Gunbarrel Highway 

The approximate 3,500 kilometre Gunbarrel Highway takes its name from the so called 'Gunbarrel Construction Party' who under the supervision of the surveyor Len Beadell constructed a road via Victory Downs near the Northern Territory/South Australian border, east across to Giles, and on to Carnegie Station in Western Australia.

The Gunbarrel Highway should only be attempted in four wheel drive high clearance vehicles. Many of the roads are gravel or natural earth. It receives very little attention and in fact some sections have not been graded since the original days of construction.

The recommended time of the year for completing this journey is between April and October and as long distances will be covered between towns/settlements vehicles must be in first class condition. Much of the journey travels through Aboriginal Reserves, in Western Australia, and Aboriginal Land in Northern Territory. Entry permits are required and must be sought prior to travel.

The recommended time of the year for completing this journey is between April and October. Permits will be issued if travelling between November and March, however, it is strongly recommended that a Four Wheel Drive vehicle be used and that a radio transceiver linked to the Royal Flying Doctor service be carried. A minimum of three weeks should be allowed when applying for a permit.

As long distances will be covered between settlements the vehicle must be in first class condition. No service or repair facilities can be guaranteed between Wiluna or Laverton and Ayers Rock so in the event of a major mechanical breakdown there may not be personnel on the Aboriginal settlements able to rectify the problem. It is important to be well equipped and as independent as possible.