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AUSSIE ADVENTURE
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AUSSIE ADVENTURE

This started out as a retirement dream.
After months of planning and thousands of dollars, we were ready for the adventure with a new Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain Ute with several custom mods and a Retreat Fraser 216 R-Rev off road caravan. Read more
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  • AUSSIE ADVENTURE
    2Drone footage courtesy of Phil

    Magnetic Termite Mounds

    October 6, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 34 °C

    Not something we would normally visit, today we made an unusual stop at the Magnetic Termite Mounds. They truly are amazing insects.

    The Magnetic Termite Mounds are a fascinating natural phenomenon. These impressive structures, created by termites, are renowned for their unique orientation. They are aligned along a north-south axis, a feature thought to optimize temperature regulation within the mounds. This alignment reduces the amount of direct sunlight exposure, helping to maintain a stable internal temperature, crucial for the termites’ survival.

    Across the Northern Territory, you will see these termite mounds in all shapes and sizes.    Read more

  • AUSSIE ADVENTURE
    Drone footage courtesy of Phil

    Buley Rockhole

    October 6, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 34 °C

    Buley Rockhole is a hidden gem that captivates visitors with its serene beauty. This natural rock pool is known for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters and tranquil setting, making it a perfect spot for a refreshing dip or a peaceful escape.

    Buley Rockhole has a series of cascading waterfalls that flow into pools that seem custom-designed. The cascading water is quite a sight to see and allows people to swim in various areas.

    The terraced layout of the rockhole creates a natural spa and shallow areas, making it suitable for all ages.

    A beautiful place with lovely scenery and a picnic area.    Read more

  • AUSSIE ADVENTURE
    Aerial photography by PhilAerial photography by PhilAerial photography by PhilDrone footage courtesy of Phil

    Florence Falls

    October 7, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C

    Florence Falls is an absolute treasure in Litchfield National Park. Once you descend the 135 steps to the bottom, the Shady Creek Walkway is the crown jewel of access routes!

    As you meander through lush greenery, it offers serene spots that make you feel like you're in a nature documentary.

    Once you arrive, the view is worth every step. The falls are stunning, cascading into a pool that invites you in with its crystal-clear waters.    Read more

  • AUSSIE ADVENTURE
    Aerial photography by PhilAerial photography by PhilAerial footage by PhilAerial photography by PhilAerial photography by Phil

    Wangi Falls

    October 7, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 36 °C

    Wangi Falls is a beautiful natural attraction located in Litchfield National Park, featuring two magnificent waterfalls that cascade into a large swimming hole. Despite it being the end of the dry season, there is still water flowing over the falls.

    There is an abundance of wildlife in the area, including spiders, insects, fish (which you can swim with!), bats, and birds. A short boardwalk leads to a viewing area, or you can choose to swim to the falls. The loop walk around the waterfall is suitable for individuals with moderate fitness levels; despite the numerous steps, it is well worth the effort.    Read more

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    Aerial photography by PhilAerial photography by PhilAerial photography by PhilAerial photography by Phil

    Tolmer Falls

    October 8, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 25 °C

    Tolmer Falls cascades down over two soaring escarpments into a deep plunge pool below. At the base of the falls, several caves are dotted around that are home to Ghost Bats and Orange Horseshoe Bats, two extremely rare species of bat.

    Tolmer Falls is best visited during the wet season when the flow is at its peak, but even in the dry season, the sight is impressive. Tolmer offers two lookouts—the first is a little underwhelming with obscured views, but the second provides a great view of the cascading falls and the massive gorge. There’s also a 30-45 minute track that runs parallel to the creek and loops up to the better lookout.    Read more

  • AUSSIE ADVENTURE
    BuffaloRed-collared LorikeetAustralian bustardBarn OwlBlack-breasted buzzardFreshwater crocodile2Channel-billed CockooBeach Stone CurlewGlossy IbisWater SnakeDingo resting in the Darwin Heat

    Territory Wildlife Park

    October 13, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 32 °C

    Visited Territory Wildlife Park today; truly a great experience. There is a huge diversity of animals, aquatic life, and birds in their habitats. The park features a variety of scheduled presentation shows, such as the Flight Deck Show, which showcases birds like emus, parrots, owls, kites, and eagles.

    A map of the park and a list of interactions and times for different areas were very helpful. Rangers were also on hand in the Main Station area to offer guidance on the best way to see the park.    Read more

  • AUSSIE ADVENTURE

    Katherine

    October 17, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 37 °C

    Today, we arrived in Katherine, where we will stay for the next two days. We went exploring the town and stopped at Knott's Crossing, which is similar to Cahill but not particularly special. It is no longer in use due to extensive damage from flooding, but it is still quite pretty.

    After exploring the town, we headed back to Homestead Caravan Park, where we are staying. We went for a walk along the Katherine River; it was pleasant but extremely hot. The river still has quite a bit of water, but much of the riverbed is quite dry. It will be spectacular when the wet season arrives.    Read more

  • AUSSIE ADVENTURE

    Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge

    October 18, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 27 °C

    Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge is a breathtaking natural wonder that showcases the stunning beauty of the Australian outback. The deep red soil, vivid green trees, towering sandstone cliffs, and emerald waters create a dramatic landscape perfect for exploration.

    To experience the full beauty of Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, you need to take one of the many riverboat cruises or hiking trails, some of which can take up to 4-8 to hours in 37°C heat. Unfortunately, this was not on our bucket list of things to see. I did manage to hike up to Baruwei Lookout for some fantastic views and photography.    Read more

  • AUSSIE ADVENTURE
    1The sign says it all.
    Calm before the stormThunderstorm BrewingThunderstorm BrewingThunderstorm BrewingAerial photography of Brolgas by PhilAerial photography of Brolgas by PhilAerial photography of Brolgas by PhilSunset KununurraSunset Kununurra

    Kununurra

    October 19, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 34 °C

    After a long drive, Phil and I finally arrived in Western Australia. We will be staying in Kununurra.

    Kununurra is a town in the far northern part of Western Australia, located at the eastern extremity of the Kimberley, approximately 45 kilometres from the border with the Northern Territory.

    After setting up camp, we did some shopping and then went for a quick drive to explore some of the area. While Phil was gathering drone footage, we both captured a brewing storm, and I managed to photograph a beautiful sunset just in time.

    Special thank you to Phil for all the drone footage and aerial photography.    Read more

  • AUSSIE ADVENTURE
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    Aerial photography by PhilAerial photography by PhilAerial photography by Phil

    Lake Argyle Dam Wall

    October 20, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 29 °C

    Lake Argyle Dam Wall is an excellent experience at sunrise, and I was fortunate enough to see the spillway pumps in action at the time.

    When you look at the dam wall, it showcases the engineering skill that went into creating a concrete-free wall of rocks. The views are breathtaking. It is a truly worthwhile drive to see something extraordinary.

    Not only is the dam wall amazing, but the surrounding National Park also has sensational rock formations and Boab trees that are totally worth seeing.    Read more

  • AUSSIE ADVENTURE

    Ord River Diversion Dam

    October 20, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 33 °C

    The Ord River Diversion Dam regulates the flow of the mighty Ord River. This incredible structure provides over 758 billion litres of water (the equivalent of over 303,000 Olympic swimming pools) to
    around 21,000 hectares of prime agricultural land, which is used for horticulture, cropping, forestry, animal industries and grazing.    Read more

  • AUSSIE ADVENTURE

    Ivanhoe Crossing

    October 20, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 37 °C

    Ivanhoe Crossing is an iconic part of Kununurra and Australia's North West history. It is a magical place to visit. Signs provide information on whether it is safe to cross. There was a lot of water rushing over the causeway when we visited, and local Indigenous people were swimming. It was a fun drive across the river. The crossing is a 10-minute drive out of town and offers good photo opportunities. It is also very picturesque. We had fun.

    *Photography and video were provided from dashcam footage.    Read more

  • AUSSIE ADVENTURE
    Daloong (Wild Mangoes)Photography by PhilPhotography by PhilAerial photography by PhilAerial photography by PhilAerial photography by PhilAerial photography by PhilAerial photography by Phil

    Mirima Rock Formations

    October 21, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 31 °C

    Absolutely stunning and very well-maintained. This park, also known as the mini Bungle Bungles, is literally on the edge of Kununurra. It features amazing rock formations, endemic plants, wildlife, birds, and reptiles.

    The views from the lookouts are awesome. For the longer walks, you need to be fairly fit and healthy. The path to the two lower lookouts takes you over natural rock steps and steps with guard rails. This place has well-marked walking trails of varying difficulty levels, from one to five, so there's something for everyone. It's also a great place for photographers.

    * Special thank you to Phil for all the drone footage and aerial photography.    Read more

  • AUSSIE ADVENTURE
    Button Crossing

    Black Rock Falls

    October 21, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 34 °C

    Black Rock Falls is a lovely spot. Unfortunately, the falls were not flowing. I am sure the falls would be impressive in the wet season. It is a beautifully scenic and very quiet spot with an awesome rock wall. Although there is not much water this time of year, there are many butterflies. It’s as if you’re stepping into another world.

    It was a nice scenic circuit drive from Kununurra to the falls and back. Alternatively, you can return to Kununurra via the Ivanhoe Crossing on the Ord River.

    Special thank you to Phil for all the drone footage and aerial photography.    Read more

  • AUSSIE ADVENTURE
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    Lake Argyle Sunset Cruise

    October 22, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 38 °C

    Lake Argyle is one of the largest man-made lakes in the southern hemisphere and home to more than 70 islands.

    We had an absolutely amazing time with Lake Argyle Cruises! The experience was beyond fantastic. It is hard to describe how enormous this lake is. Our friendly skipper was very knowledgeable about the history of the area, which enhanced the journey, making it truly memorable.

    We were fortunate to witness an abundance of wildlife, including rock wallabies, freshwater crocodile hatchlings, and spitting archer fish. The highlight, though, was the opportunity to swim in the middle of the lake while watching a spectacular sunset while enjoying refreshments. The water temperature was perfect, adding an extra layer of beauty to this already incredible adventure.    Read more

  • AUSSIE ADVENTURE

    The Grotto

    October 23, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 36 °C

    We stopped at The Grotto for a look only and for Phil to capture some drone footage. It was a lovely walk around the perimeter to see this natural amphitheatre with lush green trees and beautifully coloured stone walls.

    The Grotto has a short hike down a steep staircase of 144 steps. The steps are a combination of man-made and rocks. I could not see any railings, and the entire walk down looked a bit treacherous to me. Since we went at the end of the dry season, the waterfall was not flowing, but the views from the top of this magnificent gorge were breathtaking.

    Special thanks to Phil for all the drone footage.    Read more

  • AUSSIE ADVENTURE

    Danggu Geikie Gorge

    October 24, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 42 °C

    After a 7-hour-long drive from Kununurra, we finally arrived at Fitzroy Crossing River Lodge for an overnight stay. We went to have a look at Danggu Geikie Gorge National Park, which the receptionist had recommended.

    The gorge is easily accessible from Fitzroy Crossing via a bitumen road. When we arrived, I decided to go for a walk beside the river and look at the cliffs while Phil got drone footage. I didn't get very far, as the signage wasn't very clear and the trails were overgrown or non-existent due to flooding and neglect. I did manage to get some beautiful photos.

    It's a lovely but very rugged place, good for those interested in nature and geography.

    * Special thanks to Phil for the drone footage and aerial photography    Read more

  • AUSSIE ADVENTURE

    Cape Leveque

    October 26, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 30 °C

    Cape Leveque is at the northernmost tip of the Dampier Peninsula in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. It is renowned for its beautiful pristine white beaches, crystal-clear blue water, and iconic golden-red cliffs.

    Regrettably, the majority of the Dampier Peninsula is now closed off to anyone who is not a "local." Most of the communities are Indigenous and require a permit for entry.

    * Special thanks to Phil for the drone footage and aerial photography.    Read more

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    Gantheaume Point

    October 26, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 31 °C

    Gantheaume Point, what an amazing place in Broome, known for its beautifully coloured rock formations spilling into the sea and dinosaur footprints. Absolutely stunning natural formations, ocean views, and a beautiful coastline. It also overlooks the southernmost end of Cable Beach.Read more

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    Red Sand Beach

    October 27, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 36 °C

    Today, we went exploring and ended up at  Red Sand Beach. It was absolutely stunning and looked like it was straight out of another planet. The ocean was a murky white colour and everything else was a different shade of red. There was a long stretch of gravel road before we could reach the beach. On our exploration, we came across a fledgling sea eagle who was happy to pose while awaiting a feed.Read more

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    Horizontal Falls

    October 29, 2024, Indian Ocean ⋅ 🌩️ 26 °C

    Amazing adventure! This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is well worth it. We departed Broome at sunrise on a wonderfully scenic flight over the Kimberley region. The seaplane was an experience in itself and provided fabulous aerial views of the contrasting colours of the turquoise sea bordered by stretches of golden sand, as well as the red earth and expanses of land.

    Upon landing at the pontoon, we were treated to shark and batfish feeding and learned about them and the healthy marine life in this area. This was followed by a full continental and hot breakfast.

    We then went on the speedboat, which was fantastic. The skipper drove us to amazing areas, and our tour guide explained the historical and geographical information of the area. We then sped to the Horizontal Falls and raced through the water, enjoying the beauty of the expertly driven boat. Exhilarating!

    During the whole experience, we felt well looked after and catered to, including attention to our safety. This was a great and memorable experience!    Read more

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    Eighty Mile Beach Caravan Park

    October 30, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 34 °C

    Quick overnight stop at Eighty Mile Beach Caravan Park. It is an awesome place to stay if you just want to chill or do some beach fishing; there is nothing else here. It was a bit of an oasis. There were lots of wallabies around the park and birds singing. The ocean is so close, it’s a quick walk to the beach over the sand dunes.

    This caravan park would benefit from a swimming pool as there is no swimming in the ocean due to crocodiles, sea snakes, and stingers.    Read more

  • AUSSIE ADVENTURE

    Minilya Bridge Roadhouse

    October 31, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 35 °C

    Minilya Bridge Roadhouse was another overnight stop after leaving Eighty Mile Beach. The trip was a grueling 11½-hour drive and just shy of 1000 km.

    The staff at the Roadhouse were absolutely great with their service! They went out of their way to make our stay as pleasant as possible. We were even greeted by the many resident peacocks.Read more

  • AUSSIE ADVENTURE

    Exmouth

    November 1, 2024 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 32 °C

    Exmouth is a small resort town on Western Australia's North West Cape. It's a gateway to nearby Ningaloo Marine Park, with its coral reefs, colourful fish, and migratory whale sharks. This is where we will set up camp for the next four days.

    We went to the shopping village for much-needed supplies. We saw emus roaming around the caravan park, in the middle of town, and corellas that are so cheeky they try to steal your food from your hand or raid your grocery bags.    Read more

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    SS Mildura & Vlahming Lighthouse

    November 1, 2024, Indian Ocean ⋅ ☀️ 29 °C

    Today we visited the Mildura Wreck and Vlamingh Lighthouse.

    The SS Mildura was bound for Fremantle from Wyndham, carrying a full load of cattle. While travelling at full steam, she ran aground. The SS Mildura was wrecked in March 1907 after encountering rough weather. Unfortunately, the majority of the cattle died and the remainder were herded overboard, in the hope that they would swim to shore. The majority of the remains were salvaged and the hull was used for bombing practice during World War II.

    Vlamingh Head Lighthouse was commissioned shortly after the SS Mildura shipwreck in 1907 and was built between 1910 and 1912, along with a lighthouse keeper's quarters. The lighthouse is notable for being one of the few locations in Australia where both the sunrise and the sunset can be observed.

    Aerial photography was obtained from the internet.    Read more