WEATHER & ROAD UPDATE 25 JUNE 2023
** Consider allowing extra time in your travel schedule **
The forecast for festival week is looking good, with the usual great July weather from the Monday onwards. However we anticipate some rain on the days before roll in, mainly on Wednesday 28th and Saturday 1st. Estimates of the amount of rain vary and we hope it comes in at the lower end of the forecasts⌠the locals think it will đ
If the rain is heavy enough we may see some temporary road closures along certain routes. To ensure a smooth journey, drivers are advised to keep closely informed and where necessary reconsider their route and schedule, to avoid potential road closures.
- Birdsville Track (to the south, Maree to Birdsville): is likely to close early-mid this coming week. If you are coming from South Australia or Victoria, we recommend that you consider taking the Bourke-Cunamulla route if you are at all doubtful about keeping ahead of the possible closures.
- Birdsville Development Road (to the east, Windorah to Birdsville): might be affected. At this stage it doesnât appear this road will be impacted by Wednesdayâs rain, but that could change. Based on the current forecast a possible temporary road closure might occur with the Saturday 1st rain, depending on the amount of rain that falls. If you can plan to travel this route before the forecasted Saturday rain that would give you your best chance of avoiding any closures. Stay updated with the latest weather forecast and road reports and allow extra time to go around via Charleville, Longreach, Winton, Boulia and Bedourie. Please note that this detour might add an extra day of travel for some campers.
- Eyre Developmental Road (to the north Boulia, Bedourie to Birdsville): A good choice is the road from the north via Boulia and Bedourie. This route is mostly sealed and is located further from the expected impact area of the southerly rain system. Consider this northern route if you are at all doubtful about whether you will arrive in Birdsville ahead of the forecast Saturday rain.
Impact of rain on festival site
Depending on the amount of rain it could impact the site for a short time until it dries up a bit. Local information is that the ground will hold up well.
Our event team has accelerated the set up of Bashville in anticipation of the rain, so itâs all systems go come Festival week!
We know how much everyone is looking forward to the Bash and fully appreciate the preparation and effort that goes into planning and undertaking your travels, including being flexible to suit changing circumstances.
Despite the challenges presented by the forecast rain you can be assured the Bash team and our wonderful volunteers are doing everything possible to ensure 2023 is another successful festival and everyone has an awesome time!
You may have also heard media reports of flooding in central Australia. These reports relate mainly to some areas in the NT which are expecting very high rainfall, however the amount of rain expected in Birdsville and surrounds are not predicted to result in flooding.
We are in regular communication with local authorities and the Weather Bureau to gather the latest information and we will continue to update you as new information comes to hand.
Stay tuned in to our main communication channels and follow along for updates:
Bash App
Travelling to the Big Red Bash Facebook Group
Official Big Red Bash Facebook
Bureau of MeteorologyÂ
