The Wimmera region is home to one of the most stunning and unique Australian environments in the great state of Victoria. Littered with iconic attractions and dotted with small towns and rural delights, this sprawling countryside is quintessentially Aussie – straight down to its sprawling rural highways!
If you’re just passing through, or making a trip to see the sights of the region, it’s good to be aware of the local road rules and regulations and to make sure you have valid car insurance in Victoria to secure both yourself and other drivers on the road. There are a few other things you might want to consider before you venture through the Wimmera region, so follow our guide for the best tips and tricks to keep you safe out on the roads.
Understanding the Challenges
When it comes to driving through rural Victoria, there are challenges posed by the whims of nature and the roads themselves. With unsealed roads and infrequent signage in some areas, having a reliable means of navigation will be essential to making it through the Wimmera region. These days, electronic navigation is favoured, however, we’d recommend having a physical map handy just in case.
Being educated about the patterns of behaviour of Aussie wildlife can help you avoid any encounters that could end badly. Dawn and dusk are the times of day when kangaroos in particular are most active. If you have to be travelling during these times, just remember to go under the speed limit and watch closely for roos. If you happen to see them, slow down and be prepared for their unpredictable hopping.
Changing weather conditions is a staple of Victoria. Bushfires, storms or fog are all natural weather events that are likely to occur in the Wimmera region. To stay up to date on the ever-changing conditions, downloading the VIC emergency app can provide you with real-time updates for specific areas as well as advice on how to act and respond to an event.
Prepare your Vehicle Before you Hit the Road
Insurance can seem like an unnecessary expense until it’s not. With so much diverse wildlife and traffic conditions in the Wimmera region, there is a lot that can get in the way of an accident-free trip. This is why it’s essential to both secure a suitable vehicle insurance policy, as well as make sure your car is fully serviced before heading out on the open road.
Book your car in for a service to your local trusted mechanic and be sure to mention your upcoming road trip. This will make sure you have the safest possible vehicle for your journey and can give you peace of mind as you embark on your road trip. Travelling with an emergency kit can also be an advantage. Be sure to keep extra reserves of water, snacks, torches and a first aid kit within your vehicle.
Even if you don’t remember all these tips just keep this truth in mind: preparation and planning are two of the most important parts of any road trip. Ensuring your car is ready, and that your route is mapped out well with relevant rest stops and fuel stations outlined can ensure you don’t get any nasty surprises. Similarly, knowing your vehicle’s average fuel consumption and highlighting fuel stations along the road can help you avoid being stuck with an empty vehicle and turning your driving journey into a pushing journey.
Safe Driving Tips to Practice in the Wimmera Region
While adhering to speed limits and ensuring your own vehicle’s visibility are rudimentary precautions, avoiding driver fatigue is just as important. The Wimmera region is vast and beautiful, but the long flat stretches of road can begin to lull a weary driver into unsafe driving territory. We mean falling asleep or even zoning out at the wheel.
To combat this fatigue, consider switching drivers every few hours. If this isn’t possible, try to take frequent breaks at rest stops. Not only will you get to stop and enjoy the view, but you’ll also be giving your mind a moment of respite.
If you are planning long stretches of road travel, be sure to be realistic about your timeline. Driving on country roads can be more exhausting than most realise and it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Consider mapping a campground or caravan park into your route to give you and your fellow travellers a picturesque place to rest your head before continuing on your trip.
Emergency Preparedness
Hopefully, your recently serviced vehicle will not have a mechanical failure on your road trip through the Wimmera region, but it’s better to be prepared for anything. If you notice anything abnormal on your drive, pull off to the side of the road in a safe area that is visible to other motorists. If your insurance policy includes roadside assistance cover, have your provider’s emergency assistance contact info on hand at all times.
On top of this, be sure to also have a list of some emergency contact numbers so that you can receive support or even a tow from local sources if needed. Always be sure that someone at home is aware of your travel plans as well, just so that if you find yourself without any mobile phone coverage, someone is able to send for help on your behalf.
Take Your Time and Enjoy the Ride
Driving safely is important for everyone. Whether it’s being mindful of weather warnings, wildlife, or wonky signage, adapting to the conditions and being prepared for any occasion is the key to keeping everyone on the road safe. Taking frequent rest stops helps to fight fatigue and in the Wimmera region, there is much to see.
Whether you’re hoping for a cruisy caravan trip or a thrilling adventure, utilising these tips will keep you safe will exploring all the Wimmera region has to offer from our great Australian roadways.
