Learn from Sue and Greg Evan’s breakdown on the Barkley Highway and discover why securing reliable communications before you leave is the ultimate safety essential for remote touring.
Overview – Why This Matters
This guide highlights the risks of relying on cellular service in remote Australia. It is for caravanners planning outback trips who need reliable remote caravan communications. You will learn about Starlink shortages that had occurred in the NT and why buying your satellite hardware before you travel is crucial for your safety.
Outback Breakdown Rescue: Stranded on the Barkley Highway
After almost a decade of no issues journeying from Melbourne to the Red Centre with their Silverline in tow, Sue and Greg Evans were sidelined 240km from Threeways on The Barkley Highway.
“We were stranded,” Greg said.
“Tug had a broken serpentine belt which left the vehicle immobile [with the Jayco Silverline on the back]. We were broken down in the middle of pretty much nowhere – with no phone reception, what to do?”
Emergency Starlink Connection: Saved by a Passerby
“We tried to flag down some road trains on the CB, naturally they wouldn’t stop for a caravan. Then after about an hour along came a lovely young man with Starlink in his vehicle. Problem solved.
“I phoned RACV and they had a tow truck there in a bit over two hours to take us to Threeways.”
Not only did this bring their 2025 touring plans to a halt, but it left the pair reassessing their communications strategy.
Starlink Stock Shortages & Supply Issues in the NT
Greg and Sue’s solution? To purchase Starlink …but the challenge, their proximity, the NT – at the height of the touring season.
Favouring volume-centric distribution, Starlink prioritises supply to major retailers like Bunnings and Officeworks. But this creates stumbling blocks for independent retailers in satellite cities who struggle to meet the high quantity ordering requirements to stock the units – and the hundreds of travellers trying to source them on the road.
Purchasing Remote Comms: The Alice Springs Dash
With their BT 50 barely out of limp mode halfway through their journey, Greg and Sue had both reached a point where they were uncomfortable proceeding without backup.
So, after days of unsuccessfully chasing pavements all over Alice Springs, Greg heard through word of mouth, over wine and damper, that four Starlink units were arriving in Alice Springs Bunnings – the day they had planned to go.
“Despite arriving at 10am when the doors barely opened, all were sold except one unit that was held for ‘Kevin’ up to 2pm behind the counter.”
Returning to Bunnings at 10 to 2, Greg waited for the clock to tick over securing the very last available Starlink (feasibly) in the Territory at 2.01pm.
Remote Travel Advice: Sort Communications Early
“There are plenty of Starlink units in Melbourne, but up north they were as rare as hen’s teeth,” Greg said.
“So, if there is one tip I can recommend, make sure you sort out your communications before you go!”
Highlights
✅ Buy satellite gear before leaving
✅ Don’t rely on regional stock
✅ Communications are safety essentials
Related Reads
FAQ-rich snippets:
Q: Should I buy my satellite gear before leaving home?
A: Yes. While you can find stock in regional hubs, high demand during peak touring season can lead to unpredictability. It is safer to secure your gear before travelling.
Q: Do I need satellite communications for caravanning?
A: It is highly recommended for safety in areas with no mobile reception as it allows you to contact emergency services or breakdown assistance.
Q: Where can I buy remote communication gear in the NT?
A: Major retailers in hubs like Darwin and Alice Springs do stock Starlink (Greg and Sue’s preferred choice) but securing these high-demand units available only at ‘volume centric outlets’ during peak season proved challenging.
