The joy of roadhouses.


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Oceania » Australia » Northern Territory » Daly Waters
September 13th 2011
Published: September 13th 2011
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Peak hour traffic.Peak hour traffic.Peak hour traffic.

Can get quite busy in the outback.
It is hard work being a traveller. It is particularly difficult if you are the passenger, with not a great deal to do for hundreds of kilometres of driving. Sitting in the warmth of the sun coming through the glass, a lot of napping takes place. The driver doesn’t get the same privileges.
We have taken to stopping at almost all the Roadhouses to stretch our legs, and also, as we found out yesterday, they have so much to offer in regards to character and culture. Tennant Creek was our first stop for the day, where we purchased a few supplies. We noticed that the majority of the population was aboriginal, unlike Alice Springs, where they appeared to be a minority. It was a Sunday when we went through, so that may not be an accurate picture. We passed through Elliot, another settlement that was very run down. It must be a very hard life in these parts, trying to make a living and keeping occupied. There really doesn’t seem as though there is much to do for the residents of the settlements. It is no wonder alcohol and petrol sniffing is such a problem. There is no industry of any
Advertising genius.Advertising genius.Advertising genius.

If this doesn't male you want to buy a pie, nothing will.
sort except for road houses, and cattle stations. Not many employment opportunities there. It is interesting to note that almost all roadhouse employees seem to be international tourists on working visas. I never expected to see so many Asians working in the outback. There is a very good Irish representation too.
We have noticed changes in the vegetation as we have travelled. Today the trees are taller and the vegetation lush. The cattle grazing at the roadside are in very good condition. “They are grazing in Eden”, according to Frank. Eagles and hawks remain plentiful, while Skippy seems to be quite elusive.
Tonight we are camped at Daly Waters, another roadhouse/hotel with associated camping ground. This is another place with history and character. Like Barrow Creek, the walls are lined with money. This place has the addition of bras, knickers and other garments marked with messages or autographs and left by tourists to be displayed. They offer a beef and barramundi dinner for a reasonable price. We already had our dinner organised, so enjoyed a cold drink in the bar before dinner. They also have live entertainment every night. The outback is really full of surprises.
Outback tip #2. Adding
Interior - Daly Waters RoadhouseInterior - Daly Waters RoadhouseInterior - Daly Waters Roadhouse

Some of the paraphenalia on display, including signed underwear.
cordial to salty bore water makes it taste like salty water with cordial in it. Make sure you pack ample drinking water, even if the driver complains about the additional weight.



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14th September 2011

Lucky You
I am truly envious of you, reading your blog reminds me when we went to Alice Springs about 10 yrs ago. We also got caught out thinking we had seen the mighty rock when it was only a little mountain. As for your soap problem I found that Johnsons baby soap lathered up, so much for using it on baby. Take care and enjoy your trip, Belinda

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