Walk safely and softly
- Walk safely
- Be weather-aware
- Be croc wise in croc country!
- Snake safety
- Creek and river safety
- In case of emergency
- Walk softly...
Walk safely
Parts of the Wet Tropics Great Walk are remote and isolated. Walkers must be well prepared and responsible for their own safety. Consider your ability and the track conditions carefully before setting out.
- Never walk alone. Small groups of four are ideal.
- Carry adequate drinking water. Treat all water before use.
- Protect yourself from the sun. Wear sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a long-sleeved shirt, even on cloudy days.
- Creek beds and rocky surfaces can be slippery. Always cross where the water is shallowest.
- Wear insect repellent, clothing and shoes to protect yourself from stings, scratches and bites.
- Feral cattle and pigs may be encountered along the walk. Never startle or approach these animals and ensure they have a clear escape path to the scrub. Do not camp near areas they frequent.
- Set-up camp well before dark. For your safety do not walk at night.
- Be croc wise in croc country.
Be weather-aware
To ensure your walk is comfortable, be prepared for wet weather. After rain, creeks and rivers along the Great Walk may flood. Always check the weather forecast before you begin your walk. Contact the Bureau of Meteorology online at www.bom.gov.au for the latest weather reports.
Be croc wise in croc country!
Be aware that estuarine crocodiles live in waterholes, creeks and rivers along the Great Walk. Crocodiles can be dangerous. Do not take unnecessary risks and remember to be croc wise in croc country.
- Obey warning signs.
- Do not swim where crocodiles live.
- Keep well away from the water from dusk to dawn.
- Do not discard food scraps or fish frames at campsites or along riverbanks.
- Always obtain drinking or washing water at shallow water sites where the water is flowing.
- Minimise the time spent collecting water and only collect water during daylight hours.
- Only cross the river at shallow water sites or rocky areas and only at the narrowest section.
- Do not cross the river if the water is more than knee-deep.
- Do not prepare food, wash dishes or pursue any other activities near the water's edge or adjacent sloping banks.
- Camp at least 50m from the water's edge and at least 2m vertically above the water on the riverbanks.
- When fishing, stand at least a few metres back from the water's edge. Do not stand on logs, branches or rocks overhanging deep pools.
- Be more aware during the breeding season, between September and April.
Take the opportunity to observe crocodiles from a distance. Stay well back from crocodiles and croc-slide marks. If you are approached by a crocodile, move away from the animal. For more information please read the wildlife information on crocodiles.
Snake safety
Watch out for snakes. Though rarely seen, they are always around. If you do see a snake, calmly walk away without disturbing it. Some snakes are more active at night, so always use a torch, wear shoes and watch where you walk. Remember, all native wildlife, including snakes, are protected.
Creek and river safety
While on the Wet Tropics Great Walk, there are times when you will need to cross or access water from creeks and rivers. To ensure a safe and enjoyable walk, always follow these guidelines:
- Water should only be collected from shallow, flowing rapids. Treat water before drinking.
- Only cross at shallow rapids. Be careful - rocks may be covered with algae and extremely slippery.
- Wear sturdy shoes when crossing. Stinging bullrouts and sharp rocks can cause extreme discomfort.
- Remember to be croc wise in croc country.
In case of emergency
In the event of an emergency, communication equipment is vital. You should carry at least one form of communication equipment. Many options are available such as mobile phones, satellite phones and personal EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons).
Satellite phones and EPIRBs are the most effective emergency communication equipment in remote areas. Mobile phone coverage is very limited and should not be relied upon as the only form of emergency communication. In case of an emergency, dial 000 with a CDMA mobile phone or 112 with a normal digital mobile phone.
Always follow your movements on a map. Natural features such as creeks, a compass or GPS can help you to accurately pinpoint your location.
Carry a good first aid kit and know how to apply first aid. It may save someone's life.
Walk softly...
We need your help to protect this area and keep it in its natural state. Please aim to leave no trace.
- Do not chase, scare or feed animals.
- Take all rubbish home with you including food scraps.
- Use fuel stoves only. Open fires are not permitted. They may cause wildfires and degrade the environment.
- Always stay on the track (where provided). Do not cut corners or create new tracks.
- Wash at least 50m from creeks and rivers. Use gritty sand, hot water and a scourer instead of soap to clean dishes. Avoid allowing soap, detergents, toothpaste and cosmetics to come into contact with water resources.
- Where toilets are not provided, use a trowel to bury toilet waste and paper. Dig a 15cm deep hole at least 100m away from watercourses and tracks. Take all sanitary items with you as they do not decompose.
Remember, this is a national park - everything is protected.
Last updated: 28 September 2005