What a peaceful and beautiful indigenous-run campsite. Given the rain in the last months (the first at this time of the year since 1998 according to Caroline, the manager) the spinifex is magnificent, with bright green mounds topped with thick yellow flowering seed head. Spent a couple of hours with Caroline this morning who took us on a walk around the area, describing the indigenous plant uses and the nearby waterhole. This afternoon she is taking me to some historical buildings from the 1880’s. The cork tree in my painting is used for various things including charcoal for smoking ceremonies. I will be sorry to leave this afternoon (before forecasted rain tonight wets the unsealed red sand road into the site).Camping at North Kurrajong for the last 7 days and have been very lucky with the weather. The gods put on a spectacular lightning show Wednesday night with thunder that seemed to go on for 10 seconds or more at a time. Fortunately the days have been sunny, though often windy. The spectacular landscape, with the rocky coasts, turquoise water set against the low lying but graceful Cape Range - home of the rock wallabies. It reminds me that these beautiful marsupials have survived due to Jack,s lifetime work. What a beautiful legacy to leave behind. Such a peaceful place to spend 10 days.My first post on this yer's trip north. After passing by Greenough many times over the past 40 odd years and never stopping (the phrase "we must stop there one day" was usually met with a "Hmmm yes by my camping buddy as we powered past it down the highway) I finally made it the first stop on my way north. Beautifully preserved buildings and photos documented the history of this once (1860's) vital settlement. Was the best seven dollars I've ever spent. The area would make a great plein air camping trip some day PPAP! |