Free-stop Dunnys

Coping with the Mystery of the free stop "Dunnys" and how to get to the bottom of them.

One of the great things I've enjoyed is the bewildering array of arrangements fellow campers use to disguise or advertise they're going to the dunny. Before I report on this basic matter, it is appropriate one understands the more common types of arrangements so to avoid the pitfalls.

Many shires appreciate the grey nomads and the positive impact they have on the economy of local towns. Wisely they've provided a wide range of free overnight camps for the ever growing number of travellers. Not all oldies can physically cope with the huge mileages between towns and a free camp with toilet blocks are truly appreciated.

There are two main comfort resorts. The earlier model we shall call a simple "long drop". A similar arrangements that our early pioneers used and inspired the song about the "Redback on the Toilet Seat." Mostly these are a single unit with a door which may or may not lock. Just occasionally you might find a tank nearby for rinsing hands afterwards but do NOT rely on that commodity being available.  Paper rolls are seldom provided so be prepared.

The more modern construction is often an even longer drop. A wheel chair ramp is provided and at least one the cubicles can take a wheel chair. One of these beauties is sheer luxury because they operate in a similar manner to those provided on aircraft. You know with a little flap that happily waves at you on a regular basis. Again paper can be at a premium. Here's the best part: most of them have a flushing mechanism operated either by a foot-pump (the preferred) or a leaver which one (and everyone else) has to pump by hand. Sometimes to get the water to run requires quite a lot of vigour which if done at night can wake the camp. Sadly, hand washing water is not always available with this set-up either.

Of course there is always some clown who abuses the privilege and generosity of local shires, the roads boards and others by emptying their van chemical toilet into them. Kills all the natural bacteria and stuffs them up. A bonus, if you're game, is to leave the door open and enjoy a birds-eye view over the camp!  

All in all, they're a travellers friend, they're a great convenience and not to be poo-pooed.                  

Written by John ........!