Fuel up & hit the road: Australia's top truck stops

Australia is largely characterised by one feature dominating the landscape—space. There’s a lot of it, and as a result, the vast expanses of Australia are wriggling with road trains, trucks, utes, caravans and anything else that can be put on wheels.

For truck drivers, fatigue management has become a real issue in recent years, with the National heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) dedicating much of their 2023 action plan to fighting driver fatigue.

The state governments are now dedicating resources to create better rest areas for drivers and particularly truckers, to rest, refresh, shower and eat.

And when that double-shot coffee is moving on through, it’s also important to know where your closest, and classiest, options lie.

Each state has some beautiful spots to stretch your legs, fill your belly, and visit the amenities. Let’s look at some of the best and some useful tools to get you there.

Online maps & tools

When you’re hungry, anything can be the best dinner and when you’re in unknown territories with an imminent sunset, any rest stop can be a haven. While this list primarily deals with the best of the best on the Aussie roads but if you simply need shelter and a hot meal, there are ample resources to help you find a good one.

The NHVR have launched an online tool that maps service centres, truck stops and roadhouses that remain open for heavy vehicle drivers.

There is also the National Public Toilet Map App created by the Department of Health and Aged Care that can help out if you find yourself in need on an unfamiliar road.

Finally, you’ll find a more complete list of road stops here. They may not necessarily be worth a diversion on a long road trip but as the old adage goes... any port in a storm. 

Queensland: the Gold Nugget Truck Stop

Set in a beautiful log cabin, the legendary Gold Nugget Truck Stop is located along the Bruce Highway outside Gympie, about two hours north of Brisbane.

Much loved by the truckies who travel up and down the highway and renowned for its food and charm, it is also a comfortable and clean place to take a shower and rest before getting back on the road.

There is an option to pull in and stay the night with hot breakfast served when you wake.

Image credit fullrangecamping.com.au

New South Wales: Emmdale Roadhouse

When travelling in central New South Wales it is comforting to know that a well-supplied pit stop is right around the bend.

The Emmdale Roadhouse is a staple along the Barrier Highway and has a service station, restaurant, toilets and showers, as well as plenty of camping spots.

The burgers are fresh, the coffee machine is whirring, and best of all there is plenty of room for the big rigs.

Image credit caravantour

Victoria: Atkinson Park Rest Stop

Surrounded by lush gum trees and native vegetation the Atkinson Park Rest Stop is a welcome break from the road.

Toilet blocks, picnic tables, free public barbeques, and phone reception mean you can kick back and have a feed after long hours behind the wheel.

Located on the Murray Highway in the city of Kerang in Victoria, this rest stop has loads of room to stretch your legs and is dog friendly for those with canine companions on the road.

Best of all, it is just around the block from the local swimming pool, cafes and takeaway food options.

Image credit discovertasmania.com.au

Tasmania: Westbury Roadside Stop

Located near the town of Westbury on the Bass Highway, Westbury Roadside Stop features lush parklands and cottagecore architecture sure to relax tired drivers after long stints on the road.

The Westbury Roadside Stop provides clean bathrooms and eating areas with space for trucks and caravans. It’s particularly popular as the site also offers a designated area for overnight parking.    

Image credit nanutarra.com.au

Western Australia: Nanutarra Roadhouse

Nanutarra in located in the Pilbara and sings a siren song to weary travellers moving through the sprawling plains of Western Australia.

Surrounded with cattle stations and scenic outback views the roadhouse serves up a slice of regional living for visitors. It features well-appointed rooms, a top-notch restaurant and terrific customer service.

The well-stocked supermarket is also a good place to visit for loading up with supplies as you make your way back on the road.

Image credit marla.com.au 

South Australia: Marla Traveller’s Rest

Just off the Stuart Highway approximately 150 km south of the Northern Territory border and around 1,000 km north of Adelaide, the famed Marla Traveller's Rest has everything in one place for anyone looking for a stop to stretch their legs, a meal, a shower or even a room.  

The Marla Traveller’s Rest is a bit more than the average rest stop—it’s a roadhouse, hotel and motel, restaurant, service station, and supermarket that’s been in operation for over 40 years.

You’ll find everything from food and drink to accommodation plus powered and non-powered caravan sites.

Image credit bushtrackergroup.com.au

Northern Territory: Bridge Creek Rest Area

If you’re looking for a stop on your way from Darwin to Katherine, then you can't go past the Bridge Creek Rest Area, located just off the Stuart Highway about 120 km south of Darwin.

With free camping and overnight stay available, there is space to pull-up and park no matter whether you have a trailer in tow, a caravan, motor home, or a big rig.

This rest area is pet friendly, includes public barbeques, toilets, shade and shelter from the sweltering sun, and is surrounded by gum trees with walking tracks and historic sites not far down the road.

Heading interstate these holidays? Check out this blog that explains the change to the tow rate limit in Queensland.