Image

News

Madigan Line, Simpson Desert Video, Part I

Crossing the Simpson Desert, home to the world’s longest parallel sand dunes, is on the bucket list of every Australian 4WDer. On top of the popular tracks like the French Line and Rig Road, the …

Image
Club 4X4 Insurance
Feb 15 2017

Feb 15 2017

Crossing the Simpson Desert, home to the world’s longest parallel sand dunes, is on the bucket list of every Australian 4WDer. On top of the popular tracks like the French Line and Rig Road, the Madigan Line represents the most challenging longitudinal crossing of the Simpson Desert. It’s a new frontier for the 4WDer, full of challenge and intrigue.South Australian geologist and explorer Cecil Madigan crossed the Simpson along this line, from Andado to Birdsville, on camels in 1939.

South Australian geologist and explorer Cecil Madigan crossed the Simpson along this line, from Andado to Birdsville, on camels in 1939.

Image from the ‘Madigan Line Simpson Desert Crossing’ trip for Pat Callinans 4×4 Adventures in June, 2015

We are following Madigan’s path as closely as possible, into some of the most remote country in Australia. We visit his camps, and go to the same landmarks he did over 75 years ago.

This expedition, which will put the Madigan Line on the map, represents one of the most challenging trips a 4WDer can undertake in Australia. With the right gear skills, it is no doubt conquerable. It’s an incredibly rewarding journey, which gives you access to some of the most beautiful and untouched country that Australia has to offer.

This article was originally posted by Mr. 4X4.

Image
Club 4X4 Insurance
Blog

Discover other stories

View all

Warm up with weekly articles aimed at adventure

Pat Callinan's Ford F-150 4X4 on Dirk Hartog Island

Trips & Destinations

Dirk Hartog: The Island at the Edge of the World

Dirk Hartog Island isn’t your average 4X4 trip. It’s remote, raw, and completely unforgiving if you’re not prepared. From barge logistics to soft sand driving and tide traps, this guide breaks down what it really takes to tackle one of Australia’s most rewarding off-road destinations.

Read more  

Dirk Hartog Island isn’t your average 4X4 trip. It’s remote, raw, and completely unforgiving if you’re not prepared. From barge logistics to soft sand driving and tide traps, this guide breaks down what it really takes to tackle one of Australia’s most rewarding off-road destinations.

Driving on sand

Reviews & Comparisons

What is the Best Used Dual Cab Ute to Buy in Australia in 2026?

Buying a used dual cab ute in 2026 can be the smartest way into touring, towing and weekend adventures, but only if you know what to look for. This guide breaks down the best-value options in Australia (HiLux, Ranger, D-MAX, Triton and Navara), what you’ll get at each budget, and the inspection checks that stop a “bargain” becoming a money pit.

Read more  

Buying a used dual cab ute in 2026 can be the smartest way into touring, towing and weekend adventures, but only if you know what to look for. This guide breaks down the best-value options in Australia (HiLux, Ranger, D-MAX, Triton and Navara), what you’ll get at each budget, and the inspection checks that stop a “bargain” becoming a money pit.

A group of people cleaning up sand dunes on K'Gari

Partnerships, Promotions & Events

Why We Keep Coming Back: K’gari Cleanup 2026

A weekend of sand, effort and community. The 2026 K’gari Clean Up brought together the 4WD community to remove tonnes of rubbish from one of Australia’s most iconic islands, proving that looking after the places we love starts with showing up.

Read more  

A weekend of sand, effort and community. The 2026 K’gari Clean Up brought together the 4WD community to remove tonnes of rubbish from one of Australia’s most iconic islands, proving that looking after the places we love starts with showing up.

View all