The snorkel serves two purposes:
1- It helps with fuel economy and keeps dust away from the engine.
2- It does keep the water away from the engine. We do not come across it often but it does happen that we have to traverse water in excess of a couple of feet deep.
Arne, I had a similar problem when I visited over there. My mate kept asking me if I would like to drive. Took about three days to reverse my thinking

Most of our camping is done in the outback. Katrina and I tend to avoid the more traditional holiday spots(too many hoomans)
Warpony, Just goes to show how evolution has created good camoflauge
Cheers
Paul
