Chores done, now pleasure, sightseeing. We had heard about Sandalwood trees but knew nothing about the industry. We had actually seen them but didn't know what they were. They are such a beautiful green a neat tree.
Went to the Sandalwood Cafe/information centre, watched an 8 min film and saw the beautiful cosmetics & souvenirs. The trees take 14 years to mature then the process of getting the oil has various methods of extraction. This area uses water because it's available, irrigation everywhere, the Ord river that created Lake Argyle is the supplier. I'm cross with myself for not buying Sandalwood body lotion, it was beautiful. A dab on my hands lasted for hours and felt so soft. Sandalwood export is one of the main industries up here & prices continue to rise. Good for employment also as there is continual planting.
Next stop was the Ivanhoe River Crossing. It was spectacular. No way was Brian driving his pristine IZUSU through that river......it has saltwater crocodile in it. It was 'Drive at your own risk'. We were very happy to watch others do it. There were more spectators then daring drivers.
Back home, quietly reading & drinking coffee when I remembered it was time to get our monthly pills, off into town. The Pharmacy was so busy it took 1/2 hr, then home again to pack for early departure tomorrow (today) then more importantly, for Brian to catch the shuttle bus in to watch Richmond......(lose.....again!!!) The only consolation was Melbourne Storm won.
Up at 6am & on the road 7.15 for 220k to a free camp. We know to be early to pick a good sight, level ground, face south, not tooooo far from the toilet, then watch everyone else circle around looking for their site. This is by the 'dry' portion of the Ord River and we even had visitors wander through this evening.
It has been a very nice day, not so hot and a lovely breeze.
Jocelyn, Mark, Sheena & Roy have flown up to Coffs Harbour for 5 day in our Accor Hotel (using our points because we couldn't fit it in this year. (This travelling is taking all our time!!.....how sad 😪😰) Jamie has sent a message to Brian, 'Come home, I need you to work' He's looking into a flight to bring him back home......HaHa!
Tomorrow another early start to choose another free site in another park.
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