading North, can't wait!

[AC]

How quick is this year going?

Before I know it I'll be heading North, can't wait!

Yes the time has nearly come around for us as well, looking at heading to Lawn Hill first and hitting the cape early June. I still have a number of things to do with few weekends spare.
Unsure whether to run muddies now with all the rain NSW/QLD and in the cape.

All going well i will be leaving melbourne in 4 weeks.

[Grahame M]

Hi Grahame,

No problems, will catch up some way to share stories

Cheers
Ev

Hi Ev.
How is your planning going? Not long now untill you head off.( lucky bugger)

Cheers
Grahame M

[geoff.hardiker]

G'day Geoff,

That would be great. I have just about sorted my itinerary and will post it soon for some feedback from those that know the roads, timeframes, etc.

Cheers
Ev

Hi Ev,

How how are your preparations going. We're taking the cruiser camping this weekend to see how my inbuilt kitchen and fridge slide hold up.

I'll try to attach our latest itinerary and we might catch up for that drink at some stage.

Regards
Geoff

[matske]

Heading to the cape early October with my wife 2 year old and newborn 2 month old yes I'm krazy ! But can't resist a trip away while the wife is on maternity leave
went last year in may And loved it interested to see what the conditions are like in October compared to a may trip like the corrugations and river heights

[evanmunroe]

Hi Ev.
How is your planning going? Not long now untill you head off.( lucky bugger)

Cheers
Grahame M

Hi Grahame & Geoff

I am the bearer of sad news.......I am not doing the cape this year.
Due to some unforseen expenses our budget has reduced a fair degree. We could do the trip but would not have enough in reserve "if something went wrong" and I do not want to be anxious travelling and avoid a crossing just in case, so we decided the make the "mature" decision and leave it until next year. I just don't want to get caught short and I figure once you start the cape it is no good going half way, you must do it all.

I am very dissapointed. However we are still having a trip away, just one that has some more flexibility built in and no real anxiety. We are going to travel across and have a look at Lake Eyre and south west QLD. It is a rare opportunity to see water in the lake and the outback so green so it isn't a bad second choice.

Anyway, I hope you all have a great trip. I can't wait to read your tales and see your photos posted on here when you return.

Bring on the cape 2011

Cheers
Ev

[evanmunroe]

Hi Ev,

How how are your preparations going. We're taking the cruiser camping this weekend to see how my inbuilt kitchen and fridge slide hold up.

I'll try to attach our latest itinerary and we might catch up for that drink at some stage.

Regards
Geoff

Hi Geoff,

I have written a reply to you and Grahame.

Cheers

[geoff.hardiker]

Hi Ev.

Sounds like you'll have a good trip out that way anyway. We plan to do the trip out through Birdsville next year. We should swap some stories after our trips.

Regards
Geoff

[Grahame M]

Hi Ev,
Sorry to hear that you can't make the cape this year but your trip to lake eyre should be spectacular with all the water & wildlife. Have a great trip & let us know how it was when you get back.

Cheers,
Grahame

[loxsmith]

Hi Grahame & Geoff

I am the bearer of sad news.......I am not doing the cape this year.
Due to some unforseen expenses our budget has reduced a fair degree. We could do the trip but would not have enough in reserve "if something went wrong" and I do not want to be anxious travelling and avoid a crossing just in case, so we decided the make the "mature" decision and leave it until next year. I just don't want to get caught short and I figure once you start the cape it is no good going half way, you must do it all.

I am very dissapointed. However we are still having a trip away, just one that has some more flexibility built in and no real anxiety. We are going to travel across and have a look at Lake Eyre and south west QLD. It is a rare opportunity to see water in the lake and the outback so green so it isn't a bad second choice.

Anyway, I hope you all have a great trip. I can't wait to read your tales and see your photos posted on here when you return.

Bring on the cape 2011

Cheers
Ev

I'm sorry to hear that your plans have changed, but all is not lost.

On the up side Lake Eyre is a good second choice. I went out there last year when the water was flowing in and the scenic flight was just mind blowing. It's hard to believe how much water was in Central Aust.

Have a look here Ev for some info http://capeyorkforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=577&highlight=lake+eyre

Glen

[evanmunroe]

I'm sorry to hear that your plans have changed, but all is not lost.

On the up side Lake Eyre is a good second choice. I went out there last year when the water was flowing in and the scenic flight was just mind blowing. It's hard to believe how much water was in Central Aust.

Have a look here Ev for some info http://capeyorkforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=577&highlight=lake+eyre

Glen

Hi Glen,

Yeah, as second choices go it is a good one, rare opportunity.
I had a look at the thread and the photos, very good. I am excited about seeing the "Green" outback.

Cheers
Ev

[Nedly]

Hi Glen,

Yeah, as second choices go it is a good one, rare opportunity.
I had a look at the thread and the photos, very good. I am excited about seeing the "Green" outback.

Cheers
Ev

Ev, you won't be disappointed.
We drove from Brisbane to Darwin about a month ago and to see green growth and flowing rivers & creeks was an experience not to be missed.
The outback is always spectacular, seeing it green just makes it more so.

[loxsmith]

Hi Glen,

Yeah, as second choices go it is a good one, rare opportunity.
I had a look at the thread and the photos, very good. I am excited about seeing the "Green" outback.

Cheers
Ev

Hey Ev so as not to hijack this thread I will add to the Lake Eyre thread later in the day and I will put some special spots to go and see

Glen

[Lynz and Nath]

Heading to the cape early October with my wife 2 year old and newborn 2 month old yes I'm krazy ! But can't resist a trip away while the wife is on maternity leave
went last year in may And loved it interested to see what the conditions are like in October compared to a may trip like the corrugations and river heights



Hey Matske,

Good on you for taking the trip, we are heading up around the same time, Late September/Early October. Are you taking the OTL ?

Lynz

[matske]

Hey lynz yep I will be taking the otl and will goin to Bathurst bay and threw lakefield np . I drive an 2009 dual cab Hilux with black canvas canopy bullbar winch front rear lockers 3 inch lift etc etc
my first boy is a great camper had him out most weekends campin since he was 2 months old now he nearly 2 year old
can't wait to hit the cape I suppose the creeks will be alot lower in October compared to a may trip
maybe this time I will catch a barra

[Lynz and Nath]

Hey lynz yep I will be taking the otl and will goin to Bathurst bay and threw lakefield np . I drive an 2009 dual cab Hilux with black canvas canopy bullbar winch front rear lockers 3 inch lift etc etc
my first boy is a great camper had him out most weekends campin since he was 2 months old now he nearly 2 year old
can't wait to hit the cape I suppose the creeks will be alot lower in October compared to a may trip
maybe this time I will catch a barra



That sounds good! We don't have kids yet so it's just us in the 100 series. We just had front and rear lockers put in so that should help.
Have heard the fishing is good in October so hopefully there will be plenty of Barra bighting!
See you along the way :)
Lynz

[Tuff80]

g'day all,

Been couple years since i've been on here but im heading back up the cape in 4 weeks 5th of june leaveing brisbane for 5weeks. From what i've read alot of the tracks up north are still closed, hopefully it'll dry out abit so I can do more exploring and fishing this time round.

Adam

[Nedly]

Hey Adam, welcome back.
All tracks 'should' be open by then, have a great trip.

[loxsmith]

Hi Grahame & Geoff

I am the bearer of sad news.......I am not doing the cape this year.
Due to some unforseen expenses our budget has reduced a fair degree. We could do the trip but would not have enough in reserve "if something went wrong" and I do not want to be anxious travelling and avoid a crossing just in case, so we decided the make the "mature" decision and leave it until next year. I just don't want to get caught short and I figure once you start the cape it is no good going half way, you must do it all.

I am very dissapointed. However we are still having a trip away, just one that has some more flexibility built in and no real anxiety. We are going to travel across and have a look at Lake Eyre and south west QLD. It is a rare opportunity to see water in the lake and the outback so green so it isn't a bad second choice.

Anyway, I hope you all have a great trip. I can't wait to read your tales and see your photos posted on here when you return.

Bring on the cape 2011

Cheers
Ev

By my calculations it must be just about time for you to make tracks! The Outback is alive at the moment, never seen it looking as good.

Have a safe trip and be sure to let us know how you go

Glen

[geoff.hardiker]

Hi everyone,

It's not long now, we leave Brisbane on Friday 28 May and can't wait.

I have a question on the southern Section of the OTL. We haven't decided when to do the OTL, on the way up or the way back.

How long do you think it would take to drive the Southern Bypass Road and How long to drive the Southern part of the OTL.

Thanks
Geoff

[fishingal]

GEOFF, you have made my day:-) just to hear Oct for fishing makes me so excited we are leaving last week in sept and staying until last week in oct.....I'm hoping to live on a diet of beer and seafood.....hehehe

[loxsmith]

Original plan was to leave the big smoke on July 24 but seems likely I will have to do some work at Tambo the week before on the way up. Lots of last minute prep work to tidy up before I go! Latest date to leave Bris is 17 July
Seeya on the road
Glen

[loxsmith]

Came across some cheap mud tyres 285/75/16 and 16x8 cruiser wheels. That should make for good traction in the sand and mud

I'm not a big fan of Coopers but beggars can't be choosers

Glen

[AZAZEL]

Why?
What is wrong with COOPERS?
I am looking at replacing my tyres before I head to the cape in August.
I was looking at the ATR.
I would not want to put the wrong tyres on for this trip, please explain.

[batesy]

Why?
What is wrong with COOPERS?
I am looking at replacing my tyres before I head to the cape in August.
I was looking at the ATR.
I would not want to put the wrong tyres on for this trip, please explain.

Apparently they don't always work on dirt roads!

Well, that's just what I've heard. ;)

[loxsmith]

Apparently they don't always work on dirt roads!

Well, that's just what I've heard. ;)

The further you get into the bush the more you here from locals and outback tyre shops that they are an overpriced city boy tyre. Their advertising is very impressive.
I normally go for something mid range like a Bridgestone or Dunlop in an AT pattern of a common size eg 265/75/16 that is readily avail in the outback.

The near new set I have just picked up for the V8 Troopy were hard to pass up. I got 7 x LT285/75/16 Cooper STT mud tyres. 2 had never hit the road, 4 had a trip from Cairns to the Cape return (approx 3000km) on them and the 7th was good as a spare case. All this and 6 genuine Toyota 16x8 100 series steel rims for $1250. That's about half the new price. The new tyres alone are worth just under $400 each

[Nedly]

Why?
What is wrong with COOPERS?
I am looking at replacing my tyres before I head to the cape in August.
I was looking at the ATR.
I would not want to put the wrong tyres on for this trip, please explain.

I have a set of ST's on the Pathfinder and they have proven to be very good.
I fitted a set of the ST's to the Patrol, and they are not the right tyre for the truck.
On the Pathy they have good grip off and on road and wear well, on the Patrol they leave a lot to be desired.
Once they wear out on the Pathy I will be replacing them with Coopers AT's.
On the Patrol, Maxxis perform much better, though they will wear out sooner than the Coopers.

[Tedpos]

Why?
What is wrong with COOPERS?
I am looking at replacing my tyres before I head to the cape in August.
I was looking at the ATR.
I would not want to put the wrong tyres on for this trip, please explain.

Hi Team, I run coopers and have for the last 6 years. I ran the original STT on an outback tour and suffered no dramas on the 5000 klms on mostly gibber and station tracks that we used. I went to 285/75/16 ST from then on as the tour cook was running these and i have just traded them in on a couple of newies having run up somewhere near 100,000 klms from this set. GU Patrol,80 series and now my 100 series. I would have gotten more but didnt want to do a big trip on a set of tyres that SHOULD have another trip left in them. Thats asking for trouble. I sold the 80 with the new BFG all terains off the 100 series as I got stuck over and over in my own personal 4WD track in 4WD where the Cooper ST tyres went though in 2WD . I would consider the Cooper ST as my choice tyre as they have not let me down in any great way...yes I got bogged for 5 mins but the 75 Series with Simex Centipedes was there for 4 hours and needed a back hoe too. I wont use the ATR tyres of any type as they are in my mind too road orientated for 4WD use if you plan on going " Off Road" ...Im Caping it In August... OTL all the way...Hope this helps ... Tedpos:eek:

[loxsmith]

Anyone keen to meet up and put faces to names? I will be North of Cairns from early August for the whole month. Transit from Bris - Cairns will start a week either side of those dates.

Glen

[geoffjy]

Call in when your up mate. I am the sous chef at the resort in bamaga at the moment.

[loxsmith]

Hi Glen,

Yeah, as second choices go it is a good one, rare opportunity.
I had a look at the thread and the photos, very good. I am excited about seeing the "Green" outback.

Cheers
Ev

How did the trip go Ev? I'm keen to hear all about it!

Glen

[AZAZEL]

Anyone keen to meet up and put faces to names? I will be North of Cairns from early August for the whole month. Transit from Bris - Cairns will start a week either side of those dates.

Glen

I should pass through Cairns at the same time

[loxsmith]

I should pass through Cairns at the same time
We are doing pretty much the same dates, my mobile is 0405 153000 if you are keen to catch up. We are travelling alone in a Troopy.
Glen

[loxsmith]

Call in when your up mate. I am the sous chef at the resort in bamaga at the moment.

Is there only 1 resort in Bamaga Geoff?

[geoffjy]

There is only one resort in the NPA and the only accomodation in Bamaga is the resort. Its on the corner near the bridge on the southern side. I will be living onsite as well from end of next week on so i will definitely be around.

[loxsmith]

There is only one resort in the NPA and the only accomodation in Bamaga is the resort. Its on the corner near the bridge on the southern side. I will be living onsite as well from end of next week on so i will definitely be around.
Look forward to it, I'll do my best to catch up mate

Glen

[loxsmith]

Here is the before picture fully loaded

[AZAZEL]

Sitting at Loyalty Beach.
Enjoying the atmosphere

[peter]

Anyone travelling to Weipa between 25th August and 8th December should be aware that RioTinto Alcan will be performing maintenance on both bridges and that these will be closed at various times.
Keep an eye out for signage around the town, I have been told the closures will only occur between 6am till 6pm, so going over at night no problems.
Remember if you are on the Cape drop into Weipa.

[Nedly]

Thanks for the info Peter, though we won't be up there at that time, it's handy news and will be worthwhile to some I'm sure.

Perhaps a Moderator, or whoever is able to do these things, should move the post into Latest News.

[ant]

Thanks for the info Peter, though we won't be up there at that time, it's handy news and will be worthwhile to some I'm sure.

Perhaps a Moderator, or whoever is able to do these things, should move the post into Latest News.

Post has been copied across to Latest News.

[Lynz and Nath]

Hi everyone.

Just wondering if anyone is still heading up in October?
We finally leave Perth this Thursday and hope to be in Cairns by the 28th Sep. (Just found out the Great central is closed!) So looks like a long boring drive across the nullabor now :(.
Should be heading up the OTL by the 01st Oct. Cant wait!!!

See you out there

Lynz