This morning started out cold but the weather soon upgraded to fine and sunny. We set off early from Peterborough as it is the start of a long weekend and we knew that there would be holiday traffic. We drove through Orroroo to Wilmington Centenary Park for morning tea. Another family had the same idea and we all stood in the sun and enjoyed a coffee and a chat. They were travelling from Whyalla to Peterborough to take their young son Dillon to the Steamtown Heritage Rail Museum and he was really looking forward to it.
From there we headed to Port Augusta through some breathtaking scenery. This really is picture postcard scenery – Mt Remarkable National Park, Mt Brown Conservation Park and the Flinders Ranges – even more special on such a warm sunny day!
En Route to Port Augusta
En Route to Port Augusta
En Route to Port Augusta
Historic Lutheran Church
Horrocks Pass
Horrocks Pass
We drove about 40 kms past Port Augusta on the Eyre Highway towards Iron Knob to Nuttbush Retreat based at Pandurra Station, which is a sheep and cattle working station which has diversified its business by setting up a rustic Caravan Park in a front Paddock next to the Woolshed. Reception is in the Woolshed beside a very rustic licensed dining room.
Nuttbush Retreat at Pandurra Station
Nuttbush Retreat at Pandurra Station
Some shearer’s quarters have been dressed up for motel style accommodation. There is a swimming pool for better weather, plus an undercover “Baa Baa Q” area. The amenities are good and the camp kitchen has to be seen to be believed. It looks like it is in an original building (well over 100 years old) with original wood fired cooker and benches 4 inches thick but it is very clean, functional and inviting if you are not self contained. There is also a big Recreation room with a full sized billiard table and open fireplace.
After unhitching and setting up the caravan we drove back to Port Augusta to have a good look around. We spent a bit of time at the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Gardens and the Matthew Flinders Red Cliff Lookout which was very well set up and most informative. After that we returned to the van for a rest before dinner.
Port Augusta
Port Augusta
Port Augusta Marina
Unique Sundial at Australian Arid Lands Botanical Garden
Sturt Desert Pea at Australian Arid Lands Botanical Garden
Matthew Flinders Red Cliffs – Port Augusta
Oh Dear !! Roadkill.
We have a nice level gravelled powered spot with breath-taking views to the Flinders Ranges and all for $28 per night on a long weekend!!! Unfortunately the dining room and bar is closed tonight so we’re having home made pizza in the van!
Still living the dream!
Shorty's RV Adventures 