Daly Waters Pub to Katherine 19 August 2013

Well, last nights entertainment had two working lips and a big snow white beard, but the the talent was a little on the ocker side without an awful lot of of ability to support it. Sort of like a cross between a not so rude Rodney Rude and Rolf Harris before he became infamous but not anywhere near as good as you might imagine. Still, it suited the environment and we had a great night. Fantastic barra and salad for dinner and four new best friends who were camping next to us that we will probably never meet again as they are all heading south and east now while we are still going up. If Rhett, Wendy, Pauline or John ever read this (as if) thanks for a great night and your terrific company.

Now, todays little soiree finds us heading to Katherine via Elsey Homestead and Mataranka Thermal Springs. Elsey Homestead was where Jeannie Gunn was the station manager's wife in the early 1900's. She wrote the Australian classic 'We of the Never Never' based on her experiences and the people she met there. Many of the people who were characters in the book, as well as her husband who died soon after they took up residence, are buried in the cemetery which is all that remains of the original homestead area.

The swimming hole at the springs is a beautiful spot which was set up during WW2 for the officers to swan around in when off duty. Surrounded by palm trees and heaps of birds (and seasonal red flying foxes, but not today) it is a true oasis.

A quick dip and off to Katherine for a late lunch after setting up camp in the Shady Lane Tourist Park. Really nice park with palm trees lining the long driveway and in between each site. Terrific pool, which was sorely needed after the days drive in 37 degree heat. A big step up in ambiance from the paddock out the back of the Daly Waters Pub. Big step up in price too though :-(
Oh well, when in Rome (or Katherine). We are looking on this as a bit of conditioning for Broome as the parks there charge $40 a night we are told. Booked in for a Katherine Gorge cruse tomorrow and then we will see the 'sights' of town.

Prado Spotto on hold again while we are in town: Len 108, Hazel 106