Interesting..but not sure I want to chop the steel work for a roof top vent...I saw a 1953 Aston Martion on the Spring Thaw Rally that had an interesting, shielded rear window vent. That would not be wise in the vortex of the Van rear...but it got me to thinking about perspex rear side widows with shielded vents.

Standard 1098cc with 1.25" SU, standard diff...we are not in a race so sipping fuel as we go is OK. (note to self: don't overload the little darling).

Look forward to hooking up with Mini owners/fans as we wander about. Some have been generous in making offers. My cousin sent me a huge resource book for travelling in Australia, so we hope not to need places to stay but will be first time visitors everywhere and really want to see the sights historical and otherwise.

Of course if the Mini needs servicing, well, help/garage will be most welcome!

Help build our contact list. Email data to [email protected] and I'll load it up for the trip. Will BCC everybody as we get closer to provide an update.[/u]

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Select a gear, bring up the revs and release the clutch...off you go!

Like watto says, carry extra fuel. Longest stretch i have done is 280km's without fuel stops, i needed to fill up 30km from destination.

Some tips.
Carry Spares, Although Mini Parts are easily available via mail, youll have to wait for them, and in country areas this means extra days of waiting.

Carry Drums for both Fuel and WATER. Water is essential when you go into remote areas. IF you break down youll need it.

Carry Good Maps, Current Maps, and DONT rely soley on GPS Nav systems, they can send you in the wrong direction. And in remote areas this can mean alot of problems.

talk to locals about local things to do, often these things are better than whats listed on the tourism centre guides.

I kitted out with full tool kit, gas and cooking, roof cage, fuel, water, lockable tray. Put a SUMP GUARD on your car, this is a MUST if you intend to go off the highway.

Be careful with fuel, if you can lock it down then do, you dont want to go walking in the bush to come back to empty fuel drums (yes it does happen)

When driving highways dont do it at dusk or dawn, kangaroos are especially unpredictable. If you are going to hit one, hit it, its safer than rolling your car and killing your self.

Stay off the highways in rain when your in road train territory. Get a 2 Way so you can communicate with traffic on remote highways.

Im sure i could give you plenty more tips, especially in remote australia.

All in all the biggest tip is dont plan everything, dont lock yourself into timed appointments, get on the road and enjoy it as it comes.

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Aussie Leyland, Aussie Factory, Aussie Mini S.

Appreciate all tips!

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Select a gear, bring up the revs and release the clutch...off you go!