Mataranka

29 July to 1st Aug

What an amazing place to spend a few relaxing days. We are camped at the Territory Manor and Caravan Park, half way between Mataranka Hot Springs and Bitter Springs. When we arrive we’re a bit disappointed as Bitter Springs is closed due to a crocodile in the area. Hopefully it will be open before we leave as this is one place I really wanted to see. We are all settled in soon after midday so we head off to Mataranka. Philip and I are keen for a swim, Lilly not so much. (P:-Correction Judith the Swim, Phil just floats or wallows!). Lilly sits on the edge and watches as we enjoy an hour in the 34 degree water. It’s amazing, crystal clear, warm and very relaxing. Couldn’t convince Lilly to join us though. Back to the van and some sorting out and more relaxing. I had a swim in the resort pool, not as nice as the thermal pool though. It’s been 34 degrees most of the day and only cooling down to around 26 at night.

Next morning it’s washing day to try and catch up. And of course cleaning (P:- yep a man’s work is never done). and then we are off to the Thermal pool again. This time Lilly joined us. Couldn’t get her in yesterday, now we can’t get her out. She loved it. After a time floating, relaxing, chatting and enjoying the warm water we head up to the cafe for some lunch. Yummy Barramundi and chips. A checkout of the souvenir shop and then we are off to Bitter Springs that has just opened, less a crocodile. (P:- Bitter springs has been closed a couple a times this season because of a suspected Croc sighting. Then reopened and then closed again – the croc was sighted again and unfortunately attacked some ladies little ankle biter dog! 2 morals to the true story 1)- Crocs like dog for snacks 2- Dogs are not allowed in National Parks let alone swimming holes! Maybe the ignorant owner may learn a lesson out of this as sad as it would be. The croc was caught and relocated). Bitter Springs is slightly warmer than Mataranka and you jump in one end and float 500 metres downstream where you hop out, walk back to the start and go again. (P:- it’s a very much better ride than the Theme Parks offer! 1- it’s free, 2- it’s natural and beautiful 3-no theme park lines to wait in forever! 4- Bitter Springs is better than beautiful it’s a natures wonderland)! We did the first run and Lilly was not as comfortable here. It’s a much more natural setting, with moss and reeds along the edges, stumps and stones along the creek bottom and overhead towering palms. Lilly preferred Mataranka so we hop in the car and head back there for another float around for another hour or so.

(P:-There is a watermelon farm on the road to the springs with a roadside stall – Judith loves watermelon so one is purchased – interesting fact it can be 35 degrees and yet if you fresh pick a watermelon and slice it open it’s red flesh is as cool as – amazing).

Back to the van late afternoon to cook dinner and sort washing. I’m exhausted, didn’t know floating in warm water could tire you out so much.

31st is another lazy morning. Philip chatted to the guy next door who is having vehicle trouble and gave him some hints. (P:- A great guy from Victoria and his wife. Nothing like dropping the sump and changing an oil pump in a campground! I lent him some tools and advice and left for the hot pools without greasy hands! The help was rewarded with the offer to go Samba deer hunting on his property in the Alpine area of Victoria. His contact details are recorded for future reference). Late morning we head back to Mataranka, Lillys choice for some more floating and relaxing, lunch at the cafe again then back to the van. Late afternoon Philip and I head back to Bitter Springs and float the creek 3 times, takes about 1/2 hour each time. This is such a gorgeous spot, we may have to come back. (P:- yes in about 12 days time I suggest).