Introduction to Long Paddock Drives (LPD)
For specific trips, see drop down webpages
Overview
In Australia, the term ‘Long Paddock Drive’ means moving a herd along a stock route or road.
Our Club Trips move a group of rigs along many kilometers on outback and rural roads.
A LPD travels to remote areas of our country for extended periods (normally six to twelve weeks).
The Club believes the security and safety of Roustabouts, especially those on their first trip, is paramount. A support team is part of the Drive to assist Roustabouts as well as manage the Drives’ administrative and operational requirements on a daily basis. The emphasis is on providing a supportive approach to the travelers, many of whom may be inexperienced .
A Long Paddock Drive could be all bitumen, part bitumen / part off road or all off road
Each year the Club undertakes an LPD that encompasses planned itineraries, pre-booked, negotiated discounted accommodation, events and tours.
The Long Paddock Drive is in keeping with the outback station theme.
Our Long Paddock Drives are planned and organised at least three (3) years in advance and are usually limited to a maximum of 20 rigs.
Expressions of Interest
Members thinking of attending may register an Expression of Interest. Expressions of Interest are not binding, rather, they assist organisers with indicative numbers so discounts and arrangements maybe gained from organisations and accommodation businesses.
Expressions of Interests must be submitted on the Trip's Jotform Registration Form.
Expressions of Interest mean you are updated with preparatory information and you have the opportunity to formally register when the first scheduled payment is called.
Formal Registration Process
When organisers have completed LPD negotiations, a schedule of fees will be advertised and a date for the first payment.
The first payment confirms your attendance on the LPD and are recorded in received order.
Once the LPD capacity is reached, a waiting list for cancellations becomes operational.
Disclaimer:
The Club reserves and confirms LPD & MT location/s in good faith, however, Covid restrictions and local government governance may dictate a change to location and/or caravan park or showground/other.
This is the Covid era and changes/lockdowns can occur without notice.
In the event of cancellation, some caravan parks may not return deposits or may only offer a credit or may retain more than the first nights deposit. Refund conditions may state it's your risk when booking during the Covid era.
The Club is unable to guarantee that any money paid to any organisation on your behalf will be refunded nor is the Club liable for any losses incurred.
The Club will confirm numbers with the organisation at time of the first scheduled payment. Late registrations cannot be guaranteed a site.
Event Development
The LPD Coordinator and Team Members develop, organise and manage the itinerary, accommodation, some major tours/events, reservations, attendee deposits, marketing, merchandising and competitions. The Club Office supports with administration.
Travel Information & Considerations
I have read and understood the 'Long Paddock Drive Guidelines' and 'Code of Conduct' and will comply
I am aware of the need to consider Travel Insurance
I have considered the need for RACQ Ultimate insurance coverage
I am aware of the need to take additional medications
Cancelling attendance requires I contact organisations and pay any cancellations fees
I have read and will comply with the Club Covid19 Safe Plan
Specific Information
Specific information, brochures, itineraries and updated information are provided on the Long Paddock drop-down tab in 'Members Only'.
Further information can be gained by contacting: Long Paddock Drive Coordinator: Email
Pets
National and State Parks do not allow pets, therefore, dogs and cats are not allowed to accompany their parents on Long Paddock Drives and Tagalongs
Rig and Travel Preparations
Long Paddock Drives and indeed many Tagalongs travel through country and remote areas of our country and personal safety is a high priority.
Prior to travel, mandatory and recommended equipment will be advertised. Here is the basic, but not exhaustive, list of equipment.
- UHF radio with long range and flexible aerials are Mandatory on all Long Paddock Drives and Tagalongs.
- Additional fuel and water may be mandatory on certain trips
- Bull Bars are always highly recommended and in fact animal impact has occurred on all previous trips
- Personal EPIRB maybe recommended
- Additional wheels and tyres maybe recommended
LPD Budget Calculator
Alcohol Restrictions
Remote & Outback Travel Preparations
LPD Planning Guidelines
