Avon Downs

After crossing into NT we spent the night at Avon Downs rest stop. This place has an interesting history. It was established in January 1882 by Thomas Guthrie. In September that same year began the longest sheep drive in Australia's history. 11,000 sheep left Rich Avon in NW Victoria. 16mths and 3,500kms later 4000 sheep arrived at Avon Downs eventually the number grew to 70,000 head. Unfortunately all the sheep have been sold and have been replaced by 14000 head of cattle. Thomas Guthrie asked for a police station to be established to protect him from horse thieves and other criminals. Not sure when it was established but it is still here today.Read more