Disclaimer: The names with asterisk (*) have been changed to protect the privacy of the persons in this story.

The allure of the Australian Outback, with its rugged terrain and expansive horizons, is undeniable. It's a place that promises solitude and an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

However, the isolation of the Outback can also pose significant risks, especially for those travelling alone or at night.

Some women have come forward to share their 'horror' experiences while traversing the country, shedding light on the darker side of travel that is seldom discussed but crucial to be aware of.

One woman named Jane* recounted a harrowing experience from her youth, which has stayed with her ever since.

‘I was 14, and we were going to visit our great-grandparents. It was nighttime, and we knew not to stop for anyone or anything in this part of the country,' she said.

The Australian Outback may not be the ‘haven’ it’s made of. Credit: Shutterstock

‘We slowed down while going through a small town, [and found] bars on windows, burnt-out cars, run-down houses. A bunch of people ran out from the shrubs and tried to jump our ute and pinch the camping gear we had on the roof racks.’

Another woman, Amanda*, shared a chilling account of a 'simple' train journey that turned into a nightmare.

'I was a teenager, and a friend and I were tipsy and riding home. The train was mostly empty, and we somehow made it to the front,’ Amanda* said.

'The train driver let us in the cabin with him while he was doing his train controlling thing, and then he locked the door and wouldn't let us out!'

‘Another man on the train noticed and started banging on the door from the other side, and the driver finally let us out.'

The ordeal didn't end there; stranded in Lithgow at 2 am, far from home, the women were fortunate to find a station staff member willing to drive them the hour-long journey back.

Amanda* and her friend were in shock but thankfully, the night didn't take a wrong turn for them.

Tip

For those who find themselves in a dangerous situation, remember that help is available.


You can call Triple Zero (000) for emergency assistance.

It's also wise to plan ahead, let someone know your travel itinerary, and consider travelling in groups when possible.

If you’re planning a holiday, you need to keep your information safe, especially when travelling abroad.

In a previous story, a flight attendant warned people against a common luggage tag habit. You can read more about this story here.

Key Takeaways

• Women have shared alarming experiences of feeling unsafe while travelling in Australia, particularly in the Outback and remote areas.
• Jane* recounted a frightening incident where individuals attempted to rob her family's vehicle in a small town during the night.
• Another woman named Amanda* shared a 'horror' story about being trapped in a train cabin by a 'creepy' driver and later being stranded far from home in the middle of the night.
• The article stresses the importance of safety and urges anyone in a dangerous situation to call Triple Zero (000) for assistance.

Have you travelled to the Australian Outback? Share your stories with us in the comments below.

 

[Iggydi]

Why not try Alice Springs?

That would be a scary holiday