Poepples Corner to Birdsville

We left Poepples Corner after lunch and moved on East to find the next Camp site, all based on time traveled and finding a suitable location. It was not long before we set up camp at the Gypcrete Interdunes, approximately 4.45pm. It was nice sheltered spot with considerable mulga fire wood left by others for our camp fire. Pyro Pete got the camp fire going early to ensure a good bed of coals were ready for tonight's roast meal. All mulga wood does this very well and its smoke is known also for its fly and other insect repellent qualities.

After the camp was set up Jarrod and Tim proceeded to prepare both lamb and pork for the roast. I prepared some potatoes, pumpkin and sweet potatoes for roasting on the coals in alfoil. Sorry again boys, I forgot the carrots wen I shopped!
Once the roast was on the coals in the camp ovens Jarrod and Tim prepared Jarrods' signature dish of damper to accompany the meal and of course some pepper gravy. Again a first class meal whilst camping out. 
The evenings discussions were about the next camp being at Big Red or could we make it to Birdsville? Given my travel arrangements, yes I felt guilty, it was decided though, we should endeavor to go through to Birdsville which made it 4 night camps and 5 days, with a drive time of 24 hours to cross the Simpsons Desert over approximately 438 kms from Dalhousie Springs to Birdsville.
In the morning we noted dingo and camel tracks through the camp. Then after a simple cereal and fruit breakfast we departed for Big Red at 9.40am. We made good progress over the typical sand dune followed by a clay pan then back to the next sand dune. The terrain continued this way for some time but was some what improving with a sign of more bird life and wild flowers.
Just before lunch we encountered Eyre Creek crossing which some 6 weeks earlier was closed  with a 10k detour each way. When we arrived, as advised further back along the track by a seasoned elderly and competent Simpson veteran we only had a 2.5 detour each way. The water in this area accounted for the increased bird life and wild flowers. In fact this area was an oasis in the desert.
Eyre Creek caused a bank up of vehicles so when we arrived at the first dune to the east of the creek there was a queue to attempt the climb to the east. This was complicated by one of the vehicles requiring  a tow out. Our turn soon arrived and we crossed without incident. We drove on to the east and after several dunes arrived at the base of "Big Red". It soon became evident that this was going to live up to its reputation, it stands up to 40mts high comprising soft deep red sand and unfortunately, photos and videos do not do its height justice. It certainly looks very large with 3 main tracks to be taken. Many signs advise not to create new tracks over "Big Red" and also advise that to the south there is a track of lesser height to cross the dune for those not able to get over here.
That was not for us and Tim said he wanted to drop me at the top so I could film both cars as they attempted their crossing. This occurred and then Tim went back down to ascend again.
This is also the site of the Big Red Bash, an outback event for all ages. Perhaps something that might be worthwhile coming back to?
The time had come and Tim ascended again successfully, but although the track was packing down the hard right turn at the top was becoming deeper with ruts in the soft sand. Next up Jarrod, as soon as he hit the ruts at the top RH turn it stopped him dead. Reversing all the way back down he had another go. On his 3rd attempt he made it to the top. Both drivers did it again and were quite proud rightfully of their success. We then descended the eastern side of Big Red for lunch and a well earned toast for crossing the Simpson Desert. Kevin  provided the red wine and tumblers for the occasion whilst I sincerely thanked Jarrod and Tim for having the courage to include their fathers on this expedition.
We then drove the remaining 40 ks into Birdsville on a mix of hard unsealed and sealed road. We entered the Birdsville Hotel at 3.40pm for drinks and another toast.
Following this we made it into the Caravan Park, booked our nights camp site, set up camp, showered and were soon back at the hotel for a great dinner of 3 X Baramundi and 1 by Pork. 
Cars, vans and camp trailers were moving in for the Birdsville Races to be held on the first Saturday in September. Another reason to return some time in the future.
To summarise the crossing was made in 4 night camps and 5 days, with a drive time of 24 hours to complete the Simpsons Desert over approximately 438 kms from Dalhousie Springs to Birdsville. The Mazda BT 50 used 113 lts and the Toyota Series 200, 125 lts averaging approximately 17-18 kms/hr.

Leaving the Gypcrete Interdunes campsite.

above and below some of the wild flowers appearing.

The landscape is greening up

Looking upstream at Eyre Creek

Above and below more of Eyre Creek

The renowned deep hole crossing at Eyre Creek

This crossing road entrance to Eyre Creek was blocked off.

Arriving at Big Red

At the top of Big Red

Wild flowers on top of Big Red

The father and son teams at the top of Big Red

Our Toast and lunch on the east side of Big Red

Entering Birdsville

The Citroen Bash cars outside the Birdsville Pub

Above and below entering the Birdsville pub

Inside the Birdsville pub

Birdsville Life Saving Club

Donate to the RFDS! They are your best
friend in the outback and give tirelessly
for your safety and well being.

The following includes one video of Jarrod in his Mazda BT 50 approaching a dune before Big Red. Following this there are videos of both vehicles ascending Big Red from the Western side and lastly both vehicles ascending Big Red from the Eastern side of Big Red.