Birdsville and Oodnadatta Tracks

by Maxene
(Brisbane, Queensland.)

Hi,

We are going to be travelling these 2 tracks at end of June and beginning of July.
We are wondering how the roads are now. Are they still flooded? We will be driving in a 4WD.
Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.
Maxene

Hi Maxene,

None of the two tracks is closed as of today, but there are still warnings and restrictions.
The Oodnadatta Track is only open for 4WD vehicles, and the Birdsville to Mungerannie section of the Birdsville Track is also only for 4WD vehicles open.

At the moment it is still unsure whether or not the Cooper Creek will cut the Birdsville Track, and if the water will reach Lake Eyre.
If the Cooper flows in the Birdsville Track area, there is a flood bypass and a ferry service on Etadunna station. The detour is signposted, just ask in Mungerannie or Marree if you need to take the bypass route.
The bed of the Cooper is fairly wide, it must be a great sight to see water in it.

Of course things might be better in two months if there is no rain anymore. I guess the graders are going to repair the roads as soon as possible, however, they have to repair many roads after the recent rains.

I travelled the Oodnadatta Track after a period of rain, and it was not too bad. As you are travelling in a 4WD, I guess you are fine.

Keep an eye on SA's Outback Road reports and you see what's going on.

I wish you good luck that there will be no rain again.

Rita

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