The Last Camp of 2024
9th October to 25th October 2024
From Goondiwindi we continued making our way south.
We had an overnight at Gurley, stopping early to avoid/enjoy a storm before a nice camp on the Namoi River.
We had only planned a night or two on the banks of the Namoi River, but it was so nice we stayed for six. It was a lovely peaceful spot, and very popular with the friendly locals.
We had what is likely to be our last camp oven cook-up before the summer heat. Peter gladly got out his trusty bowsaw and cheerfully collected enough wood for us to have a fire most nights. He then spoiled us with his speciality; date scones. One thing is certain, whether its on the coals, over the fire or in the van, we always eat well.
One of the locals noticed me with my camera and asked if I liked birds. Silly question; he went on to tell me that there was a flock of Magpie Geese at Lake Narrabri, not that far from us…PETER…. and off we went.
After a couple of nights at Gunnedah Paceway (nothing much to say about that) we ended up at one of our favourite spots (Cobrabald River) for another six nights. We were hoping to spot our Platypuses and Rakali but were a little disappointed that neither were there. There was however, a little fellow further down the river. I really don’t know enough about platypuses to know if they are nomadic. Perhaps moving when the food runs low, or if weather plays a part in their movement. There had been a lot of rain and the river was higher than usual. Wherever they are, I hope they’re safe.
There were, as usual, quite a few birds here. The regulars and a few newbies. There were quite a lot of Australian Reed Warblers. I’ve seen them before, but not here, and boy do these little guys love to warble.
And there were some very busy parents in this tree, across the river.
As you know, we visit here whenever we’re in the area, but we have never ventured across the road. We did this time and were pleasantly surprised at how pretty it was. Not as suitable for camping, but quite lovely and we saw a few Eastern Long-necked turtles.
This really is a pretty spot, and just to prove that WA is not the only state to have pretty wildflowers, look at these.
Next stop, Port Macquarie and our visitors from overseas. 😊
See you out there somewhere
On tow and on the go!
What a privilege to see a platypus in its natural habitat.
We went to Dubbo Zoo in October. They have a purpose built platypus rehabilitation centre. It is very impressive but was a bit disappointing not to see a platypus but then probably a good thing as it means there were no injury animals requiring rehabilitation.
Love the photos of the turtles. The ones with the turtle looking directly at the camera are a little spooky 🙂
Loving your photos and the accompanying stories.
Happy New Year … safe travels
Thanks Lorna.
I looooove seeing the Platys in the wild. Such unique creatures, and the little turtle spent ages just staring at me. A curious little fellow.
All the best for the New Year.
Thanks Jo I enjoyed the read and the pics. Happy New Year to you both.
Thanks Les, Lets hope its a good year for all.
HI Jo
Thanks for your latest post. Interesting about the platypus. In SEQ they are concerned about platypus because of the recent rains and floods which have done things to the habitat – banks, etc which are being eroded. The Ipswich City Council is working to rehabilitate the exposed banks with grasses to hold the soil together with any future bad weather.
Happy New Year.