2001 - 100 days around Oz
In June 2001, my lovely wife and I, set off on our first big 4wd outback experience. This trip would also be our honeymoon, as the first stop was Cape Tribulation, to tie the knot. After the formalities were over, we packed the trusty Paj and set off.
Our trip turned out to be an absolute blast, with serious quality time together, just reassuring us, that we had chosen right (this time around - both divorcees).
After Cape Trib, our trip continued north, through the Daintree and along the Bloomfield Track to Cooktown. From there, we cut inland and covered all the major touristy things in the Gulf, including fishing at Karumba, having a beer at Normanton and stopping at many wonderful sights along the way.
We continued into Northern Territory, via Cape Crawford and the wonderful Butterly Gorge. Had a quick stop at Katherine to get the Paj serviced, as we were about to tackle to rough track up to Gurig National Park. Not that we should have ever worried, the Paj handled it with ease. After camping on the edge of the beach for a week or so, we headed back to Darwin, Litchfield and Gregory National Parks for extended stays.
After experiencing all that was to offer in these great parks, we started the journey south, stopping at Ayres Rock and The Olgas, to do the standard touristy things once again.
But, it was great to leave these crowds behind us, and make our way to the most amazing rock formations, in the guise of Rainbow Valley and Chambers Pillar. It was definitely worth the drive to experience these marvels both at sunset and sunrise.
From here, we continued south along the Ghan/Finke roads, where we stopped at William Creek for a well deserved refreshment. 7 days later, we left. This place was amazing and after making arrangements to carry out a few chores to pay our way, this week was the highlight. Working in an outback pub, talking to fellow travellers and exchanging stories, was amazing. It was a shame that it had to end, but the big smoke was calling.
So, we headed home, reluctantly back on the bitumen and back in the peak hour traffic over the mountains.
All up, we covered some 15,000kms, have no dramas or issues with the Paj and only blew 2 tyres (within 5 minutes).
So, all in all, the Paj never missed a beat and allowed us to see the true marvels of this great Countryu we live in.
"Get out there !!!"
