Do I need a 4WD to get to Trilby Station?
No you don’t. My in-laws lived their entire lives in this area and predominantly drove a Holden Ute! The unsealed roads are usually in fair order (though of course they can also be corrugated and in need of a grade!) and it’s just a matter of just taking your time and driving to the conditions of the road. Having said that we definitely DO NOT recommend any vehicle that has low profile tyres and is lowered. We are 125km from Bourke, of which about 100km is unsealed. Cobar is 160km with about 100km unsealed and Wilcannia is 200km – all unsealed.
Should I book ahead if I just want to camp?
It’s always a good idea but not a requirement of course … just in case we’re closed, out the back paddock when you arrive or already fully booked. We only have 16 secluded river side campspots, (some large enough for big groups) and 9 on the amazing billabong, and never squeeze more in. Call or text me on 0419447938 or use our contact form to reserve your spot on the river.
Can I tow my caravan to Trilby Station?
Definitely, but please bear in mind that we are only accessible by unsealed roads in all directions. Your van doesn’t need to be an off-road type but we definitely recommend at least a semi off-road van … just drive to the conditions.
Do you have powered sites?
Yes, we do – 4. Our powered sites are approx 200 metres from the river and adjacent to the Shearer’s Bunkhouse. Facilities include bathrooms, laundry, a camp kitchen (fridge, freezer, microwave, kettle, toaster and sink), gazebo, paved campfire area, and water ( bore water from your tap, rainwater for drinking only and not to be filled into vans).
Do campers have access to your beautiful swimming pool?
Absolutely! The pool is open during daylight hours for all guests on the station. It is situated in the homestead gardens, beside the Overseer’s and Jillaroo’s Cottages. We ask that children are supervised by an adult at all times.
What about the canoes and yabby nets? Is there a charge?
No, these are included in your tariff. Life jackets and paddles will be provided when required and we ask that you put these back neatly ( and clean) once you have finished with them. Life jackets must be worn at all times whilst canoeing or paddling. Yabby nets are available to borrow from the homestead and if you don’t have any ‘bait’ I can usually find you something to get you started.
Do I need a 4WD to go for your Mud Map Drives?
A 4WD vehicle isn’t necessary but good ground clearance is required in certain sections of our station tours. In saying that, regular sedans have done our drives but caution is required as some sections are rocky and rough.You will only be given the Mud Maps once you intend to head out on your drive. This way I can carefully explain the instructions, go over the trip notes and sign you out. You are then required to sign back in at the Office once you return.
Is there mobile phone coverage at Trilby Station?
Yes – Telstra Next G around the homestead, cottages, bunkhouse and amenities. Some but not all campsites get reception.
Please note: Cheaper plans/sims such as Aldi and Belong don’t work on this network. So many assume they have Telstra coverage, but don’t for remote areas.
What happens if it rains prior to my arrival?
The weather is probably the only thing I can’t predict or guarantee (OK, so maybe the fishing as well) and road closures with rain are a fact of life in the outback. Roads are closed until they dry, which may only be half a day, a day, two days….. all dependent on the amount of rain received.
A mobile phone contact for whilst you are travelling is required when you book, so that I have a means of contacting you IF we have had significant rain immediately prior to your arrival. There is no charge for a forfeited booking when roads are closed to Trilby.
Consequently, if you are here and we receive rain then you may have to extend your stay until roads are dry and reopened. If a rain event is predicted I warn people of the risk of having to stay a little longer when they call or arrive at the station. The decision is then yours as to whether you will enjoy our station or leave it for another time.
Is Trilby Station pet friendly?
Yes, we do welcome pets for guests staying in our campsites or powered sites. Being a working station we do request that your dog be on a leash at all times.
Our cottages and the Shearer’s Bunkhouse are not pet friendly, so please don’t ask as refusal may offend.
Can I buy fuel and basic food provisions nearby?
Both Louth (25km) and Tilpa (70km) sell diesel and unleaded fuels, though it’s a good idea to fuel up at your last major town before heading out to Trilby as occasionally the local pubs have run out of a particular fuel and are waiting for the next fuel tanker to replenish supplies. Fuel is also more costly at these small isolated villages.
Shindy’s Inn at Louth (25km away) do fantastic counter meals!
There is no shop here at Trilby Station, though we do sell bagged ice. Meals are only available when pre-booked.