Travels from Kununurra Tuesday 24th Aug

Last Friday was our last working day at HCJB.  One of the features of the day was the bush fires all around.  There have been fires bringing smoke over the area on some days, but they seemed to have cleared.  Friday saw fires coming close to the ‘antenna farm” ie the out the back land where the new transmission and towers are being constructed.  So there was some concern while that was happening.  That fire had started further out along Packsaddle Road.  The men continued working till they felt that it was getting near, so they then retreated to the transmission building.  After some time it was felt that things were under control.  Local bush fire brigades and the WA Rural Fire Authority were working on it, and making fire breaks.  Reports said that there had also been fires to the East of the town around the same time.

Looking out from near our camp site that evening it was possible to see glowing fires in a semi circle around the area.  There was some wind but it was blowing the fire away.  It did look a bit alarming, but later in the evening it seemed to be less.

The next day when we departed for El Questro the fire seemed to have abated.  There was some smoke, but it had cleared and did not affect our views as we drove further away to the West.

Monday morning we stayed for morning tea – in fact I still put in my share of food for that day as others on the roster had already left.  So it was our time to be farewelled and thanked for our contribution with a certificate.  We said farewell to everyone, feeling sad that our time was over.  The caravan had been packed and ready by this time, so we left soon after.

We had a look at Apex Park which is on the West side of the Ord River below the Diversion Dam.  We hadn’t noticed it before.  It gave another view of the Diversion Dam.  There was a short stop in town to post cards, and get a few groceries.  Then we set off East this time back along the road we had come in on 4 weeks before.  Our journey was only about 80 ks, turning right about 35 ks out, as we went to the Caravan Park at Argyle Dam.  There is more dramatic scenery.  We arrived early enough to join a cruise on the Lake Argyle.  This was very enjoyable.  A little cooler on the water.  One of the lovely things was for the boat to stop in a couple of places and most of us went in for a swim, just off the back of the boat.  Since it was so hot(37C), it was a great way to cool down.  Some of the children on board had a marvellous time, jumping in, swimming into the under section of the twin hull boat!  It was quite safe.

Today we’ve made the journey as far as Victoria River, stopping for lunch at Timber Creek.  It’s been a very hot day.  Having air con in the car makes for comfortable travelling.  Sitting here now in the evening, the temperature is 30 deg C in the van, it was up to 37 during the day.  A no sheet night again tonight.