Normanton Continued

We did not have to rush this morning, book out time was 11.00am and our train ride was due to leave at 1.00pm. Once we had left the campsite we did a few errands before heading to the train station, we waited about an hour, so in that time we had lunch and sat chatting wasting time. Scott stayed with all the dogs as he was not interested in the train. We made our way over at 12.30 and booked in, it certainly did look like a rattler but we really were looking forward to our trip.

It was a bit of a bumpy ride but all good fun. We had a running commentary by the driver and our carriage wasn’t full. On the way we were sat in the front and on the way back in the back carriage. It was interesting hearing about the history and being shown where there used to be little townships in the gold rush years. Also a town that was vacated after a big flood washed most of it away. It is unbelievable to see how high the floods reached in 1974, just can’t imagine the water being that high.

It was almost an hour until we reached The Critters Camp. Not sure why its called Critters camp because all there is is a tiny shade area with the sign Critters camp. Just a turning point for the trip I suppose. We did a 3 point turn!!! Was interesting, they needed to turn the train to go back as there is only one end that can be driven. Then we had time off the train to have a look around and take photos and of course to change seats to that back carriage.

It was well worth the trip, only wished we could have done the Croydon day trip but we have already decided we will be coming back up here when the fishing is good so maybe the longer trip will be possible then. When we arrived back at the station we had time to wander around the museum and get some more photos.

The overnight spot we had sussed out yesterday was our next stop, out of town and away from everyone. It was right next to the wetlands but far enough for Scott to feel safe in his swag. If there were in any crocs in there they would be freshies so not such a worry. Of course, by now you will know the routine, fire wood was gathered and the fire was set. Trevor actually used a stump that was sticking out of the ground so it gave us plenty of wood to burn.