When it comes down to travelling for work, you never really know what a place is going to be like until you are physically there. So, when posted to a remote place, it may seem uncertain how you could prepare yourself for a comfortable transition.
There are some steps you can take to be prepared for when you start work at a remote place – some of which may save your life given the restricted access to facilities and services, which may include longer times for help to reach you.
Know the weather
Looking into the weather forecast will pay off tremendously when preparing yourself to work in a remote area. Find out whether it’s storm season, how high the heat can get during summer, and other weather conditions that will impact the way you operate when you’re there.
For example, Western Australia is known for harsh weather conditions with extremes in temperatures followed by violent storms, rains, floods and even cyclones. If you are unfamiliar with the region, you can be caught out by the climatic conditions such as a dangerous summer storm resulting in affected work conditions, restricted road and emergency access, and interferences of travel and operations in certain areas.
Understand thermal stress
The ease of travelling from one place to another very different location puts people at risk to the extreme variations in humidity and temperature, without a gradual transition. Those who are unprepared or those who are unwell can be put in a dangerous position under these harsh conditions.
There are other contributing factors to thermal stress beyond high humidity and temperatures, such as the physical demand of the work involved, the degree of acclimatisation, your health condition and age, being overweight, medical conditions such as heart disease or high blood pressure, medicine consumption that is susceptible to heat, and being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
It is important to avoid heat exposure as much as possible, staying away from the sun and seeking shade and shelter whenever you can. Hydration is also critical in regulating your body temperature, so come prepared with plenty of water on the go.
Limited communications
Being away from the metropolitan cluster has the upside of fantastic, pristine landscapes and the downside of limited access to communications.
With lesser lines and communication structures in the area, you should expect to have limited means of communication through your mobile phone signal as well as the internet.
If you anticipate yourself being in an extremely rural place, you may wish to consider investing in a satellite phone to gain better access for contact.
Remote working in Weipa
Nestled comfortably on the Western Coast of Cape York comes the quaint and beautiful town of Weipa. With only an estimated population of 4,000 people, the town certainly is small with the consideration of being a relatively remote destination.
Nevertheless, the town is packed with essentials and exceptional services, including a hospital, a pharmacy, a local school, supermarkets, a library, walking tracks, parks, sporting grounds, and plenty of brilliant places to dine, explore and stay.
Where to stay when working in Weipa
For a stress-free remote working experience in Weipa, the Albatross Bay Resort is the place you want to be in.
Offering comfortable and convenient accommodation with all the necessary amenities and facilities covered, there isn’t much else you could ask for. Complimentary continental breakfast delivered to your room is one of the perks of staying at the Alby.
Complimentary guest Wi-Fi is available, ensuring that you stay connected at all times, especially when working – which can prove to be challenging when working in a remote place.
There is a 24 hour on-site self-service laundromat for those who need fresh laundry, making your stay in Weipa that much more pleasant.
Personal mail can be received at the reception, and any mail items can be left at reception with stamps available for purchase at the desk.
If you fish, you’ll be glad to know that there are complimentary barbecue facilities for in-house guests as well as a fish cleaning area for those who want to cook up a catch. Alternatively, the professional chefs have you covered if you caught a big one and would like to leave the cooking to the experts, with the Alby’s Catch & Cook experience.
Save yourself the trouble of booking a cab in Weipa and take advantage of the airport shuttle service offered by the Albatross Bay Resort. There is a courtesy bus that shuttles to the airport between 8am to 7pm. Simply call in to book a lift prior to your arrival.
When working in a remote place, it always feels great to be able to rest and relax by having someone else do the cooking for you. The Albatross Bay Resort boasts exceptionally decadent meals in The Deck Restaurant, as well as casual bites and thirst quenching drinks at the Sports Bar.
If you’re feeling lucky, try your luck in the Jackpot Gaming Lounge or place a bet on a sport over at the TAB facility.
A stay at the Albatross Bay Resort won’t leave you high and dry with its very own Albatross Liquor Drive Thru stocking a wide range of beers, wines and spirits.
For any queries regarding our range of facilities and services, please call our team on (07) 4090 6666.
Banner Image Credit: Forbes
