Carinya Escapes ....

We met up with JC, Bill, Doreen, Marilyn, Gidget, Iggy, Joslin, Les & Joy at the entrance to Carinya Escapes. After paying our fees & meeting the friendly owners, Tony & Marilyn Moten, we proceeded across the farm tracks until we reached our secluded camping area. Bill had brought a stack of firewood tied to his roof rack. This was collected at the previous campsite at Carrieton. If only JC had read the Carinya brochure, "We supply all firewood for your convenience." Tony Moten had supplied us with an enormous amount of firewood that allowed us to have a roaring campfire to keep the cold at bay.

After setting up we commenced driving on the 13km 4wd trail. The King & Queen of Freebies (Paul & Barb) passed us & decided to stay at camp as they have done the trail before with their Tour Group. They were to continue on the next day to explore another property further north.

The 4wd trail was not too difficult but interesting as we drove up to the lookout. Highlights along the track were numerous Yakka plants, big boulders that resembled a stack of woolbales, & a huge eagle’s nest that had fallen to the ground. Some tricky manoeuvres along the track let us to drive in an aptly named "Hidden Valley".

Another self drive tour that was well worth spending some dollars on. We arrive back at camp and celebrate the departure of Les & Joy :-), as they had work commitments the next day.

The chill of the night was negated by the warmth of our huge campfire, (of course not as big as the previous nights, as I was continually reminded). Gidget was brushed aside as I fought for Iggys leftovers of pork chops and stir fried veggies, keeping my title of camp dog. Much later in the night, feeling peckish, a whole block of cheese served on an esky lid was demolished by the starving campers.

Waking up next morning, Paul & Barb were packed early and ready to go to their next destination. JC was seen sneaking off in his firies jacket and shovel when he was reminded of the excellent long-drop available. It must have exceeded expectations, as he was off for another visit before we left, with the only complaint being a light was needed. JC thought it would be best if Cindy & I were Tail-end Charlie, as he reckoned we needed the responsibility. After 10 sets of bloody gates to shut, we’ve decided to stay being irresponsible.

After calling back at the Motens’ and signing the visitor’s book, we went to a local tourist stop, Magnetic Hill that was 4km away. After a mind boggling and intriguing experience of letting our vehicles roll uphill, (well Cindy, Joslyn & I were believers) we left for our next destination of the Bridle Track. The Bridle (Bridal ?) Track runs about 10km north of Germein Gorge, and is a little used track meandering through the countryside (more gates). From here there are spectacular views of Pt Pirie, Whyalla and Port Augusta. If you ever head up past Port Pirie, ask for the directions as it is a very worthwhile experience (and its FREE)

Bill, Doreen, Marilyn & Gidget leave us here, with Bill politely letting me overtake him so I didn’t have to shut that last bloody gate. Not long after, Iggy & Joslyn also leave the convoy as they were still on holidays and were heading to Peterborough before going on to Broken Hill and beyond.

JC had done his best to get rid of everyone, but he couldn’t shake us off. After stopping at Clare and witnessing him purchase about 20 buckets of honey, we were left wondering why so many?

Thanks JC for another enjoyable and well organised trip.

Rick

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