Alice Springs , Devils Marbles, Daly Waters Pub, Bitter Springs.

The weather is definitely warming up. Alice Springs, this morning was reasonable (Monday). About 2oC. Once we crossed the Tropic of Capricorn, it instantly warmed up. Mid to high 20’s for most of the afternoon. It was very pleasant in shorts and thongs. It is just starting to cool off now as the sun gets lower.

We were up early for an 8am get away. 7.54am to be precise! We wanted to get to Devils Marbles early enough to get a spot at the adjacent campground. We were here by 1pm. There were still a dozen or so spaces left, so we had no problem. But traffic has rolled in all afternoon. Small campers and tents can squeeze in, but many are having to move on to the next “freebie” about 15km up the road or back at the Pub. I say “freebie”, but actually $3.30 each. A bargain for such a beautiful setting. Fire pits, some tables/seats, and long drop toilets. I think we will use the van toilet today. Leave the long drops for those without their own loos! Very good of us. (If you get my drift or whiff!)

We have been for a stroll around the “Marbles”. (Or Debils Marvels). They are quite fascinating. Big balls of granite sitting in all sorts of places. They are created by erosion from rain. Layers peel off or break off. Some of the more recent breaks show beautiful granite.

Walking around, you can see all sorts of shapes, even various animals created from breakaways. (If you use your imagination). This place is Australia’s version of Stonehenge, only created by nature.

We had a lovely night last night with the travellers from either side of us. We lit the fire in the pit provided. The outside temperature was comfortable (for the first time this journey). The younger couple were week 4 into 12 months going the same direction as us. A 3 yo and a 7 yo in tow. The other couple were heading south after 3 months. 

This morning we left the “Marbles” and have ended up at Daly Waters. An iconic outback pub (with camping as most of them do). Military troops were stationed (or a holding outpost) here during WW 2. There is an aerodrome that was developed during that period.

The pub has “things” hanging from everywhere. Shirts, hats, underwear, coins, notes (foreign currency mostly), all sorts of things. Had a drink during “happy hour” and about to return for dinner. BBQ beef n barra. The place is packed again. We are out in the unpowered, dusty section, but it’s okay for a night. ($20). Toilets and showers not far away. 

A great meal, Barra was fantastic. Should be since it was local (well 600km up the road.). Entertainment was provided. A Counrty singer early on. The duo later on, Lou Bradley & Phil, were great. Played music from AC/DC to Beatles to Kenny Rogers and anything in between. A great rendition of American Pie, was very popular. All age groups here appreciating the music.

They were taking requests from the crowd, but didn’t promise to know all requests. Not being able to hear all the requests, the female singer comes out with a classic quote - “I don’t understand “P#$s idiot.” Very funny. 

Once again, we are blown away by the volume of people travelling. It may thin out eventually, but not too soon. We have just a short drive tomorrow to get to Bitter Springs (about 160 km) where we plan to spend the afternoon floating down the Springs (a river) on our pool noodles. 

Arrived at Bitter Springs this morning at 11am. We got the last powered site! ($35 pn).   Once settled, we walked down to the Springs, about 500m, with our pool noodles. It’s a thermal creek, you hop in, float down, do it all again. Temperature is about 27oC.  Just perfect for Queenslanders!  It is a stunning place, clear water, plenty of growth along the banks, so relaxing. After a few floats, we wandered  back to get the goggles and camera. Now I don’t have a waterproof camera or case, so i had to improvise. Snaplock bag did the job, although the photos aren’t perfect (some glare and drops of water), but you get an idea of how beautiful this “natural water park” is.

Technical difficulties, as I can’t load any more photos. More of Bitter Springs next time. 

Cheers.