Canning Stock Route contents

1. Planning for your Journey When to travel 1 Where to begin and end your journey 1 Distances 2 General Considerations 2 Facilities and Services 3

2. Permits Native Title and the Canning Stock Route 5 Why do you need a Permit? 5 What does the permit cover and how to apply 7 What does the permit money get used for? 7 Closed Areas 8 Code of Conduct 10

3. Packing for your Journey Car Preparation 11 Suggested Equipment 12 Loading your Vehicle 13 Camping Equipment 13 Trailers 14

4. Looking after Country during your Journey Tyre Pressure 15 Driving over Sand 16 Driving over Corrugations 16

5. Code of Conduct whilst on your journey Camping 17 Bathing 18 Washing 18 Toileting 19 Rubbish 20 Fires 20 Protection of Heritage Sites 21 Photography 22

6. Assistance during your Journey Breakdowns 23 Medical Assistance 23 Contact Numbers 24

Disclaimer: Information provided in this publication is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of printing. Advice given is as a guide only. Version1.0 February 2011 Representatives of these native title areas come

Foreword together in Kuju Wangka, which is focused on Canning Stock Route preserving the environmental, cultural and heritage This booklet has been prepared on behalf of Kuju values of the country along the Stock Route. Wangka, which represents traditional owners from the entire length of the Canning Stock Route. Kuju Wangka is supported by the Kimberley Land Council, Mungarlu Ngurrarankatja Rirraunkaja The purpose of this booklet is to provide useful Aboriginal Corporation, Kanyirninpa Jukurrpa (the information to travellers along the Canning Stock Martu Cultural Knowledge Program), the Western Route. In the future, we expect to expand this Desert Lands Aboriginal Corporation and Central booklet to include cultural and historic information Desert Native Title to help people enjoy Services. These agencies travelling the Stock Route work with the traditional even more. owners to help them to preserve and protect The booklet focuses on their culture, heritage practical issues, but also and sites. provides some background on the native title rights By purchasing the over the Stock Route, the CSR Permit, you purpose of the CSR Permit are supporting the and the ways in which your traditional owners along permit monies will be used. the Canning Stock Route to look after their The Canning Stock Route country and to teach runs through 4 determined their children about their native title areas – culture. Tjurabalan, Ngurrara, Martu and Birriliburu – and By observing the through the area around requirements of the Wiluna that is currently permit, you will help the subject of a native title to preserve the high claim. environmental and heritage values of the The traditional owners are descendants of people Canning Stock Route for the enjoyment of all who met with Canning’s teams and often include Australians – Indigenous and non-Indigenous. people who were still living traditionally during the droving days of the Stock Route. They have Thanks for information in this booklet that was very detailed knowledge of the country along the kindly provided by the Leave No Trace program, length of the Canning Stock Route. and by the Australian National 4WD Council from its book Travelling in Outback Australia (by G. Cottee). PLANNING FOR YOUR JOURNEY

Preparation is important to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable journey on the Canning Stock Route.

The following pages are provided as a guide to help in your preparations. There are numerous books available which can assist you in your planning process. The following are just a few suggested by If there is the potential for a large amount of rain the Australian National 4WD Council: forecasted, it is advisable to postpone the journey • 4 Wheel Drive Going Bush published by due to boggy conditions. Driving through some Gregory’s. areas of the Canning Stock Route at these times • Gregory’s 4WD Escapes. can affect the track for the rest of the travellers. • Gregory’s 4WD Escapes 2 by Jan Snelling and John Tait. It is strongly advised that you check with the local • Explore Australia by Four Wheel Drive by Peter authorities on road closures and road conditions and Kim Wherret. before you set out on your journey. Contact numbers are listed on page 24. Specifically in relation to the Canning Stock Route, Eric and Ronelle Gard’s “The Canning Stock Route – WHERE WILL YOU BEGIN AND END a travellers’ guide” provides a wealth of information. YOUR JOURNEY?

WHEN TO TRAVEL? The main access tracks to enter and exit the Canning Stock Route are through the following The recommended time to travel along the Canning stations or roads: Stock Route is between May and September. This • Wiluna (Well 1); time of year provides relatively mild temperatures • Granite Peak Station (access at well 5). Contact during the day and evenings. Be warned some the Wiluna Shire and Station Owners; evenings may drop to zero degrees so make sure • Glen Ayle Station (access at well 9). Contact you pack appropriately. the Wiluna Shire and Station Owners; • Talawana Track (access at Well 23); Travelling outside this time frame is not • Kidson Track/Wapet Road (access at Well 33); recommended due to extreme heat and possible • Tanami Road (access at Billiluna above Well 51). wet and boggy conditions. In addition, travelling outside the main travel season will mean that you Access may be dependent on permits. Permit are more isolated in this unforgiving terrain. information is outlined on page 5.

1 | Canning Stock Route Information Pack 2011 DISTANCES

When planning your route it is useful to calculate GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS distances for each day to determine how long your journey will take and supplies you may need. • Prepare tour itinerary and determine your group size. Remember it is not The total distance from Wiluna to Halls Creek is 1820 recommended that you undertake such kilometers. However, if you visit each well or plan a journey with only one vehicle. to double back on occasions you will exceed this • If possible talk to someone else who has distance. done the trip you are planning and get their advice. Websites such as www. The Exploroz website is a useful resource which exploroz.com.au often provide up-to- provides distance between wells and average time date information on road conditions. taken. www.exploroz.com/TrekNotes/WDeserts/ • Determine whether any special entry Canning_Stock_Route.asp permits are required. See page 5. • Find out about road conditions. Ensure when planning your schedule to allow extra • Find out about camping regulations in days in case of heavy rain. This may cause an enforced places you intend to stay. wait at a campsite for a couple of days or may lead to • Make arrangements to hire a vehicle problems. satellite phone or other HF radio communications. • Also give consideration to the purchase/ hire of an EPIRB or similar device. These devices allow authorities to locate your position in an emergency. • Make a camping booking at those places that require advance bookings. • Plan fuel and food supply stops. See page 3. Fuel is not readily available along the Canning Stock Route. • Tell someone your itinerary and keep them informed about where you are during your journey or of any changes to your expected completion date. This also entails advising authorities prior to entering a remote area and advising them when you complete the Canning Stock Route. • Undertake a first aid course and a 4WD driving course.

Canning Stock Route Information Pack | 2 FACILITIES AND SERVICES Along the Canning Stock Route, a number of communities can be accessed to stock up on fuel, food supplies, water, showers etc.

Wiluna Parnngurr Kunawarritji Billiluna Halls Creek

Diesel Y Y Y Y Y Unleaded Y N Opal Fuel Y Y LPG Y N N N Y

Store Y Y Y Y Y Souvenirs Y N Y Y Y Internet Y Y Y Y Y Credit Card Y Y N (Eftpos or cash Y Y Facility only) Mon -Fri 7.30am to 8.30-11.30am, 8am-12pm, 8-11am, 2-4pm 5am-10pm 5.30pm 1.30-4.30pm 1-4.30pm Office: 8am-12pm, 2-4pm Sat - Sun 7.30am to 9 -11am (Sat) 8-11.30am (Sat) Shop: 8-11am Office 5am-10pm (Sat & 5.30pm (Sat & Sunday Closed Sunday closed Closed (Sat) Sun) Sun) Sunday closed Contact Details Wiluna Shire: (08) Coordinator: (08) Coordinator: (08) Office: (08) 91688988 Halls Creek Shire 9981 8000 9176 9009 9176 9040 Store: (08) 91688076 Council: (08) 9168 Barry and Paul Graham A/H Office Manager: 6007 (08) 91688034 Email to@wiluna. admincotton kunawarritji@ ceo@mindibungu. hcshire@hcshire. wa.gov.au creek@bigpond. bigpond.com org.au ; wa.gov.au com Website: www. billiluna.org.au

3 | Canning Stock Route Information Pack 2011 Wiluna Parnngurr Kunawarritji Billiluna Halls Creek Accommodation *Wiluna Caravan $100 p/night * Self Contained Guesthouses $110 Motels and Park & Hotel/ self contained Unit $80 for per person per Caravan Parks. Motel: (08) 9981 accommodation: 2 per person night. Bookings Search for 7012 Showers, Full room (includes recommended accommodation *Gunbarrel Kitchen, Washing showers & washing on www. Laager: (08) 9981 Machine machine) hallscreek. 7161 * Overnight wa.gov.au/ *Carnegie Station: Camping $60 per (08) 9981 2991 vehicle (includes showers & washing machine) Showers Y N (with Showers $8 $5 per person Y Accommodation Washing Machine only) $8 Water Y Y N Y Y

Rubbish Disposal Y Y. Rubbish into Y Y: Rubbish to Y bins. Collection be placed in on Monday plastic bags in designated bins only Liquor Restrictions Y Y Y Y Y

Notes *All tourists *Workshop *Fuel cards must report to available for any available after the community repairs/tyres hours from the Coordinator’s Mindibungu Office before office manager entering the community. *Call the community at least two weeks ahead to order fuel. *A petrol free community.

Canning Stock Route Information Pack | 4 PERMITS Native Title and the Canning Stock Route

Aboriginal groups hold native title over virtually all of the Canning Stock Route. From the Tjurabalan native title determination at the northern end of Why do you need a permit? the CSR, down through the Ngurrara, the Martu and the Birriliburu determinations, there is native The 4WD track that you will travel on deviates title held over the vast majority of the country from the original, historic track. In some areas, it through which the Canning Stock Route travels. deviates substantially. This takes the 4WD track out into country over which the Aboriginal groups Their title is the highest form of native title – a hold native title and where there is no public right right to exclusive possession and enjoyment. They of access. have a legal right to give or withhold permission for people to travel over this native title country, This is the first reason why you are asked to get a unless people have some other right of access. permit to travel the Canning Stock Route – because there will certainly be occasions when you will These native title rights are subject to a public “right leave the historic CSR track, and will be venturing of access” over the Canning Stock Route. This is the into native title lands. original historic stock route, including a corridor roughly 4 km either side of the CSR. The second reason is that the “public access corridor” includes significant Aboriginal sites. This means that there is a mix of different rights Many of these sites are registered and protected along the Canning Stock Route. Aboriginal native under the WA Aboriginal Heritage Act, 1972. This title holders want you to enjoy yours, as you travel is hardly surprising, given that Canning located through this beautiful and fascinating country. the majority of his wells on or beside Aboriginal They ask that you also understand and respect waterholes that he had been led to. theirs. The vast majority of people who travel the CSR not only respect but celebrate the local people’s Despite a public right of access along the CSR, there knowledge and vision of their land. Hopefully, you is no public right of access to these registered sites. will meet with them and can experience this. The permit will give you access to the majority of these sites – in particular, the wells and the area Because you are reading this booklet, it is likely around them. [See page 21, which discusses the that you have already purchased a permit to travel requirements of the Aboriginal Heritage Act and along the Canning Stock Route. The next section the penalties for interfering with sites or artefacts.] explains why this is necessary, why it helps to look after the CSR in the long term, and how it helps The third reason for cooperating with the permit Aboriginal communities who have responsibilities system is that this system helps the various for this country. Aboriginal groups to manage the CSR more effectively. 5 | Canning Stock Route Information Pack 2011 The numbers travelling this country are rising By getting a permit to travel the CSR, you are every year. You will see some of the impact of this supporting and working with Aboriginal groups all visitation on the country. Aboriginal groups want along the stock route. to improve facilities for people travelling the CSR. Being in possession of a Permit will also help to They work closely together and with a variety of ensure that any contact with Aboriginal people Government and voluntary organizations to try along the way can be a positive encounter, helping to protect and look after the environment, the build trust and respect for the privilege of travelling campsites and the facilities along the CSR. through their land.

It is likely that you will see Aboriginal Rangers as WHAT DOES THE PERMIT COVER AND you travel through this country. Their concern is HOW TO APPLY. to protect the cultural, environmental and heritage values of the CSR and the country all around it. The issuing of this permit on behalf of the Traditional They would be very happy to talk to you about Owners by the Australian National Four Wheel Drive what they’re doing. The issuing of Permits for travel Council will be for a period of 4 weeks from the date along the Canning Stock Route will assist in the nominated by the applicant in the case of private long term management of the environmentally and individuals and twelve months for commercial tour culturally sensitive area through which the Stock operators at the fees set from time to time. Contact Route passes. details are listed on page 24.

So because the Canning Stock Route track goes The permit covers the permit holder, their outside the original corridor, a permit to travel is passenger(s) and their nominated vehicle. The required. And, even though some of the sites are permit is non – transferable and allows entry to visit actually located within the Stock Route Reserve, approved sites as listed in the permit document. they are nonetheless registered and protected under the Aboriginal Heritage Act, 1972, and as This permits covers travel along the Canning Stock such, a permit is required to visit them. Route from Well 5 to Well 40 including access to the following places: Durba Springs, Diebel Springs, As general rules: Onegunyah Rockhole, Western Section of Lake • The best course of action is to apply for, and be Disappointment, The Track to McFadden Ranges, in possession of a Permit that covers you for all Helen Hill, Turtle Hill, Slate Range, Ural Native Well, of the areas that you may wish to visit; Lake George and Lake Winifred. • Moving off the track for camping should be limited to less than two kilometers; Additional specific permits are required, however, • Only move off the track for legitimate purposes, for any other sites off the Canning Stock Route, such as camping or in emergencies; including (but not limited to) the following areas: • You can only visit Aboriginal sites covered by Mt. Shoesmith, Wandurba Rockhole, Billigilli Well, the permit, Callawa Track, Savoury Creek Track, Killagurra Spring • Please respect any limitations set out by the and Biella Spring. permit (in this booklet).

Canning Stock Route Information Pack | 6 A separate permit is also required to enter the Closed Areas Paruku Indigenous Protected Area. The following areas are currently closed for Some areas off the Canning Stock Route may management and rehabilitation. previously have been open, but are currently closed to tourists. These include the Calvert Ranges and Carnarvon Ranges – No Access the Carnarvon Ranges. The Birriliburu Native Title Determination covers part of the Canning Stock Route (“CSR”) including Permission to access to Glenayle and Cunyu Wells 5-15. stations is also needed. Please contact the Wiluna Shire and Station Owners for further information. While the historical activity on the CSR has varied over the years, the steady increase in tourist traffic The complete permit document package must be has become a significant issue for the Birriliburu carried at all times within the vehicle. The permit Native Title Holders. In recent times there has holder must provide the permit for inspection been much discussion between the Birriliburu if requested to do so by a representative of the Native Title Holders and other land holding groups traditional owners or a law enforcement officer. along the length of the CSR about the proper management of tourism. To date these discussions What does the permit money get have been dominated by the issue of access to used for? country adjacent to the CSR.

The money is used on administration of the permit The Birriliburu Native Title Holders recognize that system and protection of environmental, cultural there is a great degree of interest from travellers and heritage values of the Canning Stock Route by wanting to learn more about the country and the Traditional Owners. people who ‘hold’ the country traversed by the CSR.

7 | Canning Stock Route Information Pack 2011 The Birriliburu Native Title Holders understand The majority of tourists have respected the requests that many of the requests to visit places like the of the traditional owners by seeking permits to enter Carnarvon Ranges are made by travellers who are the Ranges and by limiting the impact of their visits. genuinely interested in the history, traditions and However, the scale of the unmanaged tourist load stories of the Martu people. has now led to a range of issues in the Calvert Ranges and surrounding area that will quite quickly At present the Birriliburu Native Title Holders cause permanent deterioration if tourism continues manage the access to the Birriliburu Native in its current form. Title Determination Area through their newly incorporated organization ‘Mungarlu The impact of the substantially increased visitor Ngurrarankatja Rirraunkatja’ (“MNR”). numbers has included: • Accidental and at times deliberate damage by MNR are in the process of developing a detailed land visitors to cultural sites; access permit system and management strategy for • Fire in the gorges around the Calvert Ranges, the Birriliburu Native Title Determined Area. causing damage to cultural sites; • Removal of artifacts, including grindstones, Until such time as the permit system is developed, from campsites around the Ranges; the Birriliburu Native Title Holders request that • Chain sawing of trees around campsites; travellers please observe the conditions of the CSR • Removal of barriers limiting access to special transit permit and do not travel off the CSR while sites; in the Birriliburu Native Title Determined Area • Publication of restricted images from the rock (including the Carnarvon Ranges) art in magazines, on DVDs and on the internet; • Proliferation of tracks to and from the Calvert For information specific to the Birriliburu Native Ranges; Title Determined Area please see the website: www. • An increasing number of cleared campsites centraldesert.org.au or call Rob Thomas, Manager close to the Ranges; West Side, Central Desert Native Title Services (08) • An increasing load of rubbish, faeces and toilet 9425 2000 paper around campsites close to the Ranges.

The Calvert Ranges fall within the Martu native title Kaalpi (the Calvert Ranges) determination area. Land within that area is held on Kaalpi (the Calvert Ranges) is an area of great trust for Martu people by the Western Desert Lands cultural significance to the Martu people. In the last Aboriginal Corporation, also known as WDLAC. decade, there has been a rapidly escalating level of tourism into the Calvert Ranges. Due to the need to protect the cultural and environmental values of this important area, In 2009 over 400 vehicles and 1000 people were WDLAC has decided that no permits will be issued visiting the Ranges in a year. to visit the Calvert Ranges and surrounding areas until further notice. Due to a lack of resources, there has been no capacity to manage this concentrated tourist load.

Canning Stock Route Information Pack | 8 This decision is intended to allow appropriate Your assistance will help management practices management plans and resources to be put in to be put into place, so that this important part of place, to ensure that sites in and around the Calvert Australia’s cultural heritage can be protected. Ranges can be properly protected, whilst allowing If you have any enquiries, please contact Philip travellers to experience the sites in a culturally Haydock of WDLAC on (08) 9486 9797. appropriate manner.

Over the past three years, the Martu have worked in conjunction with a large research team to document the values of this area, and to assess the impact of the high visitor load.

That research team has included representatives from the Australian National University, the Commonwealth Department of the Environment, Heritage Water and the Arts, the WA Department of Indigenous Affairs, the WA Department of Environment and Conservation and Central Desert Native Title Services. This research team supports the action WDLAC has taken to protect this area.

WDLAC, on behalf of the Martu people, ask that travellers along the Canning Stock Route and other 4WD travellers respect their wishes, and help in the effort to protect this special area.

They ask that travellers show their support by not visiting the Calvert Ranges until further notice, and by not using tracks to the Calvert Ranges area. We ask travellers to respect Martu wishes and remain on the Canning Stock Route track.

Taken by Karen Steelman June 2010 9 | Canning Stock Route Information Pack 2011 CODE OF CONDUCT: Terms on which the permit is granted

Permission is granted on the basis that all persons to whom it is issued enter Aboriginal land at their own risk and agree that the landowners or occupiers shall not be liable for any loss, damage or liability of any kind arising out of or in relation to the entry onto Aboriginal land, no matter how much loss, damage or liability arises, whether by fault or default or negligence.

• Permission is granted subject to the general conditions contained in this application. Entry permission is automatically revoked if the traveller breaches any general condition. • Permission is granted on the condition that the Applicant obeys all directions of traditional Aboriginal owners whilst on Aboriginal land. • The permission form does not authorize the entry of a person to a dwelling, community or living area belonging to Aboriginal people without the consent of the owner, occupier or community. • The permission form does not authorize the Applicant to discharge a firearm while on Aboriginal land. Unauthorised use of firearms on Aboriginal land is prohibited. • The permission form is valid only to enable the Applicant to perform the activities associated with the stated purpose of the visit. • The Applicant is aware that any person who excavates, destroys, damages, conceals or in any way alters an Aboriginal site commits an offence against the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972. • The penalty for the offence: - For an individual - $20,000 and imprisonment for 9 months, - For a body corporate - $50,000 • The Applicant is aware of the requirement for self–sufficiency on Martu land and at all times undertakes to uphold ‘tread lightly’ principles. Canning Stock Route Information Pack | 10 PACKING FOR YOUR JOURNEY CAR PREPARATION

Preparing your vehicle for the Canning Stock Route is essential to ensure a safe journey. Remember, you are a long way away from mechanical assistance and if your preparations are not thorough it may The service should include: result in an expensive rescue and possibly a long • Get a wheel alignment and complete check of wait, as parts may need to be flown into the nearest tyre condition and tread; town. • Check the cooling system; • Check and tighten all hoses and clamps and The Australian National Four Wheel Drive Council replace parts where necessary; and G. Cottee who produced ‘Travelling in Outback • Conduct an engine oil and filter change, air Australia’ identified the following common causes cleaner, and fuel filter change; of mechanical breakdown, although this is not an • Conduct a battery condition inspection and if exhaustive list: necessary replace a battery; • Broken drive belts; • Pressure test, flush and check the radiator; • Leaking radiators and radiator hoses; • Check the air conditioner and re-gas if • Blown rear wheel seals; necessary. Inspect for any leaks; • Front wheel bearings; • Check and test the electrical system; • Shock absorbers and mountings; • Adjust and replace brakes, pedals and • Broken springs and loose spring hangers; handbrake if necessary. • Broken coil spring mounting cradles; • Power steering leaks; The Canning Stock Route is heavily corrugated in • Leaking/binding of the braking system; some sections. This can be particularly hard on • Cracks in mudguards and failure to secure tabs steering and suspension components, springs, of front plastic grills; spring hangers, coils, shock absorbers, engine • Broken rear axle; mounts, drive belts/chains, exhaust system, • Broken stabilizer rods; universal joints, linkages, and axles, seals, mounting • Cracked/bent wheel rims; brackets, driving lights and CB aerial. If your vehicle • Broken roof rack mountings. has any weakness such as clutch, engine mounts etc take appropriate spares. The Australian National Four Wheel Drive Council suggests having your vehicle thoroughly serviced If you are towing, make sure that the unit being two weeks before your departure date. towed is also properly serviced, especially the wheel bearings, springs and hangers, tow hitch etc.

11 | Canning Stock Route Information Pack 2011 SUGGESTED EQUIPMENT Fuel: Allow 30 -50% above normal fuel use due to sandy areas, laden vehicles and extended periods of There are many items that the Australian National driving in low range. Four Wheel Drive Council recommends taking on a journey in the outback. Below is a suggested, yet Medical / Sun Protection: First-aid kit, insect not exhaustive list. repellent, hand cleaner, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, long-sleeved shirts. Car : 3m flag pole, 2 spare tyres (correct for the terrain), tyre gauge, air pump/compressor, spare Communications Equipment: Satellite phone / light globes, 12 volt battery cell caps, spinifex HF radio, UHF radio (used to communicate between protection, Bars Leaks, fuel tank and radiator putty, vehicles in convoy and with other travellers on the spare CB aerial, spare fan belt, spare radiator hoses, route), EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicating Radio spare drive belts, coolant, engine oil, transmission Beacons for use in emergency situations). oil, spark plugs, fuses, spare fuel filter, spare oil filter, spare air filter, car manual, receptacle to place Ensure someone in the party has a thorough extended oils if a service is expected during the understanding of how to use these devices. journey, fire extinguisher. Also ensure someone at home knows of your Tools: Spanners, pocket knife, hammer, axe, travel plans. Give them a map of the area you are multigrip pliers, screwdrivers, pliers, electrical tape, intending to travel, including expected dates, and cold chisel, funnel, valve tool, digital voltmeter, small a phone number and instructions as to what to do grease gun, oil filter removal tool, 12 volt soldering and who contact if you miss scheduled calls. iron & solder, hacksaw, jumper leads, duct tape, hose clips, emergency windscreen and temporary Water: 3-6 litres per person per day. stick on patches, WD40, wire, plastic ties, chamois/ cleaning rags, welding rods. Emergency Supplies: Additional food and water for an extra week just in case! Unexpected rain, Even if you don’t know how to use / refit the spares, vehicle breakdown or illness can easily lead to you there is high likelihood during the travel season that taking longer than you expected. someone who passes by can help you, as long as you have the right spare parts.

ESSENTIAL: Recovery Equipment: Maps, compass, GPS, jack, You need to have an air compressor and tyre jack plate, wheel brace, tyre levers, 2 tyre tubes, gauge in your vehicle, not just for tyre repairs, tube mending kit, tow rope, leather gloves, winch, but to make it easy to check, raise and lower your winch sling, tree protector, D shackles, snatch block tyre pressure as required for the conditions. and straps, jumper leads (booster cables), blanket, shovel/long handled spade. Some vehicle manufactures de-load ( in some instances by a large margin) the roof rack It is useful if someone in your team has experience capacity when travelling off-road and knowledge of using recovery equipment.

Canning Stock Route Information Pack | 12 CAMPING EQUIPMENT

The following list is suggested camping equipment for your journey. This list is not exhaustive, but should provide a good grounding for equipment you will need.

Sleeping Ground sheet, swag, tent annexes, lump hammer for tent pegs, mattress, beds, pillows, blankets, sleeping bags, tent repair kit.

Cooking Stove, lighting devices, fuel/gas to suite stove type, cooking/heating/lighting appliances, fuel for cooking/heating/lighting appliances, spare jets/ mantles to fit appliances, filler hose and funnel LOADING YOUR VEHICLE and siphon hose, stove stand, long tongs, fridge, solar panels, connecting devices, table and chairs, Loading your vehicle correctly can reduce the eating utensils, cooking pots and pans, storage likelihood of an accident and reduce wear and containers, foil, garbage bags . tear on your vehicle. The Australian National 4WD Council suggests drivers do not overload vehicles Food and/or roof racks or exceed the gross vehicle mass Always take extra food in case unforeseen of the vehicle. Overloading your vehicle can nullify circumstances arise and your journey takes longer your insurance claim in the case of an accident, than expected. where overloading contributed to the event. Miscellaneous When packing, place heavy items closest to the Light/torch, backpack, portable shower, floor and secure them. Where possible, only place portable toilet, clothes line and pegs, bucket, light items on the roof racks. Avoid point loading environmentally friendly washing powder, (e.g. placing jerry cans together) spare batteries for battery operated equipment, mosquito net and coils. Secure all equipment and luggage. Pack food in containers/boxes so they do not rub or rattle – this can cause them to rupture. Reminder: Split your water and fuel requirements over more Due to the extreme shortage of firewood on than one container and ensure containers do not the Canning Stock Route you should bring rub against each other. gas cooking appliances or similar and keep campfires to a minimum. Do not carry petrol inside your vehicle.

13 | Canning Stock Route Information Pack 2011 TRAILERS

Trailers - Leave them at home!

Plan to use your swag or tent and leave your camper trailers at home.

The Australian National 4WD Council is concerned that trailers cause more than the usual wear and tear on the track. This is of great concern to both the rest of the 4WD fraternity and the locals.

Part of the attraction of this route is the challenge of driving through such a vast wild natural area. The track is not maintained and for the few who drive it each year this great experience is being lessened by track and roadside damage caused during attempts to haul trailers over dunes in particular.

Nobody wants a highway through this area but it does need suitably set up vehicles to traverse its challenges. With improved durability in camper trailer design, the track is now the weak link rather than the equipment.

The damage caused by towing trailers highlights that these are not appropriate for this route.

Canning Stock Route Information Pack | 14 LOOKING AFTER COUNTRY DURING YOUR JOURNEY After all of your preparations, your desert adventure Each Morning Checklist begins. The following pages will help you to have a • Inspect your vehicle every morning before you safe and enjoyable time. start driving for the day. • Inspect the security of the roof rack and check TYRE PRESSURE loads on roof racks are securely fastened. • Check tyre pressures and fluid levels. The Canning Stock Route has many different • Clean air filters and the windscreen. types of terrain. There is no one tyre pressure • Look underneath for leaks and damage to that will be appropriate through the length of the cables and hoses. CSR. Therefore, it is important to change the tyre • Remove any dry vegetation that could catch pressure to suit the conditions. A general guide fire. recommended by the Australian National 4WD Club Council is as follows: • Fast Smooth Gravel 36-32 psi • Slow/Rough Gravel 32-26 psi • General Off Road 28-25 psi • Rocky Trails 28-22psi • Desert Sand 26-18 psi • Sand Dunes 26-15 psi

Note: Higher pressures will be required when carrying heavy loads. All pressures stated are for tyres of light truck construction e.g. off-road • To prevent the spread of serious weeds, check Reminders: vehicle and camping equipment thoroughly • Ensure you have a 3m flag on your bonnet to before you leave a station. ensure high visibility • Remember to check your vehicle radiator, floor • When traveling on the CSR, let other travellers mats, tyres and underneath the vehicle for know which direction you are travelling. weed seeds, plant or soil material. • Keep a safe distance between vehicles. • Dispose of any seeds by burning them in a • Don’t drive at dawn, dusk or at night because hot fire or by sealing them in a plastic bag for this is when stock and wildlife are most responsible disposal later. active.

15 | Canning Stock Route Information Pack 2011 DRIVING ON SAND • Travel straight up or straight down dune slopes LOOKING AFTER - never cross at an angle as this greatly increases Contrary to popular belief, driving correctly over the chance of a rollover. If the rear of the vehicle sand dunes does not require the driver to go flat starts to slide sideways turn into the direction out. of the slide and power down the dune. Don’t COUNTRY DURING touch brakes or clutch. Generally use 4WD high If your tyres are at the appropriate low pressure, 1st but don’t go too slow as the front wheels the vehicle in the right gear and the revs at the may dig in; right level, it is usually possible to gently “tractor” • Avoid sudden changes of direction, sharp turns YOUR JOURNEY up dunes, without extended run-ups and multiple and heavy braking as tyres can separate from attempts. If you’re having trouble getting over rims when running on low pressures; a dune, reducing the tyre pressure will give you • If forward motion is lost do not spin wheels - greater traction. try rocking the vehicle forward and backward a metre to compact sand; These few simple tips should be followed to help • Restore pressure in all tyres to normal pressure crossing sand dunes without causing discomfort to once you have finished sand driving; your passengers and extra wear and tear on your vehicle and without destroying the sand dunes. DRIVING OVER CORRUGATIONS

The Australian Four Wheel Drive Council suggests Large sections of the Canning Stock Route are the following techniques for sand driving: heavily corrugated. It is important to drive to • Ensure your vehicle is engaged in 4WD; the conditions and to ensure that your speed is • Ensure the hubs are locked; constant. • Reduce your tyre pressure to 26-15 psi; • Change gears at higher revs to maintain Driving too fast can be dangerous and you may lose momentum. Consider selecting gears manually control. Driving too slowly may shake everything on vehicles fitted with automatic transmission and everyone in the vehicles excessively. when approaching dunes; • Initially try high range 4WD 2nd or 3rd gear - maybe 1st. Sometimes you may need low range 2nd or 3rd gear for soft areas. Too much power on takeoff can sometimes cause the vehicle to dig in; • Use a sensible speed to climb dunes - don’t reach the crest with excessive speed and become airborne. The steeper the dune the more momentum needed; • If possible, do not use brakes to stop, let the sand bring you to a halt. If possible, stop the vehicle facing downhill, but never uphill; It is also useful to reduce tyre pressure on • Try to maintain your steering in the straight corrugations, as high tyre pressure may increase ahead position; the chances of your tyres popping.

Canning Stock Route Information Pack | 16 CODE OF CONDUCT WHILST ON YOUR JOURNEY

During your journey along the Canning Stock Route you will pass through amazing scenery and will possibly encounter wildlife such as emus, kangaroos, goannas, bush turkeys and other native species.

To help keep this environment pristine for those who follow please follow these guidelines and tips. Camping any closer may prevent fauna from Kuju Wangka supports the 7 principles outlined by gaining access to water. Leave No Trace Australia: 1. Plan Ahead and Prepare The Australian National Four Wheel Drive Council 2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces and Kuju Wangka support dispersed vehicle-based 3. Dispose of Waste Properly camping so as not to compact the ground surface 4. Leave What You Find and inhibit vegetation growth or regrowth. 5. Minimize the Impact of Fires 6. Respect Wildlife Where there is no campsite, find an open space so 7. Be Considerate of Your Hosts and Other Visitors you don’t have to clear vegetation. Don’t cut plants or pull them out. CAMPING Be careful driving over spinifex humps as they can Along the Canning Stock Route there are several take years to recover and provide important habitat major existing campsites. These are: for wildlife. They also trap soil nutrients. • Pierre Springs (toilet facilities); • Durba Springs (toilet facilities); Be sure not to deviate far from the Canning Stock • Georgia Bore (toilet facilities). Route as permits provided are only valid for the Canning Stock Route, not for any other tracks. Where possible, plan to stay in these sites. If camping elsewhere, please ensure the campsite When leaving the campsite, leave the area in the is at least 100m from creeks and rivers and from same or better condition than you found it. water sources. 17 | Canning Stock Route Information Pack 2011 BATHING

There is limited water along the Canning Stock Route, therefore bathing opportunities will be limited.

If water is used from the wells, ensure water is carted away from the wells or rockholes. Please refrain from bathing or swimming in waterholes. Soap, even when it’s biodegradable, can affect the water quality.

Lotion, sunscreen, insect repellent and body oils can contaminate these vital water sources. Anti- bacterial hand sanitizers (such as Aquim) that don’t require rinsing allow you to wash your hands without worrying about soapy wastewater disposal.

Dispose of toothpaste by digging a small hole and burying it.

When disposing of waste water, spread it across the ground to enable natural filtration.

WASHING

For dish washing with soap, use a clean pot or expanding jug to collect water, and take it to a site at least 100 meters away from water sources.

Use hot water, elbow grease, and little or no soap. Try to use biodegradable detergents for washing up and pour out used water at least 100m from creeks or lakes.

Strain your dirty dishwater with a fine mesh strainer before broadly scattering it.

All of these techniques will assist you in minimizing your impact on the country.

Canning Stock Route Information Pack | 18 TOILETING

There are limited toilet facilities on the Canning Stock Route. There is nothing more unsightly than used toilet paper scattering the countryside.

To dispose of your waste properly and to reduce the chance of animals digging up your waste, please follow these steps. • Dig individual catholes 15-30cm deep, well away from camp and at least 100m from any water, camp, tracks and watercourses. • To promote decomposition, choose a site in organic soil, rather than deep sandy mineral soil and in the sun rather than the shade. • Bring a trowel to dig the hole, and gently remove a plug of sod containing roots and soil and carefully put it aside. • After use, and before replacing the plug of sod, use a stick to mix some soil into the faeces to promote decomposition. Replace the plug and disguise the hole by lightly tamping down RUBBISH around the edges (in busy areas, some will stand a stick vertically to mark the used cat- To keep the Canning Stock Route in pristine hole site). condition it is important all travellers follow the • Then “naturalise” the site by scattering leaf litter principles developed by Leave No Trace Australia and disguise it well after use. • Human waste should not be deposited under • Remove unnecessary packaging prior to rocks because it will decompose slowly there departure. and may wash into water sources after a heavy • Inspect your campsite and rest areas for rubbish rain. or spilled foods. • Whenever possible, use a remote location • Take out all rubbish and kitchen waste, during the day’s travel to help prevent high including leftover food. concentrations of cat holes near campsites. • It is critical to wildlife that you carry out kitchen • “Natural” substances like smooth stones, waste, such as bacon grease and leftovers. grass and sticks can be a surprisingly effective Don’t count on a fire to dispose of it. substitute for toilet paper and can be buried • Do not bury rubbish as this will attract animals easily in the cat hole. and make a site unattractive to other visitors. • Do not attempt to burn toilet paper in toilet • Burn your rubbish in a very hot fire. Remove holes. Bushfires have been started by this tins after the fire. practice. Fill in hole with removed soil and • Pack plastic bags so you can carry your rubbish compact as much as possible. out (and maybe someone else’s).

19 | Canning Stock Route Information Pack 2011 important and unique role in nutrition, water cycling, and soil productivity. They provide shelter for wildlife such as lizards and, while decaying, provide germination sites for many plant species. • Smaller firewood and wood that breaks easily will burn completely to ash, which makes the clean up easier. Half-burned logs present a disposal problem – and often a disagreeable sight for the next campsite visitor. • Don’t try to burn foil-lined packets, leftover food, or other rubbish that would have to be removed later. • Never leave a fire unattended. • Burn the wood completely to ash - stop feeding the fire, and give yourself an hour or more to add all the unburnt stick ends. • Saturate the ash with water, and stir the remains so that all the ash is exposed to water - make sure it’s cool to the touch, and remove any rubbish.

• Before moving on from a camp or resting place, Other useful guidelines from the Australian Four search the area for “microrubbish” such as bits of Wheel Drive Council include: food and packaging, including cigarette filters • If a fire pit needs to be dug, try to remove the and organic litter such as orange peels, or egg topsoil as a sod and place it to one side. When and nut shells. the fire has been extinguished and is not used again, replace the sod over the cold ashes. FIRES • It is a requirement that the area surrounding any Firewood is increasingly scarce along the Canning open fire be clear of vegetation for a radius of Stock Route. Please minimize the use of wood fires, 4m. Spare firewood is to be kept a minimum of to preserve what fuel remains. Where possible 3m from a fire. bring alternative cooking facilities such as gas rings. • Do not use stones in the construction of a fireplace as they are prone to explode from the If you do collect firewood, please follow the following heat of the fire sending dangerous fragments in principles set out by Leave No Trace Australia. all directions. • Refrain from cutting down live trees or snapping • Remember, a campfire is not a bonfire and branches of trees because this scars them. should not exceed one meter in diameter and • In natural areas, gather firewood on the way 0.5 m in height. to your camp so that there is less impact on a particular site, and the area around your site . • Use only sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand. Larger pieces of wood play an

Canning Stock Route Information Pack | 20 PROTECTION OF HERITAGE SITES

The Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972 protects Aboriginal sites and artefacts from damage or loss. It protects domestic sites (such as traditional campsites), ceremonial sites (such as where rituals traditionally took place) and significant cultural sites (such as important Dreaming sites).

It also protects any object of significance to Aboriginal people. This can include natural and created objects that have sacred, ritual or ceremonial significance as well as tools or other practical objects. It includes rock carvings and paintings, stone arrangements and structures and carved trees as well as tools and day-to-day objects used by Aboriginal people.

It is very often possible that you will not know that you are in a significant cultural sites. It is not only sites marked by signs that are significant – the vast majority are not obvious, unless you are with a local Aboriginal person who has knowledge of the site.

It is also possible to cause damage to these sites unintentionally – by driving over them, digging, clearing space, moving plants or objects. (One 4WD enthusiast in recent years destroyed an underground cave by travelling to the site away from the main track, and driving too close to the cave’s entrance, causing it to collapse.)

By travelling along the CSR, using obvious campsites and not damaging anything, you will not be unwittingly causing harm. But if you leave the CSR or the existing campsites, it is quite possible that by digging, clearing ground or driving through brush you may disturb sites of significance.

It is best therefore to: • Stay on the CSR track, rather than exploring or following tracks off it; • Stay away from sites or areas that have been identified by signs or in this booklet as closed; • Limit any ground-disturbing activities to places that are obviously approved.

It is also often possible that you will not know that an object lying on the ground has cultural significance. The best rule is to leave things alone – certainly not to take “interesting” objects away. There are many sites along the Canning Stock Most people will simply respect the significance, Route that are of immense cultural significance. appreciate the fact that they have been able to see The vast majority of people respect this. Some do special places and things, and leave them for their not – some have carved their names into rock faces custodians to protect and for others to enjoy. holding ancient Aboriginal rock carvings, removed ceremonial items or even used an angle-grinder to PHOTOGRAPHY remove rock carvings. In the last ten years, Aboriginal people who are You will see damage like this at sites like Durba responsible for the country around the Canning Springs. All sites (whether registered or not) are Stock Route have several times been distressed by now protected against this kind of damage by the the appearance of photographs in magazines, on Aboriginal Heritage Act. websites or in other forums.

There are also many traditional campsites, covered These photographs have included men’s secret, with worked tools, blades, grinding stones etc. Many sacred designs, paintings and sites. They have of these have become “souvenirs” for travelers. It is included pictures of women swimming in pools that an offence to move any object like this. form part of secret-sacred sites that are traditionally only open to men and pictures of men drinking in The Aboriginal Heritage Act and Regulations restrict women’s sites. These things obviously cause great what can be done on a heritage site (whether offence and distress. In the majority of cases, the registered or not). For example, Regulation 10 photographers would not have been aware that precludes among other things: their photos were likely to cause any problem. • Any alteration or damage to signs, fences, shelters or other construction; The traditional owners of this country ask: • Any digging of holes or other ground • Please respect any requests on signs to limit disturbance; photography or filming; • Any damage to trees, shrubs or grasses; • Please respect any instructions from Aboriginal • Any drawing or marking on anything; Rangers or local Aboriginal people not to • Any driving, camping or rubbish on sites (unless photograph people, places or objects; in an approved place). • Please do not publish pictures in any forum (including newsletters, websites and blogs) These restrictions override any “public right of without first obtaining written approval. access” to the CSR generally. Sites identified in this To obtain approval email: enquiries@ booklet as “Closed” or sites at which signs indicate canningstockroute.net.au. Approval will be limitations or closure, are protected under this Act. given readily, unless there is a good reason for withholding it. The Aboriginal Heritage Act creates penalties for breaches of any of its provisions. These include the Because it is not generally obvious that a painting, possibility of fines or imprisonment. carving, design or site is culturally significant, it is wise to seek approval. Otherwise, it is possible to But protection of significant sites and objects should unintentionally cause offence. not rely on criminalization of damage.

Canning Stock Route Information Pack | 22 ASSISTANCE DURING YOUR JOURNEY BREAKDOWNS MEDICAL ASSISTANCE

With the right preparation, your trip should go In the event of a serious emergency or need for relatively smoothly. However, if you do get into medical consultation, the Royal Flying Doctors difficulty and your car breaks down it is important Service Operations Centres across the country to remember some key points. are available to handle telephone medical consultations and HF emergency calls. The Australian National 4WD Council suggests you: • Never leave your vehicle. Use it for shade and These calls are switched to the duty RFDS medical shelter and remember – it is easier to locate a officer who is nearest to the patient’s location. missing vehicle than a missing person; If the RFDS medical officer determines that an • Use your satellite phone or HF radio to make evacuation is required, the operations centre duty contact with the outside world and let someone coordinator will then task the most appropriate know your problems and your location; base that is not already flying. • Conserve energy and remain in the shade; • Distribute food and water sparingly; Coordinators then arrange ambulance transfers • If you are isolated, light a small smoky fire with for patients to the pick-up airport and from the green leaves during the day and a small bright destination airport to hospital. They will also fire with dry materials at night; arrange refuelling, airstrip lighting and vermin • Be prepared to wait!; inspections and any other special requirements in • If you have an EPIRB, you may activate it in an support of crews. emergency. There are very costly penalties for triggering these devices in non-emergency There are airstrips near the track at Well 33, situations. Parnngurr (Cotton Creek) and Billiluna community. Other airstrips are located at each pastoral lease to the south.

23 | Canning Stock Route Information Pack 2011 contact numbers

Permits and Access Cunyu Station (no access): (08) 9981 2934 Granite Peak Station: (08) 9981 2983 Glenayle Station: (08) 9981 2989 Billiluna IPA Office: (08) 9168 8260 Mulan-Paruku IPA Office: (08) 9168 8259 Australian National 4WD Council: CSR Manager 0438 853 342 (CSR PERMIT)

GENERAL PERMISSIONS AND ENQUIRIES [email protected]

Facilities and Services Wiluna Shire Council: (08) 9981 8000 Jigalong Community: (08) 9175 7647 Parnngurr Community: (08) 9176 9009 Kunawarritji Community: (08) 9176 9040 Billiluna Store: (08) 9168 8076 Halls Creek Shire Council: (08) 9168 6007 Capricorn Roadhouse: (08) 9175 1535 Royal Auto Club of WA: (08) 9421 4444

Police and Emergency Services Police - Halls Creek (08) 9168 6000 Police - Newman (08) 9175 1201 Police - Jigalong (08) 91757143 Police - Wiluna (08) 9981 7024

Western Operations (24 Hour Medical & Emergency calls) Statewide number (All WA bases): 1800 625 800 Satellite phone calls : (08) 9417 6389

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25 | Canning Stock Route Information Pack 2011