Now in Western Australia. Very strict quarantine and they searched the car / trailer at the border to make sure there was no fresh fruit, vegetables or honey. Obviously trying to protect the massive Ord Irrigation Region agricultural industry from pests and diseases.
The caravan park was on the hill overlooking the Lake. Very impressive but also quite windy while we were there. They have an infinity edge pool that looks spectacular. Had a (very brief) swim with the kids - it was freezing.
Lake Argyle is fantastic. I remember Andrew (my brother) swam across it some years back raising money for the RFDS but I (we) never really knew anything about it. The largest man made lake in the southern hemisphere built during the dry seasons between 1969 and 1976. at 100% capacity it is 24 times the size of sydney Harbour. When it floods it is 84 times the size! It reached its highest ever capacity in March this year and is currently at over 150%. Every six hours the same volume as Sydney Harbour washes over the spill way and out to sea. The water has a high calcium content and is not used for drinking much. The main uses are irrigation and to supply the Argyle Diamond Mine (no I have not been shopping!)
We went for a fantastic sunset cruise on the Lake. Heard alot about its history and saw some fantastic wildlife - fresh water crocodiles, Euros (wallaroos), fledgeling kites and other bird life. The sheer size of the lake at the moment is indescribable. The kids have really enjoyed this stop off and learnt alot. Tom missed a school excursion to Lake Wivenhoe while he is away - this has made up for it!
I am currently sitting here wearing thermals and 2 polar fleece jumpers with a balaclava and beanie. The nights here are cool!
Lake Argyle is fantastic. I remember Andrew (my brother) swam across it some years back raising money for the RFDS but I (we) never really knew anything about it. The largest man made lake in the southern hemisphere built during the dry seasons between 1969 and 1976. at 100% capacity it is 24 times the size of sydney Harbour. When it floods it is 84 times the size! It reached its highest ever capacity in March this year and is currently at over 150%. Every six hours the same volume as Sydney Harbour washes over the spill way and out to sea. The water has a high calcium content and is not used for drinking much. The main uses are irrigation and to supply the Argyle Diamond Mine (no I have not been shopping!)
We went for a fantastic sunset cruise on the Lake. Heard alot about its history and saw some fantastic wildlife - fresh water crocodiles, Euros (wallaroos), fledgeling kites and other bird life. The sheer size of the lake at the moment is indescribable. The kids have really enjoyed this stop off and learnt alot. Tom missed a school excursion to Lake Wivenhoe while he is away - this has made up for it!
Very arty photographs David. Good to see that you are experienceing some cold weather over there! We are getting the contract for your emergency supervisor teaching position this week. Hopefully we can organise for someone to fill it.
ReplyDeleteRegards Jim H
Photos and commentary excellent. Looking forward to more though as you continue your journey. Keep safe, Monique @QEMRF
ReplyDeleteCameras working well - great family shots
ReplyDeleteJac