Australian Bushcraft: October 2009

Saturday, October 10, 2009

Flinders Ranges

Well been a little slack of late. Back from an awesome out back trip travelling to Hillston, Ivanhoe, Menindee lakes, Yunta, Arkarolla and the Flinders Ranges. Australia is such an amazing place with an incredibly diverse range of ecosystems. I had the opportunity to test some new gear (Bacho folding saw, Mountain Designs Sprite Tent, Black Diamond Ion head torch, Leatherman multi tool, Andy Strapz adventure panniers, Katmandhu gas burner, Katmandhu Sleeping Mat) and will over the next few months post reviews on these items.

This trip was undertaken on a motorbike with 3 friends and was a brilliant way to travel, if not somewhat challenging. Some days we covered big distances across wind sweept dunes. At night we would sit around a campsite and talk about the days adventure and life in general. Is there anything that is comparable to being out in the wilderness with good friends?

Here's a few pics.

At the campsite at Hillston

Old gold mining site near Yunta South Australia

Not much grows out here

Ivanho Menindee road 200km outback road

Menindee Lakes was a highlight of the trip. Beautiful red sand and plentiful wildlife. The lake was empty due to the tributary water being diverted to agricultural land and drinking water for near by towns. Also the drought has had an impact. When ever it fills up with water I will be heading back as supposedly millions of birds flock to the area.