Saturday 3 August 2013

Katherine to Kununarra

From Katherine Gorge we headed west towards the Western Australian border. We had originally planned to spend a whole day driving and make it to Lake Argyle that evening, but as a last minute decision we decided to split the drive in two so we could do a bit of sight seeing on the way. We were glad we did as the drive from Katherine to Lake Argyle was beautiful. The scenery was just spectacular.  



We didn't stop at Gregory National Park but the highway went thought it. It was a very beautiful drive following the Victoria River and meandering through ancient eroded mountain ranges. This is by far the best drive of the trip so far.



Quick stop at the Victoria River Road house for lunch, then off to Timber creek (just outside of Gregory National Park)  to set up camp for the night. 




Then more awesome scenery!






Above is our campsite at Big Horse Creek, just outside Gregory National Park and on the banks of the beautiful Victoria River surrounded by huge Boab trees.


Gary trying to catch dinner. Lol

Watching the sun go down on the Victoria River. (Below)




The next day we are up early and pretty excited to be crossing the border into Western Australia. We could tell we must be getting close as the majestic Boab Trees started appearing. There are 9 species of Boab Tree and apart from the one variety found in Australia, which only grow in the Kimberley Region of Western Australia and north western Northern Territory, the only other place in the world they grow is Africa and Madagascar. Boab Trees can live up to 1500 years old!!!!






Just before we cross into WA, we take a side trip into the Keep River National Park.









The photos just don't do this place justice. It was a truly amazing area, well worth a visit. We only did a short walk through one part of the park I'd have to say that it has been one if the highlights of the trip so far. The massive rock formations were unreal and at times it felt like you could of been on another planet. They call it the mini Bungle Bungles.

Yippee!!! We made it to Western Australia. As the "N" from the territory border was such a hit, the tradition lives on. Here is the WA!!! Lol




On to The Kimberley!

Not far from the border is Lake Argyle, another beautiful spot.



View from the infinity pool at the campsite (below), over looking Lake Argyle. What you can see is apparently only 1% of the entire lake. Lake Argyle is the largest body of fresh water in Australia, at full capacity it  could fill up Sydney Harbour 70 times. Pretty impressive!





Below is the Ord River which was dammed to build Lake Argyle. The photo is at the bottom of the dam.




After one night at the lake we made the short trip to Kununurra.




Gary and Linda spoilt us in Kununurra and shouted us to 2 nights at the Ibis. It was a nice break camping, especially considering the next four weeks will be travelling along the Gibb River road which will be fairly remote and rough. 
 

Beautiful lake across the road from our motel room.

Just north of Kununurra is the Ivanhoe crossing which crosses the Ord River. Apparently it's a popular fishing spot so we thought we'd have another go at catching the infamous Barra. But sadly again, no luck. 



Hidden Valley National Park in Kununurra (below). A very small park which looks out over the town of Kunanarra. It is also sometimes called the mini Bungle Bungles.




Next stop... The Bungle Bungles!! Stay tuned. 

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