Paraburdoo to Murchison via Mt Augustus

This trek takes in the World's largest rock - Mt Augustus. After leaving Paraburdoo, you zig zag your way into Mt Augustus, travelling through station country the whole way. The drive can take most of the day, although there are several camping spots along the way. Camping is not permitted in the Mt Augustus National Park. After arriving at Mt Augustus, there are several different places to look at around the base of Mt Augustus. If you wish to climb Mt Augustus, you need to allow 6hrs to climb it - it is well worth the climb. As you head south from Mt Augustus, again through station country, the terrain changes from dry and sparse open land, to green paddocks of wheat. This trek is suitable for softroaders with caution at creek crossings and after rain. This trek can also be linked up with the Karijini & Millstream NPs Trek Note.

Environment

Take the opportunity to climb Mt Augustus - the worlds largest rock. Mt Augustus rises 715m out of the red, stony sandplain, making it the worlds largest monocline (A geologic structure in which all layers are inclined in the same direction, in this case arch-like). It is 2 1/2 times the size of Ayers Rock (Uluru). There are also many shorter walks around the base.

Whilst in the region, keep your eye our for Red Kangaroos, Dingoes, Emus, Goannas (Bungarras), Pink and Grey Galahs, Wedge Tail Eagles, Honeyeaters, Bustards, Black Cormorants, Blue-Winged Kookaburras, Corellas, Wattles, White-barked River Gums. In late winter and spring there are many acres of wildflowers that can be seen including the Everlasting Daisy.

History

Aboriginal history is very evident in this area. Around Mt Augustus you will be able to see engravings on the rock wall as well as many of the place names are Aboriginal. There are several dream time stories for Mt Augustus, but the most common is the story of a boy called Burringurrah who was undergoing his initiation into manhood. He was so distressed that he ran away. Because of this, he transgressed the Aboriginal tribal law and under the law he had to be punished. Tribesmen chased Burringurrah and speared him in the upper right leg. He fell to the ground with the spear protruding from his leg. Burringurrah tried to crawl away, but the women beat him with their fighting sticks causing him to collapse and die. As you look at Mt Augustus you can see his final lying position, he died lying on his belly with his left leg bent up beside his body. Edney's Lookout, a small peak, represents the spear head.

Mt Augustus was named after Sir Augustus Charles Gregory, the brother of Grancis Gregory who was the first European to climb Mt Augustus in 1858.

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In relatively remote treks such as this one, it is still important to carry sufficient fuel, water, food, supplies, communications and navigation gear such as a GPS and HF radio, safety equipment and first aid, along with emergency backup supplies. A small range of supplies and fuel is available at Mt Augustus. There are no mechanical repair services available, so make sure you have enough tools and spares in case of a breakdown.

Permits

No permits are required to traverse Paraburdoo to Murchison via Mt Augustus, however camping fees may apply.

Fuel Usage

Diesel	ULP	LPG
4cyl 128 litres	4cyl 148 litres	4cyl 183 litres
6cyl 140 litres	6cyl 166 litres	6cyl 161 litres
8cyl 140 litres	8cyl 152 litres

Best Time To Visit

No Places To See available for this trek

Where to Stay

Campsites (powered and unpowered) as well as cabins are available at the Mt Augustus Tourist Resort.

Services & Supplies

There are limited supplies available at Mt Augustus and Murchison.