DAY 105 Pilbara – Kimberley Trip
ARKAROOLA
It drizzled again overnight and there was a strong eucalyptus smell this morning as we walked down to the reception area for our 4wd tour. We walked past Mount Griselda. The colours and fracture lines on the rock face have given rise to a few quilting ideas using some different techniques. I’ve been itching to get going on my quilting again.
Arkaroola is a lovely property 610 square kilometres in size. It has an incredible range of ranges here. It was purchased in 1967 in order to re-establish the unique environment of this region- the flora and fauna and that vision is being carried on by the children of Reg Sprigg. It was originally a pastoral property but by removing feral animals to the area the landscape is returning to its original glory. It is a harsh climate here and they are in the 10th year of drought so the rain they’ve had has been most welcome as many plants are very stressed in the current climatic conditions. They are also under threat at the moment from a company wanting to mine uranium here at Mt Ghee even though the mountain has been listed for its unique geological features on a register.
Anyway this morning we set of in two vehicles for their signature tour – the Ridgetop Tour. In the morning the ranges were still in cloud.
As the morning progressed the sun would make an occasional appearance and the clouds would lift for a while.
It was a rugged 4wd trip through steep inclines and descents, over rocky ledges and rocky outcrops.
In place the track was quite slippery on very steep sections.
Our first stop was at Coulthard’s lookout. The mountain tops were still in cloud here.
As we travelled on we saw the native pine that has made a comeback after 100 years of being rare here as a result of the eradication of goats.
The second stop was at Split Rock. It was very cold here but the views were spectacular.
The culmination of the trip was going up to Sillers Lookout. A spectacular spot up a very rough and steep track.
After a hot cuppa and lamingtons at he top we finally made our way back over the same track.
The area around here is very rugged and very beautiful.
A very spectacular tour but a very rough ride. A most enjoyable morning.
After lunch we relaxed at our camping spot and were soon joined by others camped near us. After a long natter it was time to get dinner on and get a fire going as it is cold.
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