Great Central Road, Remote dirt road through Western Australia and Northern Territory, Australia
Great Central Road is a dirt road stretching over 1,000 kilometers from Laverton in Western Australia to Yulala, running through red desert landscapes. The route passes through small communities and roadhouses that serve as rest stops along the journey.
The road began in the 1930s as a basic track for supplying a mission settlement in the region. Major improvements followed in the 1950s, marking a shift toward better infrastructure across this remote area.
The road passes through Aboriginal lands and connects several Indigenous communities across the region. Travelers moving through here experience the living presence of these communities and their connection to the country.
Vehicles need substantial fuel capacity, and permits are required to cross Aboriginal lands. Stock up on water, food, and supplies before leaving town, as roadhouses are far apart and conditions can be challenging.
The northern section has deep dust holes and rough stone tracks, while the western part shows newly paved stretches alongside traditional gravel surfaces. This blend of old and new road types shows how the route has been gradually upgraded.
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