Roger and Dolly travelled to the Flinders Ranges, North of Adelaide, where they ventured through various outback towns including Farina, Maree, William Creek and of course, Kati Thanda – Lake Eyre.
The Bendleby has picturesque scenes of sprawling sheep and cattle properties, many of which have been handed down through generations. The Luckraft family own a sheep station, which is open to the public. It’s easy to see why they’ve been living here for five generations—not only because of the magnificent ranges surrounding their property, but for the big-ticket item: the Billy Goat Ridge.
A narrow one-way track mixed with loose rocks and steep declines offers an extraordinary view at the peak. Be aware: only experienced drivers should tackle this track… have a slow and steady approach to each obstacle and you’ll have a blast.
Along the Bunyeroo trail, the Ikara Flinders Ranges National Park features a mountain range stretching over 400 kilometres, with the highest point reaching over 1,100 metres above sea level. From the peak, the Bunyeroo Valley can be seen — which is nothing short of spectacular.
Heading further north, almost a 3-hour drive to a town that is technically abandoned, Farina has been resurrected by the passionate volunteers of the Farina restoration group. The people power of the 150-family strong group is incredible! Ordinary Australians who saw a problem and decided to do something about it.
Roger and Dolly then ventured to Marree — a town recognised for the home of Tom Kruse’s legendary mail truck. It was there he gave several tips for maintaining a healthy air filter and why you should check your oil while on long outback trips.
About 200 kilometres to the next stop on a dusty, dry and very bumpy dirt road, Roger came across some very quirky artwork built by a local retired mechanic, Robin Cook. His artistic style defies classification as his road-side masterpieces attract many visitors to witness his peculiar talent! It’s definitely worth stopping for.
William Creek was the next stop on Roger’s list. Its official population is just five people — but being the gateway to Lake Eyre — there are always many more stopping by. Some say Lake Eyre is the most pristine river system in the world, so there’s no question as to why many travel to William Creek to fly from Australia’s biggest uncontrolled airport, and soar over the Australian Outback.
Roger was able to share the entire experience with Trevor Wright, who has been flying his whole life and doing the William Creek to Lake Eyre run for more than 30 years.
While in the air, Roger spied a spot for dinner just outside town, a place called Kati Thanda — Lake Eyre National Park. And although it’s only a 60-km drive to the Halligan Bay camp ground, Roger believes he found the worst road in Australia… but it’s certainly well worth the journey for the view at the end.
