Hay River & the Madigan Line

The northern part of the Simpson Desert (the Northern Territory section) sees few travellers, even today, as access has not been available until very recently. It is now possible for a limited number of vehicles to access the traditional lands of the Atnetye people.

Our route across the desert takes the more unconventional direction from South to North following the line of the Hay River. This section of the desert has no defined roads & at times may be completely devoid of wheel tracks. We will be using GPS co ordinates & searching for landmarks as we go. This tour in part traces the footsteps of one of the original explorers of the dead heart region.

Cecil Madigan was a noted explorer who had a fascination for the desert & was among the early Simpson explorers who unlocked it's secrets. With backing from the Royal Geological Society of SA he carried out detailed photo reconnaissance in 1929. It wasn't until 1939 before he was able to mount a ground expedition. With the aid of camels he made a successful crossing from Old Andado station to Birdsville in 15 days. He was not the very first European to make a crossing, but is the most recognised.

If you are one of those adventurous spirits looking for a challenge, if you seek the sort of solitude that can only be found in the desert, if you have & interest in early European exploration, if you want to experience authentic Aboriginal culture, If you enjoy the camaraderie of a challenge met then this tour could be for you.

Tour starts at the western Queensland town of Windorah. After a visit to Haddon corner where South Australia meets Queensland it is on to Birdsville & dinner at the iconic Birdsville Hotel. This is our stepping of point for the desert but before we leave there is a few things to see. The amazing Birdsville working museum is an early highlite of the trip.

The desert section takes us from Birdsville to Batton Hill in th Northern Territory. It is here that Lindsay Bookie, a tribal elder, will guide us through a day of discovery on The 'My Country Tour' Sights such as sunset on Goyder's Pillar are not to be missed. During this section we will pick up Madigan's line at his camp no 16 & then on to visit Lake Caroline via the bed of the Hay River.

On leaving Batton Hill camp there is a stop at Jervois for fuel then via the Plenty Highway to Boulia for the 'Min Min' experience & dinner at the Boulia Hotel.

This trip is among the most remote you can do & those who wish to experience it need to be well prepared. We can take the worry away & offer help at every stage of your pable, max of six so get in early for 2009.
Suitable for high clearance 4x4's with low range. You will need fuel for 1000 kms normal driving.

This tour is self catered

Tour Dates
20-28 June 2009

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Back to 'Our Tours'Join us on our 4wd weekend away. Test your four wheel drive skills in reaTop of pageuations. Feel safe in the comfort of your own 4wd knowing that your experinced leader will ensure you stay safe and will guide you through any difficult terrain.