Twogreenfrogs

 It was known as Darwin's only prison until the 1st of September 1979, when the last of the inmates that were housed there, were transported to the new Berrimah Prison, where it stands today. Facing towards the ocean is the Fannie Bay Gaol.  You would not know that there is a prison behind the tall fence today, apart from a small sign near the front gate.   Sign at the front gate. Stepping through the prison gate, you enter what was originally the former visiting area.  A wire partition separates the visitor from the prisoner.  A sign posted on the wire reads " You must speak English". There is no special room or chairs to ease your comfort while visiting the prisoner and no walls if it rained.  This area was later extended to be enclosed for contact visiting. It would have made life more pleasant when the wet season came. At the prison gate, you are greeted by a volunteer who will explain the best way to see the different buildings in the Gaol, where the amenities are lo

 As you drive down the road you begin to realize that something is different.  You are now entering a place like nowhere else in Australia. Where animals and pedestrians have right of way and cars, caravans and motorhomes must give way.  Speed is walking pace through the main street.  Though you have to watch the road for the occasional wandering cattle, donkey or horse. Tim, horse, donkey and goat The need to look at everything at once is very compelling, please find a spot, if you can, and park your vehicle then walk back to have a look and take photos.  Don't forget to stop in at the pub for a coffee and one of their great meals.  We had lunch and then went back later for their lovely "Beef and Barra" meals.  This one you have to book in advance during the busy season, so when you book your site for the night, book your dinner also. So, what is there to see, I hear you ask?  well, there is: - Kevin the crocodile, who apparently eats naughty children, buffalo meat and c

The cave entrance.  While visiting Katherine, we decided to venture out to visit the Cutta Cutta Caves.  Something different from the usual tourist sights.  The Caves are approximately 30 kilometres south of Katherine and are well signed so you cannot miss the turn off. The road into the information centre is not very wide, but it is sealed.  There are toilets provided with some tables and chairs in the information centre building. There are also some souvenirs, a drink fridge and an ice cream fridge. Before you go visiting the caves it is a good idea to ring and book a tour as they can be very popular and full depending on the time of day.  The tours leave the centre hourly with the last tour at 3pm.  Be aware that it is the bush and so there can be other creatures about like spiders and snakes, so please wear closed in shoes.  It is also a requirement of the tour, so no Aussie work boots aka thongs or sandals. Snake markings  The Limestone caves go 15 metres below the surface of the

 While touring around Borroloola and the Gulf Region of the Northern Territory, a visit to the Caranbirini Conservation Reserve is worth a look (or Garambarini as the locals call it and regard it as one of their favourite places).  It is approximately 45 kilometres south of Borroloola and 705 kilometres southeast of Darwin. This area is also protected. You must remember to take with you some water, some snacks if you want to take your time and look for wildlife and of course your camera, a good hat and walking shoes.  Use insect repellent, (yes there are plenty of flies and other insects) and do not sit on the ground to protect against mosquitos and mites that can carry disease. Remember that snakes are around in the bush so be aware of your surroundings and enjoy.  Do you need a 4wd? No, the Reserve is accessible by car with 500m of gravel road from the main highway. You are not allowed to camp in the reserve.   Wren resting on a water lily There are 3 walks that you can take: - Carab

 If you are lucky enough to be driving along the Carpentaria Highway don't forget to stop at the Caravan Park at Borroloola.  "Why?" I hear you ask. Well, why not.  There are a number of things to see in the area and it is a good base to stay and drive to visit the surrounding area.  So, what is there to see I hear you ask?  Borroloola was established as a port on the McArthur River in the early 1880's, Borroloola was gazetted on 10th September 1885 with the first allotments for sale later that year.  It served as a supply depot for many drovers and miners who visited the area using the Gulf Road. Mine conveyor belt and Gulf of Carpentaria. There is a small place called Bing Bong, a little further on from Borroloola, which is mainly a boat ramp surrounded by trees on each side.  While visiting here please be aware that there are crocodiles in this area.  Apparently, you can catch Barramundi and crabs at the ramp.  It is a prime spot for fishing that you might find har

Every place you visit, no matter where you are, has a history.  Have you ever wondered how a place started or what it was like when the pioneers first rode out here many years ago?  These two green frogs, we have an interest in history no matter where we go, so our first place to visit in Katherine is the museum. Old trucks and a Blitz When you first enter the main part of the museum you are greeted by a lovely lady who tells you all about what you can see in the different sheds and can answer your questions about the history of Katherine.  The main building houses items from World War 2 when it came to the region, a selection of wedding dresses from years gone by, clothing from past time worn by everyday women and the armed forces.  A section of Indigenous spears, hunting spears, boomerangs and didgeridoos. There are photos of when a flood came to Katherine wreaking havoc in the area, some would say we are in the outback how can it flood.  Unfortunately, it isn't just a problem th