MONA TASMANIA Museum of Old and New Art. Visited February 2018 The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is an art museum within the Moorilla winery in Hobart, Tasmania. Apparently, it's the largest privately funded museum in the Southern Hemisphere. MONA houses old and modern art collected by David Walsh founder of MONA. Themes of sex and death. The museum is described by Walsh as a "subversive adult Disneyland". MONA was officially opened on 21 January 2011. MONA also hosts arts festivals which showcase public art and live performances. Saturday morning is the famous Salamanca Market Day in Hobart's CBD. Great to wander around and look at the market stalls. I received a parking ticket on my car. Which I paid. Held since 1945 and starting on Boxing Day in Sydney. The Sydney to Hobart yacht race distance is approximately 630 nautical miles (1,170 km). Yacht crews celebrate on New Year’s Eve at Constitution Dock in Hobart. Traveldriven GOOGLE MAPS ENTER CLICK/TAP HOBART https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hobart+TAS ENTER CLICK/TAP MONA https://www.google.com/maps/place/MONA CURRENT HOBART FIVE DAY WEATHER FORECAST DRIVE FROM HOBART TO MONA TASMANIA Outside MONA Museum WEIRD CAR DESIGNS JUMP ON MY BONES MONA ART MOTIONLESS TATTOO MAN TATTOO ART MONA WRITING ON THE WALL SALAMANCA MARKET PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE

out to dinner at a local hotel and received a free meal, thankyou -Traveldriven Launceston is a northern city in Tasmania. Located where the North Esk and South Esk rivers meet and become the Tamar River. With a population approaching ninety thousand residents, Launceston is the second most populous city in Tasmania after Hobart. Accommodation was in Launceston. Cataract Gorge is close by and a popular tourist area. Many bushland walks are near the gorge. Tourists may ride the chairlift stretching over 300 metres across the gorge. With drizzling rain in the carpark, a young boy stopped next to the mustang GT with his dad and snapped a photo of them and the car. I went out to dinner at a local hotel and received a free meal. I asked why? The chef said he saw the mustang GT parked out the front. The car is his favourite. I offered to pay and thanked him. No, the meal is on me. Thankyou. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP LAUNCESTON GOOGLE MAPS NATIONAL AUTOMOBILE MUSEUM GOOGLE MAPS CURRENT LAUNCESTON FIVE DAY FORECAST DRIVE TO HOBART MOTORSPORT HALL OF FAME, LAUNCESTON EARLY MODEL MUSTANG 1966 SHELBY MUSTANG GT 350 1970s CAR CAMPING 1932 AUBURN AUBURN 852 CATARACT GORGE CATARACT GORGE LAUNCESTON PENNY ROYAL AMUSEMENTS, LAUNCESTON PENNY ROYAL THEME LAND PENNY ROYAL FLYING FOX PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE

Cradle Mountain The mountain is in the Central Highlands region of Tasmania. Surrounded by the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Rising to a height of 1,545 metres (5,069 ft) above sea level, Cradle Mountain is the sixth-highest mountain in Tasmania, Australia. I drove daily from the town of Sheffield to Dove Lake car park Cradle Mountain. Mustang GT spirited driving on the twisting roads. I don’t like heights but managed to hike Marions Lookout the highest point. Views are of Cradle Mountain, Dove Lake and other lakes. There is an easy walking track looping around Dove Lake. The track is mostly boarded flat walkway and passes beneath Cradle Mountain. Easy track walk of two hours. The Boatshed is on the track walk. Built in 1940. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP CRADLE MOUNTAIN GOOGLE MAPS IN REALTIME DRIVE SHEFFIELD TO CRADLE MOUNTAIN MARIONS LOOKOUT WALK Marions Lookout view HIKE TO MARIONS LOOKOUT The Boat Shed DOVE LAKE The Boat Shed CRADLE MOUNTAIN FLORA The Boat Shed with Cradle Mountain view Dove Lake and Cradle Mountain Cradle Mountain PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE

Birdsville, Queensland Birdsville has been called Australia's most isolated outback town. There are paved streets, housing, and infrastructure unlike some remote small towns. There are twelve named streets in Birdsville. The Birdsville Hotel is on the corner of Burt and Adelaide Streets. Opposite the hotel is Birdsville Airport. There is a manned police station, and a small primary school. There is a non-grassed sports oval and tennis courts, a hardware store on Billabong Boulevard, and a couple of cafes. Birdsville Tourist Park caters to campers, and the Birdsville Bakery off Jardine Street sells the famous curried camel pies. There are a few ruined buildings and restored buildings such as the old hospital. CAMEL PIE I was going to buy a curried camel pie for a late lunch; however, the bakery had sold out. Never mind, the next morning was to be breakfast at the bakery. So, of course, I ate a camel pie loaded with tomato sauce on top for breakfast. Others did not think it was a good idea to eat a camel pie for breakfast. I enjoyed it and suffered no problems later. The pie was chunky, similar to a steak pie. Good taste. A little stringy. Still very good to eat. Standing in front of the Royal Hotel ruins, a ride-on lawn mower rounded the corner from Frew Street to Adelaide Street. The rider was intent on mowing one side of the grassed nature strip. I imagine it's a rare sight in Birdsville - mowing green grass. PELICAN POINT The Diamantina River flows on the edge of Birdsville township. A new bridge was built to replace the old Diamantina Crossing. Pelican Point is about one km from the bridge. Our Toyota Landcruiser driving at walking pace on a track towards a large wetland area bordering the Diamantina River. None of us expecting to see any pelicans. Edging closer to an expanse of water dozens of pelicans could be seen sitting on the water sheltered by a divide in the river. On closer approach the pelicans were spooked by noise and all flew further upriver. Empty horse holding pens for the Birdsville Races were scattered along the river's bank. Surrounded by green undergrowth waist high from recent rain. Traveldriven GOOGLE MAPS BIRDSVILLE CURRENT SEVEN DAY FORECAST FOR BIRDSVILLE BIRDSVILLE TOWNSHIP NIGHT LIFE IN BIRDSVILLE? WATER TOWER SUNRISE ON GRAHAM STREET BIRDSVILLE BAKERY ON JARDINE STREET FAMOUS CURRIED CAMEL PIE FOR BREAKFAST TOPPED WITH TOMATO SAUCE THOSE CURRIED CAMEL PIES AWAIT THE ROYAL HOTEL RUINS ROYAL HOTEL RUINS BUY FUEL AT THE SERVICE STATION & PLAY PIANO MESSAGE REWRITTEN BY TRAVELDRIVEN SEVERAL TIMES ANNOYED BY SWARMING FLIES BURKE & WILLS MOMUMENT, BIRDSVILLE AIRPORT BIRDSVILLE BIRDLIFE PREV PAGE NEXT

"It's a special place, my high perch, where I sit cross legged facing the setting sun. To the north and south of me, domes of windswept sand protrude like pimples over a ridge line, each one fired like a glowing poker, while below me, the shadow cast by the westerly dune inches its way across the inter-dunal flat, intent on destruction. Darkness Falls on Big Red. Bartell, Denis (1978) The Frozen Sea On the edge of the Simpson Desert is a section of the long parallel sand dune Nappanerica commonly referred to as Big Red. This sand dune is accessible to 4wd vehicles to climb and perhaps for 2wd to reach the base of the dune driving from Birdsville 35 km away to the west. Big Red Big Red is the first and highest of well over one thousand parallel dunes in the Simpson Desert, which run north-south for hundreds of kilometres. Big Red's summit is approximately 36.5m (120 ft) above sea level. Roughly 30 to 33m (98 -108 ft) above the surrounding plain. The worlds remotest music festival the once a year Big Red Bash attracts thousands of music lovers and is held on the Birdsville side of Big Red on the flat and dry clay pan with Big Red as a backdrop. The annual last weekend in June event of 2024 was apparently a wet occasion. Weekend rain arrived. Turning the clay pan dust to a vast pan of mud, sticking to all and sundry for miles around. Authorities even closed the Birdsville Track for a few days. Driving Big Red is always prohibited for the duration of the festival. We in our Landcruiser were here with no restrictions as it was a normal time of year with no events in the Birdsville area and the weather fine and dry. Driving Big Red to the Top The road out to Big Red goes over Little Red into the Simpson Desert. For a greater challenge Little Red is the first sand dune to cross over and reach Big Red from the steeper side of Nappanerica. From the Birdsville side we made a right-hand turn with Little Red out in front. There is no need to traverse Little Red before tackling and driving Big Red. The easiest access point to Big Red is before Little Red on the Birdsville side and to drive further along the base of Nappanerica along a very short flat track to the right. We three were in a V8 Toyota Landcruiser. A red flag on a pole was attached to the front of the Landcruiser before the climb. Regulations require a minimum height of 3.5 metres from the ground. The red flag for vehicle safety, to alert other drivers a vehicle is cresting sand dunes from the other direction. On our first attempt Howard the driver kept the vehicle in Hi range. Tyres were left at normal road pressures. With a run up head start, we reached the top in little more than a minute. Quite easily done. On the other side of Big Red as mentioned was a steeper short access track up to the top. We were the only vehicle and people there at this time of day. About midday. Outside of the vehicle flies were bothersome by the dozen. After a rest and a look about, we descended Big Red and drove past another 4wd parked with the driver deflating his tyres for the run up on the loose sandy track. On Top of Big Red Walking to the top dune crests of Big Red is a challenging experience, as the red sand resembles quicksand, making each step a struggle. The fine powdery sand seems determined to engulf anyone attempting to climb the peaks of the surrounding crests, with each footstep sand engulfing past the ankle and sand cascading past the wrists, when looking to gain traction to top the crests. Despite the daunting terrain, with perseverance and a crab-like movement, it is possible to reach the highest crest of the dunes. Fighting swarming flies away from your face. The shifting sand constantly threatens to pull you down. The panoramic view from the top, however, makes the effort worthwhile, offering a breathtaking vista of the vast red desert, low hardy bushes and small green spindly clumps of grass stretching out in all directions, a reminder of the raw beauty and harshness of nature. Traveldriven BIG RED AND THE SIMPSON DESERT AUDIO RECORDING HOWARD OF DESERT SKY TOURS DRIVING BIG RED ON TOP OF BIG RED BIG RED DUNE WALKING BIG RED THE STEEPER SIDE OF BIG RED HOWARD, ON BIG RED BIG RED IS SCAREY NAPPANERICA SAND DUNE, BIG RED PREV PAGE NEXT

Flight Into the Simpson Desert The Simpson Desert is Australia's fourth-largest desert and perhaps the most notorious. The Simpson is known for its parallel sand dunes, stretching for hundreds of kilometres. The desert is largely red sandy plains between the dunes and uninhabited, bordering the states of South Australia, Queensland, and the Northern Territory in Central Australia. Area: 176,500 km2 (68,100 sq mi) Waddi Trees Waddi Trees (Acacia peuce) grow in just a few places in Australia. They are a rare and ancient species, with spiky, needle-like leaves and thick bark. The trees grow only on dry, barren ground on the fringe of the Simpson Desert in Queensland and the Northern Territory. Waddi trees grow to about 9 metres and may live for as long as 1,000 years. They have yellow wood with a bright red core. The wood of the tree is of extreme hardness. Driving the Simpson A vehicle crossing of the parallel dunes will take four days at a minimum. West to east is usually the easier direction. Vehicles consume huge amounts of fuel to drive over the dunes, and becoming bogged in the loose sand is frequent. The Simpson Desert National Park is closed annually over the summer months, any vehicle breakdown and subsequent stranding while attempting a summer crossing will likely lead to life threating situations from the constant extreme heat. Temperatures exceed fifty degrees daily. The Madigan Line The best route to follow is the Madigan Line. The route is not a track; it's more a series of GPS waypoints and involves traversing more than 1,300 sand dunes. The French Line The French Line is a track of some sort and is the shortest route across the Simpson Desert and may be the most demanding to traverse. There are no trees for shade. The French Line from Dalhousie Springs to Birdsville is a distance of 440 km, requiring a minimum of three days to complete. The average speed on the French Line for a 4WD vehicle is 32 km/hr. Often down to 15 km/hr. In the event of any vehicle breakdown, rescue may not be timely or practical in life threatening situations. Flying Into the Simpson Desert Early morning or pre-sunset scenic flights may be booked from the Birdsville Hotel. Upon arrival for the pre-flight briefing, we were informed our sunset flight would include four people, including two pilots. We were asked if we had flown in a light aircraft before. I explained that my last flight was in a Tiger Moth a few years ago in Mackay, Queensland. On that occasion, we didn't make it back to the airport and were forced to land on the ring road due to engine failure. The pilots reassured me Tiger Moths are sturdy planes, just like the one we were flying in today. I was hoping we wouldn't have to make a forced landing and be stranded and lost in the Simpson Desert overnight. Those things don't happen twice, right? Anyway, it was time to go. The two pilots and the two of us passengers strapped ourselves in and took off. The thirty minute flight was very interesting and incident-free. Feral camels, along with goannas, foxes, and dingoes, are frequently found in the deserts of Australia. The closest small towns to the edge of the Simpson Desert are Birdsville in Queensland and Oodnadatta in South Australia. Traveldriven WHAT CAN HAPPEN IN THE DESERT AUDIO RECORDING HOWARD OF DESERT SKY TOURS BIRDSVILLE AIRPORT OPPOSITE HOTEL BIRDSVILLE AVIATION SIGHT SEEING AIRCRAFT FLIGHT INTO THE SIMPSON DESERT STUCK IN THE DESERT SIMPSON DESERT RECOVERY VEHICLE ROYAL FLYING DOCTOR SERVICE, BIRDSVILLE SIMPSON DESERT WADDLE TREE OUTSIDE OF BIRDSVILLE PREV PAGE NEXT

Not far from Marree, beside the Birdsville Track, are sandstone ruins of yesteryear. A well-formed fireplace still remains intact, with remains of a chimney once above. If firewood could be gathered in the sparse landscape, a strong, warm fire could soon be made. Stone windowless frameworks can be examined, and the wind whistles through the few stunted trees, surrounded by desolate countryside. Clayton Wetlands Campsite, Birdsville Track A roadside stop along the Birdsville Track. Offers; hot showers toilets hot artesian bath a place to camp overnight Located amidst the rugged beauty of the Australian outback, the Clayton Wetlands Campsite offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the tranquility of nature. Nestled in the heart of the wilderness, this campsite provides a peaceful retreat for weary travellers along the dusty Birdsville Track. Visitors can indulge in the simple pleasures of life at the campsite, enjoying the convenience of hot showers and clean toilets after a long day of exploration. For those seeking relaxation, the campsite boasts a rejuvenating hot artesian bath, perfect for unwinding under the vast outback sky. As the sun sets over the horizon, travellers can set up their vans and settle in for a night under the stars. The Clayton Wetlands Campsite is not just a desolate stopover; it is an experience to be cherished, a moment of respite in the midst of the rugged Australian landscape. Traveldriven WARNING REMOTE AREAS AHEAD SIGNAGE CLAYTON WETLANDS ROADSIDE SIGNAGE CLAYTON WETLANDS CAMPSITE BIRDSVILLE TRACK WAYSIDE STOP RUINS OFF OF THE BIRDSVILLE TRACK RUINS NORTH OF MARREE NORTHERN FLINDERS RANGES SIGN OUT ON THE WIDE OPEN PLAIN STANDING ABOUT LARGE FIREPLACE PREV PAGE NEXT

FARINA HISTORIC TOWN Farina, this abandoned town in Outback South Australia, holds a unique charm that beckons travellers to explore its history and remnants of a bygone era. Situated just a short detour off a bitumen road, this ghost town can be accessed by both 4WD and 2WD vehicles, making it a relatively accessible yet intriguing destination for adventurers. Located 55 kilometres south of Marree, Farina has remained uninhabited since 1967, leaving behind a hauntingly beautiful landscape of roofless buildings frozen in time. Despite its abandonment, Farina is not forgotten. The efforts of volunteers to maintain the remaining structures, complete with nameplates and clearly named street signs, ensure the town's history is preserved for future generations. While no active building restorations take place, the dedication to preventing further deterioration is evident in the care taken to upkeep the site. Farina Modern Bakery (Open Daily) One of the notable features of Farina is the presence of a large modern bakery, its exterior reminiscent of a grand homestead, which serves as a popular stop for travellers passing through. The contrast of the bakery's modernity against the backdrop of the town's ruins adds a layer of intrigue to the overall experience. For those seeking a closer connection to the rugged beauty of the Outback, Farina offers a bush camping area away from the ruins. This secluded spot provides facilities for campers and has become a favoured campsite for those looking to immerse themselves in the stark beauty of the desert landscape. Furthermore, the climate of Farina, classified as a hot desert, adds to the allure of this remote location. The arid conditions and vast expanse of the surrounding desert create a sense of isolation and timelessness, further enhancing the mystique of this abandoned town. Traveldriven FARINA TOWN ENTRY FARINA RUINS FARINA'S MAIN STREET FARINA UNDERGROUND BAKERY STILL IN USE UNDERGROUND BAKERY SIGNAGE FARINA UNDERGROUND BAKERY FARINA WAR MEMORIAL PARK HUNDREDS ATTEND ON ANZAC DAY PREV PAGE NEXT

Kakadu National Park The park is within the Alligator Rivers area of the Northern Territory. Kakadu covers an area almost two hundred kilometres (120 mi) from north/south and over one hundred kilometres (62 mi) from east/west. Kakadu Highway The fully sealed highway starts at Pine Creek and finishes at Jabiru. If driving from South Australia, follow the highway from Pine Creek turnoff to Jabiru a road distance of 213 km on an all sealed road and then follow the all sealed Arnhem Highway to Darwin. Darwin to Kakadu The park entrance is an easy two-and-a-half-hour drive. Distance of 210km. Along the fully sealed Arnhem Highway . On park entry, an entrance fee applies. A Kakadu Yellow Water Cruise is essential. Up to two hours, observing flora and fauna. Crocodiles and birdlife. The township of Jabiru offers tourist facilities and services. The Adelaide River Jumping Crocodile Cruise is a short river tour on the drive to Kakadu and before Jabiru. Cahills Crossing Cahills Crossing in Kakadu National Park is about forty km further from Jabiru and also reached on a sealed road. The crossing has witnessed at least two fatal crocodile attacks. Located on the East Alligator River. One of these, a fisherman knee deep at the water's edge. Another attack killed a male walking the crossing. Widely regarded as the most dangerous river crossing in Australia. Abandoned vehicles washed into the river can often be seen. Crocodiles gather to eat fish in the murky water. Dozens of large crocs inhabit the immediate area. Safe Crocodile Viewing and Obey the Warning Signs A safe river viewing platform overlooks the East Alligator River and is off to the right side of Cahills Road river crossing. There is also a viewing area to the left of the crossing. These are safe areas to view saltwater crocodiles in the wild outside of an organised tour. Safe for families. It's not uncommon to view multiple numbers of crocodiles from the public viewing platform. Most are in the river. A few are perhaps out of the water on the edge of the crossing. Do not cross the river into Arnhem Land without a permit. Even on the low tide when the crossing may be dry. It's still unsafe to do so. Alligator River is a misnomer. Early pioneers thought the crocodiles were alligators and so named the local rivers East and South Alligator. Merl Campground Located next to the East Alligator River is the Merl Campground, where a small camping fee is required on site. Cahills Crossing is a short walk from this bush campground. Upon arrival, campers can choose from an empty designated camping area, which offers shade and privacy thanks to the lush foliage from the nearby river. The Ubirr rock art site is three kilometres away. The campground has no power, and the facilities are basic. Merl Campground accommodates all types of road-going vehicles. Be aware the campground often experiences swarms of biting mosquitoes after dark, and the river should be avoided due to the presence of saltwater crocodiles. Border Store The Border Store renamed Manbiyarra is near Cahills Crossing viewing platform and was a general store. The store changed ownership and renovations were done in 2025 with a tourist focus on local indigenous art. Manbiyarra Border Store is open in the dry season May to October. Yellow Water In Kakadu National Park there is Yellow Water Billabong. The billabong has a countless variety of birdlife such as jabiru and whistling ducks. Saltwater crocodiles are common and water buffalo may be seen. Colourful water lily's stretch as far as the eye can see. Yellow Water two-hour boat cruises are very popular and operate daily. Pine Creek A short practical hire\drive driving itinerary in the vast distances of the Northern Territory is for a loop drive route Darwin, Kakadu, Pine Creek and return to Darwin. All on sealed roads. Pine Creek is two hundred and twenty-five km from Darwin. To follow the suggested driving loop at least one overnight stay is required to allow an adequate time for tours and see the sights. Two nights even better. Accommodation is available in Jabiru and Pine Creek. For more Kakadu information also read Darwin post . Read Pine Creek post for overnight accommodation and sights. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP KAKADU/JABIRU GOOGLE MAPS IN REALTIME DRIVE DARWIN TO KAKADU & RETURN JUMPING CROCODILE TOUR BOAT JUMPING CROCS ADELAIDE RIVER Jumping Crocodile Cruise ADELAIDE RIVER Molly's Kakadu roadtrip. Showcases indigenous rock art which I believe is refreshed regularly by local indigenous people. A traditional practice going back thousands of years to keep living culture alive. Jim Jim Falls may disappoint in the later dry season. Expect dry waterfalls and rough unsealed roads to Jim Jim and Twin Falls. Thankyou to Molly Dixon Youtube for enabling video sharing. Always high-quality content by an Australian prepared to go drive and see Australia. Traveldriven UBIRR ROCK ART, KAKADU EASILY ACCESSIBLE BY 2WD KAKADU SIGN KAKADU WILDLIFE IN THE SCRUB PADDOCK AT REST SEALED ROAD TO JABIRU TOWN JABIRU TOWN BAKERY (now closed) YELLOW WATER CRUISE CAMERAS AT THE READY CROC SPOTTING INJURED SALTWATER CROCODILE IN THE SUN SWIMIMING CROCODILE YELLOW WATER JABIRU YELLOW WATER BIRDLIFE SIGNAGE CAHILLS CROSSING CAHILLS CROSSING HIGH TIDE CROCODILE WARNING SIGNAGE KINGA CROCODILE DRIVE CAHILLS CROSSING DRIVING CAHILLS CROSSING PREV AUSTRALIA ICONS NEXT PREV N\ TERRITORY NEXT HOMEPAGE

Explore the Historic Stokes Hill Wharf A visit to the historic Stokes Hill Wharf is an experience that combines the charm of the past with the beauty of the present. This iconic location is not only steeped in history but also offers a plethora of activities catering to both relaxation and adventure. One of the many advantages of visiting Stokes Hill Wharf is the availability of three-hour free parking. This makes it incredibly convenient for visitors arriving by car, allowing you to focus on enjoying your day without the stress of finding a parking space or incurring fees. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the stunning views of the waterfront, setting the tone for a memorable outing. Leisure Activities Once you’re at the wharf, take the time to unwind and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere. You can laze about while casting a fishing line into the water, perhaps hoping to catch a glimpse of the local marine life or even reel in a fresh dinner. This peaceful pastime is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Alternatively, indulge in a delicious ice cream from one of the wharf vendors. All the while enjoining the gentle sea breeze that sweeps across the wharf, enhancing your overall experience. The combination of the warm sun, the cool breeze, and the delightful flavours of ice cream creates a perfect moment to relax and soak in your surroundings. For those who prefer a more substantial meal, Stokes Hill Wharf offers a variety of dining options. You can enjoy a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants, where you can savour fresh seafood and other culinary delights while overlooking the sparkling waters of the harbour. Pair your meal with a refreshing drink and take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking views that surround you. If you're seeking a bit more adventure, consider joining a harbour cruise. These cruises provide a unique perspective of the stunning Darwin Harbour, allowing you to explore its beauty from the water. As you glide through the waves, you may encounter dolphins, turtles, and other marine wildlife, making for an unforgettable experience. The knowledgeable guides often share fascinating insights about the history and ecology of the area, enriching your understanding of this remarkable location. In addition to leisure and dining, Stokes Hill Wharf is also home to the Royal Flying Doctors Tourist Facility. Here, you can learn about the vital services provided by the Royal Flying Doctor Service, which has played a crucial role in delivering medical care to remote areas of Australia. The facility features an engaging sound and visual display recounting the dramatic events surrounding the bombing of Darwin Harbour during World War II. This immersive experience provides a poignant reminder of the region's history and the resilience of its people. Traveldriven STOKES HILL WHARF SIGNAGE GHOSTBUSTERS ARE ON THE JOB ICECREAM AND FISH & CHIPS BOARDING THE CHARLES DARWIN HARBOUR CRUISE ROYAL FLYING DOCTORS AIRCRAFT THE BOMBING OF DARWIN IN WORLD WAR TWO PREV AUSTRALIA 2025 NEXT

LAKE FULL OF CROCODILES Apparently, Lake Argyle is home to an estimated 35,000 crocodiles, a remarkable number that highlights the unique ecosystem of this vast body of water. So why is it considered safe to swim in these waters? The primary reason lies in the fact that these crocodiles are predominantly freshwater crocodiles, a species known for their diet primarily consisting of fish and other aquatic creatures. Unlike their feared saltwater counterparts, which are significantly larger and more aggressive, freshwater crocodiles tend to be much smaller, typically growing to about three metres in length. This smaller size contributes to the perception of safety for those wishing to enjoy the lake's recreational opportunities. However, it is important to note that, despite their generally docile nature, these crocodiles can still pose a risk if one happens to be in close proximity. They are wild animals, and like any creature, they can react defensively if they feel threatened. A sudden movement or an unexpected intrusion into their space could lead to a swift and potentially painful snap of their powerful jaws. Therefore, it is always advisable to maintain a respectful distance when observing these fascinating reptiles in their natural habitat. Viewing them from a safe vantage point allows for a thrilling experience without compromising safety. SWIM IN WARM WATERS AT LAKE ARGYLE To fully appreciate the stunning sights and natural beauty that Lake Argyle has to offer, consider embarking on a four-hour Kimberley Durack boat cruise. This adventure allows visitors to explore the expansive waters while taking in the breathtaking scenery surrounding the lake. You can choose between a lunch cruise, where you can enjoy a delicious BBQ meal while soaking in the sun and the views, or a sunset cruise, which provides a magical experience as the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors during dusk. Whichever cruise option is selected; participants will have the unique opportunity to swim off the back of the boat in the vast, warm waters of the lake. This refreshing dip is made even more enjoyable by the provision of pool noodles, which can be used to float and relax while taking in the serene surroundings. The combination of the beautiful landscape, the thrill of swimming in a natural setting, and the chance to observe wildlife, including the freshwater crocodiles from a safe distance, makes for an unforgettable experience at Lake Argyle. Bookings may be made at the Lake Argyle Resort or online. Traveldriven LAKE ARGYLE GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE KUNUNURRA - LAKE ARGYLE SWIMMING IN LAKE ARGYLE MV KIMBERLEY DURACK, LAKE ARGYLE LAKE ARGYLE INFINITY POOL SWIMMING IN LAKE ARGYLE LAKE ARGYLE TALK CROCODILE TALK (& attack) ON LAKE ARGYLE LAKE ARGYLE NIGHT LIFE ROCK ME.... LAKE ARGYLE MONEY FOR NOTHING PREV AUSTRALIA 2025 NEXT

Journey Along the Ord River Embark on a captivating adventure as you board a river boat from the town of Kununurra, a gateway to some of Australia’s most stunning natural landscapes. Your journey of fifty-five km will take you along the mighty waters of the Ord River, a vital waterway that flows from Lake Argyle through the heart of the Kimberley region. As you set off, take a moment to soak in the picturesque surroundings, where the lush greenery contrasts beautifully with the rugged terrain. The Majestic Ord River As you glide along the river, you will be treated to breathtaking views of sheer cliffs that rise dramatically from the water's edge and rocky hilltops. These ancient rock formations, sculpted over millennia, create a stunning backdrop that is both awe-inspiring and humbling. The cliffs are not just a visual feast; they are also home to a variety of wildlife that thrives in this unique ecosystem. Wildlife Encounters Keep your eyes peeled for the fascinating array of wildlife inhabiting the riverbanks. You may spot crocodiles basking in the sun or gliding silently through the water, their presence a reminder of the wild beauty of this region. Birdwatchers will delight in the abundant birdlife, with species ranging from majestic eagles soaring above to vibrant kingfishers flitting about. The rich biodiversity along the Ord River provides an unparalleled opportunity to observe these creatures in their natural habitat, offering a glimpse into the untamed wilderness of the Kimberley. A Riverside Campsite As part of your river journey, you will also have the chance to explore a riverside campsite. This tranquil spot, nestled amongst the trees, offers a perfect place to pause and appreciate the serenity of the landscape. Here, you can take a short leisurely stroll along the evergreen riverbank, listen to the sounds of nature, and perhaps even enjoy a picnic surrounded by the breathtaking scenery. The campsite serves as a reminder of the connection between the land and its people, highlighting the importance of preserving these natural spaces for future generations. Spectacular Sunset As the day begins to draw to a close, prepare for one of the most magical moments of your journey: the tropical sunset over the river. The boat operator will stop on the middle of the river to allow all passengers to take in the setting sun. The sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant oranges, pinks, and purples, reflecting beautifully on the water's surface. This spectacular display of color is a fitting end to your adventure, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop as you make your way back to Kununurra. The tranquil atmosphere, combined with the breathtaking views, makes for an unforgettable experience that will linger in your memory long after the journey concludes. Return to Kununurra As you return to Kununurra, take a moment to reflect on the incredible sights and experiences of the day. The journey along the Ord River is not just a boat ride; it is an immersive experience connecting you with the natural beauty and wildlife of the Kimberley region. Each moment spent on the river, from the towering cliffs to the vibrant sunset, contributes to a deeper appreciation for this remarkable part of Australia. Traveldriven KUNUNURRA GOOGLE MAPS CURRENT FIVE DAY FORECAST KUNUNURRA DRIVE TIMBER CREEK - LAKE ARGYLE - KUNUNURRA FRESHWATER CROCODILE ORD RIVER MOUNTAIN SIDE ORD RIVER BOAT AT ORD RIVER CAMPSITE CAMPSITE REFRESHMENTS SEA EAGLE ON TREE BRANCH SEA EAGLE AND NEST SOLDIER FACE ORD RIVER ROCKFACE CRUISING THE ORD RIVER PREV AUSTRALIA 2025 NEXT