Day 38 to 39 of our Big Trip of the Simpson and now the Flinders Ranges

DAY 38

It turned out to be a very nice day after an early fog. We got a call saying the Truck would be ready about midday so took off to the Arid Botantical Garden again and spent the morning walking around. It is truly a lovely place and we would recommend anyone visiting Port Augusta to pay a visit.

We went to auto pro at 12.30 but the truck was still not ready. Finally it was at about 1.30pm. We had to pack it on the side of the road, as we had had to check out of the caravan park earlier. A bit of amusement for the locals. I think it was about 3.30pm when we finally left Port Augusta after stocking up on beer and wine. We decided to drive to Hawker and stay at the caravan park we had stayed at 4 weeks earlier as we like the vibes. In the night we were in the camp kitchen and were joined by several groups of people. One couple from South Astralia were on their way to Cape York. They gave us a wealth of info on trips they had done and what was possible and what was not possible, and also what to see around Hawker. As a result we have decided to stay an extra night so we could see some of the sights.

Day 39
Today we did some exploring. Down to a place called Kanyaka where there is the remains of a homestead complex built in the 1850’s. The ruins are substantial and the homestead was home to 50,000 sheep. However when the drought arrived in 1864 the property failed and in that year they lost of 20,000 sheep. Continual drought plagued them and the property was finally abandoned in 1888. We then moved onto the remains of a town called ‘Wilson’. Had to visit the cemetery. The plaque showed just what hardship these pioneers endued. One family of Wilson’s lost 4 babies aged from 17 hours to 7 months in the space of two years including one set of twins. There we no medical services out here then.


We then went to one of the lookouts that overlook the valley called Jarvis Lookout.. It was a difficult 62 metre climb but well worth it once we got there. Tonight we are back at the campground, where there is a telly and the Swans are playing Adelaide so it will be televised live. Just found out that we can only get NT TV so no swans game ... will have to watch the scores on the iPhone App... what fun.