Katherine

We arrived in Katherine on July 1^st which was Territory Day. The only day of the year you can buy fireworks and let them off whenever and wherever you like. We opted to go to the Katherine Showgrounds with live country music and fireworks. It was fascinating to be in Katherine for this occasion, with lots of people gathered in the town for the fireworks.

The highlight of Katherine was our visit to Nitmiluk National Park, Jawoyn land. We did the Southern Walks hike, which was an 11km hike out to Pat’s Lookout which gave us spectacular views of the Katherine River/Gorge. The highlight of our visit was a cultural and dinner cruise up the Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge. Our indigenous guide was so knowledgeable, not only giving us the stories from the traditional owners but also the geologists take on the landscape. She was also knowledgeable about the crocs and pointed out a few along the way. All freshwater crocs that do not want to eat me!!

We were fortunate to be seated beside a lovely young couple Anton (from Peru) and Manu (from France). They are backpackers working in the local area and were enjoying a night off to explore. We really enjoyed getting to know them and sharing an incredible meal with them. We had kangaroo, crocodile, barramundi and more, all whilst cruising slowly along the Katherine River. Highly recommend this sunset cruise – it will stay in my memory for a very long time.

The following day we moved campsites to Leliyn -Edith Falls (still in the Nitmiluk National Park). The main swimming hole was closed due to some heavy rains a month prior (which brings the crocs!). We walked up to check out the upper pools and discovered an absolute oasis. We arrived late afternoon so most of the tourists were getting out of the water and heading back to camp. I watched Paddy swim out and under the waterfall and knew then I couldn’t miss out. I jumped in the water in my bra and undies (we left our bathers back at our van) and enjoyed a beautiful swim out to the waterfall. Now I was more educated on crocs (they are not up high at this waterhole), I went in without a care. The water was so clear, and we smiled together as we took in the beauty of this location and swam beneath the waterfall.

I will let our photos do the talking about the incredible Katherine Region. If you are planning a trip then this must be right up there for a visit.