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Hi Dan,
I just got back from a trip around Australia and found that the Telstra 3G phone system covered us most of the way.
You can buy or hire Satellite phones but they do seem to work out expensive. But if you can afford it, yeah, they are definitely available and provide a safety blanket. I don't have any experience in this area though, sorry.
Like you I will be driving a second hand campervan from here (100k north of Sydney) to Cairns (Mt Carbine actually). I will be going up the New England Highway to Toowoomba, then inland to Roma, then up through Emerald and Charters Towers.
I expect Telstra coverage most of that route.
I will be taking a portable UHF radio just in case.
Tune in to Channel 40 and you have the Truckies network that will warn you of on-coming heavy transport, and most other dangers. This can also be used to call for help if outside normal phone coverage areas.
From experience, there will be heavy vehicles both ways. But most of the Tourists seem to stick to the Coast roads, which is why I prefer the inland road.
For breakdown cover, definitely join the NRMA Premium Care cover.
For $177 it provides peace of mind.
We joined just before leaving and WOW glad we did.
Breakdown help anywhere in Australia, Towing, Accommodation, Transport, Hire Vehicle, up to $3000 per year.
NOTE: If your Van is over 3.5 tonne, you should pay an extra $122 for premium plus which cover vehicle towing up to 10 tonne.
They were great for us.
It is probably a good idea to travel with another camper-van heading the same way.
I am looking for someone else doing the same route about the same time.
Anyone else driving up from Sydney?
I plan on Free Camping most of the way, which is not everybody's idea of comfort.
I am booked in Mt Carbine from the 9th.
So I plan to set out about the last week in October. TBA.
Allan
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