Creb officially open - but beware the rain forecast
Shire tourism
The Creb Track four-wheel-drive road is officially open for the season.
The popular trail from Daintree Village heading north to the Wujal Wujal region opened late last week after delays caused by unseasonal rain and repairs from damage sustained across the wet season.
But Dougal Shire Council warns track conditions can change quickly, and even small amounts of rain can make the surface slippery - drivers are being encouraged to check weather conditions before travelling.
The persistent rain this month caused the opening of the track to be delayed, but that did not stop some foolhardy drivers and motorbike riders giving the adventurous route a go.
Rescue specialist Tony “Toxi” Bartels said earlier this month motorcyclists and some four-wheel drivers had already been braving the track before it was open, with at least one needing to be rescued.
“(They) are ripping it up before it’s even open,” Toxi said at the time.
But the DSC has now given the track the all clear following an inspection last week.
Council workers began carrying out maintenance and recovery works in early June in preparation for expected improving weather.
The opening of the world-famous about 70km-long four-wheel-drive track has been delayed close to two months past last year’s opening, which took place in June.
Tour operators and residents are looking forward to the official track opening in coming weeks, with a party planned in Daintree Village including bands and market stalls.
The Creb, which crosses the Bloomfield River, Donovan’s Creek, and Roaring Meg Creek, is considered one of the most challenging and picturesque four-wheel-drive tracks in the country.
The name “Creb” stands for Cairns Regional Electricity Board - it was originally the service track for the old powerline to Cooktown.