#2: [17-Jan-04]

15-Nov-2003 -- This point is situated basically out in the middle of nowhere, the nearest populated area is a isolated mine called Davyhurst some 60km to the east. From topographic maps of the area that are 20 years out of date there are two tracks that pass within 7km of the point. We decided to take the south eastern track the first time; it starts off not bad but as you proceed along it, it progressively gets worse.

It looks like it has not been travelled on in a very long time and is very overgrown with scrub. The first time we punctured one tyre and had to return because we were due back at a certain time. The second attempt was on a hot day 41°C; we always carry 80 litres of water just in case. We allowed ourselves more time, took 3 spares; this time we got to within 25km of the point before the track totally disappeared in overgrowth. I decided to try and continue and maybe pick up the track further up using the GPS. This was an unwise decision because we eventually punctured 2 tyres before deciding to turn back and punctured another 2 not long after, with 3 spares we had to drive on flat which after 15km peeled off. So we were forced to drive the remaining 30km back to the Davyhurst mine on a rim.

For the third attempt, we decided to take the other track from the north. This track is far worse, a bush fire went through a couple of years ago and burnt the scrub. Even with the GPS it is virtually impossible to stay on it and the fire has burnt the original small trees and bushes so all that remains are 6 inch stakes sticking up out of the ground.

I am going to make a fourth attempt at it, but with second hand crossply tyres, which will offer far greater sidewall protection against staking.

The country out there is quite stunning with rocky outcrops and breakaways and just the sheer isolation of the area is worth another visit.