I have done literally hundreds of river crossings up here in the Top End. Luckily none have ended in tears, although there's been some close calls. IMHO discretion is the better part of valor. A new 4X4 is 50k or more.....why risk it ? Water crossings are inherently dangerous to property, life and limb. Granted, its a lot of fun at times, but then boys and men are known to sometimes indulge in risky behaviour, 'eh ?
Some handy tips have mentioned in previous posts, although the most important one, and it might just save your 80k Wagon, is to walk the crossing. OK, its winter up in Oberon or Matlock or wherever, or its muddy and slippery along the Gibb in the Kimberley.......but the simple rule of thumb is if the current washes you off your feet or you simply struggle to keep your footing during the walk, well your 4WD will get washed away......even a laden Landcruiser ! The walk gives one an indication of the crossing bottom, ie ; rocky, sandy, boggy, depth , line to take.
Up here in the NT, one has to decide the risks of a walk. I certainly don't walk Cahill's Crossing on the East Alligator due to the crocodile factor. Same as the Marrakai Crossing on the Adelaide River. But I know the depth indicators and if in doubt i wait until a braver or dumber motorist crosses first. Yes, soft I know, but remember the 70 grand 4wd.... ?
The notorious Cahill's Crossing over the East Alligator into Arnhemland....every 'Wet' a dozen or so vehicles end up in strife. The River is tidal so you can get washed off both ways.
The other thing to consider, of course is debris and logs floating downstream. These next pics were taken at Lawn Hill in North West QLD Nov 2015. Only 150mm for the year then a mighty thunderstorm and downpour overnight that flooded the creek crossings. Luckily for me the bloke in the Prado was in front and he did the 'walking'
.jpg)
Marrakai Crossing on the Adelaide River
Reply