This was a long day, with 795km containing three very good sections.

First up was ‘Pinnacle Road’ which was a section with twisty tracks passing through an old mining area and containing some fast open stretches as it ran from the Gardens Road to the Plenty Highway at Gem Tree. There was then a 213km transport run along the Plenty Highway to Jervois and competitors were advised not to travel too fast as this road was prone to cause punctures.

A section after Jervois, named ’Jervois’ and one of the best in the event, was run on property roads that eventually became a rougher track as it climbed and after cresting a ridge there were great panoramic views on the fast run to the finish control. Then a 455km drive further east through Tobermoray and Urandangi to the third section, ‘Mount Guide’, run just south of Mount Isa. This was a short, busy section through rugged country typical of the Mount Isa area which opened out towards the end. It contained 15 creek crossings, some deep, and many side tracks that kept the navigators busy to stay on the right course.

First vehicle left Alice Springs at 0600 and was due at Mount Isa at 1825 – a late day. Competitive sections of 29, 48 and 23km.
63 started the leg and 71 finished.