Wilcannia scared me to death - all business are in compounds surrounded by tin fences - steel bars with huge locks. Stopped for a coffee and bolted. It didn't appear to be safe, maybe it's changed since I was last there in 07 and -08.
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Anyway the wind blows......doesn't really matter to me!!
There are two options the east road and the west side of the river, if there has been a grader through in the last few weeks it would be OK.
but it can get rough and very dusty. In an on road type van I would be very very careful . I went about half way along there a couple of months ago in a road train it was very average. Hope this helps
Cheers
The Hats
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It is better to beg forgiveness than to ask permission. :D
Never thought I'd be saying this but it IS worth mentioning. We have always hurried through Wilcannia and barely looked sideways due to the reported problems in the town. Just recently we were told of the changes happening in the town ie all streets being alcohol free zones etc. a fellow traveller told us of the reasonably new CP, on the outskirts of the town, what an oasis. Green grass edging the lagoon, excellent amenities and very friendly staff. It is situated on the Darling River and offers some brilliant walks in the park. Bird lovers are well catered for as well. It was great to hear from a local of how a policeman came to town and decided to turn the town around, which he has. Townspeople are hoping that tourists will come back.
Did that trip a few weks ago. The road is in good nick. I went from Bourke down the Louth side of the river, stayed far too long at the Louth pub then stayed on the same side to Tilpa. Someone pinched the signpost to Tilpa Weir so look for a blue pole on the left and turn right. The track down to the weir is good for caravans and there is plenty of camping space down there. We then crossed the river at the Tilpa pub and followed the other side of the river to Wilcannia. Take no notice of old stories about Wilcannia, the natives are friendly and the old buildings that are still standing are terrific. Step into the post office is like stepping back in time. Get your fuel from the BP as it's much cheaper and friendly sevice.
We travelled from Bourke to Wilcannia yesterday, 26th. We were towing genuine off-road campers, Vista Crossovers, and found it easy. We also passed several vans. We travelled the eastern side to Tilpa and then crossed over to the western side. All in all we found it a comfortable dirt road. Quite a bit of dust, but if you take it easy your on -road van should cope. We were able to maintain quite a reasonable speed for most of the way. Take your time and it should be fine.
