Where “Roo Bar” Comes From
A roo bar is a sturdy metal frame fitted to the front of a vehicle, also called a bull bar. It’s designed to protect the vehicle in a collision with an animal such as a kangaroo.
It’s common on country vehicles.
“That ute’s got a big roo bar on the front.”
How Aussies Actually Use It
Used by drivers and in car talk, especially in rural areas.
In Real Life
Kangaroos are most active at dawn and dusk, which is when many collisions happen on country roads. A roo bar, also called a bull bar, is a strong frame on the front of a ute or four-wheel drive that protects the radiator and headlights. It helps with damage, but it doesn’t make a collision safe. The best protection is to slow down at dusk and dawn and watch the roadside.
Quick Questions
Does a roo bar make it safe to hit a kangaroo?
No. It reduces vehicle damage, but a collision can still be dangerous, so slow down in kangaroo country, especially at dusk and dawn.
Is a roo bar the same as a bull bar?
Mostly, yes. “Roo bar” is the Australian name, and “bull bar” is used widely too.
Say It Like an Aussie
Say it: ROO BAR.
In conversation:
- We fitted a roo bar before the trip.
- Drive carefully at dusk, roos are everywhere.
- His four-wheel drive has a roo bar.
Good to know: Roos are most active at dawn and dusk, which is the riskiest time to drive in the country. A roo bar helps protect the car but doesn’t make it safe, so slow down.
See also: Ute, Road Train, Roo
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