Southern Crossing in a straight line

In what they claim as the world's first straight-line Southern Crossing of Australia, the adventure-bound trio, Leroy, Geordie and Jon, will begin the journey on May 15, 2011 on XTZ660 Ténérés.

The Southern Crossing is set to be an adventure of true Australian spirit and unrivalled determination, with over 98 percent of the planned route consisting of dirt, sand, rock and mud. And there are over 1500 large sand hills in the Simpson Desert alone to be traversed. The team will battle the unpredictable weather while enjoying some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world and meeting unique locals and indigenous communities on their journey.

Every move of the Southern Crossing adventure ride will be filmed with a plan to make a movie of the journey to be screened on Nat Geo channel and possibly on free-to-air TV, too. The trio have already appeared on Channel 7's Creek to Coast show.

"I have been planning this trip in my mind ever since I saw footage of the Leyland Brothers crossing our continent in a Land Rover in 1966. We chose the Ténérés because they are the ideal motorcycle for this overland trip. We needed something rugged and reliable with enough power to get us up and over the dunes, but light enough to lift out of sections if we get bogged," says project leader Leroy Robinson.

"We have kitted the bikes up and taken them on a few shakedown runs to get used to their off road capabilities. We are impressed with their performance and confident of success," adds the Brisbane based business consultant.

Those wishing to see off the Southern Crossing team are invited to join the launch festivities at Byron Bay on May 14 and 15, including a rendezvous at Clarke's Beach Reserve, Byron Bay at 10.30am on Sunday 15 May for a fun ride to Casino. For more information, visit the website at www.thesoutherncrossing.com.au or register for the ride at the Southern Crossing Facebook events page.

YMA is sponsoring the coast to coast ride and will keep viewers updated with details of the trip at www.yamaha-motor.com.au