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"Is that real?!": Woman finds "perfect" 4kg outback gem

<p>Amateur prospector and self-professed "outback crystal hunter" Kirsty McMullan, who seems to have a knack for finding things the Earth has been hiding for millennia, recently pulled a massive 4kg semi-precious stone out of the red dirt like it was no big deal.</p> <p>The footage, which naturally set the internet ablaze, shows the stunning crystal's perfect edges gleaming like a trophy for the "Best Rock Ever Found" award.</p> <p>"@crystals_of_australia and I were working on an amethyst zone together today when this big beauty decided to reveal itself," Kirsty wrote on Instagram. "It is by far the largest single point we have unearthed at the amethyst mine while we have been here 💜"</p> <p>Kirsty and her partner Patrick, who clearly have the best excuse to go on annual vacations to the middle of nowhere, were on one of their yearly treasure hunts in Western Australia when they struck crystal gold.</p> <p>For the past four years, the couple have been making the trek from Cairns to their secret mining spot in WA, which might as well be called "Kirsty and Patrick’s Crystal Wonderland". According to Kirsty, the 4kg amethyst is "by far" the largest they've unearthed, and it’s valued at a cool $3,500.</p> <p>"Finding crystals of this size is rare, especially in Australia,” Kirsty <a href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/woman-stunned-by-incredible-4kg-discovery-in-aussie-dirt-waiting-to-be-found-230119619.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">told Yahoo News</a>, as if this kind of thing happens in other parts of the world all the time. The crystal, which is larger than some people’s entire rock collections, is staying right where it belongs: in Kirsty’s personal collection, where it can bask in its own glory for eternity.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C-ze_2iO2Z2/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C-ze_2iO2Z2/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Kirsty McMullan |Outback Crystal Hunters (@wildling_heart)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The couple spends their days living out every geology student’s fantasy, digging up clusters of crystals that probably make the other rocks feel bad about themselves. “Sometimes the pockets are small with little crystals, and other times they’re quite large, allowing for bigger points or clusters to form,” Kirsty explained, hinting at the surprise element that keeps them coming back. </p> <p>Kirsty’s latest find has left Aussies everywhere questioning their life choices, wondering why they’re not out in the outback with a pickaxe instead of stuck in traffic on the way to their office jobs. “That is stunning,” commented one Aussie, clearly rethinking their career path. “Holy perfection,” said another, probably Googling “how to become a prospector” right now. While a third simply could not believe their eyes, writing "holy shit is that real?!".</p> <p>For now, Kirsty’s giant amethyst will remain a shiny testament to the fact that, yes, there are literal treasures buried in the outback, just waiting for someone with a good eye – and a lot of patience – to dig them up. So, next time you’re looking for something to do on a weekend, maybe leave the beach behind and head into the dirt. Who knows? You might just stumble upon a $3,500 rock.</p> <p><em>Images: Kirsty McMullan / Instagram</em></p>

Money & Banking

Pet cat lost in the outback ends in purr-fect reunion months later

<p>A beloved pet cat who went missing in the South Australian outback while on a road trip with his owner has been miraculously returned to his family months later.</p> <p>In June, Murry Rantall was travelling from Warnambook Victoria to Darwin in a caravan when he made a pit stop on the Stuart Hwy so his Burmese cat Raj could use the litter box. </p> <p>Rantall went for a walk and came back assuming that his 14-year-old feline friend was still inside so he drove off. </p> <p>It wasn't until 200km later, when he went to check on Raj, that he realised the cat was missing. </p> <p>“I was just about bawling … I knew he was in trouble,” Rantall said.</p> <p>Rantall who had recently lost his wife said that Raj was the only loved one he had left at home. </p> <p>“We were sort of looking after each other more or less,” Rantall said.</p> <p>He turned back to search for Raj, and even had his daughter, Katrina drive from Victoria to South Australia to help find the cat, but they had no luck. </p> <p>The feline was lost but not fur-gotten as Rantall's children put up Facebook posts about Raj missing in the South Australian outback. </p> <p>Two months later, the outback cat-astrophe ended with the purr-fect homecoming when Raj was found in Port Augusta, about 50km from where he ran away. </p> <p>Raj was found in Milla Dey’s backyard on Thursday, August 8.</p> <p>“I just saw that he was there and covered in prickles. We got him some food and water and he spent probably 15 to 20 minutes just eating,” Dey said.</p> <p>He was taken to a local vet to scan his microchip, but the details were outdated. </p> <p>Locals managed to track down Rantall's family on social media after seeing the Facebook posts about Raj, and they were reunited over the weekend. </p> <p>Rantall said Raj had lost a lot of weight but was content to be back in his arms.</p> <p>“We’ll feed him up, he’ll be all right,” Rantall said.</p> <p>Port Augusta City Council animal control officer Kylie McKerlie said the reunion was thanks to the care and dedication of the local community.</p> <p>“It’s just a really good town and a really good feeling for everyone,” she said.</p> <p>Rantall also thanked everyone who helped saying, “it’s unbelievable, the help I’ve had.” </p> <p><em>Images: 7News</em></p>

Family & Pets

"Your GPS is wrong": Hilarious outback sign causes double takes

<p>In the ongoing battle between technology and good old-fashioned road signs, it seems the good people of Quairading, a tiny town in Western Australia, have taken matters into their own hands. The battleground? Old Beverley Road, a path that might be best described as the Bermuda Triangle of rural routes.</p> <p>A local Facebook post revealed the existence of at least two signs urging drivers to defy their GPS and embark on a detour through the town.</p> <p>The signs don't beat around the bush either, bluntly stating, "Your GPS is wrong, this is not the best route to Perth". It's a brave move, considering most people tend to trust their navigation apps more than their own instincts (or road signs).</p> <p>The post quickly became a social media sensation, garnering over 15,000 likes and hundreds of comments. One person couldn't contain their excitement, proclaiming, "Finally vindicated, I've been telling my GPS they're wrong for years!" </p> <p>Some conspiracy theorists speculated that this was all part of an elaborate marketing scheme by Quairading to boost tourism. "I think it's a clever ploy by Quairading to make tourists drive through their town," one person suggested. "Maybe stop for coffee, etc. Marketing 101."</p> <p>If it is intentional, hats off to Quairading for the creativity; they've managed to turn road safety into a guerrilla marketing campaign.</p> <p>Quairading Shire president Jo Haythornthwaite responded to the comments by setting the record straight, explaining that Google and GPS suggest Old Beverley Road as a shortcut to Perth, but in reality, it's a slippery, gravel-covered disaster waiting to happen.</p> <p>According to her, "What Google does not recognise is that their suggestion of taking the Old Beverley Road leads travellers and tourists onto a low-lying road that has 15kms of gravel, is very slippery when wet, and is prone to flooding."</p> <p>To combat the persistent GPS misguidance, the Shire tried the diplomatic route, requesting that Google update its algorithm to favour the safer alternative. Unfortunately, it seems Google was either too busy directing people to non-existent streets or enjoying a virtual road trip to pay attention. Frustrated but undeterred, the signs were erected as a last-ditch effort to send a clear message: "Turn around! Or prepare for an off-road adventure you didn't sign up for!"</p> <p>The signs, much like a seasoned comedian, delivered the punchline: a noticeable decrease in traffic along Old Beverley Road. While Quairading might not have exact numbers, they've declared victory in their quest to keep road users safe. As Ms Haythornthwaite put it, "So, without knowing specific numbers, we believe that, although some continue to use the less safe route of the Old Beverley Road, many travellers are taking notice and following the signage."</p> <p>And so, the small town of Quairading triumphs in the great GPS versus road sign showdown. Perhaps, in the grand scheme of things, we all need a little more trust in the wisdom of quirky road signs. After all, who knows the terrain better than the locals who've been there, done that, and put up the signs to prove it?</p>

Travel Trouble

How feasible are EVs for remote Australia, really?

<p>It’s often assumed that <a href="https://cosmosmagazine.com/technology/cosmos-briefing-electric-vehicles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-type="URL" data-id="https://cosmosmagazine.com/technology/cosmos-briefing-electric-vehicles/">electric vehicles (EVs)</a> aren’t practical in regional Australia – the distances are too big. But a new analysis casts doubt on this, suggesting that over 90% of Australians in remote northern communities could get to their nearest service hub town in a short-range EV – without stopping to charge once.</p> <p>The analysis, <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/00049182.2022.2086720" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">published</a> in <em>Australian Geographer,</em> looks at all of the remote communities in northern Australia (that is, everywhere north of the 28<sup>th</sup> parallel).</p> <p>“Electric vehicles shouldn’t be left in the too-hard basket. It’s an unequitable and unfair path forward if remote and regional communities are the last ones left driving diesel vehicles, especially as they will be some of the most impacted by catastrophic climate change” says co-author Dr Björn Sturmberg, a research leader in the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program at the Australian National University.</p> <p>“Yes, the barriers are obvious – large distances, unsealed roads. But the benefits are equally obvious. It’s difficult and expensive to get diesel out to these communities, and electric engines are simpler and more robust than fuel engines.”</p> <p>The large-scale analysis looked at remote communities’ access to towns with populations over either 5,000, or 1,000.</p> <p>“The model of service delivery in all these communities, at a government infrastructure level, has been what they call a ‘hub and spoke model’ for quite a while now,” explains Sturmberg.</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"> <div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> <div class="entry-content-asset"> <div class="embed-wrapper"> <div class="inner"><iframe title="Cosmos Shorts: How do electric vehicles compare to conventional vehicles?" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/P7k0iIRVzUs?start=7&feature=oembed" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div> </div> </div> </div> </figure> <p>“We consider small service hubs of 1,000 people, or larger service hubs of over 5,000 people. Healthcare, banking, groceries or whatnot – those services are offered in these hubs, and members of remote communities drive to them.”</p> <p>The researchers examined whether towns of either 1,000+ or 5,000+ people were reachable by remote communities with either short-range EVs (336km), or long-range EVs (660km). This created four different scenarios.</p> <figure class="wp-block-table"> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Direct access to…</td> <td>Towns of 5,000+</td> <td>Towns of 1,000+</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Short-range vehicle (336 km)</td> <td>81%</td> <td>93%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Long-range vehicle (660 km)</td> <td>95%</td> <td><99%</td> </tr> </tbody> </table><figcaption>Percentage of people in remote northern Australia who could access their nearest big town with an EV.</figcaption></figure> <p>They found that 81% of people in remote communities would be able to get to a town with a population of more than 5,000 in a short-range EV, without stopping to charge the car. An additional 15% of people would need only one charging stop to reach a big town.</p> <p>With long-range vehicles, 95% of the regional population would be able to make it to a town of over 5,000 directly, and 4% would need one stop.</p> <div class="newsletter-box"> <div id="wpcf7-f6-p197221-o1" class="wpcf7" dir="ltr" lang="en-US" role="form"> <form class="wpcf7-form mailchimp-ext-0.5.62 spai-bg-prepared init" action="/technology/evs-remote-australia/#wpcf7-f6-p197221-o1" method="post" novalidate="novalidate" data-status="init"> <p style="display: none !important;"><span class="wpcf7-form-control-wrap referer-page"><input class="wpcf7-form-control wpcf7-text referer-page spai-bg-prepared" name="referer-page" type="hidden" value="https://cosmosmagazine.com/technology/" data-value="https://cosmosmagazine.com/technology/" aria-invalid="false" /></span></p> <p></form> </div> </div> <p>But slightly smaller towns, with a population of 1,000 or more, were even more accessible. Over 93% of the regional population would be able to drive directly to such a town with a short-range vehicle, and just 0.3% of people would need to stop to charge more than once.</p> <p>Nearly everyone (99.7%) could get to a small town in a long-range vehicle, without stopping.</p> <p>Obviously, residents of these communities aren’t always headed to the nearest service town when they’re driving. But given that EVs can also be charged at houses and private buildings, Sturmberg says that travelling between these communities should also be feasible.</p> <p>The study is preliminary, and the researchers point out there is still a <a href="https://cosmosmagazine.com/technology/energy/ev-policies-election-electric-vehicles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">range of barriers</a> to <a href="https://cosmosmagazine.com/technology/the-norway-of-australia-what-does-good-electric-vehicle-policy-look-like/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EV uptake</a> in regional and remote Australia.</p> <p>“For example, we still don’t have clear data on the impact of unsealed roads or different conditions on the effective range of electric vehicles,” says co-author Dr Francis Markham, a research fellow at ANU’s Centre for Aboriginal Economic Policy Research.</p> <p>“And information on the performance of electric vehicles in very hot conditions is still lacking. However, we are confident that electric vehicles do have a place in regional and remote Australia.”</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"> <div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> <div class="entry-content-asset"> <div class="embed-wrapper"> <div class="inner"><iframe title="Cosmos Shorts: How to increase electric vehicles in Australia" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ygq3EzHsH0Q?feature=oembed" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div> </div> </div> </div> </figure> <p>In their paper, the researchers say that more work should be done to investigate what residents of these communities want and need to make EVs a viable option for them.</p> <p>“I just really hope that this work motivates particularly the NT government, but also the governments of Queensland and Western Australia, to put some of their resources into charging infrastructure, and electric vehicle policies for remote communities, rather than just putting chargers along the tourist routes and highways,” says Sturmberg.</p> <p>“Community members should drive into these towns, do their shopping, have somewhere to charge up, and then be able to travel back.</p> <p>“That’s really what we need – particularly as most people are not going to be buying Teslas with ranges of 600km, but Nissan Leafs with ranges of 300km.”</p> <p></p> <p><img id="cosmos-post-tracker" style="opacity: 0; height: 1px!important; width: 1px!important; border: 0!important; position: absolute!important; z-index: -1!important;" src="https://syndication.cosmosmagazine.com/?id=197221&title=How+feasible+are+EVs+for+remote+Australia%2C+really%3F" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p></p> <div id="contributors"> <p><em><a href="https://cosmosmagazine.com/technology/evs-remote-australia/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">This article</a> was originally published on <a href="https://cosmosmagazine.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cosmos Magazine</a> and was written by <a href="https://cosmosmagazine.com/contributor/ellen-phiddian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ellen Phiddian</a>. Ellen Phiddian is a science journalist at Cosmos. She has a BSc (Honours) in chemistry and science communication, and an MSc in science communication, both from the Australian National University.</em></p> <p><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p> </div>

Technology

NT legend identified as chopper crash victim

<p>Well-known Northern Territory personality Chris 'Willow' Wilson has been identified as the victim of a chopper crash in West Arnhem.</p> <p>The Outback Wrangler cast member was killed and another person was seriously injured just before 11 am on Monday the 28th of February.</p> <p>Northern Territory police sent officers from Goulburn Island to attend the site on King River, several hours away. Senior Sergeant Erica Gibson said authorities reached the site in the afternoon and confirmed the death of the 34-year-old man.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Absolutely heartbreaking for so many people. Chris ‘Willow’ Wilson, cast member of Outback Wrangler and well-known Territory legend, has been identified as the victim of yesterday’s chopper crash in West Arnhem. <a href="https://twitter.com/9NewsDarwin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@9NewsDarwin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/9NewsAUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@9NewsAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/ESfE32PZ7D">pic.twitter.com/ESfE32PZ7D</a></p> <p>— Tahlia Sarv (@tahliasarv) <a href="https://twitter.com/tahliasarv/status/1498443605400522755?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p>"The survivor, a 28-year-old man, was transported to Royal Darwin Hospital," Ms Gibson said.</p> <p>CareFlight sent a rescue helicopter, while several agencies were notified including the Australian Rescue Coordination Centre, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, and Northern Territory WorkSafe.</p> <p>Outback Wrangler host Matt Wright told the NT News the entire team has been left 'devastated' by the tragedy.</p> <p>"Our love and thoughts are with Chris' wife Danielle and two little boys Ted and Austin as well as the families and friends of Chris and Seb during this incredibly tough time," read a statement provided to NT News by the company behind the show.</p> <p>An investigation into the crash is underway.</p> <p><em>Image: Twitter</em></p>

News

Mayor shocked by massive take-up of FREE LAND offer in tiny outback town

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A Queensland council has been flooded with requests after announcing a scheme that would have plots of land being practically given away to new and aspiring homeowners.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Just one week after Quilpie Council </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/money-banking/queensland-town-giving-away-land" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">offered a $12,500 grant</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to anyone who buys a block and builds a home on it, the regional Queensland council logged over 200 enquiries from people interested in the scheme.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“It has definitely taken us by surprise - but in the best possible way,” Quilpie Shire Council Mayor Stuart MacKenzie said in a statement.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“We’re looking forward to all the quality new houses that will soon be under construction in the Quilpie Shire. It will mean people can fill the job vacancies we have, and move into their own new house.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The council’s plan </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/news/qld-council-blown-away-after-hundreds-flock-to-free-land-offer/" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">went viral</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> after </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Courier Mail</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> broke the story.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With a population of just 800 people, the council were hoping to get five families to build and move into the area.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Instead, they received 40 times that from people looking to get their hands on some real estate.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Council chief executive Justin Hancock said they were “blown away” at the level of interest, confirming that the blocks have sold for as little as $12,500.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“We have some of the cheapest blocks of land in Australia,” he said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“There are blocks of land in the Curlew Estate for as little as $12,500 - which is the amount we will pay back when homeowners build and live on the land for at least six months, which makes it affordable for younger would-be homeowners.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“These 1000-square-metre blocks all have roadways and full amenities connected. At the moment they are big patches of red dirt - but we’re known as one of the greenest towns in Outback Queensland because of our abundance of artesian water that keeps gardens and front lawns lush and green, even when things heat up over summer.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Mr Hancock said the council had built eight houses over the last five years, with another eight slated to be built over the next year.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“We’re confident this new grant will turn the tables on that. We’ve also had quite a few enquiries from builders who see the opportunities in the region, as people will only receive the grant if they build and live in a house on their property. We’ve been blown away by the level of interest,” he said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With the other states coming out of lockdown, Mayor MacKenzie also said the timing of the grant “couldn’t be better”.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“We’re thrilled with the number of calls and emails we’ve had this week of people interested in building a new house in Quilpie,” he said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Quilpie Shire is located 1,000 kilometres west of Brisbane, has a regular train service, and twice-weekly flights to the capital and Mount Isa.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Quilpie Shire Council / Facebook</span></em></p>

Real Estate

Outback wrangler helps his son tackle a two-metre python

<p>The world famous "outback wrangler" has divided the internet after sharing a video of his two-year-old son wrestling with a python. </p> <p><span>Matt Wright, who runs the Top End Safari camp in the Northern Territory, posted a video to Instagram of his son Banjo grappling with an olive python's tail, one of the largest snakes in Australia.</span><span></span></p> <p><span>Matt, who also hosts the popular National Geographic show <em>Outback Wrangler</em>, captioned the video "learning the ropes", as Banjo follows in his dad's footsteps. </span></p> <p><span>In the video, Banjo is seen dressed in his outback khaki outfit, as he desperately tries to pull the massive snake away from the family's property.</span><span></span></p> <p>“Pull him out buddy, pull him out,” Wright said, as Banjo holds onto the snake’s tail.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUdYl01hDbV/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUdYl01hDbV/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by MATT WRIGHT - OUTBACK WRANGLER (@mattwright)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span>“Oh no, he’s wrapped up, here I’ll help you,” he added, as the python wraps himself around the pole and heads towards Wright’s feet.</span></p> <p><span>Matt helps his son untangle the snake from the pole of the house's exterior, before encouraging Banjo to keep pulling the snake back towards the bushes. </span></p> <p>When the snake refuses to budge, Banjo drops the tail and yells, “Oh no, oh no” before running back to his dad.</p> <p>Matt continues to encourage his son, before sweeping him off the ground when the toddler almost puts himself in a dangerous position. </p> <p>“Watch out, he’ll bite ya,” Wright said.</p> <p>“What are we gonna do? Go back and grab the tail. There you go, grab the tail. Two hands! Two hands!”</p> <p>Banjo appears to lose interest in taking the snake back to the bushes, with Wright trying to encourage his son again.</p> <p>“Quick, grab him, he’s going to bite Dad,” Wright jokes.</p> <p>The video was praised by many, with a lot of commenters comparing Matt's relationship with Banjo to the late Steve Irwin's relationship with Bindi. </p> <p>Despite the many positive comments, the wild clip wasn't received well by some. </p> <p>“Normally I love your videos but I’m not a fan of this behaviour. No need to stress the animal just for an Instagram video,” one wrote.</p> <p>“In America they would call child services lol,” another added.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram @mattwright</em></p>

Family & Pets

From the Red Centre to the green tropics, Australia’s Outback presents a palette like no other

<p><strong>By Reader's Digest, in partnership with APT</strong></p> <p>From the sunburnt sands and ochre-hued escarpments of its Red Centre to the lush green rainforests of Tropical North Queensland, Australia’s Outback packs a punch when it comes to the kaleidoscope of colours on show. <a href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/?utm_source=readersdigest&utm_medium=advertorial&utm_content=20200302_outback2020_readersdigest_native&utm_campaign=outback2020">APT</a> has been operating tours in the Outback for more than 50 years, and are experts in tailoring holidays to showcase the best of each magical region.</p> <p><strong>A world of rainforest and reef</strong></p> <p>In Cape Tribulation, rainforest-clad mountains tumble down to meet the coastline, where pure white sands and turquoise waters dazzle. This is the only place on Earth where two World Heritage-listed sites meet – the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. The Daintree is the oldest tropical lowland forest in the world and is home to thousands of species of birds, animals and reptiles. Here, giant fan palms, emerald green vines and ancient ferns tangle together, forming a dense rainforest that makes you feel as though you are stepping into Jurassic Park.</p> <p><em style="font-weight: inherit;">On tour</em></p> <p>APT offers an 11-day 4WD adventure through Cooktown & Cape York. Arrive in Cairns and transfer to Port Douglas, where you’ll spend a night at the luxurious Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort. Travel to Mossman Gorge in Daintree National Park and set off on a Dreamtime Gorge Walk. Explore Cape Tribulation and Cooktown then visit Split Rock, an intriguing Indigenous rock art site. Take a helicopter flight into the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve before continuing north to the tip of Cape York. Here, set out on a walk to the tip of the peninsula and enjoy a helicopter flight for an aerial perspective on this incredible landscape.</p> <p><strong style="font-style: inherit;">Be moved by the outback’s heart</strong></p> <p>As the light shifts and changes throughout the day, so does the landscape at Uluru – the Outback’s spiritual heart. At sunrise, feel an overwhelming sense of calm as you watch this mighty monolith come to life against a pastel-coloured sky. In the afternoon, Uluru appears as an ochre-brown hue, scored with dark shadows. As the sun begins to set, it bathes the rock in burnt orange, then a series of deeper and darker reds, before it finally fades into charcoal as night falls. Spend a night at the Field of Light and savour dinner under the stars, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the didgeridoo. With Uluru in the background, watch in awe as 50,000 soft lights cover the desert floor behind you.</p> <p><em style="font-weight: inherit;">On tour</em></p> <p>On APT’s 11-day Central to South Explorer tour, start your journey in Uluru, where you’ll embark on a base tour at sunrise and experience a night at the Field of Light. Learn about the history of opal mining in Coober Pedy then travel along the iconic Oodnadatta Track to WIlliam Creek. Take an included scenic flight over spectacular Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre before journeying to Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. While here, spend two nights at the Ikara Safari Camp – the perfect base for exploring Wilpena Pound National Park. A winery lunch in Adelaide’s Clare Valley is the perfect ending to your journey.</p> <p><strong style="font-style: inherit;">Getting your fill of Lake Eyre</strong></p> <p>Few sights in Australia stir the soul more than that of the normally dry Lake Eyre filling with water and suddenly teeming with life. The lake, properly known as Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, relies on monumental rains in Queensland and the Northern Territory for water to begin to flow into it. Last year saw the lake reach levels unseen for almost half a century, and it is hoped that 2020’s northern monsoon season will see the region once again alive with fish surging through the rivers that feed Lake Eyre, and its surface thronged with an array of birdlife including hundreds of thousands of pelicans. In a land battling drought and bushfires, the vision of water shimmering on the surface of the lake is life affirming. And it is something to be treasured and celebrated, so take this rare chance to go with the flow.</p> <p><strong><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.413612565445px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7843793/red-centre-2-um.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/1ef8aa559b194a00b0a26c2255414afe" /></strong></p> <p><strong>Paradise found amid corals and blooms</strong></p> <p>Stretching over 1,100 kilometres of seemingly untouched coastline, Western Australia’s Coral Coast is a marine paradise like no other. Here, waves lap lazily on pristine white-sand beaches and turtles sweep through sheltered turquoise bays.</p> <p>The crystal-clear waters of Ningaloo Marine Park harbour the world’s largest fringing reef. Beneath the surface, you’ll find dolphins, dugongs, manta rays, and more than 500 species of fish. There’s more to discover on land, where colourful blankets of native wildflowers burst into bloom between August and September along the spectacular Wildflower Way. For a whole new perspective on the region, take to the skies on a helicopter flight over the Dampier Archipelago. The staggering contrast between brilliant white beaches, aquamarine waters, and the rugged red Pilbara landscape is a breathtaking sight – one that can only be experienced from the air.</p> <p><em style="font-weight: inherit;">On tour</em></p> <p>Board the MS Caledonian Sky in Broome and navigate the remote islands of Western Australia’s Coral Coast on a 15-day small ship expedition cruise and 4WD adventure. Discover life below the surface while snorkelling the clear waters of this marine paradise. Disembark in Geraldton and continue the adventure as you explore Kalbarri National Park and the eerie limestone Pinnacles. To finish up your journey, there’s a stay in a luxury eco-tent on the beautiful Rottnest Island.</p> <p style="font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"><em style="font-weight: inherit;">This </em><em>article originally appeared on <a href="mailto:https://www.readersdigest.com.au/travel/from-the-red-centre-to-the-green-tropics-australias-outback-presents-a-palette-like-no-other">Reader's Digest.</a></em></p> <p><em>Photos: Reader’s Digest</em></p>

Domestic Travel

From the Red Centre to the green tropics, Australia’s Outback presents a palette like no other

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">From the sunburnt sands and ochre-hued escarpments of its Red Centre to the lush green rainforests of Tropical North Queensland, Australia’s Outback packs a punch when it comes to the kaleidoscope of colours on show. </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/?utm_source=over60s&utm_medium=advertorial&utm_content=20200302_outback2020_over60s_native&utm_campaign=outback2020" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">APT</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> has been operating tours in the Outback for more than 50 years, and are experts in tailoring holidays to showcase the best of each magical region.</span></p> <p><strong>A world of rainforest and reef</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In Cape Tribulation, rainforest-clad mountains tumble down to meet the coastline, where pure white sands and turquoise waters dazzle. This is the only place on Earth where two World Heritage-listed sites meet – the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. The Daintree is the oldest tropical lowland forest in the world and is home to thousands of species of birds, animals and reptiles. Here, giant fan palms, emerald green vines and ancient ferns tangle together, forming a dense rainforest that makes you feel as though you are stepping into Jurassic Park.</span></p> <p><em>On tour</em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">APT offers an 11-day 4WD adventure through Cooktown & Cape York. Arrive in Cairns and transfer to Port Douglas, where you’ll spend a night at the luxurious Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort. Travel to Mossman Gorge in Daintree National Park and set off on a Dreamtime Gorge Walk. Explore Cape Tribulation and Cooktown then visit Split Rock, an intriguing Indigenous rock art site. Take a helicopter flight into the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve before continuing north to the tip of Cape York. Here, set out on a walk to the tip of the peninsula and enjoy a helicopter flight for an aerial perspective on this incredible landscape. </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/trips/australia/qld/gocy11?utm_source=over60s&utm_medium=advertorial&utm_content=20200302_outback2020_over60s_native_gocy11&utm_campaign=outback2020" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Take me there.</span></a></p> <p><strong>Be moved by the outback's heart</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As the light shifts and changes throughout the day, so does the landscape at Uluru – the Outback’s spiritual heart. At sunrise, feel an overwhelming sense of calm as you watch this mighty monolith come to life against a pastel-coloured sky. In the afternoon, Uluru appears as an ochre-brown hue, scored with dark shadows. As the sun begins to set, it bathes the rock in burnt orange, then a series of deeper and darker reds, before it finally fades into charcoal as night falls. Spend a night at the Field of Light and savour dinner under the stars, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the didgeridoo. With Uluru in the background, watch in awe as 50,000 soft lights cover the desert floor behind you.</span></p> <p><em>On tour</em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">On APT’s 11-day Central to South Explorer tour, start your journey in Uluru, where you’ll embark on a base tour at sunrise and experience a night at the Field of Light. Learn about the history of opal mining in Coober Pedy then travel along the iconic Oodnadatta Track to WIlliam Creek. Take an included scenic flight over spectacular Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre before journeying to Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. While here, spend two nights at the Ikara Safari Camp – the perfect base for exploring Wilpena Pound National Park. A winery lunch in Adelaide’s Clare Valley is the perfect ending to your journey. </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/trips/australia/nt/gosa11?utm_source=over60s&utm_medium=advertorial&utm_content=20200302_outback2020_over60s_native_gosa11&utm_campaign=outback2020" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Take me there.</span></a></p> <p><strong>Getting your fill of Lake Eyre</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Few sights in Australia stir the soul more than that of the normally dry Lake Eyre filling with water and suddenly teeming with life. The lake, properly known as Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, relies on monumental rains in Queensland and the Northern Territory for water to begin to flow into it. Last year saw the lake reach levels unseen for almost half a century, and it is hoped that 2020’s northern monsoon season will see the region once again alive with fish surging through the rivers that feed Lake Eyre, and its surface thronged with an array of birdlife including hundreds of thousands of pelicans. In a land battling drought and bushfires, the vision of water shimmering on the surface of the lake is life affirming. And it is something to be treasured and celebrated, so take this rare chance to go with the flow. </span></p> <p><strong><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7834872/travel-marvel-lake-eyre.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/dae070e4b00d4b49ba34857d1b37ffb2" /></strong></p> <p><strong>Paradise found amid corals and blooms</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Stretching over 1,100 kilometres of seemingly untouched coastline, Western Australia’s Coral Coast is a marine paradise like no other. Here, waves lap lazily on pristine white-sand beaches and turtles sweep through sheltered turquoise bays.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The crystal-clear waters of Ningaloo Marine Park harbour the world’s largest fringing reef. Beneath the surface, you’ll find dolphins, dugongs, manta rays, and more than 500 species of fish. There’s more to discover on land, where colourful blankets of native wildflowers burst into bloom between August and September along the spectacular Wildflower Way. For a whole new perspective on the region, take to the skies on a helicopter flight over the Dampier Archipelago. The staggering contrast between brilliant white beaches, aquamarine waters, and the rugged red Pilbara landscape is a breathtaking sight – one that can only be experienced from the air.</span></p> <p><em>On tour</em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Board the MS Caledonian Sky in Broome and navigate the remote islands of Western Australia’s Coral Coast on a 15-day small ship expedition cruise and 4WD adventure. Discover life below the surface while snorkelling the clear waters of this marine paradise. Disembark in Geraldton and continue the adventure as you explore Kalbarri National Park and the eerie limestone Pinnacles. To finish up your journey, there’s a stay in a luxury eco-tent on the beautiful Rottnest Island. </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/trips/australia/wa/gkccb15?utm_source=over60s&utm_medium=advertorial&utm_content=20200302_kimberleycruise2020_over60s_native_gkccb15&utm_campaign=kimberleycruise2020" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Take me there.</span></a></p> <p><em><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/destinations/australia/kimberley-outback?utm_source=over60s&utm_medium=advertorial&utm_content=20200302_outback2020_over60s_native_cta&utm_campaign=outback2020" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Find out more about APT’s Kimberley & Outback Wilderness Adventures.</span></a></em></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">This is a sponsored article in partnership with APT.</span></em></p>

Domestic Travel

Travelling on the Ghan makes for a luxury outback experience

<p>Great train journeys have always possessed a romantic attraction, but when you marry that with the mystical allure of Australia’s red heart it becomes a truly extraordinary experience. This captivating combination is ready to be discovered by travellers on<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="http://www.greatsouthernrail.com.au/" target="_blank">The Ghan</a>.</p> <p>Slicing through the heart of the nation from<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="http://www.greatsouthernrail.com.au/site/the_ghan.jsp" target="_blank">Adelaide to Darwin</a>, The Ghan provides a unique opportunity to absorb the majesty of the great Australian outback. The sheer scale of the journey stirs the imagination as The Ghan relentlessly ploughs through the remote expanse, while you witness its timeless beauty.</p> <p><strong>A transforming experience</strong></p> <p>The journey from top to bottom takes three days and two nights, giving you ample time to become immersed in the grandeur of the endless ochre and red landscape. Whether it’s the sweeping beauty of the Adelaide Plains, the splendour of the Flinders Ranges or theglorious desert sunsets of the centre, the scenery offers a mesmerising vista. At the same time you have all the comforts of a world class train, with gourmet food and wine, personalised service and cosy, private accommodation on board. The gold and platinum service offers that little bit of extra luxury that is well worth the extra cost.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.wyza.com.au/media/1060/ghan_luxury_outback_experience_497x335.jpg" alt="Ghan_luxury_outback_experience" width="497" height="335" /></p> <p><strong>Encounter uniquely Australian attractions</strong></p> <p>For those who feel adventurous, you can break your journey at Alice Springs and enjoy a few days exploring Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon at your leisure, then return to pick up the train journey when it suits.</p> <p>Alternately, you can take shorter packaged off-train excursions within the one journey. These are available at Alice Springs and Katherine, so that you can sample the local aboriginal culture, colonial history and scenic wonders. Options include a desert park tour, cultural experience tours, a cruise on the Katherine River at Nitmiluk gorge, or if you are feeling more adventurous you can take the thrill of a camel trail ride or helicopter tour.</p>

Domestic Travel

“I love you, Mum”: Mother’s final words from son before tragedy struck

<p>A mother has faced heartache after her son, aged 25, was found dead in the Outback after he’d said “I love you” for the last time.</p> <p>Trent Grose, from Broken Hill in rural New South Wales, was found dead under a tree near Maxwelton in far North Queensland on Sunday. </p> <p>A search launched for Mr Grose two weeks ago when his four-wheel-drive was found broken down near a remote property - just a heartbreaking 17km from where he was found a few weeks later deceased. </p> <p>The 25-year-old told his mother Karen he was driving from Richmond, southwest of Townsville, to Toowoomba, near Brisbane for a job interview at a cattle station.</p> <p>His car battery ran flat and he had little water and no way of getting into contact with anyone for help. </p> <p>Miss Grose said she spoke to her son before he started the 16-hour journey in search of work. </p> <p>She told the<span> </span><a href="https://www.townsvillebulletin.com.au/"><em>Townsville</em><span> </span><em>Bulletin</em></a><span> </span>that the last words she ever heard from her boy were “I love you mum.”</p> <p>“We spoke two weeks ago. It was a general talk about where he was going for work next and what he was doing. We always ended with 'I love you mum',” Ms Grose said.</p> <p>“Trent was a people person with a big heart - he'd do anything for anyone.</p> <p>“(He was) an all round top bloke who was loved by all that knew him.”</p> <p>Police are not treating Mr. Grose’s death as suspicious. </p>

Travel Trouble

Senior Aussies travelling to the Outback are causing increasing amounts of pressure on healthcare system

<p>Senior Australian’s are applying pressure to the healthcare system as the number of older Aussies touring the outback is increasing.</p> <p>Dr Clare Walker, president of the Rural Doctors Association of Queensland said tourists with existing health complications have become a common occurrence in the outback.</p> <p>“We see a lot of people with significant illnesses, sometimes even in the last month of their life, travelling to some seriously remote places with very few services and without very much preparation,” Dr Walker told the<span> </span><em><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-09-14/outback-grey-nomads-rfds-busy-queensland/11478538" target="_blank">ABC</a>.</em></p> <p>“I’ve actually seen that more this year than I have done in the past. There’s been a few patients that have said that this was on their bucket list – the Birdsville races, or this or that.”</p> <p>Officials at Charleville Royal Flying Doctor Service base, which is located 750km from Brisbane, have revealed that they will be facing their busiest year yet with over 1200 flights already recorded for 2019.</p> <p>The same time last year, RFDS had flown 1080 hours.</p> <p>Dr Fergus Gardiner says it’s becoming increasingly common for older tourists to require aeromedical retrievals. Data showed that of the 22000 aeromedical retrievals conducted for those aged 65 years or above between 2014 and 2017, 18000 were non-Indigenous and 4000 were Indigenous.</p> <p>“We suspect it’s related to an ageing population,” he said.</p>

Domestic Travel

Michelin impossible: Why this outback KFC restaurant is chasing the highest food honour

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A KFC restaurant in Alice Springs, Northern Territory is pushing for one of the highest international dining honours available: A Michelin Star.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sam Edelman, who owns the Alice Springs KFC, told </span><a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/bangkok-thailand-30-mg-price-2018-1044552979?src=mTnFWWy_AkbDyqiK7wAn_w-1-2&studio=1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Yahoo News Australia</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> he runs the “most remote KFC in the world” and meets the criteria for the star.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> “My store serves people who travel from 500 to 1000km away,” Mr Edelman said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“That’s part of the criteria - the food is worth a detour, worth a journey to enjoy.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Edelman came up with the idea after watching a documentary on Netflix.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In order to get a Michelin star, the restaurant has to use quality products, have a “mastery of flavour and cooking techniques”, the chefs must have personality, it should be value for money and the food has to be consistent.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">However, the guide for the star has been met with criticism as people think it’s biased towards French cuisine and technique.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In 2016, it awarded a star to a cheap Singapore street food outlet known for a braised chicken dish in a welcome break from tradition.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Edelman is hoping to get the attention of the Michelin judges to a variety of quality restaurants across Australia.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“It’s a bit of Michelin: Impossible, but let’s make it possible,” he said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“As I say to my staff sometimes, ‘bucket, why not?’”</span></p>

Domestic Travel

Discover what life is like underground in White Cliffs

<p>The local landscape of White Cliffs can border on the surreal. Like any small town, White Cliffs has the obligatory pub and a general store, but on our visit they appeared to be closed for the day. The petrol station looked deserted and the local restaurant claiming to have the best casseroles in town was empty.<span> </span><br /><br />Apart from The Stubbie House — a home built out of 54,000 bottles — and the abandoned Solar Power Station there wasn’t much else to see. It may seem like a ghost town, but the truth is a little stranger – it’s because the majority of the White Cliffs community live in holes under the ground.<span> </span><br /><br />Located in outback New South Wales, 255km northeast of Broken Hill, White Cliffs’ residents started living in dugouts in the early 1890s. Miners built extensive underground homes in the hillside to avoid the intense heat — with summer temperatures that consistently reach over 40°C.<br /><br />Today, it mixes tourism with opal mining, offering visitors a unique perspective to outback living. There are around 100 dugout homes still in use in White Cliffs, making them fascinating to visit.<span> </span><br /><br />A great example of one of the homes is the beautifully carved residence of Cree Marshall and Lindsay White. As you enter their abode, there is something at every corner that will catch your eye — the ornamental wooden harp, the towering tree stump standing at the centre of the kitchen, even the recycled geometric floor tiles.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://cdn.wyza.com.au/media/3663406/dug-out-tour-underground-white-cliffs.jpg" alt="Dug -out -tour -underground --white -cliffs" width="700" height="400" /><em>Cree and Lindsay's stunning 'White House'</em></p> <p>The pair have been progressively renovating their home into a remarkable subterranean dwelling and offer tours at $10 per person between 11am and 2pm. Well worth the price, the home is located beside the<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="http://www.redearthopal.com/" target="_blank"><span>Red Earth Opal Cafe</span></a>.</p> <p>But it’s not just about underground living. Off the Barrier Highway at Wilcannia, midway between Broken Hill and Cobar, head northbound to White Cliffs’ Opal Fields where you’ll be transported to a moonscape terrain of around 50,000 diggings.<br /><br />While the mining boom has diminished, opal is still being found at White Cliffs and what better way to get an insight into the historic diggings of the 1890s than by visiting an underground working opal mine.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.wyza.com.au/media/3663403/red-opal-cafe-entrance-white-cliffs.jpg" alt="Red -opal -cafe -entrance -white -cliffs" width="700" height="400" /><br /><em>You can also book an opal mine tour at the local Red Earth Opal Cafe</em></p> <p>Walk down into the shaft and discover the gritty reality of mining. You know you’ve struck it big when you’ve unearthed the brilliant gem ‘pineapples’, but these are very rare, so rare in fact, that they have only ever been found in White Cliffs.</p> <p>While fossicking for the elusive opal may not go as planned, you can always head by the local opal store and pick up one of the precious stones, which can often be cheaper than the ones in major retail outlets.</p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="float-image-right"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://cdn.wyza.com.au/media/3663404/stairwell-star-gazing-white-cliffs-hotel.jpg" alt="Stairwell -star -gazing -white -cliffs -hotel" width="300" height="450" /><em>White Cliffs' Underground Motel is a great place to escape the heat</em></p> <p>Looking for a special place to stay overnight? Immerse yourself in the local experience with a stay at the famous<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="http://undergroundmotel.com.au/" target="_blank"><span>White Cliffs Underground Motel</span></a>.</p> <p>Located on a mesa locally known as ‘Poor Man’s Hill’ (due to its lack of opal), this man-made underground lodge welcomes travellers with a unique experience. Switch off from the world above and see first-hand what it is like living in a dugout.</p> <p>The maze of passageways lead you to a stairwell that take you up to the star gazing room where you can see the brilliant night sky and can enjoy the vast sunsets and sunrises.</p> <p>There’s also a small on-site History and Cultural Centre for those interested to learn more about the community.</p> <p>Insulated from the harsh outback heat, the indoors remain at a cool and comfortable 22 degrees all year round.</p> <p>White Cliffs is a comfortable<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="http://www.tristate.com.au/tours-old/2-day-opal-dreaming-tour" target="_blank"><span>two-day tour</span></a><span> </span>from Broken Hill, allowing you to experience a true outback experience, underground.</p> <p>Have you ever been to outback NSW? Where’s your favourite road trip?</p> <p><em>Written by <span>Maria Angela Parajo. Republished with permission of <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/travel/life-underground-in-white-cliffs-nsw.aspx" target="_blank">Wyza.com.au</a>.</span></em></p>

Domestic Travel

Start your adventure in the Kimberley with El Questro

<p>If you have ever wanted to experience the timeless majesty of the awe inspiring Kimberley region but don’t know where to start, the El Questro Wilderness Park might be the perfect package.</p> <p>The sixty by eighty square kilometre park rewards the visitor with all the diversity and grandeur that this ancient region has to offer.</p> <p><strong>Accommodation options to suit every taste</strong></p> <p>To access the park, you can fly in from any capital city to Kununurra, where a regular road transfer service can take you into the park area. The park offers a range of accommodation options, all of them superbly integrated into the dramatic landscape. At<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.elquestro.com.au/stay/emma-gorge" target="_blank">Emma Gorge</a><span> </span>you can stay in the comfort of delightful tented cabins that give grand vistas of the ancient gorge escarpment, without sacrificing the modern touches of a contemporary licenced restaurant and pool. Emma Gorge has several self-guided nature trails and can also serve as a base for exploring the park.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/ByUcGsLlV0G/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/ByUcGsLlV0G/" target="_blank">Champagne Spring is a hidden wonder. Well worth the journey, the 4.8km riverside trail is long and filled with broken terrain, particularly in the second leg of the hike with a refreshing cascading waterfall at the end.</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/elquestro/" target="_blank"> El Questro</a> (@elquestro) on Jun 5, 2019 at 12:16am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>If you are looking for more substantial lodgings, you can stay at one of the well-appointed bungalows at<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.elquestro.com.au/stay/the-station" target="_blank">The Station</a><span> </span>on the banks of the Pentecost River. With beautiful tropical surroundings, you can enjoy gourmet meals in the restaurant, a cooling drink in the bar or refresh yourself with a stroll down to the swimming lagoon.</p> <p>The premier accommodation in the park is<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.elquestro.com.au/the-homestead" target="_blank">The Homestead</a>; a sprawling property surrounded by lush tropical gardens and comprising a range of luxury suites. All are superbly decorated and enjoy sweeping views of the Chamberlain Gorge and River system. Tariffs are structured to be fully inclusive of an elegant room, gourmet cuisine, beverages and personalised guided tours in the valley.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bw1eDxUA_e3/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bw1eDxUA_e3/" target="_blank">Take in expansive views of the Chamberlain River and the Kimberley jungle from the private deck of your Homestead villa, a remote and exclusive retreat on the edge of wilderness. As you soak in your alfresco bath, you may spot swooping birds and jumping fish.</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/elquestro/" target="_blank"> El Questro</a> (@elquestro) on Apr 29, 2019 at 3:05am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p><strong>The full Kimberley experience</strong></p> <p>The organised tours via boat, helicopter or horseback let you experience the enormous scale of the park and gain access to the best attractions, such as remote waterholes, cascading waterfalls and crystalline rivers that carve into the red rock.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BwO16XwAlfE/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BwO16XwAlfE/" target="_blank">Doesn't the majestic Emma Gorge look a lot different? All of her stunning layers are showcased at this height. Emma Gorge opens on 17th April. 📸: @ben_broady</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/elquestro/" target="_blank"> El Questro</a> (@elquestro) on Apr 14, 2019 at 3:03am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The flora and exotic wildlife that inhabit the region make for an intense natural experience and your ranger will ensure you get the most value from your time in this unspoiled and largely unexplored piece of unique wilderness.</p> <p><em>Written by Tom Raeside. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/travel/start-your-kimberley-adventure-with-el-questro.aspx">Wyza.com.au</a>.</em></p>

Domestic Travel

5 things to do in Broken Hill

<p>If you have grown up in suburban Australia, you may not have ever experienced a true outback experience. Now, in the era of the Internet and smartphones, be prepared to be struck by the isolation, restful quietness and passionate heat of NSW’s Far West. Full of rich histories, memorable sunsets, ever-changing sceneries and fun encounters with local characters, Broken Hill and surrounds are the heart of outback NSW.</p> <p>The entrance point to the wide open spaces of outback NSW, Broken Hill has emerged as a culturally rich hub and has been listed as Australia’s first heritage city, despite the mountainous slagheap that casts a shadow over town. Having once had the world's richest silver–lead–zinc mineral deposits, the Silver City is making a name for itself in its arts and geo-tourism.</p> <p>Take in the city by foot and see the lovely quaint buildings and 19th-century architecture that line the streets. And while it may appear as though every corner you turn there is a pub, you’ll be surprised to hear that there are actually more art galleries in the town.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Byz_9zEJnO4/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Byz_9zEJnO4/" target="_blank">Emu on the run #australia #4x4 #4wheeling #4wd #sydney #adventure #camping #bushtucker #recovery #survival #wildlife #kangaroo #koala #snakes #jeep #wrangler #landcruiser #hilux #tours #nsw #beaches #bushland #outback #australianoutback #beers #campfire #wild #fun #community</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/4x4toursaustralia/" target="_blank"> Marc, Sydney Australia</a> (@4x4toursaustralia) on Jun 17, 2019 at 6:26am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p><strong>1. Menindee Lakes</strong><span> </span></p> <p>Not far from Broken Hill is the still bank of Lake Pamamaroo. Initially struck by the lush grassy sites of the sequestered park, this serene and peaceful area allows visitors to park their caravans, fish, swim, and go for a paddle - a popular camping destination for locals.</p> <p>However, one of the most famous attractions of the Menindee Lake waterways is Lake Wetherell, which is home to magnificent dead red gum trees with their twisted limbs standing submerged in water.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BefyAkZjh1h/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BefyAkZjh1h/" target="_blank">To capture the magic of this place, we suggest using the Manfrotto ND64 and ND500 filters. They allowed for the silky smooth effect on the light and water. 📷: @thurstonphoto</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/manfrottoimaginemore/" target="_blank"> Manfrotto Imagine More</a> (@manfrottoimaginemore) on Jan 28, 2018 at 6:31am PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The hour-long boat cruise with ‘River Lady’ provides an up-close encounter with the gnarly skeleton sculptures which are ‘brought to life’ by the diverse birdlife. Pink-headed cockatoos, perching pelicans and black kites are just some of the creatures that inhabit these branching structures.</p> <p><strong>2. Wilcannia</strong><span> </span></p> <p><span>Further along the track (around 2.5 hours from Broken Hill) sits the remote town of Wilcannia, which is home to many heritage stone buildings built during the 1800s, including the local hospital, the post office, police station and courthouse. </span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/ByO1IJCgWlI/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/ByO1IJCgWlI/" target="_blank">#wilcannia Once the third largest inland riverboat port now the Darling a series of dry puddles here. Also thinking of #wilcanniamob who rapped about catching bream and jumping off the bridge only a few years back. Stopped for lunch but both cafes recently closed down. Would be great to see our tourism industry take a strong stance on climate action. 💚 #nswtourism #climatechange #tourismaustralia #climateaction #darlingriver @tourismnsw</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/jeremy_park_/" target="_blank"> Jeremy Park</a> (@jeremy_park_) on Jun 2, 2019 at 7:59pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span>While Wilcannia is one of the NSW’s most economically disadvantaged regions, it is vibrant in its culture and creative expression - there’s even a drive-through art gallery at Reconciliation Park, making it an area that could easily grow to become the new hub for Indigenous art in NSW.</span></p> <p><span><strong>3. Camping on the Darling</strong> </span></p> <p><span>Three kilometres east of the Wilcannia township, just off the Barrier Highway, is a popular spot to experience unspoilt tranquility for caravaners and campers alike. Located nearby on the banks of the Darling River, Warrawong on the Darling is a sought-after caravan park with spacious grass camping grounds and comfortable, modern cabins, making it perfect place to relax and leave behind the distractions of city life. Sunrises and sunsets are a big drawcard at Warrawong where colours of purple, pink and gold paint the skyline.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/ByDth7RAkyU/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/ByDth7RAkyU/" target="_blank">Darling River Run A trip that should be on everyone’s bucket list. The country side, terrain, camping, wildlife, history, red dirt, everything about the Darling River Run is absolutely breath taking. #darlingriver #darlingriverrun #nsw #newsouthwales #victoria #vic #seeaustralia #aus #australia #4wd #4wdlife #4 #ytg4x4 #ytg #ytb #prado150 #prado #landcruiserprado #landcruiser #life #camping #river #photography #edits #edit #girlsthat4wd #4x4 #4x4offroad #outback #outbackaustralia</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/liss_tani/" target="_blank"> » 𝗔𝗹𝘆𝘀𝘀𝗮║𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗲 «</a> (@liss_tani) on May 29, 2019 at 12:21pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p><strong>4. White Cliffs </strong></p> <p>The opal-mining community of White Cliffs is just over an hour drive from Wilcannia, where you can discover the exciting wildlife that makes its home in the desert. The bright blue morning sky welcomed some chirping lorikeets and soaring wedged-tail eagles, but the highlight to any outback trip was spotting a mob of ‘roos hopping about and driving past a daddy emu with his three chicks strutting behind on the side of the road. </p> <p>More than average rainfall in 2016 meant that the desert had a lot more shrubbery than usual, and fuller lakes. Travelling along the wide stretch of dirt road, the flat, semi-desert plains expand beyond your gaze. The terrain is scattered with pearl bluebushes, low trees and green shrubbery with speckles of yellow button flowers, but as you head to the Historical Diggings of the 1890s, the landscape transforms into a sandy stretch of hills. The opal field look like giant ants’ nests excavated once by hopeful miners.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BYXjOP5nTvj/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BYXjOP5nTvj/" target="_blank">The outback road between #MutawintjiNationalPark and #ParooDarlingNationalPark. #NSWParks 📷@lifeinthemulga</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/nswnationalparks/" target="_blank"> NSW National Parks</a> (@nswnationalparks) on Aug 28, 2017 at 11:40pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>One of the must-do activities when in White Cliffs is the Red Earth Opal mine tour. The outdoor classroom takes visitors 45 feet underground in opal-miner Graeme Dowton’s little patch of heaven where the passion for his work gives you a real sense of what made this town first tick. The area is best known for its seam opal — milky white crystals — and was Australia’s first viable commercial mining field for about 30 years. Graeme has been lucky to unearth some remarkable opal “pineapple” finds (pictured above).</p> <p><strong>5. Mutawintji National Park</strong><span> </span></p> <p>North east of Broken Hill, Mutawintji National Park harbours collections of rock art that depict pre and post colonial Aboriginal history, many of which are protected within the Historic Site and only accessible with a guide.<span> </span></p> <p>The special site, which is a ceremonial ground for Aboriginal clans, makes for a unique experience as it takes visitors on a historical journey back to the dreamtime origins of the area. The tour takes guests on a bush walk through the mulga plains and saltbushes to large overhanging caves with hand stencils and paintings.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BaB4G2cgRcx/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BaB4G2cgRcx/" target="_blank">A post shared by Dargen D'Amico (@dargendamico)</a> on Oct 9, 2017 at 6:42am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Continue around the rocky-bedded trail up into the ranges to displays of Panaramitee-style rock art on sheets of flat beds rock with engravings of kangaroos and emus.</p> <p>The indigenous history of Mutawintji is extensive and the rugged landscape is breathtaking – especially when taking in the scenery from high up.</p> <p>You'll be surprised by how much there is to see and do, and what better place to go on an adventure than the Aussie outback road.</p> <p><em>Written by Maria Angela Parajo. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/travel/postcard-from-broken-hill.aspx">Wyza.com.au.</a></em></p>

Domestic Travel

The natural phenomenon you must see in Australia this year

<p><span><a href="https://www.outbackspirittours.com.au/destinations/kati-thanda-lake-eyre/">Kati Thanda – Lake Eyre</a></span> is the largest salt-lake in Australia. This vast, dry expanse of glittering salt is part of the extensive Lake Eyre basin – one of the largest internally draining river systems in the world. On clear, cloudless days the land can appear to merge with the sky in a pink and blue mirage that crosses the horizon. Most of the time the Lake is dry, but on rare occasions it fills and becomes home to huge flocks of migratory water birds and gives life to a carpet of wildflowers.</p> <p>This phenomenon is imminent as an enormous body of water is now flowing into the lake after extraordinary rainfall in the northern reaches of the Diamantina Catchment. Floodwaters inundated Birdsville and cut access to the town for six weeks. From there they crossed into South Australia and have travelled southwest into Kati Thanda – Lake Eyre, creating a vast and shimmering spectacle.</p> <p>But if you still need further convincing, here is why you need to take a trip to the magical Kati Thanda – Lake Eyre:</p> <p><strong>The phenomenon only occurs once every few years</strong></p> <p>Kati Thanda – Lake Eyre is vast in size, spanning 144 kilometres long and 77 kilometres wide. The show stopper is never one to disappoint, with the lake featuring a stunning pink hue caused by pigment found within a specific type of salt-loving algae when the water level is at its lowest. But despite the lake glistening year-round, the best time to pay a visit is after the Outback has received a downpour of rain, flooding the lake with water.</p> <p>Lake Eyre has filled to capacity only three times in recorded history, the last time in 1974. However, general floods happen more frequently and are just as spectacular. The last significant flood was in 2011 at the height of the La Nina weather pattern that brought flooding rains to more of Eastern Australia. The site also carries a deep and rich history for the Arabunna and other Aboriginal people, spanning over thousands of years. Seeing Kati Thanda – Lake Eyre in flood is a unique experience. The best way to appreciate the floodwaters and enjoy a bird’s-eye view, is by plane; followed by a 4WD adventure to the upper reaches of the Lake and the surrounding dunes and river systems.</p> <p><span><a href="https://www.outbackspirittours.com.au/tours/lake-eyre-spectacular/">Outback Spirit</a></span> is Lake Eyre’s Number one tour operator. Their award-winning adventures have showcased the wonder of Kati Thanda – Lake Eyre to nearly 10,000 guests since 2009. In 2012, they took home South Australia’s premier tourism award for Major Tour Operators after the 2011 flooding of Lake Eyre. Outback Spirit is offering <span><a href="https://www.outbackspirittours.com.au/tours/lake-eyre-wilpena-pound-discovery/">6 and 7-day adventures</a></span> from Adelaide to showcase this phenomenal natural event. Their tours include three scenic flights aboard state-of-the-art turbine aircraft, giving a stunning perspective of the region in flood.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="text-align: center; width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7824957/birdlife-on-lake-eyre-2.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/c1f651a25007487c8184212abd51bfce" /></p> <p>Guests of Outback Spirit have exclusive access to visit Kalamurina Wildlife Sanctuary on the banks of the Warburton Creek. The sanctuary’s manager provides a fascinating explanation of the desert transformation following the arrival of the faraway floodwaters.</p> <p>Kalamurina is owned and operated by the Australian Wildlife Conservancy and is a property of exceptional conservation values. It encompasses a remarkable 1.7 million acres at the junction of the Munga-Thirri-Simpson Desert, the Tirari Desert and Sturt’s Stony Desert. The sanctuary is characterised by rolling dunefields, freshwater and saline lakes and is a refuge for unique desert wildlife.</p> <p>Travelling with an experienced and knowledgeable touring crew brings the landscape to life. Enthusiasm is infectious and Outback Spirit recruits and employ the best in the industry, requiring a minimum 10 years of heavy vehicle driving experience.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7824958/kalamurina-wildlife-sanctuary-2.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/3ec3b1ef96db4bbc807c2f570529b310" /></p> <p>The rugged landscapes of this remote region can be travelled in comfort, aboard Outback Spirit’s 5-star All Terrain Mercedes Benz tour vehicles. With generous legroom, an on-board restroom, satellite communication system, a state-of-the-art P.A. system and on-board refreshment station, this is the most comfortable way to see outback South Australia and the wonders of Kati Thanda – Lake Eyre.</p> <p>To find out more about the tours Outback Spirit has on offer to Kati Thanda – Lake Eyre, click <span><a href="https://www.outbackspirittours.com.au/destinations/kati-thanda-lake-eyre/">here</a></span>.</p> <p>Scroll through the gallery above to take a look at the beauty of Kati Thanda – Lake Eyre.</p> <p><em>This is sponsored content brought to you in conjunction with <span><a href="https://www.outbackspirittours.com.au/destinations/kati-thanda-lake-eyre/">Outback Spirit</a></span>. </em></p>

Domestic Travel

Why the Kimberley region is an icon of the outback

<p><em>Travel writer David McGonigal shares his insider tips for exploring the stunning WA Kimberley region.</em></p> <p>Few Australian towns have developed more in recent decades than Broome. However, just 10 minutes outside town little has changed in 50,000 years.</p> <p>The colours of the Kimberley are a constant. They are a brilliant pallet of red soil and blue sky, golden beaches and aquamarine sea. So are the strong characters that inhabit this harsh and largely empty landscape. I wrote after my first visit 30 years ago: “It’s a truly beautiful part of the country that in many ways epitomises the image of Australia that Australians like to present to the world.”</p> <p>That hasn’t changed and is more important than ever as the rest of Australia becomes more urbanised. The Kimberley’s main travel season is April to September, when the days are warm and the skies are clear.</p> <p><strong>Kimberley towns</strong><br />Kununurra began in the 1960s as the centre of the Ord River Irrigation Scheme. There’s a <u><a href="http://www.visitkununurra.com/">wide range</a></u> of accommodation options and many charter flights over the Bungle Bungles and Argyle Diamond Mine. These days it is a modern town with full facilities.</p> <p><u><a href="http://www.experiencewyndham.com.au/">Wyndham</a></u> was born as the port for the Halls Creek gold rush in 1886. It is a sleepy town of 800 people on Cambridge Gulf and the view from Five Rivers Lookout is spectacular. </p> <p><u><a href="http://www.hallscreektourism.com.au/">Halls Creek</a></u> is the northern end of the Canning Stock Route and the Tanami Track and an entry point for Wolfe Creek Crater and the Bungle Bungle Range. The nearby ruins of Old Halls Creek date back to the first discovery of gold in WA in 1885 when 15,000 optimists were living here. </p> <p>As its name suggests, Fitzroy Crossing came about from people waiting for the flooded Fitzroy River to drop so it was safe to travel across the causeway. Of course, the inevitable delay required a drink and that gave rise to the 1897 Crossing Inn. Geikie Gorge is close by, but this is also a good base to explore Mimbi Caves as well as Tunnel Creek and Windjana Gorge.</p> <p><u><a href="http://www.derbytourism.com.au/">Derby</a></u>, established in 1883, is the Kimberley’s oldest town and remains an important administrative centre with a population of 4,500. The famed hollow boab prison tree stands about 7km from town. Derby has the Kimberley’s main Royal Flying Doctor Service base.</p> <p><u><a href="http://www.visitbroome.com.au/">Broome</a></u> is one of Australia’s most important tourist towns. Originally a pearling community it now has a wide range of hotels and resorts and tourist operators. Expect to see expensive jewellery such as pearls and Argyle diamonds on display in the shops. You can still ride a camel along Cable Beach and Sun Pictures outdoor picture gardens is always packed on Saturday nights.</p> <p><strong>Travel by road</strong><br />Trans-Kimberley options are either the Great Northern Highway or the Gibb River Road, or ideally both. The highway comes into Broome from the south along Eighty Mile Beach then passes through Derby, Fitzroy Crossing, Halls Creek, Wyndham and Kununurra before becoming the Victoria Highway to Katherine and Darwin. It’s just over 1000km from Broome to Kununurra. The renowned 700km back-country journey along the Gibb River Road begins outside Derby to the south west and ends near Wyndham. The main side trip is up to Kalumburu and/or Mitchell Falls.</p> <p>The dirt road up the Dampier Peninsula from Broome passes by the Aboriginal communities of Beagle Bay (don’t miss seeing the pearl-shell altar in the church), Middle Lagoon and Lombadina before arriving at Cape Leveque and One Arm Point. Sunset at Cape Leveque turns the blood-red ridge behind the white sandy beach to crimson. The Aboriginal-owned resort of <a href="http://www.kooljaman.com.au/">Kooljaman</a> offers five levels of accommodation and a camp ground.</p> <p>Purnululu National Park is the site of the wonderful orange-and-black banded beehive domes of the Bungle Bungle Range. It is only open between April and December and the rough 53km access road can be negotiated only by 4WD vehicles and single-axles off-road trailers. There are no shops in the park but there are scenic flight options.</p> <p>The Gibb River Road heads north from Derby past <a href="http://www.mowanjumarts.com/">Mowanjum Art and Cultural Centre</a> and the old Derby Leprosarium on the way to the turnoff to Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek. Like Geikie Gorge these cut through the ancient coral reef of the Napier Range.</p> <p>The whole Gibb River Road is a grand outback experience and the swimming holes, stations (some offer accommodation) and camping sites along the way provide an unforgettable experience. The road has improved a lot in recent years and opens in April or May when the rivers have dropped and Main Roads has graded it to repair the ravages of the Wet.</p> <p>Around midway along the road there’s the turnoff to Kalumburu and the Mitchell Plateau. The 270km road to Kalumburu is only slightly worse than the Gibb River Road – the track out to Mitchell Falls is <em>considerably</em> worse.</p> <p>For National Parks information go to the <u><a href="https://parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au/">official website</a></u>.</p> <p><strong>Aboriginal tourism</strong><br />Since the late, renowned Sam Lowell OAM began taking tours in 1981 the Kimberley has been a great place to discover the unique perspective of the original Australians. That can be done in many ways including staying at the multi-award-winning <a href="http://www.kooljaman.com.au/">Kooljaman</a>.</p> <p>At Geikie Gorge, the <a href="http://www.darngku.com.au/">Darngku Heritage Cruises</a> provides a special insight into Aboriginal heritage and visits places not accessible to the regular visitor. To explore the opportunities <u><a href="http://www.kimberleydreamtimeadventures.com.au/">Kimberley Dreamtime Adventure Tours</a></u> offers several tours out of Broome.</p> <p>Of course, there are also opportunities to buy Aboriginal art in the area where it was created. There are many galleries throughout the Kimberley. Just ask the local tourist offices.</p> <p><strong>Exploration by air</strong><br />The distances in the Kimberley are vast and the population sparse so air travel is a logical option. Two sights are best seen from an aerial perspective: Wolfe Creek Meteorite Crater and Bungle Bungle.</p> <p>The WA government set up the <u><a href="http://www.westernaustralia.com/en/Attraction/Kimberley_Aerial_Highway/56b2690cd5f1565045dac438">Kimberley Aerial Highway</a></u> linking charter flights to ground operator tours.</p> <p>Several cattle stations across the Kimberley welcome fly-in visitors. For remote coastal luxury there’s <u><a href="http://www.farawaybay.com.au/">Faraway Bay</a></u> where you have to fly in because any other access is impractical. The resort takes pride in its cuisine and the setting is superb.</p> <p>The Kimberley overall offers grand settings and a sense of space that is unique. No matter how you travel, time in this special part of Australia reveals much of what makes Australia special.</p> <p>For general information visit <u><a href="http://www.westernaustralia.com/">www.westernaustralia.com</a></u></p> <p>Have you visited the Kimberley region? Join the conversation below.</p> <p><em>Written by David McGonigal. Republished with permission of <span><strong><a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/travel/why-the-kimberley-region-is-an-icon-of-the-outback.aspx">Wyza.com.au.</a></strong></span> </em></p>

Domestic Travel

Why you haven’t really seen Australia until you’ve visited Arnhem Land

<p>We all know that Australia is vast, but what we don’t realise is how much there is to discover in this beautiful country of ours. One of those places is Arnhem Land. Home to culture rich in history that dates back thousands of years, Arnhem Land is spiritual and diverse, and the only way to experience the beauty of the rugged coastlines and savanna woodlands is to see it for yourself.</p> <p>Having occupied the region for over 60,000 years, Arnhem Land belongs to the Yolngu people and is the birth place of the famous Aboriginal instrument – the didgeridoo. But despite the small population, the isolated reserve is now home to safari tours, fishing lodges and so much more.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7822119/_d4z1919_lores.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/add0aa5e557c49fcaaa5883426870ebe" /></p> <p>The Indigenous region is one of Australia’s last true wilderness areas and covers 97,000 square kilometres of the Northern Territory. The magic of Arnhem Land is felt as soon as you arrive, where a ‘Welcome to Country’ ceremony is a moving introduction to the Gove Peninsula. This powerful exhibit of Aboriginal tradition is steeped in cultural heritage and reflects the deep connection that Indigenous people have to the land.</p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/177218181" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p> <p>Arnhem Land was declared an Aboriginal Reserve in 1931 and is so remote that most maps don’t show directions on how to get there. Which is why it’s important to travel with an experienced and knowledgeable tour operator, as the only way to uncover Arnhem Land is to journey through its heart. <span><a href="https://www.outbackspirittours.com.au/destinations/arnhem-land/">Outback Spirit</a></span> is Australia’s leading small group tour company and the only operator that has been granted permission from Traditional Owners to conduct tours through the region.</p> <p>Here are four unique and culturally enriching Arnhem Land experiences you need to add to your bucket list:</p> <p><strong>1. Arafura Swamp (Gurruwiling)</strong></p> <p>Nestled in north-central Arnhem Land, the Arafura Swamp, also known as Gurruwiling by Indigenous Land Owners, is a tropical wetland of flourishing habitats, prolific birdlife and great spiritual significance. An untamed wilderness, it is classified as a Key Biodiversity Area that supports many water bird species, turtles and crocodiles. </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7822120/_dsc9756_lores.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/efbca8211c27447f88f489f4ed8c475b" /></p> <p>Covering 700 square kilometres in the dry season and up to 1300 in the wet, it is the largest wooded swamp in Australia, and the location where the award-winning film <em>Ten Canoes</em> was set. The Yolngu people have a deep connection with Gurruwiling, its wildlife and habitat. Whilst exploring the area with Indigenous guides, you’ll stay in Outback Spirit’s exclusive safari camp at Murwangi, perfectly positioned overlooking the stunning Arafura Swamp wetlands.</p> <p><strong>2. Seven Spirit Bay</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><img style="width: 0px; height:0px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7822131/ost-ssb-resort-aerial-2018-05.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/b8bff0dd90ff49e59aa644b5f8730807" /></strong></p> <p>Located in one of the most beautiful marine parks in the world, Seven Spirit Bay in West Arnhem is a wilderness lodge that sits on the pristine shores of Coral Bay on the Cobourg Peninsula. Visiting Seven Spirit Bay is a must when exploring the breathtaking world of Arnhem Land, as the luxury lodge is home to amenities one can only dream of, when taking a trip to the outback.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7822123/ost_sevenspiritbay_int-043_lores.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/9b3efb5549ff4126a5aa95a01002d5c6" /></p> <p>Whether you’re after a bar, palm-fringed swimming pool or comfortable lounge to relax in while taking in views of stunning Coral Bay, Seven Spirit Bay has it all. The lodge is the perfect place to unwind after a day of marine adventures or a 4WD wildlife safari. Whatever activity you choose to partake in, knowing your luxury villa is waiting at the end of the day is a feeling of paradise.</p> <p><strong>3. Mount Borradaile</strong></p> <p>It’s true that every inch of Arnhem Land is covered in rich history and culture, but a location that will truly take you back to the past is Davidson's Arnhemland Safaris at Mount Borradaile. A registered Aboriginal sacred site, Mount Borradaile’s natural beauty has been preserved for thousands of years. Whether you choose to spend time amongst the wildlife, or discover the serene lagoons, the Indigenous site is for those who are looking for an authentic outback experience.</p> <p>But perhaps the most famous sites to behold at Mount Borradaile are the caves and ancient rock art galleries which date back to over 50,000 years ago. The spiritual place awakens your senses as every corner tells a story of the past, such as an intricate rock painting of the Rainbow Serpent that is considered to be the largest artwork to be discovered in Northern Australia. The only way to believe the beauty of Mount Borradaile is to experience it for yourself.</p> <p><strong>4. Port Essington</strong></p> <p>Another historical location that sits in the west of Arnhem Land, Port Essington tells the dark tale of Victoria Settlement, which was established in 1838 and disbanded in 1849. The British government had a plan in place, which was to set up a military settlement and build a trade partnership with Asia. But due to poor living conditions and the rapid spread of disease, the British reign in the region did not last long.</p> <p>Victoria Settlement is now home to old buildings and ruins, and when you tour with <span><a href="https://www.outbackspirittours.com.au/destinations/arnhem-land/">Outback Spirit</a></span>, you are able to walk through the eerie isolated gravestones that sit in the forest. But you won’t only be sightseeing, you will be learning about forgotten history from informative guides and find yourself truly immersed in the challenges and tragedies of these early settlers.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7822124/ost-mv-arafura-2018-12.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/838f5c2155234b428a118a8eb2f40230" /></p> <p>These are just four of the many things to see and do in Arnhem Land, which is a spiritual oasis that very few people have had the opportunity of visiting. Which is why you must grab your bucket list and make this largely untouched, sacred Aboriginal land your number one spot to see – and there’s no better way to discover its culture and beauty than with <span><a href="https://www.outbackspirittours.com.au/tours/arnhem-land-wilderness-adventure/">Outback Spirit</a></span>.</p> <p>Offering an exclusive 13-day wilderness adventure, <span><a href="https://www.outbackspirittours.com.au/destinations/arnhem-land/">Outback Spirit</a></span> will take you to all of the above locations and more, while staying in their network of safari camps and lodges that offer a level of luxury seldom found in such remote areas.</p> <p>For more information regarding Arnhem Land, request a brochure <span><a href="https://www.outbackspirittours.com.au/request-a-brochure/">here</a></span>.</p> <p><em>This is sponsored content brought to you in conjunction with <span><a href="https://www.outbackspirittours.com.au/destinations/arnhem-land/">Outback Spirit</a></span>. </em></p>

Domestic Travel

Shoppers furious after supermarket caught selling tiny packet of meat for $54

<p class="xmsonormal"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; color: black;">A supermarket in the Aussie outback has been criticised by angry consumers after it was revealed it was selling a small packet of meat for $54.33.</span></p> <p class="xmsonormal"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; color: black;">Taking to social media, shoppers posted a photo of the packaged meat to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Aboriginal-Torres-Strait-Islander-History-1712413972190715/?tn-str=k*F">Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander History</a> Facebook group, which included six steaks and a few sausages. </span></p> <p><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3D1813998838698894%26id%3D1712413972190715&width=500" width="500" height="632" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></p> <p class="xmsonormal"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; color: black;">The image was captioned with: “$54 no wonder people on community for low iron”.</span></p> <p class="xmsonormal"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; color: black;">It didn’t take long for the photo to gain traction, as angry users commented on the post, calling it “disgusting” and “shameful”.</span></p> <p class="xmsonormal"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; color: black;">“Thieving mongrels they’ll never change,” said one user.</span></p> <p class="xmsonormal"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; color: black;">While another claimed it was “legalised robbery”.</span></p> <p class="xmsonormal"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; color: black;">“Fifty-four bucks? Is it coming from Mars or something?” questioned one user.</span></p> <p class="xmsonormal"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; color: black;">But others acted as the voice of reason, claiming that the high price tag is a given if you choose to live in the Aussie outback.</span></p> <p class="xmsonormal"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; color: black;">“Sorry, but it’s to do with location nothing can be done about that unless people move to where things will cost less it’s their choice to pay it or move,” one person wrote.</span></p> <p class="xmsonormal"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; color: black;">“We lived in a remote aboriginal community years ago and I used to order my meat, and have it shipped up from Perth,” said another.</span></p> <p class="xmsonormal"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; color: black;">“If you live remotely unfortunately it goes with the territory, transportation costs is the reason for inflated prices. Order online and bypass the middle man.”</span></p> <p class="xmsonormal"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; color: black;">The high cost of meat in the outback has been considered an issue for a long time, as transportation of the produce is the reason for the inflated price tag. To overcome the issue, the government launched the Northern Australia Beef Roads Program in 2016.</span></p> <p class="xmsonormal"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; color: black;">“The $100 million program is making targeted upgrades to key roads necessary for transporting cattle to improve the reliability, productivity and resilience of cattle supply chains in northern Australia, thereby reducing freight costs and strengthening links to markets,” reads a government document.</span></p> <p class="xmsonormal"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; color: black;">The project will continue to receive funding until the 2019-2020 financial year. </span></p> <p class="xmsonormal"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; color: black;">Do you live in a remote part of Australia? Tell us in the comments below. </span></p>

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Shoppers furious after supermarket caught selling tiny packet of meat for $54

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