Mid morning on Sunday (11th October) we headed in the direction of Dubbo. There are basically three main attractions, the Taronga Zoo, the old Dubbo goal and the Royal Flying Doctor Visitor Centre. Zoos we have been to, many both in Australia and overseas. Goals we have seen as well, not as an inmate but for work many years ago. So we decided it was to be the Flying Doctors experience.
Back on the road we had plenty of time so we stopped for lunch at Narromine and ordered a hamburger at a takeaway. Being busy I googled the Flying Doctor and discovered that it closed early on Sunday 3:00. Not enough time for a visit today it would have to wait until tomorrow. At least the hamburgers were delicious.
We then drove through Dubbo and out to a free camping area, again next to a river. The Ponto Falls Reserve on the banks of the Macquarie River. A busy stop but everyone was well spaced out and quiet. We were told that there were platypus in the river and it wasn’t until the next morning that we saw one. Tried to take a photo but alas none turned out. It was the first time we have seen one in the wild.
We left early Monday morning and headed to Dubbo, first stopping to do some shopping and have an iced coffee in a cafe. With no ice in Scamp we have to indulge when we can.
Royal Flying Doctor Visitor Centre
We did make sure we had plenty of time today and we arrived late morning. The staff were very friendly and explained how to use the centre to its full potential. With plenty to read and interactive screens we spent a couple of hours there and were impressed. Worth the $18 per person entry.
Trip to Bunnings
There are always things that can improve in our little Scamp and we thought a toothbrush and cup holder would be useful. With a Bunnings in town we called in and not only purchased a toothbrush holder but a disposable barbeque and a broad rim hat. All three purchases were a success.
Back to Bogan river
When looking for a place to spend the night we consulted our Wikicamp app and again found a pleasant spot next to a river about 6 kilometres out from the town of Peak Hill. The river was the same Bogan River we had stayed next to days before only much further south. Ewout went in for a swim, water ok but the bottom was very boggy and slippery.
Barbeque success
We thought we would try our disposable barbeque that night, cooking some Moroccan spiced lamb ribs. It lit really easy and we cooked the ribs for over an hour with enough heat left in the beads to heat water for dishes. Easy way to cook a meal without having to light a fire or use gas.
With only one other couple at our overnight spot is was a quiet night. Tomorrow we are off the Parkes.
About Scamp
As we like to stay in isolated places you are probably wondering where do we go to the toilet? When I rebuilt the bedding area I incorporated a portapotty which is concealed when not in use.
