McDonnell Ranges - wow

The last couple of days have been spent exploring the West McDonnell Ranges. These ancient wonders are simply magnificent. We set out yesterday prepared for a long walk and hoped for some wildflowers and photo opportunities, we weren't disappointed. The 160km drive out was picturesque to say the least and allowed the Browns to orientate themselves into the red centre. The sign at the entrance to the four hour walk had us a little concerned but the fellas reckoned they had it under control & we could figure a way back that allowed us to stay dry....we were not keen to get our toes wet let alone other body parts!

We continued over rocky terrain and Charlie set a cracking pace. The weather was cool and overcast and we walked over some challenging rocks and slate. We passed a couple of rangers who assured us we wouldn't get to do the circuit because the waterhole at the end was neck deep. The blokes were disappointed as we had to retrace our steps covering the same ground. It was a four hour walk and we were quite stuffed by the end. Muscles were screaming but we had to "dig down deep and pull out a big one" as Vinnie is fond of saying to do the extra 40 minute walk to actually see Ormiston Gorge. We got some great pics.

We were exhausted by the time we got back to town and we almost had to be "crow- barred" out of the car as muscles seized up!

Vinnie & I had contacted Tania Bekker, an engineer Vinnie used to work with in Lismore in the nineties and had been invited to her place for dinner. Unfortunately I was a party pooper as I was so weary and we left after a tasty dinner (so lovely to actually sit at a table & not eat off your lap!). We slept well. I buried myself in my sleeping bag because it was freezing.

I had to dig in my bag for my gloves & beanie, it was so cold this morning. Charlie cooked up a great bushwalker's breakfast of bacon & eggs and we headed out towards our next destination of "Big Hole at Ellery Creek". This time we packed a lunch & planned to boil the billy in between walks. The walk was not as difficult as yesterday, which is just as well because calf muscles were letting us know they didn't like climbing again! It didn't matter where we looked, the scenery was amazing.

We drove back into Alice and gathered supplies. Zelinda hired a bike so we plan to ride out to Simpsons Gap tomorrow, a return trip of 44km. We'll then pack up and get organised for the next part of our journey around the centre - King's Canyon a 300km trip part of which is on dirt. I am unsure of whether I'll get signal out there so I don't know when I'll be able to blog again. Thanks to those of you who send texts or write on the blog. It's pleasing to know someone is reading about our travels!