Author Archives: lyndoug1

At last we are in Normanton, the place Jock has harped on about going to since we arrived in Australia. Apparently fishing is excellent but unfortunately not at this time of year! It’s State of Origin night so of course we have to be near a pub with a TV. We booked into a campsite opposite the Purple pub and went across for dinner in time to watch the game. Jock and I last the first half then went back to camp. Probably just aswell as NSW ripped the pants off QLD, some terrible score like 50 NSW to 10 QLD. Oh well 2 more games to go lets hope the QLD coach gives it to the team and they at least try to play better next time. The food was average in the pub but we have since found out that it really is more of a watering hole than somewhere to get a decent feed.

We took a drive around Normanton the next morning whilst going to the bakery for coffee. In town they have a life size replica of the largest crocodile caught in the area, it is HUGE! Can not believe there really was a crocodile that size, I wonder how many more of them are out there? It is a real shame they felt the need to shoot him can you imagine how big he may have ended up? Had to get Jock to sit beside the replica to show just how big.

Michelle and Trevor joined us and we all headed out to Karumba for a look see. So many birds along the way probably because there is so much water around. We stopped off at the Barramundi Information Centre, it was ok, if your interested in fishing. Did manage to get a funny photo of Jock “catching a Barra”.

We were going to have lunch at the bar in town but it really wasn’t up to much so we just had a drink. Down at the waterfront it was lovely, beautiful colour to the water. I think that on any future trips up here we will come and stay in Karumba as opposed to Normanton. While we were looking around we found a fish and chip cafe boasting the best in the world so everyone thought we should try it. Not me of course, no fish for me, yuk. Apparently it was real good and they all enjoyed it.

On our way back to the campsite we managed to stop and get some photos of some of the birds we had seen on our way we also took a look at a free camp just outside Normanton, we found ourselves a really nice spot for the next night. We need to stay here as we are booked on the old train the next day and by the time we get off it it will be too late to get back on the road.

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.

Arriving at Leichart falls we thought all the best places had already been taken but the usual look see further past the early bird grey nomads we scored ourselves the perfect spot. We were up on the embankment with a lovely view of the river. Fire wood collection started and a fire was set. We spent the afternoon/evening watching the birds and kangaroo’s by the side of the river. We liked our spot so much we decided we should have a rest day tomorrow and stay another night.

We spent the next day relaxing and doing as we pleased. Jock went fishing in a couple of different spots along the river, being sure to be any where near the edge of the water of course this being Crocodile country. He did at one stage come back to camp and grab the camera as he had spotted our fist crocodile of this trip, mind you, only a freshie. Of course a nana nap was squeezed into the afternoon and before we knew it it was evening again and time for a fire. What a lovely relaxing day that was, I think it was needed by all. The bonus was we still had reception on our phones, which is unusual this far out of town. We had been sat around the fire for some time, looking up at the stars we saw satellites and a couple of shooting stars but Trevor had spotted a bright light and had been watching it for a while. He called us over to take a look, it was moving all over the place, we discussed the usual possibilities, a helicopter, a drone, but it was moving far too erratically it was very weird. Luckily we got video of it before it gradually moved further and further away. Had we just seen the Min min lights? Put it this way it added a bit of excitement to the evening and we were still bemused and talking about it in the morning as we broke camp. Unfortunately no pictures of the light dancing in the sky because I just took video.

Gregory

As per our road trip sunday tradition we had pancakes for breakfast this morning. We had a long drive today we saw lots of huge Eagles picking at the road kill. Each time I tried to get a photo they flew off. We were going to go through to Burketown but Trevor had had enough of the driving with it being mostly dirt roads, so we decided to pull up in Gregory. Once again the main building was the pub!! They have great facilities across the road from the pub, dump point and water. There are a few places we can camp for free, one place was right next to the river absolutely beautiful, but to get a spot there we would have had to be early. So we ended up in the bush and it was nice and quiet. So many vans around everyone travelling their own country with all the Covid-19 around the world and Australia not having flights for overseas holidays. It’s starting to get really hot, no more blankets on the bed and the fan on. We put away our jackets and uggy’s we wont be requiring them now for some time.

Burketown

Arriving in Burketown there really wasn’t much to the town, the prominent shop front was the Morning Glory cafe!! I got out of the car and stood there looking around all that came to mind was a load of noisy crickets!! Why are people living here? The population must be approx. 5, well, not far off! Jock jumped out to grab us a coffee and came back with what we call in UK a yum yum. I couldn’t believe that all the way out here they had them, never before have I seen one in Australia. We looked about to see if there was anything to see tourist wise but all we could see was information about a very old bore. It was a case of, oh well we better go look after all it is part of the local history. Well, good job we did it was fascinating, so many colours produced over the years. The water coming out of the bore was boiling, if you were to put your hand in it it would scold you. I took lots of photos some look like the acrylic pictures people make. I had an appointment via Skype to wait for whilst we had a signal so we parked up by the park under some trees and got ourselves some lunch.

Camooweal

We stopped here last trip and said if we ever pass again we would stop again. It is just a lovely spot by the water and so many birds about. As per usual Trevor went for his walk to find a good spot away from the crowds. Jock and I drove around to see if there were any spots by the water. We had not luck but Trevor was soon on the radio telling us he had a spot for us. We pulled up but it was not what I was hoping for, surrounded by very long grass if we sat in a chair we would just see grass and sky. So we all looked about for where to go when I spotted a little trodden down pathway to the waters edge, I surveyed the area and then called the others over. I said if we drove over the long grass on to the bank of the waters it would be excellent. Everyone was happy with that and we ended up with the best spot along the whole waterway. This was to be a two night stop so that we got a well earned rest day. Scott was happy because we still had not entered croc country! We sent so much time just sitting chatting and watching the bird life. Once again the dogs had to be confined to their cage or in the van as there were some real big eagles here also pelicans, both of which could carry them off easily. Trevor gathered wood for the fire, Michelle crocheted, Scott chilled, Jock was finishing Belle’s bag and I am on writing the blog and taking photos at every opportunity. It became very windy the first evening and we had to take down the awning. We had the fire behind the caravan to block some of the wind. Next day we all just relaxed took in the scenery and took lots of photos of the birds. It really was nice to have a day of not looking at dirt or tarmac roads. We did get a laugh out of Jock, he fell back on his chair and both Michelle and I sprung up and grabbed our cameras before we helped him get up.

Our selection of photos of the birds, some good some not so good I am putting on here anyway because it show you just how many different birds there were all around us. Mind you this was but a few, so many more we did not photograph. Also we need to learn to use the camera so as to capture them clearly as they move.

Kynuna

We spent the morning around the town in Longreach stocking up and looking for the tick collars we needed for the dogs. Michelle eventually found them for us. I grabbed a coffee, as I do and we were on our way. Missy once again just curled up and went to sleep, I think she is getting the hang of this travel. Kynuna is a very tiny place, no campsites, so we stopped in a gravel pit just outside of town. It was not fancy but just the fact we were there in the middle of no where is enough for us all. The dogs spent some time in their travel cage, they have to be in this as there are some very large birds out here that could easily pick them up also wild dogs. The flies were awful, I gave up and went inside, Scott donned a fly net. We watched the odd road train go by, some of them out here are four trailers or more long, but most of them are the cattle trucks. The show of stars was fantastic with no ambient light to mask the sky. We did not have a fire tonight we were all too tired, it had been a long drive.

Mt Isa

We have said we would never stay in Mt Isa again but here we are! Booked into a campsite just out of town. Scott has friends here so he wanted the opportunity to stop in and visit them. His friend picked him up and he was with them all afternoon and evening. I took advantage of water and electricity to wash all of our washing, our machine in the van only takes a few things at a time so it took all afternoon but we were able to hit the road tomorrow with all clean clothes and linen. On our way to Mount Isa it was all about pubs. First of all we passed The Blue Heeler, Jock assures me it is one of the famous pub stops. Then we passed the pub that was used in Crocodile Dundee, The Walkabout Creek Hotel. We have visited it before many years ago when the boys were little but it has been moved, from just around the corner, apparently the tourists couldn’t find it around there!!! Once again no fire tonight, oh well I am sure we will have plenty of others along the way.

We all need a rest day so our next stop will be for two nights which we are looking forward to as it is a lovely spot.

Judd’s Lagoon

We left Oakey in the morning and headed for Judd’s Lagoon. We have stayed at Judd’s a couple of times so hoped we would get the spot we liked. We did and soon had a fire going, we relaxed for the afternoon watching people rolling in. Michelle and Trevor managed to leave home after lunch and were with us by dinner time. We spent the evening chatting around the fire all relieved that we are finally on the road again.

Augathella

We were up and at it in the morning, we had broken camp by 9.00am and were on our way to Augathella. Of course we had to stop in Roma at BakeOroma for Jock to have a cake and for myself a coffee. We all sat outside with the puppies, lots of people Oooing and Arrring over Missy Moo. Had to laugh when I saw Scott approaching with Chloe on her lead, this big burly bloke with a tiny chihuahua. Augathella has a huge free camping area right in the town, Trevor did the usual and had a walk around to find the best spot but this time we disagreed as it was too far into the long grass, we plumbed for a spot in a clearing. Not keen on the longer grass at the moment as there is a new tick in Australia that is killing dogs. The usual tick prevention is not working, a certain collar is suggested and we did not have any just yet. We will buy them in our first large town. Missy is travelling well, Phoebe and Chloe such good travelers they are old hand at it now.

Longreach

We are pretty proficient at the packing up in the morning so we were soon back on the road. As you may have realised there is a lot of driving to get to the real start of our trip which is to be Normanton, then we will be on new grounds and want to explore more. I always like the drive into Longreach, if ever I was to live in an outback town I think it would be Longreach. Not that that is ever going to happen, me in that summer heat?? No way! We parked at our usual free stop Apex park, didn’t see the Brolga’ this time. Scott and Jock decided to have a chili for dinner but Michelle, Trevor and I plumed for an Indian in town. A tiny Indian called Little India, we all would highly recommend it the food was lovely.

This was my view when I woke up in the morning, I started to think about going home. I will miss these kind of views almost every day different, although I don’t think the view of Uluru can be beaten.

Not far to drive today, we could take our time, 200ks to Alice Springs. You know when you are close to Alice Springs when you get a certain rock formation, the McDonald ranges surround Alice and the range is unmistakeable. I have been to Alice a couple of times and I do not know why but I really like it. There is nothing very special about it apart from the fact of its remoteness, I have always found the locals friendly and welcoming.

Ti Tree roadhouse was coffee stop today a chance to refuel and have a quick break. Had to take a picture of Trevor and Michelle’s clean car and van, once on our way to Birdsville it will be all dirty again until we get home.

On arriving in Alice Springs we decided to go and have a look at Blatherskite Park, their showgrounds, it advertised powered camping and many other facilities. As soon as we saw it we decided we were definitely staying, it was a huge area very green and very open, just lovely. We will certainly remember this for any return trip. We were not allowed open fires but we could use the “Pig”. For those of you outside of Australia a “pig” is a pot belly fire pit that stands on legs and can be used to cook on. So a pig fire was better than no fire. We sat around it for a while and did some star gazing but it was getting far too cold to be outside so we all retired early.

The next morning it was still bloody cold, all our winter wear was pulled out which included a onesie I had brought with me for a bit of a joke. This morning was the morning, I climbed into the onesie and walked outside to have breakfast. Emma just laughed and laughed, she had never seen me in anything like it before. All I can say is I think I was the warmest person having breakfast it worked a treat.

We sat down over breakfast to decide what we would do with our time in Alice. We had gotten here in time for the Henley on Todd regatta, boat races that takes place on the dry river bed. Trevor needed a day of rest before that so Michelle and I reassured the boys that we could entertain ourselves today with a trip into town to search out the quilt shops. (Of course we had the addresses already) Another activity for Michelle, Emma and I was a Camel ride, my third but their first, we would leave that until later, maybe the sunset ride.

Again we stayed a couple of days at Manbulloo Homestead just outside of Katherine. We took the opportunity to do some washing and clean the car and caravan, it has not looked this clean for ages. As we were heading to Alice Springs on bitumen road we thought it was worth cleaning everything up. We headed out all rested and ready for more adventure just look at how clean everything came up.

It was strange being back on busy roads with the road trains and passing through townships here and there with no dust up ya nostrils!!! Wow when we stop we wont even have to clean out the van before we can go inside and sit down, what a treat! Don’t get me wrong it has all been fun and at the time we just took it for granted that that was what we had to do but not to have to do it every time we pull up for a while will be bliss. We stopped for lunch at the Three Ways roadhouse it has changed somewhat from when we were last here many years ago. The road train was still painted on the side of the roadhouse so I got Emma to pose on the bulbar as I had gotten Scott and Jamie to do many years before. It brought back lots of good memories. I could not believe passing cyclists on the road, they have to just a little bit barmy surely. Mind you, we did pass some on the Gibb River road too!

Before we found ourselves a site for the night we popped in to have a look at The Devils Marbles which is an area covered in what look like oversized marbles. Just this one area of these rocks, we did not bother getting out to look at them because we had had a long day and needed to pull up before dark. Jock and I had great photos of these from years ago when you could just walk among them, now they are fenced off and a resort built behind them. This time we just took some photos from the roadside. Won’t ever go back there would rather hold on to the old memories of the site. Worth a visit if you have never been before.

We found our free camp for the night it was just a rest area at the side of the road we parked up in such a way that we put our fire on the other side of our vans and our outlook was just bush. We couldn’t have a big fire but it was a good one. When we were about to go to bed I worried that the fire was still quite aglow so I sat a bit longer and Michelle joined me. Then when we decided it was too cold to stay out so thought we might cover the fire with dirt!!!!!! DO NOT EVER DO THIS! Michelle got a shovel and proceeded to put dirt on the fire, omg the smoke it created, it was billowing. She put another couple of shovel loads on hoping to smother it and before we knew it we were heading for our vans running away from the smoke. As we got to the other side of the vans we realised the whole car park had been filled with the smoke, we could not stop laughing and jumped in our vans and shut the door.

What a sad day, we were all a little down this morning, if we could have we would have stayed here longer, Jock and I have talked about coming here for the winter, although it is hot there is always a cool breeze. We dragged our heels a bit as we packed up, Trevor had to sort out some batteries before we left so we had plenty of time. Michelle brought us all over a coffee from the Lodge and we got in our cars and drove off.

Back on the dirt tracks, red bull dust and corrugation. I suppose being back on these roads helped lift our spirits as we had missed moving and having big fires. We saw lots of wild donkeys and horses along the Central Arnhem Road. We got a fright when we hit a deep bull dust covered hole!! The caravan bumped behind us and then we stopped……. What the hell had just happened? I jumped out to look….. OMG the caravan had come unhooked and the tow bar was laying in the dirt. I called Michelle and Trevor on the radio and they came back to us, Michelle went to the last corner to warn other drivers and Trevor and Jock got about hooking it back up. As Jock went to grab his high lift jack a police van pulled up at the side of us going the other way, there were two policemen one with his arm hanging out the window, he just said “Oops”. They asked if we needed help but the boys had it all in hand. Thank god Jock bought that high lift jack, it did the job with ease and we were soon back on the road but every time we hit a bump we would cringe it had given us such a fright.

We were soon back on our way, we came across one area that was on fire, probably the locals burning off. We saw water buffalo, lots of magnetic ant hills and some Eagles. We enjoyed our nights with a good fire and stayed in the same spots on the way back as we did on our way to Nhulumbuy all very peaceful.

(big sigh)back to Katherine for a night or two before heading down the centre of Australia stopping at a few places on the way to Birdsville. Birdsville being our last point of interest before heading home, it is all getting far too close, maybe we should just stay on the road.