Arrived at Smith Resort in Orange and were shown to our room. Over the next 2 days we relaxed, did some last minute shopping for food, made Chloe laugh a few times, and created an awesome train set with Noah. Kaz made a great pharaoh outfit for Noah's Friday afternoon dance party. A quick trip out to Ophir with Daz before a final goodbye and we set off. Thanks guys.
Only 100kms up the road and we arrived at Wellington Caves and set up camp in the caravan park. This is night number 1 of many, many more to come. Sunday we left the camper parked and drove to Dubbo to visit the zoo - a very hot day with most of the animals resting in the shade so didn't see too much - the meerkats were fun, and the Galapagos turtles were very frisky.
On the return journey back to camp we detoured via Ponto Falls camping reserve which is a nice spot along the river with swimming and fishing options. Toilet facilities will soon be installed.
Monday we did a tour of the Cathedral Cave before driving to Gulgong where we had lunch atop Flirtation Hill lookout - great views.
Only 100kms up the road and we arrived at Wellington Caves and set up camp in the caravan park. This is night number 1 of many, many more to come. Sunday we left the camper parked and drove to Dubbo to visit the zoo - a very hot day with most of the animals resting in the shade so didn't see too much - the meerkats were fun, and the Galapagos turtles were very frisky.
On the return journey back to camp we detoured via Ponto Falls camping reserve which is a nice spot along the river with swimming and fishing options. Toilet facilities will soon be installed.
Monday we did a tour of the Cathedral Cave before driving to Gulgong where we had lunch atop Flirtation Hill lookout - great views.
Many old buildings and history in the town - could have spent more time here. We then headed via Ulan (wanted to see where the oil was mined) and then to Coolah Tops national park. Stayed at Barracks camping area - fantastic campsite with fresh water, lots of timber, shade, and resident kangaroos that were very friendly and interested in watching our every move.
On Tuesday we went out exploring - Rocky Creek falls, then Bundella lookout (awesome views),
and then Pinnacles lookout (again awesome views).
Back to camp for lunch, before heading out again to a walk to Norfolk Falls, then Bracken's Hut, Bald Creek Falls, and finally a bit of 4wdriving to Talbrager falls. Back to camp, then a short walk to a Forrest of grass trees, then spent the night around the fire with June and Barry from Rouse Hill - they own Turtle Landscaping Supplies.
Wednesday was moving day again, so we packed up the camper and took the back roads to Coonabarabran, only to find out that the entire Warrumbungles area is still closed with no camping or bush walks allowed due to the recent bushfires. Bugger, bum, pooh!!!!!!! Was really wanting to visit here, and we had driven about 100kms out of the way too. Change of plans and we were now heading to Lake Keepit state park, and setup camp by the lake. Went for a swim, then a shower to freshen up before dinner.
Wednesday was moving day again, so we packed up the camper and took the back roads to Coonabarabran, only to find out that the entire Warrumbungles area is still closed with no camping or bush walks allowed due to the recent bushfires. Bugger, bum, pooh!!!!!!! Was really wanting to visit here, and we had driven about 100kms out of the way too. Change of plans and we were now heading to Lake Keepit state park, and setup camp by the lake. Went for a swim, then a shower to freshen up before dinner.
Not quite as nice a spot as Coolah Tops but not too bad either. If you get a chance, we would highly recommend Coolah Tops for a great spot to spend a few days.
Weather over the last few days has been great, with warm days and cool nights. Met some great people already, with many stories to share and happy to pass on the knowledge.
More to come soon......
Di and Hammo
