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Water is a precious resource in the Australian Outback, and it is important to carry plenty of it when travelling in the region. While water can be sourced from artesian bores and wells, it is not always safe to drink and may be highly saline. As such, it is important to know how to purify water in the Outback. The most reliable method is boiling, which requires maintaining a rolling boil for at least three minutes, with additional time needed for higher elevations. Other methods include using portable filters, creating layered filters with sand, charcoal and fabric, or applying purification tablets or drops.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Water purification methods | Boiling, filtering, chemical treatment, natural filtering systems |
| Boiling time | Minimum of 3 minutes, with additional time for higher elevations (1 extra minute for every 300 meters above sea level) |
| Water storage | Multiple containers, both rigid and collapsible, clear plastic bags or sheets for solar stills, and clean containers for purified water |
| Water sources in the Outback | Artesian bores and wells, rainwater tanks, underground reservoirs, navigable canals, desalination |
| Water availability | Rainfall is low and unpredictable, with occasional large rain events causing floods |
| Water conservation | Protecting groundwater from over-extraction and pollution, implementing a comprehensive water plan |
| Water quantity | Recommendations for travel in the Outback vary from 5 to 7 liters per person per day, with more water needed in remote areas |
| Water quality | Water from Outback towns may be treated and safe to drink, but it is advised to ask locals about the quality |
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What You'll Learn
Boiling water for at least three minutes
When in the Australian Outback, it is important to carry plenty of water. The Outback is a very dry place, but it does rain at times, and when it does, it can be torrential. The weather is unpredictable.
If you find yourself in a situation where you need to boil water, it is important to know the correct procedure. Boiling water can neutralise most bacteria, viruses, and pathogens, but it won't remove heavy metals or salts. Boiling is the most reliable method of purifying water in the wilderness, but it is not the most energy-efficient way.
To boil water, you will need a heat source, such as a fire, and a pot. Fill the pot with water and place it on the heat source. Wait for the water to reach a rolling boil, and then maintain this for at least three minutes. The higher the elevation, the longer the boiling time should be—an additional minute for every 300 meters above sea level. For example, at 6,500 feet or higher, boil the water for at least three minutes.
After boiling, allow the water to cool naturally. To improve the taste, add a pinch of salt to each quart or litre of water. Store the purified water in clean containers to prevent recontamination.
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Filtering with portable filters or layered filters
When it comes to purifying water in the Australian Outback, one of the methods is to use portable filters or create layered filters. This is a crucial step in the water purification process, as it helps remove harmful contaminants, improving both the safety and taste of the water.
Portable Filters
Portable water filters are an effective way to ensure access to clean drinking water when outdoors. These filters are designed to be lightweight and easy to use, making them ideal for backpacking, camping, and hiking. They come in various types, including pump filters, squeeze filters, and handheld filters, with each offering unique advantages.
Pump filters, such as the MSR Guardian Purifier, are highly effective at removing waterborne viruses and pathogens. They feature an impressively small pore size, often 0.02 microns, which is significantly smaller than the standard size offered by competitors. This tiny pore size ensures that even the smallest germs and chemicals are captured by the filter, enhancing the safety of the water. The MSR Guardian Purifier is also self-cleaning, utilising an auto backflush feature that cleans the filter with every pump, making it a low-maintenance option.
Squeeze filters, like the Peak Squeeze, offer a lightweight and durable option. Its soft bottle design resists tears, rips, and punctures, making it ideal for rugged outdoor adventures. The Aquamira Water Treatment Drops is another portable option, providing a zero-maintenance solution. While it may not be as effective as other filters in removing silty particles, it is highly packable and easy to use, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious adventurers.
Handheld filters are also available, with the Sawyer Squeeze being a notable option. It is lightweight and easy to use, effectively removing particulates from the water. However, it is important to allow sufficient time for sterilisation, as it requires approximately four hours to eliminate hard-shelled cryptosporidium cysts.
Layered Filters
Creating a layered filter is a do-it-yourself method for filtering water in the Outback. This technique involves using a combination of sand, charcoal, and fabric to construct a multi-layered filter. Charcoal, obtained from a clean fire, serves as the first layer, followed by carefully cleaned sand and small stones. This natural filtering system is more time-consuming to establish but can provide ongoing water purification capabilities, making it advantageous for extended survival situations.
Pre-Filtration Techniques
In areas with high turbidity, a simple pre-filtration technique can be employed. Using a gallon-sized ziplock bag, scoop up the silty water and allow it to settle for a few minutes. The clear water will remain at the top, with the sediment settling at the bottom. Then, gradually pour the upper layers of clear water into your chosen filtration device or filter. This pre-filtration step helps extend the lifespan of your filter by reducing the amount of sediment that reaches it.
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Using chemical treatments, like purification tablets
When exploring the Australian Outback, it is crucial to carry plenty of water. The Outback is a dry and challenging environment, and dehydration can occur quickly. It is recommended to plan with 5 to 7 litres of water per person per day, including water for cooking.
One method of water purification in the Outback is through chemical treatments, such as purification tablets. These tablets are designed to kill harmful microorganisms, bacteria, viruses, and cysts, making the water safe to drink. They are an effective solution for purifying water while backpacking, camping, or in emergency survival situations.
One popular option for purification tablets is Aquatabs, which are small, portable, and lightweight. They are easy to use and can treat up to 2 litres of water per tablet. Simply add one tablet to the water and wait for at least 30 minutes for the tablet to dissolve and purify the water. Aquatabs are reported to remove 99.9999% of bacteria, 99.99% of viruses, and 99.9% of cysts. They leave no unpleasant taste, colour, or odour, making them a preferable option to iodine-based treatments.
It is important to follow the instructions provided with the purification tablets, as the dosage may vary depending on the clarity of the water. Turbid or cloudy water may require additional filtration and may result in a lower volume of water treated per tablet. Always ensure that you have enough tablets to adequately treat the amount of water you need.
In addition to chemical treatments, other methods of water purification in the Outback include boiling and natural filtering systems. Boiling is considered the most reliable method, requiring a rolling boil for at least three minutes, with additional time needed for higher elevations. Natural filtering systems, such as using charcoal, sand, and fabric layers, can also be effective but may take more time to establish.
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Locating water sources with a compass or GPS
Locating water sources in the Australian Outback can be a matter of life and death. A person can die within 3-4 days without water in hot conditions, so it is important to be able to locate water sources and have the right equipment to do so.
A topographic map, combined with a compass or GPS device, is an essential toolkit for water location and survival. GPS devices have the upper hand when it comes to locating your exact position, which can then be cross-referenced with a paper map. GPS devices can be hired for remote locations, which is a more affordable option than buying one.
However, it is important to remember that technology can fail, so it is always good to have a paper map as a backup. A map of Outback NSW scaled to 1:1,100,000 is recommended as a minimum for touring, and a larger-scale map of 1:25,000 is ideal for bushwalking.
In addition to maps and navigation tools, it is also important to recognise the natural indicators of water sources. For example, the presence of certain vegetation, such as willows, paperbarks, and water mallees, can indicate nearby water. Look for the healthiest, greenest trees in an area, as these often indicate reliable water sources. Animal behaviour can also indicate proximity to water. Bees, for example, need to stay within 5 kilometres of water for hive maintenance, so their presence can be a reliable indicator of water nearby. Mosquitoes rarely breed far from their water sources, so their presence also indicates water within 100 metres.
Another important survival skill is understanding that water can exist in many forms and unexpected places, such as tree roots and natural condensation.
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Collecting rainwater in tanks
Rainwater harvesting is a common practice in Australia, especially in the Outback, where water scarcity is a significant issue. Collecting rainwater in tanks is a reliable way to ensure access to water for households and businesses.
When collecting rainwater in tanks, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is essential to choose the right type of tank. Rainwater tanks come in various sizes and materials, such as large steel water tanks or smaller polyethylene water tanks. The size of the tank will depend on factors such as the amount of rainfall in the area and the intended use of the water. It is also crucial to install the tank correctly, following local guidelines and regulations to ensure the water is safe for use.
To collect rainwater effectively, a well-designed and well-maintained system is necessary. This includes installing gutter leaf screens or leaf-shedding rain-heads to prevent leaves and other debris from entering the rainwater collection system. Additionally, a "charged line" system may be needed if the pipe does not slope downwards towards the tank. This system uses water pressure to push rainwater into the tank.
The quality of rainwater collected is crucial, especially if it is intended for drinking or cooking. State and territory health departments recommend using treated water from the public reticulated water supply for these purposes. However, if rainwater is to be used, it must be treated and tested to ensure it is free of contaminants. Boiling is a reliable method for purifying rainwater, with natural cooling providing safer results than forced cooling.
In conclusion, collecting rainwater in tanks is a practical and sustainable solution for water scarcity in the Australian Outback. By following the necessary guidelines and treating the water appropriately, rainwater can be safely used for various purposes, ensuring a reliable water source for individuals and communities in arid regions.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to carry 5 to 7 litres of water per person per day, including water for cooking. If you are going on longer walking trips, you will need to carry more. It is also advised to always carry at least 20 litres of emergency water.
The central and eastern parts of the Outback get water from artesian bores and wells. However, it is recommended to ask locals about the quality of tap water before drinking it. Rainwater tanks can also be found at rest areas and in National Parks, but these should not be relied on.
Boiling is the most reliable method of purifying water. Maintain a rolling boil for at least three minutes, adding one extra minute for every 300 meters above sea level. Allow the water to cool naturally, and store it in clean containers.
You can use portable filters, or create layered filters with sand, charcoal, and fabric. You can also use purification tablets or drops.
Water is a precious and critical resource in the Outback, and it should not be wasted. Rainfall is low and unpredictable, and the inland's dry heat can dehydrate you quickly.
