Frontline Safari, a unique event that aims to serve a
purpose while providing one of the greatest adventures
in Australian outback riding.
Forty riders will take on one of Australia’s toughest
rides, the Simpson Desert (Munga Thirri), known for its
1136 dunes that must be crossed, there’s no easy way. In
fact, the Simpson is the largest parallel sand dune desert
in the world, with dunes ranging from 3 metres to 30
metres in height, the largest Nappanerica (or Big Red) is
around 40 metres. These riders will do it twice over five
days, a daunting feat for any rider.
Motivation for this ride is driven by Soldier On, an
organisation that supports returned Veterans, those who
serve and protect Australia, and their families, helping
them to secure their futures. It’s an organisation close to
those who are organising the Frontline Safari.
Clay Marks served in the Australian Army whilst also
taking on national motocross championships as well
as enduro riding and racing. He’s crossed the Simpson
twice on bikes and without support.
Also a military veteran, Scott Britnall went on to ser-
ve within the SAS. Once leaving the army Scott needed
more and turned to motorcycle riding, setting several
records; fastest crossing of the Australian continent (and
back), fastest traverse of the Canning Stock Route, then
finishing Dakar in 2018 in the Malle Moto class – the tou-
ghest of them all.
Both Clay and Scott, love a challenge as well as hold
Soldier On close to their hearts. Soldier On has been
there for both and many of their friends.
The Frontline Safari is not only about raising funds
and awareness of Soldier On it’s about learning new
skills; an adventure amongst challenging environments,
problem solving, and mateship. The sorts of skills emer-
gency services and defence force personnel use daily
during their careers.
Riders will learn new skills and hear stories from vete-
rans on a nightly basis. They will learn the aboriginal cul-
ture of the lands through which they pass and learn vital
bush survival skills. They’ll also receive top tier medical
and mechanical support and still have the opportunity
to carry all their own equipment to truly test their riding
and adventure skills throughout the ride.
This adventure is a bucket list item for many, but few
do it. The thought of tackling the Simpson Desert alone
can be daunting for even experienced off-road riders.
This is an opportunity to tick it off in the company of
newfound mates with the reassurance of a support crew.
The Frontline Safari begins from Birdsville, Queens-
land (Australia) on September 2, 2019 and returns on the
6th after crossing to Mount Dare and back. All funds rai-
sed by the Frontline Safari will be donated to Soldier On.
And as Clay and Scott say, “Get on board!”
Further details can be found at frontlinesafari.com.au
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