We stayed overnight at Robin Hood Station (ranch) near Forsayth. In the morning we were taken by 4 wheel drive truck/bus down a rocky steep track to Cobbold Gorge. It is hidden away within the rugged sandstone formations on the property.
We walked through the bush and over a water hole on a boardwalk but kept an eye out for crocodiles.
The previous tour pulled into the pontoon on this tiny boat powered by silent electric motors. There were two boats that could hold about 12 people each but we only had 8 in each boat.
Our tour guide was called "Scruffy" for obvious reasons. However, he was delightful bush character.
Scruffy gave us a few safety rules like, " If we fall out make a circle around him so the crocs won't get him." Then we set off into this unique gorge.
It is extremely narrow, closing to a mere two metres/6 feet wide in places. That is why the boats are so small. Unfortunately, we had cloudy skies. Just imagine how it would look with a bright blue sky.
There are spectacular 30 m/ 90 ft cliffs on each side. The length of the gorge is about 6km but only the last 500m is navigable. Our path became blocked by rocks and trees.
We waited for the other boat to reach the end too and then we gingerly turned around and returned. There isn't room to pass so the other boat led the way back.
To cruise through this gorge is an unforgettable experience.
A low overhanging rock ahead.
TOH has to duck his head under the overhang. It is a tight squeeze.
The boat in front appears now an then. It is so quiet and awesome.
Too soon the gorge widened and we were at the end of our wonderful tour. It was the best day, but wait it hadn't finished yet we were getting back on the train and heading for another amazing place before returning to Cairns.
I can see the stillness and quiet, with only a crocodile breaking the surface of the water to disturb.
ReplyDeleteoh, that looks incredible! and silent boats would make easing thru that close passageway even better!
ReplyDelete(i like scruffy's rule. :))
That was quite a 3-week adventure you two embarked upon, Diane! I'm just now playing catch-up with all your posts.
ReplyDeleteIt all looks very atmospheric. Nice that they use quiet electric boats.
ReplyDeletedefinitely a wow moment in that tight squeeze, i might could do this, i don't do boats but if this turned over, i could climb right out. well i don't think it could turn over, to tight. but sink maybe.. oops forgot you are in Dundee territory... this is truly a beautiful sight to see.
ReplyDeleteDiane, hubby and I both would love to take this tour. It looks and sounds awesome. I enjoyed the photos, the gorge is beautiful. Awesome report on your tour and day!
ReplyDeleteOh Diane this is fabulous I would love to go tour that gorge with Scruffy, name fits:)
ReplyDeleteThe photos are awesome. B
it looks gorgeous. thank you for taking me there :)
ReplyDeleteAnd I’ve got a feeling everyone spoke in whispers, right? Looks like that kind of place.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful!
ReplyDeleteI must get the contact details for booking this trip. It sounds exciting and unique - just what you want from visiting NQ.
ReplyDeleteWow...........I have spoken to hubby about this trip and he wants to do it so now I have to make enquires about it for us.......
ReplyDeleteWow~ I am nearly speechless..what a beautiful canyo. Awe inspiring. and what an adventure both getting there and the ride itself.
ReplyDeleteThe guide sounds (and looks) like a great character.
Wow---I would LOVE that boat ride. What an awesome place... Just beautiful...
ReplyDeleteBet Scruffy was a character for sure... Loved his suggestion to surround HIM... ha ha
Thanks for taking us with you on this tour.
Hugs,
Betsy
The gorge is absolutely beautiful. This would be a fascinating boat cruise to take. I can see why you consider this the best day.
ReplyDeleteMagical Diane, and Scruffy sound as if he maybe quite a character.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful location. There is a silence and awe about your photos.
ReplyDeleteThat must have been a beautiful experience, so quiet between those huge rocks. I like your bush guide!
ReplyDeleteYour photos and words have really taken us there ... wonderful.
ReplyDeleteIncredible photos of a wonderful place Diane - how amazing to be there.
ReplyDeleteLove Scruffy too!
How fantastic..simply amazing and beautiful
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful place Diane and Scruffy looks a real character .
ReplyDeleteThis is definitely a 'wow' post Diane..what a fantastic experience this must have been. The colour of the water is amazing, the only worry is those pesky crocs, did you actually see any?
ReplyDeleteI would have loved that boat ride, looks fantastic. Great pictures Diane!
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your day :)
Denise
An English Girl Rambles
An adventure on the water between these rock.
ReplyDeleteGreetings,
Filip
cool adventure
ReplyDeletePerthDailyPhot: Noe we didn't see any crocs in this area but saw them on the Cape later in the trip.
ReplyDeleteWhat an amazing place! Glad you weren't eaten by a croc.....
ReplyDeleteThese photos are amazing. I do all my exotic traveling through following adventuresome bloggers.
ReplyDeleteThanks for letting me tag along on this awesome trip.
Your newest follower,
Connie :)
Looks like a fantastic trip.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely beautiful gorge! Scruffy sounds like he was a fun guide!
ReplyDeleteThe sand stone formation are absolutely magical What a beautiful place. Would love to go there. Love the character of a guide you had.
ReplyDeleteAmazing, incredible, awesome, magnificent etc etc. Thanks for the journey Diane.
ReplyDeleteHello Diane, it's me again . . .
ReplyDeletethanks for the visit and for the sweet comment :)
I would like to invite you to be a mutual follower. Your blog is wonderful and I would be honored to have you follow me back :)
Your new blogging sister, Connie :)
If I ever got to Austrialia THIS is one place I'd definitely want to see! Awesome scenes.
ReplyDeleteScruffy just needs a little trim. He certainly looks like a fun character.
Now I have read all your posts, what a wonderful and adventurous trip ! That would have been something for me !
ReplyDeleteDiane, This is certainly a different holiday and away from the usual tourist crowds. The boat ride looks very peaceful and it is amazing what our state of Queensland has on offer. You know what they say - Never smile at a crocodile. I have enjoyed reading all the stories re your travels.
ReplyDeleteAlicia