Our little tour group were staying in tents at "Outback Spirit" campsite on Pungalina Station. (see map). After breakfast we were driven to the homestead and airstrip not far away. John and Melinda manage The Australian Conservancy's station and the campsite. Just the two of them in this huge outback place miles and miles from civilisation but they have access to communications and airplane deliveries as well as the long bumpy road that we came on.
Today was exciting as we were going on a helicopter ride to the coast of the Gulf of Carpentaria. Only three people and the pilot could fit in the helicopter so we took it in turns. While we waited for our turn we were taken on a hike and had morning tea. (next post)
I went with Sylvia and Ken. This is the "Airport Lounge" where we waited to board the helicopter. Outback people have a great sense of humour.
Here it comes back from the previous trip with my friends George and Ann on board. I forgot to mention that there are no doors for the front seat.
My turn to climb aboard, I was a little disappointed that I had to sit in the back but I still managed to get some good shots.
We followed the Calvert River to the coast, always looking for crocodiles and water buffalo.
Crocodile or logodile?
It took about 20 minutes to reach the coast. We could see the river snaking towards its mouth.
The colours were magic.
Soon we were over the Gulf looking down at the pristine beaches. I was a bit surprised to see such nice beaches because I always thought it was all swampy up here. It is in some places.
We turmed around and followed the river back to ......
the homestead and airstrip.
