18 – 21 June. 14830kms.
Bininj & Mirarr Country.
Kakadu was so many things. Spiritual, stunning, Aboriginal land. Words can’t do it justice. This post has been a challenge to write! We camped at Cooinda and the first night was cane toad hued, with Poppy claiming a victory for native species by clomping one on the head! The caravan park was otherwise excellent, touristy and full, but great pool, poolside restaurant and bar. We bumped into fellow road trippers first met in Broome, then Middle Lagoon, shopkeeper mates Remi and Amelie; and continuing the adventure journey with Mum, Rox and the boys.
Morning one was the sunrise Yellow River Cruise. We were inside a David Attenborough doco, magpie geese flying in formation, lilies and lily pads, wispy mist, exquisite birdlife everywhere. Wild salty crocs hanging out in the shallows, quietly eyeing us cruising by, not trained to hunt meat from humans, living naturally in their habitat. A sight to see!
Day two, Ubirr Rock, unimpeded access to sacred rock art, x-ray style, depicting ceremony, animals and fish, documentation of menus and classrooms gone by. A big climb up Ubirr Rock to a vantage point with vistas out to East Arnhem Land and across the flat, flood plains. On to a picnic lunch and to absorb historical and cultural info at Bowali Visitor’s centre in Jabiru.
Day three, Marrawuddi Art Centre for pandanus weavings, earrings, good vibes and good coffee! And on to Anbangbang and Burrunggui rocky outcrop to be spoiled with more amazing rockart.
Mum’s hip got really bad here, couldn’t walk, try as she might to put on a brave face. Little did we know then she’d end up getting a replacement in a few months time!
Kakadu is what dreams are made of. Breath in, breath out. Soak it all in.
Yellow River Cruise
Ubirr Rock
Jabiru, Cooinda & Anbangbang
