On the 27th November we packed up camp and headed back to Hervey Bay and mum and dads place to finish off helping dad.
The parts had been ordered and had arrived so it was time for James to finish helping dad. Unfortunately when dad had the truck tested it needed more work done, so time to order more parts in and wait for them to come in.
We had a phone call from the Real Estate Agent, and our tenants who were suppose to move out on the 30th November had asked for an extension as their house would no be ready by then, so we gave them until the 14th December. This meant that we now had to extend our time in Hervey Bay as we couldnt go home on the 1st as planned.
On the 4th December we all went out to the Boat Club to celebrate James birthday. It was really nice to be there with mum, dad, Jenny and James and Rena. It was also nice not to have to cook and washup too :).
We then had another phone call from the Real Estate Agent, who advised that they tenants wanted another extension as they wouldnt be able to move out until the 17th December. So we had no choice but to accept this, another delay in going home, so mum and dad will have to put up with Rena and us a little longer.
The truck finally passed rego, so James could relax, and mum and dad could now take off back to the Ridge when ever they wanted too.
We celebrated Christmas early with the Hervey Bay clan. It was a really nice time and it was great to celebrate with the family. For the first time in many years I actually made the triffle, thank goodness for the internet. My sister Fiona makes the best triffles and is normally the one who makes them, I make the cheesecakes. We also celebrated my youngest nephews birthday on the same day. Happy birthday Aaron.
Well the 17th came and we packed up the camper and the pulsar and collected the cat and headed south after lunch. We were not allowed to enter the house before 5pm so this meant a late start for us.
We arrived home just after 5pm, sad that our fantastic trip around Australia was over (and a little bit earlier than first planned) but we were also looking forward to being in our own bed (once unpacked) and able to swim in the pool when ever we wanted, oh and shower and flushing toilet etc etc. :) :) (but you can learn to live without such luxuries)
So after 313 days and 32,166 klms we are home and looking forward to the next time we can get out there and enjoy this great country of ours again.
Thank you to all the wonderful people that we have met along the way. Our lives will forever be changed by this wonderful experience, we have been to some magical places and walked and climbed some wonderful treks.
People ask what was our favorite thing/experience, but we did some many things and saw so many places it is hard to single one out. Karajini NP WA and Kermit's Pool was magical and exhilarating but then all the gorge walks in The Kimberley were right up there too, swimming in the Roper River in NT only to find out the day after that there was a 3 meter plus salty in that river the day before we were there, it is hard to single one experience out.
I do know one thing, I will have itchy feet for quite some time, we have only just touched the tip of the iceberg on this trip, next time we go, we wont have a fixed home date, we will travel until we have explored it all. We are all hungry to explore this land fully, but until then, we will have to suffice with lots of little trips to help quell the itch.
Tuesday, 31 December 2013
Day 285 - 291 Wednesday 20th - Tuesday 26th November 2013; Location - Woodgate Beach Campground, Burrum Coast National Park
We headed up to Woodgate Beach, we had helped mum and dad, but we had very itchy feet and felt as if we still had so much unfinished business, so we packed up the camper and hit the blacktop again and headed up to Woodgate Beach to relax before heading home.
We explored around the campground and then off down to Walkers Creek. It was times like this that I wish we had a canoe, it would have been fantastic to paddle up the river. Was so calm and perfect weather for it too. It looked so inviting, but to many sharks and jellyfish to actually dive in and have a swim.
We explored Woodgate township. It was really beautiful to see that a family had taken the time to write a sign on the beach using shells, rocks and red roses wishing their mum a happy 80th birthday. I know it made me feel really special and would have loved it if my kids had done something like that for me. Felt very blessed to have been there to witness it.
We headed up the coast to the creek and James went off to do a geocache whilst Rena and I explored the picnic area.
We also went in to Bundaberg one day to have a look around and get some fresh food. I have been chasing some wool to finish a project I have been doing, but I have been to 3 spotlights now and looks like I will have to pull it apart and start again as I can no longer get the same wool :(
We headed to the river and sat by it whilst having lunch, after lunch we had a drive around to see what damage we could still see from the floods earlier in the year. Was good to see that there wasnt much damage you could see.
One night we had a storm roll in just as I was cooking dinner, just finished cooking, had sat down to eat and the storm hit us, hail, heavy rain and wind.
We all ended up inside the camper with lightning hitting all around us and hail and heavy rain. Not a good feeling sitting inside a canvas camper whilst lightning was striking all around you. Luckily it was only pea size hail.
Once it had passed we had water in our annex up past our ankles so we had to dig trenches to get the water the drain away. We had fun playing in the water, was still hot and muggy, but at least we could get wet.
Was a very hot and muggy night that one, no air conditioning in the camper, so all windows open that night. Luckily our closest neighbours had moved on that morning.
The rest of the time was spent resting and relaxing, will be flat out once we get home for a while, so time to rest as much as we can before the bedlam starts.
We explored around the campground and then off down to Walkers Creek. It was times like this that I wish we had a canoe, it would have been fantastic to paddle up the river. Was so calm and perfect weather for it too. It looked so inviting, but to many sharks and jellyfish to actually dive in and have a swim.
We explored Woodgate township. It was really beautiful to see that a family had taken the time to write a sign on the beach using shells, rocks and red roses wishing their mum a happy 80th birthday. I know it made me feel really special and would have loved it if my kids had done something like that for me. Felt very blessed to have been there to witness it.
We headed up the coast to the creek and James went off to do a geocache whilst Rena and I explored the picnic area.
We also went in to Bundaberg one day to have a look around and get some fresh food. I have been chasing some wool to finish a project I have been doing, but I have been to 3 spotlights now and looks like I will have to pull it apart and start again as I can no longer get the same wool :(
We headed to the river and sat by it whilst having lunch, after lunch we had a drive around to see what damage we could still see from the floods earlier in the year. Was good to see that there wasnt much damage you could see.
One night we had a storm roll in just as I was cooking dinner, just finished cooking, had sat down to eat and the storm hit us, hail, heavy rain and wind.
We all ended up inside the camper with lightning hitting all around us and hail and heavy rain. Not a good feeling sitting inside a canvas camper whilst lightning was striking all around you. Luckily it was only pea size hail.
Once it had passed we had water in our annex up past our ankles so we had to dig trenches to get the water the drain away. We had fun playing in the water, was still hot and muggy, but at least we could get wet.
Was a very hot and muggy night that one, no air conditioning in the camper, so all windows open that night. Luckily our closest neighbours had moved on that morning.
The rest of the time was spent resting and relaxing, will be flat out once we get home for a while, so time to rest as much as we can before the bedlam starts.
Day 267 - Day 284 Saturday November 2nd - Tuesday 19th November 2013; Location - Hervey Bay
We headed to Hervey Bay so that we could answer a SOS from my mum to help my dad out. So we have spent this time helping mum and dad out.
Rena has got to enjoy WetSide at Hervey Bay, I think this has become one of her favorite places to visit now.
During this time we got to celebrate my parents 49th wedding anniversary, my niece Jesse graduate from high school and did she scrub up really well for her formal. She looked gorgeous.
Rena has got to enjoy WetSide at Hervey Bay, I think this has become one of her favorite places to visit now.
During this time we got to celebrate my parents 49th wedding anniversary, my niece Jesse graduate from high school and did she scrub up really well for her formal. She looked gorgeous.
Day 256 - 266 Tuesday 22nd October - Friday 1st November 2013; Location - Lightning Ridge
We spent this time catching up with my sister Fiona and checking out Lightning Ridge.
It was too hot to go out to the bore baths so we gave them a miss this time.
It was too hot to go out to the bore baths so we gave them a miss this time.
Day 255 Monday 21st October 2013; Location - 4 Mile Reserve Brewarrina
We woke up early and it was warm already, had slept with all the windows open last night, the slight cool breeze was a nice relief from the heat of the day.
We packed up camp and our neighbour came over for a chat. He was very talkative and in the end we just had to drive away as he just wanted to talk all day. He was in for a long chat.
We then headed back in to Brewarrina and then off to Lightning Ridge.
We arrived at my sisters camp and set up camp. We did a full setup as we were going to stay for a couple of days. It is amazing how cool it is under the annex, was cooler under the annex than inside Fiona's camp.
We packed up camp and our neighbour came over for a chat. He was very talkative and in the end we just had to drive away as he just wanted to talk all day. He was in for a long chat.
We then headed back in to Brewarrina and then off to Lightning Ridge.
We arrived at my sisters camp and set up camp. We did a full setup as we were going to stay for a couple of days. It is amazing how cool it is under the annex, was cooler under the annex than inside Fiona's camp.
Day 254 Sunday 20th October 2013; Location - Tilpa Weir Camping Area
Well the flies returned early, no reprieve from these little black flies.
As we were packing up, we had a visitor. It was an old timer who had been camping up the river and yesterday whilst fishing on the river in his boat, had flipped it and lost his brand new Bundaberg Rum Esky.
He was hoping that it had floated down to the weir, but unfortunately for him it wasn't there. Would have been a nice find for someone. I think he was really hoping that we had found it.
We then headed back out to the blacktop and headed in to Louth. We pulled up opposite the pub at the park and made lunch in the shade of the tree. It was a little hot, Rena decided to stay in the car to eat her lunch to stay away from both the heat and the flies.
James and I soon followed suite, flies. Got to expect them in the outback, but they have been so bad for so long now. Starting to wear thin.
We then headed for Brewarrina and headed out of town to the 4 mile reserve. Mum had told us about this campspot and was suppose to be popular with the gray nomad set.
Nice spot, right beside the river. nice little campspot, toilets, cold showers and a jetty for you to swim off.
James picked his spot and we set up camp, we enjoyed the shade of the tree whilst we had it as it was quite a warm day. The river looked tempting but none of us wanted to go in, so we got Rena's big black tub and filled it up with water and she had a dip to cool down.
We watched our fellow campers have a swim and a processing of locals come out for a swim. Our neighbours dropped a line into the river but all they got was cod. Was fun to watch the couple as they had a bit of a tiff as they were very competitive when it came to fishing.
The facilities wernt to bad. They were in need of some repairs, the showers were cold and 2 didn't have doors and the water was from the river, but it was free.
It was another warm night, it had been a hot day and now a warm night.
As we were packing up, we had a visitor. It was an old timer who had been camping up the river and yesterday whilst fishing on the river in his boat, had flipped it and lost his brand new Bundaberg Rum Esky.
He was hoping that it had floated down to the weir, but unfortunately for him it wasn't there. Would have been a nice find for someone. I think he was really hoping that we had found it.
We then headed back out to the blacktop and headed in to Louth. We pulled up opposite the pub at the park and made lunch in the shade of the tree. It was a little hot, Rena decided to stay in the car to eat her lunch to stay away from both the heat and the flies.
James and I soon followed suite, flies. Got to expect them in the outback, but they have been so bad for so long now. Starting to wear thin.
We then headed for Brewarrina and headed out of town to the 4 mile reserve. Mum had told us about this campspot and was suppose to be popular with the gray nomad set.
Nice spot, right beside the river. nice little campspot, toilets, cold showers and a jetty for you to swim off.
James picked his spot and we set up camp, we enjoyed the shade of the tree whilst we had it as it was quite a warm day. The river looked tempting but none of us wanted to go in, so we got Rena's big black tub and filled it up with water and she had a dip to cool down.
We watched our fellow campers have a swim and a processing of locals come out for a swim. Our neighbours dropped a line into the river but all they got was cod. Was fun to watch the couple as they had a bit of a tiff as they were very competitive when it came to fishing.
The facilities wernt to bad. They were in need of some repairs, the showers were cold and 2 didn't have doors and the water was from the river, but it was free.
It was another warm night, it had been a hot day and now a warm night.
Day 253 Saturday 19th October 2013; Location - Spring Hill Rest Area
We slept in, well we awoke at our usual time but due to changing states and daylight savings it is now a sleep in for us.
We had breakfast and then packed up. Lots of feral goats around this morning. The damage that they are doing to the environment. :(
We hit the road and headed in to Wilcannia as I had run out of gas last night whilst cooking dinner and needed to get a gas bottle refill.
Gas bottle refilled and we hit the road again, the town was boarded up more than last time we drove through this way. It is amazing to see the changes in towns from years to years when you are traveling through. Off we headed towards Bourke.
Next port of call is the Tilpa Weir, James selected the campsite and we set up campt.
FLIES!!!!!!! ARGH!!!!!!!!!!! FLIES LITTLE STICKY BLACK FLIES!!!!!!!!!!
Well I had my cuppa inside the camper trailer, couldn't even have a cuppa outside without the flies crawling all over me and trying to climb into every orifice of my body.
OVER THESE F$%#@N FLIES!!!!!!!
Just after dark we were sitting inside and there was 2 bright lights start just near our camper. They were high up in the air and close together, but too high to be on a 4wd. There was absolutely no noise what so ever. Had a look couldnt see any cars etc there. No noise before, during or after the lights left.
Checked outside for Tyre marks too, nothing, zilch, zero. Nothing. Real twilight zone stuff.
We had breakfast and then packed up. Lots of feral goats around this morning. The damage that they are doing to the environment. :(
We hit the road and headed in to Wilcannia as I had run out of gas last night whilst cooking dinner and needed to get a gas bottle refill.
Gas bottle refilled and we hit the road again, the town was boarded up more than last time we drove through this way. It is amazing to see the changes in towns from years to years when you are traveling through. Off we headed towards Bourke.
Next port of call is the Tilpa Weir, James selected the campsite and we set up campt.
FLIES!!!!!!! ARGH!!!!!!!!!!! FLIES LITTLE STICKY BLACK FLIES!!!!!!!!!!
Well I had my cuppa inside the camper trailer, couldn't even have a cuppa outside without the flies crawling all over me and trying to climb into every orifice of my body.
OVER THESE F$%#@N FLIES!!!!!!!
Just after dark we were sitting inside and there was 2 bright lights start just near our camper. They were high up in the air and close together, but too high to be on a 4wd. There was absolutely no noise what so ever. Had a look couldnt see any cars etc there. No noise before, during or after the lights left.
Checked outside for Tyre marks too, nothing, zilch, zero. Nothing. Real twilight zone stuff.
Day 251 - 252 Thursday 17th - Friday 18th October 2013; Location - Broken Hill
Thursday 17th
Spent the day catching up with Jan. I must admit it was nice to be inside a house away from the flies and elements, but even better to be able to catch up with my good friend.
I cooked my other BFF Karen's Chicken Adabo (which has now become a favorite for James) for Jan and the girls. It went down really well.
Really enjoyed cooking and washing up inside too :) another simple pleasure in life.
Friday 18th
Today we said goodbye to Jan and left Broken Hill heading east. We first called in to fuel up the cruiser and then hit the road.
We only did a short drive today as we didnt leave the Hill until midday.
We got to the Spring Hill Rest Area which had a great gated undercover playground for Rena. So Rena got to play on the playground for quite some time and even at times had James and I running around playing with her in the playground.
The flies were not that bad either, and the temperature was bearable, which made for a pleasant stay, we even managed to sit outside and enjoy a cuppa without having to dodge those little sticky black flies.
Cooked dinner late, this daylight savings and time zone changes over the past week are really messing with our body clocks. We will all be glad to be back to our normal Queensland time zone.
Spent the day catching up with Jan. I must admit it was nice to be inside a house away from the flies and elements, but even better to be able to catch up with my good friend.
I cooked my other BFF Karen's Chicken Adabo (which has now become a favorite for James) for Jan and the girls. It went down really well.
Really enjoyed cooking and washing up inside too :) another simple pleasure in life.
Friday 18th
Today we said goodbye to Jan and left Broken Hill heading east. We first called in to fuel up the cruiser and then hit the road.
We only did a short drive today as we didnt leave the Hill until midday.
We got to the Spring Hill Rest Area which had a great gated undercover playground for Rena. So Rena got to play on the playground for quite some time and even at times had James and I running around playing with her in the playground.
The flies were not that bad either, and the temperature was bearable, which made for a pleasant stay, we even managed to sit outside and enjoy a cuppa without having to dodge those little sticky black flies.
Cooked dinner late, this daylight savings and time zone changes over the past week are really messing with our body clocks. We will all be glad to be back to our normal Queensland time zone.
Day 250 Wednesday 16th October 2013; Location - Cutona Rest Area
Had a nice easy morning as I was really tired after my lack of sleep, before packing up and heading for Broken Hill.
We called in to Woollies as I was hanging out for a Sara Lea Lasagna for dinner. Restocked the vegetables and fruit and head to my BFF Jan's place.
Was really great to see Jan again. It is great how you don's see your friend for years, but it is as if you only saw each other yesterday.
Was great catching up with Jan and seeing how big her girls have grown. Rena really enjoyed having some girls to play with and also all their toys. :) Rena even learnt how to play the playstation.
We called in to Woollies as I was hanging out for a Sara Lea Lasagna for dinner. Restocked the vegetables and fruit and head to my BFF Jan's place.
Was really great to see Jan again. It is great how you don's see your friend for years, but it is as if you only saw each other yesterday.
Was great catching up with Jan and seeing how big her girls have grown. Rena really enjoyed having some girls to play with and also all their toys. :) Rena even learnt how to play the playstation.
Day 249 Tuesday 15th October 2013; Location - Orroroo Rest Area
After packing up we drove through the towns of Orroroo and Peterborough, what beautiful quaint little country towns.
Peterborough had some steamtrains and a rail museum. Both main streets had sculptures.
After a quick look we headed back to the black top and kept heading east. We got to the Cutona Rest Area and decided to make it a short day and set up camp.
Another easy night for me in the kitchen, sausages and left overs for dinner.
This rest area was like a rubbish tip, everyone had dumped their rubbish all over the place, despite the fact that there was bins provided, disgusting...... You really had to watch where you were standing and Rena had to watch where she played.
We went to bed at about 8.30pm and at 9.30pm a truck pulled in to the rest area, proceeded to put his choke on and must have went to sleep for about 3 1/2 hours with his engine revving. At 1 am he decided to turn his choke off idle the engine for about 10 mins and drive off.
GRRR!!!!!! at one stage was ready to get up and ask him to turn it off, but you just don't know. Thanks to that inconsiderate truck driver I didn't get much sleep. (there was a truck stop just down the road don't know why he chose the car rest area instead).
Peterborough had some steamtrains and a rail museum. Both main streets had sculptures.
After a quick look we headed back to the black top and kept heading east. We got to the Cutona Rest Area and decided to make it a short day and set up camp.
Another easy night for me in the kitchen, sausages and left overs for dinner.
This rest area was like a rubbish tip, everyone had dumped their rubbish all over the place, despite the fact that there was bins provided, disgusting...... You really had to watch where you were standing and Rena had to watch where she played.
We went to bed at about 8.30pm and at 9.30pm a truck pulled in to the rest area, proceeded to put his choke on and must have went to sleep for about 3 1/2 hours with his engine revving. At 1 am he decided to turn his choke off idle the engine for about 10 mins and drive off.
GRRR!!!!!! at one stage was ready to get up and ask him to turn it off, but you just don't know. Thanks to that inconsiderate truck driver I didn't get much sleep. (there was a truck stop just down the road don't know why he chose the car rest area instead).
Day 247 - 248 Sunday 13th - Monday 14th October 2013; Location - Kimba Recreation Reserve
Sunday 13th
Today we decided that we would stay an extra night here and have a rest day.
It was overcast then sunny, then raining, all whilst the temperature just kept getting cooler. At one stage it was hailing.
I decided it would be a good opportunity to pull out the laptop and update the blog. This really is a slow process, it just takes so long to upload anything with this Telstra broadband stick. Trying to add photos just takes a horrible length of time 4 photos 15 mins, so I have decided that after adding some photos today and taking such a long time I will wait until we get home and get back to home broadband before I attempt to load any more photos.
I cooked dinner and we retreated inside as it was really quite cool. Rena had spent the day playing on and off in the playground, this really is a good spot to stay. Hot showers, flat campground, clean toilets and all they ask is for a coin donation. Well done Kimba :).
As it turned out it was a very cold night, so much so that James got up during the night and got the spare blanket out of the car for the bed. Brrrrrr cold night.
Monday 14th
Well it was time to pack up and move on today. We could of stayed alot longer at Kimba, was a very nice spot to camp.
First I took Rena over to use the flushing toilet before we headed off again. (its the little things in life you get to appreciate). It was so nice to have a hot shower (without having to heat the water yourself and turn the water on and off) and also to have a flushing toilet . Luxuries for camper trailer travelers.
We headed out of Kimba but not before having a look at the Giant Pink Galah at the Half Way Across Australia service station. We didn't realise that Kimba was the halfway point across Australia until we saw the signs.
Next on port of call was Port Augusta & we called in to Woollies and stocked up on some items, we then headed for the petrol station and topped up the cruiser. Then off to the laundrymat. (This is one part of the trip that I will not miss when I get home).
Clothes all clean, dry and folded and we headed back to the highway and headed east.
We headed up the range and called in to the lookout/campground on the western side of the range, a very pretty spot, but it was just a little bit too windy for us to camp there for the night, so we decided that we would head further east to try and find a spot out of the wind.
We headed off to the Orroroo Rest Area, nice spot, lots of spots to camp well away from the road, and very little wind. Was good to have other vans around us for the night too.
Flies and some wind, but we cooked outside ok, luckily for me, I had bought a BBQ chook so made dinner nice and easy.
Once the sun started to set, the temperature cooled down quickly, and as the night progressed it got really cold. Being up fairly high in altitude we expected it to be cool.
Today we decided that we would stay an extra night here and have a rest day.
It was overcast then sunny, then raining, all whilst the temperature just kept getting cooler. At one stage it was hailing.
I decided it would be a good opportunity to pull out the laptop and update the blog. This really is a slow process, it just takes so long to upload anything with this Telstra broadband stick. Trying to add photos just takes a horrible length of time 4 photos 15 mins, so I have decided that after adding some photos today and taking such a long time I will wait until we get home and get back to home broadband before I attempt to load any more photos.
I cooked dinner and we retreated inside as it was really quite cool. Rena had spent the day playing on and off in the playground, this really is a good spot to stay. Hot showers, flat campground, clean toilets and all they ask is for a coin donation. Well done Kimba :).
As it turned out it was a very cold night, so much so that James got up during the night and got the spare blanket out of the car for the bed. Brrrrrr cold night.
Monday 14th
Well it was time to pack up and move on today. We could of stayed alot longer at Kimba, was a very nice spot to camp.
First I took Rena over to use the flushing toilet before we headed off again. (its the little things in life you get to appreciate). It was so nice to have a hot shower (without having to heat the water yourself and turn the water on and off) and also to have a flushing toilet . Luxuries for camper trailer travelers.
We headed out of Kimba but not before having a look at the Giant Pink Galah at the Half Way Across Australia service station. We didn't realise that Kimba was the halfway point across Australia until we saw the signs.
Next on port of call was Port Augusta & we called in to Woollies and stocked up on some items, we then headed for the petrol station and topped up the cruiser. Then off to the laundrymat. (This is one part of the trip that I will not miss when I get home).
Clothes all clean, dry and folded and we headed back to the highway and headed east.
We headed up the range and called in to the lookout/campground on the western side of the range, a very pretty spot, but it was just a little bit too windy for us to camp there for the night, so we decided that we would head further east to try and find a spot out of the wind.
We headed off to the Orroroo Rest Area, nice spot, lots of spots to camp well away from the road, and very little wind. Was good to have other vans around us for the night too.
Flies and some wind, but we cooked outside ok, luckily for me, I had bought a BBQ chook so made dinner nice and easy.
Once the sun started to set, the temperature cooled down quickly, and as the night progressed it got really cold. Being up fairly high in altitude we expected it to be cool.
Saturday, 12 October 2013
Day 246 Saturday 12th October 2013; Location - Tcharkuldu Rock
After breakfast and packing up the camper Rena and I headed off up to Tcharkuldu Rock to explore it. There was some really great hidding holes as well as some interesting natural sculptures. Some of the rocks looked like the Devils Marbels formations.
After exploring the rock we headed back to the car whilst trying to escape the never ending flies, one thing that has plagued us has been flies and wind.
We headed to the highway and eastward.
When we past through Wudinna we stoped at a giant granite sculpture dedicated to the agriculturalist. Really well done.
We then hit the road again and called in to the Goyders Monument, we had camped at the monument that was on the eastern side of the Flinders Rangers so was interesting to look at this monument (even if it wasnt on the actual Goyders Line).
I made lunch whilst James squatted the flies. Boy they have been bad, and we escaped in to the car to eat it.
Next stop after lunch was Kimba, we tried to find the Giant Pink Galah, but alas, we haven't found it yet. (Tomorrow), we then headed up to the White's Knob lookout and the iron sculptures of Eyre and his aboriginal tracker. Very well done, worth the look. I had a quick look at the caves, 2 small caves in the hillside.
We then headed back to the Kimba Recreation Reserve and set up camp for the night. What a find, kids playground for Rena, HOT showers ($1 for 3 mins) for me, (YAY a REAL shower), water, toilets, and all free. This town really does welcome RV's.
Well we spent the afternoon relaxing and keeping Rena occupied until it had cooled down enough for her to go play in the playground. James did a tag with me and I came back and cooked dinner, was a novelty tonight, didnt have to fight the elements cooking outside, just had to worry about the flies.
Well after dinner, James and I did the tag team and went and had our showers, OMG it was so good to have a real shower and not have to turn the water on and off, and worry about every mil you were using.
After dinner we got talking to our neighbour, they come from Morayfield, so small world.
After exploring the rock we headed back to the car whilst trying to escape the never ending flies, one thing that has plagued us has been flies and wind.
We headed to the highway and eastward.
When we past through Wudinna we stoped at a giant granite sculpture dedicated to the agriculturalist. Really well done.
We then hit the road again and called in to the Goyders Monument, we had camped at the monument that was on the eastern side of the Flinders Rangers so was interesting to look at this monument (even if it wasnt on the actual Goyders Line).
I made lunch whilst James squatted the flies. Boy they have been bad, and we escaped in to the car to eat it.
Next stop after lunch was Kimba, we tried to find the Giant Pink Galah, but alas, we haven't found it yet. (Tomorrow), we then headed up to the White's Knob lookout and the iron sculptures of Eyre and his aboriginal tracker. Very well done, worth the look. I had a quick look at the caves, 2 small caves in the hillside.
We then headed back to the Kimba Recreation Reserve and set up camp for the night. What a find, kids playground for Rena, HOT showers ($1 for 3 mins) for me, (YAY a REAL shower), water, toilets, and all free. This town really does welcome RV's.
Well we spent the afternoon relaxing and keeping Rena occupied until it had cooled down enough for her to go play in the playground. James did a tag with me and I came back and cooked dinner, was a novelty tonight, didnt have to fight the elements cooking outside, just had to worry about the flies.
Well after dinner, James and I did the tag team and went and had our showers, OMG it was so good to have a real shower and not have to turn the water on and off, and worry about every mil you were using.
After dinner we got talking to our neighbour, they come from Morayfield, so small world.
Day 244 - 245 Thursday 10th - Friday 11th October 2013; Location Phildappa Rock
Thursday 10th
What a difference a day can make, today it is overcast and showers, but not to hot, but still cold enough to keep the flies away.
We had slept in to 9am, but with getting use to the change in time zone, and adding daylight savings on to it, and not much sleep the last couple of nights, I think we all needed to sleep in.
Well after we got up, we had a nice relaxing day including a much needed shower, no more prickly heat after the last couple of really hot days.
James and I took turns at exploring the rock. Rena went with James and had a great time exploring Phildappa Rock.
It was afternoon before I climbed up on top, wow, what spectacular views from up on top. It was almost clear, so not to many clouds in the sky, but very windy. I didnt want to get to close to the edge because it was gusting.
This is definately a place that we would want to come back to explore again. It is a free camp, they just ask for a donation, which we did give. Toilet, Covered Picnic Area with light, BBQ and bins. very well laid out.
I cooked dinner just on dark to try and avoid the flies, was good not to have to contend with the flies whilst cooking.
After dinner James and I pulled out the maps and books to try and decide where to go to from here. We also wanted to work out wether it was worth buying another Parks SA Holiday Pass as we were going to go in to Gawler Ranges and maybe some other parks. We decided not to buy one at this point, but still couldnt really decide where to go. We will definately come back to SA for some of our 6 week holidays. There is just so much we still want to see here.
We are going to take it one day at a time, we still have about 6 weeks before we need to be back in Brisbane again, so why rush these things, if we like somewhere we will stay a few extra days, if we don't like it we will move on.
Both Rena & I have lifted spirits now that we have a home date. I will have so much to do when I get home, but really looking forward to being there and seeing my family again especially Leaston and my sooty cat. Missing both of them tremendously.
I then decided to hop the net for a little bit, and hopped on the myswag forum, read a thread which was titled 'Twilight Divorces' and had a good laugh, could relate quite well to some of the stories.
Friday 11th October
Woke up to a beautiful sunny day, hopefully the flies will stay away, but I highly doubt it.
We took our time and packed up before heading out to the Gawler Ranges and to the Organ Pipes, was a good drive but had to open and shut 3 gates on the way in and again on the way out.
Once we got to the Organ Pipes carpark, we took the easy 500 meter walk up to the Organ Pipes, it is amazing what nature has created.
After doing the walk and returning to the car, I decided to make lunch, but as the flies were that bad and intent on carrying us away, we decided that I would make lunch in the car, so at least we could attempt to eat lunch without the addition of flies.
We then headed back out of the Gawler Ranges and back to Minnipa, what a wonderful small community, we called in to the store and bought some bread and ice creams, and as I was paying for it, James asked if there was anywhere in town we could get water, and she let James have 20ltrs for free. Which was really nice of her.
We then headed down the road a little and in to the 2nd hand bookshop, so now James and I have something to read and they gave Rena a book to. :)
We then went and looked at the Concrete Crappa before heading back down highway number 1.
We then took the short dive out to Tchackuldu Rock. WOW what another amazing rock formation. Some of the rocks look like the Devils Marbels.
We drove around the rock looking at the camping options, we stopped and had a look at the original hut that has been restored, and then did the short drive down to the Tchackuldu Dam, this was the original water supply for the township. But has not been used for quite some time, James actually drove around the inside of the dam, it is now very very dry.
We headed back to the hut and set up camp near it as there was a nice flat spot next to an old concrete slab, perfect for us to set up next to. The hut was another very interesting find, it has a table and seats, as well as a visitor book (well pages) and someone had left some native flowers on the table along with some current womens magazines. All of the walls had been written on, I dont know if I agree with it, think I prefer to sign a visitor book to deface an historic building.
We set up camp, once again the flies were REALLY BAD, so we sat inside and had our cuppa as you couldn't even drink your tea without swallowing flies.
I waited until just on dark to cook dinner, and a fruit cake, getting good at cooking these cakes in the dream pot. mmm mmm. I think the fact that it wasnt blowing a gale made such a difference with the cooking of the cake.
What a difference a day can make, today it is overcast and showers, but not to hot, but still cold enough to keep the flies away.
We had slept in to 9am, but with getting use to the change in time zone, and adding daylight savings on to it, and not much sleep the last couple of nights, I think we all needed to sleep in.
Well after we got up, we had a nice relaxing day including a much needed shower, no more prickly heat after the last couple of really hot days.
James and I took turns at exploring the rock. Rena went with James and had a great time exploring Phildappa Rock.
It was afternoon before I climbed up on top, wow, what spectacular views from up on top. It was almost clear, so not to many clouds in the sky, but very windy. I didnt want to get to close to the edge because it was gusting.
This is definately a place that we would want to come back to explore again. It is a free camp, they just ask for a donation, which we did give. Toilet, Covered Picnic Area with light, BBQ and bins. very well laid out.
I cooked dinner just on dark to try and avoid the flies, was good not to have to contend with the flies whilst cooking.
After dinner James and I pulled out the maps and books to try and decide where to go to from here. We also wanted to work out wether it was worth buying another Parks SA Holiday Pass as we were going to go in to Gawler Ranges and maybe some other parks. We decided not to buy one at this point, but still couldnt really decide where to go. We will definately come back to SA for some of our 6 week holidays. There is just so much we still want to see here.
We are going to take it one day at a time, we still have about 6 weeks before we need to be back in Brisbane again, so why rush these things, if we like somewhere we will stay a few extra days, if we don't like it we will move on.
Both Rena & I have lifted spirits now that we have a home date. I will have so much to do when I get home, but really looking forward to being there and seeing my family again especially Leaston and my sooty cat. Missing both of them tremendously.
I then decided to hop the net for a little bit, and hopped on the myswag forum, read a thread which was titled 'Twilight Divorces' and had a good laugh, could relate quite well to some of the stories.
Friday 11th October
Woke up to a beautiful sunny day, hopefully the flies will stay away, but I highly doubt it.
We took our time and packed up before heading out to the Gawler Ranges and to the Organ Pipes, was a good drive but had to open and shut 3 gates on the way in and again on the way out.
Once we got to the Organ Pipes carpark, we took the easy 500 meter walk up to the Organ Pipes, it is amazing what nature has created.
After doing the walk and returning to the car, I decided to make lunch, but as the flies were that bad and intent on carrying us away, we decided that I would make lunch in the car, so at least we could attempt to eat lunch without the addition of flies.
We then headed back out of the Gawler Ranges and back to Minnipa, what a wonderful small community, we called in to the store and bought some bread and ice creams, and as I was paying for it, James asked if there was anywhere in town we could get water, and she let James have 20ltrs for free. Which was really nice of her.
We then headed down the road a little and in to the 2nd hand bookshop, so now James and I have something to read and they gave Rena a book to. :)
We then went and looked at the Concrete Crappa before heading back down highway number 1.
We then took the short dive out to Tchackuldu Rock. WOW what another amazing rock formation. Some of the rocks look like the Devils Marbels.
We drove around the rock looking at the camping options, we stopped and had a look at the original hut that has been restored, and then did the short drive down to the Tchackuldu Dam, this was the original water supply for the township. But has not been used for quite some time, James actually drove around the inside of the dam, it is now very very dry.
We headed back to the hut and set up camp near it as there was a nice flat spot next to an old concrete slab, perfect for us to set up next to. The hut was another very interesting find, it has a table and seats, as well as a visitor book (well pages) and someone had left some native flowers on the table along with some current womens magazines. All of the walls had been written on, I dont know if I agree with it, think I prefer to sign a visitor book to deface an historic building.
We set up camp, once again the flies were REALLY BAD, so we sat inside and had our cuppa as you couldn't even drink your tea without swallowing flies.
I waited until just on dark to cook dinner, and a fruit cake, getting good at cooking these cakes in the dream pot. mmm mmm. I think the fact that it wasnt blowing a gale made such a difference with the cooking of the cake.
Day 243 Wednesday 9th October 2013; Location - Kidnippy Rest Area
We set the alarm for 5.30 am in hope to get the camper packed up before the predicted storm front hit at sunrise.
Unfortunately for us the storm front hit at about midnight, and the wind really picked up, so we didnt get much sleep as Rena carried on like a pork chop every time we had a big gust of wind.
So at 5.30 am we turned off the alarm before it went off and got up and had breakfast in the dark, we had mostly packed up the camper at sunrise, but the flies were out in force, I couldnt breath as they were in my mouth, ears, eyes GRRRR HATE FLIES!!!!!!!
Packed up and on the road (before 7am) we headed east and got to Penang and stopped to use the facilities then we decided to do a short backtrack to go to Cactus Beach.
This was a good gravel road, and just before the pink lake there was a sign, slow down our wildlife is slow. There was lizards (mostly shinglebacks) all over the road. James stopped and picked one up and I took a picture of the beautiful lizard. :) We have now seen many pink lakes, they are an amazing sight to see.
We got out to the Port LeHunt Jetty, what a little gem, there was a sign strictly no camping, but there was a caravan and a tent there. Nice netted swimming area, tragically years ago a 10 yr old boy had lost his life at this point from a shark, so the local area made the area safe to swim by netting it.
We didnt go over to Cactus Beach, just looked from afar as it was blowing a gale and threatening to rain. More lizards on the way out. Cute :). The backpackers that were packing up their tent at the jetty came flying past us at a 100 miles an hour only to have to slam on the brakes when a car in front of them slammed on their brakes to miss a lizard, didnt slow them down one bit, overtook the other car and recommenced their dash to the finish line. Idiots, accident waiting to happen.
We headed back to Highway No1 and through the quarantine checkpoint near Ceduna. I hopped out the car, handed over our last apple and avocado from the fridge, and he said 'off you go before you get blown away', thankfully didnt have to open the camper or pantry up only the fridge.
We then drove through Ceduna and down to the turnoff for Streaky Bay. I wanted to see what this side of the Eyre Penninsula looked like. Very rural with lots of wheat/grain farms along the way.
When we got to Streaky Bay, it was very windy, but much cooler, the cold front had already hit here, so we had some reprieve from the previous days heat. We pulled up at the Apex Park and had lunch, once again eating it in the car as the flies were to bad to be able to eat outside.
Used the dump point, paid for 20ltrs of water at the dispenser and off we went again.
We then headed back to Highway No1 at Poochera and headed out to Phildappa Rock to set up camp for the night.
When we got to Phildappa Rock, what an amazing place, where you are approaching it it looks so awesome, and the wave formations. We got out of the car and well the cold front had not yet hit here and it was about 40 degrees and the flies were really bad.
We set up the camper and because the flies were so bad, couldnt sit outside, so we were all humped up in the camper waiting for the cooler weather or dark so we could venture outside without being carried away by the flies. James was the only one who could cope with the flies so he was the only one venturing outside to do anything. Thankfully no bees today.
Well I think that the lack of sleep over the past couple of nights, the heat, and the flies broke me, and I cracked it. Both Rena and I had sweat pouring out of us. It was just so hot and there was no relief. I was ready to get in the car, unhook the camper and drive off on my own.
Thankfully I lied down and must of had a micro nap as after about 10 min lie down I felt much better, so after sunset I went out and cooked dinner, the cold front finally came through and things cooled down a little bit.
Unfortunately for us the storm front hit at about midnight, and the wind really picked up, so we didnt get much sleep as Rena carried on like a pork chop every time we had a big gust of wind.
So at 5.30 am we turned off the alarm before it went off and got up and had breakfast in the dark, we had mostly packed up the camper at sunrise, but the flies were out in force, I couldnt breath as they were in my mouth, ears, eyes GRRRR HATE FLIES!!!!!!!
Packed up and on the road (before 7am) we headed east and got to Penang and stopped to use the facilities then we decided to do a short backtrack to go to Cactus Beach.
This was a good gravel road, and just before the pink lake there was a sign, slow down our wildlife is slow. There was lizards (mostly shinglebacks) all over the road. James stopped and picked one up and I took a picture of the beautiful lizard. :) We have now seen many pink lakes, they are an amazing sight to see.
We got out to the Port LeHunt Jetty, what a little gem, there was a sign strictly no camping, but there was a caravan and a tent there. Nice netted swimming area, tragically years ago a 10 yr old boy had lost his life at this point from a shark, so the local area made the area safe to swim by netting it.
We didnt go over to Cactus Beach, just looked from afar as it was blowing a gale and threatening to rain. More lizards on the way out. Cute :). The backpackers that were packing up their tent at the jetty came flying past us at a 100 miles an hour only to have to slam on the brakes when a car in front of them slammed on their brakes to miss a lizard, didnt slow them down one bit, overtook the other car and recommenced their dash to the finish line. Idiots, accident waiting to happen.
We headed back to Highway No1 and through the quarantine checkpoint near Ceduna. I hopped out the car, handed over our last apple and avocado from the fridge, and he said 'off you go before you get blown away', thankfully didnt have to open the camper or pantry up only the fridge.
We then drove through Ceduna and down to the turnoff for Streaky Bay. I wanted to see what this side of the Eyre Penninsula looked like. Very rural with lots of wheat/grain farms along the way.
When we got to Streaky Bay, it was very windy, but much cooler, the cold front had already hit here, so we had some reprieve from the previous days heat. We pulled up at the Apex Park and had lunch, once again eating it in the car as the flies were to bad to be able to eat outside.
Used the dump point, paid for 20ltrs of water at the dispenser and off we went again.
We then headed back to Highway No1 at Poochera and headed out to Phildappa Rock to set up camp for the night.
When we got to Phildappa Rock, what an amazing place, where you are approaching it it looks so awesome, and the wave formations. We got out of the car and well the cold front had not yet hit here and it was about 40 degrees and the flies were really bad.
We set up the camper and because the flies were so bad, couldnt sit outside, so we were all humped up in the camper waiting for the cooler weather or dark so we could venture outside without being carried away by the flies. James was the only one who could cope with the flies so he was the only one venturing outside to do anything. Thankfully no bees today.
Well I think that the lack of sleep over the past couple of nights, the heat, and the flies broke me, and I cracked it. Both Rena and I had sweat pouring out of us. It was just so hot and there was no relief. I was ready to get in the car, unhook the camper and drive off on my own.
Thankfully I lied down and must of had a micro nap as after about 10 min lie down I felt much better, so after sunset I went out and cooked dinner, the cold front finally came through and things cooled down a little bit.
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| Rena and James with the shingleback lizard |
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| Port LeHunte Jetty |
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| The pink lake |
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| the view from our camp at Phildappa Rock |
Day 242 Tuesday 8th October 2013; Location - West Eucla Bight
What a beautiful day if it was not for all the flies and the wind.
We packed up camp and headed back to Highway No1 and headed into Eucla and crossed over from WA into SA.
The boarder check here is for people travelling west we dont have to be ispected until we get to Ceduna as we are travelling eastward. Fresh fruit and vegis for a couple more days yet. :)
We stopped at the service station and whilst James frequented the facilities Rena got to play on the playground where there was a very old tractor, and all the play equipment looked like it had been there since I was a kid. There was also the Eucla Whale, a big whale at that welcoming people to visit Albany.
We then headed down to the Old Telegraph Station ruins to have a look, we got out the car and instantly we were hit with the very hot dry wind. Was so hot it was burning your eyes, and yes there were thousands of flies.
We had a look at the ruins. I would imagine that it will not be long at all before the ruins are overtaken by the sand dunes. Makes you wonder if they will take away some of the sand to keep it as a tourist attraction or let nature take its course.
It is hard to believe that white man and the introduction of rabbits could cause such devistation, apparently there was a rabbit plague that ate all the dune vegetation and cause the dunes to destabalise and this is the result many years later.
We hopped back in the car, was nice to be out of the wind and flies and in the comfort of air conditioning again.
Back to highway no1 and on to the Great Australian Bight were we called in to the three lookouts, it was just so hot and windy and the flies. Yeah I know I am going on a bit about the flies, but OMG they are so bad.
We got to the Kidnippy Rest Area and tried to find a spot out of the wind with some shade, but didnt have much success. We set up camp, and we went inside as the flies and march flies were so bad you just couldnt be outside.
Not long after we were having a cuppa (thanks James for putting up with the flies and making me a cuppa) and I heard a buzzing sound and thought it might be march flies swarming us, but unfortunately it was bees swarming, they had invaded the sink to get to water and were starting to cover the canvas on the camper and trying to get inside as well. Well as I am alergic to bees, so my wonderful hubby who is not alergic to bees went outside to try and persuade the bees to move on. All he had was a can of Off! and a tea towel :).
Well we were all very glad to see sunset, it was still stinking hot, but at least the flies had gorn away, James cooked dinner, but was invaded by flying ants attracted to the light.
I peeled all the vegis inside as I was going to make a vegetable lasagna and vegi bake to freeze to use up the last of the fresh vegis, but when I went outside to try and cook them I failed miserably, the flying ants just got in to everything, so I bagged it all up and put it in the freezer, as I could take frozen vegis across the boarder.
I did manage to cook the corned beef with only a few flying ants involved. I managed to cook it in the dream pot, love my dream pot, has made such a difference on this trip.
Hopped on the net and was suppose to of got to between 39 and 41 today and I believe it, felt hotter. No air conditioning in the camper trailer, oh yes i do, its called open all the windows and let the hot air blow through :) ahhh they joys of camping.
We packed up camp and headed back to Highway No1 and headed into Eucla and crossed over from WA into SA.
The boarder check here is for people travelling west we dont have to be ispected until we get to Ceduna as we are travelling eastward. Fresh fruit and vegis for a couple more days yet. :)
We stopped at the service station and whilst James frequented the facilities Rena got to play on the playground where there was a very old tractor, and all the play equipment looked like it had been there since I was a kid. There was also the Eucla Whale, a big whale at that welcoming people to visit Albany.
We then headed down to the Old Telegraph Station ruins to have a look, we got out the car and instantly we were hit with the very hot dry wind. Was so hot it was burning your eyes, and yes there were thousands of flies.
We had a look at the ruins. I would imagine that it will not be long at all before the ruins are overtaken by the sand dunes. Makes you wonder if they will take away some of the sand to keep it as a tourist attraction or let nature take its course.
It is hard to believe that white man and the introduction of rabbits could cause such devistation, apparently there was a rabbit plague that ate all the dune vegetation and cause the dunes to destabalise and this is the result many years later.
We hopped back in the car, was nice to be out of the wind and flies and in the comfort of air conditioning again.
Back to highway no1 and on to the Great Australian Bight were we called in to the three lookouts, it was just so hot and windy and the flies. Yeah I know I am going on a bit about the flies, but OMG they are so bad.
We got to the Kidnippy Rest Area and tried to find a spot out of the wind with some shade, but didnt have much success. We set up camp, and we went inside as the flies and march flies were so bad you just couldnt be outside.
Not long after we were having a cuppa (thanks James for putting up with the flies and making me a cuppa) and I heard a buzzing sound and thought it might be march flies swarming us, but unfortunately it was bees swarming, they had invaded the sink to get to water and were starting to cover the canvas on the camper and trying to get inside as well. Well as I am alergic to bees, so my wonderful hubby who is not alergic to bees went outside to try and persuade the bees to move on. All he had was a can of Off! and a tea towel :).
Well we were all very glad to see sunset, it was still stinking hot, but at least the flies had gorn away, James cooked dinner, but was invaded by flying ants attracted to the light.
I peeled all the vegis inside as I was going to make a vegetable lasagna and vegi bake to freeze to use up the last of the fresh vegis, but when I went outside to try and cook them I failed miserably, the flying ants just got in to everything, so I bagged it all up and put it in the freezer, as I could take frozen vegis across the boarder.
I did manage to cook the corned beef with only a few flying ants involved. I managed to cook it in the dream pot, love my dream pot, has made such a difference on this trip.
Hopped on the net and was suppose to of got to between 39 and 41 today and I believe it, felt hotter. No air conditioning in the camper trailer, oh yes i do, its called open all the windows and let the hot air blow through :) ahhh they joys of camping.
Day 241 Monday 7th October 2013; Location - Moonera Tank
We seem to be waking up earlier each day, might have something to do with heading east :)
Packed up camp and eastward we go. Saw one lone Emu and some lizards as the landscaped changed as we crossed the Nullabor.
We came down of the tableland and onto the plains. What a change in scenery.
We decided that we would take a sidetrack and go down and have a look at the West Eucla Bight to see if it was good enough to camp at.
We got to the GPS point and there was 2 tracks one to the left and one to the right. We decided to take the track to the left. It didnt go to far, and at the dead end there was a trap for feral birds, so we decided that we wouldnt camp here for the night as there wasnt anywhere suitable.
We then went back and took the track to the right, glad we had a camper trailer and wouldnt like to see the bush car wash job on a caravan.
When we got to the point where the track went between the 2 sand dunes we picked our spot and set up camp. The beach here was beautiful. There was alot of sea weed on the beach, but wasnt stinking to bad at all which was surprising. As with most of the places we have been in WA since leaving Broome, it is very windy and a plethora of flies, so I am glad that we are between the dunes, it is still windy but at least we are getting a little bit of protection, enough to be able to camp here.
Later in the day we were surprised as a caravan came past us and set up camp up the track a bit, hate to see the damage to the van from the bush car wash.
I lost my patience trying to cook dinner, outside in the elements again. I am so over trying to cook outside in the weather, rain hail or shine I have to cook outdoors, the attempts I have gone to to try and keep this family happily fed. As I keep mumbling to myself 'Im over it', even Rena is now imitating me, so I think I am saying it way too often.
I haven't had any wine or anything to drink since Exmouth, so that isn't helping either, such a tease when I have a couple of dozen bottles of red sitting at home too ;(
Tomorrow we head further east. James is taking his time sticking to 80 lkms an hour, so it is going to be a long trip home. I think the thought of all the work I have to do (and him too and finding a new job) might have something to do with him not wanting to rush it. :)
But at the end of the day, we are still living the dream.
Packed up camp and eastward we go. Saw one lone Emu and some lizards as the landscaped changed as we crossed the Nullabor.
We came down of the tableland and onto the plains. What a change in scenery.
We decided that we would take a sidetrack and go down and have a look at the West Eucla Bight to see if it was good enough to camp at.
We got to the GPS point and there was 2 tracks one to the left and one to the right. We decided to take the track to the left. It didnt go to far, and at the dead end there was a trap for feral birds, so we decided that we wouldnt camp here for the night as there wasnt anywhere suitable.
We then went back and took the track to the right, glad we had a camper trailer and wouldnt like to see the bush car wash job on a caravan.
When we got to the point where the track went between the 2 sand dunes we picked our spot and set up camp. The beach here was beautiful. There was alot of sea weed on the beach, but wasnt stinking to bad at all which was surprising. As with most of the places we have been in WA since leaving Broome, it is very windy and a plethora of flies, so I am glad that we are between the dunes, it is still windy but at least we are getting a little bit of protection, enough to be able to camp here.
Later in the day we were surprised as a caravan came past us and set up camp up the track a bit, hate to see the damage to the van from the bush car wash.
I lost my patience trying to cook dinner, outside in the elements again. I am so over trying to cook outside in the weather, rain hail or shine I have to cook outdoors, the attempts I have gone to to try and keep this family happily fed. As I keep mumbling to myself 'Im over it', even Rena is now imitating me, so I think I am saying it way too often.
I haven't had any wine or anything to drink since Exmouth, so that isn't helping either, such a tease when I have a couple of dozen bottles of red sitting at home too ;(
Tomorrow we head further east. James is taking his time sticking to 80 lkms an hour, so it is going to be a long trip home. I think the thought of all the work I have to do (and him too and finding a new job) might have something to do with him not wanting to rush it. :)
But at the end of the day, we are still living the dream.
Day 240 Sunday 6th October 2013; Location - Newman Rocks
Not a bad spot to wake up to, far enough away from the road not to be woken up by any road noise.
however, FLIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Rena woke up early with it being her birthday, and she had great delight in opening her presents. She got a hobby horse that is a pink unicorn pony that neighs and makes noises, the Littlest Pet Shop Zoo, (loves LPS), a fury friends kitten that she has named princess which purrs and makes noises when you pat it (now goes with the cat that Aunty Jenny bought her for Christmas) absolutely loves both. 2 paint books and and new camp chair, so we now have one very happy little girl.
We took our time packing up after breakfast to let Rena have some time to play with her new toys.
We stopped just after 1 pm at Moonera Tank and after we set up camp, I made a little birthday lunch for Rena with lots of good party food, and she had a chocolate mud cake with princesses, crowns, ponys and butterflies on top. I made a lattice biscuit vanilla slice for her too but she didnt like it (so more for James and I to eat)
All in all she had a really good birthday lunch. So later in the afternoon James and I took turns at taking her for a walk to burn off some of the excess energy from all that party food.
We had an easy late dinner as we were all pretty full after Renas birthday party. Once Rena was in bed James and I sat outside for while and enjoyed the evening before it chilled down to much. It was such a nice night.
however, FLIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Rena woke up early with it being her birthday, and she had great delight in opening her presents. She got a hobby horse that is a pink unicorn pony that neighs and makes noises, the Littlest Pet Shop Zoo, (loves LPS), a fury friends kitten that she has named princess which purrs and makes noises when you pat it (now goes with the cat that Aunty Jenny bought her for Christmas) absolutely loves both. 2 paint books and and new camp chair, so we now have one very happy little girl.
We took our time packing up after breakfast to let Rena have some time to play with her new toys.
We stopped just after 1 pm at Moonera Tank and after we set up camp, I made a little birthday lunch for Rena with lots of good party food, and she had a chocolate mud cake with princesses, crowns, ponys and butterflies on top. I made a lattice biscuit vanilla slice for her too but she didnt like it (so more for James and I to eat)
All in all she had a really good birthday lunch. So later in the afternoon James and I took turns at taking her for a walk to burn off some of the excess energy from all that party food.
We had an easy late dinner as we were all pretty full after Renas birthday party. Once Rena was in bed James and I sat outside for while and enjoyed the evening before it chilled down to much. It was such a nice night.
Day 239 Saturday 5th October 2013; Location - Kumarl Siding
Up early and on the road reasonably early. I think Rena and I are really looking forward to heading home, on the other hand I dont think that James is.
We called in to Noresman, what a quaint little town, with lots of artwork around the town. We called in to the IGA and I got a cake (choc mud cake Rena's fav) and some stuff for Rena's birthday tomorrow.
We then went to the tourist information centre to get some info on crossing the Nullabor. Very friendly staff member, he was new and one of the people there was getting very stroppy with him because he wanted a refund for a pass and didnt want to fill out any paper work, he kept saying 'the OTHER person does it for me all the time, she just does it all for me and gives me my money back just like that', well to the grumpy traveler, GRRR to you. Most of the people who work in the tourist info centres are volunteers, as is the case at Norseman, the guy was new and was trying his best, and this guy was so rude, just because he had changed his mind and didnt want the pass anymore, GRRR to you.
We then went and checked out the Norseman Horse sculptures and then the Camel sculptures before heading to the petrol station to top up the tank. Got to love long range fuel tanks, hurts when you fill them right up, but it means that we have been able to fill up when cheap and drive past the expensive fuel, which will be the case crossing the Nullabor, wont need to fuel up again until we are well inside SA.
It has been really interesting watching the changing landscapes as we have traversed WA, especially all the wildflowers, it will now be interesting to see how the landscape changes as we cross the Nullabor.
We hit the road again and got as far as Newman Rocks and went to check them out, lots of interesting rocks, but not suitable for a camper trailer as very open, so we decided to head back to the main campground and set up camp there as there was a table and a fire.
After we had set up camp, James lit the fire so that we could get some coals going, Lamb Shanks in the camp over for dinner tonight, mm mmmm.
Camp oven on, and the lamb shanks on a nice slow cook I made a vanilla slice (lattice biscuit type) for Rena's party tomorrow. Got to love no cook recipes. I wrapped the spuds and sweet potato and onions in foil and we threw them in the coals as well, so was a nice easy dinner tonight.
There was alot of flies so we waited until well after dark before we ate (gave the lamb shanks more time to cook) it was nice to eat without fighting the flies for my food.
We ended up washing up tonight instead of in the morning (normally do this to conserve water) as I didn't want to have to contend with the flies in the morning.
We called in to Noresman, what a quaint little town, with lots of artwork around the town. We called in to the IGA and I got a cake (choc mud cake Rena's fav) and some stuff for Rena's birthday tomorrow.
We then went to the tourist information centre to get some info on crossing the Nullabor. Very friendly staff member, he was new and one of the people there was getting very stroppy with him because he wanted a refund for a pass and didnt want to fill out any paper work, he kept saying 'the OTHER person does it for me all the time, she just does it all for me and gives me my money back just like that', well to the grumpy traveler, GRRR to you. Most of the people who work in the tourist info centres are volunteers, as is the case at Norseman, the guy was new and was trying his best, and this guy was so rude, just because he had changed his mind and didnt want the pass anymore, GRRR to you.
We then went and checked out the Norseman Horse sculptures and then the Camel sculptures before heading to the petrol station to top up the tank. Got to love long range fuel tanks, hurts when you fill them right up, but it means that we have been able to fill up when cheap and drive past the expensive fuel, which will be the case crossing the Nullabor, wont need to fuel up again until we are well inside SA.
It has been really interesting watching the changing landscapes as we have traversed WA, especially all the wildflowers, it will now be interesting to see how the landscape changes as we cross the Nullabor.
We hit the road again and got as far as Newman Rocks and went to check them out, lots of interesting rocks, but not suitable for a camper trailer as very open, so we decided to head back to the main campground and set up camp there as there was a table and a fire.
After we had set up camp, James lit the fire so that we could get some coals going, Lamb Shanks in the camp over for dinner tonight, mm mmmm.
Camp oven on, and the lamb shanks on a nice slow cook I made a vanilla slice (lattice biscuit type) for Rena's party tomorrow. Got to love no cook recipes. I wrapped the spuds and sweet potato and onions in foil and we threw them in the coals as well, so was a nice easy dinner tonight.
There was alot of flies so we waited until well after dark before we ate (gave the lamb shanks more time to cook) it was nice to eat without fighting the flies for my food.
We ended up washing up tonight instead of in the morning (normally do this to conserve water) as I didn't want to have to contend with the flies in the morning.
Day 238 Friday 4th October 2013; Location - Munglinup Beach
Well the wind picked up last night, and between it and my toothache (which came back with a vengeance) and my right knee which I have done something to the crucial ligament I didn't get very much sleep last night.
I got up at 6am and went down to the beach to have a look around, what a difference 12 hours makes, yesterday it was so clear and pretty, this morning, it is overcast and blowing a gale and the sea is grey.
Thankfully our campsite is somewhat protected, still not fully out of the wind but we are not being hit with the worst of the wind.
We packed up camp and headed for Esperance, we wanted to know if we could go out to Cape Arid National Park, with all this rain we didnt know if the roads would be open. So we called in to the info centre but they didnt have an up to date report so sent us off to DEC to ask them.
We went and parked the cruiser and camper (Esperance is not an RV friendly town when it comes to parking) and walked back to the DEC office, unfortunately for us it was closed. The notice on the board outside said that most of the roads were closed. So that put that one out. We would miss out of Cape Arid and would have to go via Norseman.
We went back to the car and I made lunch, flies again, so ate in between squatting flies.After refueling the bodies it was time to go and refuel the car. So off to the service station and topped up the cruiser.
We then headed back out of to the highway and headed for Norseman. We got as far as Kumarl Siding and decided to stay here for the night.
Not a bad spot for a roadside, was close to the road and a railway line on the other side of the road, but all in all the noise wasn't too bad, was more noise from a fellow traveler and his generator than the road.
I got up at 6am and went down to the beach to have a look around, what a difference 12 hours makes, yesterday it was so clear and pretty, this morning, it is overcast and blowing a gale and the sea is grey.
Thankfully our campsite is somewhat protected, still not fully out of the wind but we are not being hit with the worst of the wind.
We packed up camp and headed for Esperance, we wanted to know if we could go out to Cape Arid National Park, with all this rain we didnt know if the roads would be open. So we called in to the info centre but they didnt have an up to date report so sent us off to DEC to ask them.
We went and parked the cruiser and camper (Esperance is not an RV friendly town when it comes to parking) and walked back to the DEC office, unfortunately for us it was closed. The notice on the board outside said that most of the roads were closed. So that put that one out. We would miss out of Cape Arid and would have to go via Norseman.
We went back to the car and I made lunch, flies again, so ate in between squatting flies.After refueling the bodies it was time to go and refuel the car. So off to the service station and topped up the cruiser.
We then headed back out of to the highway and headed for Norseman. We got as far as Kumarl Siding and decided to stay here for the night.
Not a bad spot for a roadside, was close to the road and a railway line on the other side of the road, but all in all the noise wasn't too bad, was more noise from a fellow traveler and his generator than the road.
Day 237 Thursday 3rd October 2013; Location - Fitzgerald River (Jacup)
All packed up we hit the road, eastward bound, YAY!!!
We called in to Ravenswood as I needed to visit the chemist and post office. What a friendly little town. The chemist and I had a good chat, she fell in love with Rena and wanted to know all about how she was coping with the trip, she had 2 kids and wanted to do the trip as well. I said just do it, there will never be a right time, you just have to take the plunge and do it.
The post office was very friendly too, was a mixture of a toy store and post office, glad Rena wasnt with me. There was so much barbie stuff I am sure I wouldn't of got out the door without having to buy something.
James went across to the IGA and said that it was stocked with just about everything. I suppose these country stores have to hold alot of different stock.
Back on the road and we headed to Hopetoun, as it was now a beautiful sunny day with light winds. We went down to the town park and Rena got to play at the playground whilst I made lunch. Flies, I tell you they will be the end of me, they are so bad down here.
I went to the IGA and got some bread before getting back in the car, caught up with mum and dad and my sooty boy (Sam the cat that is) we then hit the road again. Really missing both my boys greatly. :(
We headed to Minglinup Beach to camp for the night as there is suppose to be free showers there. Need a shower. Minglinup Beach is west of Esperance but sounded like a nice spot.
We arrived at Minglinup Beach and set up camp, was hot, lots of flies and windy, but was home for the night. The free showers were cold, so we decided to set up our camp shower and have a hot shower instead using the water here instead. (Was a bit brackish)
It was nice to be clean again. I was lucky I got the first shower with our water, James and Rena got the showers using the local water :).
I cooked dinner then I went for a quick walk down to the beach to take a bow peep, wow spectacular, can see why this spot is so popular. I watched the sun start to set and went back so James could come back with his camera and get some good shots of the sunset.
Beautiful red sunset, although the BOM forecast for tomorrow is not all that promising.
Nice night, start were out.
We called in to Ravenswood as I needed to visit the chemist and post office. What a friendly little town. The chemist and I had a good chat, she fell in love with Rena and wanted to know all about how she was coping with the trip, she had 2 kids and wanted to do the trip as well. I said just do it, there will never be a right time, you just have to take the plunge and do it.
The post office was very friendly too, was a mixture of a toy store and post office, glad Rena wasnt with me. There was so much barbie stuff I am sure I wouldn't of got out the door without having to buy something.
James went across to the IGA and said that it was stocked with just about everything. I suppose these country stores have to hold alot of different stock.
Back on the road and we headed to Hopetoun, as it was now a beautiful sunny day with light winds. We went down to the town park and Rena got to play at the playground whilst I made lunch. Flies, I tell you they will be the end of me, they are so bad down here.
I went to the IGA and got some bread before getting back in the car, caught up with mum and dad and my sooty boy (Sam the cat that is) we then hit the road again. Really missing both my boys greatly. :(
We headed to Minglinup Beach to camp for the night as there is suppose to be free showers there. Need a shower. Minglinup Beach is west of Esperance but sounded like a nice spot.
We arrived at Minglinup Beach and set up camp, was hot, lots of flies and windy, but was home for the night. The free showers were cold, so we decided to set up our camp shower and have a hot shower instead using the water here instead. (Was a bit brackish)
It was nice to be clean again. I was lucky I got the first shower with our water, James and Rena got the showers using the local water :).
I cooked dinner then I went for a quick walk down to the beach to take a bow peep, wow spectacular, can see why this spot is so popular. I watched the sun start to set and went back so James could come back with his camera and get some good shots of the sunset.
Beautiful red sunset, although the BOM forecast for tomorrow is not all that promising.
Nice night, start were out.
Day 235 - 236 Tuesday 1st - Wednesday 2nd October 2013; Location - Cosy Corner (East)
Tuesday 1st October
Today we headed in to Albany to do the laundry and the shopping.
First port of call the Dog Rock Laundry. This was great value $3 wash and $1 for 10 mins in the dryer, but they were good. 15 mins and my sheets and towels were dry. Oh and they clothes came out of the washing machines clean not just washed. BONUS!!
We then went to coles and did the restock shop. OUCH!! At least we will not need to restock now for a couple of weeks and will well and truly get us over the boarder.
I then popped in to KMart as I wanted to get Rena a couple more birthday presents, the LPS set I wanted is only stocked at Big W so I got her the Zoo set instead. I think that she will be happy with it anyway.
Next port of call was Spotlight as I had run out of wool. My project is a blanket for Rena that I have been crocheting but have run out of wool. So off we go and find Spotlight but they dont have any wool that is suitable so I pick another lot of wool and will make Rena a scarf, if this horrible weather keeps up she will use it.
We then went and visited James sisters sister in law for a while. This was great for Rena as Tonya had 2 kids a boy 5 and girl 7. Rena was in heaven, kids and toys to play with.
Unfortunately we had to leave about 5 pm as we needed to get back to camp so that I could stow away all the groceries, make all the beds, put away the washing and cook dinner in the mix.
Well we got back just on dark, so James helped me get the groceries stowed away, I then cooked dinner, before making the beds, and putting the clothes away.
Poor little Rena by the time we got her sorted and in her bed it was 9pm. Late night for her.
One would think that after such a busy day I would have been out like a light, but no I had one of those nights and just couldnt get to sleep. (Thinking of home and what I need to do when I get there I think)
Wednesday 2nd October
Woke up to an absolutely beautiful sunny day.
During the night we had some new arrivals a family from Perth with 4 kids. So Rena had her breakfast and went over to say hello. I followed and talked to the parents for quite some time, he is an environmental scientist now working for the WA government. Was very interesting listening to what they are doing.
Rena got to play for a long time, (we did chat for a while) and James potted around the camp, the time came and I had to pull Rena away so I could go back and pack up the camper (still not comfortable about leaving Rena at other peoples camps no matter how nice they are).
Once we had packed up the family came over to say goodbye to Rena, a very nice family :). We then headed back out to the main road and in to Albany so we could refuel the cruiser.
We called in to the replica ship site and took a few photos but didnt realise that you have to pay just to step on the deck and as I had left my purse back in the car, we just looked at it from a distance.
We then went to the museum, and once again needed cash which was back in the car so we looked from outside.
We then went to the replica jetty and read the signs before heading back to the car and off to the service station to refuel.
The 24/7 station was our selected outlet, however the card machine would not allow James to put more than $100 worth of diesel in the car at a time, and each time charging a surcharge for using the eftpos, so 4 attempts we finally got the cruiser full. (Even with the surcharge was still cheaper than Coles with the discount).
We headed back out onto the highway and headed east, we called in to a rest area and had lunch before hitting the road again.
We kept going until we got to our camp for the night, big rest area, with lots of space, only one other van was there.
What we did notice was that there wasn't as many wildflowers in this part of the country I wonder if the September rains had something to do with that.
Today we headed in to Albany to do the laundry and the shopping.
First port of call the Dog Rock Laundry. This was great value $3 wash and $1 for 10 mins in the dryer, but they were good. 15 mins and my sheets and towels were dry. Oh and they clothes came out of the washing machines clean not just washed. BONUS!!
We then went to coles and did the restock shop. OUCH!! At least we will not need to restock now for a couple of weeks and will well and truly get us over the boarder.
I then popped in to KMart as I wanted to get Rena a couple more birthday presents, the LPS set I wanted is only stocked at Big W so I got her the Zoo set instead. I think that she will be happy with it anyway.
Next port of call was Spotlight as I had run out of wool. My project is a blanket for Rena that I have been crocheting but have run out of wool. So off we go and find Spotlight but they dont have any wool that is suitable so I pick another lot of wool and will make Rena a scarf, if this horrible weather keeps up she will use it.
We then went and visited James sisters sister in law for a while. This was great for Rena as Tonya had 2 kids a boy 5 and girl 7. Rena was in heaven, kids and toys to play with.
Unfortunately we had to leave about 5 pm as we needed to get back to camp so that I could stow away all the groceries, make all the beds, put away the washing and cook dinner in the mix.
Well we got back just on dark, so James helped me get the groceries stowed away, I then cooked dinner, before making the beds, and putting the clothes away.
Poor little Rena by the time we got her sorted and in her bed it was 9pm. Late night for her.
One would think that after such a busy day I would have been out like a light, but no I had one of those nights and just couldnt get to sleep. (Thinking of home and what I need to do when I get there I think)
Wednesday 2nd October
Woke up to an absolutely beautiful sunny day.
During the night we had some new arrivals a family from Perth with 4 kids. So Rena had her breakfast and went over to say hello. I followed and talked to the parents for quite some time, he is an environmental scientist now working for the WA government. Was very interesting listening to what they are doing.
Rena got to play for a long time, (we did chat for a while) and James potted around the camp, the time came and I had to pull Rena away so I could go back and pack up the camper (still not comfortable about leaving Rena at other peoples camps no matter how nice they are).
Once we had packed up the family came over to say goodbye to Rena, a very nice family :). We then headed back out to the main road and in to Albany so we could refuel the cruiser.
We called in to the replica ship site and took a few photos but didnt realise that you have to pay just to step on the deck and as I had left my purse back in the car, we just looked at it from a distance.
We then went to the museum, and once again needed cash which was back in the car so we looked from outside.
We then went to the replica jetty and read the signs before heading back to the car and off to the service station to refuel.
The 24/7 station was our selected outlet, however the card machine would not allow James to put more than $100 worth of diesel in the car at a time, and each time charging a surcharge for using the eftpos, so 4 attempts we finally got the cruiser full. (Even with the surcharge was still cheaper than Coles with the discount).
We headed back out onto the highway and headed east, we called in to a rest area and had lunch before hitting the road again.
We kept going until we got to our camp for the night, big rest area, with lots of space, only one other van was there.
What we did notice was that there wasn't as many wildflowers in this part of the country I wonder if the September rains had something to do with that.
Day 232 - 234 Saturday 28th - Monday 30th September 2013; Location - Parry's Beach Campground
Saturday 28th September
Today we went in to Denmark and did a quick shop and the tourist drive around town. (I am glad we didnt have the camper on the back at IGA would not have been able to park anywhere).
On our way back to camp we called in to see Green Pool and Elephant Rocks, it was very windy but very pretty. Even with the choppy ocean you could see why locals like the area so much.
Rena and I took the stairs down to go walk through the Elephant Rocks but as the tide was almost all the way in we had to turn around and come back. We would have got slightly wet if we had of went any further.
We then climbed the stairs back up to the top and met James, he was a bit more adventourous than us and got wet but got some different photos of the Elephant Rocks, in the mean time Rena and I walked around to Green Pool and back to the car where we waited for James to return.
After lunch I made a mars bar slice which would help me with a chocolate fix. Haven't had chocolate in so long craving it. At least the mars bar slice is a weight watchers recipe (that's if you can resist it and not eat to much of it "Evil Grin")
Slice made we basically spent the rest of the day relaxing and dodging the cold wet weather.
It rained on and off for most of the day, I am missing my home. We (well Rena & I) are on a countdown now, we both can't wait until we get back to warmer weather. 15 degree max days and freezing nights.
Early night due to the weather, but at least we are out of the wind here.
Sunday 29th September
Spent the day humped up in the camper, was very cold and wet.
By mid afternoon the pre paid broadband stick had reached its limit, so no internet for James for a couple of days.
James kindly erected a tarp over the kitchen so that I could cook dinner whilst it was raining.
After dinner it was an early to bed, to bloody cold to do anything else.
Fully clothed and under all the blankets, James even put the thermal blanket on the roof of the camper in an attempt to make things warmer.
Monday 30th September
We packed up camp with the sun trying to break through the clouds.
We headed back out on to the highway and James drove past the Honey Winery, which was just as well, as they had honey ice cream mmmm mmmm :)
Anyway we took the Albany scenic route and then side tracked out to West Cape Howe, we drove in to the Cosy Corner West day use area and had a look around, nice spot. Back in the car we drove to the Shelly Beach lookout which had a nice outlook. Then down to Shelly Beach. This is a very remote campground, I don't think I would like to be here in this weather. BYO everything.
As we had the camper trailer on the back we decided that we would not take the 4WD track to Torbay Head and the walk to the most Southern point in WA. The wind was quite brisk and the track look rather well used and sandy.
We then drove back to Cosy Corner East and found a spot and set up camp. The spot we chose had prospects of sunshine, so we were happy.
After setting up camp we sat in the sun eating lunch before the clouds came back overhead again and blocked out our sunshine.
Rena helped me make a cake and had great delight in licking the bowl. The joys of childhood.
The cake turned out really well much to Rena's delight. (Dreampot, wonderful)
Today we went in to Denmark and did a quick shop and the tourist drive around town. (I am glad we didnt have the camper on the back at IGA would not have been able to park anywhere).
On our way back to camp we called in to see Green Pool and Elephant Rocks, it was very windy but very pretty. Even with the choppy ocean you could see why locals like the area so much.
Rena and I took the stairs down to go walk through the Elephant Rocks but as the tide was almost all the way in we had to turn around and come back. We would have got slightly wet if we had of went any further.
We then climbed the stairs back up to the top and met James, he was a bit more adventourous than us and got wet but got some different photos of the Elephant Rocks, in the mean time Rena and I walked around to Green Pool and back to the car where we waited for James to return.
After lunch I made a mars bar slice which would help me with a chocolate fix. Haven't had chocolate in so long craving it. At least the mars bar slice is a weight watchers recipe (that's if you can resist it and not eat to much of it "Evil Grin")
Slice made we basically spent the rest of the day relaxing and dodging the cold wet weather.
It rained on and off for most of the day, I am missing my home. We (well Rena & I) are on a countdown now, we both can't wait until we get back to warmer weather. 15 degree max days and freezing nights.
Early night due to the weather, but at least we are out of the wind here.
Sunday 29th September
Spent the day humped up in the camper, was very cold and wet.
By mid afternoon the pre paid broadband stick had reached its limit, so no internet for James for a couple of days.
James kindly erected a tarp over the kitchen so that I could cook dinner whilst it was raining.
After dinner it was an early to bed, to bloody cold to do anything else.
Fully clothed and under all the blankets, James even put the thermal blanket on the roof of the camper in an attempt to make things warmer.
Monday 30th September
We packed up camp with the sun trying to break through the clouds.
We headed back out on to the highway and James drove past the Honey Winery, which was just as well, as they had honey ice cream mmmm mmmm :)
Anyway we took the Albany scenic route and then side tracked out to West Cape Howe, we drove in to the Cosy Corner West day use area and had a look around, nice spot. Back in the car we drove to the Shelly Beach lookout which had a nice outlook. Then down to Shelly Beach. This is a very remote campground, I don't think I would like to be here in this weather. BYO everything.
As we had the camper trailer on the back we decided that we would not take the 4WD track to Torbay Head and the walk to the most Southern point in WA. The wind was quite brisk and the track look rather well used and sandy.
We then drove back to Cosy Corner East and found a spot and set up camp. The spot we chose had prospects of sunshine, so we were happy.
After setting up camp we sat in the sun eating lunch before the clouds came back overhead again and blocked out our sunshine.
Rena helped me make a cake and had great delight in licking the bowl. The joys of childhood.
The cake turned out really well much to Rena's delight. (Dreampot, wonderful)
Day 231 Friday 27th September 2013; Location - Mt Burnside Rest Area
Last night was quiet even with being on highway no1, but it was bitterly cold.
We packed up camp and hit the road. Today both Rena & I are feeling the cold and missing home. Rena keeps asking about Penny and how long until we get home.
Still no reply from the real estate agent, you would think that asking what the end date of the lease would be an easy question to answer wouldnt you.
We did the Valley of the Giants drive before heading to Parry Beach and setting up camp.
Nice sheltered campground, cheap at $10 a night for the site, but no power, but they do have Solar showers. So if no sun no hot showers.
We set up camp and I headed off to the shower block to see if there had been enough sun to heat the water, and bonus had a warm shower. Was nice not to stop and start the shower.
Once back at camp James and I did a tag and he went off to have his shower.
Early night tonight, bitterly cold.
We packed up camp and hit the road. Today both Rena & I are feeling the cold and missing home. Rena keeps asking about Penny and how long until we get home.
Still no reply from the real estate agent, you would think that asking what the end date of the lease would be an easy question to answer wouldnt you.
We did the Valley of the Giants drive before heading to Parry Beach and setting up camp.
Nice sheltered campground, cheap at $10 a night for the site, but no power, but they do have Solar showers. So if no sun no hot showers.
We set up camp and I headed off to the shower block to see if there had been enough sun to heat the water, and bonus had a warm shower. Was nice not to stop and start the shower.
Once back at camp James and I did a tag and he went off to have his shower.
Early night tonight, bitterly cold.
Day 230 Thursday 26th September 2013; Location - Alexander Bridge Camping Area
Thankfully last night we could hear the wind but it wasn't affecting us. Nice little sheltered spot.
Once we had packed up we headed to the Glouchester Tree $11 park entry to go look at the tree, glad we had our annual pass. James climbed the tree and I let Rena climb about 10 rungs before she climbed down. The wind was howling so we watched the tree sway as James got to the top and back down again.
We then went to the Bicentennial Tree, and James went half way up, as it was bitterly cold and Rena was hungry I headed back to the car to make a start on lunch whilst watching James in the tree. Once again $11 park entry to look at a tree. Go annual pass. :)
James came down and joined Rena and I whilst the kettle boiled, was nice to have a bit of protection so we could boil the kettle. It was Bloody Cold!!!!!
James found out once he was down the bottom that there was a geocache up the top of the tree. But he didnt go back up the tree, something about legs, sore, other tree :) I shall leave it at that. :)
We had lunch and a nice hot cuppa and then headed back down the highway, very beautiful forest drive. Many tall trees around these parts.
We stopped at the Mt Burnside Rest Area and it rained and on off, so we stayed in the camper and occasionally between the showers had a look at the local birds that were teasing James and his camera. The temperature just kept dropping and getting cooler and cooler.
Fast and easy soup and toast for dinner tonight, too cold to stay out here to long to cook tonight. Oh and the rain too. :) ahhh the joys of cooking outside in the elements.
Once we had packed up we headed to the Glouchester Tree $11 park entry to go look at the tree, glad we had our annual pass. James climbed the tree and I let Rena climb about 10 rungs before she climbed down. The wind was howling so we watched the tree sway as James got to the top and back down again.
We then went to the Bicentennial Tree, and James went half way up, as it was bitterly cold and Rena was hungry I headed back to the car to make a start on lunch whilst watching James in the tree. Once again $11 park entry to look at a tree. Go annual pass. :)
James came down and joined Rena and I whilst the kettle boiled, was nice to have a bit of protection so we could boil the kettle. It was Bloody Cold!!!!!
James found out once he was down the bottom that there was a geocache up the top of the tree. But he didnt go back up the tree, something about legs, sore, other tree :) I shall leave it at that. :)
We had lunch and a nice hot cuppa and then headed back down the highway, very beautiful forest drive. Many tall trees around these parts.
We stopped at the Mt Burnside Rest Area and it rained and on off, so we stayed in the camper and occasionally between the showers had a look at the local birds that were teasing James and his camera. The temperature just kept dropping and getting cooler and cooler.
Fast and easy soup and toast for dinner tonight, too cold to stay out here to long to cook tonight. Oh and the rain too. :) ahhh the joys of cooking outside in the elements.
Day 229 Wednesday 25th September 2013; Location - Pine Plantation Picnic Area
Well this is the latest that I have slept in to for ages. Didnt get out of bed until 9am. Had my cuppa first that my wonderful husband made me and gave to me in bed. I am getting quite spoilt with the cuppa in bed each morning, will be hard to give this one up when we get home.
Then it was time to make Rena's 2nd most favorite breakfast Crumpets.
James spent the morning trying to solve a puzzle geocache. Needless to say by the time we had packed up and left James had still not solved the puzzle. Drove him mad. :) (Was funny to watch his brain ticking over trying to solve it and all the attempts he made trying to find it)
We then headed to Cape Naturaliste and did the lighthouse loop walk and down to the whale watching platform, unfortunately it was too rough for us to see anything out to sea, but the information boards were quite interesting and informative.
We then took the road back to Caves Road and James seemed to miss every turnoff back out to the coast, we did take one turn but it took us down a goat track so James had to do some very careful reversing to turn the camper and cruiser around.
We took the road all the way down to Augusta, but as it was now getting late we didnt got to Cape Leuin.
There was some really tall trees along this drive and alot of wineries to drive past and not a taste of one drop. But alas James was behind the wheel and he doesnt drink wine.. If it was rum.. well...... :)
We arrived at our selected Wikicamps campspot and it was just a carpark, bitumen at that so we had to pick another spot, this one was approximately 15 klms away so reverse out of that one and back on the road.
The spot at Alexander River has very limited spaces down by the river but we got a spot up the back. If you wanted a flat spot down near the toilet and river I think you would need to get here very early.
Had a cuppa and then cooked dinner. The ranger came around and collected our dues for the night and the mozzies moved in. They were bad, could carry you away and ate the Off tropical strength for breakfast.
Then it was time to make Rena's 2nd most favorite breakfast Crumpets.
James spent the morning trying to solve a puzzle geocache. Needless to say by the time we had packed up and left James had still not solved the puzzle. Drove him mad. :) (Was funny to watch his brain ticking over trying to solve it and all the attempts he made trying to find it)
We then headed to Cape Naturaliste and did the lighthouse loop walk and down to the whale watching platform, unfortunately it was too rough for us to see anything out to sea, but the information boards were quite interesting and informative.
We then took the road back to Caves Road and James seemed to miss every turnoff back out to the coast, we did take one turn but it took us down a goat track so James had to do some very careful reversing to turn the camper and cruiser around.
We took the road all the way down to Augusta, but as it was now getting late we didnt got to Cape Leuin.
There was some really tall trees along this drive and alot of wineries to drive past and not a taste of one drop. But alas James was behind the wheel and he doesnt drink wine.. If it was rum.. well...... :)
We arrived at our selected Wikicamps campspot and it was just a carpark, bitumen at that so we had to pick another spot, this one was approximately 15 klms away so reverse out of that one and back on the road.
The spot at Alexander River has very limited spaces down by the river but we got a spot up the back. If you wanted a flat spot down near the toilet and river I think you would need to get here very early.
Had a cuppa and then cooked dinner. The ranger came around and collected our dues for the night and the mozzies moved in. They were bad, could carry you away and ate the Off tropical strength for breakfast.
Day 228 Tuesday 24th September 2013; Location - Waggerup Parking Area
Woke up to another wet morning, but James made me a cuppa in bed. Getting use to this will be hard habbit to break.
We had breakfast and starting pack up but not in time. The heavens opened up so sit in the car and wait it out. It is about now that I wish we had to money for a cabin/house for a week until this bad weather passes. 32 hot and sunny back home today :)
We did the drive to Bunbury, but it was blowing a gale, and showers on and off, we went and had a look at the harbour, and then we parked the car down by the ocean and did the walk up to the Bunbury lighthouse then the Apex lookout. Poor Rena almost got blown away up the town it was fairly howling.
We got back to the car just in time and the heavens opened up again.
We then drove down to Busselton so that I could visit toyworld. On the way we called in to a servo and got some take away for lunch and a cuppa we were so bitterly cold. We needed a hot cuppa to warm up and hot chips.
We then drove to Busselton and off I went on my mission to toyworld. Success!!!! got Rena the hobby horse pony that she so desperately wanted for her birthday plus a few other things. Off to coles and a hot chook for dinner. Buggar cooking in this weather.
We were going to go down to the jetty but forgot, it was raining so we just went to the spare parts place so James could get something he needed and we then headed to our campspot for the night, hopeing that it would be out of the wind, as a gale was expected to hit again tonight.
We picked well and it was a nice protected spot in a pine plantation, so I managed to cook James a fruit cake.
I also managed to update my spreadsheet with the stats and then got some emails off.
By the time that I had finished all this and downloaded the photos of the digital camera it was well after 10.30 pm, the predicted gale had hit, we could hear it in the tree tops but we were protected where we were.
We had breakfast and starting pack up but not in time. The heavens opened up so sit in the car and wait it out. It is about now that I wish we had to money for a cabin/house for a week until this bad weather passes. 32 hot and sunny back home today :)
We did the drive to Bunbury, but it was blowing a gale, and showers on and off, we went and had a look at the harbour, and then we parked the car down by the ocean and did the walk up to the Bunbury lighthouse then the Apex lookout. Poor Rena almost got blown away up the town it was fairly howling.
We got back to the car just in time and the heavens opened up again.
We then drove down to Busselton so that I could visit toyworld. On the way we called in to a servo and got some take away for lunch and a cuppa we were so bitterly cold. We needed a hot cuppa to warm up and hot chips.
We then drove to Busselton and off I went on my mission to toyworld. Success!!!! got Rena the hobby horse pony that she so desperately wanted for her birthday plus a few other things. Off to coles and a hot chook for dinner. Buggar cooking in this weather.
We were going to go down to the jetty but forgot, it was raining so we just went to the spare parts place so James could get something he needed and we then headed to our campspot for the night, hopeing that it would be out of the wind, as a gale was expected to hit again tonight.
We picked well and it was a nice protected spot in a pine plantation, so I managed to cook James a fruit cake.
I also managed to update my spreadsheet with the stats and then got some emails off.
By the time that I had finished all this and downloaded the photos of the digital camera it was well after 10.30 pm, the predicted gale had hit, we could hear it in the tree tops but we were protected where we were.
Day 227 Monday 23rd September 2013; Location - Brockman River Parking Area
Well the wind that hit didnt effect us, we had a nice little protected spot. The rain held off long enough for us to have breakfast and pack up camp.
We then headed towards Perth via the Swam Valley. Very very pretty if not a little wet. You could see that they have had alot of rain lately.
We topped up the tanks at Upper Swan Valley then put the coords in the GPS for Kings Park and headed towards the city.
It was very pretty along the Swan River, but as it was blowing a gale, the river was very gray and choppy. We didnt get to Kings Park thanks to the road works that were going on. So we crossed back over the Swan River and headed towards Freemantle.
We went down to West End at Freemantle but James couldnt find any suitable parking so he kept driving, we did a cooks tour of the industrial area and tried to follow the coast down to Rockingham. Very Industrial, Rockingham had some multi million dollar mansions with views to kill for.
We called in to the Rockingham Plaza and went to Wollies to get some essentials, Rena saw a camp chair and really wanted it and when we said no decided to throw a wobbly. GRRR 4 year olds in supermarkets should be banned :D :D :D
Back to the car and I let James put Rena in whilst I snuck back to Wollies to get the chair for her birthday, it is a flat folding one and she really wants a flat folding chair like mine. So I relented and bought the Dora camping chair and snuck it back to the car.
We then headed down the coast and to Lake Clifton as we wanted to see the Thrombolites. Once again it started to rain and Rena made a dash back to the car. I tried to take some photos but had to do a run for it myself. The tide was wrong, the weather was wrong so we really didnt get to see the Thrombolites except through the merky water.
Late lunch made on my lap on the front seat, as not only was there rain, but there was mozzies and midggies by the millions here.
We then headed to our campspot for the night near Wagerup.
It was raining on and off so we didnt bother getting the chairs out of the car and I made a quick omelet between showers for dinner. Nothing quite like standing outside in the freezing rain holding an umbrella cooking dinner.
Even though we were between the main road and the main rail line it was peaceful enough to go to sleep.
The rain and wind has worn me down, I have the Camper Blues and want to go home to my nice dry warm house.
We then headed towards Perth via the Swam Valley. Very very pretty if not a little wet. You could see that they have had alot of rain lately.
We topped up the tanks at Upper Swan Valley then put the coords in the GPS for Kings Park and headed towards the city.
It was very pretty along the Swan River, but as it was blowing a gale, the river was very gray and choppy. We didnt get to Kings Park thanks to the road works that were going on. So we crossed back over the Swan River and headed towards Freemantle.
We went down to West End at Freemantle but James couldnt find any suitable parking so he kept driving, we did a cooks tour of the industrial area and tried to follow the coast down to Rockingham. Very Industrial, Rockingham had some multi million dollar mansions with views to kill for.
We called in to the Rockingham Plaza and went to Wollies to get some essentials, Rena saw a camp chair and really wanted it and when we said no decided to throw a wobbly. GRRR 4 year olds in supermarkets should be banned :D :D :D
Back to the car and I let James put Rena in whilst I snuck back to Wollies to get the chair for her birthday, it is a flat folding one and she really wants a flat folding chair like mine. So I relented and bought the Dora camping chair and snuck it back to the car.
We then headed down the coast and to Lake Clifton as we wanted to see the Thrombolites. Once again it started to rain and Rena made a dash back to the car. I tried to take some photos but had to do a run for it myself. The tide was wrong, the weather was wrong so we really didnt get to see the Thrombolites except through the merky water.
Late lunch made on my lap on the front seat, as not only was there rain, but there was mozzies and midggies by the millions here.
We then headed to our campspot for the night near Wagerup.
It was raining on and off so we didnt bother getting the chairs out of the car and I made a quick omelet between showers for dinner. Nothing quite like standing outside in the freezing rain holding an umbrella cooking dinner.
Even though we were between the main road and the main rail line it was peaceful enough to go to sleep.
The rain and wind has worn me down, I have the Camper Blues and want to go home to my nice dry warm house.
Day 226 Sunday 22nd September 2013; Location - Nobby Head North
What a night, the wind, we were battered, we didnt get much sleep at all last night.
We packed up camp and headed down the road and got to the Pinnacles and headed in $11 entry but our Annual Pass covered that. We were not allowed to drive the camper trailer around the Pinnacles so we parked and unhooked the camper next to the other caravans which had done the same and headed around in the cruiser.
It was a bleak and bitterley cold day with bursts of sunshine, so we managed to get some shots in, got to the main lookout in the middle and well I made it back to the car but the heavens opened up. By this time Rena was refusing to get out of the car as it was too cold for her.
We finished the drive and I took photos from the passenger seat. Rena had a really good point, it was wet and cold, why get out of the car.
We got back to the car park and by this time the sun was back out (for a little while at least) and hooked up the camper again then headed in to the interpretative centre. Very interesting, just wish I didnt have a very active 4 year old with me so I could have read all of what was on display. The lighting in the place meant that I couldnt do what I normally do with Rena and take a photo and read it later.
We then headed in to the shop and I bought a little book on the Pinnacles, very interesting read.
We then headed back to the car and took off back to the coast road, a little while down the road (as I went back to the shop to get the book and left James to take Rena and put her in the car) if he had picked up the wheel chock for the camper. DOH!!!! no he hadn't so u turn and we go back and collect the chock. Luckily no one had picked it up. (we had done exactly that back in VIC when someone had driven off and left it behind we are rather attached to it now, and no we never caught up to the van to give it back either).
We stoped at the Moore River Rest Area and had a late lunch and checked it out to see if we could camp there the night, but it was very tight and not really suitable. We were talking to a local couple for ages who were on there way home. Very nice couple who gave us a heads up on a few nice places to visit.
We decided that we would head inland to try and get out of this horrible wind.
Whilst going through Bindoon I got some fresh mandarins, oranges and avocados from a road side stall. mmm mmm they were all very nice.
We got to the Brockman River Parking Area and the wind wasnt too bad, it was raining on and off, but we managed to set up in the dry.
Early to bed tonight, as we were all very tired.
We packed up camp and headed down the road and got to the Pinnacles and headed in $11 entry but our Annual Pass covered that. We were not allowed to drive the camper trailer around the Pinnacles so we parked and unhooked the camper next to the other caravans which had done the same and headed around in the cruiser.
It was a bleak and bitterley cold day with bursts of sunshine, so we managed to get some shots in, got to the main lookout in the middle and well I made it back to the car but the heavens opened up. By this time Rena was refusing to get out of the car as it was too cold for her.
We finished the drive and I took photos from the passenger seat. Rena had a really good point, it was wet and cold, why get out of the car.
We got back to the car park and by this time the sun was back out (for a little while at least) and hooked up the camper again then headed in to the interpretative centre. Very interesting, just wish I didnt have a very active 4 year old with me so I could have read all of what was on display. The lighting in the place meant that I couldnt do what I normally do with Rena and take a photo and read it later.
We then headed in to the shop and I bought a little book on the Pinnacles, very interesting read.
We then headed back to the car and took off back to the coast road, a little while down the road (as I went back to the shop to get the book and left James to take Rena and put her in the car) if he had picked up the wheel chock for the camper. DOH!!!! no he hadn't so u turn and we go back and collect the chock. Luckily no one had picked it up. (we had done exactly that back in VIC when someone had driven off and left it behind we are rather attached to it now, and no we never caught up to the van to give it back either).
We stoped at the Moore River Rest Area and had a late lunch and checked it out to see if we could camp there the night, but it was very tight and not really suitable. We were talking to a local couple for ages who were on there way home. Very nice couple who gave us a heads up on a few nice places to visit.
We decided that we would head inland to try and get out of this horrible wind.
Whilst going through Bindoon I got some fresh mandarins, oranges and avocados from a road side stall. mmm mmm they were all very nice.
We got to the Brockman River Parking Area and the wind wasnt too bad, it was raining on and off, but we managed to set up in the dry.
Early to bed tonight, as we were all very tired.
Day 225 Saturday 21st September 2013; Location - Ellendale Pool
Well with James snoring down a whole forest last night I didnt get much sleep. Really wish I had some earplugs for nights like this.
We packed up camp and headed south west. No going back to Geraldton to check it out :( no Yeeda meat either or a restock of food. :(
We stoped at the Windfarm rest area and had a look at the wind farm. They had one of the blades on display HUGE!!
We headed for the coast road, and came across the cheapest fuel we had seen in a long time at South Greenough so James put some diesel in the tank and I got some tomatoes.
We headed for Nobby Head North and did a bit of a drive around to try and find a spot out of the wind, and camped near the toilet we thought that we were protected out of the wind so set up camp.
I managed to cook a beef goulash for dinner before the weather turned on us, which was right on dark.
It howled all night long, what a horrible night
We packed up camp and headed south west. No going back to Geraldton to check it out :( no Yeeda meat either or a restock of food. :(
We stoped at the Windfarm rest area and had a look at the wind farm. They had one of the blades on display HUGE!!
We headed for the coast road, and came across the cheapest fuel we had seen in a long time at South Greenough so James put some diesel in the tank and I got some tomatoes.
We headed for Nobby Head North and did a bit of a drive around to try and find a spot out of the wind, and camped near the toilet we thought that we were protected out of the wind so set up camp.
I managed to cook a beef goulash for dinner before the weather turned on us, which was right on dark.
It howled all night long, what a horrible night
Day 223 - 224 Thursday 19th - Friday 20th September 2013; Location - Anchorage Caravan Park, Kalbarri
Today I started the day with the pilgrimage to the laundry, but at 7.30am all the machines were in use so I had to stand and wait my time. No jumping the queue here. Was an all ladies event too. No males standing in line washing. Fancy that.
All the clothes washed and hung out to dry we hit the road to go and explore the Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs.
What a truely spectacular coastline.
All the clothes washed and hung out to dry we hit the road to go and explore the Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs.
What a truely spectacular coastline.
Saturday, 10 August 2013
Day 183 - 193 - Saturday 10th - Tuesday 20th August 2013; Location - Quondong Point
Saturday 10th
Well we woke up to the sounds of the ocean, waves slowly rolling in. Ahhh beautiful and relaxing.
The tide was all the way out, the rocks exposed, the glow of the morning light, made it all look so beautiful and serene.
I am in denial this morning, I am refusing to admit that I have come down with the flu, instead I am telling James that it is just hay fever.
A slow and relaxing start to the day, as my head feels like it has been hit a couple of times and my sinuses are all blocked up. Not what you want when you are on the road, not nice getting sick and we are 60klm to the nearest shop to buy anything for it.
James spent the morning replacing the 2 air bags in the suspension. This dills sent James the wrong spacer, but wont admit that the failure in the air bag is due to that, so we now have to take the originals out and send them back at our own expense for them to check it out. (We had to buy the new ones, wouldnt replace under warranty). So will let you know about that one in a couple of months to see if we get our money back or not.
In the afternoon about 3.30pm we headed down to the beach with the outgoing tide and let Rena play in the water as we went rock hopping. So many hermit crabs here, all very little must be a popular breading beach for them.
We all then had a shower as we watched the setting sun, which was brilliant shades of red and oranges. Hopefully James camera was able to capture the moment. BEAUTIFUL!!!!!
We tried out some of the Kimberley meat and had the sausages tonight, really nice and they didnt give me heartburn like normal sausages do. Will let you know what the rump ($10 kilo) and porterhouse ($11 kilo) steak is like
Early to bed tonight, but I dont think I will be getting a good nights sleep, have to admit it, its not hay fever but the flu, thank goodness for codral but even those are only giving me some relief for about an hour, hopefully enough to get me off to sleep.
Sunday 11th
Well today we have relaxed and I have updated the blog whilst trying to overcome the flu.
Monday 12th
More relaxing and more updating the blog whilst watching the waves roll in. Ahhh heaven. :)
Day 182 Friday 9th August 2013; Location - Ellendale Rest Area
We had a leisurely morning before packing up camp. Some of these fellow travelers are all packed up and out of there just as the sun is rising. Must be on the express timetable, it is nice not to have to rush rush rush. One packed up and left at 1am not sure what that was about but woke me from my sleep :(
A big thank you to Peter and Dianne for letting us camp next to them, and to Peter for his assistance with assisting James in fixing James chair.
We headed back on to the Great Northern Highway and headed for the Willare Roadhouse, we had been told by a fellow traveler to make sure that our freezer was empty, as they sold really good meat cheap. They were not wrong. I just wish we had a bigger freezer. mmmmm Kimberley Lamb and Beef. So we stocked up the freezer with meat, had the obligatory ice cream and headed for Quondong Point.
When we got to Quondong Point we had a quick drive around to see what was available, and we decided on our little piece of heaven. The exact same campspot that we camped at 8 years ago. And yes Leaston it is still the same. Glorious.
Quondong Point is very very popular especially with the caravaners. There is one section that looks like an unofficial caravan park, it is full the to brim with big rigs and motor homes.
Well after a quick set up, we stripped the bed, (sheets were almost up and walking on their own), loaded up the water containers and headed to Broome in hope of catching the Post Office before it shut.
We got to the Post Office about 4 pm and stood in line for 1/2 an hour onlly to be told that sorry you are in the wrong place, mail collection is next door, so out one door, down the street, in the next door, and wait another 1/2 an hour to be served.
Only half our expected mail was there, so we will have to share the joy of the lady behind the counter one more time. I tell you, I know it was Friday afternoon, but her disposition was clearly displaying her dislike for the place and the need to go to the pub for a few drinks. I think she either needs a holiday or to change jobs, but then again if it was that busy every day all day by Friday afternoon I would be in need of more than one drink thats for sure.
Mail in hand (James was happy both his rum and air bags had arrived) we headed back to the car, grabbed out the washing and headed to the laundrymat only to find out that it closed in under an hour, so clothes in the machines and a quick dash to coles to get some food.
As James was putting the groceries in the car I was back in the laundrymat collecting our clothes, no time for the sheets to go in the dryer, so no sheets on the bed tonight.
James topped up the water containers, and that done we headed back to camp as the sun was setting. We got back to camp and thank goodness for coles BBQ chooks. A very healthy bbq and salad for dinner tonight before hanging out the clothes. (Yep Leaston samo samo as last time looks like a Bedouin camp). Groceries away and time for a cuppa before heading off to bed.
What a long day, feeling really tired tonight. Been sneezing all day, but with all the fires and the pollens around it isnt any wonder that my nose is running like a marathon runner.
A big thank you to Peter and Dianne for letting us camp next to them, and to Peter for his assistance with assisting James in fixing James chair.
We headed back on to the Great Northern Highway and headed for the Willare Roadhouse, we had been told by a fellow traveler to make sure that our freezer was empty, as they sold really good meat cheap. They were not wrong. I just wish we had a bigger freezer. mmmmm Kimberley Lamb and Beef. So we stocked up the freezer with meat, had the obligatory ice cream and headed for Quondong Point.
When we got to Quondong Point we had a quick drive around to see what was available, and we decided on our little piece of heaven. The exact same campspot that we camped at 8 years ago. And yes Leaston it is still the same. Glorious.
Quondong Point is very very popular especially with the caravaners. There is one section that looks like an unofficial caravan park, it is full the to brim with big rigs and motor homes.
Well after a quick set up, we stripped the bed, (sheets were almost up and walking on their own), loaded up the water containers and headed to Broome in hope of catching the Post Office before it shut.
We got to the Post Office about 4 pm and stood in line for 1/2 an hour onlly to be told that sorry you are in the wrong place, mail collection is next door, so out one door, down the street, in the next door, and wait another 1/2 an hour to be served.
Only half our expected mail was there, so we will have to share the joy of the lady behind the counter one more time. I tell you, I know it was Friday afternoon, but her disposition was clearly displaying her dislike for the place and the need to go to the pub for a few drinks. I think she either needs a holiday or to change jobs, but then again if it was that busy every day all day by Friday afternoon I would be in need of more than one drink thats for sure.
Mail in hand (James was happy both his rum and air bags had arrived) we headed back to the car, grabbed out the washing and headed to the laundrymat only to find out that it closed in under an hour, so clothes in the machines and a quick dash to coles to get some food.
As James was putting the groceries in the car I was back in the laundrymat collecting our clothes, no time for the sheets to go in the dryer, so no sheets on the bed tonight.
James topped up the water containers, and that done we headed back to camp as the sun was setting. We got back to camp and thank goodness for coles BBQ chooks. A very healthy bbq and salad for dinner tonight before hanging out the clothes. (Yep Leaston samo samo as last time looks like a Bedouin camp). Groceries away and time for a cuppa before heading off to bed.
What a long day, feeling really tired tonight. Been sneezing all day, but with all the fires and the pollens around it isnt any wonder that my nose is running like a marathon runner.
Day 181 Thursday 8th August 2013; Location - Mary Pool (Mary River)
Up reasonably early today, long drive ahead back to Fitzroy Crossing and on to Geikie Gorge to do the DEC boat tour again.
We got to Fitzroy Crossing about midday and headed to the fuel station and topped up the tank and bought some fresh bread before heading out to Geikie Gorge.
When we got there and had some lunch before we found out that the times we thought we saw at the Fitzroy Crossing visitor centre was wrong and there isnt a 1 pm boat ride it is 12 noon or 3pm so we had to kill some time until 2.30pm when they sold the tickets for the trip.
Luckily for us, they now put all families with kids at the front of the boat, so we got 3rd row back and Rena got to outside seat, so she got a really good view of the river.
This time the guy from Parks and Wildlife (use to be DEC, CALM but now back to Parks and Wildlife) Skoobes (I think thats how you spell it) took us a bit further down the river, and we got to see a bit more and find out a bit more too. He had a young aboriginal kid on board Leon, who assisted him in the driving of the boat, so it made the trip a bit more special too.
Rena got to see a few freshwater crocodiles reasonably close, and James and I got to see how many things had and had not changed in 8 years.
After the boat ride we headed back to the highway and our long haul to the campspot for the night. There was a fair amount of roadworks going on to so this slowed us down a little too.
When we got to Ellendale Rest Area it was packed, the spot that was left and we attempted to back in to was not ideal, luckily for us Peter (a very nice gentleman) came to our rescue and said we could camp next to him on the flatspot. We took him up on his offer and set up camp.
Peter and Dianne were from the Gold Coast and have been living on the road now for about 7 years they said. They had a good setup. But most of all, they didnt mind us camping close to them with a 4 yr old. Thank you.
All set up, spag on toast for dinner tonight, nice and easy, feeling really tired and run down tonight. been sneezing all afternoon.
Early to bed, big drive tomorrow.
We got to Fitzroy Crossing about midday and headed to the fuel station and topped up the tank and bought some fresh bread before heading out to Geikie Gorge.
When we got there and had some lunch before we found out that the times we thought we saw at the Fitzroy Crossing visitor centre was wrong and there isnt a 1 pm boat ride it is 12 noon or 3pm so we had to kill some time until 2.30pm when they sold the tickets for the trip.
Luckily for us, they now put all families with kids at the front of the boat, so we got 3rd row back and Rena got to outside seat, so she got a really good view of the river.
This time the guy from Parks and Wildlife (use to be DEC, CALM but now back to Parks and Wildlife) Skoobes (I think thats how you spell it) took us a bit further down the river, and we got to see a bit more and find out a bit more too. He had a young aboriginal kid on board Leon, who assisted him in the driving of the boat, so it made the trip a bit more special too.
Rena got to see a few freshwater crocodiles reasonably close, and James and I got to see how many things had and had not changed in 8 years.
After the boat ride we headed back to the highway and our long haul to the campspot for the night. There was a fair amount of roadworks going on to so this slowed us down a little too.
When we got to Ellendale Rest Area it was packed, the spot that was left and we attempted to back in to was not ideal, luckily for us Peter (a very nice gentleman) came to our rescue and said we could camp next to him on the flatspot. We took him up on his offer and set up camp.
Peter and Dianne were from the Gold Coast and have been living on the road now for about 7 years they said. They had a good setup. But most of all, they didnt mind us camping close to them with a 4 yr old. Thank you.
All set up, spag on toast for dinner tonight, nice and easy, feeling really tired and run down tonight. been sneezing all afternoon.
Early to bed, big drive tomorrow.
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| Geikie Gorge Ranger Boat Tour |
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| Geikie Gorge |
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| A local who thought we got a bit close |
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| Geikie Gorge |
Day 180 Wednesday 7th August 2013; Location - Caroline Pool (Near Old Halls Creek)
What a pretty spot to wake up to. Sitting down having breakfast watching the birds come in to the waterhole and have a drink.
All packed up and back on the road, next destination Wolfe Creek Meteroite Crater. 130 klm off the Great Northern Highway and 130 back again. The road is corraguated in places, but there was a big section where they were grading it so was nice and smooth for James.
We got there about midday and as miss 4 yr old was STARVING!!!!! we had lunch first before heading up to the top of the crater. We made it to the top of the crater ok, just a little rocky track, but the track down in to the crater was quite steep and as I had my ice skates on (runners just about worn out the tread on them now) I didnt want to go down, so Rena and I sat on the top whilst James started going down (geocache down there so you know where James was going).
Well James made it to the bottom and Rena didnt want to be left out, so she headed down the hill, me in tow (she kept telling me Mummy you can do it, Ill help you). Well James came back up (we were half way down by this time) and took Rena the rest of the way whilst I waiting in the only shade on the side of the crater.
James left Rena standing at the bottom whilst he went off and did the geocache, and Rena didnt like being on her own, so she started to climb back up the side again, so with my ice skates on I tried to go down to help her. Luckily for me, Rena is a good rock climber and made it back up to me without much hassel and we carefully made our way back up to the top of the crater, before heading back down to the car again.
When James came back (geo coin in hand) we headed back down the Tanami track to the Great Northern Highway and back to Mary Pool for the night.
We got there at about 4.30pm and set up in the same spot as the other night. Still just as busy with lots and lots of caravans. Although the dump point was full and the smell if outside and the wind blowing the wrong way made for an unpleasant experience it was still a nice spot for the night.
Tomorrow on to Geikie Gorge and the boat trip with Rena and then head towards Broome. Really really looking forward to speding a few days and nights chilling out at Quondong Beach :)
All packed up and back on the road, next destination Wolfe Creek Meteroite Crater. 130 klm off the Great Northern Highway and 130 back again. The road is corraguated in places, but there was a big section where they were grading it so was nice and smooth for James.
We got there about midday and as miss 4 yr old was STARVING!!!!! we had lunch first before heading up to the top of the crater. We made it to the top of the crater ok, just a little rocky track, but the track down in to the crater was quite steep and as I had my ice skates on (runners just about worn out the tread on them now) I didnt want to go down, so Rena and I sat on the top whilst James started going down (geocache down there so you know where James was going).
Well James made it to the bottom and Rena didnt want to be left out, so she headed down the hill, me in tow (she kept telling me Mummy you can do it, Ill help you). Well James came back up (we were half way down by this time) and took Rena the rest of the way whilst I waiting in the only shade on the side of the crater.
James left Rena standing at the bottom whilst he went off and did the geocache, and Rena didnt like being on her own, so she started to climb back up the side again, so with my ice skates on I tried to go down to help her. Luckily for me, Rena is a good rock climber and made it back up to me without much hassel and we carefully made our way back up to the top of the crater, before heading back down to the car again.
When James came back (geo coin in hand) we headed back down the Tanami track to the Great Northern Highway and back to Mary Pool for the night.
We got there at about 4.30pm and set up in the same spot as the other night. Still just as busy with lots and lots of caravans. Although the dump point was full and the smell if outside and the wind blowing the wrong way made for an unpleasant experience it was still a nice spot for the night.
Tomorrow on to Geikie Gorge and the boat trip with Rena and then head towards Broome. Really really looking forward to speding a few days and nights chilling out at Quondong Beach :)
Day 177 - 179 Sunday 4th - Tuesday 6th August 2013; Location - Kurrajong Campground, Purnulula (Bungle Bungles) National Park
Sunday 4th
Today we had a little bit of a lay/sleep in. Up at 7.30am and breakfast.
We were ready to go and no the northern walks when a neighbour came over and asked if he could borrow some jumper leads as the battery in his new Land Rover was flat. Well we ended up driving over and giving him a jump start as he couldnt start it off his 2nd battery. Brand new car less than 6 months old and his battery keeps going flat on him. Land Rover say there isnt a problem, well I think that there might be.
That done we headed out to the Bloodwood parking area and did the Mini Palm Gorge walk, there was a few more rocks to squeeze past and jump over than last time we were here. So proud of our little hiker girl Rena. She is really getting good at this rock hopping.
It was nice to make it right in to the end of Mini Plam Gorge and see that this section hadnt changed, still very serene and spectacular.
We then headed back to the car and on to Echidna Chasm, we didnt make it there by 12 noon but were there a little after so we didnt get the whole experience of the light down the chasm (did last time though) but it was still quite spectacular.
Once again Rena was a good little hiker albeit a little tired we made our way back to the car with a promise of 2 smooze (fruit ices) when we got back to camp. Its like holding a carrot in front of her, she really likes the fruit smoozes (and they are good for her too) you can get her to stop dragging her feet and get her to almost run back to the car :) I know bad mummy :D :D
We then headed to the visitor centre to officially book in, yesterday we were naughty and headed straight to camp and set up (camp site host gave us the gentle slap on the back of the hand when he saw us this morning).
Whilst enroute a ute going the other way had his side door to his trayback open so we tried to wave at him, but to no avail. Down the road a bit we stopped and picked up his chair and tent pegs and put them on the side of the road.
Just a little further down the road we found his foot stool and wood chock, so these in the car we headed to the visitor centre. I got James the fact sheet on the Bungle Bungle range, Rena and book and CD and myself a really nice post card. Mind you if they had of sold ice creams we would of bought some too but alas no ice creams.
Back at camp for a late lunch after our fruit smooze.
About 4 pm we headed off to the Kungkalanyl lookout in readiness for the sunset shots. I took my camera and treated it with kid gloves and took some photos and Rena took alot of photos too, but mainly of another family that were there taking photos too.
That done and another beautiful Kimberley sunset we headed back down the hill to the car and back to camp.
Early to bed tonight as we are all a tad tired, we are off to do the southern section of the range tomorrow.
Monday 5th
This morning we were up at 7am and a quick breakfast before getting ready to do the southern walks.
We did the drive down to the southern section, it is amazing the way the range changes between the northern and southern sections.
We decided to stop at the Elephant Rock on the way back as we should get better lighting later on in the day.
The parking area at Piccanninny Creek section is alot bigger than last time, and now has shaded areas and new toilets.
We decided to head straight for Cathederal Gorge and then see how Rena is going before attempting to do the newer Whip Snake Gorge walk.
The walk in to Cathederal Gorge has changed slightly since last time, there is now steps in some places as you can no longer walk all the way up the creek any more. No more clambering over rocks in the creek bed.
We got to the gorge, still an awesome spot, but unfortunately for us, no opera singer today, just some back packers with a boom box seeing how well their music echoed around the gorge. We just sat back and took it all in for a while. Still a spectacular spot.
We headed back to Piccaninny Creek and decided to do the newer Piccaninny Lookout walk, well it is a hot walk and not much shade, but the lookout at the end is well worth the effort. Really gives you a good perspective of the area.
With a very tired and hot miss 4 yr old, we headed back to the car park via the Domes walk. We did the side track and went to the little gorge at the end, the waterhole has long since dried up, but was nice and cool on a hot day.
Back at the car, we headed to Elephant Rock, unfortunately, the foliage in front of the 2 Elephant Rocks is quite tall and thick so it is almost impossible to get a good picture. We then headed back to camp for a quick lunch.
We then headed up to the northern end and did the Stonehedge walk, an aboriginal fauna and flora interpretative trail.
This was really good for Rena, we got to read the signs and look at the plants so we knew what they looked like.
We then headed back to camp and did the track up and over the hill near the campground. This then lead through the campground, it had information signs all the way around it, so once again Rena got to read the signs and see the plants in the wild and also find out about the landscape and rocks.
Back to camp for a cuppa, showers, tea and early to bed. All a tad tired tonight.
Tuesday 6th August
We packed up this morning (unfortunately) and headed out of the park. This time we stopped half way along the road and gave Rena a bit of a leg stretch and some fresh air. It seems longer going out than coming in. The track is very windy, corrugated and hilly. Any wonder after 18,000 klm's Rena had car sickness the other day.
We got to the park entrance and used the facility whilst James pumped up the tyres before hitting the black top again. I made some lunch, there was a guy there with a mobile coffee van doing a roaring trade, very good idea, I reakon you would need a nice strong hot coffee after driving that road.
We then drove on to Halls Creek before turning left and heading out to look at China Wall. The car park has changed a lot, and the riverbed is very much different from last time. The wall looks to have crumbled a bit since last time.
Back in the car and off to Old Halls Creek, this hasnt changed at all, although doesnt look at busy as it use to be.
We then headed to Caroline Pool for the night to set up camp right on the creek bed. What a beautiful spot. James headed off and got some firewood and I made a fruit cake ready to go in the camp oven.
Rena got to enjoy the waterhole before dark and after we all sat around the campfire and ate dinner and cake before retiring inside for the night. Was a cool night.
Beautiful free campspot not to far out of Halls Creek, worth a visist if you are coming this way.
Today we had a little bit of a lay/sleep in. Up at 7.30am and breakfast.
We were ready to go and no the northern walks when a neighbour came over and asked if he could borrow some jumper leads as the battery in his new Land Rover was flat. Well we ended up driving over and giving him a jump start as he couldnt start it off his 2nd battery. Brand new car less than 6 months old and his battery keeps going flat on him. Land Rover say there isnt a problem, well I think that there might be.
That done we headed out to the Bloodwood parking area and did the Mini Palm Gorge walk, there was a few more rocks to squeeze past and jump over than last time we were here. So proud of our little hiker girl Rena. She is really getting good at this rock hopping.
It was nice to make it right in to the end of Mini Plam Gorge and see that this section hadnt changed, still very serene and spectacular.
We then headed back to the car and on to Echidna Chasm, we didnt make it there by 12 noon but were there a little after so we didnt get the whole experience of the light down the chasm (did last time though) but it was still quite spectacular.
Once again Rena was a good little hiker albeit a little tired we made our way back to the car with a promise of 2 smooze (fruit ices) when we got back to camp. Its like holding a carrot in front of her, she really likes the fruit smoozes (and they are good for her too) you can get her to stop dragging her feet and get her to almost run back to the car :) I know bad mummy :D :D
We then headed to the visitor centre to officially book in, yesterday we were naughty and headed straight to camp and set up (camp site host gave us the gentle slap on the back of the hand when he saw us this morning).
Whilst enroute a ute going the other way had his side door to his trayback open so we tried to wave at him, but to no avail. Down the road a bit we stopped and picked up his chair and tent pegs and put them on the side of the road.
Just a little further down the road we found his foot stool and wood chock, so these in the car we headed to the visitor centre. I got James the fact sheet on the Bungle Bungle range, Rena and book and CD and myself a really nice post card. Mind you if they had of sold ice creams we would of bought some too but alas no ice creams.
Back at camp for a late lunch after our fruit smooze.
About 4 pm we headed off to the Kungkalanyl lookout in readiness for the sunset shots. I took my camera and treated it with kid gloves and took some photos and Rena took alot of photos too, but mainly of another family that were there taking photos too.
That done and another beautiful Kimberley sunset we headed back down the hill to the car and back to camp.
Early to bed tonight as we are all a tad tired, we are off to do the southern section of the range tomorrow.
Monday 5th
This morning we were up at 7am and a quick breakfast before getting ready to do the southern walks.
We did the drive down to the southern section, it is amazing the way the range changes between the northern and southern sections.
We decided to stop at the Elephant Rock on the way back as we should get better lighting later on in the day.
The parking area at Piccanninny Creek section is alot bigger than last time, and now has shaded areas and new toilets.
We decided to head straight for Cathederal Gorge and then see how Rena is going before attempting to do the newer Whip Snake Gorge walk.
The walk in to Cathederal Gorge has changed slightly since last time, there is now steps in some places as you can no longer walk all the way up the creek any more. No more clambering over rocks in the creek bed.
We got to the gorge, still an awesome spot, but unfortunately for us, no opera singer today, just some back packers with a boom box seeing how well their music echoed around the gorge. We just sat back and took it all in for a while. Still a spectacular spot.
We headed back to Piccaninny Creek and decided to do the newer Piccaninny Lookout walk, well it is a hot walk and not much shade, but the lookout at the end is well worth the effort. Really gives you a good perspective of the area.
With a very tired and hot miss 4 yr old, we headed back to the car park via the Domes walk. We did the side track and went to the little gorge at the end, the waterhole has long since dried up, but was nice and cool on a hot day.
Back at the car, we headed to Elephant Rock, unfortunately, the foliage in front of the 2 Elephant Rocks is quite tall and thick so it is almost impossible to get a good picture. We then headed back to camp for a quick lunch.
We then headed up to the northern end and did the Stonehedge walk, an aboriginal fauna and flora interpretative trail.
This was really good for Rena, we got to read the signs and look at the plants so we knew what they looked like.
We then headed back to camp and did the track up and over the hill near the campground. This then lead through the campground, it had information signs all the way around it, so once again Rena got to read the signs and see the plants in the wild and also find out about the landscape and rocks.
Back to camp for a cuppa, showers, tea and early to bed. All a tad tired tonight.
Tuesday 6th August
We packed up this morning (unfortunately) and headed out of the park. This time we stopped half way along the road and gave Rena a bit of a leg stretch and some fresh air. It seems longer going out than coming in. The track is very windy, corrugated and hilly. Any wonder after 18,000 klm's Rena had car sickness the other day.
We got to the park entrance and used the facility whilst James pumped up the tyres before hitting the black top again. I made some lunch, there was a guy there with a mobile coffee van doing a roaring trade, very good idea, I reakon you would need a nice strong hot coffee after driving that road.
We then drove on to Halls Creek before turning left and heading out to look at China Wall. The car park has changed a lot, and the riverbed is very much different from last time. The wall looks to have crumbled a bit since last time.
Back in the car and off to Old Halls Creek, this hasnt changed at all, although doesnt look at busy as it use to be.
We then headed to Caroline Pool for the night to set up camp right on the creek bed. What a beautiful spot. James headed off and got some firewood and I made a fruit cake ready to go in the camp oven.
Rena got to enjoy the waterhole before dark and after we all sat around the campfire and ate dinner and cake before retiring inside for the night. Was a cool night.
Beautiful free campspot not to far out of Halls Creek, worth a visist if you are coming this way.
Day 176 Saturday 3rd August 2013; Location - Mary Pool
James was out of bed by 6.30am and Rena and I were not to far behind him.
All packed up and on the road, todays destination is The Bungle Bungles.
We stopped for fuel at Halls Creek. WOW another town that has grown alot since the last time we were over this way.
Back on the road, next stop the entry to the to Bungle Bungles. James unloaded the firewood as you are not allowed to take it in to the park, and Rena and I read the information signs about the park. Nice new signage and toilet.
We then took Spring Creek Track in to The Bungle Bungles. About half way along the track Rena got car sick. So a quick stop to clean her and the car up, and give her some fresh air.
We got to the visitor centre, but decided to head straight for camp and set up as we had paid for the camp online alreayd.
We lucked in with my choice of campsite, nice big spot with a nice shade tree to set up next to and provide shade for the camper. Some spots do not have any shade at all, or you are sharing your tent peg spaces with your neighbours.
As luck would be on Rena's side, 4 girls were camped next to us ranging in age from 4 to 7. So we didnt see much of Rena that afternoon, she got to play with some girls. We also found out what to buy Rena for her birthday, the other 4 year old had the same pillow pet as Rena, but she also had a pony on a stick which Rena fell in love with (actually had trouble getting Rena to give it back).
Rena still has a long way to go when it comes to sharing her toys. But she has improved heaps since being on the road. I think she is going to be a leader in what ever she chosing to do, she natually leads the group, or tells them what to do. (Gets upset too if they dont do as she wants, this she will have to overcome).
As there is bore water here, we all got the chance to have a really nice long shower tonight (well our 1 bucket shower). Rena got to have a really big bath. It was really nice to be clean and free of red dust even if it did only last for 10 minutes before getting dusty again.
All packed up and on the road, todays destination is The Bungle Bungles.
We stopped for fuel at Halls Creek. WOW another town that has grown alot since the last time we were over this way.
Back on the road, next stop the entry to the to Bungle Bungles. James unloaded the firewood as you are not allowed to take it in to the park, and Rena and I read the information signs about the park. Nice new signage and toilet.
We then took Spring Creek Track in to The Bungle Bungles. About half way along the track Rena got car sick. So a quick stop to clean her and the car up, and give her some fresh air.
We got to the visitor centre, but decided to head straight for camp and set up as we had paid for the camp online alreayd.
We lucked in with my choice of campsite, nice big spot with a nice shade tree to set up next to and provide shade for the camper. Some spots do not have any shade at all, or you are sharing your tent peg spaces with your neighbours.
As luck would be on Rena's side, 4 girls were camped next to us ranging in age from 4 to 7. So we didnt see much of Rena that afternoon, she got to play with some girls. We also found out what to buy Rena for her birthday, the other 4 year old had the same pillow pet as Rena, but she also had a pony on a stick which Rena fell in love with (actually had trouble getting Rena to give it back).
Rena still has a long way to go when it comes to sharing her toys. But she has improved heaps since being on the road. I think she is going to be a leader in what ever she chosing to do, she natually leads the group, or tells them what to do. (Gets upset too if they dont do as she wants, this she will have to overcome).
As there is bore water here, we all got the chance to have a really nice long shower tonight (well our 1 bucket shower). Rena got to have a really big bath. It was really nice to be clean and free of red dust even if it did only last for 10 minutes before getting dusty again.
Day 174 - 175 Thursday 1st - Friday 2nd August 2013; Location - Windjana Gorge National Park Campground
Thursday 1st
Today Renas friends moved on, but this time we got their email address so she could keep in touch with them. She also got a photo of them as well.
After saying goodbye we then headed off to do the Windjana Gorge walk. Rena got to see freshwater crocodiles up close and personal. We got to see quite a few crocodiles along the walk.
This time we were not able to go right to the end as the last 1.5 klm was closed due to weed control and also damage from the wet season. This was probably a good thing as it was a really hot walk.
Once we got to the turn around spot, we found a nice bit of shade and sat down and had a drink before heading back to camp.
We got back to camp just after midday so we cooled down first with a fruit ice smooze and then had some lunch.
The rest of the day we relaxed in the shade whilst Rena played or painted.
Tomorrow Tunnel Creek enroute to the Bungle Bungles. I am really looking forward to seeing them again. We have booked our campsite in the northern quiet section again. This is a good spot for the sunset shots (I hope again)
Today has been really hot, so I hope that it cools down a bit before we do the Bungles walks.
Friday 2nd
Today we packed up camp and headed to Tunnel Creek. They have increased the size of the car park, which is in line with the increased number of tourists id say. Alot more cars here than last time we were here. They have also put in a new toilet block.
We did the walk through the tunnel, and Rena really enjoyed it, it was nice to be in the cool air for a while. The tunnel was different inside in places, each wet season flood would change the tunnel in some way.
It is amazing that there is still some formations forming even with it being an open cave and each year the wet season floods roaring through the cave.
After we had finished the walk we headed back to the car and on to Fitzroy Crossing. We called in and got some fuel before heading over to the visitor information centre and waited for the lunch break to be over.
We got some information on the Mimbil Cave Tour but at $160 for the 2 of us it is outside our budget at present so might be a next time item. Why is it that anything indigenous run is so expensive??
We then stopped at the Fitzroy River and had lunch. One of the local school buses came past it is a Canter truck with a bus on the back and bright orange. Will have to try and get a photo to show you.
Back on the road until Mary Pool where we got a spot and set up camp. A very very popular free camp. The toilets needed a good clean and 2 were leaking. The disabled toilet was the only one that was functioning properly and we clean.
Dinner cooked we headed indoors for the night.
Today Renas friends moved on, but this time we got their email address so she could keep in touch with them. She also got a photo of them as well.
After saying goodbye we then headed off to do the Windjana Gorge walk. Rena got to see freshwater crocodiles up close and personal. We got to see quite a few crocodiles along the walk.
This time we were not able to go right to the end as the last 1.5 klm was closed due to weed control and also damage from the wet season. This was probably a good thing as it was a really hot walk.
Once we got to the turn around spot, we found a nice bit of shade and sat down and had a drink before heading back to camp.
We got back to camp just after midday so we cooled down first with a fruit ice smooze and then had some lunch.
The rest of the day we relaxed in the shade whilst Rena played or painted.
Tomorrow Tunnel Creek enroute to the Bungle Bungles. I am really looking forward to seeing them again. We have booked our campsite in the northern quiet section again. This is a good spot for the sunset shots (I hope again)
Today has been really hot, so I hope that it cools down a bit before we do the Bungles walks.
Friday 2nd
Today we packed up camp and headed to Tunnel Creek. They have increased the size of the car park, which is in line with the increased number of tourists id say. Alot more cars here than last time we were here. They have also put in a new toilet block.
We did the walk through the tunnel, and Rena really enjoyed it, it was nice to be in the cool air for a while. The tunnel was different inside in places, each wet season flood would change the tunnel in some way.
It is amazing that there is still some formations forming even with it being an open cave and each year the wet season floods roaring through the cave.
After we had finished the walk we headed back to the car and on to Fitzroy Crossing. We called in and got some fuel before heading over to the visitor information centre and waited for the lunch break to be over.
We got some information on the Mimbil Cave Tour but at $160 for the 2 of us it is outside our budget at present so might be a next time item. Why is it that anything indigenous run is so expensive??
We then stopped at the Fitzroy River and had lunch. One of the local school buses came past it is a Canter truck with a bus on the back and bright orange. Will have to try and get a photo to show you.
Back on the road until Mary Pool where we got a spot and set up camp. A very very popular free camp. The toilets needed a good clean and 2 were leaking. The disabled toilet was the only one that was functioning properly and we clean.
Dinner cooked we headed indoors for the night.
Day 173 Wednesday 31st July 2013; Location - Kimberley Entrance Caravan Park, Derby
Up early and off to the laundry to get the clothes in the machine before breakfast.
Back to camp to throw down breakfast before heading back to the laundry to hang out the clothes in an hopefully get them mostly dry before we have to hit the road.
Back to camp and start to pack up whilst James is on the phone to the airbag man trying to sort out the problem with the air bag suspension and get a replacement sent out to arrive in Broome next week.
Just about all packed up all we need to do is fold up the camper and I take Rena to the toilets and on our way back who is pulling in to the campspot behind us, but the family that was camped next to us at Edith Falls. Maddison, Sarah and her mum Donna and Dad.
Rena was over the moon as was Maddison, who spotted Rena before they pulled up. Rena played with Maddison whilst I caught up with Donna on their visit to Kakadu and told her about our travels. Donna and I compared our list of things to do on our trek down the WA coastline and we will more than likely run in to each other again somewhere.
Sadly Rena hopped in the car, bad timing, and we headed down to the jetty to have a look at the Centenary Pavilion and the signs down there. The take away kiosk right at the jetty sells everything from Barra to Crocodile burgers. I can see why it was so popular last night when we walked past it.
We then headed down to the Old Prison Tree and Water Trough before heading back to the Gibb River Road enroute to Windjana Gorge.
We arrived and set up camp under the shade of a nice tree that would provide nice afternoon shade. It also provided us with front row seats to the sunset views of Windjana Gorge.
After we had lunch James pulled out the thermal blanket and did some running repairs on it as it is really warming up now we certainly need it. This red dust gets in everywhere and the duct tape isnt holding up to well under these conditions.
Will be nice to have the thermal blanket back on top of the camper and cool things down a bit inside, but also keep the cold night air off the top of the camper too as it is still quite cool at night in places.
Familiar faces are turning up at camp, some we have seen along the Gibb River Road. Amazing how many people are traveling in the same direction as us.
The people camped next to us at Bell Gorge arrived today too.
As of today we have now done 17,679 klm since leaving home in February.
Back to camp to throw down breakfast before heading back to the laundry to hang out the clothes in an hopefully get them mostly dry before we have to hit the road.
Back to camp and start to pack up whilst James is on the phone to the airbag man trying to sort out the problem with the air bag suspension and get a replacement sent out to arrive in Broome next week.
Just about all packed up all we need to do is fold up the camper and I take Rena to the toilets and on our way back who is pulling in to the campspot behind us, but the family that was camped next to us at Edith Falls. Maddison, Sarah and her mum Donna and Dad.
Rena was over the moon as was Maddison, who spotted Rena before they pulled up. Rena played with Maddison whilst I caught up with Donna on their visit to Kakadu and told her about our travels. Donna and I compared our list of things to do on our trek down the WA coastline and we will more than likely run in to each other again somewhere.
Sadly Rena hopped in the car, bad timing, and we headed down to the jetty to have a look at the Centenary Pavilion and the signs down there. The take away kiosk right at the jetty sells everything from Barra to Crocodile burgers. I can see why it was so popular last night when we walked past it.
We then headed down to the Old Prison Tree and Water Trough before heading back to the Gibb River Road enroute to Windjana Gorge.
We arrived and set up camp under the shade of a nice tree that would provide nice afternoon shade. It also provided us with front row seats to the sunset views of Windjana Gorge.
After we had lunch James pulled out the thermal blanket and did some running repairs on it as it is really warming up now we certainly need it. This red dust gets in everywhere and the duct tape isnt holding up to well under these conditions.
Will be nice to have the thermal blanket back on top of the camper and cool things down a bit inside, but also keep the cold night air off the top of the camper too as it is still quite cool at night in places.
Familiar faces are turning up at camp, some we have seen along the Gibb River Road. Amazing how many people are traveling in the same direction as us.
The people camped next to us at Bell Gorge arrived today too.
As of today we have now done 17,679 klm since leaving home in February.
Day 171 - 172 Monday 29th - Tuesday 30th July 2013; Location - Silent Grove Campground, King Leopold Ranges Conservation Park
Monday 29th
We had breakfast and then headed off to Bell Gorge to do the walk in to the gorge.
The campsites that use to be along the creek burnt down in 2006 and they have not reopened them, which is a real pitty, now I wish that we had of taken the extra night last time and camped there. Something about drop toilets being to close to the creek during flood times was one of the reasons for not reopening them.
We got to the carpark and headed to the information stand just as a full busload of APT tourists turned up, so we decided to do the bolt ahead of them and read the signs later.
We got down the track to the top of the waterfall ok, a little rocky in places, but an easy walk compared to some that we have been on.
We then crossed over the stream and took the track down to the waterhole at the bottom of the waterfall. This was a little bit harder for Rena, very rocky in places and even I had to bum slide in places, so poor little Rena's legs just were not long enough and needed a hand.
It was beautiful, they say they had a poor wet season, but there was still enough water coming over the waterfall to make it quite beautiful. (Leaston there was more than last time, so James couldnt climb in like last time).
Rena wanted to go for a swim right or wrong, so James took her down to the waters edge, the rocks here are so smooth from the water rushing over it in the wet season, it is like being on an ice rink. They took one step in to the water and both stopped in their tracks. James response was that it was rather BRISK!!!!, Refreshing was another word used.
James tried to coax Rena in to the water but unfortunately she has got use to using her swim suit (that we left in the car) and as she didnt have it, wouldnt go in to the deeper water. Also as the water was so brisk she wasnt going to have a bar of it, and it was a bit to cold for James too.
I then tried to get her in to the water, I didnt go to much deeper than my ankles, and my feed were instantly frozen. I could see why Rena wouldnt go for a swim. At Manning Falls the water was a little bit warmer than here.
So we decided to sit and dry off and then enjoy the surroundings before heading back up to the top of the waterfall. James went and explored a little at the top of the falls and I tried to get Rena to take some photos. Both of us were very cautious near the edge of the cliff.
I wet Rena's and my top before heading on back up the track. A good decision as it was a hot day and it cooled us down nicely for the walk.
Back at camp we decided to explore the short walk that ran next to the creek and discovered 2 bratts swimming in the creek. This creek supplies the camp with drinking water and you are told when you arrive that you are not allowed to swim in the creek, there is also a sign at the start of the track telling you not to swim.
Anyway James told them they were not allowed to swim there and they scampered off and back to camp. Their mum hadnt long since come back from the same direction just before we headed off to the creek with wet swimmers on so we know where they get their ignorance from.
We followed the track to the end and then turned around and headed back to camp. I put another cake in the dream pot to cook.
We sat back and enjoyed another beautifully spectacular sunset. AWESOME!!!!
Tuesday 30th
We packed up camp and headed down the Gibb River Road, we came across a wicked camper which had broken down and pulled over to see if they needed help. Unfortunately they didnt speak much english, and well after a bit of hand talking we managed to find out that they had been there for 2 hours and no one heading south had pulled up to see if they were ok. One person heading north had pulled up 2 hours ago and they had given them the details to take with them to ring for assistance.
We took the details off them and told them that it would be at least another 2 hours before we got to Derby but would try and ring when we got there.
We arrived in Derby, WOW hasnt this place grown since we were here last. We went to the same caravan park and booked it, this place too has grown a bit since last time too.
I tried to ring the wicked campers roadside assistance line but just couldnt get through and the other number she had written down didnt work, so I headed back to camp, can only hope that the person going north was able to get through.
We set up the camper and after a cuppa we headed off down to Woolies to get some supplies. We then headed to the fish and chips shop to get some barra and chips before heading on down to the Derby Jetty to watch the sunset.
We were not dissapointed a beautiful spectacular Kimberley sunset. They really know how to put on a show over here. (That an all the dry season burn off smoke adds to it as well).
We even had the bonus of a boat in line with the sun which added to the photos. There was also a big ship being loaded with cargo so we got to watch that as well after the sun had set before it set sail into the dying light.
We then sat down on the jetty and had our barra and chips. Mmmmm Mmmmm, much better than the crap we got in Darwin. There was that many chips we could not eat them all.
Back to camp to sort out the groceries whilst catching up with family on the phones.
We had a visit from a local trying to sell us a carved boab nut, it was very well done, but he wanted $55 for it, and well I dont want to sound well.... his breath rank of alcohol. But in addition we had just spent our budget at Wollies and the treat of fish and chips we had to decline. He said he would come back if he couldnt get a buyer and we could have it for $40. He didnt come back so he must have sold it. Was very well done and I would have loved to buy it, but it would have got broken on our way around oz. :(
By the time James and I got to bed it was well past 10.30pm so it was a late night for us.
We had breakfast and then headed off to Bell Gorge to do the walk in to the gorge.
The campsites that use to be along the creek burnt down in 2006 and they have not reopened them, which is a real pitty, now I wish that we had of taken the extra night last time and camped there. Something about drop toilets being to close to the creek during flood times was one of the reasons for not reopening them.
We got to the carpark and headed to the information stand just as a full busload of APT tourists turned up, so we decided to do the bolt ahead of them and read the signs later.
We got down the track to the top of the waterfall ok, a little rocky in places, but an easy walk compared to some that we have been on.
We then crossed over the stream and took the track down to the waterhole at the bottom of the waterfall. This was a little bit harder for Rena, very rocky in places and even I had to bum slide in places, so poor little Rena's legs just were not long enough and needed a hand.
It was beautiful, they say they had a poor wet season, but there was still enough water coming over the waterfall to make it quite beautiful. (Leaston there was more than last time, so James couldnt climb in like last time).
Rena wanted to go for a swim right or wrong, so James took her down to the waters edge, the rocks here are so smooth from the water rushing over it in the wet season, it is like being on an ice rink. They took one step in to the water and both stopped in their tracks. James response was that it was rather BRISK!!!!, Refreshing was another word used.
James tried to coax Rena in to the water but unfortunately she has got use to using her swim suit (that we left in the car) and as she didnt have it, wouldnt go in to the deeper water. Also as the water was so brisk she wasnt going to have a bar of it, and it was a bit to cold for James too.
I then tried to get her in to the water, I didnt go to much deeper than my ankles, and my feed were instantly frozen. I could see why Rena wouldnt go for a swim. At Manning Falls the water was a little bit warmer than here.
So we decided to sit and dry off and then enjoy the surroundings before heading back up to the top of the waterfall. James went and explored a little at the top of the falls and I tried to get Rena to take some photos. Both of us were very cautious near the edge of the cliff.
I wet Rena's and my top before heading on back up the track. A good decision as it was a hot day and it cooled us down nicely for the walk.
Back at camp we decided to explore the short walk that ran next to the creek and discovered 2 bratts swimming in the creek. This creek supplies the camp with drinking water and you are told when you arrive that you are not allowed to swim in the creek, there is also a sign at the start of the track telling you not to swim.
Anyway James told them they were not allowed to swim there and they scampered off and back to camp. Their mum hadnt long since come back from the same direction just before we headed off to the creek with wet swimmers on so we know where they get their ignorance from.
We followed the track to the end and then turned around and headed back to camp. I put another cake in the dream pot to cook.
We sat back and enjoyed another beautifully spectacular sunset. AWESOME!!!!
Tuesday 30th
We packed up camp and headed down the Gibb River Road, we came across a wicked camper which had broken down and pulled over to see if they needed help. Unfortunately they didnt speak much english, and well after a bit of hand talking we managed to find out that they had been there for 2 hours and no one heading south had pulled up to see if they were ok. One person heading north had pulled up 2 hours ago and they had given them the details to take with them to ring for assistance.
We took the details off them and told them that it would be at least another 2 hours before we got to Derby but would try and ring when we got there.
We arrived in Derby, WOW hasnt this place grown since we were here last. We went to the same caravan park and booked it, this place too has grown a bit since last time too.
I tried to ring the wicked campers roadside assistance line but just couldnt get through and the other number she had written down didnt work, so I headed back to camp, can only hope that the person going north was able to get through.
We set up the camper and after a cuppa we headed off down to Woolies to get some supplies. We then headed to the fish and chips shop to get some barra and chips before heading on down to the Derby Jetty to watch the sunset.
We were not dissapointed a beautiful spectacular Kimberley sunset. They really know how to put on a show over here. (That an all the dry season burn off smoke adds to it as well).
We even had the bonus of a boat in line with the sun which added to the photos. There was also a big ship being loaded with cargo so we got to watch that as well after the sun had set before it set sail into the dying light.
We then sat down on the jetty and had our barra and chips. Mmmmm Mmmmm, much better than the crap we got in Darwin. There was that many chips we could not eat them all.
Back to camp to sort out the groceries whilst catching up with family on the phones.
We had a visit from a local trying to sell us a carved boab nut, it was very well done, but he wanted $55 for it, and well I dont want to sound well.... his breath rank of alcohol. But in addition we had just spent our budget at Wollies and the treat of fish and chips we had to decline. He said he would come back if he couldnt get a buyer and we could have it for $40. He didnt come back so he must have sold it. Was very well done and I would have loved to buy it, but it would have got broken on our way around oz. :(
By the time James and I got to bed it was well past 10.30pm so it was a late night for us.
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