Memories.
Did a similar drive many yrs ago. From MEL, destination DRW via QLD. Route then was to fuel up at '3 ways', then up to Katherine. Tillair was the choice company in those days. Little did I know that at 22 I was too old.
No joy after reaching DRW, so I drove back down the Stuart HWY and decided to give Yulara a miss. Hit the then infamous South Road to ADL. What a nightmare corrigated ride that was. Back in MEL 14 days after departure.
Car covered in red dust, driving lights gone thanks to a roo near Charlieville and my wallet rather empty.
A month later I get a call, based on a written application. A job for me in Yulara... Aviation's like this.
Good luck with your potential journey.