Katherine and Darwin 18th - 29th July

Day 16 - 18^th July – Thursday- Katherine.

(Vin had an interesting night- 4am in the morning deciding to put chairs in the car for safety set off the car alarm- damn noisy, woke the park!!! Then he had trouble with his reading torch- OUCH!!!)

Had to pack up our site and move to a powered site in the morning, which was mostly held up as we were waiting for the previous person to move off our site. Upon moving there around 10am we completely set ourselves up for the next 2 days. While we were setting up the kids were catching up with their cousins Jazzy and Alex.

We ventured off then to the Katherine Gorge with the Barton Clan and unfortunately everybody seemed in a very indecisive way, so we ended up having lunch at the Gorge and then swimming in the Gorge of the pier for a couple of hours. A little scary in the knowledge that there are crocs (only fresh water ones though) further up the Gorge!

Later that afternoon we went to the Katherine Springs which was very relaxing. Riley decided to be adventurous and follow some other children in sliding down the mud slide that was created off a large bit of bark (looked pretty cool). Abbey and Jazz were going to do it however it was too muddy for them (such girls).

For dinner we had a bbq together with the Barton’s and caught up with our Dutch friends at the camp kitchen area.

 Snell and Barton kids (and Tuan-dutch friend) at pier when swimming at Katherine Gorge.

In the water at Katherine Gorge (Abbey, Leanne, Jaz, Fran & Riley) 

Riley having a ball sliding down mud slide at Katherine Springs.

Day 17 - 19^th July- Friday- Katherine.

We actually set off a little earlier today to the Edith Falls as we needed to be back for our Katherine Gorge tour at 1pm. The Edith Falls were very relaxing for Dad and the kids (Mum couldn’t be bothered getting wet). We swam across to the falls, kids with their boogie boards and had a bit of a splash around. Quite interesting how this place was decimated during a cyclone in the late 90’s, which in a way is good as it’s not commercialised at all.

 Abbey at Edith Falls and below Le, Riley and Ab at Edith Falls.

Another drive back to the Katherine Gorge, only just making it in time. (Leanne almost missed the boat as she couldn’t keep up- and then she tried to board the boat the wrong way (quite funny for everyone on board).

 Family cruise at Katherine Gorge!

 Our first sighting of a croc on our cruise (Fresh water croc only)!

 Riley and Vin on cruise at Katherine Gorge.

More beautiful scenery- Kath Gorge.

 

It was all worth the hassle though!!! We spent the next 2 hours being amazed by the beauty and the size of the Gorge, not to mention our first viewing of an actual crocodile. Being Fresh Water Crocs and in this environment they certainly didn’t come across as so frightening. A very inspiring and relaxing tour which we all really enjoyed. We were a little hot at the end of the tour so we again had a splash in the Gorge from the pier.

Day 18 - 20^th July- Saturday- Katherine- Darwin. (via Adelaide River).

Time to pack up from Katherine and move on to Darwin. Many things to look forward to here: Catching up with the Barton’s again, picking up and being with Nanna Ruth and Pop, not to mention going to see an AFL match at TIO stadium.

On the way we stopped at Adelaide River township to have a look at the WW11 Memorial Cemetery. A truly beautiful set up in recognition of those that died for us, keeping our shore line safe from invasion. There was a gravesite for Tom Snell who died at age of 41, pretty interesting since the kids have a cousin Tom.

 A grave site for Tom Snell at Adelaide River.

Made it to Darwin about lunch time, ready to set up for our long stay of over a week. We even set up our annex roof (awning set up), to make it feel more homely and secure for our things (still locked up the fridge and bbq though).

Having completely set up we ventured around the park where the kids had found a splash park where they spent the next 2 hours playing. Riley found his school friend Paris there and Abbey found her friend Lara whom she met at Daly Waters. Vin and Riley then organised themselves and headed off to the footy to see Melbourne v Brisbane (Wow). It was like going to a local footy game! Sitting there on the hill with deck chairs with kids kicking the ball around in front of you. (even when the kid’s ball went onto the ground the security would give it back to them).

 Paris and Riley at the caravan park splash park. Below Abbey also at splash park.

Whilst we were off at the footy Leanne and Abbey went around to the Barton’s (who had returned from Kakadu that day- a day early) to watch the footy and catch up with how their trip was in Kakadu.

Day 19 – 21^st July- Sunday- Darwin. Nanna and Pop Arrive!!!

We relaxed around the park in the morning with the Barton’s and Vin caught up on about a week of blogging. In the afternoon Vin went out with Fred (Aitkin) for a fishing trip off Cullen Bay! Wow what a beautiful area Cullen Bay is- a unbelievable design catering for the boats, even setting it up to cater for the swelling of the tides-8m during the wet season. (quite a amazing infrastructure). Due to Vin’s absence Leanne was going to have to drive to the Airport with the kids to pick up Nan and Pop. (uh oh, will she make her way there and back).

 Fortunately she did make her way successfully to pick them up around 6pm before returning them to the Caravan Park around 7pm, where they were able to settle in before dark after their miserable flight to Darwin.

Vin went on a half day (4hr) fishing charter. It was a relaxing, enjoyable day, however Vin’s lack of expertise came to the fore yet again, unfortunately finishing with no fish. At least Fred the supposed expert caught nothing as well (there was 3 out of 10 who didn’t catch- oh well). One couple caught 11 between them (smart alecs), although there only managed to be 1 of there’s (only one), that was able to be taken home as all the others were too small.

 Vin with his useless rod!

 Vin and Fred after their enjoyable day fishing at sunset on boat. Below spectacular Darwin sunset.

 

Once Fred and I finished the charter at 6-45 (beautiful sunset), we were picked up by Britt and the girls! We then ventured to the Mindil Markets for everyone to browse around (not my cup of tea really). Certainly a well set up market though with some good entertainment.

Day 20 – 22^nd July- Monday - Darwin.

Headed off today out to Berry Springs with Ruth and Bill (Nan and Pop) as well as the Barton’s.  A very relaxing time under the falls as well as swimming around with the fish. A huge variety of fish, from half a meter long to 10 cm, very interesting. Jaz and Abbey loved it, along with Vin (all snorkelling lots). Riley had a bit of a go but a little tentative at first. Ruth and Bill even enjoyed the warm waters of the springs. A great effort by Ruth on the boogie board (Couldn’t manage to keep her balance-Oops, Splash)!!!

Vin and Ruth spending a moment at Berry Springs!

 Riley, Abbey and Jaz snorkelling at Berry Springs. Below: Picturesque Berry Springs

 

Able to splash under the falls which Alex loved. Even Ruth had a little go. Heaps of Eagles around at lunch time swarming on the other unsuspecting birds. Relaxed in the natural surroundings for lunch before all heading back to the camp grounds.

We headed back to the campgrounds to drop Ruth and Bill off for an afternoon siesta of sorts. The rest of us headed to the amazing free water slides at Palmerston. A splash park and a race slide with 6 lanes all for nothing. The kids had a ball racing along with the big kids of Leanne, Vin and Fran. Chris was only there for a short time as he had problems to be fixed with his motor home! The best part was that nobody else was there. You were able to go straight back up the stairs for another slide as nobody was ever waiting. After a couple of hours we headed back to the camp site for dinner. An enjoyable day had by all!          

One of many races down free slide park at Palmerston- Abbey most often blitzing the field.

Day 21 – 23^rd July- Tuesday - Darwin.

Today we had an earlier start as the Barton’s, Snell’s, Nan and Pop headed off to the Adelaide River for a Jumping Crocodile Cruise near Fog Dam. This particular cruise had been recommended to us by several people that we have met along the way. It was a smaller boat, which only took up to 30 passengers. On boarding the boat we were met by a huge Saltwater Croc, who the guide called Dominator (4.5 metres long)! Some of us were already feeling rather apprehensive about going out in Crocodile infested waters in such a small boat anyway, then upon seeing Dominators there waiting for us made Leanne in particular want to stay on land!

 Captain Abbey- sitting on drivers chair for whole cruise at jumping crocs.

 JUMPING CROCS- ADELAIDE RIVER,DARWIN!

 Alex driving , with rest of clan enjoying the ride.

 Great catch by Brutus- very large croc!

The guide Morgan really knew his stuff and helped make the cruise really enjoyable, even allowing the Abbey, Riley, Jaz and Alex to have turns at driving the boat. We saw several Crocs and it was amazing to see how high they could jump out of the water to get the food. They were also more placid than we were expecting (well trained for doing this sort of thing). Another highlight of this cruise was seeing the eagles glide down from the trees to collect food from the water that Morgan had left for them. Both the Croc and the eagle are spectacular creatures!

After the cruise we went for a picnic lunch at an information place called Window on the Wetlands. This place had detailed displays about the habitat and creatures who live in this environment.

On returning to the caravan park we all had a swim in the pool to cool off and then Vin took Abbey and Riley back to the water slide park! Overall this day was a real high light due to seeing what amazing creatures’ crocodiles are.

 

Day 22 – 24^th July- Wednesday - Darwin.

Fun time for Abbey and Riley with Pop in the pool.

A relaxing day relaxing by the pool for a few hours with Nana and Pop (although Vin actually went for his first run today as well). In the afternoon we went into Darwin Centre to show Leanne, Nan and Pop what is there. A venture up Smith St, before heading back down Mitchell St (nice bars there), finishing with big beautiful ice-creams at Cool Rock ice-creamery. We then ventured to Cullen Bay to discover the many restaurants around the area (looked like a nice place to stay or eat). Somewhat similar to Patterson Lakes but a lot larger.

We then headed back to the park for dinner.

Day 23 – 25^th July- Thursday - Darwin.

Another relaxing morning around the park- it seems to be taking a little longer to get out of bed at the moment (too many late nights sitting around chatting). That afternoon we headed to the famous Mindil Markets (exciting times for the girls). We first went to browse the area and select some food for dinner- there was heaps of variety! After some time we all had our food so we headed to the famous Darwin sunset- WOW it didn’t disappoint. Took many fantastic photos whilst relaxing amongst the hundreds on the beach.

Riley and Abbey enjoying sunset at beach at Mindel Markets, Darwin

 Abbey, Nanna Ruth and Pop also at sunset.

After sunset and finishing our dinner we divided up for shopping at the markets. Vin and Riley didn’t shop, but went and watched some performers with fire- very impressive. Also watched some amazing didgeridoo playing. The girls went market hopping and so did Pop, Abbey eventually finding a few things that she liked- Pop bought her two pairs of earrings. Nana also bought Leanne a beautiful dress ring for her birthday called the mother of Pearl. However, Ruth has told Leanne she must wait for her birthday to wear it!

We then headed back to the Park at around 9pm.

 

 

Day 24 – 26^th July- Friday - Darwin.

An early morning start as we were going to spend the day at Litchfield National Park. WE had been told by many people that this is a beautiful place to and swim. We all took off by 9.00am, including Nan and Pop. It is great having our 7 seater and be able to fit extra passengers on board. It took us about an hour and a half to reach Wangi Falls at Litchfield. This awesome swimming spot was had an amazing waterfall as well. Of course Vin headed out to the waterfall, while Abbey, Riley and Pop were happy just swimming around. We also went for a work to work to the tree tops and saw a few interesting creatures along the way, including some wild boars and a large spider in its web.

 Leanne and Vin sharing a moment at Wangi Falls!

Our next stop at Litchfield was Tomlin Falls, which was about a 1km walk to a beautiful look out. Ruth was rather anxious about being so high up, but she was very brave!  By this of the day it was getting rather hot and we were all feeling hungry, so we had lunch in a shelter area at Tomlin Falls.

Pop, Nanna, Riley, Leanne and Abbey at Tomlin Falls.

After eating we all felt a bit more energised and ready to move onto the next swimming spot, which was Florence Falls. This was a quite a walk down to the swimming hole and the waterfall (lots of steps). It was a fantastic waterfall, but getting into the swimming hole was rather rocky! Abbey and Vin enjoyed snorkelling at this spot, but Riley was rather intimidated by the size of the fish!

 Pop and Nan relaxing in the shade at Florence Falls.
 Below: Vin and the kids snorkelling at Florence Falls.

Our final stop for the day was Buley Water Hole, which as the name suggests lots of small swimming holes. Vin, Riley and Abbey enjoyed jumping off the rocks into the swimming holes, while Leanne watched anxiously! This was a truly unique swimming spot and a great way to end our exploration of Litchfield National Park.

 Riley, Abbey and Vin jumping in at the water hole.

 

Perfect day weather wise in beautiful Darwin, once again!

Day 25 – 27^th July- Saturday - Darwin

Caught up with the Bean family this morning, from back home, they arrived last night from Kakadu. Decided to give the children a History lesson today and go to the World War 2 Museum in Darwin. This was a learning experience for all of us and very interesting. We didn’t realise how badly Darwin was bombed by the Japanese in 1942 and how severe this attack was. While at the Museum we saw a presentation on the attack which was very informative. There were also original weapons, army trucks and tanks from the war. It gave our children some insight into war and how destructive it is!

One of many weapons at the war museum which the family experienced.

After an in depth learning experience for the whole family, we decided to lighten the mood by checking out another free waterslide park they have here in Darwin.  We drove to Leanyer, his was fun and once again there was hardly anyone so we just had slide after slide. It made Abbey’s day when we got to the park and her friend Abbey, her sister Ella and mum (Donna) were also there. This was an added bonus!

That evening Nan and Pop offered to have Abbey and Riley over for dinner and a sleepover at their cabin. So we took the opportunity to go out for dinner at Cullen Bay. We went to a Thai Restaurant on the water front. Both the view and the food were fantastic! Thanks Mum and Bill, we had a lovely night and I know the kids loved staying with you!

A belated Anniversary dinner for Leanne and Vin at Cullen Bay.

Day 26 – 28^th July- Sunday - Darwin.

It is our last day in Darwin and we have really loved our time here. This morning after the kid finally came back from Mum and Bill’s cabin, after they enjoyed bacon and eggs breakfast cooked by pop we went to play squash. The park at Howard Springs had 2 squash courts, so we decided to introduce the children to the game of squash. We hired racquets from the caravan park, seeing we only bought away our tennis racquets. The kids enjoyed playing squash and got the hang of it pretty quick.  A swim was in order after sweating it out playing squash.

Finally gave the Prado a well overdue wash to help remove some of built up of red dust! After lunch decided to meet the Beans for one last go of the Waterslide Park at Palmerston. While at the park other friends Abbey and Riley have met from Cranbourne, Lachy and Darcy also turned up. So the The Snells, The Beans and The Ellis’ children all enjoyed racing each other and of course the biggest kid of them all, Vin! The waterslide parks have been a high light for us in Darwin.

For our last night poppy offered to take us all out to the local pub for dinner. We all enjoyed our meals much better than the band and the footy scores! Unfortunately tigers couldn’t get up against Sydney for the boys! Went back to Nan and Pops for a while after our dinner, so the kid could show us the card tricks Poppy had taught them! An early night needed by all as Mum and Bill have an early flight. Abbey and Riley said a reluctant and emotional good bye to Nan and Pop! We have loved sharing this part of our holiday catching up with family, firstly Fran, Chris, Jaz and Alex and then Nan and Pop!

 The kids showing their excitement for their time at Darwin- this was our site their.

 

Day 27 – 29^th July – Monday - Darwin - Kakadu

An early morning trip to the airport for Leanne as Ruth and Bill’s flight departed from Darwin Airport at 7.15am. An emotional good bye at the airport, as it has been so lovely catching up and spending time with Mum and Bill! Now to back to our family adventure, today we are heading to Kakadu and we are looking forward to the cultural experience it has to offer.

We have decided to make Cooinda Resort, near Yellow Waters our base for our time in Kakadu. This park has been recommended by several people. We will then do day trips around Kakadu from here. Kakadu offer many free Ranger guided activities which we were told are excellent. Once we were all set up we went for a quick swim in the amazing pool and then headed off to our first ranger activity. We went on a guided walk and sunset look out in the Nourlangie Region. This was a great way to start our time in Kakadu.

 Ranger giving in depth commentary on the lagoons and rock formations at Kakadu.

 Abbey posing again on a rock at the Nourlangie Region- Kakadu.