Crossing the Simpson Desert

In winter 1985, Gordon Smith and five others set out  in three vehicles to cross the Simpson Desert west to east. They were following the French Line, a track made by oil exploration companies in the 1970’s.

This is actually quite a remarkable shot because it brings out the sheer difficulty of the terrain.

Each year visitors die in the Australian outback because of their failure to take simple precautions - the right vehicle in the right condition, letting people know what you are doing, having reserves of food and especially water.

I often use Gordon's photos on this blog because they are simply so good. Have a browse.