El Questro

Out of the Bungles, north a few hundred or so kms, (filling up at a strange little garage – that allows you to purchase a max of $99 of fuel) then west on the Gibb River Rd into El Questro.  What a piece of paradise in the heart of the Kimberly.  Established on the banks of the Penticost River, El Questro is a homestead complete with horses, helicopters, bar, steakhouse and very expensive fuel ($2.36 a litre).  We arrived mid-afternoon and set about making our little home for the next few days.  As the night cooled we sat with Bec, Andrew and new friends Jim, Debbie and Susan to plan out the attack of the Gorges for the next day, and share stories.

As decided, our convoy of three cars drove to Amalia Gorge for the morning walk.  It was quite a good walk taking up most of the morning– which Larina again did so well at.  We reached the top of the gorge to be treated to a waterfall off a towering cliff face into a cool pool of water.  Out came the swimmers and in we went.  Ahhhhh.  The swims always make the work worthwhile!

On the way back down, the Homard family decided the next walk was beyond them, as Larina’s fingers were in her mouth indicating Ben was to going to provide a shoulder ride for the remaining journey.  For everyone at home, Larina has grown quite a lot since December last year – and put on a good amount of muscle too.

Friday, we took a day of rest and drove 70km along the Gibb River Rd, out to Home Valley station, and crossing the famous Penticost River.  Every time we slow down before a river crossing now, Sam casually says to Ben from the back seat “yep, just drive straight through the guts Dad”, which is echoed by Larina who sits in the middle of the back seat – with prime view and a massive grin across her face.  That evening we took advantage of the steakhouse, and had a romantic dinner for two (kids in bed with Bec and Andrew sitting outside to keep watch – thanks guys!)



crossing the Penticost River on the Gibb River Road... too easy mate!

Saturday started with a wonderful breakfast celebration of Elle's 9th Birthday.  And what better way to do it than in true camping style  - Andrew and Bec built the most spectacular birthday pan-cake.  This involved a stack of pancakes held together with jam, (cake height) with icing sugar and candles on top.  Bec even managed to slice it like a true cake, which was impressive.  We all enjoyed being a part of the celebrations before hitting El Questro gorge - to conquer the one that got away from us. It was a pretty walk, again with a nice rewarding (but cool) swim at halfway pool where we pulled up for morning tea before retreating back to the car.

 

the boys enjoyed criss-crossing through the water all the way up



saddleback lookout memories - at sunset