6am start this morning to return to Brachina Gorge.
This section of Brachina Gorge was very imposing and rugged.
Our aim today was to see the Yellow-footed Rock-wallabies, which have been recently been relocated back in the gorge after years of displacement by the large numbers of feral goats.
We were delighted to see several wallabies this morning as they are rather elusive.
A large fossil found under a rock ledge.
Wes poured water on one of the limestone deposits..
to reveal the remains of the now-extinct sponge-like archaeocyaths (ancient cups)
A description of the archaeocyaths.
On the road south...
We drove past the former Ghan railway, now relocated further west, only distinguished by decaying relics of former station buildings.
We have seen the evidence of echidnas rutting soil searching for ants, so we were surprised to spy one
along the road heading for cover. Sarah, our Kiwi friend, was particularly delighted as she hadn't even heard of them before.
Our walk today was up Dutchman's Stern.
We did the 10.5 km loop walk.
We climbed the hill from the carpark. Hot, dry with sparce vegetation at first.
It was more shaded with more interesting foliage on the southern side.
The view to the east, looking towards the town of Quorn.
The summit of Dutchman's Stern looking towards Spencer Gulf.
Dramatic countryside.
Driving to the town of Melrose there was burning off of wheat stubble on local properties.
Our hotel in Melrose.
A welcome drink and meal in the pub next door after a fascinating day.
M&M
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