26 February 2000

Despite our misgivings made it over to Fitzroy Crossing today without too much trouble. FC is only 360 kms from the coast, which we are looking forward to seeing tomorrow or the next day - proper surf with waves and everything (we hope - sorry Trish). Reports we had previously heard about Dunham River being up were grossly exaggerated although you could see where it had recently been - all the grass was flattened in the direction of the current to a height of 4 to 5 metres above road level. So crossed over and went on to breakfast at Turkey Creek Roadhouse at Warmun.

To proceed on to Hall's Creek had to negotiate Ord River. Bit scary. River was about 18 inches over road, was about 100 metres wide and was flowing fast. Could feel current pushing against ute, and could see Lorraine's knuckles turning white where she was gripping seat. But got across OK and proceeded on to Hall's Creek for lunch. Not a great deal there, just a couple of roadhouses and small (mainly aboriginal) community.

From there on to Fitzroy Crossing, an even smaller (mainly aboriginal) community. Staying at the Fitzroy River Lodge for the night. Quite comfortable, but expensive - like all accommodation when it changes its name from "motel" to "lodge" (or even more expensive "resort").

Weather across mainly broken cloud and sunshine with a couple of light showers and a little bit of isolated drizzle. Again, unable to see local attractions (mainly Bungle Bungles) due to roads being closed because of wet season. Convenient excuse not to go there, actually, as it is a 54 km drive in, 4WD vehicles only, all the way in 4WD and then hike to local points of interest.

Country continues spectacular, changing every few kilometres as to flora and geological formations.

Should be a relatively easy hop tomorrow to Derby (260 kms distant on King Sound), and then to Broome (a further 145 kms, on the Indian Ocean).