Vehicle Safety

ADSJ and journey leaders provide safe, well-maintained 4WD vehicles equipped for the conditions which are or may be encountered on desert tracks.We carry recovery gear, tyre repair kits, air compressors, fire extinguishers, emergency locator beacons, first aid supplies and a satellite telephone.

Some group participants may wish to travel in their own vehicle. In all cases, the final decision regarding a vehicle’s fitness for a journey lies with the group leader. Personal vehicles must be equipped with at least the following items:

  • Recovery Points fitted to the front and rear of the vehicle.
  • Two spare tyres
  • UHF Radio, 40 channels, properly installed in the vehicle, with antenna sufficient to send and receive messages to five kilometres.
  • Jack and Jacking plate
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Tool kit appropriate to the vehicle including those needed to change a tyre, spare fuses and key fob battery
  • The vehicle must be maintained and serviced according to manufacturer’s specifications, with evidence of scheduled log book servicing.
  • Additional engine oil and coolant

Driving

With itineraries that take us to remote locations and involve challenging driving conditions, safe driving is essential to the success of each journey. We provide review and instruction about safe driving techniques and procedures for driving as part of a convoy of vehicles. We do not insist that every participant take turns driving, but for many the experience of being behind the wheel of a 4WD vehicle on a remote track is part of the learning and sense of accomplishment of a journey. Each member of the journey community plays our part in helping to create a safe journey, and any participant has the right to call time-out on the basis of their concern for safety.

As part of the application process, all participants are required to provide information, to be held in confidence by ADSJ, in order to allow leaders to make informed decisions in managing the risks associated with driving on unmaintained tracks in remote areas.

  • All drivers shall provide a current copy of their driver’s license, noting any restrictions.
  • All drivers shall provide information regarding their experience of driving four wheel drive vehicles in off-road conditions, including the operation of manual and low range transmissions.
  • All participants are required to provide any information that may increase the risk of driving in certain vehicles or conditions such as lack of experience, vision impairment etc.
  • The owner of a vehicle, or their nominated representative, is responsible for the liability involved in its use. An opportunity to drive any vehicle is granted with the owner’s/representative’s express permission, and with a shared understanding that the driver is competent to do so. The owner/representative reserves the right to refuse a request to drive their vehicle.
  • As all vehicles are provided at the owner’s risk and responsibility, the owner (or owner’s representative) is responsible for preparing the vehicle adequately prior to a journey, and for understanding the practical skills required for procedures and equipment pertaining to the vehicle. The person responsible for the vehicle must be familiar with wheel-changing procedures applicable to the specific requirements of the vehicle.
  • Communication via UHF radio en route will be used to alert all vehicles to changing road conditions and recommended driving techniques. Vehicle leaders will perform a daily safety check of their vehicle and will confer regarding anticipated risks in the day ahead and will communicate to group participants. At all times, the final decision regarding the operation of vehicles during a journey shall rest with the group leader.

Pets

For the safety of your pet and comfort of all participants, no pets are permitted on our journeys.

Consumption of Alcohol

Consumption of alcohol will always be in moderation. Drink driving during a trip is not permitted. Drivers are to abide by current statutory regulations and limits. Alcohol consumption will not be permitted where prohibited by local law, custom or Aboriginal entry permit.

Smoking

The journey leader will determine the guidelines regarding when and where smoking is permitted.

Illegal Substances

Illegal substances are not permitted on a journey. Prescription drugs are only to be used according to a doctor’s direction.

Participant’s medical condition or disability

For the safety and comfort of all participants, a participant with a medical condition or disability must advise the journey leader of the nature and severity of their condition/disability AT THE TIME OF APPLICATION. This is essential so that in case of an emergency, the leadership team will be aware of any special assistance that may need to be provided. Such advance knowledge will also allow the journey leader to be aware of any activity that is planned for the journey that may cause discomfort or aggravate an existing medical condition, so that if possible, alternate plans may be considered. The journey leader and at least one other person on the journey should know where any participant's medication or medical equipment is located and how to use it. Due to the remoteness of the areas in which we travel, access to emergency medical care may be extremely limited and/or significant delays to reaching medical assistance may occur. Participants with a disability must have a detailed briefing by the leader prior to departure to ensure that both parties are agreed on the appropriate course of emergency action should such be required.

First Aid

Several of our leaders are qualified First Aid responders. We carry a well-stocked first aid kit including common over-the-counter medications. Participants are encouraged to bring first aid and medications specific to their needs.