Riding Off Road

When going off road in Western Australia, you need to:

• Advise somebody of your itinerary, and planned return;
• As mentioned before in other articles, take plenty of water;
• Be aware of areas that are marked as "Die Back" areas. Vehicles are not allowed into these areas;
• Have detailed maps of your planned route;
• If traveling on land that is part of a cattle or other station, seek permission from the station managers;
• Always leave a gate as you find it. If it's closed, make sure that you close it again after you;
• Do not contaminate cattle water troughs with soap, shampoo, suntan lotion, etc;
• Carry out what you take in. Do not leave rubbish everywhere;
• Do not sleep in dry river beds, as flash floods are known to occur; and
• For Aboriginal land, see the information kindly provided below.

Caring For Country

The following "Ten Top Tips For Travellers" are kindly supplied by the Department of Indigenous Affairs. Western Australia is a wonderful and exciting place, full of history and culture. Following these useful tips will help you make your trip a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

1. Stick to the main roads and dont go off the track. You could be on Aboriginal Land and you will need permission from the owners, the same as if you were on a cattle station or other property. If in doubt, always check before you go.
2. In some cases, a permit may be required to visit Aboriginal land and these are available free from the Department if Indigenous Affairs. Penalties for unauthorised entry are $1000 or imprisonment for nine months.
3. Most of the country is remote and could be dangerous. Getting a guide will help you explore the country safely and local guides have a wealth of knowledge they are happy to share.
4. In some places Aboriginal land is signposted. Read the signs and don't go to areas that are off-limits. If you see fences or gates, please dont enter.
5. Communities are happy to have visitors, but sometimes they may have special business, which means it is not a good time to visit. Some communities may also charge an entrance fee this helps them maintain their infrastructure.
6. If you find paintings or other artefacts, respect them and dont touch them. Some can be up to 40,000 years old and are very delicate. They can be damaged by human touch, cigarette smoke and even dust from car tyres.
7. Please dont leave litter in the country. Take your rubbish with you or place it in the bins provided.
8. The country may seem huge and powerful but it is also delicate and sensitive. Flora and fauna are a vital part of the land and Aboriginal culture and should not be removed.
9. There are sacred sites all over regional Western Australia and they should not be disturbed. Some are signposted but many are not. Use common sense and respect Indigenous heritage and culture.