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.
Day 169 - 170 Saturday 27th - Sunday 28th July 2013; Location - Manning Gorge Campground
Saturday 27th
The alarm went off at 6.30am and we got up and had breakfast and got ready for our walk in to Manning Gorge.
(We are on holidays this 6.30am business is really rude dont you think, but hey Manning Gorge is worth it. All of the Kimberley is worth it)
We hit the track at about 7.30am (Rena is very hard to get up of a morning, she has got use to sleeping in, will have to retrain her closer to getting home). I clearly remember this track from last time we were here and HATED IT!! It was so hot and horrid I thought, so I didnt want to walk it in the heat of the day again, and walking in earlier in the day hopefully it will be a much better walk.
The walk in was ok this time, when you start the walk to cross over the swimming hole there is now a boat that you can put your stuff in and pull yourself over the river. Is very good for the kids and also for the adults that dont want to swim across.
Well Rena got the sprints on when she could hear the sound of the waterfall. From dragging her feet to sprinting. WOW another gorgeous spot.
As we were making our way around the rocks (a little bit of rock hopping was required) to the waterfall we found some aboriginal rock art that we didnt see last time we were here.
This time the waterfall had some water going over it, so after a timid entry to the brisk water, Rena and I swam over to the waterfall. We went underneath the waterfall were there is a little cave, and a very nice lady held Rena for me so I could go and swim directly under the waterfall. A very magic moment indeed.
I wasnt able to coax Rena into swimming under the waterfall, so we headed back to James who by this time had taken some photos and was heading out to greet us with a Mertins Water Monitor in his hand.
We then swam back to shore, James returned the lizard to its home, and we dried off sitting on the rocks. What a truely awesome spot.
We headed back to camp and it wasnt too hot but hot enough. For James and I the walk was enjoyable for Rena well she dragged her feet a bit until we got to the boat, the people infront of us had waited for us as they wanted to swim across to cool down but needed someone to take their stuff over on the boat, so we obliged and took their stuff whilst we stayed dry. It was a fun experience for Rena.
Back at camp we relaxed the afternoon away. Rena was a bit upset as the family that camped next to us last night had left, they said they would meet us on the walk, but obviously they had a time table to keep to.
James scored well, the HEMA mapping team turned up, so I asked him to go down and see if they had one of the Bush Tucker Kimberley maps as I hadnt been able to get one since we saw it in Kununurra. Well off he went and came back with a new Kimberley map, unfortunately the Bush Tucker map is no longer in print, so they gave him the latest Kimberley may. BONUS!!!!
Well early night tonight, off to Bell Gorge tomorrow.
Sunday 28th
We packed up camp and headed to the Mt Barnett Roadhouse to fill up the gas bottle. When we got to the roadhouse we found out that they dont do gas refills (map was wrong), I looked at a box of breakfast cereal as we needed some and well at $7.00 for a small box of corn flakes I left it. So no gas refill so we hit the road again.
Next stop was Adcock Gorge, what a spectacular little gorge, easy walk in to it, (drive was a little challenging in spots but not overly hard). What another beautiful Kimberley Gem.
We even got to see another water monitor sunning itself on the rocks (that is until James went to take a closer look, boy those things can move fast and even faster in water).
We then headed back out on to the Gibb River Road again, we called in to the Imintji Store and this time got a gas bottle refill ($29.75 for 3kg of gas), topped up the fuel tank only $2.295 per litre for diesel got 100 litres OUCH! (was $2.40 at Mt Barnett). This time the box of corn flakes was $5.50 but was for a smaller box but we needed it. All up spent $280.75, it is expensive out this way paddle pot was $2.50.
Obligatory ice creams in tummies, diesel in the tank, gas bottle refilled we hit the GRR again headed for Silent Grove campground.
We arrived at the campground which was pretty full and found our spot, at the entrance to the campground we were met by the volunteer campsite hosts. Very friendly people, let us know all about the drinking water and not to swim in the creek, if you want to swim you go to Bell Gorge and swim. Also that there is now hot showers and flushing toilets.
We found a spot (not many not genny ones left at this stage of the day) and set up camp. They have really improved the campground since we were here last time.
Rena hasnt stopped complaining about not having kids to play with since the sweedish girls left yesterday. Hopefully she will find some kids to play with here.
The alarm went off at 6.30am and we got up and had breakfast and got ready for our walk in to Manning Gorge.
(We are on holidays this 6.30am business is really rude dont you think, but hey Manning Gorge is worth it. All of the Kimberley is worth it)
We hit the track at about 7.30am (Rena is very hard to get up of a morning, she has got use to sleeping in, will have to retrain her closer to getting home). I clearly remember this track from last time we were here and HATED IT!! It was so hot and horrid I thought, so I didnt want to walk it in the heat of the day again, and walking in earlier in the day hopefully it will be a much better walk.
The walk in was ok this time, when you start the walk to cross over the swimming hole there is now a boat that you can put your stuff in and pull yourself over the river. Is very good for the kids and also for the adults that dont want to swim across.
Well Rena got the sprints on when she could hear the sound of the waterfall. From dragging her feet to sprinting. WOW another gorgeous spot.
As we were making our way around the rocks (a little bit of rock hopping was required) to the waterfall we found some aboriginal rock art that we didnt see last time we were here.
This time the waterfall had some water going over it, so after a timid entry to the brisk water, Rena and I swam over to the waterfall. We went underneath the waterfall were there is a little cave, and a very nice lady held Rena for me so I could go and swim directly under the waterfall. A very magic moment indeed.
I wasnt able to coax Rena into swimming under the waterfall, so we headed back to James who by this time had taken some photos and was heading out to greet us with a Mertins Water Monitor in his hand.
We then swam back to shore, James returned the lizard to its home, and we dried off sitting on the rocks. What a truely awesome spot.
We headed back to camp and it wasnt too hot but hot enough. For James and I the walk was enjoyable for Rena well she dragged her feet a bit until we got to the boat, the people infront of us had waited for us as they wanted to swim across to cool down but needed someone to take their stuff over on the boat, so we obliged and took their stuff whilst we stayed dry. It was a fun experience for Rena.
Back at camp we relaxed the afternoon away. Rena was a bit upset as the family that camped next to us last night had left, they said they would meet us on the walk, but obviously they had a time table to keep to.
James scored well, the HEMA mapping team turned up, so I asked him to go down and see if they had one of the Bush Tucker Kimberley maps as I hadnt been able to get one since we saw it in Kununurra. Well off he went and came back with a new Kimberley map, unfortunately the Bush Tucker map is no longer in print, so they gave him the latest Kimberley may. BONUS!!!!
Well early night tonight, off to Bell Gorge tomorrow.
Sunday 28th
We packed up camp and headed to the Mt Barnett Roadhouse to fill up the gas bottle. When we got to the roadhouse we found out that they dont do gas refills (map was wrong), I looked at a box of breakfast cereal as we needed some and well at $7.00 for a small box of corn flakes I left it. So no gas refill so we hit the road again.
Next stop was Adcock Gorge, what a spectacular little gorge, easy walk in to it, (drive was a little challenging in spots but not overly hard). What another beautiful Kimberley Gem.
We even got to see another water monitor sunning itself on the rocks (that is until James went to take a closer look, boy those things can move fast and even faster in water).
We then headed back out on to the Gibb River Road again, we called in to the Imintji Store and this time got a gas bottle refill ($29.75 for 3kg of gas), topped up the fuel tank only $2.295 per litre for diesel got 100 litres OUCH! (was $2.40 at Mt Barnett). This time the box of corn flakes was $5.50 but was for a smaller box but we needed it. All up spent $280.75, it is expensive out this way paddle pot was $2.50.
Obligatory ice creams in tummies, diesel in the tank, gas bottle refilled we hit the GRR again headed for Silent Grove campground.
We arrived at the campground which was pretty full and found our spot, at the entrance to the campground we were met by the volunteer campsite hosts. Very friendly people, let us know all about the drinking water and not to swim in the creek, if you want to swim you go to Bell Gorge and swim. Also that there is now hot showers and flushing toilets.
We found a spot (not many not genny ones left at this stage of the day) and set up camp. They have really improved the campground since we were here last time.
Rena hasnt stopped complaining about not having kids to play with since the sweedish girls left yesterday. Hopefully she will find some kids to play with here.
Day 167- 168 Thursday 25th - Friday 26th July 2013; Location - Mt Elizabeth Station
Thursday 25th
Today we took the 4wd track out to the Wunumurra Waterfall. They said it was a rocky track best suited to high clearance 4wd's and they were not wrong. 9.6 klm drive followed by a 1 klm walk to get to the top of the waterfall and another 500 meter walk down stream to the rock art sight.
There wasnt a great deal of water going over the top of the waterfall but it was still beautiful.
We headed down the ladders and downstream towards the rock art sight.
Well as we were rock hopping and climbing over some rocks, my left foot got caught up and I fell, luckily for me a tree broke my fall and held me up, thankfully I was alright.
We kept tracking downstream and came across the rock art sight. WOW, some really nice rock art. It is a shame that in years to come the ochre rock art will be no longer visible due to aging.
We crossed over the river and found some more rock art that was very very old. WOW.
Time to head back to the car and back to camp for lunch. My home made bread is getting better.
After we had had lunch we headed out to the Wana Waterhole 4wd track. This time the track was a very easy drive compared to the other track.
The waterhole was very shallow in spots and was great for Rena. (This time we remembered her swim suite), I left James and Rena and headed upstream on the Hann River and took some photos. BEAUTIFUL!!
Back to James and Rena. The water was a bit cool for James. We sat on the bank and watched Rena and the oncoming smoke from a fire. We decided to head back to camp when the smoke got a bit closer and darker.
So much flora and fauna here, an awesome spot to spend a couple of days and nights.
Friday 26th
We packed up camp and headed off to have a shower before heading on down the Gibb River Road again. Be nice to be clean for a little while.
We called in to the Barnett River Gorge. Only 3 klms off the GRR and a short walk to the swimming hole.
Last time we were here, we just camped here and didnt go down to the swimming hole (which I can now say was a great shame). This time the camping area/car park was packed. A very popular spot now. Even had an APT bus there.
This is another spectacular Kimberley waterhole.
Back in the car and the short drive to Mt Barnett Roadhouse, we paid for our campsite for 2 nights at Manning Gorge, put a dash of diesel in the cruiser ($2.40 per litre) and headed out to the campground.
The campground hasnt changed much in 8 years. The campground was very full but we managed to find a spot to set up camp.
Later on we put on a fire and used the camp over to cook a couple of cakes.
As we were eating dinner (by this time was about 7pm and very dark) a family came and asked if they could camp right next to us. We said ok, so we shared our campfire as they set up their tent.
Rena was happy as they had 2 girls, one 4 one 7. The family were from Sweeden and their grandmother was from Sydney. Didnt hear much from Rena from the rest of the night, she was captivated by the family.
Eventually we had to pull Rena away and got to bed as we were getting up early in the morning to do the gorge walk. Rena is learning so much and her people skills are really good now.
Today we took the 4wd track out to the Wunumurra Waterfall. They said it was a rocky track best suited to high clearance 4wd's and they were not wrong. 9.6 klm drive followed by a 1 klm walk to get to the top of the waterfall and another 500 meter walk down stream to the rock art sight.
There wasnt a great deal of water going over the top of the waterfall but it was still beautiful.
We headed down the ladders and downstream towards the rock art sight.
Well as we were rock hopping and climbing over some rocks, my left foot got caught up and I fell, luckily for me a tree broke my fall and held me up, thankfully I was alright.
We kept tracking downstream and came across the rock art sight. WOW, some really nice rock art. It is a shame that in years to come the ochre rock art will be no longer visible due to aging.
We crossed over the river and found some more rock art that was very very old. WOW.
Time to head back to the car and back to camp for lunch. My home made bread is getting better.
After we had had lunch we headed out to the Wana Waterhole 4wd track. This time the track was a very easy drive compared to the other track.
The waterhole was very shallow in spots and was great for Rena. (This time we remembered her swim suite), I left James and Rena and headed upstream on the Hann River and took some photos. BEAUTIFUL!!
Back to James and Rena. The water was a bit cool for James. We sat on the bank and watched Rena and the oncoming smoke from a fire. We decided to head back to camp when the smoke got a bit closer and darker.
So much flora and fauna here, an awesome spot to spend a couple of days and nights.
Friday 26th
We packed up camp and headed off to have a shower before heading on down the Gibb River Road again. Be nice to be clean for a little while.
We called in to the Barnett River Gorge. Only 3 klms off the GRR and a short walk to the swimming hole.
Last time we were here, we just camped here and didnt go down to the swimming hole (which I can now say was a great shame). This time the camping area/car park was packed. A very popular spot now. Even had an APT bus there.
This is another spectacular Kimberley waterhole.
Back in the car and the short drive to Mt Barnett Roadhouse, we paid for our campsite for 2 nights at Manning Gorge, put a dash of diesel in the cruiser ($2.40 per litre) and headed out to the campground.
The campground hasnt changed much in 8 years. The campground was very full but we managed to find a spot to set up camp.
Later on we put on a fire and used the camp over to cook a couple of cakes.
As we were eating dinner (by this time was about 7pm and very dark) a family came and asked if they could camp right next to us. We said ok, so we shared our campfire as they set up their tent.
Rena was happy as they had 2 girls, one 4 one 7. The family were from Sweeden and their grandmother was from Sydney. Didnt hear much from Rena from the rest of the night, she was captivated by the family.
Eventually we had to pull Rena away and got to bed as we were getting up early in the morning to do the gorge walk. Rena is learning so much and her people skills are really good now.
Day 166 Wednesday 24th July 2013; Location - Hann River (Gibb River Road)
We had a leisurly start to the day and breakfast before packing up camp and hitting the Gibb River Road again for the short drive (well compared to the others) and headed to Mt Elizabeth Station, 30 klms off the GRR.
We booked in for 2 nights and paid our dues. The reception are is really nice, it has a table with magazines and photos of the station. I think this is also where you come and have dinner if you are eating your meals at the homestead.
Rena got to pat a baby wallaby that they were hand raising.
We picked our spot and set up camp in a nice shady spot.
After we set up we had a cuppa and lunch, I then started to make some break and tried out a new recipe for fruit cake. I got the bread ready for the camp oven later on, whilst James got the fire ready to light later.
Rena was really happy as she had most of her toys out and was happily playing with them
After making the bread I headed off to have a shower before the evening rush hour, well I didnt quite make it in time and had to wait to use the shower. But it was worth the wait, nice hot shower. The facilities here were a bit old but they were very clean and functioned quite well.
Back to camp and I put the break and then the cake on in the camp oven. Fruit cake was a bit hot on the bottom so was a bit crispy (black) but the bread turned out really well.
We had steak on the bbq plate, and baked potatoes thanks to the camp oven for dinner.
It has chilled down alot tonight so we are off to bed to try and get warm. Tomorrow to do the 2 4wd tracks here.
We booked in for 2 nights and paid our dues. The reception are is really nice, it has a table with magazines and photos of the station. I think this is also where you come and have dinner if you are eating your meals at the homestead.
Rena got to pat a baby wallaby that they were hand raising.
We picked our spot and set up camp in a nice shady spot.
After we set up we had a cuppa and lunch, I then started to make some break and tried out a new recipe for fruit cake. I got the bread ready for the camp oven later on, whilst James got the fire ready to light later.
Rena was really happy as she had most of her toys out and was happily playing with them
After making the bread I headed off to have a shower before the evening rush hour, well I didnt quite make it in time and had to wait to use the shower. But it was worth the wait, nice hot shower. The facilities here were a bit old but they were very clean and functioned quite well.
Back to camp and I put the break and then the cake on in the camp oven. Fruit cake was a bit hot on the bottom so was a bit crispy (black) but the bread turned out really well.
We had steak on the bbq plate, and baked potatoes thanks to the camp oven for dinner.
It has chilled down alot tonight so we are off to bed to try and get warm. Tomorrow to do the 2 4wd tracks here.
Day 165 Tuesday 23rd July 2013; Location - Homestead Campground, Drysdale River Station
People sure wake up early in this part of the country. We were awake before 7am and one third of the campground have already packed up and left.
I cooked pancakes for breakfast (Rena's favourite) so that I could give the clothes a bit more time to dry before getting them off the line.
Whilst packing up I resorted the bags with the clean washing. Amazing how the bags can get all mixed up with Rena dressing herself now after a few days her bag is a mess, and well James we will just leave that one there.
While we were packing up we had a visitor, the lovely lady from the Perth group came over and gave us the list of must see places to do on our way down the WA coast line. A big thank you.
We then finished our pack up, it is amazing how much we have it down pat now, but after 6 months on the road you would expect that. Looking around and all the people are pretty much in the same situation. You can tell the newbies.
It appears that all our fellow travelers are happy to be here and exploring this wonderful part of Australia. Lots of happy faces around.
We got back on the road and head south. Not to far down the road and we come across the group from Perth (8 cars) and they are pulled over on the side of the road, James said it looked like a tyre or something had gorn. Such a shame as there are a really nice bunch of people. I hope it wasnt anything serious.
We kept on going as with 8 cars one extra would have just been in the way.
We kept driving until we get to the Hann River. We checked out both sides of the river, the southern side isnt really all that good for camper trailers, so we headed back to the north side and camped on the east side of the road underneath the shade of some trees.
Rena was happy as we pulled out all her toys and she got to spend the afternoon playing with her toys whilst James chased the sun with the solar and got the camp fire ready. Time to cook another cake and a roast for dinner.
I am still pinching myself every day, thanks Dave for letting me have a year off, and a even bigger thank you to my wonderful husband for having the same desire to explore this wonderful land of ours. Every day is a bonus with you. :) I am one very fortunate woman to have such a kind, caring and patient man in my life.
The around Australia trip is definitely "A must do" at least once in your life, it does change you.
I cooked pancakes for breakfast (Rena's favourite) so that I could give the clothes a bit more time to dry before getting them off the line.
Whilst packing up I resorted the bags with the clean washing. Amazing how the bags can get all mixed up with Rena dressing herself now after a few days her bag is a mess, and well James we will just leave that one there.
While we were packing up we had a visitor, the lovely lady from the Perth group came over and gave us the list of must see places to do on our way down the WA coast line. A big thank you.
We then finished our pack up, it is amazing how much we have it down pat now, but after 6 months on the road you would expect that. Looking around and all the people are pretty much in the same situation. You can tell the newbies.
It appears that all our fellow travelers are happy to be here and exploring this wonderful part of Australia. Lots of happy faces around.
We got back on the road and head south. Not to far down the road and we come across the group from Perth (8 cars) and they are pulled over on the side of the road, James said it looked like a tyre or something had gorn. Such a shame as there are a really nice bunch of people. I hope it wasnt anything serious.
We kept on going as with 8 cars one extra would have just been in the way.
We kept driving until we get to the Hann River. We checked out both sides of the river, the southern side isnt really all that good for camper trailers, so we headed back to the north side and camped on the east side of the road underneath the shade of some trees.
Rena was happy as we pulled out all her toys and she got to spend the afternoon playing with her toys whilst James chased the sun with the solar and got the camp fire ready. Time to cook another cake and a roast for dinner.
I am still pinching myself every day, thanks Dave for letting me have a year off, and a even bigger thank you to my wonderful husband for having the same desire to explore this wonderful land of ours. Every day is a bonus with you. :) I am one very fortunate woman to have such a kind, caring and patient man in my life.
The around Australia trip is definitely "A must do" at least once in your life, it does change you.
Day 164 Monday 22nd July 2013; Location - Honeymoon Bay, Kalumbaru
What an absolutely beautiful piece of Australia to wake up to. The last couple of days has been so awesome, Mitchell Falls, and now Honeymoon Bay. WOW!!!
We took our time packing up this morning and headed back to Kalumburu. We did a side track and called in to the other campground before heading back in to Kalumburu.
We called in to the mission store and I got some duct tape ($10) (to fix the thermal blanket) and a fresh (frozen) loaf of bread ($4.50). The lady that served me was a volunteer and had been there for 5 months and was really looking forward to her daughter coming and picking her up next month. As she said when she volunteered she didnt realise it was so remote. But she was glad that she had done her dues and given something back to society.
Back down the Kalumburu track. This is a road to be experienced, in some spots it is like a goat track and other spots it well... what it is. But what is at the end of the road, makes the journey all worth while. The road there and the scenery in spots is pretty good too if you stop and look.
We called in to the rest area at the King Edward River (Mitchell Falls Rd) turnoff and had a bite to eat. James had a look at a tyre that was left there, dont think that they could repair that one. "Its a bit stuffed mate"
The grader had just graded the road just past the turnoff so it made the driving a bit easier for James (well where the grader had been at least).
We called in to the Miners Pool campground as James was keen to test the key he found at King Edward River campground to see if it fitted in the screen door that we left at the Miners Pool campground.
We pulled up next to the door and as Murphy's law would have it there was no lock in it. If there had of been he may have been able to test it :D
That done we headed back out on to the Gibb River Road and the small drive to Drysdale River Station and paid our dues for the night before heading over to the campground to set up camp.
We ran into a group of people that we had been bumping in to since our first night at the King Edward River campground. A ground of 8 cars mostly from Perth.
We set up camp and I headed over to the showers and waited in line, once I had my shower I headed over to the laundry, unfortunately there is only 2 washing machines, so I waited in line again, and ran into some of the ladies from the Perth group.
We got talking about our different travels and well since they are from WA I asked them about what they consider to be their must do places down the WA coastline. They gave me a few place names to visit and we very helpful. One of the ladies said she would write them down for me and drop over and give it to me later :)
Well after the wait for a machine I got the washing on and James cooked dinner in between my walks back and forth to the washing machine and clothes line. Hanging clothes out in the dark is fun, but hopefully they will dry overnight. No sheets washed this time. :(
Once the washing was done and dinner eaten we decided to head indoors as it got a bit chilly tonight. I must be getting soft in my old age, feeling the cold nights up here.
We took our time packing up this morning and headed back to Kalumburu. We did a side track and called in to the other campground before heading back in to Kalumburu.
We called in to the mission store and I got some duct tape ($10) (to fix the thermal blanket) and a fresh (frozen) loaf of bread ($4.50). The lady that served me was a volunteer and had been there for 5 months and was really looking forward to her daughter coming and picking her up next month. As she said when she volunteered she didnt realise it was so remote. But she was glad that she had done her dues and given something back to society.
Back down the Kalumburu track. This is a road to be experienced, in some spots it is like a goat track and other spots it well... what it is. But what is at the end of the road, makes the journey all worth while. The road there and the scenery in spots is pretty good too if you stop and look.
We called in to the rest area at the King Edward River (Mitchell Falls Rd) turnoff and had a bite to eat. James had a look at a tyre that was left there, dont think that they could repair that one. "Its a bit stuffed mate"
The grader had just graded the road just past the turnoff so it made the driving a bit easier for James (well where the grader had been at least).
We called in to the Miners Pool campground as James was keen to test the key he found at King Edward River campground to see if it fitted in the screen door that we left at the Miners Pool campground.
We pulled up next to the door and as Murphy's law would have it there was no lock in it. If there had of been he may have been able to test it :D
That done we headed back out on to the Gibb River Road and the small drive to Drysdale River Station and paid our dues for the night before heading over to the campground to set up camp.
We ran into a group of people that we had been bumping in to since our first night at the King Edward River campground. A ground of 8 cars mostly from Perth.
We set up camp and I headed over to the showers and waited in line, once I had my shower I headed over to the laundry, unfortunately there is only 2 washing machines, so I waited in line again, and ran into some of the ladies from the Perth group.
We got talking about our different travels and well since they are from WA I asked them about what they consider to be their must do places down the WA coastline. They gave me a few place names to visit and we very helpful. One of the ladies said she would write them down for me and drop over and give it to me later :)
Well after the wait for a machine I got the washing on and James cooked dinner in between my walks back and forth to the washing machine and clothes line. Hanging clothes out in the dark is fun, but hopefully they will dry overnight. No sheets washed this time. :(
Once the washing was done and dinner eaten we decided to head indoors as it got a bit chilly tonight. I must be getting soft in my old age, feeling the cold nights up here.
Day 163 Sunday 21st July 2013; Location - Munurru Campground, King Edward River
Time to pack up again, but this time we are headed north up to Kalumburu. It will be interesting to see what it is like north of here as this is the furthest that we have been before.
The King Edward River campground has been greatly improved since we were here back in 2005, by the next time we come through the new toilets will have been competed and the new section of the campground opened. It is really nice, each site has a fire ring and is mowed. There are single sites and sites were you can have multiple campers/vans.
All packed up and we head north. Some of the road was good and some of it not so good. Some of it was no more than a goat track.
We got to Kalumburu and as it was midday on Sunday everything was shut and locked up tight, so any attempt we made to pay the permit was fruitless. This is definitely an aboriginal mission settlement. The biggest building was the police station.
So without being able to get a permit we decided to head on out to Honeymoon Bay and try and pay the permit up there.
When we arrived at Honeymoon Bay the owner took our fees for camping and when we asked how we could pay for the permit he told us that we could pay the access permit next year (with a smile on his face). He then told us we could camp up on the top of the hill near the house or we could go and camp down on the beach.
Well could you see us camping up near the house when we could camp on the beach. No way, so we headed on down to the beach, and we found a nice little spot and pulled up stumps for the day.
Well I have been to some pretty beaches in my life, and this is right up there. Spectacular.
After we had set up camp, we sat down and relaxed chasing the shade but enjoying the beautiful breeze. We then went for a walk along the beach as the sun was setting. What a truely spectacular place to be and the sunset was magic. The colours up here are just magic and no camera will ever capture what the human eye can see. You will just have to come and see it for yourself :D :D
When we did eventually go to bed we left all of the windows open and watched the ocean and moon from inside as it was almost a full moon and everything was lit up by moonlight.
Rena went to sleep watching the stars and the moon. It really doesnt get much better than this.
(All that was wrong with up here was the midgies, definitely need to bring the triple strength aeroguard up here and spray it before 4pm, ignoring that and it is almost paradise)
The King Edward River campground has been greatly improved since we were here back in 2005, by the next time we come through the new toilets will have been competed and the new section of the campground opened. It is really nice, each site has a fire ring and is mowed. There are single sites and sites were you can have multiple campers/vans.
All packed up and we head north. Some of the road was good and some of it not so good. Some of it was no more than a goat track.
We got to Kalumburu and as it was midday on Sunday everything was shut and locked up tight, so any attempt we made to pay the permit was fruitless. This is definitely an aboriginal mission settlement. The biggest building was the police station.
So without being able to get a permit we decided to head on out to Honeymoon Bay and try and pay the permit up there.
When we arrived at Honeymoon Bay the owner took our fees for camping and when we asked how we could pay for the permit he told us that we could pay the access permit next year (with a smile on his face). He then told us we could camp up on the top of the hill near the house or we could go and camp down on the beach.
Well could you see us camping up near the house when we could camp on the beach. No way, so we headed on down to the beach, and we found a nice little spot and pulled up stumps for the day.
Well I have been to some pretty beaches in my life, and this is right up there. Spectacular.
After we had set up camp, we sat down and relaxed chasing the shade but enjoying the beautiful breeze. We then went for a walk along the beach as the sun was setting. What a truely spectacular place to be and the sunset was magic. The colours up here are just magic and no camera will ever capture what the human eye can see. You will just have to come and see it for yourself :D :D
When we did eventually go to bed we left all of the windows open and watched the ocean and moon from inside as it was almost a full moon and everything was lit up by moonlight.
Rena went to sleep watching the stars and the moon. It really doesnt get much better than this.
(All that was wrong with up here was the midgies, definitely need to bring the triple strength aeroguard up here and spray it before 4pm, ignoring that and it is almost paradise)
Day 161 - 162 Friday 19th - Saturday 20th July 2013; Location - Mitchell Campground, Mitchell River National Park
Friday 19th
We awoke at about 5.50am way before the alarm was set for. Some people had already packed up and left, and others had already left to do the hike out to Mitchell Falls.
We had breakfast and got ready and headed off at about 7.30am. Last time we were here we didnt see the aboriginal art gallery that is on the left hand side on the other side of the creek on the way out to the falls. So James did some rock hopping and went and took some photos and I waited with Rena on the main side of the creek.
We then headed off for Big Mertens Falls. Last time there was barely a trickle going over the falls, this time there was a little bit more, but not enough to stop you walking over, enough for a nice photo.
Starting to get excited that there might be a decent amount of water going over the Mitchell Falls.
Well we were not dissapointed, The falls were flowing and there was a decent amount of water flowing over Mitchell Falls. There was so much water in fact that you couldnt walk across to the other side of the river without taking your shoes off and wading through water.
We did a fair amount of rock hopping to get to the spot where you can cross over the river, Mitchell Falls 1 - My top lip and left knee 0. We shall just leave it at that, but OUCH!!
Once across the river there is a new heli pad and a waiting area for its customers which is nice and shaded, so we took full advantage of this and sat down in the shade and had our morning tea before putting our shoes back on. (James also did a geocache that was nearby too)
We explored the west side of the river and found this nice little rock ledge that overlooked the falls, so we sat and took it all in before taking a few photos. WOW, truely awesome.
We headed back over the river and ended up spending a fair amount of time sitting in the river, beautiful spot to cool off. Was nice and shallow for Rena too.
We headed back to camp via the track that went around the side of the river (didnt see it on the way in) no rock hopping this time.
Back at Little Mertens Falls we went down to the waterhole underneath it and looked at the aboriginal rock art again. There was a tour guide there with a group and he was explaining what the rock art meant. We eavesdropped a bit, was very interesting before moving on and heading down for a swim.
I think we must have just been too hot, but none of us went for a swim, we just cooled down a bit, I only put my legs in and splashed myself.
Back at camp by 2.30 pm what a wonderful walk. Rena is a little trouper and definately a good little hiker girl. Yes the walk back was hot, but now we can say that we walked both in and out. :( No helicopter ride out this time :(
Dinner tonight was nice and easy as whilst we were having breakfast I started cooking dinner in the dreampot 'Silverside', so it was an easy dinner all I had to do was cook the vegis and slice the meat. MMM MMMM. Nice and tender too.
Awesome spot, Awesome Walk :)
Saturday 20th
We awoke reasonably early, I had a rough night with my legs, my left knee that I had bruised in my fall yesterday and my right leg played up all night :(
We packed up camp and headed back to the King Edward River. The road didnt seem as busy today as it was on our way in and there seemed to be less corrugations that last time we were here too.
We stopped at the aboriginal burial art site just west of the campground. We found some really good examples of aboriginal art. Found a burial site by accident and respectfully backed away really quickly. Definitely did not want to upset the spirits and we wanted to respect the culture. I felt very humble to be here and witness this aboriginal site. I wish that I could have explained what the different images meant to Rena as she is really interested and wanted to know what they were.
Back to the Munurru Campground (King Edward River) and we even got the same spot as we camped in the other night.
We set up and had lunch, but not before poor Rena had a nose bleed. She was really grumpy and teary in the car, I think we may have worn the poor little girl out.
Time to attempt to make some break to cook on the fire tonight and do some stuff with Rena.
I think both Rena and I are ready for a couple of days relaxing at Quondong Beach, but that will not be for a couple of weeks yet.
The bread turned out quite ok. :) Sandwiches for the next couple of day :) cool.
We awoke at about 5.50am way before the alarm was set for. Some people had already packed up and left, and others had already left to do the hike out to Mitchell Falls.
We had breakfast and got ready and headed off at about 7.30am. Last time we were here we didnt see the aboriginal art gallery that is on the left hand side on the other side of the creek on the way out to the falls. So James did some rock hopping and went and took some photos and I waited with Rena on the main side of the creek.
We then headed off for Big Mertens Falls. Last time there was barely a trickle going over the falls, this time there was a little bit more, but not enough to stop you walking over, enough for a nice photo.
Starting to get excited that there might be a decent amount of water going over the Mitchell Falls.
Well we were not dissapointed, The falls were flowing and there was a decent amount of water flowing over Mitchell Falls. There was so much water in fact that you couldnt walk across to the other side of the river without taking your shoes off and wading through water.
We did a fair amount of rock hopping to get to the spot where you can cross over the river, Mitchell Falls 1 - My top lip and left knee 0. We shall just leave it at that, but OUCH!!
Once across the river there is a new heli pad and a waiting area for its customers which is nice and shaded, so we took full advantage of this and sat down in the shade and had our morning tea before putting our shoes back on. (James also did a geocache that was nearby too)
We explored the west side of the river and found this nice little rock ledge that overlooked the falls, so we sat and took it all in before taking a few photos. WOW, truely awesome.
We headed back over the river and ended up spending a fair amount of time sitting in the river, beautiful spot to cool off. Was nice and shallow for Rena too.
We headed back to camp via the track that went around the side of the river (didnt see it on the way in) no rock hopping this time.
Back at Little Mertens Falls we went down to the waterhole underneath it and looked at the aboriginal rock art again. There was a tour guide there with a group and he was explaining what the rock art meant. We eavesdropped a bit, was very interesting before moving on and heading down for a swim.
I think we must have just been too hot, but none of us went for a swim, we just cooled down a bit, I only put my legs in and splashed myself.
Back at camp by 2.30 pm what a wonderful walk. Rena is a little trouper and definately a good little hiker girl. Yes the walk back was hot, but now we can say that we walked both in and out. :( No helicopter ride out this time :(
Dinner tonight was nice and easy as whilst we were having breakfast I started cooking dinner in the dreampot 'Silverside', so it was an easy dinner all I had to do was cook the vegis and slice the meat. MMM MMMM. Nice and tender too.
Awesome spot, Awesome Walk :)
Saturday 20th
We awoke reasonably early, I had a rough night with my legs, my left knee that I had bruised in my fall yesterday and my right leg played up all night :(
We packed up camp and headed back to the King Edward River. The road didnt seem as busy today as it was on our way in and there seemed to be less corrugations that last time we were here too.
We stopped at the aboriginal burial art site just west of the campground. We found some really good examples of aboriginal art. Found a burial site by accident and respectfully backed away really quickly. Definitely did not want to upset the spirits and we wanted to respect the culture. I felt very humble to be here and witness this aboriginal site. I wish that I could have explained what the different images meant to Rena as she is really interested and wanted to know what they were.
Back to the Munurru Campground (King Edward River) and we even got the same spot as we camped in the other night.
We set up and had lunch, but not before poor Rena had a nose bleed. She was really grumpy and teary in the car, I think we may have worn the poor little girl out.
Time to attempt to make some break to cook on the fire tonight and do some stuff with Rena.
I think both Rena and I are ready for a couple of days relaxing at Quondong Beach, but that will not be for a couple of weeks yet.
The bread turned out quite ok. :) Sandwiches for the next couple of day :) cool.
Day 160 Thursday 18th July 2013; Location - Munurru Campground, King Edward River
We awoke to a really heavy fog. But this burnt off really quickly once the sun was up.
We packed up camp and headed west towards Mitchell Falls.
We called in to the lookout that is about half way along, still spectacular views. The are we there yet sign is still on the track too, and they have updated the firewood collection signs too.
Back in the car and next stop the self registration booth at Mitchell Falls Campground. Then on to the campground to set up camp.
Wow they have certainly changed things a bit since last time. We were here when they were building the first ranger accomodation, now there are many.
The helicopted reception area is still the same, although there is a bigger car park now.
The campground has been explanded and there is more toilets. Also a designated generator area too.
After lunch we relaxed for a bit before heading off to Little Mertens Falls and down to the waterhole underneath it for a swim. BEAUTIFUL!!!!
I had another look at the aboriginal art gallery whilst James took Rena down to the waterhole for a swim. AWESOME!! I was just as awe inspired as last time I saw them.
After our swim which was really nice and refreshing we headed back to camp. Will be an early night as we need to get up early tomorrow to do the walk out to the falls, definitely do not want to walk out there in the heat of the day, it will be a long slow walk back tomorrow with a tired Rena, but will be worth it :)
We packed up camp and headed west towards Mitchell Falls.
We called in to the lookout that is about half way along, still spectacular views. The are we there yet sign is still on the track too, and they have updated the firewood collection signs too.
Back in the car and next stop the self registration booth at Mitchell Falls Campground. Then on to the campground to set up camp.
Wow they have certainly changed things a bit since last time. We were here when they were building the first ranger accomodation, now there are many.
The helicopted reception area is still the same, although there is a bigger car park now.
The campground has been explanded and there is more toilets. Also a designated generator area too.
After lunch we relaxed for a bit before heading off to Little Mertens Falls and down to the waterhole underneath it for a swim. BEAUTIFUL!!!!
I had another look at the aboriginal art gallery whilst James took Rena down to the waterhole for a swim. AWESOME!! I was just as awe inspired as last time I saw them.
After our swim which was really nice and refreshing we headed back to camp. Will be an early night as we need to get up early tomorrow to do the walk out to the falls, definitely do not want to walk out there in the heat of the day, it will be a long slow walk back tomorrow with a tired Rena, but will be worth it :)
Day 159 Wednesday 17th July 2013; Location - Miners Pool Campground, Drysdale River Station
I think that someone turned off the heater last night, it was a rather cool night.
We packed up camp and headed down to the Miners Pool so that Rena could have a swim.
James has got the headache that I have had for the past couple of days. I think we are both adjusting to the heat, Kimberley dust and the corrugations.
We headed back to Drysdale River Station to see if we could buy some duct tape to fix the thermal blanket, but no go. Also needed a can of tyre repair to fix the air bag but they didnt have any of that either. They had lots of counter grog or food but not much else. Very limited on what they sold here. Could buy a beer and burger but not much else.
We headed north towards the King Edward River, just up the road a little past a water crossing we spotted a Brolga, so James quickly stopped the car and reversed back so that I could get some photos.
Well the road was rough except for where the grader was currently working. A nice short stretch of road.
We turned off and headed down the Mitchell Falls Road, and just after the King Edward River crossing we took the road to the left and headed to the aboriginal art site. WOW there was some really good examples of aboriginal art here. The art in the Kimberley is suppose to be the oldest art work found in Australia.
I feel so privileged to be able to see it in person and not in some book. All I need to do now is find out what it all means. Hopefully it will still be here for Rena when she is older. Hopefully with it being made more available to the public it will be respected and not vandalized so that it is there for our future generations.
Back on the road and on to the campground. WOW hasnt this place changed since we were here last. They have really done alot of work here. It is now a really good campground with lots of space.
We set up camp, had lunch and after a bit of a relax headed on down to the river and had a swim. Very refreshing, and very relaxing.
We had dinner before sunset and headed inside. I spent the night downloading photos off 2 cameras, well by the time I had done this it was late and Rena had happily watched 2 DVD's so time to go to sleep.
We packed up camp and headed down to the Miners Pool so that Rena could have a swim.
James has got the headache that I have had for the past couple of days. I think we are both adjusting to the heat, Kimberley dust and the corrugations.
We headed back to Drysdale River Station to see if we could buy some duct tape to fix the thermal blanket, but no go. Also needed a can of tyre repair to fix the air bag but they didnt have any of that either. They had lots of counter grog or food but not much else. Very limited on what they sold here. Could buy a beer and burger but not much else.
We headed north towards the King Edward River, just up the road a little past a water crossing we spotted a Brolga, so James quickly stopped the car and reversed back so that I could get some photos.
Well the road was rough except for where the grader was currently working. A nice short stretch of road.
We turned off and headed down the Mitchell Falls Road, and just after the King Edward River crossing we took the road to the left and headed to the aboriginal art site. WOW there was some really good examples of aboriginal art here. The art in the Kimberley is suppose to be the oldest art work found in Australia.
I feel so privileged to be able to see it in person and not in some book. All I need to do now is find out what it all means. Hopefully it will still be here for Rena when she is older. Hopefully with it being made more available to the public it will be respected and not vandalized so that it is there for our future generations.
Back on the road and on to the campground. WOW hasnt this place changed since we were here last. They have really done alot of work here. It is now a really good campground with lots of space.
We set up camp, had lunch and after a bit of a relax headed on down to the river and had a swim. Very refreshing, and very relaxing.
We had dinner before sunset and headed inside. I spent the night downloading photos off 2 cameras, well by the time I had done this it was late and Rena had happily watched 2 DVD's so time to go to sleep.
Day 158 - Tuesday 16th July 2013; Location - Pentecost Riverside Campsite, Home Valley Station (HV8)
What a beautiful spot to wake up to WOW front row seats/views of the Cockburn Range.
Once we had packed up I headed down to the river and took a picture of a saltwater crocodile that was swimming across the river.
If it wasnt so expensive you could spend alot more time camping here, good spot, great amenities.
Home Valley Station (HV8) is no longer a cattle station supplementing its income with a bit of camping, it is now a tourist destination, they have really developed this place from last time we were here. Personally I prefer the riverside camping than the camp ground up at the homestead.
As we were leaving and heading out to the Gibb River Road, just as we approach the turnoff we see 2 dingos, so James stops and I take some quick photos before they take off.
Back on the GRR, some parts have changed, some bits now has tar on it, it is amazing how different it looks, this time we are doing it from east to west, last time we did it from west to east. Does give you a different perspective.
We got to the Kalumburu turnoff and called in to the rest area there to have some lunch. Quite a few others had the same idea as us. It was rather busy. It is a shame that anything in the rest area if it wasnt the rubbish collection area it had been taken, about the only thing that was left there was the 2 concrete picnic tables. All signage had been removed.
Back on the Kalumburu road and back to the corrugations, which in places was really really bad.
We got to Drysdale River Station and paid our dues to go camp at the Miners Pool and headed down the road and in to the campground.
My headache was at the nausea stage but James had to try and fix the air bag in the cruiser that all his previous attempts to fix the air bag had failed, so any hope of me taking something and lying down was not going to happen.
So after hand washing the clothes and hanging them out, I took Rena down to the swimming hole for a bit of a swim. It was really good place for kids as there was a section were it was really shallow so Rena could have some fun without her swim suit.
When I got back James headed down to the river for a swim to wash off, and Rena followed him down. It was too cold for James to swim so he just washed off.
Early night for me tonight, this headache is a killer.
Once we had packed up I headed down to the river and took a picture of a saltwater crocodile that was swimming across the river.
If it wasnt so expensive you could spend alot more time camping here, good spot, great amenities.
Home Valley Station (HV8) is no longer a cattle station supplementing its income with a bit of camping, it is now a tourist destination, they have really developed this place from last time we were here. Personally I prefer the riverside camping than the camp ground up at the homestead.
As we were leaving and heading out to the Gibb River Road, just as we approach the turnoff we see 2 dingos, so James stops and I take some quick photos before they take off.
Back on the GRR, some parts have changed, some bits now has tar on it, it is amazing how different it looks, this time we are doing it from east to west, last time we did it from west to east. Does give you a different perspective.
We got to the Kalumburu turnoff and called in to the rest area there to have some lunch. Quite a few others had the same idea as us. It was rather busy. It is a shame that anything in the rest area if it wasnt the rubbish collection area it had been taken, about the only thing that was left there was the 2 concrete picnic tables. All signage had been removed.
Back on the Kalumburu road and back to the corrugations, which in places was really really bad.
We got to Drysdale River Station and paid our dues to go camp at the Miners Pool and headed down the road and in to the campground.
My headache was at the nausea stage but James had to try and fix the air bag in the cruiser that all his previous attempts to fix the air bag had failed, so any hope of me taking something and lying down was not going to happen.
So after hand washing the clothes and hanging them out, I took Rena down to the swimming hole for a bit of a swim. It was really good place for kids as there was a section were it was really shallow so Rena could have some fun without her swim suit.
When I got back James headed down to the river for a swim to wash off, and Rena followed him down. It was too cold for James to swim so he just washed off.
Early night for me tonight, this headache is a killer.
Day 157 - Monday 15th July 2013; Location - Wyndhum Caravan Park
We packed up camp and headed off to go down to the Wyndhum croc farm. When we were here back in 2005 we took Leaston there and really had a good time so will be good to take Rena there.
We got there a bit early, we drove past it at first as it looks very run down and didnt think it was still open. So after checking the opening time and seeing that we had time to kill we drove back to the area that had the meatworks trains and let Rena play on the trains whilst James did a geocache.
We then headed back to the croc farm and paid our dues and waiting for the crocodile feeding tour. Whilst we were waiting we had a quick walk around, it is so dissapointing it is so run down. Really dissapointed as it was so good back in 2005.
When they were doing the introductions for the feeding tour they explained that this is the last season for the croc farm and it will be closing at the end of the season unless someone buys it. (In its current state I cant see that happening)
The lady doing the tour is really attached to the crocs, just ask her about Evil ;) She did a really good show. Unfortunatley for us, as they are closing they didnt have any hatchlings this year so we couldnt hold any, and all the yearlings had been sold and had been shipped out the day before we got there.
We left the croc farm and headed to the service station and topped up the tank. The fuel here is the cheapest in the East Kimberlye at $1.70 a litre. I think this will be the cheapest fuel we will get for quite some time.
We then headed for the Gibb River Road, Woooohoooo we have finally made it again!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The Gibb River Road is now tar all the way to the entry to El Questro station, and between El Q and the Penetcost River they are doing major roadworks to covert it from gravel to tar as well.
We stopped on the east side of the Penetcost River at the free campspot, but it was so hot and windy and dusty, so we had lunch. James walked down to the river, and when he came back I headed down with Rena for a bow peep.
When we got back to the car, both James and I decided that we would head on up to Home Valley Station with thoughts of staying there for the night.
We arrived at Home Valley Station (HV8) to see that they have done major developement works here, new swimming pool area, massive, new campground, can no longer camp infront of the homestead near the river anymore. The old pool is now for eco tent and homestead guests only.
They even have pony rides for the kids, but it is just a pony with a carriage and goes round and round and round the roundabout near the campground. Still the parents were having a ball taking photos of the kids.
I went to reception and after finding out that they are not currently doing the self drive 4wd tours I decided that we would only stay one night, I paid my dues for the riverside campspot, unpowered of course, $34 per night for a bit of dust, but its by the river and is suppose to have showers and toilet, so here goes.
We drove to the riverside campground, and it is the same spot that we went to when we were here last time, ack then it was the self drive 4wd trek fishing spot/Cockburn Range lookout. :)
We decided on our little piece of dirt and set up camp. Once set up we sat back and relaxed and watched the changing colours of the Cockburn Range.
We then headed down to the riverside (not to close there is saltwater crocs in there) and got ready to take some sunset shots of the Cockburn Range, we were not dissapointed, beautiful, awesome, spectacular, well you get the gist. Was WOW!!!
After dinner had the best shower yet on the trip, even if it was in the dark using my led headlamp to see. Nice and hot and alot of pressure.
Back to camp and bed, ahhhhhh
We got there a bit early, we drove past it at first as it looks very run down and didnt think it was still open. So after checking the opening time and seeing that we had time to kill we drove back to the area that had the meatworks trains and let Rena play on the trains whilst James did a geocache.
We then headed back to the croc farm and paid our dues and waiting for the crocodile feeding tour. Whilst we were waiting we had a quick walk around, it is so dissapointing it is so run down. Really dissapointed as it was so good back in 2005.
When they were doing the introductions for the feeding tour they explained that this is the last season for the croc farm and it will be closing at the end of the season unless someone buys it. (In its current state I cant see that happening)
The lady doing the tour is really attached to the crocs, just ask her about Evil ;) She did a really good show. Unfortunatley for us, as they are closing they didnt have any hatchlings this year so we couldnt hold any, and all the yearlings had been sold and had been shipped out the day before we got there.
We left the croc farm and headed to the service station and topped up the tank. The fuel here is the cheapest in the East Kimberlye at $1.70 a litre. I think this will be the cheapest fuel we will get for quite some time.
We then headed for the Gibb River Road, Woooohoooo we have finally made it again!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The Gibb River Road is now tar all the way to the entry to El Questro station, and between El Q and the Penetcost River they are doing major roadworks to covert it from gravel to tar as well.
We stopped on the east side of the Penetcost River at the free campspot, but it was so hot and windy and dusty, so we had lunch. James walked down to the river, and when he came back I headed down with Rena for a bow peep.
When we got back to the car, both James and I decided that we would head on up to Home Valley Station with thoughts of staying there for the night.
We arrived at Home Valley Station (HV8) to see that they have done major developement works here, new swimming pool area, massive, new campground, can no longer camp infront of the homestead near the river anymore. The old pool is now for eco tent and homestead guests only.
They even have pony rides for the kids, but it is just a pony with a carriage and goes round and round and round the roundabout near the campground. Still the parents were having a ball taking photos of the kids.
I went to reception and after finding out that they are not currently doing the self drive 4wd tours I decided that we would only stay one night, I paid my dues for the riverside campspot, unpowered of course, $34 per night for a bit of dust, but its by the river and is suppose to have showers and toilet, so here goes.
We drove to the riverside campground, and it is the same spot that we went to when we were here last time, ack then it was the self drive 4wd trek fishing spot/Cockburn Range lookout. :)
We decided on our little piece of dirt and set up camp. Once set up we sat back and relaxed and watched the changing colours of the Cockburn Range.
We then headed down to the riverside (not to close there is saltwater crocs in there) and got ready to take some sunset shots of the Cockburn Range, we were not dissapointed, beautiful, awesome, spectacular, well you get the gist. Was WOW!!!
After dinner had the best shower yet on the trip, even if it was in the dark using my led headlamp to see. Nice and hot and alot of pressure.
Back to camp and bed, ahhhhhh
Day 153 - 156 Thursday 11th - Sunday 14th July 2013; Location - Kimberleyland Holiday Park, Kununurra
Thursday 11th
Today I washed and we sorted out a few things with the camper trailer and car. We took the opportunity to unpack and resort everything out.
This time we are doing a shopping list, no shops on the Gibb River Road, so last chance to get anything before hitting the GRR.
Other than this it was a pretty relaxing day, I took Rena for a swim and her new friend Freedom came with us, but the water temp was a bit cold for me, so we didnt last long in the pool, much to Rena's disappointment.
Tonight it is time to catch up with the world, emails, and time to download some photos.
Friday 12th
First port of call today is the Doctors, as I need to get some scripts done. This done back to camp.
We pulled everything out of the car and the food crates out from under the camper, checked the shopping list to make sure that we had everything on it that we would need. We then headed to Coles, this is going to be a big shop.
Hate coming to town as it costs too much, if it isnt food it is parts for the car or camper :( OUCH!!, but it is a necessity as we wont have access to shops or food for at least 4 weeks and have to make sure that we have enough food and supplies to see us through.
Back to the camp and the big unpack and store it all away. Then to bag and freeze the meat.
A Families On The Road (FOTR) facebook member Jenny Lowe (who lives in Kununurra) put up a post asking if anyone in Kununurra wanted to meet up as there are quite a few families in town at the moment, so I put my hand up. It had been a long day and I didnt want to cook dinner as we had had a very long day, so we agreed to meet at Gulivers Tavern for dinner.
It was really nice to meet another family who was travelling (even if temporarily stopping in Kununurra), the company was great and the food too. The people here in Kununurra are a hard working but friendly mob.
We got back to camp abount 8.30pm with one very tired little girl.
I hoped online and uploaded some photos and sent some emails by the time I had finished it was midnight.
Saturday 13th
Today we did a few touristy things, we went out to the TFS Sandlewood Factory and looked at the different products that they make as well as watching the DVD which was very interesting on the Indian Sandlewood and the Kimberley. It is good to see the industry going so strong.
We then went just up the road to the Hoochery, this time James did the tasting and I had a cuppa and the mango cake. Yummy!!!!
I couldnt resist and ended up having a taste test myself and tasted the Royal Liquere. Very nice as well.
We then went out to the Ivanhoe Crossing which you can not cross now (something about structural testing required) to me it looked a little deeper than last time we were here in 2005.
Back to camp for lunch, I think the late night and heat of today has caught up with all of us. We are all a bit tired.
Dad Bradford phoned us and had gone down to the house today, he had sorted everything out with our tenants, F#&^% usless real estate agent us all I can say.
After dinner we decided to pack a few things up and I tried to send some emails. I was cranky tired so it didnt go to well.
I opted to wash the clothes and hang them up overnight hoping that they would dry before we leave in the morning.
Back to camp and off to bed.
Sunday 14th
We packed up camp and then headed down and washed the red soil from the Flinders Ranges off the car and camper trailer. We then booked out and headed west.
As much as I want to start the Gibb River Road today we need to be in mobile range tomorrow so that I can ring the real estate agent and sort them out.
We headed towards Wyndhum and called in to the Parry's Lagoon Reserve. Not much has changed here except that they have added some shadecloth to the bird hide and the telegraph station at the top of the hill is a no go now due to possible asbestos.
We headed down to Wyndhum and booked in to the caravan park. It hasnt changed much since we were here, there is more powered sites, and less unpowered sites. The unpowered sites now are now mostly in the sun.
We picked a spot under a tree but was about the only spot with shade left. Not the best site, but it had shade. Almost needed to engage 4wd.
After setting up and a cuppa we headed up to the five rivers lookout to watch the sunset. It was a little smoggy due to the wildfires but this added to the colours in the sunset.
Back to camp after a spectacular sunset and an easy dinner tonight. I think that the heat has exhausted me today.
Off to bed early need to wake up early to ring the real estate agent and then my wonderful mum to wish her a happy birthday :)
Today I washed and we sorted out a few things with the camper trailer and car. We took the opportunity to unpack and resort everything out.
This time we are doing a shopping list, no shops on the Gibb River Road, so last chance to get anything before hitting the GRR.
Other than this it was a pretty relaxing day, I took Rena for a swim and her new friend Freedom came with us, but the water temp was a bit cold for me, so we didnt last long in the pool, much to Rena's disappointment.
Tonight it is time to catch up with the world, emails, and time to download some photos.
Friday 12th
First port of call today is the Doctors, as I need to get some scripts done. This done back to camp.
We pulled everything out of the car and the food crates out from under the camper, checked the shopping list to make sure that we had everything on it that we would need. We then headed to Coles, this is going to be a big shop.
Hate coming to town as it costs too much, if it isnt food it is parts for the car or camper :( OUCH!!, but it is a necessity as we wont have access to shops or food for at least 4 weeks and have to make sure that we have enough food and supplies to see us through.
Back to the camp and the big unpack and store it all away. Then to bag and freeze the meat.
A Families On The Road (FOTR) facebook member Jenny Lowe (who lives in Kununurra) put up a post asking if anyone in Kununurra wanted to meet up as there are quite a few families in town at the moment, so I put my hand up. It had been a long day and I didnt want to cook dinner as we had had a very long day, so we agreed to meet at Gulivers Tavern for dinner.
It was really nice to meet another family who was travelling (even if temporarily stopping in Kununurra), the company was great and the food too. The people here in Kununurra are a hard working but friendly mob.
We got back to camp abount 8.30pm with one very tired little girl.
I hoped online and uploaded some photos and sent some emails by the time I had finished it was midnight.
Saturday 13th
Today we did a few touristy things, we went out to the TFS Sandlewood Factory and looked at the different products that they make as well as watching the DVD which was very interesting on the Indian Sandlewood and the Kimberley. It is good to see the industry going so strong.
We then went just up the road to the Hoochery, this time James did the tasting and I had a cuppa and the mango cake. Yummy!!!!
I couldnt resist and ended up having a taste test myself and tasted the Royal Liquere. Very nice as well.
We then went out to the Ivanhoe Crossing which you can not cross now (something about structural testing required) to me it looked a little deeper than last time we were here in 2005.
Back to camp for lunch, I think the late night and heat of today has caught up with all of us. We are all a bit tired.
Dad Bradford phoned us and had gone down to the house today, he had sorted everything out with our tenants, F#&^% usless real estate agent us all I can say.
After dinner we decided to pack a few things up and I tried to send some emails. I was cranky tired so it didnt go to well.
I opted to wash the clothes and hang them up overnight hoping that they would dry before we leave in the morning.
Back to camp and off to bed.
Sunday 14th
We packed up camp and then headed down and washed the red soil from the Flinders Ranges off the car and camper trailer. We then booked out and headed west.
As much as I want to start the Gibb River Road today we need to be in mobile range tomorrow so that I can ring the real estate agent and sort them out.
We headed towards Wyndhum and called in to the Parry's Lagoon Reserve. Not much has changed here except that they have added some shadecloth to the bird hide and the telegraph station at the top of the hill is a no go now due to possible asbestos.
We headed down to Wyndhum and booked in to the caravan park. It hasnt changed much since we were here, there is more powered sites, and less unpowered sites. The unpowered sites now are now mostly in the sun.
We picked a spot under a tree but was about the only spot with shade left. Not the best site, but it had shade. Almost needed to engage 4wd.
After setting up and a cuppa we headed up to the five rivers lookout to watch the sunset. It was a little smoggy due to the wildfires but this added to the colours in the sunset.
Back to camp after a spectacular sunset and an easy dinner tonight. I think that the heat has exhausted me today.
Off to bed early need to wake up early to ring the real estate agent and then my wonderful mum to wish her a happy birthday :)
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