Australia has plenty of space and roads for trucks to cover each and every day. From the outback to the deep surrounds of the western coast, down south through to the eastern seaboard and its ocean-side drives.
All of this offers some unique challenges and opportunities for truckies. Western Australian-based retailer Western Truck Sales has shared its list of the top five trucking routes in terms of how iconic they are for truckies to traverse.
5. Stuart Highway
From the Red Centre to the Top End
Covering approximately 2,834km, the Stuart Highway, also known as The Explorer’s Way, travels from Adelaide to Darwin.
Traversing the length of Australia, the highway differs through various landscapes, going through the arid Red Centre to the Northern Territory.
Western Truck Sales’ tip is to be mindful of extreme weather changes as you transition between climates on your journey, including carrying extra supplies in case of unexpected delays.
4. Eyre Highway
Crossing the Nullarbor
The iconic Eyre Highway, travelling from Norseman in the south of Western Australia, east of Perth, to Port Augusta, allows truckies to cross the well-known Nullarbor Plain.
The road, approximately 1,660km long, is famous for its long, straight stretches that provide a mental and physical challenge for those behind the wheel.
While crossing the Nullarbor, drivers have to fight fatigue, with rest stops being sparse.
Western Truck Sales’ advises truckies to watch for wildlife at dawn and dusk, particularly kangaroos that become a common hazard.
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3. Bruce Highway
The coastal challenge
Completely different from the Eyre, the Bruce spans from Brisbane to Cairns to allow truckies in south-east Queensland to reach Far North Queensland.
The Bruce takes truckies along Queensland’s stunning coastline for approximately 1,700km, yet it’s well known for its varying road quality and unpredictable weather.
Western Truck Sales says truckies should stay updated on road and weather conditions while using mandatory rest breaks to see some of Australia’s more stunning attractions, such as the Daintree Rainforest.
2. Hume Highway
A truckie’s mainstay
While it may be much shorter than some of the other iconic routes, the Hume is infamous, particularly for truckies in south-eastern Australia.
Taking thousands of trucks a day from Sydney to Melbourne and vice versa, the Hume is one of the busiest freight corridors as it connects Australia’s two largest cities.
With its well-maintained roads and frequent rest areas making it a favourite for long-haul drivers, heavy traffic, particularly near urban centres, costs it being the number one route.
Western Truck Sales recommends avoiding peak hours when entering Sydney or Melbourne to save time and fuel.
1. Great Northern Highway
The heart of the Outback
The winner of Australia’s most iconic truck route goes to the Great Northern Highway.
Covering approximately 3,200km, the massive highway goes from Perth to Wyndham in the northern reaches of Western Australia.
The highway is a lifeline for remote towns and mining operations in the state, with the long stretches of isolated road revealing plenty of desert landscapes.
Western Truck Sales says preparation before tackling the Great Northern is important, as vehicles need to be ready for extreme temperatures and fuel stops must be planned.
Checking weather reports for flash flooding during the wet season is also important, as some sections may become impassable.
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