Driving through more scrub fires today - it was amazing to see a lot of kites and eagles hovering above in the smoke - more than likely waiting for their prey.  The fires are extensive, reportedly burning out up to 30% of the scrub each year and destroying many of the indigenous species, replacing them with introduced tall grasses which create an even greater fire hazard.  The authorities are at a loss to explain the number of fires but feel they are not occurring naturally.

 

A good run through to Fitzroy Crossing where we fuelled up etc, then detoured to the original river crossing.  Evidently the town used to be near the river crossing, but was moved after being flooded many times over the years.

 

The landscape changed  many times during the day - different shades of green and the red of the earth.  The spreading spinifex creates interesting patterns.  Then closer to the campsite the country changed to be more undulating with many beautiful river gums.

 

Our campsite at Mary Pool on the Mary River is a beautiful area under large river gums.  A large number of campers were at this spot and quite a few purchased merchandise and were interested in our activities.

 

Our group all enjoy camping and it makes a nice change once in a while.  We enjoyed a common meal this evening which is always great fun.

 

We have now travelled exactly half way on our route around Australia on our quest to recreate history and raise funds and awareness for our two charitable foundations.