The Kimberleys

Oceania » Australia » Northern Territory » Darwin
July 28th 2006

Published: July 28th 2006

Edit Blog Post

Of Adventure

On top of the World

Bushman out in the Kimberleys

G'day, no longer from WA but from Northern Territory, in balmy Darwin. Safe and sound from playing bushman out in the massive but deserted Kimberleys Region.

Left my resort on Sunday, after another day on Cable Beach, then headed in a group of 9 + Steve Irwinesque guide Nick for the outback, in a trusty Toyota LandCruiser + Trailer. Was 5 days of remoteness like I've never seen before, sleeping under the stars etc and was allround pretty damn cool.

My main duty was 'fireman' ensure that as soon as we 'hit camp' that a fire was built and sustained, my fires were so bloody good that they were still there to heat tea for breakfast, but only cos I got up at 5.30am to retend to them, and it got me out of cooking and cleaning duties (who's to know?)

Highlights included the Bungle Bungles, white man bearly knew about these stripey rocks untiil the 1980s, was a 2 hour + drive on bumpy dirt track but worth the pain. Another top moment was going right up to the Fresthwater Crocodiles basking in the sun, don't worry guys, they are the friendly ones, not likely to kill

From WA to NT

you, not that likely. Also hiking where the world's deadliest snake hangs out, great fun!

Nearly drowned in deep cold water of Emma Gorge, but there were hot springs too, best campsite was a clearing in the forest and when we woke up had the best, warmest freshwater pool you've ever hoped for. We ate like kings too, none of your 'I'm a Celebrity' type bushtucker, fresh fish, chicken stirfry, burritos, chill con carne, all powered by the red hot fires I fashioned.

Satisfying moment was holding a python, people who are scared of snakes, you've gotta feel one curl around your body, up your shirt etc gaining warrmth from your armpits and 'sss'ing' in your ear as if saying sort of snakey sweet nothings.

Felt at home out in the bush, arising with the sun, covered in bites and scratches, but it's all good, got back to civilization in Darwin last night and showered at last then hit the local god awfull but likeable backpacker bar. Few days here to chill and feel the kind of weather that London has been getting, but hey, we have electricity!

Sometime soon I may try and get some