Meningie/ The Coorong

Oh my goodness. I don’t think I have ever experienced 45 degree heat before! Captain did an amazing job today as we left Kingston this morning after photos at the big lobster and sundial.  We had planned to stay at Coorong National Park, but of course, the habitat is sandy, with low shrubs (i.e. No shade, and shallow water…) and in the heat today, we took a look and drove on towards the next caravan park.  Despite our plans to free camp it for a few more days, we were not prepared to put ourselves and the kids in dangerous heat!  We did get to view some pelicans wading in the Coorong though – Nick decided it must be Mr Percival.  (Ben is halfway through reading Storm Boy to the kids and they don’t yet know the ending)  Spotting the beach humpies was also pretty cool – and Nick was delighted to see a daddy emu and his 3 babies walking nearby.  So how did we handle the 45 degree weather?  Easy – we booked into a cabin in the closest park (just $75 a night) that supplied us with air conditioning and TV.  It was well worth every dollar as we watched the kid’s faces return to their normal colour.  It was so cute seeing the kids explore our new home – excited by every feature despite its small size and simplicity (i.e., no ensuite!)  I guess it really is luxury for them after what we have had the last few nights.

During the afternoon we sat by the lake and watched the storm roll in.  Lightning hitting land starting fires on the other side of the lake was scary and impressive at the same time.

Thursday morning was a wonderful experience with a special arranged visit to Camp Coorong to meet with Aunty Ellen (amazing Ngarringjeri woman).  She spent time with just the five of us teaching us how to weave baskets and arm bands – while telling us about her family history, and dreamtime stories.  We loved hearing the story of the pelican (king of the air) and blue wren – in the competition to see who could fly the highest.  It made sense why I have always taken to wrens – the cheeky bird hid in the pelican’s wing, so he could get the highest… though it means he now spends most of his time low to the ground.  The boys also appreciated playing with the shield and weaponry in the museum (Aunty Ellen encouraged them to touch and have fun – much to their delight, and my anxiety – particularly with the carved emu eggs).  Thank you Aunty Ellen for an incredible morning, we feel blessed to have met you.