East Kimberley

Our introduction to this region at Lake Argyle was even better than expected. Lake Argyle is Australia’s second largest man made freshwater lake. The caravan park there is famous for its infinity pool which overlooks the lake. Of course we had to get the photo and it did not disappoint. I also did a couple of yoga classes beside the pool. So easy to get in to a zen state when you are looking out at a very special view.

Our time at Lake Argyle was busy but so enjoyable. We spent the first afternoon on a few 4WD tracks, looking at rock art, visiting the Argyle Homestead Museum, walking to a lookout above the Ord River and checking out a billabong with the drone. We had no idea what was lurking amongst the mangroves and didn’t want to stand around checking it out. This is where the drone comes in very handy – no risk involved to capture the incredible landscape.

The following day we did a Lake Argyle boat cruise. What an adventure on the water, learning about the history & enormity of the lake, the dam wall, the birdlife and the freshwater crocs. We had two swimming stops, the second involved having a champers in the water. Was weird we went for a dip after our guide had just showed us some “freshies” on the banks of the lake. The trip was a sunset tour and we cruised back to land admiring the stunning pink colours in the sky and along the rock formations. I bloody love sunset!

We met some great people on the boat and ended up having dinner and drinks with them. Paul and Jen were travelling for 12 weeks with Leanne and Graeme, Kellie and Gary (all from NSW). We enjoyed fun conversation with them over dinner and then we watched a NRL game with them. Pretty sure Melb Storm got up for the win!! We have planned to catch up again as we hope to cross paths with them in a few weeks time.

Our next stop was the town of Kununurra for a night. We restocked the fresh fruit and veggies (& honey) that we couldn’t bring over the border, we hiked Mirima National Park (which is right on the edge of town) & we watched sunset from Kelly’s Knob, overlooking the township. The following morning we were up early for a quick 15 minute drive out of town to Ivanhoe Crossing. Paddy was so keen to attempt the drive across the river, and I was just going along for the ride. It ended up being really cool. Reasonably deep water and no crocs sighted.

Before leaving Kununarra I noticed our front number plate was missing. With crime high in the area our first reaction was it had been stolen. We were quickly informed by the local copper that the kids steal cars and have no need for number plates and it was probably lost during our river crossing that morning!! We are now travelling with no plate and are waiting on a response from VicRoads as to how we replace it when we are in the Kimberley (& a long way from home!).

Our next two days were spent at El Questro Station, right next to the Pentecost River. To access this we had to take a very small part of the famous Gibb River Road. There are boab trees on the way to the station, as well as a number of river crossings. This was the first time we had towed the van through river crossings and they were not shallow. The main one just at the entry to the station was about 50 cm deep and was very rocky. Again, a bit of fun and adds to the adventure.

This was the beginning of a few absolute highlights of our trip so far. I think Paddy’s video will show you what I mean (when he puts it together!). It will definitely highlight our hikes (rock climbing) in Emma Gorge & El Questro Gorge, our relaxing morning swim at Zebedee Thermal Springs and our sunset drive to Pigeon Hole lookout. We really could have stayed in this part of East Kimberley for a lot longer as there was so much more to see and do. El Questro is a very busy station as everyone wants to experience this piece of paradise. Being popular means this private station can charge big prices to stay there. We felt it was so worth the expense for a couple of nights to get the experience.

We were very fortunate to also meet four lovely people (friends travelling together) from Clare SA. Alanna, Phil, Matt and Marina. I love when you really connect with others and we sure did with all four of them. They were fun to have a laugh with and share stories. We know we are all headed to Broome and will definitely catch up with them there. Making new friends at 55 years of age is so good! You are never too old.