A day on Ningaloo Reef

Today we went to the top of the North West Cape and had a look out from near the Lighthouse. The girls were a bit concerned about it falling over in the strong wind and so tried to stop it from happening.
The coral reef is the largest fringe reef in the world. For those wondering what a “fringe reef” is I suggest you go to www.whattheheckisafringereef.com as we don’t really care that much. What we do care about is that it stops the huge waves from the Indian Ocean hitting us in the back of the head whilst we look at the plethora of fish swimming amongst the vast array of different coral formations.
We went into Cape Range National Park and found a beach where you can just float in the water and (by snorkeling) drift in the mild current over the subterranean world watching the scenes unfolding below you. Absolutely fabulous (without the “daarlings”).
The fish were all shapes, all sizes and all colours. And they were hanging around in all different sizes of schools. The girls decided that the particularly big fish which Dad dived down and swam though were in a High School.
Even Mum went for a snorkel and almost forgot to look out for sharks it was so interesting.
We spent the whole afternoon there and will head back tomorrow – possibly to explore more of the park as well.

From Karratha to Exmouth

Is a long way ! especially if you have head winds – which we did all morning. Poor old Dad was getting all worried about something being wrong with the car as it was running too hot when traveling at the speeds we are used to (90 kmh’ish). We stopped for lunch at Nanutarra Roadhouse at found the most expensive fuel so far on our journey ($1.849 per litre – a clear winner by 12 cents!). It was also windy and dusty – so it had real character.
100 km’s further down the road we turned right and got the wind behind us all came good with rig. We were heading across a landscape which resembled a beach (us being ants on it) with long flat valleys 2kms across broken by the ripples of red sand dunes. It was all covered by grass and bushes with the occasional splash of wildflower colour. Everytime we topped a crest Dad said “I wonder what’s over this one”, followed by the inevitable “more of the same”.
We then headed up the North West Cape to Exmouth. There are 3 noteworthy items here 1. The reef (more on that in later blogs)
2. Lots of Defence installations (makes one fell pretty safe being here)
3. A brand new marina complex.

So if anyone out there has $500,000 dollars to spare – you can buy a waterfront property with all the “Mod Cons” in a beautiful part of the world. The only drawback (apart from the cost, and the fact you then need to build the house) is that it takes a good 2 weeks solid drive to get there!

Our Caravan park has a 5 star pool, great facilities and is right next to the town power plant. For all those Southerners who have never had to worry where their power comes from (Ya Lawn…) Up here every town has a diesel powered electricity plant. Seems like a good idea except when they put them right in the middle of the people….. The one here is really, really noisy (and smelly now that I realize we are down wind).

Quote of the day:- This one is a typo from the local tourist info bulletin about driving on the roads :- If stock are on the road brake don’t swerve. Better to hit a cow then roll a car……

It’s amazing what the difference an “e” will make instead of an “a”

Lunch out and a swim

After more school work in the morning we headed off to view the sights around Point Samson. On the way we watched an Iron Ore train go past – 333 carriages!. This is a very new town and seems to have been built as an exclusive seaside area with new houses, new roads and a brand new caravan park (which will be fabulous in a couple of years when the trees grow up).
After Lunch at Moby’s (supposedly the best Fish and Chips on the west coast – but we’ve had better at S.P.) we spent the afternoon on a local beach – hoping to do some serious snorkeling - we were hampered by the cloudy water. Instead we wallowed around in the shallows of the beach – diving to collect the myriad of multicoloured rocks which lined the watery bottom of the cove.
The rocks here are an incredible maze of colours – thin lines of different types of layers all squashed together and then twisted by incredible forces sometime in the distance past.
A trip home via the ghost town of Cossak – which has been restored by funding from the North West Shelf venture create an eerie feeling with really old buildings being perfectly functional but not being used for anything. After we headed out to the local lookout for a view of the area - quite spectacular!

So we had great day – feeling relaxed (maybe a touch of sunstroke as we fell asleep on the beach) and ready for our long journey to Exmouth tomorrow.

A tour of Dampier and surrounds

After a sleep in, school work and shopping for supplies and lunch we headed off to explore the area west of Karratha. This encompassed a drive through the extensive salt mine operations of Dampier Salt Limited, which is quite clever as they use the sea water, pump it though extensive artificial lakes and utilising the local sun and wind conditions evaporate the water to extract the salt.
Dampier itself is a little haven set on the edge of an extensive array of islands – the standard pristine water etc etc means most locals here have a boat. We drove around appreciating the enormous amount of high density accommodation (obviously set up to house the myriad of workers who come through the place) combined with palm tree laced waterways.
Always on the horizon are the steal infrastructures associated with the Iron Ore port (another huge operation – with long trains and large boats with interconnecting conveyor belts) and the North West Shelf Gas operations. Everything around here is big, extensive and obviously expensive. Lots of company cars (mostly 4WD and utes) driving around but all the operations seem curiously devoid of people – which could just be because they dwarfed by the plants around them.
In search of a swimming beach we ended up at a fabulous spot which looked terrific (a beach made of shells surrounded by red rubble rock hills) but the water was clouded (a curious phenomenon in this part of the world) which Dad attributed to the ammonia plant nearby and thus even though it was deemed to be safe for swimming we did not go in.
We then had a wonderful adventure looking for aboriginal rock carvings. We discovered a hidden valley amongst the rubble hills which had a freshwater stream trickling through it. This place contains old Middens and the rocks have had the outer layer scrapped off to portray images in the traditional native paintings fashion. We gained an appreciation of why this place had been used for thousands of years for shelter and refreshment. Feeling very honored to have experienced there we left to return to the Park for drinks with Dave, Lisa and family.

Another long day on the road

Leaving the flat plains of the desert (and yet another market – this one in the caravan park) behind us we moved into the Pilbra region which is more interesting as the hills are a variety of colours (red, brown, black and even gold - if the sun strikes on the correct angles).
It took us 8 hours to get to Karratha, with an hours stop at Port Headland for lunch. Originally we had planned to stop there for the night but we were unable to get a site. As it turns out this was a blessing, as all there is in this dry dusty place is a lot of industry associated with a port loading huge iron ore carriers. We saw one of these giants being guided to it’s berth by a flotilla of tug boats whilst we were chomping on our yummy rolls.
The entire town seems to be covered in a red dust which makes the asbestos houses look even older and more worn down than they probably are. The newer houses are constructed of Colourbond – the most popular being red (so as to hide the dust we guessed). The downside of this is that it makes the place look very drab indeed.
Karratha seems like an oasis is comparison. We arrived late and all we have seen so far is the Caravan Park, but we have power, shade, a great site (no. 69) and 2 days in which to explore the region.

A stroll in the Dark

Thinking that it’s a bit selfish of Broome to have copyright on the Stairway to the Moon effect, Dad took the opportunity to see what happens at 80 mile beach when it rises on a low tide. Thinking “as the moon causes the tides it’s a pretty good bet it’ll be low when it rises” he headed off once the rest were in bed – armed with camera, mini tripod and torch to see what the evening would bring.
The torch turned out to be useful in identifying the moving animals (which sounded like they were in striking distance) as kangaroos – it was not necessary on the beach as the moon had already launched itself above the horizon.
Heading straight out towards the distant sounds of the waves he tramped for a long time before he gained a long enough reflection to represent was left of the stairway effect.
Once captured he then headed off to the edge of the water to see what the Indian Ocean looked like on the edge of the Great Sandy Desert.
After trekking a good distance further he noticed the sound of water trickling, looking down he could see in the moonlight a small wave of water moving steadily across the sand.
This was the incoming tide – because the beach is so flat and extends such a long way when the tide is out – when it comes in - it is clearly visible as a line of water running parallel to the beach, moving towards the dunes.
So he turned around and walked back towards the dunes with the water line at his toes – to give our Bloggers an idea of how far the water goes out – he walked slowly for 15 minutes (not stopping) with the encroaching water line as his companion. He then picked up his pace, leaving the trickling, gravity inspired phenomenon to continue it’s slow journey.
Many minutes later he reached the dunes.
This is an amazing place.

A final farewell to Broome

And this time we mean it! So after missing the Power family at the markets (we were like ships in the night in our trips around the country) we packed up and headed off down southwards. The road runs between the desert and the sea and all we saw was scrub and grassy plains.
A quick stop at the Sandfire Roadhouse - where we passed on Sarah’s regards to her boss from 1988(ish) - yes he’s still there and yes- he does remember her !
We are now ensconced on an unpowered site at the Eighty Mile Beach Caravan park and as a consequence of being nowhere near a civilized phone service– dear Blogger - you will get this update a day late.
The beach is fabulous – more turquoise coloured waters and a plethora of shells for the kids to collect.
The tide goes out a really, really long way and when the sun sets over it we get a Stairway To The Sun effect. Almost as good as Stairway To The Moon at Broome. Must be something about low tides at sunset that does this to this part of the world.
Accommodation in caravan parks is very scarce at the moment and thus causing a bit of stress about our itinerary over the next few weeks !

Hello to an old friend

The day started with Dad heading off into town to get a front end alignment and blancing (and of course - the mandatory flat fixed) and a late’ whilst he was waiting. In the meantime the Kids did school work and Mum did the washing.
Upon return from town we did the easiest pack up and move ever - as we relocated to our powered site – which is much more pleasant as we have shade as well.
A take away lunch of Chicken Treat in the local park followed by a big food shop in preparation for the travels ahead preceded a visit to our old mate Cable Beach, who greeted us with wide open spaces, calm warm waters and wonderful ambience (every time you take a photo of the water those Pearl Luggers get in the way !).
The evening was a rushed trip to the Town Beach to do some last minute shopping at the Markets, and a catch up with the staff at the Café, and another attempt at shooting the stairway by camera.

Tomorrow we head off down south – not quite sure where will be stopping but reasonably certain it will be out of blog range. Heading between the desert and the sea – should be interesting…..

Quote of the day – Mum “Why do we have all these %$**^g !! stuffed toys in the way ?”
Dad “Apparently they’re your Grandchildren…”

Heading southwards

With a feeling of regret we packed up our minimalist possessions and left-over supplies and started the long trek back towards Broome.
Cape Leveque and the Kooljaman area will live with us forever and we all vowed to return someday.
The road back was long and rattley, but uneventful – more red soil trailing off into the distance against the bright blue sky.
We came back to our old Caravan Park which is bursting at the seams (as is the whole town) – because tonight a “Stairway to Moon” night. This is where the full moon rises over the low tide exposed flats of the bay and reflects its image in all the pools to the thousands of folks congregated on the shoreline to watch the event.
They even set up markets to milk the most of the tourist dollar available at the time.
The photo here shows how well the event can be captured with no time exposures (must get a good camera on the next journey to the outback!) – note the people climbing the staircase!
And so we are in a non-powered site living as we would in the outback – apart from the ablution block (which is a good thing as I am sending this from the laundry as the laptop is out of battery). So tonight we Blog from the laundry – I hope the cleaners don’t mind….

Our second day of Bliss

Was spent by sleeping in. We were going to get up for the sun rise but upon looking out the window (no glass of course – this is primitive living) and thinking “yep that’s a sunrise – best go back to sleep” – we didn’t actually manage to achieve that goal.
After Dad put the tire back together (first time, so it was slow process), we had a swim and a snorkel on the beach in the morning – the tide was in, so it was deep and crystal clear. Lots of fish (big ones too!).
After lunch Mum had a siesta and the other three went off on a short 4WD through some really soft sand that Dad had discovered on his late night walk the night before. This was a real learning experience for the driver – after a slight moment of panic of not moving - the front hubs were locked in and away we went….
The bay we found is in the background of the photo (can’t find the right words – so have a look yourselves).
We then all headed off to our local beach again (it’s a 45 second walk) where the 3 snorkellers took off again for some low tide reef exploring – the highlight for the girls was 2 stingrays.
Dad then went on a photo shoot of the sunset at the end of the Cape (lowtide) and was very impressed by the rising full moon just below the terminator.
Dinner was a BBQ based around the last of the Mackerel steaks from the Johnson’s (whoo hoo!)
My only regret being here is that our camera cannot take time exposures and thus show all you Bloggers what the place looks like under the full moon.
You’ll just have to come here yourselves to fully appreciate it….

A day in Paradise

It’s very hard to find the words which do this place justice. So Dear Blogger, please let your mind expand past my description here and you may get a feeling of what the place is really like.
It’s a Cape – so we have 2 sides – the camping ground and thus the majority of people are on the west side (as is Internet access so I have to climb over the boardwalk to send this). On our East side we have the swimming beach and our cabin. We moved cabins today so Rosemary could have a better view of the ocean (which has Humpback whales wallowing in front of us in the mornings) – it’s quiet, peaceful and all we can hear at night is the sound of the waves.
The beaches are pristine white (course coral based sand), the higher sand dunes are red, the sky is a cloudless blue, the water is warm, the tides are enormous (6 meters so it’s an “ever changing” beach) and there are limited people allowed here. The scenery with the weather worn rock creates landscapes which would seem more appropriate on another planet – and we are here under a full moon.
Needless to say the beach is unbelievable at night. Memories of which will hopefully last forever.
Today we did a tour with a local indigenous fellow called Dwes, who grew up here, is well educated and will go places. He showed us what plants they can eat the fruit of, ones which can be used for medicine and some of his family history – we used this as an excursion exercise focusing on the environment and how the locals survive in it.
We then had a siesta (against the sounds of the waves) and then a sojourn to the beach where Louisa and Dad went snorkeling and Isabel and Mum played houses in the myriad of rocks which align the beach.
Then it was off to the west side of the Cape (a 2 minute drive) to watch the sunset over drinks – a heap of photo’s and then back to do diaries prior to dinner at the restaurant (a 30 second walk from our cabin). Dinner was absolutely fabulous – yes - we are in Heaven.

We hit the road again !

It was a wonderful break in Broome and we look forward to that time in the future when we will return, however, as we all must move forward in life – it seems especially so when on a traveling holiday. So with heavy hearts we bade farewell to Alan at the airport (who now heads off to Darwin and the trip home in the lap of luxury on the Ghan) whilst we drop all of our comforts and hit the bumpy 200km road to Cape Leveque.Well, the road was no where near as bad as we saw on the way to Tunnel Creek as it was mostly sand and corrugations (no rocks). In the middle of nowhere we came across a well made gravel road and then (like a gift from the heavens) a sealed road ! – Rejoicing, we went to Beagle Bay to pay homage at the local church which is completely adorned with Mother of Pearl Shells.The girls were so inspired they both gave us a short sermon before we headed back on the road to the Cape (needless to say it got rough again).Upon arriving we realized that we have reached paradise (details in the next few Blogs). Settling in and a significant snorkeling expedition by Dad and the Girls was the order of the day.Followed of course by (the now Mandatory) tire change. Dad’s first try at pulling apart a split rim was quite successful – this flat was due to rusty rims and low tire pressure – so it continues.
Quote of the day (from Alan) – Don’t hang around to wave goodbye – I’ll just wave at a window and using the reflection I’ll create an Optical Conclusion…….

Farewell to Cable Beach

Today was our last day in Broome and we celebrated by (yep you guessed it !) by going to the beach!.
Well actually the day started out with a trip to the markets by the girls whilst the guys packed up the annex. Then we all met at the shops in order to stock up on supplies for the next few days and then Dad dropped everyone at the beach whilst he played “stay behind” and checked the bearings on the caravan wheels.
Riveting stuff….
Then we all headed off to dinner at the same Town Beach Café where we had a wonderful repeat of the dinner we had with Aunty Gabby and a fabulous tate-a-tate with the Swedish waitress.

Tomorrow we all say goodbye to Broome. Pa leaves us and we head off Cape Leveque – without the Caravan and the prospect of 400Km of corrugated roads. (In order to reduce the stress Dad has already booked time with the local tire repair place for when we return in 4 days time!).

By the way – we think we have blog access at the Cape, but as we learnt in the NT – “you’ll never, never know unless you go” – if not - all you bloggers out there will have to wait until late Thursday night for the next installation….

A most exciting event

Today – we saw a cloud! , after all we’d been though - we were under the impression the next cloud would be somewhere south of the Tropic of Capricorn , but no – to our complete surprise some appeared whilst we were at the Markets.
To celebrate – we decided to go to the beach for the afternoon.
Pondering the conundrum from the previous days blog - we fell asleep – still don’t know the answer but we feel much more refreshed from our efforts.

To those who have posted questions – here are some answers:-
Total Kilometers traveled so far:- 8388
Total cost of Fuel so far:- $2126
Most expensive Diesel so far =$1.72 per litre at Kulgera
(the average cost seems to around $1.54 – people in Melbourne should ask why is it cheaper in Darwin !).
No - the beard does not itch!
And well done Uncle G for recognizing a Midnight Oil track.

Number of tire repairs:- 5 on the car (plus balances etc), 2 on the bike, one on the van.

And the temp climbs higher !

An early start for Dad as he had to traipse into town to get one slow leak and another potential sorted out (yes the tire issues continue – for those wondering what’s going on it’s all due to sharp rocks and/or rusty wheel rims) , whilst the kids did some school work before it all got too hot and they had to hit the pool.
The temp really climbed today – it got to 39 in the annex and 36 in the van. So we headed to (yep you guessed it!) the beach. It was really hot there too, but there was some relief with the coolish water and a slight sea breeze (just enough to rustle Ro’s pages as she read her book).
The waves were back – after a week- which kept Dad happy and the sights on the sand were up to their usual standard.
Hung around for Sunset (coloured by smoke in the distant horizon – everytime I take a photo those annoying Pearl Luggers get in the way !) and Drinks on the beach before going back to the van for a lovely Chili Con Carne (whipped up by Ro in the middle of the day).
Every one exhausted.

Quote of the day from Alan – “why am I so tired when all I’ve done is sit around on the beach all day?”

None of us have an answer – but we all agree – may have to go to the beach tomorrow to see if we can resolve it…..

A calm day at Broome

Was started by shopping in Chinatown where we discovered some (previously) hidden arcades with a wonderful shady atmosphere and interesting shops, lunch at the caravan and then … yep - back to the beach. Now that the car is fixed we can take the corrugated road shortcut so it’s much closer. Today was much hotter with a very blustery south easterly blowing off the Great Sandy Desert. It got up to 37 today and we all feel a bit sun burnt from lying on the beach and wallowing around in the warm turquoise blue ocean water waiting for the next wave to surf in on…...
(we hear it’s a tad cold at home, so gloat we do….)
Isabel bought a new sarong and used her flippers for the first time.
Louisa decided to earn some money last night by serenading the campground with her piano practice – she promptly spent it on hiring a beach chair for an hour. Isabel spent $2 on beach toy set for an hour and so to make the most of it we created, entered, judged and won the daily sand castle building competition.
We then wandered down to the local Nudist beach where Ro got her gear off and frolicked around with all the other like minded souls (this is a family Blog so the pictures are cropped to suit - Thanks for the idea though Darryl).
We then went back home for a couple of hours of Dad making some MAB blocks for Isabels maths studies and Isabel catching up with Oma on the phone.
And now after staying up late updating the day’s events for all you bloggers out there - I have to face a rousing chorus of bird life waking me up when the sun decides to rise in the morning – followed by yet another day of blue skies and warm temperatures.
Life is tough……………

Farewell to our First Guest

And so the party ends for one of our guests.
Aunty Gabby left midday today after a run around the campground in the moke with the girls and a farewell drink of smoothies at the Port Bistro.
A quick cuddle at the airport and then the “staybehinds” waved goodbye from the end of the runway.
Then it was off to the beach for the compulsory swim where the girls learnt some new tricks with the newly purchased surf mat (we’ve decided to bring them back into vogue). Whilst the adults all had naps lying on the sand (still recovering from the previous days hectic schedule).

Pre BBQ dinner drinks under the ½ moon and stars was accompanied by Louisa’s dulcet tones emanating from the keyboard.

The car seems to be running much better now – although we still have tire issues to resolve before our trek up North.

Quote of the day (on the way back from the airport) “gosh - it seems much quieter now”

Rosemary's chaotic Birthday

What a fabulous yet incredibly full day.
An wonerfully rich celebration for Rosemary’s birthday.
Everyone up early – Ro to face a birthday party table set up.
Everyone piles into the 4WD…
Dropped Alan and the girls off to hire the moke.
Dropped Ro and Gay at the beach to sort out the camel rides.
Collected Alan, Girls and moke.
Dropped off car for repairs.
Went back to beach to join up with camel rides.
After that went and collected the scooters.
Everyone then met back at the Caravan for breakfast of Bacon and Eggs and Birthday celebrations.
Then we all traipsed 20 km on open highway to the Mango Vinery for smoothies and tastings (ahh the open road – with the wind in your hair and roar of the engines under you – it really brought back those fond memories of those Easy Rider days….)
Back to the Caravan Park to dress for the beach.
Then off to Bank for the Mokers and petrol for the Scooters and the swimming at the beach for all.
Ro and Neil then went for a scoot to check on the car repairs.
Moke and scooters then went off to drop off scootors and collect car.
Drinks on the beach (lawns) looking at the sunset.
All headed back to Caravan for showers and pre dinner drinks.
We all then headed off in the 4WD to Town Beach Café for dinner (which was primarily related around seafood). Here Rosemary got to show off her new Opals (purchased at Coober Pedy some 4 weeks earlier)
Then we all went back to the caravan for post dinner coffee and lime tart deserts.
Immediately after everyone all went to bed totally exhausted…..(go figure!)

A sweep of Broome

Up earliest (not too easy for 6 people) and then off to the local Historical Museum where we gleaned an appreciation of the history of the town (which is very unique compared to any other place in Australia). We also gained an appreciation of all the junk thrown out over the years would now be valuable museum pieces….
We then had lunch overlooking the Bay, a wander down the Jetty and back (which is a marvel of modern engineering), yet more food and drink shopping and then of to ?… Yep the beach again.
Even Alan went in today.
Due to Dad worrying about the leaking differential – the car is now booked in for it’s service tomorrow, and it’s Rosemary’s birthday, and we are going for camel rides, in the morning, hiring alternative transport, going to the Mango farm, going to the beach, going out for dinner, picking up cars, dropping off transport……
The blog update may be a bit late due to the huge day looming.

Our Second Guest Arrives

Allan (known as FIL to those acronym minded blog viewers) arrived at midday today. This meant that Mum and Dad had to leave their luxurious surroundings and face the real world of Broome, the kids, the airport, the leaking rear diff’s etc etc.
The stress of this was easily overcome with the happy banter and yet another afternoon on the beach. Dad was partictulary happy about carving up the waves with and without the boggie board (having flippers helped enormously) – he was even getting expressions of admiration from other (admittedly non flippered) participants.
Mum was particularly happy that she spent some time surfing with an “in form” Gary Sweet (yes - the actor). She almost needed to be “rescued” by Police Rescue she was that excited.
After a quick wash we all headed back to Cable Beach to watch the sunset (over drinks at the bar) and then home to enjoy a fabulous BBQ – centered around the Mackerel fillets that Michelle and Andrew gave us in Darwin – does it get any better than this ?

Our First Guest arrives

Aunty Gabby arrived late last night and it was a joyous welcome (even with only two of us being able to make it to the airport at 12:00 midnight). The Girls then spent the morning perusing the markets whilst Dad did some serious shopping (caravan related stuff) and then another splash in the ocean. Boggie boards and body surfing were the order of the day. The locals claim this is the best beach in the world – so far it is hard to find a reason to argue against it.
Mum and Dad then left the kids with Gabby and went off to the nearby resort where they experienced a “we thought we’d died and gone to heaven” experience (until the phone rang…, which was a wrong number….) where they took advantage of Gabby’s combined birthday present and had their “time out” and was a highlight of the trip for them.
To wake up the next morning and think – “oh no - we have to leave this” and then realize that we had to return to another 6 weeks of holiday …….. Life is just way to stressful (heh heh).

An historical event !

It’s not every day you can say you saw an ocean for the first time. Today Louisa and Isabel first set their eyes on the brilliant turquoise blue of the Indian Ocean.
And what a beautiful sight it is up here at this time of the year!
The beach is clean, white sand, the water is warm, not a crocodile in sight (at least that’s what the locals tell the tourists) and the beautiful bodies adorning the area make one realize that this is fast becoming a focus for many people to relax in.
We went shopping (food and stuff) in the morning and then a tour of the area to get our bearings – after looking at Cable Beach we could not resist the temptation and went back after lunch with our traveling companions for a swim (and a drink).
It’s a tough gig…..
Aunty Gabby arrives tonight so we are all staying up late to meet her at the airport.

And so to Broome!

Another day of “pack ‘em up and move ‘em out” as we left the luxurious surrounds of the Fitzroy Crossing Caravan park (a stark contrast to the town !) and headed off to sunny Broome. Actually – it’s all sunny up here – the only clouds are generated by the dry season burns.
So we arrived in Broome to find oil leaking from the rear differential (not earth shattering but will need attention) and the joy of setting up the annex (needed to cater for guests – the first one which is with us tonight – Carley whom we met at Mataranka – sleepovers even when we're away!). Much to deal with but we got it all done. And so we will stay for the next 11 days – this is where we aim to really relax…….

A non travelling day

A relaxing day in Fitzroy Crossing saw Dad resolving 2 more flat tire issues (yes the saga continues…) and more washing for Mum. Playing and school work(including piano) for the kids – followed by swimming in the freezing pool (even Mum went in with lots of encouragement from everyone in the area – very funny – but she did do it!). Drinks at the Happy Hour in the Bistro followed by an easy meal of bacon and eggs cooked beside the caravan.
A lesson for anyone involved in outside cooking – don’t put your hot saucepan on a plastic mat – or you could end up serving lovely hot plastic mash for tea and suffer the ongoing derision of your family members!

Exploring the Southern Kimberlies

Many hours spent “off roading” today. Our first experience in 4wd was closely watched by a local heffer (wonder what she was thinking?). A big trip to Tunnel creek – which involved a walk through a large, very dark tunnel. Carved out by years (and more) of wet season flood waters, it provides an eerie and exhilarating trek underground. Afterwards we had to wash out our shoes as they got filled with gravel as we waded though the 50 cm deep water. Torches were a necessity as was a keen sense of adventure.
And then onto Windjana George which was very picturesque and full of freshwater crocodiles. The one in the picture surprised the bageebees out of Louisa who was about to dip her toe in the water just near it (luckily Isabel spotted it just in time).
And then a long trip home over more corrugations you could care to count and then just before we hit the sealed road – another flat ! (even after deflating the tires for the rough roads).

Comfortably at Fitzroy Crossing

After burning the Midnight Oil, with Brave faces we headed back across the river t0 leave the Place Without a Postcard and off to Fitzroy Crossing.
An easy trip of 3 hours has found us in a fabulous “resort” type park with lots of facilities which make up for the ones left behind in the middle of nowhere.
The pool water would have to be the coldest in Australia. Luckily it’s still 30 degrees so the kids don’t mind (sorry Melbournians for the unsubtle reminder!)
Yet more clothes washing by Mum – hit of Tennis for the rest of us and we are planning a big off road day tomorrow into the Tunnel Creek area.
(10 points for anyone who can solve the ambiguity in the 1st sentence)

On the Road Again

7 hours on the road saw us pass through some interesting escarpments of the south east Kimberly region, past the Argyle diamond mine – where we stopped down stream to see if we could catch any strays (unfortunately all the ones we picked up were undersize – less than ten carats – so we threw them back).
And then onto Mary Pool (A place without a postcard – but big enough to house over 60 caravans, trailers and every other combination you could think of).
After dinner we sat around the camp fire under the brilliant stars of the moonless outback and roasted marshmallows.
Afterwards we found Supergirl in the caravan… well it must’ve been Supergirl as she was flying around and had her underpants on the outside !
For all those freezing in Melbourne – it got down to 10 over night here so don’t feel too bad.
(of course it was 30 in middle of the afternoon – but you probably didn’t want to know that)

Relaxing in Kununarra

We have just spent 2 days catching our breath and preparing for the next phase of the journey. The Kids have spent many hours playing in the pool and spending time with friends they met in Mataranka. Lots of shopping (mostly boring food stuff) but today was interesting market and unique to the region stones type shopping.
We had drinks whilst watching the sunset over the Ord valley and after dinner cooked beside the caravan, we are getting ready for bed and the next adventure into the unknown.
Bloggless for 2 days until we reach Fitzroy Crossing (maybe) ....

Farewell to NT - Hello WA

An early morning walk from our camp site was much more pleasant than the previous day and it was also more spectacular! All of us well and truly ready for a return to civilization and a hot shower!.
So it was an another pack up and a return to the sealed road over more over of those corrugations!
A stop at the border to re-inflate tires (intentional this time) a search of the rig by the Quarantine folks and then it’s goodbye to the NT and hello to WA – land of Sandgropers and more Boab trees.
So now we are safely ensconced in Kununurra – washed, refreshed, resturanted and blogging away.
What’s next ? We are yet to figure that out – oh the pressure and stress of it all ……….

Further into the unkown !

After the success of our first night camping we headed off to the Keep River National Park for another night under the best stars we will ever see.
Keep River has similar rock formations to the Bungle Bungle’s and after 21km’s of shaking dirt roads we found our destination – set up camp and went exploring. A very long (and hot) walk through faquarewe grass and a decent climb we reached a lookout to view spectacular scenery.
Then a dinner cooked over the camp fire (to use up all the vegies prior to the Quarantine station the next day).

Into the Dry,Blogless,Boab laden land

Turning right from Katherine we headed into previously unseen (by Dad) territory. A long drive though slowly changing scenery eventually got us to Timber Creek (back to red dust !), where spent our first night without power in a roadside camp – next to Victoria River.
The girls discovered they couldn’t swim there! Dad discovered a Bower Bird nest and we all realized it’s very hard to hug a Boab tree !

Cruisin' around Katherine

Started the day by booking car servicing etc. and going shopping for the adventures ahead.
We then rushed up the gorge to go on our 2 (not 3) hour cruise up the 1st 2 gorges. It was very picturesque.
Post Freshwater crocodile spotting, Dad went and got tires balanced and the girls went for a swim.
Tomorow we head west - for those who check our blog every day - our applogies, as we are heading into the blogless land where we may not be able to update regularly.

Monuments in the desert

The King and the Queen termites are in there somewhere ! The landscape in certain parts of the Top End seem to be dominated by these monoliths. (remind me not to build a house made of wood if I ever live here!)
We spent today driving from Batchelor to Katherine and hope to have a cruise up the gorge tomorrow combined with yet more shopping and tire issue resolution.

Waterfalls galore!

Words by Louisa...
Today we went exploring for waterfalls. With a little help from the map we found three different places! Too bad they were all packed with peopleL! Any way they were still good! Everyone agrees that the last place was the best! It had lots of levels with a little waterfall at each end! It had places in there that you could jump in! We got some photos of that. At the first place it had lots of things like rock pools, but we are not at the beach.
And then Dad had more fun swapping tires around (arrgghh!)

Farewell to Darwin

A sad farewell to the Johnson’s - whose hospitality and good humour were a terrific highlight of the trip. Oh - to lead their lifestyle!
In the picture are Bob, Glenda, Michelle, Andrew, Jamie, Louisa, Isabel and the dog lizzy.

An easy drive (less than 1 hour as it turned out) to Bachelor (another tire repair – the last one had a slow leak so we replaced the tube) and we are ready to start the assault on Litchfield park tomorrow.....

Isabel the Brave

Another late start due to copious amounts of washing and then into the heart of Darwin for lunch and then some time at the Museum prior to dinner at Mindel Beach Markets. The markets need to bee seen to be believed! An endless variety of food, associated smells, happy faces and tens of thousands of people. Lots of which take chairs and drinks and generally have a great time.
Afterwards Andrew gave his pet snake some handling time and Isabel was the only one brave enough to have a hold!

A fun time south of Darwin

The morning was spent washing and watching the Ghan go past (kids swimming in the Johnson’s wonderful pool – even Ro had a dip!) and then we went off to the Windows on the Wetlands Park followed by a cruise to watch the jumping crocs on the Adelaide River! And then another late night catching up on all the gossip from Michelle.

For those wondering where the lost blogs are...

For those who are new to our blog and are wondering where the early days are - have a look under the "archives" section and refer to the previous month (ie June).

A day shopping in Darwin

Retail Therapy for the girls. Macho stuff like fixing flat tyres for Dad.

That's now a flat on the bike, the van and the car - nothing left so we should not get any more !!! (wishful thinking I'm guessing).

Internet Access is pretty poor at Humpty Doo - this photo highlights the trouble we go to get this updated !!!

Maybe a day or so before the next series.
Thanks for the comments !

And we finally make it to Humpty Doo !

And this is what Michelle and Andrew's Driveway did to our car !

(well maybe not - but it's nice to be able to blame someone!)

They have created paradise from the desert - photos will follow when we take some.

A day in the Never Never

We spent Sunday watching the film "we of the Never Never" and then went and had a look at the graves of the characters.

A pleasant and educational day for all of us followed by a relaxing swim in the thermal pool !

A Wonderful Place

Now we’re in the tropics we don’t want to move !

The nights are warm and the temperature today is 28 – perfect !

For those that don’t know this place - the springs rush out of the ground at a huge rate (always clean) and are a warm 34 degrees. The water has a slight sulfur smell to it and as such almost feels therapeutic. If we had this in Melbourne it would be worth a fortune !

So now we are going to stay here 3 nights and attempt to get Humpty Doo by Monday evening.

One day to Mataranka

We were up before the dawn and on the road to capture the sunrise at the Devils Marbles and enjoy our breakfast there. It was an awesome effort by everyone to do it. We then had morning tea in Tennant Creek, Lunch at Rennir Springs and then a huge push to get Mataranka Springs by sunset. Would have been earlier but for the blown tyre on the van! (slowed us down for 1/2 hour).
So we spent sunrise to sunset on the road (about 800 km's) and do not intend to do that again as we are all exhausted.
We are in the Tropics though! (Whoo Hoo - warm nights at last!)

A Long drive to Wycliffe Wells - The UFO Capital of Aus !

Spot the Alien !

Words by Isabel :-

Today we went to Wycliffe Wells caravan park.
We felt the pool. It was the warmest pool ever. NOT - it was the coldest pool ever.
We went on a train ride. It was so fastest ever. NOT- it was the slowest ever.
We looked in the games room. There were so many games.
NOT - there’s only two games and they're both broken.
Otherwise it was pretty good.

Here's the picture of the Mystical place

The water fall (well just a trickle really) is behind the girls.

A trip to the west Macdonnell Ranges

A short trip today saw us experiencing Simpsons Gap and Standley Chasm. Both well worth the look.

Both had water in them (which is unusual in this climate, however – unlike 30 years ago when Dad was here last we could go further through the Chasm which revealed a myriad of connecting chasms and eventually we ended up at a natural freshwater fountain which seemed to be a mystical place (so we took a photo).

Tomorrow we head off northwards again – in the ever increasing hope of getting some warm nights (so far every night has been at or below zero degrees which is has been quite hard to cope with in a cold caravan !)

It may be a couple of days before our next update as we may be out of range of the Bigpond network. – keep blogging though – you'll Never Never Know unless you have a Go !

(Apologies to Daryl !)

Excursion to the Desert Park

We spent today on an excursion to the Desert Park just out of Alice Springs.

The focus of the day was the environment and how a creature (of the kids choice) interacts with it’s environment. It seemed to go pretty well. The girls are getting used to the idea that whilst they are not at school - their formal education still continues !

The Desert Park was fascinating and will serve as good basis of information whilst we continue our travels through it.

For those wondering what jumping pillows are

Now you know ! - They are VERY popular with the kids of all ages

A quiet day at Alice Springs

Not much to report today.

Dad got up early and went for a hike to the top of the MacDonnell Ranges (which define the Alice Springs township) to watch the sunrise. Fixed a bike tyre (3 years riding to work and back – no flat. 5 minutes around Yulara and he gets a puncture !)

The kids spent the day jumping on the jumping pillows and starting a school routine (maths, homework and spelling) and a touch of piano lessons.

Shopping in the afternoon and an evening of doing diaries and trying to convince parents to get a pet turtle! (I expect they’ll loose that battle).

Tomorrow we start to do the “touristy” things again.

Yes - we found water at the Olga's !

Here's the artistic shot mentioned on the previous blog!

Sunset at Uluru

Here’s a snap of us watching the sunset at the rock.
We spent yesterday doing a guided tour of the base of the rock and then the afternoon at the Olga’s – going for a couple of walks in the only areas we were allowed into. No really good happy snaps so maybe you’ll get an artistic one instead (if the Blogger and time allows).

Quote of the Day :-
Dad to Mum "that tour was really good"
Mum to Dad " yes is was really interesting"
Louisa to both "no - it's because it was free !"

We spent today driving to Alice Springs and arrived quite late, so we are now settled in and spend tomorrow exploring the town and chilling out (the girls in the pool no doubt).