Seems like such a long time ago now! That's what happens when you go from one end of the country (Cape York) to the other (Adelaide) and halfway back again (Simpson Desert)...
We had such a great time with a really fantastic group of people, and while things were busy busy busy, we managed to still soak up the absolute stunning beauty of our surrounds.
Here's a few snapshots...
We were treated to a night of amazing dance and culture, presented by students at
Djarragun College. Here are some of the young guys who are from Cape York country.
Running tours, particularly for large groups, can sometimes mean you don't have much time to look around, because you're always looking after the group's needs. Here is one example of when I was glad I put down the tea towel and walked the 50 metres from our campsite at Cape Tribulation to the beach for the sunrise. Picture perfect. Looks so beautiful it's almost a cliche, except when you're standing there with the warm morning breeze and the lulling ocean, it's very real and almost overwhelming.
Camping with 40 people is mayhem! But organised chaos at that. Arriving at camp means a bustle of activity begins, with tents, mats, sleeping bags and luggage going everywhere. Sleeping in a swag means you can pick a quiet spot (away from the snorers!).
Not everyone made it across dry. One of the river crossings on the Bloomfield Track, right in the heart of the Daintree. Crocodiles? Hmmm... Well this rider made it out unscathed! The couple on the other side got their kodak moment too.
Another creek crossing, this time on the road from Laura to Jowalbinna. After riding across this creek, everyone took some time to soak up the deliciously cool water and soothe tired muscles.
And finally, this is me driving across one of the deeper river crossings.
Fun!
Preparing morning tea for hungry riders. Fruit cake, mixed dried fruit & nuts, apples, biscuits, tea, coffee, milo...
I was stoked to have my sister join us and help out around camp, and she was stoked to be riding (my bike!) until the saddle soreness started to kick in.
This is our dinner cooking in the camp oven at Old Andado Station, what a beautiful place to be watching the sun set. I know why Molly Clark still tries to sneak back there when she can.
Me watching while another dinner is cooking over the coals. Peter is an amazing camp cook and his meals are always delicious.
Our borrowed mascot, Moe, and I are in the Painted Desert. It is so much brighter in real life. The colours were amazing, and there was actually a green tinge to the ground below.
