Repacking the panniers and folding camping gear was slow going this morning. I had gone for a long walk to see the falls and cliffs of this part of the park, but the focus had been on stretching and freeing up the painful area in my back. The river was beautiful,


and the crocodile trap was a reminder not to swim


The front toilet block also had a shower with hot water so I aimed the nozzle at the offending part of my back, which along with the movement, helped. They were the most interesting toilets for the trip so far.



Another 10am start, I rode my way back to the highway and the 60kms to Katherine. I stopped for a nice cooked breakfast and large mug of coffee and was feeling human again.

Another 100 metres down the road was the shopping complex where I bought some breakfast things, fresh fruit and slipped into the pharmacy for some much needed pain-killers and anti-inflammatories. It was only another 100kms to Mataranka Springs where I pulled in with the mercury approaching 40C.

The springs were as I remember them. At around 33C, the springs form part of the Roper River in the Elsey Conservation Reserve. The surrounds have a walking path and stone walls, almost resembling a swimming pool. Tall palms full of thousands of red flying foxes surround the area with their calls and quarrels echoing through the dense canopy.



I relaxed in the water for a good hour and a half, reminding me why this is an oasis and a must to visit. The homestead with overpriced campsites - $24 unpowered – is at the entrance to the park.

I decided to use the hammock tonight as there were two solid straight trees and a shady spot to park Ziggy. I felt it may rain as it has for most nights since I’ve been in the Territory so I set up the parachute tarp – still unsure if it has earned it’s place in the kit yet.


I completed the camp set up, covered Ziggy and walked to the bar area for a refreshing lemon, lime and bitters. The heavens opened up and continued pouring for three hours, amongst some spectacular thunder and lightning.


I waited for the rain to stop before picking my way through the muddy ground to the hammock. My bed was dry. Bonus!

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