Goodbye

Far in the distance, rising out of the flat plain land, Mt Kaputar was a splendid sight. The rise and fall of the mountain range bought us a sense of familiarity, a welcoming sight. The National Park, of which Mt Kaputar calls home, covers a vast area. In the far north of the park is Sawn Rocks. Ancient lava crystals having cooled at the same time have formed ‘organ pipe’ like structures. Looking somewhat man-made (they aren’t), the ones here are the best example in the world.

Sawn Rocks, Mt Kaputar NP, near Narrabri

Long walks up and down the mountain range inhabit the south of the park. Fortunately I had my driver (Dave) to drive us to the tip of the highest mountain. The road was steep and windy, the landscape changing from shrubs to Snow Gums. The thin air was chilly at the top, and we really expected it to snow at any moment. But the view was worth it- 360 degrees far into the distance. Infact, we could see right out to the Warrumbungles, some 94 miles away.

On top of the world... well Mt Kaputar walk, it's cold up here!







Aaaah, the Warrumbungles, so close to home (Sydney), but one of our all time favourites. The sight of primeval volcanic craters and plugs has a rather sophisticated elegance. The vision is grand and unspoilt, unlike flat Australia which has mostly been turned into grazing land. Iconic Australian’s must also agree this is a top spot because our camp was surrounded by kangaroos, emus and a koala perched in a tree!











Our neighbour, Warrumbungles

Knowing we would soon be back in city life, we decided to ‘do the big one’- the Grand High Tops walk. Much of the path is now paved, but oh so steep and with over 1,000 steps to the heady heights, it is still a challenge. However, the reward was something we could have soaked up all day. Looking down on the famous ‘Breadknife’ and across sweeping valleys we picnicked savouring the view as much as our food.

Lunch with a view, looking down on the Breadknife

Camped by a babbling brook, we spent our last evening here enjoying a tipple and reflecting on the last 23 months. Our ‘holiday’ was ending on a high note, even the kangaroos putting on a show for us. Tipping out of Mum’s warm pouch was the youngest joey we have ever seen. With only a whisper of fur, the fragile infant looked so vulnerable as Mum struggled to get him back home (were is the camera when you need it!).



The memories will last...

The rain came out, the kangaroos persisted in staying out and soon our house with a view was in a white out. As the mist enveloped the ranges, it was time to leave. Mudgee was to be our last stop- we needed some gifts and Mudgee Wineries were getting our cash. The rain continued, so our sojourn was short, but Mudgee is somewhere we would like to come back too........ along with other favourites from our 700 days ‘on the wallaby’.