We are biologists inquisitive about the world around.
Our aim is to share our knowledge of the Australian environment, both natural and man-made with as wide an audience as possible.
By sharing his information we hope to stimulate readers’ curiosity and observation skills to enhance their travel experiences.
We are also amateur photographers and our blogs are well illustrated with visual examples.
Examples of our photographs are included under Gallery.
The subjects covered in our blogs can be found on the Topics page.
There are many things you can do to ensure your safety when out and about. We provide an overview, but if you are going into remote areas seek guidance from people with remote area experience – and remember mobile phones are unreliable even in urban areas.
Disclaimer
Our blogs occasionally contain GPS co-ordinates and/or mileages. These are to be taken as indicative only and meant as general guides. Therefore allow for some plus or minus adjustments and check them against those on Google Earth as part of your planning process. Changes to roads and their condition may occur after the blog was posted. Check your route with the latest maps and information.
In the discussion below I mention various pieces of equipment, but make no recommendations as to choice or brand of this equipment. These choices are yours to make based on your calculation of risk and your research.
General Safety Discussion
In general when undertaking any trip it is your responsibility to have up-to-date maps, information and appropriate, serviceable equipment. Tell someone of your travel plans and expected return date, and provide contact details in case of an emergency.
In national parks, keep to the walking trails unless you are experienced at map reading and navigation. Always ensure you have the necessary permits for the area you will be traversing and be aware of any warnings issued by relevant authorities such as National Parks and state forests.
If you are going off-road or into any remote area always check for road or track conditions and inform someone of your trip plans including return dates. If traversing remote and rugged areas it is useful to have another vehicle to assist in recovery operations or serious breakdowns. Carry maps, adequate communication and navigation equipment, safety gear including a first aid kit and extra water. A registered Epirb (personal distress beacon) and/or a satellite phone are advisable for remote area travel.
Remember just because you are in a 4 wheel drive you are not necessarily bulletproof. Before going off-road make sure your vehicle is suitable for the conditions you will encounter, mechanically sound and appropriately equipped. Learn the limitations of your vehicle and improve your off-road driving skills by undertaking an off-road driving course or jining piggy back off road trips with our wheel drive clubs. You are responsible for all of these and for the safety of any people accompanying you.
Last but not least you are responsible for the application of common sense.