The Australian Outback can be hot, arid and brutal during summer. However, a visit during the cooler winter months is a different proposition. The long distances are the same, it is around 13 hours drive to Longreach from Brisbane. As usual, our first task was looking for somewhere to set up the OzTent RV5 and get out our bikes.
Ideal grassed campsite at the Longreach Caravan Park.
We visited the tourist information centre for a local map and suggestions for bike ride destinations. Internet out here can be very hit and miss, a hard copy map is handy. We headed north along the old highway towards the Beersheba Place memorial and small lake.
Beersheba Memorial on the bike path to Riverside Park.
The old highway continues to the Thomson River and bridge crossing. The Apex Park here is usally packed this time of year, so it was nice to be able to explore it on our own.
Old Highway bridge over the Thompson River.
Apex Park overlooking the Thompson River.
A short ride south out of Longreach along the Thomson Development Road is the Iningai Native Floral and Fauna Park. This is probably best explored on foot, but we gave it a go on the bikes.
Grand entry to the Iningai Native Flora and Fauna Park
Interpretive board and signage near the main entry.
Under the shade of a Colibah tree… yep, we had just come from Winton.
The paths and water flow crossings need work, but as a way to experience the local landscape it is worth the effort.
Negotiating the path
The surrounding bush has it own beauty and attraction. It can be an acquired taste, but one that I like.
The Australian Outback.