The Northern Territory:
Important Travel Information
This information is provided to allow you to gain the utmost from your visit to the Northern Territory. We do not want to deter you in anyway but believe that the better informed you are the better your holiday experience will be.
The Top End has two seasons, "the dry" May to October (from 20 degrees to 33 degrees with low humidity) and "the tropical summer" November to April (average temperatures range from 23 degrees to 34 degrees with high humidity).
During "the dry" the weather is so predictable outdoor events can be arranged well in advance with out any fear of rain. During "the tropical summer" previously called "the wet season" the heavy monsoonal rains normally fall late afternoon and overnight. "The tropical summer" also brings spectacular lightning displays and the threat of cyclones. Many locals prefer "the tropical summer" time of year when everything seems to burst into life.
Flooding in the outlying areas and parks is very common; so great care should be taken when driving out of Darwin at this time. Being stranded on a flooded road is a possibility and sufficient planning should be done beforehand to ensure maximum safety and comfort.
Driving in the Northern Territory
Many travellers set off totally unaware of just how treacherous the Australian Outback can be. Events can develop into life and death situations very quickly.
There were four British girls who had a puncture in their hire car and didn't know how to operate the jack. It was the hottest time of the year. When found they were wandering aimlessly, getting sunburnt and doing all the wrong things.
Then there was the fellow who set out in his brand new 4WD. When he went to get the spare tyre he found it was missing. He hadn't bothered to check it before he left.
But the saddest of all was the a girl called Maria Soper. In February 1999 her car broke down on her way to a remote Queensland cattle station where she'd taken a job as a rouseabout only two weeks before. Dressed only in thongs, with no hat or water she left the comparative safety of her car and walked 16km in blistering heat.
With temperature hovering around 42 degrees, no water, no hat and no walking shoes it is surprising this gutsy girl survived for so long. Her body was found on the side of the road where she had collapsed from exhaustion. Sadly she had been walking parallel to a flowing creek which was only 2 km from the road. The line of eucalypts that followed the creek were visible from the road but Maria did not understand that they signified water.
A little planning, a little local knowledge, careful checking of your vehicle, equipment and essentials before departure and you can avoid this happening to you.
First, if you are planning an extensive driving trip around The Centre and Top End I would find and watch the video by Malcolm Douglas called "Survival In The Outback". Douglas is an Aussie icon who can survive off the land in the most isolated areas, but he has some very basic tips for survival that none of us can ignore.
The Territory roads vary in standard from first class, all weather sealed roads to unsealed and 4x4 adventure routes. Thankfully 95% of the major tourist spots are accessible by sealed roads and the average car equipped with normal provisions can safely enjoy a wonderful holiday.
In Australia we drive on the left hand side of the road and the steering wheels are right hand drive. If seat belts are fitted to the vehicle it is State law that all passengers must be belted up. Fines are imposed if the belts are not worn and it is the driver who has reponsibility. A valid Drivers Licence must be carried at all times behind the wheel.
Fuel and food stops are every 100km to 300km along the main routes. It is only when you venture into the remote areas that fuel becomes a problem. Planning your fuel stops is a good idea because you may need to carry extra fuel in remote areas. Some remote service stations have restricted opening hours and limited credit card facilities. Always carry a good map of the area, especially when travelling off the main roads.
Basic spare parts need to be carried, like a jack, spare tyre, fan belt and radiator hoses. If you plan to go off the main road, you will need a tyre repair kit, coil, condenser, tow rope, distributor points, a jack with a wide base to stop it sinking in sand and mud, engine oil, axe and shovel. When travelling never carry less than 20 litres of water. Remember "never go without H2O".
For many of us coming straight from the city driving on an unsealed road is as foreign as the country itself. Dangers to be aware of are as follows:
Dangers to be aware of when Travelling:
Dress in the Territory is casual and most importantly comfortable. Restaurants, clubs, hotels and casinos all require smart casual dress and especially no thongs or T-Shirts without collars. If you see the dress code described as "Darwin Rig" do not be dismayed. This simply means long trousers and collared shirt for men and something casual but elegant for ladies. Incidentally many pubs and clubs are now specifying no Thongs and T-Shirts even during the day.
A shady hat will assist with the strong sunlight and clothing should cover arms and shoulders. Sturdy shoes or walking boots are a must for sightseeing in Darwin and walking in the park areas. Cotton clothing is always cooler and so the first choice. Long pants are a good idea as some of the native plants can be prickly. Remember too that in The Centre the nights can become very cold as temperatures plummet. Termal clothing and, when camping, a good quality sleeping bag are essential. Days are still hot so Top End requirements still apply.
Due to the climate it is recommended that everyone, especially children, have a factor 15 plus sunscreen applied before venturing out in the sun. Remember to keep re-applying the cream during the day.
When visiting the Top End you should be aware and take account of the climate and its effect on your body. Water is the cheapest and most effective cooling agent for the body, and it is especially important to consume adequate amounts of water (a minimum of eight glasses of water a day) to keep from dehydration. If active, (walking or climbing) this will become even more important and additional water will need to be consumed. Remember if you are thirsty you are already dehydrated.
Although Darwin is renowned for having fewer flies than many other parts of Australia, insect repellent is required for the evenings, especially if camping or eating outdoors. We recommend "Rid" which is bought at most supermarkets and chemists in Australia.
Box Jellyfish are prevalent in the Top End waters particularly during October to May. Care should be taken at all other times throughout the year as a sting from a Box Jellyfish can be fatal.
Crocodiles are also active in the Top End waters year round, so it is essential to observe warning signs. As there is always the chance that warning signs may have been removed by vandals or souvenir hunters, swim only if signage advises or check first with Park Rangers.
"Safe areas" for Top End swimming include pools, man made lakes and most waterfall pools. In the Top End saltwater crocodiles are common. Do not be tricked by the name as they are found in both salt and fresh water. Never wade or swim where warning signs are displayed. A crocodile attack is swift and deadly.
A final checklist for a fun day of adventure or "how to arrive alive?"
Aboriginal Land and Respect for Their Rights and Traditions
Permits
Travel through Aboriginal Land requires a permit. If you are travelling on an organised tour this becomes the responsibility of the tour operator. Processing of the permits can take 4-6 weeks so applying in writing early is essential. You will need to provide the names of all persons travelling, the address of the principal applicant, vehicle details, duration of intended stay, itinerary and routing and finally an address where the permit is to be sent. Once they have this information the approval of the relevant Aboriginal communities is sought. Please remember that it is the right of the Traditional Owners to refuse permits.
Public Roads that cross Aboriginal land are exempt from the permit provisions. However, the exemptions apply to the immediate road corridor only. If there is need for fuel stops, travellers should seek transit permits from the relevant Land Council(s). Many roads crossing Aboriginal lands are designated as public roads, others are designated non-public roads. Both these road types have rules and regulations, so please seek advise from the Land Council(s) before travelling.
Darwin, Borroloola, Nhulunbuy or Katherine apply to:
Northern Land Council
PO Box 42921
Casaurina NT 0811
Tel: (08) 8920 5100
Fax: (08) 8945 2633
Tiwi Islands (Melville & Bathurst Islands)
Tiwi Land Council
PO Box 38545
Winnellie NT 0821
Tel: (08) 8947 1838
Fax: (08) 8947 1840
East Arnhem Land
Dhimurru Land Management
PO Box 1551
Nhulunbuy NT 0881
Tel: (08) 8987 3992
Fax: (08) 8987 3224
Alice Springs & Tennant Creek Region
Central Land Council
33 Stuart Highway (Nth)
PO Box 3321
Alice Springs NT 0871
Tel: (08) 8951 6320
Fax: (08) 8953 4345 or (08) 8953 4343
There are a number of places or objects in the Top End that hold special significance for Aboriginal people.
Some, for example like Nourlangie Rock, are open to the public. Visitors are welcome but respect should be shown for these sites. Some sites are protected by law and there are penalties for defacing or damaging them.
There are also many significant areas including rock art and ceremonial sites where photography is forbidden. Some sites may be for men or women only. We ask that you respect these conditions of entry.
Some Aboriginal communites impose restrictions on the importation and/or consumption of alcohol. Aboriginal communities have been ravaged by the excesses of alcohol, petrol sniffing and the resultant social problems. Elders are making attempts to rebuild their shattered communities and so alcohol is strictly forbidden. If travelling through Aboriginal land and intending to carry liquor, please check first with the NT Liquor Commission on (08) 8981 1955 or with the relevent Land Council when applying for your permit.
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