Mataranka and Daly Waters

We left Darwin after an enjoyable 12 nights. We headed south and stopped for two nights at Mataranka Homestead. A rustic dusty but perfectly fine camp for a couple of days.  Plus it has a fabulous hot spring.

Pancake Breakie

Once we were set up we went straight down for a swim. A fabulous spot so close to camp. The water is crystal clear and warm. They have cemented the edges and whilst it does affect the look of the natural surrounds, I can understand it due to the volume of people using a small area. We had a lovely couple of swims here.

Clear lovely water

Around camp there are lots of Peacocks. They are in great condition, and are so beautiful colourful and the feathers are amazing. We did get woken by there awful shrieking but at least it was seven am. There were also quite a few young wallabies around. Including one overly friendly fellow who tried to get into our van.

The next morning we drove back through Mataranka to Bitter Springs. This is also a beautiful place, a lot more natural than Mataranka. We took the boogie boards and floated down the river a few times. I loved just lying on my back floating down looking at the lush plants all around. We have been spoilt by these two lovely spots. 

That afternoon we walked down to Stevie's Hole and had a swim. It was so nice and peaceful, just us there. A lovely little natural spot.

We had a look around the Mataranka township. Didn't take long! We took a few photos with the statues from the movie and book We of the Never Never. Which we haven't watch but will do sometime.

We really enjoyed Mataranka and were tempted to spend another day lazing about. But we've got a lot of kms to travel to get over east.

So off we toddled to Daly Waters pub, another iconic Australian pub. Mark's making sure we visit them all!! It was AFL grand final day so we made sure we were there in plenty of time. It's certainly a pub full of character, between the hat, things, bras and pictures all over the walls, it's hard to know where to look! Such an interesting place. Mark avidly watched the game and we were pleased when the Hawks won. 

The kids and Mark had a swim in the pubs pool then we went back for tea. Mark and I had the Barra n Beef BBQ and it was delicious. Kids entertained themselves doing the activity book and then got a free ice cream, made their day.

The fabulous John Williamson

Now to continue onto a long long drive to Brisbane.  I hope to keep my sanity!