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Travelling Oz in our PearcyPod
  • Brad and Mandy Pearce
Currently traveling
Mar – Sep 2025

Travelling Oz in our PearcyPod

We have the van and now the plan is to travel around our great land. From East to West and North to South we hope to take our time exploring all the states (and territories) in 2025. Read more
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    City of Swan
    Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    Natural Bridge
    Rugged coastlineIsland RockIsland RockBoardwalk through the coastal shrubs (not sure what they are)Pot AlleyKalbarri Skywalk (one of 2)Looking across to second skywalkView from Kalbarri SkywalkYou can see the 2 skywalks from a distanceNear the Nature's WindowNature's WindowView of the Murchison RiverZ-bend lookoutZ - bendA small kestrel eating something that Brad managed to photograph1Carpet of wildflowers - everlastings? They came in pink and yellow tooThese coastal shrubs are covered in small pink flowersA type of Grevillea 'pink poker' ?

    Kalbarri - a natural beauty

    Aug 23–25 in Australia ⋅ 🌬 19 °C

    Considering we didn't see Kalbarri in its best light, it certainly is spectacular. There are 2 quite different scenic areas - the coastal cliffs and the inland gorges - all within 20km of the town.

    It was extremely windy for the days we were there but we managed to see the sights while dodging showers. The coastal cliffs are awesome, especially Natural Bridge and Island Rock. National Parks have done an excellent job of building boardwalks and paved walkways so all can access the areas.

    In contrast, Kalbarri National Park is also spectacular. They have constructed 2 skywalks that protrude over the gorge and Murchison River. Nature's Window is another frequently photographed site in Kalbarri. Z- bend lookout is another of the lookouts we went to, but persistent rain showers put an end to our exploring.

    We have come to the area and the season for wildflowers. At some sections along the highway the plants looked like a beautiful native garden. I wish we had taken photos of it but it isn't always practical to stop, especially when towing a van. I have included some wildflowers in the photos.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    Shell Beach
    Dunes at shell BeachShells (and Brad's foot)Close up of shells on Shell BeachThey are quite smallAt least the shells don't stick to you like sandInfo about the areaWhalebone Point.. and againBoardwalk at Eagle Bluff (top of photo)Views from Eagle BluffThe shark we spottedMonkey Mia (dolphin feeding happens on the other side of this Wharf)Monkey MiaThe only dolphin we saw

    Denham - Shark Bay - Monkey Mia

    Aug 19–22 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 24 °C

    For the first time on our trip, the weather has spoiled our plans. We had booked a tour to Dirk Hartog Island, leaving from Denham, which unfortunately was cancelled due to strong winds and rain. Oh well, you can't do everything. (We also wanted to do the
    whaleshark swim at Exmouth but couldn't get accommodation, so we skipped that town)

    Denham is the closest town to the most westerly point on mainland Australia but to actually go there it is either by boat (which we would have seen on the day at Dirk cruise) or by 4WD over a hundred and something km. It's not something we were keen to do. We did find some other interesting things to do.

    We travelled down to Shell Beach, appropriately named as the beach is composed entirely of small white cockle shells - no sand - apparently the highest concentration of cockle shells in the world. Eagle Bluff, just south of Denham, had a great boardwalk along the cliff, and we managed to spot a shark in the water below.

    We drove out to Monkey Mia, which is the main draw card of the area. This is where the dolphins come in to feed. In recent years, it has become over commercialised, named conservation park rather than a national park, so charge an entry fee not covered by the national parks pass. So, we didn't go to see dolphins being fed but wanted to see the area anyway. I must admit it is a very pretty area - calm and peaceful.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    Eclipse sculpture - total eclipse in 2023
    Carnarvon waterfrontCactus garden on the fruit loop1Moon shot at Space MuseumLunar module replicaIconic sign near Quobba BlowholesQuobba BlowholesA couple of short videosCoastline around QuobbaMemorial cairn to HMAS Sydney IIThis kangaroo was almost white

    Carnarvon - an interesting assortment

    Aug 15–19 in Australia ⋅ 🌬 25 °C

    There is a variety of things to see and do in Carnarvon that make it quite a unique coastal destination.

    Carnarvon supplies over 80% of WA's fresh fruit and veg. They have a fruit loop trail that takes you past the farm gate sellers. We picked up most of our fresh veggies from these places. Not necessarily cheaper but probably fresher than the local supermarket. Also picked up some nice relishes and jam. There is also a cactus farm on the route, which was worth a few photos.

    There is a space museum here. Originally, it served as a major communications link in the 60s and 70s for Gemini, Apollo and Skylab missions from NASA. It closed down in the 80s and has reopened as a very good interactive museum with a mini planetarium, a replica of the command module capsule where we sat / lay in as the astronauts would have done, and experienced the actual recording of the take off to the moon. Lots of videos and props, including the actual footage of the first ever live TV cross from Carnarvon to the BBC in London. Got a photo of us standing on the moon, and there were quite a few interactive games like space invaders and asteroids that the kids (and adults) were enjoying. Spent over 2 hours here.

    We headed back north (75km) to visit the Quobba Blowholes - a bit of rugged coastline. There is a memorial to HMAS Sydney II that was sunk in a battle with the German ship Kormoran during WWII off Carnarvon. All 645 sailors on the Sydney died, while on the German ship (which also sunk), there were only about 60 casualties. Also got a picture of the KING WAVES KILL sign that all travellers in the area seem to post a photo of.

    Finally, the caravan park we are staying in has its own bowling green, so Brad and I had a game of bowls. Brad's aim is to play bowls in every state (NSW, NT & WA - ticked off the list)    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    2Staircase to the moon
    ... and againOverlooking Karratha... and againRed Dog statue at DampierInfo about Red DogDampier Foreshore... and again1Dampier portHearson's Cove ( where we watched the moon rise)Unusual landscape in Karratha / Dampier regionArea where Petroglyphs are foundQuollEmuGoannaKangarooBlurry photo but this is why you need a UHF radio2 of these in the highway measuring over 8m wide

    Staircase to the moon @ Karratha

    Aug 10–13 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 26 °C

    Living on the east coast it is not unusual to watch the full moon rise over the ocean, however, in certain parts of WA, the full moon rising over low tidal flats creates a phenomenon known as staircase to the moon. It is really only seen 3 days of the month (around the full moon) and only from March to October. It doesn't occur in the summer months because the low tides do not line up with the lunar cycle.

    We are at Karratha, which is the main city for this area. Once again, Karratha is not very old, being built to service the mining industry and has all the facilities a city needs, including an airport, probably mainly for FIFO workers. Even though it is on the ocean, the city doesn't really hug the shore like most other coastal towns or cities.

    A short drive from Karratha via a causeway, is the island of Dampier - a pretty little town that has a port for exporting iron ore (from Mt Tom Price) and other industries such as Dampier Salt and a gas plant. It is from the eastern side of this island that we witness staircase to the moon. Dampier is also the home of Red Dog - the kelpie that wandered the Pilbara in the 1970s - and there is a statue there in his honour. I had never seen the movie so I found it on Stan and watched it. Nice movie - bit of a tearjerker.

    The other interesting sight in the area are the petroglyphs (rock art), estimated to be up to 40,000 years old. It was fun trying to match the particular image on the sign and finding it in the rocks. There was even one believed to be the Thylacine (Tasmanian Tiger). Another picture, thought to be made by a sailor whose ship - the Mermaid - had run aground, is dated around the early 1800's. (However, when I went to add the photos, Brad had not taken one of these - Thylacine or ship - he said they were too faint on the camera or some excuse)    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    Beautiful sunset
    Dampier saltBulldozer working the salt pileClose upSalt evaporation pondsThis (empty) iron ore train had at around 270 cars1The big wheelbarrow - every town has gotta have a big thingThe Su May coming in for loadingLoaded ship departing Port - see how much lower it sits in the waterLow tide at the beach in front of our caravan parkSunset over Port Hedland1Tower at the lookout nicely lit up

    Port Hedland - in the Pilbara now

    Aug 7–10 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 27 °C

    We spent 3 days at Port Hedland which is a major industrial port in the Pilbara region of WA. Iron ore from places like Tom Price is transported by massive trains that are almost 3km long to the port which is then offloaded into iron ore carriers (ships). The operation operates 24/7 and there is always about a dozen ships waiting off the coastline for their turn. We were able to watch the ships both coming and going from quite a close range - really massive.

    The other industry here is Dampier Salt and is somewhat of a tourist attraction in itself. Huge mountains of salt being pushed around by a bulldozer, surrounded by the salt evaporation ponds.

    The city itself is quite modern (well, it really only grew in the 1970s when mining and the port were established). The marina precinct is only a couple of years old and the Foreshore parks are very attractive. There is also a spot where you can witness the phenomenon "staircase to the moon," but we are leaving a day too soon. Hopefully we will catch up with it in Karratha.

    Port Hedland is probably the most cyclone prone city in Australia. Even the caravan park we were staying in had anchor points in the slab to tie down the van if you happened to be there when a cyclone came through. It could be one reason why there is a satellite city about 15km from Port Hedland called South Hedland where the main shopping and services are. It could also be because they ran out of suitable residential land due to tidal flats etc.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    First view of 80 mile Beach
    80 mile BeachDriving on the beach seems to be the thing to doStraight roads, featureless landscapeOur campsite at Sandfire RoadhouseSandfire RH - caravan line-up for fuelThere were heaps of these kites at Pardoo Road house1Cape Kedrauden1Strange rock patternsLots of beautiful wildflowers are starting to bloomCape Kedrauden rugged coastline

    The bits between Broome & Port Hedland

    Aug 3–7 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 23 °C

    The Great Northern Highway (aka Hwy 1) from Broome to Port Hedland is around 550km through pretty uninspiring landscape but we took our time staying at a free camp (Stanley) and a couple of roadhouses along the way (Sandfire and Pardoo). The main bit of excitement was almost running out of fuel before arriving at Sandfire - down to one bar and flashing. This was due to the strong wind, which really chewed through the fuel. (We did have jerry cans of diesel... just in case)

    We spent 2 nights at Pardoo and took a run back to Eighty Mile Beach, which is a very popular destination in this area. I can see why it is popular - very pretty, white sand and turquoise water. Great for people who like fishing , driving on the beach, or collecting shells. While there we caught up with Barb and Graham (from Potty) who were staying at 80 mile Beach caravan park. It was nice to catch up with someone from home.

    Also, while at Pardoo, we visited Cape Kedrauden. That was quite a surprise. Very pretty and the rock formations are most unusual. Lots of people camp out there too. (Unfortunately the photos don't really show how vivid the colours are for the Cape or Eighty Mile Beach)    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    1First look at horizontal falls
    Different angle - wide gap at top, narrow at bottomOur mode of transportPontoon and seaplaneZodiac from cruise ship near entranceOne of our tour boats passing throughOur turnBit bumpy but you get the ideaYou can see the tide marks on the cliff1Water is trying to push us backNarrow gap - look at the wall of water trying to pass throughNarrow gap close up1Just to prove we were hereVery calm now (this was a few hours later)Tawny sharksFlying over the archipelago to Cygnet BayBeautiful coloursThe pearl from the oyster opened - valued @ $600Catholic Church at former mission near Beagle Bay1Inside decorated with mother of pearl shell

    Horizontal Falls and Dampier Peninsula

    July 29 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 27 °C

    Our tour to the horizontal falls started with a 5am pick up to take us to the seaplane for our flight to the Falls. Landing at Talbot Bay (our first ever water landing) we were quickly whisked aboard high powered speed boats to the Falls because they were at their absolute best (according to the skipper).

    It was quite exhilarating travelling through the gap as the force of the water is trying to push you back. There are 2 gaps - the one we went through was about 20 odd metres wide while the narrow gap is only 7 or 8 metres wide. Tourists are no longer permitted to traverse the narrow gap - I'm not sure if this is because of an accident several years ago, or whether it is because it is an area of cultural significance to the Aboriginals, or a combination of these things. As it was, the tour company were the only ones with permits to pass through the larger gap. There were zodiacs from a luxury cruise ship and they could only observe, not travel through.

    After our several passes through the Falls, we came back for a cooked breakfast before taking another cruise around Talbot Bay. Back on the pontoon, after morning tea, there was a marine show where they feed some of the local fish - mainly tawny sharks. If you wanted you could get in the water (cage) with the sharks, but as it was quite a cool day nobody took up the offer.

    Half a day gone and we were back on the seaplane for a flight over the archipelago to Cygnet Bay for a barramundi lunch and tour of the pearl farm. An extremely well run tour, very informative about how pearls are cultured and ended with opening an oyster to find the mystery pearl.

    Then it was the 200km journey back to Broome, stopping off at Beagle Bay, a former mission, to have a look at the Catholic Church that had been decorated with pearl shells.
    It was a long day but very enjoyable.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    Camel ride on Cable
    This was our camelWe are the 7th camelTurnaround pointThese are the sunset camelsTown jettyMemorial to Dutch refugeesView to the PortPort jettyArea where the are dinosaur footprintsCast of the printsCable BeachSunset over CablePearl lugger (I think) at sunset

    Broome - camels on Cable and more..

    Jul 27–Aug 3 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C

    A couple of hundred km down the road from Derby and we arrived in Broome, our home for the next week. The town itself reminded Brad of Byron Bay, similar vibe, although instead of surf shops, there were pearl stores as pearling was one of the main industries in the early days. The industry was important not for the pearl itself as natural pearls were hard to come by, but for the shell which were used for buttons. Once plastic was invented, pearl buttons became more or less obsolete.

    So, in Broome we did the iconic camel ride on Cable Beach. Didn't do the sunset one because it was booked out, but the late afternoon ride was fine. Fairly sedate, it was a pleasant experience.

    We visited the museum, which apart from the pearl industry, told stories of when it was bombed during the war (a few weeks after Darwin was bombed). I didn't know this part of history (but of course Brad did). The Japanese bombed a number of Catalina flying boats that were carrying Dutch refugees from Dutch East Indies. There is a memorial on the foreshore near the town beach jetty to these refugees.

    There is also an area south of Cable Beach where there are dinosaur footprints although they can only be seen at very low tide. Couldn't find them but there is a cast of the prints, and the surrounding rock formations with the colour of the water and contrasting sand was interesting to look at.

    The main reason for going to Broome was to do a tour to the horizontal falls. As it was a big day, I'll include it in a separate footprint.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    Sunset over Derby jetty
    Same place during the dayLooking backLove the lightingInfo about the Boab prison treeThe prison BoabThe long water troughSculptures by the marsh (titled Contemplation)AFL playersBrolgas (one of my favourites)The ringer (Aboriginal stockman)The familyCrab and stingrayKimberley Moonrise Girl and brolga to the rightStingrayThe ringer with fingernail moonThe family after the sun set2Freshwater croc at Mary's Pool (only 1.5 - 2m long)

    Derby.... and the journey to.

    Jul 26–27 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 28 °C

    We left Kununurra in the east Kimberley to travel across the top of WA to reach the west coast at Derby. It's quite a long journey, and we needed 3 overnight stops where we free camped (along with about 30 other caravans also free camping). There are only 2 major towns along this route - Halls Creek and Fitzroy Crossing - and while we fuelled up at each, the general impression was not somewhere you wanted to stay. One of the few camps we stayed at was Mary's Pool and we actually saw several freshwater crocs on the banks of the river.

    Arriving in Derby it was nice to have a decent shower (we had to conserve water not knowing how long it would last free camping) and also be hooked up to power so we could use our 240V appliances. There is not a great deal to see in Derby but there were a few points of interest - the prison Boab tree, long water trough, the jetty and the sculptures on the marsh.

    The prison Boab was reported to hold Aboriginal men who were stolen / kidnapped from East Kimberley to work as pearl divers on the coast. The sign board gives information about this. Nearby is a long water trough (120m - longest in the Southern Hemisphere) that could water almost 1000 bullocks at a time.

    The jetty is horseshoe shaped and is a place that experiences huge tides of 11m. It was nice enough to look at during the day, but at sunset it was just spectacular. Along with the sculptures that depicted different aspects of life/people/animals of the area, it really was a highlight of our visit to Derby. Hope you enjoy the photos.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    Lake Argyle from the air
    Dam wall from the airDam wall and edge of power stationOther side of the wallView of power station on rightA small part of Lake ArgyleArgyle Homestead Museum

    Lake Argyle

    July 21 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 26 °C

    Our last day excursion was to Lake Argyle, about 70km SE of Kununurra. The Lake, created by damming the Ord River, is the largest man made freshwater Lake in the Southern Hemisphere with a water capacity of over 9 times Sydney Harbour when it was opened in the early 1970s and then almost doubled that when they raised the dam wall in the mid 90s.

    Lake Argyle stretches 70km to the south and 40km to the east. We went to various viewpoints and tried to get onto a cruise, but they were booked out. We visited the Argyle Homestead Museum - home of the pioneering Durack family. Many may be familiar with the book "Kings in Grass Castles" by Mary Durack, which chronicles the story of her family. The story of the family was very interesting and it was actually the grandson of the original Durack that recognised the area to be rich agricultural land and was the catalyst for creating the Ord River Irrigation Area.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    Our mode of transport
    Ord RiverIslands in Lake ArgyleBow River (Yes! From the Cold Chisel song)Bungle BunglesStriped domesOne of the gorgesLove the patternsMore gorges and crevices1People hike up these gorges - can take daysArgyle Diamond mineAgricultural areas

    Bungle Bungles from above

    July 20 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 25 °C

    The original plan was to drive to the Bungle Bungle caravan park and pick up a 4WD tour into the national park as the road in is inaccessible to tandem axle vans and by all reports, the 50km trek is very corrugated with several water crossings and takes 3 or more hours to travel in (and then another 3+ hours to return). However, the company that offers these tours is awaiting the permits, so it is currently not operating. As we don't want to drive in ourselves, we did the next best thing and did a 2 hour flight from Kununurra. I think we made the right choice.

    The flight left Kununurra, followed the Ord River down to Lake Argyle and then onto Purnululu (Bungle Bungles) where we got a good look at the striped beehive shaped domes the area is renowned for. I guess we missed the Cathedral Gorge and Echidna Chasm, but you can't do everything.

    The return took us over the Argyle Diamond mine famous for its pink diamonds (as well as others). The pilot told us that they took out $60 million in diamonds every 10 days. We flew over the agricultural areas made possible by the Ord River Irrigation Area. What is incredible is only about 10% of the water is used for irrigation - the surplus is discharged out to sea.

    Anyway, I'll let the pictures tell the story.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    Cambridge Gulf with old part of Wyndham centre left. Once was a meat works here
    Panoramic view panning NW to NEView planning N to NE. Ord River comes off to the rightWyndham port info boardLooking our towards the oceanOrd River joining Cambridge Gulf (dark green strip on right)Old Wyndham, public jetty and 2 of the rivers entering GulfPort area - iron ore facilityBoab info boardBrad and the big BoabAnother one because Brad manages to get more of the tree in than I doBig crocodileThe Grotto - during the wet, this would be a waterfall

    Wyndham

    July 18 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 30 °C

    Wyndham is about 100km NW of Kununurra and is considered Australia's most north western town. Quite a small town, it is home to a working port (iron ore - the abattoir and meatworks have long since shut down). We drove here mainly to go to the five rivers lookout. Driving up to the bastion that overlooks the town you come to a lookout point with a fantastic view of the Cambridge Gulf that has 5 rivers coming off it (Ord, King, Pentecost, Durack and Forrest) A spectacular sight - a little hazy but that is due to the burn off that they do in these northern areas in the dry season as a method of fire control.

    Wyndham is also "home to the largest Boab in captivity" (their words, not mine), meaning the largest tree in an urban location - there are probably larger ones out there. This Boab, situated in the caravan park, is 20 metres in girth and estimated to be around 2000 years old.

    We chatted to other travellers trying their luck at fishing down at the jetty, had lunch at the only cafe in town, took a photo of the big crocodile before heading back to Kununurra. We dropped into a small gorge called the Grotto but only a picture from the top because the steps to the base looked a bit dodgy.

    Overall it was an enjoyable day except for the stone chip we picked up driving back. This is the third one we have had (since owning the car) and each time it has been on bitumen roads.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    1Aerial of Kununurra
    Diversion dam - Lake KununurraLake KununurraAgricultural areas of KununurraMirima National ParkMirima NP - known as mini Bungle bunglesOur caravan park from Kelly's knob (Mirima NP behind)View over Kununurra from Kelly's knobKununurra from Kelly's knobKelly's knob panoramaIvanhoe CrossingOne way only1Zebra stone eggs for my collection

    Kununurra - gateway to Kimberley

    Jul 16–23 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 33 °C

    About 40km from NT / WA border is Kununurra - the eastern gateway to the Kimberley. We have set up camp here and will use this as a base to explore the surrounding areas.

    Kununurra is a fairly young town that was established as a construction town for the nearby Ord River irrigation scheme built in the 1960s. There are some interesting features that were worthwhile checking out. Nestled on the shores of Lake Kununurra (a manmade lake from the Ord River Irrigation Area) is very attractive and a great place to cool down - if you want to share it with the 7000 freshwater crocs that live there. The lake also provides Irrigation for the surrounding farmland with crops from soya beans and chickpeas, to tropical fruits (mango, banana and pawpaw), and cotton as well as the lucrative sandalwood which produces the oils for perfumes etc.

    There is also the Mirima National Park which is also known as the mini bungle bungles which has some nice walks. I did the easy ones and sent Brad off to do the harder sections. Also climbed Kelly's knob for some great views over Kununurra. We drove to the Ivanhoe Crossing to watch people cross the causeway in their 4WD. It seems to be the thing to do when you are here.

    Visited an ornamental stone factory that works with zebra stone. A very unique stone that is only produced in 2 places in Australia (possibly the world?). The other place is Litchfield in NT and they don't even understand how it is made. I bought an egg to go with my collection of stone eggs.

    While at Kununurra we also visited Wyndham, Lake Argyle and did a flight over the Bungle Bungles but I'll cover these in separate footprints.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    1Entry to WA - quarantine queue (we are 2nd from back)
    Lookout over Timber CreekTimber Creek area - Victoria RiverNackeroo monumentSome interesting stories about these soldiersOur first boab tree (photographed)Feeding time for the freshiesCrocodile smileKites feedingOn the fly (we should have filmed them)Close up - there were probably about 20 of them

    Hooray! We're in WA!

    Jul 14–16 in Australia ⋅ 🌙 22 °C

    We left Darwin heading south again towards Katherine which was just an overnight stopover on the way to Western Australia. We were a little delayed getting away from Darwin and didn't arrive in time to enjoy the Katherine Hot Springs, but they were similar to Bitter Springs and Berry Springs

    Next day we travelled to Timber Creek - about 200km from the WA border. Timber Creek is a township surrounded by escarpments, the Victoria River and a long way from major supermarkets (about 220km to Kununurra and 280km to Katherine). We were early enough to get a powered site in the only caravan park - by 2pm the park was full. We drove up to the town lookout and monument to the Nackeroos (a group of soldiers whose job was to protect Australia's north from the Japanese threat during WWII). At this time we noticed the outside temperature hit 40°C - this is in the middle of winter!

    Back at the campsite, they feed the crocs (freshwater) and kites which was quite a spectacle. Also got photos of our first Boab trees. Had to make up a big chicken curry with lots of veggies because the quarantine rules for WA are quite strict - no fresh fruit or vegetables, no seeds and no honey. Cross the border and onto Kununurra - the gateway to the Kimberley and our home for the next week.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    Darwin sunset
    Sunset on Mindl Beach - with camelsCompare the number of people on the beach....... with the crowds before the fireworks (same spot)Quite a spectacle1The finaleFrom the EsplanadeLooking towards Stokes Hill WharfThe waterfront precinct during the daySimilar spot at nightFrom the WharfView from our table of (almost) full moonAquascene fish feedingAquascene - mostly mulletA big gun for protecting Darwin (at military museum)Floating down creek at Berry SpringsGot a nice massage under the waterfallPretty popular spotPeaceful

    100 days to Darwin

    Jun 30–Jul 14 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 30 °C

    Well, according to my blog, we have now been on the road for 100 days (since we left our home) and have spent a fortnight in the Darwin area. As we been to Darwin twice - 20 years ago and 10 years ago - we have been to the main attractions so we didn't do too many tourist things but still found plenty to occupy our time.

    We arrived the day before Territory Day (1st July) - the one day of the year when fireworks are legal to purchase and let off - and Territorians did it with gusto. Fireworks were exploding from about 5pm (not dark - such a waste) until the early hours of the morning. We went down to Mindl Beach where there were food stalls and entertainment, waiting for the fireworks display at 8pm on the beach. A very pleasant afternoon/evening chatting to various people who shared the table we sat at. They were mostly caravanners like ourselves. At about 5pm the airforce did a flyover with 4 or 5 F-35 jets. The noise, the speed ... such an adrenalin rush ... it was awesome, but unfortunately I was too slow to get my phone ready so you'll just have to take my word for it. We wandered over to Mindl Beach for the fireworks display and there was another surprise. The Beach was packed with thousands of people. The fireworks were great too.

    We went to Aquascene where they feed fish on the incoming high tide. It was OK but the fish were mainly mullet and some catfish plus a couple of other bigger fish but as it was not a particularly high, high tide, the barramundi didn't turn up.

    Went to the deckchair cinema and watched Black Bag (Cate Blanchett and Michael Fassbender) a thriller movie. Great atmosphere, really enjoyed it. We wandered around Stokes Wharf and the Esplanade; visited East Point military museum (had been here before but it has been improved - well worth visiting); had dinner at the Jetty buffet restaurant (food average but location superb); saw How to Train Your Dragon (exactly the same as the animation but the live action version - very enjoyable); Brad had a game of bowls (synthetic/carpet green with huge shade covering - essential in this climate).

    As it has been hot (mid 30s every day) we have been using the pool most days as well as one day down at Berry Springs. That about wraps up Darwin and we have enjoyed our time here. We leave on Monday slowly making our way further west.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    Wangi Falls- swam here - easy access
    Plunge pool near Tjaetaba FallsTjaetaba FallsTolmer FallsFlorence Falls from lookoutFlorence FallsFlorence Falls from bottomPretty creek crossingsSpiral effect on palmsBuley Rockpools - one sectionThis is were we went for a dipMore pools cascading downPretty, but slipperyThe bottom poolA lovely kingfisher at the caravan park - a bit blurryMagnetic termite moundsThey look like gravestonesCathedral termite moundClose up of the termites

    Lovely Litchfield

    Jun 27–30 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 30 °C

    Set up camp at caravan park just outside Litchfield National Park - to be our home for next 3 nights. - a bit of a relief to not be packing up and moving on each day. No tv or phone reception but at least starlink solves that problem.

    We just visited the main points of interest, such as Wangi Falls, Buley Rockpools and Florence Falls. These ones we had visited about 10 years ago. The nicest was Wangi Falls as it was easy access to the water. The Buley rockpools are very popular but I found them too crowded and the rocks are very slippery. I prefer floating down the creek at home - much more enjoyable.

    There were a couple of other waterfalls / lookouts / bushwalks we went to as well as checking out the magnetic termite mounds which almost looked like a cemetery with lots of similar sized grey headstones. They are built in a north south alignment - something to do with temperature regulation. Nature is fascinating.

    Off to Darwin now for a couple of weeks and a chance to catch up on some housekeeping (washing, grocery shopping etc) and generally just relaxing for a bit.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    Anmatjere man -12m high - 17m to spear tip
    Aboriginal woman, child and goanna (and me for perspective)Devil's marbles - Karlu KarluSplit in halfInteresting formationLarrimah Pink Panther hotel (between Daly Waters and Mataranka)Bitter Springs - looked more inviting with sun on itUsing pool noodles we floated down the springBit of an idea how clear the water wasThis is the tourism photoPark closed because a crocodile was sighted about 10m upstream from last photo

    Alice to Litchfield

    Jun 26–Jul 2 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 21 °C

    It's a long way from Alice Springs to Darwin - around 1500km - and we made our way up slowly, spending an overnighter every 250km or so. We have hit the start of Northern Territory school holidays and there are an awful lot of caravans heading both north and south. Many caravan parks / camp spots cannot be prebooked and operate on a first come first serve business. Most places we stayed were full every night and for the most part they were pretty rustic.

    Not a great deal to see along the way, but there were a few photo worthy opportunities.

    Stop 1 - Ti Tree - just before this town at Aileron there is a 12 meter high statue of an Aboriginal warrior set high on the hill. At ground level there was another large statue of an Aboriginal woman and child (and goanna) looking up at the man.

    Stop 2 - Devil's Marbles or Karlu Karlu - we were too late for a campsite at the Devil's Marbles hotel but were able to free camp out the front along with another 20 or so caravans. We walked around the Devil's Marbles - I kind of imagined them to be bigger.

    Stop 3 - Renner Springs - nothing to see here... moving on.

    Stop 4 - Daly Waters - this is an iconic stop... apparently! We had heard that the caravan park at the pub was extremely busy so we stayed a few km down the road which turned out to be a good choice. Not only did we get a nice quiet site looking over a horse paddock, they also gave us a voucher for a free beer and wine so of course we had a meal there which was of generous proportions. We checked out the other caravan park and there were vans lining up to get in, packed in like sardines. The attraction? Just quirky I guess. There were donkeys wandering around and old junk planes and cars littered around. The beef and barra at the pub is supposed to be good and they have live music every night. We were more than happy with our choice though.

    Stop 5 - Mataranka/Bitter Springs - if we thought Daly Waters was a mad house, then Mataranka was unbelievable. We arrived about 10.30am and there were only about 10 unpowered sites left. By 11am the park was full and vans were being turned away. Anyway, we got our spot and spent a lovely afternoon floating down the crystal clear springs. They were a little warm (thermal springs) but it was relaxing. I sent Brad down later to take photos and he came back saying the rangers were closing the Springs because a croc had been sighted just a few metres from where we entered the water. So, no swimming for several days. Lucky we got our turn.

    Stop 6 - Pine Creek - just a halfway point between Mataranka and Litchfield National Park.

    We will be glad to be able to stop for a few nights at Litchfield and then a couple of weeks in Darwin as moving on every day is a bit tiring.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    Redbank Gorge
    Glen Helen Gorge1Ormiston GorgeOchre Cliffs1Serpentine GorgeEllery Creek Big Hole2Standley ChasmStandley Chasm (taken with my phone compared to one before taken with camera)1Standley ChasmSimpson's GapSimpson's Gap looking the other wayAnd againOn the way to Palm ValleyStart of the walk - not too badAt least there is a handrail here (but we climb to the top of the rock on our left)From the top looking down on the palms1Nearly back.. but we have to descend to the bus1Lots of Cycads .. a bit hard to see

    West Macdonnell Ranges and Palm Valley

    June 20 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 23 °C

    While based in Alice Springs we explored the West Macdonnell Ranges over three days. There are quite a few gorges and waterholes - some better than others. We drove to Redbank Gorge (@150km from Alice). The walk wasn't to my liking- dry rocky creek bed navigating around boulders etc. I gave up and left Brad do the last 50m or so as you had to climb over large rocks to reach the waterhole. The water was quite murky and not very inviting.

    Working our way back to Alice was Glen Helen Gorge (poorly maintained track through a dry creek bed), Serpentine Gorge (quite pretty), the Ochre Pits (not as colourful as the ones up near Marree in SA), Ormiston Gorge (one of my favourites - easy walk too), Ellery Creek Big Hole (this was nice too - but it was getting late and the sun was setting). That was a big day - over 18000 steps and 300km driving - and we still had a couple of other places to visit which we did a couple of days later.

    Probably the most dramatic and well known is Standley Chasm with its sheer crevices which glow orange at the right time of day (@noon). Simpson's Gap was the other point of interest and it, along with Standley Chasm, are usually featured in tourism advertising for Alice Springs and the Northern Territory.

    On our final day in Alice we picked up a tour to Palm Valley which included serious 4WD experience. After about 20km of corrugated roads and dry sandy/rocky river bed crossings, the last 4km had the 4WD bus going up and down rock shelves and creek crossings. There is no way we would tackle it in our vehicle. When we reached Palm Valley there were hundreds of palms and cycads that seem out of place in the desert environment. Once again, another walk that didn't suit me - climbing up rocks and descending again - I'm going to stick to the easy walks from now on as I really don't enjoy rock hopping.

    So, a busy week in Alice Springs, saw plenty, time to keep heading north. Photos of all the stops to give you an idea.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    View from Anzac Hill
    Anzac HillViews from Anzac HillTodd River - usually dry but does flood sometimesWedgetail eagleBarn owlA buzzard doing his party trick - breaking open the egg with a rock to get the foodFalconDingosZebra finchWhite headed stiltRev. Dr. John Flynn grave (his ashes are buried here)They had to change the stone - original came from the Devil's Marbles area and had to be returned.Ring neck parrot - nearly landed on my head - lost a footGalahs enjoying the water

    Alice Springs

    Jun 14–21 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 19 °C

    We have just left Alice Springs, having spent an enjoyable week here. Alice Springs has got a bit of a bad reputation over the past couple of years due to antisocial behaviour but we did not experience that (except for the young fellow who walked through the shopping precinct yelling obscenities at the top of his voice - but that could happen anywhere). Mind you, we didn't go out at night and felt totally safe and secure in our caravan park, which was just a little out of town.

    It is a very interesting town to look at - almost surrounded by rocky red sandstone cliffs with the River Todd (a dry river bed) running through it. It has some great bike paths and we rode out to the Telegraph Station one day and on another from Simpson's Gap to Flynn's grave (John Flynn - Royal Flying Doctor Service), a distance of 35km return. Brad's ebike battery decided to die - fortunately only a couple of km from the car.

    We visited the Alice Springs Desert Park and spent almost 5 hours there. So interesting listening to talks about emus, dingos, the nocturnal house with one of my favourites - the bilby - very cute. There was also a raptor flying show with eagles, falcons and kites etc. which was fantastic. I believe Sir David Attenborough gave this park a tick of approval as one of the best of its kind.

    We also explored the West Macdonnell Ranges but that deserves a footprint of its own.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    We are in the NT - the other side was in the sun but that said Welcome to South Australia
    1View from our caravan park1First half of the climb for the rim walkCloser viewView from about half waySome of the rock Sculpture- and me trying to negotiate the pathSheer cliffsWill see this bridge from the other sideAt least this bit is smoothLooking across the gorge - notice the people on the other side1Staircases to be climbedThat's the bridge from a previous photoMore unusual rock formationsRipple Rock- from when there was an inland seaBudgie (at Kathleen Springs)Ring neck parrotKings Canyon Creek walkFull moon rising over Kings Canyon1Was a strawberry moon apparently (whatever that is)

    Watarrka National Park - Kings Canyon

    Jun 10–13 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 18 °C

    After Coober Pedy we continued northwards staying overnight at Marla, crossed into Northern Territory, overnight again at Erldunda and then spending 3 nights at Petermann on the edge of Watarrka National Park - more commonly known as Kings Canyon.

    Kings Canyon is aptly named because this place is majestic! Sheer red cliffs and interesting rock formations are a sight to behold. The main activity here is to do the rim walk - about 6km around the top or rim of the gorge as the name suggests. I found this walk very challenging. The first section consists of about 500 steep rocky steps to get to the top. Took me a while with numerous stops and plenty of encouragement and assistance from Brad. Around the top it was somewhat smoother but there were still steps and rocky areas to negotiate. Even coming down while it was a more gradual descent, it was taken at a slow pace. Finally reached the bottom after almost 5 hours.

    So, was it worth it? Most definitely! Unfortunately looking at the photos, the camera does not capture what the eye can see. I have tried to include photos that include people to get an idea of perspective.

    Am I glad I did it? Yes! Just wish I was a bit younger, a bit fitter and had longer legs. I looked on in awe at the younger people who scrambled up and down rocks like mountain goats and wondered if I was ever like that.

    Would I do it again? NO WAY!! (Brad, however, would have no problem doing the hike again)

    We did a couple of other much easier walks at Kathleen Springs and the Creek walk at the base of the gorge. They were very pleasant with plenty of birdlife - budgies and zebra finches.

    Brad got a nice photo of the strawberry full moon rising over Kings Canyon (from the caravan park we were staying in). Very nice park - fairly new - not cheap. Fuel was $2.81/l. Also saw our first dingos in the wild and could hear them howling during the night.

    Back at Erldunda overnight, then we will head to Alice Springs tomorrow for a week. We decided not to go to Uluru (Ayres Rock) because we were there just a few years ago and I guess the rock hasn't changed much in those few years.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    1Part of The Breakaways
    Panoramic viewCamel laying downThe white patch is supposed to be a fishThese are the two dogs - white and golden oneThe wind nearly blew me off balanceLove the colours1Old man emu and chicksSunsetDog fence2Original postsThe moon plains looking towards the breakaways

    The Breakaways - sunset tour

    June 6 in Australia ⋅ 🌬 21 °C

    The second tour we did with George was to the Breakaways - amazing rock formations that show beautiful colours, especially with the evening sun. It was a 70km round trip from Coober Pedy and took us to an area called the moon plains (because of its barren landscape), the dog/dingo fence (longest fence in the world at over 5600km), and the spectacular breakaways.

    One formation looked like a camel lying down, another was supposed to be two dogs and there were various outlines in the rocks that were supposed to look like a face or a fish - but you really have to use your imagination. Climbed a small hill and it was so windy I felt as if it was going to blow me off balance (plenty of surface area here 😁)
    Ended the tour watching the sunset while drinking a cuppa and munching on a blueberry muffin.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    The obligatory photo
    The big winchViews over Coober Pedy from the big winchUnderground mine tour - dugout room old styleMore modern version complete with chandelier and window - well curtainMine tourLooking up a shaftAt each pile there is a shaft - there are probably a million shaftsOpen cut opal mineProspecting hole - testing to see if there is any opals down there1Coober Pedy golf course - didn't actually playThe 'green' is sprayed with sump oilUnderground Catholic ChurchSt Anthony entrance windowExterior of Serbian ChurchInterior of Serbian ChurchIn boot Hill- gravestone had a beer keg inscribed with "have a drink on me"Well being labyrinth- we walked it

    Coober Pedy - a most unusual place

    Jun 5–8 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 18 °C

    It was very windy when we arrived at Coober Pedy and it didn't really let up in the 3 days we were here. We booked into the caravan park and also booked the 2 tours that George - the owner of the caravan park runs. The morning tour took us to the major sights of the town - the underground mine and museum, underground Catholic Church, the golf course where Brad did a posing shot (the wind was so strong it would have landed on the other side of town), an open cut opal mine and a tour of his own dugout house.

    The afternoon tour I'll cover in a separate post because I'm limited to 20 photos per footprint.

    The spare day we went to places that were not covered in the tour. Boot Hill cemetery had some interesting headstones - one fellow had a beer keg as his headstone inscribed with "have a drink on me". We saw the Siberian Underground church and also walked around the wellness labyrinth (which is becoming a little uncared for).

    So, Coober Pedy was an interesting place to visit but I cannot for the life of me understand why anyone would choose to live there. Summers are excruciatingly hot and there is very little rain. I guess the hope of making it rich by digging up a perfect opal is the main attraction.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    Don't ask me what all the rockets are - Brad got carried away
    Meteor jet fighterCanberra bomberSalt lake on the way to Glendambo

    Woomera

    June 4 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 17 °C

    Heading towards Coober Pedy, we passed through Woomera. A strange town - felt almost deserted, yet clean and tidy. Reminded me a bit of an army base from the 1950s and this is understandable because it has always been a defence owned facility. Only opened to the public since 1982, it now displays some of the rockets etc that were tested at Woomera. We checked out the rocket park and the museum before continuing on to and overnight stay at Glendambo.Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    The big projection screen
    Several photos and a couple of video clips of the silo art showOne of the stories about bush tuckerView to the Flinders Ranges from our caravan parkTrain crossingIt's a very long trainView over Port Augusta from the water tower...and again in the other directionThe red cliffs - early morning shot to get the colourHancock's lookout - views over the Spencer GulfWould look more spectacular on a clear dayWadlata Outback CentreLoch-eel monster at Lochiel2Lochiel is on the way to Adelaide

    Port Augusta and surrounds

    Jun 1–4 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 14 °C

    Back in Port Augusta again after our hurried trip back home. We had placed the van in storage at the caravan park and it was a relief to find it still there when we returned. Two weeks were spent organising and then celebrating the life of Brad's mum. We are back now and continuing our journey.

    Last post was from Lake Eyre. From there we travelled back down to Quorn at the southern end of the Flinders Ranges. Quorn is a quirky little town, once a major railway town but now runs a tourist train on the Pichi Richi line to Port Augusta (we didn't do this). Every evening they have a silo art display where four or five stories relevant to Quorn are projected on the silo. Very colourful and the stories were interesting and best of all, it was free.

    Port Augusta is a reasonably short drive from Quorn. Touristy things we did included a visit to the Arid Botanical Gardens, checked out the red cliffs, climbed an old water tower for good views of the town, drove to Hancock's lookout for great views over the Spencer Gulf and visited the Wadlata Outback Centre. This was very interesting, taking you on a journey through time and history of the outback, from geological forces, first nations people, early explorers, the railway, school of the air, to mining.

    Leaving Port Augusta we are heading north, via Woomera to Coober Pedy.    Read more

  • Brad and Mandy PearceBrad and Mandy PearceTravelling Oz in our PearcyPod
    Arid Air 12 seater Cessna
    CosyCrashed plane in the dry lakeWater on the lakeFlood waters coming down the river systemPelicans on Lake EyreEdge of the incoming waterInteresting shapes on lake bedA smallish poolAlmost looks like waves on a beachThe Marree ManDesert coloursLumpy landscapeThese were almost circularRipples in the hillsOodnadatta TrackMarreeMini Appoloosa

    Lake Eyre and the Marree Man

    May 12–14 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 27 °C

    Leaving the Flinders Ranges behind us, we travelled further north to the small outback town of Marree to witness the rare phenomenon of Lake Eyre with water. Usually a large dry salt lake, the recent flood waters in Western Queensland are slowly draining down the river systems and filling Lake Eyre. The water is not visible from the road.... yet, but maybe in a couple of months time, so the only way to see it is from the air.

    It was a perfect early morning flight, visibility was great and it was amazing to see the sheer size of the salt lake. Where the water was coming in at a rate of 2-3km per day, the lake was coming to life. There were even pelicans.

    There were other interesting geological formations as well as the Marree Man - an enormous geoglyph etched in the ground. It is about 3km tall and 28km perimeter and depicts an aboriginal man with a throwing stick and is believed to be one of the largest in the world. However, it's origins are a bit of a mystery. It only appeared in 1998 and the artist/s have never been identified. It could have been made by army personnel stationed in the area at that time... or it could have been organised by the owner of the Marree Hotel to drum up some publicity. I have positioned the marker on the Marree Man on the map so you can see it from Google Earth.

    So, it was an interesting trip to see Lake Eyre with water but the town of Marree has nothing going for it. At least it was a sealed road to get there ( and we can say we have been in the Oodnadatta Track)    Read more

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